Light Novel Chapter 4

哀しむ前に声を出せ (Kanashimu Mae ni Koe wo Dase, lit: Say It Before You Regret It) is the fourth chapter of the light novel series of The "Hentai" Prince and the Stony Cat.
==Plot==
On a hot summer day, with Youto and Ponta stuck in school for supplementary lessons due to poor performance in their exams. Ponta teases Youto about his perceived "harem," consisting of Tsukiko, Tsukushi, and Azusa, claiming jealousy despite having given up his worldly desires. Youto reflects on his recent interactions with Azusa, particularly his failure to truly understand her struggles and his selfish focus on retrieving his facade.
Youto and Ponta submit their exam handouts to the math teacher, who comments on Azusa's absence from supplementary lessons despite her poor grades. Ponta suggests delivering the handouts to Azusa's house, teasing Youto about already knowing where she lives.
Youto arrives at Azusa's apartment complex and meets her mother, who is youthful, kind, and outgoing. Azusa's mother mentions her daughter's poor state after their "date" and her tendency to shut herself in her room when upset. The conversation reveals Azusa's facade extends even to her family, as she portrays Youto as a persistent suitor rather than her "pet."
Youto knocks on Azusa's locked bedroom door, attempting to check on her. Azusa's voice is hoarse, and she accuses Youto of manipulating her, mocking her intelligence, and using her as a pawn in his plan to reclaim his facade. Her emotional state fragile, as she lashes out in despair and disbelief, even when Youto tries to explain himself.
Frustrated and unsure of how to proceed, Youto later visits the hill where the Stony Cat resides, where he meets Tsukiko. Tsukiko encourages Youto to act on his feelings rather than overthink his actions. She emphasizes the importance of speaking honestly, even if it risks regret. The two share a lighthearted exchange, but the conversation underlines Youto's growing understanding of the need to balance honesty with consideration for others' emotions.
Determined to resolve the situation, Youto visits Azusa's house again the next morning. Her mother warmly welcomes him. Youto uses a coin to unlock Azusa's bedroom door, finding her curled up in pajamas, disheveled and teary-eyed. Ignoring her protests, he carries her out of the house, insisting she gets fresh air despite her embarrassment.
Boarding a taxi, Youto gently confronts Azusa about her reliance on her facade to protect herself from emotional pain. He connects her actions to her love of Princess Gamera, a manga about a strong, independent character, revealing how Azusa modeled her noblewoman act after the story. Azusa initially denies needing others, but eventually begins to open up.
At the Stony Cat shrine, Youto lays out the truth about the statue, his facade, and Azusa's choker, explaining the supernatural nature of their situation. Azusa accuses Youto of lying and using her, but he apologizes sincerely, admitting his actions were selfish and hurtful. He asks Azusa to be his friend, unrelated to his quest for his facade, but also acknowledges he still wants it back.
Azusa, moved by Youto's honesty, prays to the Stony Cat to give up her facade. Youto removes the choker from her neck, feeling the return of his facade as an electric jolt. Azusa's expression softens, and she smiles genuinely, showing her true feelings for the first time.
==Characters==
==Navigation==