nazunyan427

Clad in the Path I’ve Taken

Featuring: Kuro, Kanata, Nazuna, Tsumugi, Leo, Keito

Writer: Yuumasu

Season: Autumn

Location: Green Room

Kuro: …Hm? Well, if it isn’t you, little lady. Do you have work over here today? Small world, runnin’ into one another at this TV studio.

…You were watchin’ me work along with the rest of the staff from the studio control room? I didn’t even notice you were on the other side of the glass.

Ya should’ve told me you were here. Way to act all distant with me.

…How did it go? Ah right, you’re the one who got me this job, little lady.

Yeah, I feel like it went great. Sure, I felt a little off at the start, since it reminded me of Japanese class.

…Ya know how they make ya read aloud from the textbook durin’ class? Yeah, it made me think of that.

But while I was readin’ the script, it didn’t bother me any more. The footage looked great too, so I was able to just focus and get down to it.

Can’t believe they picked me of all people to do the narration for an educational program. I bet anyone who knows me will be like, something's off about this for sure.

I feel just like a reliable big brother, so there’s nothin’ off about it at all? Hey now, flattery ain’t gonna get ya anywhere.

Haha. You’re in great form as ever, little lady.

…Oh right. I meant to tell ya this when I next ran into ya.

I came up with a design for my personalized outfit, just like ya asked me to. Hold on a sec, I’ll show it to ya.

I saved it in a folder on my phone… Here it is, have a look.

…Ya look like you’re not sure how to react. Don’t hold back, I want ya to gimme your honest opinion.

Haha, ya feel awkward critiquing the guy who taught ya all ya know about sewin’? I’m tellin’ ya what I want to hear is your honest feedback.

Hmm. If possible, you’d like me to rethink it? It may be somethin’ an idol would wear and it’s not like I wouldn’t be able to pull off somethin’ as sparkly as this, but for a personalized outfit, it’s lackin’ what makes me, me?

What makes me, me? Somethin’ too traditional would clash with Kanzaki’s outfit, so I did my best to avoid that.

And on top of that, I wanted somethin’ I wouldn’t ordinarily get to wear as part of Akatsuki… So after thinkin’ about all that, this is the design I came up with.

All right. This one’s goin’ into the reject pile while I think it over.

Hm, what’s with that frown on your face? …If this is what I came up with after thinkin’ it over by myself, then that’s fine?

Nah, let me have another go at comin’ up with somethin’. All your experience and intuition as a producer is tellin’ me to give it another shot, and I don’t want to ignore that. 

The next idea I come up with will win your approval for sure, just you wait and see. All you need to do is patiently wait for me ♪

…Whoops, looks like it’s about time for us to vacate the room. Do you have time after this, little lady?

I have plans to grab dinner with Nito and the guys. Ya feel like joinin’ us?

…If ya come along, you’re afraid that everyone’ll stand on ceremony? Hey now, why’re ya actin’ so distant?

All it is, is a couple of good pals havin’ dinner together. So, you’re comin’, right?

…Good answer! I’ll shoot Nito a message that you’re comin’ with me.

Well, shall we get outta here?

Location: Saison Avenue

How’s school goin’, little lady? Are ya enjoyin’ your studies?

…I sound like your dad?

I suppose I do. You’re just like a little sister to me, so I just treat ya like family outta instinct.

How’s my lil’ sis doin’? She’s good, yeah. I attended a parent-teacher meetin’ in my old man’s place for her a little while back.

I wasn’t sure what I should wear, so Isara picked out my clothes for me. I wore my hair down too, and apparently she didn’t recognize me.

She let me have it for wearin’ somethin’ that didn’t feel like me. But it means I didn't stand out in a bad way, so she could’ve at least tossed me a compliment for that, right? Haha.

…That reminds me, you also said the design I came up with didn’t feel like me, didn’t ya, little lady.

I came up with that design when I dropped by home.  I happened to show it to my little sis and she pretty bluntly told me that she thought it was lame.

I figured she’s just goin’ through her rebellious period, so I didn’t pay much attention to it. But now that I think back, that might’ve been her way of givin’ me advice.

I owe you one, little lady. Thanks for makin’ me think this over again… ♪

All right, looks like we’re here. Apparently our table is reserved under the name “Nito.”

Location: Restaurant

Kanata: “Red Ogre”-san~ Anzu-san~ We’re over here~

Kuro: Sorry to keep ya… Huh, it’s just the two of you? Where’s Aoba?

Nazuna: He said he’s gonna be a little late, so we should go ahead and start without him.

Hm, what’s up, Anzu? This is an odd combination?

Kuro: Oh, we were in different years at school, so it might not register right away. All of us are connected through bein’ part of former Class 3B.

So we sometimes get together to grab a meal. Though on top of all our busy schedules, we’re part of different agencies to boot, so we hardly ever manage to get everyone together at once.

Oh, the food arrived. Thoughtful of ya to order in advance ♪

Wait, why is everything seafood? …Was this your doin’, Shinkai?

Kanata: Yes~ I “ordered” all kinds of “fish”, from the “usual” to what’s in “season.”

Today will be our “treat”, Anzu-san. So please eat as much “fish” as you want.

Kuro: I’m not about to find fault with your taste, Shinkai, but it’s not like this place specializes in seafood, so I feel like we might as well try all sorts of different stuff.

We should order too. What would you like, little lady?

Tsumugi: Sorry to keep you guys waiting~♪

Nazuna: Oh, you’re here! Whoa, and you have Leo-chin with you.

Tsumugi: I happened to see him composing just as I was leaving the office after work and ended up bringing him along with me.

Leo: I never heard a thing about 3B getting together! Don’t leave me outta stuff like this!

Kuro: We’re not leaving you out of anything, we sent you a message about it. Check the group chat on HoldHands.

Leo: Huh? I’m telling you, you didn’t!

……

…Okay fine, you did.

Wahh, sorry! My bad! I’ll apologize right this second, so forgive me!

Kanata: Please don’t worry about it. I often overlook it too.

The more “messages” that pile up, the more of a “hassle” it is to check them all, right?

Leo: Yeah, exactly! Although in my case, I don’t even notice when I get a message.

Kuro: It’s fine, just sit down. If ya keep standin’ around, the poor servers won’t know what to do.

You come over here, little lady, and let Tsukinaga in there.

Leo: Thanks! …Huh? Why is Anzu here?

Wait, don’t tell me! I’ll imagine why!

…Oh, I know! You were in 3B too, weren’t you? You’re the same age as us, right?

Kuro: Absolutely not. She wasn't in 3B, she was at the studio where I had work.

We ended up havin’ to vacate where we were while we were talkin’ about my personalized outfit. And since we didn’t get to finish our chat, I brought her along.

Tsumugi: Oh, your personalized outfit, Kuro-kun?

What’s it like? I bet you’ve come up with something tough and cool-looking ♪

Kuro: Mm. It got rejected, but… Here it is.

Tsumugi: Wow. Uh. How can I put this…

Nazuna: Getting rejected might have been the right idea. It’s definitely something an idol would wear, but it just doesn’t feel like it would suit YOU, Kuro-chin.

Kanata: I agree. It doesn’t feel like you, “Red Ogre”-san. If anything, I would say it would be perfect for our Midori?

This sort of thing would look good on him. Although he “himself” might not be too pleased. Heehee…♪

Kuro: You guys don’t hold back, do ya? …Well, I suppose it’s better than sayin’ things ya don’t mean just for the sake of my feelings. Thanks for your honest opinions.

*sigh* It ain’t easy comin’ up with ideas for outfits.

Tsumugi: Haha. That’s quite hard to believe coming from you, Kuro-kun. Haven’t you already come up with plenty of wonderful outfits?

Leo: Yeah! Anzu is nodding away too! She’s like, knowin’ Shisho, he’s gonna be able to come up with a great design for sure!

Kuro: I sure hope so… Ah.

You four all have personalized outfits, don’t ya? Will ya tell me about how ya came up with the designs?

It’ll be the perfect conversation topic to go with our dinner ♪

Location: Saison Avenue

Kuro: We ended up talkin’ until closin’ time, huh? That’s how it usually goes when I’m with those guys.

Sorry for makin’ ya stay out with us so late. I bet your folks are worried about ya…

Ya already contacted them and it’s not a problem? Well, I’m glad to hear it.

…You’ll be fine without me droppin’ ya home? Nah, I'm not havin' any of that.

…No, allow me to drop ya home. If I make ya go home by yourself at this hour, I’ll be worryin’ about whether ya got there safely or not.

Yup. I’ll take full responsibility and drop ya home myself.

…Hm? About our dinner just now?

I looked like I was havin’ fun? And the atmosphere felt real relaxin’... Haha, were your eyes on me yet again?

Yeah. I love hangin’ out with those guys..

Now that we're out of school, we’re not able to see each other every day, and we have to make special arrangements just to meet up. And even when we do make plans, there’s times somethin’ urgent comes up that we can’t do anythin’ about..

Just like today. We made these plans a while ago, but right beforehand, it no longer suited Hibiki or Sakuma.

I know none of us can help it… But whenever our plans get destroyed thanks to work, it sure makes me wish I was a student again.

Although I wasn’t a fan of bein’ constrained by school politics. But that aside, we had some good times.

Well,  I’ve never been great at studyin’, so if ya asked me if I wanted to do my school days all over again, I’d probably turn ya down. Haha ♪

…Hm? Why don’t I relive my school days through my outfit?

What do ya mean? Ya want me to dance around in my Yumenosaki uniform?

There’s an online article ya want to show me? Yeah, show it here…

…Oh. So this manga about delinquents* is popular right now? And ya always did want me to wear a school blazer like this?

(It’s true that a design like this would suit me better than the design I came up with that got rejected.

And as for this manga…)

Location: Dressing Room

Several days later

Keito: …Hm? Anzu is here too? I have some business with Kiryu.

Kuro: Oh, it’s you, Danna? If it’s me ya want, here I am.

Keito: Yeah. It’s about what we were discussing yesterday…

Oi, Anzu. Where are you going?

Kuro: Haha, ya read the room and decided to see yourself out? We’ll be the ones to leave, so you can stay right here.

I’ll go get you a drink while I’m at it. What do ya feel like?

…Hot tea it is. I’ll be right back, so you be a good girl and wait right here.

Location: Drink Bar

Kuro: So all you really wanted to do was hand me this envelope?

Keito: Yeah. It shouldn’t have taken more than a second, but you’re the one who had to go through all this…

Kuro: Can’t help it. Anzu was tryin’ to be all considerate by leavin’ the room for our sake.

Besides, ya could’ve just handed it to me and it’d be over and done with. So I don’t want to hear ya scoldin’ me about it.

Keito: Hmph… It looked like you and Anzu were working on an outfit together. Was that your personalized outfit?

Kuro: It was. Trust you to pick up on that right away. You were only in the room for a second, yet ya sussed out what it was no problem.

Keito: Anyone who knew you would have been able to pick up on what it was right away. And yet…

A patterned school blazer. It’s like something a delinquent would wear and it brings to mind your past.

Which is something most people don’t know about. But if you, Kuro Kiryu yourself are okay with it, then I suppose I don’t see any reason to complain.

Kuro: Yup. No complaints necessary. It’s not as if I wanted to make a whole outfit based on my past in order to represent myself, but I never planned to specifically avoid it either.

The past is the past. It’s not like I can pretend it never happened.

I came up with the idea for the design after the little lady showed me an article about a manga about delinquents.

And my little sis happens to be a fan of that manga. I figured she’d approve of me using that as the motif for my outfit, so that got me on board.

And so once the little lady started puttin’ it together, I started thinkin’ that it wasn’t half bad. I may have scrubbed myself up, but it’s not like I’m some good little boy who’s the definition of moral conduct.

Everyone I’ve shown it to seems to approve too. When Tetsu saw it he got all excited, tellin’ me it’s “Suuper manly! The best!”

Even my little sis complimented it, sayin’ outta all the outfits I’ve worn so far, it’s the most acceptable ♪

Keito: Is that really a compliment…?

In any case, noted that you’ve given your approval.

No mistakes about it, that design certainly suits you. I’m sure all of your fans will be thrilled too, Kiryu.

Kuro: Yeah, without a doubt. Men are more attractive when they’ve got a bit of a wild streak in them…♪

Keito: Hm. If you’d customized your uniform to look like that back while you were in school, there’d be no end to people chasing after you.

Location: Changing Room

I’m back, little lady. Sorry to keep ya waiting.

Here, I brought ya your tea and a light snack. I figured ya must be gettin’ hungry…

Whoa, don’t come at me like that with such a serious look on your face. Are ya mad at me or somethin’? Sorry for whatever I did.

You want my left wrist? Oh, so ya want to measure the size in order to make me a bangle. Here ya go.

You’re as fired up about your job as ever. Don’t ya ever have moments where ya feel drained?

…So long as it’s for the sake of idols, you’ll work as hard as ya need to? We all sure are loved ♪

But don’t push yourself too hard. I’m happy that you’re full of enthusiasm, but I wouldn’t be the idol I am without ya, little lady.

…Hm? While I was out of the room, ya got a message from Rhythm Link?

Just like the other agencies, they want us to put on a show featurin’ our personalized outfits?

Took them long enough? Haha, leave it up to our agency to be behind the times.

So I’m gonna be first up? Then I’ve got to get myself all hyped up for it.

I’ll put on a helluva show and make it clear just how great my personalized outfit is. Let’s put everything we have into it, my little lady…♪

*Possibly referring to Tokyo Revengers

Translation by nazunyan427

JP Proof by iridesenescence

ENG Proof by azurevagabond

Singing the Present

Writer: Yuumasu

Season: Autumn

Hajime: Sorry to keep you waiting. I’ve finished brewing the tea~

Ritsu: No worries. I just passed the time by chatting with Nacchan.

Arashi: Ooh, that smells unusual. What’s this tea called?

Hajime: Hmm, it actually doesn’t have a name. If I had to come up with one, I’d go with “Tea Made Especially For Narukami-senpai”, I guess?

You mentioned that you’d love a tea that had beauty benefits, so I tried blending some herbs and tea leaves that I thought would taste nice together.

I mixed up some hibiscus, rose hip, and elderflower, and a little bit of peppermint as well, to give it a refreshing aftertaste.

Ritsu: Tea just for Nacchan, huh? … Nacchai, if you shorten it ♪*

Arashi: It’s not even chai tea! And that just makes it sound far too cheap, you know~? I prefer “Nacchan’s Tea” myself.

Ritsu: I feel like that sounds kinda cheap too, but if that’s what you want, then so be it.

Mmm. Tea Club really is great. Flavor is good too, but most of the activities take place near ES.

It's more laid back, and I can just take it easy here. Being detached from all the hustle and bustle gives me a sense of security that’s way more relaxing.

I'm so relaxed that I'm beginning  to hallucinate Anzu coming here to visit us ♪

Hajime: You’re not hallucinating; that’s the real her. Hello there, Anzu-san ♪

I’ll pour you some tea, so please go ahead and take whatever seat is free ♪

…Hm? You’ve just dropped by for work, so there’s no need for that kind of consideration?

Ritsu: …Hmm, so you want to talk to Haa~kun about something?

In that case, you’ve gotta take a seat. Sit down quietly and allow Haa~kun to treat you to the finest hospitality.

And if you don’t, as president of Tea Club, I won’t give you the authority to talk to Haa~kun~

…Oh, she sat down right away.

Arashi: Haha. Looks as though you’ve learned there’s no point in dallying when it’s Ritsu-chan you’re dealing with.

Ritsu: Tch~ And here was me thinking I could mess with her.

Oh well. I can’t say I hate anyone who just does as I tell them to either ♪

Hajime: Sorry to keep you waiting, Anzu-san. Here’s your Nacchan Tea and some cookies ♪

Oh, I’m sorry. If I don’t explain what Nacchan Tea is, you won’t have a clue what I’m talking about.

This is a tea blend I came up with based on Narukami-senpai’s wishes. It’s chocked full of beauty benefits and helps relieve fatigue as well.

You’re so busy that it must be quite stressful. But do allow me to help soothe some of your stress away, even if it’s just a little bit.

Ritsu: Yeah, exactly. You’ve done enough work at ES, so you should at least take it easy when you’re at school, just like me, you know?

You’re always pushing yourself so hard, so it’s not like anyone would complain.

Arashi: Haha. That said, it’s just like Anzu-chan to be constantly on the go. She’s always diligent when it comes to producer-related work.

But even so, do make sure to come to a stop and take it easy every now and then, okay?

A flower will just wilt if you don’t give it any water. So you shouldn’t push yourself too so hard, for the sake of future you…♪

Hajime: …Ahaha, it’s a little awkward now to go right into work-talk, isn’t it?

That’s okay. Just talk to us casually, like you would if we were just chatting ♪

…Huh? I’ve been requested to work as a fashion model? Me?

Arashi: Oh my, I know that company. That’s an apparel brand that specializes in women’s clothing, isn’t it?

Ritsu: …Oh yeah? They’re thinking of expanding into unisex wear and they’ve chosen Haa~kun to be their poster boy?

Oh? You already have several of their designs there with you?

Hajime: Wah! …Um, all of them look very cute, don’t they?

Arashi: I see, so their target audience is boys wanting to wear cute clothing.

That adorable and youthful sort of style suits Hajime-chan to a tee! They’ve made a wonderful choice ♪

Hajime: I think so too. When it comes to work, I have no issue with wearing this kind of thing.

I’d love to take this job offer.

…Hehe, I should be the one thanking you. Thank you for such a wonderful opportunity. I’ll do my very best to be the face of the brand for your sake, Anzu-san!

…There’s something else you’d like to talk to me about? Yes, what could it be?

…It’s my turn to come up with a personalized outfit? A special outfit tailored just to my tastes, for me and me alone?

So this outfit is going to be what represents who I am as an idol? Something that says, “This is me!” Hmm…

(This outfit is going to be very important, so I have to think it over carefully.)

EEEK?!

Ritsu: Don’t just look down at the ground like that, Haa~kun. Lift your head up high and show me your cute face~

Hajime: Nnn, Ritsu-senpai, I’d appreciate it if you didn’t stroke the back of my neck like that all of a sudden~!

Ritsu: Hehe, just relax. Anything you wear will look good on you, Haa~kun.

And Anzu is bound to come up with something amazing for sure, right?

Hajime: …Thank you, Anzu-san.

This is a responsibility just as big as being the face of that clothing brand, so I'll do my very best to come up with an idea.

Thank you so much for chatting to me about this!

Arashi: …Oh? You’re leaving already, Anzu-chan? You really are a busy one.

Ritsu: It’s not like Tea Club is on every day, but whenever you’re tired, make sure to come on over to us. We’ll show you how we do hospitality over here… Well, Haa~kun will ♪

Arashi: “Hajime-chan will,”—honestly! You could make that offer yourself, Ritsu-chan!

…Oh?

Hajime: ……

Ritsu: Haa~kun, climb onto my lap. I’ll give you a shoulder massage~

Hajime: Huh?

Arashi: Then I’ll tend to your nails! Nail care is essential to idols, you know?

Hajime: Umm, senpai–

Ritsu: There now. You should just settle down and surrender your body to us… ♪

Hajime: U-um, got it.

(...Oh. I got lost in my own thoughts, so they’re probably being considerate.

The thought of having to pull off two fairly major jobs left me feeling a little bewildered…

I’m totally fine with the clothes I’m supposed to wear, but when it comes to being the face of a brand…

I can’t brush away the doubt of whether I’m the right person for this job as I am. I’ve got to make it a success, for the sake of the person who picked me for the project.

And as for my personalized outfit, I want it to be something that everyone supporting me will love.

...All right. Let’s do this! ♪)

PART TWO

Singing the Present

Writer: Yuumasu

Season: Autumn

Hajime: *sigh*

(Every member of Ra*bits has a wonderful personalized outfit.

Mitsuru-kun’s looks active and sporty, just like him.

The theme behind Nii~chan’s outfit is “guide”, made with the thought of him welcoming new idols into the industry.

And as for Tomoya-kun’s outfit, we came up with the idea together right here in the common room.

When they stood in the center of the stage to show them off, Mitsuru-kun was so proud, Tomoya-kun was a little bashful, and Nii~chan was so happy.

And I remember the way the whole audience showered everyone with an enormous round of applause and cheers when each one was revealed.

And now it’s my turn. Although I still haven’t decided what kind of outfit to go with.

I really want to come up with something that’ll make our fans just as happy as they were with everyone else’s…)

Tomoya: Heyyy, Hajime.

Hajime: Tomoya-kun…

Tomoya: I’m taking a seat beside you. 

What do you look so down for? Whatever’s on your mind, talk to me about it.

Hajime: (...He really is amazing. Whenever I’m in a pickle, Tomoya-kun always comes dashing over to my side.)

Tomoya: Hm, what are you smiling about?

Hajime: I was just thinking about how happy I am to see you…♪

Tomoya: What are you on about? We see each other almost every day.

Hajime: Hehe. Actually, I was thinking about my personalized outfit.

Tomoya: Oh, so your turn has finally come!

Hajime: That’s right. There are so many kinds of outfits I’d love to try out. 

Something princely like Knights, or maybe Rock n’ Roll like Undead! Or even something like Crazy:B, something with a different kinda bad boy vibe from our actual BADBOYS photoshoot—I’d be interested in that too! ♪

Tomoya: BADBOYS… Oh, the photoshoot we did last year? Oh yeah, we were all worrying about whether we’d be able to pull off that kinda vibe, weren’t we?

Still, none of this is what I was expecting. All of these suggestions seem so far from the image I have of you.

Hajime: I thought it would be nice if I could wear something I wouldn’t normally wear for my personalized outfit ♪

But when I keep my fans in mind too, I can’t come to a decision.

This is an outfit I’m going to wear to represent myself as an idol, so I get the feeling it should match my fans’ expectations…

Tomoya: If you ask me, your fans are gonna love whatever outfit you go with. Although the fact that you’d be so considerate of their feelings is what’s so great about you, Hajime.

Hmm……

…Oh, I got it. Why don’t you come up with something that would perfectly suit the “Shino Hajime” you are right now?

Hajime: The me I am right now?

Tomoya: Yeah. I have the feeling that there’s a time and place for you to wear clothes like you just suggested—like Knights and Undead and Crazy:B—but you should leave that to look forward to in the future.

For now, why don’t you come up with a design that would suit the you as you are perfectly?

Something that'd fit the whole concept of a one-of-a-kind, totally unique personalized outfit is the best, don’t you think?

Hajime: Wah… I’ll do that. I’ll come up with something only the me of right now can wear.

And–

Tomoya: Let me guess: you want me to help come up with ideas together with you?

You helped me out a lot when I was coming up with my outfit, so of course I’ll help you out ♪

Hajime: Yay! ♪ Thank you, Tomoya-kun.

-One week later-

Hajime: …Th-Thanks for waiting~

This is my personalized outfit…♪

Nazuna: Oh… It’s very, uh. How should I put this…

Mitsuru: It’s cute, but ya look like a girl!

Nazuna: M-Mitsuru-chin, have you ever heard of the word ‘tact’?!

Hajime: No, it’s fine, Nii~chan. I was the one who asked Anzu-san to go in this direction for my outfit ♪

I racked my brains trying to come up with an outfit that only the me of right now could wear, and this is the design I arrived at.

It was my suggestion to have these culottes come up just over my knees too ♪

Tomoya: Yeah, that was all him. If you ask me, they definitely could’ve been longer. When he’s spinning around, you’re practically able to see up them.

Hajime: It doesn’t matter if anyone sees up them because I’m wearing bloomers underneath, see?

Nazuna: Hey! Don’t just flip them up like that!

Hajime: Sorry, Nii~chan ♪

…In the past, I had some reservations in my heart about heading in too feminine a direction.

But I experienced what it was like to have no one even look my way back at Yumenosaki. 

And I started to think, maybe this is fine, so long as it means people are paying attention to me.

I don’t know how long I’ll be able to look this way, and on the other hand, I have difficulty with finding and showing off what’s unique about me by myself.

But if I'm told what my charm is, I can do what I can to show it off in the best way possible—that much I can do. And so, that’s why I want to show people the best possible version of myself right now.

I don’t want to shy away. I want to stand proudly and confidently on stage as the cute idol, “Shino Hajime.” Those were the feelings behind this outfit.

Mitsuru and Nazuna: ……

Tomoya: ……

Hajime: … Ah, that sounded a little condescending, didn’t it? Now I’m all shy, ehehe.

Nazuna: No, not at all.

This outfit is the result of you truly coming face to face with yourself. It’s wonderful~

Mitsuru: Yeah, yeah! It’s cute and cool at the same time~♪

Hajime: Thank you, Nii~chan and Mitsuru-kun.

…And you too, Tomoya-kun.

Tomoya: Hm? But I didn’t say anything.

Hajime: Hehe. It’s because of just how much you’ve done for me.

Mitsuru: Hey, hey! Now that we’ve all got personalized outfits, we should celebrate! Let’s treat ourselves to a feast!

Tomoya: You say that, but I bet you just want to eat, don’t you?

Mitsuru: Nah, I mean it when I say I feel like celebrating! Come on, let’s go! ☆

Hajime: Wh-Whoa, wait a second! I’ll go get changed as fast as I can!

Nazuna: Take your time getting changed. You wouldn’t want to rip your personalized outfit.

Tomoya: Right, calm down, Hajime. Leave Mitsuru to me. You and Nii~chan take your time.

Mitsuru: Tomo-chan, Tomo-chan! Whoever reaches Cafe Cinnamon first is the winner! Dash, dash~☆

Tomoya: Quit your dashing! You need to calm down!

Nazuna: Man. A long time has passed since we all first met, but you guys haven’t changed a bit.

Hajime: Yes. But if you ask me, that’s what makes us Ra*bits~♪

Notes:

*Tea in Japanese is (o)cha and since Ritsu’s nickname for Arashi is “Nacchan”, he came up with “Naccha”

THANK YOU TO MY PROOFER REMI FOR COMING UP WITH NACCHAI, IT’S SO CUTE!
Also, in the Japanese, instead of complaining the tea isn't even chai tea, Arashi complains that "Naccha" doesn't sound cute YES IT DOES NEECHAN

Translation by nazunyan427

JP Proof by trystofstarrs

ENG Proof by ra_bits_daisuki

Summary 

It starts with Rei introducing Ra*bits - Tomoya scolds Mitsuru for being so hyper with Rei, their senior, but Rei praises him for his enthusiasm

Rei next introduces Undead - Koga and Adonis introduce themselves normally but Kaoru instantly starts hitting on some cute girl passing by

Koga GROWWWLS warning him they didn’t come here to mess around

Kaoru hands over his phone number and the younger Rabits are in awe at how smooth that was

Nazuna gets mad and says Kaoru is setting a bad example for his kids

Kaoru says if Nazuna insists, he will stop

Rei explains that they Undead and Rabits are putting on a live event in the area - Hajime adds they’ve just arrived at the station and are on their way to the hotel, and Tomoya says they’ll be rehearsing all day tomorrow and starts to get nervous

Koga yells at him and Adonis warns Koga not to scare him

Tomoya says he’s just nervous and Koga reminds him they’re there to represent Yumenosaki so he should be proud, which gives Tomoya more confidence

Rei praises Koga for acting more ‘senpai-like’ and Koga mutters that he’s just making fun of him (but he sounds pleased)

Nazuna asks Rei where Knights are, since they should be participating in the live show too

*stylish music plays*

Arashi: Heyyy, sorry we’re late~!

Tsukasa apologizes for being late and Nazuna assures him they’re actually still on time

Sena complains that they’re late because Kasa wanted to eat the local ice-cream flavor - he says it’s a waste of calories and he’ll make sure he burns them all off later (Kasa asks him to go easy on him)

Knights say Ritsu isn’t here right now and Kaoru teases Rei, saying Ritsu is avoiding him

Rei imagines he’s embarrassed and hiding somewhere and starts looking for him

Nazuna pulls him back, telling him to stop rummaging through the train station trash cans

Arashi apologizes that Ritsu genuinely isn’t here because he overslept

Adonis mentions both Sakuma brothers are starting to be more active during the day (I missed the next part between Rei and Koga)

Arashi says Mao contacted them to let them know he’d make sure Ritsu would make it for the concert, and Izumi adds they’ll meet up in front of the hotel

Rei decides he will spend some quality brotherly time together once they reach the hotel

Arashi says that Neechan - Ritsu - Tsukasa are sharing a room at the hotel and Rei flinches and I missed the next part but I think Tsukasa said Ritsu said something avoid avoiding Rei

Rei hoarsely announces that since everyone is here they will head over to the hotel

Kasa points out that Knights’ leader, Leo, is still missing

Rei says they should be fine - he should make it there for the day of the show, so as long as he shows up then it’s okay

Tsukasa seems disappointed, but Arashi reminds him they don’t know where he is, so all they can do is believe in him and wait. Izumi says in the worst case scenario, even with Ou-sama, they’re still Knights and somehow it will all work out

Tsukasa reluctantly agrees but says as soon as they find out where Leo is, he - Tsukasa - will head over to him right away

Rei once again remarks they will head to the hotel

Tomoya says it’s unusual to go on a trip with these members in particular

Mitsuru says it’s as exciting as a school trip

Hajime says the hotel they’re going to stay at looks like a castle

Arashi says it’s because this town is famous for its castle and mentions there’s a huge public bath at the hotel and suggests they all go bathing together later

Hajime promises to wash Arashi’s back

Adonis points out a nearby shop to Koga selling local delicacies - “juicy meat-filled manjuu” - Koga says they look really good and he’s gonna go by some, checking what Adonis will do first

Adonis says he’ll buy some, but there’s so much choice he doesn’t know what to do

TSUKASA IS JUST STARING AT ALL THE FOOD

Tsukasa: Jiiiiiiiii (staaaare)

Sena: Kaaasaaa-kuuunnn

Tsukasa: N-Nothing! I am NOT thinking about how delicious everything looks, nor what a waste it would be not to try a bit of everything!

Sena: LIES - what with the way your eyes are sparkling - and didn’t you just have ice-cream?? I won’t be letting you put another thing in your mouth!

Adonis says that they should get something small, so it won’t be too heavy

Koga says he’ll buy something different too, so they can try different flavors

Koga: If you want some of mine I suppose I won’t NOT share it with you if you really want

Tsukasa is really grateful at first - but changes his mind and goes into some long monologue which I think is a fancy way of him saying he’ll buy food only as a treat for himself after their show

However, he does want to try the local juice and Izumi says he’ll allow that much

Nazuna praises Tsukasa for being great and says Ado-chin and Koga-chin should also hold back for now, since they’ll get dinner as soon as they reach the hotel and they can eat loads

Adonis asks about meat and Nazuna assures him of course there will be meat - you can eat your heart’s content

Adonis says he will eat while being grateful to the staff and people who cooked the food

Hajime says he’s happy for Adonis and mentions because he loves miso soup he hopes they will have some Japanese-style food

Kaoru says he wants pancakes and Nazuna scolds him for only thinking about sweets - he has to eat proper food

Kaoru comments that Nazuna is acting like a teacher and Arashi laughs like, I get you!! The way he takes care of Rabits and leads them as their senior~ Nee-chan mentions wanting to talk more to Tomoya-chan and Hajime-chan too

Tomoya says that since they’re just first years, he gets a bit nervous in front of his seniors

Arashi says they should take advantage of this trip together to become closer

Hajime happily agrees and says he’s never had the chance to travel far like this before. If it wasn’t for work, he would have loved to bring his brother and sister along, but he’s going to buy them loads of souvenirs so they can experience it a little bit

Arashi: You’re such a good kid, Hajime-chan

Tsukasa: Yes, I could learn a lot from you

Kaoru is like, sorry to interrupt, but Rabits aren’t just made up of good, obedient kids, right? You’ve got one member who does whatever he wishes too

Tomoya is like… huh? And Kaoru points out that Mitsuru is sulking that everyone is talking so much that they’re walking really slowly. The station is huge so he wants to dash ahead - he escapes before anyone can catch him

Tomoya starts freaking out, with Hajime worried that if he gets lost in this station it will be too big to find him

Rei says they’ll split up and look for him and Nazuna thanks him, saying that would be really helpful.

Rei says they’ll meet up again in 15 minutes in front of the water clock (some kind of clock with. water in it?)

Koga yells and everyone splits up to search for Mitsuru.

Elsewhere Mitsuru has dashed over in front of some guide to local tourist attractions and comes to a stop. He gets excited at the giant local aquarium 

Mitsuru: I love huge stuff! I wanna be big and strong like Ado-chan-senpai and that’s why I drink milk every day!

He sees a big fish on the poster and tries to remember its name, coming up with a bunch of different incorrect words www

Leo appears, identifying it as a whale shark and says it’s making him feel nostalgic

He says when he was travelling the world before, he’s seen the real thing in person and thinking about it is flooding him with inspiration to write the best song

Mitsuru recognizes Leo’s uniform and tries to remember who he is

Leo notices a planetarium poster nearby too 

Leo: UCHUU!

And Mitsuru remembers that he’s a member of Knights, just like Arashi-chan-senpai

Leo introduces himself as the naked king 

Mitsuru: Naked king? But you’re wearing a school uniform?

Leo notices Mitsuru is wearing the Yumenosaki uniform too, and images he’s come to drag him to the concert venue, but he assures him there’s no need

Leo: I promise I’ll show up when it’s time! ...Maybe.

Mitsuru corrects him that the concert is tomorrow and since everyone was just talking he came to explore the station by himself

Mitsuru: Dash dash!

Leo: Oh, I like your rhythm. Do that again!

Mitsuru: Dash daaash!

Leo: That’s it, keep it up!

Mitsuru: Dash dash daaash!

Leo says he’s super inspired and has to write this down and ATTEMPTS TO WRITE ON MITSURU’S UNIFORM

Leo says a masterpiece song has been born and he will call it the “Dash Dash Da Ze Da Ze Song”

He asks if Mitsuru is a dashing fairy and Mitsuru corrects him that he’s no fairy - he’s an idol

Leo tells Mitsuru to sing along with him to bring their song to the local people

Mitsuru is laughing and has no idea what’s going on but since it sounds fun he goes along with the song

Knights are looking for Mitsuru with no luck, when Tsukasa notices a crowd has gathered

They find Leo and Mitsuru singing “DaaAAaaaSSSHhhhuuUUUuu DDDaaaAA ZeEeEeE” which tbh has to be heard in person to appreciate its true brilliance but alas, please imagine Leo and Mitsuru singing this

Izumi is not impressed and asks Leo wtf he’s doing

Leo recognizes Sena and Naru but poor Kasa-kun is still “newbie”

Mitsuru/Leo explains how they met up and how Leo taught Mitsuru the Dash Da Ze song (HE SINGS IT AGAIN IT’S SO FUNNY JUNYA AND THE OTHERS SOUND LIKE THEY’RE TRYING SO HARD NOT TO LAUGH)

Apparently the crowd loved it and Arashi is happy for him

Tsukasa said the crowd drew the others over too

Tomoya immediately scolds Mitsuru for running off by himself and Hajime is relieved he’s okay

Nazuna is shocked to see Leo-chin

Koga points out that now everyone is here but Adonis says unfortunately that’s not true

Koga notices Kaoru isn’t there, and supposes he might have headed back to the water clock

Adonis: Afraid not. Look over there

Kaoru is once again hitting on some girl, saying it’s his first time here and he wants to go sight-seeing

Koga yells and immediately drags him away by the ear

Rei comments that NOW everyone is here and he wants a word from Leo

Leo and Mitsuru talks about how the people here seem really nice for going along with their song and he knows they’re gonna put on the best show ever and everyone cheers

Birthday Opening

Hello everyone! Thank you so, so much for coming here today just for me.

I’m so, so happy to hear so many people wish me a happy birthday!

Ahaha, to be honest, I’m just as nervous as I am happy.

But there’s so many things planned that even I’m able to forget about my nerves and proceed full steam ahead! I’m gonna give it my all!

If we could have so much fun together that it becomes an unforgettable day for all of us, that would make me so happy!

All right, let’s make this a super happy event from start to the very end!

Q&A

First up is the Q&A section! I’m going to answer questions all of you sent in beforehand. Thank you so much for all of your questions~

All right, let’s start with the first question. “I’m always exhausted - what kind of herb tea do you recommend, Hajime-kun”?

Hmm, at times like that, I recommend something like Rosehip tea. Along with revitalizing you, it also reduces stress and can give you healthier and brighter skin too.

Okay, let’s go to the next question. “What present were you happy to receive for your birthday”?

Mmm, that’s hard to say… Everyone picked out their gift with me in mind, so every single one of them was wonderful… Even just hearing what they had to say was enough to make me happy.

But since we’re all here, I’ll go ahead and talk about one in particular! Tomoya-kun got me this planisphere! I can use it to learn about all the stars in the night sky.

MINI TALKS

Hajime:

Hello there, Anzu-san.

I heard from Tomoya-kun that you were looking for me.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

Umm. Did you need me for something?

“Actually…”

Huh? You’re holding a birthday event for me? Really? 

Wow! I can’t believe you planned a whole event just for me! That’s amazing! I’m so, so happy!

“I’ve got a super special job for you.”

A super special job for me? What is it?

A job involving an event based around my birthday?! Th-That can’t be a job!

“I want you to take a look at this proposal.”

...Is this a proposal for an event? It looks like so much fun! I’m sure whoever’s involved will love--

Wait, what?! This is for my birthday event?! Oh, um! Do you think I could take another look?

Hajime:

Having a whole event based around my birthday sounds like a dream!

Everything you put together in the proposal you came up with sounds like so much fun!

But I’m a little worried that I won’t be able to do everything that well all by myself.

First, I’ve got to greet everyone who comes to watch me onstage. Then, uh…

“Shall we make it together?”

Yes, I’d love to! If I think of an idea, I’ll discuss it with you right away.

Let’s come up with loads of stuff and make it a wonderful event.

“If there’s something you want to do, let me know.”

Would that be okay? Wah, what would be good?

...I know! I’d love it if I could stargaze with everyone. That sounds like a really special way to spend time with everyone.

“Don’t worry about it! You’ll be fine.”

...You’re right. The staff will be there too for support, and you’ll be right by my side, Anzu. When it comes to a celebration like this, having fun is more important than making sure everything turns out perfectly. Thanks, Anzu-san.

I wrote down everything I wanted to do, and now the page is all filled up with black ink! There’s barely any space left!

Do you think you could confirm which of these things would be possible by the next time we meet up? Thank you so much!

Thanks to you, my birthday’s going to be a blast!

I feel like I’m gonna start impatiently counting down the days in anticipation.

“Look forward to it!”

Haha, I will! Hearing you say that is even more reassuring than this written proposal that it’s going to be wonderful.

I’ll play my part with everything I have, so let’s make this into a great event!

“I hope you’re just as happy on the day itself.”

Of course. I just know the day itself will be a really wonderful event.

Hey Anzu-san, thank you for always going out of your way for me. I’d really love it if I could pay you back one day.

“Let’s make some wonderful memories together.”

Yes! And not just me - I’d be really happy if all of my fans who attended my event made some great memories too. I’d be so happy to know that every time they thought about my birthday event, they felt all warm and fuzzy inside.

Nazuna Conversation:

Nazuna: Tomo-chin, happy birthday! 🎵 

You’ve grown up a ton since we became part of ES. I can tell just by looking at you from the sidelines, and I hear all sorts of good stuff about you from others too!

As a fellow member of Ra*bits, I’m so proud of you.

Tomoya: Ehehe, thank you so much! I’ve still got a long way to go, but that means a lot to me!

I’ll give it my all, and become an amazing idol!

Nazuna: Yeah, go for it! I’ll always be here, cheering you on! 🎵

Hajime Conversation:

Hajime: Happy birthday, Tomoya-kun! 🎵 

Tomoya: Thanks, Hajime! 🎵 

...Oh right! There was something I wanted to ask you! Are you the one who made the omuraisu for my party?

Hajime: Huh, how did you know?

Tomoya: Ahaha, I knew it! The flavor was so gentle and I got the feeling I’d eaten it before, so I figured it was probably you.

Hajime: Heheh, I can’t keep anything from you, Tomoya-kun! You’re always able to tell, even without anyone saying a word.

Mitsuru Conversation:

Mitsuru: Happy birthday, Tomo-chan! I made “birthday bread” just for you!

Tomoya: ...Whoa, this looks way more professional than I thought it would. That’s amazing, you can make bread that looks good enough to be sold in a bakery?

Mitsuru: Nope! I bought some bread from a bakery and wrote your name in chocolate, Tomo-chan! Ehen! 🎵 

Tomoya: What’s with that, all you did was write my name? Still, it does feel kinda special, so thanks. I’m happy with it.

Mitsuru: Ahaha, you change your mind quick! Keep it in mind for September!

Keito Conversation:

Keito: Mashiro, happy birthday.

Tomoya: Hasumi-senpai?! You came to celebrate?

Keito: Yes, I heard from Shino that today was your birthday. I’m not sure if this is to your tastes or not, but here you go.

Tomoya: Wah, thank you so much! Can I open it?

...Ah, it’s a clip I can use to keep books open! This looks like it’ll be super useful to hold my scripts open!

Keito: I’m glad you like it. Kiryuu and Kanzaki wanted to catch you at some point too, so make sure you go talk to them later.

Koga: Yo, you havin’ a good time at the party?

Tomoya: Oh, Oogami-senpai! Thank you for coming!

Koga: Ya don’t need to thank me for somethin’ like this. Ya came to my birthday party, didn’t ya?

Besides, seems like Leon’s real fond of ya.

Tomoya: Oh, really? Haha, Leon’s a good boy. I wanna take him for a walk again sometime. 🎵 

Koga Conversation:

Koga: Sure. Then I’ll have you come along for one of my long runs with Leon some time!

Talk with Anzu/Producer:

Tomoya: I knew my turn would eventually come round.

But now that the day’s here I’m happy, but kinda nervous.

I hope it turns out to be a fun party.

Option 1 (1) - “Loads of people were invited”

Huh? Is that Ayase-senpai over there? He doesn’t do well in crowds, but he still came.

He already wished me a happy birthday back at the dorms, so I told him he didn’t need to push himself to come...

Haha, that makes me so happy all my nerves have flown away! 

Option 1 (2) - “Loads of people were invited”

Um, can I ask who’s planning on coming?

Oh, I see... Huh? Sazanami-senpai’s coming?

He went through all the trouble of making room in his schedule just for me, I’m so happy!

Option 2 (1) - “There’s a surprise for you!”

I wonder what could it be? I hope it’s not a prank...

...Hibiki-senpai suddenly came into my mind, does it have something to do with him?

Huh? Why are you smiling at me so suspiciously, Anzu-san?

Option 2 (2) - “There’s a surprise for you!”

A surprise? ... Are you sure you can tell me that now?

You haven’t gone into detail, so it’s fine? Even if I know there’s a surprise coming, you’re confident it can still shock me, huh...?

What on earth could it be? I’m excited!

Tomoya: Oh, Anzu-san. There you are.

...Um, the surprise you told me about hasn’t happened yet, right?

I’m just curious about when it’s going to happen, ahaha.

Option 1 (1) - “Look over there.”

Everyone prepared as many presents as what age I’m turning? Wah, there’s so many different-sized boxes!

Um... When I open the biggest box, Hibiki-senpai is going to jump out - is that the surprise? All right, then I’ll start with the smallest...

Whoa! There’s white smoke coming from the inside! ...M-Masked Pervert?! Why are you jumping out of the smallest box?!

Option 1 (2) - “Look over there.”

...? There’s a bunch of boxes with numbers written on them. One, two... Oh, are there as many boxes as I am years old?

Are these all presents for me? Wow...! This is amazing. Everyone organized this for me.

I can chose which box to start opening from? Where should I start, I’m spoilt for choice!

Option 2 (1) - “Ah! Oh no!”

Huh? That’s the monster that appeared before at Ryuseitai’s Hero Show? What’s it doing here?

I-It’s getting closer and closer! But it’s stumbling forward, like a zombie! This is scary!

Is it aiming for Anzu-san? Quick, get behind me and hide, Anzu-san!

Option 2 (2) -  “Ah! Oh no!”

That’s... a monster? Is the surprise a Hero Show? So next Tetora and the others are gonna get changed and jump out...

Wait, Hokuto-senpai is gonna fight the monsters?! Oh, those are the kung fu moves Hokuto-senpai learned during the movie he filmed!

I have no idea what’s going on, but Hokuto-senpai looks so cool karate-chopping that monster!

Tomoya: Anzu-san, thanks for organizing my birthday party today.

I thought I hadn’t thanked you yet, ehehe.

Thanks to everything you put together, we all had a super fun time!

Option 1 (1) - “No problem!”

...Oh, right. Can I ask you for one more favor?

You took a group photo at Mitsuru’s birthday, right? I wanna take a group photo with Ra*bits and you, Anzu-san.

That’s okay? Yay! All right, I’m gonna go call everyone over!

Option 1 (2) - “No problem!”

Once the party ends, you’re gonna clean up, right? There’s so many people here, that looks like a lot of trouble.

The more hands, the better! Let me help you too!

I’ll call out to you again in a bit, so don’t start without me, okay?

Option 2 (1) - “Did you like the food?”

Yeah! When I went to see the buffet, Otogari-senpai put a ton of meat on my plate, and Kanzaki-senpai gave me loads of fish.

Then Hasumi-senpai told me I should eat some veggies, so he brought me some salad.

Ahaha, I probably ate a little too much.

Option 2 (2) - “Did you like the food?”

Yeah! There was even omuraisu! I had some with Amagi - it was really good.

Apparently Amagi’s an omuraisu addict now. I’m glad he’s come to like my favorite food so much too!

Speaking of the omuraisu... Never mind, I’ll ask him about it myself later.

Chapter Two

Hop, Step

Season: Summer

Writer: Akira

Location: ES Building Hallway

-A few minutes later, in the hallway of the ES building-

Hajime:

Huff… Which way do you think Tomoya-kun went?

Mitsuru:

No idea. These days Tomo-chan’s really been kickin’ it into high-gear—at this rate, he’s even gonna be able to keep up with me!

Hajime:

Somehow I doubt that.  Your seniors from the Track and Field Club are the only ones who stand a chance of catching up with you, Mitsuru-kun!

You’ve managed to get around ES’ ‘no running in the halls’ rule by power walking everywhere instead, but even then I find myself losing sight of you over and over again.

Mitsuru:

Ehehe! Racewalking’s my specialty! You’ve gotta remember to pace yourself, without trynna to rush too much.

Hajime:

I see! How interesting...

Mitsuru:

Don’t just stand there takin’ notes! We’re lookin’ for Tomo-chan, ‘member? He’s usually the one chasin’ after me, so I don’t really know where to start lookin’ for him...

Tomoya:

Urggghhh! I can’t believe this!

Mitsuru:

Hey, did you hear Tomoya’s voice just now? I think it’s comin’ from over there.

Hajime:

Let’s go take a look! Thank goodness; we found him much sooner than I thought we would.

Tomoya:

PETER PIPER PICKED A PECK OF PICKLED PEPPERS, PETER PIPER PICKED A PECK OF PICKLED PEPPERS, PETER PIPER PICKED—

Mitsuru:

Has Tomo-chan snapped!? He sounds like he’s chantin’ some sorta weird spell...

Hajime:

Why—why tongue twisters though…? That’s certainly an… interesting way to release stress...

Tomoya: 

… Nnn?

Huh? What the—what are you guys doing here? I thought both of you were busy with your own projects today?

Mitsuru:

Yeah, I’ve got somethin’ on pretty much every day! We fiiinally wrapped up shooting for the drama I’m in, but it got so many great reviews that I’m crazy in demand right now!

Hajime: 

Haha. I’ve also been roped into some sort of TV show, so Bishoujo-senpai is teaching me the art of making my voice sound as feminine as possible. That’s pretty much what I’ve been up to recently.

Mitsuru:

Is that person okay with you just calling them ‘Bishoujo-senpai’?

Hajime: 

Well, that’s what they told me to call them… They really don’t seem to be fond of their real name.

Mitsuru: 

Aha. True—for someone so feminine-looking they do have a pretty masculine-sounding name.

Hajime:

Yes. Their stage name is very cute, but we Yumenosaki lot aren’t really in the habit of calling each other by our stage names.

If anything, it feels almost rude to call someone by anything other than their real name.

But anyway, all that aside. Tomoya-kun, what happened? Both of us were just heading back to the agency after wrapping things up for the day only to see you getting all fired up about something! What on earth happened?

Tomoya:

Uughh, sorry about that… I really lost control back there. I know, I know - making a big scene like that isn’t gonna do my reputation any favors...

Hajime:

Oh no, that’s not what I meant. I just couldn’t tell what happened, so I wasn’t sure how to react. I’m worried about you, Tomoya-kun.

You’ve been like this a lot lately. I really wish you wouldn’t keep everything bottled up to yourself. I want you to talk to all of us, as a group!

Mitsuru:

Yeah! Sometimes you try to act a little too much like Nii-chan for your own good!

Tomoya:

Oh? You think I act like Nii-chan? Ehehe… 

Mitsuru:

That wasn’t supposed to be a compliment! Are you even listenin’ to us properly?

Nii-chan’s got a ton of life experience, and he’s basically an adult, so he can’t help treating us like kids, ‘cause that’s what we are to him!

But you’re the exact same age as us! Ya hear me? We all took off from the same starting line!

You may be the Leader on paper, but don’t go getting ahead of yourself!

Tomoya: 

Ouch, can’t believe Mitsuru’s the one getting mad at me… I know, I get it. I’m a total lost cause, right? Sorry, Nii-chan - I’m so pathetic I’m basically an embarrassment to your name!

Hajime:

There, there… Do calm down, Tomoya-kun. I still have no idea what happened, but I want you to know that whatever it was, we will always be here for you.

Mitsuru:

Yeah! Even if the whole world turns their back on you, we’re gonna be on your side no matter what! And you can count Nii-chan in too!

Tomoya:

...

Hajime:

Tomoya-kun? Why are you suddenly crouching down—oh no, now he’s curled himself into a ball on the floor. Tomoya-kun? You have every right to wrap your arms around your knees and rock gently back and forth—that’s totally up to you—but I do wish you’d tell us what was going on. I don’t think I’m smart enough to figure it out myself...

Mitsuru:

Ehehe, me neither! Thinking’s not my strong point!

But only a real idiot abandons their best friend while he’s freakin’ out over who knows what!

Ya hear me, Tomo-chan? Whenever you’re feeling down, I promise I got your back!

Hajime:

Me too! Tomoya-kuuun, if there’s anything I can do, anything at all, just say the word and consider it done! So please cheer up! Come here—hug attack! Squeeeeze!

Tomoya:

Hug me all you want, it doesn’t make me—actually, this does feel kinda nice, huh.

Thanks, you guys… But it just doesn’t feel right to be constantly turning to you guys every time I’ve got a problem.

Hajime:

Don’t worry about a thing. Remember when we were little, and I could be such a dummy—I would constantly come running to you about this and that.

This time it’s my turn to support you!

Mitsuru:

No fair! No fair that you guys have all these happy memories from being childhood friends!

Tomoya:

We can’t help that, Mitsuru. But does it really matter? The three of us are in this for the long run —we can just make a ton of new memories!

Besides, no matter how badly you wish you could, there’s no such thing as a do-over for stuff that happened in the past.

Hajime:

…

Chapter 7

High Jump

-The next morning. Starmony Hall Common Area-

Hajime:

… And that’s more or less the gist of it. It seems like our agency just doesn’t have the funds to allocate to Ra*bits at the moment.

Nazuna:

Ah, so that’s the situation. Thanks for the explanation, Hajime-chin. Now I finally understand what’s actually going on.

Seems like Anzu’s in a position where it’s hard to get specifically involved with certain agencies, and so isn’t privy to some of our agency’s more hush hush information either.

Tomo-chin was kinda all over the place, so I wasn’t able to follow a word he was saying, and I couldn’t really wrap my head around the chain of events. 

Hajime:

Haha. Tomoya-kun’s never been the best at explaining things in the most logical way.

But for some reason he’s able to recite all that complicated dialogue onstage without missing a beat. Why is that, I wonder?

Nazuna:

I guess he just finds it difficult to explain things in his own words. Wataru-chin is the same. I was in the same class as him last year, so I’ve seen first hand how he can be.

This one time in class we were supposed to submit a book report, but the only thing written on his paper was the word “Amazing!” in giant, bold letters. Our teacher got so mad...

I asked him afterwards why he’d do something so dumb, and he told me it was ‘cause his mind drew a total blank.

And yet, if all he had to do was spout off a bunch of dialogue after just one read through of a script, he could probably get through the whole year doing nothing but that.

Hajime:

Whoa… It really feels like theatre kids’ brains work differently to ours.

Nazuna:

I think it’s all down to the training. Tomo-chin was a total newbie to theatre at first.

Mitsuru:

Nii-chan, Nii-chan! Nii, Nii, NiNi, NiNiNi...

Hajime:

Mitsuru-kun! Stop getting up in Nii-chan’s face and trying to hog all of his attention to yourself!

Nii-chan is talking to ME right now—I mean! We’re in the middle of a serious conversation here!

Nazuna:

Nah, it’s fine! You come on over here too, Hajime-chin. I’ve got two hands, so I can hug both of you just fine.

Hajime:

T-There’s really no need! I’m not a little kid looking for cuddles; I’m in my second year of high-school, and I’m a big brother myself!

Nazuna:

Ahaha. Just ‘cause you’ve gotten older doesn’t mean no one’s gonna be there to comfort you any more. Adults still need hugs too sometimes.

But more importantly, just in case anything’s been misunderstood, I’d like you to double-check the details with our agency staff. If anything was misunderstood you can let me know right away, Hajime-chin!

Mitsuru:

What about me? What should I do? I’ll do anything you want, Nii-chan!

Nazuna:

A job for Mitsuru-chin, huh? Heheh, all you need to do is sit there and smile as sweetly as you can!

Mitsuru:

Woohoo! Sounds like a piece of cake! You got it, Nii-chan—no problem at all!

Nazuna:

Oh, but. I haven’t seen Tomo-chin at all, and I’m kinda worried about him. Do you think you could find out what he’s up to?

Based on what I saw yesterday, he seemed just about ready to crack. I’m a little concerned that he might be doing something stupid, y’know?

Mitsuru:

Got it! Wahaha, these days it feels like all I’m doing is searching for Tomo-chin! It’s the total opposite of last year, hahaha! Off I go; dash, dash, dash!

Hajime:

Mitsuru-kun, please! People might still be sleeping, so you can’t go making such a ruckus!

Nazuna:

Ahaha. Hajime-chin, you’re scolding him more than you usually would. Is this what you’re like with your family? Since you have a little brother and sister and all.

Hajime:

Ah, yes… That’s kind of embarrassing… Back home I’m the eldest, so I tell myself I’ve gotta act like it.

Nazuna:

It’s nothing to be embarrassed about. I think it’s great! Now I can see a whole new side to you; what kind of person you are in your private life too.

Once everything calms down, I’m thinking about moving into this dorm myself.

Hajime:

You’d be very welcome! Though the room splits are kind of all over the place, and in some cases it can get a little awkward.

I’m in the same room as Hokuto-senpai, so Tomoya-kun is a bit jealous.

Our other roommate is the dorm head, Hasumi-senpai. Not that it’s something that particularly bothers me, but I do get the feeling he worries about my physical well-being far more than necessary.

If I so much as cough, I’m bombarded with a sea of questions like “Are you feeling okay? Could it be a cold? Do you need some cough medicine?”...

Hokuto-senpai is Hokuto-senpai; he often shares his Grandmother’s words of wisdom with me.

—And then ends up getting into arguments with Hasumi-senpai, who tells him to quit butting in.

Nazuna:

Whoa. Seems like the atmosphere between Hokuto-chin and Keito-chin’d be kinda tense.

A member of last year’s student council, and one of the main culprits behind the rebellion... What were they thinking when they decided to shove those two in a room together?

Hajime:

I’m not really sure… But recently, I’m becoming a little braver, and I’ve even mustered up the courage to ask them if they’d like to play board games together, so we can start to get along better.

We can’t be on edge around each other forever, or it’ll be exhausting.

Nazuna:

I see! Still sounds pretty tiring as it is.

Anyway, uh… What were we talking about again?

Story Name: Hajime Idol Story 3

Writer: Yuuki Yoshino

Season: Summer

Location: Emergency Staircase

Hajime:

...

... And spin! Yay, I did it! 

(Back when I first entered Yumenosaki, I really sucked at dancing—I spent more time falling over than getting the choreography right. But recently I feel like I’m tripping over myself less and less, so I must be improving.

But I’ve still got a long way to go before I can catch up to my Ra*bits unitmate, Mitsuru-kun. I want to practice on my own as much as I can until I get way better at dancing!

... Hm? I just heard the sound of a door swinging open from below.

And there’s the sound of footsteps coming up the stairs. I wonder if me practicing here is gonna get in the way of whoever’s passing through?

I should back up against the wall... Oh?)

Fushimi-senpai, is that you? Hello there!

Yuzuru:

Oh? If it isn’t Shino-sama. What a coincidence, running into you here of all places. Is this where you’ve come to relax?

Hajime:

Oh no. I was just practicing dancing until a few moments ago.

I know there are training rooms you can book for that sort of thing, but I felt it would be a waste to rent a whole room for myself... So I'm using the emergency staircase as a makeshift training room instead.

Yuzuru:

Is that so? I do recall hearing about people such as yourself who make use of places like this in that way. I don’t believe there’s any particular problem with it.

Hajime:

Um, Fushimi-senpai... Did you come here to take a break?

Yuzuru:

Fufu. As I am holding a mop in my hands, that would be rather odd. No, I came here not to take a break, but in fact to clean.

Hajime:

To clean? Now that you mention it, I’ve heard from Takamine-kun that you like cleaning.

Heheh, seems like it was true!

Yuzuru:

Indeed. Cleaning is not only a great interest of mine; I would consider it my purpose in life, my raison d’être.

... Although there is something else I would consider my purpose in life to the same extent as cleaning—no, to an even greater degree—but, alas.

I am currently prohibited from engaging in such activities, so I must occupy myself with cleaning for the time being.

The agency hires professional cleaners to take care of the office, so there aren’t all that many places for me to clean.

But after exploring the building in detail, I finally happened to stumble upon this emergency stairway. 

Hajime:

I see! Um, when you say prohibited, what exactly are you prohibited from?

Oh, there’s no need to force yourself to tell me if you’d rather not!

Yuzuru:

No, no—it’s nothing like that. The truth is I am currently prohibited from seeing to the young master’s aid.

Hajime:

From taking care of Tori-kun?

Yuzuru:

Yes. He seems to be entering a rather rebellious phase recently, insisting he do things for himself rather than allowing me to take care of things for him.

Thus, I've found myself with absolutely no work to do and far too much time on my hands as of late.

Sigh... Cleaning does give me such great pleasure, but there is nothing remotely enjoyable about this situation... I find myself sighing in frustration multiple times a day.

... Ah, you were practicing your dancing, were you not, Shino-sama?

I shall go purchase you a sports drink so as to replenish the water and salt you’ve lost from exerting yourself.

Hajime:

W-Wait, there’s no need! I can't let a senior do that for me!

And besides, I already brought a sports drink with me, so it’s fine. I do appreciate your concern though! That’s very kind of you.

Yuzuru:

...

Hajime:

Oh dear. Fushimi-senpai? You look rather sad... Did I say something to make you upset?

Yuzuru:

No, you haven’t done a thing wrong, Shino-sama.

Ah, how about I fetch you something to eat?

You must be hungry after all that exercise. How about we have the cafe make you a sandwich?

Or I can put together something extra nutritious? Lately I’ve been taking part in Niki’s Kitchen, so my cooking repertoire has increased exponentially.

Hajime:

Um... I feel terrible, but I actually brought along some food with me too! I’m so sorry...

Yuzuru:

No, no. If anything, I should be the one to apologize for stubbornly insisting you let me see to your aid in some way...

As I can’t see to the young master, I am simply eager to offer my services to whoever else may need it...

I shall put my head down and return to my cleaning. Well then, Shino-sama, if you’ll excuse me...

Hajime:

W-Wait!

Um. Maybe... If it’s alright with you, do you think you could give me a dance lesson, Fushimi-senpai?

Yuzuru:

...! It would be my pleasure.

Although I dare say I am not quite at the level to teach another when it comes to dancing. Is that quite alright with you?

Hajime:

Of course! Thank you so much, Fushimi-senpai.

I'd love it if you could tell me not only about dancing, but also about how Tori-kun has been doing lately. Please do tell me as much as you can...♪

Proofreader: Sophie

Hajime - Multiplied Happiness

Season: Summer

Writer: Yumasu

Location: Studio

Is the photo alright? … Should we take one more, just to be on the safe side?

Got it! It’s absolutely fine by me! I’ll take as many as you need. After all, I’d much rather you end up with a bunch of good photos to use.

You asked me to pose as naturally as possible for the shots we just took, but what would you like me to do this time?

You’d like me to try a few idol-like poses? Got it, I’ll try as many as I can. 

(Cute poses are my specialty. After all, Nii-chan taught me a whole bunch.

I can jump, tilt my head to the side, play with my hair…)

For the last one you’d like me to give a two-handed peace sign? Sure, I’ll try it out!

Heehee, peace!

How was that? … It turned out amazing? Oh, yay! 

Looks like that’s a wrap for today’s photoshoot. Now I’ve just got to finish up with… Ah, my autographs to be gifted to viewers as part of the special.

You’d like me to use this colored paper here? Sure! Do you think that perhaps I could write a little comment to go alongside each autograph?

Thank you! Wow, there are so many different colored pens to choose from... I’ll go with this sky blue one here.

First up, my special signature… And finish it off with a swoop…

Then I’ll write “Thank you so much for all of your support!”. And… Done!

Oh, you’d like me to write my autograph on all the pictures we took before lunch too? Got it! 

Hm, what should I do for the comment to go along with these ones?

...Oh! Hello, Producer-san. You look as busy as ever! You came especially to see how my photoshoot went? Thank you so much!

We just finished up with the shoot! Now I’m writing a few autographs like one of the staff members asked me to.

… Wait, you were watching my photoshoot from the sidelines? No way, I never even noticed you!

Hm? You spoke with the Director and they had some wonderful things to say about me?

“He’s a dream to work with; always has a smile on his face.” Really, that’s what they said? … Ehehe, I’m so flattered...

But the reason I’m able to keep this smile on my face is all thanks to the work the staff put in.

Today’s all about a 15 minute special just for TV. It’s about the rising stars in the world of idols who specialize in cuteness. The staff put my short together and I’m thrilled with how it’s turning out.

We did an interview, then a photoshoot, and recorded some footage… Everyone’s been buzzing around non-stop since morning, but at least they all seem to be enjoying themselves.

The set’s always filled with laughter. This really is a wonderful place to work; I feel all warm and fuzzy inside just from being surrounded by such a joyful atmosphere.

That’s why I know the program’s gonna turn out great. ‘Cause everyone who worked on it to put it together seemed to have such a good time, so it’s only natural.

Ah, did that come off as a little condescending?

I really do owe every single member of the staff here big time. I would’ve liked to be able to thank them all once more…

But they still look a little busy right now, so I might do it afterwards. I’ll hang back just a little bit longer.

Huh? You’ll wait with me, Producer-san? I’m fine by myself though?

… I see. You’re worried that I might be getting tired.

It’s true that my schedule today’s been jam-packed, and my eyes feel a little dizzy from jumping from one thing to the next…

*whispers* I suppose I’m a little weary.

But that goes for everyone here! All of the staff, and you too!

All I have to do is finish off these last few autographs and my job here is done. So there’s nothing to worry about.

… Hm? What was that noise just now? … Oh, it’s my phone. Just a sec!

Tap, tap… Oh?… Ehehe, it’s from my family.

Look at the photo they sent me! That’s my little brother and sister holding those plates of pudding with those big smiles on their faces.

Thanks to all of the idol-related work I’m doing recently, my siblings back home are able to have sweets every now and then.

And whenever Treat Day comes around, they’re sure to send me a photo.

Last week they had orange-flavored jelly. My little sister was so happy! And my little brother’s a big fan of cream puffs. 

Ever since I started living in the dorms, I haven’t been able to spend as much time with my family. But they make sure to send me lots of messages so that I don’t get lonely.

Ehehe… I feel like all of my exhaustion just melted away, all thanks to chatting with you for a bit, and this message from my family.

There are so many people supporting me right now.

My family, everyone in Ra*bits, our fans, the staff on set… And you, of course!

So there’s no way I can grumble about being tired! I’ve only just dashed past the starting line; I’ve got a long road as an idol ahead of me.

And I’m ready to work hard to make myself a success. Just you watch me, Producer-san!

Proofreader: Sophie

Unlocked by: https://ensemble-stars.fandom.com/wiki/(Hand_in_Hand)_Nazuna_Nito

Story Name: Captain Nito and Me

Writer: Akira

Season: Summer

Location: Town

Tori:

...

Nazuna:

Momo-chin! ♪ What’s up?

Tori:

Eek!? Y-Y-You scared me! Don’t sneak up on me and grab me from behind like that! 

It’s ten thousand yen a second to put your hands on me, peasant! I’ll have you locked up—sentenced to a thousand years in jail!

Nazuna:

My bad! You’re about the same size as the kids back in Ra*bits, Momo-chin! What can I say? You bring out this overly affectionate side of me! ♪

Tori:

Um... Captain Nito? Do you guys always hug each other like this?

You guys are in high school! Aren’t you kind of acting like little kids?

Nazu:

Ahaha, that’s our thing! 

Tori:

It may be your thing, but it’s not my thing.

We, the noble fine, are above such ill-mannered physical contact. Hugs and kisses are out of the question!

Nazuna:

Well, we don’t exactly kiss each other... Anyway, what’re you doing around here, Momo-chin? You lost?

If you’re stuck, I’ll show you the way! ♪ I live in the neighborhood, so I know this area pretty well!

Haha, I’m everyone’s reliable older brother for a reason!

Tori:

No, I’m not lost... There’s a veterinary clinic over there, right? My King’s being hospitalized at the moment, so I was just calling in to check on him.

Yuzuru’s not a fan of King, so he wouldn’t come with me...

But I’ve been this way tons of times before, so I’m used to it! And I’m definitely not lost!

Nazuna:

Hospitalized? King’s your family dog right, Momo-chin? Did something bad happen? That’s terrible!

Tori:

No... He’s just old, so his joints are creaking here and there.

He’s got a condition that requires ongoing medical attention, so he’s just being treated for that. It’s nothing serious or fatal or anything like that.

Yeah. For sure. Everything’s gonna be fine... King’s still got a long life ahead of him...

Nazuna:

... Momo-chin, you free right now?

Tori:

H-Huh? Why do you ask? Wait, I mean, were you even listening to me, Captain?

Nazuna:

I’m listening, I’m listening. Sorry, guess I’m not great at making it clear that I’m following a conversation. 

Or maybe I just suck at talking in general. Sometimes all I end up doing is confusing whoever I’m talking to, even if all I’m doing is talking like normal!

Ah well. More importantly, I wanna know if you’re free to hang out with me for a bit!

See that cutesy kinda shop up ahead? 

It’s kinda hard for a guy to go in by himself, so it’d be a big help if you could come with, Momo-chin! ♪

Haha. As a member of Ra*bits, I’d like to keep up to date with what’s trending in the world of cute.

It’s harder than I thought though, and since you’ve got good taste, I wouldn’t mind hearing your opinion on stuff! 

You’ve pretty much nailed the concept of cute, Momo-chin. So it’d be great if we could do some shopping together and you could let me know whatever you think is cute! ♪

Tori:

Excuse me? And why should I have to tag along with you on your shopping trip, Captain?

Unlike you peasants, my time is valuable! In fact, every second of my time is worth my weight in gold!

Nazuna:

Come on, let’s go already! It’s no fun just going straight home. Sometimes it’s nice to take the scenic route! ♪

Think of it as retail therapy - it could cheer you right up! That shop sells cute stuff for pets too, y’know.

I’ve got a rabbit back home—that’s how I know.

Haha. Why don’t you buy something to put a smile on King’s face for when he’s discharged from the clinic?

Wouldn’t that be a better use of time than just sitting around worrying?

No, wait. If King sees his owner looking glum, he might not be able to make a happy, healthy recovery.

So let’s go already, Momo-chin! Turn that frown upside down and live your best life! ♪

Tori:

Huh... You’re more persistent than I thought, Captain. Or rather, you really just do whatever strikes your fancy, huh. Bossing people around all cute like that is supposed to be MY thing, you hear?

I knew it, Captain! You act way too similar to me and I don’t like it at all! I’m the cutest person in the whole world, me!

Nazuna:

Oh, quit all that grumbling; I’m not letting you get your way this time! Let’s go! ¡Vamos!☆

Tori:

Wah, let go of my hand! Quit dragging me along!

For Pete’s sake. I feel sorry for the rest of Ra*bits, having such an overbearing “big brother”!

This is going beyond just being overly affectionate! I feel downright exploited!

... Whatever. Even if I do just go home, I’ll probably end up studying or practicing all the while listening to Yuzuru drone on and on as he lectures me.

And I suppose I would quite like to buy something for King as a welcome home gift.

So just this once! Just this once mind you! I’ll go along with your plan. You owe me one, Captain!

Nazuna:

Momo-chin, look! These tennis balls are all colorful and the patterns are seriously cute! Wish we could use these during practice.

You think I can get away with buying them on the club budget?

Tori:

You’re not listening to a word I say!

Urgh! Fine, sure, whatever! I guess a little selfishness on your part can be kinda “cute”, so go for it!

Proofreader: gracefulallience