Zongman: Succubus Shota, a new ability every day

"Hmm?" Mai was slightly taken aback by what he said, then she understood what Shiraishi was trying to say. It turned out that the topic they had just discussed was related to Hirokawa, and Mai had already learned some of the details from Waka.

"You can ask Futaba today, that guy will definitely tell you reluctantly." Mai teased with a smile.

When Shiraishi mentions Uzuki to Rio, her immediate reaction is, "Shiraishi, you're still in puberty." While this statement is a bit playful, it also reveals her understanding and concern for Shiraishi's inner world.

After finishing their part-time job as cram school instructors, they visited the chain restaurant, which was still bustling with activity in the evening. The appearance of Yukino and Koga Tomoe added a touch of unexpected delight to their dinner. In the busy backroom, they reminisced about their past, memories of friendship, dreams, and growth flooding back.

"Because I seem to be unexpectedly innocent." Bai Shi said self-deprecatingly.

"That's because the pig-headed boy is always so thoughtful," Rio replied with a smile. Her words were both teasing and affirmative, making Shiraishi blush.

"This is just talking about pigs, right?" Shiraishi tried to retort, but Rio chose to ignore his accusation.

"You should think the same as I do, right?" Rio changed the subject and brought the topic back to Mao Yue's matter.

"What do you mean?" Bai Shi asked in confusion.

"The idol who used to be so clueless about people's expressions has suddenly become adept at reading the atmosphere," Rio explained. Her eyes gleamed with wisdom, as if she had seen through everything.

"Do you think there's such a thing as April 4.2?" Shiraishi asked hesitantly. Although he didn't want to associate Uzuki's changes with puberty syndrome, the facts forced him to face the problem.

"Whether it's puberty syndrome or not, she hasn't been troubled by her own innocence, has she?" Shiraishi continued. His words carried a hint of worry and concern, for he knew how much misunderstanding and loneliness he had endured because of his sexuality.

"That's right." Rio nodded in agreement.

"In that case, I increasingly feel that she doesn't have enough reasons to trigger the so-called puberty syndrome."

Chapter 248 Discussion with Futaba

There was a hint of confusion and puzzlement in Shiraishi's voice, and he looked at Rio, hoping to find a new perspective from this wise friend.

"Indeed, as you said." Rio nodded slightly, her eyes revealing a keen insight into the essence of the problem.

Bai Shi gave a wry smile. "You're right. I'm probably like this because I'm entangled in this unsolvable mystery. But what puzzles me most is that not only has she learned to read people's expressions, but she's also suddenly dressed like everyone else. How can this change not be a little strange?"

As soon as they finished speaking, a corner of the restaurant came into their sight. There sat a group of female students. They were wearing knee-length skirts and elegant blouses, their hair lightly curled to their shoulders, and the light makeup on their cheeks was like a blush in the morning light. They were enthusiastically discussing the social activity that had just ended, and there were subtle comments about the boys in their words.

"Look over there, she looks like a spitting image of that pretty new friend of yours, doesn't she?" Rio took a sip of her coffee, a subtle smile playing on her lips. Her makeup, while unassuming, perfectly accentuated her elegance. After all these experiences, Rio had begun to pay attention to these details, as if every subtle change silently spoke of her growth.

"Just consider her a candidate friend, after all, we haven't gotten to know her well yet." Bai Shi corrected him, but his tone couldn't hide his admiration for the girl. "Besides, I've never denied her charm."

"So, what's the core of the problem?" Rio's gaze deepened, as if she could always see through things at a glance. "Humans are social animals. We absorb all kinds of information from our surroundings every day. When this information is dense and consistent enough, people's behaviors, preferences, and even clothing styles will unconsciously tend to be similar. This is a natural assimilation phenomenon, not a special ability of any individual."

Shiraishi nodded thoughtfully. "You make sense. Just like quantum entanglement, even if particles are thousands of miles apart, they can instantly share information and influence each other's behavior. While this may sound a bit mysterious, if we apply this concept to human society, it seems to make sense."

Rio smiled faintly, as if she had anticipated Shiraishi's association. "That's right. Although quantum entanglement is a phenomenon in the microscopic world, the principles of information sharing and mutual influence it reveals are equally applicable in macroscopic human society. For example, the female students at that table were already in a relatively closed and homogeneous social circle, and the mutual influence between them was obvious. And when a new member joins and is gradually accepted by this circle, she will unconsciously blend in, whether in her words, actions, or dress."

At this point, both of them looked at the late female student. She took off her flight jacket and instantly blended in with her friends around her, as if she had never left this circle.

"This change isn't so much a special ability or talent as it is a natural manifestation of human sociality," Rio concluded. "Of course, if we view all of this as a manifestation of puberty syndrome, then perhaps we can think about it from another perspective—it's not that Hirokawa Uzuki caused this phenomenon, but that this phenomenon itself, in a subtle way, affects everyone, including her."

Upon hearing this, Shiraishi's mind suddenly became clear. He realized that his long-standing confusion might have stemmed from a misunderstanding of the problem itself. In this complex and ever-changing world, nothing is impossible, including phenomena that seem illogical yet truly exist. Rio's words undoubtedly opened a new door for him to think.

"Unconsciously, the sharing of information between individuals seems to weave an invisible web, quietly guiding everyone towards a sense of normalcy or shared collective values. This may be the unique and subtle manifestation of puberty syndrome. Furthermore, we might imagine that this syndrome has constructed a subconscious network similar to quantum entanglement, causing individual thoughts and behaviors to unconsciously average out, forming an irresistible group consensus."

"And the source of all this actually stems from the deep desires and anxieties within every student?" Shiraishi couldn't help but confirm with Rio. "Are you saying that this influence is universal, not just limited to a specific individual or group?"

"That's right. It stems from the desire for a sense of belonging in the hearts of every student in school." There was a glint of thought in Rio's eyes. "Without the clear boundaries of uniforms and classes, students seem to have lost their external molds and begin to search more urgently deep in their hearts for what they should be like. This unconscious exploration eventually converged into a common collective consciousness, an invisible force called everyone, which quietly shapes everyone's behavior and concepts."

Chapter 249 Reappears!

"If puberty syndrome really exists in this form," Shiraishi mused, "then it's understandable why Uzuki was caught up in it. With her own unique brilliance, she stands out among the students who are lost in their search for self-identity. This brilliance is both her unique charm and the reason she's surrounded by the group's unconscious."

"Because she's Uzuki, the one who always stays true to herself and dares to express her individuality," Rio said softly. "She shines brightly on the idol path, glitters on television screens, and even graces the covers of fashion magazines... For those students still struggling to find their place in the world, all of this is both a source of yearning and a threat. They fear that this light will reveal their own shortcomings, and so, unwittingly, this fear becomes a devouring force, pulling her into this seemingly ordinary yet powerful group."

"As a student of statistical science, all of this is exactly what you should explore in depth, right?" Rio suddenly changed the subject and led the conversation in another direction.

"Ah, although I'm still studying general education and basic mathematics, it's true that the core of statistical science lies in analyzing these seemingly chaotic yet underlying patterns in data and phenomena," Shiraishi explained. "However, I haven't yet taken any specialized courses that can directly apply to these kinds of social psychology phenomena."

"However, today's discussion has benefited me greatly." Shiraishi looked at Rio gratefully. "It has allowed me to observe and understand the current situation from a completely new perspective. As for Uzuki's future, perhaps as you said, her changes will inevitably bring a series of new challenges."

"Indeed, when Utsuki begins to truly realize her changes, she'll find herself more sensitive to the emotions and atmosphere of those around her. This ability can be both a good and a bad thing." Rio's tone revealed a hint of worry. "I'm worried that this will cause her unprecedented pressure and confusion, and she might even lose herself."

"As her friends, of course we're worried," Shiraishi said frankly. "Uzuki is not only my friend, but also someone who gives me strength and encouragement when I'm lost. Her smile and persistence always dispel the darkness in my heart. So, I don't want to see her get hurt."

However, reality often doesn't live up to expectations. Uzuki is quietly changing, becoming more observant and more sensitive to others' opinions and expectations of her. Shiraishi understands this is a necessary lesson in her growth, but he still hopes she can maintain her pure self and not be consumed by the external turmoil.

"Be careful not to lose yourself on this road." Rio's reminder rang in my ears like a warning bell. "Also, why hasn't Yukino come yet? We should go home."

Shiraishi smiled and stood up to leave, "Yeah, Yukino always takes so long. But it's okay, I'll go check on her in the back. You go back first, Futaba."

Rio nodded, put his meal money on the table, said "See you at the cram school another day" and left the restaurant.

Walking through the busy kitchen, the symphony of pots and pans clattering in his ears, Shiraishi headed straight for the faint whispers. As he drew closer, he could clearly make out the voices of Yukino and Tomoe. Both girls, still in their waitress uniforms, were hunched over their phones, their expressions focused and excited.

"Xiao Qian, you're here!" Peng Hui spotted Bai Shi with her sharp eyes and quickly called out, turning her phone screen towards him. "Look, something really bad has happened to Miss Uzuki!"

Shiraishi's heart tightened, his brow furrowed slightly. He didn't understand how Yukino had known about Uzuki's recent complex and inexplicable changes. But for the moment, he could only suppress his doubts and follow Yukino's guidance to look at the phone screen.

The screen played the same wireless headphone commercial that had left such a lasting impression on him. However, unlike previous commercials, this one seemed extended. The camera slowly moved upward, from the singer's chest to her neck, finally framing her on that familiar, powerful face—Uzuki. With unprecedented focus and passion, she performed her cover of Kirishima Touko's song, each note seemingly striking directly at Shiraishi's heart.

Sweat trickled down Uzuki's forehead, her cheeks flushed from singing. Her infectious smile, like the warmest spring sunshine, instantly illuminated the haze in Shiraishi's heart. He had never seen Uzuki so dazzling, so full of charm.

"It's only been out for a short time, and it's already over a million views!" Yukino excitedly explained, her eyes gleaming with recognition and admiration for Uzuki's talent. While Shiraishi didn't fully understand the significance of these numbers, he could sense the enthusiastic response online and the deep love people had for Uzuki's voice.

Comments flooded in below the ad. Some marveled at Mao Yue's versatility, others were captivated by her beauty, and many were moved by her powerful singing voice. Suddenly, Mao Yue's name seemed imbued with some kind of magical power, quickly spreading across the internet.

Chapter 250: Visiting the Campus with a Big Star

"This incident has a much greater impact than I imagined," Bai Shi said with emotion.

"Yeah, but that's a good thing." Although Mao Yue felt the pressure, she was more excited and looking forward to the future. She knew that all of this was the result of her years of accumulated experience in the entertainment industry, and now it was finally time for her to break out.

"So, are you going straight to Koshien?" Shiraishi said half-jokingly, but quickly realized his slip of the tongue.

"Xiao Qian, that's a baseball game." Mao Yue corrected him with a smile. The relaxed atmosphere between the two made Shiraishi temporarily forget his previous worries.

They continued to discuss the confusion between various sports competitions and goals, and Uzuki pointed out the mistakes one by one accurately, but this time she did not ask questions directly as usual. Instead, she interacted with Shiraishi in a more tacit and relaxed way, as if they had a tacit understanding between them that did not require much words.

"Our target is the Budokan." Mao Yue suddenly said seriously, with a determined light flashing in his eyes.

"You guys are not far from the martial arts hall, right?" Bai Shi asked tentatively.

"Well...it's actually quite hard to say." Uzuki's tone revealed a hint of caution and seriousness. She was wearing a mask, making it impossible to see her expression clearly.

"Budokan, is it special to you?" Shiraishi asked curiously.

"Yes, that's the dream stage for all of us members," Uzuki explained. "Although there's still a long way to go before we can achieve it, we will work hard together until we stand on that stage."

She spoke of her deep friendship with the members of Sweet Bullet and their shared goal of holding a concert at the Budokan. Shiraishi was deeply moved by her determination and faith in standing shoulder to shoulder with the members. He understood that for Uzuki, this wasn't just a pursuit of the stage; it was a commitment to friendship and dreams.

"Towards this goal, the virality of this ad will definitely be a huge boost to your progress," Shiraishi encouraged. "I believe you can go even further."

Uzuki nodded gently, her eyes gleaming with infinite longing for the future. She knew that no matter how difficult the road ahead, as long as she worked hard with the members, nothing was impossible. And this little episode between her and Shiraishi would become a warm and unforgettable moment in their shared memories.

From another perspective, the agency's strategy for Uzuki's solo debut appears to be facing unprecedented challenges and changes. After all, amidst this wave of advertising featuring Uzuki alone, her brilliance has become the focal point, and all of the agency's plans and actions inevitably revolve around this core. Choosing the right time and method for launching a campaign undoubtedly requires precise timing to capitalize on the peak of public attention.

Walking side by side with Uzuki along the campus path, Shiraishi felt the power of this attention. The students around them were either hurrying to their next classes or chatting in small groups, but their glances kept flicking past them, a complex blend of curiosity, envy, and inquiry. Uzuki, evidently aware of all this, gazed resolutely ahead with an almost professional demeanor, as if to tell everyone in her own way: she was ready to face all the gazes and challenges.

"Isn't half of their gazes due to you?" Shiraishi said half-jokingly, trying to ease the slightly tense atmosphere.

"Huh? What do you mean?" Mao Yue tilted his head slightly, a hint of doubt flashing in his eyes.

"I mean, they might be wondering why you, Shiraishi, can have such a good relationship with a big star like Sakurajima Mai, and be so close to Hirokawa Uzuki." Shiraishi explained, secretly guessing the psychological activities behind those gazes.

"Oh, I see." Mao Yue chuckled, with a hint of helplessness in his tone, "But I'm really glad to have met you."

"Don't confess so suddenly. My heart has belonged to Miss Mai for a long time." Shiraishi responded with pretended seriousness, trying to make the atmosphere more relaxed.

"You misunderstood. I meant that you helped me a lot on the train this morning and I'm really grateful." Mao Yue quickly clarified with a sincere smile on her face.

We chatted along until we passed through the school's main gate and stepped onto the tree-lined promenade. The bell had just rung, signaling the end of get out of class. The campus was bustling with activity, students shuffling between the various buildings, some hurried and some slow. Uzuki's presence undoubtedly added a touch of novelty to the ordinary bustle. Her every movement, every glance, seemed amplified by an invisible spotlight, becoming the center of attention.

"Should I wear glasses to school tomorrow?" Mao Yue suddenly suggested, obviously thinking about how to better hide his identity.

"Ms. Mai said that changing your hairstyle would also reduce the chances of being recognized," Shiraishi replied, recalling Mai's previous suggestion.

Chapter 251 She said she wanted to go out and try her luck

"Oh, so that's it," Uzuki nodded thoughtfully, then returned her attention to the road ahead. She skillfully observed the reactions and atmosphere of the people around her with her peripheral vision. Her acumen and composure were something I couldn't help but admire.

Just then, their attention was drawn to a nearby bulletin board. There, Akagi Izumi stood in front of a club recruitment poster, diligently promoting her newly formed group to the passing students. Her tone was calm and firm, but she was still holding off on handing out the flyers.

The students either turned a blind eye or simply refused, and few were willing to stop and listen to her introduction.

Shiraishi recognized Yumi, the girl who always worked silently and never gave up. Looking at her lonely figure, Shiraishi couldn't help but feel a sense of emotion. In this world full of competition and prejudice, everyone strives for their dreams, but those who truly understand and support you are often few and far between.

"Yushi is such a brave girl." Bai Shi said softly, his heart full of admiration for her.

Mao Yue did not respond, but just nodded silently.

After that, time seemed to freeze. Yu Shi faced a world that remained cold and indifferent. No one was willing to stop and offer her even a hint of attention or encouragement. Students hurried by, their laughter and chatter blending into the cacophony, a stark contrast to Yu Shi's perseverance. However, amidst this indifference, an unexpected change quietly occurred.

"Hey, Xiao Qian," Mao Yue's voice rang out softly, a barely perceptible tremor in it. Shiraishi didn't respond immediately, but waited quietly, knowing that this moment held immense significance for Mao Yue. He sensed what Mao Yue was about to reveal: a long-held secret, a profound understanding of the world.

"So, everyone laughed at me like that before." Though Uzuki's voice was soft, it struck Shiraishi's heart like a hammer. Shiraishi sensed the turmoil in Uzuki's heart, knowing full well the weight and complexity behind his words. He nodded silently, offering Uzuki his unwavering support.

Time jumps back to the television screen, where the confident, radiant Uzuki appears once again. On the quiz show stage, she answers three questions correctly with astonishing speed and accuracy, stunning the host and the audience. However, behind this seemingly effortless game lies a profound shift in Uzuki's self-perception. She's no longer the whimsical, amusing young woman, but a more mature and resilient entertainer.

"Yueyue, are you planning to venture into the entertainment industry as a singer next?" the host's joking question betrayed his anticipation and curiosity about Maoyue's future. Maoyue's response was filled with determination: "Because now is a great opportunity to become famous!" Her smile reflected both her unwavering pursuit of her dream and a sense of relief and transcendence over her past experiences.

Meanwhile, Kazuka, Uzuki's companion, saw a subtle flicker of worry. She saw Uzuki's transformation, and she sensed the risks and challenges hidden within it. Kazuka knew that Uzuki was, in her own way, declaring her presence and determination to the world. As a friend, Kazuka was both pleased by Uzuki's growth and concerned that this change might bring her unnecessary stress and distress.

Shiraishi sat in a corner of the cram school staff room, pen tightly gripped, intently filling out daily reports on the learning progress of Yamada Kento and Yoshi and Juri. Sunlight filtered through the half-open curtains, dappling onto his desk, adding a touch of warmth to the otherwise monotonous work. With the successful conclusion of math class, the classroom gradually fell silent, broken only by the distant rustle of the homeroom teacher's papers and the occasional whirring of the television.

The homeroom teacher, a middle-aged man, sat on a sofa deep in the office. He casually flicked the remote control, and the TV screen suddenly lit up with a dazzling display of colors. He smiled and said to Shiraishi, "This girl named Hirokawa Uzuki is really interesting. Have you seen her?" Shiraishi looked up, his eyes meeting Uzuki on the screen. His lips curled up as he softly replied, "Yes, she's really good."

During the show, Uzuki's team was intensely engaged in the challenge, each of her movements brimming with energy and wit. While ultimately failing to secure the million-dollar bonus, her unwavering spirit deeply moved everyone present. As the host concluded with the words, "See you next week, everyone!", the twenty-plus contestants waved goodbye, and the screen faded.

Bai Shi withdrew his gaze and continued to complete the work at hand, but his mind had already drifted to the distant Wan.

Chapter 252 Chance Encounter

He pondered Uzuki's words, wondering if they had caused any changes in his surroundings. However, reality told him the answer was no. Shiraishi and the people around him continued to lead ordinary, stable lives. At least for the past ten days, nothing seemed different.

Uzuki herself seemed untouched by the show's success. On days without announcements, she would attend university classes as usual, mingling with friends and sharing laughter. But Shiraishi knew that beneath this calm exterior, Uzuki was undergoing a profound shift within. She began to realize how her previously unnoticed actions were being interpreted by her university friends; she began to understand the place she held in the eyes of others, as a relatively unknown idol.

This change filled Shiraishi with both joy and anxiety. He was pleased with Uzuki's growth and awakening, but he worried about whether she could withstand the pressure and loneliness that came with it. He knew that while Uzuki seemed to be enjoying herself with her college friends, she might be silently enduring some kind of torment deep down.

"Just now during class, you kept looking at Hirokawa-san. Did you cheat?" The bell rang, and Miori's joking voice broke Shiraishi's thoughts. He smiled bitterly and wanted to ask Miori about her opinion of Uzuki, but ultimately gave up. Miori's answer made him realize that perhaps in the eyes of most people, Uzuki was no different.

However, Shiraishi knew the truth was not what he was looking for. He saw clearly Uzuki's inner struggle and transformation, and he knew that this change could not remain hidden beneath the surface forever. He worried about what would happen when Uzuki could no longer tolerate this forced peace.

"Well, I'll take my leave now." After finishing his work, Shiraishi said goodbye to his homeroom teacher and headed for the locker room. He shed his cram school instructor uniform, changed into casual clothes, and prepared to leave this place that had temporarily made him feel depressed. As he passed the students he had just seen off at the elevator entrance, he deliberately slowed his pace to avoid unnecessary embarrassment.

After a brief moment or two, Shiraishi boarded the elevator to the first floor, his mind still lingering on the events he had just witnessed. Leaving the busy commercial building where the cram school was located, the street was empty. Kento and Juri had long since vanished into the sea of ​​people. Kento, as usual, headed to the nearby supermarket to buy his favorite fried chicken for dinner, while Juri, likely headed straight home. Her life was always so routine and orderly.

However, fate often holds surprises. Just as Shiraishi was about to turn and head for the station, a familiar voice called out, "Ah, Senior." It was Tomoe, dressed neatly in her high school uniform and with a relaxed smile on her face, clearly just returned from school or her part-time job. They were walking along the same street, one in front of the other, but soon, Tomoe quickened her pace, walking side by side with Shiraishi.

"Senior, what happened?" Tomoe's tone was tinged with curiosity, as if she could read people's minds. Shiraishi was slightly taken aback, then realized that his expression might have betrayed some of his inner turmoil. "What do you mean?" he asked, trying to steer the conversation towards a broader scope. But Tomoe was clearly not satisfied with this answer. She pressed on, "Whatever it is, it's whatever it is..." Shiraishi smiled wryly and teased, "...Is that kind of conversation popular these days?" Tomoe looked bewildered, clearly not impressed by such a joke.

In order to avoid further embarrassment, Shiraishi chose to change the subject, but Tomoe's observation skills were still sharp. She keenly noticed that Shiraishi was absent-minded, so she tentatively asked: "Did you have a fight with Sakurajima-senpai?" Shiraishi quickly shook his head and explained: "Everything is going well on this side, please don't worry." Tomoe chuckled, indicating that she was not really worried, but just asked casually out of concern.

The two continued walking until they arrived in front of the station, crossing the overpass and avoiding the busy traffic lights. Under the overpass was a huge bus transfer station, surrounded by a magnificent three-dimensional pedestrian walkway. The walkway was spacious enough to accommodate dozens of people walking side by side, serving as both a main thoroughfare and a small square for people to rest briefly.

At that moment, a young man caught Shiraishi's attention. He sat in a corner of the trail, his back to the railing, playing and singing. The acoustic guitar in his hands seemed like an extension of his soul, flowing with unheard melodies and singing songs that belonged to him. Next to his guitar case were some CDs, clearly his own creations, quietly waiting for the right person to pick them up.

The pedestrians hurried by, most taking only a fleeting glance before continuing on their way. Few paused to listen to the voice from the depths of their hearts. However, Shiraishi paused, even calling out to Tomoe beside him, and together they gazed at the young singer from afar. "What do you think of that person?"

Chapter 253 New school girl?

Shiraishi asked. Tomoe was clearly caught off guard by the question. She thought carefully for a moment before answering cautiously, "I think it's amazing."

"What do you mean?" Shiraishi pressed. A flicker of hesitation crossed Tomoe's eyes, but she ultimately spoke frankly, "Two things. First, I think he's truly impressive for pursuing his dream and bravely standing here to showcase his talent. Second, he's driven to put his dream into practice, which is equally admirable."

Shiraishi nodded in agreement. He looked at the man playing and singing, and a strange resonance welled up in his heart. In this fast-paced world, those who can persevere and bravely pursue their dreams are undoubtedly the most worthy of respect. And Tomoe's words were not only a commendation for the young singer, but also a spur and reminder to Shiraishi himself.

"Ah! Sister Penghui!"

24The two turned around and saw a little girl waving in their direction. It was Himeji Sara.

And then, what about this person… Tomoe spoke softly, drawing out her tone, and was about to introduce Shiraishi, who was standing next to her. However, as if she had already seen through everything, a sly smile appeared on her lips, and she spoke first, "It's Mr. Shiraishi, right? I often hear people talking about him in the cram school."

When Penghui heard this, a hint of surprise flashed in her eyes, and then she suddenly realized, "Oh, right, you went to the cram school where the senior teaches. It seems that the word 'teacher' has become your clue." There was a hint of teasing in her words, and she was obviously surprised by Sarada's keen observation.

Shiraishi smiled slightly at this, but thought to himself, "You're not my direct student, yet you recognized me. How remarkable!" There were so many teachers in the cram school, and even a part-time instructor like him wouldn't necessarily be remembered by every student, let alone specifically. But then he thought, perhaps Sarada was looking for a math teacher, which led to this unexpected encounter.