Kirin

Time: (On the day of the PV shooting.)

Arashi: Well? Do you think this'll work for the shooting, Anzu-chan?

Wonderful. In that case, all my hard work won't go to waste!

Mao: They must use your methods in Hell, Arashi... You're a real Spartan.

Arashi: But it's thanks to that that you'll be able to give the best proposal possible. ♪

Of course, there's still plenty of room for improvement — in fact, if I had the time, I would've pushed you muuuuch farther.

Midori: Eeh~... It’s already a lot…

Anzu-san, sorry for having caused such a ruckus because of my misunderstanding.

Mao: Yeah, I... caused a pretty big fuss too, so I'm sorry.

Oh? You didn’t mind it much? I’m glad…♪

Eh? You have so much work to do you don’t have the time to give for such worries?

Mao: Ahaha, that's so like you. Alrighty then! Go ahead and look after us idols as much as you'd like, Anzu.

Midori: Hm? It looks like the shooting will start in a bit. Then, we’ll be off.

Mao: Guess I'll get going too, then. We'll be givin' it our best shot, so don't look away from us for even a second, alright~? Producer. ♪

Eichi: Hey, won't you say my name like you always do?

Your voice is more soothing than any music I’ve ever heard, as if an angel itself had come to greet me.

Not a single person in all the world knows if the road ahead will be a happy one or not...

However, so long as you call out for me, I can live a blissful life.

Ah, truly... I truly do need you in my life to be happy.

I'm glad you feel the same.

Thank you for always being by my side.

And now, I can return that sentiment. I vow to remain at your side, until the day death sees fit to part us.

>

Keito: …Don’t expect a rose coloured marria—Ehem. Sorry. I spoke in a harsh manner by habit.

But you understand who I am, moreso, you accept me for who I am.

That kind side of you delights me.

I wish to convey my feelings more honestly, but… But with my personality, it might be a little hard.

However, it would be a bit unfair if I’d be the only one receiving this kindness.

That’s why I’ll take whatever measures are needed to properly convey these feelings.

It’s my vow to you—As we’ll be sharing the joys and sorrows of life together from now on.

Thank you for always supporting me.

To fulfill our dreams together that cannot be fulfilled alone—

Let’s take one step at a time together… I love you.

Leo: I love you, I love you, I loooooove you! I really, truly love you!

... Just kidding. ♪

I've got a world’s worth of love in my heart, but y'know what? It’s still no good. It’s not even close to the amount you deserve.

When I'm with you, I'm so happy I could burst!

... But at the same time, I’ve learned what it’s like to feel lonely too.

This pain I feel when we're apart, the yearning that joins hands with it... I never would've felt these if I hadn't met you!

But weirdly enough, I don't mind 'em at all!

You wanna know why? 'Cause because of you, of what I feel for you, the sound of "love" has only become more and more harmonious. As if I was playing with a completed piano, with every white and black key present!

That's why... no matter how many quarrels we have, or if there's ever a time that our differences might feel like burdens on our minds... Will you sing with me?

I'd wanna, because my songs are ever-flowing with my love for you.

From now until forever, l wanna pen my notes next to yours on this music sheet of life—and compose the longest love song this world has ever heard!

If it's with you... I know we can do it.

Mao: (Damn, I'd expect nothing less from our seniors! They're really amazing...

No matter how hard it is to say, I've gotta stay strong! I've gotta do my best too...!)

Since meeting you, I've found happiness around every corner...

I think if I hadn't... then I never would've noticed just how much joy there was right under my nose.

I really wish I could've said something cool, like "Just follow me!"...

... But instead, you were the one who led me. As hard as it is for me to admit that now.

That's why... That's why, I want to walk with you, hand in hand.

Side by side. Step by step. Let's go together.

That way... Even if we're apart, we'll still be connected to each other—y'know?

If we lose sight of one another, we'll always know where the other's at. So let's walk the same path together, from now until forever.

So... Um... What I mean is...

... I love you.

So please! Let's spend the rest of our lives together!

Midori: Umm… Since the day I met you and… you took my hand…

The pain and worries in my chest slowly started to fade away.

Everything around me began to bloom in colour.

I didn’t understand why it felt like things were slowly changing as the days went by… But now, I think I finally know the reason.

I liked today, more than yesterday—and tomorrow, more than today… All of that is because you provided me with “love”, little by little…

We laughed together on happy days, cried together on sad days. We worried together on hard days and held hands together on joyful days.

Through that, you slowly bestowed me with “love”…

That’s why, I was able to like myself a little, too.

I still… don’t know much about love or whatever… But, it feels right to call this feeling in my chest that.

I've always given up on everything, but for the first time in my life… I don’t want to abandon something; I don’t want to let go of you.

Umm… Could you… stay by my side like this forever?

I’m still far away from being reliable, and I’m still pretty pitiful but… I truly want to shower you with kindness.

I will always love you.

(Oh… My brother must’ve, also…)

Mao Leo Eichi and Arashi tl: Peace

Midori and Keito tl: me

JP proof: Mika Enstars

ENG proof:ryuseipuka

← previous

Mao: In the end, only Tenshouin-senpai was able to dodge confessing...

Eichi: But I only spoke the truth, you know. Now then, let's move onto current love lives. ♪ This is rather school trip-like, isn't it?

Fufu, how fun...♪ Keito, Keito, is there anyone you like?

Keito: Hmph. I won’t fall for that trick again. Since you can’t partake in this conversation, I find it quite unfair for me to answer.

Eichi: Boo, you bore. You're so cruel, depriving me of the chance to live vicariously through you all with your normal high school lives.

Leo: “Living vicariously through us”, says the idiot. You must be enjoyin' yourself sooooo much, aren'tcha?

Eichi: Did you hear that, Mao, Takamine-kun? He's throwing such horrible words at me. Aren't my classmates just the meanest?

If you feel any ounce of pity for me, won't you make me smile with stories of your own?

Midori: I’ve never felt so pressed under someone’s curiosity…

Mao: Sorry, but I'm done with dancing to your tune too~.

Besides... The fact of the matter is, I don't have anything like that going on right now anyway.

Mao: Between my work as an idol, club activities, and as a member of the Student Council... I've seriously got my hands full, y'know? Everyone here's the same way, aren't they?

Keito: Well, yeah. We might’ve graduated but… Now we have our hands full with individual jobs.

Eichi: Goodness, you're all bores. Very well, let's end our playtime here and get down to business; we've spent enough time avoiding it as-is.

Leo: Whazzut? You mean the homework Naru gave us?

Mao: Yeah, probably. I feel like if we mess up again, then Arashi'll definitely be pissed off...

Leo: Yeah~... Naru's terrifyin' when she's angry, too.

Mao: For sure. Anyway, first loves don't always end up with a marriage... I feel like a lot of 'em don’t end with confessions, either.

In fact, most of 'em just don't go anywhere at all.

Keito: True. They only end up as cute but clumsy memories. We’ll never get Narukami’s approval with those.

Leo: We've gotta get Naru to green-light ‘em! Hey hey, how come we haven’t tried singin’ yet? That'd be the easiest for me to get it done!

Mao: You know, I think that sorta proposal might just work. You could put together a song and surprise 'em.

Leo: Whoo! Alright then, get ready to sing! Gimme a sec and I'll whip up a song in a flash!

Midori: Uhh? Singing with everyone is a bit… I feel like I’ll get scolded…

So we’ll not just sing as the shuffle unit, but also for this promotion video? I don’t get it, everything’s so confusing…

Leo: That's right! Wahaha! ☆ I like it! I'll approve! ☆

Midori: Well, I don’t like it, so please don’t accept it so quickly…

Keito: …Hmm. Resolve, huh.

Mao: Huh? What about resolve?

Keito: Ah, that thing Narukami mentioned before. I think it was about having resolve.

Having the resolve to share your life with a significant other. Leaving the nest you were protected in and having the resolve to now protect your own home and family. That kind of thing.

Mao: Ah, putting it like that, that does make sense... I hadn't really thought about it that way~.

We really have been depending on our parents all this time, ever since we were kids...

It takes a lotta courage to start your own family, and to look after them the way yours did for you, huh... and there's no guarantee that you'll find happiness there, either.

Keito: Indeed. One would probably have fears and troubles about the future.

Midori: ——felt the same way…?

Mao: Huh? What's on your mind, Takamine...?

Midori: Ah, umm… I was wondering if my brother had the same thoughts…

Mao: You mean the one that's getting married soon?

Keito: Oh, is that so? That's great. Congratulations.

Eichi: Wow, really? Allow me to extend my congratulations as well.

Fufu. It sure is a strange coincidence that both of you are involved in marriage, huh?

Leo: Your big bro's gettin' married?! Congrats! And now his li'l bro's practicing to propose himself, huh? A congrats to you too!

Midori: You don't have to put us on the same level. Mine is just for work, after all.

Uhh. Thanks everyone…?

Ugh… Why do people always convey their congratulations through me when it comes to this topic? I'm not the one getting married so I don't know how to react…

Mao: Ahaha. Well, it's nice to be congratulated by everyone anyway, isn't it? Makes you feel good.

Don'tcha think so?

Midori: Yeah. I thought it was selfish of my brother to leave us and got mad at that but…

After hearing what Narukami-senpai was talking about… My brother must've put a lot of thought into it before making up his mind. Then he finally prepared his resolve to leave, maybe, right…?

Mao: Yeah~. I'm not your brother, so I can't say for sure what might've been on his mind... but I think you're right on the money, Takamine.

That makes him pretty amazing though, y'know? He's not even that much older than us... but after hearing Arashi talk, I realized just how mature your brother was to take that step.

Midori: You're… right. I might've stayed mad at my brother, otherwise… Maybe I’ve been in the wrong all this time……

Mao: Then how about this? When you see that guy again, you give him the loudest congratulations you've got — and your blessing too.

Because even if he moves off, even if he gets married... You two've got an unbreakable bond, y'know? You'll always be family.

Midori: Yeah.

Mao Leo Eichi and Arashi tl: Peace

Midori and Keito tl: me

JP proof: Mika Enstars

ENG proof:ryuseipuka

Leo: Sigh~, Naru's as picky as ever~. I swear, I thought I saw my own mom standin' behind her!

Midori: Waah… sitting on my legs made them fall asleep… I can’t stand up…

Mao: Whew... Hey, Takamine, you good? Here, lemme help you up.

Midori: T—thanks…

Up we go~o now, ahh, my legs are tingling…

Midori: Both Narukami-senpai and Anzu-san left right away. We got left behind…

Keito: Now then, Narukami said, “I’ll give you a day, so confront your own feelings before then!” but what should we even do…

Eichi: Why, we'll do exactly as instructed and deepen our bonds the way those our age normally do: by participating in girl talk.

Mao: Guh?! (Cough, cough)!

Midori: Wha-!? Isara-senpai just spit out the water he was drinking!? Are you okay…?

Mao: Urg... G-Girl talk? So, uh, you’re pretty familiar with that sort of thing, then?

Midori: Umm. That kind of conversation is not exactly something you talk about among men, though…

Eichi: Oh? You don't? I've heard it’s rather common that teenagers would spend their evenings together gossiping about such things during school trips.

Mao: Since when...? Well, no, I sorta get it. I can imagine how talk devolves into that sort of thing when everyone gets riled up at a place like a sleepover with a ton of people.

Keito: Hm. Well, hearing about each other’s stories might actually be a good method.

And talking about it out loud might help get our feelings in order, as well as turn our confused hearts into coherent thoughts.

Midori: Waaah… I don’t wanna… do that.

Eichi: Fufu. You mustn't give up now, Takamine-kun. We're far past the point of no return.

Now then, let's hear the tale of everyone's first love, shall we? The one who shall start us off... is Mao, as mandated by the former Student Council President to the current.

Mao: Huh?! M-Me first?! Please don't abuse your authority like that~...

Um... First love, huh... I don't really have an interesting story like that.

I guess... there was a girl in my kindergarten class I thought was pretty cute?

I didn't really get it back then, but I guess in hindsight that might've been my first love...

—Hold on, why do I gotta talk about this?!

Keito: Huh. I remember a thing or two like that, as well.

When I was a little kid, I used to play around the mountains at the back of the temple with another kid my age, who was the grandchild of one of our sponsors for the temple. Well, calling it my first love might be a little foolish though.

Eichi: Wow, even someone like Keito was able to experience something normal.

Keito: How incorrigible. What do you think I am?

Eichi: But I’ve never heard about that, even though I’ve known you since you were little, Keito! I had no idea you had those kinds of memories from back then.

Fufu. I’m just relieved you have memories like that, just like everyone else. So, how about you, Takamine-kun?

Midori: Weh!? Uhhh… Mine is similar to Isara-senpai’s…

When I was in kindergarden, there was a super kind teacher who’d always care for me… And I was extremely attached to them.

I’d go out of my way and create all sorts of reasons to see them and get praised, and stuff…?

Mao: Ah, that's a classic! Fallin' in love with a kind teacher... I had a friend who'd always say he was gonna marry ours, too.

Leo: Mm~, the moment we met, we clicked instantly... I wonder if that's the moment I fell in love~?

Midori: Eh? You had a first love? Tsukinaga-senpai did…?

Leo: Hmph! Of course I'd had one before! You're so rude~.

Midori: (I thought he’d be the most indifferent to love… Heck, he’s even indifferent to earthly life…)

Leo: For me... It was a day where even Hell'd be called cool. I decided to drop in to a music store, and that's where we—

Keito: Oh? Considering it’s you who’s telling the story, that’s unexpectedly quite romantic. Was it the employee working there? Or was it a customer?

Leo: Wahahaha! ☆ That's right! It was a super romantic meeting! Ah, such beauty I did behold, I couldn't stop myself from reaching out—

Mao: Whoa! You actually reached out and grabbed her?!

Leo: Yeah, so what? Got a problem with it?

Mao: Rather than just a problem, I think there's plenty of problems with it..

Leo: Anyway, listen up. The moment we touched, a clear sound rang in my ears— and that was the first time I’d ever played the C key! And that! That moment! Was the moment I fell in love with music!

Mao: What the hell! What a waste of time! And I was so invested, too...!

Leo: What d'you mean, a waste of time?! How dare you mock the memory of my first love! Grrrrr!

Keito: Haaah. In a way, that story was very much like you. The last one to go is Eichi, surely you won’t pull off something like making everyone tell theirs and refrain from telling yours?

Eichi: Perish the thought, Keito. I'll do as Narukami-kun asked of us and tell all, as well.

My own first love... is "yet to come".

Keito: You bastard… Do you plan on fleeing like that on your own?

Eichi: What else am I supposed to say? It isn't as if I had much of a mind for love while growing up, being as in and out of the hospital as I was.

Ah, but perhaps... It isn't too much of an exaggeration to say that the dreadful yearning I felt towards what anyone would call "a healthy body" would be my own version of falling in love.

Mao: Seriously?! Don't you think that's a little unfair after everything we've confessed?

Eichi: At best, you could call my younger years dull. Nonetheless, that is all I have to say. Thanks to your bittersweet reminiscences, however... I feel as if I was able to taste the very flavor of youth. ♪

Mao Leo Eichi and Arashi tl: Peace

Midori and Keito tl: me

JP proof: Mika Enstars

ENG proof:ryuseipuka

Keito: (Goodness… Who would’ve thought a “Shuffle Unit” would be assembled like this.)

(It’s no use crying over spilled milk. Now that we’re in this position, we have no

Excuse me.

Mao: God... I'm beyond embarrassed! Someone, anyone, just knock me over the head and make me forget! I wanna go back to when I didn't know anything!

I made such a fuss yesterday after misunderstanding everything... And her face! Even though she seemed a little embarrassed, she la... she laughed... Ugh, I wanna forgeeeet!

I totally blanked out after that, and before I even knew it I'd been thrown into a Shuffle Unit with everyone else, and now we're having practice today!

There's no way I can meet Anzu again after what happened yesterday! This is my own personal hell!

Eichi: Hello there, Keito.

Leo: You're late, slowpoke! How dare you enter last like you're some big shot CEO! Even I came on time for once!

Keito: I’ve arrived precisely on time for the meeting. Nevermind that, what’s going on here?

Leo: Wahaha! ☆ He's been like that ever since I got here, seems like~. I guess he's pretty embarrassed by what happened yesterday.

Keito: Well, it’s not like I can’t empathize but…

Hm? Has Takamine not arrived yet?

Midori: …I want to die. This time I really want to die, for real… Or instead, the Earth could just blow up entirely... It’s the perfect time for a secret society or a giant monster to appear…

Keito: Whoa!? So you were cowering in such a place. Don’t hide behind someone’s back and utter ominous omens. That’s bad for others’ hearts.

Haah… Isara was more than enough, and now Takamine too. You worrywarts are making a scene; neither us or Anzu are bothered by it that much. Your embarrassment just turns into needless anxiety.

Look at Tsukinaga. Even though he made the biggest fuss about it yesterday, can’t you see how he doesn’t have any shame now?

Leo: Wahaha! ☆ If you looked up "shameless" in the dictionary, you'd find me right beneath it! But it's super fun that everyone else is causing such a ruckus~!

Keito: No, you actually should have more shame. How incorrigible. Do something about your underclassmen.

Anyways. Forget about whatever happened yesterday. Throw away those useless feelings. If not, you’ll hinder today’s lesson, you know?

Eichi: Fufu. It seems they can't escape it any longer. You'd best change your mood soon, boys, because Anzu-chan's already here.

Leo: Anzu, uchuu~☆

Keito: So you’ve arrived, Anzu.

Mao: Ah! Ah, um, uh... G-Glad you got here alright, Anzu!

Midori: …Hello.

Keito: Reminds me, Anzu. Why did you call us here today? We’ve only just decided on the plan and members yesterday, haven’t we? We can’t possibly have a lesson in this situation.

Eichi: That’s right. Though I asked Tsukinaga-kun to write a new song yesterday, even a genius wouldn't have been able to create anything in that span of time.

Leo: If you asked me right now, I'd be able to come up with somethin' on the spot! Hm? No need?

Hmph! Then what makes today's practice so special, huh? What?

Are we gonna be crossing a rope bridge while being struck by volleyballs? Or are we gonna have to bust open a door, only to faceplant right into a mud pool waitin' for us on the other side?

Midori: I don’t want a wedding like that… Who would give their blessings to that…

Eichi: Mm? Ah, speaking of... In your plan, alongside a movie video, there's going to be a promotional video that we'll be doing as well, correct?

Eichi: So that's the true purpose of our practice today.

Mao: Really? So, uh, what sorta video is this gonna be?

Mao: —We're gonna propose?! Like, propose propose?!

Keito: What? There won’t be a script? No really, what? That would be quite troublesome. With a script, all we have to rely on is our ability to act, but…

Without one, what are we even going to say?

Mao: H-Hold on a sec, time out! Unscripted... I-In other words, we'll be using our own words to make up a proposal? Us?

N...No, yeah, of course we can do it. We're performers, after all... Ahaha...

Midori: Eh? Wahh… I don’t wanna… I totally suck at saying cool phrases and stuff like that…

Leo: Yeah? It's not that hard, though! It's like what I say all the time: I love everyone in the whooole wide world!

Keito: You’re supposed to say it just to your partner. That line of yours is simply humanism.

Eichi: Haha. Well, I suppose being tasked with a real proposal using your own words would stump just about anyone, wouldn't it? Though I feel rather confident that I'll be able to pull it off myself.

Eichi: Nonetheless, I understand now the reason you've brought us all together today.

Eichi: Though how exactly are we going to be practicing for that, Anzu-chan?

Eichi: Hm? You've called for a special lecturer to help us out? My, a famed instructor with your approval...

Eichi: Though I don't believe I've ever heard of someone who was particularly skilled with marriage proposals before...

Keito: Hm? Someone’s here… Wait, the lecturer you’ve mentioned is...

Arashi: That's right~! ♪ The lecturer Anzu-chan called for is none other than me, Arashi Narukami. I'll be with you every step of the way. ♪

Leo: Whoa! Naru?!

Mao Leo Eichi and Arashi tl: Peace

Midori and Keito tl: me

JP proof: Mika Enstars

ENG proof:ryuseipuka

Leo:Anzu~! Where are ya?!

Oh, there you are! Uchuu~☆

Mao: H-Hey, why don't you announce your entrance like a normal person?! Look, Anzu jumped out of her skin at you!

Leo: Ah, really? Sorry about that!

Midori: Sorry to bother you out of nowhere, Anzu-san. We couldn’t stop Tsukinaga-senpai with just the two of us…

Eh!? Well… The reason why we’re here, you ask…

…W-why were we here again, Isara-senpai?

Mao: Why're you asking me?!

Uh, well... We wanted to ask you something, Anzu, um... Ahaha, what was it again...?

Leo: Jeeeez, you guys are really beatin' around the bush. Fine, fine! Leave it to me, I'll ask her!

Hey, Anzu! You can't get married this young! Papa's forbiddin' it!

Mao: You didn't ask at all, Senpai. Rather, you just went right ahead and did the opposite!

You're surprisingly shaken too, huh...

But that's not the point! He's right, Anzu!

I mean, of course I wanna congratulate you... But honestly, don't you think we're a little too young to think of marriage? We're in high school!

Midori: Umm… Anzu-san. Are you perhaps being manipulated by your significant other? And, uhh, who even is your significant other in the first place…?

Eichi: Now, now, one at a time. Don't you think you're causing a bit of a fuss by bombarding Anzu-chan with so many questions at once?

Keito: Haah…

Leo: Huh? You guys came over, too? We're in the middle of askin' her about it directly!

Eichi: Hello, Anzu-chan. I'm sorry about the sudden rush of people.

Hm? You were just about to head my way?

Whatever for?

...Ah, the proposal. So you did end up revising it somewhat, did you? Very well, allow me to look it over once more.

...Mm. I see, I see. So you'd like to incorporate a Shuffle Unit this time?

Well, that would fulfill your desires while keeping your workload the same...

Not only that, but you've managed to keep both the project and budget in mind this time as well.

Yes, this'll do. You've kept your end of the deal, so I will as well — you have my support. I'm certain that the superiors will approve it as well.

Your hard work will be repaid in full. Congratulations ♪

Leo: Ugh... Hey, Tenshi! You can't just go and give her your blessin' all on your own! I haven't given the OK on this marriage yet!

Keito: Eichi, hurry up and explain what’s going on to them. It’s becoming unbearably noisy.

Eichi: Ah, that's right. I nearly forgot. Give me one moment.

Drumroll, please... Ta-da~♪

Leo: Nn? What'd ya take your phone out for?

Mao: Huh? There's something on the screen... Uh... "Gotcha!"...?

Mao & Leo: — WHAT?!

Keito: In short ― you fools have fooled yourselves from the start.

Eichi: That's right. This whole marriage affair you've been vexed about has simply been a proposal that Anzu-chan wanted to undertake.

Recently, we received a proposal to appear at a wedding hall... However, as it would've been unfavorable for us to accept it as-is, it was rejected.

After that, though, it seems that Anzu-chan and the one who'd originally brought the proposal to us hit it off quite well.

As such, Anzu-chan's done all she can to try and make this plan work out.

And now... her efforts have borne fruit: I've given my approval, so all will proceed as planned.

Midori: Umm… Then, Anzu-san’s delighted expression after buying wedding magazines was because...?

Mao: Ah... So that wedding hall was featured in this month's magazine, and you saw ways to improve the proposal through it? That’s why you looked so happy?

Eichi: Ahh, so that’s what started this misunderstanding. It seems as if the two of you must've gotten the wrong idea with no prior context.

Leo: So that's it~ ♪ We just got the wrong idea, huh? Wahaha! What a relief! That's a load offa my shoulders!

Huh? What's wrong with you two? Are you guys feeling hot or somethin'? Your faces are super red.

Midori: …

I want to end it all…

Mao: Dammit...!

Eichi: Fufu. I've never seen anyone manage that shade before. What a wonderfully fulfilling day ♪

By the way, Anzu-chan... Why have you chosen now of all times to do this proposal? Normally one would think of June for June Brides, so I thought you'd do it closer to then.

Oh? Really? Autumn is the most popular season for weddings?

Ah, I see. So those involved value practicality and comfort over the imagery itself, then?

That makes sense. Now I understand why you chose this season…

...I see. So this proposal takes into account those who'd rather be married right now, and will be aimed towards them.

That'll certainly appeal to those upstairs.

Coincidentally, Anzu-chan, in regards to the revisions you made on this proposal... You’re intending to incorporate a Shuffle Unit into this, correct?

Do you know who all will be involved? I'd like to know how best to support you if so.

...Mm? What's with that smile? It seems familiar somehow...

Keito: I’ve been observing her since a while ago. That smile is the same sinister smirk you have when you plan something wicked, Eichi.

Eichi: Sinister? Wicked? I don't quite like your wording, Keito.

Oh? The five members for the Shuffle Unit are those who've gathered here now?

Leo: Oooh! Really?! It's my time to shine? Perfect! It sounds interesting, so put me in!

Keito: W-wait a second! Don’t drag me into this…!

Eichi: Hm... Well, no one here has participated as a member of a Shuffle Unit, that much is true...

But can you refrain from saying "I'm looking forward to working with you" with such a kind smile on your face?

Mm? What is it?

Hm, true enough. You certainly were lacking a man's perspective when it came to your proposal.

I see. So you only understood this once you'd seen the earnest looks on Mao and the others' faces.

Keito: That’s why you’re asking us, who hold such sincerity…?

Sincerity… I can’t really say I was being that sincere, moreso Eichi certainly was not holding anything like that.

Eichi: But when you saw the five of us together, the image you sought after immediately came to mind?

Ah... I suppose this is my just desserts. I had only wanted to cause a bit of mischief, and now Anzu-chan's taken her revenge.

Is this the taste of one's own medicine, then?

Mao Leo tl: Peace

Eichi tl: Ash

Midori and Keito tl: me

JP proof: Mika Enstars

ENG proof:ryuseipuka

Mao: — And that pretty much sums it up. We were just wondering if Anzu was getting married or not.

We tried asking Tsukinaga-senpai what he thought about it all, but then he started demanding to see you without explanation... so that's why we're here right now.

Midori: It's a given that we should ask Anzu-san directly about this, but… That's not as easy as it sounds.

Keito: Haah~... What a headache...

Eichi: Fu… Fufu…

Leo: Thanks for explaining things, you two! And now! It's your turn, Tenshi!

You've got your finger in every one of ES’s pies, don'tcha?! So you know who Anzu's fiancee is, right?! Spit it out!

Eichi: Fu… Fufufu… T-That’s right.

ES is certainly in a crisis. Fufu…

Keito: Eichi… Quit laughing.

...Oi, you too, Tsukinaga. Pull yourself together. You’ve all got the wro—

Mghh!?

Mmgh~hg! Mm~fg~hmh! (EICHI! TAKE YOUR HANDS OFF MY MOUTH!)

Eichi: Ahem. Sigh…

There’s no use hiding it if you’ve already found out.

Your concern is more than warranted. This is a devastating blow to ES — truly, a bolt from the blue.

We can’t afford to lose someone of her capabilities right now. That’s why the executives have been taking so long to provide their response.

Midori: —! Then it's true…? Anzu-san is really getting married…? But that's...　

Mao: Th-Then, the guy she's... You know who it is?!

Leo: Yeah yeah! If you do, tell us! There's no way I'd consent to anyone marryin' her unless I approved of them first!

Eichi: Hm… Well… It’s someone you all know quite well— but, wait. I’m afraid I can’t tell you.

Mao: What?! C'mon... Now you’ve made me more curious! Please, Tenshouin-senpai, stop putting on airs and just tell us already!

Leo: Yeah, yeah! Tenshi, you cheapskate!

Eichi: Cheapskate…? Well, call me whatever you’d like. How would you feel if you were in her position? I doubt that you’d like it if someone divulged your personal affairs without your permission, correct?

Midori: Well, that's…. Ahh. Now that you say it, yeah, you're right...

Mao: Then we really do have to look into things ourselves, don't we...?

But if you're talking about someone we supposedly know pretty well... There's everyone she knows at school, not to mention all her business associates — there's just too many people it could be. It'd be hard to guess who her partner is.

Eichi: Fufu. That’d be far too tedious. There’s a faster, surefire way to find out the truth.

Mao: Huh? There is?

Eichi: You need but ask her yourselves — the most optimal solution would simply be to speak to Anzu-chan directly.

Midori: But that's just… It's hard to ask about that kinda stuff...

Eichi: Can you really afford to waste your time dawdling?

Midori: Eh…?

Eichi: ES has tried to dissuade her multiple times, but she’s refused to reconsider. They’re in something of a stalemate. Neither side is willing to budge, and as such, the situation is quite dire.

It’s more tiring than you might expect to remain in a state of tension for so long; this tenuous equilibrium will soon be thrown into disarray. It’s likely that she’ll try to take decisive action now.

Mao: Then we'd best start getting ready to find out who it is, huh... We really can't just take our sweet time right now.

Eichi: …Fufu. Cough. I mean, yes.

Leo: ...Yeah, Tenshi's right. Let's ask Anzu about it first!

Okaaay! We're leavin' to go hear Anzu out now! Anzuuu~! Come out, come out, wherever you aaaaare!

Midori: Eeh? Right now!? What the, he left already…!

Mao: W-Wait a sec, Tsukinaga-senpai!

Ah, for Pete's sake! Why're you just dashing off like that?! Are you some kinda runaway train?!

Subaru's always giving me a heart attack with his reckless attitude, too.

Hey, Takamine. He's a danger if we just let him go off alone, so let's get going too!

Midori: Eeh!? Uhh, yes, Roger that.

Haah… Why is it that everyone around me is so carefree…?

Uhh, umm… Then, good day to you senpais…

Please wait up, Isara-senpai~!

Eichi: Fu… Fufu… Ahahaha!

Keito: Puha! What the hell, you bastard!

Eichi: Oh, that was hilarious ♪ All the muscles in my stomach are aching.

Did you know that you could get a stomach ache from laughing, Keito? I had no idea.

Keito: You went out of your way to mess with them… How incorrigible, really… How do you plan on taking control of this?

Eichi: Fufu. Why don’t we tag along and pay Anzu-chan a visit ourselves?

Keito: What…?

Eichi: I’ve always wanted to try making a sign board that says, “Gotcha!” ♪

Keito: ...You little. You're having a total blast, aren't you…?

Haah… For the love of… I pity those guys…

Mao Leo tl: Peace

Eichi tl: Ash

Midori and Keito tl: me

JP proof: Mika Enstars

ENG proof:ryuseipuka

Keito: Eichi.

Eichi: Hm? Hello there, Keito. What brings you to the StarPro office? Is there something you need from me?

Keito: Don’t just ask for something and forget about it right after. I’ve put together the things you wanted and brought them over.

Eichi: What? Already? I just requested them from you yesterday. I didn’t expect that you’d be done with them so soon.

You’re as outstanding as always — you finish your work remarkably quickly. …Yes, these documents are perfect. You did your job well. Thank you, this is a huge help.

Keito: I happened to be free this time, but isn’t it better to leave such work to your trustworthy minions?

Eichi: Fufu. You’re my number one minion, though ♪

Keito: How incorrigible. When exactly did I become your minion?

Eichi: My, I wish you wouldn’t say such sad things.

Perhaps this is the product of your experience managing the Student Council back at Yumenosaki…

But the documents you produce are consistently flawless, down to the placement of every last staple. I simply can’t have peace of mind unless I’m able to look through them every once in a while.

Keito: The more you speak the more I get irritated. You’re just tormenting me for the kicks right now, aren’t you?

Eichi: How cruel of you to imply such a thing. I’m your friend — it’s truly disheartening to see you be so salty around me. Why, you’re making me lose hope in the concept of friendship itself.

Oh, I’ve just learnt the word “salty.” It’s terribly fitting, wouldn’t you agree? Young people these days have such a wonderful sense of humor.

Keito: Haah… That’s enough for one day. I’ve done my part here, so I’ll be taking my lea―

Hm?

Is that Anzu’s proposal...?

Eichi: Hm? Yes, that’s right. I wasn’t able to accept it in the end, though.

But, wait… I wasn’t aware that you knew of her proposal as well.

Keito: Well, she came to me for some advice. I don’t know if I’ve been of help to her, though.

Eichi: Oh, I was wondering why Anzu-chan brought it to me so suddenly… Now I see that you were advising her.

Keito: It may not be up to me to decide, but… Why not permit it? It doesn’t seem like the proposal would cause problems.

I understand that the executives worry about the risk, but it’s Anzu we’re talking about. She can surely make things work out.

As long as you fulfill your task as a sponsor, it’ll be as easy as stealing candy from a child.

Eichi: Goodness, you truly are soft on her.

Keito: Hmph. No, I’m not.

Eichi: Is that so? I do beg to differ.

But anyways, if she had given me a proposal I could approve of, I would’ve helped her pass it on to the executives.

However, it simply wasn’t adequate. She has a tendency to get too caught up in dreams and fantasies, and that proposal is proof.

As someone who operates— actually, perhaps it’d be best for me to say “manage” here. In any case, considering my position, I couldn’t have possibly allowed it to pass.

That being said… If she uses this rejection as an opportunity to think it through more thoroughly…

That is to say, if she has a suitable amount of resolve and passion, I might change my mind.

Keito: You and your obstinate personality… Whatever, that’s fine. The position to call the shots belongs to you, after all.

Keito: ―Hm? Do you hear an uproar coming from the corridors…?

Leo: What's goin' on~! Show yourself, Tenshi!

Mao: Uwah?! Why're you yelling?! Tsukinaga-senpai, please restrain yourself a bit!

Midori: We’re standing out so much… They can spot us from outer space… I want to die…

Keito: Is that voice Tsukinaga’s? What in the world is going on there…? Sounds like he’s calling for you, Eichi. Did you do something to provoke him again?

Eichi: To Tsukinaga-kun? No, not that I can recall. I wonder what he wants? I haven’t the faintest clue.

Leo: Ah, there you are! The hell's going on, Tenshi?! I never consented to this!

Keito: Oi. I don’t know what’s happened, but you better calm down. You’re disturbing other people.

Leo: Huh? Oh, Keito's here, too! Uchuu~☆ What're you doin' in StarPro's office?

Keito: I’m here for some minor business.

Mao: Ahh.... We finally caught up with him...

Midori: So noisy… We’ll definitely get scolded for this… How depressing…

Keito: ? Isara and Takamine too… Isn’t that an odd trio to see? Seriously, what’s going on?

Eichi: I’m only hearing bits and pieces, but it seems as though there’s something you’d like to discuss with me.

Leo: Ah—Yeah! I sure do, Tenshi! The hell's going on, huh?! Anzu's gettin' married, ain't she?!

How're you just relaxing right now?! This is no time to act all grown-up, Tenshi! We're the same age, so it's really pissin' me off!

Mao: Tsukinaga-senpai... That last point's not the main issue, you know...

Leo: Anyway! There's no way I'm consentin' to this!

Keito: The…? What?

Eichi: …Erm, what’s going on exactly?

Midori: Umm, I’m so sorry, Hasumi-senpai, Tenshouin-senpai... I doubt Tsukinaga-senpai will be able to tell what’s going on in his current state of mind. Let us explain the situation instead.

Mao: Well... You see—

Mao&Leo TL: Peace

Eichi TL: Ash

Midori TL: me

JP Proof: 310mc

ENG proof:ryuseipuka

Leo: Anzu's getting married?! Married married?! You sure she's not gettin' carried instead?!

Midori: Carried? Where would she even be carried…?

Midori: Haah… By the looks of it, Tsukinaga-senpai doesn’t know what’s up with Anzu-san either.

Mao: Well, we don't really know for sure if she's getting married... But it's been on our minds ever since we saw her earlier.

Leo: Wahaha! There's no way, right? If you keep saying stupid stuff like that, Anzu'll get pissed at you, y'know?

Midori: But she was so happy after buying that magazine… How else could you explain that?

Leo: Well... Anzu was probably just looking at it for some new outfit references. Or something like that, I dunno!

Mao: That's what we thought, too, but... Anzu’s mostly taking care of idols from Yumenosaki and Reimei now, right?

I don't think a bridal magazine'd be very useful when making outfits for any of them…

Leo: Oh, I got it...!

Mao: Wait, what've you got?

Leo: Somethin' right out of these genius brain cells out of mine! Thank you, Holmes! Colombo!

— Anzu's gonna make all of us wear dresses! Wedding dresses!

Midori & Mao: No way.

Leo: What the hell?! How're you so sure, huh?! You can't just dismiss the possibility, you know?!

Mao: Do you really think people would want to see us in wedding dresses...?

Midori: ...I don’t even want to wear one in the first place. I’m nearly 180 centimeters tall — I wouldn’t look the slightest bit cute if I crossdressed. It’d be a different story if someone asked me to wear a mascot costume instead, though.

Leo: Really? But Wataru makes a perfectly lovely lady, you know~?

Mao: Please don't lump us in with that guy. If we did it, we'd probably just cause a commotion.

Leo: Like I said, you can't just rule it out! Stop using your stupid common sense! Ahh, what a waste, what a waste! Anyone should be able to wear anything they want, that's what Naru'd say.

Midori: Eeh… Why’s he acting like we’re the ones who wanna wear it…? How depressing…

Mao: This convo’s going nowhere... Anyway, the circumstantial evidence we've got on hand doesn't really line up with your theory.

Leo: It doesn't, huh~?

Mao: Putting that aside, you're surprisingly calm even after hearing all that, huh? Anyone'd be shook if they heard this sorta news outta the blue, but you're as cool as a cucumber…

Leo: Wahaha! ☆ You can keep the compliments coming, y'know~? I don't mind at all!

Also, it's more like it hasn't really sunk in yet? This came outta the blue — you can’t just expect me to accept that she’s getting married!

Midori: That’s a normal reaction, I think. I probably wouldn’t have made a big deal out of it if I’d only heard the story, either.

Mao: That's true. I wouldn't have believed it at all if we hadn't seen it with our own two eyes.

Oh, I know. Tsukinaga-senpai, how about you try imagining your little sister getting married? That way you can imagine what it'd be like for Anzu to suddenly get married too.

Leo: ... Ruka-tan... getting married...?

Mao: Yeah, exactly. I bet it’d be easier to get what we mean if you thought of a family member.

Leo: Ruka-tan... suddenly getting up and leaving me...? And... with some guy I don't even know...?

Mao: U-Uh, Tsukinaga-senpai...? You seem a little…

Midori: Eeek...! Your eyes are scary!

Leo: Grrrrrah! Where's he at?! Where's the guy tryin' to steal my Ruka-tan away from meeeee?!

Midori: EEEEEPK!!!!

Mao: Uwaah?! Did I cross the line or something?!

Midori: You didn’t just cross it, you went two feet deep!

Mao: Geez, what happened to his composure?! I thought he’d be the last to snap, but he was the first! Who said he was cool as a cucumber?!

Midori: You’re the one who called him that!

Leo: IS IT YOOOOU?! YOU'RE THE ONE STEALIN' MY RUKA-TAN FROM ME, AIN'T YAAAA!

Mao: Uwah?! I-I'm not doing anything like that, Tsukinaga-senpai, calm down!

It's fine! Your little sister's not leaving your side, okay?! That's why you've gotta come back down to earth!

Leo: ...She's really not?

Mao: ...! (Nodding like his life depends on it.)

Leo: Of course she's not~! Yup yup, there's no way she would! My cute Ruka-tan'd never leave me! She loves me, after all~! I love her too! I loooove her to bits 'n pieces!

Midori: Haah… I'm so glad he calmed down…

Mao: Yeah, let's never touch that topic ever again…

Leo: Huh? Hold on a second. Ruka-tan's not getting married, but Anzu is?

Mao: What? Uh, well... Maybe not, but we've been thinking that maybe she is…

Leo: This is terrible, you know?! How the hell're you two actin' so carefree about this, huh?! Don’t just stand there, you should be panicking too!

Mao: Huh!? W-Wait, Tsukinaga-senpai, where’re you going?!

Midori: ...Haah. I feel like we went to the wrong person for help… How depressing...

Mao&Leo TL: Peace

Midori TL: me

JP Proof: 310mc

ENG proof:ryuseipuka