We were actually in the same elementary school from first grade...

But we hardly ever spoke since we were in different classes.

However, after Shii enrolled, she and Tsukasa's little sister, Saki, became best friends. I remember them going over to each others' houses quite a lot.

And whenever Shii left something at Saki's house, Tsukasa would always bring it back for her.

We began talking more with each passing visit.

I see.
Shiho and Saki were essentially behind all this.

That's interesting how your siblings helped build your relationship.

Shizuku and I were in separate classes right through the sixth grade, so we didn't really play together...

But now, we're good friends, with Saki acting as our liaison from time to time!

Hehe. Saki does mean the world to you.

Yes, isn't that so sweet?
He always places her needs first!

Oh, but he isn't nice only to her...

He's always been cheerful, energetic and...

An incredibly kind friend.

Tsukasa, do you remember what happened when we were fourth graders?

When we were fourth graders?
Hmmm... What happened back then?

We were at the park one time and everyone got into an argument over whether I should play tag or hide and seek...

Yes, I remember!
The girls wanted you to play tag with them, but the boys demanded that you play hide and seek.

Yes, that's it!

Children squabble over the silliest things.

So, what ended up happening?

Hehe. Tsukasa just happened to be passing by and stepped in to help.

Which is how we ended up doing a show called “Tagland & Hidenseekia”.

Tagland and...?
What was it about exactly?

It's the tale of how a wandering traveler brokers a peace agreement between the rivaling nations of Tagland and Hidenseekia.

Oh, that sounds intriguing...

When I first proposed the idea, everyone booed me for not choosing between tag or hide and seek and rattling on about this “show” business...

However, after I began performing, they quickly followed suit. Through my show, we all had a chance to play both games!

After that, Tsukasa said how he was glad my friends and I were also able to come to an understanding...

That was when I realized just how much you care about your friends.

Hah hah hah!
You give me far too much credit!

But you're so cheerful, brave, quick-witted...

Yes, go on!

Patient, honest... And so hard-working that you stayed after school to practice doing back hip circles.

N-Now I'm starting to feel embarrassed. Especially about that last part...

What's this?
Even Tsukasa can feel embarrassed over being complimented?

Show me a little humanity, will you?

(Still, she's right...)

(He cares deeply about his friends.)

(Tsukasa doesn't stand to benefit from me becoming friends with some of my classmates...)

(No, wait...
That's the wrong way to look at it.)

(Seeing that his friends are happy in turn makes him happy.)

What?!
As fun as this conversation has been, the time for the parade is fast approaching! We should get going!

Yes, let's go!

Agreed.
I'll let Miyake and the others know that we'll be making our way over.

Look at this crowd!
Try to stick close, okay, Shizuku?

Right! I'll be right behind you, Airi!

You two said you're trying to meet with Kamishiro's friends. Do you think you'll be able to find them?

Yes, I believe so.
Based on this message, they should be...

Kamishiro!

Ah, there you all are.
I'm glad we found you so quickly.

Yeah! I mean, this crowd's huge!
Wait, huh...?

K-Kamishiro, those girls behind you. Aren't they...?!

Yeah, they look familiar for some reason...

Is it just me or is that Shizuku Hinomori...? And Airi Momoi? Who're they with? She's really pretty...

Ah, they're friends of Tsukasa.

We bumped into each other earlier and decided to invite them to see the parade with us.

Oh, you must be the friends they were talking about. It's nice to meet you. My name is Shizuku Hinomori.

I'm looking forward to seeing the parade with all of you.

T-Tenma...!
You're amazing...!

Hm? Did I do something?

...!
I-I-I-It's our pleasure! Albeit for a short while!

Alright, now that you've had a chance to introduce yourselves, let's find a place with a good view!

Right.
Shall we, everyone?