Book 3: Epilogue I
Raising the Curtain
August 7th. At last, our never-ending short life on the uninhabited island was reaching its end. Was our minimal salvation lying in the fact that we spent our time having modest fun in this cruel survival?
There was still no sight of Mr Mashima and others when noon arrived. It was time to end.
“I’ll announce a tally of the trial’s result. Please wait for a moment. Due to the trial being already over, we’re kindly asking people wanting to use toilets or drink to use the rest spot.”
With this announcement, the students went to gather in the rest spot in unison. Among others, there were tables and chairs prepared under the temporary tent and it seemed as if you could take plenty of rest. There was no sign that Kouenji, Horikita or retired students were waiting on the cruise ship. Sudou who was always with Ike and the others was standing still, looking up at the cruise ship.
“Ayanokouji. You’re close with Horikita, right. … How close, actually?”
Rather than getting mad or making a fuss, Sudou seriously wanted to know.
“There’s nothing between us. We’re just friends. Not more, not less.”
“…Even that makes me jealous. I’m still treated as a friend.”