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ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ< A dream. Or perhaps Touri Himemiya’s harsh reality. >

Touri: (............)

 (I can’t breathe.)

(It hurts. It hurts. It hurts so much.)

Touri: (I can’t open my eyes… I can’t see anything)

(It’s dark and cold.)

(Cold. Cold. So cold.)

(I feel like I’ll freeze… Why is it so cold?)

(Hey, is anyone there?)

(Yuzuru! Hibiki-senpai! Eichi-sama…!)

(Is someone there? Anyone’s fine, so please–)

(It hurts. I can’t see anything. It’s cold – so cold.)

(Where am I? Why am I here…?)

(Eichi-sama! Eichi-sama! Eichi-sama!)

(You’re in such a high place. And you looked so cold there.)

(I did my best to reach my arm out.)

(But I can’t fly in the skies like the angels can…)

(I’m broken. My wings were torn off and I fell to the ground…)

(Oh, is this the sea?)

(It’s the lowest depths of the sea, where the light cannot reach.)

(So is that why it’s so cold, dark and hurts to breathe?)

Touri: *Cough, cough, cough*

Yuzuru: Young Master?

Are you alright?

Have you caught a cold? You must have pushed yourself too hard despite still recovering after you fainted during “SS”...

Touri: Uuu… *sniffle*

Yuzuru: Young Master? If you’re in a condition where you cannot respond, then I shall call an ambulance at once–

Touri: *Inhales, exhales…* Y–Yuzuru?

Yuzuru: Yes? Yuzuru is right here.

I shall always be by your side.

Touri: …I see. R–Right.

Hehe… We’re living in the dorms now but we’re still in the same room. You must be tired of this, huh.

You were this close to getting away and being free from having to take care of someone annoying.

Yuzuru: You jest. Besides, even if we were assigned to different rooms with a wall in between, I would have settled down in your room, Young Master.

It’s my job to stay beside you and to take care of you – it’s also my reason to live.

Touri: Wow~ That’s gross… and annoying ♪

Yuzuru: Hehe. Your actions and words are not matching up.

You’re holding onto my hand so tightly – I see you’re still as spoiled as ever and a handful to deal with.

Touri: Sorry. I had a nightmare.

I might have said some weird things in my sleep because of that. But I’m fine – I haven’t caught a cold.

I’ll be sure to be my usual cheerful self when I work tomorrow.

Yuzuru: Hmm… Your temperature is normal. Your temperature tends to be on the higher side like a child’s, so it can be hard to tell, though.

Touri: When did you take my temperature?

Yuzuru: I can even change you out of your clothes without you knowing.

I have full knowledge of the locations of your body’s nerves and points of sensitivity, so you would feel nothing, as if there are acupuncture needles placed throughout your entire body–

Touri: That’s so scary! Sometimes, your weird skills scare me and it’s gross!

Yuzuru: Those skills were all gained for your sake, Young Master ♪

Touri: Like I said, you’re kinda scaring me!

Yuzuru: There is no need to be afraid. I will always be on your side.

Touri: Uuu~ I know that and I appreciate it… But it’s a lot of pressure and not to mention bewildering to give up your entire life for someone else, especially when that someone is superior to you in every way. 

I’m not worthy of someone doing that for me.

Yuzuru: What are you saying? I see you’ve become anxious after having that nightmare.

It’s alright. Young Master, you are someone excellent, good-natured and worthy of being served by me.

If you have any doubts, then I shall whisper those words into your ear and repeat it one million times.

Touri: I think I’ll end up seeing a different kind of nightmare so don’t do that.

Yuzuru: I’d love to whisper my love for you, though, Young Master...

Touri: Yuzuru, are you half-asleep too or something?

Oh, it’s three o’clock in the morning. And I woke you up, huh. Sorry.

Yuzuru: No, no. It would be awful if something bad were to happen, so please feel free to let me know if you’re feeling unwell.

The time or place does not matter.

I shall repeat this over and over, but I’ll always be on your side no matter what – you are my priority.

Please don’t forget that.

Touri: Yeah… I know.

Yuzuru: Has your anxiety subsided?

Touri: More or less… Ahh, I’m getting sleepy now that I feel relieved.

Yuzuru: That is wonderful. I shall hold your hand until you fall asleep.

Touri: I’m not a baby. You also have work tomorrow, right, Yuzuru? Go to bed.

It’s fine – I’m okay.

Momo: Heyyy Yuki-san heyyy

Yuki: I’m here

Momo: Oh. here comes Yuki!!!!! 🫣🫣  what are you doing right now?

Yuki: here comes yuki

Yuki: Harvesting pea sprouts

Momo: Now that’s the best lololololol 

Momo: You’re the handsomest for doing that in the middle of the night. Well no, it’s too cute. But also still too handsome

Yuki: Who did you go drinking with today?

Momo: How did you know I was drinking!?!? I went with Gakuuu!!!

Yuki: Gaku-kun, huh. I can also tell you just finished drinking and you’re in a taxi

Momo: Whaaat!? Are you watching me from somewhere!?! Could this dandy driver actually be Yuki in disguise!?!?

Yuki: That's hilarious

Yuki: You always send me a rabbichat out of nowhere like this after drinking, pretty amusing how easy it is to tell because you're always in high spirits.

Momo: I guess my darling can see right through me…🥹

Momo: Whenever I'm drinking, I always think things like “Yuki would like this flavor" or "I'm sure Yuki would laugh a lot if I told him this story" so… 

Momo: When I'm having drinks without you I just really wanna chat with you afterwards...🥹

Yuki: You say such romantic things

Momo: I feel that sense of comfort you get from being back home… 

Yuki: Would you like some peaches? You've always liked them

Momo: That's right, you always remember the things I liked when I was younger...

Yuki: Here, I made plenty of stewed dishes, so take some with you. I also packed some rice crackers and candies. Don't overwork yourself.

Momo: That's how it is right? you always made me take home more food than I can eat by myself...

Momo: But you sound like Old Man Yuki right now lololololol your image of a family house is way too high!? lolol

Yuki: I just watched a TV drama about stuff like that

Yuki: Were you and Gaku-kun shooting for "La’Stiara" at the same time?

Momo: No, we just happened to bump into each other at the studio after the shoot! 

Momo: Gaku didn't have any plans after that, so I invited him for a drink 

Momo: He said “I'm so happy to go drinking with you for the first time in a while, Momo-san!" he looked so happyy~~

Yuki: How cute

Momo: Isn’t hee~~!! 😳 I almost gave him the gem I had on me 😳

Yuki: That's funny. Though Gaku-kun doesn't seem that interested in jewelry

Momo: that’s right lolol but he has a dignified face so I’m looking forward to seeing the gem + Gaku combo picture released to the public 🥺

Momo: By the way Yuki! We were talking about instant tempura soba. Do you add the tempura before or after you pour the hot water!?!?

Yuki: Now that sounds like a drinking party question

Momo: We were talking about buying tempura soba from the convenience store as a late-night snack and it somehow turned into a conversation topic lol

Yuki: Momo, you put it in first then add the hot water, right?

Momo: Yeah!! I ate it that way first because I thought I’d get a bigger portion that way but I grew to love it 🥹 It soaks up all the flavor and it's delicious!!!

Yuki: Yeah, I get it. The juiciness is delicious

Momo: Right!?!? As expected of you, Darling!

Yuki: What about Gaku-kun?

Momo: "I like to taste both the crispy tempura and the smooth texture of soba, so I add it afterward."

Yuki: I get it. Enjoying different textures is important

Momo: Huh!!!! But you just said you understood my way! Are you a post-water tempura person? 🥹

Yuki: I eat them separately.

Momo: lololololol a surprise third option!!!!

Yuki: I thought it might be interesting.

Momo: Yuki, you're always making conversations more lively during drinking parties, you’re so handsome,,,!!!!!!!

Yuki: I know

Momo:

Momo: Can I take you to this place I took Gaku to next time? It's pretty lively though

Yuki: Of course. Was it a good place?

Momo: Actually it was opened by the manager of an izakaya I used to work at back in the day!!!

Momo: Do you remember it? The place with the really delicious rolled omelets!

Yuki: Isn’t that the manager who used to pack you meal boxes to take home?

Momo: Yes, yes!! Isn't that a huge coincidence!!! He even recognized me! 

Momo:  He said he buys our CDs every time

Yuki: I remember him. He used to hand out flyers for our concerts to the customers at the izakaya.

Yuki: He was a really nice guy. Now that I'm looking back, we were really blessed with the people around us.

Momo: I really think so too. And because of that I wanted to chat with you even more, Yuki!

Yuki: Let's take a bunch of our juniors there to repay the favor. I'm sure he'll be happy to see how successful of a senior you've become.

Momo: Yeah...! If I told my past self that I'm doing I'd become the Absolute Kings with you he'd be super surprised.

Yuki: If I told my past self that I learned to appreciate people and the environment surrounding me right now he'd be surprised too.

Momo: But Yuki, you've always been super, super kind, you know!? you wouldn't have accepted my unreasonable request otherwise

Yuki: Momo

Yuki: Let's talk about this in detail tomorrow. We've been reminiscing about old times a lot lately, but it feels like a waste to only rabbichat about them

Momo: Yuki...

Yuki: And

Yuki: sleepy

Momo: lololol you must be sleepy right!!! Thanks for chatting with me 😆😆

Momo: See you tomorrow, Yuki!!

Yuki:

Esu Sagiri

Q1. In one word, how would you describe your personality? A1. "Resilient!" perhaps? No matter the adversity, I keep moving straight towards my goal! A skill acquired from my adventures around the world, maybe? Q2. What’s something you often say? A2. Definitely has to be "The adventure begins", isn't that riiiiight! I gotta say it else the adventure won’t begin! ☆ Q3. Tell me your favorite motto! A3. My favorite motto is “There’s no time like the present”! You feel way more alive when you actually do the thing rather than think, right!? Yeah, I’m sure of it! Q4. What's your latest craze? A4. Lately, I’ve been super into making my own mixes of drinks at the drink bar to make new exciting flavors!!! Well, it fails more often than not, though! Q5. What was your first impression of Nice? A5. Ah~, that he has somewhat of a dazzling aura, like an idol? Something like that? Maybe? But well, when I talked to him, I feel like he was much more like a normal person than I thought! Q6. What do you keep in mind when choosing personal clothing? A6. Ease of movement comes first! I keep up on social media to see the latest trends too, but I’d like to ask everyone to see what kind of clothes you think look good on me! Tell me what you think! Q7. How would you like to spend long vacations (like summer vacation)? A7. Ah~, well, I was kinda on a vacation for a very long time already? But, I wanna go on BIG adventures like sailing a grand voyage on a yacht, conquering the five continents, or exploring the depths of the ocean in a submarine! Q8. What are you enthusiastic about for 4piece? A8. 4piece begins at last! I don’t have a clue what will happen in the slightest, but I, the symbol of energy Sagiri Esu, will do my very best! I hope for your support I am a man able to show his true spirit when the time calls for it…! Q9. Any message for our readers? A9. This was my first time being interviewed as an idol! Did you get to learn about me a little bit? Hehe, I’m looking forward to seeing you all on stage soon! I’d be happy if you could support me loads!!!

Ibuki Taki

Q1. In one word, how would you describe your personality? A1. Hmmm, I’m often told that I‘m “easygoing” and do things at my own pace”~? ‘Cause I don’t worry about the details and just do what I want~ Q2. What’s something you often say? A2. Nyahaha, nothing really comes to mind~? I feel maybe I’m often saying “I’ll sue you~” a lot, but that might just come from my American upbringing~? Q3. Tell me your favorite motto! A3. “Tomorrow will take care of itself”~.[1] Rather than worrying about the future, I let what happens happen and deal with things as they come~♪ Q4. What's your latest craze? A4. I’ve started studying composition lately~. I started out with making a simple song that I can sing while playing the guitar, and I’d like to be able to show it off it somewhere eventually~♪ Q5. What was your first impression of Nice? A5. When he first came up to me, I thought he was someone suspicious and nearly fought him off~. Nyahahaha, well, he’s a lively and bright person~? Q6. What do you keep in mind when choosing personal clothing? A6. Hmm… Well I choose based off of intuition~? I’m not all that interested in fashion, so honestly, I don’t really care ‘bout what I wear~, yeah~? Q7. How would you like to spend long vacations (like summer vacation)? A7. I’d like to spend my time taking it slow and easy, wandering around town, relaxing by the seaside, and such~♪ Soak up some sunlight, enjoy a nice steak... Nyahaha, now I feel like taking some time off~! Q8. What are you enthusiastic about for 4piece? A8. Well, 4piece is an audition shrouded in mystery~? I was invited all the way here from America, though, so now that I’m here, I’m gonna make sure to leave my claw marks in the soil~! Don’t underestimate my ability, m’kay~? Q9. Any message for our readers? A9. My name is Taki Ibuki! Born in Okinawa, raised in America~♪ I’ll prove you my worth, so keep your eyes on me, okay~! Nyahaha, if you support me, something good might happen, you know~?

Kanna Natsu

Q1. In one word, how would you describe your personality? A1. Hmm, perhaps it would be “bother-free”.[2] I can typically resolve things if I use my head, but it gets bothersome to spend effort on things of negligible importance. Q2. What’s something you often say? A2. “What a bother”. —Ahh, I’m not saying that this is a bothersome question to answer, just that it is likely something I often say. Q3. Tell me your favorite motto! A3. “Be self-reliant”… Maybe. It is troublesome to rely on others. I wish to think for myself and act accordingly to my own beliefs. Q4. What's your latest craze? A4.  There’s been a craze for developing new community tools recently. Set phrases like “So true” and “You know it”... They are fixed phrases anyone can use to communicate with each other. Q5. What was your first impression of Nice? A5. In one word, it would be “flashy”, perhaps. I was a little surprised when we first met, since he kept on talking without any consideration of me. Q6. What do you keep in mind when choosing personal clothing? A6. I select them based on functionality and fabric durability. And for the design as simple and unobtrusive as possible, so as to avoid attracting any attention. Q7. How would you like to spend long vacations (like summer vacation)? A7. I would like to immerse myself in research. I have an idea that I have been building for quite a long time, so I would like to give it a form and create a new invention. The nature of this invention is still a secret. Q8. What are you enthusiastic about for 4piece? A8. I am still an ignorant, inexperienced child. I hope that through 4piece, I will be able to thoroughly determine the path I am to take as an idol, and achieve results that exceed expectations. Q9. Any message for our readers? A9. Nice to meet you, my name is Natsu Kanna. Some of you might already know of me, but do please watch over me and see what kind of idol I will become in the future. I promise that you will not be disappointed; I am up to this challenge.

Fuyume Hanamura

Q1. In one word, how would you describe your personality? A1. Yume’s personality is difficult to express in one word. “Cute”, “devoted”, “kind”, “dedicated”… No matter how hard Yume thinks, Yume can’t pick just one…♪ Q2. What’s something you often say? A2. Yume doesn’t particularly have any catchphrases. If anyone notices Yume has a catchphrase, could you please let Yume know? Q3. Tell me your favorite motto! A3. Yume’s favorite motto is “have both the looks and the substance”… Yume wishes to become someone who not only appears outstanding, but is outstanding on the inside too. There are still things that are difficult for Yume, but Yume is doing Yume’s best♪ Q4. What's your latest craze? A4. Yume’s been super into the anime that is dominating this season. The heroine’s outfit is so cute, so Yume’s currently going around lots of craft stores so Yume can make a cosplay that recreates it perfectly. Q5. What was your first impression of Nice? A5. That he was tall and cool, but not Yume’s type. But, he’s a good person, isn’t he? Yume can introduce you to him…♪ Q6. What do you keep in mind when choosing personal clothing? A6. Yume uses trial and error to find a match for Yume’s personal style and body type. All the clothes Yume wears were made by Yume, so they are custom made and the only to exist in the world! Q7. How would you like to spend long vacations (like summer vacation)? A7. Yume would like to spend Yume’s time with Esu♪ Go to a new cafe and eat cake, or go watch a movie... Yume hasn't had much of a chance to go together with him lately, so Yume’s a little lonely. Q8. What are you enthusiastic about for 4piece? A8. Ahh, 4piece, huh… Yume decided to participate so Yume could spend more time with Esu, but Yume still doesn’t really know what the program is about. But, Yume would like to show everyone Yume’s world of dreams…♪ Q9. Any message for our readers? A9. Was everyone able to learn more about Yume now? Yume would be happy if you could take Yume to a sparkling world, like a princess in a fairy tale. Everyone’s cooperation will be needed in order to achieve that, right? Thank you, for all your support...♪

Raika Hojo

Q1. In one word, how would you describe your personality? A1. My personality? Hmm, I’m often called “innocent”! I can’t really figure out what about me is so “innocent”, though…? Q2. What’s something you often say? A2. I’m told a lot that the stuff I say, or more like, the way I speak is a lil’ strange... But, but, I’ve always thought it was normal, huh~ huuuh~...? Q3. Tell me your favorite motto! A3. What my favorite motto is? Hmmm, I’ll go with “stealin’ is bad”! ‘Cuz I was told off about it a lot at the facility, and was told to memorize it by writin’ it over on paper. Q4. What's your latest craze? A4. Eheehee, I’ve been real into “pizza-manjuu”, which I learned about recently! The fluffy dough and the gooey cheese that comes out from the bun makes me feel happy...♪ Q5. What was your first impression of Nice? A5. Hmmm, my first impression… I’m sorry, I’m a birdbrain so I don’t remember much of anythin’…! I’ll let you know if I remember anythin’, but, he’s a kind guy who will talk to me! Q6. What do you keep in mind when choosing personal clothing? A6. Anythin’ that’s easy to move in and feels good against the skin...♪ Maybe I should be more conscious of my clothes ‘cuz I’m gonna become an idol, but I dunno what I gotta do...! Q7. How would you like to spend long vacations (like summer vacation)? A7. I came from the countryside, but there’s someone I’ve always looked up to. And I’ve heard of somewhere where I could meet them. That’s where I’d like to go! Q8. What are you enthusiastic about for 4piece? A8. For someone like me who likes singin’, 4piece is a big event! The thought that this is my first step in becomin’ an idol is real exciting to me…♪ I’ll be makin’ every effort not to be outdone by the other competitors! Q9. Any message for our readers? A9. I never thought there'd be a day where I get to be interviewed like this! I’ll become an idol that will be recognized by everyone, and deliver many songs to you all! Please look forward to them…♪

Nice Arneb Thunder

Q1. In one word, how would you describe your personality? A1. “Sociable”, I’d say. I feel the dialogue you have with someone in conversation is important; it allows for the possibility to get an idea of what their personality is and what it is they keep to themselves. Q2. What’s something you often say? A2. Of course, it would have to be “Nice”! Hehe, quite a nice catchphrase, isn’t it? Q3. Tell me your favorite motto! A3. “Never lose infinite hope”.[3] No matter what hardship you may face, if you give up there, nothing will remain. I wish to cherish the “hope” that is within me. Q4. What's your latest craze? A4. Hm, lately, or rather for the past couple years, my craze has been rice curry! A balance of spices, with a little secret ingredient… Just a little ingenuity reveals the chef’s thinking. Sometimes I cook it for myself, too♪ Q5. What do you expect from these five idols? A5. These are promising new faces I’ve encountered in all sorts of places! I invited them to participate in 4piece because of something nice and sparkly I saw within them, and I greatly look forward to seeing what kind of brilliance they will show us! Q6. What do you keep in mind when choosing personal clothing? A6. Oh yes, I make sure to consider time, place, and occasion to dress appropriately for work and my private life. My suit for the program? Ahh, very nice, isn’t it? I aimed to make an impact with it. Q7. How would you like to spend long vacations (like summer vacation)? A7. Unfortunately, I haven’t taken a long vacation for quite a while… I suppose it would be nice to watch a live as an ordinary fan once in a while. Do you have any recommendations for live shows to go to? Q8. What are you enthusiastic about for 4piece? A8. This unprecedented audition is being held at long last! As the chief executive, I vow to draw out the brilliance of these idols and show you a world you have never seen before! Q9. Any message for our readers? A9. Hehe, nice to meet you. This is Nice Arneb Thunder! I’m sure many of you kids are anticipating what kind of program 4piece will be! Let us follow the lives of these idols and witness their brilliance, together! I look forward to spending time with you all!

Translation Notes:

This saying in Japanese is "明日()は明日()の風()が吹()く", "tomorrow, the winds of tomorrow will blow", which includes a kanji from his first name, 維吹 (Ibuki).

The word he uses here is 面倒くさがり, which more accurately means "someone who tends to find things bothersome", but I tried to make it into a single word to fit with the question prompt.

Season: Autumn Location: Rose Garden Maze

Ibara: Welcome, Producer-dono! We are extremely honoured to be in your presence! We weren’t expecting you to arrive early – thank goodness I’ve already made the necessary preparations for your arrival!

Please do not say that! We did not wait long. Not to mention, this day was prepared just for you, Anzu-san, so your experience is our highest priority! Salute~ ☆

Eichi: My, another impeccable opening speech from Saegusa-kun. Ah, you don’t need to worry, so please, relax a little. We did not call you here to discuss work matters.

Rei: Hehehe… If you continue talking like that, perhaps it may only serve to stress the Little Miss more?

Madara: Yep yep, good kids like Anzu-san should be welcomed warmly, like how I, Mama, welcomes you home ☆

Ibara: I, for one, do not want Mr Mikejima to pass his judgment on me like this! Though, if you intend on fostering an environment where Anzu-san is free to discuss work, then I am more than happy to oblige ♪

Rei: In short, please relax. After all, the protagonist of the day is no other than the Little Miss… How about cutting to the chase, hm?

Eichi: Anzu-chan, do you know what day is it today?

Madara: That’s right, it’s a day for never-ending surprises and lively celebrations! As you can see, we are the idols’ representatives, waiting here to raise the curtain of this festival for you ☆

In the past, Anzu-san’s always buried their head in their work, uncaring of their health… but on special days like this, it’s our turn to plan a celebration just for you!

Eichi: Ahaha, Anzu-chan was able to guess that the celebratory stage has something to do with the flower field behind us. I suppose nothing really escapes your intuition as a ‘producer’, huh.

Rei: In fact, this is a hedge maze that’s been obscured by flowers, and is the ‘Special Stage’ that we’ve prepared just for you.

Ibara: There’s nothing to worry about. Even though the word ‘labyrinth’ might act as a deterrent, we’ve included quite a number of small surprises within that are meant to act as special clues — to keep you entertained and motivated, as well as a means of guiding you towards the exit!

Madara: Oh, you’re asking us if we’ll be going in with you? Of course! No matter what, we’ll always be by your side. We definitely won’t let you wander ‘round a big maze on your own, either ☆

Rei: In the past, you’ve quietly supported us from behind the scenes… but this time, we’ll stand by your side, and walk forwards with you. So you may make your way towards the labyrinth’s exit without hesitation and without fear.

Eichi: Haha, it’s somehow more exhilarating and surprising to search for and open a gift with your own two hands, is it not?

Keito: (Though there were a few hiccups, it was likely a valuable experience)

Keito: (Originally, I had intended it to be something that would help ascertain how Amagi was adjusting to society, however… I think it might be good to have practical lessons as an ongoing thing.)

Keito: (It'd be nice to visit various museums and galleries in order to gain a wide variety of knowledge.)

Keito: (In that case, I had better start researching suitable candidates for the location of our next practical learning session.)

Ibara: Oh, if it isn’t Mr. Hasumi?

Keito: Saegusa? Quite a coincidence for us to meet on the same floor.

Ibara: Indeed. Are you about to attend a meeting, Mr. Hasumi?

Ibara: You seem to be in good spirits, could it be you’ve been assigned some sort of major RhythLink project?

Keito: ‘In good spirits’ you say? You shouldn’t spout nonsense.

Ibara: Oh, was I mistaken? I deeply apologize for my error.

Keito: (.... Come to think of it, Ibara also leads a circle, ‘Ibara Lecture’.)

Keito: (I’ve vaguely heard of their activities, however…)

Ibara: … What’s the matter, Mr. Hasumi? I can sense that you’re staring me down for some reason.

Keito: Mm, sorry. I was just thinking about the circle that you’re in.

Ibara: ‘Niki’s Kitchen’ is what comes to mind when I think of the circles I belong to, however… No, you may be referring to ‘Ibara Lecture’.

Keito: Yes. Actually recently, ‘Keito Lecture’ went on a camping trip as a practical lesson, and it turned out to be quite the fruitful learning experience for us.

Ibara: Camping, you say? Well, it certainly is true that skills like setting up a tent, or starting a fire, would be better learnt through experience rather than through a class lecture.

Ibara: It’s quite important to be trained in such things so that you may act quickly when the need arises. How impressive, as expected of Mr. Hasumi!

Keito: Cut it with the sycophancy.

Keito: Instead, how about you tell me about what your main activities in ‘Ibara Lecture’ consist of?

Keito: We both happen to be a part of groups with similar names and activities. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to exchange information, don’t you think?

Ibara: That would be just fine. I have some time before my next meeting as well.

Ibara: Let’s see… I started ‘Ibara Lecture’ in order to share useful business knowledge.

Ibara: Hence why many of the lectures cover related content. Recently I held a course on team and asset management.

Keito: Hm. As per my expectations, it’s something typical of you, Saegusa. This sort of content isn’t covered in ‘Keito Lecture’.

Keito: My circle mainly covers general knowledge and exam prep. The closest thing to business would be the etiquette course.

Ibara: Isn’t that quite good? Business etiquette is a basic skill that every working adult needs, which is why it is important to learn and unwise to ignore.

Ibara: By the way, we do academics in my circle too.

Keito: Oh? That’s unexpected. Do you do exam preparations in ‘Ibara Lecture’ as well?

Ibara: It wouldn’t be good if we only focused on idol related studies and neglected our student life, would it?

Ibara: Naturally, the curriculum would change in response to the students being taught. That can be said for both ‘Ibara Lecture’ and ‘Keito Lecture’.

Ibara: After all, was it not Mr. Amagi that was responsible for the inclusion of a general knowledge course in ‘Keito Lecture’?

Keito: Yes. He lacks common sense at times. Studying is important, of course, but I figured I would have him learn the rules of everyday life.

Keito: Luckily, he’s enthusiastic about learning and able to quickly absorb what I teach, so it’s been rewarding to have him as a student.

Keito: However, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to cover something like ‘team and asset management’ to prepare for the future.

Keito: Unfortunately, I am not too familiar with the subject myself. What to do…

Ibara: …If that’s the case, why not invite a guest lecturer to teach the subject?

Keito: A guest lecturer?

Ibara: Yes. At ‘Ibara Lecture’, we invite guest lecturers over to speak at times.

Ibara: It’s best to ask an expert in the field to guide you on the subject after all. Changing instructors also prevents classes from getting stale.

Ibara: So in your case, Mr. Hasumi, said expert would be me, Ibara Saegusa. I would be thrilled to conduct a business centric class if you’d let me. ♪

Ibara: (It wouldn’t hurt to curry favor with Mr. Hasumi, the right hand man of the former student council president, and current representative of Rhythm Link’s idols.)

Ibara: What do you say? I don’t think it’d be a bad idea for the members of ‘Keito Lecture’.

Keito: True. They do say that you ought to ‘go to the mochi shop for mochi’, after all.

Ibara: I do suppose there is! Well then, let’s schedule a date for the lecture right away!

Yuzuru: What are you scheming this time?

Ibara: ……!

Keito: Fushimi? Do you have a meeting to attend as well?

Yuzuru: Thank you very much for all of your hard work, Keito-sama. The meeting I was attending just concluded, as a matter of fact.

Yuzuru: As I was about to make my way back to the office, I happened to hear a familiar voice and attempted to locate its source to ascertain what may have been occurring…

Yuzuru: Keito-sama. Even if his logic is true, and it would be prudent to invite a guest lecturer, I advise you to reconsider whether or not you should invite Ibara.

Ibara: There’s really no need to be so wary. It’s not like giving a single guest lecture is doing much of a favor, is it?

Yuzuru: I truly wonder if that is the case. After that, were you by any chance planning to continue further discussions with Keito-sama in order to gain his favor?

Keito: Fushimi, calm down a little.

Ibara: (Hmph, Yuzuru sniffing me out was a miscalculation on my end.)

Ibara: (Further propositions would likely not bear any fruit. I’ll continue this another day.)

Ibara: Whoops, looks like I’ve been running my mouth. I have another meeting to go to, so I’ll be taking my leave now.

Ibara: Mr. Hasumi, if you happen to change your mind on the guest lecturer matter, do feel free to contact me whenever.  ♪

Yuzuru: Goodness, you must never let your guard down around him.

Yuzuru: Keito-sama, please do be cautious as to not allow that man to slither into your bosom.

Keito: Thank you for your advice. However, I’m not an idiot.

Keito: I am well aware that Saegusa is an adversary I must be careful of. We also meet at the Summit after all.

Keito: Also, I never intended to invite him as a guest lecturer at all. Since this matter concerns ‘Keito Lecture’, I must be meticulous in my judgment.

Keito: It’s never too late to ask Amagi and the others what they would like to learn before inviting a guest lecturer.

Yuzuru: I see now. I fear I may have overstepped my bounds slightly.

Keito: Don’t worry about it. Your words and actions from earlier were surely a result of your own deduction of the situation.

Keito: Whatever that might be, my conversation with Saegusa was ultimately productive. I’ll take these ideas back home with me and formulate a course of action from here.

Yuzuru: Fufufu…… ♪

Keito: ……? Did I say something odd?

Yuzuru: No, I merely feel fortunate to be under the tutelage of someone like you, Keito-sama.

Keito: Hmph. Since I was the one that started this circle, I can’t be half-hearted about it. I’m simply acting naturally.

Keito: Besides, there are benefits to being in the position of a teacher. You could say that we all learn from each other

Keito: Fushimi, you too. If there’s anything you would like to learn about, do not hesitate to tell me.

Keito: I can’t say for sure that I’ll have anything to teach you, but it is my duty as an instructor to listen to the needs of my students and respond to the very best of my ability.

Translation Notes

—

Backdoor

I break in from the backdoor. I feel like a super cool outlaw from one of those movies. Avoid the countless traps, blindly shoot the enemies like bang bang bang! Feast your eyes, idiots of the world!

I am the great Oogami Koga…!

"..."

By the back door is a guy with blond hair who’s sorting the trash out, probably works here part time. Since I came in and started acting like a weird middle schooler, he looks at me, surprised.

“Hey, you–” Part-time-kun (tentative name) puts his hand out with a totally bored expression. “One thousand yen. It’s the entrance fee.”

“Oh, yeah. Sorry.”

“Next time come in from the proper entrance, ‘kay?” Part-time-kun (tentative name) doesn’t lecture me any further and exchanges my 1000 yen bill for a sleek plastic card.  If I show this at the bar, I can get a drink and stuff. I thank him. “Enjoy your night～♪”

Part-time-kun (tentative name) is side-eyeing me, and at this point in time I’m so embarrassed all I want to do is go home but I pull myself together and head inside. 

I’m in a cheap underground livehouse in the downtown area, near Yumenosaki Private Academy, the school I’m going to attend. 

My sanctuary is here.

My god is here.

***

The livehouse I've been hanging around in lately is built a little weird. The entrance to the stairs is in a back alley. At the bottom of the stairs, there’s two corridors, one leading left, the other right. There’s a lot of soundproof doors, standing one after another. The majority of these small rooms are booths, meant to be hired out by amateur bands to practise in. If you look through the window of one, it’s normally empty since nobody really uses them.

Well, these days people don’t practise by actually picking up an instrument, playin’ until their fingers hurt.  I’ve been doin’ that too lately, sittin’ at home ‘n staring blankly at my computer screen. I dunno. 

At the end of the empty corridor, there’s the employees only room, the kitchen, and the back entrance which I found by accident when I was trespassing. 

I’ve been short on cash lately because I’ve been buyin’ like, introductory books to playin’ the guitar ‘n stuff so I’ve been sneakin’ in that way ‘cos then I don’t hafta pay the entrance fee. No-one’s ever around anyway. 

“I won’t be able to come in that way next time,” I complain as I walk down the corridor in low spirits, stopping when I find the soundproof room I’m looking for. 

The biggest, most extravagant door is in the middle of the corridor. At the back, at the heart of this place— is the livehouse, or I guess you could call it a music hall. 

“♪～♪～♪”

I open the weighted door and my entire body is blasted by music. 

This is it. This electrifying feeling.  

At the back of this relatively wide space is a really nice stage, and that’s where bands that have signed up to perform do so. The entrance fee also covers one drink, but you can order more food and drink and enjoy the show at the same time. It’s your average livehouse. I dunno though. I’m underaged, so I stick to a non-alcoholic tomato juice whilst enjoying the show.

Since this place is close to Yumenosaki, a lot of the customers are scruffy-looking students. I never thought young me would come to a place like this. I’m just in ordinary clothes. This place pays attention to its customer base, so there's not a drop of alcohol or a single cloud of cigarette smoke to be seen. Only super cool music is playing. It’s echoing. 

“～...♪”

My God is in the middle of the stage, singing enthusiastically. The lyrics are in English, and I understand almost none of them. The lyrics are probably about wishing for world peace, or religious sacrilege; something complicated but meaningful. When I asked what he was singing about later, he said something like “I’m so happy because my cute little brother has recovered from his cold!”

Is he stupid? Or am I the stupid one for being so entranced by him?

But. I didn’t know that sort of thing back then, so I was genuinely moved by him.

Illuminated by the dim stage lighting, his pale corpse-like skin stood out in the shadows— him.

Crimson eyes like hellfire. 

Black hair that melts into the darkness.

From between his seductive lips that are sexier than any girls’, comes a masculine, deep voice. 

He looked simultaneously like an angel that could rescue the world and a devil that could destroy it too. Whether angel or devil, his singing voice was powerful enough to completely change the very fabric of this world.

“～...♪”

The name of the person I respect the most in this world is Sakuma Rei. 

My God.

***

I was born and raised in an unremarkable environment. 

We’re middle class. My dad’s an office worker and he earns a pretty decent wage, and my mum’s a housewife, which is rare nowadays. 

They bought a nice detached house in a nice place. Both of my parents like kids and like taking care of others, so I grew up pretty pampered. I’m aware that since I was spoiled, I grew up to be a selfish, cocky brat. I was given whatever I wanted. I didn’t know what I really wanted though since it would be handed to me before I could even think about it. When I got to an age where I didn’t need to be looked after, my parents got a dog to satisfy their overflowing need to help others (?). His name’s Leon. He’s the best dog ever. 

I fussed over him too, but not in the way my parents did. Everyday, they’d treat him like he was a baby, doting on him, probably the same way they treated me. It made me sulk a bit. 

I could tell that my parents’ interest had shifted from me to Leon. Leon isn’t bad. He was bought to be loved. He’s a pedigree, he was born for this, to be doted on. He’s a really good boy and whenever I felt sad he’d snuggle up close to me and put his face next to mine. So I wouldn’t be lonely. So I knew I wasn’t alone. 

But I felt that the amount of love I had received up until this point was steadily decreasing, and it made me anxious. 

—Alas! Miserable, spoiled Oogami Koga-kun!

But I wasn’t shameless enough of a person to say “pay attention to me instead of the dog!” Leon deserved to be loved as much as I did— I wandered around town, searching for someone other than my parents who could love me.

I was starved, yearning. I looked like a stray dog scavenging around for something to fill me up. My parents aren’t bad. Neither is Leon. I’m probably not bad either. 

I’ve already finished compulsory education. I had reached the age where I could fend for myself. So I should have. I’m sure other people are doing that. We leave the watchful eye of our parents, tackle teenagehood, and find out who we are. Find what we want to do with our lives. After countless trial and error, I found what I was looking for— Sakuma Rei. His music satisfied what my soul had been craving. 

***

The performance ends, and Sakuma Rei disappears behind the stage. 

I’ve never been on stage before, so I don’t know what it looks like back there. There’s probably a passageway that leads to a green room or something. The livehouse is weirdly dark and it’s hard to see much of anything, so it really looks like Sakuma Rei vanished like a ghost. 

The person who fills the gap in my heart, vanishes. 

So I grow anxious again and begin blindly searching for him everywhere. I make my way through the livehouse, pushing through the swathes of people who came here to see Sakuma Rei.

—Sakuma Rei, Sakuma Rei, Sakuma Rei.

My soul wants him. 

Of course, I’m not part of his family. We’re not even acquaintances, let alone friends. He’s probably never even heard of me. But I didn’t mind either way. I found him, met him, fell in love with him, and had my yearning quenched. That alone made me thankful. Sakuma Rei, without a doubt, saved me. That’s all I wanted. I was just a sheep, one of hundreds who came here. To me, he was the night sky, something I thought I could never reach. I didn’t mind just watching from afar. That’s how I really feel. If I never got to see him closeup, I’d be fine with that.

And yet. 

“What you’re drinking looks good.”

Suddenly, the tomato juice I’d ordered, which I didn’t end up liking because it was weirdly sweet, is taken from my hand by someone next to me. 

—The hell, bastard? That’s mine. When I go to look up at whoever grabbed my drink with a belligerent expression, I realise it’s Sakuma Rei. 

“If you’re not drinking it, I’ll have it. Singing’s got me workin' up a sweat.”

Naturally, my body stiffens.

That’s Sakuma Rei.

If I reach out my hand, I could touch him.

I’m so surprised by what I originally thought was something that could never happen, I have nothing clever to say and instead, like an idiot, I freeze with my mouth ajar. 

“What’s up? Oh, you’re at that age where you think indirect kisses are embarrassing, right…?” Sakuma Rei says with a somewhat apologetic expression. Then he says something absurd.

“Oopsies, sorry～…Don’t worry, I take full responsibility for stealing your first time. Mhm.”

That was the first conversation we had, and it’s not exactly something I can brag about to anyone. 

Ever since then, ever since that moment, I’ve been at the mercy of this arrogant person.

***

I step through the backdoor.

The unmotivated-looking blond employee is slacking off on his phone again today– he’s a playboy called Hakaze and is actually the manager of this place. He’s also supposedly one of my senpai from Yumenosaki. He glances up from his phone at me with a gross expression.

“Look look. I just got another girl's number. I’m typing out my first message now.”

“Shut up, I don’t know you. Don’t talk to me, playboy.”

About two years have passed since I had my first conversation with Sakuma Rei, Sakuma Rei-senpai, a conversation I’d rather not remember. 

I’ve got a bit taller and a bit stronger. 

I practised intensely so my guitar and singing skills have somewhat improved. 

Whilst I was growing, Yumenosaki had gone to the dogs.

Yumenosaki Private Academy’s an idol school steeped in a rich history and tradition. But inside, it was rotting. 

I wanted to be like Sakuma-senpai, so I followed him without thinking and took Yumenosaki’s entrance exam like an idiot. I was blinded. I didn’t know anything. Every Yumenosaki student is shit. Naturally, I noticed that since I frequented the livehouse in order to see Sakuma-senpai. 

A rotted miniature garden where those with dead eyes spend their sad youth reeking of corpses. Sakuma-senpai was weirdly energetic despite the backdrop of death, so I got it wrong. No. I think I was just an immature, stupid brat, so I didn’t notice. 

Sakuma-senpai had those same dead eyes. 

In the mountain of dead bodies, he was clinging onto life. He was the only one who didn’t want to die, he was the only one praying for something to happen.

No-one could save him. 

A bespectacled monk boy from a temple came along and evoked anger in him, trying to make him into a human— into something more than human.  The stupid, lost dog just wagged his tail and followed the hand that fed him. 

We didn’t realise that the person that was always grinning like a fool, and living what appeared to be a happy life, was actually suffering more than anyone. He desperately needed help. You can see why we didn’t notice; he looked like he was having fun.

When he stood on stage with me and Shitty Glasses as Deadmanz, he lived each day like it was his last. He looked genuinely happy—he looked like he was alive. But that was only a short-lived dream. Once he steps off stage, the spell breaks, and he turns back into a corpse.

A revolution takes place at the rotted Yumenosaki.

Sakuma-senpai was seen as a cause of evil and exterminated by those who claimed to be on the side of justice. The evil monsters had been defeated, and everyone lived happily ever after. It’s creepy when a corpse moves. Yeah, nothing will change if you don’t exterminate all the gross monsters, right?

—Fuck you, you bastards!

***

“Wan-chan, will you be singing today too?” The bored-looking playboy asks, on his phone as usual. Guess he doesn’t really want to talk to me. “You should stop because you’re dampening the mood. People think you're one of Sakuma-san’s henchmen, so people think you’re evil too and will persecute you like he was.”

“I don’t care. I… I’m.” I growl, the shallow first person pronoun Sakuma-senpai sometimes used slips from my mouth [1]. I cling onto what I’ve got left of him. “I just wanna sing with all my energy. I don’t care what the rest of you do.”

“But you’re creating problems for the livehouse. A customer pokes fun at you or Sakuma-san, you get angry, and you start a fight—I really don’t want things like that happening.”

“I won't create any problems, I’ll be on my best behaviour.”

“Will you really? But you’re like the rest of the customers— You always look like you’re going to start arguing with other Yumenosaki students. You come in from the back entrance like, everytime, to avoid any trouble, right?”

“I still pay the entrance fee.”

“Why do you go out of your way to perform here even though you’ve got to jump over so many dangerous obstacles to get here? It’s super bothersome.” Playboy's grumbling as usual. He pulls out a key and throws it to me. “Here. I’ll give you a key to a room so you can change clothes and get ready. If you swear to not cause any more trouble, you can become our new breadwinner, Wan-chan. I actually want to cheer you on,” the playboy said and laughed insincerely. 

I hate his demeanour, so I snap back. 

“Don’t call me ‘Wan-chan’.”

“Sakuma-san calls you ‘Wanko’. I call you ‘Wan’ as in, ‘number one’. Honest, honest to god.” [2] Playboy’s face goes serious for a split second and he waved his hands around like he was trying to hide his embarrassment. “You can be my number one breadwinner, like Sakuma-san.”

“Don’t hafta tell me twice.”

Just like Sakuma-senpai, I’ll become the best guy in the world. My voice alone will excite the crowd. A flirtatious glance will have women swooning. With a single look, even the strongest of men will bow down to me. In an instant, their souls are gripped, I captivate everyone. I’ll become like Sakuma Rei too. But the journey is a long one. “Let’s go. I’m singin’ tonight.”

I reach my booth, key in hand, and change into my costume. I take out my guitar, who’s as important to me as my parents and Leon are. Once I’m ready, I head to the stage. To tackle this head on.

“Shake, you fools! Imma show you what real music is!”

I sing. My guitar does too.

Just like Sakuma-senpai did.

Right now I’m blindly copying him, but I pray that one day, I’ll be able to be just like him.

I hope this song reaches him, wherever he is. 

***

Once, I was starving, yearning. But when I found Sakuma Rei and his music, my soul was satisfied. 

—Now it’s my turn. 

“Rock ‘n’ roll…!”

Come on, idiots of the world. I’ll open your eyes with my music. I’ll become your God. 

~~~~

Translation notes:

[1]  in the line above this one Koga says ‘俺...俺様は’ or ‘ore…ore sama wa’. Oresama being the first person pronoun rei sometimes used, and its very egotistical.

Rei: 『♪~♪~♪』

Kaoru: 『♪♪♪♪♪』

Koga: 『H！E！L！L！』

Adonis: 『S！I！N！G！』

Koga + Adonis: 『We are 『HELLSING』 ...☆』

Keito: I have no idea what’s going on—

HELLSING…? No matter how I look at it, that’s UNDEAD!

Rei: 『♪~♪~♪』

Kaoru: 『♪♪♪♪♪』

Keito: Oi! Listen up!

I know this isn’t a great time but I need to ask you guys something!

Adonis: —Hey. Oogami, Oogami, Hasumi-senpai is in the stage wings making a racket.

I am not sure how our senpais will react to this, so I think we should deal with him before something bad happens.

Koga: Nah, if somethin’ was gonna happen, it woulda happened by now.

Actually, I don’t want this important live t’be interrupted. Guess we’ll have t’see what he wants.

Oi, shitty glasses— Whaddya want?

Can’t you see we’re in the middle of rehearsal?

Keito: Let me make this clear first of all - I have no intention of interrupting your activities. I’m no longer the vice-president of the Student Council so I have no reason to be supervising the activities of problem children like you.

Koga: God, you fuckin’ know how t’waffle on and on. So why are you here if it’s got nothin’ t’do with us? Random person who looks good in glasses, whaddya want, hmmmm?

Keito: Well I don’t see how that’s relevant. We once donned the same costumes and participated in the same activities, and now we share an agency.

And that is precisely why I, as a representative of RhythmLink, have gone out of my way to come ask you this.

Your recent “peculiar activity” has become troublesome for the agency.

Therefore, I’d like to know what’s happening, UNDEAD.

Firstly-, what is “HELLSING”?

Koga: ...

Keito: Why are you keeping quiet, Oogami?

Can’t you explain it to me? After all, as you quite rightly said, you and I are in different units and are complete strangers who–

Adonis: Please wait a moment, Hasumi-senpai. I don’t think Oogami will be able to explain this very well.

Truthfully, we don’t really know what’s going on ourselves—

Koga: Shut it, Adonis. Yer actin’ like a parent who’s watchin’ their kid run their first errand. Stop addin’ unnecessary shit to the conversation.

Adonis: But, Hasumi-senpai will probably be able to offer useful advice—

Koga: Shut up! He fuckin’ said it himself, he ain’t got nothin’ to do with us anymore!

Now you’re actin’ like your our parents and tryna stick your nose in where it doesn’t belong! Stupid shitty glasses.

Keito: That was never my intention… I’m really– no, I mean, I’m worried about you.

I always end up imposing Oogami with heavy burdens that are my own responsibility.

Koga: Oi, don’t apologise! They told me to take it on, and you told me it was a lot anyway!

…Seriously man, don’t worry ‘bout it. HELLSING is just a different name we, UNDEAD, use on stage.

Recently, the hardcore rock image we use on stage versus the stupid silly image we use on like, variety shows is creatin’ a divert… divertent?

Adonis: A divergence?

Koga: Yeah, that! It’s creating a divergence in terms of how we present ourselves, so we thought that we could just use different names whether we’re on stage or doin’ our regular activities!

It’s like those mangas you fuckin’ love so much. They use different names dependin’ on what they’re doin’.

Keito: Umu… I suppose that’s true, as there are mangaka that operate under different pseudonyms based on if they are working on commercial materials or R-18 material.

Though generally, fans can tell from their art style that it is the same person.

Adonis: I don’t know much about manga but. Think of it as a parent company setting up subsidiaries, where each brand markets different things dependent on what activities they engage in.

Our, so to speak, immoral, radical activities will be handled by HELLSING, and our more friendly and palatable activities handled by UNDEAD.

Only what we do and the name has changed, the members remain the same. Me, Oogami, Sakuma-senpai, and Hakaze-senpai.

Keito: So what’s the point in doing all this…?

Koga: Shut uppp, there’s a ton of reasons. I get you’re a producer ‘n all but why’s it any of your business?

Keito: ...

Koga: …It’s whatever, alright?

This is what I wanted. To be honest, the fans are a little confused but everyone else is pretty happy with it.

I feel like I can actually breathe now I’m not bein’ forced t’do stupid varieties shows ‘n shit like that.

So that means it’s a good thing— all of it is.

I said it’s fine so everyone who says otherwise should shaddup!

『♪~♪~♪』

[ ☆ ]

(A dream. Or, perhaps, the harsh reality of Himemiya Tori)

Tori: (………….)

(I can't… breathe... )

(It hurts. It hurts so, so much.)

(I can't keep my eyes open… I can't see anything.)

(It's so dark and cold in here.)

(It's cold. So, so cold.)

(I'm about to freeze…. Why is it so cold?)

(Hey, is anyone there?)

(Yuzuru! Hibiki-senpai! Eichi-sama…!)

(Is anyone there? Anyone would be fine, please I…)

(It hurts. I can't see anything. And it's so, so, so cold.)

(Where even am I? Why am I in such a…?)

(Eichi-sama! Eichi-sama! Eichi-sama!)

(The place where you stand is so high, and it looks so cold…)

(I stretched my hand as far as I could and desperately tried to reach you.)

(But I'm not an angel, and I wasn't able to fly through the sky.)

(So I succumbed. My wings shattered and I crashed down.)

(Ah, is this the sea?)

(I must be at the very bottom of the deep, deep sea, where no light can reach.)

(Is that why it's so cold, so dark, and so hard to breathe?)

(Cough... cough... cough...)

Yuzuru: … Bocchama?

I-Is everything all right?

You collapsed during SS and you are still recovering, so you shouldn't overexert yourself—

Tori: Hh... hh... Ugh... gh...

Yuzuru: If you are unable to respond, then I will have no choice but to call an ambulance immediately...

Tori: Pant... Pant... Yu-Yuzuru?

Yuzuru: Yes. It is me, Yuzuru.

I am here by your side, as always.

Tori:… Yeah. Guess you are.

Hehe... Even though I came to live in the dorms, I ended up sharing a room with you, Yuzuru. So tiresome.

And here I thought I'd be able to do whatever I wanted without nosy people like you spying on me all the time.

Yuzuru: Jesting aren't we? Nevertheless, even if we were to be assigned different rooms, Bocchama, I would still choose to reside in your room.

So that I can be by your side and serve you. After all, taking care of you is my job, as well as my reason to live.

Tori: Uwaaah... Groooss... You're so annoying ♪

Yuzuru: Fufu. Your words and actions don't match at all.

Right now you're holding my hand so tightly—Bocchama, I'm always going to have my hands full looking after a spoiled child like you, aren't I?

Tori: I'm sorry. I just had a really scary dream.

I may have said some weird things in my sleep because of that. But I'm fine now—It's not like I have a cold or anything.

I'm sure that I'll be able to get back to working super hard by tomorrow.

Yuzuru: Hmm... Indeed, your temperature appears to be normal. It's occasionally hard to tell because your body temperature, like a child's, is naturally high.

Tori: When did you measure my temperature?

Yuzuru: With my talents, I have the power to change your clothing from head to toe without you noticing a thing, Bocchama.

Since I know where all your nerves and sensitive points are, I can check your body thoroughly without you feeling anything, much like an acupuncture session—

Tori: Wait, wait, that's so scary! I swear, sometimes your weird, mysterious skills are way too scary and gross!

Yuzuru: Oh, but I trained especially for you, Bocchama ♪

Tori: Yeah, and that's why you're so scary!

Yuzuru: There's no need for you to be scared, because I will always be on your side, Bocchama.

Tori: I know~ And I'm grateful but… Having someone way more talented than I am devote their entire life to me is a lot to deal with.

And I don't feel worthy enough of being treated like that.

Yuzuru: What are you saying? It seems as though the nightmare you just had has left you quite anxious.

But don't you worry. Bocchama is a good and virtuous person who is worthy of my service.

If you continue to doubt my words, I can sit at your bedside and repeat them a million times over into your ear.

Tori: I think I'll have another nightmare if you do, so please don't.

Yuzuru: I only wanted to whisper about... my love for you, Bocchama.

Tori: You're half asleep too, aren't you, Yuzuru?

Oh, no wonder—it's already 3 AM. And yet I woke you up while you were fast asleep. Sorry about that.

Yuzuru: Not at all. It would be troublesome if something were to happen to you, so please do not hesitate to rely on me if you are not feeling well.

There is no need to concern yourself with time or circumstances.

I have said so many times already, but once again: I am, now and forever, your most faithful ally and I will always put you first no matter what.

Please, don't ever forget that.

Tori: Hm…I get that too.

Yuzuru: Has your anxiety passed?

Tori: For now, yeah... Ah, now that I'm more relaxed, I'm starting to get sleepy.

Yuzuru: That's good to hear. Shall we hold hands like this until you fall asleep?

Tori: I'm not a baby. Yuzuru, you have work tomorrow as well, right? So you should hurry up and sleep too.