So being “pressed” is about feeling upset and bothered, huh. Then, you could have just said that. This is so hard to understand~
Aira: Ehehe, I ended up speaking the way I post online.
Tori: Well, I’m fine with that. If you’re saying that’s the trend right now, then I want to be in the know as well.
And? What’s been bothering you, Shiratori?
Aira: Hm~... Then… Is it okay if I ask for some advice, HImemiya-senpai?
Tori: Yeah. I don’t know if I can actually be of help. But I’ll do my best so try telling me what happened.
Aira: Um, you see… Recently, I’ve been feeling like my posts aren’t getting as many likes as they used to. I’m not getting many new followers either.
That doesn’t mean that I’m unhappy with my current fans.
Of course, I’m super happy whenever someone likes or replies to my posts, and I want to keep cherishing those who do.
So… I do get that it isn’t all about the numbers… It’s just that I’m worried if the problem is from my side.
What if… I’m losing my reach because my posts aren’t interesting…
Similar posts are available in plenty, so maybe I’m not delivering the things everyone wants to know and the topics they can enjoy.
Tori: Hm, I see~ So, in other words, you’re feeling like your posts are falling into a boring routine?
Aira: Ah, yes! That’s what I mean!
But in spite of that, I’m unable to think of any kind of breakthrough, you know.
Tori: So basically, you just need someone to produce your social media account, right? Then let me join you in brainstorming!
Aira: Huh… No, that’s… No matter how you look at it, I’d feel bad making Himemiya-senpai go that far for me.
My account is just a hobby of mine. Listening to me talk was more than enough.
Tori: Don’t worry about it. I just got some time to spare. And even if you’re unable to do it all alone, if the two of us think about it, some kind of great idea might pop up.
Not to mention, even Eichi-sama would produce projects for his family’s business, right? So I need to learn more about that kind of stuff.
Aira: Then… Is it okay if I accept your offer and make this request of you…?
OMG, the thought of being produced by the idol Himemiya Tori is killing me…! I’ll turn super LOVE for sure ♪ I’m so glad I didn’t hold back and asked for advice!
Tori: Yes, yes. But we can’t already be sure that it’s going to be a success, okay.
Now, let’s get going. Shiratori, let’s go~?
Aira: Huh? Where are we even going~?! Himemiya-senpai~?!
Aira: Um… This is the ES building? Why did we come here, Himemiya-senpai?
Tori: Fufufu. Excellent question, Shiratori!
For rice cakes, go to a rice cake shop![1] So for a viral hit, we go to an influencer! Every man knows his business best!
And since this is a place with so many idols and performers, doesn’t that mean that there’s tons of people here who have huge follower counts?
I was thinking that we could have a quick start by surveying such people.
Aira: I-I see! So we just need to ask for personal tips!
Tori: Yup. That’s what I mean. Now let’s start on the search to find someone who’s easy to talk to!
Aira: Hm~ I wonder if someone’s here…?
—Ah! Himemiya-senpai! Yuuki-senpai is over there. Let’s try asking him?
Tori: Eh~? Will asking Glasses Monk—Yuuki-senpai be of any use…?
Aira: What are you even saying, Himemiya-senpai?! Yuuki-senpai’s account is on another level!
It wasn’t that active a while back. But with the popularity of his fashionable, attractive pics and his gaming livestreams, it blew up recently.
His followers have been increasing at an incredible speed the past few months and it’s an up and coming account, you see! He’s a regular on stuff like the strongest trends rankings!
Besides, Yuuki-senpai interacts in a very friendly way with his fans. If you get the timing right, you can even get a reply from him, so his popularity is super high!
Look. This is the account I’m talking about—
Tori: What?! He has these many followers?!
Ughh, even though you’re a Glasses Monkey~...![2]
H-Hmph. Then maybe we can try asking him, yeah?
Aira: Yeah. Then, let’s…
He~llo, Yuuki-senpai~ Good afternoon~
Makoto: …Hm? Ah, good afternoon, Shiratori-kun and Himemiya-kun. What’s up? Did you want me for something?
Aira: Uhm… Please tell me the secret behind your popularity, Yuuki-senpai!
Makoto: Huh, what do you mean? That’s what I’d like to hear myself?!
Writer: Maiko Nishioka
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Proofing: Maximum Cheese
A Japanese saying
Tori's nickname for Makoto is メガネサル (literally "monkey wearing glasses") which is Japanese for a Tarsier
Tori: Ugh~ Sigh~ I can’t take this anymore… I’m gonna die…
I’m bored to death!!!
Yuzuru isn’t back from work yet. And I’m already done watching all the dramas and movies I had saved up…
And since there was nothing else to do, I watched every single one of the videos trending on this site. But this is it—I’m seriously bored by now~
I was super busy with work during the year-end and couldn’t catch a moment of break.
And then everyday, I’d wish for a day I could just relax, right? Yeah, I did but—
Now that you’re telling me that I actually don’t have to do anything, I’m bored out of my mind~!
But still, you know. It’s finally my day off after all, and simply idling around like this is…
I keep feeling like I’m wasting my time and I can’t stay still… As if my efforts are going to waste?
…Hm~
Yeah. I really can’t waste a holiday in this sloppy way! Lemme go out and try finding someone I can hang out with.
Tori: Tsk~ The theatre room is also empty…
My guess told me that someone’s here for sure and yet~!
Noone’s in the courtyard and bookroom either. So is everyone really busy with work at this time…
And if someone is around, they’re much likelier to be in the common room? Anyways, lemme go take a look.
Aira: …
Tori: (Ah! Isn’t that Shiratori sitting on that sofa over there?!)
(Yay ♪ I was searching around for anyone, but I found someone I’m close with—I’m so lucky!)
(Hm~ What’s he doing though? I can only see his back so I can’t really tell, but he’s not in the middle of work or something, right? Let me try calling out to him…♪)
Hey, Shiratori~ What’re you doing? Why don’t you hang out with—
Aira: …Waah… Sob…
Tori: HUH?! H-Hey! Shiratori, are you crying?! Did someone bully you?!
Aira: …Agh… Huh? Himemiya-senpai…?
Tori: —So… Basically, you were crying because you were moved to tears by a manga?!
Aira: That’s right.
Tori: What’s this~? You were crying so much that I got worried thinking about what might’ve happened~ Well, I’m glad it wasn’t because you were bullied by someone or something.
Aira: Ehehe. Sorry for making you worry.
Tori: And the manga you were reading—It’s this one? It’s the type to actually move you to tears?
Aira: ! Yeah, it is! It’s like a 4-koma manga that was first posted on socmed.
But the characters were so cute and a sequel was anticipated, so it kept growing.
As of now, the manga seems to have had an overnight success! My fans recommended that I read this one.
I asked for interesting manga suggestions online and lots of fans replied to me—
Ah! Wait, I gotta…! I need to post my reactions online while the feels are still strong!
Um…”I read the manga everyone’s talking about! I can’t say a lot cause I’ll end up spoiling it.”
“It was so tragic and painful that my chest hurt SO much! By the time I was done, I was a total mess covered in tears and snot. The classmate kid had me COMPLETELY hooked. Love~y ♪”
“Classmate for the win![1] Thanks for the recc!” —And, sent ☆
Tori: F-For the win…? Not “will win”? Sounds like a usage I’ve never heard.
Aira: Ah, “for the win” is like… It’s a popular thing to say right now? …It means something like “This is #1 and the best. Nothing can beat this.”
Like “My fave for the win!” is something often used.
Tori: Hm. Eichi-sama for the win! …Like that?
Aira: Yes, perfect ♪ That’s exactly how you use it, Himemiya-senpai.
Ah, but don’t say that in front of Fushimi-senpai, okay? If he finds out that I taught you weird language usages, I might get scolded~...
Tori: Huh~? I mean, there’s no way I’m gonna…No, wait, I might?
Aira: HUH?! I don’t like that?! Moreover, I don’t want Fushimi-senpai to hate me. Himemiya-senpai, please forget everything I just taught you~!
Tori: I was just messing with you. I mean, Yuzuru isn’t gonna get mad at something like this.
Aira: Agh… Are you sure? Then, I guess it’s fine…
Tori: Besides, Shiratori is super thorough, huh? You post things like detailed manga reactions on social media like this?
Aira: Even Himemiya-senpai shares lots of stuff, right? I always go through all of them ♪
Tori: Well, I don’t go as far as sharing manga reactions though.
…Ah, this is incredible. You’re getting tons of likes.
Aira: But even you get tons of likes, Himemiya-senpai. And I think you get likes at a much more incredible pace.
Tori: Hm~ You don’t really get it when it’s about yourself. But when you see someone else getting the likes, it feels really incredible, huh.
Aira: Well, even I get that feeling of others seeming much greater than yourself.
Ah, but now it’s like…
Tori: Hm? Did something happen?
Aira: It’s nothing at all, and I know that I shouldn’t be so hung up on it. There’s something I’m worried—No, it’s not that big of a deal…
Um, there’s something I’m a little pressed[2] about?
Tori: P-Pressed about?
Ugh~! Speak using words even I can understand~?!
Writer: Maiko Nishioka
story masterlist ✦ next →
Proofing: Maximum Cheese
Aira uses a Japanese internet slang term "しか勝ったん" here, which is often used to talk about your faves being the best, despite grammatically not making such sense.
Aira uses another Japanese internet slang "モニョる" here, which actually means to feel uneasy and troubled by something that you can't properly put into words. Slightly different nuance from "pressed" but it's a close enough English internet slang that worked.
Lyrics: Saori Codama
Composition/Arrangement: Tomohiro Nakatsuchi (APDREAM)
Proofing: maximum cheese
Ring out our allegiance, Vermilion
Raise the flags in this world of red and black
The towering castle walls are our jet black pride
Shall we show them?
By intercepting attacks—We, the card soldiers
The invaders say that the "almighty is distorted"
Showing off their unlabelled white cards
It's an empty sophistry
The "great almighty" isn't even aware of your existence
Oh, unlabelled one; Does someone like you have any worth?
It's a superficial sense of justice
My Lord who is befitting to rule upon everything
I was born to offer myself up to him
That's what my life screams
Blossom in full glory, strong Vermilion
Raise your flags in this world of red and black
A crimson faith in the kingdom crawling with rose thorns
We shall show them
Who we are
By living a self-governed life
There's a significance you can never obtain
Using the cards of the soul
We'll keep believing in who we are
We are soldiers
Allegiance to the "great almighty"
The invaders ask
How we are compensated
For passively obeying orders
It's a childish prejudice
The more you proclaim it
The more foolish you sound
You'll soon understand
That at the root of our discipline
Is unwavering patriotism
My soul, invigorated by the cause that dyes it all
It is inevitable that it is attracted to
A brightly coloured world
Ring out our allegiance, Vermilion
Raise the flags in this world of red and black
The towering castle walls are our jet black pride
We won't let anyone
Break through
As for the significance we would like to obtain
By crossing the boundaries of imagination
Let's draw it on these cards
Paint out the defying white
We are soldiers
Wo-o-o-oh
Oh, resisting, wandering white—You can't retreat now
This burning red
And seething black
Kingdom is Vermilion
Wo-o-o-oh
Oh, resisting, wandering white—You have to choose
In the fortress you have entered
One by one—A destined suit for each one
Blossom in full glory, solid Vermilion
Hoist your flags in this world of red and black
A crimson faith in the kingdom crawling with rose thorns
We shall show them
Who we are
By living a self-governed life
There's a significance you can never obtain
Using the cards of the soul
We'll keep believing in who we are
We are soldiers
Vermilion, vermilion; A world of red and black
A perfect world that dyes everything
Vermilion, vermilion; We'll paint out the white
Under this "almighty"
We are soldiers
Hey!
Won't you cut it out? Obsessing over that piece of info
No way!
Don't just blindly believe things as they come
Nothing to say!
They're just thoughtless bashings shared from their comfort zone
Don't be afraid!
Baseless and basic ones made by wild fiction makers
The type of words that you obsess about
They drive you to a corner like a knife
Tear down those careless remarks
Using a warning sound that will drown out everything
Beep-Beep! Beep-Beep! Oh-Yeah!
Let's make this noise reverberate
To live with pride is to
Shut out the troublesome guys
Lift up your head and laugh
Show off that kind of shamelessness
Hell yeah! Instead of these tall tales, enjoy this life's showtimes
Don't you think that's what's important
(Wow-Wow)
Let pleasure be the reason
If you don't want people to take what's yours
Just take what's theirs instead
You don't have to do what's expected of you
Wow-Wow Uh Wow-Wow
(Beep! Beep! Beep! Beep!...)
Hey!
Seeing the reaction, you perform extra phrases
No way!
To the playing melody. Seriously, you're just dancing to their tune
Nothing to say!
An experience you don't want to taste; At a timing you don't welcome
Don’t be afraid! Conveniently blooming and falling resentment—Scattered around by influencers
A habit of fantasizing too much
You've grown overwhelmed and tired of it
Fire a gun-like weapon of emotions aimed at the heart
Using a warning sound that will drown out everything
Beep-Beep! Beep-Beep! Oh-Yeah!
Let's make this noise reverberate
If you're gonna live in pride
The time to counter attack is right now While drawing in other people's envy
Show off that nerve of yours
Hell yeah! Instead of these tall tales, enjoy this life's showtimes
Don't you think that's what's important
(Wow Wow)
Make pleasure the reason and rise up
Just laugh at them as much as they laughed at you
Keep being carefree till they get fed up
Wow-Wow Uh Wow-Wow
(Beep! Beep! Beep! Beep!...)
Lift your head
Say! Wow-Wow
Look this way
Say! Wow-Wow
Stand up to the headwind...
Wow-Wow
Beep!
Beep!
Beep!
Beep!
Seeming to flutter and dance against the wind
Is a handmade butterfly
Fragile enough to get blown away in a storm
There's no way this cacophony will be a bother; all right? Huh...
Hell yeah! Instead of these tall tales, enjoy this life's showtimes
Don't you think that's what's best
(Wow-Wow)
Let us be the reason
Dispel all the annoying criticisms with this noisy live time
Turn up the alert to the highest volume
Wow-Wow Uh Wow-Wow
(Beep! Beep! Beep! Beep!...)
Break down
The immobile pride sunk in deja vu
The appearance you put up doesn't feel authentic
In front of the implicitly drawn borderline
Aren’t you just trying to please them?
Hey you？
Why?
The lie you’ve imitated
Why?
Dreams turn out to be alluring traps
There’s no way anyone can know your true thoughts
Why?
A style of unnecessary mass production?
Why?
Instigate a tragedy and dive
They have a silver tongue and a deceptive face
If you’re careless, you’ll just get tripped up
Even after deletion, you’re still stained deeply
After all, you’re a (Hysteric) humanoid (Humanoid)
Thinking that you've come this far just by going with the flow, all you're doing is mocking yourself
If you could learn about life from others
Wouldn't that (Hysteric) be great? (Humanoid)
From here on out, it’s an uncharted territory
A world which is neither black nor white
Rumours about classmates who parted ways have disappeared
Despite being the same batch, only we remain trapped
Depending on others and making excuses stopped working long ago
But I've just started myself
And you?
A classroom that killed your "identity"
Anaesthesia awaiting well-arranged shipment
Even if you start blaming others now
No one will listen to you
Even if you resent them, they'll never reconsider
Once you start rewriting, things will go well
Keep dreaming (Hysteric) Humanoid (Humanoid)
Even today, don't give up on a human heart; Claim it even if it hurts
We live under excessive expectations
Question your (Hysteric) limits (Humanoid)
And a life with better graphic resolution—
Choose it with your own heartbeat
Break out
We're not man-made. A soul lives in us
Dye it red with the passion flowing in
Why?
Keep imitating and die
Why?
To be impassive is to be lazy
There’s no way anyone can know your true thoughts
Why?
Then is this what it means to be a villain?
Why?
Being idealistic all the time is tough
They sure have a silver tongue, the pitiable mad scientist
That’s enough
Once you start rewriting, things will go well
Keep dreaming (Hysteric) Humanoid (Humanoid)
Even today, don't give up on a human heart; Claim it even if it hurts
We live under excessive expectations
Question your (Hysteric) limits (Humanoid)
And a life with better graphic resolution—
Choose it with your own heartbeat
Choose it with your own heartbeat
Sora: Yes! Thanks to Shisho~ and Senpai, the explanation was also handled perfectly ♪
Once again, we want you to accept this job aboard the Phantom Airship! Won’t you become its passengers?
Aira: I’m all for it! With the new year starting, I’ve been kinda out of it… But if the game can help us get back on track and even earn L$, then say no more~ ♪
Tatsumi: Even I am in favour. I am genuinely interested in these things called VR games.
And I do not think it is a bad choice for ALKALOID’s first job of the year.
Aira: Ufufu~ I’m glad even Tattsun-senpai gave the okay!
What about Mayo-san and Hiro-kun? I think it’s great to be able to work while having fun ♪
Hiiro: Umu…
Aira: …Hiro-kun?
It’s not like you to hesitate. We’ve been indebted to Switch up until now, right?
Hiiro: Yes, you’re right. If Aira and Tatsumi-senpai are optimistic about it, then I too shall try challenging the Phantom Airship.
Aira: …? You kinda don't seem certain…
Ah, I get it! Hiro-kun is scared since he doesn’t know much about games!
Fufu, how unexpected~♪ There are things even Hiro-kun is scared of ♪
Tatsumi: How about Mayoi-san? You were brought here by force in the first place, so I do not think there is any harm in refusing if it is too difficult.
Mayoi: I-I would like to decline if possible. Having a large number of people watch while we’re playing a game… It is a little terrifying…
Natsume: ꓄ꃅꍟ ꉣꃅꂦ꓄ꂦ
Mayoi: Eeek?!
I-I-I-I will do it! Please let me do it!
Tsumugi: Ahaha. Looks like Natsume-kun knows how to turn on Ayase-kun’s motivation switch~ What could he have said to him?
Mayoi: N-No, that is an industry secret!
Sora: HaHa~♪ How wonderful~ With this, we have consent from all members!
Now, put on the VR goggles and try leaping into the world of the Phantom Airship!
Location: New SSVRS stage—The Phantom Airship
Aira: OMG! This scenery is so awesome! So this is the Phantom Airship…!
To be standing on the deck of a ship that’s floating in the air—The fantasy vibes are so intense! I wonder what might happen if it crashes. I’m curious~♪
Hiiro: So this is what you call a VR. There’s really no sense of reality here at all.
But the things in this world do speak to one’s senses. How could it have been constructed?
Tatsumi: Present day technology has advanced this far. I am experiencing this for the first time myself.
Our clothes also seem to have changed to those appropriate for the game. It feels like we witnessed some kind of magic.
Mayoi: I-It’s scary even when you know it is a game… We are standing in such a high place—it’s like we’re physically present and everything—and yet you all do not feel the uneasiness?
Aira: Hm~ Mayo-san, you don’t have to be that scared though?
Look, come here. Let’s watch the superb view from a closer distance. You can even bend over the railings—It’s fine since it’s a game ♪
Hiiro: That is dangerous, Aira. You might even die if you fall from the deck.
Aira: Like I said, Hiro-kun is being too cautious. It’s a VR game after all, so let’s have fun without bothering about the minor details?
Sora: HaHa~♪ Exactly!
Games are wonderful tools that teach you various things about life. Even losing is just another experience!
The penalty for losing has been set to a lenient one so enjoy yourselves as much as you want~♪
Tatsumi: So you were here as well, Sora-san. You appear to have shrunk down in size… Is this also part of the game?
Sora: HiHi~ Sora is an NPC who shall support your travels in the form of a sprite.
Other NPC idols will appear so look forward to them!
Tatsumi: “NPC”…?
Sora: Yes. Non-player characters—They exist only within the game’s program. There’s nobody on the inside ♪
Tatsumi: Non-player… I see. So nobody else is operating here besides us?
Imitations of idols that exist only within the game… Now aren’t they truly “idols”?[1]
Hiiro: An existence within the game… Hm. I do not get the theory but they are made by combining these so-called programs, right?
Aira: Woah. Hiro-kun can understand games.
Hiiro: Fufu, I learnt about it from Makoto-senpai.
The “pachinko” Nii-san is obsessed with—it is also a type of game, right?
With the exciting lights and sounds, it is only natural that Nii-san’s interest was drawn to it. The technological advancements in the city are indeed so surprising.
Tatsumi: Yes, because that kind of engineering delights the human instincts.
Personally, I do not think it is wise to develop a hobby in gambling, but games can be a good method to unwind when played within reasonable limits.
Tatsumi: In any case, can we continue the explanation, Sora-san?
Sora: Of course! Then, I shall explain the rules of the Phantom Airship~♪
There are seven floating islands in the world of the Phantom Airship and each one has a “treasure” enshrined.
To get hold of the treasures, you need the abilities of an idol! Please clear the trials in the islands by going along with the established theme of each island!
You can choose the islands as you wish, but heading towards the first island and succeeding the game’s tutorial as a start should make things easier to understand~♪
Hiiro: I see. So we need to display our abilities as idols to advance through this game.
Tatsumi: Our performance and the products of our labour will be judged by the game, and those watching can support us—I see how it is.
Mayoi: I-I do feel reluctant, but that should not be much different from what we usually show. I feel a bit relieved.
Aira: Ahaha. On the other hand, I was worrying what I’ll do if I mess up the performance.
But like Harukawa-senpai said, if we only mess up in-game, no one’s gonna be too harsh on us. That’s a ton better than screwing up during an actual live performance!
Alright! I'm all pumped up now! Let’s get this ship going!
Phantom Airship—Full speed ahead…☆
Writer: Kino Seitarou
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JP Proofing: nazunyan427 ✦ EN Proofing: Clyde
Here, Tatsumi tries to make a pun by comparing the idols in the VR to real life idols as in "statues"—not referring to the singing, dancing ones here.
Tatsumi: The stage setting room… Are we really in the right place?
At first glance, neither Mayoi-san nor the members of Switch can be seen. But this indeed should be the place that Sora-san pointed us to.
Aira: Yeah~ I really wonder what’s going on…
Switch helped us back during the Bon Festival and I know they’re good guys, but there’s too little information and I can’t help being on guard.
Hiiro: Umu. Even if they wish for us to repay the favour many times over… We have not built our position to the extent that they can insist that of us.
Then what kind of work could Switch possibly entrust to us?
Tsumugi: Ah, you have already arrived.
My apologies, it seems like we missed you while we were operating the hologram.
Hiiro: I do not understand the situation well but… Mayoi-senpai is safe, right?
Tsumugi: Ah, I apologise for the worry we caused you. Ayase-kun is right here ♪
Mayoi: E-Everyone… Happy new year…
Tatsumi: Mayoi-san, we were worried about you. It is great to know that you are safe.
It seems like you were suddenly brought here by Switch. I can assume that nothing violent happened?
Mayoi: N-No! Of course, nothing dangerous like that happened!
In fact, you can say that this incident is due to my ineptitude. My shortcoming was being discovered in the hidden room while I was having my fill of enjoying the photo of Branco I had captured…mumble mumble…
Hiiro: …? I couldn’t quite hear what you just said. Could you repeat it once again?
Mayoi: Eek…! I-I-I apologise! I was the one at fault…!
Tatsumi: Hmm… From the extent of what I could hear, I do not think Mayoi-san was at fault—
Mayoi: I-It’s fine not to delve deeper into this matter! More importantly, everyone from Switch, please let’s have the explanation of the job now!
Natsume: It seems like the actors have all assemBLED.
I’m glad you’ve arriVED, ALKALOID.
Like Sora said earLIER, Switch has a job request for yOU. We’d be glad you could take it oN.
I’ll hand it over to our hoST, Sora, to explain the details.
Sora: Yes. Leave it to Sora, Shisho~♪
This time, we want to let ALKALOID try out the new SSVRS stage—the Phantom Airship.
Phantom Airship is a stage made with the purpose of training rookie units.
And the game company has decided to request ALKALOID to act as test players ♪
Tatsumi: Hmm… I feel honoured that we were nominated but… What is this “SSVRS” in the first place?
I am familiar with the name alone, but it is difficult to undertake the work without being aware of the specifics beyond it.
Tsumugi: Come to think of it, wasn’t ALKALOID in Hokkaido during the preliminaries? I thought you knew all about it since Trickstar appeared in every corner of the country.
Natsume-kun, could you please explain about the nature of SSVRS?
Natsume: Why am I the one you’re turning to, SenpAI?
Tsumugi: Is it not fine~? Since Natsume-kun was involved in its development, should it not be easy to explain?
Or do we leave the explanation to our host—Sora-kun?
Since we left the management of Switch to Sora-kun, he should have everything about SSVRS memorised as well, right?
Sora: Yes, Sora has learnt it by heart! You can leave it to him with no problems~♪
Natsume: Ugh… Don’t try to get Sora to side with you like thAT.
It can’t be helPED. Since I’m the most well-informed about SSVRS, I might as well explain about iT.
SSRVS is a VR game that was made with last year’s SS prelims in miND—a game made using the so-called virtual reaLITY.
Tatsumi: Virtual reality…?
Natsume: YeS. You might be familiar wiTH IT?
The game’s screen appears before your eyes when you put on the goggles associated wiTH IT—an illusion as if you’re inside the game itsELF… That’s how it woRKS.
And inside thAT, various AI and players can interact with imaginary idOLS who operate within it—by which you can experience special concerts and lessons in an artificial environmENT.
And simultaneoUSLY, the video footage of SSVRS will be broadcasted by TV stations and the liKE. If the idol satisfies the view count, then they can get rewardED.
Earn money by playing a fun gaME—That’s the wonderful feature of SSVRS…♪
Aira: Ooh, I see~ Yeah, stuff like Let’s Plays and earning money by doing what you like are indeed increasing these days. This feels like a part of it.
As an idol otaku, just watching my fave idols play games is fun. So I’m up for it if it’s a game that would delight both fans and idols ♪
Tatsumi: Hmm… So playing turns into work? Very interesting.
However, if we are talking about novice units, I think there are new faces in NewDi as well. Are you certain about choosing us?
Tsumugi: Ahaha. It’s as you say, but we feel that ALKALOID is most suitable for this job.
Among new units, the degree of attention on ALKALOID is rising, since it is known as the novice unit that appeared in the SS finals.
It seems that you have gathered their envy and they wish to be like you.
I don’t think anyone would be more suitable than that to act as test players of the Phantom Airship.
Mayoi: We are being admired…?
I-It is kind of embarrassing to be told that face to face. You can say that the reality still has not really sunk in yet!
Hiiro: Umu. Even if you say that about us, it has not really sunk in for me as well.
Is it really fine for us to be admired? It is bewildering.
Natsume: Fufu. Baru-kun and his friends also said something similar back when they won SS.
One truly feeling their worth and the actual recognition of worth by the world—They needn’t always happen at the same tiME.
By going through the idol festival known as SS, I feel like ALKALOID’s efforts were finally recognISED.
Tatsumi: Is the weather not splendid today, Hiiro-san? However, the way you are looking up at the sky… Could the unusual listlessness be due to homesickness?
Even at Seisou Halls, there are individuals who have found time in their schedules to return home. Has it not been half a year since Hiiro-san visited home?
Hiiro: …Yes. But I had remotely exchanged greetings with my hometown along with Nii-san. If I were to think of a reason, I’d say that it is absentmindedness since SS is over.
Tatsumi: Hmm. Could it be burnout syndrome due to SS? Now that I think about it, I have also been feeling a bit languid since the beginning of the new year.
cannot say for sure whether it is the fatigue from SS or the sluggishness after New Year’s but… It is indeed quite peaceful now that we have run past the year-end busyness.
Hiiro: Fufu. Sluggishness after New Year’s? Tatsumi-senpai also experiences such things?
But the last two months were definitely dense with work even though it was a short period. Because of that, it feels like the neighbourhood’s scenery has completely changed as a result of SS.
It was like looking straight at a dazzling ray of light… That kind of feeling—Like realising that the pinnacle of idols is still very far away.
Hiiro: And the joint appearance of the supreme commanders—fine and Eden, seemed like it had swallowed the entire SS venue into a whirlpool of excitement and emotions. I could really feel the magnificence and beauty.
Tatsumi: Yes, I understand.
If I am to be honest, I still wonder whether the scene I saw that day was a dream after all.
Since I had once given up hope on my idol life due to injury, I could not have even imagined standing under the spotlight like that again.
Performing together with Crazy:B was also very enjoyable. Now let us rest a bit and go back to that stage after we level up more than last time.
Hiiro: Yes, Tatsumi-senpai is right. We are still seen as a new unit but I want to work hard in order to be able to take greater strides this year.
Aira: Argh, I’m super late~!
Did I make it?! I did not?! …Exactly one o’clock—Barely made it!
Hiiro: Aira does not change even with the new year. Since this is not for work, I don’t think anyone will reproach you even if you are a few seconds late?
Tatsumi: Hiiro-san, I am sure Aira-san could not allow himself to be late because he was the one pushing himself to keep strictly to the time we decided on.
Since today is ALKALOID’s first meeting of the year, after all.
Aira: Yeah! Since we’re newbies, ALKALOID wasn’t invited to many New Year’s programmes but…
On the other hand, this might be our last chance to enjoy the new year in a private way.
We need to increase our activities so that next year, our schedule book is filled with jobs ♪
Hiiro:Umu[1]. If you are talking about starting the new year privately, did we not visit the shrine together after SS? Did Aira see that as work?
Aira: I’m saying that it doesn’t… NVM[2]. Stop finding faults this early in the year.
Hiiro: Umu. I wonder what “NVM” means. I would like you to explain in detail.
Aira: Oh, c’mon. I don’t wanna be put in a bad mood at the very beginning of the year because of Hiro-kun… I’ll explain later so just shut up for a while!
More importantly, I can’t see Mayo-san anywhere… Did he get the meeting place wrong?
It’s rare to be contacted by Mayo-san asking for all four of us—ALKALOID—to gather. Since he’s not used to HoldHands, maybe he got it wrong or something?
Tatsumi: It had never crossed my mind that Mayoi-san would be late since he just set up the meeting but… We do not know whether some kind of unforeseen circumstances might have happened on his way here.
…Oh? What is this…sound…?
Is that…a radio controlled…?
Aira: Nope, that’s a drone!
Hiiro: Radio controlled? Drone…?
Aira: Um… Drones are toys that can be controlled using a program but if a person nearby is controlling it, then it’s radio controlled… Kinda like that…?
Hiiro: Umu. Both are words unfamiliar to my ears. Are they like small airplanes?
Aira: Yeah, that’s why it’s not the time for explaining every single thing to Hiro-kun! Why is a drone flying around…?
Ah, maybe it’s gonna start shooting something?
Woah! Aerial photography from a drone is gonna be super cool, right?♪ If you’re fine with me, I’ll show you whatever you want!
Tatsumi: Hmm. Aerial photography? For that matter, the camera is moving in a way that its aim is only on us.
In any case, communication is most crucial. Shall we face the drone and try to hold a conversation?
Hello, dear pilot of the drone! What on earth could this be?
If there is any business you have with us, please let us meet face-to-face and talk!
Sora: HaHa~♪ Did you call Sora?
Aira: Huh… HUH?! Did Harukawa-senpai just come out of the drone—NO, he’s floating?!
Can you all see him too? No, wait! I’m too scared to hear the answer so just wait a sec!
Maybe I’m seeing things since I’ve been working with Harukawa-senpai a lot lately…
Hiiro: Don’t get so upset, Aira. I can see him as well.
I do not understand the mechanism behind it but I cannot feel his presence. I can understand that the person himself is not there.
Sora: HiHi~♪ Excellent reasoning! Actually, the Sora here is a hologram and he was watching the situation from afar!
Hello! Good afternoon, everyone from ALKALOID! Sora is here to request a job from you!
Hiiro: Umu. We are always accepting work but…
Before that, please tell us. Why is Sora-kun here?
Tatsumi: Indeed, we could have taken it as a coincidence, but your appearance was carefully planned, was it not?
We were summoned here by Mayoi-san’s message on HoldHands. Then why is it that instead of Mayoi-san, Sora-san has appeared—
Sora: HuHu~♪ That is because Shisho~…
Oops, since Sora is the project's host, he can’t talk about the things that have been decided.
Murky Onii~san is in a different place! If you cooperate with our work, Sora will tell you the place~♪
Aira: Um. This “work”—What kind of work is it? We were called in such an oddly elaborate way… I’m getting bad vibes…
There’s no way that Harukawa-senpai can request us to do something dangerous, right?
Sora: That is for you all to accept and see!—If Sora were to say that, you’d be put on guard so maybe Sora shall reveal just a little information~?
This is a special job that only ALKALOID can complete!
We shall make you the passengers of the Phantom Airship~☆
Aira: Phantom Airship…?
Writer: Kino Seitarou
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JP Proofing: nazunyan427 ✦ EN Proofing: Clyde
Hiiro sometimes uses ウム (Umu), a super cute way of agreeing/noticing/remembering something depending on context.
In the original text, Aira uses ノーカン (noukan) here which is slang for “it does not count”. Hiiro is obviously unfamiliar with it and asks for an explanation. I tried to mimic the situation in English with NVM standing for “never mind”.
Um… Is this…a jungle? Speaking of jungles, the Hokkaido jungle that Trickstar was trapped in… The memory is still fresh in my mind.
C-Could it be that I was brought here like them—
No, I cannot be sure of that! Even if it is the lowly me, I have not committed offenses severe enough to have me thrown into a jungle…!
This has to be some kind of a cruel prank, right? Anyone… If you’re watching me, please come out!
…
Uu, No response…. At this point, it’s starting to seem less like a prank…?
And even though SS was chaotic, it finished without any more problems. Then, there should be no reason to abduct someone like me, right?
Agh, it hurts. Did I bump my head against something? It’s throbbing quite painfully. Is that why my memories are also so vague?
In any case, it will not do for me to meet my death by being stranded here. Let me search around for someone.
…? What is this… growing, long shadow—
[Stomp! Stomp]
Mayoi: (Eek…! M-Monster?! Some kind of creature covered with scales just passed by me…!)
(Is this a dream? Was that actually real? What in the world…I cannot make heads or tails of this…)
(Speaking of which, I am finally starting to remember.)
(A vast forest that stretches endlessly. A gigantic monster I have never seen before is wandering around—the truth of this strange, unrealistic world is—)
The Phantom… Airship…
Time: A few hours earlier. Within the first ten days of January.
Mayoi: Ahhh… I want to be dead already, I want to disappeaaaar!
Someone like me… I’m not a being that should be acknowledged by others. I’m merely a foolish, unsightly phantom who simply hides under the guise of a normal human being…?!
To request something from someone like that… Anzu-san is too innocent. She would obviously be disappointed if she were to see my actual abilities.
Uu…. I feel faint from all this self-loathing.
At times like these, all one can do is view the precious photo I had acquired recently…. Certain nutrients can only be obtained by seeing cute and innocent kids!
Oh my, how lovely…! This photo from Branco’s concert, how pure, how innocent!
My eyes go first to Aira-san, then the other sweet kids, singing and dancing…and they are shining! Truly a sight for sore eyes… Fufu, ufufufufu… ♪
Sora: HaHa~! (tackles)
Mayoi: Hwah?! W-W-W-What is this?!
T-This is a hidden room practically nobody knows about. And I had made sure to lock properly…!
Sora: HiHi~ Happy new year, Murky Onii~san!
Aren’t we meeting for the first time since SS~? Have you been well?
Mayoi: S-Sora-san…. Why are you here?
Sora: …Should Sora have knocked?
Senpai taught Sora the electronic lock’s PIN so that Sora can come here whenever he wants to talk to Murky Onii~san.
So… Murky Onii~san, have a chat with Sora!
We were so busy during SS that we couldn’t talk despite being in the same Red Team… So I want to hear what ALKALOID is doing these days~♪
Mayoi: Y-You’re acting strangely forceful, aren’t you? It’s too dazzling for me…!
I don’t mind chatting but why don’t we do that in a coffee shop or the cafeteria instead of a place like this where there’s no one else around?
Sora: Why do you say that? This place is so quiet… Isn’t it great for talking?
Mayoi: Gulp… It’s difficult to refuse when faced with Sora-san’s beautiful eyes but…
Anyway, we simply cannot stay here. This is a secret room where no one else was supposed to enter. If my secret place is exposed, then it would cause trouble for even Sora-san…!
Natsume: Hmm. I was wondering what you were up to and it turns out you were staring at Sora’s photo without my permissiON?
Mayoi: Eek! N-Natsume-san is also here?!
Natsume: Fufu. I entered while Sora had your attentiON.
Not just mE. Even Senpai is hERE. I’d appreciate it if you could welcome him tOO.
Tsumugi: Hello~ Good to see you again, Ayase-kun.
Your performance with Crazy:B during the SS finals was incredibly wonderful.
I had actually wanted to tell you immediately afterwards but that day was really busy, right?
Ah, that reminds me. I had received leftover catering food from SS, as a sort of New Year’s gift I suppose you could say? Please have some Kouhaku[1] steamed buns if you would like some ♪
Mayoi: No. Um… Actually…
Everyone, what possibly could you all want with someone like me? The three members of Switch have assembled… Are the magicians going to exorcise the phantom or something…?!
Natsume: Your persecution complex is too extreME.
ActuaLLY, we have a job perfect for someone with an inferiority complex like youRS.
We’re inviting ALKALOID to the Phantom AirshIP. Will you cooperate?
Mayoi: Phantom Airship…? What is…that?
Sora: Seeing it yourself is more fun! And we swear there won’t be any harm in checking it out~!
Please believe in Sora and Switch! We’ll cast the magic of happiness and turn Murky Onii~san’s colour into a warm one for sure ☆
Writer: Kino Seitarou
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JP Proofing: nazunyan427 ✦ EN Proofing: Clyde
Kouhaku manjuu or red and white steamed buns are eaten during special occasions. Click here to learn more.
Yuzuru: …I have found Hiiro-sama. He is over there.
Aira: You're right! As expected of Fushimi-senpai.
Aira: Wait—HUH~?! He's waist-deep in the river..
He~y, Hiro-ku~n! Come back! It's too dark, you won't be able to find it!
This is dangerous! Hiro-ku~n!
Hiiro: …
Aira: He ignored me… Is my voice not reaching him? HE~LLO!
Hiiro: …
Yuzuru: (...Rather than ignoring, it seems like he cannot hear any sounds from the surroundings.)
(As Shiratori-sama said, the river is dangerous at night. My prior investigations tell me that the water level here is at three metres at most.)
(Even if it must be by force, I should bring him back. I shall borrow a rope from the control office and…)
Hiiro: —I can see it.
Aira: H-Hiro-kun?!
Aira: What do we do? Hiro-kun has disappeared into the water…!
Yuzuru: Ugh, that decides it.
Shiratori-sama, please wait here. I shall swim and—
Hiiro: …Phew
Alright. I have found the glasses!
Fufu, it was worth getting drenched.
…Huh, why are the two of you here?
Aira: I mean, if you ask why, we came running after you but…Uhh…
Yuzuru: You did well but… How were you even able to find it in this pitch darkness?
Hiiro: I was able to find it precisely because it was dark. When the sun was shining, the light reflected made it too bright and various things would catch the eye. So on the contrary, it was actually a hindrance to the search.
By sharpening my senses inside the darkness, I could immediately detect the glasses' presence.
Yuzuru: Ha… Their presence, you say…? Hiiro-sama's physical prowess is excellent.
Aira: You don't have to care about him, Fushimi-senpai. Hiro-kun is just your average weirdo.
Hiiro: But even you say weird things sometimes? Since we are both weirdos, let us continue to get along.
Aira: Don't put me in the same boat as you by calling me a weirdo! I'm normal!
Mika: Should I go there as well ‘n see what the situation's like? But I can't see well when it's dark since I'm nightblind.
Not only would I be useless, but I'd also drag 'em down. What to do…?
Keito: …Kagehira, can you hear something from faraway?
Hiiro: We're back. Hasumi-senpai, can you give me your hand?
Keito: Like this? This feels like—My glasses? No way… To think that you would actually find them.
Keito: …Hm? What happened, Amagi? Your whole body is soaking wet.
Hiiro: You see, the glasses had sunk to the bottom of the river. So I had no choice but to dive in.
Keito: You dived in? You shouldn’t do such rash things, good gracious…
Yuzuru: Hiiro-sama, leave the explanation for later and please change your clothes in the tent. It would be worrying if your temperature dropped.
Hiiro: Umu. Understood.
Time: Five minutes later
Hiiro: Sorry to keep you waiting. Doesn't it feel strange when I'm the only one in casual clothes?
Yuzuru: Let us hang up your practice clothes later. They should be dry in the morning.
Hiiro-sama, please come here. Allow me to dry your hair for you.
…In the end, it is great that you were able to find them. But the river is dangerous at night. If you had to search, would it not have been better to wait for morning?
Hiiro: No. If I had waited till morning, they would have vanished.
Yuzuru: …Are you referring to the stars?
Hiiro: Umu. Here you can even see stars that would fade away under the street lights in ES.
When I thought that we could only enjoy this view now, being in a camp surrounded by nature, I wanted to find the glasses no matter what.
All five of us together make "Keito Lectures". So I wanted to enjoy this moment with everyone, without leaving anyone behind.
That was all. Let me apologise for causing worry… I'm sorry.
Yuzuru: …When Keito-sama lost his glasses, everyone was down in the dumps, and the ambience was not suitable for enjoying the starry sky.
Although it was dangerous and I can neither give you full credit nor praise you—This time, we were saved by Hiiro-sama's ability to take action.
Your conduct may be far from normal and sometimes lacking in common sense, but that is precisely why it can be helpful at times…
Hiiro: …I am inexperienced and will cause a lot of trouble even in the future, but I would be glad if I could be accompanied by you all as part of "Keito Lectures".
There is still a lot I want to know—About idols, about the city, about everyone, and about this world.
Yuzuru: If you are fine with me, I would be pleased to. Keito-sama also appears to have the same opinion.
Keito: Unfortunately, I seem to be surrounded by innumerable troublesome guys. The number increasing by one more new person is of no concern.
There are limits since we are in different agencies and units, but as long as you don't throw in the towel, I'll look after you in "Keito Lectures".
Hiiro: Umu! Once again, I'll be under your care.
Aira: Is the convo over…? Hasumi-senpai, would you like to play with this?
Keito: Sparkler fireworks? Did you bring them all the way here?
Aira: Yeah. Since summer kinda means fireworks, so I thought it'd be nice if we could play with them together…♪
Mika: There's many kinds of 'em, huh. What's this?
Hiiro: It's shaped like a gun. Is this how you set it off?
Keito: Don't start yet, alright? It would be terrible if a fire breaks out. Let's move to the riverbed?
Yuzuru: Quite right. And just to be cautious, let me also borrow a fire extinguisher from the control office.
This is going to become a wonderful memory… Am I right, Keito-sama?
Mika: 'N then ya drive the stakes into the ground all the way to the end—
My part's all done~ What 'bout Shiratori-kun's?
Aira: Um, two more left!
Mika: Then lemme help ya. I'll take one~
Mfufu. Ya call this stake a "peg", right? It makes such a nice sound when ya hit ‘em.
Tap-tap, tap-tap…♪
Keito: You seem to be having fun, Kagehira.
Mika: Hasumi-senpai. We're almost done settin’ up the tents~
Keito: Thank you. I also just finished getting water. And Fushimi and Amagi…
Hiiro: Thank you for waiting. We bought firewood from the control office!
Yuzuru: And we have also borrowed fishing gear as per your request.
Mika: Fishin' gear? Hasumi-senpai, is fishin' a hobby of yers?
Keito: Well, it's not exactly a hobby, but I, more or less, do have experience with it.
According to Kiryuu, the river here is really good for fishing. Let's hope it is.
Time: After a while
Mika: …
…Nwaaah, I can't catch a thing! Are we sure there's fish here?
Keito: Calm down. Did I not say that fishing is all about patience?
This is what we call a test of endurance. Let's stay calm instead of rushing, and grasp the chance when it comes.
Mika: Ya say we'll grasp it, but even Hasumi-senpai couldn't catch anythin' at all.
Keito: And what about it? Compared to the sea, the difficulty of fishing in a river is much higher… But it is too early to give up.
…Hm, the bait has disappeared… I had firmly fastened it so it couldn't have been washed away by the water.
This is good news—There are fish. Let’s keep persevering with patience, Kagehira.
Location: Meanwhile elsewhere
Aira: Look, look. There's a tiny crab… How rabu~i ♪
Yuzuru: A freshwater crab, I see. They are quite tasty when deep-fried.
Aira: WHA… But it'd be a pity if we ate it… Lemme help it run away to a place where no adult can find it.
Yuzuru: Fufu, Shiratori-sama sure is kind.
I must start making preparations for dinner so let me excuse myself.
Aira: Alright. I'm looking forward to the barbeque!
He~y, Hiro-kun. You've been staring at the river for a while now, did you find something?
Hiiro: Umu. There is a small fish.
Aira: For real? Lemme see…
HUH?! That's not a small fish… It's as big as my arm.
Hiiro: Really? But the fish in my hometown are much bigger.
I wonder what the fish here taste like. Let’s try catching one.
Aira: But you're trying to catch one with your bare hands… And that's impossible, it’ll obviously get away.
Hiiro: How can you know that for sure? You never know unless you try.
—HA!
Aira: Woah, you caught it in one go…
Hiiro: Alright. Now let’s carry this to the tent and give it to Fushimi-senpai so that he can prepare it.
…Oops. Fufu, aren't you quite a lively fish?
Aira: This isn't the time to be laughing? It's going berserk under your arms and might get away any second.
Hiiro: Fumu. I shall take hold of it around its anal fins, so I'll leave the head portion to you. If it's the two of us, then we should be able to carry it back safely.
Aira: Eh, you want me to help as well…?
GYA, it's so slimy and disgusting! No way, I can't… Hiro-kun, you carry it by yourself!
Keito: …You two are making so much noise. Here, I brought you a bucket. Use this.
Hiiro: Thank you, Hasumi-senpai.
Keito: Compared to the fish Kagehira and I have caught, this one's considerably large. Perhaps, it may be the king of the river—
Keito: Agh...
Aira: Are you alright, Hasumi-senpai?
Keito: Y-Yes… Just that the fish's tail hit my glasses.
…? My vision is becoming blurry…
My glasses… They aren't here…?!
Aira: Don't tell me—The thing that just fell into the river is—
Hiro-kun, GLASSES—His glasses! We need to find them!
Hiiro: Umu, understood!
Mika: Y'all~ What's all the commotion 'bout?
Keito: That voice—Is that you, Kagehira?
Mika: Yea, 'tis me~
…Huh? I dunno if I'm just imaginin' it, but Hasumi-senpai's facial features look different…?
Keito: Facial features… Well, they were like a part of my body… So even though you aren't completely correct, I cannot say that you are wrong either, huh?
I carelessly ended up losing my glasses. I'm unable to move since there is danger that I may fall down.
Mika: Ah. So that's why Hiro-kun 'n Shiratori-kun are scavengin' for sumthin' on the riverbed~
WAIT, ya lost yer glasses?! Are ya doin' okay? Can ya breathe?
Keito: What impression do you even have of me…? Relax… Everything is the same except that my vision is blurry.
I'm sorry, but could you guide me to that lawn over there? There are many pebbles around that I can't walk heedlessly.
Mika: Yea, got it. I'll lead ya by the hand, so walk slowly.
There ya go—Up 'n down~ Up 'n down~...♪
Fufu. I was in-charge of the lil' ones back in my hometown, ya see~ This is how I used to lead them.
Keito: How incorrigible it is to be treated like an infant…
Time: Few hours later
Yuzuru: …They have been thoroughly cooked… It seems that it is about time. Everyone, please have your fill.
Mika: ‘Kay, I’m diggin’ in~♪
Fufu, so tasty! Maybe it’s ‘cuz we got the fish ourselves, but it feels especially good.
Keito: …
Hiiro・Aira: …
Mika: Nwa~... Sorry fer gettin' excited all by myself. I'll be quiet too.
Keito: It’s alright, there’s no need to hold yourself back… You can behave however you like.
Amagi and Shiratori too. Isn’t a meal eaten in silence quite boring?
…It is unfortunate that my glasses were lost, but this isn't the first time I'm going through such an experience.
Unforeseen troubles are an indispensable part of our lives, and letting yourself be put down by every single one of them is unhealthy.
I have plenty of spares back in my dorm, so I do not want this day to get ruined. Honestly, do not worry about me.
Hiiro: …
…Just wait. I shall find them no matter what!
Keito: Amagi? Hey, what are you planning on doing?
Yuzuru: He seems to have run towards the riverbed. You can leave this to me.
Aira: I-I'll also come with you. Ugh, what is Hiro-kun even thinking?
Keito: …Since this train only goes towards the countryside, it seems like there are no other travellers besides us. Should we have lunch then?
Yuzuru: Understood. I shall immediately get it ready for you.
Yuzuru: This is Hiiro-sama’s portion.
Hiiro: Thank you. You even made five lunch boxes—How incredible… You have my respect!
Yuzuru: I appreciate that. Shiratori-sama, here is yours.
Aira: Wah! Thank you so much ♪
…Huh. The contents of my lunch box seem to be different from Hiro-kun's…?
Hiiro: And it doesn't seem to be just ours either. Kagehira-senpai's bento is… Completely burnt?
Yuzuru: Before I prepared the lunch boxes, do you remember the time when I inquired about your favourite foods?
I was not able to make them all completely different. But I tried to make lunch boxes that reflect your likings as much as possible.
Keito: In that case, Kagehira's burnt lunch—Is that on purpose?
Mika: I love half-burnt stuff that feels like a beginner's failed cookin'.
Nom nom… Mm~ So tasty! This wonderful bittersweet flavour… 'Tis the best ♪
'Tis the first time in my whole life that I'm eatin' such an ideal lunch. Thank ya, Yukkun~
Yuzuru: I was honestly worried about what to do when I first heard your response to my question. But I am deeply honoured that I am able to please you.
What about the others? I do hope they suit your tastes…
Keito: It's delicious, no doubt about it. Yuzuru has always been competent, but I didn't realise that even your cooking skills are perfect.
Yuzuru: I am grateful to hear that. However, I only became able to make dishes like these quite recently… After I became part of “Niki’s Kitchen”.
Until that point, I used to diligently make lunches for Bocchama… But they were considered dull and were not well-liked.
And that was because I prioritised ingredients with higher nutritional values, which, to be fairly honest, I do not regret.
If I had to choose between taste and nutritional intake, then I would always pick the latter for Bocchama’s sake.
However, by becoming a part of “Niki’s Kitchen”, I came to understand that it is not necessary to make a choice between the two. I realised that with enough scheming, you can make delicious dishes filled with ample nutrients.
Thanks to the guidance of Shiina-sama, Bocchama has started breaking into smiles during mealtimes.
And that’s not all. Like this, I have also become able to make dishes that pleases others besides Bocchama.
I shall take care not to get too pretentious and continue to devote myself here on forth as well.
Aira: Nom nom… But this is super tasty, so I think it’s fine even if you get a little pretentious?
I mean, I definitely would. I’d put plenty of hashtags and post all over SNS.
…Ahh, oh no. It was Fushimi-senpai’s homemade lunch—Yet I ended up eating everything without taking any pics.
Hiiro: I haven’t eaten yet, so you can take a picture of mine.
Aira: Nope, that’s not very love so I’ll pass. What’s important is that it was for me.
To feel better, lemme take a pic of Hiro-kun eating his lunch. Ah, can I post it on SNS?
Hiiro: Umu. Do I look “rabui” eating lunch?
Aira: To Hiro-kun’s fans, yeah. Private shots are so good—They're an otaku’s favourite meal…♪
Mika: Mfufu. I’m done eatin’ so maybe I’ll take a pic too?
‘Tis what ya call a “rural landscape”, yea? I wonder if Oshi-san would be happy if I sent a pic to him.
…? …Nah, I can’t take anythin' good. Comes out blurry no matter what.
Keito: Unless you’re against the idea, what about recording a video using the video mode? Videos won't turn out as blurry as still images and you can also send your voice along with it.
Mika: Ain’t that nice… Then I’ll do that. Lemme change the mode ‘n—
Oshi-san, can ya hear me~? It’s me~...♪
Hiiro: Thank you for the meal. Now, let me also take a picture. For Tatsumi-senpai and—
…
Yuzuru: What may be the matter, Hiiro-sama?
Hiiro: Umu… I was absorbed in our conversation and having lunch that I did not realise—This is quite a beautiful sight.
It’s a wonder how the scenery can change so much when we left the city just a little while ago. It is also completely different from my hometown… I have only come to realise how vast Japan is.
The place where we are making an encampment—I wonder what kind of place it is. I'm looking forward to it.
Hiiro: …This is supposed to be the meeting place… But there's no one else here. We seem to be the first to arrive.
By the way, Aira… Why are you standing so far away? Come here.
Aira: Nope, I'm staying here until everyone arrives. Standing under the shade is much cooler.
Uu~ The sun's so bright. The weather's just right to go camping, but the heat reflected by the asphalt is too harsh…
It'd be terrible if this leads to a heatstroke. Hiro-kun, you too—Take shelter here.
Hiiro: I'm all right. My physical condition is well-prepared for this. And if push comes to shove, I have the thermos I received from Tatsumi-senpai.
Aira: Ah. Tattsun-senpai went through the trouble of preparing that for you since you didn't know the basics of camping, right?
Hiiro: Umu! Mayoi-senpai also gave me something called a… Salt tablet…? I'll be mindful to frequently replenish myself using the water and salt—Just like how senpais instructed me.
Aira: Ahaha. They feel like parents sending their child on his first field trip…♪
Hiiro: What about Aira? You're carrying quite a large bag. Were you given something by them?
Aira: I wasn't given anything, these are all my own. Stuff like insect sprays and portable chargers, you know…
Even if we're in the middle of nature, I can't let go of my smartphone. So I wanna be as comfortable as possible.
…Huh? Those people getting out from that taxi—
Hiiro: Aren't they Hasumi-senpai and the others? Ah, they seem to have noticed us.
Keito: You arrived before the meeting time, huh. I'll give you credit for that.
Aira: Ehehe. Since we're going by train, we left the dorms early since we definitely couldn't be late.
Mika: Ya two walked ‘till the station? Mighty impressive that ya both got here just fine.
I was also plannin' on walkin' all the way, but I was picked up by Yukkun ‘n Hasumi-senpai.
Yuzuru: Thank goodness we were able to spot you on the way. The sun is so blazingly hot today that you may have even collapsed.
We discussed it on the way as well, but walking without taking the necessary measures is not admirable at all. Are you not in possession of a parasol?
Mika: Well, I kinda do have one… But I can't use it.
Hiiro: What does that mean? Is it broken?
Mika: Nah. It's a present from Oshi-san. He bought it from a well-established shop in Paris, 'n it's a one-of-a-kind item.
I'm careless ‘n I might misplace it 'n forget it somewhere, so I don't wanna use it.
Aira: I really get that feeling about wanting to treasure it. I'm also the type to treat my limited merch like treasure.
But in this case, I think Itsuki-senpai gifted you a parasol because he was worried about your body, Kagehira-senpai.
So if you don't use it and end up getting a heatstroke, won't it be meaningless?
Mika: Nn~ Well, ya got a point but…
Hiiro: Don't worry, Kagehira-senpai. There are other measures you can take besides using a parasol.
Here, I'll give you this salt tablet. I think you'll be fine as long as you frequently replenish yourself using salt and water.
Mika: Whoa, thank ya~ Lemme give ya some candies as thanks—
Nha, did they melt 'cause of the heat?!
I had even prepared it just fer today… There's nothin' I can give ya… Forgive me.
Hiiro: It’s okay. That doesn't matter as long as you are in good health.
Keito: …Sorry for disrupting the conversation, but we probably should get in. The train platform is much cooler since there's a roof.
Ugh, it's extremely crowded today. Follow me so that you don't get lost.
Aira: Yes!
Mika: …Thank god~ I passed through the ticket gate with no prob’ this time ‘round.
I couldn't help gettin' nervous thinkin' 'bout what to do if the buzzer had rang and stopped me from passin' through.
Aira: Ahaha. It's especially bad when you're in a hurry, right?
Wait, Hiro-kun has been stopped at the ticket gate?!
Yuzuru: What could be the matter, Hiiro-sama?
Hiiro: Umu. I made the gesture with my hand just like everyone else, but I'm not able to enter.
Yuzuru: I see… Are you not in possession of an IC card?[1]
Hiiro: IC card… Do you mean this?
Yuzuru: That is the ES building's entry card. Here, please try using this one. It is not a commuter pass and is unsigned, so no problems should arise.
Hiiro: Thank you. But what about Yuzuru-senpai?
Yuzuru: You need not worry. I always carry spares with me. Now, let us go.
Hiiro: Umu. I should have just bought a ticket upfront. But I was so excited at the thought of being able to enter simply by showing my hand that I wanted to try it out as well.
Yuzuru: Fufu. It would be impossible right now since everyone is waiting, but I shall teach you how to buy an IC card on the way back.
This way, you need not queue up at the ticket machine every time, so it is quite useful.
Hiiro: Thank you, Fushimi-senpai. That would be a great help.
Time: Ten minutes later
Keito: —And so we have boarded the correct train. Things have been good so far.
We'll change trains after three stops, so don't get distracted—Especially you, Amagi.
Aira: He's singling you out, huh… Hiro-kun, hold still, 'kay?
Hiiro: Even if you say that, I can't control my excitement. Since we don't have a vehicle like this in my hometown.
Ah. Fushimi-senpai, I found a signboard of fine outside the window!
Yuzuru: So it seems. Thank you for telling me.
Aira: It's okay not to go along with everything this guy says. Actually, I'm sorry that Hiro-kun's being such a bother.
Yuzuru: Absolutely not. Taking care of others is something I love to do. So despite how it seems, I am having a very enjoyable time.
Fufu. Reminds me of when Bocchama was a handful… How nostalgic.
Writer: Yuumasu
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Proofing: mia
IC cards are rechargeable cards that can be used to conveniently pay fares on public transportation and to make payments at many vending machines, shops and restaurants by simply touching the card on a reader for about one second
Yuzuru: (...I have completed the end of day report as well. Now all that is left is to meet up with the others.)
(I asked Keito-sama and Hiiro-sama to go ahead of me, so…Oh?)
Hiiro: He~llo, Fushimi-senpai! This way!
Yuzuru: Ah, my deepest apologies for the wait.
Aira: No prob at all. Here, the menu.
Yuzuru: Thank you very much… Then I shall settle for this lunch set.
Mika: Ah, that's the same one as mine~ Naru-chan said that the karaage that comes with this lunch set is super tasty. I can't wait to try ♪
Nn~? Hasumi-senpai, where ya goin'?
Keito: Just a minute. I'll be back soon.
Aira: He walked towards the entrance. Seems like he's talking to…Kiryuu-senpai?
Hiiro: Buchou is also there. He's coming back with them.
Keito: Kiryuu and Nagumo came here to have lunch as well… But it looks like the seats are all filled.
Luckily, our table is quite big and we have extra space. So would you mind sharing with these two?
Hiiro: I see. Let's welcome them with pleasure.
Let's all clap our hands! After all, that's the correct way to receive someone.
Tetora: No, no… That's embarrassing so please stop it.
I'll talk to the waiter and get two extra chairs, Taishou.
Kuro: Yeah, I'm leavin’ that to ya… But this is certainly an odd group. What's the reason behind it, Hasumi?
Keito: "Keito Lectures".
Kuro: "Keito Lectures"... Ah, now I remember. Isn't that the study circle ya organised, Danna?
Keito: Correct. Are you interested in joining as well?
Kuro: No way. Yer well aware that studyin’ isn't ma strong point.
Tetora: Taishou~ I've borrowed the chairs! I also placed the orders while at it.
Kuro: Thanks, Tetsu. Heave-ho…There.
Hiiro: Our circle isn't just for studying, Kiryuu-senpai. You see, today we learned about traffic rules.
Tetora: Traffic Rules? You mean stuff like "you should raise your hand before using the crosswalk~"?
That's nostalgic~ I remember learning them in elementary school's traffic safety classes.
Kuro: Me too. Well, I mean, that's what yer being taught? Yer not kids.
Keito: Hm. But things like having to keep to the right side when there's no footpath—People surprisingly forget about them?
Actually, I had only planned to do a review. But Amagi seemed to be learning by feel, so it was actually worth teaching.
When I see this guy, I get reminded of how Kanzaki used to be. His earnest single-mindedness is praiseworthy, but his common sense wanes here and there.
He's very quick on the uptake, and his ambition makes you want to improve yourself as well. However, I'm worried that his lack of common sense may get him in some kind of unforseen trouble.
Tetora: Ah~ …I get Hasumi-senpai's feelings… I can kinda see what you mean.
Tetora: Even in the karate club and at "Shin", he can act strange sometimes~ He always catches you off-guard.
Kuro: So far, there's been no real harm. And thinkin’ ‘bout it, it’s actually kinda amusin’ to watch. Danna, were you able to do somethin’ about schoolin’ him?
Keito: Hard to tell. He's putting effort into it, but there are things you can't learn solely by sitting in a classroom.
In order to understand how much Amagi has adapted to society, maybe it's time to consider some hands-on training…?
Kuro: Hands-on trainin’… Hey, what do ya think ‘bout "Keito Lectures" going on an outin’?
Everyone in the "Overnight Outdoors Party" I belong to doesn't keep up with social norms, so at first even decidin’ on our destination was a pain.
But as we continued our activities, we came to understand one another's habits. Now we’ve settled down and are havin’ fun.
Danna's circle should also go on a trip to some faraway place. Livin’ together, even for just two days and a night, can improve everyone's cooperativeness, and the journey to your destination can also be educational, don’tcha think?
Keito: Hm… Then what about going to the mountains and meditating under a waterfall?
Kuro: Oi, oi. Not everyone's Kanzaki… That's too much for an ordinary person.
Keito: But I can't think of anything else. I rarely leave my home area so I don't know anything about these "outing spots".
Kuro: I see. Then what about an average campin’?
There's a campsite we often use at "Overnight Outdoors Party." It’s aimed for beginners, so there's a lot of services offered.
An instructor is permanently stationed in a control office, so ya can consult them whenever yer in trouble. And ya can also borrow everythin’ ya need for campin’, from tents to cookin’ utensils.
If ya ever run out of food, ya can get them from a nearby convenience store. So it's famous for bein’ enjoyable even if ya arrive empty-handed.
Keito: Huh, tell me all the details.
Mika: …Hasumi-senpai ‘n Kiryuu-senpai seem excited discussin' ‘bout campin', huh?
Hiiro: Yes. By the way, what is this "camping"?
Aira: What? So you were silently listening without knowing what it was?
Hiiro: Umu, interrupting a conversation is not good, after all. I want you to tell me what camping is.
Aira: Um, how do I explain… It's like… Sleeping outdoors?
Yuzuru: If I had to explain it, I would say that its definition is closer to an encampment. We use a tent—A simple house made of cloth.
Hiiro: If it's about sleeping outdoors, then I have knowledge about it. Since we have a custom of hunting back in my hometown. In that case, are we planning to go hunting?
Fufu, I'm looking forward to it. I'm always being taught by everyone… But maybe I’ll finally be of use to others…♪
Keito: —And we shall end today's Keito Lectures with "Discussing Traffic Rules".
Aira: HUH?!
Keito: I heard that. What was that "HUH?!" for?
Aira: Ah, I'm sorry! I think I know what this is about…
Mika: Nn. Shiratori-kun, did ya do sumthin' wrong?
Aira: Um, isn't there a roadway in front of Seisoukan? There didn't seem to be any cars and I was in a hurry so I crossed it—
And ended up meeting eyes with Hasumi-senpai who was on the crosswalk…
Keito: Huh, you haven't forgotten. So you do feel guilty in some way.
But violating traffic rules is incorrigible. Do reflect on your actions properly. Lack of vigilance paves the way for accidents.
Not to mention that we are idols. No matter the time and place; No matter who we are seen by, we must behave in an orderly fashion.
Aira: Ha… Yeah. That’s right. I know in my head that idols have their own private lives too, but seeing an idol ignore traffic lights would be a huge let-down.
I won't repeat it again. I'm really sorry.
Keito: You don't have to apologise to me. Being able to understand is more than enough.
Now, does anyone have any questions regarding traffic rules and etiquette? If there are none, then I shall explain the Road Traffic Act in relation to intersections.
Amagi seems to be raising his hand. Alright, speak up.
Hiiro: Umu! This is a great opportunity so I'd like you to explain the mystery regarding traffic lights.
Hiiro: Why is the "blue light" green in colour? Why don't we call it "green light"?
Aira: Hiro-kun, how's that related to traffic rules?
Mika: Yeah, but I'd like to know as well. I'm kinda curious now that ya mention it.
Keito: Hm. The origin of "blue light", huh…
Yuzuru: …Then, if you can pardon my rudeness, I shall explain.
Back in the day, when traffic lights were first established in Japan, they were legally called "green lights".
But articles introducing traffic lights recorded them as "blue lights", hence calling them "blue lights" became more widespread.
Green vegetable juice, green apples, green crops—They're all green in colour, but since we call them "blue" in Japanese, they seemed to have played a part in the establishment of the name as well.[1]
And soon, even the law started calling them "blue lights".
Keito: Hm, you seem to be well-informed?
Yuzuru: It's all thanks to my master. When Bocchama was young, he would ask to go walking outside on a whim…
So we would hold hands and slowly walk around the mansion.
And he would ask me about various things such as the colour of traffic lights, shapes of signs, the significance of road reflectors… Always with those sparkling eyes, exactly in the way Hiiro-sama just did.
Oh, let me sincerely apologise for going as far as mentioning unrelated details. Were you able to understand why they are called "blue lights"?
Hiiro: Umu. I've understood. Both about "blue lights" and how much Fushimi-senpai treasures Tori-kun.
Yuzuru: Fufu, how embarrassing. Keito-sama, if you may, let us continue now.
Keito: Yes. Are there any other questions?
…There seem to be none. Then let's start with the Road Traffic Act.
Time: After a while
Keito: —That's all for today.
Mika: Thank ya~ My head's a mess from tryin' to take in everythin' that was taught, but t’was mighty useful.
For a pedestrian, the lights from a car can be seen even from a distance, but it's hard to spot dark coloured clothes for the person drivin’, huh~
Maybe I should buy sumthin' reflective and put it on my bag next time.
Hiiro: I shall also do that. Hasumi-senpai, thank you for opening "Keito Lectures". I can acquire various kinds of knowledge by coming here. It's very fun!
Keito: Hm… It's admirable how Amagi tackles studies with so much positivity, but your lack of common sense is deeply worrying.
You haven't been facing any obstacles in your day-to-day life, right?
Hiiro: Umu! I've become quite familiar with the city's common sense.
Aira: He's a lot better compared to when we just met, but somehow the lack of common sense is still there, you know~?
Keito-senpai, let me apologise for this guy of mine.[2]
Hiiro: Why are you apologising, Aira? …Ah.
Fushimi-senpai, I shall also help you tidy up. What can I do?
Yuzuru: I'm much obliged for your kindness. However, there is no reason to worry. You can leave the cleaning to me and have a pleasant chat with the others ♪
Hiiro: Hm… Even if you say that you never let anyone else do it.
We are all friends belonging to the same circle. Just once in a while, I would like you to let me help.
Yuzuru: However…
Keito: What about depending on Amagi's kindness this time, Fushimi? Didn't we agree to have lunch together after this?
It's more efficient to divide the work. I'll also help.
Yuzuru: …Understood. I shall leave the task of replacing the equipment to Keito-sama.
As for Hiiro-sama, would it be possible for you to discard this bundle of newspapers?
Hiiro: Umu. No matter what happens on the way, I shall take responsibility and discard them.
Aira: No, the trashcan is right outside the corridor, so I don't think anything would happen? What about Kagehira-senpai and I?
Yuzuru: Yes… Then how about heading to COCHI before us and securing seats for everyone?
Mika: Got it. Then see ya later~
Yuzuru: Yes, let us meet later.
Since cleaning is my hobby, there was no need to accept help.
But sharing your joy like this isn't bad once in a while…♪
Writer: Yuumasu
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Proofing: mia
The names of all the green things Yuzuru mentions contain the kanji for blue (青) in Japanese. And as noted by my proofreader, there were only four primary colours in Japan for a long time (blue, red, white and black). Hence the newspapers introduced the traffic lights as "blue" back in 1930, since the word for "green" was not commonly used until WW2
Aira uses the term うちの人 to talk about Hiiro here which is usually used to refer to one's husband but can also mean a family member in general
