Tonight at a Jazz Bar ♦ A Quartet of Freedom and Passion | Episode 8 「Enthusiasm and Egotism」
Alto: Improving your performance? But I think you put on incredible shows…
Nobel: I agree with you. I’m very pleased with them.
However, that satisfaction is exactly what leaves me unable to suppress the desire for “more”.
—Do you remember why I proposed the idea of a stand-in to the barkeeper in the first place?
Alto: The usual bands that played had stopped coming by due to retiring or not having the time…
Nobel: That’s right. They have their own paths to follow. Their decision to choose a different stage or to put down their instruments are all ones that I must respect.
…But I must also acknowledge this greediness of mine. I haven't been able to snuff out my hopes of them returning after hearing us play.
Nobel: At the end of the day, we’re nothing more than a stand-in. Our performances at that bar must come to an end someday.
But what of those who heard our music? Or even someone who is struck with inspiration, won’t they please pick up those instruments?
…Before it's too late for that bar. This is what has been on my mind.
Alto: You want to put on an even better performance than before to motivate them…is that what you're saying?
Nobel: Yes. This is all the work of my ego. I don’t want that bar to disappear. I want those players to return.
I’m unable to abandon these hopes of mine… This is why our performance must improve
Nobel: But I would be placing a burden on them if I were to bring this to light. I can’t ask for more from them, not when they’re already lending me their assistance.
Alto: I don’t think that’s the case.
Alto: I think it’s okay to depend on everyone more. Your own judgement is important too, but it’s causing you some trouble, isn’t it?
Nobel: But…won’t I seem like a child if I ask for more and more when they’re already doing their best?
Alto: It’s okay to be childish too. That’s just how serious you are about this.
Let’s think about it from a different perspective. Everyone is already involved in music-related activities, right? Night in particular is even here to learn more.
Do you think they would turn their noses up if you were to suggest improving the quality of your music?
Nobel: …Now that I’m thinking about it logically, no I don’t think so.
Nobel: Fufu…what a surprise. If what you say is true then my reluctance wasn’t needed at all.
I thought I was being wise with my decision, but it seems that isn’t the case. I still have some maturing to do, don't I?
Alto: That’s alright. Let’s forget about prudence and go ask the others for more help.
Nobel: Very well…you’ll come with me, won’t you? It’d feel rather embarrassing asking them on my own.
Nobel: —So this is what I’ve been deliberating.
…What are your opinions? I’m fully aware of how selfish this is of me. The decision is your own to make.
Ruma: I see, I see. Very well then, we’ll follow along.
Einsatz: As you wish, Master Nobel.
Night: You can leave it to us. We’ll stick by you as much as you need!
Nobel: You will…? You were so quick to agree. Are you sure you’re certain?
Ruma: But of course. Truthfully, I had been waiting for you to say something.
Jazz is a pure passion of yours. It’s a pleasure that you can enjoy without having to put up a front of formality…
So I think you could do with being more self-indulgent about this.
Nobel: Losing the formalities…? Do I usually seem like that?
Ruma: You are a master at behaving in a way that conceals it, of course. Well, we aren’t long-time friends for nothing, haha.
Einsatz: It is my pleasure and top priority to ensure that Master Nobel is always enjoying a pleasant and supreme performance.
No matter the circumstance, please command me. Without fail, I will support you.
Nobel: …Thank you, I’m glad to hear you say that. Night, what do you think? Burdening you further after you’ve come to help would be rather…
Night: Our leader says that “perfection” is always another step away.
Night: Even if you’re at 100%, you shouldn't feel satisfied. There’s always more exploration and improvement to be done.
That’s how you achieve the “real thing”...because of that, I’m delighted to hear your suggestion, Nobel.
We may only be an impromptu band but we’re taking another step forward. There’s nothing better than that!
Nobel: —You have all given me endless help.
Very well then, some additional training will be in order. I’ll be putting an end to my restraint too. Is that alright?
Thank you. I’ll let the barkeeper know the news too. We’ll need to borrow a practice venue, after all.
…Let’s endeavour to create some incredible music. With the group we have here, I’m sure it will be possible.
Alto: (Thank goodness…it seems that Nobel-san was able to overcome himself.)
(I’m excited to see the final product…!)
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