Chapter 9

**Chapter 9: What Am I Lacking?** is the ninth chapter of *We are Magical Boys*. It is the third chapter of vol. 2.

## Summary

*Magiru tells Kaito about Makoto's struggle to becoming a Magical Boy, and his desperate actions that would change his life.*

## Synopsis

A magical spirit tells Makoto to consider giving up because he probably lacks what he needs to become a Magical Boy. Makoto reasons that this is different than saying he *can't* become one though, and he wonders what he could be missing and asks -while Magiru lights a cigarette using it- but the spirit confesses that it wouldn't know. There are a lot of boys like him who genuinely want to become Magical Boys, but they just are not able to. But it does have some advice; like working on his lack of athleticism. It's important because the ancient warriors were expected to move around in an effective way. On top of that he lacks the will to want to help people.

But in the end, its up for Makoto to discover what it is he needs to be clad in Girliness. He possesses the enthusiasm for the role, which is a start.

- - -

Makoto was encouraged to try a variety of things aiming for self-improvement. He started with sports like tennis. He struggled but little-by-little his efforts began paying off. He tried the transformation ring and was capable of making a pair of hair ribbons appear. Magiru remarked it wasn't much, but he was very excited by the progress he made and he kept working on himself.

He did good deeds for others and learned as much as he could about being a Magical Boy and gaining confidence. Gradually his uniform would change, and he gained wings. He tried them out but they didn't work yet. At this point in time it's only been a month and a half, so he doesn't feel discouraged. He will make it soon enough.

- - - -

Unfortunately, two years passed and Makoto started to feel discouraged. When he tried to transform the ring created a hideously dark uniform. He became depressed as Magiru took note of his efforts. He put in so much hard work but it wasn't enough, his transformation has become sinister. The magic spirit from before returned, as they were both worried about Makoto and didn't want him to suffer. The spirit warns Magiru that if things continue like this, Makoto could fall to *Beastliness.* His dedication may turn into dismay and impatience, his feelings of not being able to obtain what he longs to have will turn into hatred. He still has a chance of turning things around though.

The spirit leaves and Magiru returns to her chair, wondering what would make Makoto happier- should he give up or keep trying?

He doesn't smile anymore.

- - - -

One day Magiru and Makoto come to a hotel with a fantastic view of the ocean from the roof. She requested permission from his father to spend the day there as a means of letting him unwind a little, but what she didn't say was that she invited ten lovely girls to the room they will be staying at in hopes of encouraging him to think about something else other than being a Magical Boy. Telling him to give up would leave him with regrets, and she refuses to do that.

They arrive at the room but to Magiru's surprise, Makoto reveals that he dismissed the girls. He found out about her plans, but he isn't mad. He isn't using today as a chance to relax, but his final day to become a Magical Boy. Before she can react, Makoto throws himself over the banister outside in an attempt to get rid of any lingering weakness deep in his heart. Magiru becomes frightened and rushes outside, but to their surprise when he presses the button of his Transformation Ring, he suddenly becomes **Rowdy◇Blue**. Magiru wants to scold him for being so reckless, but as she watches him happily fly around she decides to let it go.

In honor of Makoto's transformation they hold a small celebration in the room. They are both underage but Magiru sees no harm in having a small drink, and she apologizes for belittling him deep inside. Makoto insists it isn't necessary and she remarks on how bold he is. Makoto smiles and brings up how he likes pretty things, he thought it would be beautiful for him to obtain this special thing on his own.

- - - -

Kaito has been reduced to a blubbering mess on the floor as she finishes her story. Magiru comforts him and is glad that he was able to understand how selfish he was being earlier, and that he should entirely devote himself to Makoto. Kaito agrees and Makoto steps into the room, mentioning that he stopped the guards from coming in. He was suspicious so he came to check things out, then he slaps Kaito across the face when he approaches him. He is relieved when Kaito angrily yells at him.

- - -

The guys head out so that Makoto can show Kaito out, insulting his greediness along the way. He should have just talked to him, then he would have invited him over. As they approach the entrance, Kaito asks Makoto if he regrets asking him to be his partner. Being a Magical Boy was so important to him, while he was a nobody that he just sought out. Makoto tells Kaito that he wants to be with him, and Kaito is very happy, only to become flustered after Makoto hears his joyous response. He asks Kaito if he learned anything from this, and Kaito confirms he did. Makoto asks to hear what that was, and Kaito struggles to be honest- so he claims that he learned that he should just buy himself a *Nintendo Switch*.