bakemonoremy

Location: Shopping District (Game Event)

Hajime: “♪~ ♪~”

Hajime: (There are so many people in the audience watching our live. Everyone’s smiling, so I can’t help but smile as well ♪)

Ravial: ………

Hajime: (Ah, it’s Ravial-san. He spread his wings behind me. They’re so wide, it’s like I’m being enveloped by them...♪)

Tomoya: “♪~ ♪~”

Mitsuru: “♪~ ♪~”

Hajime: (And behind Tomoya-kun and Mitsuru-kun, Feyle-san and Teufel-san are standing in much the same way.)

(They’re wearing such elaborate wings, it’s hard to believe that they’re imitations. It truly makes you think that they might be real angels.)

Ravial: Your singing voice is beautiful.

Hajime: Hoeh? Ah, you’re praising me? Thank you so much~. Ehehe, I’m so happy ♪

Ravial: Yes, it’s a beautiful singing voice, suitable for the Day of Saint Michellia.

Hajime: Saint Michellia… you say? That does sound like a celebration in honor of the descent of angels.

Ravial: Indeed. Last year on this very day, my little brother was given wings. And this year, I met all of you. This may also be some kind of miracle.

Hajime: Umm, I don’t really get it, but I’m also really glad that I met you guys, Ravial-san.

If this was thanks to God’s guidance, we should thank him ♪

Ravial-san, would like to sing with me? The part I’m singing right now isn’t that difficult, so…

“♪~ ♪~”

It goes like that, so what do you think?

Ravial: Yeah, I think I can sing that.

“♪~ ♪~”

How am I doing? I sometimes have to sing for work as well, you see.

Hajime: Yes! You’re very good! Alright, let’s sing together ♪

Ravial: “♪~ ♪~”

Hajime: “♪~ ♪~”

Nazuna: Good work, everyone~☆

Mitsuru: Nii~chan, everyone was cheering like crazy! They loved it, and I’m super glad they did~♪

Tomoya: It’s all thanks to Ravial-san and the others. You guys really look like actual angels… Your wings are so realistic that it’s hard to believe they’re fakes.

Just like the audience, I also caught myself thinking, “Are those guys real angels?”.

Teufel: My apologies.

...My wings are considerably small, you see. Even when I spread them the way the Commander and the others did, they were too small to catch people’s eyes.

Mitsuru: Mm-mm~, I don’t think so at all. Teufel-chan, your physical ability’s amazing. The way you were flying was so cool, all like, nyoom~!

Teufel: T-thanks.

Mitsuru: Hmm? Whatcha pinching your cheek so hard for? If you keep pinching it, you’ll stretch it out!

Teufel: I’m balancing out my happiness. Please don’t mind me.

Nazuna: You guys~, the live may have ended in success, but we’ve still got a handshake event scheduled. Stay focused, alright?

Hajime: Wawah, you’re right…

Nazuna: Only people who bought the game are allowed to shake our hands, but a lot of people seem to have bought it out of curiosity after seeing our live~.

We may end up having to shake most of the audience's hands now.

Ravial: My apologies, but we have plans from here on out. Can we leave the rest in your hands?

Nazuna: No problem, but… Do you mind telling me what kinda plans you have?

Ravial: It’s my little brother’s birthday today, you see.

Nazuna: Eh!? You booked a live on such an important day!?

I see~. Alright, leave the rest to us. And Orthos-kun, happy birthday to you ♪

Hajime: So it’s your birthday, Orthos-kun. If I’d known sooner, I’d have prepared something for you…

Happy birthday, Orthos-kun ♪

Mitsuru: Orthos-chan, happy birthday~♪

Tomoya: Happy birthday ♪

Orthos: T-thank you…

Ravial: That’s nice, isn’t it, Orthos?

Orthos: Yeah. I never thought Nazuna and the others would celebrate my birthday… It’s the greatest present.

We have to part ways now, but maybe there’ll be another miracle someday. And when that time comes, I’ll bring all my friends along to meet you, too.

That’s why, I won’t say “farewell.” See you again, everyone.

Mitsuru: Yep, see ya~♪

Nazuna: Hm? What do you mean, “miracle”...?

Mitsuru: Nii~chan, they already left. Let’s go do our best at the handshake event ♪

Nazuna: Oh, you’re right. There’s already a line forming too, and I wouldn’t want to make the guests wait.

Everyone. I know you must be tired after the live, but let’s stick it out ‘til the end. Keep at it~♪

Orthos: ………

Ravial: Orthos, are you reluctant to part with them?

Orthos: I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t. I think we could’ve become good friends.

Ravial: In that case, your wish will surely be granted. As long as you never forget this feeling of wanting to befriend them, you’ll definitely see them again.

Orthos: ...Yeah. Thank you, Ravial-niisan.

Feyle: Commander! Orthos-kun!

This is the alley we took on our way here!

Of course, we don’t know if it’ll lead us back to the Holy Capital this time… But there’s nothing else we can do. For the time being, let’s try passing through!

Location: Shopping District (Game Event)

Feyle: A-Alright. Well,the reason we came here in the first place is to celebrate Orthos-kun’s birthday.

But when we were searching for the crucial restaurant we were looking for, Nazuna-kun suddenly called out to us.

And according to what Nazuna-kun said, we are their co-stars…

But before we had the chance to ask any details about all of this, Nazuna-kun suddenly said “it’s time” and everyone, him included, got up on stage.

So we still don’t know any specifics about our current situation.

Commander, maybe this really isn’t the Holy Capital?

Ah, I-I do know that what I’m saying sounds foolish, though!

The idea that an alleyway of the Holy Capital would lead right to Earth is way too preposterous.

Ravial: No, I agree with your assessment.

Those boys may have wings similar to ours, yet those seem somehow fake; and they lack halos as well.

Feyle: T-then, does that mean this is Earth?

Orthos: No, I don’t think the people here are groundlings. I traveled the Earth with Yuu and the others, but I’ve never seen or heard of a city like this one.

And I don’t see any of the usual monsters you’d usually find in any of ‘em either. So I wouldn’t be surprised if this was a world that’s entirely different from the one we inhabit.

Ravial: I see. In that case, this is neither the Holy Capital nor Earth. Maybe it would be correct to call this an alternate dimension.

Feyle: A-an alternate dimension… Commander, let’s go back the way we came from at once! If we went through the same alley, we should arrive back at the Holy Capital!

Ravial: Wait.

You have a terrible habit of rushing into action due to your anxiety.

It must be because of this “live” thing that’s started, but there are many people around that alley. People are watching us, and if we take careless actions in this situation it’s not unlikely that someone might get hurt.

Orthos: You’re right. In order to avoid causing disorder, we should appear briefly on stage and wait for the right time to act.

Feyle: ...I, guess you’re right. When I heard that this was an alternate universe, I suddenly went into a panic.

But now that I think about it calmly, it’s not a good idea to cause a fuss.

Understood. I will obey your orders.

Nazuna: “Everyone, thanks for listening to our song!”

“Well then, Holy Palace Guards, come on up~☆“

Ravial: Looks like it’s time.

Feyle: Yes. Now that it’s come to this, I’ll steel myself for the worst…!

Orthos: No idea what we’re supposed to do once we’re on stage, though. Should we just go along with whatever Nazuna and the others are doing?

Nazuna: “♪~ ♪~”

(Alright, Orthos-kun and the others came up on stage. Now it’s time for the wire stunts. I’ll take my co-star’s hand and float in the air.)

(While we’re floating up there, Hajime-chin is going to sing. It’s going to look like the descent of angels.)

(The song he’ll be singing is going to tell the audience that this is an encounter to be celebrated. And then Mitsuru-chin and Tomo-chin, who were lured here by the music, will join in the angel’s song.)

(These wings on our backs do their job in making us seem like angels...)

(But compared to us, the wings Orthos-kun and the others have are so beautiful, they almost look like they’re real. And they’ve got those rings over their heads too, which really makes them look just like actual angels.)

(Seems like they’re all in a unit called “The Holy Palace Guards”... But I’ve never heard of a unit with a name like that~.)

(They’re carrying spears and swords, so I guess they’re a chivalry-themed unit, like Knights.)

Orthos: Nazuna.

Nazuna: Orthos-kun? I see, so you’re my partner.

Here, take my hand. We’re supposed to be floating up into the air in a moment, but…

Umm, I think they put the equipment for the wire stunts on you earlier, did they not tell you anything about that?

Orthos: Right. I don’t really know what this “wire stunt” thing is, but in short, all I need to do is fly, right?

Nazuna: Well, we won’t be flying super high in the sky or anything... Just high enough for the audience to think of us as angels ascending.

Orthos: I see, so it’s best if I don’t fly too high, right?

Nazuna: Huh? What do you mean, “too high”? We’re just going to be pulled up by wires anyw-... Owah!?

Nazuna: (I-I’m flying!? This doesn’t feel like I’m hanging on wires at all! It’s like I’m actually flying, but for real…!?)

(No, that can’t be…! It must be because Orthos-kun is the one being pulled by the wires, that’s why it feels like this…)

(That must be it, huh? W-whew, that gave me a scare~.)

Orthos: So we just fly around like this a little?

Nazuna: Yep, you’re doing great! The audience is raving, all like, “They’re just like real angels!” and such.

Orthos: Real angels, huh… Well, I’m no longer an angel, though.

Nazuna, Hajime has started singing. What a beautiful singing voice... If he keeps it up, a real angel might actually descend upon us.

Nazuna: Thank you! Hajime-chin’s singing voice really is beautiful.

It’s a song that expresses the joy of an encounter between angels and humans. Mitsuru-chin and Tomo-chin are going to start singing in a moment, too.

Orthos: And then one after another, angels are going to fly down from the heavens, huh.

I’m sure when they hear this singing voice, they'll begin wanting to descend to Earth without knowing why.

Location: Night Club Interior

- 10 or so minutes later -

Yuuta: (Siiigh… Why did things turn out like this…)

(I thought that just like always, I’d give Aniki an earful and make him apologize for making me worry, bring him back home, end of story — )

(But instead, while we were talking, Amagi Rinne suddenly made me change into this outfit and told me we'd be doing a live together...)

(Hinata-kun gave his OK as our leader and so here I am, standing on the stage without a clue as to what's going on.)

(It’s like I’m being swept away by the flow… And probably not in a good direction, either.)

(The focus of our idol activities has shifted from Yumenosaki Academy to ES— )

(Other units may be losing their bearings, and are panicking in their struggle to adapt…)

(Only us, 2wink, were able to continue our activities with composure, or so I thought.)

(But it looks like we weren’t an exception to this. Even we can’t stay the same way we’ve been, can we...?)

(Everything's changing so rapidly. Still, despite that, I believed that we alone would be fine. But maybe we’re not?)

(“There’s two of us”, which is why we won’t ever lose to anyone, and can become “the strongest individual” together. It’s because we’re the strongest, the most invincible, that we can survive undefeated, no matter what…)

(That’s what I resolved to believe. But maybe I was wrong? Maybe I was naive?)

(No matter how strong an “individual” is, even if they’re as strong as Sakuma-senpai and the other seniors, they can’t survive alone in this world. So in that case, what're we supposed to do?)

(After thoroughly wavering, suffering, hurting each other, and being treated like children dependent on the help and protection of others…)

(I thought that we'd finally found a way of life that was the “right answer”.)

(.........)

Jun: He~y… Yuuta-kun, yeah? I looked up online how to tell you guys apart, but did I get it right?

Yuuta: Ah, yes. That’s me, Yuuta. I keep telling you that I won’t get mad if you can’t tell us apart, though. It’s fine to just make a wild guess.

Jun: Hrm~m. But there're times when I rack my brains to come up with a new skill and work my ass off to acquire it…

And when people then say “That’s an homage to Sagami Jin, right?” with a smug look on their face, it seriously pisses me off.

GODDAMN. With all due respect, I’m not fucking imitating anyone, I am myself.

More importantly, Yuuta-kun, you've had a change of clothes and got up on stage — Does that mean you’re gonna do a live, after all~?

Doing guerilla lives without permission and such is exactly what Crazy:B did during summer break, and they caused a great deal of trouble to everyone around them…

I really don't think our agency's gonna be so sympathetic to that kinda thing~?

Rinne: Gyahaha. Of course I got proper permission.

Not to mention you guys were the ones who ordered us all high-and-mighty to go do some guerilla activities and attack other agencies, anyway.

You’ve got some nerve, actin’ all disapproving at this point, don’tcha?

Jun: There’s no point in telling me that, though. Well, I guess it’s fine since you got permission and all. In fact, tell me if there’s anything I can do to help~.

Apparently this place's full up of Reimei Academy’s… Non-special students, or in other words, underachievers.

Look, take those guys making a racket in the corner over there for example.

Yuuta: (Come to think of it, I'm recognising a lot of people from work and even showbiz folks in this place.)

(I wonder why? Maybe it’s because this place is pretty close to ES~?)

Mika: Yeah. Looks like there’re right plenty o' kids who look up ta me an’ came all the way from our hometown ta become idols here as well.

They all keep comin’ up to me like, “You’re Kagehira Mika-san, aren’t you! From Valkyrie!”.

Jun: Same for me. It really makes it sink in that Eden's actually become a big name~.

I get kinda happy when people think they wanna grow up to be like me.

Though it was probably to stir up that sorta sentiment that the special student system was created in the first place, huh~?

Well, nevermind that for now…

It was always those kinds of underachievers and idol write-offs that I wanted to encourage, especially back during Lilith’s idol activities~.

Those guys who're just like how I was in the past, astray in the vast plains.

I wanna become someone who can inspire and motivate 'em, and I mean, if I've got the chance to stand on stage then I'm gonna want to go for it~.

Rinne: Hmm. I figured you were just some uppity and arrogant court noble, but you’re actually in the same boat as me, huh.

Yeah, this won’t do — I can't rely on just apparent facts, I gotta see what someone's really like in person, just like this ♪

Anyhoo. This club's a lawless place — like a city of demons with zero relation to ES. If ya wanna get up on stage, go for it, no one’s gonna stop ya.

Well, keepin' the future in mind, I’d appreciate it if ya got permission from the bigwigs first, anyway.

I mean, if I wound up causin' trouble for an Eden kid, our vice prez Glasses-kun prolly won't be so quick to rally up support for Crazy:B anymore.

Jun: Now that you mention it, that Ibara really was considering Crazy:B's needs, huh~?

Based on his personality, I figured he’d simply throw out anyone who might put the agency at the slightest disadvantage.

Rinne: I bet he would. Which is exactly why we’ve really gotta prove our worth.

I don't have my head in the clouds imaginin’ that the vice prez is helpin’ us out of guilt over havin’ coerced us before.

That guy's still certain that he can “make use” of Crazy:B.

I’m not gonna sing my own praises here, but — is there actually any other unit at ES willin’ to hurt other idols right now? In other words, aren’t we the only ones who’re useful as a weapon?

As long as we pass for a weapon, he’s not gonna part with us — The vice prez’s a lil' warmonger, after all ♪

Mika: Yer sayin’ some real disturbed stuff again~. War's the worst kinda folly, one that only serves ta destroy civilization~.

I mean, like, feel free to do as ya please, but ya better keep yer hands off 2wink.

Otherwise, yer gonna make an enemy outta every single powerhouse unit from Yumenosaki Academy.

Rinne: Gyahaha. I know, I know.

But turnin’ that logic on its head, if I were to make an ally of 2wink, then the whole lot from Yumenosaki would also become our allies — Right?

Ain’t that exactly why the vice prez ordered 2wink to support us?

Guess that guy must've gone through a real painful experience and learned the hard way to take other people’s feelings into consideration, huh ♪

But when it comes to gambling, the house's always the one to win.

Makin’ the best use of the cards they’ve been dealt, they’ll have ya toil for as long as ya rake in the cash — that's Cosmic Production for ya ♪

Location: Night Club Interior

Hinata: If you wanna help someone, you gotta first get to know them, right?

There are times when even the fingertips of the hand you reached out to help someone can in turn injure them — The two of us had many bad experiences thanks to that in the past.

Yuuta: Yeah. ...So, you spoke to Rinne-senpai, and he promptly brought you to this sketchy establishment?

You should be more careful, Aniki. I’d wager there are tons of terrible people out there who’d love to have a cute little idol fall into their clutches, you know?

Hinata: Uu. I mean, I figured it’d be fine~, that there aren't any bad people among idols...

All the idols we've met and gotten to know at Yumenosaki are kind, good people after all.

As a result, I forgot that there are plenty of bad people in the world as well, and let my guard down.

I do feel like forgetting about that was a blessing — But by the time something awful actually happens, it’s already too late for regrets, so I’ll be more careful in the future.

Yuuta: Yeah. I’ll let you off the hook this time… I guess. Maybe Rinne-senpai’s a more decent and virtuous person than I suspected. I mean, you got attached to him after all, Aniki.

Hinata: Nah~, I do think that he’s probably a terrible and dangerous person.

At least, he’s “that” kinda guy, to a certain degree. He chose by his own free will to play the bad guy, or rather, the ungracious part.

And if anything, I can relate to that… I'm saying this in hindsight, but it’s not like Rinne-senpai did anything bad to me.

In fact, he was really kind to me and listened to all my complaints I couldn’t tell to anyone else. Made me feel like, “Aah, I guess that’s what it’s like to have an Onii-chan...”.

Yuuta: Gh. I’m sorry, I’ve still got a long way before I can become an Onii-chan like that for you.

HiMERU: …….?

Yuuta: Ah, I guess this is a little confusing to those who aren’t in the know. You see, we’re the kinds of twins who frequently change the “little brother” and “big brother” roles based on how we’re feeling, and stuff.

HiMERU: — Hmm, HiMERU can’t imagine this not being confusing to the two of you. It feels as though the boundary between the two of you may disappear, or rather that it’ll be difficult for you to establish your own identities.

Well, HiMERU is the last person who should be saying this, though.

Hinata: …..? In any case, while talking to Rinne-senpai, we really hit it off —

And I heard from him that while helping out at this club, he's been coming up with quite the "plan".

Since I was ordered to support Crazy:B, I wanted to assist him with whatever that was…

So with that in mind, I helped him out as much as I could.

Although all I did was wait tables, wash dishes and sweep floors... All kinda un-idol-like things to do.

But it was fun and felt nostalgic, and reminded me of back when we were in Master’s care at the Chinese restaurant*.

Well, not that I've got any idea what point there is to working at a place like this, though.

I wonder what this “plan” Rinne-senpai mentioned is all about?

HiMERU: Don’t ask HiMERU. Or actually, that’s what HiMERU came here to investigate. And if Amagi is involved in some mischief again, to use that as pretext to denounce him —

In order to fulfill HiMERU's plan of returning to a focus on solo activities, which are the most suitable for him.

Hinata: Oh, so you're the kind of person who’d prefer solo activities, HiMERU-san? The thought of that never once crossed our minds — We’re twins, after all.

Yuuta: Yeah, because we both decided to become idols together.

When we showed off the street performance skills we learned along the way at places like Master’s restaurant, the customers and other people gathering around were all so delighted and praised us.

They kept demanding to see more and more — And to this day, that’s why we still do jobs that show off our skills.

HiMERU: Fufu. Merely showcasing your skills makes you a performer, but an idol’s job is to be loved. At least, that is how HiMERU defines idols.

No, that’s how he defines the idol named HiMERU.

Which is exactly why his current role of rampaging and scattering poison, being resented and detested, is entirely undesirable for HiMERU —

Rinne: Gyahaha. In that case, lemme ask you this, Merumeru… D’ya really think you can return to bein’ the beloved character ya once were by focusin’ on solo idol activities like ya used to?

HiMERU: — Amagi. Didn’t HiMERU ask you to stay outside the club for a while, seeing as how you’re a nuisance to this conversation?

Rinne: Eh~? I don’t got a choice, someone’s gotta lead these new “customers” to their seats, right?

Yuuta: Customers? — Ah, Kagehira-senpai is one of them. Maybe he was worried and came after me~? My Yumenosaki seniors are overprotective as usual, huh~?

HiMERU: ………

Yuuta: ? Is something wrong, HiMERU-san?

HiMERU: No. HiMERU was thinking the clientele here seems to be of a biased demographic, but then this means —

Rinne: Yeah. I think your deduction’s prolly spot on, o great detective ♪

HiMERU: ………

Yuuta: H-huh? What's that supposed to mean?

Rinne: Gyahaha! Don’t ask the “culprit” that!

Gettin’ to think shit over in your own brains is the greatest pleasure that humanity's still allowed, right?

Not to mention, it’s free of charge and you can enjoy it for as long as ya like! There’s no reason not to indulge in it, yeah?

Or rather, quit your silly chatter, get a move on already and work if you've got it all figured out. Surely just being spectators** ain't enough to satisfy creatures like you lot, right?

—————

* Kung Fu Scout Story

** The word for “spectator/audience” (of a live show) and guest/customer (at a bar) is the same.

Location: Night Club Interior

HiMERU: — Very well. Now that we’ve vaguely established what everyone’s circumstances are, let us sort out the current situation.

Hinata: Uh, okay. But, um… HiMERU, right?

I don’t really get why this HiMERU guy's the one in charge here, but seeing as I’m apparently the one who’s about to be chewed out, I won’t complain and just keep my mouth shut.

HiMERU: A wise decision. A poorly executed apology tends to only fan the flames, after all.

Yuuta: Well, you see. HiMERU-san's the one who's been helping me investigate just what my suspicious Aniki's been up to... Isn't that considerate of him? He’s just like a kind and reliable Onii-chan ♪

Hinata: Grr. Yuuta-kun’s one and only Onii-chan is me, though…

Oh no, I didn’t say a word. Sorry.

Yuuta: Why're you acting so apologetic, Aniki? It’s not like I’m here to rip into you~? Well, depending on the situation, I might give you a nasty scolding, though —

Hinata: Ah, it’s just out of habit… Especially during the last year, it’s kinda become a routine for you to snap and use me as your emotional punching bag whenever I mess up…

Yuuta: That’s your fault for doing things worth getting punched for.

Hinata: Uu, my little brother is such a tyrant~. Right, right, in this world it’s always the Onii-chan who’s in the wrong.

Your Onii-chan’s to blame for every little thing, I’m sooo sorry for having been born. Sob, sob.

HiMERU: Just what kind of character are you trying to be here? It seems as if you’re messing around, but HiMERU hardly finds that a desirable attitude at a time like this.

Yuuta: I know, right~. That’s a bad habit of yours, Aniki. Though I know it's just to protect me that you’ve been making yourself look like the flippant mischief-maker.

But enough of that already — “Hinata-kun”.

Hinata: Uu. What do you want me to do~? No matter what I try, I get scolded… But I can’t help it, y'know~, I’ve lived my life like this for so long already.

I can’t change so suddenly… Even now, I still feel kinda shy whenever I call Yuuta-kun “Onii-chan”.

I’m never even nervous on stage~, but for some reason, this is embarrassing for me.

Yuuta: Get used to it already. Actually, all you need to do is imitate me. Shouldn’t that be easy? Don’t you already do that all the time, anyway?

Hinata: Uu~, how very impudent it would be for someone of mine status to be imitating my most esteemed and honorable Onii-chan—

HiMERU: No really, what kind of character is that supposed to be?

If you don’t commit to a single character, you will merely confuse people. HiMERU doesn’t believe that is very desirable for an entertainer.

Hinata: Uu, this guy keeps laying on the criticism! But why? Did I do something to you, uhh, HiMERU-san?

Yuuta: Fufun. I’m sure it’s because he’s sympathizing with me and getting angry on my behalf ♪

HiMERU: That isn’t the reason… HiMERU simply can’t help talking too much when the topic shifts to his area of expertise. He will discipline himself from now on.

In any case. To get back on topic, the facts become plain and simple once we have all the disruptions out of the picture.

Recently, us Crazy:B have been in a difficult spot where we've been deprived of jobs, and without any work to do, we have more time on our hands than we know what to do with. So much, in fact, that we’ve resorted to killing time by playing mahjong at our hang-out spot.

Whether it was in order to destroy this status quo, or just on one of his usual whims, Amagi has been taking suspicious actions on his own.

Yuuta: Ah~, I think I might actually be kind of jealous of your free time. We, on the other hand, have been so busy to the point that we've even been missing out on sleep sometimes.

Hinata: Yupyup. Not sure if it’s 'cause our agency's Vice Prez has taken a liking to us, or if he's got no other convenient game pieces to control, but it feels like he’s been making us do all sorts of trivial jobs, day in and day out.

Yuuta: Right? We’re being treated like the most recommended idols at CosPro, and while I guess I do appreciate it... doing nothing but work day after day does get tiring.

But that’s exactly why this isn’t the time for us to get caught up in this kind of nonsense. We don’t have time for games right now. Don’t you get that, Aniki?

Hinata: Uu. I knooow~. But it’s not like I’m just playing around, alright~.

HiMERU: Indeed. Err, Aoi Hinata — HiMERU will refer to you without honorifics. He has already once stated the reason for that to Yuuta, so HiMERU will simply skip the explanation this time.

Hinata: Hey, c'mon, what’s the big idea in referring so casually to my most precious and loveliest little brother in the whole world! Put some love into it and address him as “honored Onii-chan”!

HiMERU: A little brother being an “Onii-chan” is a contradiction, which HiMERU finds rather revolting so he shall refuse.

Hinata: This guy called us “revolting”~! That’s our trigger word!

Yuuta: Ahaha. Seems like you just don't mesh with HiMERU-san, Aniki.

Hinata: And on the other hand, you don't seem to click too well with Rinne-senpai 'cause he keeps toying with you, Yuuta-kun...

He’s been a pretty good senpai to me so far, and even though I haven’t known him for that long, I already love him to bits.

Yuuta: Eh~, you’ve got bad taste, Aniki. What on earth do you even see in that guy?

HiMERU: Indeed, HiMERU is struggling to understand that as well.

Hinata: Uu, backup~! I’m calling for backup~! Save me, Rinne-senpai~!

HiMERU: HiMERU has expelled Amagi from this place, which means no one will be coming to save you. Please give it up.

...But in truth, that man is in your debt, so if you wished for it, chances are he would indeed act as your backup.

His way of thinking is surprisingly old-fashioned, or in other words, he possesses a strong sense of duty. — That Amagi.

Yuuta: Huh, so he’s just an old man. And someone like that was secretly meeting with my Aniki at a suspicious night establishment. At least, that's the impression I got, so I might've panicked more than necessary.

Hinata: Those weren’t secret meetings~. I was just supporting Crazy:B 'cause the Vice Prez asked me to.

He sent that as an official request through the Glitter Mail I mentioned, and makes sure to pay me appropriately — And he told me “I’ll leave the methods up to you, Hinata-kun”.

Yuuta: Yeah, you told me that over the phone.

Hinata: Yup. But y’know, the two of us don’t have any experience helping someone else all by ourselves, right?

Back at Yumenosaki we just followed Sakuma-senpai’s instructions, since he kinda became our boss.

Yuuta: Well, I guess that’s in part because we couldn’t afford to look after others back then.

Hinata: Mhm. That’s why I was at a loss for what to do… But I figured a chat with him would be a good place to start, so I approached Rinne-senpai.

Location: Time Street (Afternoon)

- At the same time, right outside the night club -

Mika: Ngah~.... nnnngh~... nnngaaahhhh~...?

This ain't good~. Things seem t’be gettin’ real heated between everyone in there, but I can't tell just what they're talkin' 'bout from here.

At a time like this, I gotta listen in by usin’ a string phone made outta paper cups, an’ —

Jun: Dude, no. The heck are you doing.

I do kinda get being worried for that Yuuta-kun kid, but don’t you think stalking him around and eavesdropping on his conversations is going a lil' too far?

I mean, the only reason all these folks walking by haven’t kicked up a fuss about you yet, Kagehira-san, is 'cause I’m standing here as a human wall, blocking you from sight.

But you’d be in trouble if this led to weird rumours about you, yeah? Thanks to Crazy:B, we're in a time where everyone’s walking on eggshells about causing shitstorms online, anyhow.

Mika: Ngah~. Actually, why’d ya tag along with me then, Jun-kun?

If anythin’, us Valkyrie are used t’bein’ the target of that kinda drama, but Eden's got more like, a pure an’ refined image an' all — Should ya really be here?

Jun: Huh, you think so~? Between the two of us, I’d say Valkyrie's the one with the "pure and refined" image, though.

And folks are always judging books by their covers, which is exactly why they lose it and go “I’m so disappointed!” when you show them your true self.

Mika: Ngah~, that’s real scary. ‘Cause I’m totally worthless an’ can’t do a thing on my own.

When magazines introduce me as an amazing artist on par with the flawless, powerful Oshi-san, I writhe in agony thinkin’ “Yer wrong~”.

Anyway, I reckon ya best go back to ES, Jun-kun. With yer status, it ain’t no good idea to take part in the nightlife here on Time Street.

They call this place the number one “nightlife district” in the neighbourhood surroundin’ ES, after all.

Jun: Haha, this place? Seriously? I guess those who say that haven’t ever been to a slum or grimy back-alley before.

Mika: Well, I do reckon folks get way too afraid of a lil’ dirt sometimes.

But anyway, Jun-kun, all of this really ain't none o' yer business, right? So it’s best if ya don’t stick around me.

The vibe among us Yumenosaki idols is basically that we’ve all gotta protect 2wink together, y’know.

But yer no Yumenosaki kid, Jun-kun.

Jun: Well yeah, I’m from Reimei. I'm not really getting you, though~. What’s “protect them together” supposed to mean?

My impression of 2wink is that they’d be able to survive quietly anywhere, without needing help or indebting themselves to anyone.

Mika: Well, they are tough kids. It ain’t my place to tell ya the details, but there was this thing called “Setsubun”...

Back then, every single one o' their problems an’ worries became public knowledge — Well, only within Yumenosaki, that is.

Those kids really went through hell, y'know. Abandoned by their biological parents, they tried t'support each other despite everythin’, so they'd do street performances to earn money —

Jun: Hmm? And that’s why everyone feels bad for them and wants to support them, huh?

Sob stories of that caliber are a dime a dozen, though.

I wasn’t loved by my biological parents either and went through hell 'cause of it. ...So why d'ya act like it’s just those two?

Mika: Ngah~. Umm, I really dunno what t’ tell ya when ya ask me that point-blank.

Accordin’ ta Oshi-san — Through the act of savin’ 2wink, everyone’s tryna save their own pitiful “childhood selves”.

Jun: Oho? Well, I think being made into other people’s toys and used for their masturbatory reasons is what really makes 2wink pitiful, yknow~?

Kohaku: — What’cha doin’ there, Jun-han?

Jun: Woah!? D-don’t just pop up outta nowhere like that, Sakura-kun! Please!

Kohaku: I keep tellin’ ya, my name ain’t Sakura. ...Pardon me, apparently I’ve gotta habit of erasin’ my presence when I’m walkin’ through crowded streets.

Jun: What're you talking about… Or actually, do you need something~?

I'm busy right n — nnnot doing anything at all, just kinda in the middle of a situation, you see~?

Kohaku: That so? I saw ya squattin’ down there in the dim light an’ was wonderin’ if ya weren’t feelin’ so good, or if maybe ya dropped yer wallet or somethin'.

But I guess there weren't no need ta worry, so again, pardon me fer that ♪

Anyhoo, we didn’t actually come here for you, but for this here club you’re apparently stakin’ out. Y'know how Rinne-han from our unit’s workin' at this place?

Jun: Ahh, yeah. Amagi Rinne-senpai seems to be in the club, too~. Though that’s pretty easy to figure out, ‘cause that guy has a crazy loud voice.

Kohaku: Yup. On top of bein’ a toxic an’ dangerous creature, the buzzin’ of his wings is awful jarring as well ♪

Jun: ...Wait, you just said “we” a moment ago. Didja come with someone~? But from the looks of it, you’re all by yourself, Sakura-kun?

Kohaku: Huh? Niki-han was with me, actually… Where’d that guy go scamperin' off to?

Did the smell of food waftin’ from nearby restaurants lure him over an’ send him off wanderin’ ‘round without nary a thought again?

Jun: “Niki”, you say… So, that Shiina guy's also somewhere in the area?

Not just Rinne-senpai, but that HiMERU guy went into this club earlier, too…

Oh, is that it? Crazy:B's gonna perform here, or something~?

When I snuck a peek into it, I did see some kinda audio equipment set up in there… And I saw some showbiz-related looking people hanging around, too.

Kohaku: Well, in Crazy:B we pretty much just fly by the seat of our pants.

Dependin’ on how things go, it might come down to that, yeah — Unlike you folks, we don’t have the kinda status where we can just go performin' on a stage whenever we wanna.

But we’re right capable of rioting in our style, no matter when or where.

Seein’ as our resident tyrant Rinne-han ain’t learned his lesson yet an’ still’s got the nerve to try an’ shoulder everythin’ all by his lonesome... We’re gonna give him a harmless lil’ warnin’.

Rinne: ...Don’tcha think callin’ me a tyrant is a lil' harsh, Kohaku-chan? Well, not that I'm gonna deny it though.

Kohaku: — Rinne-han. 'Course you'd sense my presence ♪

Rinne: Nah, even an idiot would notice you guys chit-chattin’ so close to the club.

And like, Merumeru chased lil' old me outta there, sayin’ “Everything grows unnecessarily complicated with you around”. Can ya believe that?

Anyway, that’s why I was takin’ out the trash and noticed you guys out here — That’s all there is to it.

I seriously don’t get Merumeru, though. Didn’t he come here to talk to me in the first place? So what’s he kickin’ me out for?

Kohaku: Ahaha. Sometimes, HiMERU-han’s words an’ his actions are just kinda off-kilter.

Dunno how to react when he says “HiMERU is an idol, so he will go home on time*” and then just ends up dawdlin' around forever with us anyway.

Rinne: Yeah, that guy’s full of contradictions like that — Well, guess he can’t help that with the kinda “framework” he’s got.

Whatever. More importantly, you guys really don’t gotta squat in the dirt while chattin’ like that, y'know.

You guys hooligans or what? I’ll cover your admission, so come on in and enjoy the air con.

No need to purposely keep livin’ in a place where ya don’t feel at home, right?

———————

* In JP working society, it’s unusual to clock out at the exact time your shift ends, and insisting on doing it is the same as declaring that you’re not a team player.

Location: Night Club Interior

- A few minutes later -

Rinne: Come on in~♪ Welcome to nightclub “Beehive”, where you can live out your dreams of gazin' so closely at cute idols you can even brush shoulders with 'em~!

HiMERU: ………

Rinne: Oh, it’s just you, Merumeru. Talk about wastin' my chummy greeting… You shouldn’t be here, y'know? This ain’t no place for kids~.

HiMERU: — Please cease arrogantly treating everyone like children just because you’re the only one over 20 here.

Regardless of what the legal definition says, HiMERU partakes in business activities and therefore considers himself an adult.

Rinne: What a goody-two-shoes. But, well, that’s just you doin’ whatever’s convenient for you... On the flip side, I’m free to do whatever’s convenient for me, which means categorizin’ ya as a kid and treatin’ ya like one.

Thinkin' people'll follow whatever ya tell 'em to as long as ya just wish real hard for it? Dumbass beliefs like that should go out with the trash the moment ya finish your compulsory education! Gyahahaha ☆

Yuuta: ………

Rinne: Hmm? Aw man~... The kid's here too, huh — does that mean we’re doin’ this shit again?

Yeah, yeah, yeah, whassup? Ya here to beg me through snot and tears to “give back your Aniki~” again, or what? You’re gonna get in the way of our business, so couldja go bawl outside the club instead?

Bratty tantrums are such a pain in the ass to deal with.

Yuuta: (W-What? What’s with the attitude? This is exactly how this guy acted during MDM, he isn’t showing any guilt whatsoever, or rather —)

(Is he not even aware that what he’s doing is deplorable?)

Rinne: Hmm~? Oh wow, it's written all over your face just how ticked off ya are. Guess ya weren't brought up so well…

All your life ya only had to whine through teary eyes and your kindhearted Onii-chan would completely surrender on the spot and beg your forgiveness, yeah?

But I ain't gonna apologize. ‘Sides, ya wouldn’t forgive me even if I did... Am I right?

And anyway, humans take up oxygen and cause harm to all the creatures in the world just by bein’ alive…

If I went ‘round lowerin’ my head to every single one of ‘em, the one and only precious life I was given would be over by the time I was done.

Yuuta: ………

Rinne: So here’s what we’re gonna do. I’ll let ya make back whatever losses ya incurred, and more.

When ya make a profit, you immediately forget about your past losses before it. Well, in most cases, anyway —

Should be clear as day what I mean just by lookin’ at the Big Three at the top of ES.

Even though they’re a bunch of utter scumbags who trampled all over countless other guys, the public praises ‘em as if they’re role models for all idols.

And y'know why? It’s all ‘cause those guys kept on winnin’ and rakin’ in cash, and let everyone else involved have a slice of the profits, right?

Most people wouldn’t be able to rationally condemn and toss out somethin’ that — even just once — supplied ‘em with profits and pleasure.

That’s why casinos won’t ever disappear, and why people who indulge in booze and cigs for pleasure find themselves unable to quit ‘em after even just a single try…

But if you actually sit down and look at the big picture, it’s obvious that shit like that just wastes all your time and ruins your health.

HiMERU: — Indeed. And for that very reason you should quit indulging in such immoral games already. Your mere existence reflects negatively on the rest of us.

Rinne: So what? Ya tellin’ me to fuck off and die?

I soil myself just by bein’ alive, y’know? Are ya tellin’ me that I’m unqualified to be a part of society ‘cause of that?

HiMERU: — At the very least, please adopt a lifestyle that’s befitting of an idol. That is all HiMERU asks of you.

Rinne: Huh, so you’re tellin’ me to cater to the public and act like a goody-two-shoes?

If I coulda been successful by bein’ straight-laced, I wouldn’t have become the kinda guy I am today. And it’s too late for me to choose that sorta path now, don’tcha think?

Even if I did put on a front to convince everyone I'm not a nasty lil' creature, no one'd believe it at this point — not when it's comin' from a venomous bee that inflicted this much harm on people.

In fact, I’m pretty sure they’d take advantage of it and just torture me right to death.

HiMERU: — The roots of suspicion and despair you feel towards your fans, or rather, everyone around you, grow rather deep.

HiMERU had believed that your concerns in that regard were at least slightly resolved during the final match of MDM.

Rinne: Yeah, ‘cause the senior and veteran that is Amagi Rinne-kun got a good lesson from those arrogant kiddies on what bein’ an idol is all about.

Both I and the whole of Crazy:B's got fans who love and root for us.

As long as there’s even just a single one of those blessed people around, I’ll keep on livin’ just for them, even if I gotta guzzle mud.

It’s all for them. But I’m not gonna butter up the other rabble, kill my “self” for ‘em and serve ‘em like some kinda slave.

‘Sides, if I were to bend over backwards to conform to what the majority of society deems as “the ideal idol”...

Then that’d be exactly the same as betrayin’ those who love us as we are right now, yeah?

HiMERU: So rather than seeking the approval of many, you're trying to become an idol loved by only a select few, I see.

It’s only natural that fans choose their idols, but for an idol to choose their fans… Just what is the world coming to.

Rinne: Gyahaha. Don’t just spout the general opinion out there, Merumeru~. What do “you” really think?

Yuuta: (H-huh? What's up with those two leaving me in the dust and philosophizing about idol theory between themselves?)

(That’s not what we came here for — we’re here because I want to confirm if Hinata-kun's doing something behind my back—)

Hinata: Rinne-senpai~? What’s up, some kinda trouble going on?

Yuuta: — Hinata-kun!

Hinata: Woah, Yuuta-kun!? Honestly, I figured it was only a matter of time until you came here!

Aw man~, too bad, so sad. Welp, it was fun while it lasted —

Yuuta: ……?

Location: Time Street (Afternoon)

HiMERU: Hmm, what a childish way of spending your money… Although it's not rare to see this in young people who made a killing by being resourceful in one specific area, despite lacking overall experience in adult society.

Or rather, it’s something you often see in show business. It’s in the distant past now, but there once were celebrities who'd play around by folding up 10 000 yen bills into paper airplanes and letting them fly.

Whoever’s paper airplane would fly the furthest would receive all the other paper airplanes, or in other words, those other 10 000 yen bills — And they'd use real money for this game.

It seems to HiMERU that if you have enough money for that kind of thing, there are far better games you could be playing with it.

Yuuta: Woah, are you talking about the bubble economy? It’s a fairytale to our generation at this point...

HiMERU: Just as it is for HiMERU. HiMERU may not know just how you see him, but at least on paper, there isn’t that much of an age difference between the two of us, you see.

Each and every one of us is standing on ground that’s made of the days gone by. With that in mind, would it not be neglectful to think of the past as a mere story from a distant parallel universe, and to remain ignorant of it?

Yuuta: ………

HiMERU: ? Whatever is the matter, Yuuta? Did HiMERU say something questionable?

Yuuta: Oh no, not at all, I’m sorry. I was just thinking what a surprise it is that you're way more serious and reasonable than I expected, HiMERU-san…

I guess it’s thanks to Amagi Rinne leaving the strongest impression among Crazy:B that I kinda ended up thinking that all of you were like that.

But unlike “us”, the members that make up other units aren’t all the “same”.

HiMERU: Being lumped in together with that man is an extremely regretful thing.

Although that’s probably inevitable. This unit system which originated from Yumenosaki certainly makes its presence felt within ES — No, within the entire current idol industry.

We live in a time where the very boxes people have been crammed into are observed and cherished, rather than the individuals themselves.

Yuuta: Ahaha. Well, it’s not like we’re absolutely forced to associate ourselves with a unit. There are exceptions out there, like Mikejima-senpai.

HiMERU: Fufu. The path we're recommended to walk upon is one paved for the vast majority's convenience. Straying from it will only result in our progress being hindered, to the point of it being unfeasible to carry on.

That’s why no one chooses another path; it’s because no one can. Now tell me, how is that any different from “being forced”?

— It appears that you’re a left-hander. In that case, there must’ve been times when you met with hardship because you had to conform to “what’s convenient for everyone else”.

Yuuta: Yeah~, like at the train ticket gates*, or when using scissors. But we’re pretty dexterous, so it’s no biggie. And we’re quick to adapt, too.

Also, if we were to change the world to match what’s convenient for us, the hardships which the two of us face would be forced upon way more people.

HiMERU: — And what would be wrong with that?

Yuuta: ...Pardon?

HiMERU: We’re all living our own lives, so why must we endure hardship for the sake of others?

Even though it wouldn't even occur to the majority faction and the public at large to make a single sacrifice for our comfort?

Why do only people like HiMERU** have to put up with all this?

Yuuta: Ummm...?

HiMERU: — Fufu. How unlike HiMERU to say something so childish. Right, yes, HiMERU gets it already.

Society distributes all burdens equally — and everyone lives while enduring hardship and accommodating others every step along the way, right?

If it appears as though the majority faction conspired to construct a system that imposes an absurdly heavy burden on the minority… Then surely, that’s nothing but HiMERU’s imagination playing a trick on him.

To voice any complaint at all would be unreasonable, selfish, and inconceivable… Right?

Opposing it would just draw the ire of others, causing your burdens to increase even further. Which is exactly why “the two of you” act so unconcerned, as if everything is fine…

You pretend to be goody-two-shoes in order to avoid attracting attention and getting slaughtered, don’t you?

Yuuta: ………

HiMERU: HiMERU admires how very skilled you are at staying alive, 2wink.

Yuuta: ...It kind of feels like you’re picking a fight, you know. Don’t you have a policy not to attack units from the same agency as yourself, Crazy:B?

HiMERU: We do. Of course, HiMERU doesn’t intend to attack you. Please excuse HiMERU for losing his temper just a little —

Aah, “HiMERU” is the same as you… Why does everyone play the part of the obedient children that adults want them to be?

“The majority faction is in the right, and if you find yourself unable to conform to it, then you’re in the wrong…”

“And being wrong means that you'll have to “correct” yourself…” Why does everyone believe this?

When there had been someone who loved everything about them, as well as their very way of life which had been considered "wrong", only for them to ignore and trample that voice into the ground —

Why would they choose a way of life that’s been deemed correct by society?

If that’s what it means to become an adult, and if you can’t survive otherwise…

Then it follows that the only place where you can actually live in happiness as a child is the afterlife.

And that would mean that Heaven exists only for children and bad people… Although that sounds like something Kazehaya Tatsumi would say.

Yuuta: ……?

——————

* Ticket gates in Japan use an electronic system where you hold your ticket up to a reader and it unlocks the gate. Of course, these readers are located on the right-hand side of the gate.

** HiMERU uses a plural here (HiMERUたち) that means “HiMERU and (at least one more person)”, but doesn’t specify how many people or who exactly is included. It’s possible that he’s referring to himself and the “real HiMERU”, or himself and Yuuta, or himself and any other group of people here. Since the text is very ambiguous in this, I chose to go with “people like HiMERU”.

Location: Time Street (Afternoon)

- Almost an hour later -

HiMERU: — Well then, let us get going. To that questionable night club Amagi brought your older brother into.

Yuuta… That is what HiMERU will call you, as he's not the type to use honorifics for others.

Yuuta: Oh, no worries, I’m already used to that thanks to Yumenosaki. We've always been treated like the bottom of the barrel, you know~. For like, ever.

HiMERU: Hmm. The same goes for Ra*bits and the like; people tend to scorn innocent children — or those who make such qualities their selling point. Perhaps one could say they aren’t taken seriously. It must be quite the ordeal.

Yuuta: Well, I wouldn’t go as far as to call it an "ordeal". I’m not too bothered by it, and I’m already used to the prejudice.

HiMERU: — Hmm. In any case, Yuuta, you’re worried about your older brother, Hinata. And HiMERU is troubled, as while HiMERU would like to do solo activities that are more appropriate for him, Amagi is withholding his permission as leader.

Which means our interests coincide, don't they? HiMERU will obtain evidence that Amagi has been causing trouble for your brother, Hinata.

Using this as a pretext, HiMERU will enter negotiations and gain his own way.

If Crazy:B is truly being reduced to an existence that, once again, only pierces others with their poison stingers without any justification —

Then remaining part of such a dangerous and criminal group would be harmful to HiMERU’s future career.

If HiMERU asserts this, then not even Amagi would be able to contest it.

After all, that man is well aware that for HiMERU, “HiMERU” takes precedence above all else.

And contrary to expectations, he does operate on some extent of logic and reason — in the same way insects do.

Consequently, in order to obtain evidence that Amagi has been causing trouble for Aoi Hinata, HiMERU shall cooperate with you in your investigation.

Investigations are HiMERU’s specialty, so please leave everything to him.

And if we happen to find that in truth, Amagi did nothing wrong, and that he did not actually cause any trouble for Aoi Hinata… Then that would be a good thing in its own right.

Surely, you feel anxious exactly because you don’t know what took place, Yuuta.

Of course, this is only in the case that the result turns out as such; but HiMERU should be able to help alleviate this anxiety of yours.

Yuuta: Ahaha. I kind of feel bad making you act so distrustful towards one of your own unitmates, HiMERU-san…

And earlier in the café, you even treated me to coffee. It’s like I keep imposing on you…

HiMERU: Not at all. As HiMERU said earlier, our interests coincide.

In fact, your existence is fortunate to HiMERU — Or rather, it helps him greatly that you provide a fitting pretext to justify stinging Amagi, allowing HiMERU to have his way.

Besides, it’s a social convention that one’s seniors pay for meals and such.

Though in reality, 2wink has been operating for far longer than Crazy:B has, so HiMERU fears he may have been too forward.

It appears that HiMERU’s tendency to adhere to outdated customs is at fault.

HiMERU should’ve already realized during the likes of MDM that this tendency of his is conversely a burden in such an enigmatic modern era.

But unfortunately HiMERU knows of no other way of life, and he has no desire to select a different one, either.

Yuuta: …..? Well, um, I really mean it though; I’m grateful that you treated me to coffee and sweets.

All of my L$ are deposited in 2wink’s account, you see…

Of course I have a personal account too, but that one’s all cleaned out. I always only have Japanese yen on me, for use outside of ES.

HiMERU: — Hmm, but on the other hand, isn’t that inconvenient within ES?

Yuuta: Oh no, it’s not that inconvenient.

Whenever I want to buy or rent something at ES, I just need to get in touch with Aniki and he’ll send over some cash from 2wink’s account for me.

I’m still a student, too, and while Yumenosaki may be under ES's direct control, the L$ system isn’t fully implemented at school yet.

Not to mention that when shopping for anything not related to idol work, Japanese yen are much more convenient.

You know, I just always find myself wanting things that don't have anything to do with our activities whatsoever…

Things like spicy food, or slightly over-the-top manga, or weird, casual clothes that no one in their right mind would wear...

HiMERU: Hmhm. HiMERU believes that it’s possible to hand in an application stating that you do require these items for your idol activities.

In which case, ES will buy them with Japanese yen first, and then sell them to us idols for L$...

That’s how it generally works out, but they won’t come at the comparatively cheap price we pay for “items necessary for idol activities”.

They add handling fees and such but, well, there’s nothing we can really do about that.

Yuuta: And it would mean that I can’t buy stuff the very moment I think “I want this!”, even though I love impulse spending like that…

HiMERU: Hmm. You should plan your purchases in advance instead, since it’s not like your funds are infinite.

Yuuta: I guess you’re right~, but I just can’t help myself… And thanks to that, my dorm room's just bursting with stuff I've got no use for.

Location: Café “Cinnamon”

Jun: O~i... Kagehira-san, you've been looking at the floor and muttering under your breath for some time, y'know? D-Did some kinda ghost pop out or something~?

Yuuta: What, a ghost—? No way, don't tell me this building's haunted after all~!?

Jun: Ohh? I didn’t notice you 'cause some stuff was in the way, but you’re, uhh… One of 2wink?

But which one~? I kinda forgot how to tell those two apart.

Mika: Don'tcha ask me~, I can just sorta tell ‘em apart by lookin’. They might be twinsies, but Hinata-kun an' Yuuta-kun are completely different, y'see.

Jun: Maybe so~, but I seriously can’t see a single difference~.

...Wait, was that kinda rude to say? I'm sorry!

Yuuta: Oh no, there's no need to be considerate. I’m already over stuff like that.

Actually, I only just realized, but Kagehira-senpai and Sazanami-senpai — are you two out for a coffee together? That's a surprise~, you’re friends, huh?

Mika: Nah, it ain’t like that.

I was sittin’ all by myself with my notepad open, tryin’ ta think up some new concepts, when Jun-kun came up an’ asked me what I was writin’.

He sure gave me a start… Thought he was gonna scold me for somethin’ I didn’t realize I’d messed up.

Jun: Oh no, far from that. Valkyrie’s in the same agency as us, so I was just trying to casually strike up a chat with you~.

We’re pretty much colleagues~, so I've gotta at least say hi when I see you around, yeah?

Mika: Ngah~. That’s mighty impressive of ya. I respect how ya just do these workin’ adult kinda things without a sweat… I still ain’t managed ta cure my own stranger anxiety.

‘Cause of that, I’m no good at chattin' it up durin’ interviews, so they end up writin’ stuff like, “Just as his public image might suggest, Kagehira-kun is cool and reserved”.

I really ain't, though~... I just suck at talkin’~...

Yuuta: Ahaha. Is that how the public sees you, Kagehira-senpai? On stage I always had the impression that you're kind and approachable, and quite the chatty guy…?

Mika: Uu, that’s just ‘cause I get all excited when Oshi-san’s around. An’ afterwards I cringe just thinkin’ back on how carried away I got.

An’ lately, Oshi-san’s always overseas, so we barely even get the chance t'stand on stage together.

When I’m all by myself, I’m just like — a doll, I reckon, like I get all stiff an’ can’t move or speak well no more.

Jun: I totally getcha~. I’m not the most sociable to begin with, so when Ohii-san’s absent, all I can do is grunt and growl like some kinda wild animal.

Mika: Ahaha. Jun-kun, all that comes out whenever ya open yer mouth is “Ohii-san this 'n Ohii-san that” ♪

Jun: Hah, and when you open yours it’s nothing but “Oshi-san this, Oshi-san that”.

Yuuta: Ahaha. Looks to me as if you two get along better than expected.

Jun: Yeah. We get on surprisingly well, huh~, I woulda talked to him sooner if I’d known it'd turn out like this.

Mika: Yup. Jun-kun always seemed kinda scary, so I reckoned I’d better stay clear...

But what a surprise it was t'find out that once ya talk ta him, he’s actually real friendly an’ polite. He’s a good guy ♪

When I was all stumped on ideas fer a new concept, he gave me some great advice an' helped me out a bunch!

Just what you'd expect from one o' ES's Big Three, Eden. He knows a mighty lot 'bout the state o' the industry an' idol history —

Ah, shouldn't I thank ya somehow? How 'bout I cover fer our drinks with my L$?

Jun: If you wanna, then go for it. Though I don’t think I’ve done anything really worth thanking me for —

Someone else always decides on the plans for Eden's performances, so it was kinda fun to do some brainstorming myself for once.

And we’re in the same agency, after all~, so we’ve gotta help each other out.

Uhh, “Yuuta-kun”, right? — We'll lend you a hand if you ever find yourself in a fix, so please feel free to rely on your seniors from CosPro aaanytime~♪

Yuuta: Ah, got it. I feel kind of bad, but thank you very much…

HiMERU: — How much longer do you intend to talk to these uninvolved people?

Yuuta: ……!?

HiMERU: The coffee HiMERU ordered for you has long gone cold — Aoi Yuuta.

Yuuta: Er, umm… Huh? F-For me?

HiMERU: — HiMERU noticed that you were following him in secret. Of course, he also knew you were spying on him all this time from a hiding place.

You have something to talk to HiMERU about, don’t you? HiMERU is a busy man, but there’s something he wanted to ask of “you”, too —

If possible, HiMERU would like to have a long, leisurely talk with you — Just the two of us ♪

Yuuta: U-Umm…?

Location: ES Lobby

- Noon, the next day -

Yuuta: (Aaah, geez, I’m so pissed off!)

(Why do I have to feel so awful!? Did I do something to deserve this or what?)

(It’s all Aniki’s fault! Didn’t we decide that we’re “two as one”, that we’d live as though we’re sharing a single body?)

(That’s why we promised to never neglect Ho-Ren-So* in the first place~!)

(And the way ES works is no help, either!)

(Those highly confidential emails that only unit leaders can send and receive — those Glitter Mails — they're no good at all!)

(They don’t even reach me!)

(Apparently Vize Prez Saegusa used them to ask a special favor of Aniki, but Aniki isn't showing any sign of wanting to tell me about it so I don't have a clue what it is!)

(We may be twins, but we don’t have psychic abilities or anything like that! It’s not like we actually share one body after all!)

………

(Either way, it seems like the Vice Prez asked Aniki to support Crazy:B or something…)

(But how did that turn into him working at such a suspicious establishment? That’s what I still don’t get.)

(I guess he first started talking to Crazy:B in order to deepen their friendship, but then fell for Amagi Rinne’s sweet-talk and was brought to that place, huh?)

(Unlike me, Aniki isn’t the type to get tricked so easily, but he does have that weird, bad habit of trying to get on other people’s wavelengths.)

(If that’s what you wanna do, get on my wavelength instead, not some random person’s who’s got nothing to do with us!)

(Deciding things on your own, working jobs without me, and keeping me in the dark — I thought you quit doing stuff like that, Hinata-kun.)

HiMERU: ………

Yuuta: (...Hm? Huh? That person who just entered that café — Cinnamon, was it? — Isn’t that someone from Crazy:B?)

HiMERU: ~......♪

Yuuta: (What’s that person doing there all alone?)

(Well, I guess compared to us Yumenosaki idols, Crazy:B doesn’t really have that same spirit of doing everything together…)

(Maybe I should try talking to him. Among the chaotic Crazy:B, this HiMERU guy seems like the most decent one of the bunch.)

(Yesterday, he was the only one who acted as if none of it concerned him at all, and it felt like he was keeping his distance from the rest of Crazy:B.)

(So much, in fact, that I’m starting to suspect he doesn’t get along with them.)

(I've only been able to talk to Hinata-kun over the phone so far, but I didn’t really get what he was saying — And I still don’t really know the full situation, either.)

(It could be that Hinata-kun's once again staying quiet and trying to pull the wool over my eyes just to take on all the dirty, terrible things upon himself...)

(No, I'm sure of it! It’s all he ever does!)

(But I don’t want that kind of nonsense from the past to repeat itself! This time I swear I’ll crush the buds of impending calamity before they sprout!)

Location: Café “Cinnamon”

Yuuta: ………

Mika: Ngah~? Oh, hey, Yuuta-kun! Good t’see ya ♪

Yuuta: Uhyah!?

Ah, hello, Kagehira-senpai! What a surprise to find you here! Working hard?

Mika: Nah, more like hardly workin’...

Oshi-san an’ I worked way more than we’d planned ta durin’ MDM, and used up almost our whole repertoire…

It ain’t our style as Valkyrie to keep showin’ audiences the same stuff over 'n over, so we shelved those performances an’ now we’re comin’ up with concepts for our next works.

Ngah~, seems like Oshi-san's already holed himself up in his atelier in Paris an’ started pumpin’ out new stuff all trial-an’-error-like.

But as fer me, I’m plum feelin’ out of it and just can’t seem t'get into gear...

Yuuta: ………

Mika: ...By the by, Yuuta-kun, whatcha up to? Playin’ hide ‘n seek?

If ya crouch on the floor like that, won’t yer knees get all dirty?

Yuuta: Shh! I’m sorry, but please don’t pay any mind to me, Kagehira-senpai! I'm currently on an important mission that'll decide 2wink’s future!

Mika: Ngah~? I ain't really gettin' it, but you guys always got it rough, huh? Tell me if there’s anythin’ I can do t'help y'all, ‘kay~?

Us Yumenosaki folks’ve gotta look after 2wink and protect the two of ya...♪

Yuuta: ………

————

* “Ho-Ren-So” (Houkoku, Renraku, Soudan) is a Japanese acronym that’s used in business settings and stands for “Report, Inform, Consult”.

Location: Night Club Interior

- Nearly one hour later -

Rinne: Whazzu~up, Amagi Rinne-chan’s in da house ♪

Sorry, sorry! I meant to call, but I got dragged into a whole mess — I mean, I had to take care of a lil’ somethin’...

Oh?

Hinata: Welcome~♪

Table for how many? Will you be smoking? Er, wait, according to regulations, smokers are considered a nuisance, so we basically can’t even consider them “customers” to begin w—

Huh?

Whazzu~up, Rinne-senpai! I’ve been waiting for you~♪

Actually, you got me all worried. I saw your name on the shift plan, but you just wouldn’t show up!

Rinne: ...Hina. Dude, why’re ya still here at work?

Your lil’ broflake was worried about’cha, yellin’ “Gimme back my Aniki~!” with tears in his eyes, y’know? Gyahahaha ☆

Hinata: Aah~, I’m so sorry. Did Yuuta-kun cause some sort of trouble to our seniors, by any chance?

Yuuta-kun’s sins are my sins! Allow me to apologize to you twofold, or even threefold!

Rinne: Nah, his anger was totally justified. If I heard that my lil’ bro got abducted by someone, I’d summon every last soldier from our hometown and go wreck the culprit ♪

Hinata: That's pretty extreme, you know~. I suppose at this point “extreme and immoral” may as well be Crazy:B’s slogan.

Rinne: Fine by me, though. Seems like UNDEAD's sick of havin’ that slogan, since it just led to annoyin’ rumors for ‘em, anyway.

Like, if they don’t need the title they should quit hoggin’ it and just hand it over already, right?

Also, I keep repeatin’ myself here but ya really don’t gotta speak politely around me, Hina. Maybe we've got a bit of an age diff, but we’re both workin’ adults of equal status at ES, aren’t we?

Hinata: On paper, yes. But alright, thanks! ‘Cause like, if me and Yuuta-kun both kept to polite speech we’d get unfavorable reviews on how hard it is to tell us apart ♪

Rinne: Well, you’ll feel like it’s “unfavorable” ‘cuz that’s how you see it.

This world’s full of bums who hurt others while meanin’ to praise ‘em! Havin’ no self-awareness makes for a bad personality!

Anyway, lemme try to get back to the point I was makin’. Why’re you workin’ here again today?

You kinda got dragged into helpin’ us out yesterday, but this isn’t the sorta work a pair of Mr. Populars like you two should be doin’.

Hinata: That’s it! That’s exactly the problem! I know we're the ones who always said we wanted to make it big, but~

Now that we have, all we ever get are cherry-picked jobs that "suit us", and I’m sick of it!

Ever since we were kids we'd do pretty much any job just to survive; whether performing on the street or picking up trash — you name it, we did it.

No matter the job, we’d gladly do it and enjoy ourselves as long as we got to do what we wanted, but now it’s like all our toys have been confiscated, save for one kind —

If this is what it means to be an adult, it’s the actual worst.

And here I thought that if you work hard, become popular, earn lots of money, and get all this praise and approval from the public, you’d get to do more and more of the things that you wanna do.

Rinne: Gyahaha. It’s exactly for those boring adults who’ve become cogs of society that things like night clubs and gambling exist.

The world's filled to the brim with all kinda ways to have fun, yeah?

Who the hell decided that fun's something immoral and frivolous, something you'd pinch your nose at while tossin' it out onto the garbage dump?

What kinda joke is that, where you’re stranglin’ your own neck while goin’ “I can’t breathe~”?

Poor lil' ES idols. Most of ‘em are still at an age where they wanna play with toys, anyway.

I feel bad for ‘em, bein' turned into working members of society — And bein’ made to suck it up like adults.

Hinata: ………

Rinne: Hm? What's up, Hina, got somethin’ to say? Then spit it out — I might shoot ya a retort right back or somethin’, but —

I’m not playin’ grown-up with ya like we’re just “playin’ house”, I’ll treat ya like a proper adult, on equal footing ♪

Hinata: Oh, my bad, I was just thinking how rare it is for me to be treated like this, so I ended up staring. I feel like I might've been rude there~, but I’ve also never met anyone like you before in my life, Rinne-senpai.

Rinne: I’ll bet. After all, unlike most species, vermin don't form herds -- they can only survive by becomin' obedient lil pets.

You guys were tryin’ to become convenient cattle for the adults, ‘cause that’s what your instinct, or maybe your experience, was tellin’ ya to do, right?

That’s why the humans don’t kill ya, and everyone gives you cheap words like “We’re family”, yeah?

Because you’re convenient, cute and useful, they all pat your heads and go “good boy~”, don’t they? Every last one of ‘em.

But outside your real family, you’ve never met anyone quite the same breed as you, have ya?

You found a safe place to survive and hide yourselves, and learned to perform tricks for passersby so they’d feed ya, didn’tcha?

But take a look around ya. There’re night clubs like this, where the air is sticky with the smell of sweet booze.

The world is just overflowin' with the same breed of creatures as ya, more than you could ever imagine… Hina ♪

Hinata: ………

Rinne: So if ya find this place comfortable, feel free to take a breather here ‘til ya feel better.

But make sure ya tell your lil’ broflake what’s goin’ on and how you’re feelin, ‘cause it’d be a pain if I got roped into somethin’ weird again.

The ones most likely to be by your side 'til the end are gonna be your blood relatives...

So if you’re feelin’ weak and hurt, you should at least gather more people who’ll be there for ya as much as ya can.

— Before you’re devoured by the “normal, virtuous humans”.

Hinata: ……...

Location: Shower Rooms

- The flashback ends, and we’re back in the present -

Kohaku: —Humhumm, I see.

So after that… Y'were all worried so ya tried to enter that establishment, but ya got the boot instead ‘cause ya looked like a lil' child to ‘em, huh, Yuuta-han?

Rinne: Yeah, ‘cause that place serves booze at night, y’know. It’s not like minors are banned from enterin’, but they're not gonna turn a blind eye to it, either.

2wink's name's been gettin' out there with your faces plastered everywhere and all, so they must’ve been aware that you’re an idol.

And to the shops around ES, idols are pretty much little chickens who lay golden eggs, so they tend to give us the warmest of welcomes.

If word got 'round that a store caused trouble for an oh-so-precious idol, they’d go bust. So y’know, they turned ya away just to be safe — and that was the right choice to make.

Niki: Huh, but Rinne-kun, didn’t you manage to enter that very same establishment together with this Onii-chan from 2wink… Hinata-kun, was it?

Rinne: That’s ‘cause the manager's my mahjong buddy and close pal.

If I act as a go-between, they'll let pretty much anyone in. Just goes to show there’s always a loophole ♪

On top of that, I’m an grown man over the age of 20… So I’m free to play around at any nightlife joint I like, or rather, it’s my choice to do whatever I want, yeah?

HiMERU: —Honestly speaking, that’s hardly praiseworthy behaviour for an idol, though.

Well, in this case he may have attacked us first, but…

The way you've tied this Aoi Yuuta-kun to a chair for interrogation as you douse him with cold water still has HiMERU at an utter loss for words.

Rinne: Huh, didja want me to use boiling water instead? Or maybe even hot wax? Kyaaa, you’re a real maniac behind that calm 'n cool face of yours, Merumeru~ ♪

HiMERU: —Either shut up or drop dead, Amagi.

Kohaku: Fufu. Forgive us, Yuuta-han. We may have somehow made it outta MDM alive, but we’re still in a mighty strange spot where we're gettin' resentment from all sides.

If some kinda huge fight broke out between us an’ someone else in such a public place, we’d hafta steel ourselves for our heads to roll for real this time.

Niki: Not sure I wanna hear this from the guys who were doing Mahjong at someone else’s workplace.

Rinne: Hate to break it to ya, but Mahjong's somethin’ that’s “played”, not “done”.

Niki: Who cares! Geez, I just want you to knock it off with all that shady stuff!

What if I get fired from that café! They let me eat as much as I want on shift without taking it from my pay — it's the ideal workplace for me!

Although I really don’t care whether I get fired as an idol!

Kohaku: Fufu. Niki-han, ya sure never waver in yer beliefs.

...In any case, these shower rooms are just about the only blind spots from the surveillance cameras in the whole ES buildin’.

Once ya lock the door, no one can get in, either. At that point, it ain't nobody’s business what goes on in here.

Take that into account an’ spit it right out, Yuuta-han — What were yer intentions when ya picked a fight with us?

Yuuta: Huh, you want to know my intentions? Do you really not get it without me spelling it out for you...?

Kohaku: I don’t. 'Pologies, but I’m 'bout as much of a commoner as Niki-han; I ain’t got the faintest idea what’s considered common sense n' sound reasonin’ when it comes to idols.

Niki: Eeh, could you please not use “Niki-han” as a synonym for “a worthless being”!?

I mean, yeah, maybe I am a complete and utter good-for-nothing as an idol, but still!

Rinne: Hey, that’s not true. At least in my eyes it ain’t.

...Anyway, I think I’ve got a pretty good grasp of what’s goin’ on here now.

But I'll go ahead and ask anyway; could it be that you haven’t been able to get in touch with your Aniki since last night — Yuta-kun?

Yuuta: My name’s “Yuuta”, not “Yuta”! And yeah, last night I got a text from Aniki that said “Some work suddenly came in so I’ll be late” —

Well, that part was a big fat lie! He was just playing around at some seedy establishment!

And then he didn’t return to the dorms today, and he won’t respond or even react to me on HoldHands either!

That’s why I’m convinced you guys kidnapped him…!

Kohaku: Uh, why does yer mind jump right to “kidnappin'~”?

Are kidnappings an everyday occurrence at this Yumenosaki Academy ya go to, or what? What kinda lawless place is that? Ain’t it s’pposed to be a school fer idols?

Rinne: Hmm… 'Course you'd react like that, huh.

Yuuta: ……?

Rinne: My bad, my bad. I just remembered — It would’ve been a problem if Hina's ringtone went off in the middle of “work”, so I held onto his smartphone for him.

Speakin’ of which, guess I didn’t give it back to him yet, huh… So that's why you couldn’t get in touch with Hina through HoldHands, either.

Yuuta: His name isn’t “Hina”, it’s “Hinata”!

Rinne: That so? The only one who can correct me on that'd be Hina himself, not you, ain't that right?

He was pleased as a peach 'bout it, actually. Told me he'd never really gotten nicknamed before so it made him sooo happy.

Yuuta: ………

Rinne: On that note, Hina was seriously pooped after “working” all night.

Looked like it woulda been rough for him to walk all the way home, so I carried him to a nearby hotel affiliated with our establishment and tucked him right in.

It’s already past noon, so I'd wager he woke up and headed back to the dorms by now, no?

Yuuta: Wait, hold up, what kind of “establishment” is this? What kind of “work” are you talking about? What did you make my Aniki do…?

Rinne: You're gonna have to ask the man himself 'bout that. And if Hina doesn’t wanna tell ya, you've got no right to force it outta him either.

You may be brothers, but you’re not the same person. Ya ain't some lil' brat, so you should get that much, yeah?

Yuuta: ………

Location: Time Street

- Flashback. Yesterday, in the biggest “nightlife district” near the ES building — Time Street -

Yuuta: Hmhmhmmm ♪ Today’s dinner is gonna be~ Pizza-manjuu*~♪

Plenty of tabasco for a spicy inferno ♪ The ultimate tongue-tingling torture~... Hmhmhmmm ♪

(Mmh~! Lately I've been feeling kinda really content! Not the slightest anxiety or complaint whatsoever! Life's good~♪)

(Just the other day, I was all worried about what was gonna happen during MDM, — Well, rather, to Crazy:B. But from the looks of it I’d say they sorted it out the best they could.)

(Seems like those guys did their best to apologize to everyone, and managed to work things out so that they’ll be able to keep performing with all four of their members.)

(Of course, some people still hold a grudge against them, but the general vibe is “Well, Crazy:B seems apologetic enough, so we may as well forgive them”.)

(In fact, our shrewd Vice President of CosPro — Saegusa-senpai — somehow managed to use this as an opportunity to garner sympathy… That way, it seems like he managed to rack up great achievements for the agency this whole time since summer.)

(Since “we” are affiliated with CosPro, we’ll probably be able to benefit from this, too. Life’s a breeze when you can leech off your "family's" fortune.)

(...But back when CosPro first started scouting us, I actually had my reservations about it.)

(We'd finally found our footing as the “two-in-one twin idols”, and got to a place where we could start reaping the fruits of our labours.)

(That’s why I wasn’t sure if we should risk jumping into an entirely new environment.)

(But Sakuma-senpai and all these other Yumenosaki alumni started getting affiliated with various different agencies, too.)

(And it started feeling like if we didn’t declare our own intentions clearly, some unknown bigwig was going to simply state which place would suit us best and decide on their own just where we belong.)

(If that’s how it was gonna be, I much preferred to choose a place with people who reached out to us and told us they wanted us. By my — by our — own free will.)

(—We aren’t errand-boys to be used at other’s convenience, nor are we mere opening acts meant to hype up crowds.)

(.........)

(—Well, in hindsight, we made the right choice. Vice Prez Saegusa may see us as nothing but chess pieces to be used, but he at least gives us plenty of responsibility.)

(With all the focus on live performances back at Yumenosaki, I’d never have imagined the sheer variety of jobs we’re taking on now. But we've been doing a perfect job at all of them, and our achievements have been piling up.)

(We're in demand and appreciated, commended for our efforts and recognized — We’re being praised.)

(We, who were called “revolting” by our own biological father.)

(.........)

(...Well, I can’t say things like this in front of Aniki or anyone, since it’d just make them worry about me.)

(We’re doing better than ever, and yet, I can't feel truly happy about it… Or maybe it's more like I don’t know how to react.)

(Or rather, it feels empty.)

(We're the two-in-one twin idols, and because "there's two of us", we'll never lose to anyone. We can become "the strongest individual"...)

(That's the essence of 2wink, and it’s how we keep racking up achievements, but…)

(That’s also exactly why… No matter how much praise and recognition "we" get as 2wink, it always feels like it’s about someone else, someone unrelated to me…)

(Sometimes it scares me. It's like I'm living without really feeling alive.)

(This is the worst... And here I was the one who decided to live like this in the first place. There's no way I can detach “myself” from “us”, because this is the best solution for us and the best we can do.)

(Because we’ve finally become the ideal idols we’ve always admired and dreamed of being.)

(—Never again will I allow anyone to call us revolting because it’s impossible to tell us apart.)

(.........)

Hinata: Come ooon~, I said I can’t agree to this kinda thiiing, Rinne-senpaaai~♪

Rinne: It'll be fine, don't ya worry your little head about it! Just pretend I tricked ya into it and play along, it’s gonna be fun for sure ♪ Hey, c'mon already… Yeah?

Yuuta: (...Hmm!? Uh, what? Isn’t that Aniki — and Amagi Rinne from Crazy:B?)

Hinata: Eeeh~? But stiiiill, I have a little brother waiting for me at hooome…

Rinne: Gyahaha! Just let ‘im wait, then! Big bros are way greater than their lil' bros based on just how much sooner they were born!

And anyway, who the hell still eats all three meals with their family even in high school? Just what century didja get your family values from?

We’re livin’ in 21st century Japan, so your own happiness obviously comes before your family’s, right?

Hey “Onii-chan”, what’cha gonna do once you’ve found yourself a wife?

Ya gonna tell her “take my brother too, please~”, or what? Ain't no one out there with a big heart like that!

Got it? So it’s totally fine for ya to find your individual happiness and have a lil' fun on your own, “Onii-chan”!

The Japanese constitution guarantees our right and freedom to do that, yeah? Gyahahaha ☆

Hinata: Eeh~? Well, maybe that’s how it is in the Amagi household, but—

Rinne: That's how it is for all siblings in every household! Alrighty then, it’s decided! Sir~, we’ve got a customer!

He's lookin' a lil' young, but he’s an adult, I swear!

Hinata: Wawah? I can’t, I said I can’t! I’m pretty sure minors aren’t even allowed at this establishment—

Rinne: It’s fine, it’s fiiine! By the time you leave this place, you’ll be an adult, too! Gyahahaha ☆

Yuuta: (.........)

Yuuta: (W-w-w-wha— What are you doing!? Stupid Aniki~!)

(That was Aniki just now, wasn’t it!? Aah, good thing I brought my binoculars!)

(I usually carry it with me so I can spy on the audience before a live and adjust our performance to suit the clientele—)

(But to think I’d catch Aniki cheating on me— Wait, I mean, witness him indulging in juvenile delinquency...!)

(They’re a good distance away so I couldn't catch every word they were saying, but there’s no doubt that it was about something clearly dangerous!)

(I can tell! I can tell from the atmosphere and mood, and because that Amagi Rinne guy was talking real loud!)

(Not to mention that I can understand what Aniki wants to tell me even if he doesn’t say it out loud, and even more so recently!)

(It’s not like being twins makes us espers, and we can’t use telepathy! But I can tell! And I got a really, really, really bad feeling about this just now!)

(W-wh-wh-what do I do? What should I do? Just what am I supposed to do at a time like this, father, mother!?)

(A-Alright, for now I’ll just call Sakuma-senpai and— Wait, no! I decided not to depend on my seniors like that anymore, and I don’t want the mess that was Setsubun to repeat itself!)

(Uhmm, uhmmm? In any case, I need to keep an eye on this situation!)

(There’s a chance I just got the wrong idea! I mean, there’s been countless times where I've messed up because of weird misunderstandings like that, right?)

(Hinata-kun is way craftier and more street-smart than me, so if something happens he’ll handle it somehow — But in the off-chance that he can’t, then…!)

(I mean, that guy he’s dealing with is Amagi Rinne of Crazy:B, the man who made all of ES his enemy in his rampage, right!?)

(He even led Sakuma-senpai and Vice Prez Saegusa around by the nose just earlier this summer!)

(And one way or another, Hinata-kun is just a high schooler, the same age as me!)

(Besides, I’m his family. I’m Hinata-kun’s brother — Being worried about him is more than enough reason and justification for me to take action!)

(Alright, let’s go~! First, I’ll infiltrate this establishment Hinata-kun’s been brought into! Grant me guidance and protection, o mother in Heaven...!)

——————

* Pizza-manjuu (ピザ饅) are steamed dumplings with cheese and pizza sauce filling, and they look like this:

** Both quotes here, “two of us” and “the strongest individual” are from Hinata in Repayment Fes.

Location: Café “Cinnamon”

- In the middle of September, at Café “Cinnamon”, which has become Crazy:B’s hang-out spot -

Rinne: Alright, that’s ron! Thirteen orphans! You’re finished, Niki~, that’s what you get for discardin’ your tiles all willy-nilly, idiot! Gyahahaha ☆

Niki: Wh-, hey! Why’re you only focusing your attacks on me, Rinne-kun!? This was supposed to be a match between you and HiMERU-kun!

You only got me involved against my will ‘cause you didn’t have enough people otherwise! I don’t even know the rules!

Kohaku: Same here. Humhum, I guess Mahjong is all ‘bout collectin’ the same kindsa tiles, right? ‘Reckon I’ve got it figured out more or less~, ko ko ko ♪

Rinne: Nah, actually the match is over. Poor Niki’s all bankrupt now, which means that in compliance with our house rules, his public striptease is about to start!

Niki: Striptease!? What the hell, no one told me about this!

Rinne: Gyahahaha! Get naked, get naked! Heyheyhey, I wanna see Niki-kun’s toned body that defies all logic, considerin’ how this guy stuffs his face on the daily~☆

Kohaku: Ah, actually I’ve really been wonderin’ about that. Niki-han, yer body’s of the type that doesn’t gain weight easily, right?

Niki: Well, it’s more like it’s bad at absorbing nutrients—

Owaah!? Please stop trying to take my clothes off by force, Rinne-kun! Stop, you’re gonna tear it!

It’d be a hassle if you ripped my clothes, ‘cause I try not to spend money on my wardrobe if I can help it!

Rinne: Shaddup! Take ‘em off~! Don’t be such a tease~, don’t play so hard to get! ‘S not like you’re some pure, virginal maiden!

Niki: Um, I’m not any kind of “maiden” in the first place, got it!?

HiMERU: —Just how much must you two besmirch the good name of idols until you’re satisfied?

HiMERU is shocked speechless. Could you at least keep it together while you’re out in public?

Niki: Ah, you think so too, right!? First of all, this is my part-time workplace!

People come here to relax~, so I really wish you wouldn’t turn this into Crazy:B’s hang-out spot!

Rinne: Aah? I’m free to sit down for a meal anywhere I like. Also, what has this so-called “public” ever done for us?

Are we just gonna let them treat us like this forever?

They stuck labels like “troublemakers” on us, sayin’ “This world doesn’t need people like you, you’re a nuisance and a bother”...

Do we have to put up with them kickin’ our asses and chasin’ us away whenever and wherever they like?

Niki: U-uu~?

Um, so in other words, the way you hang out in cute cafés like a complete hoodlum, playing mahjong and trying to strip me naked, is all part of your rebellion against this unjust society...?

That’s all your way of declaring that you refuse to be silently devoured!?

Kohaku: Give it up, Niki-han. That guy’s all hat and no cattle. All he’s good at it takin’ yer complaints and explaining ‘em away with his sophistry.

Here’s what’cha gotta do: outright reject every word he says and show physical resistance.

Rinne: Eh~? How mean~, talk to your lonely ol’ pops, will ya~? Is widdle Kohaku-chwan in his webellious phase~?

Are you already at that age where you don’t wanna take baths with your papa anymore~?*

Kohaku: …….... (He flicks a mahjong tile in Rinne’s direction)

Rinne: Ouch!? He really practices what he preaches; he didn’t listen to a word I said and resorted to physical violence!

If that’s how it’s gonna be, I won’t go easy on you either! I’ll show ya the difference in physical strength between an adult and a kid!

I’ll whoop your ass! And then I’ll make you wear cute kitty ears and call me “My Master ♪”!

Kohaku: I’ll kill ya before you get the chance.

Niki: Please! Stop causing a ruckus at my workplace~!

The manager keeps looking at me with a face that says “Niki-kun, we’re going to have a talk about this later ♪”, y’know~!?

HiMERU: —Good grief.

HiMERU may have accompanied you out of courtesy, but if all you’re going to do is waste his time with your silly games, HiMERU is going to take his leave now.

As HiMERU already told you the other day, he’s currently the focus of a solo project, just as he was in the past.

That means HiMERU doesn’t have a lot of time on hand to allocate to you people.

Rinne: Aah? Didn’t I tell ya I’m not givin’ you my permission for that? It was rejected on authority of Crazy:B’s leader!

And I gave ya my reasons for why I’m not allowin’ any solo gigs, too! You’re a smart one, Merumeru, so you should’ve gotten the message, right?

HiMERU: —HiMERU did get the message, but he didn’t give his assent. Therefore, HiMERU won’t abide by it.

Rinne: Gyahaha! Quarrelin’ about it didn’t lead to an agreement, and that’s why we decided whoever won this mahjong showdown was gonna be in the “right”**, didn’t we?

I thinned out the small fry and emerged victorious, so you gotta abide by the agreement and take my word as law!

Niki: Hey, don’t call the small fry “Niki-kun”!

Kohaku: Ain’t that backwards?

Niki: Nahaha ♪ But small fry are edible, so aren’t they way more useful than I am?

Kohaku: Yer real servile sometimes, Niki-han. Gives me the creeps whenever I can sense the darkness in yer heart.

HiMERU: —HiMERU would never agree to abide by the results of something so unbefitting of idols as a mahjong showdown in the first place.

—Don’t think that everyone will always just move the way you like, Amagi.

Rinne: ………

Yuuta: Dammiiiiiit! Where are youuuuuuu! Resistance is futile, show yourseeeeelf!

Niki: Ooh? What is it this time? How come it’s always so noisy around us?

Kohaku: Don’t ask me.

Ain’t that kid from CosPro, too? From 2wink, or somethin’?

I heard they’re twins, but which one is he? He seems to be havin’ a right blast makin’ a fuss, so I’d wager it’s the cheerful older brother?

HiMERU: —It’s pointless to try and tell them apart based on that. This one is probably the younger one, “Aoi Yuuta”.

Kohaku: Huh, how can ya tell? HiMERU-han, ya know them twins?

HiMERU: You can tell just by looking, since they seem go out of their way to use codes to make it possible to tell them apart—Those two.

Yuuta: Aah, there you are! I did hear that Crazy:B turned this place into their hang-out spot recently—You wouldn’t happen to have a moment to spare for me, since there is something I very much need to speak with you about!?

Kohaku: How polite, considerin’ ya look like yer about to snap. What’s the matter? ‘S not like we did somethin’ to ya guys, did we?

Yuuta: You have no room to speak...! I thought you’d at least avoid setting your sights on someone from the same agency and let down my guard, but that was just naive of me!

You vermin will pierce just anybody with your poison stingers~!

Crazy:B! No, Amagi Rinne! Give me back my Aniki! Give me back “Hinata-kun”…!

———————

* In Japan, many parents take baths together with their children while they are young, but it’s normal for girls starting puberty to be ashamed to do this and refuse to do it, so this is a joke about that specifically.

** Rinne says “right answer” here, and since this story was written by Akira who also wrote Yuuta’s recent idol story and Setsubun where this expression keeps popping up, it’s quite likely that he’s picking up that theme again here. (Aoi family angst will follow soon enough.)

Location: Shopping District (Game Event)

Orthos: Ravial-niisan.

Ravial: Yeah… There’s someone heading our way.

Orthos: Mhm, and he has wings on his back just like us, although he doesn’t have a halo...

He looks like he has business with us, so should we hear him out?

Ravial: Good idea. Everyone else we tried talking to on the way here looked surprised by us, and none of the conversations went anywhere.

Since this one is approaching us on his own, it’s a favorable sign.

Nazuna: Excuse me, are you our co-stars?

I am the leader of Ra*bits, Nito Nazuna.

Ravial: I am the Commander of the Holy Palace Guard, Ravial. And this is…

Orthos: His younger brother, Orthos. Nice to meet you, Nazuna.

Feyle: I am the Vice Commander of the same Holy Palace Guard as Commander Ravial, Feyle.

Teufel: ...Holy Palace Guard, Teufel.

Nazuna: Umm, so you’re Ravial-san, Orthos-san, Feyle-san and Teufel-san, correct?

The others are over there, allow me to introduce you to them.

Feyle: Commander, what should we do? Follow him?

Ravial: Sounds good. Asking them directly will yield faster results than searching around recklessly would. Taking into account how unusual this place is as well, we’d be wise to wait and see where things go.

Feyle: Then, let’s go after him!

Ravial: Yes, let’s.

Nazuna: He~y, over here!

Alright guys! Introduce yourselves to our co-stars. The first impression is vital, got it~?

Mitsuru: I’ll go first! I’m the pride of Ra*bits, their superstar, Tenma Mitsuru! Nice to meet’cha~☆

Hajime: My name is Shino Hajime. My reflexes aren’t that good, but singing is my forte. It’s nice to make your acquaintance ♪

Tomoya: I’m Mashiro Tomoya. Among our members, you could say that I’m the most average…

But, I’ll do my best not to hold anyone back! Nice to meet you!

Nazuna: Since I’ve already introduced myself earlier, that should be all of us.

Our co-stars from right to left are; Orthos-san, Ravial-san, Feyle-san and Teufel-san.

Orthos: Nice to meet you all. ...Your name was Hajime, right?

Hajime: Hoeh? Ah, yes. And yours was Orthos-san, wasn’t it?

Orthos: Judging from your appearance, I’d guess that we’re not far apart in age, so just call me Orthos.

Hajime: But, umm… I’m always worried about offending someone by leaving out honorifics, so I tend to use “-kun” or “-san”...

So if possible, could I call you “Orthos-kun” or “Orthos-san”?

Orthos: Then, how about -kun?

Hajime: Of course. Orthos-kun, right?

Ehehe, I was worried about the kind of people our co-stars would turn out to be, but everyone seems very nice. What a relief ♪

...Huh?

Ravial-san and Orthos-kun look very similar, almost like brothers~ ♪

Ravial: Yeah. Orthos is my younger brother.

Hajime: Is that so? Then it’s no wonder you look alike~.

I also have a younger sister and brother, so I guess we’re both older brothers, Ravial-san...♪

Ehehe, who would’ve thought we’d have something in common. Since we’re both older brothers, it’d make me happy to be on good terms with you.

Ravial: Yeah, same to you.

Nazuna: Ooh~. Hajime-chin’s usually shy around strangers, but it looks like he’s opening up to Ravial-san? Yupyup, our live is going to go over well at this rate~♪

Ravial: ...Nazuna. I get the feeling we’re not on the same page. What is this “live” thing you speak of?

Nazuna: Hm? Didn’t the client tell you anything?

Let’s see… We’ll be going on stage first, so please join us on-stage after we’re done singing and dancing.

Once our song is over, I’ll yell “Come up, Holy Palace Guards~☆”. Please leave the timing for your entrance to us.

So yeah, I look forward to working with all of you~!

Hajime-chin, Tomo-chin, Mitsuru-chin, it’s time. Everyone, follow your Nii~chan...☆

Feyle: C-Commander! W-What is the meaning of this?

Ravial: Calm down. Let’s figure out each situation as it comes. By doing that, we’ll gradually understand these circumstances we’ve been thrust into.

Location: Mehterhane

Feyle: Ah, I can see our destination! It’s just through this alley!

Teufel: Vice Commander. Allow me to go on ahead and ask if they can provide fish dishes for us.

Feyle: Right. When we went there to celebrate before, we contacted them ahead of time… I’ll go with you.

I’m sure if he hears that it’s for the Commander’s younger brother’s birthday, the chef will be happy to provide a feast of fish for us.

Location: Shopping District (Game Event)

Feyle: ...What is this place? The buildings and attire of the people here are quite different from what I’m used to…

Teufel: I’ve also never seen an avenue like this before. ...Vice Commander?

Feyle: Ah, my bad. I was just a bit overwhelmed for a moment.

Teufel: They seem to be in the middle of preparations for some kind of attraction. Since it’s the Day of Saint Michellia, it’s only natural that it’d be this lively.

Feyle: Seems that way.

But what is the meaning of this? There’s nothing but groundlings around, and I don’t see the restaurant we’re looking for anywhere either.

Teufel: I remember it being on the right, beyond the alley we passed through… But the restaurant in question is nowhere to be seen.

Ravial: Feyle… Are you sure this is the Holy Capital to begin with?

Feyle: Commander! But I’ve never heard of another town bordering on the Holy Capital…

Ravial: Indeed, we lack information. We need to find out more about this situation we’re in.

Feyle: Roger!

Orthos-kun, I’m sorry. You may need to wait a bit, but I promise we’ll celebrate your birthday together.

Orthos: Okay…

(But Nii-san is right. This probably isn’t the Holy Capital. The townscape here looks entirely different. Just where did we end up…?)

Nazuna: Are you ready, guys~?

Hajime: Umm, our job today is for a game’s release anniversary’s event. After a live performance, we’ll hold a handshake session, correct?

Nazuna: Yup. The game is set in an idyllic world inhabited by angels, which is why the live show has “angels” as a theme.

And that’s also why we’re wearing pairs of wings on top of our unit outfits; we’re dressed up as angels!

The stage performance is going to be amazing, too~. There are even plans for us to do wire stunts!

Flying and jumping around nimbly is my specialty, you know~.

Hajime: Aah. So that’s why we received this job offer.

What kind of game is this, though? After Nii~chan told us about it, I tried looking it up, but I didn’t really get it.

Nazuna: It’s a game where you try to figure out how to best move your team in order not to be defeated by the enemy’s, and how to crush their team while incurring the least amount of casualties on yours. In other words, a strategy game.

Mitsuru: Uu~... I’m no good at games where you need to use your brains. It’s best for them to be plain and simple ♪

Tomoya: I think I’ll buy a copy in order to drive the sales numbers up~. Seems like the game has local multiplayer, too. We could all go over to my place and play together.

Hajime: Wah, that’s a great idea! Tomoya-kun, you’ve played so many games that you’re really good at them, too.

Tomoya: I’m not that good, really. All the games I’ve played so far were just whatever was popular at the time.

I always start out playing them just to find out what all the hype is about, so there’s many games I never completed.

Ah, I’m sorry! It’s right before our performance, but I’m totally not in the right mindset for it...

Umm, maybe it’s about time we went out on stage?

Nazuna: Hrmm, it looks like our co-stars aren’t here yet, though. They should be dressed up as angels like us, so we should be able to recognize them immediately…

But there’s no one like that around, huh?

Hajime: I don’t see anyone who fits that description.

Should I go look around a little? Maybe they’ve gotten lost in the crowd.

Nazuna: Nah, there’s a chance that they’ll show up while you’re off searching, Hajime-chin. I think it’s best if we stay put for now.

Mitsuru: Hm~... Huh, aren’t those guys our co-stars~? They’ve got wings on their backs, like us!

Nazuna: Lemme see~.

Yup, they’ve really got wings. There’s no one else who looks like that around here, so there’s no doubt those’re the guys.

Alright. I’ll go get them, so you guys stay here and wait, okay~?

TL Note: All names of characters and places are based on the versions used in the official Merc Storia anime. The only exception is Orthos, who is named Ultos in the subtitles, but since his name is spelled Orthos in his Enstars card, I chose to stay faithful to that spelling.
Also, this story is fully voiced in-game, so if you have it unlocked, I suggest you listen to it! It’s good voice acting!

Location: Mehterhane

Orthos: ………

(...It’s been a while since I last came to the Holy Capital. During last year’s Day of Saint Michellia, I was finally given wings. To think that I’d return here on the same day…)

(It’s enough to make me hope that something good’ll happen again this time. I wonder if Ravial-niisan is doing well…?)

(But even though we haven’t seen each other in person since then, I do know how he’s been doing from the postcards we’ve been exchanging.)

(Nii-san’s the commander of the Holy Palace Guards, and apparently he’s busy as always because of it.)

(Though he did turn down the position at first, saying he doesn’t want to be commander.)

(But Feyle-san convinced Ravial-niisan by insisting that no one else was fit for the job, so he had no choice but to accept. At least, that’s what he wrote in his letters…)

(At this point, Nii-san said he holds no regrets in becoming the commander of the Holy Palace Guards.)

(Just like I chose to travel with Yuu and the others, Nii-san chose to stay and protect the Holy Capital.)

(...The Holy Capital really is gorgeous. All my life I’d never known anything as beautiful as this city.)

(But once I traveled the Earth, I found many things that’re just as stunning.)

(I can’t wait to see Ravial-niisan again! Letters just weren’t enough to convey everything that I wanted to tell him.)

(If I’d tried to write about every single place I’ve traveled to, my letters would’ve ended up as thick as books.)

(Ah…)

(This should be the right place, if I’m not mistaken. Maybe Ravial-niisan is doing his rounds? I don’t see him anywhere, even though we agreed to meet here...)

Feyle: Commander Ravial…!

Ravial: Ah, Feyle. How did your patrol go?

Feyle: There’s nothing to report! Of course, since it’s the Day of Saint Michellia, it’s pretty crowded, but none of the districts look like they’ve got any trouble brewing.

Ravial: ………

Feyle: U-umm, Commander? What’re you scowling for?

...Ah, is there some kind of problem!? Understood. I’ll arrange for an immediate search…!

Ravial: There’s no problem.

Feyle: Huh, there isn’t!? But you have the most grim look on your face! Which means you’ve seen someone who’d make you pull that kind of face, right, Commander Ravial?

Is it another attack from a Cloud Eater, like the one before? Or some other monster of similar strength!?

Awawah, I’ve got to do something! I’ll let that monster get a taste of the skills the Commander has taught me this past year!

Ravial: As I said, it’s nothing like that.

...Today is the Day of Saint Michellia, but it is also my little brother’s birthday.

Last year I made a promise that I’d celebrate his birthday together with him this time. I’m sure he must’ve already arrived here at the Holy Capital.

Feyle: Aah, so that’s what this is about…

I’m sorry. After all, it’s my fault you can’t keep your promise.

Even though I talked so big, saying “I’ll prove to you that I’ll get strong enough by your younger brother’s next birthday that you can leave the patrols to me!”...

But in the end, you still had to accompany me on my rounds this whole time…

Ravial: …I trained you thoroughly for a whole year, but you are not yet at the point where I can leave the patrols to you.

Feyle: Uu, I’m so sorry… I’m so ashamed to know that I couldn’t live up to your expectations…

Ravial: You never threw the towel no matter how harsh the training was. And you did become stronger. There is no need for you to feel any shame whatsoever.

Feyle: Commander…!

Ravial: However, you didn’t reach a passing grade yet. You must remain diligent.

Feyle: I-I’ll do my best…!

Teufel: ………

Feyle: Hm? Teufel, you’re back.

Teufel: Yes, I returned a moment ago. There were no disturbances. Everyone is enjoying the Day of Saint Michellia.

Feyle: Thank you for your hard work. I have nothing to report, either.

Commander Ravial, with this, the patrol of the city should be more or less finished. Please go and celebrate your Orthos-kun’s birthday.

Ravial: However…

Feyle: It’ll be fine. The other guards are sufficient to take care of the rest from here!

Orthos: ………

Ravial: Orthos?

Orthos: ...Ravial-niisan, it’s good to see you. I’m glad to see you’re doing well.

Ravial: Same to you. ...I’m glad you came to see me in person. Am I too late to still keep my promise?

Orthos: Mm-mh. I got to stroll around the city while I was waiting for you. What about you, Nii-san? It looked like you were in the middle of your patrol, is it okay for you to be here?

Ravial: I just finished. The rest of today is reserved for you. If there’s anywhere you’d like to go, anything you’d like to see, anything you’d like to talk about, please tell me.

Orthos: Let’s see… Well, first I’d like to talk about my travels with Yuu and the others!

There’s so much I want to say that I couldn’t fit in my letters… And I also want to hear about what your life’s been like here in the Holy Capital.

Ravial: In that case, we might want to sit down somewhere. As for quiet restaurants in this area… There’s one down the street from here, I think.

Feyle: Commander! That one isn’t half bad, but how about that other one, past the alley ahead?

Among the other guys of the Holy Palace Guards, it’s famous for having great food!

Ravial: Never heard of it.

Feyle: Huh!? But Commander Ravial, I invited you there before! We went there together!

Come on, we just went there the other day to celebrate some guard’s promotion or something and all ate fish together… Don’t you remember?

Ravial: Aah, now I recall it. That restaurant, huh… Since it’s Orthos’ birthday, we shall celebrate it lavishly with some fish.

Orthos: ...Are you sure, Ravial-niisan? Here in the Sky Kingdom, fish is considered a feast you only get to eat once in a blue moon.

Ravial: That’s exactly why.

Up until now, I never had the chance to celebrate your birthday on the actual day itself with you. Please let me do this much.

Orthos: Nii-san…

Feyle: Commander, we’ll take our leave now. Orthos-kun, I hope you enjoy your time back at the Holy Capital.

Ravial: Wait.

...I want the both of you to join me in celebrating my brother’s birthday. Birthdays are best celebrated with as many people as possible, right?

Feyle: But…

Orthos: Thank you, Nii-san…

Up until now, no one but Nii-san and Yuu had celebrated my birthday with me before. That’s why I’d be really happy if Feyle-san and Teufel joined us.

Is it weird for me to want this?

Feyle: No, it’s as the Commander said. Birthdays are best celebrated by as many people as possible.

Understood! Allow me to join you in your celebrations!

Teufel: Is it really acceptable for me to be present during Orthos-sama’s birthday celebrations…? Despite him having holy status after receiving a miracle from Saint Michellia herself…?

Feyle: Teufel, quit pinching your cheek and just come with us, okay?

Alright everyone, let’s go!

Location: Garden Terrace Kitchen

Tsumugi: Be concerned about what, Yuuki-kun?

Aah~, I see now.

Makoto: There are dough pieces of all sizes scattered everywhere, and I feel like the onions should be sliced a little more finely…?

At this rate you’re going to end up with some buns that have barely any filling whatsoever, and others that are just full of chunks of onion…

Tsumugi: Ahaha, exactly~. Keito-kun, you said you’d be fine on your own but it doesn’t look like that to me at all.

Keito: I-it’s harder than it looks, okay?

Sora: HoHo~♪ But, making steamed buns with Kei-chan-senpai is a lot of fun~♪

If you want, why don’t you two join us ♪ Sora thinks it’ll be even more fun if we all cook together!

Makoto: Yeah, you’re right. Now that I’ve seen the state you’re both in, I think I’d feel uneasy if I left you like this.

Tsumugi: Fufu, agreed. Keito-kun, may the two of us join you in your bun-making efforts?

Keito: Sure, I don’t mind. ...In all honesty, I was really having a hard time. If the two of you pitched in it’d be a great help.

Makoto: In that case, I’ll look up videos of steamed bun recipes on my smartphone.

Recipes with photos aren’t bad, but don’t you think it’d be easier to understand the process of wrapping the filling in dough if we watched a video?

Tsumugi: Then I’ll help make the filling. I’ll start by cutting the onions into finer slices, and then chop the other vegetables.

Keito: Aah, got it. I’ll be in charge of rolling out the dough, then. Harukawa, do you want to help me?

Sora: Yes ♪ Cooking with everyone is so much fun~.

- Some Minutes Later -

Keito: Alright, it’s time. I think the steamer is ready to be opened. Be careful not to get scalded.

Sora: Yes, Sora will open it! Hupp.

Keito: ...What do you think, do they look done?

Sora: Wah~♪ The steamed buns turned out sooo plump!

Tsumugi: Ohh, they look great~. Good thing we went back and made all the dough buns the same size, they seem to have cooked through evenly thanks to that.

Makoto: For some reason it’s kind of moving to look at the fruits of your own labour like this.

Mmh~, and they smell great ♪ I’ve gotten pretty hungry.

Keito: Yeah, they really do smell inviting.

But although they may be done, they don’t look anything like the photos from the recipe.

The filling is sticking out here and there, and a few of them look misshapen.

Which means there’s still room for improvement. These are far from getting a passing grade.

Sora: On the contrary! Sora loves these steamed buns. They give off an incredibly tasty-looking “color”~♪

And ever since Sora came here, he thought that Kei-chan-senpai was giving off a really beautiful “color” as he put his heart into making these steamed buns!

That’s why Sora wanted to join him ♪

Sora is so happy that he got to cook together with all of you~♪

Tsumugi: I agree, there’s no doubt that these steamed buns turned out delicious, because we all worked on them together.

Keito: Yeah, I guess so. Since we’re already here, let’s all eat them together before they get cold.

Sora: HaHiHuHeHo~♪ Let’s dig in~♪

Munch munch...♪ As expected, it’s super tasty~♪

Makoto: Yeah! It’s so juicy and delicious ♪

Tsumugi: Fufu, somehow it’s warmed me up all the way to my heart ♪

Keito: Hm, why don’t we bring the transfer student some of these, since she shared the ingredients with us?

They may not be much to look at, but they taste excellent.

Makoto: Yep yep, I can already picture the happy look on her face ♪

Sora: Kei-chan-senpai! Sora wants to bring Shisho~ some steamed buns, too! Is it okay if Sora takes a few with him?

Keito: Yeah, be my guest.

Tsumugi: What a great idea, I’m sure Natsume-kun will be overjoyed when he hears that Sora-kun made them.

The misunderstanding has been cleared up and we even managed to make some tasty steamed buns, so everything turned out well in the end ♪

Sora: Yes, Sora is so happy~♪ Your “colors” while you’re eating the buns are all so pretty!

Keito: Hm, I still don’t really understand the nature of these “colors” you mention… But I feel like I kind of get what you’re trying to say.

Sora: Sora wishes he could show them to Kei-chan-senpai, too~. But it’s all because Sora’s eyes are different from other people’s…

The “colors” are so beautiful and sparkly, Sora’s words don’t do them justice at all.

Keito: And yet, we are able to feel the same things. There’s no need for all humans to be identical.

I also had fun making the steamed buns. And isn’t that already fine by itself? Harukawa, thank you for everything today...♪

Location: Garden Terrace Kitchen

Keito: I can’t believe it was all just a misunderstanding. What an unforeseen turn of events.

I guess there’s no need to continue making these steamed buns. After all the trouble I went through making that delicious dough, what am I supposed to do with it now…

Sora: ………..

Keito: ...Hm? What’s the matter, Harukawa.

If you’re done here, you’re free to leave. Or is there still something you want to tell me?

Sora: Can Sora help you with them?

Keito: Huh? Help me with what, the steamed buns?

Sora: Yes. Now that Sora’s stomachache is all better, he’s feeling hungry!

So you see, Sora feels like eating steamed buns. Sora is going to help as best as he can, so can’t we make them together?

Keito: ...Hm, so that’s what you mean. Well, I already heard that you really like Chinese steamed buns.

I’m already halfway through preparing them anyway, and I can’t let the ingredients I received from the transfer student go to waste, either.

Alright, Harukawa. Let’s finish making the steamed buns together.

Sora: Yes! Sora will do his best so they’ll turn out yummy!

Keito: Yeah. By the way, Harukawa, can you cook?

Sora: No, Sora has never really cooked before! But he’s sure they’ll turn out well as long as we make them in a pretty “color”~!

Keito: A pretty color…? Are you saying you want to dye the steamed buns?

Sora: No, that’s not what Sora meant! Let’s make white, steaming hot buns that have a pretty “color”!

Keito: I have no idea what you’re saying, but whatever. As long as we keep sticking to the recipe, we’ll probably be fine.

Look, the dough finished rising while we were talking. What do you think, didn’t it turn out pretty well?

Sora: Wah~, it’s all fluffy and puffy ♪

Keito: Phew, measuring the ingredients gave me some anxiety, but it seems to have gone quite well.

Alright, let’s jump right into it. Harukawa, can you divide this dough into pieces?

You can reference this photo to see how big the pieces should be. In the meantime, I’ll keep working on the filling.

Sora: HaHa~! Understood, Sora is gonna pull this dough into pieces!

Keito: Yeah, I’ll leave it to you. And when I’m done with the filling, we’ll wrap it in that dough.

Guess I’ll start by chopping these onions.

Sora: ...There!

Keito: Uwah, what the hell! Something white just flew over here! Is this… dough?

Sora: There! And there!

Keito: H-Harukawa! I said to divide it into pieces, but I never said you should fling them across the room! What are you even doing that would make it fly everywhere like that?

Sora: HiHi~♪ Tearing up the fluffy dough was so much fun that Sora got a little carried away. Sorry.

Keito: ...Well, it’s not like I can’t empathize with that. If I may say so myself, I made quite the outstanding dough there.

But you shouldn’t make food fly everywhere. It’s fine because I managed to catch it all so far, but be more careful from now on.

Sora: Oka~y, Sora is going to be careful not to make it fly everywhere~.

Keito: Hm, I see you’re controlling the amount of force you’re putting into it now. Alright, then I’ll finally chop these onions...

...Gh.

Sora: HuHu~? Kei-chan-senpai, are you okay?

Keito: What’s this all of a sudden? I’m chopping the onions with no problems at all.

Sora: But Kei-chan-senpai, there are tears in your eyes. Though Sora doesn’t see you giving off a sad “color”?

Keito: ...Don’t mind that. I’m just tearing up because of the onions. But thanks to the tears, my field of vision is getting all blurry. If this keeps up, it’ll interfere with the cooking process…

Sora: In that case, Sora is going to wipe your tears ♪ ...There!

Keito: Hey wait, cut it out! Don’t even try to touch my glasses with your hands covered in flour!

Sora: Kei-chan-senpai, please let go. Sora can’t wipe your tears like this~.

Keito: Give me a moment, I’ll take off my glasses first. And you, go wash your hands. You got some flour on my face.

Sora: Hm~, but Sora wasn’t the one who got that flour on your face, it’s been there this whole time.

Keito: What!? You should’ve told me sooner! Since when? Don’t tell me it’s been like that since I weighed out the ingredients…?

Tsumugi: Excuse me~. Sora-ku~n, are you okay?

Makoto: We came running because we heard Hasumi-senpai’s voice all the way outside… Harukawa-kun, is he scolding you again?

Maybe he found out you were running in the hallways on your way here after all…?

Uwah. You’re both completely covered in flour, what on earth have you been up to?

Keito: Hm? Aoba… And Yuuki, too. Did you come to check up on Harukawa?

Sora: HeHe~♪ Senpai, Yuuki-sensei~, don’t worry~. Sora is making steamed buns with Kei-chan-senpai ♪

Tsumugi: Aah, I guess that means you managed to clear up the misunderstanding. That’s great ♪

You never came back, so I was starting to worry if you managed to get your point across. But I guess there was really no reason for concern.

Makoto: ...Hrmm, don’t you think we should be a little concerned about that, though?

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