verdantgrove

<Ten minutes later, inside the ES Building>

Souma: (Fufu. I ended up deep in conversation with Tsukinaga-dono for quite some time indeed. At this rate, I will be late for our meeting.)

(At last, with my responsibilities coming to a close, I have managed to earn some flexibility in my schedule. Yet, in spite of that, I was told that I am meant to attend school from time to time, and that I must attend class as well. And thus, I am reluctantly doing as such—)

(And I have been caring for the fish tanks that belong to my club, as no one other than I has the capability to do so.)

(It was also requested of me by Hasumi-dono that I keep a close eye on Isara-dono, and so, although I am not a member of the student council— I have been lending a hand and such around there as well.)

(It was certainly quite taxing work, but I have handled everything quite well and completed my duties thusly. I have grown to be able to duly execute my responsibilities as an “aidoru”, free of anxieties about what is to come.)

(Although as of late it feels as if we as Akatsuki have too much time on our hands, which is far from comparable to our days at Yumenosaki.)

(I am certain that Hasumi-dono and Kiryuu-dono have already prepared a secret stratagem which we can use to continue our steady advance onward.)

(I shan’t wish to enter the realm of becoming a hindrance to such reliable seniors, so I shall, at the very least, behave as their trusted blade.)

(For the sake of playing such a role, I am sharpening and polishing myself accordingly for them.)

~...♪ 

Souma: Pardon me! I, Kanzaki Souma, have now arrived!

Kuro: —That’s why I told ya to quit talking like you know everything!

Souma: (Hm? J-just what is happening here?)

Kuro: That kind of thing’s been getting on my damn nerves for a while now.

I don’t give a damn how smart you are— are ya trying to say that you’re the only one who’s ever right, and everyone around ya is a bunch of brainless idiots that are always wrong?

Who the hell do ya think you are? Answer me.

Keito: You’re putting words in my mouth. What’s got you so riled up… Are you even listening to what I’m saying, Kiryuu?

Kuro: You can ask me to listen, but I’m still not gonna get it— ‘cuz I’m a brainless idiot, ya know.

Keito: You’ve got a bad habit of self-deprecation. I fear it likely stems from that past of yours— you did used to be a good-for-nothing delinquen— 

Kuro: Like I said, quit being so self-centered, and don’t act like you’ve figured out every little thing about me!

Souma: U-um… W-wh.. wh.. What is going on?

Are you rehearsing for some sort of play, Hasumi-dono, Kiryuu-dono? Your performance was so shockingly true to life, so much so that I had almost thought you two were quarrelling in earnest…?

Kuro: Oh, Kanzaki’s here. I told ya to go to school like yer supposed to and not just show up here, didn’t I?

Keito: The reason he showed up at ES this late in the first place is likely because he was at school.

Don’t take out your anger by scolding a diligent person like him; such irrational behavior from a parent will leave a child with nowhere else to turn but to a life of delinquency.

Kuro: What the hell do you think you’re saying, huh? Do ya just hate every single little thing I do, Hasumi?

Keito: I told you before, you’re putting words in my mouth. I’d like to think you aren’t stupid enough to not understand what I’m saying, so I think it’s more likely that you just don’t want to.

I should be asking you just what on earth about me you’re so displeased with. Or are you simply getting angry for the sake of getting angry?

Kuro: Who asked you for that input?

Souma: Umm… Although I do not know how this situation came to be, I ask that the both of you regain your composure, at least the slightest bit.

The entrance of this training room is open and we are visible to the public— if we were to garner the attention of passersby, we shall provoke unwanted speculation.

Kuro: Hmph. No one cares about us enough at this point to do that.

Keito: I disagree. What Kanzaki said is correct. That storm of turmoil that Crazy:B stirred up in the summer is still fresh in the public’s memory, so we should likely refrain from any sort of conduct that would needlessly disturb our surroundings.

Kuro: Yeah, yeah… Our great and admirable leader, the wonderful Hasumi Keito, and absolutely no one else, is right as always.

So it follows that ya don’t need the two of us. Do whatever you want, and do it alone.

Keito: ……...

Souma: Kiryuu-dono, Hasumi-dono— 

Kuro: ...Shoot, let’s cool off a little.

Keito: Y-yeah. Let’s. This isn’t over. We’ll talk this over properly later… Kiryuu. 

Kuro: ……... 

Souma: (...? What is this subtle atmosphere of distance between the two of you? Just what on earth happened while I was not present?)

(Although I do worry, I wonder if it should really be alright were I to ask.)

(Kiryuu-dono headed off without so much as a glance towards me. Hasumi-dono, as well, appeared to be rather overwhelmed— I shall contemplate this more deeply.)

(I do not believe that either of them desire my opinion, nor my consideration on this matter.)

(Rather, it appears as if they were concerned that this matter was not something to discuss in front of children, and so they brought their heated argument to a full and complete stop.)

(If I am to be honest, I am quite comfortable with such a position as that. It is the position that I desire. It is the very reason I was born to follow and be of service to those whom I hold in high regard.)

(But… Am I truly of use to Hasumi-dono and Kiryuu-dono? I am unable to do so much as even understand their argument, let alone able to admonish them— though I am not expected to do such a thing, am I?)

(Moreover. In the event that such a conflict as this should arise between Hasumi-dono and Kiryuu-dono again, both of whom I love and respect— in the event that they can no longer work together—)

(Just whose side am I meant to take?)

(I am but a well-sharpened blade; the only thing that I am capable of is severing all creation into scraps.)

(If that is the case, then to take the side of one of my seniors would be akin to killing the other by my own hand, would it not?)

(Until this very moment, I had never considered such a possibility, but…)

← Previous | Cover | Next →

Proofread by allegiantheart and Amagiiz.

Souma: Hasumi-dono, what prompted you to leave so suddenly?

Keito: Ah, sorry. I caught sight of some stationery I’ve been looking for for a long time.

Kuro: Hmm. That pen’s what ya wanted?

Keito: Heh. This isn’t a pen. Slide this part here, and… Now it’s a pair of scissors.

Souma: Wh-what witchcraft is this…?! Y-you do not think that such a thing could possibly be a concealed blade?!

To think that this shop would sell such a thing beneath the veil of secrecy… Hasumi-dono, the proprietor of this establishment may very well be a scoundrel with a wicked heart!

Keito: Are you really in the position to say that as someone who brandishes a sword on a daily basis?

Souma: H-however, I possess the proper license to do as such! Moreover, this sword of mine is synonymous with my very soul!

Keito: Alright, I get it. Anyway, this isn’t a concealed blade. It’s just an office tool.

And quite an exceptional one at that. It won’t take up too much space in my pencil case. I couldn’t find this at any other stores nearby, and right when I was considering buying it online, I found it here.

Hm? Ooh, they have this pen in stock here too. This is great timing. Mine is going to run out of ink soon, so I’ll buy this too. This store has a great selection of supplies.

Wait, what?! Is that a file that lets you write on the documents after they’ve already been filed?

I had always thought that having to remove and refile documents one by one was such a hassle, but I never knew that such a ground-breaking product was available for sale this whole time!

Souma: Hasumi-dono, it appears to me that you have quite the fondness for stationery.

Kuro: I dunno if it’s a fondness so much as a search for things that’ll be handy when he’s workin’. Ya think we can put somethin’ like that in the magazine feature?

...Hm? That’s…

Souma: What has caught your eye, Kiryuu-dono? Ah, I see now that we are in the section for “paatii guzdu”1. Are these perchance… “Harowiin” costumes intended for children?

Kuro: These have gotta be the ones that didn’t sell, huh?

Souma: How very charming they are. Are you considering purchasing one to give to your sister as a gift?

Kuro: Mm, nah. I was just thinkin’ about how they look a lot like the first one my mom ever made for her.

The collar’s shaped like the tip of an eggplant and everything— looks just like it. It’s makin’ me feel a little nostalgic.

Souma: While we are on the subject, your mother was the one who taught you how to sew, correct? Have you been sewing since you were young, then?

Kuro: Yeah. Though there was a little while right after my mom died where I wasn’t sure if I wanted to keep doin’ it.

Whenever I would sew, all those memories would flash before my eyes clear as day, and I felt like it was makin’ my sister sad, too…

Souma: And yet you continued in spite of that? Why is that?

Kuro: Yeah, I did… Hm, how do I say this…

I don’t really know why, but I felt like if I quit sewing then and there, then my mom would really be gone from this world for good.

My skills were no match for my mom’s, but it was like there was a little piece of her soul in everything I made.

As long as I kept sewin’, I was keepin’ my mom’s memory alive… Well, maybe it’s more like I was givin’ myself some peace of mind.

Souma: I do not believe that alone was the case. Kiryuu-dono, you would stand at your mother’s side and look upon her work ever since you were very young, would you not?

You simply inherited your mother’s kind and affectionate soul through her sewing— this I believe to be the truth of the matter!

Kuro: ...Ya think so? That’d be nice.

...Wha— !?

Souma: Oh? Ah, a small child seems to have collided with you by mistake. Is everything alright?

Kuro: Hey, lil’ miss, you alright? I wasn’t watchin’ my step. Sorry for bein’ so careless and runnin’ into you like that.

Oops, scared her, didn’t I… Kanzaki, if I try and comfort her, I’m just gonna keep scarin’ her, so can you take over for me before she starts cryin’?

Souma: Hm? I do not believe that she is frightened at all.

There is a tear in that stuffed dog you are holding? ...Hm, hm. I see. Her stuffed animal has a tear in it, so she was simply in search of a hospital in this store to heal its wounds.

Kuro: A toy hospital? In this store?

Souma: Ah, you refer to that stuffed animal on that shelf yonder? The one that is wrapped thoroughly in bandages?

Kuro: Ah, I get it. She saw that Halloween toy over there and thought this place was a toy hospital.

Souma: Ah, that is… Umm, this place is not any sort of hospital…

Ahh, please do not cry! I have made her cry! W-what am I meant to do…?!

Kuro: (It’s been a long time since I’ve heard a kid cryin’. I used to hear it all the time back then.)

(Sure enough, I’m still not used to it no matter how many times I hear it… Or maybe I’m just bad at dealin’ with it. I can’t help but see my sister in her.)

(But that’s a good tendency to have, ain’t it? Not wantin’ to make her cry just shows how much I care about her.)

(Back then… When she saw how desperately I started to avoid even comin’ near the house, all she did was cry and cry.)

(But I really was a huge moron back then, after all. I wasn’t payin’ her any mind at all.)

(I couldn’t even see how much she was clingin’ to me— I couldn’t even tell why she was cryin’.)

(After Mom died, that girl couldn’t even get herself to cry. But it was at that moment that her cries truly reached me.)

(I could never forget how crushing that was. It hit me harder than any big-name delinquent's fist ever could.)

(It was like I finally came to my senses.)

(I could finally see her true emotions. And I wanted to make her smile…)

(That’s it. That’s what it was that made me wanna— )

Hey, lil’ miss. I know I may look scary, but the truth is, I’m a doctor for stuffed animals. So you wanna let me take a look at your doggy?

...Ooh, thanks. Wait just a sec; I’ll have it fixed up in no time.

Keito: Apologies for keeping you two waiting.

...Er, Kiryuu, what are you doing?

Souma: Fufufu ♪ He is a doctor for stuffed animals, you know.

Keito: Huh…?

Kuro: ...There ya go. Look, all better.

Hm? Oh, don’t worry about it. Ya don’t need to thank me; just give it lots of love from here on out.

Souma: Kiryuu-dono, she has taken to you quite easily. Fufufu, it seems as though she has no intention of releasing your hand from her grasp.

Kuro: …….

(Ah. Yeah…)

(Way back then. I wanted to make her smile, so I went and made her a stuffed animal.)

(It wasn’t too pretty, but even then… She took her tiny little hand, and grabbed mine and squeezed it tight.)

(And that was when I swore to myself— even though I could never replace our mom, I’d make sure my sister never felt lonely.)

Location: Yumenosaki School Route (Autumn)

Keito: We spent a long time outside, didn’t we? Well, we managed to fulfill our goal quite well, so now both the questionnaire and the interview for the magazine shouldn’t be an issue at all.

Kuro: Kanzaki, thanks for today.

Souma: There is no need to thank me. I am pleased that you were able to procure such satisfactory fabric! Furthermore, aside from the fact that I had the opportunity to try “tapioca” for the first time today, I was able to be of help to you— and for that I am delighted.

Kuro: Yeah, ‘course I’m grateful for that too, but most of all, thanks for takin’ me out with you.

I thought this was just gonna serve as a nice breather on top of bein’ a trip to get fabric, but… I got to reminisce on a lot of things, and it just picked me up even more.

Souma: ? On what did you reminisce?

Kuro: You’re askin’, huh… Well, I was thinkin’ about what my intention to keep sewin’ was in the first place.

Souma: Your intention? There is a well-known — and quite indispensable — saying, that being “Forget not your intention from your time as a novice”. Ergo, such thoughts are quite honorable thoughts indeed.

Kuro: Yeah. ...And it made me realize that I really do love sewin’ after all.

← Previous | Cover

TL Notes: 

1: party goods

Kuro: Hahahaha! What a wreck!

Keito: Hey, quit laughing at me! You’re utterly incorrigible! They’ve already sent it back, so I can’t do anything about that now.

I see why the two of you are here now too. I was caught off guard when you said you were getting materials to make costumes, considering the fact that we haven’t had any large-scale events lately, but I understand now.

Souma: Mhm. That is also why I am accompanying Kiryuu-dono on this outing.

Keito: Perfect timing, then. You two wouldn’t happen to have any stores that I wouldn’t typically visit in mind, would you?

Souma: Hm, hm… It is quite difficult for me to give you an answer when prompted so suddenly.

...Ah! What say you of visiting a storyteller’s theater, or another venue of that nature?

Keito: Unfortunately, I’ve been to theaters like that many times before. Well, not so often that it could be considered a hobby of mine or anything, but still.

Besides, I don’t think that’d be much of a departure from the answers I wrote that got the questionnaire sent back. Anzu was more polite in explaining this, but...

In short, I think it’s the case that there aren’t enough answers on my questionnaire that are typical activities for high school boys of this day and age. Something of the “norm”— a template, so to speak.

I do have some basic awareness as to what sort of things aren’t typical for modern teenage boys to do, after all.

Souma: Hmm… This is a troublesome task indeed. I am extraordinarily ignorant as to what is considered “modern”...

Keito: We’re in the same situation, then. I do have a vague idea of what’s trending, but I can’t come up with somewhere we can go on the spot. I was nearly on the verge of admitting that I’m completely lost on what to do.

Kuro: You don’t have to make this harder than it needs to be, ya know? I think we should take a nice little stroll through the area. If ya see somethin’ that catches your eye, we can go take a quick look.

I think that alone would be a pretty shocking thing for ya to do, Hasumi.

Keito: Hm? Is that something you usually do?

Kuro: I wouldn’t say so. But I used to go for walks with a buddy of mine pretty much all the time back in middle school, and ain’t it enough to at least walk around the place?

I never had any money back then, so I couldn’t go into too many stores. On the other hand, I had more time than I knew what to do with, so I really couldn’t do much else.

Keito: Hmm. It’s absolutely not in my nature to spend my time wandering around aimlessly like that. I can’t help but feel like I’m wasting time.

Souma: I as well. I would much prefer to have some clear purpose in my meandering, at the very least...

Kuro: Which is why this is already out of the norm for you guys. Plus, it’s fun to walk around with nothin’ to do sometimes.

Keito: Really? Well, given that the goal here is to walk around with nothing to do, I can’t go home before I’ve done that.

Kuro: You’re bein’ so uptight. Anyway, are we good? We’re gonna be on the lookout while we’re walkin’ around. If either of you spota place that catches your eye, we’ll go check it out.

This is what they call a detour on the way home, see? We can just stop by that kimono shop that Kanzaki recommended while we’re out.

Keito: Hm? You two are coming with me too?

Kuro: You bet. I’d get all worried about ya if you were by yourself. Besides, Kanzaki told me I need to rest. This’ll be the perfect change of pace.

Souma: Precisely! I do not doubt that it was fate that brought you to encounter us here. Let us all go together!

Kuro: All of us have had our schedules packed with jobs and events for ages. It’d be pretty nice to spend some time together after school, just the three of us for once, don’t ya think?

Keito: Hmph. Though I’m reluctant to be treated like a child… It would be nice indeed.

They do say that you’ll have more fun when you’re with friends, after all. How perfectly apt of a saying.

Location: Downtown

Kuro: Ooh. There’s an arcade here. Wanna go have a match on one of their games?

Souma: I have not had many past experiences with “geemu”. However, it appears to me that many of those in my “kurasu” have quite the fondness for them.

What sorts of “geemu” does that establishment have to offer?

I have heard talk of “bokushingu geemu”1 from Oogami-dono, though if there is such a thing as a “geemu” involving the art of iaido2, I would quite like to try my hand at it.

Kuro: ...Never seen a game like that before.

Souma: Truly…? How unfortunate. Were there such a “geemu” in existence, I am confident that I would emerge undefeated.

Keito: Come to think of it, my class went to an arcade at Eichi’s suggestion once. I only stopped by for a brief moment, however.3

I wonder what kind of games they were playing then.

Hey, Kiryuu. I’m not very acquainted with playing games either, so are there any games here that Kanzaki and I should be able to handle?

Kuro: Ooh, okay… What about a racing game? That’s somethin’ we can all play together.

You gotta drive insanely fast through a track. The first one to get to the end wins. The rules are pretty straightforward.

Souma: I have no experience with automobiles, but surely it is necessary that we use some sort of transportation, yes? If that is the case, I often ride on horseback, ergo handling vehicles is second nature to me!

Anyhow, the objective is simply to be the first to arrive at the “gooru” as well! How very straightforward!

Keito: For a second there, I was worried you’d suggest we play the game with that UFO-looking thing over there. I don’t even know what kind of game that’s supposed to be in the first place…

Anyway, I should be able to play a racing game without much issue. Let’s try that.

<15 minutes later>

Souma: Are not horses and automobiles both considered methods of transport?! Yet the way in which you handle them could not be more different!

And to think that you would throw the shell of a turtle at me!

Is this not intended to be a lawful race, one where it is simply raw speed which carries one to victory?! Are you truly satisfied with a race as riddled with underhanded tactics as that Dragon King Competition?!

Keito: Utterly incorrigible! What kind of racing game has an item that fragments the road into pieces?! You made me get fished up by that strange creature on its cloud more times than I could count!4

Kuro: ...My bad. There weren’t any other racing games at this arcade, so what can ya do?

Let’s pull ourselves together and then head somewhere else.

← Previous | Cover | Next →

TL Notes:

1: boxing games

2: Iaido is a Japanese martial art that emphasizes awareness and quick movements of one’s blade in response to sudden attacks. More here. 

3: Reference to WANTED!!!

4: The racing game they are playing seems to be a reference to Mario Kart.

<Mid-November, directly before the start of the SS qualifying round>

Kuro: Hasumi… Kanzaki… Sorry, but ‘m done for— 

Keito: Don’t quit now, Kiryu! Aren’t you supposed to be a strong man?!

Souma: That is right, Kiryu-dono! We as Akatsuki grew able to overcome any hardship, no matter the situation or severity, when the three of us came together, did we not?!

Kuro: Haha. Yeah, we never lost to anyone.

Whenever the three of us got together, we’d be invincible. Made it pretty clear that Akatsuki’s not just gonna do things with grace, we’re gonna win with grace too.

But still, this time I’m really done for. No way I can go on… Our journey ends here.

I’m so pathetic, whinin’ like this… But maybe all that is just showin’ the kinda guy I’ve been all along.

Keito: Kiryu, this isn’t like you!

Souma: Precisely as Hasumi-dono said! It pains us to see you in such a state, Kiryu-dono!

It is said that if you clear your mind of all mundane thoughts, you should find even fire cool! That is your nature! There is no logical reason you would ever succumb to any foe, given the strength of both your body and soul!

Keito: That’s right, Kiryu! You need to stay strong!

Don’t let the likes of seasickness get the best of you…!

Kuro: Urgh… I-I get it, I’ll stay strong. So quit shaking me like that.

You guys haven’t had to deal with motion sickness, so you wouldn’t get what I’m feelin’ right now.

I got the picture by now, so at least leave me alone ‘til we get to Okinawa, for God’s sake. I’m beggin ya, I don’t wanna have to resort to lashing out and hitting you guys ‘til you cut it out.

Souma: Hmm… I am well aware that you’ve a distaste for moving vehicles, Kiryu-dono, but I had never expected you would have been so extremely prone to seasickness. Are you truly alright? Your complexion is deathly pale.

Keito: Yeah, I’m worried… What about you, Kanzaki? Are you feeling okay? Do you want to take something for motion sickness just in case?

Souma: I shall refrain. Quite contrary to expectation, when I ingest such kinds of medication, my condition seems to worsen. Thus, though it may do me more harm than good, I take great care when choosing what goes into my body at all times.

Keito: Hmm. Well, just like anything else, too much medication will just poison you. Taking any kind of medicine when you’re feeling fine will only disrupt your internal homeostasis, and so nothing good will come of it, hm?

But well, this is just plain misfortune. To think, when the SS qualifying round is being held nationwide, we’d be the ones selected to go to the farthest southern reaches of the country—Okinawa.

Souma: Mhm. Were we selected to participate somewhere nearby, running to reach our station would have also served as a fine warm-up exercise.

Keito: Unlike you two, my stamina isn't that great. You do realize it’d be impossible for me to perform after running a distance like a full-length marathon, right?

Anyway, if possible, I’d like to start mobilizing the moment we arrive at the location.

Kiryu begged us to avoid taking anything that flies at all costs, so that’s why we chose to go by boat.

But compared to the other idols associated with ES who travelled by plane, we’ll be taking a lot longer to get there. So on account of that, we’ll be getting a relatively late start.

To make matters worse, I’ve heard that it’s essentially like a ruthless battleground over there, where the idols local to Okinawa have a great advantage. I can only hope that we manage to avoid any unpleasant consequences of our late arrival from here on out.

Souma: Though I very much agree with such a sentiment, I am afraid that we are left with no other choice but to accept said consequences. We absolutely cannot leave Kiryu-dono behind simply because of his resentment for moving vehicles.

Keito: Right. For the duration of the qualifying round, it’s prohibited for any of us idols to leave our designated region.

Similarly, in the event that we’re unable to arrive at the location for the qualifying round, we’d likely be disqualified.

Therefore, it’s utterly essential that all three of us reach Okinawa—even if that means we have to crawl.

Souma: Mhm… Though this is a cruel development for Kiryu-dono, he will have no other choice but to endure it for Akatsuki’s sake.

Keito: But it is Kiryu we’re talking about, so I’m sure he’ll be okay. However, what I’m worried about is the effects of his motion sickness prolonging and unexpectedly damaging his physical condition.

Not to mention that we’ll be fighting in a different environment than usual this time.

If Kiryu were to get sick when we’re already getting a late start as is, we’ll just rack up loss after loss—or something like that. All we can do at that point is pray things turn out in our favor.

Souma: Hmm. That is precisely the path that we as Akatsuki were headed down until the events of Unification by Force. I am hardly one to be superstitious, but this seems to me a terribly bad omen.

Keito: Hmph. It’s alright, Kanzaki. We won’t make the same mistake twice, nor will we lose to the same foe twice. We’ll overcome both failure and defeat, and be stronger for it, no matter where we’re fighting.

The ones to emerge victorious from this fierce battlefield that is Okinawa will be us—Akatsuki.

Souma: (Hmm… Speaking with such a tone of voice as that, it feels almost as if he is convincing himself that that is the sure outcome.)

(His ever so reliable partner Kiryu-dono is in poor health, and so his heart is likely plagued with feelings of uneasiness.)

(And so I believe that now more than ever, I must be reliable and composed. However...)

(It truly seems as though Hasumi-dono harbors that same sentiment as I. Upon this occasion, he is attempting to allow me to decide upon our course of action for some unknown reason.)

(Asking such things as “Kanzaki, what do you think we should do?” and “Kanzaki, what do you want to do?”, assuring me that “Kanzaki, you can decide, you know?”... There is something so strangely unnatural about his concerted effort to prod for my judgement.)

(I had thought that Hasumi-dono well understood my desire to obey my seniors. However, perhaps it is the case after all that he is so burdened with anxiety that he is desperately trying to cling to me and others around him.)

(Though the more specific aspects are unclear to me still, we have quite a significant amount of difficulties ahead of us indeed. Well, for us, such a thing is far from a novel experience.)

 Cover | Next →

Proofread by 310mc and Gelyan

Souma: Hasumi-dono~! Your thoughtfulness has truly left me deeply moved!

Keito: Whoa?! Kanzaki, don’t run around like that while you’re carrying a cake! What are you going to do if you run into someone?!

Souma: My apologies! I am simply so overjoyed that I cannot quell this enthusiasm of mine…

Hasumi-dono, was it truly you who had ordered this sword shaped “keeki” for me?

Keito: ...Yeah, it was me. I happened to come across this made-to-order cake place where you could order a cake in any shape you like, so I asked for one in the shape of that treasured sword of yours.

Souma: Fufu, it is wonderfully made. I shall cherish this “keeki”, and preserve it as if it were my own prized possession...♪ 

Keito: Cut that out, it’s perishable. We’ll just take a picture of it— that way you can eat it.

Kuro: Kanzaki, happy birthday.

Thanks for doing that sword dance for us earlier.

Huh, it’s your birthday, but it turns out that we’re the ones having fun here.

Souma: Nay, ‘tis not the case. As long as you are enjoying yourself, Kiryuu-dono, then I am as well.

Being able to spend my time in such a manner as this, sharing laughter and smiles with you and Hasumi-dono— with everyone— is what I truly love.

And thus, I would like for today to be a day which we can both enjoy… ♪ 

Adonis: Happy birthday, Kanzaki.

Souma: Adonis-dono! I thank you for coming. Fufu, I am elated that you, my dearest friend, have come to celebrate my birthday ♪ 

By the way, that which you carry under your arm— what is it?

Adonis: It’s a log of prosciutto ham. It’s your gift.

Souma: “Puroshutto hamu”...By “log”, do you mean that is is timber? The shape is quite strange for timber, but... 

Adonis: No, it’s a dry-cured ham. I’ll cut it up, and we can all eat it together.

Hajime: Kanzaki-senpai, happy birthday ♪ 

I made a sachet just for you. If it’s alright with you, I’d love for you to accept it ♪ 

Souma: “Sashe”...? Ah, you are referring to a small scented pouch, yes?

Hajime: Yes, that’s right. I’m sorry for saying it in a way you aren’t accustomed to hearing.

Souma: There is no need for you to apologize. I was able to gain some new knowledge, courtesy of you.

This “sashe”... Mm, what a wonderful fragrance. I give you my thanks, Shino.

Kaoru: Ooh, looks like the party’s still going. Glad I was able to make it in time~

Heeey, Souma-kun. Happy birthday ♪ 

Souma: Hakaze-dono…? Have you perchance come to celebrate my birthday?

Kaoru: Yep. You’re my cute junior from the Marine Life Club, after all~♪ 

Souma: Though I am far from happy to hear you refer to me as a “cute junior”, or anything of that sort…

Souma: Kiryuu-dono, please excuse us!

My goodness?! W-what an incredible amount of costumes...

Kuro: Huh? ...Kanzaki, Hasumi, ‘s that you? Wha’s the matter?

Keito: O-oi, Kiryuu. You look terrible. Are you alright? I had heard that you were working yourself quite a substantial amount making costumes, but…

Kuro: Huh~? This ‘s nothin’. What’s the deal, didja hear that ‘n start worryin’ enough to come all the way out here to see me? Ya worrywart.

Keito: You don’t seem okay at all. Your eyes are bloodshot, not to mention you’re slurring your words.

Souma: Your complexion is worse than even that of the many “zombis” who lurch about our school grounds at this very moment… Kiryuu-dono, are you truly beyond even the slightest shadow of doubt that you may be overworking yourself?

...Kiryuu-dono?

Kuro: ……

Keito: Oi.

Kuro: Hah…! That was bad, I almost passed out for a second there…

Keito: You did pass out just now, I have no doubt about that. Your eyes rolled back in your head.

Souma: Hmm. It is quite rare for you to be in a state of such extreme exhaustion, Kiryuu-dono…

Kuro: What are you on about? I’m fine.

C’mon, I haven’t forgotten to make Akatsuki’s costumes, so don’t worry.

Keito: You idiot, that’s not what we’re worried about. We’re more worried about your health.

Souma: Kiryuu-dono. While I am certainly very much aware of the fact that you are the sort of personage who vows to bring every one of your commitments to fruition…

Would you not consider lessening the amount of said commitments… or at least allowing yourself a small break?

If you continue on at this rate, you shall die, Kiryuu-dono.

Kuro: You’re exaggerating. You should know that I’m not that fragile, okay? Have some faith in my strength.

Keito: This no longer concerns your strength, nor anything else akin to it. You’re completely over capacity.

It’s just like Kanzaki said— How about you try lessening the amount of commitments you take on? This is a difficult situation, and no one will place the blame on you should you fall through.

Souma: Precisely! If by any chance you were to be met with reproach or mockery, Kiryuu-dono, I would deal swift punishment to all those responsible! 

Keito: Oi. I won’t stand for that.

Kuro: Haha, you sure are hot-blooded.

I guess I should thank you two for worrying about my health, but… Well, maybe just keep an eye on me for a bit.

Just a little while longer, and then I’ll have finished all the costumes. So let me see this through to the end.

Keito: Why are you going to such an extent? I understand there aren’t enough workers around for this sort of thing, but…

In the worst case scenario that you fail to meet the deadline, Eichi would have some sort of last resort to fall back on. In fact, Eichi could even use his authority to outsource more workers if needed.

Kuro: That wouldn’t mean anything in the end, though.

Keito: ?

Kuro: Look, costumes are pretty expensive, yeah? A good amount of the people who come to me aren’t exactly from the most well-off of units.

If they come to me, I can allow for some flexibility, maybe put a new twist on some of their old costumes to cut the costs and stuff like that.

If I turned guys like that down, they’d be screwed.

Souma: Hmm. While I believe that such a mindset is quite splendid in itself… If you were to become incapacitated from overwork, Kiryuu-dono, it would all be for naught, would it not?

Kuro: Yeah, my bad, especially since you’ve all been so kind as to worry about me so much. I’ll be fine. I’ve just got a few more, and then I should be done.

Keito: Sigh… You truly are incorrigible.

Well, I understand. The two of us will help you as much as we’re able to. 

We may not be able to sew, but we can take care of any other chores that need handling so that you can focus solely on sewing.

Souma: Ooh! What a splendid proposal indeed! I should very much like to extend my hand to you in assistance, Kiryuu-dono, at the very least!

Kuro: Thanks, you two. Well, guess I should brace myself for just a little longer, huh?

<One hour later>

Kuro: Finish sewing this inner part here, and… Sweet, done and done.

Souma: Ooh! You never fail to impress me, Kiryuu-dono! You have seen this task through successfully, with utter grace nonetheless!

Keito: Thanks for your hard work. You are quite unsteady on your feet at the moment, but—  Kiryuu? Are you alright?

Kuro: Yaaawn… Now ‘ve gotta… take… thi…

Souma: H-he collapsed!? Kiryuu-donooo!? Kiryuu-donooooo!?

← Previous | Cover | Next →

Proofread by 310mc and Amagiiz.

Location: Beach

Kanata: splash, splaaash...♪ the Sea Breeze feels nice ♪ 

i managed to come across this nice Tide Pool, so i am Happy. because as long as i am here, i shouldn't have to worry about being swept away by the waves.

i can Floaty-float with the Fish as much as i want here~ floating, floating… ♪

Korean Dogwhelks, Black Lined Limpets, Toothed Topshell Snails… and right here there is a Chiton too.

ufufu, it is just like i'm inside a Field Guide for Marine Life.

...hm? who was that, who was just Tugging on my hand?

aah, it's a Hermit Crab, hm? hello there ♪ would you like to play with me?

well, let's have you Race against Mister Crab right here. 

the Goal is that Bucket over there. good luck to the both of you. ready, set, go… ♪ 

the Winner is Mister Hermit Crab. good work to you too, Mister Crab. there, there, good boy, good boy.

all these Shellfish, this Hermit Crab, this Crab, and all these Fish too. everyone...

you all look so delicious~ ♪ 

Location: Starmony Hall Kitchen

Souma: (To be met with a clear and distinct reflection of my face, as if I am looking into a mirror… Mm. I believe that I can cease my polishing of this knife here.)

(And now all that is left is to await Shinkai-dono's arrival with the fresh ingredients that the two of us shall prepare together.)

(After all, were it not for Shinkai-dono's assistance, my work the other day would not have been such a success.)

(And in order to requite his kindness, I, Kanzaki Souma, shall dedicate my heart and soul into preparing a delicious feast of fresh seafood!)

(Awaiting his arrival in such a manner as this brings to mind the memories of when Shinkai-dono was a member of the Marine Life Club.)

(Fortunately, there are some good souls who harbor an interest in fish that have joined the club, and thus it has narrowly escaped dissolution.)

(However, it may not necessarily be the case that there will happen to be those who hold a similar passion next year, and the year that follows that.)

(And so, in order to ensure the survival of the Marine Life Club forevermore… Must I, as a leader, take any measure necessary to do as such…?)

Kanata: souma, thank you for waiting~

Souma: Ooh! Shinkai-dono, you have returned.

Kanata: i have~ i brought plenty of Sea Creatures back with me.

Souma: Ooh. I look forward to seeing them.

...Hmm? I shall set aside the manila clams and common clams, as well as the crab. But the barnacles, the hermit crab, black lined limpets...

Those are all quite strange creatures, but as long as they are cooked, eating them shan’t cause any issue. I have decided that I shall begin by sauteing them in “bataa”.

Kanata: wow~ well, i will pay close attention ♪ 

...souma, you have gotten even better at Cooking, haven’t you?

Souma: I believe that I have “Nikizu Kicchin” to thank for that. As long as they are beside me to serve as a model for my growth, my technique shall continue to improve naturally.

It is the same when referring to the path of swordsmanship— I wish not to become complacent, but rather to continue refining my skill ♪ 

Kaoru: Hey guys~ I thought I smelled some butter. So it was you two all along, huh?

Kanata: yes. the smell is the Fish we are Cooking; you should eat with us too, kaoru ♪ 

Kaoru: Huh. Just what kind of fish are you going t...

Hold up, a ton of these aren’t even fish, though? Like this kind of stuff; is it really safe for us to eat this?

Kanata: of course. i said bye-bye to all the Creatures that are Poisonous, after all.

Kaoru: Hmm. Well, you can go ahead and count me in. ‘Cause eating seafood like this is probably a rare opportunity ♪ 

Souma: I had not intended for you to join us… But I suppose that if Shinkai-dono is extending an invitation to you, then I shall refrain from disregarding that invitation.

But if it is to be the three of us, I feel as if the amount of ingredients we have is somewhat lacking.

Kanata: ehe. i thought that might happen, so i brought This~ ♪ 

Souma: Hmm. That is a deep sea fish, is it not?

Kanata: i received Fish to display in the Aquarium from my Parents for the first time in a while, and this fish was mixed in with those.

Aoumi Aquarium does not have the equipment to Display this fishie. so let’s make it tasty, and eat it...☆ 

Kaoru: I kinda feel bad for the fish, but maybe that’s just my ego talking. I mean, we eat so many living things for sustenance every day.

Souma: Mm. Given that it is impossible for us to return this fish to the depths from whence it came, the greatest comfort that we can offer should be to cherish every bite of it.

I shall make this into sashimi and fish sauce. Wait just a moment.

<A few moments later>

Kaoru: Ooh, you just cooked one thing after the other, huh?

Souma: Well now, do relish in your meals!

Kanata: okay. then i will start with the Sashimi. munch, munch...

Kaoru: Mhm, delicious ♪ It's kinda crazy how delicious it is, even though when I first saw all the ingredients, I was like, "These have gotta be impossible to work with".  

Kanata: ufufu. the same is true for both People and Fish— they are things that you can't judge just based on how they look. it's only when you see what's inside that you understand their True form.

...ah. i made a mistake, and completely forgot.

souma~ please Cook this fishie too ♪ 

Kaoru: An oarfish!? Just where were you hiding that, huh?!

Souma: If it does not even fit in this room, then just how long is it truly…?

Very well! Once one has begun to eat the poison, they must commit to eating every morsel on their plate!1 I shall put my body and soul into the preparation of this fish! 

Kanata: Oarfish are not poisonous, but i'm excited, souma.

make all of it tasty, and then we'll eat… ☆ 

TL Notes:

1: Souma doesn't think the fish is poisonous— rather, he's using an expression here that means "once you've committed to doing something, follow through until the end".

<Ten minutes later>

Niki: Oh! I see, I totally get you!

So basically what you mean is that you wanna treat Yuuta-kun to a homemade meal to raise his spirits, huh?

Hinata: Yeah… I just wanna make up with Yuuta-kun, one way or another.

Shiina-senpai. Would you be willing to teach me how to cook?

Niki: I gotcha. We’re roommates, so we’re friends here. Not to mention that you’ve blessed me with so many sweets before too...so yeah, I’ll cooperate with you ♪ 

Hinata: Thanks, Shiina-senpai. You’re my savior~♪

Tetora: Cooking class! How cool~ I want you to teach me too, Aniki1!

Niki: “Aniki”? Er, I wasn’t really planning on the two of us being brothers… Have we met before?

Tetora: Nnah!? Y-you don’t remember….!? Remember that one time in the staff canteen? I might have forgotten to tell you my name back then, but I said hi to you!2

Niki: Umm, did that ever happ—…

Ahh, I remember now!

You came up to me when I was debating the idea of quitting being an idol, and you were pretty hot-blooded too — If I’m remembering right, you’re that Ryusei Black kid from Ryuseitai, right?

Tetora: Uh-huh! I’m Nagumo Tetora! I’m so honored you remembered!

Niki: Boooy, I only just connected the dots! I’m pretty forgetful when it comes to things that aren’t about cooking, so…

Anyway, Nagumo-kun. What’d you come here for? This is our room, you know~?

Tetora: Ah, I came because Hiiro-kun’s in the same room as you!

But maaan, I didn’t expect that I’d be able to talk to you like this again! I’ve always been super moved by everything you do, Aniki — You’re my cooking role model to this day!

If it’s cool with you, I want you to teach me how to cook too!

Niki: Um. But I’m not your brother… Did I say that title was better than “Shiina-sensei” the last time we talked or something?

Hmm… I’m not exactly the biggest fan of people being clingy with me, but… I guess having a third person is no different from having two, so I may as well teach you while I’m at it.

Tetora: Awright! Thanks so much, Aniki!

Niki: “Aniki”... Hmm. I’m still not used to it, huh… Think about it from my point of view— I can count the amount of times we’ve met on one hand, so it’s sending shivers down my spine!

Hinata: Ahaha. It’s because once Tetsu-kun falls for you, he’ll be completely devoted to you~ He’ll probably stay like this for a while.

Niki: Why is it that both Rinne-kun and this kid give me no space, huh?

...Ah. We got totally off-topic.

So, you were saying that you wanna treat Yuuta-kun to something homemade, but what kinds of foods does he like?

I can teach you how to make anything, from Japanese food, to Western food, to Chinese food, or even something completely new and creative.

Hinata: Ah, yeah… Yuuta-kun likes food that’s super spicy, so I was wondering if I should ask for a recipe with some spice in it?

Niki: Hmm. A recipe with some spice in it, huh? Plus it’s still gotta be relatively easy to give as a gift, too...

Hiiro: How about super spicy omurice?!

Niki: That’s what you like, isn’t it?

Tetora: Aniki! How about we do some manly cooking— what about something like yakiniku?

Niki: I’m not sure if that really counts as cooking!

Hm… This has to be something you can personally deliver, otherwise it seems like it’ll be hard to make up with him. Maybe if we had a dish that’s a little easier to carry...

Hinata: Usually when you wanna put your whole heart into an apology, you bring the person a box of assorted cakes or something like that, huh? But if we’re going for something spicy, I can’t really think of anything…?

Hiiro: Oh, by assorted cakes, you must mean those sweet things Aira often eats. So there’s a spicy version of them as well?

Tetora: Uumyu. There’s all different kinds of spicy snacks. But can you make stuff like that yourself?

Niki: Spicy sweets… Ah, if that’s what we’re going for, I’ve got a good idea!

A spicy sweet that you can carry… We can make hot chocolate!

Hinata: Hot chocolate…?

Hiiro: I have heard of chocolate before, but this “hot chocolate'' is a first. Isn’t that the project that you and my brother did some time ago?

Niki: That’s “Hot Limit”.

Hot chocolate is a dessert made by adding chili pepper to dark chocolate with a high cacao content.

The bitterness coupled with the spiciness yields an absolutely exquisite flavor— it’s delicious!

Tetora: I see. Just as we’d expect of you, Aniki! Your cooking knowledge is out of this world!

Hiiro: I can’t quite imagine it from just hearing about it, but it sounds so interesting!

Hinata: Mhm. Yuuta-kun’s got a soft spot for spicy things, and the creativity of the snack should be a big help in clearing up things between us.

Shiina-senpai! Please teach me how to make hot chocolate! Pretty please!

Niki: I gotcha, but under one condition!

Hinata: One condition...?

Niki: Oh, don’t sweat it. It’s really simple, okay? If you’re gonna cook, you gotta make some for me too!

I can fill up my stomach, you can make up with your brother… It’s just like killing two birds with one stone...♪ 

Hinata: That’ll be no problem at all! If there’s any other odd jobs, or just other kinds of help that you need from me in general, you can feel free to ask, okay?

I work part-time at a Chinese restaurant, after all. I’m pretty confident with this type of stuff~♪ 

Niki: Gotcha. Then I’d be glad if you went out shopping for me ♪ 

The spices they’ve got at the shopping mall are authentic and tasty, but it’s pretty out of the way, so it’s been hard for me to replenish my stash, y’know~?

So I’ll leave that to you ♪ 

Hiiro: What is… a shopping mall? Chief, do you know?

Tetora: Ah, you don’t know what shopping malls are, huh?

Then I think you should get Hinata-kun to show you around ♪ 

Hiiro: But we have club activities tomorrow, don’t we? Is it truly alright for me to forego them?

Tetora: Don’t worry about it. An idol’s health has always been more important than their club activities, plus— 

It’ll be more useful in the future to learn stuff about the world now, after all.

Hiiro: Thank you. I’m grateful for your consideration.

I don’t fully understand what this “shopping mall” place is, but if there’s anything you need help carrying, I’ll assist you!

Also, this may be rude of me to ask, but in exchange for that, could you teach me about the outside world?

Hinata: Alright, then it’s decided! You’ll go out shopping with me tomorrow!

And then we’ll make hot chocolate at night, and I’ll give it to Yuuta-kun, and then we’ll make up! Yup yup, it feels like a beam of light’s shining brightly on my future...☆ 

TL Notes:

1: Tetora refers to Niki with “aniki” in kanji, contrary to Yuuta’s version of “aniki”, which is written in katakana. Yuuta’s version of “aniki” when referring to Hinata is more of a nickname, whereas Tetora’s is more as if he’s calling Niki his older brother/older brother figure.

2: This is a reference to Niki’s 3rd idol story with Tetora, which features their brief first meeting. Tetora has strongly admired Niki ever since he saw Niki star on a cooking show as a child.

<A few days later, on the day of the PV recording for ES’s interdepartmental project.>

Kaoru: Hey guys, you all changed?

Mitsuru: Mhm. These clothes are kinda hard to move in, but they look super cool~☆ 

Ehehe. These are way different from the stuff I usually wear for Ra*bits ‘cause they’ve got a grown-up feel to them, so it’s all new and fresh. It really feels perfect for the interdepartmental project! ♪

Niki: Yeah. I get that. In Crazy:B, we’re always wearing loose and casual stuff too, so I guess you could say this kind of costume really makes me straighten up.

Nahaha. So this is that “out of the ordinary” vibe that Hakaze-kun was talking about, huh~♪

Chiaki: Sure thing. Wearing different kinds of costumes like these must feel strange, especially for you, since your unit Crazy:B only formed just recently.

Niki: Yeah, if we wore clothes that were this neat and respectable, Rinne-kun could do us a favor and straighten up too.

I’m just kidding, though. Well, we’re us, so I couldn’t imagine pulling off an image change or anything like that at this point.

I’ll just have as much fun as I can for now~♪ I added some special feelings into my date plan, stuff that you’d expect to find at a three star restaurant!

Kaoru: I’m glad everyone was on board with the production I proposed. I think that this is gonna be full of stuff that anyone can enjoy thanks to that.

Although, I didn’t even need to pitch in at all when it came to you, Sakasaki-kun.

It was pretty smart of you to include a surprise worth remembering at the end of the date.

Natsume: Fufu. I am a magiciAN, after aLL. Devising a way to ensure that such lovely memories become lasting ones is only naturAL.

Kaoru: Ahaha. You really saved me.

Since you’re always treating Aoba-kun from your unit so harshly—

I was really worried I’d have to help you brainstorm your date plan too, y’know ♪ 

Natsume: That mophead really is meddlesoME, you knOW. Well, he came up with a good idea after I hit him a few timES, so I suppose it was worth iT.

Kaoru: Huh? Sakasaki-kun, you asked Aoba-kun for his thoughts? I was so sure you came up with that whole thing yourself…

Natsume: WeLL, to an exteNT. The things he says do have merIT, about once every hundred timES.

More importantLY, it seems as if they’ve finished testing the equipmeNT.

Our time together as “Date Plan Idea Squad” has gone by quickLY, and this recording will bring it to an eND.

Niki: They kinda just threw us all into a unit last minute, but somehow this has got me super emotional, you know~?

I’ve pretty much only done idol work with my own unit before, so this feels pretty weird.

Mitsuru: Mhm! This group’s super different from Ra*bits, so it was fun! I feel like even I got to be all grown-up too!

Chiaki: This is certainly a big change from the unease we all had at the beginning of the project. You’ve all got such a good look in your eyes! 

But there’s no time to get sentimental like this now. We have to shoot the opening together first.

Kaoru: Each of us will reenact the most exciting scene of our date plan, and then after that we’ll go into filming the song and choreography… This is the most important part.

Chiaki: Yep. Well, then, let’s dispatch— Did everyone bring their props?

Mitsuru: Of course! I got everything all ready!

Kaoru: My prop is this bouquet right here...☆ 

Ahaha. The art director did a really good job on this. I’ve never seen a bouquet this nice before ♪ 

Mitsuru: Ooh. That bouquet is super-duper cool~! Is that what you’re gonna use in the shoot, Hakaze-senpai?

Kaoru: Mhm. I tried to make sure my date didn’t make me come off too cold. This is to convey all the love I have for my beloved fans ♪ 

Well, it sounds like Anzu-chan’s calling us. Shall we?

(...Watch me closely, Anzu-chan. I’ve done everything I can.)

(In all honesty, there were moments in the preparation stage where I complained.)

(But I’m okay now. Because I’ve got some reliable allies— They’re called “Date Plan Idea Squad.”)

(I’ll do this job the best I can, as the idol Hakaze Kaoru.)

(You requested me for ES’s first interdepartmental project—)

(And in order to make this project a success, you worked yourself to the bone—) 

(So I want to make it so all your effort was worth it.)

Chiaki: “I made a date where my feelings shine through. I want to make you smile from the bottom of your heart, with this date plan that I made with you in mind!”

“We’ll go to all kinds of places together on this exciting, heart-pounding amusement park date ☆”

“Like roller coasters, and hero shows, and ferris wheels! As long as I’m with you, the day will fly by!”

Natsume: “I’ll make today into a day that you won’t be able to forget as long as you liVE. By all meaNS, enjoy this dreamlike moment that I’ll bestow upon yOU.”

“And of courSE, I’ve prepared an exceptional surprise for you as weLL...☆”

Mitsuru: “Leave all your shopping to me! I’ll dash dash around and escort you~☆”

“No matter how many of our favorite things we end up buying, I can carry all our bags, so don’t worry ♪”

Niki: “If you get tired of walking, let’s enjoy some tea together ♪”

“And of course, dinner will be a full course meal made by yours truly! I swear by my pride as a chef that I’ll give ya the best flavors ever~♪”

“I’ll treat ya to some sweet desserts that’ll cure all the day’s weariness too!”

Kaoru: “And after dinner, we’ll go and look at the night sky.”

“I’ll convey to you… my true feelings.”

Location: Starmony Hall Common Room

Hinata: ♪ ~ ♪ ~

Aah, I’ve got lots and lots of free time! This is great!

I sent in my project proposal to Anzu-san— to the producer yesterday, right on time, plus I don’t have work or any part-time jobs to deal with until tomorrow, so this is a special occasion for me~♪ 

Weeell, now I’m face to face with this blank canvas of a schedule! What to do today, what to do?

It’d be nice to check out that album I’ve been wanting to listen to, plus the internet’s full of videos that might come in handy for work. There are so many options that it’s hard to choose ♪ 

Alrighty. Let’s start by deciding what I should spend all this precious time on~ ♪ 

Growl…  (empty stomach)

First things first, I’ll eat something! They say that an army marches on its stomach, after all!

That’s settled, so to the canteen I go~. Wonder what I should do after that… It wouldn’t be such a bad idea to hang out with Yuuta-kun like always, huh~?

Yuuta: And then— But— 

Kaoru: Aah, I get it. But I think that— for sure— 

Yuuta: That is true, isn’t it ♪ Well, let’s— 

Hinata: ...Hmm?

(It looks like… Yuuta-kun is having fun chatting with Hakaze-senpai…?)

(I hid behind this pillar as soon as I could, but... what could those two be talking about? If I’m remembering right, they’ve been spending a lot of time together as roommates, so it’s probably just small talk, riiight?)

(Argh, but I can’t make out the important stuff! I really wanna know what they’re saying!)

Yuuta: Shall we go, Hakaze-senpai? ♪ 

Kaoru: OK, leave it to me ♪ 

Hinata: (Hmm, are they trying to leave Starmony Hall?)

(They seem to be getting along well, but... where are they going?)

(That time I went to Beehive with Rinne-senpai, it was the other way around—it was Yuuta-kun who misunderstood what I was doing.)

(So it’d be better to ask about it properly than to leave it all dubious like this, huh?)

Ooh, Yuuta-kun, what a coincidence! Where are you running off to with Hakaze-senpai~?

Yuuta: Wha-… Aniki?

If you’re here, just say so! Were you hiding to eavesdrop on our conversation?

Hinata: I’d never do such a thing! I just so happened to be passing by!

Yuuta: Hmm…?

Well, whatever. It’s my day off, so how I choose to spend it has nothing to do with you, right? I told you that I was just going to hang out with Hakaze-senpai.

We’ve got lots to talk about as a senior and his junior in the same room, okay?

Or what? Want me to tell you my deepest, darkest secrets next?

Hinata: Ggh. That’s not the case at all…

(No, he straight up hit the nail on the head! But if I tell him the truth, it’ll feel like I’m all in his business!)

Yuuta: I knew it~ Were you trying to find out how I was spending my day off?

Ahaha. You’re so easy to read, Aniki ♪ 

Hinata: That’s not it! I’ve finally got a free day too, so I was wondering how it’d be for all three of us to go together?

Whatcha think, Hakaze-senpai? With both me and Yuuta-kun there, it’ll be double the fun...☆ Or at least it miiight be!

Kaoru: So you’re putting this on me kind of out of nowhere, huh? I’m at a loss here.

Well, I’m fine with it if Yuuta-kun is. He was the one who invited me out this time, after all~ It’s hard for me to decide on my own.

So, Yuuta-kun, what do you think? If you like, I think it’d be fine to all go together, but…

Yuuta: Nuh-uh, Hakaze-senpai. You don’t have to spoil Aniki, okay? Didn’t we promise that today would be just the two of us?

Besides, shouldn’t you try spending time with someone other than me for once? Weren’t you saying that “we can’t always be ‘the twins’”?

You snuck off with Rinne-senpai before without telling me, so if I want to go somewhere with Hakaze-senpai, isn’t that my business?

Hinata: I-I said that I was sorry!

But I never thought you’d assume I was going to some suspicious place with Rinne-senpai… I was really just invited by a senior of mine, you know?

I just don’t know what to say when you keep bringing that up!

Yuuta: So you’re doing this again… Do you have any idea how worried I was then?!

Kaoru: Hey, hey, let’s all calm down, okay~? Fighting’s not good, you know?

Here, c’mon, let’s cool off. If you both get too worked up, you’ll end up saying something you shouldn’t, okay?

Yuuta: It’s okay, Hakaze-senpai. Aniki doesn’t even say what he should.

It would be so much better if he just were honest with me, so that we wouldn’t misunderstand each other like this.

...Ah, shoot. Look at the time!

We’ve entertained Aniki more than enough. Well, should we head out, Hakaze-senpai?

Kaoru: Er. Ah, yeah. Don’t push me~ I can walk just fine by myself, okay?

Hinata: Aah! Wait, Yuuta-kun! I wasn’t finished talki— 

...They’re gone! Does he even know how I feel at all?!

Ughhh... He’s the one who started doubting me, so why am I the one that has to...

Whatever, I don’t care anymore! At this rate, the day off that I’ve been waiting for for so long will be wasted!

I’ll go off to bed and sulk! Okay, it’s said and done! I’ll spend my day off sleeping, and that’s that~!

Cover | Next →

Proofread by 310mc and meteorgreen.