Izumi: It’s not here, that’s weird. I’m sure I put it here.
Hiero: Oh, it’s Azumi’s little brother.
Izumi: Hiero…san. Hello.
Hiero: It’s rare to see you around campus.
Izumi: Hiero-san too, aren’t you taking the exit to the streets of the upper class? This is the normal exit.
Hiero: Well, I just thought it would be nice to take a different route home.
Izumi: Are you maybe avoiding the paparazzies? You got caught up last week too.
Hiero: Well, yeah.
Izumi: Everybody’s curious about who’s going to take over the Kagami family business. I thought those journalists do write some bad things about you and your siblings without choosing their words.
Hiero: Well, it’s the same as always. But what are you doing here? Seems like the rain is just about to get stronger, why don’t you go home.
Izumi: Hear this, I lost my umbrella,I’m sure I put it here but it’s not here.
Hiero: Maybe someone mistakenly took it. All the umbrellas look quite similar.
Izumi: No, this has happened to me before and I had a bad experience with it, so I put a sticker on the handle this time.
Hiero: It has happened multiple times huh, well it’s normal, there’s a lot of people in the university too.
Izumi: I’m sure some person with no common sense just thought “oh let me borrow this”, but they’re never going to return it.
Hiero: Hmm.. Then you shouldn’t have put your umbrella there in the first place.
Izumi: Mm… But aren’t umbrella stands for holding umbrellas?
Hiero: They are, but if you’re just going to be upset over a peasant taking your umbrella then shouldn’t you have gotten a smaller umbrella in the first place.
Izumi: T-then do you have a small umbrella?
Hiero: No I don’t.
Izumi: But didn’t you just tell me to use a smaller umbrella?
Hiero: I have an escort, plus I have a butler who can hold the umbrella for me.
Izumi: Khh.. Oh right.
Hiero: I thought of something good, why not buy one from the school store, they should at least have umbrellas there.
Izumi: The store is closed already. Plus, the last time I lost my umbrella I bought one from there but when I opened it the logo of the Houou family was printed so big on it and it even cost 700 yen.
Hiero: So that means you spent 700 yen for an umbrella and to advertise them, hilarious.
Izumi: It was really embarrassing. But then again, how am I supposed to go home in this rain?
Hiero: Is that you talking to yourself or are you talking to me? Why is it moving in the direction that I have to send you home.
Izumi: If you could do so, that would be great, but my brother might get mad if he finds out.
Hiero: Won’t Azumi come for you? I think it’s almost about time he gets off work.
Izumi: The thing about that is that my brother has been super busy. There are days when he comes home suupppper late. He also leaves first thing in the morning.
Hiero: Well, Hekiru is extremely busy such that he doesn’t even have time to meet with ESMERALDA so I guess Azumi has to accompany him through all that.
Izumi: But my brother has to keep going with Hekiru…san. Even if he’s made plans with me first, he still prioritizes Hekiru-san.
Hiero: That’s just how it is, because that’s his job.
Izumi: But he doesn’t have time to spend with me anymore. It feels like Hekiru-san is always in our way.
Hiero: It’s because of Azumi that you’re able to attend this university right? Which means it’s because of Hekiru who’s Azumi’s employer. If Azumi wasn’t working for Hekiru then the two of you would be living in the dumps.
Izumi: That’s…
Hiero: Plus, Hekiru is the heir of the Houou family. For Azumi to be working near such a person, I would think you’re quite privileged. People who wanted to be there couldn’t even if they tried.
Izumi: Well, that… might be true.
Hiero: When you graduate, it’s also natural that you’d start working somewhere. Speaking of the Shizu family, aren’t they known for working with the Houou family.
Izumi: If you take my family name like that, it’s true. Hiero-san, you seem quite close with Hekiru-san. What do you think about working for Hekiru-san?
Hiero: That would never happen so it’s hard to imagine, but I definitely do not want to work under him because he’s so talkative. Even from my point of view I think he has too much money and doesn’t have common sense, in a way, and that kind of makes me crazy.
Izumi: Wah~ I knew you would understand me. He really doesn’t have common sense! He also treats my brother like his own brother and keeps on clinging on to him.
Hiero: Clinging?
Izumi: It was the same during the online meeting, just talking to him even when he doesn’t know how we feel. I’m so annoyed.
Hiero: I didn’t say that Hekiru was THAT bad
Izumi: Eh? But didn’t you just say he was annoying?
Hiero: I’m sure Hekiru meant what he said about your song being good. Plus, there’s no problem for me saying bad things about Hekiru, but it kind of annoys me when you do it
Izumi: Eh? Uhmm…
Hiero: Hekiru may be like that, but from a butler’s perspective I think he’s quite a good employer. Why not look at Azumi’s workplace? Your impression about Hekiru might change.
Izumi: Sure I want to see my brother working, but won’t I get found?
Hiero: That should be alright. Just right, my car’s here, come with me.
Izumi: Oh, wait! Hiero-san? Hiero-san!!
Episode 42 (ENLIGHTRIBE RADIO 第42回 With DRAMA)
Izumi: Hiero-san, I know we’re in a car, but won’t we get caught being this close to Hekiru-san and my brother?
Hiero: You don’t have to whisper, this car can insulate sound quite well so you can speak normally.
Izumi: Even if you say that… Doesn’t it seem suspicious that your car is parked outside when you don’t have business inside the house?
Hiero: This is the property of the Kagami family so it won’t be weird if my car is here.
Izumi: But don’t you think we should still stay low. It might not be weird for you to be here, but if my brother finds me, he’s going to get mad so please stay low..
Hiero: You might have not noticed but the tint of this car is quite dark so they can’t see us from the outside.
Izumi: Is that so?! I’ve been crouching all this time, you should have told me that earlier. Oh it looks like the gate is about to open.
Hiero: They’re finally done.
Izumi: Oh it’s my brother! Let me take a picture~
Hiero: Hey, I didn’t bring you here to take Azumi’s picture.
Izumi: He’s just standing there but he looks so cool~ If I make it my lock screen will my brother find out?
Hiero: He’s not even listening. Take a look at Hekiru, he’s taking the time to properly talk to him.
Izumi: Hmm is that so. Uhm, can I ask something? Does the Houou family often visit the Kagami family?
Hiero: I don’t know, I live in a different house so I don’t know how often Hekiru comes here, but it seems like he’s been coming here a lot recently. The Houou business has been using the Kagami family’s AI in a lot of their products.
Izumi: I see. You don’t live here anymore.
Hiero: Yeah, I live alone. But sometimes I drop by the main house so I run into Hekiru and Azumi here about once a month.
Izumi: I see. So that’s why you kind of knew that they would be here?
Hiero: Exactly. It’s about time they came back here for business. Then Hekiru’s car was really there.
Izumi: That’s amazing, you got it right. Come to think of it, why did you leave the main house? If I were you I would have loved to live in this place with a huge garden.
Hiero: It’s just big, but there’s nothing here. I’m sure you’d get bored after living here for a few days. It also felt like stress having a lot of house helpers because it feels like I’m constantly being monitored.
Izumi: I see, there’s also those kinds of struggles. Oh right, I heard from an alumni who works for the Kagami family that the Kagami family works hard on improving their AI technology, but how is it actually going?
Hiero: They’re getting used to it so much you would think there’s no need for human helpers. Though some of them are still undergoing testing so they’re not yet perfect.
Izumi: That’s amazing. I want to see one for myself. They must be convenient to have.
Hiero: If you come here as the butler of the Houou family you might have the chance of seeing one.
Izumi: I see. Guess I’ll have to ask my brother about it later.
Hiero: It seems like Azumi is talking about something. But we’re too far to hear what they’re talking about.
Izumi: My brother is really so good looking. I wonder if it’s because he has a different expression compared to when he’s talking to me. He’s really so cool. Let’s take another picture~
Hiero: I didn’t bring you here to take pictures. If I knew this would happen-
Izumi: Look, Hiero-san. My brother is holding the umbrella for Hekiru-san. If my brother does that he might catch a cold.
Hiero: Hey, he’s a butler so that’s normal. Look, Hekiru’s even matching Azumi’s pace so that they don’t get wet.
Izumi: I guess it really is thanks to my brother who is working hard that I am able to attend college.
Hiero: Hey, you’re not listening to anything I say. I brought you here to look at Hekiru.
Izumi: If you didn’t bring me there I would have never seen my brother working like that. My impression towards Hekiru-san might not have changed, but it was a good experience.
Hiero: Is that so?
Izumi: I guess it’s almost time for me to go home too. If I don’t leave now I won’t be able to prepare for dinner.
Hiero: Oh sure, have the driver send you home. I have something to do at the main house.
Izumi: Eh?! Is that okay?
Hiero: Yeah. I’m the one who brought you here, plus it’s hard to go home in this rain and I don’t want you to catch a cold because of this.
Izumi: Thank you so much.
Hiero: Also, let’s not tell anybody about this, it would be bad for you too if Azumi found out right?
Izumi: Y-yes. It would be nice if you could keep it like that.
Hiero: Okay, see you.
Izumi: Hiero-san thank you. Hmm? Hiero-san kept saying that umbrellas were for butlers to hold, but he’s holding his own umbrella.
Ramo: Oh, it’s rare for you to come over to my place. What’s up?
Eiri: I came to deliver the bagel samples. I’m not good with sweets so I need your help.
Ramo: Are you asking me to be your taste tester? That makes me happy. The more sweets I have the happier I am.
Eiri: You haven’t changed a bit. I feel like you’re always eating something even in the studio.
Ramo: My energy comes from sugar. Should we also get some drinks? You’re good with earl gray? Of course, no sugar.
Eiri: Yes, I’ll have that.
Ramo: Got it, then I’ll have a chocolate chip frappe with some colorful sprinkles on top.
Eiri: Just how much chocolate do you need?
Ramo: Eiri look, if I use this app, the drink maker developed by the Kagami family will make our drink.
Eiri: That’s some technology. Can they make any kind of drink? The steps for making tea and frappe are quite different.
Ramo: Yes, it doesn’t matter. As long as iit has the ingredients it can even make a smoothie. As expected of the Kagami’s technology.
Eiri: If it’s easy to use I’m assuming they plan to release this to the market?
Ramo: They plan to ease the life in the middle class by making this affordable. It seems like more people will stop going to cafes.
Eiri: If the functionalities are too good, people will end up losing their jobs.
Ramo: That might be true. I’ve been borrowing this machine for about a week already, but I can’t even remember what life before having this machine was like anymore.
Eiri: You seem to be liking it. Come to think about it, Hiero was complaining how their AI chef can only make omurice.
Ramo: Is that so? I wonder if that’s even allowed with their technology. Maybe it’s not updated?
Eiri: I don’t know because I haven’t seen it myself.
Ramo: Well Hiero is not familiar with those kinds of stuff and doesn’t bother to ask for help. Maybe I’ll go visit him to check.
Eiri: It would help if you could. He’s getting thinner again and it’s kind of bothering me. Hekiru is also worried about Hiero’s unhealthy diet.
Ramo: Ah that’s because Hekiru’s constantly monitoring Hiero’s health. Especially since we’ve decided to join ENLIGHTRIBE. If the numbers start looking bad it notifies them.
Eiri: Numbers? What does that mean?
Ramo: Oh, was it alright that I mentioned it? I might have said too much.
Eiri: Is it a secret with Hekiru? Please tell me.
Ramo: Heiro’s always wearing that choker right?
Eiri: The one with the emerald?
Ramo: It’s actually made by the Houou together with the Kagami’s AI technologies to monitor Hiero’s health.
Eiri: Does Hiero know about it?
Ramo: Truth be told, Hiero knows nothing about it. He’d definitely not like it if he knew.
Eiri: I can imagine him making a big fuss about it if he knew. So, since when have you been getting his data?
Ramo: Remember when he fainted during that business trip last summer? That’s when we changed the choker.
Eiri: So you’ve been survaling his health for over a year now?
Ramo: Survaling is not a good word, Eiri. We’re just worried about him because he’s like a little brother. I’m sure you can understand.
Eiri: I mean yes, but-
Ramo: I do feel bad for him but it’s not like we can attend college together and it would be bad if he passed out again.
Eiri: That time was hard. You were the one who found him first right?
Ramo: Yes. I saw his cat Gamos come to my house so I thought something was up. If Gamo wasn’t around…
Eiri: He was saved by his cat.
Ramo: Hiero’s still in his teens. It would have been better if he was living with his family or with some helpers like us so that someone could look over him, but he doesn’t even have any permanent helpers.
Eiri: It's good that he wants to be independent, but it might have been too early for him.
Ramo: That’s why Hiero and Gamos have their chokers.
Eiri: Not telling Hiero is for his own good.
Ramo: Because of his personality, yeah. It would be nice if he could rely on us more.
Eiri: It can’t be helped because he’s still a kid.
Ramo: Hearing you say that about it makes me feel bad for Hiero. Hiero is quite similar to the old you, back when me and Hekiru first met you.
Eiri: Is that so? I wasn’t that stubborn though.
Ramo: Am I wrong? I remember you looking at us with eyes of distrust. And you don’t laugh.
Eiri: I don’t mean to be like that. There just wasn’t anything interesting to laugh at.
Ramo: Hekiru would be shocked to hear that because he was trying a lot of stuff to make you happy.
Eiri: Come to think about it, did it have something to do with me when you stopped for a year to match me and Hekiru’s grade level?
Ramo: What’s up with that? Why are you bringing it up now?
Eiri: All this time I’ve been wondering if you did it to let me blend in in high school. I didn’t see any other reason for you to take a break that time.
Ramo: Say Eiri, did you have a good student life?
Eiri: Yes, of course. I have nothing but good memories. That’s why we’re still friends.
Ramo: If that’s what you think then I’m satisfied.
Eiri: It is as I thought.
Ramo: Our drinks might be ready. I’ll go check on them in the kitchen. Wait here Eiri.
Episode 39 (ENLIGHTRIBE RADIO 第39回 With DRAMA)
Ramo: The bagels were all delicious.
Eiri: I didn’t think you’d finish them, did you need more?
Ramo: Bring some again next time. I’d be happy to try them for you.
Eiri: That’s very reliable. I’ll bring over some other sweets next time.
Ramo: Of course. I don’t have any preference when it comes to sweets. So Eiri, what’s up. You didn’t come here just for this right?
Eiri: You saw through me huh. You’re sharp.
Ramo: I thought it was quite rare for you to come over to my place. Did Hekiru ask you to check on me?
Eiri: Yeah, it’s as you said. Hekiru is very worried about you.
Ramo: Worried? Is it because I’m not focused on creating our songs? My parents have been getting me a lot of composition jobs recently.
Eiri: That’s not just it. Looking at the bags under your eyes, there must be something else that’s bothering you
Ramo: I have eyebags? Oh, it’s true. I didn’t realize it because I haven’t been leaving the house recently.
Eiri: You’re doing a radio during midnight right?
Ramo: R-radio? What are you talking about?
Eiri: Ride to the Edge, that’s the title of the radio. You’re the DJ, aren’t you?
Ramo: Ride to… I wonder, I don’t know about it.
Eiri: I can tell by listening to the voice. I heard from a young helper that there’s this radio that suddenly starts at midnight. I also heard that ESMERALDA’s songs have played there before so I tried listening to it.
Ramo: Hmm and then?
Eiri: The voice I heard at the start was absolutely you. There’s no way I would mishear that. I don’t plan on telling Hekiru or Hiero about it so tell me what that is about.
Ramo: I guess it can’t be helped that you found out. You’re the first one to realize.
Eiri: Is that so? I think anybody can tell by listening to your voice.
Ramo: I’ve been doing that radio since I was a student. It was apparently famous for a while, but you’re the only one who realized that it was me.
Eiri: You’ve been doing it for that long? Why were you hiding it from us? Were you planning to keep it a secret until someone found out?
Ramo: Hmm, kind of. I was planning to keep it a secret because it was against the law.
Eiri: Against the law? I’ve never heard about that.
Ramo: There’s a law that limits the radio waves saying that they should only reach the upper class and middle class. But my radio doesn’t have that limit and even the people living in the lower class can listen to it as long as they know the frequency.
Eiri: I didn’t know about that limit. To think that even signal is restricted there.
Ramo: Most people don’t know about it. I just found out while reading through some family documents.
Eiri: Does that mean that people in Rainfall (lower class) don’t have much opportunity to be exposed to new songs.
Ramo: I wonder. New songs may be being created there. But I would be happy if they are able to listen to my radio and know new songs.
Eiri: Does radio even exist in the place? I’ve heard that the place is dark and gloomy as the name of the place suggests.
Ramo: When I took a break from school I secretly went to the streets near Rainfall.
Eiri: Isn’t that illegal?! Going near the area is already against the law.
Ramo: “I went there to look into something for the Toride family”. See, I can just make up reasons like that, so there’s no problem.
Eiri: The Toride name seems like a convenient one. And then? How was it? Did you see any residences?
Ramo: I went at night so I didn’t see much, but I was able to hear some laughter and music from a building that looks like ruins.
Eiri: Songs huh.
Ramo: It didn’t matter if they were good or bad, but you could tell that they were really enjoying themselves.
Eiri: I see.
Ramo: Then it made me think if behind the history of these classes, did music play a part in it.
Eiri: That’s a very you way of thinking.
Ramo: So when I heard that ENLIGHTRIBE was open regardless of class I was very excited.
Eiri: Is that so? Hiero was very against it though.
Ramo: It’s not like the people there are bad, it’s just that we were educated to think that way. It’s not like Hiero’s bad
Eiri: A difference of knowledge. So no one’s in the wrong.
Ramo: I want them to think we’re good. Not because we’re in the upper class, but because we’re ESMERALDA.
Eiri: I see. I agree. I don’t like the idea of getting bias treatment because of our names.
Ramo: We passed through the first screening, but we don’t know how we placed, and we don’t know what’s happening in the second screening so we can’t really put our guards down.
Eiri: That’s true. If you’re done with the new songs I would love to hear them. If there’s anything I can do I want to help.
Ramo: There’s a draft I haven’t asked Hekiru to listen to. I want to hear your thoughts on it.
Eiri: Of course, let me hear it
Ramo: Thanks. Let me prepare it.
Bonus: Ride to the Edge -> bring “to” to the front of the title -> To Ride -> Toride (Ramo)
Another Bonus: According to the producer, they made Ramo the DJ of Ride to the Edge because his seiyuu (Komatsu Shouhei) was the main personality in the first cycle of Enraji
Eiri: Hm? Oh it’s you. Why are you here at my house?
Hiero: We’re going to Hekiru’s place to practice right? It’s hot to wait outside, so I came to get you.
Eiri: I don’t remember making plans to meet with you. Plus there’s no need to go in the opposite direction from Hekiru’s place to come over.
Hiero: It’s fine!! It’s a change of pace. My driver is probably bored of driving in the same streets too. Oh right, I met your father at the entrance.
Eiri: It was probably about time he was going to leave. He did say he had a meeting in Houou University in the afternoon.
Hiero: It seems like it. Can’t believe the first thing he told me was that I was too thin and that I should eat more.
Eiri: Doesn’t he tell you that every time?
Hiero: He does! The exact same phrase every time!
Eiri: But you are indeed quite thin. Hekiru is worried about you. Thinking if you’re eating the right meals.
Hiero: Yes yes, no worries. I just ate ice cream a while ago so I am as healthy as ever.
Eiri: Ice cream only?
Hiero: It’s not the small cup, I ate the 470ml big one! That has quite some calories.
Eiri: Having just ice cream won’t give you the nutrients you need. You should eat something more nutritious or you might get sick.
Hiero: It can’t be helped. Our AI chef is quite stupid but I can’t really complain because it’s a product of the Kagami family, but it’s really not good.
Eiri: It’s still being developed right? People thought it was good at the release announcement, but is it not?
Hiero: It is amazing that it can cook food from scratch, but it doesn’t really taste like anything. And it can only make omurice.
Eiri: Just one kind?
Hiero: Yes, just omurice.
Eiri: I see why it’s hard.
Hiero: It can make ketchup art, but I’m not looking for the quality of that.
Eiri: What if you make a suggestion to the development team? I think your opinion as a user will be helpful to them.
Hiero: If I do that then I’d have to talk to my siblings and I don’t want that. It’s a pain having to contact them.
Eiri: Is that so? But having omurice and ice cream only is not healthy for you. Why don’t you try cooking sometimes?
Hiero: I don’t want to. It’s troublesome. The time it takes to make the food is much longer than the time to eat it, if you think about it like that isn’t it inefficient?
Eiri: I’ve never thought about it like that. But I rather enjoy cooking.
Hiero: Eh?! Eiri you cook?! Even if you have all these capable helpers?
Eiri: When I have time I ask them to teach me some easy recipes like pastas.
Hiero: Make me some! I want to try your cooking!
Eiri: If you help me I’d let you try it.
Hiero: Why do I have to help too…
Eiri: Then you’re fine with not eating it?
Hiero: Hmm I’ll decide what I want to eat, so you learn how to make it then teach me.
Eiri: Fine.
Hiero: Come to think of it, you also clean your own room right? I heard it from Ramo before and was surprised.
Eiri: Yeah, but it’s just my room so it’s not a big deal.
Hiero: Not a big deal?! It is a big deal! To think that the heir of the Futabagi family is cleaning!
Eiri: You’re exaggerating. I just want to do the things around me by myself, that’s all.
Hiero: You’re weird. Another article about you was published recently.
Eiri: Oh that stupid gossip again.
Hiero: “Heir of the Futabagi family walking around in the streets of the middle class” with a picture.
Eiri: I cannot understand why those kinds of things become articles.
Hiero: Maybe it’s because they feel a gap with how you don’t act like you’re from the upper class despite being the heir of a prestigious family.
Eiri: Walk the street, people take pictures. Fail to meet the expectations of people, you get judged. What do the writers and readers even want from me.
Hiero: Maybe they think of you as a prince-like character.
Eiri: I hope they get satisfied with that by looking at Hekiru.
Hiero: Haha Hekiru is pretty good with the media and I kind of respect him for that.
Eiri: If you tell me to take Hekiru’s place even for just a day I don’t think I can last.
Hiero: I get that! Last time Hekiru got caught up in a paparazzi he was even striking a pose! “Be sure to take my good angle” is what is said. He probably has a loose screw.
Eiri: That’s very like him. Ramo would find the cameraman trying to take a picture of him and would even give him a drink.
Hiero: What?! Then I guess his screw is getting loose too. But they’ve recently been getting too active, it’s like we don’t have our privacy anymore.
Eiri: All the more when we passed the initial screening of ENLIGHTRIBE. There’s a lot of people around us who don’t think well of ESMERALDA passing the screening too. I guess it can’t be helped.
Hiero: I wish they would just leave us alone.
Eiri: It might be most important to live while not paying much attention to them.
Hiero: I see. It’s just some peasant nonsense, I guess we can leave them alone.
Eiri: It’s about time, let’s go to Hekiru’s house. If we’re going to walk we have to get going.
Hiero: Eh?! We’re going to walk again?! But it’s raining today! Let’s take the car. My driver is already waiting outside anyway.
Eiri: I see, it’s raining. Then I guess it can’t be helped. I’ll leave it to you.
Hiero: Okay, I’ll tell him to pull up somewhere we won’t get wet. Let’s head to the front gate.
Eiri: Okay.
Episode 36 (ENLIGHTRIBE RADIO 第36回 With DRAMA)
Hiero: O~h? It seems like no one is here yet.
Eiri: I guess there was no need to leave early.
Hiero: I told you no one would be here yet.
Eiri: We should have had some bagel sandwiches before we left.
Hiero: That’s true! I’m hungry.
Eiri: Let’s ask Hekiru to ask his chef to make us something when he comes.
Hiero: I agree! Say, don’t we always agree on a meeting time? But then no one ever comes on time.
Eiri: Come to think about it, there’s always someone running late.
Hiero: It’s mostly Hekiru though. Makes you wonder why we gather at his place but he’s always not here.
Eiri: It may not seem like it, but Hekiru is very busy with the Houou business. A big majority of the work he does we do not even see.
Hiero: I mean I understand that…
Eiri: As for Ramo, he’s just like that. It’s raining today too so he might still be asleep. He said he sleeps well, especially on rainy days.
Hiero: Ramo is really like a cat, isn’t he? Our cat also sleeps well on rainy days. Not that I like the rain or anything.
Eiri: It’s not like we’re in a rush or anything. Let’s just wait for them.
Hiero: Come to think about it, were they also this tardy when they were students. You know what they were like right?
Eiri: Ah, for Hekiru going to school was like work so I’ve never seen him late.
Hiero: I see. Hekiru who’s carrying the Houou name can’t be running late attending a school under his name. How about Ramo?
Eiri: We were in different departments in college so I don’t know about that, but back in high school he was mostly asleep in class.
Hiero: But Ramo had good grades right? But I guess he can’t compare to you who skipped grades.
Eiri: If he can be the top of his batch while sleeping in class, I’m sure he could have skipped grades too if he tried. Come to think about it, he might just be matching me and Hekiru.
Hiero: I see. Since the program in the last year is quite different, if he was a batch higher then he wouldn’t be able to be with you two. Ahh I wish I was also around your age.
Eiri: I just remembered, Ramo also took a year off to do whatever he wanted. Speaking of grade level, he would have been the oldest.
Hiero: Is that possible? Was he sick? Did he fail to fit it?
Eiri: No, I don't think he had a reason. He already decided to take a break before he even started high school.
Hiero: Aren’t the rules a bit too lax?!
Eiri: Maybe he just wanted to be in the same grade as Hekiru? I’m not quite sure though.
Hiero: I see. It’s because Ramo took a break that he was able to be together with Hekiru who went through high school normally and you who skipped grades.
Eiri: And since we were in the same class for three years, I think the Houou family played some strings.
Hiero: For sure! That sure is nice. Unlike the three of you I’m five grades below, so everything up to the uniform was already different.
Eiri: Since you can continuously go up to Houou University, even if you were still in middle school it didn’t really matter.
Hiero: Well, I do go to the high school or university grounds often.
Eiri: We also had lunch together, and we had the same dismissal time.
Hiero: But our school festivals are different right? I was able to go to yours because it was on a different day, but I wish we were able to participate in it together.
Eiri: Is that so? I remember you complaining about it before.
Hiero: Because I’m the only one who’s a university student right now. Ah, I want to hurry up and graduate.
Eiri: What do you plan to do after graduation? Is there anything you want to do?
Hiero: Nothing in mind. Probably taking over the company. I don’t really have anything that I want to do. How about you? Taking over the Futabagi business?
Eiri: That’s what’s planned.
Hiero: Are you okay with that? Don’t you have anything you want to do?
Eiri:I’m indebted to them because they raised me. I have to fulfill my duties back to them.
Hiero: That thinking is so like the eldest son. Good thing I have siblings above me, with them being older than me I never have to take responsibility.
Eiri: Responsibility huh. I’ll continue doing the things I want until I take over. As long as we enjoy ENLIGHTRIBE, that’s fine.
Hiero: Are you saying you’re quitting ESMERALDA when you take over?!
Eiri: I wonder. I don’t want to give it up, but it’s not something we can keep doing for fun.
Hiero: So that’s your thoughts about it… I thought you were just accompanying Hekiru on his whims.
Eiri: To be honest I’m not sure if it’s still worth continuing ESMERALDA if we don’t come out as top in ENLIGHTRIBE.
Hiero: Well, true. Things have been getting rough since we passed the first screening too. There’s been a lot of articles too.
Eiri: That’s why we have to show some results so that they can’t complain about ESMERALDA.
Hiero: If we come out first I wonder if we can enjoy some freedom.
Eiri: I’m not quite sure what is the freedom that you envision.
Hiero: My freedom huh… I wonder.
Eiri: Hm? Did you hear a car stop?
Hiero: Hm? You sure have good ears. Hey, let’s hide on the second floor to make them think no one’s around yet.
Eiri: I don’t mind, but what do we do with our stuff?
Toto: Hey hey are you busy? Did I disturb your work?
Tetsuha: Naah, I’m not busy, and you didn’t disturb anything. I just finished fixing this. Look
Toto: Oh! That’s the something-pad right? I saw Kyo-chan using it. It’s a big smartphone, right?
Tetsuha: Hm? It’s not really the same. If you put a keyboard here
Toto: Cool, it's a laptop!
Tetsuha: It’s not as functionable as a laptop but it’s better than a smartphone. It’s perfect for Kyo’s work
Toto: I see. In the morning, Kyo-chan helps out in your store while writing articles for the middle class right?
Tetsuha: That’s right. Just as you know, our store doesn’t really get that busy anyway and Kyo says he doesn’t want to waste time
Toto: I see. Aside from doing the morning bentos, he just has to look after the store while you’re working. It makes sense why he would get bored
Tetsuha: That’s true. Writing articles in his spare time helps us gather information before ENLIGHTRIBE and we can also get money that can be used in the middle class so it’s two birds in one stone.
Toto: That sounds nice, you can get a lot of money from work in the middle class right?
Tetsuha: It’s not a lot. There’s a limit on how much work you can do in a day afterall.
Toto: I see. If only I had the talent to write like Kyo-chan
Tetsuha: Haha, on the contrary Kyo said he wished he had more physical strength. He seemed like he was really concerned about it one time
Toto:Really?!
Tetsuha: Kyo’s not good at physical work unlike you or Shishio. Remember that one time we went mushroom picking and he was the first one to get tired?
Toto: That’s true! He looked so pale!
Tetsuha: He apparently realized he really wasn’t good with physical work.
Toto:I’m surprised. But for us, this is all we have.
Tetsuha: I guess it’s what they call looking for what they don’t have.
Toto: Haha I see.
Tetsuha: Oh yeah, didn’t you come here for something?
Toto: Oh right! Look at this radio.
Tetsuha: Oh, it’s your favorite pocket radio that you’ve had ever since
Toto: Yeah! My beloved partner that has been received your help numerous times
Tetsuha: You sure say things that make me happy. But if you brought your partner to me, does that mean there’s something wrong with it?
Toto: Yeah, it was working fine until yesterday, but then it doesn’t respond anymore no matter what button I press, I wonder what happened. Hello there?
Tetsuha: Let me see.
Toto: Here.
Tetsuha: Did you try changing the batteries?
Toto: Yeah, of course. I borrowed some from Kyo-chan, but it still didn’t work.
Tetsuha: I see. I wonder if something’s wrong inside. I’ll open it.
Toto: Shishio said that if you hit it it would be fixed, but I stopped him!
Tetsuha: That was a close call. Good job stopping him
Toto: I remember you said before that these kinds of gadgets shouldn’t be hit
Tetsuha: That’s right. If you hit it, it might end up hitting some other parts which makes it even more broken.
Tetsuha: Ah, I think I found the problem.
Toto: Really?! Would I be able to use it again?!
Tetsuha: Yes, do you see this coil, it’s kind of elevated. So let’s just push it back a bit. See how it’s connected again?
Toto: Oh!!! You’re right!!!
Tetsuha: Then we just stick it so that it doesn’t come off again. And… done. This should be working again
Toto: Cool!! It’s like magic!
Tetsuha: Try turning it on
Toto: Oh! It’s working again!
Tetsuha: That’s good. Seems like you can keep using it.
Toto: Thank you!! Now I can continue listening to the radio.
Tetsuha: You’re welcome. You really liked radio ever since.
Toto: Yeah! Because you can listen to a lot of songs on it. Plus you get to learn about stuff you probably wouldn’t know about.
Tetsuha: That’s true. Even if we can listen to songs online, it’s usually limited to the few genres we like, unlike if you listen from the radio you can listen to all sorts.
Toto: Yes! If I become famous someday I would also like to have my own radio program to be able to popularize different kinds of songs too.
Tetsuha: I’m sure you can do it! As your band member, be sure to call me as a guest.
Toto: Of course! Be sure to come,
Tetsuha: I’m looking forward to it. The radio you’re listening to is called Ride to the… something
Toto: Ride to the Edge!
Tetsuha: That’s right. I always forget the name. It’s not a regular program right?
Toto: Yeah. That’s how it was before, but recently it’s aired quite often
Tetsuha: I see, did the DJ change?
Toto: I don’t think so. The voice of the person speaking is still the same as before so I think it’s still the same person.
Tetsuha: Then maybe it got popular so it became a regular.
Toto: It’s apparently because they want to play the songs of the bands who got through the first screening of ENLIGHTRIBE. So I’m thinking that our song might be played too!
Tetsuha: That would be nice. Is our turn soon?
Toto: I thought they would be starting from bands with the letter A and follow the aiueo order (T/L: a kind of Japanese phonetic system) but then it’s not quite
Tetsuha: If it’s random then you have to listen everyday or else you’ll miss it
Toto: Exactly! Ah, but remember that band called ESMERALDA we met in the online briefing?
Tetsuha: Oh the band from the upper class filled with rich people?
Toto: Yeah. Their song was the one played last in the ENLIGHTRIBE special episode
Tetsuha: I see. I wonder if it’s because they’re a sponsor of Ride to the Edge.
Toto: Hm? Sponsor?
Tetsuha: They’re from the upper class right? They might be paying the radio as a form of support, but also to have their song played on air.
Toto: I see. Since we didn’t give them any money, then that means our song won’t be played? Shock…
Tetsuha: Toto, don’t be too sad. We put our all into those songs so I’m sure they would reach someone. Plus, we passed ENLIGHTRIBE’s first screening
Toto: It’s because they thought our song was good that we were able to proceed to the second screening too.
Tetsuha: That’s right. We have to be thankful for just passing.
Toto: Even if our song doesn’t get played in this ENLIGHTRIBE special, I’m not giving up until they want to play our song!
Tetsuha: That’s the spirit.
Toto: Also, it’s almost time for dinner.
Tetsuha: I got it, I’ll go over once I’m done cleaning up.
Toto: I’ll go ahead of you then.
Tetsuha: Roger.
Episode 33 (ENLIGHTRIBE RADIO 第33回 With DRAMA)
Tetsuha: Oh, good morning Toto
Toto: Good morning Tecchi
Tetsuha: You seem sleepy. Did you spend the night listening to Ride to the Edge?
Toto: Yeah. It was raining last night and the signal seemed to be clearer which made it nice to listen to it.
Tetsuha: That’s good. Gotta be thankful for the rain I guess. You said they were still doing the ENLIGHTRIBE special right?
Toto: Yes! Our song was played on air! The very first song!
Tetsuha: Really?!
Toto: I guess they would play our songs even if we’re not a what you call sponsor
Tetsuha: We were probably lucky
Toto: Maybe because the DJ took an interest in us?
Tetsuha: If that’s the case then that would be nice
Toto: I was preparing myself for when they play our song, but since it was the first one to be played.
Tetsuha: You got too surprised?
Toto: Yeah! I got too excited and I ended up not being able to sleep. I kept thinking that I had to sleep, but in the end I listened to the show up until the end
Tetsuha: The more you think that you have to sleep, the more it doesn’t happen. But won’t your lack of sleep affect your work today?
Toto: I’m a little sleepy but it’s fine. Kyo-chan said that today’s morning deliveries will be less than usual so I’ll probably just take a nap when I get home.
Tetsuha: That sounds like a good idea. The bento business Kyo started is working out because you’re there to deliver them. I’m sure you’ll be sleepy before your nap, so be careful when you go out.
Toto: Yeah, got it! I won’t push myself too hard.
Tetsuha: We’re also going to the middle class next week so be sure to take care of your health.
Toto: Oh right! Kyo-chan was saying how it might be a good idea to bring our own bento.
Tetsuha : I see, it might be a good idea just in case we get hungry along the way since there’s on the way. We can have tea in our tumblrs and make some onigiris.
Toto: We have to bring a big back
Tetsuha: It might be better that way
Toto: Got it! I’ll get ready with my biggest bag. We’re going to leave early in the morning right?
Tetsuha: Yep. It’s not only because we don’t want to look suspicious to other people, but the walk to the middle class is quite far.
Toto: You’ve been there a few times right? Do you still think it’s far
Tetsuha: It’s very far. Just going there and coming back makes me exhausted
Toto: You feel more tired than happy being able to go to the middle class?
Tetsuha: Not much of happiness… because there’s also the fear of getting caught. But going there is essential in order to get money we can use in the middle class so it can’t be helped.
Toto: You’re taking the items that don’t sell well here to sell it in the middle class right? Do they just buy anything?
Tetsuha: We’re just a recycle shop so we just usually sell whatever we find in the trash piles that still can be used.
Toto: Yeah. So sometimes we get some things we don’t know how to use
Tetsuha: Sometimes in those small things there are some rare parts so people buy them for a good price
Toto: But but the people who bought the items from you don’t know they were recycled right?
Tetsuha: Yeah, they don’t know
Toto: Does that mean that they’re unknowingly using the things that you fixed
Tetsuha: That’s how it is
Toto: So if you weren’t around, trash just remains trash?
Tetsuha: As long as there’s no one who does what I do, then trash just remains trash
Toto: Then that makes you a person the middle class should be thankful for! They should even give you recognition for it
Tetsuha: That’s an exaggeration
Toto: Really?
Tetsuha: Because I’m just investing in the things that are only available in the middle class.
Toto: I see. Come to think of it, you use the money to buy medicine or things that are nowhere to be found here.
Tetsuha: That’s right. Because the medicines we can get here are quite limited.
Toto: There used to be a hospital here right? I heard that the building on the mountaintop used to be a hospital.
Tetsuha: The plan got canceled before it was even finish, so you could call it the place that was supposed to be the hospital
Toto: So the place we’re staying at can be called the place that was supposed to be the public hall?
Tetsuha: No, this place used to be the public hall. When I was born it was still here
Toto: This place was supposed to be something like the one in the middle class right
Tetsuha: That’s right. Before the construction was stopped there was supposed to be a way to the middle class, but now it’s all canceled
Toto: But if the construction wasn’t canceled, then we wouldn’t even have a place to stay or practice. Then maybe the cancellation was for the better.
Tetsuha: That’s true. We might not have even met if this class system wasn’t implemented
Toto: Eh?!?! I don’t want that! If we suddenly time leap and the world changes, I’ll definitely find you and ask you to be my band member. Tecchi, be sure to join me!
Tetsuha: Time leap.. I got it, I’ll definitely find the three of you.
Toto: Hehe, that’s good
Tetsuha: Now that you’re relieved, let’s go eat breakfast
Kyo: Oh, thanks for the help. Hmm? Did you also wash Shishio’s plates?
Toto: Yeah. He said he woke up late and didn’t have time to wash them
Kyo: If you left it there I would have washed it
Toto: It’s fine, he said he’d give me something for dinner if I did
Kyo: I saw Shishio leaving in a rush but I didn’t know that he was able to make a deal along the way.
Toto: Hehe, you don’t know about it but this happens at least once every two months. When I don’t notice, sometimes Tecchi also helps out
Kyo: Oh really? But is Shishio really alright with that? He’s always looking for extras
Toto: It’s fine, he says it’s his punishment for waking up late
Kyo: Guess it sounds like him to do that. He could have told me before leaving
Toto: We decided to wash our own dishes because you cook the food right?
Kyo: Well yes, but it doesn’t make that much of a difference adding one plate so he could just let me know if he’s busy
Toto: No, no. If you say that we’ll start getting spoiled by you
Kyo: Okay okay, got it. So we’ll continue with washing our own dishes
Toto: Yes! That’s important! Anyway, what have you been looking at? Can I borrow your tablet thing
Kyo: Oh, this. I’m thinking of the article I have to write today, but I can’t seem to make it well.
Toto: Uwah~ That’s a lot of words. Just looking at it makes me dizzy
Kyo: I feel: you, that’s what I thought too
Toto: You thought that too?! This is the job Tecchi told you about right? Are you writing an article for a news site?
Kyo: Yep. I’m making an article that puts together the happenings in the middle class so that people can catch up on the news quickly
Toto: Catch up on the news quickly? Why?
Kyo: If it’s shorter, even busy people can read it. There are a lot of people who want to get a lot of information in a short amount of time.
Toto: I see. But it seems hard to put it together. Have you gotten used to it? Is it easier to do now?
Kyo: It hasn’t been easy, but I think I’m getting used to it. It’s interesting to know what’s happening in the middle class because we don’t know much living here
Toto: Tecchi was saying how hardworking and passionate you were about learning. To think that you’d look for more work on top of your current ones.
Kyo: Is that so? Weekday mornings are usually allotted for making the bentos for sale, but you’re the one who delivers them. And even if I’m assigned to look after Tetsuha’s shop in the afternoon, it’s not really that busy there.
Toto: That might be true…
Kyo: Being able to work in my free time is a good thing.
Toto: But but, don’t you get tired from working all the time
Kyo: Not at all. People living in the center of the middle class might be working even more.
Toto: Is that so? There’s a lot of rich people living in the center right?
Kyo: Not really, based on the articles I’ve created that’s not the case. Housing in the center is quite expensive, plus they’re experiencing a declining economy
Toto: Does that mean not being able to get a lot of money even if they work?
Kyo: Something like that. There are also cases where their current work can’t supply their needs anymore
Toto: Eh?! So they have to start working part time on top of their work?
Kyo: That seems like the case for some people. There are a lot of people who choose to make delivery services as their part time job. In the middle class they deliver food, daily necessities, and apparently anything else
Toto: Ehh?! Then that doesn’t make any difference from where we are. To think there are also jobs like that over there.
Kyo: A lot of them follow a commission system where you get paid depending on how many you deliver so it feels rewarding
Toto: Cool! I want to try it!
Kyo: If you were born in the middle class I’m sure you would have chosen to be a delivery man
Toto: Yep! I’ll be delivering at full speed until I run out of energy. How about you? What kind of work do you want to be in if you were born in the middle class
Kyo: Me? Hmmmm… I like cooking so maybe something related to food?
Toto: Then will you become a chef? The kind who cooks for rich people?
Kyo: No, probably in a small restaurant where different people can taste my cooking
Toto: Will there be delivery there?
Kyo: Probably if there’s a demand for it
Toto: Then I’ll deliver it! I’ll carefully deliver the food you put your heart into!
Kyo: That’s not really much different from what we are doing right now, is it
Toto: Oh! It seems like it
Kyo: That probably means we’re fit to live anywhere
Toto: I guess so
Kyo: Oh right, the bentos to be delivered for today are over there
Toto: Oh that’s a lot! But it’s probably alright since it fits in the box
Kyo: Don’t push yourself too hard. There’s more than usual today so be careful
Toto: Okay! What’s that?
Kyo: Oh, that’s Shishio’s bento. Seems like he forgot it
Toto: I see, since he left in a rush. Don’t worry, I’ll bring this to Shishio too
Kyo: That would be nice. I’m sure he’ll get hungry doing manual labor.
Toto: Where was Shishio working today again?
Kyo: If I’m not mistaken, he said something like the East Tower?
Toto: I think I know already! They’re repairing something over there. I’ll probably get there asking directions
Kyo: I see, then I’ll leave it to you. Want to take some onigiri with you?
Toto: Nope, I’m fine! I’ll come back if I get hungry
Kyo: Got it. Assuming that Shishio’s eating at work, guess the three of us are having lunch together.
Toto: Yep! Then I’ll go now
Kyo: Be careful.
Toto: I will~ See you later
Kyo: See you later
Episode 30 (ENLIGHTRIBE RADIO 第30回 With DRAMA)
Toto: I’m back~!
Kyo: Oh, welcome back Toto. Good job on the morning deliveries. There were quite a lot but you’re back earlier than usual
Toto: Right?! It might be a new record for me!
Kyo: You were aiming for a new record?
Toto: Well yeah! You know, I changed my usual delivery route to deliver Shishio’s bento and then something lucky happened!
Kyo: Oh? Which route did you take?
Toto: I passed through the town square as a shortcut. Did you know that there have been exercise sessions in the town square that started about 3 months ago?
Kyo: Is that the one Shishio was talking about before? He said more people started joining
Toto: Yes that one! There were apparently only about two to three people when they started, but now they have over 20 participants!
Kyo: Well, that’s amazing! Everyone’s starting to think about their health. What about it?
Toto: When I passed by they were exercising, and some of the old people who were supposed to be the recipients were there! So when they finished, ¼ of the deliveries were done too
Kyo: So that’s why. That is very efficient. It could also bring us new customers if they continue exercising at the same time
Toto: There were already people who were interested so I took note of it! Here’s the list!
Kyo: Nice one Toto! To think that you would also advertise there
Toto: Because the food you make is delicious! So I want more people to try it. Plus, I want them to stay healthy
Kyo: Right, we have to repay them back for their support
Toto: They used to look after us when we were kids after all. Right, are you done with the article you were working on this morning?
Kyo: It’s done. Here.
Toto: Oh!!! It became so much shorter! Was it harder this time?
Kyo: A bit. The article was quite long too, so I had to start from understanding it. But it was quite a good study
Toto: Do you also write articles about ENLIGHTRIBE?
Kyo: Sometimes. Like articles about bands that are being interested upon
Toto: Eh?! Then is there an article about us?
Kyo: I don’t think there is… It would actually bad for us if there was
Toto: Why?! Isn’t it a good thing to have ourselves known?
Kyo: It would be a good thing to be famous, but it would be bad if people found out we are from the lower class
Toto: Oh I see. Is it really something that would get revealed?
Kyo: The more mysterious something is, the more people would want to know. Plus, there’s no information about where we’re from
Toto: I see. Even if we want to make ourselves known, we can’t
Kyo: Gossips are a hot topics in articles
Toto: Gossip?
Kyo: There are some journalists who dig up information about people and use it to write badly about them. It would be bad if those people got onto us
Toto: I see. Among the bands who joined ENLIGHTRIBE, is there anyone who has been gossiped about?
Kyo: I think ESMERALDA. Well, regardless of ENLIGHTRIBE, I think those people often get written about in articles
Toto: Oh those rich people?
Kyo: Apparently people in the middle class don’t think well of those in the upper class, so they tend to pick up even the slightest gossips
Toto: For example?
Kyo: Their company, family are a given, but sometimes they include what they wear, or even what they have for meals, even the slightest details
Toto: There are people who read those kinds of things? Does that mean they have a lot of fans?
Kyo: They’re not all fans, there are also some who write hate about them. These kinds of articles are meant to get them more money the more people pay attention to them. They say that gossip gets you the most money
Toto: Then does that mean rich people don’t have freedom? Since a lot of journalists go after them
Kyo: I wonder. They might not have privacy, but they definitely live a better life than us because they can buy everything with money
Toto: If we were super famous, would things like Shishio oversleeping get turned into an article?
Kyo: With a picture on top of that!
Toto: Wow! That’s so embarrassing
Kyo: But if we’re rich we would probably have an assistant who would wake us up
Toto: I see, then there would be no reason to be late. But what about if he forgot his bento
Kyo: There would probably be no need for a bento. He could just eat out
Toto: Their lifestyle is so different for ours I can’t even imagine when an embarrassing picture would be taken
Kyo: That’s true
Toto: Oh right! I got this a while ago. Almost forgot to show you
Kyo: Wow, that’s a lot of vegetables
Toto: They said the sizes are different because of the recent typhoon
Kyo: I don’t mind. I’m actually thankful we get to receive so much
Toto: The tomatoes might have gotten squished… Sorry, I should have handled it better
Kyo: Don’t mind it. Tomatoes are really soft, but we can still eat them so no problem. I’ll make your favorite tomato soup with it.
Toto: Yay!!
Kyo: Who did you get these from?
Toto: While I was going to Shishio’s workplace, there was an old man with a farm and said to take it because they have extras
Kyo: Then we have to give him something in return
Toto: I’ll go help out in their farm once I’m done with the deliveries
Kyo: That sounds like the best option. I’m sure they’d feel energized looking at your smile too
Toto: I’ll share my energy with everyone!
Kyo: Don’t try too hard, okay? Let’s have lunch. Call Tetsuha from his room
Hiero: You‘re late, do you have any idea how long I’ve been waiting for you?
Eiri: I don’t remember planning to meet.
Hiero: Because we didn’t.
Eiri: Then why are you making it sound like we’re supposed to meet?
Hiero: Since we’re going to Hekiru’s place I thought we could go together.
Eiri: But it’s a waste of time to wait for me here.
Hiero: Hey wait! But why don’t you ride a car. It’s weird for people like us to be walking about in the streets.
Eiri: I don’t care what other people think.
Hiero: But it’s tiring, want me to call my driver?
Eiri: It’s a five minute walk to Hekiru’s house from here, it would be much faster to walk than calling a driver.
Hiero: That’s not true. A car’s definitely faster.
Eiri: If you hate walking that much then go ride a car.
Hiero: Hey!! Don’t try to leave me on purpose!
Eiri: So you’re coming with?
Hiero: Who cares, it’s up to me. Anyway, did you hear anything from Hekiru about today?
Eiri: Nothing really, he just said to come over.
Hiero: I don’t know anything either. I was wondering if it’s about the new song Ramo made.
Eiri: It might be.
Hiero: That was super cool! It was high quality despite it being a draft.
Eiri: The mood of the song was nice. The pre-chorus is also well made and leaves quite an impression.
Hiero: I get that! I also thought the same thing. You could really tell Ramo was having fun while making that song.
Eiri: That’s true.
Hiero: Say, although it’s tiring, walking isn’t all that bad.
Eiri: Even if you wanted to ride a car that much?
Hiero: Y-Yeah. Plus I can also share my opinions with you, it’s not all that bad.
Eiri: I see.
Hiero: Then I’ll be waiting for you again at the same place, same time.
Eiri: That’s not a meeting but an ambush.
Hiero: Ambush?! What are you saying, that’s totally different.
Eiri: Well, do what you want.
Hiero: You walk too fast!! Don’t leave me! We finally got here. But it’s still quite a walk before we get inside.
Eiri: It can’t be helped because Hekiru lives away from the main house.
Hiero: He should just make one more on the front.
Eiri: Apparently Hekiru did ask his father, but wasn’t allowed to.
Hiero: Why? Because the sound of the guitar is too loud?
Eiri: There’s that, but it’s also probably because he wants him to focus on work. Hekiru will someday take over the Houou business, it’s normal for his father to think that doing the band with us is a waste of time
Hiero: Even though he’s able to balance it well?
Eiri: He probably wants him to be 100% focused on work.
Hiero : That sounds boring.: What’s that song?
Eiri: It’s the first time I’m hearing this. Could be Ramo’s new song.
Hekiru: Oh, nice timing the two of you.
Eiri: We heard a bit through the door, is this the new song?
Hekiru: Exactly! It was an amazing melody, wasn't it. I feel like it will be another masterpiece.
Hiero: This sounds different from the one you sent last time.
Ramo: Yeah, it’s a different song. I think you’ll like this one too.
Hekiru: The melodies you make are beautiful up to every detail. You can never have too much of beautiful things~
Eiri: You seem to be in a good pace recently, are the sounds coming to you?
Ramo: Yes. New melodies overflow within me whether I’m asleep or awake. Hekiru also says he wants to hear more.
Hekiru: Yes!! Ramo’s talent is like a river that keeps overflowing, it never stops. The more you hear it, the more you get captivated.
Hiero: Hmm, can I see the sheet?
Ramo: Go ahead. The one for the song right now is over here. Eiri, want to take a look too?
Eiri: Three songs… no, four songs.
Ramo: Hekiru was the one who requested the number of songs so it’s quite few.
Hiero: It’s not few! This is plenty enough.
Hekiru: When Ramo gets going he ne~~~ver leaves the studio so I decided to put a limit.
Eiri: It’s a good song. The quality of each song is also high. I also thought this when you sent the demo last time, but the quality of your work gets better each time.
Ramo: Really? I haven’t really paid attention to it until you mentioned it. I’m happy that you think that way.
Hiero: He’s right.
Eiri: Is there a reason why we have this many songs?
Hekiru: Hehehe, I have something interesting.
Hiero: I have a bad feeling about this.
Eiri: Let’s listen to it first.
Hekiru: We’ve always been enjoying music as a hobby right? Don’t you think it’s sad that we don’t have a proper platform to share it on?
Hiero: Of course we want more people to hear it…
Eiri: What are you getting at?
Hekiru: It’s a waste to keep this talent here. That’s what I thought! Then I heard something interesting.
Hiero: Interesting?
Hekiru: ENLIGHTRIBE.
Eiri: ENLIGHT…RIBE.
Hekiru: A fes that aims to unite the world with music. A music fes with that concept is apparently going to be held.
Hiero: A music fes?!
Ramo: Hmm. Sounds like an interesting concept. I’m interested in that.
Hekiru: It’s open to any class and they’re aiming to get the largest audience around the world.
Eiri: Largest audience around the world… Hearing just that sounds unimaginable.
Hekiru: There’s also going to be a worldwide broadcast, so counting both online and offline participants, this will be something out of this world.
Hiero: When and where is this event being held? I haven’t heard about it anywhere.
Hekiru: Well of course. This information has only been disclosed to a chosen few. It seems like more details will be revealed soon.
Eiri: What do you mean “seems like”. Is it not a reliable source?
Hekiru: I heard it from a Madam at a recent dinner party.
Ramo: And can that Madam be trusted?
Hekiru: You worry too much. That Madam is in my top 4 most trusted.
Ramo: She is more trustworthy than I thought. Then I’ll believe it.
Hiero: You seem to be into the idea. I thought you don’t like these kinds of things.
Ramo: Being able to let people listen to my music, if I can do that then it sounds like an interesting idea.
Hiero: I see. What do you think about it, Eiri?
Eiri: Such a big event makes me think that Hekiru’s family is involved in this. If it was brought up in a dinner party, did they ask you to sponsor it?
Hiero: Oh, right.
Ramo: I see. How is it really, Hekiru?
Hekiru: You’re sharp Eiri. But that’s not the case. They didn’t ask me to sponsor it. When I found out about it, our family’s name was already part of it. I’m sure my father played a part in this.
Eiri: So does this mean we’re using your father’s authority to join this fes?
Hiero: Joining through connections is super lame!
Ramo: I’m not interested if politics is involved. I’m not good with those kinds of things.
Hekiru: Don’t go turning your backs on the idea all at once. My speculation is that my father was just asked to sponsor the event.
Hiero: It’s true that the Houou name is everywhere.
Hekiru: Right? So I think we can enjoy this fes fairly even so.
Hiero: So we’re just killing time?
Hekiru: That’s not a nice way to put it. I just want to enjoy music with you guys.
Hiero: Hmm
Eiri: That sounds like something you would say.
Hekiru: Plus, I think it would be interesting. It seems like the part where people regardless of their class can join is true.
Ramo: I was curious about that.
Hiero: Me too. What do you mean anyone regardless of class can join.
Hekiru: Hm? Probably just as it is.
Hiero: Does that mean that we have to stand on the same stage with those lower class freaks?
Ramo: Hiero, watch your words.
Hiero: There’s no need to. What kind of foolishness is this “best music” thing. I don’t see the worth in joining.
Hekiru: There’s no need to think about it.
Hiero: Why?
Hekiru: Why do we, who are born into this favored environment, have to distance ourselves from the things that even the people from the lower class can do? We can enjoy all the luxury in this world! Isn’t that our privilege?
Hiero: Well, it is.
Hekiru: I’m sure unlike you, Ramo is into this idea. He just has to keep giving us amazing songs like before.
Ramo: Yeah. We will be the one performing my songs. That’s what real music is, and that is all that matters.
Hekiru: Yes!! That’s Ramo’s song! And our song is the best out there! It would be weird for ESMERALDA to be absent in a place to perform the best songs. That’s why we should join! Don’t you think so, Eiri?
Hiero: Eiri? Don’t tell me…
Eiri: If I’m doing this, I’m aiming for the top. Any other outcome is unthinkable.
Hekiru: That’s the spirit! Of course!
Hiero: Hey Eiri!
Eiri: Hekiru’s words make sense. I cannot accept other songs being called the best without us even knowing.
Hiero: I mean, that’s true.
Hekiru: Why are you so against the idea?
Hiero: I told you, I don’t want to perform with those peasants.
Hekiru: Is that the only reason?
Hiero: ONLY?! That’s a big factor!
Hekiru: Even if Eiri said he’s joining?
Hiero: Khh
Hekiru: I guess that decides it.
Hiero: …… Fine. If Eiri says he’s doing it, then count me in.
Hekiru: Come on Hiero-chan, don’t act like that.
Hiero: Shut up, you’re happy as long as you can perform.
Eiri: That’s not the case.
Hiero: Hm?
Eiri: Ramo said it, we’ll be the one to perform his songs, and that’s what becomes music. If the four of us are not together, it’s not possible. So join us, Hiero.
Hiero: Eiri…
Eiri: So? What should we do to join ENLIGHTRIBE?
Hekiru: There should be an application form, but I’m not too sure about the details yet so I’ll look into it more.
Eiri: Okay. I’ll leave that to you. Let us know when you find something.
Hiero: If that’s decided then let’s go to the studio.
Eiri: Studio? Don’t we always practice here?
Ramo: You’re right Eiri. That’s what I said earlier.
Hekiru: If we’re going to make the best music, then we need to have the best equipment. So I made a new studio.
Hiero: Hah?! Didn’t you say that this place was just recently renovated?!
Hekiru: I did. But since ENLIGHTRIBE is a new challenge we’re taking on, it’s just obvious that we need a new place.
Eiri: What kind of logic is that.
Hekiru: Follow me. De-den!!
Hiero: What is this door?! This has never been here.
Hekiru: It’s too early to get excited, the real thing is behind this door. Well then, open~
Hiero: What’s this?!
Hekiru: The hall beside wasn’t being used so I made it soundproof and put this new door here to make it accessible.
Eiri: These are some good facilities. With this size we can even call in an orchestra.
Hekiru: Yes!! I wanted to widen our songs genre too. No matter what it is, the bigger it is the better! Also I already had your usual instruments tuned so that we can get practicing.
Eiri: This wall. Did you change everything to sounding boards? These are not the kind you can easily stick like wallpaper .
Hekiru: I’m glad you noticed! Yes, I had them change the wall so that the sound would bounce. Don’t you think it looks artistic too?
Ramo: I tried playing the piano earlier and it sounds different. Almost like my body is being wrapped by the sound.
Hekiru: Yess!! This room is almost like part of the sound and I made it so that we can make the best music. Let me listen to it later!
Hiero: There are also individual recording booths. Are all these equipment the latest ones? This, and this. I haven’t seen these before.
Hekiru: Yeah! I’m not really all that familiar with equipment so I asked an expert to get all the best ones.
Eiri: You also got a variety of microphones.
Hekiru: I’m not sure which one would fit your preference so I just gathered a bunch for now. You can choose whichever fits your preference or singing style.
Ramo: There is also a ton of equipment I’ve never used. This is good. This studio is fun.
Hekiru: You sure say things that make me happy. Before we had to be careful with the volume so as to not disturb my father and his meetings, but in this studio it doesn’t matter anymore.
Hiero: As expected of you, always extravagant.
Hekiru: I wanted the ESMERALDA Studio to be a place we can use freely. Here, register here.
Eiri: What’s this?
Hekiru: A face recognition system and biometrics scanner! It would be safer if only we could enter. We also developed an app to monitor who’s in the studio~
Hiero: You were able to make such a thing in a short amount of time?!
Hekiru: The engineers really did their best. You can use this place even when I’m not around.
Hiero: Even if you say that, it’s hard to come here alone.
Ramo: Really? I think this place… is the best.
Hiero: Why don’t you just live here?
Hekiru: I almost forgot to mention it. I’ve shown you the upper floor before right?
Eiri: Yeah, the one with the bed rooms right.
Hekiru: Yes yes, there’s also a few guest rooms there and I made sure to get the best furniture to make it a comfortable stay so use that freely too. I’m sure you can relax here. I don’t mind if you stay over.
Eiri: No thanks, I’ll go home.
Hiero: I’m going home too.
Ramo: I might want to sleep with my own pillow.
Hekiru: Hahaha, no need for courtesy. The security here is top notch with 24-hour surveillance. My personal chef is also here to make balanced meals. So don’t hesitate.
Hiero: As expected.
Ramo: It’s interesting to see Hekiru when he doesn’t know when to stop.
Eiri: Anyway, we have the facilities, let’s use them well.
Ramo: That’s true. I want to use it already.
Hiero: It would be a waste not to use it.
Hekiru: I’m glad you like it. This will be a new start for ESMERALDA.
Izumi: Hey, what time are you coming home today? You left without telling me anything this morning.
Azumi: Sorry, I was in a rush.
Izumi: There you go again making excuses.
Azumi: It’s not an excuse.
Izumi: You said we’d have dinner together, did you forget?
Azumi: I didn’t. I thought of going home early, but Hekiru-san’s schedule is quite unpredictable.
Izumi: There you go. It’s his fault again.
Azumi: Don’t say that.
Izumi: He just has to go home after his dinner party. Plus it’s near his house so he doesn’t even need a car.
Azumi: Don’t say that. Hekiru-san must be tired from the party, he might want to relax at least on the way home.
Izumi: There you go again, always taking his side.
Azumi: That’s not it. Plus, it’s impossible to see someone from the Houou family walking alone, isn’t it?
Izumi: That might be true, but I think that he should at least keep his time. He’s even making you wait. That’s overtime. The time you spend with me gets shorter too.
Azumi: Sorry, but it can’t be helped because it’s part of work. I’ll go straight home after this, okay?
Izumi: …
Azumi: Izu
Izumi: Fine. Give me a message when you’re done.
Azumi: Oh, looks like Hekiru-san’s done. I’ll get back to you later.
Izumi: Okay
Azumi: Hekiru-san, good evening.
Hekiru: I made you wait a while, didn’t I
Azumi: No worries sir.
Hekiru: There were quite a number of guests tonight. Recently I’ve been keeping you waiting. The Madams won’t let me go even if they know my ride is waiting for me.
Azumi: So that was the case. I did think that you might have been held by some people after the dinner party.
Hekiru: You’re right. It seems like the Madams forget their stress when they’re with me.
Azumi: You’re as popular with them as ever. I’ve heard that some people even come from afar to see you.
Hekiru: It’s a surprise. To think that they would want to see me. It’s an honor.
Azumi: It must be expected that they want to see you, with you being the heir of the Houou family.
Hekiru: It’s just the name that they’re looking at. According to my father, the grand prize always gets the honor but it easily creates enemies for you.
Azumi: Come to think of it, I often see a lot of supporters around your father. Mostly women recently.
Hekiru: Well, there’s the right people for the right place. I have to do well with the Madams my father doesn’t deal well with.
Azumi: You really can’t underestimate women in authority these days so the pressure on you must be heavy. You do seem tired these days.
Hekiru: You can tell? Well, just a little. As you know, I’ve been living this kind of life ever since. I’m used to it.
Azumi: But I still think you shouldn’t push yourself too hard.
Hekiru: You worry too much. It makes me happy that you’re concerned. Thank you. Come to think of it, what’s my schedule tomorrow?
Azumi: Tomorrow, in the morning you have a regular meeting in Houhou University followed by a lunch party. In the afternoon you have three meetings, and in the evening, you have another dinner party at 8PM.
Hekiru: Three meetings huh, that’s fewer than usual. Can you put in a meeting with Ramo in my spare time in the afternoon?
Azumi: Understood. Would it be good to assume that this would be in your secondary house?
Hekiru: Yes, no problem.
Azumi: Understood. I’ll contact him.
Hekiru: I’m looking forward to tomorrow.
Azumi: Is there a new song?
Hekiru: Yes! He told me about it last week but we haven’t been able to work out a schedule for it.
Azumi: I see. You have indeed gotten busier recently. Is Ramo-san feeling sad about it?
Hekiru: I’m the one who’s sad! But thanks to the schedule you made I have time to meet with my friends next week. Thanks.
Azumi: That’s nice to hear. Please do get more time to relax.
Hekiru: Oh right.
Azumi: What’s the matter?
Hekiru: I heard something interesting from the dinner party a while ago and thought that you might be interested in it too.
Azumi: What is it?
Hekiru: It seems like a big event called ENLIGHTRIBE will be taking place.
Azumi: ENLIGHTRIBE? It’s the first time I’m hearing about it.
Hekiru: Me too. Apparently it’s a music fes with the concept of making the world together with the best music.
Azumi: The best music huh. That sounds rather romantic.
Hekiru: The registration is open to all classes and they’re aiming for it to be the biggest event with the largest audience.
Azumi: Where will this big event be held?
Hekiru: I haven’t heard about the details myself but I think they would be making a new place for it, since they're aiming for the largest audience.
Azumi: It can’t be?!
Hekiru: It’s not impossible. On top of that, the fes will be streamed all over the world, so the number of participants both online and offline will be out of this world.
Azumi: Then I guess the idea of making a new place doesn’t sound too wild anymore.
Hekiru: Right?! I’m so excited about it.
Azumi: Isn’t it hosted by your family?
Hekiru: I just heard about it a while ago so there’s no way. But it seems like our company is already one of the main sponsors of the event. It’s the first time I’m hearing about it so I’m thinking of asking my father but it might be a bad idea.
Azumi: What if your father was hoping that you and your friends would join the event?
Hekiru: Hahaha, it might be possible. As you know, my father doesn’t really think well of me doing music. He also wants me to put more focus on my job.
Azumi: What do you think about it?
Hekiru: I’m joining. Regardless of what he says.
Azumi: That’s…
Hekiru: It’s not just because I want to perform, I also want to improve myself, and to be able to do that, I need a rival. Do you see where I’m getting at?
Azumi: I apologize, I don’t think I quite understand.
Hekiru: What I want to say is how about you join together with your little brother. I think there’s no other place where we can compete head on like this.
Azumi: Out of nowhere… Unlike you, I have no talent for music, so I wouldn’t.
Hekiru: Oh what are you saying? You were the one who taught me about music in the first place.
Azumi: Music… I only taught you how to hold the instrument.
Hekiru: That’s not true. I think of you as my mentor.
Azumi: Mentor… Holding the instrument and playing it are two different things. Your skill now is because of your efforts.
Hekiru: Hekiru… san… You used to call me just Hekiru. At least call me like that when we’re alone.
Azumi: We have to be careful because of the statuses. You never know who could be listening to us.
Hekiru: Don’t say that. I think of you as my brother. Who would even care about statuses at this point.
Azumi: I apologize.
Hekiru: That! You really are too serious. Ah, can you stop the car here for today
Azumi: Are you really okay here? There’s still quite a distance from your house.
Hekiru: It’s fine. Thank you.
Azumi: If it’s because I made the mood bad with my actions, then-
Hekiru: No no, I just wanted to feel the night breeze. You’re too stiff with me now. I don’t mind if you treated me like before.
Azumi: Is that so
Hekiru: For now try considering ENLIGHTRIBE, I’ll look into the details.
Azumi: With regards to that-
Hekiru: Well then, see you tomorrow. Good night.
Azumi: Understood. Please have a good night. ENLIGHTRIBE huh… It doesn’t matter to me.
Izumi: You’re late~ And I told you to message me when you’re coming home.
Azumi: Oh, sorry, I forgot.
Izumi: Try to be in my place waiting for you to come home who knows what time.
Azumi: My bad.
Izumi: It’s fine. The stew has gotten cold so let me reheat it first.
Azumi: Okay, thank you.
Izumi: Hey, listen! Something annoying happened in class today.
Azumi: Was there any problem?
Izumi: You know how International Business is a popular course in the economics department? People were using my name badly because they knew you’re working for the Houou family.
Azumi: I see.
Izumi: He was saying something like “I’m close with Izumi so I have a connection to the Houou family”. I’m not even close with him, he’s just in the same class. I don’t even remember his face.
Azumi: And then?
Izumi: That’s terrible right? It would have been fine if he just wanted to talk to me, but it was really unpleasant that he was using my name like that behind my back. Well, those kinds of people will end up hurting themselves. It would be hard for him to attend class tomorrow.
Azumi: I see.
Izumi: Those kinds of people should just miss their units and repeat the year. And then eventually they won’t have enough money and drop out of college.
Azumi: I see.
Izumi: I’ll let them know that they messed with the wrong person. Hey! Are you listening to what I said?
Azumi: Today’s class was boring?
Izumi: That’s not it. You’re not listening at all.
Azumi: I was thinking about something.
Izumi: Thinking about something? You look high in the clouds. Is that thing you’re thinking about more important than my story?
Azumi: That’s not the case. But I was remembering something Hekiru-san said.
Izumi: That guy again?! That’s enough of him, I don’t want to hear about that guy anymore.
Azumi: Izu, I told you, don’t call him “that guy”, he’s Hekiru-san. It would be bad if that slipped out outside.
Izumi: I don’t care about that, he annoys me. Houou is just a name. I’m not scared of anything.
Azumi: You might think that way, but if word gets out I might lose my job. I’ve been working for them ever since. Please understand this.
Izumi: Fine, I got it. So what was this Hekiru-san talking about?
Azumi: On the way home, he asked if I would join this music fes called ENLIGHTRIBE.
Izumi: ENLIGHT…? Music fes? What’s that?
Azumi: It’s a music fes that will be broadcasted around the world.
Izumi: And he invited you to join? Are you going to perform with Hekiru?!
Azumi: No, he suggested that I join with you. The events up until now were all class-restricted, but this ENLIGHTRIBE is different and allows entry from all classes. It’s a never before seen music fes with the largest audience.
Izumi: Hmmm. But it’s unusual for him to bring that up to you. He doesn’t even know you’re still into music.
Azumi: I wonder. He might have a special sense because he interacts with all kinds of people.
Izumi: Sounds like a dog. A high-class bred dog.
Azumi: The Houou would have their own ways. And he said he wants to compete with music head on.
Izumi: Hmm. I see. He’s joining too.
Azumi: Izu?
Izumi: If he’s joining I want in too.
Azumi: Are you serious?
Izumi: Yeah! I know your talent the best and it would be a waste to just keep it in.
Azumi: My talent is not world class quality.
Izumi: What are you saying, if it’s a fes it would be up to the audience to decide that. And this is a good chance for us.
Azumi: It’s not that easy. If it’s a world class fes there would be a lot of popular artists and groups who would be joining too. Do you have the confidence that we’ll make it amongst that.
Izumi: But didn’t you tell me about this because you thought it was possible?
Azumi: Uh
Izumi: What are you worried about?
Azumi: Izu, I’m uncertain. I know you have the talent to charm people, but if people like us from the middle class start to stand out, what would the people around us think?
Izumi: Then just leave them be!
Azumi: Also, try thinking about it. Do we even have the time to prepare for it? We need time to make the songs, it’s not something that we can do half-heartedly. Can you handle it?
Izumi: Don’t underestimate me, I’m the best student in class. If the goal is to defeat him, I’ll do even better.
Azumi: It’s not just about the practice time. Our instruments now are not good enough. Plus we need to look for a practice space.
Izumi: Those are just physical problems, are you still not convinced? Then I’ll use my last resort. If you don’t want to perform with me, I’m dropping out of college tomorrow. Wasn’t it your dream for me to graduate from Houou University?
Azumi: That’s a different topic.
Izumi: Because if I don’t say that you won’t be convinced.
Azumi: Izu
Izumi: But you love playing the guitar! Don’t you want the world to hear it?
Azumi: Izu, Do you not remember the troubles we ran into before? What are you planning to do going back there and throwing away this peaceful life we have now away from music?
Izumi: That’s true. But class doesn’t matter here right. Then maybe this time- It feels frustrating not being able to do anything.
Azumi: Frustrating...
Izumi: It might be peaceful now, but are you really okay with this forever? You know what you really want right? I know it. I know what you want to do. I know what I want to do.
Azumi: To think that you’d leave me speechless.
Izumi: I guess that’s my win.
Azumi: Okay. I was thinking that I can’t stay like this forever, but we’re joining after we get enough information.
Izumi: Then we can join together?!
Azumi: It’s not yet decided. We’re withdrawing if anything looks suspicious.
Izumi: Okay, I’ll leave that to you. Guess we’re going to need a practice studio.
Azumi: We can probably rent a studio, but I wonder if there’s a better place…
Izumi: Why not just have a street live. If it’s with you I feel like it’s going to be fun.
Azumi: I know it will be fun, but it’s not very realistic.
Izumi: Is that so? Then what about the music room in the university.
Azumi: Isn’t that room used by the band?
Izumi: What are you saying? The last few members graduated last year, and now it’s gone. I told you that last time.
Azumi: Is that so? There were a lot of people back in my time.
Izumi: Anyway, I’ll try asking if we can use it tomorrow.
Azumi: Even if I’m an alumni, wouldn’t it be bad for me to just enter campus?
Izumi: Is that so? But if you’re working for the Houou family wouldn’t it be normal for you to enter the campus of Houou University?
Azumi: As long as it doesn’t become a problem.
Izumi: I’ll be sure to get permission so don’t worry.
Azumi: Then I’ll leave that to you.
Izumi: Yeah! I’ll let you know.
Azumi: Izu, if we’re going to join we’re going for the top. We’re going to be the best regardless of class.
Izumi: Of course! We’re going to show those who were just born in rich families what they’re really worth.
Azumi: Right.
Izumi: Oh, the stew’s probably good now.
Azumi: Izu. Let me help you too.
Izumi: Just stay there. I thought about it, all this time we’ve been supporting each other, haven’t we?
Tetsuha: Those are some lively stomach worms, just like their owner.
Toto: Because we practiced a lot! Plus you said you brought something good. I didn’t think you would bring home raw meat.
Tetsuha: I just said that it was something good.
Toto: I thought it was something I could already eat.
Tetsuha: Well, just for a little longer. Kyo’s already preparing it.
Shishio: Toto, don’t you feel ashamed, making such a fuss just because you’re hungry.
Toto: Shut up, after practice you were also saying something like “I’m so hungry I can’t move”.
Shishio: Hah?! No I didn’t!
Toto: Yes you did!
Shishio: No I didn’t!
Toto: You said it!
Tetsuha: Stop there you two. Especially you Toto, your voice is loud. We might get complaints from our neighbors.
Kyo: You guys are too loud. The kitchen windows almost broke.
Toto & Shishio: NO WAY?!
Kyo: Well, it was a joke.
Toto & Shishio: It was a joke?!
Kyo: Food’s done.
Toto: Waah~
Shishio: That looks good!
Tetsuha: As expected of the genius who can make these two happy. We have chahan and.. What’s this?
Kyo: Grilled meat.
Tetsuha: Oh you cooked it whole.
Kyo: It was good meat, so just adding salt and pepper would make it delicious.
Tetsuha: That’s true.
Toto: Enough of that, let’s eat!
Shishio: I’m hungry.
Tetsuha: We got it.
Toto: Thank you for the fo-
Tetsuha: But before that
Toto-: od?
Tetsuha: I have something important to talk about.
Kyo: Something important?
Toto: Can’t it wait after we eat?
Tetsuha: I think you’ll forget about the food when you hear about it.
Shishio: What is it? Is it that bad?
Tetsuha: Bad… Hmm… I guess you can say that.
Toto & Shishio: EH?!
Kyo: Just tell us, no need for the suspense.
Tetsuha: There’s going to be a music fes soon.
Toto & Shishio& Kyo: Music fes?!
Tetsuha: Yes. A music fes that only selected bands can join, ENLIGHTRIBE. People regardless of their social class can join, and if they get through the screening, they can perform their songs on stage. On top of that, this is a big event that will be broadcasted worldwide. I’m thinking of joining this fes.
Toto: Broadcasted worldwide…
Shishio: Amazing… To think that it’s possible.
Toto: Why didn’t you tell us about it earlier?
Tetsuha: I was planning to. But who was the one who said that he wanted to practice until he can sing that part
Toto: Oh…
Tetsuha: But your dedication is a good thing.
Kyo: Tetsuha but-
Shishio: That sounds good! I want to join!
Toto: Me too!
Tetsuha: I thought you’d say that.
Kyo: Wait guys.
Toto: What is it Kyo-chan~ don’t be a mood killer.
Kyo: It was just you guys who got excited. Think about it clearly, there’s no way people like us living in the ridiculed lower class can join a music fes.
Shishio: But Tetsu said people regardless of class can join.
Kyo: At least that’s how they advertise it. I don’t know who will be the judges or what the criterias in the screening will be, but it’s gonna end in the “we looked at your application, but you didn’t make it” way.
Toto: You won’t know until we try!
Kyo: Have we ever been treated fairly? I don’t think the richer people would ever treat us fairly. It’s useless to have hope. We’ve experienced that countless times. We can’t even easily perform in the lower class.
Toto: Well, that’s true…
Tetsuha: And I have a present that can solve that.
Kyo: Eh?
Tetsuha: Guess what this is.
Toto: What’s this? It has our pictures. Is this an ID?
Kyo: No. Look closely, the number is different.
Shishio: What’s this?! We look like we’re from the middle class.
Toto: Eh? So these are fake?
Tetsuha: Exactly.
Kyo: Why do you have this?
Tetsuha: If we have these IDs, we will be treated like middle class people. That solves the problem of us being discriminated in the screening.
Shishio: So that means… that if our song is good we can pass the screening?!
Toto: Really?! And then that means we can perform on ENLIGHTRIBE right?
Kyo: No, that’s not-
Shishio: Plus we can go to the middle class freely.
Toto: That’s amazing!! We can see those automatic stores the old man farmer was talking about! And maybe we can even go to the upper class!
Shishio: I’ve heard stories about it but to think that I’d see them with my own eyes!!!
Toto: I wonder if we can have some delicious food. Oh, gotta bring a big bag to put in the souvenirs for everyone too.
Shishio: I’M SO EXCITED!
Kyo: I said wait! Do you even know how dangerous this is?
Toto: Eh, what do you mean?
Shishio: We have the IDs, it should be fine.
Kyo: Yeah, fake IDs. Things won’t be easy if we get caught walking in the middle class with these. The same goes with the application. We won’t be able to perform. And that’s the lightest punishment. I can’t even imagine what would happen after that.
Shishio: I see… Faking IDs have never been heard about.
Toto: Ah
Kyo: I understand the feeling of wanting to join. But it’s impossible for us. The moment we were born into this classed system, we didn't have the privilege to join.
Toto: No way! It’s a chance to let the whole world listen to our music.
Kyo: Think about it, Toto. We might end up bringing trouble to other people too.
Shishio: It’s just as Kyo says.
Toto: What got into you Shishio?!
Shishio: When I thought about it, Kyo was right. If we get caught, it will reflect on everyone living in the lower class. I thought it could work because it was Tecchi’s idea, but there’s no such thing as fairy tales.
Toto:But we can perform on such a big stage! It’s our chance to let a lot of people listen to our songs!
Kyo: Give it up Toto. I know it’s going to be difficult.
Toto: Damn it. Just because we were born here we can’t do the things that we want. It’s not like we did anything bad, but why.
Shishio: Toto
Tetsuha: Toto
Toto: Damn it.
Tetsuha: Toto, listen to me.
Toto: What is it!
Tetsuha: The two of you too.
Shishio: Ok
Kyo: What
Tetsuha: What Kyo said is right. It’s dangerous faking our identities, we won’t get off easy. But do you think I’d put you guys in such danger?
Toto: What do you mean?
Tetsuha: I got these IDs following the right process. We won’t be in any trouble.
Kyo: What is that right process?
Tetsuha: That’s a secret.
Kyo: That’s not a good answer.
Tetsuha: And I don’t plan on answering.
Kyo: You-
Tetsuha: I’ve never put you guys in danger, have I? In our current situation, we can’t join ENLIGHTRIBE. Heck, we can’t even enjoy our music. It’s frustrating. But can we really let it end there? Blaming it on our class as to why we can’t enjoy anything. Can you really give it up like that? If there’s a way to achieve that freedom, don’t you think it’s up to us to open that way?
Shishio: Well, that is right.
Tetsuha: If we end up not joining then it’s fine. I’ll respect that decision. But if you say you want to join, I’ll do everything to make that happen. I want you to think of the ID as an example.
Kyo: Tetsuha
Tetsuha: What do you want to do?
Shishio: Even if you ask me…
Kyo: There’s an obvious answer-
Toto: I want to join!
Kyo: Toto!
Toto: It’s just as Tecchi said, we just have to make the impossible possible.
Shishio: Toto
Toto: Don’t you think it’s unfair?! We just want to enjoy music, but we can’t because we’re born here, that’s unfair! But if we get recognized in this fes, we might be able to change something. No, I’ll definitely make it change! That’s why I’m joining! And I’m giving it my all!
Tetsuha: Yeah
Toto: I can’t give up on this. I want to prove our capabilities with our own efforts.
Shishio: Nggghhh
Toto: Shishio
Shishio: NNGGGHHHHHH. I DON’T KNOW ANYMORE
Toto: Hah?
Shishio: MY SMALL BRAIN CAN’T THINK OF HARD THINGS. So I’ve decided, I’m joining too!
Toto: Shishio!!
Kyo: This muscle brain, what are you thinking?!
Shishio: Because I don’t get it no matter how much I think about it. I understand your point Kyo, but I also get where Tetsuha and Toto are coming from. I agree with both sides. But I can tell that Tetsu is giving us a chance. And that means that we just have to take it right. Then I decided to choose the path that benefits everyone.
Kyo: Where are you even getting at.
Shishio: Doesn’t it sound interesting to change the world? If something good can come out from us joining the fes, don’t you think we should do it?
Toto: Yeah yeah! That’s the spirit!
Shishio: It is, right!
Kyo: You guys just want to perform at the fes.
Toto: Exactly
Shishio: Can’t it be?
Toto: Kyo-chan do you really not want to perform at the fes?
Kyo: That’s not the problem here.
Toto: That is the problem! It’s only a matter of what you want to do. Let’s join the fes, together.
Toto: You really don’t want to?
Kyo: You guys won’t stop even if I say I don’t want to.
Tetsuha: You can’t change the mind of Toto once he’s become stubborn.
Kyo: Exactly
Toto: Then?!
Kyo: Okay, count me in.
Toto: For real?!
Kyo: Yeah. If we’re born into such a regulated environment, it’s up to us to change it. And I feel like if we don’t take this chance now I’ll regret it in the future.
Tetsuha: That’s a very you way of thinking.
Toto: Yay!
Shishio: If that’s the case then we have to start practicing even more starting tomorrow.
Toto: We’re gonna rock this!! stomach rumble Ah
Tetsuha: But it seems like that’s the limit for Toto’s stomach.
Shishio: Toto~
Toto: Shut up!
Tetsuha: Anyway, leave the application to me. The food Kyo made for us is starting to get cold.
Kyo: It’s already cold.
Toto: No worries! Kyo-chan’s food tastes amazing even if it’s cold.
Shishio: Kyo’s food is the best!
Kyo: You guys flatter me.
Tetsuha: Okay, put your hands together.
Toto & Shishio & Kyo: Okay
Tetsuha: Let’s give thanks for our food, thank you for the food
Toto & Shishio & Kyo: Thank you for the food!
Toto: It’s so good~
Shishio: This is the best!
Kyo: Don’t talk while eating, where are your manners
Tetsuha: Properly chew your food.
Toto: Got it! It’s so good~
Kyo: He doesn’t get it.
Toto: Kyo-chan’s food is so good.
Toto: Hey! That’s mine!
Tetsuha: Eat slowly.
Kyo: There’s enough for seconds.
Shishio: Don’t take my food
Tetsuha: What’s the matter?
Kyo: Continuing from earlier.
Tetsuha: Earlier?
Kyo: The ID. How’d you get it?
Tetsuha: I told you it’s a secret.
Kyo: That’s what you always say. You won’t tell us the important details.
Tetsuha: Because there’s no need to.
Kyo: There is! It’s about us.
Tetsuha: That’s true. But it’s not necessary for doing music.
Tetsuha: Aren’t you gonna say it’s unreasonable.
Kyo: Stop playing with me.
Tetsuha: Because
Kyo: Sometimes I can’t understand you.
Tetsuha: Me? It’s simple. I just want them to live the way they want to.
Kyo: You sure like acting cool
Tetsuha: You know me well.
Kyo: Don’t put yourself in danger.
Tetsuha: Do I look like I will?
Kyo: Not really, but just in case.
Tetsuha: Thanks for the concern. I always make you worry, don’t I?
Kyo: I told you not to play with me.
Shishio: Toto are you alright?!
Tetsuha: That’s why I told you to eat slowly.
Kyo: Here, water.
Toto: I thought I was a goner.
Tetsuha: What a waste dying before getting to join ENLIGHTRIBE.
Toto: Yeah! As if I’d die here!
Shishio: Just when we got hyped.
Kyo: It wouldn't have happened if you calmed down.
Toto: Hearing about ENLIGHTRIBE makes me want to sing again.
Tetsuha: You just sung that much a while ago.
Shishio: All you really do is eat, sleep and sing, don’t you.
Kyo: You say that, but you can’t even sing when you’re full.
Toto: Uh. But I want to start singing as soon as possible.
Shishio: I get you, I want to start playing the drums too.
Kyo: You guys rush too much. Well, I also understand the feeling.
Tetsuha: Then let’s get back to practice after eating.
Shishio : I’m getting excited!
Toto: Wha-wha-what should I do, I wonder if I can sing
Kyo: If we’re doing this, we’re giving it our all
Tetsuha: I know we can do it
Kyo: We have to fix our schedule
Toto: I’m sure I can! Okay! I’m gonna eat some more!
