your eyes - black holes // not stars

Azul: Now then, however should I go about garnering interest in tomorrow's sale? Oh, who is that I spy over there…?

Azul: Epel-san, hello! This may be a little out of left field, but have you any interest in the Mostro Lounge's latest campaign sale?

Epel: Aaahh!? Oh… Hello, Azul-san. What campaign…?

Azul: You see, tomorrow is my birthday. And I was looking for some way to show how grateful I am towards everyone.

Azul: That's why, for tomorrow only, we've decided to slash our food and drink prices to discount rates at the Mostro Lounge!!

Epel: A discounted rate!? So, how much of a deal would you say we'd be getting?

Azul: Behold! One drink off the drink menu can be ordered for free.

Azul: In addition, all food items are 10% off. Parties of 3 or more will receive 20% off!

Epel: 20% off for groups of 3 or more…!? Awesome! That's good to know. I will definitely come tomorrow!

Azul: Wonderful! I do hope you come with your friends… and of course, your ESTEEMED POMEFIORIAN UPPERCLASSMEN. We await your patronage!

[Octavinelle Dorm – Azul's Room]

Azul: Both my academic activities and the Lounge's closing duties have finished successfully. I appreciate it when everything ends smoothly like today.

Azul: Now then, what documents do I still have left to look over…? Oh, is this from the Headmage? What could it possibly be?

Azul: A warning regarding the care of the apple trees? Who cares… is what I'd like to say, but if I leave this for later, it could become a bigger problem. I'll send a notification to the others in the dorm.

[message sent beep]

Azul: It looks like there was some trouble between some dormmates… There was a single incident today, between freshmen. It seems those four-person rooms are more prone to these little fights.

Azul: In regards to their individual arguments… Nothing really stands out as dire. I'll just write out a few suggestions on how to handle it going forward and send it on.

Azul: Next, let's look at the Lounge's report… Fufu, today's sales were in top form.

Azul: Our plan for tomorrow should bring us an abundance of customers. We may be selling at a discounted price, but that should be enough to draw in new folk.

Azul: That is, especially if Epel-san is true to his word and brings his dormmates… Specifically Vil-san!

Azul: If we were to slap on a label to every dish he orders as "Vil Schoenheit's recommendation!"…

Azul: There's no way there wouldn't be a massive increase in foot traffic. THIS IS A HUGE CHANCE FOR AN INFLUX OF NEW CUSTOMERS!

Azul: The Lounge's operations for the day will need to change depending on whether he shows up or not. I'll have to double-check all of tomorrow's preparations once again.

Azul: I'll run a few simulations in my mind while showering. All time is precious and should be used efficiently, after all.

Azul: Heheheh… I've come up with a fantastic plan. With this, tomorrow will be perfectly executed.

Azul: Now I feel I can spend tonight at ease.

[Octavinelle Dorm – Azul's Room]

Azul: What is the radio playing at this time of night…? Ah, an economics news program. How perfect to play in the background while I finish my assignments.

Azul: Today's Enigmics assignment is rather tough. It'll be good to have something to listen to in between answering questions…

Azul: …Oh, a watchmaker from the Queendom of Roses has a product up for pre-release, I see. I had heard that it was in development…

Azul: As it is the first new product in two years, I'm sure the stock prices will be affected. I should keep it on a watch list as I learn more about stocks.

Azul: …An apparel maker from the Shaftlands is experiencing difficulties? It seems the abnormal climate is the source of the issue… Hm.

Azul: That most likely means that other products may end up affected as well. For example, agricultural products…

Azul: Perhaps I should re-look at the Headmage's missive from earlier. There may be something useful there.

Azul: Oh? This formula looks like… Ah, yes, I should apply what I learned from that other problem. It's much easier to understand when I look at the bigger picture.

Azul: That reminds me, that business proprietor I met at a seminar the other day had mentioned a movie revolving around the person who came up with this very well-known formula.

Azul: It could be a good topic of conversation for the next time we meet, and I may even learn something new.

Azul: I'm sure it would help with this assignment as well, and it would be a good change of pace. I'll play the movie and lower the radio volume…

Azul: Perfect. I'll continue working on reviewing my Enigmics lessons and preparing for next class until the radio program ends at 22:00.

Azul: …That concludes the radio broadcast. I suppose I should work on "this" while I finish watching the movie.

「Survey on Quality of Life Improvements for the Student Body」

Azul: I've improved any and all issues I've had myself. I can't say I have any real dissatisfaction during my time here, but if I were to pick one thing…

Azul: I suppose it would have to be the troublesome formalities I have to go through to leave Sage's Island.

Azul: Every single time I'd like to attend a business seminar, or a social gathering, I am required to report to and gain approval from the Headmage.

Azul: Not only do I have to jot down the destination and purpose of the visit every single time, but the approval process is much too slow. And the most irritating thing about needing to write these applications in far in advance over and over again…

Azul: Is that even if a highly competitive and sought-after seminar announces that they've increased attendee capacity the day before the event, I couldn't possibly gain approval in time!

Azul: In the first place, why should we go through this whole process just to leave campus? If only they'd trust us students a little more.

Azul: The academy should provide students with more independence. I'll also add a few comments on the benefits of doing so.

[fervent writing]

Azul: That's it for the survey. What else do I have left to deal with for today…?

Azul: Aah, here's a birthday card. It seems there are some thoughtful people out there.

Azul: I would rather avoid any debts I may incur by receiving gifts, but I do appreciate cards that could help build connections. Let me see, who sent these cards…?

Azul: This one is from a Mostro Lounge business partner, this one is from someone I met at a seminar… Oh, and here's some from clients I've worked with in the past, as well.

Azul: Heh… With every bit of effort, my web of business contacts keeps growing. However, this isn't enough. It isn't nearly enough.

Azul: I've decided. I will absolutely make it my goal to have this school loosen its rigorous rules on leaving campus so that I can make plans on my free days at a spur of the moment.

Azul: Even if I can just make my way to one new social gathering, it will expand my connections even more. If I do that…

Azul: One day, it wouldn't be farfetched to think I'd be swimming in an ocean of birthday cards! Heheh… Hahahah…!

Azul: AAAHAHAHAHAH!!

[Octavinelle Dorm – Azul's Room]

[bubble, bubble… clink]

[clank]

Azul: Mm…

Azul: What's that sound…? Ah, the newspaper's here…

[puts on robe with a flourish]

Azul: Delivered, as always, perfectly on time. It's all thanks to this newspaper that I am able to wake up today as my usual time.

Azul: I've changed it up many times, but it seems this is the perfect amount of sleep for me in the end… I feel completely refreshed.

Azul: Now then, let me see what fascinating news I can glean from the newspaper today.

Azul: I think I'll drink something warm as I look through it.

Azul: Nnnn… I've finished reading all the articles that caught my eye, so I suppose I should start getting ready for the day.

[Azul magicks his hair up]

Azul: I'll adjust the water temperature to be lukewarm… Ah, still too hot. …Good, this is just right.

[splash, splash…!]

Azul: My skincare routine is as usual… Next, it's time for the makeup. Each little detail counts.

Azul: After all, visual appearance makes up 55% of the impression other people get from you.

Azul: People's eyes are drawn especially to the neck up. I need to use my makeup to give a strong aura so as to not be looked down by anyone.

Azul: I'll draw the eyeliner in a sharp line, and the eyeshadow and eyebrows should be drawn so as to give my eyes an almond-looking shape.

Azul: A bit of an intimidating look should suffice. That way, when I take a bit more of a sincere stance, it would be easier for the impression to change in my favor.

Azul: Now, for my lips… I should use this "Ocean-Proof Lip Balm" designed around the Sea Witch that I bought recently.

Azul: While it has a wonderful moisturizing effect, it doesn't rub off easily whatsoever. Since there's no need for me to reapply it every so often, it's perfect for someone with a busy schedule like myself.

Azul: Finally… The most important part is the shading and contour. Based on this application, the face can take on a completely different appearance.

Azul: If it's done too lightly, there won't be any effect; and sometimes it can have the opposite look of what was intended.

Azul: However, if the shading is applied too dark while trying to give the face a more angular look, it could end up looking strange.

Azul: Start the contour from the cheeks and apply a tone that is only a tad darker than my skin color to help create that natural shade...

Azul: Try to make it look as natural as possible, as if nothing had been applied at all… The trials and errors I've suffered getting to this current application method is numerous.

Azul: It's apparent that there's worth even in studying proper cosmetics.

Azul: …My hair is good to go now, as well. All that's left is to determine the perfume I'll use today…

Azul: Because of the campaign we're having today, I will most likely be on the Lounge floor as well. I should select a more reserved scent, then.

Azul: Right. I think I'll select this cologne with a herbal note that I've taken a liking to recently.

Azul: It's not too sweet, nor is the scent too strong… The herbal aroma also firmly plants the feeling that I truly am on land.

[spray, spray…]

Azul: Good. There is not a single thing out of place. I look perfect, as usual.

[Main Street]

[Heartslabyul Student chats with Azul]

Azul: Yes, thank you very much. We should talk again should we have the opportunity…

Epel: Ah… There he is. Azul-san, good morning!

Azul: Oh my, Epel-san. Good morning. Is there something you need of me…? Ah, does it have something to do with the Lounge?

Epel: Ah, not really. I mean, I did think I should give you a heads up because there's gonna be a lot more of us than I thought, but actually…

Epel: I realized I wasn't able to wish you a happy birthday yesterday. So, I just wanted to say, Happy Birthday!

Azul: Oh, my… Heh, thank you so kindly. Well then, I shall definitely have a table reservation awaiting you at the Lounge.

Master Chef ― Azul Version ～Let's Make Rice Croquette 1～

Ghost Chef: Alright, today we'll have you make "rice croquettes."

Azul: Rice croquettes, hm. The ristorante my mother manages serves them, so I have tasted them before.

Azul: If I recall, the crisp shell on the outside and the soft risotto on the inside, as well as the different possible combinations of ingredients within it, make for a fantastic dish.

Ghost Chef: Your family runs a ristorante? Then you must be very knowledgeable in the kitchen. This course may be too easy for you.

Azul: Oh no, not at all. I appreciate all the guidance and encouragement you can give me.

Ghost Chef: Come now～ Don't be so modest! Alright, time to start cooking.

Ghost Chef: First, you'll make the risotto. Mince the onion and fry it in the pan.

Azul: Mince the onion, right. …Just in case, I will go over the proper procedure once. Could I ask you to confirm if what I say is correct?

Ghost Chef: Absolutely. It's good that you don't try to breeze past the basics.

Azul: After cutting the onion in half lengthwise, place the cross-section face down on the board. While leaving the root intact, make cuts at even intervals from the edge to the center.

Azul: Then, turn that onion 90 degrees and cut perpendicular to the previously made cuts… Does that sound correct?

Ghost Chef: Yep, that's perfect. Make sure to cut them in 3 to 4mm intervals so they're big enough to taste and use for forming the balls.

Azul: Understood. Now then, I hold the knife in my dominant hand, hold the onion with my other hand, and slice with the knife vertically…

[slip! roll…]

Azul: …Pardon me. It seems I didn't have a tight grip on it.

Azul: …Now then, I'll try that once more―

[slip! roll…]

Ghost Chef/Azul: …

Ghost Chef: Uhhh… Azul-kun, by any chance… Do you not have much experience in cooking?

Azul: That's correct. I am hoping to improve myself in this regard slightly through this Master Chef curriculum.

Ghost Chef: So, when you said you'd appreciate my guidance and encouragement, you really meant it!?

Azul: Indeed. Is something the matter?

Ghost Chef: You were carrying yourself with the confidence of a seasoned chef… So I completely assumed you were already skilled in the art of cooking.

Azul: I am able to discern the difference between something tasting good or bad, but cooking is outside of my wheelhouse.

Azul: And thus, I enrolled in Master Chef, as I believed that since this course is geared towards those unfamiliar with cooking, it would be a perfect way to start gaining experience.

Ghost Chef: I see… I find your approach commendable, Azul-kun. You're completely different from the owner of the restaurant I worked at back when I was alive!

Azul: The owner of the restaurant from when you were alive? …Could you perhaps elaborate a little more on them?

Ghost Chef: That owner couldn't cook anything at all, but would always find something to complain about my dishes.

Ghost Chef: Every time they tried to lecture me, I'd fume and think, "They're all talk, they don't know a thing about the amount of effort I had to put into this!"

Azul: …I think I understand. Just the other day, one of the staff members of the Mostro Lounge said something similar to me.

Azul: Something along the lines of… "MAAAN, AZUL, ALL YOU DO IS YAP YAP YAP EVEN THOUGH YOU DON'T KNOW SQUAT 'BOUT COOKING～"

Ghost Chef: Is that so? Then… Is that the reason why you decided to try to gain cooking experience?

Azul: Indeed. Although, I wouldn't say I'm quite so immature as to take such an emotional outburst that seriously…

Azul: But I find it vexing to even be told such a thing, so if someone believes I lack experience, then I should work at it to mitigate that. Thus, I've come here.

Ghost Chef: Good for you, Azul-kun, listening to what your staff has to say and putting yourself in their shoes.

Ghost Chef: Hearing that situation, I'll make sure to do my best and explain everything to you from a chef's point of view.

Azul: I can't possibly imagine that there would be any similarities in the point of view between the temperamental guy from my dorm and a chef that worked at a five-star restaurant…

Azul: But this should surely be a good experience. I am fully open to your instruction.

Ghost Chef: Sure! If you ever have any questions, you're always free to ask me anything.

Azul: Thank you.

[sizzle, sizzle…]

Ghost Chef: Looks like the onions are cooked. Time to add the rice into the frying pan.

Azul: Understood.

[rice pours into the pan]

Ghost Chef: If you stir too much, you can damage the rice. The key here is to gently cook it over low heat.

Azul: Chef, what constitutes low heat?

Ghost Chef: You'll want to set it to about where the tips of the flames aren't touching the bottom of the pan.

Azul: I see. I'll lower the heat slightly, then.

[click…]

Azul: Perfect. Now I just need to stir the wooden spatula slowly so the rice doesn’t get dama… HUH!?

[cracking sounds]

Azul: In the short amount of time that I took to adjust the heat, the rice started sticking to the pan…!

Azul: If I were to try to forcibly peel it off, the rice could be damaged and there is a risk that the quality of the dish would be lowered.

Azul: However, if I were to factor in the cost of the ingredients and the time until judging, I won't be able to remake this from scratch…

Azul: Chef, is there a way to recover my progress when the rice has stuck to the frying pan?

Ghost Chef: Yep. Just add a bit of the bouillon we were going to add later, and slowly peel it with your spatula.

[sizzle!]

Azul: It came off so cleanly…! Even in the face of a mistake, you can quickly turn things around… As expected of a pro chef.

Ghost Chef: Ahaha, you must be exaggerating! Although I can't say I dislike your compliment.

Azul: Not at all, this was very eye-opening for me. Please, let us continue.

[Kitchen]

Master Chef―Azul Version ～Let's Make Rice Croquette 2～

Ghost Chef: ―While the risotto cools, why don't you select what you want to put inside the croquettes?

Ghost Chef: Just like you said earlier, part of this dish's fun is the different combinations of texture and flavor that can be made from the chosen ingredients.

Azul: I can absolutely do that. Fufu… I should be more capable of this process.

Azul: For this dish, there will be 3 croquettes on 1 plate. …With that in mind, I would want to create some kind of theme to bring them together.

Azul: My chosen theme will be… "A Subtle Surprise."

Azul: The risotto has a simple tomato-based flavor… Therefore, with these standard ingredients, the results could go either way.

Azul: I'll have to weave everything together and consider good texture, how fulfilling it is, and that hint of surprise― All while not deviating from the recipe…

Azul: …Alright, I'LL GO WITH THESE!

[Cafeteria – Judging Venue]

Silver: …Something smells good.

Silver: I do hope I can live up to what's expected of a Master Chef judge…

Azul: Pardon me. I have brought your dish... Oh, I see, so the person who ordered this was Silver-san.

Silver: So, you're the chef, Azul? I'm looking forward to tasting it.

Azul: I, too, look forward to your tasting it. Here are the rice croquettes that you've ordered.

Azul: These have just finished cooking, so the insides will be hot. Please take caution when eating them.

Silver: Got it. Then… I'll try them now.

Silver: [blows on croquette]

[bite, chew, chew…]

Silver: Oh… There's cheese inside of this one. Delicious.

Silver: This one… There's shrimp. This is also delicious.

Silver: Finally, the third one… I see it has quail egg inside. Right, all three were delicious.

Azul: …Huh, are those your only thoughts?

Silver: Yes. It's was very good.

Azul: Please think a little harder. Isn't there anything else, like comments on specific ingredients you liked, or certain surprising flavors?

Silver: Specific ingredients I liked…? That would be the quail egg.

Silver: It was nice to see the meal I chose was not only filling, but filled with highly nutritional eggs.

Azul: YOUR MAIN TAKEAWAY WAS HOW FILLING IT WAS!? …Ahem, pardon.

Azul: Perhaps I should ask this differently. How did it taste?

Azul: The first one you tried was filled with cheese. I mixed basil into it to help its compatibility with the tomato-based risotto.

Azul: For the shrimp one, I added fried garlic chips to it to give it a little flavorful kick.

Azul: Finally, the boiled quail eggs. I flavored it with a tad bit of ketchup to add a bit of extra favor.

Azul: With that added moisture, it should have softened the flakiness egg yolk slightly, and make for a more enjoyable flavor…

Silver: I see, you put a lot of thought into it.

Silver: Even after your explanation, I still don't really get it at all, but everything truly was delicious.

Azul: YOU DIDN'T GET IT AT ALL!? That's absurd…

Azul: If the judge himself doesn't understand, then all of the extra efforts and ingredients that I put forth into it will have all been for naught!

Ghost Chef: Come now, Silver-kun is saying it's delicious, so I don't think it was all for naught at all.

Azul: However, if my efforts truly couldn't be conveyed… Did I not use enough basil, garlic, or ketchup?

Ghost Chef: I feel like you wouldn't want to put too much in it, either… It can be difficult because everyone's tastes are different.

Silver: My apologies. Perhaps if your judge had been anyone else, they would have been able to fully taste the efforts you put into it the flavor.

Ghost Chef: But you thought it was delicious, right, Silver-kun? That means that Azul-kun's flavoring was still spot on.

Azul: Right… That's right. Putting aside any improvements needed for the cost in time and ingredients, I was able to actually put together a dish that someone considered delicious.

Azul: If I can keep improving my cooking skills little by little, then I won't ever have to hear someone say I'm just "yapping" ever again!

Ghost Chef: Ahaha… Even though you said you wouldn't take something like that seriously… Looks like those words really did have a hold on you.