holistar: (smile)


Location: StarPro Office (Birthday)

Hiiro: Happy birthday Tatsumi-senpai.


I’m happy we can spend this day together! As friends, as unit-mates, let’s celebrate as much as we are able!


Tatsumi: Thank you very much Hiiro-san. You always convey your feelings in such a direct manner.


Let’s continue to enjoy our time together as ALKALOID.


Hiiro: Certainly! I want to have many more lives together and let everyone know more about us as a unit.


Tatsumi: Indeed. Let us pray for a prosperous future. Amen...♪






Location: StarPro Office (Birthday)

Aira: Happy birthday Tattsun-senpai♪


Tatsumi: Ah, Aira-san. Thank you for the wonderful surprise today*. I didn’t expect you all to sing such a song for me. It’s a song I’ve heard many times, however this was a fresh and delightful take on it.


Aira: Fufufu, it’s your birthday and I love you sooo much Tattsun-senpai, so I wanted to do something special! I’m super happy you enjoyed it♪


To be honest, I also prepared a present for you that’s just from me... here you go!


Tatsumi: Inside this frame is... why, it’s a photo of ALKALOID taken when we were practicing together?


Aira: Yup, I asked Anzu-san to take some photos and she took a bunch! We all have such happy smiles, huh?


Tatsumi: Yes, indeed. It makes me happy just looking at it. Thank you very much Aira-san♪


*Alkaloid sang one of Tatsumi’s solo-era songs for him





Location: StarPro Office (Birthday)

Mayoi: H-Happy birthdayyyyyyy!


Tatsumi: Thank you Mayoi-san. By the way, I apologize for surprising you when I suddenly spoke to you yesterday. 


Mayoi: N-no! Um... I, yesterday I was very happy when you told me you were looking forward to today’s party. 


B-but I was so afraid that I would spoil the surprise that everyone was preparing if I said anything…


So I escaped by running away from you... For someone like me to act so impolite, I-I’m terribly sorry...!


Tatsumi: Fufu, please don’t apologize for such a thing. You all worked very hard to surprise me, and for that I’m overjoyed




Location: StarPro Office (Birthday)

Eichi: Happy birthday Kazehaya-kun.


Tatsumi: Eichi-san, you’re quite a busy person, thank you for attending the party♪


Eichi: Fufu, don’t be so formal. I want to celebrate the birthdays of colleagues from the same agency as often as I can.


I’ve prepared some special black tea for you today. If you don’t mind, how about I brew you a pot?


Tatsumi: That sounds like a lovely idea, I would enjoy that very much.


Eichi: Fufu, I’m glad to hear that, I put a lot of thought into this gift. As the star of today’s show, and as a member of ALKALOID on your way to success, I’d like to congratulate you and wish you well in your future endeavors♪




Location: StarPro Office (Birthday)

Midori: Um... happy birthday Kazehaya-senpai.


Tatsumi: Takamine-san, thank you for coming.


Midori: Yes, you’re so kind to me in Gardenia activities, and you came to my birthday party as well, but maybe you would have preferred if someone else came instead of me…


Tatsumi: No, I’m delighted you showed up. I hope we can become good friends.


You still haven’t told me very much about those mascot characters that you adore so much.


Midori: T-Thank you. I can tell you all about a number of mascot characters, so let’s talk about them again sometime...!
holistar: (Default)

Location: Starmony Dorm 1st Floor Passage


Mayoi: (Oh no… I accidentally ended up pulling an all-nighter, and it still isn’t perfect.)


(Something like this would only make Shinobu-kyun sad. I can’t bear to take the smile from such a pure soul…!)


(I have to do something… but I’m running out of time...)


Niki: This smell… Ah yup, it’s gotta be Mayo-chan! What’s up~?♪


Mayoi: Hello Shiina-san...


Eep! W-Why are you sniffing me!?




C-Could it be that I smell terrible? I’m sorry, there’s a reason for...


Niki: Nope, you smell a li~ttle different than usual. It’s such a shame, ‘cause you always smell like you’d be sooo tasty.


Wait here for a sec, I’m gonna go get something good♪


Mayoi: A-Alright, I’ll wait...


(What could “something good” be... Perhaps something related to my smell?)


(...Speaking of that, Shiina-san says I seem like I’d be delicious, but一)


Niki: Thanks for waiting! Please use this oil and butter♪


Mayoi: Oil and butter…?


Niki: Yup! Prep work is important y’know~


Mayoi: (“Prep work” couldn’t possibly mean... he wants to eat me?!)


(If I get eaten now, I’ll end up breaking the promise I made with Shinobu-kyun. Oh no, what should I do…)


(...I’ve got it!)


I-I’m sorry. I have something I need to take care of right now...


Niki: Something to take care of?


Mayoi: Yes. It so happens that Chief has asked me to create a diorama.


I was so immersed in creating an ideal paradise for Chief and I, I forgot all about sleep and food. Even so, it still falls short of my ideals.


But compromise is unacceptable. Chief requested this of me, so I want to give him the best diorama that I can!


Though if things go on like this then I won’t finish it in time. I just can’t let Chief down!


Shiina-san, please help me create this diorama! I’ll do anything in return, I’ll treat you to breakfast or lunch or dinnerrrr!


Niki: Sure, I’ll help out. I’m super happy you’re gonna treat me, but more importantly, I can’t leave poor Mayo-chan alone as he’s getting less and less tasty♪


Mayoi: T-Thank you so much! Now, let me show you to my paradise...♪


Location: Starmony Dorm Common Room


Niki: Ooh, this is the real deal~ Everything is so detailed and realistic.


No wonder it’s taking so long to finish it.


Mayoi: Fufufu, that’s because it’s Chief and I’s paradise...♪


This smaller, separate building will be used as a ninjutsu training area. The garden has a pool for practicing water-style jutsu¹.


This small window in the main building is a little “peeping window” just for me. From here, I can watch Chief when he’s in the pool.


Niki: You’re just gonna watch? You won’t join him?


Mayoi: I-I could never. If Chief insisted then I would be happy to do so, butー Ahh…! Just watching him from a distance is enough for me.


Niki: Hmm, I think you’d have fun together, though~


Mayoi: (Is that right? Err, I feel like Shiina-san and I have different standards of what’s fun...)


(And… I don’t want to mention it, but why is he rubbing oil on my skin…?)


(Could it be that he’s seasoning me? I-Is he going to eat me after all?!)


(You can eat me, but at least let me finish this diorama first. I need to, for Shinobu-kyun…!)


T-this is my plan for the design. Shiina-san, would you please work on this part?


Niki: Yup, I’m on it~


Mayoi: (Both of my arms have been coated in oil....Hm?)


This oil smells sweet.


Niki: It smells good, right? It’s from a cosmetics set that a fan sent me. You only need to use a little bit, and it’ll make your skin super smooth.


Mayoi: A cosmetics set… Um, you mean you aren’t going to eatー


Niki: Eat this coconut oil? Even I wouldn’t try that, it’s not edible y’know~


Well, it smells so good that it makes me want to eat it, so I don’t really use it.


So I’ll give you the rest, it’s all yours! HiMERU-kun says that idols should take care of their skin.


Mayoi: I-I see. Thank you very much…


(I was a bit alarmed, but he isn’t going to eat me after all. Thank goodness...)


(But now isn’t the time to be relieved. The diorama still needs to be completed, so please hold on a little longer Shinobu-kyun…!)

 



Niki:
Now we just have to decorate the roof and it’s done…! Phew, we somehow managed to finish it~♪


Mayoi: Yes, it’s all thanks to your help.


I’m impressed by your dexterity. Have you ever made a diorama before…?


Niki: Nope, this is my first time. Maybe all my experience doing things like cutting ingredients, or making marzipan for sweets came in handy.


I always prioritize making filling meals, but it could be fun to make an elaborate looking candy house like this once in a while~


Mayoi: A house made of sweets…! I’d love to live together with Shinobu-kyun in a place like that. I’d be the witch, and Shinobu-kyun would be… fufufu.


Shinobu: Shu-tatata!² Apologies for keeping you waiting~


Oh, what a splendid diorama~ As expected of Mayoi-dono♪


Mayoi: T-Thank you. I put my heart and soul into it, since it’s for you Shinobu-kyuーChief♪


Shinobu: Mhm, this will be quite impressive even when it’s broken.


Niki: Huh, you’re gonna break it?


Shinobu: Indeed, we’re planning to use it in a Ryuseitai PV. We’re going to make a spectacle of the destruction, with explosions and such一


Mayoi-dono, why do you look so troubled?


Mayoi: I...It’s nothing, don’t worry about me. Fufu, fufufu...


(I was so caught up in the request to “create a paradise” that I completely forgot it was going to be destroyed!)


(It was my heart’s desire to help Chief, but...)


My paradise… Our utopia for just the two of us is going to be...


Niki: Nahaha… I’ll help you out again, so cheer up! Your delicious smell is getting all spoiled again~


Ah!一but first I’ll accept my reward! Food~ Food~♪


Mayoi: O-Of course. Please eat as much as you’d like...



The title "The Cook of Many Orders" is a reference to “The Restaurant of Many Orders”, a short story that follows two guest's trip to a suspicious restaurant.
The restaurant has many requests for them before dining can begin, such as "please remove your outerwear", or "please rub this cream on your body", as they are the ones on the menu.

¹
Used for getaway or infiltration, this refers to ninjas concealing themselves underwater and breathing through a hollow stick of bamboo like a snorkel.
² Shinobu is saying his ninja run SFX aloud.
holistar: (cucumber2)
English

(A) My envy can't be hidden beneath this guise of indifference
Every day is spent foolishly running in circles
(A+H) Let me flutter my ornamental wings— Ah
(A) And my spiteful antics continue

(T) Making snap judgements then regretting them just as fast
But I know in my head it's right
(T+M) My resolve will be tested although
It looks like I'll be defeated
Again today I'm
(All) Living on the edge

I'm hanging on and dancing
Crawling on my hands and knees
I rip off these wings and scream even louder
Even if I get laughed at for being so desperate
Though my heart seems like it might break
There's no way i'm calling it quits
Living on Living on Living on the edge
(T+A) Dancing dancing on the edge


Romaji

(A) mukanshin butta tokoro de kakushi kirenai senbou
kakko tsukazu ni karamawatteru mainichi de
(A+H) okazari no hane o hiratsuka sete Ah
(A) akirame waruku odokeru

(T) nandatte kimetsukete sugu ni koukaishitero
seiron nanda atama ja chanto wakatteru
(T+M) sorenari no kakugo o tamesarete wa
furiotosaresou ni
kyou mo
(All) Living on the edge

dakedo sugatte sonde odotte 
isso haitsukubatte
hane o chigitte motto sakende 
hisshi datte warawaretemo
oresouna kokoro de sore demo te nande
oriru ki mo sarasaranai
Living on Living on Living on the edge
(T+A) Odore odore on the edge

 
Kanji
 
(A) 無関心ぶったところで 隠しきれない羨望
かっこつかずに空回ってる毎日で
(A+H) お飾りの羽をひらつかせて Ah
(A) 諦め悪くおどける

(T) 何だって決めつけて すぐに後悔してろ
正論なんだ 頭じゃちゃんと分かってる
(T+M) それなりの覚悟を試されては
(T) 振り落とされそうに
今日も
(All) Living on the edge

だけど縋って そんで踊って 
いっそ這いつくばって
羽をちぎって もっと叫んで
必死だって笑われても
折れそうな心で それでもてなんで
降りる気もサラサラない
Living on Living on Living on the edge
(T+A) 踊れ踊れ on the edge
holistar: (Default)


Location: Hanging Garden


〈A few hours later, in the evening〉


Mayoi: Fufu. Our break has ended, so shall we wrap up today’s lesson here?


Tatsumi: Indeed, today it feels like just a test drive, as if we’re just taking the car out for a spin… Everyone did a great job today♪


Mayoi: Eek!? Tatsumi-san… recently driving-related metaphors have been cropping up in your speech a lot, but you couldn’t possibly mean…?


Tatsumi: So you’ve noticed? My life has become more stable as of late, so I’m considering purchasing my own carwith my parents’ permission, of course.


For that reason, I’ve only had cars on my mind recently.


Mayoi: Eeeek! Scaryscaryscary cars are so scary!?¹ 


Tatsumi: Fufu. What’s the matter with you Mayoi-san, is it really so frightening...♪?


Hiiro: Phew, I worked up a good sweat! Great work everyone! Aira, it isn’t good for your muscles to sit down directly after a strenuous workout.


Aira: Shut up, fitness nerd. Huff huff... Tattsun-senpai called this a test drive? Are you kidding? I’m totally exhausted already.


Mayoi: Fufu. Aira-san’s body is still a work in progress. Of course, that’s also very adorable... ♪


Hiiro: If you’re working on your body then protein is a must! I’ve been exercising so much that I’ve become quite hungry. It’s about time for dinner, so how about we all get food together?


Tatsumi: Shall we? It’s been quite difficult to sit around the dinner table together since we officially moved into Starmony Dormitory...


During summer break we always dined together, so now it feels a bit lonely to be apart.


Mayoi: Yes, fortunately ALKALOID is doing well and we have plenty of L$.


Though I still find myself exhibiting self-restraint... Sometimes I catch myself thinking things like “Eating out is expensive!”, even if only for a second.


Tatsumi: Fufu. It would certainly be less expensive to dine in the staff cafeteria at ES, yes?


Hiiro: Then I want to eat that thing umm, the omurice!

 

I wonder if my roommate Shiina-san remembers that I like it. Recently, he’s been making it for me without even taking my order first! “This is your go-to, right?” he says!


Aira: …………


Tatsumi: Naturally Aira-san is invited as well; would you care to go eat dinner with everyone?


Of course, if you’re exhausted from practice, please feel free to return to the dormitory instead


Aira: Huh? Oh, um, it’s totally ok! Let’s go eat! Honestly I’m feeling pretty tired, but not too tired to eat some food.


Tatsumi: Fufu. I don’t know why you’re so tired after we’ve taken a break. Please take a rest when it’s the proper time to do so. 


Even God rested on the seventh day of creation.


Aira: Ugh… I’ve never had much stamina to begin with, and lately I haven’t been getting enough sleep due to this ketchup guy!


Hiiro: Fufu. I feel like I’m the only one being blamed for this, but I think you’re also an undeniable ‘ketchup guy’ yourself for covering me with it in the first place.


Mayoi: Then you’re the ketchup brothers.


Hiiro: Now I really have a craving for omurice!


Aira: Now you’re just making up weird characters, Mayo-senpai… Anyway, I’m sorry I worried you guys.


That’s why I want to become more competent, just enough that you guys won’t be concerned about me. On the contrary, it seems like a vicious cycle where I keep going in circles and worry you anyway. Ugh, I’m just hopeless.


Hiiro: It’s okay Aira! If you were truly hopeless, then I would perhaps be even more hopeless than you!


Aira: You’re always telling me things like that Hiro-kun… but what difference does it make if you’re more hopeless than me? We’d both be super hopeless anyway, right?


Tatsumi: Now now… let’s stop belittling ourselves. We are all equal in God’s eyes.


(However, MDM truly saved us. We’ve played numerous lives and gained support from fans...)


(Normally one would get rather carried away— therefore it’s essential to constantly check your behavior so that doesn’t happen.) 


(But in regards to Aira-san in particular, he can’t seem to break his self-deprecating habits.)


(An inferiority complex that has been deeply ingrained in your mind for many years is quite difficult to get rid of.)


(For this reason, the other day I consulted with the StarPro higher-ups— or rather, Eichi-san, one-on-one. Perhaps it would be beneficial to analyze the matters we discussed.)


(Eichi-san completely manipulated us until the MDM, so I would honestly prefer to distance myself from him for a while.)


(But he’s almost like our direct supervisor, so we can’t afford to get on his bad side and end up fired.)


(Of course, I’ll listen to everyone else’s opinions prior to making a decision.)


(As Eichi-san suggested, perhaps it would be a good idea to participate in the project by one of ES’s top producers, Anzu-san.)


(If it’s Anzu-san’s project then it will have a high success rate, and if we do a splendid job, then Aira-san will surely build some self-confidence as a result.)


(If there are problems that cannot be solved by idols alone, then it makes sense to ask agencies or producers for assistance in resolving them.)



¹ A reference to Motor Show, where Tatsumi drove with ALKALOID as his passengers. Tatsumi is a terrible driver and quite oblivious to that fact.
holistar: (smile)

!! CONTENT WARNINGS: mentions of ritual suicide !!



Location:
ES Live Stage


<Mid-September, onstage the ES Live “R2”>


Hiiro: ”Everyone, go forth!”


Tatsumi: “Hallelujah…☆”


Mayoi: “Ufufufu, have you already learned the rules of playing cards? Understand the variety of cards in your hand and use them to your advantage!”


“By the way, I’m embarrassed to say your suit of clubs is me, Ayase Mayoi!”


Tatsumi: “I am the diamond, Kazehaya Tatsumi♪”


Hiiro: “I am, of course, the spade— Amagi Hiiro!”


Aira: “......”


Tatsumi: “...!? And naturally this is the heart, the lovely Shiratori Aira-san!”


Aira: ...Oh shoot, I totally zoned out.


Tatsumi: (Whispering) It’s alright, I’ve covered for you. Let’s begin the song before the audience becomes suspicious.


Aira: (Whispering) ...U-Um, I-I’m sorry.


Tatsumi: (Whispering) Please don’t fret about it.


“With that, please enjoy ALKALOID’s debut song, ‘Tsubasa Moratorium’!”


Mayoi & Hiiro: “♪~♪~♪”


Aira: “~...♪”


 



Location:
Dressing Room

<A few hours later, immediately after the live in ALKALOID’s dressing room>


Aira: —I’m sooo sorry!


Uwaah, why the heck did I make such a careless mistake!?


We’ve been getting better and better lately, but I almost screwed up and ruined our live!


This is the greatest mistake of my life! Exposing such dishonor to the public brings disgrace to a samurai. I shall honorably commit seppuku…!


Hiiro: In that case, if you don’t have someone to properly and cleanly behead you, then you’re going to suffer for quite a long time.


Mayoi: Eek, the way of the samurai is scary! Let’s stop this conversation, Hiiro-san; Aira-san, please calm down!


Lately, just hearing such an archaic way of speaking¹ is enough to get me terribly excited on reflex!


Tatsumi: Mayoi-san, won’t you please calm down as well?


In any case, this show as a whole ended up being a success. Of course you should reflect on it, but please don’t let worry consume you.


Hiiro: That’s right, I’ve made countless small mistakes as well!


If Aira is to be criticized then I should be criticized as well, if not more. I can’t wait to be able to give a flawless performance like Mayoi-senpai and Tatsumi-senpai!


Tatsumi: Fufu. Hiiro-san, there is no need to rush. There are no shortcuts anywhere, and hard work always pays off.


Hiiro: Indeed, and I’ll amen to that!


Mayoi: Fufu. Hiiro-san, you’re so worked up right after a live. It’s cute...♪


I-I mean, u-um…Aira-san too, you don’t have to dwell on this too much, you know?


We’ve been working since MDM to make a name for ourselves by actively performing lives.


Now we’ve gained a steady following and secured a position where we no longer need to be concerned about being fired.


And that’s probably why you let your guard down. When you think to yourself that things are finally stable and you’ve adjusted well, that’s when careless mistakes tend to increase.


Rather, it could be said that it’s my mistake for not saying anything beforehand and giving you a warning in advance. I’m sorry Aira-san, I’ll wipe away all of your sweat as an apology...♪


Aira: I can do that myself. Uuhn, I’m happy that you’re comforting me, but don’t spoil me too much.


I’m mad at myself for messing up something so important; I’ve always been like this.


Tatsumi: Fufu. Humans are not almighty gods, everyone makes mistakes you know. Come to think of it, Aira-san, you probably don’t have much experience with live performances yet, do you?


You can’t help but be a bit clumsy if you’re only starting out.


Mayoi: Fufu. You know a lot about idols, so it seems like you have a wealth of experience.


However, if you think about it, you’re a newcomer who just debuted, right? Well, it’s the same for me, but...


Aira: Uu. That’s right. I’m just a huge idol otaku… My real world experience is about Hiro-kun-level, so I’m still getting used to it.


Hiiro: Aira, just now you used “Hiro-kun” as a synonym for “the lowest”, did you not? Rather than “Hiro-kun”, perhaps you meant to say something like “Zero-kun”, isn’t that amusing?


Mayoi:(has a laughing fit)


Tatsumi: Fufu. At any rate, you three are beginners and I’m returning from a hiatus; we are unable to behave the same as other shining idols in our current position.


We are the “underachievers”. However, if we work hard and don’t give up, we will wipe away the ruthless stigma that was stamped upon us.


This experience, this story, is not so fleeting that it can be ended by a single failure.


So truly, there is no need for you to look so gloomy Aira-san.


Aira: …...



¹ Aira uses "gozaru" when he says he will commit seppuku. Shinobu also speaks in this manner.
holistar: (Default)

!! CONTENT WARNINGS: stalking, perverse language !!





Location: Vocal room


Aira: ♪~♪~♪


(......Hmm~? Something still feels off. I really thought I was in tune, but... )


(I feel like it just doesn’t sound as good as it did when everyone sang together earlier today?)


(I’m gonna listen to the sample recording again.)


~♪ ~♪


……Yeah. I didn’t make a mistake. So what’s going on?


Argh, I don’t get it! I just want someone, anyone, who knows what they’re doing to stay by my side and coach me! 


(But… hiring a vocal coach costs money. And being the underachievers that we are, ALKALOID doesn’t have the funds for that.)


(I mean, what am I thinking? It would be crazy to use our precious money to get over my personal worries about something feeling off...)


(Hnn~...... I feel all mopey about this, but I guess that’s life. I suppose I’ll try and ask Tattsun-senpai for help tomorrow.)


(I really wanted to get the hang of this song before our next lesson, though.)


(I mean, Hiro-kun's a total beginner and I already have experience. It’d be so embarrassing if I learned things more slowly than he does.)


(It’s so annoying... I want to train in secret and get good so I can act like his idol senpai.)


Mmhm, I gotta do my best. Just a little more practice and— 


Uwah?!


Mayoi: ......(shiver)


Aira: Pyaaa?! There’s something here! Is it a ghost?!


Mayoi: Eek?! N-n-no, I’m not a ghost! It’s me, Aira-san! Me, me! I’m sorry for surprising you! I’m sorry for being aliveeee!


Aira: Ah, Mayo-san! You scared me. Why were you crouching in the shadows?


Mayoi: Eh...? You want to know why? Um, because I like hiding in corners…?!


Aira: Huh? When did you get in here, anyway? And how did you get in? I swear I locked the door!


Mayoi: Fu, fufufu This building has secret entrances and exits everywhere. Plus, I have the master key to almost every room! 


I can infiltrate anywhere, anytime…... Fufufufu~


Aira: What’s wrong with this building?! So doesn’t that mean that we have no privacy or anything?


Mayoi: Aah, it’s not the building’s fault, I’m the bad one! I’m the one who harbors a repulsive desire to creep around everywhere and peep on people!


Aira: Hn~ It doesn’t feel good to be peeped on. Like, at least say something when you enter a room.


You really scared me, I thought my heart was gonna stop.


Mayoi: Uuu, I’m sorry, I’m sorry! I made you uncomfortable, didn’t I?


I truly intended to leave with you none the wiser, but you were surprisingly perceptive and discovered m


—I-I mean, I was worried about you, Aira-san! I wanted to offer some advice, but I was uncertain if that would be too meddlesome, and while worrying about all of that I missed my chance to escape!


Aira: ...Um, you were worried about me?


Mayoi: Y-Yes! Isn’t that natural? What a twist of fate that we became unitmates! I tempt troubled youths and lead them astray…...


Ah, no… I teach them! Teaching is my specialty!


I’m more or less always coaching them from the shadows, so I’m thought of as one of the many mysteries of this building!


B-But it’s really because I’m just too chicken to meet anyone face to face!


Aira: Ahaha. Come to think of it, I’ve heard a rumor like that before.


Mayo-san secretly helped young idols who stayed late to practice alone by sending them letters filled with advice, right?


Mayoi: Yes! Though I ended up a failure myself, and I’m treated as an “underachiever.”


So it feels a bit like I shouldn’t have the nerve to act all high and mighty and give others advice!


But! I can’t just leave them alone. I should have known I can’t be satisfied with just watching!


From a close enough distance that I can smell the sweaty bodies of troubled youths, I want to cling to them like a shadow and tutor them very attentively…… fufufufufu


Aira: …...Yeah. That’s a little nasty, but I guess I get what you’re saying. As long as we’re alive, we’ll always be searching out human connection, after all.


Fufu. So, Mayo-san... since you’re here, how about you give me some pointers?


If I was a prodigy, this wouldn't be a problem for me...... but since I’m not, I'm totally stuck on the most basic things.


…...In the end, I just don’t have any talent, do I?


Mayoi: That face! Please make it againnnn!


Disappointed in yourself and yet waiting for someone to say, “That’s not true,” looking almost like you’re wanting to be spoiled


Oww!


Aira: …...


Mayoi: I-I’m sorry! I’m sorry I’m nasty! I’m apologizing, so please don’t throw equipment at meeeeee!


Aira: …...I’m actually worried over here, so can you not make fun of me?


Mayoi: Yes, I know! I’m just a filthy rotten pervert who delights in making fun of others’ misfortune! Go on and insult me!


Aira: I seriously don’t have time for this. Mayo-san, I’m genuinely in need of help here.


I’m trying to practice singing, but it just doesn’t sound as good as when I sang together with ALKALOID earlier today…… Why’s that?


Mayoi: Ah, I know the reason! Aira-san, please sing your part on my count! Are you ready? Un, deux, trois


♪ ~♪ ~♪


~......♪ (lifting his fingers to the beat)


Aira: ~......♪


…...Huh? What happened, I nailed it just now?


Mayoi: You did♪ ALKALOID’s songs are composed in such a way that everyone’s individual parts come together and increase the overall charm.


It’s an ensemble! The sounds of each person link together, overlap, and make us shine more brightly!


That being so! Singing it alone can’t showcase the true potential of the song!


It’s possible for one person to sing everyone’s parts from beginning to end but that one person alone can’t bring out the song’s true power!


Aira: Huh, so that’s it……


I thought that maybe it was my own fault that I wasn’t able to get it right. But it wasn’t meant to be sung by one person in the first place anyway, huh?


Mayoi: Yes! I’ve always been watching over you and listening to you sing, so I know there’s absolutely nothing wrong with you!


Please be more confident! Although, your disheartened face is very cute too……☆


Aira: …...Thanks. Anyway, you should have just told me that from the start! Why were you just watching? I wasted so much time worrying about that.


Mayoi: I’m sorry! But to me, the figure of such a distressed youth is the ultimate treat….. I mean, it’s not a treat! Not at all!


Umm, anyway, this sort of thing is meaningless unless you realize it yourself.


This time I was right, but I didn’t know if my intuition had hit the mark or not…...


I felt uneasy about approaching you arrogantly with a, “Let me show you how it’s done!”


Aira: Nn~ But you’ve gotta stop hesitating so much. Next time just give me your advice, Mayo-san.


Your advice may or may not be correct, but it doesn’t do any good to just silently watch, right?


Actually, since we’re unitmates now, I want us to support each other.


Well…… Compared to everyone else I have the least talent, so I think that it’ll just end up with me getting spoiled by the senpai.


That’s okay, right? Mayo-san, you like getting to spoil people, don’t you?


Mayoi: Y-Yess! I love it! Act even more spoiled! Cling to me and whine, “Sensei~” !


Aira: No way~

holistar: (smile)

Location: Dormitory Library


Tomoya: There’s probably nobody here right now… ah.


Tatsumi: Oh? If it isn’t Tomoya-san.


It’s unusual to run into you in a place like this, are you also here to do some reading?


Tomoya: No, I’m… um....


Tatsumi: Is something wrong?


Tomoya: I don’t think it’s very good to use the library like this, but…...I actually came here to take a nap. I’ve had a little trouble sleeping lately.


Tatsumi: I see. It’s always quiet here, which makes it quite an ideal place to sleep, doesn’t it?


However, if you have the option to, wouldn’t it be better to sleep in your room? Surely you could have a more restful sleep in a bed.


Tomoya: Well...


Tatsumi: Hmm…… It’s more complicated than that, isn’t it? We can discuss it if you’d like.


Tomoya: Huh? You don’t mind listening to my problems?


Tatsumi: Of course not. I used to listen to the worries of those who visited my parents’ church.


Perhaps it was God’s guidance that brought me here to do some reading so I could meet you.


It’s not very comfortable to stand and talk, so please take a seat over there. I’ll prepare us some beverages.


Tomoya: Oh, I’ll help!


Tatsumi: Please don’t trouble yourself, I can take care of this alone.


Tomoya: Is that so? I’m sorry.


Tatsumi: Fufu, please don’t apologize. I do this because I enjoy it.


……Thank you for waiting, please drink some of this.


Tomoya: Coffee?


Tatsumi: Yes, the caffeine in coffee sets in about thirty minutes after drinking it.


It’s said that if you drink it right before you take a nap, you’ll wake up feeling refreshed.


Tomoya: Is that so…... Thank you, I’ll drink some.


…...Mmn, it’s delicious.


Tatsumi: I’m glad. Now, won’t you tell me what’s troubling you?


Tomoya: Yes. I mentioned it earlier, but lately I’m not getting enough sleep. I feel really stressed, but also…


There are times when I’m alone in the room, but I feel like I’m being watched.


Tatsumi: Being watched?


Tomoya: That’s right. Because of that, my stress is only getting worse and I’m becoming seriously sleep deprived.


I’ve been trying to think about what could be the cause, but I have no idea. Maybe there’s a ghost in my room…...


Tatsumi: Fufu. Goodness, no. I haven’t heard any news regarding sightings of suspicious people either. I’m positive that it’s only your imagination.


Tomoya: Ahaha, of course.


I still don’t know the cause, but I’m glad I spoke to you, Kazehaya-senpai. I feel a little more at ease.


Tatsumi: I’m glad I was able to help you. Coffee also has a relaxing effect, so you should be able to sleep well.


Tomoya: That would be nice…… Since you’ve helped me, I’ll try going to sleep in my room.


Goodnight, Kazehaya-senpai.


Tatsumi: I hope you have pleasant dreams.


(Somehow this reminds me of the confession room at my parents' church. Despite the name, that room was used as a place to consult with a priest, rather than somewhere to repent for sins.


I pray that Tomoya-san can be more at peace after our talk...... Amen.)


Mayoi: Um…… excuse me. Do you have a moment…...?


Tatsumi: Ah, Mayoi-san. Do you need me for something?


Mayoi: “Need” is a little… I’m――I have something I want to talk to you about…… is that alright?


Tatsumi: Of course, what is it?


Mayoi: It’s… it’s actually about my room.


Maybe it’s because I got so used to living with everyone in ALKALOID, but now that I’m in a different room I’m feeling uneasy again.


I’ve been trying to avoid bothering my roommate as much as possible, and I spend my time in the room being perfectly silent…...


But my roommate has barely been sleeping. He looks tired in the afternoon because of it, and I’m getting worried.


Tatsumi: He’s barely sleeping……?


Mayoi: Y-Yes. It seems like it got somewhat resolved a little while ago, but…...


I want to help him somehow, but I don’t know what I could possibly do. I can only watch over him, b-but doing that is……Uwah. I’m truly such a stupid and insignificant creature…...


Tatsumi: (If I remember correctly, Mayoi-san’s roommate is…… I see, now I understand why Tomoya-san felt as if he were being watched.)


By “resolved a little while ago,” do you mean that you were perhaps listening to our earlier conversation?


Mayoi: Y-Yes. I was hoping to consult with Tatsumi-san about this, but Mashiro-san was already there. I was lamenting to myself and I ended up listening in on your conversation..…. I’m sorry…...

I’m aware that Mashiro-san is stressed, and I made my presence unnoticed so he could hopefully get some rest. At any rate I found myself worried, and I couldn't help but quietly stare at him.....


It seems like I made him even more stressed out…...


I think I’ll return to the darkness so that I’m not even more of a bother. If I’m not here, then Mashiro-san will be able to have some peace of mind.


Tatsumi: That won’t be necessary. How about telling Tomoya-san what you just told me?


Mayoi: T-Tell him? Won’t he be afraid…...?


Tatsumi: Doesn’t the fact that you were always watching over him show that you were thinking of him? Tomoya-san doesn’t seem like the type of person to dismiss that thoughtfulness.


Besides, especially since you two share the same room, why don’t you use this as an opportunity to interact with him?


You hid yourself so well that Tomoya-san was under the impression he was alone. If you reveal yourself to him, his discomfort will vanish and his sleep will be bound to improve.


It seems like that isn’t his only cause for stress. If it’s alright with you, how about next time I speak with both of you? The three of us can come up with a plan together.


Mayoi: Y-You’re right. I learned about the importance of interacting with others… the kindness within human beings from ALKALOID…...


It’s a bit scary, but I’ll gather up all my courage and I think I’ll confess.


I’m glad I spoke to you…… Thank you for listening to my concerns, Tatsumi-san.


I have to thank you somehow…… Umm. Ah, but I can’t think of how…...


Tatsumi: I haven’t done anything to warrant thanks.


But, in any case, would you like to have some coffee with me in the common area?


The weather is nice too, how about a leisurely stroll in the courtyard together? We can have a relaxing discussion together, just the two of us.

holistar: (Default)

Location: ES Exterior (Sunset)


Shinobu: Uwaah! I’m late, I’m late, I’m laaate!


(Uu, even though today all five members of the Ryuseitai from last year are assembled… this is the biggest mistake of my life!)


(Even though today was supposed to be a delightful day where we could say, “The five of us are ‘Ryuseitai’” together again!)


(Today in particular, there was so much to be done around school, and I didn’t quite finish the tasks that Student Council President Isara-dono assigned me.)


(I also found a pregnant woman crouched on the side of the road — )


(I was so busy! But I couldn’t ignore any of them, I would resent myself if I didn’t try to get everything done.)


(No! I’m not late yet — I won’t give up, I still have hope! I’ll dash with all my power so I can get there even a little bit sooner...…!)


Mayoi: S-Shi-Shi-Shi-Shinobu-kyun!


Shinobu: Uwah!? Eh, what is this “-kyun”?


Mayoi: S-S-Sorry! I was so surprised that I fumbled my words, I definitely don’t call you “Shinobu-kyun” in my head…!


Shinobu: I-Is that so? I’ve already said this before, but you should call me ‘Chief’!


Ehe~ I’m the head of the Ninja Association after all~


Mayoi: Ah…? You’re only the head of a group of two, but the self-important Shinobu-kyu... Chief is sooo adorable☆


Haa...haa.... Ah, I’m sorry, you’re in a hurry but I stopped you to talk! I’m sorry for being alive!


Shinobu: Eh? Think nothing of it, is something wrong? I’m hurrying somewhere for work right now, but…?


Mayoi: That’s right, you’re going to the recording booth for an interview with the former Ryuseitai members, aren’t you? I already know about it, I’m aware of most things that go on in this building!


Shinobu: Yes, that’s very ninja-like of you! Your information gathering skills are top-notch, Mayoi-dono. I have high hopes for you as a member of the Ninja Association


Mayoi: Thank youuuuu! I’ll give it my all; I want to keep admiring my cute chief from as close as possible!


Shinobu: Uh… huh? That aside, I would appreciate it if you could stop saying “former Ryuseitai”.


We’ve only changed the leadership, nothing else.


Our diehard fans call us “Morisawa Red Generation” and “Nagumo Red Generation”. There’s also “Ryuseitai-M” and “Ryuseitai-N”, each taking the first letter of the leader’s last name.


Mayoi: “M” and “N” sound so similar when they're said aloud that, on the contrary. those names may actually be harder to understand…


In any case, aren’t you in a rush? I know of a shortcut, so please come this way!


Let me show you the fastest way to the recording booth!


Shinobu: Oh, that would be a big help! Mayoi-dono is truly an excellent ninja! Your chief praises you~♪


Mayoi: Uwahh, your words of thanks! Your dazzling smile! I can live off of those alone... haa... haa…!


Ah, but hurry and follow me! This isn’t the time for praise, there’s somewhere you need to be… isn’t there, Chief!?


Shinobu: Yes, it’s just as Mayoi-dono says! I’m coming~!





Location: Staff Cafeteria


Mayoi: Chief! Hurry hurry, over here, jump into my arms!


Shinobu: Oh, okay! Understood, here I come!! (Shinobu jumps at Mayoi)


Mayoi: .......☆ (Mayoi makes a content face as he catches Shinobu)


(Aah, such bliss! I want to carry Shinobu-kyun somewhere far away before his miracle-like existence is tainted by the touch of this corrupt and rotten world!)


(Agh, it’s no good! Don’t let yourself be controlled by these bad thoughts, Mayoi!)


(It’s pointless to force someone to become yours. That isn’t love, it’s merely some kind of wicked desire....!)


(I’ll cast away those thoughts! I have to take care of Chief now...!)


Shinobu: (Oooh, I don’t really get it but Mayoi-dono looks serious!)


(He’s doing something so kind for me, I’ve made such a good friend♪)


Mayoi: (...That’s probably what he’s thinking! I'd never dream of deceiving Chief or doing something bad to him!)


(I mustn’t! There are truly rotten-hearted people in this world! There are people who have succumbed to desire and become corrupt!)


(Aren’t heroes of justice and ninjas always fighting against those people?)


(So—! If that’s the case, it’s worth protecting and supporting Chief with my whole mind and body!)


Chief! Please curl yourself up. Now don’t ask why, but get inside here!


Shinobu: E-Eh? Inside? Inside of what? I thought that you would take me along a secret passage of sorts, is there something like that in the staff cafeteria...?


Mayoi: Yes! There’s a dumbwaiter in here, it’s used to transport dishes and other things like that.


It’s hardly ever used, and much of the staff don’t even know it’s here!


It’s not something that people are supposed to ride in, but Chief’s weight and height are both quite small, so it should be fine!


If you take the normal elevator it may be crowded and you’ll need to wait your turn, and it doesn’t stop close to the recording booth!


But — if you go up in the dumbwaiter, you’ll be close to your destination in the blink of an eye!


So please leave the operation of the dumbwaiter to me! Just get yourself in the fetal position, and entrust everything to me…...here we go☆


Shinobu: O-Okay! It’s scary how Mayoi-dono is strangely excited about this, but I trust you! Certainly this will be faster than if I took the elevator.


It’s a nice strategy! I’m fully prepared, so please press the switch, Mayoi-dono!


Mayoi: Yes! I’m praying that you accomplish your mission, Chief…...☆


Switch on!


Shinobu: Uwah, it started moving! I can’t move my body at all, I’m a little scared!


But you truly helped me out, thanks Mayoi-dono!


Mayoi: I should be the one saying thanks; thank you for having faith in someone like me…...☆
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