Momiji: Phew! We managed to get a ton of stuff for making mini wreaths!
Nagi: Yeah. There were so many different colors and types for every little decoration, I couldn’t help but grab everything when I thought about what flowers would go with each of them.
Momiji: I can see that a lot of thought goes into making these! But thanks to you, I think we managed to put together a really good haul.
Momiji: I mean, I never would’ve come up with the idea to make mini wreaths using dry flowers myself!
Nagi: It’s nothing special… But, I’m glad I could help you pick something your family would like.
Nagi: We still need to get some ribbons, but how about we take a breather over at that bench first?
Momiji: You’re right.
Momiji: Phew… It’s starting to get pretty cold, huh? At this rate, we’re probably gonna have a white Christmas.
Nagi: True. It’s cold enough that maybe even Santa Claus would have to come down to earth to warm up too.
Nagi: …Chief, I’ll be right back.
*Nagi runs off*
Momiji: Huh? Wai– Nagi-kun!?
~~~
Momiji: (It’s been 10 minutes since he left… How far did he go…?)
Momiji: (Maybe I should’ve gone with him—)
Nagi: Sorry, Chief. I didn’t mean to take so long.
Momiji: Welcome back… wait.
Momiji: Is it just me, or do you look… more roughed up than before you’d left?
Nagi: …A lot of things can happen in 10 minutes. Like slipping on a snowman that started to melt and getting tangled up in a string of lights…
Momiji: Oh no…! Did you get hurt?
Momiji: (Looks like even his bad luck is Christmas-themed….)
Nagi: Still, I managed to buy what I’d wanted.
Nagi: …So Chief, do you prefer coffee or cocoa?
Momiji: Oh… You went to get us drinks?
Nagi: Yeah. You looked like you were getting cold.
Nagi: I tried checking some cafes first, but they were all packed full. Then I spotted a food truck and decided to try my luck there.
Nagi: Call it a Christmas miracle, but I managed to keep the drinks safe and sound. They’re still warm too.
Momiji: Aw… Thank you so much. Then I’ll go for the cocoa.
Nagi: Great choice. This cocoa comes with a nice helping of marshmallows. It looks sweet and delicious.
Momiji: Wow, it really looks good! Mm~ It does smell pretty sweet! This really hits the spot!
Child who likes sweets: Mama! The cocoa that lady has looks really tasty! I want some too!
Nagi: Amazing. We managed to spread the gospel of cocoa. I’m sure sharing a nice cup of hot cocoa with her family will turn into a precious memory for her.
Momiji: Ahaha, true. A lot of families tend to go Christmas shopping together around this time.
Nagi: Chief…
Momiji: Hm?
Nagi: Do you get along with your family too? Though, seeing you pick your presents with such care is probably proof that you do.
Momiji: (Nagi-kun…)
Nagi: …I was wondering what your family is like. We bought a lot of materials, but I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of wreaths would suit them.
Momiji: Let’s see… When I think of them, I mostly remember smiles. I’d say they’re a pretty cheerful bunch.
Momiji: I actually have a brother who’s not much older than me.
Momiji: He seems like he’s got it all together, but he’s actually pretty dense. He’s a bit of an airhead too, so I can’t really take my eyes off him for long.
Nagi: I see… Yeah, that does sound like someone related to you.
Nagi: Oh, um, I don’t mean anything bad by it. I meant more of the cheerful part, less of the airheaded—
Momiji: Ahaha! It’s alright, don’t worry… I think you’d get along with my family.
Momiji: I’d love to introduce you to them one day. Especially my brother, I think he’d take a liking to you.
Nagi: Meeting your family…
Nagi: ……
Momiji: Nagi-kun?
Nagi: …Sorry, I just tried imagining it. Somehow, I feel all warm just thinking about it.
Nagi: Like I’m actually a part of your family—
*Nagi pales and goes stiff*
Nagi: Oh. Um. Nevermind. You probably think I’m gross for saying that.
Nagi: I’d probably just be a weed in your family’s backyard. A weed that’s better off being pulled out—
Momiji: Of course not!
Momiji: I’m really happy to hear you say that about my family.
Momiji: Besides, you’re pretty much already family to me, Nagi-kun.
Nagi: ……
Momiji: …Um, maybe I’m the one being gross now?
Nagi: No…
Nagi: I’m really… happy. Thank you, Chief.
Momiji: Of course.
Nagi: …W-We should probably get moving. It would be bad if you were in a tough spot tomorrow from staying out too late. Yeah. That’s no good. Let’s get going.
Momiji: You’ve got a point.
Momiji: Nagi-kun, do you mind if I drop by tomorrow night? I want to make the wreaths together with you.
Nagi: Of course. I’ll make the best three wreaths of my entire career with you.
Momiji: Haha!
Nagi: (I should stay up tonight and practice…)
Nagi: (I was preparing a surprise for her, but looks like I was the one who got a gift instead.)
Part 1
Note:
I didn't do a Kaede version this time because he also says the exact same thing about Momiji.
Yet another Nagishuu card, I stay winning. Please read this adorable and heartwarming story!
Thank you aca and myun for proofreading!
Location: Downtown HAMA
Momiji: (Let’s see… I think I’ve bought everything I need.)
Momiji: (Oh wait, I still need to get presents for my family…)
Momiji: (What should I get them…? I’ve already bought souvenirs from HAMA too many times to count…)
Momiji: Oh, I know!
Location: Flower Laundry
*bell chimes*
Momiji: Good evening—
Momiji: (Woah, the place is packed!)
Nagi and Sonia: Welcome!
Nagi: Oh, Chief, what brings you here?
Momiji: Erm, I was planning to get some presents for my family and—
Gyaru Customer: ‘Scuuuuse me! I’ve got some Q’s on how to get this sweater cleaned!
Dandy Customer: I’ve come to get the bouquet I ordered, is it ready yet?
Sonia: Y-Yesh! Just a moment, we’ll be right with you~!
*Nagi and Sonia flit about the store*
Momiji: (Compared to how quiet it normally is, the place is a total battleground today…!)
Nagi: Sorry, I’ll have to get the details from you later. Would you mind waiting upstairs? Help yourself to anything from the fridge.
Momiji: How about I help you down here instead?
Nagi: Huh?
Momiji: You know how seriously I take hospitality… Jokes aside, I can see how overwhelmed the two of you are, and I’m free today so… How about it?
Nagi: Are you my saviour…? I could really use a hand, or a paw, maybe even a finger, but… I don’t want to bother you on your day off…
Momiji: Well, I’ve only got the two hands… Besides, you’ll be paying me back by helping me pick out presents later.
Nagi: …Okay. Thank you. For starters, would you mind getting the large shopping bag from the backroom and handing it to the customer over there?
Momiji: The one who requested a bouquet, right? Leave it to me! Let me know whatever else you need help with!
Nagi: You’re a lifesaver. I’ll be counting on you.
~~~
Momiji: (Phew… How long has it been? Looks like the crowd’s thinned out considerably by now.)
Momiji: (Still…)
Momiji: (I wonder what that powder I spotted on the table in the backroom was… It didn’t look like something that belonged at a florist’s…)
Nagi: Chief, thank you for all your help today. You really saved us.
Momiji: Nagi-kun! Think you’ve got a handle on it now?
Nagi: Yep. It’s always this busy around this time of year. We get a huge influx of orders as Christmas approaches…
Nagi: But well… Today was worse than usual. Sonia and I would’ve crashed and burned by now if it weren’t for your help.
Momiji: Ahaha, glad I could help. But this is one of those struggles that are worth it, huh?
Momiji: Right, there was something I wanted to ask you about.
Nagi: What is it?
Momiji: I spotted some kind of silky-looking powder in the backroom that I’d never seen before… So I was wondering, what’s it for?
Momiji: (It vaguely smelled like soap…)
Nagi: ! T-That’s…
Nagi: That’s, um… Right. It’s a kind of fertilizer for flowers. I’m trying to make a new variety that can um, cheer up the flowers. Yeah. That’s it.
Momiji: I see…? I didn’t know you worked on those kinds of things too. You’re amazing, Nagi-kun.
Nagi: ……
Nagi: R-Right, I didn’t get to ask you why you came here yet. You wanted to get something for your family?
Momiji: Oh, right! I’ll be meeting up with my family soon, so I was wondering what presents I should get for them.
Momiji: I thought it’d be nice to change things up a bit by getting them something with flowers!
Momiji: I figured you’re the best person to ask for all things flowers, so here I am.
Nagi: I see. Of course, I can help you with that.
Nagi: Oh but… Considering you’d have to hold onto them for quite some time, it might be difficult to carry around fresh flowers…
Nagi: They tend to get damaged quite easily during travel.
Sonia: (Sho he says, but he’s always packing his luggage full with flowers every time he goesh on a trip… Maybe that’s shomething only a professional florist can pull off…)
Momiji: I guess it’s a no-go then…
Nagi: Don’t worry, I have some ideas. But the shop’s still—
Sonia: I heard the whole thing!
Sonia: I can handle the shop for the rest of the day. Nagi-shan, you should help the Chief inshtead!
I managed to rank 39 for The Temptation of Apoptosis event! 😭
also yes, I am a Shiramitsu twins and Nagi oshi...
It was my first time seriously tiering for any event so I figured I'd talk about my experience...
a grueling 10 days and i can say…i’m pretty happy with what i achieved!!! Watch me do it again!
Frankly, i have only intended to grab 1 Toi and max Ryui out…but i ended up maxing then both 🫨
it’s not my first time tiering in events (i got SIF and Enstars under my belt…) but it’s my first time seriously aiming for a high tier and I'm super happy that it was for something i was really anticipating ever since i got into 18TRIP (over half a year ago now?!)
The end of November was not good to me at all (for a variety of reasons that I won't delve into) so when I saw the announcement that the L4mps feature was happening at the beginning of December, I had my eyes peeled. I told myself I'd work hard for the L4mps event (especially since they’re my favourite unit and 3 of my faves are in it). i was seriously thinking it’d be a Yodaka-Toi event but i was bamboozled…seeing the words Aomori set off my fight or flight response. IT WAS A SHIRAMITSU TWINS EVENT?? Was this god’s reward for me for enduring another ass November? I seriously was not expecting for them to go to Aomori this soon after seeing Ryui get cucked in the main story 😭 it felt like D-day…
Initially i did 30 pulls on the gacha, but the greed got to me. i wanted to max out Kinari so i did more pulls on the first day of the event and… ahh, orange head Akuta came 😊 i figured since i was close to pity, I'd might as well continue and i…ended up with 2 more Akutas on the 100th pull. maybe it was an omen.. I was ready with my 130% bonus (isn’t that insane..)
At the time I didn't realize how beneficial the fast boost pass was so i was hard at work doing the Yukikaze 4AP town stage and I'd do the event stage every 100 tickets I got…the grind is so painful. After 8 grueling hours, i got my first Toi!
i really was not planning for a day 1 rush but i was motivated- nein, influenced by other day 1 grinders so i pushed myself 😭
There was a bug where Toi and Ryui ended up using the other's emblem for the trip-revo thing, I wish it was intentional though...
i seriously did not think I'd be able to do it considering the last time i went for more than 1 mil was the l4mps seasonal (which was funnily enough, Ryui-focused and i was rushing at the end, thank you very much!) but I did it!
Now truthfully I could have just taken my time for the rest of the event…but the ego i got from breaking into the top 40s got to me. i’d initially planned to stay within the top 1000 but seeing my rank at the time encouraged me…what if i could stay in the top 100? i was determined. well, actually greed got me. i might just be a greedy person..
Fortunately I have quite a lot of downtime at work and I spend a lot of it at a desk (my coworkers are usually the ones doing the heavy lifting), which makes spamming the game easy. People don’t realize how great these types of simulation games are for the working society class…I don't have time nor energy to continuously tap the screen in tune to the beat…i’ve grown past that stage of my life (<- is not that old)…
Now at this point, I bought the fast pass boost to see how it works and. well, i should’ve bought it at the beginning of the event 😭 my lord it makes the grind easier, highly recommend it if you aim to get all rewards or tier in events.
you can see me get hit with the realization here lmao
I took a small break to read through the event (using whatever tools I had, a struggle..) 😭 i nearly died and was in agony and thought i’d be late for work (I was kinda early actually). I’ll need to reread it properly, I have many thoughts about it.
i managed to max Toi on day 6! i felt like i could’ve shed actual tears.. but i didn’t because I was working haha…I had Falling into Eternity on loop to aid me in my tiering woes.. I'm very excited for the full version (during Christmas too? omg…) I decided to slow down a bit for the following two days and it seems like the others around me also had the same thought, but the tiering urges got to me… this tiering shit is too serious.
I can't exactly remember how many points I'd allocated each day, but it was probably around 2-3 million points per day? It was a constant refresh-AP-and-spend-10AP-on-the-YKKZ-event-stage cycle, thank you fast pass <3
Speaking of things that are too serious...the time bonus feels like it's nearly impossible because this was literally the best I could do 😭
Anyway, the last time i tiered for anything was for the EP:Link Eichi in 2019, the final ! event…which was 5 years ago omg. At the time I had just started uni with only an allowance to work with, so I was pretty limited in what I could do. Now as a working full-time adult, it feels like the possibilities are endless…! It’s still important to budget oneself…!
Throughout the week I had maintained t40 and I wanted to keep it that way. A particular reason why i wanted to stay at T40 was because i like the evenness of tens, but maybe it’s also because i was the 40th person to get a maxed Toi. Feeling a bit sentimental lmfao… I also considered rank 42 for the so-called ‘meaning of life’ or 44…because four is death in east asian culture (i’m so sorry toi…) but somehow at the last second, i managed to get T39?! just barely at the edge of T30…I'm honestly still so shocked… I was just slightly bummed it wasn’t an even number (oi!) but then I remembered the queen…the diva herself— Hatsune Miku and how 39 can be read as sankyuu (thank you) so now I'm not bummed out! 🙏
I’ve read the note from the #1 ranker of the event and I feel like I learned quite a bit! Even with just using google translate, you can get a good grasp of what they did for the event so I highly recommend taking a look if you ever plan on tiering for another feature event! (Ev3ns in winter is too soon..!)
From the note, they mentioned saving their tickets until the last hour before splurging them all. I personally used up my tickets whenever I got 100 (sometimes 200) so maybe this is actually a viable method.. I also hadn’t considered playstyles in 18TRIP but the more I think about it, the more I see it… I’m impatient though so maybe saving my tickets might not be the best route for me. They also mentioned how they ended up being unable to spend their last 60 tickets in the end so maybe splurging tickets 2 hours before end might be a good route, I also struggled to use up my remaining AP and tickets (but I did it…somehow!)
Tiering...is kinda like a strategic game, isn't it? You have to analyze your opponents and how they react/play and act accordingly. They mentioned how they could take it easy since their opponents weren't really moving during the weekdays. I fear this won't be possible for some of the more popular characters...
Now the actual amount I spent…I don’t want to think about it. I had to look through my records and I spent approximately 60k yen for this event. Honestly, if you only wanted one copy, you can easily halve this amount as long as you have some dias in reserve. The 10k bento pack is like…the most worth it pack alongside the beginners pack (if you haven’t already bought it). I personally bought the 10k bento pack, my 2 remaining beginner’s packs and 3 of the normal 10k packs…so I see where it starts adding up ahaha. Remember to spend responsibly!
I didn't actually lose any sleep while tiering. I'm a person who prioritizes resting after all + I do need to get up early on occasion for work...I think it helps I'm only an hour behind from Japan, which means my overall schedule would sync up to theirs in a way.
Despite the pain and agony I felt (in more ways than one), I'm most definitely going to try doing something similar once a Ryui feature event drops...I just hope it's not too soon lol. As much as I'd like to do it for Nagi...I can feel the bloodbath so maybe a T1000 is more viable for me...
As much as I'd like my wallet to hibernate, the next gacha is Nagi and I had to spark his Bday SSR💔 hopefully he's nicer to me this time around...but afterwards, I WILL hibernate until next time.
Summary: Toi and Ryui are making a bouquet for some reason.
Thank you myun @/myuntachis, Niri @/Niri_riri and Dimi @/taatsums for helping me with proofing!
Location: Flower Laundry
Toi: Hmm…
Ryui: …Picked your flowers yet? If you can’t decide, I’ll choose them for you, so don’t hesitate to ask.
Toi: Thank you, Ani-sama. But I’m sure it’s best if I pick something by myself, right…?
Ryui: …Right. I’m sure that’s what he’d prefer too.
Toi: Did you already decide what you’re going with?
Ryui: Yeah. We’ll practice making the bouquet when you’re ready.
Toi: Got it, I should hurry and make up my mind.
Ryui: Don’t worry, take your time.
Toi: Okay…
Toi: Ani-sama, don’t leave me behind, okay?
Ryui: Don’t be silly. Of course I’ll never leave you behind.
Toi: …Okay.
Ryui: ……
Toi: ……
Ryui: Toi.
Toi: Yes?
*Ryui hugs Toi*
Toi: Wah… What’s wrong, Ani-sama…?
Ryui: You looked like you wanted a hug… Am I wrong?
Toi: …Hehe.
Toi: No, you’re right. You always know exactly what I want.
Ryui: Of course I do. We’re two halves of the same whole, after all.
Toi: Ah…!
Ryui: Mm?
Toi: I think… I’ll pick this flower. It caught my eye just now.
Ryui: It’s very you. I’m sure he’d be happy with it.
Toi: Yes… It’d be great if it cheers him up, even just a little.
Ryui: Aight. Let’s try our hand at making a bouquet for when the time comes.
Toi: Ani-sama, do you have scissors?
Ryui: How about I cut it for you? I’m worried you’ll hurt yourself.
Toi: I can do that much! …See!
*snipping sounds*
Ryui: Yep, a natural at handling scissors too.
Toi: Ehehe.
Toi: ……
Ryui: ……
Ryui: Hey, Toi… Remember the scissors we got back when we started elementary school? The yellow-green ones.
Toi: I do! That takes me back… Even though we’d bought them separately, we ended up getting the exact same ones.
Ryui: Right, right.
Toi: The teacher put stickers with our names on them so we wouldn’t get confused over which one belonged to whom…
Ryui: And then you ripped it off, saying we didn’t need it.
Toi: You did too! At the same time, even.
Ryui: That I did…
Toi: We’ve always been together, picking the same things, living through the same time…
Toi: Whenever I got hurt, you’d also have an injury in the same place. When I thought about calling you, you’d call me right then instead. We’ve always matched.
Ryui: And when we got in the bath, not even our old man could tell us apart.
Toi: They always relied on the color of our clothes to figure out who’s who. So we’d prank them by swapping places often.
Ryui: …Right.
Toi: (We’ve always matched, ever since the moment we were born. Before I met Aa-chama, even the color of our hair was the same.)
Toi: I’m so glad we’re twins.
Ryui: Same. Can’t even imagine what being born alone must be like.
Toi: ……
Ryui: Here, you want me to hold this down so you can tie the ribbon, right?
Toi: Yes, thank you.
Toi: Hmm, I can’t get it right… It keeps coming apart…
Ryui: Try tying it a little tighter?
Toi: Okay, I’ll try that now…
Ryui: ……
Toi: ……
Toi: (Ani-sama… If I could live a long life, unlike Dad, do you think we’d match even when we’re old grandpas?)
Toi: (I wonder if that’s something you’d also wish for.)
Toi: (I want to keep matching with you forever.)
Ryui: Hm? Did you say something?
Toi: Nope! It’s nothing.
Ryui: Now I’m curious. Tell me.
Toi: It’s okay, I’m not thinking about it anymore.
Ryui: ……
Ryui: (It’s been a couple weeks since we came back from Hakodate.)
Ryui: (We were working on prep for the First Tour and whatnot when that guy just up and vanished… A lot of stuff has happened since then.)
Ryui: (Toi must’ve been feeling uneasy, wondering if I’ll leave him all alone back with the Shiramitsu family.)
Ryui: (There’s no way I’d let that happen. We’ll always be together, as long as he wishes for it.)
Toi: Oh, I think I’m getting better at tying the ribbon…!
Ryui: I’ll hold down the knot, so tie it one more time.
Toi: Mm… Like this…
Ryui: …I think that’s the wrong kinda knot.
Toi: Oh no, you’re right! Gotta redo it… wait, huh…?
Toi: I keep getting it wrong…
Ryui: It’s all the ribbon’s fault. Let me at it, I’ll wrangle it into submission.
Ryui: …There, that’ll do it.
Toi: As expected of Ani-sama… What a pretty butterfly knot!
Ryui: I‘m pretty good, right? I think I do a better job than a certain florist.
Toi: Ehehe, yay!
Ryui: Guess I’ll tie this one off too.
Toi: Using dry flowers in your bouquet really shows off your great taste, I think it looks wonderful.
Ryui: This one’s just for practice, but when I get better at it, I’ll give you one too. A much better one.
Toi: Really? I’d love that! Should I keep it in my room, or use it to decorate the shop…
Ryui: …Looks like you’re feeling a little better. I’m glad.
Toi: Yep! Thank you as always, Ani-sama… Let’s make the best bouquet ever for the real deal.
Toi: So that we can express how truly sorry we are to him…
Another nagishuu card I thank eitori for this food 🙏
Thank you aca @/463ce6 and Niri @/Niri_riri for helping me with proofing!
Location: HAMA House 2F Corridor
Netaro: Hm………….
Nagi: ……
Location: HAMA House Changing Room
Netaro: Hm………..
*Netaro circling Nagi*
Nagi: ……
Location: HAMA House Dining Room
Momiji: The boiled eggs are ready! Anyone want one~?
Nagi: Ah, I’ll ha—
Netaro: Nom!
Momiji: Woah!
Netaro: Nyam nyam.
Netaro: Hm…………
Momiji: (What’s with the silent pressure he’s exerting while stuffing his face with boiled eggs…)
Momiji: Be careful not to choke on it.
Nagi: Netaro has been staring at me a lot lately…
Netaro: Nyam… *gulp*
Nagi: If I did something wrong without realizing it, please let me know so I can apologize and compensate you promptly.
Netaro: Gii… Has something changed for you, recently?
Nagi: What do you mean?
Netaro: Have you fallen in love?
Nagi: *cough* *HACK* *cough*
Netaro: So I was spot on! Doudou, looks like this fellow has changed after falling in love!
Nagi: N-No, that’s not– *cough cough*
Momiji: Nagi-kun, are you okay!? Here, have some water!
Nagi: …*gulp gulp*
Netaro: Oh! Perhaps the object of your affections is—
Nagi: Netaro, you look thirsty, have some water. Just, stop talking.
Netaro: …*gulp gulp*
Nagi: It’s nothing like that. Nothing happened. I’m not in- It’s not like that, okay?
Momiji: O-Okay……
Netaro: Phew.
Netaro: Mm, however, it’s been on my mind since last night. The fact that the flavor has changed.
Nagi: Huh…
Momiji: Flavor? Of what?
Netaro: Gii’s.
Nagi: He means the flavor of my cooking has changed. Lately I’ve been really into Chouji’s Cook and Chill videos, and he just puts dashi powder into everything. Apparently that solves any problem you’d have.
Netaro: No, I was talking about that…
Nagi: THAT orange juice over there? You should have some—
Nagi: Oh.
*Nagi faints*
Momiji: Nagi-kun!?
~~~
Location: HAMA House - Rat Room
Momiji: Are you sure you’ll just sleep it off? You fainted so suddenly…
Nagi: I’m sorry for troubling you. It’s just my anemia, so please don’t worry about me.
Nagi: (......I can’t tell her it’s because of Netaro doing “that”…)
Momiji: Did you take the health check-up from the company?
Nagi: Don’t worry, I had one just the other day. Haven’t had to feel the cold stethoscope against my skin since middle school.
Momiji: That’s good then…
Nagi: (The Chief’s kindness is really heartwarming… The employee benefits are really generous, I’m truly happy to have found such a great workplace.)
Nagi: (Due to reasons, I ended up needing to donate my blood to an alien, but I’m sure I still haven’t…paid enough… for this happiness…)
Summary: Daniel finds Nagi collapsed in the lounge area. Although Nagi did not reveal the reason for it, he had discovered Netaro’s true identity…
Thank you aca @463ce6, myun @/myuntachis Niri @/Niri_riri and jes @/arcanecrayonn for helping me with proofing!
Location: Hakodate - Hotel Lounge
Daniel: Phew… This is pure bliss~ Saunas really are the best…
Daniel: Huh?
Nagi: ……
Daniel: Nagi, what’re you all sprawled out on the ground for?
Nagi: ……
Daniel: I get that it was too hot for you, but you're just gonna end up catching a cold if you do that right after a bath.
Nagi: ……
Daniel: You could at least— Wait, is he knocked out!?
Daniel: Nagi, you okay!? Get a hold of yourself!
Nagi: Ugh… Buchi-san…
Daniel: Good, at least you’re conscious. Did you get dizzy?
*Netaro pops out from behind Nagi*
Netaro: I believe this is a minor case of anemia.
Daniel: Woah– Damn, you scared me. Didn’t know you were here too.
Netaro: Mhm.
Daniel: At least help him out instead of just sitting on your ass with popsicles in both hands!
Netaro: Nyam nyam.
Daniel: Nagi, think you can stand?
Netaro: Can you~?
Nagi: …Oh, yeah.
Daniel: What’s wrong? Was it really just anemia?
Nagi: ……
~~~(flashback)
Netaro: Hm… So be it. I was inclined to hold back for a while longer, but now that it’s come to this—
Netaro: You’ll have to suffice.
Nagi: *fearful breathing*
Nagi: (I feel like I’ve been struck with sleep paralysis— )
Netaro: You’re unable to move, aren’t you~ It seems the heat from the sauna has caused me to glitch, you see.
Netaro: I cannot even mimic the human form at this moment…
Nagi: (M-Mimic…?)
Netaro: Would you like to see my true form? I’m right beside you.
Nagi: !?
Netaro: Those retinae of yours cannot retain my image, so I’m Invisible Netaro now.
Netaro: In accordance with Article 1156 of the Interstellar Constitution established by my planet, any local lifeform that learns of my true form is applicable to receive necessary information and given the opportunity to make a choice.
Netaro: At the same time, exceptional measures are to be taken in the event of the endangerment of an official investigator, such as myself.
Nagi: (????)
Netaro: I, Netaro Yowa, am an extraterrestrial lifeform from the planet “Proxima Centauri b,” designated as such by you earthlings. I have arrived here for the sake of a certain mission.
Netaro: As this mission is top secret, you will not be made aware of the details, even if you choose to follow Article 1156.
Netaro: My main goal is to conduct an investigation on the primary lifeform on this planet, the human race, at a military-level secret operation. However, in the event of an emergency, my life is to be prioritized over that of the local lifeform.
Nagi: (W-Which means…?)
Netaro: In order to maintain my continued activities on this planet, as well as my mimicry of the human form, I need to intake a specific amount of adaptive factors within a fixed timeframe.
Netaro: I would like you to act as my prospective donor.
Nagi: (I don’t get what he’s saying…)
Netaro: This is all you need to understand—
*Netaro reveals a contract*
Netaro’s Proposed Contract
The following agreement is made and entered into by and between Netaro Yowa (hereafter referred to as “Recipient”) and Nagi Hachinoya (hereafter referred to as “Donor”):
The Donor is to provide the Recipient with a specified amount of his body whenever it is requested of him.
a) The frequency and volume may vary, as long as it does not lead to the Donor’s loss of life.
The Donor must not reveal any confidential information about the Recipient to any other lifeform (including AI).
The Donor must cooperate with the Recipient to ensure that no confidential information is revealed to any other lifeform (including AI).
In the event that the Donor breaches any terms of this Agreement, the Interstellar Court will act as the court of instance with exclusive jurisdiction over the matter. The Recipient has the right to restrain the Donor until a resolution is reached.
Netaro: I’m certain those back on my planet will have no complaints in this case.
Nagi: (This is getting more and more confusing… What does he even mean by “a specified amount of his body”...)
Netaro: As long as it is something produced by your body, anything is fine. I quite prefer blood, myself.
Nagi: !!
Netaro: To put it simply, if you refuse to act as my donor and protect my secret, you will die.
Nagi: !?
Netaro: Local lifeform Nagi: You have two choices.
Netaro: To agree to this contract, or to be eaten whole by me; which do you prefer?
Nagi: …!
Netaro: Will you cry? Are you tearing up~? I enjoy tears almost as much as I do blood~
Nagi: ……
Nagi: Will it hurt…?
Netaro: I could indeed compound a drug that could numb your sense of pain, but that will have to be for next time!
Nagi: I won’t… die, right…?
Netaro: You just read the Agreement, did you not!? I wouldn’t want to destroy a precious dispenser of adaptive factor!
Netaro: Though, I’m not entirely confident, as I’m far too hungry at the moment.
Nagi: ……
Nagi: Okay. I’ll do it.
Netaro: Yaaayyyy~!
Nagi: Even if I did die, it’s not like it would affect anybody.
Nagi: You might be an alien, but I don’t think it’s very nice to leave someone alone when they’re suffering…
Nagi: I don’t want you to have a bad impression of earthlings…
Netaro: Good. You are prepared, yes?
Nagi: Huh, wait– Right now? Here!? Hold on–
Nagi: A-Ahhhhhhhhhhh………
~~~(end flashback)
Location: Hakodate - Hotel Lounge
Daniel: …Nagi, you listening?
Nagi: *gasp* Oh, sorry…
Daniel: You sure it’s just anemia?
Nagi: Yeah. I’m okay now.
Daniel: Alright, then sit down over there. You want a popsicle?
Nagi: Oh, but I already had one so…
Daniel: Then I’ll give you my share. What flavor do you want?
Nagi: Thank you… Then, I’d like pineapple.
Daniel: Got it. Netaro over there is just stuffing himself on these though, geez.
Netaro: Nyam nyam.
Nagi: ……
Daniel: Here.
Nagi: Thank you.
Nagi: ……
Nagi: (This is orange…)
Netaro: Delicious, is it not? Gii.
Nagi: Urk… Yeah, it is…
Netaro: Shall I share some of my grape-flavored one with you?
Nagi: …!
*Nagi bumps into Daniel*
Daniel: Woah there, what’s wrong? You just sprang out of your seat like some grasshopper.
Nagi: It’s… nothing. Sorry.
Netaro: Even though it’s so delicious…
Nagi: ……
Notes:
Proxima Centauri b is an exoplanet orbiting within the habitable zone of the red dwarf star Proxima Centauri, which is the closest star to the Sun and part of the larger triple star system Alpha Centauri.
Summary: One night, at the old school building, Netaro asks a certain boy the meaning of the word ‘loneliness’.
Thank you aca @463ce6, myun @/myuntachis Niri @/Niri_riri and jes @/arcanecrayonn for helping me with proofing!
Location: Asunaro High School - Old School Building
Boy: No way! You’re telling me you can look like Ryo Furusawa?
Netaro: Hoi.
Boy: WOAH!! THAT’S CRAZY! AND HANDSOME!
Netaro: Mwehehe~
Boy: Oh, you’re back to your old face.
Netaro: I’m quite fond of this visage now, you see.
Boy: Ohh, so you feel some attachment too, huh? Is it modeled after someone?
Netaro: A dash of mysteriousness from Timothy Kalamet, a pinch of pretty from Lee Dohyen, a dollop of beauty from Anya Taylor-Hey and just a teensy bit of Yo Nakaizumi for that secret sauce.
Boy: That’s a crazy combination! Not to mention they’re all super characteristic! And you’ve even included a woman!
Netaro: I picked them after consuming many movies and dramas. Isn’t my taste quite excellent~?
Boy: Well, I guess I can’t deny that…
Netaro: You’re uncertain?
Boy: Well, you could always just turn back to Ryo Furusawa whenever you want, right? Maybe even give Tori Umesaka a try, too!
Netaro: Hm~ I suppose I could throw them into the mix next time!
Boy: Looks really are important for a first impression though, huh? Like, people don’t even bother with you if you don’t look good enough…
Boy: You’d never have to worry about that yourself, Netaro. You’d be popular forever!
Netaro: Popular…
Boy: Yeah! Being popular sure is nice… I was a little popular when I was on the reserve team too y’know?
Netaro: What is this “popular” that you speak of?
Boy: Huh? Oh… It means being liked by a lot of people!
Netaro: Being favored by a lot of people… Is that what you desire?
Boy: Everyone wants that!
Netaro: Everyone!? The entire human race wishes to be “popular?”
Boy: That reminds me, you’ve read all those books I borrowed from the library, right?
Boy: Like, you’re so fast I can’t even borrow enough to keep you occupied!
Netaro: Indeed!
Boy: How come you don’t know what being popular means when you’re so smart? …Haha, it’s kinda funny, actually.
Netaro: I have only just comprehended the fact that being “popular” means to be favored.
Netaro: But, why do you desire to be “popular”?
Boy: That’s… because it’d be lonely otherwise.
Netaro: Lonely.
Boy: Don’t tell me… you don’t know what “lonely” means either?
Netaro: I do! “Lonely” is a word that appears very often. In fact, it appeared in the novel I last read too!
Netaro: Here, this one. “Schoolgirl.”
Netaro: “I stood in a corner of that dim kitchen, stunned, feeling so lonely that I could die—”
Netaro: Are humans truly driven to death when they feel lonely? The definition in that dictionary of yours did not satisfy me.
Boy: “I go on about saying how pained and tormented, how lonely and sad I feel, but what do I really mean by that?”
Boy: Dazai was fond of this work.
Boy: Netaro… Do you simply not feel lonely? If that’s the case, you probably won’t understand…
Netaro: Something I can’t understand! Ahahaha! As someone who was pushed away for being too knowledgeable, this is quite the exciting turn of events!
Netaro: Do enlighten me on what “lonely” means, and how does it poison a human to the point of death? I simply must know!
Boy: Huh? …You want me to explain?
Netaro: You are not popular right now, is that not so? And you cannot help but feel lonely as a result of that.
Boy: ……
Netaro: Then, is it not possible for you to teach me what it means?
Boy: Oh… Um…
Netaro: Why do you desire this popularity? What is the root cause of this desire? Why is it something that humans cannot help but desire!?
Netaro: Tell me tell me tell meeeee~!
Boy: B-B-Becau–
Boy: Because I want to be loved!
Netaro: Oh-hoh! You want to be loved! In other words, if you are not loved, you will feel lonely?
Boy: That’s right! Being loved by someone, thinking about each other first thing, feeling like I was born to meet this person… I want to love and be loved!
Boy: If not, there’s no way I’d ever be satisfied with life…
Boy: Ugh… this is so embarrassing! Don’t make me say it out loud, geez!
Netaro: And why is your face turning red now?
Boy: I’m still going through puberty, okay…
Netaro: Eureka! I have made a connection between the words “love,” “lonely,” and “satisfaction.”
Netaro: I’m certain I’ve read somewhere that humans feel well and happy when they sense they are loved, which in turn leads to satisfaction…
Netaro: I believe it was this book…
*flipping pages*
Netaro: ”When humans feel happy, the hypothalamus secretes various brain chemicals, such as serotonin.”
Netaro: “Adrenaline, endorphin, GABA, and counting—over a hundred brain chemicals are secreted. Among them, one named oxytocin is responsible for feelings of love and connection," It’s this passage right here.
Boy: Huh…
Netaro: Hmhm~ When humans interact with one another, love, and feel loved in return, the brain releases the hormone known as oxytocin.
Netaro: That is supposedly when they achieve a feeling of happiness.
Boy: Oh, okay… That kind of flew over my head though…
Netaro: However.
Netaro: Love comes in many forms such as romantic, platonic, or familial. Amongst these, romantic love is one that relies on dopamine release.
Netaro: This dopamine, also known as the happy hormone, will diminish unless one is continuously exposed to stronger stimuli. Most addictions, such as dependency on alcohol, can develop due to the diminishing nature of this hormone.
Netaro: The same can be said of love! The dopamine secreted from engaging in romantic relations enters its phase of decline around the two to three month mark. After three years, it will completely dwindle!
Netaro: This is what is called “the three-year itch” in layman’s terms!
Boy: I-I don’t really get it– Are you saying that romantic feelings disappear after three years…?
Netaro: Indeed! According to neuroscience, it is simply impossible to rely on romantic feelings to generate happiness infinitely.
Boy: N-No way!!
Netaro: …Hence! I recommend you pursue platonic or familial bonds - their value will not degrade over time, meaning that such bonds will continue to produce oxytocin for you. I believe this is what will lead you to accomplish your true desire.
Boy: Platonic and familial love…
Netaro: In that case, you will no longer feel lonely.
Boy: …Yeah, you really are cool, Netaro.
Boy: I was so moved you made me speechless, hehe.
Netaro: I am a genius after all~
Boy: Yep, yep.
Netaro: But…
Netaro: Humans do not try to understand the science that occurs in their very bodies and instead torment themselves and end up feeling lonely…
Netaro: In some cases, they even drive themselves to their own deaths.
Netaro: Despite possessing intelligence that is quite a rarity to find in the Milky Way galaxy, you are quite the silly little creatures! Haha!
Boy: Ahaha! You’ve got a point there!
Netaro: Eureka! Yet another revelation!
Netaro: How about I compound oxytocin and cram it into you, in place of your hypothalamus!?
Boy: Whaa— No way, that sounds too scary! Hahaha!
Netaro: Not to worry, for I am a genius! It won’t take too long!
Boy: Stop it already! Hahaha!
Boy: …Phew.
Boy: Hey, Netaro.
Netaro: What is it, Ono?
Ono: …Can we do it next week? Making me disappear, that is.
Netaro: Hm~? Didn’t you say that last time as well?
Ono: ……
Netaro: Not a problem.
Netaro: If we are to do it, it’s preferable to pick a day when the stars are visible.
Notes:
The celebrities mentioned in this chapter are:
Ryo Furusawa = Ryo Yoshizawa
Tori Umesaki = Tori Matsuzaka
Timothy Kalamet = Timothée Chalamet
Lee Dohyen = Lee Dohyun
Anya Taylor-Hey = Anya Taylor-Joy
Yo Nakaizumi = Yo Oizumi
Summary: Nagi heads to the sauna, where he finds Daniel and Netaro already present. Daniel enthusiastically explains the greatness of a sauna to them.
Thank you aca @463ce6, myun @/myuntachis Niri @/Niri_riri and jes @/arcanecrayonn for helping me with proofing!
Location: Hakodate - Hotel Room
*knock on the door*
Momiji: Come in!
Nagi: …Good evening.
Momiji: Good evening! What brings you here this late?
Nagi: Mm… Here.
Momiji: Oh, you’ve brought the cassette for the weekly report… Thank you for taking the time during the trip to record it! Great work today!
Nagi: You too. I brought these too…
Momiji: Woah, flowers and… a vase!?
Nagi: I was sure you’d be needing a vase, so I brought one with me.
Momiji: Don’t get me wrong, I’m super grateful and happy for these, but I didn’t think you’d be bringing them on the trip too…
Momiji: (Now that I think about it, Nagi had a crazy amount of luggage with him… Don’t tell me those were all packed full of flowers?)
Nagi: I brought a lot of flowers with me to counter the Yajirobe effect… Though I’m not sure it’ll be enough.
Nagi: This trip is… too much happiness for someone like me.
Momiji: (Nagi-kun looks worried. I want him to feel more relaxed, though… Oh, I have an idea!)
Momiji: Nagi-kun, you haven’t taken a bath yet, right?
Nagi: Yeah, I’m going right after this.
Momiji: I know you could just use the bath in your room, but I’d like to suggest you give the public bath a try! It’s a really good experience!
Momiji: It even has a sauna, so I’m sure it’s a great way to refresh!
Nagi: A public bath, and a sauna…
Momiji: Yeah!
Nagi: ……
Nagi: I’ve never gone to either of those.
Nagi: ……
Nagi: But okay, I’ll give it a try.
~~~
Location: Hakodate - Hotel Sauna
Nagi: …Ah.
Daniel: Well if it ain’t Nagi! C’mon, join us. The sauna here is perfect; the temperature and humidity are just how I like ‘em.
Netaro: Uweh…
Nagi: Netaro’s here too?
Netaro: Daa here enticed me, claiming that the sauna could “clear the mind.”
Daniel: We literally just got here, and you’re even sitting on the lower bench where the temperature’s not that high. How ‘bout you, Nagi? Wanna work up a sweat on the upper bench with me?
Nagi: Um, I’ll go with the lower one… You’re a fan of saunas, Buchi-san?
Daniel: ‘Course I am! I’ve been to about 300 saunas thanks to all my travel and business trips. I’ve even gone to Finland, the Holy Land of Saunas, too! You’re looking right at a hot-blooded sauna enthusiast!
Nagi: Woah.
Netaro: Are you certain this is supposed to make me feel refreshed…?
Nagi: The Chief recommended the sauna to me so… I figured I’d give it a shot.
Daniel: Got it. So that makes you a beginner, too. Alright, time to put my back into this!
Daniel: I’ll teach you how to master the Iwabuchi Way of the Sauna; In other words, how to completely revitalize yourself!*
Nagi: Oh, okay. I’m looking forward to it, master.
Netaro: Master~~
Daniel: Oh, first things first: Don’t get in a sauna right after eating your fill or getting sloshed. Ain’t good manners when they gotta haul your butt-naked ass outta here.
Nagi: He’s actually serious about this…
Daniel: One rep includes sweating it out in the sauna, then getting into a cold bath, and finally cooling off either indoors or outdoors. They say doing three reps improves your sleeping quality or somethin’.
Daniel: 7 to 8 minutes in the sauna should be more than enough for a beginner.
Netaro: Uuugh~ There is still 5 minutes and 52 seconds, 51 seconds…
Nagi: What about the cold bath?
Daniel: Depends on the person, but I guess 1 minute should do? The water is bloody cold, so I wouldn’t recommend staying in there even a second longer.
Daniel: The revitalization comes after that. When you sit down somewhere and take in the breeze… That’s when the happy hormones are released, and you’re in a state of bliss.
Netaro: I’ve read of this before! Despite the fact that the body is in a completely relaxed state, the brain achieves a state of awakening! It gets your brain juices flowing and is supposed to feel amazing! Isn’t that so?
Nagi: That’s kinda scary.
Daniel: Well, there’s no need to get so deep about it. If you ask me, you can revitalize right here in the sauna—
Netaro: It’s toooo hoooot… I’m in desperate need of some water…
Nagi: Honestly, me too.
Daniel: I mean, people use their heads too much on the daily, y’know? That’s why it’s important to hit your limit under extreme conditions once in a while so you can just let your mind go blank.
Daniel: Just think of it as switchin’ off your brain for a sec.
*steam intensifies*
Nagi: Hoo…
Netaro: 3 minutes and 59 seconds… 58 seconds…
Daniel: When you think about it, all your worries are connected either to the past or the future. But you don’t exist in either of those times, so there’s nothin’ you can do about it. It just leads to an infinite loop of anxiety.
Daniel: Nothin’s better than holing away in the sauna to break yourself outta that loop.
Daniel: Your brain’s at full capacity just thinkin’ about how bloody hot it is, so in a way, your mind’s getting a break, letting everything else go… Now that’s what I call a detox.
*steam intensifies further*
Nagi: Oi… how much longer? A minute…?
Netaro: *dry wheezing* Wah… tah…
Daniel: This is just like meditation, or being mindful and all that…. Hey, are you even listening?
Netaro: AUUUGHH IT’S. TOO. HOT!! I can’t take it anymore! There’s no revitalization happening at all!
*Netaro runs out*
Nagi: His face was bright red.
Daniel: Hahaha! Well, he shouldn’t have tried so hard. You’re doin’ pretty well though Nagi, you’ve got the makings of a true sauna enthusiast.
Nagi: I should’ve probably gotten one of those sauna hats…
Daniel: Just let me know when you decide to get one, I’ll recommend the best one for ya.
Nagi: Okay, thank you.
Nagi: ……
Daniel: ……
Nagi: (The conversation has fallen off… Should I try to start it up again?)
Daniel: ……
Nagi: ……
Nagi: (So I say, but I don’t even know what to talk about… What’s something we can connect on…)
Daniel: Imagine if that Ryui fella is stayin’ in this hotel too.
Nagi: ……
Nagi: Buchi-san, I need to ask…
Daniel: Hm?
Nagi: Why didn’t you catch Ryui back at Hachiman-zaka?
Nagi: (I’m pretty sure he had a better chance at catching him than I did…)
Daniel: Right… How do I put this…
Nagi: ……
Nagi: (It’s hot… It’s way too hot… Please answer a little faster…)
Daniel: Well, he’s an adult too. I’m sure he’ll come home when he feels like it.
Daniel: That’s all it is.
Nagi: (He’ll come home when he wants to? Would it be so simple for someone who decided to leave in the first place?)
Nagi: Are you sure? If they’d change their minds so easily, they wouldn’t bother leaving in the first place, right…
Nagi: Maybe they had some unavoidable reason to do what they did—
Nagi: (Ryui, and that person, too…)
Nagi: (I’m sure they had their— Oh…ough…)
Daniel: Ooh, I was thinkin’ this earlier at the observatory too, but you’re actually more of a positive thinker than I thought you were, huh.
Nagi: HOT…! I’m at my limit…!
Daniel: Haha! Another one bites the dust!
~~~
Location: Hakodate - Hotel Lounge
Nagi: Phew…
Nagi: (The temperature was way too high… I don’t think I have what it takes to be the best sauna enthusiast there ever was…)
Nagi: (But, it’s true that I do feel like my mind’s all cleared up. Maybe this is what he was referring to as feeling revitalized.)
Nagi: Woah… They even have all-you-can-eat popsicles…
Nagi: ……
Nagi: (Strawberry, grape, orange, pineapple, mango, dainagon azuki, condensed milk… There’s a lot to choose from.)
Nagi: (I want something refreshing, so I can cross out the dainagon azuki and the condensed milk flavors… They’d probably be too sweet.)
Nagi: (Strawberry and grape are quite refreshing, but when it comes to popsicles, their sourness leaves something to be desired…)
Nagi: (Mango… The tropical flavor doesn’t really fit the setting. Condensed milk is perfect for Hokkaido, but I’ve already crossed it off the list.)
Nagi: (Then all that’s left are the flavors beloved by everyone, orange and pineapple. They have the perfect amount of sourness too. Though, pineapple is also a tropical flavor.)
Nagi: (Right then. I’ll go with the safest choice that has no room for mistake, orange.)
Nagi: Is it really for free…? I hope this doesn’t affect my luck unfavorably…
*opening the wrapper*
Nagi: …Mm, tasty.
Nagi: (Guess I picked the wrong one. This is pineapple.)
Nagi: I think it turned out for the best though.
Nagi: (Pineapple’s pretty good too. But it’s strange… I wasn’t hit by bad luck this time.)
Nagi: …Wait.
*checking his phone*
Nagi: ……
Nagi: (I guess my theory that the misfortune’s rebound won’t happen if the air pressure is stable is spot on after all.)
Nagi: …Huh?
Nagi: (No, this is HAMA’s atmospheric pressure. What about Hakodate—)
Nagi: (A sudden updraft, and even a ‘bomb’ mark… This looks really bad for me…)
??: ○※А◆×▽×◎……。
Nagi: Huh?
Nagi: (I hear some strange sounds from the reclining chair further ahead… Is there someone there…?)
??: Φ×▲□▽η……。
Nagi: (...The voice sounds really weak.)
Nagi: ……
Nagi: Excuse me. Are you… not feeling well?
??: ……
Netaro: Gii?
Nagi: Oh, Netaro?
Nagi: Are you okay? It sounded like you were moaning. If you’re not feeling well, you should talk to the Chief—
*a ringing sound*
Nagi: …!?
Nagi: (What… is this? It’s so abnormally chilling…)
Nagi: (Why can’t I move? And I feel… really scared. Like some sort of unfathomable fear is welling up within me…)
Netaro: Hm… So be it. I was inclined to hold back for a while longer, but now that it’s come to this—
Netaro: You’ll have to suffice.
Notes:
“Totonoi” means to experience a feeling of euphoria and a clear head by repeating several sets of sauna, water bath, and outdoor air bath.
Sauna hats are used to prevent one’s head from heating excessively, and are traditionally made of felt.
Summary: The group finally finds Toi’s brother, Ryui, but he immediately runs away. They chase him all the way up Hachiman-zaka, but…
Thank you aca @463ce6, myun @/myuntachis and Niri @/Niri_riri for helping me with proofing!
Location: Hakodate - Near the Kanemori Brick Warehouse
Ryui: *panting* Sorry, Toi, but it’s still too soon for us to meet… Please, try and understand…
Location: Hakodate - Hachiman-zaka
Ryui: ( —The hell is with this steep slope…!)
Ryui: (But, I’m sure I could use that now, even if it’s almost out of juice…!)
Toi: Ani-sama~~!!
Ryui: Khh…!
Nagi: ! He’s running up the slope…!
Daniel: Yikes, I’m out. I’m just gonna walk the rest of the way.
Momiji: This is… Hachiman-zaka…!
Momiji: There are *wheeze* a total of 19 slopes that connect the bay area to Mount Hakodate…!
Momiji: After the era where a great many fires had plagued the area, the slopes were widened to act as a firebreak, which is why they look like this now…! *wheezing*
Nagi: I…see…!
Momiji: Amongst those slopes *wheeze* the Hachiman-zaka, spanning 300 meters *wheeze* provides an amazing view at the end of *wheeze* the steep slope…! Ugh!
*falls down*
Toi: Ch-Chieeeeeef!
Daniel: Don’t look back, if your flank gives in then it’s all over.
Momiji: *pained wheezing*
Yodaka: Chief, are you alright? You did well getting all the way up here. Don’t worry, I’ll remain by your side until you can catch your breath.
Daniel: You could’ve tried a little harder, y’know! Damn…!
~~~
Ryui: *panting*
Toi: *panting* P-Please, don’t leave me behind…!
Toi: Ani-sama…!! *coughing* A-Ani-sama…..
Nagi: ……
Nagi: Toi, hand…
Toi: …?
*smack*
Nagi: Leave it to me.
Ryui: Who the hell—?
Nagi: (I’ve got some confidence when it comes to running. Just catch up with us later.)
Toi: (Nagi-san…!)
Nagi: Alright…!
Ryui: Tch…!
~~~
Momiji: Phew… My sides aren’t dying anymore… Yodaka-san, what’s the situation with Ryui-kun…?
Yodaka: Nagi’s giving chase after receiving the baton from Toi. There’s only one other person with enough energy to catch up to them.
Momiji: D-Daniel-san~~!
~~~
Daniel: Bloody hell, this slope’s killing me…
Ryui: *panting*
Nagi: *wheezing*
Ryui: (This prick’s sure persistent despite looking like he couldn’t give a shit…!)
Nagi: (Even though we’re practically walking right now, I feel like my heart’s about to explode…!)
Nagi: (There’s only about… 50 centimeters left…!)
Nagi: Stop…!
Ryui: Fuck off…!
Ryui: (If I don’t bring it out now, he’ll really catch up to me…!)
Nagi: !
*Ryui takes out his hoverboard*
Daniel: What the— That’s cheating!
Ryui: (I’m sure it’s got enough juice to get me down the hill!)
Ryui: See ya never…!
Nagi: Urk…!
Ryui: (As if I’ll let you catch me…!)
Momiji: No! He had a hoverboard this whole time!
Yodaka: Looks like we’ve been outwitted.
Toi: Ani-sama…!
Ryui: (Sorry, Toi.)
Nagi: *wheezing*
Nagi: (Even though he was right there, I still couldn’t catch him…)
Nagi: So that’s… Toi’s family…
~~~
Location: Hakodate - Mount Hakodate Observatory
Momiji: This is…
Momiji: (The Hakodate Observatory… The place where you can see the beautiful nightscape of Hakodate… It’s considered amongst the top 3 night views in the world.)
Momiji: (But… No one’s in the mood to appreciate it right now…)
Netaro: Uuuuugh~ My thighs hurt~
Yodaka: Perhaps it’s strange coming from me but, you didn’t run all that much either.
Netaro: Toooiii, Yoda’s being mean to me.
Toi: Oh… yes…
Momiji: (Toi-kun’s especially upset about letting Ryui-kun get away… Is there anything I can do to cheer him up…?)
Nagi: I’m sorry I couldn’t catch him, even though he was right in front of me… I’ll try harder next time.
Toi: It’s ok, you did more than enough. Thank you for trying, Nagi-san.
Nagi: ……
Netaro: Yoda, have a look here. There are cuts on my palm from when I fell down. This is too much…
Yodaka: You’re right. Make sure you wash it well when we get back to the hotel.
Daniel: Kicking back in a sauna after a good workout sure hits different~ I’m already lookin’ forward to it!
Netaro: If I exercised as well, could I be all bulky as you, Daa?
Daniel: D-Daa…?
Nagi: I guess that’s his nickname for Buchi-san.
Daniel: Pfft, that’s a new one. Well, you can call me whatever.
Momiji: C’mon guys, the view’s great right now! Let’s get up a little closer.
All 4: *in awe*
Yodaka: How beautiful… The sky darkens further every time I close my eyes, and the lights from the town glow just that much brighter in contrast…
Toi: My chest feels tight… I can’t help but feel lonely…
Netaro: Aha… at the source of each illumination lies some human activity, does it not?
Nagi: …You’re right.
Nagi: Those moving lights probably belong to people heading home. And the lights beyond those must be from houses that are waiting for them to come back, with a warm meal ready for them…
Momiji: That’s right. This view is the result of countless little happinesses that you wouldn’t give a second thought to, all gathered in one spot.
Nagi: ……
Nagi: (I’m standing somewhere close to the heavens, and looking down on that very same happiness…)
Nagi: (It’s so far away…)
Nagi: (Those lights twinkle far, far away from my reach, just like stars… Where I could never reach them…)
Daniel: …Heh, I’m sure some of those lights belong to some unhappy fellows, too.
Momiji: You just had to ruin the mood, huh.
Daniel: What’s so great about chasing after happiness? I think it’s much kinder to yourself if you settle with just the right amount of happiness to fit the bill.
Daniel: The world just ain’t built to give everyone exactly what they wish for.
Yodaka: My, how bitter of you… But I suppose I can’t deny it either. People learn how to enjoy themselves and move forward, even if they aren’t happy.
Yodaka: Unlike the unknowable future, past memories are something you can look back upon fondly.
Toi: ……
Toi: …You can only say that because you’re satisfied with what you have now. But I… I can’t be happy if I’m not with Ani-sama.
Netaro: How come?
Toi: Because he’s my precious family, of course.
Netaro: Family, relations of blood, a small group that live their lives together, or perhaps it could refer to a partner as well. To be acknowledged, to be loved, to be wanted… All of these require the presence of an “other” to bear a result.
Netaro: And yet, when you die, you go alone. No matter how much I read or research on this topic, comprehension eludes me.
Toi: I-It’s alright if that’s how other people choose to live, but I— I’m sure my brother, too…!
Momiji: Yeah, there’s as many answers as there are people.
Nagi: ……
Momiji: Nagi-kun?
~~~(flashback)
??: “I’m home.”
??: “Welcome home.”
??: “How was your day?”
??: “It was alright. Nothing good, nothing bad either.”
~~~(end flashback)
Momiji: Nagi-kun? Are you okay? You’re spacing out…
Nagi: I believe—
Nagi: I believe families are supposed to be together, Toi.
Toi: …! Nagi-san!
Nagi: Chief, I have a favor to ask.
Momiji: Yes?
Nagi: When Ryui comes back, and if we manage to convince him… I’d like him to be a Ward Mayor for Ward 15 along with Toi.
Toi: Huh…?
Yodaka: That’s sudden.
Netaro: I approve! Twin Mayors sounds like a fun concept~
Daniel: You say that, but I don’t see someone who ran for the hills agreeing to this.
Nagi: Sometimes, people are forced to take actions that go against their own wishes. I’m sure. Probably. That’s why—
Nagi: Even if it requires some brute force, if we tether him with a bond that can’t be broken, I’m sure he’ll have no choice but to return. Then Toi won’t have to be separated from his family anymore.
Netaro: In other words, meddling.
Yodaka: Now, now, isn’t this fine? I wonder how long it’s been since I involved myself in others’ business.
Daniel: Well, it’s true the Night Team is short one person.
Momiji: …Alright, got it. If that’s what the leader of the team wants, I’ll put in a request to Kafka myself.
Toi: Nagi-san…
*bell gongs*
Nagi: ……
Nagi: (The night view really is beautiful. The breeze feels good, and I can’t help but feel reassured knowing I have people beside me.)
Nagi: Chief. I may not be a great leader, but I’ll try my best.
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