holistar | Entries tagged with adonis otogari

Location: Starmony Dorm Courtyard

Koga: Oh~ Sorry for bein’ late. We brought sweets n’ suzuki grass~♪

Makoto: ...Sorry to keep you two waiting.

Adonis: Oogami, Yuuki, you’re here.

Hm? Is something wrong Yuuki? You look unwell— I mean, you look completely worn out.

Makoto: ...Ahaha, I’m fine. I just kinda felt my life flash before my eyes. I had flashbacks to last time...

Adonis: ? Ah, by the way, I have something to tell you two. A little while ago, I was able to see a rabbit do a large jump.

Koga: Oh yeah~? Glad ya got to see it, Adonis. That’s super rare♪

Makoto: I’m really glad…If you told me you missed it, I think I’d collapse on the spot.

Nazuna: Yup yup♪ That’s right, for various reasons...

Hey! The party isn’t over yet! Let’s eat some delicious food and view the beautiful moon☆

Koga: Oh yeah! C’mon, eat up Wimpy Glasses! You were pretty much the star today.

Makoto: Ah, yeah.

Adonis: Nito-senpai, Oogami, Yuuki, thank you.

Nazuna: Thanks for what? Is the moon-viewing really that fun?

Adonis: It is, but…thanks to you three I was able to see something truly magical.

I know it’s just a story that rabbits live on the moon. We have a similar tale in my homeland.

The patterns of the lunar maria¹ are compared to various animals in different countries.

Makoto: E-Ehhhh!?

Koga: Haaa? You knew!?

Adonis: Yes. The three of you made that folktale into reality, along with my dream, so for that I thank you.

You three put this all together, didn’t you?

Nazuna: Wait a minute. U-Umm... If you knew it wasn’t real, why did you pretend to think so...?

Adonis: ? It’s what you told me to do in the library?

When a friend tells you a joke, you “do your best to play along”. I was told to joke around once in a while, so I gave it a try. Was it still not good enough?

Koga: Gaaaah!

Adonis: What’s wrong Oogami? Why are you mad?

Koga: If you’re tellin’ a joke, you gotta say it was a damn joke. There’s no point if people take it seriously!

Adonis: Hn? Is that so?

Hmm… It’s still difficult… Jokes are complicated.

Koga: Are you serious!

Nazuna: Fufufu, ahaha! Ado-chin totally got us~ Ahahaha.

Koga: Damn it. This is peak Adonis. It’s like all the life drained outta me in an instant.

Makoto: Ahaha. Me too. My jump was no good, but it was funny, so I’m at the point where I don't really care.

Adonis: Fufu. Jokes are quite fun. Time spent laughing with friends is very precious.

Nazuna: Yeah? Did it put you in a better mood? I was able to see you smile, so I’m pretty satisfied too♪

Adonis: I see, you were trying to cheer me up. Thank you.

I work hard everyday for the sake of my country, but I don’t actually feel like I’m moving forward. There are times when I can’t help but look back.

When I think of everyone else in my country, I worry if it’s alright that I’m the only one that feels happiness.

But today, this place and the gentle moonlight have eased my worries.

Now I just have to believe in this path and move forward one step at a time.

Koga: Hmph, you’ve made plenty of progress.

And besides, you can just count on us when it gets tough. We got your back.

Well, I know how much your homeland means to you, but still...

Makoto: Oogami-kun, you can’t get Otogari-kun to depend on you so you’re sulking, huh?

Koga: I’m not sulkin’! Don’t make shit up, Wimpy Glasses!

Adonis: How much my country means to me...

When I visited my homeland in the spring, I thought about Undead and everyone else at the dorms and felt lonely. I missed everyone.

This place means a lot to me too. It's almost like another homeland.

I suppose my steps are very small compared to the passage of time itself.

Maybe things will have changed by the time I reach my goal. Hopefully they will have changed for the better, but I just don't know.

Still, I'll move forward without fear. I have reliable friends by my side, so I'll be alright.

Nazuna: There’s a traditional Japanese poem that goes like:

“I gaze up at the sky and wonder

is that the same moon

that shone over Mount Mikasa

at Kasuga

all those years ago?” ²

Ado-chin, have you heard of it?

It means, I gaze far off into the sky and see the moon. I wonder if it’s the same moon that rose in Kasuga, my hometown, in the mountains of Mikasa.

Maybe the next time you go somewhere you have memories of, it will have changed.

But no matter how different it looks, the moon that floats in the sky is the only thing that will never change. It’s the same moon you saw with your family all those years ago. Some things will never change.

If you think about that, it gives you hope, right♪

Adonis: Yes, you’re right. I’m grateful that the moon I saw in my homeland is the same moon we are able to look up at tonight.

¹ The dark spots on the moon.

² This is a real poem ,「天の原…」. English translation is taken from here.

Location: Starmony Dorm Courtyard

Nazuna: Ado-chin, sorry to keep you waiting~!

Adonis: It’s fine, I just got here.

Hm? You’re carrying a lot, let me help you.

Nazuna: Oh, thanks♪ I prepared dango, drinks, and a telescope for moon-viewing. It ended up being a lot to carry, so thanks for the help.

Adonis: I also brought meat. Let’s eat it together with everyone.

Nazuna: Meat? Ahaha. This’ll be a luxurious moon-viewing~♪

Adonis: By the way, Yuuki and Oogami didn’t come with you? They still haven’t arrived.

Nazuna: Ah, the two of them will be late. They’re still getting ready.

Adonis: Getting ready? I thought we prepared everything for moon-viewing… is there still more to do?

Nazuna: Ah…! U-Um… R-Right! Suzuki grass¹! We’re all out of suzuki grass. We totally need it for the moon-viewing~

Adonis: Hm. Is that so? I regret not preparing that. I’m sorry, I was unaware.

Nazuna: Don’t worry, the two of them wanted to get some, that’s all.

It seems like Koga-chin and Mako-chin will arrive after they get the suzuki grass, so we can start the moon-viewing without them.

Adonis: I understand. Is there anything I can assist with? That telescope looks difficult to assemble, let me help.

Nazuna: Eh? N-No, I can do it myself. I know how to put it together, so it’ll be faster if I do it alone.

(Yikes… I have to mess with the telescope, so I can’t let Ado-chin touch it.)

Ah, I’d be really grateful if you could lay out all the food though~

Adonis: Really? Alright. I’ll arrange the food.

Nazuna: Thanks~

(Yes! While Ado-chin is concentrating on the food… I’ll prepare the tripod and set up the telescope on it. Then I just have to adjust it so it has a nice view of the moon...)

(Yup. This should be perfect for seeing Mako-chin’s jump.)

Adonis: Nito-senpai, I’ve finished preparing the food. How are you doing with the telescope?

Nazuna: All good over here~! Let’s start♪

Adonis: Ah. I’m glad it was clear today. I can see the moon very well. It’s so big and beautiful.

Nazuna: It is, huh~ I’m really, really glad it’s not cloudy!

(If it was cloudy, then the image of the moon that Natsume prepared for us wouldn’t look right at all.)

Location: Starmony Dorm 2nd Floor Passage

Koga: Hey, you’re still lookin’ gloomy, Wimpy Glasses.

Makoto: On the contrary, I’d be scared of someone who can smile in a situation like this.

Koga: If it were Akehoshi, he’d love to do this jump.

Makoto: Ah, if it were Akehoshi-kun he’d certainly show us a dynamic jump...

Koga: You’re in the same unit as him, so you should’ve learned by observin’. Give us a dynamic jump and be the star in Trickstar!

Makoto: Why do I feel like that sounds really ominous? Becoming a star would mean I’ve crossed over to the afterlife, wouldn’t it?

Koga: I said I’d guarantee your safety. I got a mat all ready for ya on the ground.

I’ll double check the straps of your harness. You should thank me for bein’ so nice to you.

Heh… last time ya put this on it was for some special trainin’ to crush the student council, yeah²?

Makoto: Yeah. We had a lot of people helping us out. It was a desperate time. It really brings back memories.

But I definitely wasn’t expecting to wear this again today...

Koga: Yeah, back then it was for a big war that left both our allies n’ enemies covered in blood.

—This time it’s for a friend, so we got some motivation from that.

Makoto: …………

Yeah, that’s right. In that case, this time is way more tolerable than the last.

Koga: Yeah, safety looks good! Go get ‘em, Wimpy Glasses.

It’s almost time. I’ll head down to the mat just in case.

Makoto: Okay, I’ll try my best.

…………

...Huh? Oogami said some nice things and I totally went along with it

But no matter how I think about it, isn’t this whole idea crazy…?

Location: Starmony Dorm Courtyard

Nazuna: (It’s almost time…)

Ah. Ado-chin, come take a look through the telescope! You can see a huge moon! A su~per huge moon!

Adonis: Is it alright if I look? I don’t mind if you take a look first...

Nazuna: I got a good look when I was setting it up. Besides, I think the rabbits will come out soon.

Adonis: Hm? Do the rabbits come out at a fixed time? They’re quite organized...

Nazuna: Agh— T-The rabbits have lives too. They probably have a specific time for jumping or something~

Adonis: Hm, I suppose so. Even the rabbits have lives. We just have to impose that kind of common sense on them as well.

Nazuna: Yep yep! That’s it! Hey, if you don’t look soon you’re gonna miss the big moment~

Adonis: If you insist. I just have to look through here?

Wow. It’s amazing… Is this what you’d call picturesque? A beautiful, majestic full moon...

Nazuna: Yup. Taking a look at this kind of scenery is really calming. It feels like all my worries and unpleasant thoughts are flying away.

Ah. The rabbits are gonna jump really suddenly, so don’t miss it, Ado-chin~

Adonis: Is that to? I understand. I don’t want to miss it, I don’t even want to blink—

Makoto: I’m a rabbit~ OwaAAAAAaaa…!?

Adonis: A-A rabbit! Nito-senpai! A rabbit just jumped!

Nazuna: (! Good job Mako-chin...!)

Adonis: That’s incredible. A rabbit really jumped!

Nazuna: I’m glad you saw it~ It’s the moment of the century!

Adonis: Yes! The rabbit’s jump was like that of a human. It was like a character from a game Yuuki played a while ago—— Umm, there was a character who eats a mushroom and gets bigger, and he jumped like that.

Nazuna: Eh? Ahaha… Maybe even the rabbits are excited about the beautiful full moon~? Ahahaha...

¹ This is the type of grass in the bloomed Adonis and Nazuna CGs.

² Again, a reference to the Ensemble Stars! main story.

Location: Starmony Dorm Courtyard

Makoto: Hello Otogari-kun~ I’m here for the tea ceremony.

Adonis: Thanks for coming, Yuuki.

Koga: Hey Wimpy Glasses! You’re late!

Makoto: E-Eh!? But I arrived before the time we planned to meet!?

...Oh, Nito-senpai is here too! Oh no, I’m sorry! You guys were waiting for me, weren’t you?

Nazuna: I-It’s fine…But hurry up and sit down, I don’t know if I can wait any longer...

Makoto: Huh? You and Oogami-kun look pale…? What happened?

Nazuna: M-My legs are ashleep...

Adonis: Hm? I had thought you two weren’t talking much, is that why?

Koga: Yes, damn it!

Adonis: You don’t have to be so formal. Relax your legs. I’m trying to entertain you, not make you suffer.

Nazuna: Thanks Ado-chin… Koga-chin, let’s take him up on that and get more comfortable.

Agh! ...My legs are still asleep~!

Koga: Guaaa~a...

Adonis: Are you two alright? At first I was also not good at sitting in seiza¹, so I understand how you’re feeling.

Are your legs really that numb?

Koga: Gyah! Don’t poke my legs while sayin’ you understand how it feels! It hurts!

Adonis: I-I’m sorry. I didn’t realize it was that painful for you two.

Makoto: Ahaha...this is turning into a disaster, but maybe it’s a little refreshing to see you like this, Oogami-kun.

Koga: Damn it~ Can’t you sympathize with other people’s problems!? I’d love to give you a rolling sobat², but my legs are asleep~!

Makoto: What’s with that crazy look in your eyes!? I’m so glad your legs are numb...

Adonis: Oogami, it’s not good to blow off steam with violence.

Ah, Yuuki please sit down comfortably too.

Makoto: Oh, okay! I’ll just switch to seiza when it’s time for tea.

Adonis: Now that we’re all here, let’s begin³.

…...

Makoto: (Whispering) Wow… There’s hardly a sound. It’s so quiet.

Koga: (Whispering) He’s goin’ real slow and wipin’ down his tools one by one~ It’d be a lot faster to just put some elbow grease into it.

Nazuna: (Whispering) Koga-chin, you totally don’t understand the spirit of the tea ceremony~ Ado-chin is doing fine.

Makoto: (Whispering) Oh? Nito-senpai, do you know a lot about tea?

Nazuna: (Whispering) Eh? No, not at all… I read up on the etiquette on the internet since Ado-chin invited me.

Koga: (Whispering) What. I thought you knew all about this stuff.

(Whispering) For someone who said he had no confidence, Adonis is actually lookin’ pretty damn good.

Nazuna: (Whispering) Yup. He practiced a lot~

(Whispering) We were told to relax our legs, but it still feels so authentic that it’s making me nervous… What do I do?

Uwa!? He’s offering me the tea bowl but…M-Me!? I’m the first one!?

T-T-Thank you, I’ll take the bowl…!

(Umm, u-um? I’m so nervous I can’t think straight…! What else did I read on the internet?)

(Ah! Right. I’ll move the tea bowl so my lips don’t touch the front when I drink—)

(But with this simple bowl it’s hard to tell where the front is...!)

(Gotta calm down~ Just think it through, the front was probably facing me when I took the bowl, so if I turn it...)

T-Thank you for the tea… (gulp)

(Agh!? I-It’s bitter…!)

(Is tea really this bitter!? Matcha flavored things are way more sweet!)

(Gulp)

(Uu~... I expected it to be sweet so it feels even more bitter~)

U-Um. Ado-chin, that was... delicious.

Adonis: Fufu. Don’t worry about it, bitter is written all over your face.

Nazuna: Eh!? N-No, not at all?

Adonis: The first time I drank it I honestly thought it was bitter too.

But after having it a few times, I began to realize the delicious flavor in the bitterness.

Then I started to find the bitter flavor delicious. It’s strange, isn’t it?

Nazuna: Eh~ Really? The world of tea is really deep~

Adonis: Yes. I find it interesting that there’s always something new to discover, no matter how many times I drink it. It’s the same as your studies at college.

Speaking of college, have you made progress on your report?

Nazuna: Nn~ Well, I’m making progress little by little. I think I can finish by the due date.

Adonis: Is that so?

Makoto: Is this report one of Nito-senpai’s college assignments?

Nazuna: Yep. It’s a report on Japanese customs. I’m doing some research on moon-viewing.

Koga: Oh yeah, I guess it’s that time of year.

Makoto: If that’s how it is, then why don’t we go moon-viewing together? We can all bring dango and sweets.

Adonis: I think that’s a great idea, it sounds like fun… Perhaps we can see it? Fortunately, I have good eyesight.

Makoto: ? What is it?

Adonis: Have you and Oogami heard? Truth is, it seems there’s a rabbit on the moon.

Nazuna: ...Uwah!?

Makoto: Eh!? A rabbit!?

Koga: Ahaha. Adonis, don’t be crazy~ That’s just a stor—

Nazuna: H-Hey Koga-chin!

Koga: Whoa!? T-The hell you doin’? That startled me!

Nazuna: (Whispering) Shh, Koga-chin! I told him that as a joke, but he took it seriously, and now Ado-chin really thinks there’s a rabbit on the moon!

Koga: (Whispering) So it’s you that’s been teachin’ Adonis this weird stuff!

Makoto: (Whispering) U-Umm, but leaving out some of the info like that is… Wouldn’t it have been better to just tell him it’s an old folktale?

Nazuna: (Whispering) I thought about that, but even if it’s a lie it totally cheered Ado-chin up… I just didn’t want him to feel so lonely about the moon-viewing anymore.

Makoto: (Whispering) Lonely?

Nazuna: (Whispering) Anyway, just play along! Please!

(Whispering) When Ado-chin starts to realize it’s not real, I’ll tell him the truth.

Adonis: Hm? Is something wrong with the three of you? What happened?

Koga: I-It’s nothin’~! Don’t worry about it!

A-Anyway. That’s right, the rabbit! There’s a ton of rabbits on the moon~ Ain’t that right? Wimpy Glasses!

Makoto: ...E-Eh!? You’re bringing me into this?

Ah~ Y-Yep, that’s right! There’s a lot of them~ I see them every year!

Adonis: Oh? If that’s the case then I definitely want to see them. I’m looking forward to the moon-viewing♪

Makoto: (W-What have we done! W-What do we do now!?)

¹ The formal way of sitting. You place your knees on the floor and rest your butt on the heels of your feet. The top of your feet should be flat on the floor.
It doesn't sound bad, but doing it for a while isn't pleasant unless you're used to it.

² A jumping, spinning, back kick often seen in wrestling/video games.

³ The host starts by cleaning their tools (tea bowl, bamboo whisk, etc.) one by one in front of their guests. Then the host prepares a bowl of green tea for the guests by whisking matcha powder and boiling water.
The host does not drink the tea, but everyone else drinks from the same tea bowl, rotating it slightly to avoid putting their mouth on the same place as the last person.

!! CONTENT WARNINGS: mentions of war !!

Location: Dormitory Library

Adonis: Will this book do?

Nazuna: Uu… Thanks.

Adonis: By the way, why do you need all of these books?

You can’t read multiple books simultaneously. If you borrow them one by one, it’s less for you to carry as well…

Nazuna: Ah? I’m not going to read them cover to cover…I’m going to use these books as reference for a college report, so I want to borrow as many as I can.

Adonis: I see, so it’s for an assignment for college?

Nazuna: Yup. At college you can take electives from various departments.

Looking at the syllabus, I thought the sociology department’s lectures sounded kind of unique~ They seemed interesting so I took one♪

Adonis: Other departments? At college you can choose the classes you want to take? College studies sound interesting.

Nazuna: That’s right. Also, unlike studying in high school, there’s not just one answer to things. It’s pretty neat that sometimes there’s no correct answer.

Your own thoughts and ideas can be the answer. I guess that’s called diversity? That kind of thing is accepted.

There are a lot of eccentric professors. This is the first time I’ve thought that learning and knowing things were fun.

But it’s difficult to balance being a college student and an idol~ Oh well, I’m having a good time at least♪

Adonis: It’s good to broaden your knowledge. My mother used to say it would make you prosperous.

You gathered a lot of books about Japan earlier...What are you writing a report on?

Nazuna: Hn? Oh, I’m writing a report on Japanese customs. It’s that time of year, so I thought it’d be good to do a report on moon-viewing.

Adonis: Moon-viewing? If I remember correctly, there’s a custom of having tea while moon-viewing. I feel like it’s called a moon-viewing tea ceremony…

Nazuna: Moon-viewing and tea! That’s nice, it sounds soothing ♪

Come to think of it, you said you were practicing the tea ceremony. Why? If you want to practice, wouldn’t it be better to do it with your circle?

Adonis: The other day I promised Yuuki that I would make him tea.

He said he would drink my tea, but I don’t have much experience in making tea yet. I was practicing in order to perfect that.

Nazuna: Hmm. The world of tea~?

It would be nice if I could include something about tea in my report. Maybe call it the world of wabi-sabi¹? It seems like that could relate back to the topic of Japanese customs?

Adonis: Hmm, true. There are many Japanese customs that value that concept.

In that case, won’t you also participate in my tea ceremony?

Nazuna: Huh? Can I?

Adonis: Mmhm, I’d like to make tea for many people. I’m also asking Oogami to come.

Nazuna: I see. Then I’ll be sure to attend♪

Adonis: Yes, then I’ll do my best to make tea for everyone.

Nazuna: Ahaha. Rather than ‘wabi-sabi’, this feels like we’re getting all fired up.

Adonis: Fufu. You’re right, this won’t do.

Nazuna: Oops. We’ve been so busy talking that I haven’t found any books for my report. Gotta hurry up.

Adonis: Let me help you find a book about moon-viewing一 Would a book like this be useful?

Nazuna: Hmm? Which one?

Ah, that one has a lot of photos, so I don’t think I can use it as a reference. I do like to look at photobooks of landscapes though~

Adonis: I feel the same. Looking at beautiful scenery makes me feel at ease. It’s too bad you can’t use this book一一

This place is...

Nazuna: Nn? What’s up, Ado-chin? Do you know the place in the photo?

Uwah~ this sure is a stunning place, though~ It’s like ruins in the desert, like something straight out of “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves”²!

Adonis: This is a place in my homeland.

In my homeland, we have a tradition somewhat similar to Japan’s moon-viewing. There is a custom to clear your mind and think deeply about the moon.

My family once looked up at the moon from these ruins… how nostalgic.

Nazuna: Wow! So this is a place you have memories of!

Adonis: Yes, but I can’t go there anymore.

Nazuna: Huh? Why!?

Adonis: When the conflict started, the area was sealed off as an off-limits zone… That restriction hasn’t been lifted yet.

Nazuna: …………

Adonis: I’m really no good... I visited my homeland in the spring, but since returning to Japan there have been times when I feel lonely. I’m weak...

Nazuna: No, no! That feeling you think is loneliness is just how much you love and care for your country.

It’s not the same, but I’ve been through something similar, so I sort of know where you’re coming from.

So don’t think of yourself as “weak”. That feeling isn’t a bad thing; you should treat it as precious.

Adonis: …Thank you, Nito-senpai.

Nazuna: Hey~! I know that Japan has a saying that “fortune will come to those who smile”, but that sad smile won’t do! You need a happy one or else you won’t have any of that good fortune!

Ah! I got it! How about I tell you an awesome secret about moon-viewing?! I think when you hear this, you’ll be so surprised that your lonely feeling will disappear!

Adonis: A secret about moon-viewing…?

Nazuna: So listen~

Truth is, there’s a rabbit on the moon³~

Just kiddi—

Adonis: What? A rabbit on the moon…!? That’s an incredible secret, Nito-senpai.

Nazuna: …Huh? H-Hey… Ado-chin?

Adonis: That’s truly amazing. I didn’t know the moon had such a secret… I still have much to learn.

Nazuna: H-Huh...?

¹ “Wabi-sabi” is a concept that refers to finding beauty in imperfection. Japanese tea ceremonies used to be lavish, but then there was a shift to a more rustic and simple aesthetic.
For example, a tea bowl that is asymmetrical, handmade, and glazed a deep brown reflects the wabi-sabi aesthetic.

² This is a story in "The One Thousand and One Arabian Nights".

³ There is a Japanese folktale about a rabbit that pounds mochi (rice cakes) on the moon.

Location: Dormitory Library

Nazuna: Hmm, maybe this book…?

Nope… no good. It’s more of a photobook, so I won’t be able to use it for my report.

Ah, maybe this book will do♪ I’ll also borrow this one from the library~ And—

Hm? Maybe I should check out the books at the top shelf of the bookcase over there...

Err… but I wonder if I can even reach up there?

What the heck~! They’re on such a difficult to reach shelf! C’mon, think about all the small people~

…………

Ugh, I made myself sad by saying “small people”.... Well, I guess there must be a stepladder around that I can use to reach them.

Hmm. Just past this bookcase— Uwah!?

Adonis: ……!?

Nazuna: O-Oh my gosh— Ado-chin!?

Adonis: E-Excuse me. Nito-senpai, are you alright? I was crouched down here and you ended up tripping over me...

I caught you right away… but you aren’t injured anywhere, are you?

Nazuna: No worries, I’m fine! I was looking up, so I totally didn’t notice you down there~ Thanks for catching me!

But I was pretty surprised, y’know~? I was so defenseless too. For a moment I thought my head popped right off. Ahaha.

Adonis: What!? Nito-senpai’s head came off because of me…!?

I-I’m so sorry…! I’ll take responsibility and do something about it… but what should I do? If I press it back on will it stick?

Nazuna: Huh!? W-Wait you’ve got it all wrong!

That was just an exaggeration…Y’know how that kind of thing happens in anime or manga!? I’m talking about how when you get so surprised you feel like that’s gonna happen to you too! Don’t take it so seriously~

Adonis: Is that so? I’m glad it was just an exaggeration. I’m not really familiar with things like that, so I didn’t realize, I’m sorry.

Nazuna: Well, I guess you wouldn’t know if you aren’t a big fan of anime or manga~?

All my friends at college joke around like that~ So maybe it’s rubbing off on me too.

Like if a friend of mine makes a joke, I gotta do my best to play along with it.

Adonis: Hm. Is it desirable to have that kind of back-and-forth with a friend…?

Nazuna: Hmm. I dunno if it’s desirable, but it’s nice to have different kinds of conversations.

Sure there are serious ones, but sometimes it’s ok to fool around. Instead of being so serious all the time, why don’t you try joking around a little~?

You might find that to be pretty fun♪

Adonis: Is that so? I understand, I’ll try and act appropriately.

Nazuna: Ahaha. You’re still pretty serious...

Adonis: Huh?

Nazuna: By the way, why were you crouching down there, Ado-chin?

There’s a bowl and a wooden pestle and stuff scattered around here… are you maybe playing house?

Adonis: No. I’m acting as if they’re pieces of a tea set and using it to practice before a tea cere—

Ah, right. Maybe I should try and make a joke at a time like this.

That’s right. I’m playing house, except I’m acting as both the parents and the children...

No, I’d just be lying if I said that. Ugh… making jokes is difficult.

Nazuna: Ah, I’m sorry. That was my bad. I was looking for a serious answer.

Adonis: Is that so? In that case, “I’m practicing before a tea ceremony” is the serious answer.

Nazuna: Oh yeah, ‘cause you’re in the circle “Kaori”, aren’t you? But isn’t it dangerous to practice in a place like this?

Adonis: Ah. That was certainly careless of me, I’m sorry. There are textbooks I can use here, and I thought I wouldn’t get in the way of others.

Oh? Is this your book, Nito-senpai? You dropped it.

Nazuna: Ah! I dropped it when I stumbled just now. Thanks for picking it up.

I guess it’s the library’s book, not mine. I'm having a hard time finding a book that will be a good reference for my report.

Adonis: Is that right. I caused some trouble for you, so if it’s alright with you, I’ll help you look for books.

Nazuna: Huh? It’s fine, you don’t have to worry about that! It’s also my fault for being careless.

Adonis: But that won’t do, I want to be kind to small and weak beings.

Nazuna: Hmph! You’re callin’ me small and weak? I’m your senpai y’know!? I may be short but—— Ah...

Actually… Ado-chin, could you help me out?

Adonis: Ah, of course. Did something suddenly come up?

Nazuna: U-Um... I-It’s the top shelf of the bookcase, I can’t reach...

!! CONTENT WARNINGS: mentions of war !!

Location: Starmony Dorm (Makoto, Adonis, Chiaki’s room)

Makoto: Hmm…? I guess the wise choice would be to go to the battlefront and protect the village...?

Adonis: What movie are you watching, Yuuki?

Makoto: Ah, Otogari-kun, welcome back~ Good job on your work today!

This isn’t a movie; it’s a game that came out recently. I have a backlog of games to catch up on because of work, and I finally have time to play them.

Adonis: A game? I see, so games these days have very beautiful graphics. I thought it was a movie.

Makoto: Fufu, I know right~ Cutscenes really look like live action movies, and recently there have been a lot of open world games. I think these video games can hold their own against movies.

I kinda like old retro games more though. It really feels like I’m gaming~ The pixels and low polygon count are pretty nice.

Adonis: Umm. Open… world? Pixels? By polygon, do you mean the many-sided shape?

Hmm, this is complicated. I don’t quite understand, but you seem to be speaking about game terminology.

Oh? By the way Yuuki, there’s a warrior with a sword at the ready slowly approaching you, is that alright?

Makoto: Uwah!? Oh no—!! Thanks. I totally took my eyes off the screen.

Adonis: You parried his attack and drove your sword into him. An appropriate response to the situation.

Countering is an effective tactic in a battle. It’s particularly effective against beasts with large weak spots.

Makoto: Yeah, counters are a basic strategy even in a game like this. Though, I’ve never done battle with any beasts in real life~ Or should I say, I don’t want to battle any. They would totally destroy me.

Adonis: Is that right? If you used your quick wit and mimicked your character’s movements, I think it would be easy. You’re giving up too soon… give it your all Yuuki.

Makoto: No no, you can’t be serious!? I don’t stand a chance! You’re overestimating wimpy little gamers!

Adonis: I see. So it’s like that, how difficult.

Ah, I’ve just gone and started a long conversation. I’m sorry for interrupting your game, Yuuki.

Makoto: Oh, it’s fine! Or rather, having an audience fires me up. If you’re having fun watching, you’re totally welcome to stay, Otogari-kun♪

Adonis: Is that so? I’m glad, then I’ll stay and watch a bit longer.

These characters are samurai, aren’t they? I’ve seen this outfit in Japanese history textbooks before. It looks like something Kanzaki would like.

Makoto: Yep yep. It’s a story about samurai protecting their country from the invading foreign army.

The main character is hovering between life and death due to the war, and he’ll use any means necessary to take his home back from the invaders.

Adonis: Throwing yourself into the fray of battle to protect your country’s people… That is living as a soldier, not a warrior, how heart-breaking.

In days gone by and days to come, war only gives birth to sorrow…

Makoto: Huh!? Why’d it get serious all of a sudden!? It’s just a game, y’know?

A-ah… right. There’s conflict in your country…

Adonis: Yes, even now my country is covered in the scars of war. It will certainly take time to heal.

Makoto: Mmhm, I don’t like sad things like that either. Wars are never a good thing.

But this is just a game, so it’s alright. Besides, this character I’m controlling is strong~

He’s one of the good guys. I actually feel pretty sorry for the enemies he’s taking out.

The main character is all alone, but he’s super strong and can hold his own against the opposing army— He’s really the epitome of an OP character!¹

Adonis: OP…? He made some kind of post online?

Makoto: Uwah, no way! That’s pretty unexpected coming from you…!?

Otogari-kun knows net slang like that, huh…

Adonis: Ah... I heard the phrase used in passing, and then I asked Oogami and he taught me about it. Did I understand you correctly?

Makoto: Ahaha, sorry, I wasn’t talking about OP like that.

I mean he sounds a little overpowered, he’s strong enough that he could fight off thousands of enemies all on his own.

Adonis: That’s amazing, I’m a bit jealous. I’d like to become someone like that so I can protect the weak.

Makoto: You’re going to become even stronger…? You already look like you’d be a strong enough soldier to me. Like, it wouldn’t even be weird if you were some video game protagonist.

Adonis: Not at all, I’m still weak. I’m no match for my sisters.

Makoto: Umm… I’ve been wondering for a while, but what’s your family like?

Huh? We were talking so much that I didn’t even notice, but I’ve totally annihilated all of the enemy soldiers.

Oh— here’s the boss fight!

Adonis: Hmm, this one looks bigger and stronger than all of the others. His armor is also more intricate than everyone else’s.

Makoto: Yup~ because he’s the boss. But he’s a piece of cake~♪

Oho~ I’ll just guard… and then counter! Spin around aaand— cut him in half! And it’s over!

Yes! Now I’ve beaten this level!

Adonis: Ohh, that took no time at all. You’re amazing, Yuuki.

Makoto: Hehe, well that was only the first boss♪ The enemies will only get stronger from here on in.

Adonis: That sounds like fun. So gaming is one of your hobbies?

Makoto: Hmm? I suppose so… fighting games are my favorite, but I like all games, so I guess you could call it a hobby.

Adonis: That’s nice. I wish I also had a hobby that was easy to explain to others.

I always have trouble when an interviewer asks me about my hobbies. I like to watch small living things, so I answer with that but…

I get stuck if the interviewer asks me to go into more detail.

Makoto: Ahh, I think I get what you mean.

I was the same way until I realized that gaming was my hobby.

I have a lot of things I enjoy doing, but it’s difficult to know if I should call it a hobby. Like, what’s the difference between a hobby or a special skill?

But Otogari-kun, you’ve studied all kinds of things about Japan, right? Has anything come up during that study that could be a hobby?

Adonis: Not really… that was more study than something I would call a hobby.

Makoto: Is that right? Hmm, maybe…

I got it! What about Japanese tea ceremonies²? Otogari-kun, you’re in a circle for that, aren’t you?

Tea ceremony would be an amazing hobby. I’m Japanese, but even I’m not able to do something like that.

Adonis: Japanese tea ceremony? I’m hoping to practice that, but right now our circle “Kaori” isn’t active. Everyone’s schedules aren’t lining up.

Kanzaki made me tea once before; it was delicious. I probably wouldn’t be able to make a flavorful cup of tea like his…

So I would like to practice, but how could I begin if there is no one to try my tea?

Makoto: So that’s how it is… I guess it’s the same with lessons and gaming. Getting an objective opinion is important.

Adonis: It appears so. After all, the true flavor of tea can only be tasted when it’s served to someone else.

Makoto: Hmm, then how about you make me some tea, Otogari-kun?

Adonis: Really? Is that alright? I won’t be troubling you?

Makoto: It’s no problem at all! Besides, I also want to drink some tea♪

Adonis: Thanks Yuuki, I definitely want you to try my tea.

Makoto: Ah, but maybe I’m more of the one troubling you? I don’t know the proper manners or anything, so I might make some mistakes. Is that alright?

Adonis: Of course. There is no need to think so hard about it.

The tea ceremony is all about hospitality. Nothing would make me happier than making tea for a friend.

¹ The original dialog is Adonis misunderstanding 一騎当千(a mighty warrior) for a different 4 kanji compound with the same pronunciation. It's been localized to keep the original feel of the text.

² Japanese tea ceremonies are a ceremonial way of preparing and drinking green tea.

Rhythm Link Birthday Party / Adonis & Rei

Location: Rhythm Link Office (Birthday)

Adonis: Sakuma-senpai, I brought you some tomato juice.

Rei: Thank you, Adonis-kun is so thoughtful ♪

However, today is Adonis-kun’s birthday. I wonder why I’m the one being taken care of.

Adonis: It’s no problem. I’m happy that you came out to my party despite it being daytime, so I brought some juice for you. It’s no big deal.

Rei: Adonis-kun is truly such a good boy. A cut above the rest, my pride and joy...♪

Rhythm Link Birthday Party / Adonis & Kaoru

Location: Rhythm Link Office (Birthday)

Kaoru: Adonis-kun, the way you eat that meat makes it look super delicious~

Adonis: Ah, that’s because it is delicious... your plate is empty though, let’s go get you some meat.

Kaoru: Mmn, I’m good. I’ve had about all the meat I want. There’s all kinds of food here and I’m looking forward to trying it all.

Oh, I forgot to tell you, happy birthday Adonis-kun.

Eat a lot and grow bigger♪

Adonis: I’ll get even bigger and stronger than I am now.

Rhythm Link Birthday Party / Adonis & Koga

Location: Rhythm Link Office (Birthday)

Koga: Whoa, there’s so much damn meat here. This ain’t a birthday party, it’s a meat party.

Adonis: Ah, Anzu arranged this for me. On the table over there there’s some non-meat food, but I want Oogami to have some meat.

Eat a lot of meat and grow even stronger.

Koga: Oh yeah! You’re the star today, so I’m all yours! Happy birthday Adonis.

......Hey! You’re putting a hell of a lot of meat on my plate, it just keeps piling up!

Adonis: Pff, I thought you were in my hands today Oogami?

Rhythm Link Birthday Party / Adonis & Souma

Location: Rhythm Link Office (Birthday)

Souma: Happy birthday Adonisu-dono♪ This is a present for you.

Adonis: Thank you. It’s a heavy box and green tea in a decorative container? I wonder what’s inside the box......

Oh, what’s this? Japanese sweets? They’re shaped like flowers in various colors, some are shaped like animals as well.

Souma: Mhm, it’s nerikiri*. I think nerikiri goes well with green tea, and you can enjoy it in many shapes.

Adonis: Ah, thank you Kanzaki. However eating such small living things is......

Souma: No no, these are shaped like living things but made of bean paste. I will make them again and I want you to enjoy them without worrying about the shape.

*a dessert made of sweet white bean paste and mochi. It can be dyed in many colors and molded into many shapes because of how pliable the dough is.

Rhythm Link Birthday Party / Adonis & Mitsuru

Location: Rhythm Link Office (Birthday)

Mitsuru: Ado-chan-senpai! Happy birthday~♪

Adonis: You came to wish me happy birthday? Thank you Tenma.

......Hm? What’s this sweet smell?

Mitsuru: Oh, did I give away the surprise? It’s some yummy anpan! It’s a present for Ado-chan-senpai!

Super delicious, it’s bread from my recommended bakery♪

Adonis: Is that so? If it’s Tenma’s favorite it must be very delicious. Thank you, I’ll savor it.

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