Chapter 16 one

If one day I pick up the microphone and say "It's sunny today", the listener may think: So Oreki Houtaro is testing the microphone.But others may also think so: Oreki Houtaro wants to spread the word "today is sunny".In fact, these two inferences are theoretically plausible. Even if the reasoning is consistent with the facts, it can only be regarded as good luck at best.In order to improve the probability that the reasoning is true, sometimes we have to look up the data as much as possible, but in the end, I am afraid that the data is not so easy to find in most cases.Taking a step back, even if you get detailed information, what you can improve is only the probability of guessing.

On the first day of November, Chitanda and I were the only ones in the office of the Ancient Books Research Society.Although the outside world is full of dangerous incidents such as arson, theft, currency counterfeiting, and hired murder, those things are far away after all. For us, it is just a lazy autumn after school.The reason why I, who advocates energy conservation, violated my creed and rant angrily about a clear matter is precisely because Chitanda Eru still overestimates my performance in the "Hyoka" incident to this day. For Chitanda to say, it's as if I have some kind of inspiration in my heart.I can laugh it off if I am underestimated by others, but I can't ignore it if I am looked down upon by others.Therefore, I added another sentence: "So, if you want to say that I am lucky, it's okay, but you must not think too much of me."

Chitanda's eyes widened in surprise when I, who was usually extremely gentle, raised my voice rarely.But soon, this guy smiled and nodded as if understanding: "You are being modest, Oreki-san." Unbearable.Really, why don't you understand. It has been about half a year since I entered Kamiyama High School.Chitanda's curiosity is extremely keen, and she can always find anomalies in things that seem ordinary at first glance.To be honest, I did participate in Chitanda's process of exploring the origin of those "abnormalities".I admit, whether it is the "Bingguo" incident or the "Empress" incident, it would be a lie to say that I did nothing at all.Although Chitanda didn't know it, I also secretly played some tricks in the "Jumonji" incident.

However, it is better to speak clearly now. "Chitanda, the ancients had a good saying." "...Which sentence?" "'A reason can be found at any time, and a plaster can be applied anywhere'. Even if the plaster happens to be in the right place, it doesn't explain anything." Although I said it very seriously, for some reason Chitanda elegantly covered her mouth with her hand and burst out laughing.She said to me who was furious: "Oreki-san, you sometimes quote some strange words." "...Is that so? I don't think so. "No, that's not the problem—— before I could refute, Chitanda smiled and continued: "Although I don't understand why Oreki-san is talking about this...but I know.For the time being, let's assume that Oreki-san's guesses are not based on ability but luck.

"But don't you think that being able to launch... being able to put a plaster on it - that's how it is said - is considered a talent? If you don't even know how to sow seeds, where will there be seeds? Is it a matter of luck? " I crossed my hands and thought.It does make sense. No, Chitanda's sophistry cannot be accepted so easily. "You say I'm a master at applying plasters?" "Isn't it?" Facing Chitanda's soft smile, I also showed a confident smile: "No, there are too many things in this world that I can't figure out why."

Chitanda immediately retorted: "That's because Oreki-san usually doesn't think actively." Although the words are true...but I still feel a little sad when I am pointed out to my face. Even so, I puffed out my chest firmly and said, "In this case... Chitanda, let me give you an example. Let me prove to you that the reason is not so easy to find." I have never taken the initiative to challenge anyone, but this time I must not back down.This is a matter of life design. Chitanda's eyes were bright, and they seemed to be wider than before.According to my understanding of Chitanda, rather than "enjoying the status quo", what should occupy a greater proportion in her heart is "curiosity about my proposal".I knew it would be like this.

"It's really interesting. Then... what example should I give..." Her eyes wandered around, as if looking for a topic, just at this moment—— Above the blackboard in the classroom, the loudspeaker used for campus broadcasting made a hissing noise.Chitanda and I looked there at the same time. Without any opening remarks, the announcer said straight to the point: "Those who have bought things at Qiaowentang in front of the station on October 31st and know what to do, please come to Shibazaki at the Academic Affairs Office immediately." After quickly broadcasting this sentence, the broadcast ended without a trace.

Both of us looked away from the horn at the same time. "What happened just now?" "Who knows." Having said that, I noticed Chitanda's mouth was smiling and she tilted her head slightly.Seeing that happy look, I immediately guessed what she was going to say next.Sure enough, Chitanda said very excitedly: "Just use the broadcast just now. Please reason about the meaning of the broadcast just now." Humph.I nodded proudly: "Okay, I accept the challenge." Take it seriously, Chitanda!