Kei Cordelle

Nova: Uwaahhhhh～～～!!

Marion: Phew….

Junior: M-marion, just now…

Marion: Nova said he didn’t want to take a bath and ran away. He climbed out of a cupboard in the lab in an absolutely unthinkable state….

Billy: Wow, I’m so glad I didn’t touch him ☆

Marion: Thank you for catching him. You really saved us, Junior

Junior: Pyeahh!? Th-th-that’s, I didn’t really, do anything….

You just, um, I heard your voice, and I just—

Asch: Oi, you’re done now, aren’t you? Get back to cleaning

Junior: Ehhh!? Just give me another sec!

Asch: At this rate we’re gonna be ringing in the new year before we’re done. You know what’s gonna happen if you’re not done by then, don’t you?

Junior: Uuu… I know

Marion: If you’re short on help, I could lend a hand

Junior: Wha….!

Marion: Consider it thanks for catching Nova

Junior: Cleaning, together with M-Marion…? A reward like that would—

! Wait a minute!

Marion: Mn?

Junior: Umm, err…. We can handle the cleaning

But, I do have a request…

Marion: ? What is it? Don’t be shy

Junior: A-as a reward, for today….

Please go out for pancakes with me in the new year!

Haaaaaaahhhhhh～～～～～ I actually said it!!!

Marion: …..That’s all you want?

Junior: Y-y-y-y-yes please!! Lets go to that place you recommended in that magazine interview a while back!!

Marion: You want to go there? That feels more like a reward for me than it does for you, though

Junior: I-it’s definitely a reward for me! The most incredible, amazing reward ever!!

Marion: If you really think so….

Alright. We’ll go

Junior: !.....

Marion: I’ll get in touch in the new year with the details, then

Junior: Yeah! I’ll be waiting…!

[Marion walks off]

Junior: HELL YEAH～～～!!!!

Billy: You sure look happy, Lightning Boy ♪ You really are Marion-paisen’s biggest fan～

Junior: Ushishi, let’s get this cleaning done with and make sure we’re all set up for a great new year ★

I’ll grab the mop for the windows!

Billy: Sure is nice. I want a reward too….

Asch: Tch….

Billy: Jeez～ I know already! You don’t have to click your tongue at me—

Asch: So pancakes are enough to get that Runt motivated, huh. How pathetic…

I would’ve brought him to a 3 star French restaurant 

Billy: Eh!? You can’t possibly mean the Sky Tower Restaurant in Blue North!? The one that’s famous for their crystal cake!?

Asch: Yup. Eatin’ the finest full course meal there is on my dime

Billy: Are you really going to take me!?

Asch: If you can clean this place top to bottom before the day’s over, I might think about it—

Billy: Absolutely! I won’t let a single spec of dust get past me! I’ll turn my cleaning skills up to max!

Watch closely, Asch-paiseeeennn～～～ ☆

Ah, I found a picture of Papa and Victor-chama! It looks like it’s from when they were kids—

Jack: Jacqueline, please don’t fool around until after we’re done cleaning

Jacqueline: Ehh…..

Jack: We’re almost done, so please hold out a little while longer

Jacqueline: If I work hard, will I get a reward?

Jack: Jacqueline… Again with that…

Marion: What sort of reward would you like, Jacqueline? If you do your best cleaning, I’ll get one for you

Jacqueline: Yayy! Umm, Ummmm…..

Marion: Jack, is there anything you want?

Jack: Eh– There is… The newly released energy drink….

———

Jacqueline: Clean up! Clean up! Everybody do your share～ ♪ 

Jack: My my, it would appear at this rate, we’ll be able to finish in good time

Marion: Mhm. Come to think of it, where did Nova go?

Jack: I haven’t seen him since this morning. He’s been locked up in his lab the last few days…

Marion: Maybe he went out for a walk to get some fresh air? I hope he didn’t collapse out there somewhere

Jack: I have not yet received any reports of such a thing. Perhaps instead he got caught up speaking with Victor in his lab…

Marion: Well, why don’t we head back for now? We’ve done enough cleaning for the time being, why don’t we start decorating for New Years soon?

Where did you put the stuff from last year?

Jack: I’m sure it was in that cupboard—

Marion: …..!?

Jacqueline: Ah, Papa!

Marion: Nova, what are you doing, falling asleep in a place like this….

Nova: Mnnnn…

Ha–!!

Sorry! I don’t have the strength left to make pancakes…. So….!

Marion: What exactly were you dreaming about? Nova….

Nova: Huh～? Ahaha….

You see, I thought if I stuffed myself into a tight space, it might help the ideas start flowing, but I guess it just put me to sleep instead

Jacqueline: Papa, that’s kind of….

Jack: Nova, when was the last time you had a bath?

Nova: Ah….. Uummmmm, two days ago? I think?

Jack: You cannot fool Jack’s sensors. By my estimate, it’s been more than a week, has it not?

Marion: Nova…

Jack: Marion, Jaqueline, this is where the real cleaning begins…

Nova: Uwawawa…..

I don’t wanna take a bath～～～～!!

Jacqueline: Ah, he ran away!

Jack: Don’t run!

Marion: He got out of the lab….! We’d better catch him quick…!

———

Billy: HEY, HEY! What do you want as a reward, Lightning Boy?

Junior: Uh, hmm…

Billy: Maybe I’ll ask for a house made of candy～. Big enough that you can walk right in!

Junior: I wanna eat the hamburgers from the VIP box at the stadium again

Billy: Oh yeah, you did say a while back that Asch-paisen was nice enough to take you～. Twice, even!

Good for you, Lightning Boy. I wish he’d take me too～

Asch: You two runnin’ your mouths about random bullshit again? Quit flappin’ your lips and get to work

Billy: We are working～! We’ll make it so sparkling clean you’ll be dying to give us our reward～!!

Junior: The only parts that are really gleaming are the parts Goggles cleaned, though…

Asch: ….Tch, you haven’t done anything worth rewarding yet. You’ve still gotta clean the windows and door frames

Junior: Haa!? There’s still more!?

Asch: Of course there is. You’d better work your fingers to the bone, brats

Billy: This is hell～～～～!!!

Junior: Man, this seriously sucks. This day just won’t end—

Nova: Heeellllppp～～ meeee～～～!!

Junior: ! Dr. Nova!?

Marion: Junior, don’t let Nova get away!

Junior: Eh, M-Marion!?

I don’t wanna take a bath～～～!!!

Junior: I don’t really know what’s going on, but you won’t get away from me!!

———

Junior: Ugh… Cleaning the entrance is gonna suck so hard. It’s freaking huge, and there’s always a ton of people coming in and out every day….

Man, there’s no way I’m ever gonna be able to do all this alone. The others’ll—

Asch: Oi, Runt. They send you down to help too?

Junior: Asch!

And… Goggles?

Billy: ……

Asch: I’m in charge of the cleaning here. And I am not going to accept any half-assed fucking measures

Billy: Why’re you looking at me!? If you want to do it alone, feel free! I already finished the area I was put in charge of, and it’s 100% spick and span!

Asch: Shut it. If you’re looking for something to blame, blame your shitty-ass stamina

Billy: Uuu… You’re still mad I couldn’t reach my quota during training earlier, aren’t you…

Asch: If you can’t hack at least that much, you’re not fit to call yourself a hero. Decent stamina’ll help with cleaning, too. Just think of it as training and get to work

Billy: Uwaaahhh!! Asch-paisen, you’re a demon! A despot! A tyrant! A tyrannosaurus rex!

I like cleaning, but I can’t take this! You can’t just force us into it! I refuse!!

Junior: Same here, if I feel too much like I’m being forced into something, I just lose the drive to do it—

Asch: Quit your damn whining!

Billy & Junior: ….!

Asch: We’re gonna clean this damn place all day long so that we can all have a nice, happy new year. And if you can’t, I’ll beat the everloving fuck out of you until you’re nothing but robots with featherdusters

Billy: Tyranntttttt～～～～!!!!

Asch: And don’t you even think about slacking off either, Runt

Junior: Eep…..

Asch: What’re you all jumpy about?

Junior: U-Understood….!

Asch: Alright, we’ll start with the vacuuming. That means you too, you rotten brat

Billy: Gotcha…..

Junior: ……

What now? There’s no way I can just rush through this now…

Asch: Oi, don’t push the vacuum around in circles

Junior: Huh…?

Asch: Make sure you’re paying close attention to the corners. That’s where all the dust collects

Junior: Umm…. What if the vacuum can’t reach?

Asch: I’ll go over them after with a broom

Junior: Seriously!? Is it even worth it…

Asch: Of course it is. Did no one ever teach you how to clean?

Junior: ? There’s not really a right way to clean though, is there?

Asch: There absolutely is. Watch me closely and you might learn a thing or two

Billy: …… ( •̀ ω •́ )✧

Asch: Oi, Brat, where do you think you’re going?

Billy: Gehk!!

Uwaaahhhh!! Let me goooo～～～!! You weren’t even looking over here, how did you know～!? 

Asch: I don’t need to see you to know what you’re thinking. Don’t think you can get away from me, Brat

Billy: Uuu… Uuuu…..

——— 

Asch: Oi Runt, watch how wet the damn mop is. If all you’re doing is getting the floor wet, you’re just gonna make it dirtier

Junior: O-okay…

Asch: Polish it until you can see your reflection. If I see one streak in it, you’ll be doing the whole thing again

Junior: For real…?

Fuck! I’m sick of cleaning!

But it doesn’t look like I’m getting out of this that easily…

And what’s up with this damn dirt anyway! It doesn’t matter how much I scrub, it won’t get clean!

Billy: HEY, HEY, Lightning Boy! Let me teach you my ultra special, anti-streak polishing technique ☆

If we add just a liiiittle bit of detergent to this dirty patch….

Junior: Holy shit! You cleaned that up in no time!!

Billy: Heh heh heh, right～? Cleaning is all about chemistry ♪ If you try to use too much elbow grease, you’ll just wear yourself out～

Asch: What do you think you’re doing, chatting the day away like that, Brat? Your assigned area is over there

Billy: I was just imparting some cleaning wisdom～! And anyway, I finished ages ago

Asch: You’re done?

Billy: See? Take a look ☆

Asch: ……

Billy: Pretty darn clean, wouldn’t you say?

Asch: Time to wax it, then

Billy: Huhh, we’re going that far!? If I wax it, I’m going to have to polish the whole thing all over again, and that’s going to take sooo long—

Asch: I’m not about to do a half-assed job and call it a day. You’re gonna do it ‘til it’s done right. You hear me?

Junior: After I’m done mopping, I’ve still gotta wax it….

Billy: Come on～! If you’re forcing us to go that far, we deserve some kind of reward!

Asch: A reward?

I told you this is training, didn’t I? We’re not doing it to get something out of it

Billy: It doesn’t matter if it’s cleaning or training, if there’s no reward, I can’t work my hardest～～～!!

Asch: Shut the fuck up!

Tsk, quit your bullshit and get back to cleaning

Billy: Booooo!!  Asch-paisen, you’re a demon! A despot! A drill sergeant! A deviled egg!

Junior: A deviled egg…?

You’re gonna put the trash you don’t know what to do with…. here. Dump it all right in the middle of the living room

Jack, once it’s there, you’re in charge of putting it wherever it belongs

Jack: Understood. You have a real knack for this, Asch. How wonderful that you’re so good at cleaning

Asch: Hmph, everyone should be able to do this much. Instead of praising me, beat in the faces of anyone who can’t

Gray: ….!

Jay: Asch really is a great guy to have around when we’re deep cleaning the dorm. So long as he’s here, you know everything’s going to be done right

Asch: Yeah, I’m sure I’m a big fuckin’ help to you in particular!!

Did you clean out the closet like I told you to? Aahn?

Jay: Err… I was working on it, but then I came across some parts for the aquarium and got distracted. But I’ll head right back to organizing it now

Asch: Hah!?

*****

[Jay & Asch’s room]

Asch: Motherfucker…. You haven’t done a damn thing since the last time I looked in here!

No, wait, they layout of the aquarium is slightly different…. You’re only doing the shit you like! Do I really have to do everything around here!? 

Jay: Noo～ I was going to do it afterwards… I just thought it might be nice to start over there….

Asch: WHO GIVES A FUCK ABOUT THE AQUARIUM!!!

Do you live inside the aquarium!? No you fuckin’ don’t! Look around, your room is a fucking pigsty! Where the hell do you even think you’re gonna sleep!?

Jay: S-sorry! Give me another chance!

Billy: Woww, Asch-paisen is suuuper full of energy today～

Gray: Poor Jay-san… But, I am so glad I don’t have to share a room with him…

Asch: Everything here is garbage. I’m taking it all out to the living room

Jay: Ah, wait! That’s not garbage

Asch: Ahn? No way this shit ain’t trash. What’s with this old towel?

Jay: It’s not just some regular towel for every day use, it’s commemorative memorabilia for the Tiger Jets. You can’t throw it out

Asch: Who the fuck cares!! Things wear out when you use them! If it’s commemorative, make sure it stays fucking clean!

What about this!?

Jay: I think that’s a misanga that broke, or maybe a glove that’s missing it’s mate…. (1) 

Asch: THROW IT OUT!!!!!

And this!? I don’t care what you say, a ticket stub from a movie you saw who knows how long ago is trash!

Jay: Th-That’s a keepsake from when I went to the movies with Benji…

Asch: ….Tch!! Then take better care of it! Don’t just leave it dumped on the damn floor!

Sigh…. There’s no end to it. I haven’t even touched the shit in the closet yet. Everything you haven’t used in the past year, you’re throwing out, you hear me?

Jay: Eh!? But there’s so much I haven’t had the chance to use yet?

Asch: Doesn’t matter! Don’t be such a fuckin’ hoarder!

Gray: Uwahh, there it is….. The rich boy who can’t understand a commoner’s feelings….

Billy: Hm? What’s this….?

Hey, Asch-paisen. Are you really throwing out all the clothes in this garbage bag?

Asch: Of course I am. Quit snooping and get back to your own work—

Billy: Whaaaattt!? This shirt is brand name!? And a rare, limited edition one at that!

And this T-shirt and these sneakers too, they’re all so expensive it’s making my eyes pop out of my head! Why are you throwing them all away～!?

Asch: I just told you, we’re throwing away anything we haven’t used in the past year. It’s not like they’re worth putting on display or anything

Billy: Wait wait wait! Anyone with eyes can see these are worth a ton!

If you sold them in a flea market or an auction, you could get a pretty penny for them, you know? Do that! It’d be way way better to do that!

Asch: Aahn? A flea market? You really think I need money that badly? I’m not you

Billy: In that case, can I take them!?

Asch: Sure, do whatever you want

Billy: SWEET!!!!!!

Gray: B-Billy-kun….

Billy: Don’t worry, Gray. I left any pride I had in my mother’s belly

Gray: Haha….

Oh, that’s right… Billy-kun, you said you wanted a small tablet, right?

I actually bought a new one recently, so I don’t need my old one anymore… It still works, so if you want, I could give it to you…?

Billy: Eh, are you sure!? It was still pretty new, wasn’t it?

Gray: It was merch from a collab with an anime I like, and I couldn’t stop myself from buying it…

Billy: Yayy! In that case, I’d love to take it — or rather, to buy it from you. I’d feel super awkward just taking a tablet from you—

Asch: Ugh, I’ll never understand why you plebs all try so damn hard to save money

Gray: !

Asch: “It still works”, “It’d be a waste”, that’s all you people can think about. That’s why you’ll never be more than plebs

Gray: Uu…. What’s wrong with being a pleb….

Billy: You’ve given out hand-me-downs too, Asch-paisen. You gave a bike to Gast’s Aniki, didn’t you?

Asch: That’s not the same. I was just foisting off something I was going to throw out. It’s different

I might give out charity, but you’ll never, ever see me taking it

Billy: Humm, this is one thing we just can’t see eye to eye about. You can really see the naiveté of the rich here—

Asch: Aahn? You say something?

Jay: Hey, Asch!

Asch: Ahn? You done cleaning up your closet already, old man?

Jay: Do you want this jacket? If you like it, I’ll give it to you

Asch: ….Hah?

Jay: I bought it with my very first paycheck, so it’s really meant a lot to me. But I think I might be a little too old to pull it off anymore

The design is definitely aimed at young folks, but it’s real leather, so I don’t think it’ll look cheap, even if you’re the one wearing it…. How about it?

Asch: ……

Billy: Wahh～ What a cool jacket! It’d be a huge waste to throw out something this nice!

Jay: It’s vintage, after all. The more you wear it, the more character it gets

Billy: But there’s no way Asch-paisen will take it, right? He just said that goes against his beliefs～. In that case, I’ll gladly take it—

Asch: I’ll take it

Jay: Oo

Asch: It’s pretty clear it doesn’t suit the brat’s tastes. Even 10 years from now, he won’t be able to pull off something like this. So I guess I’ll just have to take it myself

Jay: Really? I’m glad to hear it! I thought it would suit you. It’s a real relief to have someone to give it to

Jay: I’m sorry you couldn’t have it, Billy. I’ll find something else to give you

Billy: That’s okay, don’t worry about it～ I wasn’t really serious anyway ♪

I’m happy for you, Asch-paisen ♡

Asch: ….!

Shut up! Get back to work! This had better be all fucking done by the end of the day!!

*****

(1) Misanga are specifically these sorts of handwoven bracelets originating from South America and Portugal, made by braiding different colors of embroidery thread. They grew popular in Japan initially among sports fans as a sort of fan merch thing, and later developed the superstition that if one broke naturally while you were wearing it, your wish would be granted

Will: R-Really?

I guess that makes sense… I do have little sisters, and I spend so much time with Akira and Ren that I guess maybe I’ve just had a lot of practice?

I never really thought of myself as good at it, though…

*****

[Break Room hallway]

???: So if you do it like this…. There, that should work now, right?

???: Uuwaaahh! You made that look so easy!?

Will: Hm? That sounded like Akira just now…

*****

[Lounge]

Will: — Sage-san, hello

Sage: Will-kun

Akira: Oh, hey Will!

Will: Um, was Akira causing trouble for you?

Akira: Hey, why’s that the first thing outta your mouth

Will: ….The wisdom of experience?

Sage: It was no trouble at all. Akira was just having some issues because he hadn’t updated his phone since he got it

Akira: I kept getting a pop-up any time I tried to do anything saying “Incompatible”. It was super annoying

Sage: It should be all better now, I think. But I bet updating it changed a lot, so you’ll probably have a different problem now

Will: I’m sorry, Sage-san…. He really did cause you trouble

I can help him with whatever comes up after the update. Akira, you make sure you thank him properly too

Akira: O-Okay…

Sage: I’m glad that everything seems taken care of. Feel free to come to me any time you’ve got a problem. That goes for you too, Will-kun

Will: Th-thank you very much…

Akira: Yo, you said you want to be a mentor, right Sage? Makes sense, you’re a really good teacher

Will: Ah…

Sage: Hehe, I’m really happy you thinks so. I’ve still got a long ways to go before the next generation of rookies join, but that’s still quite a ways away anyway

Will: U-um, Sage-san…

Sage: Hm?

Will: Do you, like teaching?

Sage: Huh…?

Yeah. I love it

Even at home, I’m always helping Licht-kun study. Every time he manages to do something himself for the first time, every time it feels like he’s grown, it gives me such a sense of fulfillment

And I’m sure Akira-kun will be able to update his phone on his own next time too, right?

Akira: Hyea!? Uh yeah! Totally! I’ve definitely grown!

Sage: Hehe…. So, kind of like that, I guess?

Will: I see… Is that why you wanted to become a mentor, then?

Sage: Exactly. Though I guess for me, the number one reason has always been my admiration for Sensei. But the joy I get from teaching has only made that feeling stronger

And also partly because…. I’m just not very strong on my own. I’m the only one from my team that couldn’t make it into the Anti-Eclipse Unit, after all

After that, when I sat down to think about what sort of life I wanted to lead, this was the answer I came to

Will: ……

*****

[Red South living room, night]

Oscar: Brad-sama, I made coffee

Brad: Ah, thanks

Oscar: Will? What are you doing up? I thought you were asleep

Will: Umm… Brad-san, Oscar-san, can I ask you something?

Brad: ?

Will: Why did the two of you become mentors?

Oscar: ….That’s quite the unexpected question

Will: I-I’m sorry. I know it’s too late to be asking such a thing, but I couldn’t stop thinking about it

Oscar: Truthfully, in my case, Brad’s recommendation had a very heavy influence. I had never given any thought to being a mentor myself before he suggested it

But still… Now that I am one, I can honestly say from the bottom of my heart, I’m glad to be a mentor

Brad: You’re the type of mentor to grow right along with your rookies. It makes you the finest model one could ask for

Oscar: T-Truly…!?

Brad: Even within the mentors, there are all manner of people. Just as with becoming a hero, there are as many reasons and motivations as there are mentors

And in my case, well…

My position is the result of my decision that if I’m going to spend time and effort on improving myself, I’d like to help others grow properly and as efficiently as possible

Oscar: As one would expect of you, Brad-sama. That is an ideal line of thinking within an organization like Helios that places such emphasis on teamwork

Brad: So then, Will. Why do you ask?

Will: …..!

I was just curious, that’s all…

I’ve just started thinking a little bit recently about teaching others…. Or rather, about someday, in the future, maybe trying to become a mentor myself

But I wasn’t sure whether I would be any good at it, so I wanted to ask

Oscar: ! That’s a great idea, Will. I think you’d make for a fantastic mentor

It’s particularly clear with Siams, but you have a talent for getting close with others and offering them guidance. I’ve been noticing that a lot lately

Will: You mean it…?

Oscar: Brad-sama, what do you think?

Brad: Hmm…

Will: ……

Brad: I’ve long since noticed that you have the qualities necessary to make a fine mentor

Will: Eh…

Brad: Have you not realized it yourself? You have a gift for guiding others… for leadership. You’ve proven that time and again

Of course those qualities open many other doors for you besides just becoming a mentor, but it’s plain to see that you’re well suited to teaching

Will: ……

Brad: If that’s going to be your goal, I hope you’ll aim to be Mentor Leader

Oscar: That would be great! And you’ve learned so much from Brad-sama, it’s certainly not out of the realm of possibility

Brad: If that’s something you want, Oscar and I will both offer you every last bit of help we can. So why not give it a try?

Will: ….!

Right! Thank you very much!

I’m sorry for keeping you up so late. I’d best get to bed now, but I’ll give it my all again tomorrow… Good night ♪

[Will leaves]

Oscar: Will’s aiming to be Mentor Leader, is he….

Every time something like this happens, I’m reminded how glad I am to be a mentor

Brad: ….Yeah, me too

*****

Jay: Maybe I’m wearing off on them? I do that sort of thing all the time. Not just with them, but with Benji too. It’s fun to share those sorts of trivial, day-to-day things, don’t you think?

Keith: Nah, I really don’t get that at all. But I guess Dino’s more that kinda type than I am. Maybe he’d get it

Jay: Ahaha, I got another one. “Careful not to drink too much ☆”. Guess maybe I’ll rein it in today

Keith: They really love ya…

Jay: What’s this? Are you jealous?

Keith: Yeah right. I ain’t really that kinda type. No one wants t’ see that

*****

[Yellow West street]

Dino: Alright! And with that, today’s patrol is done. Good work, everyone～ ♪

Junior: Done for another day～! I’m gonna stop in at the music shop on the way back

Faith: You too? I was just thinking I’d stop by

Junior: You wanna come with!?

Faith: Don’t be such a pain… We’re just headed the same way, right? ….Er, Keith?

Keith, flushed: Mnn…?

Faith: Your face is kinda red

Keith: Ahh…

Junior: Are you drunk!? Did you seriously come out on patrol when you weren’t even sober yet!?

Keith: Ohh….

*****

Dino: You have any plans after this, Keith? Gramps said he’d be in the area today, so I’m going out to get a bite to eat with him

Keith: Ahh, I think I’m just gonna head straight back…

Dino: ….?

Wait a second Keith, are you running a fever?

Keith: Hm?

Dino: You totally are! That hazy feeling… You’re not drunk, you’re sick!

What should I do… It’s almost time to meet Gramps, and the rookies both went off to the music shop….

Keith: I ain’t some kid, y’know. I can get home on my own…

Dino: B-But, what’re you going to do if your fever spikes higher and you’re all alone!?

Keith: I’m tellin’ ya, I’ll be fine… If it starts gettin’ bad, I’ll call ya. See ya

*****

[Yellow West living room]

Keith: Siiighh… This sucks…

‘S been forever since I had a fever… Has it always sucked this bad? Drains the life right outta ya

Ehn, I’m sure if I lay down for a bit I’ll feel better….

[Keith flops on the couch, activates his telekinesis]

Least I’ve got such a handy little ability here～....

Got my blanket, got some water…. Got everythin’ I need right here….

zzz……

*****

[Black]

??? (Faith): I thought we kept the cold meds on this shelf? (1)

??? (Junior): Nah, all I see is the stuff for stomach aches

??? (Faith): I bet Jack would bring some if we asked him. Though it might be faster to just run to the store ourselves….

??? (Junior): Hey, d’you think it’s okay for him to be sleeping here like this? It’d probably be better for him if we got him into his own bed, don’tcha think?

??? (Faith): Probably, but I don’t think I can carry him. Maybe we should ask Jack about that too?

Keith: ….What’s goin’ on? Who’s makin’ all that noise….?

*****

[Yellow West living room]

Junior: Ah, he’s awake!!

Faith: Oh, you’re right. Keith, can you hear us?

Keith: …… you guys…..

Faith: How’re you feeling? Still sluggish? Think you’re going to throw up?

Junior: We should really take your temperature. Oi, do you think you can do it yourself?

Keith: What’re ya….

Faith: Dino called us. He said you weren’t feeling well and asked us to come home and check on you

Junior: Not that we rushed back or anything. We had plenty of time to look around the music shop. So don’t worry about that

Keith: ……

Faith: Jack’s gonna bring us back some medicine, so you should get something in your stomach first. Do you think you can eat something?

Junior: We bought some jelly and stuff on our way back, which one do you want?

Faith: And if you can walk, you should probably get into your own bed. You’ll recover faster that way

Junior: ….Sorry I assumed you were drunk

Keith: ……

…..What is all this

…… It’s kinda not half bad….

*****

Dino: Keith! Are you okay!?

Faith: Dino, welcome back

Junior: You came running in here like you were racing into the hospital. It’s like something straight out of a movie

Faith: If you’re looking for Keith, he's asleep in your room. He was awake for a little bit earlier, and it sounded like he was already feeling a lot better

Junior: ‘Cause we were taking such good care of him—

Dino: Th-That’s great… I’m so glad….

Thanks, you two. Keith’s a really lucky man, no doubt about it… ♪

Faith: Well, we don’t usually get the chance to dote on him quite like this, you know

Junior: It’s kinda nice to take care of him when he’s like this. Just a little bit～

*****

— A few days later —

[Yellow West living room]

Keith, flushed: Uwooooaaii～～～..... I’m hooome～～～

I drank so much I can’t move…. Someone, lend me a hanndd～～～

Junior: What’s with him?

Faith: Don’t like the way he’s throwing glances over this way

Dino: Ahaha…. I think he wants you to take care of him again

He was really crazy happy that the two of you looked after him the other day

Junior: Let’s just pretend that never happened, yeah?

Faith: Yeah. I’m headed back to my room

[Faith & Junior leave]

Keith: D-Don’t leave me…. I can’t take another step….! Somebody be nice to poor ol’ Keith and give me a hannnd～～～!

*****

(1) The text box lists the speaker as the typical mystery ???, but the voice clips make it very clear who’s who, so I’ve added that in too

Roy: Huh? Today’s a special photoshoot just for you. Why would we need to be in costume too?

Chuck: We’re focused totally and completely on this photoshoot, so don’t worry!

Gast: Wait wait, y’all already took tons of pics of my cosplay at CFF

Roy: What’re you saying! That was totally different

Chuck: We wanted to do it here ‘cause it looks pretty close to the wildlife sanctuary Valk works at. We figured the pics we take here’ll totally match the OG series

Gast: Ehh….

Sigh. Not like I could say no when the boys asked me, but bein’ the only one in cosplay is embarrassing…. I really hope I don’t run into anyone I know….

Boy playing in the park: Wooah, it’s Valk～! Valk from Starlit Heroes is here～!!

Girl playing in the park: …You’re right. But, is it really the real him…?

Gast: Uh…. Umm……

Boy playing in the park: Did you come to check how the birds in Million Park are doing?

Gast: Uh, yeah. Something like that

Girl playing in the park: If you were the real Valk, you’d be able to fly though…

Gast: That’s…

Boy: Ah, they’re giving out balloons over there. See ya, Valk!

Gast: Ah, yeah. Be careful when you’re playin’

Roy: You’re amazing, Gast-san. Those kids thought you were the real deal

Gast: I feel kinda bad, like I cheated them or somethin’... Maybe I shouldn’ta done that…

Roy: What’re ya saying! They looked really happy to get to meet Valk!

Chuck: To those kids, you are Valk. That’s all there is to it. Ah, look over here please!

Gast: Haha, be gentle, I’m beggin’ ya….

*****

Will: Everywhere you look around here, spring’s in full bloom. It was so cold, but now the weather’s so nice and mild—

Girl playing in the park: Wahhh, my balloon…!

Will: Huh, balloon?

Oh, I see…. It got caught in that tree. And it’s such a tall one, too…

Boy playing in the park: Just wait! I’ll climb up and get it for you

Will: Wait, wait! You can’t climb that, it’s too dangerous. I’ll get it, so you two just wait here

….Easier said than done, though. What should I do? This species of tree has really fragile limbs, too…

If I extend the branches near the balloon, I might be able to reach the it, but there’s also a chance they could break….

Hmm…. If I grow some flexible ivy maybe I can get it….

Girl playing in the park: Onii-chan, are you gonna get it…?

Will: Uh, yeah. Of course! Everything’s fine! I was just trying to think of how to get it without hurting the tree—

Boy playing in the park: Ah– the balloon’s flying away…!

Will: Crap…

[Wind sound]

Gast: Hyyyuup

Will: Ah, that was….

Boy playing in the park: It’s Valk!! Valk’s flying!!

Girl playing in the park: It’s true, he’s really flying….

Gast: Here y’are, your balloon’s safe and sound. Careful not to let it go again

Girl playing in the park: Yeah. It really is him…. Thanks, Valk

Gast: Haha, this much is no big deal. I’m your “wings”, after all

Boy playing in the park: !! Valk’s catchphrase…! Cool～～～!!

Will: …Valk?

Gast: ….!?

Wh-why is Will here…!

Boy playing in the park: Onii-chan, look, it’s Valk!!

Gast: Ah, uhhh, no, I’m…

Will: Wow, I can’t believe I got to meet the real live Valk…!

Gast: Huh….?

Will: That’s so awesome, you two. Valk got your balloon for you

Boy playing in the park: Yeah! Thanks for trying to get it for us too, Onii-chan

Girl playing in the park: Thanks. I’ll be careful I don’t let it go again

Gast: Yeah, see ya

……

Will: ……

Gast: So, um, you uh, know who I really am, right—

Will: Do you really think I’m that dumb? But those kids really believed you were the real Valk. I was just playing along

They seemed so excited, I couldn’t just shatter their dream…

Gast: So that’s it. Thanks fer lookin’ out for them. Honestly, I kinda panicked when I saw ya…

Will: I heard from Akira that you cosplayed recently. I guess this is the outfit—

Roy: Gast-saaaaan!!

Gast: You guys…

Sorry for suddenly disappearing on ya. My body just kinda leapt into action when I saw that balloon flying away

Chuck: That was so super incredibly cool!

Roy: We were all so captivated we didn’t even take any pictures. So please, fly for us one more time!

Gast: Uh…. No, I don’t really think…… I mean, come on, I already got seen by someone I know, I really don’t wanna stand out any more than that….

Chuck: Please, Gast-san!

Roy & Chuck: Gast-san!!

Gast: No, I don’t… H-help me, Will!

Will: Hmm, that’s a little, I dunno, I don’t think I can, you know….

*****

(1) Chuck and Roy are still just called “Bro A” and “Bro B” at this point, but the card uses their icons and since we know their names now, I’m just going to sub them in.

Keith: Nah, before ya start bowin’ and all that, tell me why. Give me a reason. Ya can’t just show up outta the blue and start askin’ about baseball trainin’. I’ve got no idea what’s goin’ on

Dino: What? Ah, you’re right, sorry sorry

The truth is… You know how I pass by that Italian restaurant every day? You know the one, we stop in all the time with the rookies on our way back from patrol

Keith: Sure, that place’s got some real good wine to go with that tasty pizza

Dino: The owner there loves baseball, and he runs an amateur team in his spare time. They’ve got a rival team from South that they play against a lot, and he really looks forward to their matches

But recently, a former minor league player joined up with their rivals. And not just any minor leaguer – a knuckleballer… (1)

Keith: Wait wait wait. That’s a whole lota information, ya gotta give my brain a minute to catch up. …..Knuckleballer? Whazzat?

Dino: You’ve never heard of knuckleballs? It’s a special type of curveball. Sometimes people call it a magic ball because of how its flight changes so unpredictably in midair. Players who can throw them are called knuckleballers

Keith: Unpredictable, huh…. Minor leagues are the second league, below the major league, right?

With such a crazy dude comin’ out to an amateur game, nobody’s gonna be able to hit anythin’

Dino: Yeah! Exactly! Ever since he’s been filling in, the restaurant’s team’s just been facing loss after loss! All the players are loosing the will to even play, and lots of people aren’t even showing up to practice anymore

So the owner went all, “If they can have a minor leaguer, then we can have a AAA hero,” and requested I come help them out

Keith: So, you accepted?

Dino: Yeah ♪ I’m off the day of the match anyway, and I wanted to play baseball, so why not

And since I said yes, I’ve gotta give everything I’ve got so I can live up to their expectations. But, right now there’s no way I could hit a knuckleball

So! I thought you could recreate a knuckleball for me using your ability

Keith: Okay, now I finally get what yer sayin’. But it sounds like it’s gonna just be one huge pain for me, so I’d rather pass

Dino: Pleaseee, Keith～. You’re so dextrous, I know you’ll be able to pull it off～

Keith: Ahhh～～, I told ya not t’ shake me～～～

Dino: That’s right! The owner said if you came along to the training camp, he’d treat you to all you can drink wine with dinner!

Keith: ….Yer kiddin’? That wine they got there’s pretty much all crazy expensive, top-shelf stuff, y’know?

Dino: Nihi, pretty incredible, right? As soon as the owner realized he needed your help, he came right to me to ask ♪ 

Keith: Shit, hit straight on the damn mark with that one….. Ahh— fine, fine, I’ll do it….

Dino: Thanks, Keith! I’ll practice so hard I’ll take you all the way to the World Series!

Keith: Nah, I don’t think amateur leagues have a world series

*****

[Million Park]

Faith: So you’re off to batting practice once patrol’s over, then?

Keith: I got lured in by the fine wine…. 

Faith: You’ll all do great. Dino and Keith, and Ochibi-chan too

Junior: Sweet, I’m ready whenever! Keith, throw it here! I’ll get any balls that veer off behind 

Dino: Thanks a lot, Junior. But foul tips are dangerous, so try to catch it a little bit lower (2)

Faith: Are you really going to be able to throw a knuckleball or whatever it’s called, Keith? It’s not the kind of thing just anyone can pull off, right?

Keith: Ehh, I’ll make it work. Last night Dino made me watch videos of people throwin’ knuckleballs until I thought I was gonna puke, so I could see their trajectory

Keith: Basically, throwin’ a ball from up close without spinin’ it’ll let it turn whatever way it wants. ‘Cause of air resistance or somethin’

Faith: I see. All you need is to see its trajectory, and then you can recreate it with your ability

Dino: Come on, Keith!

Keith: Yeaaah

Dino: That was late. Next time I’ll hit it no matter how it changes!

Wha….!?

CHAPTER 2

-

[Million Park]

Dino: Wha….!?

Keith: What’s up?

Dino: Amazing! You really did it!! You really recreated it! Just when I thought the ball was waffling, it dropped straight down

Junior: Keith sure is good with his ability when he’s using it for pointless bullshit

Faith: Seriously, it’s always for something useless

Dino: Alllright, let’s keep it up! 

Keith: Yeah yeah. Weird for a pitcher to say, but please, hurry up and beat me —

*****

Dino: Ughh～～～, this time it curved to the right～～! I can’t read its trajectory at all

Keith: That’s why they call it a curveball, y’know

Dino: Alright, one more pitch

Jay: Oh, you’re really going at it

Akira: Let me hit a knuckleball too

Asch: …..Tsk

Dino: Jay and Akira and Asch? What’re you doing here?

Akira: I saw Junior’s post on HeliChan. It seemed like fun, so I thought I’d try to hit a knuckleball myself

Jay: I came across that post too. I thought it looked like fun too, so I invited Asch and we came to check it out

Asch: I told him to fuck off. But the old bastard and that brat over there forced me out here….

Junior: You like baseball too, Asch!

Asch: …..When it comes time for patrol, I’m going home

Akira: Whatever, I’m up first to bat! Keith, throw me a knuckleball!

Faith: What’re you going to do, Keith?

Keith: Sigh…. One pitch, that’s all

Dino: Here Akira, the bat. Watch out, they curve way more than I thought they would

Akira: Hell yeah! I’ve got this!! I’ll hit a home run with my Voltage Max batting style!!

Keith: What’s that even mean. Whatever, here we go～

Akira: Yooo! Perfect pitch!!!

Akira: Eh…!? Swing and a miss….?

Asch: Pathetic. You can’t even handle a knuckleball?

Akira: No, the timing totally should’ve lined up…. But, as soon as the ball started wavering, it just suddenly vanished somewhere

Asch: Ha, it did not vanish

Akira: If you wanna talk shit, you come hit it!

Asch: Hand over the bat. I’ll show you how it’s done

Keith: Next up’s Asch, huh. Alright, let’s go—

Asch: ……!

Dino: Asch? Why didn’t you swing?

Asch: Tch, it changed course way later than I thought it would… If it does that, it doesn’t matter how I try to adjust my swing, I still won’t hit it

Akira: See! I told you so!

Asch: Aahn?

Jay: I see. So the way it changes seems a lot bigger up close than it does when you’re watching from afar

Alright. Why don’t you throw one for me next, Keith

Keith: Sure sure

Jay: Come on!

Dino: All he had to do was change his stance and he suddenly seems so intimidating. That’s Jay for you. He’s got the air of a home run batter

Akira: Jay, show us a sick home run!

Jay: Leave it to me

Junior: Keith, you better not get beat

Keith: I’ve got no idea why yer suddenly rootin’ fer me, but…. Here we go, Jay

CHAPTER 3

-

[Million Park]

Keith: I’ve got no idea why yer suddenly rootin’ fer me, but…. Here we go, Jay

Jay: Nice——!

Keith: Ooh, he actually hit it….

Dino: That’s incredible, Jay! You hit it on your very first pitch! And your swing was super clean, too

Jay: Haha, really? But it was all I could do just to hit it

Junior: Yeah okay! Me next! I wanna try to hit it too!

Akira: I’m after Junior! I’ll get my revenge on Keith!

Asch: Let me hit it too. Now that I’ve seen how it works, next time I’ll send it over the batter’s eye (3)

Faith: Aha, Keith, you’re so popular

Keith: …..I said just one pitch

*****

Dino: Ugh…! It curved to the right this time….

Thanks, Keith… You’re probably tired, aren’t you? Let’s stop here

Keith: Ah～, I’m saved…… My shoulders’re so heavy, I’m gonna be sore t’morrow for sure….

So, did that help ya at all? Didja figure out how to take on a knuckleball?

Dino: Not at all. Sometimes I was able to hit it, but it was always a total fluke. I can’t figure out what it was that made it work

Keith: Makes sense

Dino: If I wasn’t able to get a handle on it after having you throw it so many times, I think maybe the best thing to do is to sit down on my own and try to think about how to hit it 

Keith: Yeah, you do that. And if I feel up to it, I’ll keep ya company again

Dino: Yeah, that’d be nice

*****

[Helios Tower plaza]

Dino: Phew… That makes, 300 times…

Jay: You look like you’re working hard, Dino

Dino: Huh, Jay? What are you doing here? On your way back from patrol?

Jay: I just got back. I was just headed into the Tower when I saw you practicing your swings, and I’d called out to you before I even thought about it

I’m not getting in the way of your practice, am I?

Dino: Nope, you’re good. I was just thinking I should take a little break

Jay: Well that’s good then

Still, you must be really raring to go if you’re still practicing at this hour

Dino: I guess so. It’s fun to practice swinging too, but I want to be able to hit it, no matter what it takes

Jay: Oh yeah?

Dino: The amateur team I’m filling in for has lost every game recently, so they’re really struggling with motivation

I thought if I could land a huge homerun, the team would bounce back, and everyone would remember how fun baseball is

Jay: I see….

Dino: I mean, getting everyone excited like that is a hero’s job, right?

Jay: Haha, that motive sounds just like you

Dino: Huh, you think so?

Jay: Yeah. Even when you were a rookie, you worked hard to make sure the whole team was always full of spirit, didn’t you? It was a big help to me, too

Dino: Ahaha, it’s a little embarrassing to hear that from you…

Ah, that’s right! Jay, do you have any advice you can give me?

Jay: Me? 

Dino: I mean, you managed to graze Keith’s knuckleball right from his first pitch, right? Were you aiming for something in particular back then?

Jay: So that’s it… I was aiming, but I don’t think you could really say I had a strategy or anything?

Dino: That’s totally fine. Just teach me anything you can!

Jay: ….Okay. Sure, I’ll pass on everything I know about how to hit a knuckleball. To start with—

*****

[Million Park]

Dino: Alright! Let me have it, Keith!

Keith: Yer sure rarin’ to go. Figure somethin’ out?

Dino: Yeah

Junior: Oh! Did you come up with a plan of attack?

Dino: No, nothing like that

Junior: Eh…

Faith: Well yeah. If even the pros can’t hit them, there’s no way Dino’ll be able to come up with a method on his own

Dino: But, just watch! I’ll show everyone an amazing home run!

Keith: Sure sure… Alright, here you go—

Dino: Yeah, come on!

Keith: Hyup

*****

[Helios Tower plaza]

Jay: A knuckleball changes course randomly, so it’s hard to hit even for a major leaguer. So for us amateurs, trying to hit it is only going to end in failure

That’s why, you don’t have to try to hit it. It’s fine to just take a shot in the dark

Just tune out everything else but your target, and swing towards it with all your might

Dino, if anyone can hit it, I know it’ll be you

*****

[Million Park]

Dino: ——!

Keith: Oi oi, yer kiddin’ me

Junior: Insane….!

Faith: Aha, that’s gotta be a home run

Dino: I DID IT———!!!!!

Jay: Fufu, it looks like Dino really did it

Give it your all on the day of the match, just like that ♪

*****

(1) Dino gives a pretty decent explanation of what this is, but you can read more about it here if, like me, you were thoroughly unprepared for Dino to suddenly get this deep into baseball terms

(2) I’m gonna be so for real with you, I read like 3 different articles on what a foul tip is and I still have no idea, so you can read about it yourself from the MLB here if you’d like

(3) That section of a baseball stadium behind the pitcher where they just have a solid screen/wall and no seating. Apparently it’s to help the batter see the ball

*****

[Hallway]

Junior: Ah, you’re finally done!

Asch: ….What?

Junior: I’ve been waiting for you to come out. I heard your training’d be over soon

Asch: You need me for something?

Junior: Remember that baseball game I’m gonna be throwing the first pitch for? …. Did you wanna come watch it too, on the day of?

Asch: Hah?????

Junior: I thought I’d at least ask, since you helped me out so much with that crash course

Asch: “At least”…?

Junior: They said if I call ‘em now, they could get me some pretty good seats, and for free, too! What do you think?

Asch: As if. You kidding me?

Junior: Wh… What the hell!? You like baseball, right? I thought you’d be happy!

Asch: Who the hell do you think I am?

I’m Asch fucking Albright. One phone call and I can get as many VIP seats as I want

Junior: Really!?

Asch: What’s even with you? Coming up to me all hesitant and sniveling, asking if I wanna watch

If you want me to come, you should get down on your knees and ask. Come on, try it. “If you would be so kind, wouldn’t you please come to watch me”!

Junior: !!!!!

Asch: Tch…. You’ve got a lot to learn. Ask me again when you’re ready to do it right, Runt

*****

[Break room hallway]

Asch: ……

Junior: ……

Asch: Oi. What’re you doing following me?

Junior: !.....

Asch: Thinking of begging, are you? C’mon

Junior: I don’t wanna do that. I don’t think I want you to come that badly….

Asch: HAH!? What the fuck do you—

Junior: But, I think they’re gonna broadcast the game, so at least watch it on TV

Asch: Haah? Why should I? Sounds like a pain in the ass

Junior: I’m nervous, so….

Asch: Nervous?

Junior: ! How could I not be! I’ve got no idea if I can even throw a decent pitch, or what it’s gonna be like there…

And… I know I’m definitely going to be compared to my father, so….

Asch: ….?

Junior: My old man once threw the first pitch for the Tiger Jets too…

He shouldered everyone’s expectations of him, and he didn’t doubt even for a second that he’d succeed…. And sure enough, everything went perfectly

The whole stadium went crazy, and the Tiger Jets played a fantastic game….

….So if his son shows up out there, of course everyone’s going to expect all that to happen again

Asch: ……

Junior: And I guess ever since it came out that I’d be there, it’s been all over the net that “Leonard Wright’s son” is going to make an appearance

Asch: And the pressure’s getting to you?

Junior: ! No way!

It’s just, that kinda noise, it might get in the way… Like, y’know, I might not be able to concentrate when I need to, or something….

So it just… might be kinda reassuring to have some support… Like maybe I can do better if I’ve got someone cheering me on, y’know…

Asch: Then, get down on your knees and say “If you would be so kind, wouldn’t you please support me”

Junior: Not doing that

Asch: You…

Well, who knows, maybe I’ll change my mind day of. Besides, if they’re airing it on TV, the old geezer’ll probably have it on anyway

Junior: Really!? （＾∀＾●）ﾉｼ

Asch: Like a 90% chance I don’t, though

Junior: What…. (´。＿。｀)

Asch: Hmph, you really are just as much of a kid as you look. And here I thought you might have some promise

Junior: !!

Asch: Only kids try to pull the rebellious crap. Don’t waste your time crying over something as petty as your name

Anyone who tries to bring that shit up is an idiot. Just tell them to go fuck themselves

Junior: Huh…

Asch: Use that brain of yours. Whether you ditch your name or you take advantage of it all depends on you, y’know?

Junior: ….?

*****

— A few days later —

[Stadium VIP box]

Junior: Woaahhh!!! Amazing! So this is what the VIP seats’re like!

Asch: Whattaya think? Once you’ve experienced this, there’s no way you can ever go back to sitting in the stands

Junior: The view is insane!!!

The seats are crazy comfortable too, and it’s air conditioned in here too… Uwah!? Is this all the drink menu!?

Asch: Fufu. They can get you anything you want here

Well, I can get anything I want anywhere 

Junior: I get it… If you use the Albright name, it’s an easy win, right?

Asch: Throwing it away would be easy, but it’s something you were born with, something no one else has. Don’t tear yourself into shreds worrying about it. If you can take advantage of it, just do it

Junior: Can I really just… do that?

! Oooohhh!! They’ve got hamburg! And it looks soooo good!!!

Asch: Heheh… Now that’s a good reaction. Not bad at all

The ceremonial first pitch is out of the way now. Feel free to take full advantage of this place today

Junior: Uwaahhh, seriously….?

I’ve gotten kinda into baseball after all of this, so gettin’ to watch the game from the VIP seats sounds amazing

I don’t really know if what you’re saying is right or not, but…

I’m not gonna let a chance like this pass me up! I’m gonna have a blast!

Ushishi, thanks Asch! I’m gonna savour this VIP feeling today until I’m totally satisfied ★

*****

Ren: So long as the Substance got safely retrieved, that’s all that matters

Will: Well okay. But still, I want to bring something by the North dorm to apologize

We caused a lot of trouble for Marion and Victor too

Ren: If you want. Maybe start by making that idiot shut up

Will: Huh….?

*****

Akira: And then I broke out my sick new technique! I absorbed the fire god’s flames and made them my own!

Gast: Heehh, that’s a pretty awesome technique

Gray: So cool…. Those kinds of draining abilities can be super effective when they work…

Billy: I wanna see it too!! Show it off for us!

Akira: Sure! Sit back and watch the Genius Rookie Otori Akira’s new technique!!

*****

Ren: He’s getting out of hand

Will: Ahaha, sorry, looks like Akira got himself all worked up…

Ren: Like I said, I’m not the only one bothered by him. Look over there

Marion: Tch…..

Ren: Marion’s trying to hold back his irritation watching that idiot too

Will: I can’t blame him. Not only did we butt in like that, but then to see him bragging like that…

[Door opens]

Victor: I’m sorry for the wait. Let’s get class started

Akira: Next time some kinda flame Substance appears, just call me! Doesn’t matter how strong it is, it’s no match for me ♪

Gast: Akira, the Doc’s here now. We can talk more later

Akira: Whoops, sorry! Victor, go ahead and get started

Victor: No, I don’t mind

You were speaking of retrieving the Substance from the island just now, yes?

Akira: Yep! I was telling them all about the new technique I used to get it

Victor: That’s something I’m rather interested in as well. Why don’t you come up to the front and give us a detailed report?

Akira: Oo, can I really!? Hell yeah, I could talk about this for an hour, easy. Maybe even two!!

Marion: !! Enough already! We’re here for the class, not this!!

Ren: Akira, sit down!!

Will: Yeah, I should definitely bring them something to apologize…

*****

[Break Room hallway]

Will: Hmm, but what should I bring? Food might be good, but…

Ren’s no good with anything sweet, but Marion loves them…

Sweets would go well with espresso for Victor, and Adler– Yeah, maybe I should do something sweet

I wonder what could make the North team happy…

Nova: Snork…. Mimimi….

Will: ….? Is that… snoring?

Nova: Honk shoo….

*****

[Nova’s lab]

Nova: — So you want to give something to the North team, do you?

Will: Yes. Kind of as a way to apologize for stealing that latest mission out from under them

Nova: I don’t think Marion or Vic mind all that much, but still, I totally get you, wanting to give them something～

Will: I’m just not sure what would be best to give

Nova: If you’re stumped, how about pancakes?

Will: Pancakes?

Nova: Yep! They’re Marion’s favourite, but if you make the batter not sweet, even Ren’ll be able to eat them, right?

Will: I guess that’s true. Pancakes are so versatile. Even ketchup and mayonnaise go super well with them

Nova: Doesn’t it though～

Will: Still, if I make them, they’ll just tell me they’re too sweet…

Nova: If you’re up for it, why don’t we make them together?

Will: Eh, is that really okay?

Nova: For sure. You did pick me up off the ground and cart me back here. This is just my way of saying thanks

Will: Hehe, thank you

Your pancakes are super delicious, I’d love to learn your secret recipe ♪

Nova: You got it～ Let’s make them some delicious pancakes

Will: Yes!

*****

[Blue North living room]

Nova: — And so, we made pancakes～ ♪ They taste best when shared, so everyone eat up

Will: I wanted to do this to apologize for getting in your way so much during that mission the other day

Marion: ….You don’t need to apologize. The mission was completed without incident, and that’s all that matters

Victor: Oh my, you’ve gone rather soft, haven’t you, Marion?

Marion: Shut up

Just tell Akira not to get so cocky

Ren: Tell him that from me too

Will: Ahaha…. I’m sorry about Akira. I’ll tell him

Gast: But hey, pancakes. They look pretty tasty ♪

Nova: We mixed in some of Will’s ideas too, so they taste a little different than usual ♪

Ren: Will’s ideas….

Nova: The sugar was all carefully measured, so it’s all good ♪ The numbers don’t lie

Will: I made sure to keep the sweetness down enough that even you could eat them, Ren. They’ll be good even with ketchup or mayonnaise on them

Ren: Thanks

Victor: Well then, I’ve made expresso to go along with them, so why don’t we indulge in some pancakes without further delay

Gast: Yeah!

Marion: Nova, Will, thank you for the food

Will: Please, eat as much as you’d like ♪

*****

Will: It sounds like it’s quite popular. I’ve heard that it’s pretty much impossible to book a room at the hotel on a holiday

Oscar: It’s only going to become more and more busy as we get into tourist season, too

Akira: Well that's sure good to hear ♪

We should get the team all together and go again. It’d be great to go play on the beach, or go for a drive or something

Will: That’d be nice. I had so much fun the last time 

Oscar: But, getting the whole team together… Brad-sama is very busy, Akira

Akira: Whattaya think, Brad? You gonna come mess around on the island with us?

Brad: ……

Oscar: Oi, Akira. Brad-sama’s working right now

Brad: It’s fine, I was listening. You want to go back to that island, do you?

Akira: Yeah, let’s go as a team

Brad: This is good timing, actually. I was given complementary tickets to the hotel on the island. You three should go

Akira: Seriously!? Nice timing!

Oscar: But if you’re telling the three of us to go, then…

Brad: I can’t take off enough time for an overnight stay

Akira: What the hell… There’s no point going if you’re not there

Will: He’s right. I want to visit the island too, but only if all 4 of us can go together

Brad: But if you want me to join you, it’ll be a while before we’ll be able to go

Akira: Okay, so we can’t stay overnight, but what about a day trip? That’d work, right?

Brad: A day trip? If we took an afternoon ferry, we could stay until the last boat back, but… What are you going to do there? You won’t have enough time to go swimming, and if you just want to go for a drive, we don’t have to be on the island for that

Akira: Doesn’t the hotel have some rec facilities?

Will: Let me check…

Ummm… Ah, they’ve got a space where you can have a BBQ. You can bring you own ingredients, or the hotel can provide them for you ♪

Akira: A BBQ! That’d be great! We can get Oscar to grill us up some brisket or some barbeque chicken or something!

Oscar: That’s alright with me. Brad-sama, what do you think?

Brad: That sounds nice. Why don’t you three take the morning ferry, and I’ll meet up with you in the afternoon

Akira: Sweet! It’s a plan ♪

I can’t freakin’ wait to dig into some BBQ!!

*****

— Day of the BBQ (downpour) —

[Red South living room]

Akira: Huh!? The ferry’s cancelled ‘cause it’s pouring rain on the island!?

Oscar: So it would seem

Akira: You’re kidding, right? It’s so sunny here

Will: The island’s pretty far from New Million though. The weather there can be totally different. Akira, we should just give up on our plans today

Akira: But we bought all this meat for the BBQ. What’re we gonna do with it?

Will: We could just cook it up here, couldn’t we?

Oscar: We don’t really have a choice. Alright, I’ll cook up the brisket in the oven

Akira: Oi, you guys… Are you for real right now?

Oscar: Like it or not, if we can’t go to the island like we’d planned, our only choice is to have our BBQ here

Akira: No way! It’s not a BBQ unless you’re cooking it up outside on a grill and stuffing your face with slow-cooked meat! That’s what a BBQ means!!

Will: Hmmm, you may have a point

Oscar: In that case, should we look for somewhere we can have our BBQ?

Akira: Heheh, I know just the place

The place where we celebrated Gast’s birthday. Let’s go ♪

*****

[Emerald beach]

BBQer A: Eatin’ all the meat you can stomach under the open sun!? BBQs are the best!

BBQer B: These spare ribs go great with the mustard sauce ♪

BBQer C: Hey hey, is the pulled pork ready yet? I wanna have a sandwich—

Akira: What the hell, why’s it so busy!? There’s no room at all here!

Oscar: It looks like everyone else who couldn’t make it to the island today had the same idea as us

Akira: Damnit, I thought for sure we’d be able to BBQ here

Will: Just give up, Akira. We’ll just have to have our BBQ at the Tower

Akira: Grrrnn, I don’t wanna admit it, but it’d be a waste of perfectly good meat if we didn’t, so I guess….

Oscar: ….Somewhere outdoors we can BBQ… I might know a place…

Akira: For real!? Where!?

Oscar: Somewhere you’ve been once before. I think if I ask the superintendent, they’ll let us use it

Akira: Somewhere I’ve been? Where’s that?

Oscar: The place I grew up…

*****

[Oscar’s rooftop]

Oscar: The superintendent for the building gave us permission. We’re free to BBQ here

Akira: Hell yeah! We can finally BBQ!!

Will: That’s great, Akira

Akira: Yeah! We’ve finally got the perfect setup to eat Oscar’s grilled meat ♪

Oscar: ……

Will: What’s wrong, Oscar?

Oscar: No, it’s nothing

Let’s take our time and cook up all the meat we brought

Akira: Hell yeah! I’m gonna eat ‘til I explode

Will: Akira, make sure you eat some salad too

Akira: I know ♪

Brad: Sorry for the wait

Oscar: Brad-sama! Welcome. You’re earlier than I expected

Brad: Yeah, my meeting ended earlier than scheduled

Oscar: Here, please take a seat. I’m sorry it’s so dirty…

Brad: Don’t worry about it. Pay me no mind, just focus on the grill

Oscar: Right! The brisket’s not quite done yet, but this steak is ready to eat. Please, dig in

Akira: Ah, wait! I was eyeing that steak!

Will: Akira, why don’t you have some coleslaw?

Akira: I’ll eat my vegetables too, but you gotta start with meat! Meat to start, and meat to finish!

Will: I figured you’d say that. Here, there’s sausage ready too

Akira: Oh, nice one Will ♪ Sausage with ketchup and mustard rules

Brad: Even at a BBQ, you’re still stuck on sausage

Akira: Wh-What’s wrong with that! It’s tasty

Oscar: ……

Brad: Oscar, what’s up?

Oscar: ….It’s nothing, I was just lost in thought

Brad: You were?

Oscar: Yes

Before I met Shin…. When I was living here alone, I could never have even dreamed this day would come…

Brad: Ah

Oscar: Well then, I’ll cook up some more meat! Please eat your fill

*****

———

Oscar: And because of that, I want to become the kind of hero who can grant someone warmth

Akira: You’ve given me so much warmth I could burn from it

———

Akira: UWOOOAAHHH!!

Hell yeah! Your flames are mine now!!

I call this: Voltage Max Steal!!

Brad: Absorbing his enemies flames and making them his own…

I was amazed when he told me about it, but to think he’d actually succeed…

Akira: Will, now!

Will: You got it!

Fire God: ■■■■――！？

Will: Perfect, I’ve stopped it from moving!

Akira: That’s amazing, Will. This guy’s on fire, but you were still able to pin him down with your plants

Will: It won’t hold for long though…! Oscar-san, if you would!!

Oscar: UUAOOOHH!!

Fire God: ■■■■――……！

Akira: Nice one, Oscar!

Leave the finishing blow to me! Let’s go!! Voltage Max Spurt!!

Fire God: ■■■■――……

Akira: Hell yeah! We got it!

Brad: Substance retrieval complete. That puts an end to this mission

Well done, you three. I would never have imagined that I wouldn’t even have a role to play 

Akira: Don’t worry about it. You got to fight him all on your own last time, after all

Oscar: That truly is an incredible new technique

Akira: Heheh, I know right ♪ Well, it only works if I’m fighting someone who uses fire, though

Oscar: Still. You really are a genius

Akira: Yup! ‘Cause I’m the Genius Rookie, Otori Akira-sama!

Will: You get carried away so easily

Akira: So? The mission’s already done. If I can’t get exited now, when can I

Brad: No, the mission isn’t over yet

Akira: Hah? What’re you saying…

Oops, that’s right! I forgot!

Oscar, we’ve gotta rehearse our fire dance!

Oscar: Right now?

Akira: Yes right now! We finished up our work, so now Brad can take all the time in the world to watch us

Brad: True. Let me see it

Akira: Now that that’s settled, let’s make this the best fire dance anyone’s ever seen!

Oscar: ….Yeah!

———

— Another day —

Akira: Oooourrraaa!! 

Oscar: Hah!!

Commentator: 『Hot, hot, burning hoooottt!! The whole of New Million’s all fired up about Otori Akira and Oscar Bale’s blazing hot fire dance!!』

Akira: Damn it, Oscar’s muscles stand out way more than I do…!

Oscar: Don’t worry, your fire wielding is way better than mine

Akira: That doesn’t make it better! Time for more strength trainingggg!!

Oscar: Focus on the dance for now, Akira

Brad: Akira’s still making quite the racket, isn’t he

Will: Looks like it

Brad: Will, is your staging all set?

Will: Yes! These plants are strong enough to withstand any fire. I’ll show off the full force of the island’s appeal

Brad: The broadcast seems to be rather excited too

I’m sure this island won’t be wanting for tourists after this

Will: I think so too ♪

Commentator: 『It looks like it’s finally time for their dance to reach its climax! But their firepower and agility are only increasing!!』

Akira: Lookin’ at this fire gets me all pumped up!!

Oscar: Yeah, me too!!

Akira: Alright! Last spurt, Voltage Max!!

Oscar: Yeah, Voltage Max!!