Kei Cordelle

….And that good-for-nothing wasn’t any help at all, as expected. He was just a huge, unnecessary burden

Sirius: Siams did his fair share too, don’t you think? I think he covered very well for your shortcomings

Shin: You think so～? He barely did a thing. I almost forgot he was even there

Siams: …..Tch

Shin: If it wasn’t for that weirdo system, I never would’ve been stuck with you. The least you could do is do as baggage is supposed to do and keep quiet

Sirius: Weirdo system… If you’re referring to the “siblings system”, I’d suggest you rethink your wording. It exists due to our own school’s traditions

Shin: …..Hmph

Sirius: EMU High was the other to claim victory in B Team, was it? I suppose that’s expected of the reigning champions

Shin: Haah? They didn’t do anything impressive. Definitely not enough to call it “expected”. Anyone can see they’re going to be eliminated during the semifinals

They reaaaally didn’t seem to get along. They kept getting in each other’s way

Siams: ….You’re one to talk

Shin: Aahn!? You trying to say something, Good-for-Nothing?

Siams: ……

Sirius: In any case, you won’t be facing EMU High in the upcoming semifinals match. You’ll be facing either South or North High, the victors from Group A (1) 

Shin: Hmmn? What’re they like?

Sirius: They were quite entertaining to watch. I’m very much looking forward to seeing how the semifinals play out

Shin: Tch…. North High isn’t even worth worrying about. I don’t care if they wanna parade themselves around and pretend to be elite or whatever. I’m gonna grind them into dust

Sirius: ….Fufu

———

Gast: — Oi, Akira

Akira: Gast!

Gast: We’re headed into the semifinals now. Let’s both give it our all and leave without any regrets

Akira: ….What the hell, why’s Ren with you?

Of course I’m gonna give it my all. It’s kinda surprising how easy it was to win, y’know～

Gast: That’s big talk comin’ from someone who was just goin’ on about how he was forced to come 

Akira: I told you I wasn’t gonna lose to North, remember? I’m gonna kick your asses in the finals, so you better make sure you win

Will: Heyyy, Akira, what are you doing? Hurry up, it’s time to go

Akira: Yeah, I’m coming! ….See ya

[Akira runs off]

Gast: Just us then…. I wonder what’s gonna happen during the semifinals. Whattaya think, Ren?

Ren: ……

———

Commentator: 『The wait was long, but the moment’s finally come! One second’s hesitation can cost you the match — the semifinals are about to begin!』

『In the semifinals, 2 schools will each face off head to head in a fast-paced true-false quiz! The rules are simple enough: the school with the highest number of correct answers moves onto the next round!』

『Facing off in Group A of the semifinals is….. South Million High School! Versus! East Million University Faculty of Education Affiliated High School, EMU High for short～!』

『South High were the dark horse in the preliminaries, but what sort of showing can we expect from them now that they’re up against the reigning victors, EMU High!?』 

『As we move into the semifinals, you won’t want to look away from this dramatic faceoff! Keep your eyes open and your expectations high!』

———

Akira: Hell yeah!! A true-false quiz’ll be an easy win! I mean, there’s only 2 options, right? You can get it right even if you don’t have a clue!

Will: It’s not as easy as you think. And keep your voice down, it’s embarrassing

Akira: Aahn? You sayin’ I’m embarrassing—

!?

What the… It felt like a crazy sharp gaze just pierced straight through me just now—

Akira: Was it him!?

…H-He’s just a high school student, but he’s so dignified. I heard they were all first years, but that’s gotta be a lie!?

Billy: Asch-paisen! You’ve been glaring at them since we sat down, it’s too much! The longer you stare, the higher you raise the bar for us!!

You get it, right? We have the reputation of EMU High to uphold, but our whole group’s nothing but rookies!!

Asch: Can it. Quit being such a wimp

The battle’s already started. If you show even a hint of weakness, the enemy’ll take full advantage

Billy: Uuu. Paisen’s mystery logic is at it again～

Gray: ……

Asch: Oi, Geek. Didn’t you hear me? Wipe that pathetic fuckin’ look off your face

Gray: Eep!?

———

Bianchi: EMU High’s uniforms are just lovely. They look like they stepped right out of a traditional school drama. It’s getting me all excited ♪ 

Jude: Naturally. If you like those uniforms so much, I’ll go strip one off of them when they’re done

Sage: Still, there’s a really turbulent feeling in the air… I wonder if they had a fight?

Junior: You’re right. They don’t really look like they get along

That Asch guy looks pretty scary. I bet he’d cause even more problems than someone like the Shitty DJ

Faith: I’d rather you didn’t use me as your comparison

And anyway, why do we have to sit here and watch with Central High?

Sage: I invited you ♪ Maybe it’s a little strange, since we both lost, but I thought it’d be fun to watch the rest of the tournament together

Faith: …..Sigh

Nico: Munch munch….

Faith: …….. Sigh…….

Commentator: 『First things first: would both teams please pick one person to press the button, and one person to answer the questions!』

Junior: Huh? The one hitting the button isn’t the one answering?

Bianchi: My, in that case, their numbers put EMU High at an advantage

Faith: I don’t really think so

Even during the prelims, South only had one member answering pretty much the whole time. Nothing’s really changed for them here. Which means it’s luckier for them that their opponent’s numbers get focused down, don’t you think?

Sage: I see. So you’re saying this actually makes EMU High less of a problem to deal with?

(1) Look, I don’t know why it’s Group A and Team B (except for sometimes, when it’s Team A), but that’s what’s in the Japanese so I’m sticking with it

Brad: ……

———

Junior: ……

Sage: Good work back there. It’s too bad neither of us made it

Junior: ….You’re the guys from Central High

A loss is a loss. Don’t got a choice but to accept it gracefully…. I just… need a minute to get my face under control

Bianchi: My my, what an adorable uniform. I’ve never seen Hikari Academy’s uniform before. Let me see more of it ♪ 

Junior: ….You guys really kept the pressure on us all the way through. I was kinda shocked

Bianchi: You’re surprisingly honest. How cute ♡

Sage: We could say the same right back to you. You were super incredible. No matter what kind of question came up, you were ready to sink your teeth right into it…. It was really exciting to watch ♪ 

Robin: Well done

Sage: Sensei!

Nico: We lost…. Our reward…..

Robin: Fufu, don’t look so dejected. For giving us the chance to see such a splendid contest, let’s hold a celebratory wrap party

Nico: A wrap party? With food?

Robin: Yes, whatever you’d like… Or perhaps out of concern for my wallet, I should say “whatever kind of food you’d like”

Sage: Yay, good job, Nico ♪ A wrap party will be so much fun

Junior: They lost, but they’re all so relaxed – or maybe more like they’re having fun? They really are weird

Dino: Good job up there, Junior, Faith!

Man～ That match was so heated, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time! I didn’t have a clue how it was gonna turn out right to the very end!

Keith: I dunno, that rule change at the end was cruel. Whether ya won or lost all came down to that one question?

Junior: Right!?

Dino: That really was unfortunate at the end there, wasn’t it, Faith

Faith: ….!

Wh-What are you talking about…?

Dino: What do you mean what? …The last question. You knew the answer, didn’t you?

Junior: Yeah, it sure looked like it, didn’t it!? Why the hell didn’t you press the button?

Faith: Kh! I did not… You’re probably just imagining things?

Keith: Nah, no way. With ya up on stage like that, it was pretty obvious. Everyone could tell

Faith: ……

I just happened to know the answer and I thought maybe I should say something. ….But in the end, we lost

Dino: Yep yep, it’s too bad

Faith: ……

But hey…. Did I just see you talking to him? What’s that about? Do you know him?

Dino: “Him”?

Keith: He means Brad

Dino: Ahh! That’s right, we went to high school together. He’s my treasured friend. Maybe even one of my best friends!

You know, I was soo surprised to hear you and Brad are brothers. And to think, I’ve known you both all this time… It’s so super Love and Peace ☆

Faith: I can’t believe it….

Dino: Brad’s here for the Quiz Tournament too. Maybe it’s fate that the Million City High School Quiz Championship keeps bringing us together!

Faith: …? What’s that mean?

Keith: We did this too. The three of us. Back in high school

Faith & Junior: Eh–

Dino: Yep, sure did! We were the grand champions too! We were all so happy～! It made for a super spectacular memory ♪

Faith & Junior: HAAH!!!??

Dino: Keith, why didn’t you say anything? I thought for sure you’d told them…

Keith: Was I supposed to? Seemed to me like it’d just cause problems if I did

I didn’t really even do anything. Brad got himself all worked up and put all his energy into doin’ special trainin’ and stuff, and then he breezed through and won the whole thing

Dino: That’s not really true, though～? You went to those training sessions too, Keith. And you gave it your all at the match, too, in your own way

Keith: Ahh, I don’t really remember that～

Dino: You’ve always been consistent in pretending like you don’t care. But even so, Brad and I both know the truth

Junior: Dammniiiiittt～～～～～～!! Hearing that makes losing sting way more!

Next time! Next year I’m definitely gonna win the Quiz Tournament! Dino-sensei, Keith…..sensei! Starting tomorrow, we’re gonna train!

Keith: …..See, this’s what I meant. Problems. Startin’ tomorrow’s way too early 

Dino: If a student’s so motivated, it’s only right that we lend him a hand. Alright, I’ll do everything I can to help!

Junior: HELL YEAH～!

Faith: Ochibi-chan, wasn’t the only reason you joined the tournament so we could hold a concert?

Junior: Uhhh, that’s….

Faith: Seeing the other schools inspired you, did it? ….Like North, maybe? They were pretty impressive, weren’t they?

Junior: !!!??

Dino: They really were! Their student council president Marion Blythe in particular was a force to be reckoned with

Junior: ! Sh….. Sh-Sh-Shut it!! That’s not it at all! I’m just pissed, so it’s making me want to work harder!

I’m signing up next year too, for sure! And then I’m gonna win it! And you’re coming with me, right, Shitty DJ!?

Faith: Eh….

Junior: You’re coming, right!?

Faith: …….. Not if we’re just going to lose again

Junior: Wha–!?

Faith: If you’re really serious about winning, I’ll come

Junior & Dino: !!

Dino: Well said, Faith! That’s the true spirit of the Million City High School Quiz Championship! It’s the spirit of youth!

Thanks showing us such a good time, you two. Next year, we’ll definitely be aiming for revenge～!

Keith: …..Ughhh, I’m exhausted just thinkin’ about it. I’m tellin’ ya, I didn’t even do anythin’～

Sage: Bianchi-san!? Not even Jude-kun will be able to pull off such an impossib—

[Bing!]

Jude: Andrew Wiles

[Correct buzzer noises]

Junior: HOW!!!??

Sage: That’s amazing, Jude-kun! You can get the questions right just because Bianchi-san asked you to?

Jude: No? It was an easy question

Junior: FUCKING, HOW!!!??

Commentator: 『Now that they’ve come this far, Central High School is catching up quick! What an exciting turn of events!!』

『Buuut! I hear calls from the audience that it’s taking too long to narrow down our last school! In order to round things off to a smooth conclusion, we’ve prepared a special, ultimate question!』

Junior & Will: …..!

Commentator: 『This question will take the same format as the button bashing quiz, but there’ll be absolutely no fouls allowed! The very moment you’re wrong, you’ll be kicked to the curb!』

『On the other hand, if you’re right, you can earn 10 points in one fell swoop! That’s enough to steal the lead all in one! Definitely an ultra special question!』

Junior: What the–!? Then what were we even doing all this time!?

….Damnit, if I buzz in too early, we’ll be eliminated… I can’t use the same strategy for this question that I’ve been working with so far

But I’ve just gotta knuckle down and do it. We don’t even know what kind of question it’ll be yet… Alright! Bring it on!

Faith: ……

Will: ……

….There’s no way. Even if it turns out to be a question I’m confident I can answer, I won’t be brave enough to hit the button

What will I do if I’m wrong…. If it’s my fault that we get eliminated….

Akira: …….

Jude: No matter what question they throw at us, if Bianchi says the word, I’ll answer it at once

Bianchi: That last one was just a fluke. You make it sound like we’re cheating. Cut it out

Sage: I hope it’s one I can answer. I want to contribute a little bit too ♪

Nico: Munch…. Munch….

Commentator: 『Well then, this is it everyone! The final question! The traditional French pastry, galette des rois, contains what little surprise within it!?』

Junior: Gah～～～～......! Of course it was one I don’t know!

Sage: It’s a food question! Nico, do you know it?

Nico: ….I don’t really know sweets

…. I’ve got 2 guesses, but I’m not sure….

Jude: Nobody press the button

Bianchi: Quit that, Jude

Will: ……

….I think, I know the answer

But…. My hand’s shaking so much I can’t press the button…..

I said I just wanted to make memories, but I got Akira caught up in this, and the teachers have given me so much support too

Junior: Aaahhh shit! I really don’t have a clue…. I’m screwed…..

Faith: ……

Junior: No! I don’t wanna have to give up here!

Faith: Ochibi-chan—

[Bing!]

Commentator: 『What’s this———!!!??』

『Could it really be?! Is someone really stepping up?! Out from the middle of a deadlock, the one who rises up to press the button is…..』

『South’s Otori Akira….!!』

Will: ….. Akira….?

Akira: Answer it, Will

Even if you’re wrong, it’s fine

Will: Huh….

Akira: Even if you’re wrong, I’m the one who went ahead and pushed the button all on my own

Will: …..!

Commentator: 『So, what is South’s answer!?』

Will: Fève!

[Correct buzzer noises!]

Commentator: 『That’s absolutely correct! The second team to pass the preliminaries for Group A is South Million High School! Congraaaatulations!!』

——— 

Bianchi: Well well, we lost ♪

Jude: Shall we just pretend we didn’t, Bianchi?

Faith: ……

Junior: ……

It’s a small mercy that Hikari has only two participants, just like us… No, I’m effectively answering everything alone though, aren’t I?

So I guess it’s not really a mercy at all….

Akira: ……

…...Will’s really struggling, isn’t he? You can tell just by looking at him

I’ve been offloading this all onto him ‘cause I don’t even want to be here, but it really is a dick move of me to be sitting here doing absolutely nothing….

[Bing!]

Akira: But, what can I even do? Even if I listen to the questions, I don’t got a clue what it is they’re asking

Maybe I shoulda showed up for one of Brad’s training sessions after all?

No, what am I even saying? It’s not like I really care or anything….

[Correct buzzer noises]

Commentator: 『Another point to South thanks to Will Sprout’s quick thinking! And another premature button press from Hikari Academy! Too bad～!』

Junior:  Dammmitttt～～～! I screwed it up again!

Oi, Shitty DJ! Get your act together and help out already! I’m sure you can do it if you actually bloody try, right!? I don’t know what’s got you so messed up, but you’ve been out of it since the start of the match!

Faith: ……

…..I mean, it’d be really uncool if I got something wrong

And to do it here, with him watching….

Commentator: 『The linguistic origin of “vulgar” is—』

[Bing!]

Junior: Latin!

[Incorrect buzzer noises]

Commentator: 『The linguistic origin of “vulgar” is Latin, but what was the original meaning of the word!?』

Will: Of the common people….? (1) 

[Correct buzzer noises]

Junior: Shit, I fucked it again! I hit the button too soon! Stay calm…. I just need to stay calm!

Faith: ……

———

Marion: The rules state that once a school has won, they’re to return to the audience and spectate. Take a seat

Ren: ….Alright

Gast: ……

Marion: Oi, what’s with that face. We won, don’t look so grim

Gast: ….You really did just answer all the questions yourself

Ren: I didn’t have the chance to speak either

Marion: What, are you dissatisfied? I knew the answers, so I answered. That’s all there is to it. If you want to do more, you’ll have to prove you’re even more impressive than me

Well, not that that’s possible

Gast: Kh…..

Victor: You’re back, are you? Well done. A clean victory

Marion: Hmph, of course it was…. Eh–

Marion: EMU High again….!

Jay: What a great showing. I feel like I’ve been baptized

Robin: Agreed. I think even my own boys felt that way

Victor: This here is Robin-sensei, of Central High School. As fellow solo leaders, we opted to watch the proceedings together

Marion: Kh, I told you not to make friends with our enemies! EMU High goes without saying, but that includes Central as well

That happy-go-lucky attitude, as if they’re nothing but tourists here for some sightseeing, runs completely contrary to all common sense

Robin: Oh my….

It’s true that they have no particularly strong fixation on winning. However I’m sure that they, more than anyone else here, are enjoying this event to the fullest

Marion: Enjoying it…?

Jay: That’s right. All it takes is one look to see those boys are having a blast

There are a lot of them, but they all seem to get along really well. How did they develop a relationship like that? School spirit?

Robin: Fufu, who can say?

Marion: Hmph, this is a Quiz Tournament, not a birthday party. “Friends” are unnecessary

Victor: You can hardly say that so decisively. There are an infinite number of reasons one might take part in the tournament. “Because it seems fun” is a perfectly viable reason

It might be the Quiz Tournament, but it must be remembered that you are all still high school students

Marion: ! Shut your mouth! Are you mocking me!?

This is a serious competition. Just because we’re high school students doesn’t mean the standards are lower. You’re wrong

Victor: ….My my

Gast & Ren: ……

———

Commentator: 『What ingredients were used in the very first mascara!?』

[Bing!]

Bianchi: I know this one! The answer is vaseline and powdered coal!

[Correct buzzer noises]

Sage: Yay! That’s amazing! I knew you could do it, Bianchi-san ♪ 

Jude: Marvelous….

Junior: Shit! They get one right by pure luck and look how happy they are!

Commentator: 『A marguerita pizza’s red, white, and green are representative of what!?』

[Bing!]

Nico: The flag of Italy

[Correct buzzer noises]

Bianchi: You got one too, Nico-chan! We’re on a winning streak ♪ 

Sage: You hit the button faster than the eye could see. When it comes to food questions, Nico’s the one to trust

Junior: C-Crap…. There really was a question on pizza, and we missed it!

Commentator: 『Which mathematician proved “Fermat’s last theorem”!?』

Junior: W-what? A math question…?

Nico: Did we study that in school?

(1) In Japanese, the word in question is アルバイト, which means “part-time job” in Japanese. Junior correctly identifies the word as a transliteration of the German “arbeit”. Will informs us that the word originally means simply “work”. I couldn’t think of any work-related word in English that had a strong enough linguistic shift to make this question interesting or reasonable, so I changed it up a bit.

Faith: If you already knew that then quit nagging at me. Just leave me alone

Junior: As if!

Faith: ….There’s someone here I really don’t want to run into. If I’d known he was coming, I wouldn’t have shown up

Junior: Hah!? What the hell do I care!? You’ve come this far, so just suck it up! You’re seriously pathetic

Faith: ……

Ugh, just shut it already. Fine, fine, see, I’m standing—

Faith: …..!

……This sucks. I wanna go home

Junior: Hey, it’s starting!

———

Commentator: 『Alright, let’s get this show on the road, starting with the preliminaries for Group A! Remember, this is a fast pashed button-bashing battle to the top! Our contestants need 10 points to move forward』

『 Question 1! ….The chemical symbol “Sn” corresponds to what element!?』

[Bing!]

Commentator: 『So fast! Starting us off in this momentous battle is…. North High’s Marion Blythe!』

Marion: The answer is tin

[Correct buzzer noises!]

Marion: Hmph. Too easy. I didn’t even have to think about it

Commentator: 『As expected of the reigning North High student council president! He hasn’t been here three years running just for show! He’s a strong contender for the crown! Marion Blythe!』

Sage: Wow! That’s incredible!

Will: Ah–! If he can pull out that speed consistently, we won’t be able to even get an answer in

Junior: ….Cool

Wait no! I’m not gonna lose!

———

[Bing!]

Dino: Ooooh, amazing! Junior hit the button!

[Incorrect buzzer noises]

Dino: Aahhh, too bad! He got it wrong! But he’s doing well, just hitting the button is already a task and a half ♪ 

Keith: Nah, yer coddlin’ ‘em too much….

Dino: It’s not coddling. Junior’s worked hard for this. So hard just thinking about it almost brings me to tears

Keith: To tears….

Dino: Junior’s always been a really serious student, and his grades show it too. They’re always outstanding…. But, just how far can he get on his own?

It’d be nice if Faith could work up a bit of motivation… He’s got a good head on his shoulders too. If he just put in the effort, they’d actually stand a fighting chance

Keith: Yaaaawn…..

Dino: Keith! You’ve been laying down ever since the start. You should sit up properly and watch your students! They’re trying really hard, you know!?

Keith: I’m watchin’ ‘em… I’ve just got a stomach ache from doin’ nothin’ but teach day in and day out

….I was wonderin’ if Faith’d be the type to get all worked up over this sorta thing or not, but I guess he’s not

Dino: ? What do you mean?

???: Dino, Keith

Dino: !? Brad…!

It’s really you! I thought I caught a glimpse of you earlier, but I wasn’t really sure…

Brad: I’ve come along to oversee South High. Allow me to introduce you to Oscar Bale, a fellow teacher there

Oscar-sensei, this is Dino and Keith, from Hikari Academy

Oscar: ! It’s a pleasure to meet you. My name’s Oscar Bale. I teach health and physical education

Keith: Ooh, you sure look the part, too. Those’re some insane muscles

Dino: I’m Dino Albani! My favourite food is pizza! Nice to meet ya ♪

I don’t know how much you’ve heard from Brad, but the three of us have been friends since high school

Oscar: Since high school? I had assumed you’d become close as fellow faculty members, but… Your bond is truly wonderful

Dino: Isn’t it just～? Still, here at the Quiz Tournament we’re rivals…. It’s kind of exciting ♪

Keith: Oi, Brad. Don’t put so much pressure on your brother, yer gonna sabotage him

Brad: ….I don’t recall pressuring him, though

Dino: Eh? Your brother?

Keith: That’d be Faith. Look, see how he’s lookin’ over here wondering what the heck we’re doin’?

Dino: Eeeh!? Faith is Brad’s little brother!?

Keith: Ya shoulda at least told him we know each other. Back when he started at Hikari woulda been great

Brad: I didn’t think it necessary

Keith: Ahhh, poor kid. He’s got such a dicey relationship with his big bro, he can’t even work up the will to fight. Preeetty sure that counts as sabotage

Brad: ….That was not my intention. I didn’t even know Faith would be here until today

[Correct buzzer noises]

Commentator: 『North High reached 10 points in a flash～! And with that, this round’s winner is decided!』

『Just one more school left! Will it be South High, or Hikari Academy — or perhaps Central High… Which school will pull through to claim victory!?』

Dino: F-First place is already decided!?

Oscar: As you’d expect of North High… To think that they’d be so overwhelming

Dino: There’s a ton I want to talk about, but for now we should focus on cheering them on!

You can do it, Juniorrr! Faithhh! Let’s Go, Hikari Academy～～～!!

Keith: So loud… Don’tcha think yer gonna weird ‘em out?

So? You two’re here with yer students too, yeah? What’re they like?

From the looks of things, South’s got a real serious guy up there

Oscar: That’s Will! He’s the head of the horticulture club. A very diligent and unimpeachable student

Keith: Meanin’, the other one’s not so diligent, eh?

Oscar: …..!

Brad: Keith, don’t be cruel

Keith: Haha, sorry sorry. But just lookin’ at him, ya get kinda a “The South” feel, don’tcha think?

Oscar: It’s true that Akira has some behavioural issues, but he’s definitely not a delinquent at heart….

Brad: In this quiz tournament, it’s not always advantageous to be an honours student or have outstanding grades. Akira has his own role to play

….I’m sure that’s a concept you can fully understand, wouldn’t you say?

Keith: Oup… I’ll shut up now. Gotta make sure we take in the kids’ full majesty

Nico: Munch munch….

Sirius: 『In sports and martial arts, there is virtue in not obsessively chasing after victory. There’s no reason that same logic shouldn’t extend to a Quiz Tournament』

『In which case, perhaps it would be best to think of it as “fighting so as not to lose” instead』

Shin: ……

Sirius: 『Are you prepared to fight?』

Shin: YES!!

Akira & Will: !?

Sirius: 『Are you prepared to claim victory?』

Shin: YES!!

Sage & Nico: !?

Sirius: 『And, are you also prepared to face losses?』

Shin: YES!!

Junior & Faith: !?

Sirius: 『With “Fair and Square” as our motto』

Shin: YES!!

Billy & Gray: !?

Sirius: 『Let us see the proof of your resolve』

Shin: YES!!

Ren & Gast: !?

Sirius: 『That is all from me. I sincerely look forward to witnessing your radiance』

Shin: You’re the best!! Sirius-sensei～～～～～!!

Siams: ……

———

Commentator: 『Well then, we’ve kept you waiting long enough! It’s the “Million City High School Quiz Championship”! I will be your host from here on out… Your long time favourite “Commentator”!!』

『Here’s how the Quiz Tournament will go down: the schools that pass the preliminaries and the semifinals will face off head-to-head in the final round to determine what school is the ultimate victor!』

『At their core, the questions are quite orthodox, but their theme and format is not. Watch out, because there are some trick questions in the bunch!』

『In the preliminaries, teams face off against several of their fellow schools at once as they race to be the first one to hit their button to answer a variety of questions! The first two schools to 10 points continue on to the semifinals!』

『So, what are we waiting for? Let’s introduce the schools who’ll be facing off in Group A in the preliminaries!』

『South Million High School! Hikari Private Academy! Central Million Municipal High School! And North Million High School!!』

『Just what kind of battles, what kind of drama will unfold!? You won’t even want to blink!』

Will: W-We’re up against Ren right from the start…

Akira: Yaaaaawn～.....

Will: Wha– Akira…. Didn’t you say you weren’t going to lose to Ren?

Akira: Hm? Oh yeah, I did

But wait, we’re not with those white jerks from earlier?

Will: I guess St. Eclipse Academy’s in another group. And last year’s winners, EMU High, too

That said, we can’t let our guards down. We’re paired up against North High, and their GPA proves they’re a cut above the rest

———

Marion: Oi, you two. From here on out, you’re forbidden from speaking unless absolutely necessary

Cast aside your idle thoughts and focus on nothing but winning. Just because EMU High isn’t in our pool does not mean we can rest easy

Gast & Ren: ……

Marion: Well, I’ll determine the correct answer for everything. All you two have to do is shut up and watch

At least in Ren’s case, his grades give me some peace of mind, but… Gast. Don’t you so much as open your mouth

Gast: Haah?

Marion: I’m well aware you’re only participating in this event to avoid expulsion. I don’t need your help in this tournament

But if you dare to get in my way, I’ll give you a taste of my whip. Understand?

Gast & Ren: ……

———

Junior: Hey, we’re kinda at a disadvantage, aren’t we?

Faith: Aha. So you picked up on that, did you, Ochibi-chan?

Junior: No, I’m talking about the numbers! There’s only 2 of us! We’re the smallest damn group!

Faith: You have to have between 2 and 4 people to participate, after all. If you’re looking for something to blame, blame the school and all our classmates who didn’t want to join in

Junior: 3 people would be one thing… but they’ve got FOUR!?

Junior: How do they even all fit over there!!!??

Sage: A..haha…. I kind of feel like I should apologize? 

Nico: No need. We haven’t done anything wrong…. Munch munch….

Junior: He’s eating something! How is he always eating!

Sage: We might not have done anything wrong, but I’m still sorry

Bianchi: Our main goal here is honestly just to make memories

The real reason all 4 of us joined is because we just couldn’t leave anyone behind

Jude: Exactly. Bianchi being here gives everything real meaning

Bianchi: And yet if you suddenly vanished, we wouldn’t have any troubles at all, hm?

Jude: Bianchi and I are a single unit. So effectively, you could say there’s only 3 of us

Bianchi: No, that doesn’t make any sense at all. Please don’t suddenly start spouting such creepy theories

Nico: Munch munch munch….

———

Junior: I really can’t make sense of those Central High guys at all…

They’re just here to enjoy themselves? I mean, that’s nice and all, but it’ll really suck if they actually try really hard

Akira: He’s kinda…. really white….

Will: I’ve heard that St. Eclipse Academy’s uniform is all white. Maybe it’s emblematic for them

The school is quite steeped in tradition. Did you know it has an even longer history than the Quiz Tournament?

Akira: Hmmn? But they’ve still never taken part in the tournament?

Sirius: 『We have long held a reputation for being conservative due to our efforts to preserve tradition, but we hope that in participating in this event, we can turn over a new leaf』

???: This school really feels like a mystery, all wrapped up in enigma

Akira: Hmn?

Sage: Ah, sorry. I didn’t mean to just blurt that out…

I’m Sage Skyfall, I’m here representing Central High. You’re… students from South, right?

Those of us from Central are going to be taking part for the first time this year too. I’m pretty nervous… So it’d make me really happy if we could be friends ♪

Akira: ….You’re nervous, but you’re still calm enough to be trying to make friends?

Sage: Ahaha, that’s a large part of why I came too. I hope we can all make some great memories ♪

Will: It’s nice to meet you. My name’s Will Sprout. This is Otori Akira—

Akira: Oi, what’s up with him….

Will: What’re you talking about, Akira?

Akira: Him! What is he eating!? He’s got so much!

Nico: Munch munch…. Munch….?

Sage: Ahaha. He only just finished his bento, but he couldn’t hold back when we saw the manju for sale 

Nico: I bought everything they had. This should tide me over for a while… Probably… Munch much

Akira: Daaaamn～～～ You’re really rubbing it in with all the food porn over there! You’re making me hungry!

Nico: I’m not sharing… Munch munch….

Bianchi: Hey, one second! Did you shorten that uniform yourself!?

Akira: Yeah?

Bianchi: You hardly ever see short jackets like that anymore, but they’re coming back into style and they’re totally dazzling! And it’s so well balanced too, you’re a genius! No way～ You’re just too cute～ ♡

Akira: W-what? Genius…. I mean, that’s true, but…?

Bianchi: What’s the lining made of!? Could it be embroidered…. What’s written on your T-shirt? Let me see let me see—

Akira: ! Oi! Don’t just go touching me however you—

Jude: You prick…

Did you just swat away Bianchi’s hand? What if your elbow had hit them…. What would you have done if Bianchi had stumbled or fallen???

Akira: What the hell, where did this thug come from!?

Jude: Apologize to Bianchi. Know your place, weakling, and repent immediately for hurling such abusive language at them. I’ll give you 10 seconds. Your countdown to hell. 10—

Bianchi: Jude, please stay out of it

Jude: Okay, Bianchi ヾ(^▽^*))

Akira: ???

???: Oi, shut it with the chitchat

Akira & Jude: Aahn?

Siams: Listening to you’s grating on my ears. Quiet down

Akira & Jude: What’d you say….?

Will: Akira…!

Bianchi: I told you to quit it!

Will: Stop picking fights with everyone you meet. Nothing about what he just said was wrong, was it?

Bianchi: Precisely. I’m sorry they’re being so loud…. Hm?

That all white uniform, you must be from St. Eclipse Academy!? Stooop～ I can’t believe I’m finally seeing one in the flesh. This is so exciting ♡

Siams: H-hey…. Don’t touch me—

???: Don’t get involved with them, you good-for-nothing

Bianchi: What’s this?

Shin: Seriously, could you guys quiet down? Sirius-sensei’s still speaking…. Or should I just kill you?

Jude: You want to kill us….?

Shin: Yeah, murder you. Tear you up into little tiny bits and burn the pieces. And I’m the kinda guy who always follows through, you know?

Jude: Really? What a coincidence. I also always follow through on my threats

Bianchi: H-Hey, stop that! Both of you!

Akira: Oi, asswipe. You were just staring at me, weren’t you?

Siams: ….Hah? Who’d wanna look at you? Conceited much?

Akira: Aahn? Just meet me outside, you white jerk!

Siams: You stupid or something? We’re already outside. Is white jerk all you got? You’d better work on your vocabulary, man

Akira: You wanna fuckin’ go!?

Siams: Bring it on, give it all you got!!

Will: What are you two doing!? Don’t just start picking fights out of nowhere—

Sirius: 『FAIR AND SQUARE』

Akira & Siams: Haah….?

Jude & Shin: ….?

———

Sirius: 『If you’re going to fight, then please ensure all quarrels are held on the stage, fair and square. Is that not why you’re all here?』

Akira: Tch, what the hell….

Jude: Fine by me, that’s just what I want. Let’s head on up to the stage then and—

Shin: I’m sorry! Sensei!

Akira & Jude: ….?

But even though he goes all the way up to North High, he’s been freeloading at our place ‘cause it’s “convenient”

Gast: Ehhh!? You guys live together!? Why didn’t anyone tell me that sooner?

Akira: I dunno, I didn’t really think it mattered

Ren: ….This sucks

Akira: Gast, you’d better watch out, this guy can’t wake up in the morning to save his life

My whole life, I’ve had to listen to the constant blaring of his alarm. Mom offered to just go in and wake him up in the mornings, but he’s so damn stubborn he insists on getting up on his own

Ren: ! You—

[Knock at the door]

Will: Akira? Are you in there?

Akira: Geh, it’s Will!

[Will enters]

Will: Thank goodness…. Don’t just wander off on your own. Let’s hurry up and get the bags in—

Gast: Y-Yo, Will…. Been a while….

Will: …..Why is Adler here?

Gast: I’m taking part in the Quiz Tournament…. I’m kinda one of North High’s reps

It’s kind of a long story… I wasn’t picked for my grades or anythin’, and it’s not like I’m really revved up to be here

Akira: Ohh, same, same. I was pretty much forced to be here too, it’s such a pain

Will: Akira, come here

[Will grabs Akira]

Akira: Uwah!? Don’t just grab me like that!

Will: You’re fine. Don’t associate with him, he’s bad news. ….And here I thought you’d finally transferred and I wouldn’t have to deal with you anymore

Akira: Wait just a second…. Oi, Ren!

Will: Huh, Ren….?

Akira: Now that I know you’re here, we’re definitely not gonna lose to North High

We’re gonna grind you to dust, just you wait!

Ren: ……

Will: Grah, again with the stupid bluster… Come on! We’re leaving!

Akira: I told you not to drag me around! When did you get so damn strong!

[Will drags Akira out, door closes]

Gast: ……Sigh. He’s like a storm, that guy

So, you’re Akira’s cousin then, huh? Kind of impressed we became such good friends without me even knowing ♪

Ren: Don’t assume we’re friends

Gast: Huh? But, you and I….

Er, anyway, you and Akira really don’t seem to get along? Something happen between you?

Ren: ……

Gast: ….You’re just gonna ignore me? C’mon—

———

Will: So Ren’s here too. It’s been a while since I’ve gotten to see him, I would’ve liked to talk to him more

Akira: Just leave him alone

Will: Why…? I see Ren as one of my precious childhood friends too, you know?

Akira: ……

Will: When did things get to be like this… You were both so happy when Ren came to live with you, weren’t you?

So how did things get to be so bad between you?

Akira: ….How should I know. He won’t quit that damn attitude. Even at home, he just totally avoids me

Will: And you don’t have a clue why?

Akira: ……. Probably cause I couldn’t get into North High, I guess

He’s looking down on me. There’s no way I coulda gotten into North High. Besides, I’m the one who failed the exam. Why’s he the one who’s so pissed off about it?

Nah, there’s no point thinking about it! It’s a waste of time!

Will: ……

Oscar: Will, Akira

Will: Sensei…!

Brad: Akira, hurry up and unload your luggage. The opening ceremony is starting. The preliminaries begin immediately after

Will: ….!

Akira: Sigh….  It’s starting already? I wanted to chill for a bit first～

Why do we even have to go to the opening ceremony….

!?

Robin: Oup…. I’m sorry. Are you okay?

———

Sage: I can’t wait for the Quiz Tournament. I’m really glad the four of us are all able to participate together

Bianchi: Agreed. I’m surprised they let us participate with only members from our own club

Sage: Let’s do our best to answer every last one of the home economics questions, so we can make the home ec club proud ♪ 

Bianchi: Yes, absolutely. I’m definitely not going to let anyone beat me when it comes to questions about fashion

Sage: Hehe, it’s so reassuring to have you here, Bianchi-san

Jude: Mhm, mhm, you’re so right. So long as Bianchi’s around, we can overcome even the harshest trials

Bianchi: The harshest trials, he says… Do you even understand what it is we’re here to do?

Jude: Of course I do

Bianchi: ….You definitely don’t

Sage: Nico, thank you for taking part with us too

[Nico’s stomach growls]

Nico: ….I’m hungry

Sage: I know. Let’s make sure to eat our whole bentos before the preliminaries begin, so we can gather all our strength and fight on a full stomach

Nico: Will I really get to eat delicious food if we win?

Sage: That’s what Sensei said, right? Then, he’ll definitely invite us to eat with him afterwards

Nico: That’s why I’m here. If he doesn’t feed us, I’ll be really upset

Sage: Then we’ll just have to come in first place

Nico: First place….

Sage: Ah, it’s Sensei!

Sensei～～～ ♪ 

Robin: I’m sorry to have brought you all this way. Fortunately, all the formalities have now been dealt with without incident

Sage: Hm? Who’s this?

Robin: Ah, I just met him here, but it seems he got separated from the rest of his schoolmates…

Sage: You’re lost?

Ren: ! No!

Bianchi: That’s North High’s uniform, isn’t it? It might be old fashioned, but it’s so stylish and cute～. And the hat? It’s the first time I’ve ever seen anyone actually wearing it properly ♡

Ren: ……

Sage: What year are you in? Is this your first time taking part in the Quiz Tournament?

Bianchi: Ah, we’re from Central High’s home economics club. Let’s all get along, okay ♪ 

Ren: ……

Nico: Hey, Robin-sensei. What are you going to treat us to if we win? Yakiniku? A family restaurant? Or maybe something all-you-can-eat?

Robin: You might be getting a little ahead of yourself. Please look forward to finding out after you win

Jude: Bianchi, who is this? Can I fight him?

Bianchi: Again, what on earth do you think we came here for? We’re not here to suddenly start battling in the halls of the school

Jude: Haha, right. Of course you’re right, Bianchi ♪ 

Bianchi: Sigh….

Ren: What’s up with these guys….

Gast: Ah, there he is! Ren….!

Ren: Gast….

Gast: I’m glad I found you～. You suddenly vanished on me so I came looking for you. Well, not that that’s any different from usual—

Sage: Are you from North High too? You’re tall, what year are you in?

Bianchi: My, what a wild flair you have to you ♡ North High’s known for being strict about their school rules, but they’ve still got boys who’ll flaunt them, do they?

Gast: W-what?

Sage: I wonder if we’ll be up against each other in the preliminaries? What room are you guys staying in? If it’s close to ours, we should talk again tonight ♪

Gast: ….You’re so friendly it’s kinda scary

[Phone dings]

Gast: Oh, I got a message from Marion. ….. “I’m headed to our accommodations. Let’s meet up there”

———

Sage: See you later, Gast-kun, Ren-kun. I hope we can chat again next time we meet～

Gast: Yeah, let’s both give it our all

[Door closes]

Ren: ……

Gast: We still haven’t seen Marion or Victor…. Was this really the room we were supposed to meet them in? If we’re wrong, it’ll be a problem—

???: Gast!?

Gast: ….Hn?

Akira: Oooohh, it really is Gast! What the hell, you’re gonna be in the Quiz Tournament too?!

Gast: Akira….!

Akira: I hadn’t heard a word from you since you transferred schools, so I was kinda worried. How’re you doing? Doesn’t look like the stink of North High’s rubbed off on ya too much!

Gast: Nah, not at all. And it’s not gonna. I’m a South Million man though and through

Akira: Ahh, that’s a relief. I dunno what I would’ve done if you’d seemed like a whole different person… Hm?

Ren: ……

———

Victor: Please refrain from starting such barbaric fights with the other schools, Marion. We’ve only just arrived

Marion: Shut your mouth. You have no right to criticize me

Victor: Good grief…. It is indisputable fact that this is your last chance, and thus I can understand that you’re feeling rather motivated, but…

Marion: I have to win, no matter the cost…. My pride demands it. I will never live it down if I participate three years in a row without a single victory

North High is the most elite school in Million City – no, in all of Japan… and I am its student council president! We will win!

Gast: Ahaha, yer real fired up～

So you’ve really done this all three years, have ya? I’d expect nothing less from our student council president, like you’re takin’ the weight of the whole school’s reputation on your shoulders

Marion: Gast…

What happened to your name tag?

Gast: Eh? Ahh, I forgot it. Y’know, I’m really not sure where it even is～

Marion: Despite the fact that I warned you every single day not to…. You little….

Do up the front of your uniform properly! What’s with that gaudy T-shirt! And those flashy accessories! And that weird hairstyle!

Gast: What’s wrong with my hairstyle!?

Marion: Damnit! I have to win this year. Why am I stuck with this guy….

If you get in my way of victory, I will never forgive you!

Victor: Marion, please calm yourself 

Gast: Tch… It’s not like I came because I wanted to

“Honor Student Points”, you call it? If you want something to blame, blame that stupid system. Havin’ points stripped from me day in and day out, before I knew it I was at risk of expulsion

So when I read that participatin’ in school events with a “positive attitude” would net me 10 points, I threw my hat in the ring without really thinking about it

And remind me, just who was it who created that stupid fucking rule? Oh that’s right, it was the class prez standing right in front of me

Marion: Tch, how dare….

Victor: Marion

Marion: Shut up! I told you to shut your mouth—

Victor: Ren appears to have vanished

Marion: Huh….

Gast: Uwah, for real!? He was right next to me a minute ago…

Twenty bucks says he’s lost again. I’ll go look for him

[Gast runs off]

Marion: Wait! If we’re going to search for him then everyone should—

???: Oh, if it isn’t Victor-sensei

Marion: …..?

Jay: It’s been a while. I haven’t seen you since that continuing education program, I don’t think?

Victor: Jay-sensei. So you’ve come too? It truly has been a long time

Then that must mean you’re here with EMU High?

Marion: EMU High…?

Jay: Yup, that’s right. East Million University Faculty of Education Affiliated High School. EMU High for short ♪ 

Marion: Oi, Victor. What are you doing talking to someone from EMU High. Quit it

Victor: Where is this coming from?

Marion: Their school is the one that stole victory out from under me, both last year and the year before. ….I forbid you from speaking with them, or being on friendly terms with them

Jay: Oh, you’re a student at North High? You’re really gung-ho there, aren’t you?

Victor: My apologies… Marion, the basis for your argument is lacking

Billy: That’s why I told you, you have to make sure you touch your IC card to the reader when you get on, remember～?

Asch: I didn’t hear that

Billy: You just weren’t listening, Asch-paisen! It’s not my fault. Right, Gray?

Gray: R-Right…. I heard Billy-kun say it….

Asch: Aahn, what was that, Geek? You trying to say I’m the one who fucked up!?

Gray: !..…uuu…..

Jay: Ah, and here are my students. You boys are late

Billy: Jay-sensei～! Sorry, sorry! Asch-paisen thought we should take the bus without paying, so we got into a bit of trouble～

Jay: What?

Asch: Don’t go spewing such bullshit. You make it sound like I’m some poverty-stricken whelp 

Billy: Not paying is not paying. I can’t believe you thought you could ride the city bus for free

Asch: Shut up. Why the fuck would I know how to ride a poor-person vehicle like that

Jay: Haha, sounds like you had a bit of a rough time. But well, I expected as much

Gray: Jay-sensei… Why did you tell the three of us to take the city bus here together…?

Jay: Because it’s an important experience. It’s a field trip, after all. As they say, a field trip isn’t over until you’ve made it home, right?

Asch: No idea what that means. Fucking hell, why do I have to listen to what this old bastard says?

Billy: There there, there there

Gray: ……

Marion: You’re this year’s representatives for EMU High?

Asch: Anh? Who’re you?

Marion: I am North Million High School’s representative and student council president, Marion Blythe. This year, victory will belong to North High. You’d better be ready

Billy: Wow, immediately throwing down the gauntlet～!?

Gray: Uh, um, that is, EMU High may have won the Quiz Tournament a number of times, but that’s all thanks to the hard work of our brilliant seniors, it really has nothing to do with us, I mean～....

This year, no one stepped forward, so we drew lots for who would come, and that’s how the three of us ended up together here, so, um, yeah

Billy: Yep yep. It’s just bad luck that this mad rabble was thrown together to represent EMU High. We’re not really cutthroat about aiming for the crown or anything like that

This year’s EMU High is happy to just go with the flow and Have Fun ☆ so—

Asch: Who here’s planning to lose?

Gray & Billy: …..!

Asch: Are you blind? He’s clearly picking a fight with you and all you’re doing is making petty excuses. It’s fucking lame

Billy: No way, I was just stating a fact!? We don’t have a chance of aiming for the win—

Asch: Shut up, Brat

Oi, pretentious North High prick. First chance I get, I’m gonna break that nose of yours and show you just who the fuck you’re picking a fight with. Hope you’re ready

Marion: Hmph

Jay: Asch… I’m glad your morale is high, but cut the belligerence. We didn’t come here to stir up trouble, did we?

Asch: Tch…

Victor: …EMU High’s representatives seems to be a rather unusual bunch this year. If I had to put it into words, I suppose I’d say they’re lacking in unity

Well, I suppose you could say the same of my own group

Junior: What the fuck!? Don’t talk shit about my guitar!

Faith: I’m not talking shit about your guitar. You, on the other hand….

Junior: EAT A BAG OF DICKS!

Dino: C’mon, you gotta keep your voice down, Junior～ Faith, too, quit picking on your junior

Faith: I wasn’t really trying to pick on him. Guess I am kinda irritated that I was forcibly dragged along here, though

Why did you just show up at my house uninvited? You’re complicit here too, Dino-sensei

Dino: Hey now, I couldn’t just overlook you skipping

Junior: Exactly! We finally got the okay to hold a show here, but if you’re not here, we can’t do shit!

Faith: I’m sure there’s something you could’ve done without me….

Besides, the concert’s one thing, but what I’m really not enthused about’s the Quiz Tournament

Dino: But, the only reason you can play the concert is because you came for the Tournament? Which means you’ll have to work hard for both of them

Junior: Yeah, exactly! It took forever to get permission to do this, so don’t mess it up!

Faith: I don’t know what you mean. There’s no way this is gonna be worth it….

Don’t you feel the same way, Dino-sensei? You’re not even our advisor but you’re stuck here chaperoning. Doesn’t it feel like a waste of your precious days off?

Dino: Not at all ♪ The baseball club and the cattle club are both off this week, so I had plenty of free time

Faith: ……

Junior: We would’ve been in real trouble if you weren’t here, Dino-sensei

If I’d had to deal with those two slacker layabouts on my own, I think I woulda gone insane

Dino: Did you hear that, Keith?

Keith: Sigh～….

Dino: Stand up straight! No teacher worthy of the title should have a student saying something like that about them!

Keith: Quit it～.... If I stand up straight right now, I dunno what might come up….

Dino: You’re unbelievable. Drinking to the point of a hangover the night before the Quiz Tournament? 

Keith: That’s got nothin’ to do with it! It was Friday, you hear me! Haven’t you ever heard of TGIF!? I spend all week drinkin’ nothin’ but muddy water waitin’ for that very moment! Don’t go scornin’ my raison d’être!

Dino: Y-You’ve been suffering that much….?

Junior: You stink of cigarettes and you’re hung over. You really are a shitty teacher

Keith: Say whatever you want. Just remember, that generous shitty teacher’s the only reason you two can do your light music club stuff in the first place

Junior: FUUUCK!!!

Faith: Please don’t make it sound like you’re doing me some kind of favour. I don’t really care if you want to quit playing advisor

Keith: There ya go, see? You’re the only one so rarin’ to go, Junior. If ya wanna keep yer precious light music club from teeterin’ into disaster, ya better play nice with us～

Junior: HAH!?

Faith: Aha, you really are a shitty teacher

Dino: Hey now, enough with the cruel jokes, you two. We’ve come all this way, so let’s make the most of the Quiz Tournament!

See, the weather’s so nice! The perfect day for a quiz! Love and peace…. ☆

Keith: Ugh, so dazzlin’ it’s makin’ my head pound….

Dino: I wonder what the quiz is going to be like? There’ll definitely be more to it than just questions on music, right? I think we’ll still be okay, though

Maybe there’ll also be questions on cows, or maybe pizza… Make sure you get them all right! The pride of Hikari Private Academy depends on it ♪

Junior: Yeah! Leave it to us!

Faith: No, even if there were going to be questions on pizza, I still don’t get the point

Ughh, I really shouldn’t have joined the light music club. Why did I have to get dragged into this…

Junior: Ah!

North High’s here! Their school’s so elite, they always compete in this tournament

Faith: North High… That school with the crazy high GPA? 

Dino: Their student council president Marion-kun’s been a contender in the tournament three years running

Keith: Has he won every time?

Dino: No… Actually, last year and the year before, a different school took the top spot

Keith: Hehh? Guess this is his last chance then—

Marion: Oi

I’m used to people talking about me, but at least do it when I’m not around. Your voices are grating

Dino: S-sorry, sorry. We didn’t mean anything bad by it…

Ah, we’re from Hikari Private Academy. I’m—

Marion: I don’t care. You’re not worth remembering anyway

This year, North High will… I will definitely win the Quiz Tournament. Don’t forget it

Faith: Aha, someone sure has a strong personality

Junior: ….. So cool～.....

Will: It’s true. It’s my first time here too. You can really feel the difference between a public school and a private school

Will: Well, our school is a little, er, peculiar anyway, though….

Akira: Hmph, who cares if it’s a private school? Pit me against anyone, doesn’t matter what school they’re from, I’m still gonna be stronger

Will: What exactly do you think we’re here for, Akira… You didn’t come today to fight, did you?

Akira: Yeah? Why else would we be here?

Will: Y-you’re kidding me, right….? No, it’s Akira, he probably really does mean it…

Brad: I was wondering what the commotion over here was about. So it was you two

Akira: Gek. And there’s Brad!

Oscar: You had best be on your best behaviour while we’re on another school’s grounds, Akira. Give the Voltage Max a rest today

Akira: Tch. Where did the chaperone duo come from?

Brad: We’ve finished registering for the tournament. Sorry to keep you waiting

Will: The day is finally here… The Million City High School Quiz Championship

Oscar: Are you nervous, Will? You’ve spent quite a while preparing for this day

Will: Yes…

Akira: Maaan, this sucks～ Why do I gotta be a part of this Quiz Tournament?

Everything about this sounds boring as hell. If we really gotta do this, couldn’t we at least do it like Million City Showdown! and have the winner decided by a vote?

Oscar: I know you’re hotheaded, but this is a bit much even for you. Don’t go causing any problems while we’re here

If you need to hit something, come find me. I’ll spar with you

Akira: Ehhh～ But that’s no fun, I always fight you

Will: I’m really grateful that you came with me today, Akira. If you hadn’t agreed to come, we wouldn’t have been able to participate in the tournament

Oscar: True. There aren’t any other students from our school participating

Akira: Tch. But why did it have to be me

Besides, I didn’t really agree. I was pretty much dragged here against my will by a certain pain in the ass teacher

Oscar: Akira, don’t speak ill of Brad-sensei like that

Akira: Hmph, shut it. I’m just calling a spade a spade

Oscar: Akira!

Brad: It’s fine. Say whatever you want about me

A school must have at least 2 students participating in order to take part in the tournament. Though you didn’t participate in a single training session for this, I expect you to at least fulfill your role as a reserve member to permit Will to take part

Oscar: Even though Brad-sensei was kind enough to take time out of his day to plan a strategy for the quiz…

Will: Those sessions were very valuable! I’m really lucky to be able to learn from someone who has won the tournament himself

Oscar: Indeed. To think that Brad-sensei once won the Quiz Tournament…

Will: It really surprised me. But once I knew, I just had to seize this chance and try challenging the Quiz myself

Oscar: I hope that all your training pays off

Will: Right! I’ll do my best ♪ 

Akira: Who cares if he’s won the tournament. Is this Quiz thing really such a big deal? I’d never even heard about it

Like, we don’t even get anything for winning, right? And you wanted me to come train for it…. Yeah right

Oscar: Akira….

Brad: On the contrary. If you win, you have the right to “Honour”. Not just for yourself, but also for your school

Akira: Uehh, could you have picked something I care less about?

This Quiz sounds lame even if you’re the strongest at it. They should at least offer some huge cash pot or like, a trip around the world or something if you win!

Oscar: Weren’t you just saying earlier that all that mattered to you was being the "strongest"?

Akira: Yeah, of course it is!?

Will: There might not be a big cash prize, but there are a bunch of smaller prizes. Things like subsidies for studying abroad, or admission to any library in the world…

Akira: Gaaaahhhh～～～～ Who cares! Like I would give a shit about visiting all the libraries in the world!? You know me better than that!

Brad: The trials of the ignorant

Akira: Ahn, what was that? You’re ignoring me!?

Brad: Ignorant. In a word, it means you’re a fool (1)

You are lacking in knowledge, and you do not understand the basic principles of life

Akira: !

Brad: But be that as it may, there’s still a role you can play. Be sure not to fail in carrying it out 

We’ll be staying here for two days and one night. I’ll bring our baggage over to our lodgings for now

Oscar: Right! Let’s go, you two

[Brad and Oscar leave]

Akira: Tch. Just say it plainly from the start then! Every single thing he does is so damn annoying!

Will: Akira… Don’t get so worked up over every little thing. This’ll be fun if you just think of it as a school event, don’t you think?

That’s how I’m treating it, and I really want to have a good time. Now that I’m in my third year, I won’t get another chance to attend an event like this. I’m going to miss it

And since you’re in a different year than me, we haven’t had a lot of chances to do things together, you know? It’s like a little field trip, so let’s make the most of it ♪ 

Akira: Sigh. You sure are easygoing, aren’t you…. Didn’t you say you only wanted to come ‘cause that bastard teach said he’d done it too?

Will: Both. I want to have fun, and I also want to work hard at the Quiz Tournament

Let’s work hard so we can at least pass the preliminary round!

Akira: Sighh～.....

(1) In Japanese, Brad uses an idiom that does indeed mean ignorant: 無知蒙昧　(“muchimoumai”). Akira, not knowing what that means, hears 鞭も美味い (also read “muchimoumai”), which, rather nonsensically, means “the whip is also tasty” (or a couple other possibilities, none of which make a ton more sense than that, unless maybe you’re Gast). While I suspect Akira probably would know the meaning of ignorant in English, playing around with synonyms wasn’t really getting me anywhere fast

Gray: I forgot to set my alarm clock, when I woke up I had a cramp in my neck from sleeping funny, I wanted to brush my teeth but I couldn’t find my toothpaste, one of my socks was missing its pair, I couldn’t find my phone…

That’s not even all of it… But, I absolutely have to go outside today. There’s something I just can’t miss… So I even went so far as to get Billy-kun to come with me…

Billy: I’m in charge of standing nearby and saying “It’s okay～” and “That’s nothing, you can do this～” ♪

Akira: What’s up with that? Sounds pretty lucky if you ask me

Gray: Lucky!? W-w-why… Do you mean in like a spiritual sense…?

Akira: Nah, I don’t really know what I’m talkin’ about. I just kinda said it, so don’t worry about it

Gray: Uuuu……

Billy: It’s okay, Gray! I bet you’ve already used up all your bad luck for today!

[Bing]

Akira: Hm? We’re stopping again?

[Bing]

Akira: …..Again?

[Bing]

Akira: Oi, again?

[Bing]

Akira: ! We stopped again!?

[Bing]

Akira: GWUUUHHH! WE’RE STOPPING AT EVERY SINGLE FLOOR!

Gray: S-sorry… I’m sure this is my fault too…

Billy: I-it’s definitely just a coincidence～! This kind of thing just happens sometimes～!

Gray: Sorry, Akira-kun…. You got dragged into this because of me….

Akira: Nah, I wouldn’t say it’s your fault. All I was thinking was that it kinda sucks

Billy: Oho?

Akira: Oh yeah, that’s it…. Let’s make it into a game!

Gray: …A game?

Akira: The “How many people’re gonna get on on the next floor?” game! Whoever gets the most right wins, and the loser’ll buy them something from one of the shops!

Gray: I-Incredible…! Coming up with a way to turn even a situation like this into a fun game… Akira-kun really is an astoundingly positive person…

Billy: Isn’t he just～ And just a little while ago, he would’ve been annoyed… Akira-chi sure has grown ♡

Akira: Yeah…? Well, I guess. I’m improving in the blink of an eye, every day!

Alright! The game starts on the next floor! Ouuuurahh, I’m definitely winning this thing!

*****

[Helios Tower lobby]

Akira: Ahh, that was fun. And I got a ton of ‘em right. I really am a genius ♪ 

Gray: I-I had a feeling it would turn out this way, but still… I got every single one of them wrong…. Talk about a crushing defeat….

Billy: HAHAHA～ Fate just had different plans, that’s all. Don’t mind it one bit!

Gray: Right…. Let’s head over to the store…. I’ll buy you whatever you want….

*****

Akira: Cool, I think I’m gonna get this soda. I’m parched

Billy: Man, I feel a little bad now～

Akira: I dunno that you can really say that when you’re carting around a bunch of candy like that

Billy: Ehehe, I wonder what kind of flavours they’ll be～.... Huh, Gray? What’s that you’re looking at?

Gray: Starlight Heroes’ limited lottery…. I can’t believe our shop here has it….

Billy: Wow! You said you’d play it if you found one, didn’t you? Maybe your luck’s turned around!?

Gray: Gulp…. B-But I was on my way to a collab café for my favorite game… I can’t use up all my luck and all my money here… I really… can’t….

Akira: You’ve already got a big wad of cash out, though

Gray: Just 20….. Please just give me 20 pulls….!

*****

Gray: ……. Not a single one……..

Akira: You bought so many and all you got were participation prizes. Your luck really is brutal today

Gray: I knew I shouldn’t have even tried today…. Maybe if I’d tried tomorrow it would’ve gone better…. Might as well have just thrown my money straight in the trash….

Billy: Aww～! Too bad, I only got a participation prize too

Gray: Eh…. Billy-kun, you pulled too…?

Akira: Oh, then I’ll join in too. After drawing so many blanks in a row, the next one’s gotta be something good

Gray: Akira-kun…!

Akira: Alright, what’ve we got～?

!? HECK YEAHHHH….!!

Gray: Eh, what is it!? D-d-d-don’t tell me….

Akira: F prize! I really am a genius～!

Gray: Ah….

Billy: That’s just one step above a participation prize. I guess maybe Akira-chi’s a genius at being excited, if he can get that worked up so easily? 

Akira: Haah, what’s that? It’s better than getting nothing. In fact, it’s the best

Gray: Yeah, that is true…

Otakus could really stand to learn from you, Akira… Your attitude is so great. I shouldn’t have said it was like throwing money in the trash…. The participation prizes are actually really nice… I was way too greedy, I’m so embarrassed….

Akira: Yeah, yeah, you should totally learn from me! Not really sure what, but you totally should!

Billy: HAHAHA～ That really is a valuable trait ♪

Gray: Yeah…. Alright, I’ve decided. I’ll face this collab café with a new perspective—

[Downpour]

Billy: Wow!? What a torrential rain! It was so clear just a second ago too!

Gray: There’s, no way….. Just when I thought things were looking up, my bad luck strikes again…?

Akira: Hmph, just leave this to me

Billy & Gray: !?

Akira: I’ll make the rain stop with my genius power

Gray: Wha….

Billy: I-It doesn’t matter how impressive a genius you are, there’s no way you can make the rain stop!? Trying to stand up to a force of nature is ridiculous!

Akira: JUST WATCH ME…… VOLTAGE MAAAAAAAAX!!!!

[Flash, rain clears up]

Billy: Huuuuhhh!? It cleared right up!?

Gray: ……

Akira: ….All in a day’s work for a genius like me

Gray: Amazing…. That’s just unbelievable, Akira-kun….. How did you….

Akira: It’s easy. You should try it too. All you gotta do’s say “Voltage Max”

Gray: Voltage…. Max….?

Akira: Louder!

Gray: VOLTAGE MAX!!!!!

Akira: That’s the way. If you keep that up, you too can learn the power of a genius. ….And then you won’t have anything to worry about while you’re out

Gray: Right…!

Let’s go, Billy-kun!

Billy: O-Okay….?

[Gray and Billy walk off]

Akira: Haaaaaa～～～～, I can’t believe it～～～! I wasn’t expecting that to really work～! My genius levels really are off the charts!

….Wait a second. Why did I come all the way to the ground floor, again?

Well, whatever. Guess I’ll head back up and brag to Will that I can stop the rain～ ♪

*****

Asch: ….Tch

Jay: Asch is right, I don’t think you need to state your rank. But I don’t think it’ll hurt, either

Oscar: Very well. Thank you very much, Jay-san

I’m sorry we’re making you help us prepare for our interviews

Jay: No, no, I wanted to do it

Asch: I can tell. We didn’t even ask for your help, yet here you are

Jay: Well now. Looks like Asch isn’t lacking for confidence in his interview skills

Oscar: We’ve never had to do anything like this before. How are you so calm?

Asch: Hmph. Do you really think I’m going to worry over something as simple as an interview?

You just have to answer whatever they ask. There’s no point even preparing

Oscar: You’re so sure of yourself…. You truly are an inspiration, Asch

Jay: He’s right. Still, you never know what they could throw at you, so it’s better to prepare ahead of time so you can be ready for anything. You don’t want to find yourself regretting what you could’ve done better later

Asch: I’m not gonna regret a damn thing

Jay: Haha, okay, okay. Hold onto that spirit then—

Oscar: When you did your interview, Jay-san, did you take the time to prepare?

Jay: Hm? Ah, right. I do remember doing that

Asch: Oi, Oscar. There’s no point asking the old bastard. No way he’ll remember something from that long ago

Jay: H-Hey now, it wasn’t that long ago…

….Ah, I guess it was 10 whole years ago now

Asch: So, a long ass time ago

Jay: I-I hadn’t realized it had been that long… That’s kind of a shock

Oscar: Er, Jay-san. If you don’t remember, don’t worry about it, but if you do, would you mind sharing with us what sort of things they asked you about in your interview?

Jay: Eh?

Asch: He doesn’t remember a thing

Jay: No, that’s not true! It’s not that, it’s just….

Asch & Oscar: …..?

[Dino appears]

Dino: What’s this what’s this? What’re the three of you doing here?

Jay: Dino

Oscar: Dino-san, good evening. We’re in the middle of preparing for our oral evaluation

Dino: Oral evaluation… Ah, for the advancement exam!

That’s right, you have to do an interview for the Major Hero exam too, don’t you? You two are incredible, practicing so diligently like this ♪

Asch: Wait a second… Oi, Dino. What were you doing 10 years ago?

Dino: 10 years ago? Ummm, I think that was the year I first started here….

Asch: Heheh, figured

Jay: Asch, don’t tell me you….

Asch: Meaning you were already training under the old geezer when he took the Major Hero exam

What do you remember about the test? Or about the interview, I guess

Dino: Jay’s interview…?

Ahh, I get it! You want to hear about that “legend”!

Asch & Oscar: Legend….?

Jay: Di-Dino….

Dino: The interview of legend! It’s my favorite Jay story ♪

He’d already finished the practical and written exams, and all he had left was the interview, but….

Just before he was supposed to start, we got a call saying Jay’s wife was in labour!

Asch & Oscar: ….!

Dino: I remember Brad and Keith and I were all running around panicking when we heard. I mean, it was a super huge deal!

There was nothing the three of us could do about it, but we still all freaked out～

Asch: So? What did the old fart do?

Dino: He abandoned the interview, of course, and rushed to the hospital as fast as he could

Jay: ….Yeah, that’s right

My wife was giving birth to my son. He came earlier than he was supposed to, so I was worried about that, too…. The interview was the last thing on my mind

Asch: Hmmn…

Dino: That’s exactly what Jay said as he turned his back on the venue and walked out. He was super duper cool that day

And the examiners were so moved, they passed him for the interview too! Worthy of being called a legend, don’t you think?

Jay: I’m pretty sure they just felt bad for me. I certainly wouldn’t call it legendary

Dino: Don’t be so modest! What’s more heroic than racing off to support your wife and son? ♪

Jay: I appreciate the thought. And that I passed the exam….

Dino: Huh? Jay? Where are you going?

Jay: I’m going to go buy some canned coffee

[Jay walks off]

Dino: Oh…. I guess he really didn’t want to talk about that

Asch: ….So he has made that sort of choice before

Dino: Hm? Jay, you mean?

Asch: Yeah. I heard he always put work first

Dino: Anyone would prioritize the birth of their own son though, don’t you think?

Oscar: Jay-san really is cool

Asch: ….Hmn

Dino: But, it was probably partly because it was his own exam, too…

If it had been us rookies who were taking the test, I’m not so sure he would’ve done the same….

Asch & Oscar: ……

[Jay returns]

Jay: I’m back. Here, I got some for you guys too

Dino: Huh? For us?

Oscar: Thank you very much

Jay: Here you are, Asch

Asch: ……

Jay: ? Asch, what’s wrong—

Asch: If you end up having a kid on the day of our exam, make sure you go be with them

Jay: Huh….

Asch: You hear me?

Jay: I-I do, but… I don’t plan on having any more kids, so….

Asch: Tsk, that’s not what I mean! Don’t be so dense, you damn old bastard…!

Dino: Ahaha! How funny, Asch ♪

Asch: What the fuck!? There’s nothing funny about me!

Oscar: No, you’re definitely entertaining

Jay: Right. I don’t really know what’s going on, but Asch is always fun to be around

I’ll gladly accept your kind words

*****

(1) This rhymes in Japanese. Trying to figure out how to make it do that in English took longer than translating the whole card story, so i Gave Up

Brad: Is that so. That is a wonderful thing

Oscar: …But while it makes me happy, it also makes me feel a little lonely. I can’t help thinking that some day our rookies will leave the nest

Brad: You’re already thinking about that?

Oscar: ! I’m sorry….! You’re right. If I think about this now, I’ll only end up wondering how things will turn out from here on….

Brad: Well, that too, but… Even if they do “leave the nest”, as you say, they’ll still be our friends, and members of the same organization. We’ll still be able to see them whenever we wish

Once they’re no longer our mentees, we’ll develop a new relationship with them, and a new way of connecting with them

Oscar: A new relationship….

Like you have with Jay-san now. And I myself still rely on Dino a lot, even now

Brad: Right, exactly

Oscar: Hearing that eases my mind a little. I’m looking forward to what the future will bring now. ….I wonder what our relationship with them will be like

*****

[Hallway]

???: — Oi, Brad

Brad: ….?

Marion: What sort of changes should be made to the rookie’s training menu between the early days and the middle? Be specific in your answer

Brad: ….What?

Marion: Kh. I’m only going to ask you once!

Brad: No, I heard your question. I’d like to know what your reasoning is for asking me, though

Marion: Tsk…..

Brad: Have you asked Victor?

Marion: …Of course I have. Don’t think so little of me. I know the proper chain of priority

I tried thinking back on when I myself was a rookie…. And I was a little curious what you were thinking about when putting together the training menu

Just a little curious, though. Answer me, in detail: what were you thinking about?

Brad: ….You really can’t just sincerely ask me to teach you, can you

Marion: !?

F-Fine! Clearly I was wrong to even try to ask you!

Brad: Wait… I understand your intention. I’ll answer your question

Marion: ……

Brad: So, first tell me about Gast and Ren’s current condition

Marion: Eh…. What does that have to do with anything?

Brad: You’re asking because you want to put their current skills to the best possible use, no? Therefore, I need to hear about the extent of their current abilities

It’s fine, just tell me —

*****

— Another day —

[Briefing Room]

Brad: — Thus, at the next mentor meeting, I’d like to ensure all teams are on the same page regarding how to instruct their rookies

As for the chair of the next meeting…. Marion, I’d like to entrust that to you

Marion: Eh…?

*****

Marion: Oi, Brad. Wait a minute

What was that, earlier? …..Why did you nominate me to be chair?

Brad: As you have been wrestling with a very similar topic, I thought you would be the perfect person for the task

Marion: Th-That is true, but…

There’s no need to go so far as to hand over the role of chair. Isn’t that your job?

Brad: Yes, that is true. And if consider it simply a way for a junior mentor to gain experience, it would make more sense to have Oscar or Asch do it first, rather than you

However… I thought that you, more than anyone else, had an interest in that position. Was I wrong?

Marion: …..!

Oscar: It’s true: if I were told to do it, of course I would. But I had the fairly firm impression that Marion would do so voluntarily

Brad: Are you not dissatisfied with never being the one to take the lead?

It was my understanding that you thought you could do it too… Or rather, that you thought you could do it better 

Marion: ……

Oscar: Marion did become a mentor immediately after finishing his own rookie training. He has more ambition than anyone. And moreover, he has the strength to act on that ambition as well

Even I want to see just how far and how quickly Marion will climb the ranks

Brad: ….Precisely

It seems that recently, you’ve come into your own as a mentor. It’s plain to see that not only have you gained a sense of stability, but compared to your rookie days, your avarice has eased somewhat

I offered you this role in recognition of that growth

Marion: ….!

Brad: Well, if you yourself aren’t interested, I won’t force you—

Marion: Tsk. I didn’t say I wouldn’t do it….

I just wanted to know your reasoning, that’s all! There’s nothing I can’t do!

….Just watch me. I’ll be such a perfect chair it’ll be impossible for you to step back into the role afterwards

Hmph!!

[Marion stalks off]

Brad: ……

Oscar: It seems he’s quite motivated now. Though I guess you could say that’s normal for Marion, or something of that sort

Come to think of it…. Just now, was that your and Marion’s “way of connecting”?

Brad: Yeah, it was

Marion isn’t easily dealt with, and he’s not the type to plainly ask for help. And he tends to abhor anyone who tries to interfere

Therefore, my goal is to do as much as I can for him by way of offering him new opportunities. As his former mentor

 Oscar: I see….

That is also a wonderful way of connecting

I wonder what Marion will do as chair of the next meeting… I’m looking forward to it

Brad: ….Yeah. So am I

*****

Keith: You…. My booze and cigarettes are more precious to me than my own life～....

[Keith collapses]

Faith: Aha, he broke down crying

Junior: Th-that’s shameful, man. Your life is worth more than alcohol and cigarettes

Dino: Hey, Keith. It’s really not something to get that upset over, you know～? Junior’s just worried about you, that’s all

Keith: My…. He threw out my precious.....

Junior: ……

*****

[Faith & Junior’s room, night]

Junior: ….Why should I feel guilty

All I did was hide his booze and cigarettes… Maybe I should just give them back —

*****

[Keith & Dino’s room, morning]

Junior: ….Mmnn…. Yawn. I slept so well….

So why don’t I feel refreshed…? I’m sure I slept real solidly…

…. Wait a second, where am I? ….This isn’t my room

Hmn? Huh? This outfit, isn’t mine…. Man, my head…..

Junior as Keith: What’s with this shaggy mop!? Eh!? Eeehhhh!?

Uoah!? Did I… grow!?!

*****

[Yellow West living room]

Junior as Keith: OII!! S-someone—

??? [Junior’s body]: ….Ah

Junior as Keith: !?

??? [Junior’s body]: Y-Yo….

Junior as Keith: ME!!!??

Keith as Junior: Ah– Er…. It’s me. Keith

Dino: K-Keith…. Stay calm and hear us out

Faith: No, Dino, that’s Ochibi-chan. He’s in Keith’s body

Junior as Keith: ! ……

[Junior as Keith runs off]

Faith: Guess he’s checking in the mirror

Junior as Keith: WH-WHA……. WHAT THE FUUUCCCKKKK～～～～～!!!??

Dino: Ahaha, Keith had the exact same reaction

Junior as Keith: Oi, what the hell is happening!?

Keith as Junior: I just woke up like this this morning. I don’t got a clue what’s goin’ on either

Dino: We got in touch with the Research Department right away to try to figure out what caused it. But until they get back to us, you’re going to have to sit tight like this

Junior as Keith: To find the cause…. What about putting us back!? You can’t expect me to stay like this for the rest of my life!?

Faith: Substance is always to blame when something like this happens. It’ll probably be fine if you just wait it out… Though it is pretty funny to see

Keith as Junior: Oi, bit of a mean streak on ya there….

Junior as Keith: What the hell… And to be stuck as Keith, of all people….

Ah, hey! What’re you doing fiddling with the cuffs of my pants!? Don’t roll just the one leg up, that’s weird!

Keith as Junior: It’s not that big a deal, is it～? I can’t keep calm if they ain’t like this

Junior as Keith: Damnit… Then I’m gonna roll both of yours down!

Keith as Junior: Ah, oi! My trademark!

Dino: Quit fighting over such trivial details, both of you….

Junior as Keith: It’s not trivial at all!!

Tch…. I’m even more irritated than usual.. Guess that makes sense in this situation, though…?

Faith: You sure it’s not just nicotine withdrawal? You are in Keith’s body after all. But the thought of Ochibi-chan craving a cigarette is too funny

Junior as Keith: Wh… God, this is the worst!! I am definitely not going to smoke!

Keith as Junior: What’s with that. You’re finally legal age and you don’t even wanna try a drink or a smoke?

Dino: Keith, don’t give him any ideas!

Keith as Junior: Damnit, if we don’t hurry up and switch back soon, my body’s gonna end up all purified….

Junior as Keith: What’s with this body… I only just woke up and I’m already exhausted…. Where’s a chair, I wanna sit down

….Is this what it’s like to be almost 30?

Dino: N-no!? That’s definitely just because of Keith’s terrible lifestyle! See, I can run and jump around as much as I want!

Keith as Junior: I’m pretty sure that’s just a you thing. Yer not normal

[Keith as Junior jumps around]

Keith as Junior: But damn～ Being a teenager’s amazin’. I feel like I could run and jump around forever like this. ….Is this the magic of growth hormones?

Junior as Keith: Don’t treat me like a kid!

Keith as Junior: You should make the most of seein’ the world from 186cm while you can. Who knows if ye’ll ever get to experience it again

Junior as Keith: Fuuuuckk! Shut up!!

Faith: He says, while getting to his feet

Junior as Keith: I-I just got tired of sitting down, that’s all!

…. Looking at you like this, you’re the little one, Shitty DJ

Faith: Now try looking at your own body

Junior as Keith: Geh…

I won’t let that get me down. I’ve still got plenty of room to grow….

Oh yeah, that’s right! There’s something I’ve just gotta try while I’ve got control of Keith’s body

Keith as Junior: Hah?

Junior as Keith: Hmmmmm…. Like this!?

[Junior activates Keith’s ability]

Junior as Keith: Uwoooahh, amazing! It’s floating! It’s really floating!

Dino: Ah, nice! I’ve totally always wanted to try out Keith’s ability too～ ♪ 

Keith as Junior: Oi, don’t overdo it, yer not used to it…. You might break somethin’, y’know?

Faith: For all your griping, you sure look like you’re having fun

Junior as Keith: Sooo much fun! This is great! You’ve been holding out on us, Keith!

Keith as Junior: Tch, damn spoiled brat….

[Phone rings]

Keith as Junior: Oup… There we go, finally. It’s from the Research Department

Yo, it’s me… The voice belongs to Junior, but it’s Keith. Yeah, yup…. Huh? Noo….. Oi, wait….. Eh!?

Junior as Keith: …What is it?

Keith as Junior: Nono, wait just a second here! No way I’m just gonna accept somethin’ like that lyin’ down!?

….. They hung up

Dino: Wh-what did they say….?

Keith as Junior: I don’t…. really get it….. I don’t really get it, but…. They said it’s an extremely unique case, and it looks like it’ll take 500 million years to resolve….

Junior as Keith: Huh…..

[Faith & Junior’s room]

Junior: FIVE HUNDRED MILLION YEARS!!!??

Faith: Hey! Ochibi-chan, what’s the matter!?

[Door opens]

Dino: What’s wrong!?

Junior: ….Eh? A dream?

Keith: Oi oi, keep it down～. It’s first thing in the morning….

Junior: Uwoh!?

Keith: ….What?

Junior: There he is… The shitty mentor pushing 30

Keith: Haah?

Junior: I’m really definitely never giving back your booze or your cigarettes! You’re gonna stop them both right now! Take better care of your damn health!!

Keith: Wh-What the hell…..???

*****