[Piofiore + Café Enchanté] Contacting Aksys about Recent Releases + Future of Otome Games
First of all, I’m sorry that it’s not something A3-related.
Some of you who are fans of otome games have probably realized that the games released by Aksys this year have been riddled with errors, so much that not a few could not enjoy them that much due to this.
Following the mess that is Collar x Malice: Unlimited, which has more than 600+ errors, we were hoping that the remaining releases (Piofiore: Fated Memories, Cafe Enchante) would make up for it. Unfortunately, while both titles did not have as many mistakes as CxM:U, it still racked up more than 100 errors, including text breaks, missing words and mistranslation.
Considering the price the players had to pay to buy these games, that is simply unacceptable. It is beyond disappointing and frustrating to see the games we all looked forward to were treated with little care.
This time, me and four other friends have compiled some examples of these errors into a document and wrote a statement about the current state of their recent releases that you can find here. We ask that you read this document, send the link to the document to Aksys through their website, and request that there needs to be more care put into this genre.
We’re not demanding them to make patches for Piofiore and Cafe Enchante, since it will most likely cost money and etc. All we want to is for them to handle their future releases, otome games in particular, with more care.
Thank you for reading until the end! We sincerely hope Aksys’ future releases will be much better than this year’s so that we all can enjoy the games to the fullest.
A3! Event: Dance with Butterfly Epilogue "Their Usual Chemistry" Translation
Izumi: Now that we're done with the evaluation for Winter Troupe's eighth play, I'd like to end today's meeting here. Good work, everyone!
Tasuku: Good work.
Homare: Good job.
Tsumugi: Speaking of… I remember we talked about holding a celebration party after this play.
Izumi: Right. Because the play has wrapped up, you can choose where and what we're gonna do at the party.
Homare: The answer is obvious, then…
Azuma: There's only one thing we can do.
Hisoka: …It's already decided from the start.
Guy: And it should be soon.
Tasuku: ?
Homare: We'll have a live viewing party of Tasuku-kun's drama, of course!
Tasuku: It doesn't have anything to do with the play.
Tsumugi: But simply having a party would be boring.
Homare: I know! Let's have a hot pot party!
Hisoka: …Again?
Azuma: He loves it.
Homare: Eating from the same pot can mean that we pledge our solidarity in the future! It's a good thing!
Tasuku: But we're always doing the same thing.
Tsumugi: I don't see why not. We all like hot pot, anyway.
Guy: Yeah. It sounds fun.
Izumi: What kind of hot pot are we going to have?
Tsumugi: How about we let our lead and co-lead decide that?
Homare: I like that idea.
Tasuku: I feel like we can come up with something decent.
Hisoka: …Say it on the count of three.
Azuma: Compatibility game? It's been a while, huh.
Homare: It'll be a piece of cake. I mean, we've grown more compatible with each other after that play.
Tasuku: Not sure about that…
Tsumugi: Okay, now, name one hot pot.
Tasuku: One, two, three… Miso.
Homare: Secret hot pot!
Tasuku: Why secret hot pot? I knew it. We won't match at all.
Izumi: Your answers are too different.
Homare: Having a secret hot pot means that we can experience the fun and thrill of guessing what is inside the pot. It's the best form of entertainment!
Tasuku: Nah, we really don't match.
Azuma: And that's what makes you two unique.
Homare: Cheers!
Tasuku: Cheers.
Sakuya: Good work on the eighth play!
Kazunari: GJ y'all!
Syu: *sighs*... I actually don't want to come. So bothersome.
Azuma: Now, now. We have the "Winter Moon" sake with us.
Syu: Just one toast, then.
Why are you doin' a hot pot at a bar, anyway? Doesn't make any sense to me.
Misumi: Hot pot tastes delicious when we eat it together~.
Kazunari: It's fun!
Tsumugi: It's a good thing we don't have to do secret hot pot.
Izumi: In the end we decided to make several hot pots.
Omi: The seafood hot pot is over here.
Sakyo: The crab should be here, then.
Tsuzuru: I've brought salmon.
Muku: The tomato hot pot is over here.
Itaru: I've brought cheese with me. Guess that means I should put it here.
Taichi: Nice! Bet it tastes awesome if we turn it into risotto!
Hisoka: Marshmallows…
Chikage: No place for marshmallows.
Citron: We have chocolate hot pot!
Tenma: What kind of hot pot is that?!
Banri: Dude, that's a totally Hyodo hot pot. I mean, he's already on stand by.
Juza: Hot pot is hot pot. I don't have any complaints about it.
Kumon: Just think of it as chocolate fondue!
Masumi: I've brought strawberries.
Yuki: Maybe the fruits should go to the choco hot pot.
Azami: Don't eat too much.
Izumi: Oh! The drama is starting soon!
Syu: Heh, so a period one, huh.
Tasuku: "How unsightly."
Kazunari: Here comes Tax!
Taichi: You really look good in a kimono!
Actor B: "What are we going to do, dear?"
Tasuku: "I shall cut down Suruga."
Actor A: "No way… Brother, wait a minute! Brother!"
Kumon: You're so cool, Tasuku-san!
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Muku: Time sure flies by, huh. It's ended already.
Yuki: It's surprisingly interesting.
Tenma: I expected no less from you, Tasuku-san. You did well in an onscreen production even though that was your first time.
You looked stiffer than usual, though.
Tasuku: I still have a lot to learn.
I'm still going to focus on stage play, but I plan to appear in onscreen production again if I have the chance. I'll be asking you a lot of stuff.
Tenma: Sure.
Homare: …
Tasuku: You still filming?
Homare: This is an important page in your life, after all.
…Oh! I've got inspiration! Hold the camera for me!
Tasuku: Why me…
Homare: Brand new page~ Leaving with salvage, o page~... The pain that comes and goes, changing everything~...
A3! Event: Dance with Butterfly Episode 10 Translation
Takatsu: "Hey, I wanna ask about the schedule…"
Friend: "Oh, about that… sorry. The producer told me to exclude you from our next show."
Takatsu: "Got it."
Friend: "We're gonna be in hot water if we argue with the producer. Director Yamane loves your performance, though."
Takatsu: "Call me if something happens."
Friend: "You see, I feel like you stick too much to your own style."
"Be more flexible. Broaden your horizon."
Takatsu: "I don't stick to my style that much…"
Friend: "If you're still going to stick to your style, you have to find a big project or receive an award. Or else, things will only be difficult for you."
Takatsu: "I'll think about it. Bye."
*peep*
Takatsu: "I just want to dance. Why does it have to turn out like this…"
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Mikasa: "Hey, Arikawa, you parted ways with your partner again, didn't you? How many times has it been? You better cut it out or else there'll be no one who wants to pair up with you."
Arikawa: "Can you introduce me to someone?"
Mikasa: "Why should I when I know I'll only get into trouble later? What's your plan for the Japan Open then?"
Arikawa: "Even if I start looking for a partner now, I doubt I can make it."
Mikasa: "If only you weren't such a womanizer, you'd be competing in the World Open now."
Arikawa: "It's not like I was lying when I was flirting with them, you know. My partner just happened to be the woman I loved."
Mikasa: "Then, things just happened to get really complicated so you broke up with them?"
Arikawa: "I do want to continue our relationship if it's going well, you know."
Mikasa: "You won't find a new partner for real at this rate. Let me say this in advance, just because you can't find a female partner, don't ever consider trying to form a male duo."
Arikawa: "There's no way that will happen. I never think a male pair's dance is beautiful, so it's very unlikely I'll be able to find a male partner."
Mikasa: "The fact that the dancer who always pursues the highest form of beauty said such a thing left a bad taste in my mouth."
Arikawa: "I think your dance is wonderful, though."
Mikasa: "Hmph. I hope you don't consider retiring if this goes on."
Arikawa: "Thanks for the warning."
Arikawa: "Hm? Is that… street dancing?"
"You…"
Takatsu: "What do you want?"
Arikawa: "Do you want to pair up with me?"
Takatsu: "Excuse me?"
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Takatsu: "Ballroom dance?! You mean, the one where you dance in a flapping dress?"
Arikawa: "It may not be your speciality, but with your sense, I have no doubt you'll get used to it in no time."
Takatsu: "No way. I can't even imagine myself dancing in a pair. Ask someone else."
Arikawa: "Have you watched a ballroom dance from up close?"
Takatsu: "Nah."
Arikawa: "In that case, can you give it another thought after watching it once? I want you to know what kind of dance it is.”
Takatsu: “Well, if it’s only watching…”
Kouta: "What brought you here all of sudden? There shouldn't be any lessons today…"
Arikawa: "I want to try dancing with a male pair. Can you help us?"
Kouta: "Male pair? Are you converting?"
Arikawa: "It depends on him. I want to show him what ballroom dance is for now."
Kouta: "I see. Who will lead, then?"
Arikawa: "You do it. You have the experience."
Kouta: "Do you mind if we dance Latin?"
Arikawa: "It's all right."
"How do you think?"
Takatsu: "It's totally different from my imagination. How do I say it, it looks more like a sport."
Arikawa: "That's right. But above all, it's artistic."
Takatsu: "Yeah… To be honest, I still can't consider whether it is good or bad, but I can somewhat tell it's indeed artistic."
"So this kind of world exists, huh."
Arikawa: "I can also feel the artistry in your dance."
"It made me want to see what kind of dance will be born if I combine your artistry and my sense of beauty."
Takatsu: "Artistry… No one ever told me such a thing before."
"Dancers should only dance in a way the producer wants."
Arikawa: "That means your overflowing passion just doesn't fit into that person's frame."
Takatsu: "...You won't understand."
Arikawa: "You're right. I won't understand anything by watching. Why don't you give it a try, then?"
Takatsu: "No, I'm good…"
Kouta: "You've been caught by a troublesome partner. He's pretty persistent."
Arikawa: "Your posture, oh yeah, that's right. You have a good core, proof that you worked hard building up your foundation."
Takatsu: "...It's pretty intense, huh."
Kouta: "Your posture is pretty good, and you do have nice muscles."
Arikawa: "Let's try moving a bit now, like this…"
Takatsu: "Whoa."
Kouta: "You're all over the place now."
Takatsu: "It's my first time moving together so closely like this. There's no way I can get used to it right from the start."
Arikawa: "Hmm… I believe you can do more than this, though…"
Takatsu: "I've told you I'm new to this. Let's do it again."
Kouta: "I see, you hate losing."
Mikasa: "I can't believe you're really converting. Do you have any pride?"
Arikawa: "It was a fateful encounter."
Hanaoka: "If you think male couple dance is no different from the mixed-sex one, you're very wrong."
Mikasa: "Especially if you form the pair without any preparation."
"In the first place, where did you even find this Takatsu guy? I've never heard his name before."
Arikawa: "I found him when he was performing a street dance."
Mikasa: "Street dance?!"
Hanaoka: "That's even worse, since he's basically an amateur at ballroom dancing."
Takatsu: "You never know until you try."
Mikasa: "Let's just leave them be. This'll surely attract people's attention, after all. Just make sure not to look foolish, an advice from your rival."
Arikawa: "Do not worry."
Hanaoka: "I'm looking forward to the competition."
Takatsu: "...Are all ballroom dancers like them?"
Arikawa: "Well, they won't say anything if you show them your achievements. If you can, that is."
"Like they said before, this will surely attract a lot of people's attention. If we can rank high in the competition, you can make a name for yourself right away. Not bad, right?"
Takatsu: "If you put it that way, I have no choice but to do it. But this will be my first and last time doing this."
Arikawa: "It's all right. Let's do our best."
Yuuki: "I never thought you'd convert to male couple dance."
Arikawa: "I suppose the costumes will be different from the ones I usually wear?"
Yuuki: "Of course. They have different charms, after all. I'll do my best to make a costume that can bring out your new charm."
Arikawa: "I'm looking forward to it."
Takatsu: "Do we really have to wear flapping clothes?"
Yuuki: "Costumes for ballroom dancing are made to make the dancers look the most beautiful on the floor, and that includes flapping clothes."
Arikawa: "Because we're doing a ballroom dance, I want you to pursue the beauty of ballroom dancing as well."
"Though such beauty may be irrelevant in street dancing…"
Takatsu: "Let's just go with the simple one, then."
Arikawa: "No way. For the design, I'd like to have one that'll make Takatsu-kun's wild look stand out even more."
Takatsu: "*sighs*..."
Yuuki: "Is that okay with you?"
Takatsu: "Do what you like. I won't know how good it is, anyway."
Arikawa: "I like this design! For the color…"
Yuuki: "Hmm… I can't help but be worried for the two of you."
Izumi: (I can tell how different the characters are… They're so different that it makes you worried about their future.)
(Both Tasuku-san and Homare-san really did a great job expressing their own individuality.)
Arikawa: "You missed again. Can you throw away your street dance for now? We don't need it."
Takatsu: "...Street dance is my whole being. There's no way I can just throw it away."
Arikawa: "Except you're doing ballroom dance now, and you have to make your body adapt to it."
Takatsu: "Goddamnit. Why am I even doing this?"
Izumi: (The first day of the competition arrives, though both of them are still not on the same wavelength…)
Takatsu: "We didn't make the cut…"
Mikasa: "I've already warned you. Don't make yourself look foolish."
Hanaoka: "It's such a pity. I wanted to see you dance at the World Open, Arikawa-san."
Arikawa: "Sorry for not meeting your expectations."
Mikasa: "Hey! We're not done yet!"
Takatsu: "I figured he must have felt down too."
Hanaoka: "Isn't he your pair? Why did you make it sound like it's none of your business?"
Takatsu: "I mean, we've failed. There's nothing we can do about it. I did exactly what he taught me, but it's all a waste in the end."
Hanaoka: "Why did you decide to do ballroom dancing in the first place?"
Takatsu: "Arikawa scouted me."
Hanaoka: "That's all? That explains why your dance looked like nothing but a pretense."
"If you treasure your own style so much, I advise you to go back to street dancing. It's for your own good."
"Don't even dream of improving if you can't even accept ballroom dancing."
Takatsu: "..."
Hanaoka: "I shall take my leave then. I guess this will be the last time we meet."
Takatsu: "...What am I even doing now? There's no point in repeating all these things."
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Mikasa: "Arikawa, wait. There's something I want to ask you. I remember you said you couldn't feel the beauty in male couple dance, so why did you convert?"
Arikawa: "That is…"
"When I watched his dance, I believed we could create a new kind of beauty by combining his artistry and my dance."
Mikasa: "Then, you couldn't bring out his artistry at all. Do you even get what his artistry is?"
Arikawa: "...You're right. I might have made a mistake."
Mikasa: "You need to pull yourself together if you want to dance in the ballroom as my rival again."
Arikawa: "Thank you. My eyes are open now."
"Takatsu-kun."
Takatsu: "Are you going to fire me now?"
Arikawa: "No. I want to fix this all. I made a mistake in the way I instruct you."
"Make the most of your dancing experience up until now. I'm sure your artistry lies somewhere in your dance."
Takatsu: "I'll also study ballroom dancing more and try to understand it."
"I'll never be able to advance if I continue this way, not knowing anything about ballroom dancing. I'll be in your care."
Arikawa: "Same here."
Izumi: (Even if their personalities clash, they still come to a compromise and try to acknowledge each other… and that is the bond between Tasuku-san and Homare-san.)
(The others are also showing off their individuality. This play is overflowing with the Winter Troupe's uniqueness.)
(Tsumugi-san and Hisoka-san are also doing well as a pair.)
Arikawa: "Are you ready? Nervous much?"
Takatsu: "Not at all. Rather, I'm excited right now. It reminds me of the day I performed street dance for the first time."
"I've been looking for a place that can acknowledge me, a place where I can dance to my heart's content. I don't have to hold back here, right?"
Arikawa: "I'm your pair. Bring out your full power and I shall turn it into the beauty of ballroom dancing."
Takatsu: "I won't hold back, then. You asked for it."
Arikawa: "Leave it to me."
*Arikawa and Takatsu dance*
Izumi: (This is the highlight of the dance scene… With little to no BGMs, we could hear the sound of their in sync breathing, as well as the sound of their footsteps.)
(They're not fighting. They're boosting each other and deepening their sense of unity.)
Kouta: "How surprising. Arikawa's dance used to be delicate and compact…"
"But when paired with Takatsu-kun, his dance feels wild and rough. It's as if a large flower has bloomed."
Yuuki: "I've never thought they'd make this perfect pair."
Kouta: "It's exactly because they're the opposite of each other that they could create this kind of dance."
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MC: "The winner is… Arikawa and Takatsu pair!"
Takatsu: "Hell yeah!"
Arikawa: "It's an obvious result."
Mikasa: "My cocky rival has come back."
Hanaoka: "You've improved more than before. Takatsu-san, I could also feel your pressure on the dance floor."
Takatsu: "It's all thanks to you."
Arikawa: "I wouldn't be able to obtain this new sense of beauty if I didn't meet you. Thank you."
Takatsu: "You also introduced me to a whole new world. I feel like I have broadened my range."
"I'll not stick to my own style and try to accept new things. I'll aim for the top."
"I had a lot of fun practicing my own expression, it was so much fun that I felt stupid for worrying all this time."
Arikawa: "It's a shame that you won't continue, though."
Takatsu: "To be honest, I thought of continuing ballroom dancing."
"But that means I'll only run away from my own dance. I'm going to pursue my own expression."
"I'll make the others acknowledge me. So you should also chase your sense of beauty."
"And when our paths cross once again, I'll take your hand."
Arikawa: "I can't wait to see how your dance will change in the future."
Hello! I wanted to ask about your tl commissions (lk they are closed, but in case you open them again I want to know how they work) - ofc I would have to provide the material, but if it is a card for a3 that has yet to be uploaded would you upload it publicly? There are so many Muku stories that are not on the wiki, but I have the cards for and if you open up comms again I'd like all the Muku likers to have access to them.
Hello! For commission, I have make it a rule not to publish any of my translations publicly sorry >< But I do have a plan to translate some of Muku's cards that are not on the wiki. I'm quite busy right now with other projects so it will take a while, I'm afraid
Hey, same person who thanked you for the +3Ghosts event, again. TY for the latest Dance with Butterfly story translation. Though in Part 9, I got confused in this area- Homare: “Have you watched ballroom dance from up close?” Is this part suppose to be “…watched ballroom dancing…” or “… watched a ballroom dance…” or something else?
Hello! It's supposed to be a ballroom dance, sorry for the missing a fhdjnfjnnfg
hi and i'm sorry in advance if this sounds pressuring or anything, but i vaguely remember you mentioning on twitter that act 11 tl was done and just needed proofreading a few months ago and just wanted to know if that's still the case? also i'm sorry if that wasn't actually you!!
the last five chapters are being proofread right now! I will upload them all once it's done😁
A3! Event: Dance with Butterfly Episode 9 Translation
Rento: G'mornin', y'all!
Akashi: He-Hello…
Tasuku: Good morning.
Izumi: Alright! Today, I'd like to start with the run-through…
Tasuku: …
Homare: You look nervous. How unusual of you.
Tasuku: I can't afford to fail.
Homare: Why don't we try to enjoy this first? Let's give our very best and acknowledge each other. In our own way, of course.
Tasuku: You're right.
Izumi: Let's begin!
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Tasuku: "Ballroom dance?! You mean, the one where you dance in a flapping dress?"
Homare: "It may not be your speciality, but with your sense, I have no doubt you'll get used to it in no time."
Tasuku: "No way. I can't even imagine myself dancing in a pair. Ask someone else."
Homare: "Have you watched ballroom dance from up close?"
Tasuku: "Nah."
Homare: "In that case, can you give it another thought after watching it once? I want you to know what kind of dance it is.”
Tasuku: “Well, if it’s only watching…”
Izumi: (It’s going well for now. Even though both of them are very different, their distance is slowly getting closer…)
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Homare: “Are you ready? Nervous much?”
Tasuku: “Nope. I’m getting excited.”
Izumi: (This will be the last dance scene…)
Tasuku: …
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Banri: Blackout, and that’s a wrap.
Rento: Dude, that was freakin’ sick!
The last steps should be twinkle twinkle but you made it jajaja and that was freakin' good, man! I love the jaaan! part so much, it was the best!
Tasuku: …
Izumi: Err, so about the backsound…
Rento: It'd be a waste to edit it out.
Let the audience hear your perfect sync in both breathing and steps. There ain't any other sound that can top it.
I'll squeeze in some sounds and do something with the lighting.
Akashi: I also… think the same thing.
Rento: Let's discuss it after this.
Banri: I'll join you guys.
Izumi: Okay.
Homare: With this, we have successfully cleared one hurdle.
Tasuku: All that's left is to polish our performance more so that we can meet the production team's expectations.
Tasuku: …45, 46, 47.
Izumi: Oh, here you are.
Y-You're exercising with a script in one hand?! Don't tell me you've been rehearsing all this time…
(That's so like him, though.)
Tasuku: Do you need something with me?
Izumi: Yep. So you see, I was asked to check your drama performance just now…
Tasuku: How was it?
Izumi: While I admitted you did a good job, you weren't being your usual self…
How do I say it… You didn't look like you were enjoying it…it's like your heart wasn't there…
Tasuku: Not enjoying it…
Izumi: Oh, Sorry. Your performance was great like always, though.
But it made me think, "you usually do something more on the stage, like this~."
I personally like your performance on the stage more.
I'm well aware I may end up coming with such a conclusion because I'm a theater person.
But once you grasp how to present yourself in on-screen production, I believe you can have more fun and deliver a better performance.
Maybe the reason why you're not enjoying it is because you're still not used to it.
Tasuku: So you can tell such a thing even through a video.
Izumi: It's because I've always been watching you ever since you joined this company.
While your delivery has changed over the time, there's something that stays the same.
The essence of your acting.
If you can bring that out in onscreen production, like you always do on the stage, I have no doubt you'll come to enjoy it.
Tasuku: Pfft. He said the same thing.
Say, is the drama offer… still on?
Izumi: Huh? Are you perhaps…
Tasuku: I want to give it another try.
If it can help me improve as an actor, I'll dive in with all my might.
I'll try to put my heart and soul into it, so much that I forget my theatrical acting. If I can do that, I believe what is left is "Tasuku Takato's acting."
Izumi: Yeah. Go find it.
Oh, right. Do you want to watch the video?
Tasuku: No, it's fine. I want to focus on the play right now.
Izumi: Okay. Look forward to the broadcast, then. Now you've gotta give it all you've got as stage actor, Tasuku Takato.
Tasuku: Yeah. I'm going back to my room.
Izumi: Rest well.
(He looks so much better now. I'm glad…)
Homare: The opening show is finally here.
Tasuku: …
Homare: Tasuku-kun?
Azuma: It's starting again. He's getting into his role.
Tsumugi: Tasuku, the curtain will rise soon.
Tasuku: Yeah.
Guy: Because your role is somewhat similar to you, beside your names, there isn't much difference.
Hisoka: …It's hard to tell.
Homare: Do you mind if I take charge of the circle instead of our lead actor? Takatsu-kun isn't the type to do such a thing, after all.
A3! Event: Dance with Butterfly Episode 8 Translation
Tasuku: They really are here.
Tsumugi: We guessed right.
Guy: Welcome.
Azuma: Now all members of Winter Troupe are here.
Homare: *sobs*.... My memory with Tasuku-kun is gone with the dew, oh such melancholy…
Tsumugi: He's quite drunk, huh.
Hisoka: …He said the camera he uses for VLOG is gone.
Guy: He's been gulping down cup after cup of sake in desperation and turned like this.
Homare: My memorial is nothing but a dream…*sobs*...
Tasuku: In this state, he won't even listen if we talk to him.
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Homare: *gulp gulp*...
Azuma: Have you calmed down?
Homare: Yeah… It doesn't change the fact that my precious memory is lost, though.
Tsumugi: Actually…
Homare: Tha-That is…!
Tsumugi: Takao-san delivered it to the dorm.
Azuma: So you really left it there.
Homare: Oh! He actually called me! I didn't notice at all!
Guy: Good for you.
Homare: Umu! I shall bring champagne to celebrate!
Hisoka: …You're still going to drink?
Tasuku: Goodness…
I watched your dance practice video.
Tsumugi: Sorry. I accidentally pressed the play button…
Homare: It's all right. We were actually considering watching it together here with the projector.
Tasuku: Well, why not?
Azuma: It's so rare to see you go along with our idea so easily like that.
Guy: But the video is unedit, right?
Hisoka: …Let's just fast-forward it.
Homare: Oh, well. I'll make an exception today.
"I'll be starting a VLOG today. Let's start from self-introduction…"
Hisoka: …Skip.
Homare: Right from the start?!
"Ahem. Good evening, Homare Arisugawa is here. I'm currently drinking with the other Winter Troupe members."
Tasuku: "What are you doing?"
Izumi: "Is that… Inste Live?"
Azuma: This is when we drank together the other day, right?
Tasuku: I remember Arisugawa and I did really terrible in the compatibility game.
Homare: "Shall we dance?"
Tasuku: "You fool. We will only cause a commotion if we dance here. Gosh. Don't come crying at me if something happens, you hear me?"
Homare: "1, 2, 3, 4…"
Tsumugi: Compared to now, that feels like your usual delivery.
Guy: Your dance is in sync, too.
Tasuku: I've gotta agree.
Homare: It sure is…
"Oh, my. Isn't that an ad for your drama?"
Tasuku: "…"
Homare: "It looks quite interesting. I can't wait to see your performance… But for now, let's go to the bathhouse!"
"The success of our play is on the line, after all!"
Tasuku: "You're exaggerating."
Hisoka: …You looked like you were forcing yourself.
Azuma: Watching the video like this made it easier to notice such a thing.
Tasuku: …
Homare: "..."
"Phew…"
"...Hm?"
Azuma: "Wonderful. Out of all your performances I've seen, this one is my favorite."
Homare: …I have a reason why I decided to practice by myself.
I volunteered to be the co-lead because I wanted to repay my favor to Tasuku-kun.
I wanted to repay his kindness for always fixing my precious pocket watch.
For that very reason, I want to give my best performance and make this play a success. I tried to match with Tasuku-kun so he could have an easier time performing.
But I ended up losing sight of myself because I was being too careful.
It made me think to myself, "Maybe all the things I've been doing until now are only to satisfy my ego, and not for Tasuku-kun's sake."
Even Director-kun pointed that out to me. Therefore, I decided to practice by myself so that I can face myself the way I am again.
Tasuku: …How did that go, then?
Homare: While I don't have a clear answer to that, I had fun.
I had fun dancing to my heart's content. As simple as it is, I feel like this may be the answer I'm looking for.
I want to play Arikawa the way I am.
Tasuku: …You're back to your usual self.
It's my turn now.
I accepted the drama offer simply because I wanted to improve as an actor–because I wanted to polish my skills and perfect my acting.
But in the end, I only performed like what the director told me to, without knowing if it was good or not.
Although the director told me I did a good job, I no longer understand my own acting.
I don't even know what kind of actor I want to be in the future.
At such a state, I've come to realize I don't have a clear passion and goal.
Azuma: Why are you reluctant to accept the new offer?
Hisoka: …You seem like the type to accept the offer no matter what.
Tasuku: One of the actors I met on the set told me to throw away my theatrical acting.
But I can't do that.
I wanted to learn on-screen acting. But in the end, I feel like it's just a mere facade.
I can't bring myself to jump into something new like Takatsu.
Seeing that actor struggle in on-screen production reminds me of my days in GOD-za.
It made me wonder if I take that on-screen job too lightly just because I received an offer.
I'm ashamed of myself for thinking that the on-screen job would be a stimulation for my theatrical acting.
I wasn't as desperate as that actor. It's basically impossible for me to learn something that way.
That's why I'm determined to break out of my shell on the stage in my own way.
Guy: I see…
Azuma: That's just so like you.
Homare: …For me, though, it's all right to be more greedy if it can help you grow.
In the first place, I started acting for my work's sake.
I started acting because I wanted to broaden my range in art, but before long, it became something irreplaceable for me.
It enriched the expressionist, the artist and the person named Homare Arisugawa.
If I didn't lightly start acting at that time, If I quit halfway… I wouldn't be with you all right now.
I wouldn't perform with you all, drink together and record a VLOG together like this.
Guy: There's no right answer to this.
Tasuku: Yeah, I guess. I understand what you said, Arisugawa.
Tsumugi: Acting is life. Our life shapes what kind of actor we are.
Even without forcing ourselves to be who we want to be, we will surely change with the amount of experience we gain.
Even so, I have no doubt our original self and acting still remain in ourselves.
Homare: Tasuku Takato, a serious, stoic actor, and a theater junkie to boot, I shall accompany you throughout your journey.
We're people bound by common destiny, after all.
Tasuku: I'm counting on you.
Homare: In that case, shall we dance to one song here?
Tasuku: Let's start from the competition scene, then.
Homare: Rehearsal all of sudden?! I was thinking of dancing in a carefree way…
Tasuku: We still have unfinished business, don't we? Both the dance and the play are the same. You can do whatever you want.
Homare: Ughh… You left me with no choice. In that case, I'll go along with you.
Tsumugi: By the way, you don't have any customers today, huh.
Guy: Yeah.
Tsumugi: Hm? But today is not your da…
Guy: It's been reserved for tonight.
Homare: Oh my Goodness… I feel like I'm going to get muscle pain tomorrow.
Hisoka: Tired…
Tsumugi: We got too into it after seeing you two.
Rento: …
Tasuku: The man over there…
Tsumugi: Rento-san?
Rento: Aarggh! I was at the good part…!
Tsumugi: What...?
Rento: I was about to record some sounds for my city vibes bgm list…! That one was so great, man!
Tsumugi: So-Sorry.
Rento: Human-made sounds, combined with the sound of cars, the wind blowing, footsteps--even one created from high heels! That harmony…!
Tsumugi: ???
Rento: Well, this is just my own aesthetics. I ain't forcin' you to understand it…
You can create a new kind of sound by combinin' a lot of different sounds.
There ain't such things like music sheets. It's exactly because you find it by chance that the moment feels like a miracle. It makes you feel good.
It might look like boring work on the outside, but it's something I can't give in.
Acting ain't no different, right? People have their own aesthetics.
Keep your aesthetics and accept each other's individuality. Combine that all and you can deliver a wonderful play.
I'd say this also applies to sounds and lighting.
Tasuku: ...I feel like I get what you mean.
Homare: Umu. Art turns into a big bang when everything clashes and sparks.
A3! Event: Dance with Butterfly Episode 7 Translation
Tasuku: Hey, Arisugawa, you there?
...Should I just save it for later?
Tsumugi: Hm? Is no one there?
Tasuku: Yeah. Are you also looking for Arisugawa?
Tsumugi: No, I want to ask Hisoka-kun to rehearse with me, but he's not in the longue nor the yard.
Tasuku: Maybe he's sleeping in Azuma-san's place?
Tsumugi: I'll try asking him.
Tasuku: No one is answering, huh.
Tsumugi: I haven't seen Azuma-san and Guy-san around, either. Maybe they're heading out somewhere.
In that case, seeing that our partners are nowhere to be found, shall we rehearse together?
Tasuku: Partner, huh…
Tsumugi: …
How about we go back to our room?
Tsumugi: For now, let's rehearse the scenes that have both of us in it.
Tasuku: …
Tsumugi: Tasuku?
Tasuku: ...What do you think about my performance?
Tsumugi: It's so rare of you to ask something like that.
Hmm… If I have to put it into words, I can't see the usual you in your performance. It's as if there's something that makes you frustrated and struggle…
I don't see the Tasuku who always looks like he's having fun while acting.
But I don't think it's entirely a bad thing either.
Tasuku: --.
Tsumugi: I'm sure you already know that you can't stay this way, failing to watch your surroundings--to be in sync with your partner.
I want you to do something about it, at least before our next rehearsal. Because if you don't, everyone will be having a hard time.
Tasuku: Can you stop saying such ruthless things with a smile?
Tsumugi: You want to break out of your shell, don't you?
I know you must be struggling to do it, and we all want to accompany you until the very end.
That's why we don't say anything.
Tasuku: …
I've failed as a lead. I'm only thinking about myself.
Tsumugi: Don't worry about us. But you should watch your partner, Homare-san, closely.
Tasuku: You're right. Even though we did all sorts of things to try to understand each other, I failed to see anything once we started acting.
I did something bad to him. It's all my fault that he's not doing well during rehearsal.
Tsumugi: Hmm...I wonder about that.
Tasuku: Huh?
Takao: My apologies for coming this late at night.
Tsumugi: It's totally fine, but what brings you here?
Takao: I've come to deliver this thing, assuming Homare-sama might need it.
Tasuku: A camera?
Takao: He forgot to bring it after practicing dancing all by himself.
I tried contacting Homare-sama, but he didn't answer. That's why I decided to bring it here.
Tsumugi: Thank you. I'll give this to Homare-san.
Tasuku: He should've asked me to come with him if he went for dance practice.
Tsumugi: ...Huh? Hey, I accidentally pressed this button. How do I stop it?
Tasuku: Give it to me.
--.
Tsumugi: Tasuku?
Tasuku: Yeah…
(So this is how he dances?)
Takao: It's a video that I recorded during his practice today. He told me he wanted to practice alone because there was something he needed to think about.
Tasuku: ….
(What was he thinking when he danced all by himself? And what did he find after that?)
(I don't get it at all. I couldn't find anything even after trying.)
(That's why I should ask the person himself.)
I have to talk with Arisugawa.
Tsumugi: You really have to.
Tasuku: The problem is, he's not even answering people's calls...
Takao: He told me he'd go drinking with Yukishiro-sama.
I wanted to give them a ride, but Yukishiro-sama apparently brought his own car.
Tasuku: Huh? Azuma-san? Driving?
Tsumugi: Are they going to be all right, though? I mean, they're drinking.
Tasuku: And there's no way Azuma-san would not drink. Maybe they're going to call a chauffeur…
Tsumugi: Or they may leave the car near the bar and go home just like that.
Tasuku: There's only one place I can think of, then.
A3! Event: Dance with Butterfly Episode 6 Translation
Homare: I'm back.
Takao: Welcome back. Are you by yourself?
Homare: Yes, there's something I need to think about. I'll practice by myself today.
Takao: Understood.
Homare: Play the music I've given you, and then…
Film my practice. I need to check it.
Takao: Understood.
Homare: …
(It's the same song as the one we use for the play… Except I'll be dancing as Homare Arisugawa, and not Arikawa.)
(I believe I can face myself through dancing. I believe I can find something.)
…
(Let's not think about other things and focus on the rhythm now.)
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Homare: Phew…
*clapping sounds*
Homare: (Someone is clapping…?)
Azuma: Wonderful. Out of all your performances I've seen, this one is my favorite.
Homare: ...It's also my favorite.
Azuma: You look better now.
Director told me you're here, so I was thinking of inviting you for a drink.
Tell me when you're done with practice. I'll be waiting here.
Homare: Oh, my, you don't have to come all the way here just for… Never mind that. I'm going to break some sweat, then.
Azuma: Oh, yeah. Should I film you while I'm here?
Takao: It's all right. Just leave it to me.
Guy: Welcome.
Hisoka: ...Welcome.
Azuma: Good evening.
Homare: Can I have bee… Actually, I'll have Lemon Sour tonight. I need to maintain my body.
Azuma: Tasuku also drinks beer, though.
Homare: In order to win against Tasuku-kun's strictness on himself, this is a necessary thing to do.
Hisoka: ...What kind of competition is that?
Azuma: Do as you like, then. I'll have Lemon Sour as well.
Hisoka: ...Same here.
Guy: Lemon Sour for all of you, I see.
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Azuma: Cheers.
Homare: Cheers. Phew. I can feel the alcohol flowing through my body.
Azuma: Your dance performance today was truly wonderful. How should I put it, it just felt so you.
I couldn't feel that unique charm of yours during rehearsal.
Homare: It didn't feel like myself, huh… I suppose you're right.
Guy: So you're aware of it. Did something happen?
Hisoka: ...The pocket watch.
Azuma: Huh?
Hisoka: ...He's been looking at the pocket watch a lot these days.
Even though you said you still keep that watch after it stopped moving, you barely took a look at it. But now, you've been looking at it again.
Homare: To think you actually care about me that much…
Hisoka: ...There's no way I wouldn't notice if you look at it every ten seconds.
Guy: So you've been looking at it that often?
Homare: I didn't realize it.
I've always wanted to repay him.
Tasuku-kun was the one who fixed my watch during our butler play, and he continued to repair it every time it moved strangely.
I used to think that this piece of junk was like me. But before I know it, it's become an important treasure that I share with this company.
I would not think this way if it's not because of my grandparents, of course, Hisoka-kun, who picked up this thing, and Tasuku-kun, who kept repairing it so patiently.
I believe the best way to repay his kindness is with my performance on stage, and not with any kind of things.
That's why I wanted to give my best to respond to his passion for theater.
But as you've already known, it's not going well.
Even Director-san told me that I can't take the stage with him on an equal footing if I kill my acting.
So I decided to face myself and think about my individuality.
Guy: Did you find something after that?
Homare: No. I don't understand anything, but I had fun.
There will always be obstacles in life, but that is what makes life fun.
Guy: This is just me, but aren't you trying too hard by yourself?
Do you remember what we talked about when the four of us were rehearsing for "Die by the Sword"?
You were the one who told me that we're not alone on the stage.
Azuma: We're people bound by common destiny. Remember?
Hisoka: Director told you to stay the way you are, didn't she?
I'd say the same thing if I were her.
Homare: ...Yes. You all are right.
Azuma: Oh, right. Do you want to watch Homare's dance practice today?
Homare: This is a chance to use the projector.
Hisoka: ...It's not something we have to watch with a projector, though.
Homare: What do you mean by that?!
It's now the time to watch my beautiful sel--hm? My camera is gone!
A3! Event: Dance with Butterfly Episode 5 Translation
Homare: "You missed again. Can you throw away your street dance for now? We don't need it."
Tasuku: "...Street dance is my whole being. There's no way I can just throw it away."
Homare: "Except you're doing ballroom dance now, and you have to make your body adapt to it."
Tasuku: "Goddamnit. Why am I even doing this?"
My bad. Can we repeat that scene?
Banri: Okay. Let's start from Arikawa's line…
Homare: "You missed again. Can you throw away your street dance for now? We don't need it."
Tasuku: "...Street dance is my whole being. There's no way I can just throw it away."
It feels out of character if I don't look at Arikawa's eyes in this scene…
Azuma: He's having trouble studying his role, huh? I think he should just act naturally since the role is somewhat similar to him.
Guy: Maybe he wants to try out different things because it's been a while since he last took on a lead role.
Izumi: (Everyone knows what Tasuku-san wants to do, but they also notice that his performance seems different than usual.)
(He seems at a loss, and I feel like he's not interacting with the others at all. It's as if he's performing alone.)
(To make things worse, even Homare-san is…)
Homare: "Except you're doing ballroom dance now, and you have to make your body adapt to it."
Tasuku: "Goddamnit. Why am I even doing this?"
Izumi: (He's trying too hard to match Tasuku-san… This scene is supposed to show the conflict between the two characters, but it just looks flat now.)
(Homare-san's peculiar pace is slowly fading. It makes Arikawa's character as a whole look weak.)
Tasuku: Looking at it again, the previous one is better…
Tsumugi: Say, should we put this on hold for now and move on to the dance practice?
Izumi: I agreed.
Banri: It shouldn't be a problem since we've changed the night schedule.
Tasuku: Got it.
Homare: I don't mind.
Banri: I'll play the music, then.
Tasuku: …
Izumi: (I'm not really worried about the dance scene because Homare-san already has experience, and Tasuku-san has good reflexes in the first place.)
(The choreography is also perfect. We're doing good.)
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Rento: …
Director-san. There's somethin' I wanna ask about the production.
Izumi: Sure. What is it?
Rento: Remember the production plan I've told you before? Lookin' at your practice right now, I don't think we can do that. Y'two ain't in sync at all.
Izumi: Wha…
Rento: I know I'm not as knowledgeable as y'all when it comes to performance delivery. But how do I say this, the rhythm and timing…
Izumi: Is it their skill?
Rento: Nah, it ain't about that. It just… feels out of place.
Your rhythms are totally different. It doesn't look like you're dancing to the same genre.
Izumi: So you mean, music-wise…?
Rento: Do you two get what I mean?
Tasuku: …
Homare: …
Banri: If we want to change the production plan, I suppose it'll not affect our schedule and all. What's your call, Director-chan?
Izumi: What about you, Banri-kun?
Banri: If it were me, I'd be freakin' frustrated about it.
I totally get what you mean, Rento-san, but can we wait and see a lil bit more before we make any decision?
Izumi: I agree with Banri-kun.
Rento-san. Do you mind if we wait a bit before making any changes? I think it won't be a problem.
Rento: ...You have a point. I guess I'm rushing things too much. I'll come back again later and think about it.
Izumi: Sure.
Tasuku: ...Guess we have to do something before that, then.
Homare: We even made Banri-kun defend us like that.
Tasuku: I owe you one, Settsu.
Banri: No need to thank me. Just make sure you can solve that issue on time.
Homare: …
Izumi: What are you thinking about?
Homare: Just some things. Didn't you come here for the same purpose?
Izumi: Well, I guess… I might have been a bit pushy to Tasuku-san. I'm reflecting on that.
Homare: Are you talking about the drama offer?
Izumi: So you know about it?
Homare: I happened to overhear you two.
Izumi: I thought he should just accept the offer if he's that worried about it, but I guess it's not that simple, huh…
Homare: I told him the same thing.
I suppose he's currently in a phase where he's taking his acting seriously.
It shows how much theater means to him. So I was wondering to myself, what should I do to support him as a co-lead actor? What can I do?
I've tried all sorts of things to match him, but it didn't go well.
It made me doubt myself. Am I really doing okay?
Izumi: (This explains why his acting feels different than usual…)
Homare: I wonder if this is what it means to lead a play together with him.
There's also the thing with Rento-kun… Goodness gracious, what a painstaking task.
Izumi: I understand very well that you want to support Tasuku-san.
But if you end up killing your own acting because of that, you can't take the stage with him on an equal footing.
Tsuzuru-kun created Takatsu and Arikawa after looking at the two of you.
If you can form a pair with Tasuku-san as your own self, I believe it will turn out great.
Homare: As my own self…
You have a point. Before dealing with Tasuku-kun, I have to deal with myself once more.
Supporting Tasuku-kun will be nothing more than a mere dream if I can't even establish my own performance.
Hi there, thank you for translating Dance with Butterfly. I was worried that nobody is picking up the translation, so when I saw that you're working on it, I'm very happy.
Hey, same person who thanked you for the +3Ghosts event, again. Thank you for translating the Dance with Butterfly event. So far, it’s interesting on the idea of trying something new for Tasuku & even though Tasuku & Homare are different personality wise, they actually compliment each other. Also the Fuyu 8th play song is good & a surprise that Tasuku’s VA rapped in A3! after Homare’s.
I also find their combination refreshing considering their opposite personalities! and step is so good i can't get enough of it!!
A3! Event: Dance with Butterfly Episode 3 Translation
Izumi: Let's read the script now.
…
(Focusing on ballroom dancing as the theme, the story follows an odd pair who aim for victory in the contest with their clashing personalities.)
(The protagonist, Takatsu, is originally a street dancer, but he grows after getting to know ballroom dancing. This is just like what Tasuku-san requested.)
Tasuku: ...I'll find what kind of person I'm aiming to be through this play.
Tsumugi: ...Tasuku? Do you have any questions or something?
Tsuzuru: Feel free to tell me if there's any part you find hard to act out. I'll fix it.
Tasuku: It's nothing. I like the story.
Tsumugi: …
Guy: I feel like both Takato and Arisugawa won't be having a hard time playing Takatsu and Arikawa since they're somewhat similar to their usual selves.
Azuma: I think it also has something to do with how the roles' names are similar to theirs.
Tsuzuru: Oh, I actually did that on purpose because we had somewhat decided on the cast before I got to write the plot.
Azuma: Now it all makes sense why I feel a connection with the characters here. It's like, "I know I'll play you."
Guy: I have no problem with that. Rather, I kind of like that.
Tsumugi: Same here.
Izumi: I'll announce the cast just in case…
Tasuku-san will play the protagonist, Takatsu, while Homare-san takes on the deuteragonist, Arikawa.
Hisoka-san and Tsumugi-san will play their rivals, Mikasa and Hanaoka, respectively. Dance teacher Kouta will be played by Guy-san.
Last but not least, Azuma-san will play the designer, Yuuki.
Tsumugi: I figured we have to practice ballroom dancing as well.
Azuma: Homare should be an expert at this, no?
Homare: Let's see… Did you write this piece with the classic waltz in mind?
Tsuzuru: More or less.
Homare: I knew it. Everyone thinks of the classic waltz when it comes to ballroom dancing.
But if we put Tasuku-kun's image into consideration, a dance with lots of powerful moves will suit him better, like cha cha cha or samba.
Because he'll take on the lead role, having him dance latin will be a better option.
Tsuzuru: I see… I believe you because you're more knowledgeable about this than me.
Izumi: So we're gonna change the dance genre?
Also, I think we should have an expert teach us the choreography.
Homare: I'll ask my acquaintance about that. He's good at every genre.
Izumi: I appreciate that!
Azuma: Have you tried cha cha cha or samba before, Homare?
Homare: No. I've only learned waltz since childhood, so that makes me a total beginner in the latin genre.
Tasuku: Are you fine with that, though?
Homare: Totally. Rather, I feel like this is a good chance because I've always wanted to try out a different genre.
Both of us need practice now.
Oh, right! Why don't we come up with a pair name while we're at it?
Tasuku: Is that necessary...?
Homare: Of course! It is to differentiate us from the others, after all.
Tsumugi: I mean, athletes sometimes come up with a pair name too, like TakaAri or something.
Hisoka: ...I thought it was a new species of ants.
Rento: What's up with ants~?
Izumi: Oh. Hello, Rento-san.
Rento: I heard you finished the script?
Izumi: We're reading it now. Here you go.
Rento: Thanks.
…
‘Cause the latin dance scene doesn't have many sounds, we should make use of the actors' live sounds durin’ the show.
I'll squeeze in some BGM too. But havin’ the audience listen to the sound of yer footsteps an' breathin’ will draw them to the show more.
Izumi: Wow! That sounds cool!
Tsumugi: It'll be difficult considering our skills are crucial here. But I believe Tasuku and Homare-san will do just fine.
Guy: It'll be an impressive scene.
Tasuku: We can't do it half assedly.
Homare: If we don't pour our hearts into it, we'll only look silly during that scene.
Tasuku: I actually don't want to have any pair names, but I guess I've gotta learn to compromise…
Homare: Have you finally understood it?!
Tasuku: But since we've come this far, we don't need to do anything. Just stay this way.
Homare: That's not enough! Because we're a dance pair, we have to smooth out any bumpy roads ahead of us!
I have an idea! In order to deepen our understanding of each other, should I try building my muscles? In exchange, I want you to read my poems.
I believe you'll come to fully understand me that way.
Tasuku: But why…
Homare: It's to further deepen our understanding, and to improve our combination! It's necessary!
Tasuku: Sighs…Fine. But we're going to practice really hard after that, okay?
Tsumugi: That sounds fun, somehow. Should we do it too, Hisoka-kun?
Hisoka: ...Okay.
Izumi: It looks like they'll come up with a totally different way to study their roles.
Tsuzuru: Looking forward to watching the show.
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Homare: Ouch… My arms are all sore… I can't even hold the camera this way.
Tasuku: So why are you still holding that?
Azuma: Hehe. You'll only make the viewers dizzy if you're shaking that much.
Homare: Despite that, I feel like I've come to understand Tasuku-kun better after training my muscles.
He can maintain his strictness by hurting his muscles on a daily basis.
Tasuku: …
(I don't understand anything even after reading Arisugawa's poems. I really don't know what's going on in his head.)
Azuma: Looks like… it's a failure in Tasuku's case, huh.
Guy: I guess it doesn't bring any results.
Azuma: No need to force yourself to match each other, as long as your personalities still fit well.
Homare: Except when we're dancing, our breathing has to be in sync. And in order to do that, we need to understand each other even if we have to force ourselves.
Tasuku: I know, but my partner here is you, Arisugawa…
Guy: How about you try what Tsukioka and Mikage do to deepen their understanding?
Homare: Great idea! Let's go spy on our rivals.
Hisoka: ...I'm done watering the plants.
Izumi: Can you get rid of the weeds next?
Tsumugi: Hisoka-kun. This marshmallow egg is delicious.
Tasuku: They look very different from usual.
Homare: Tsumugi-kun holding a bag of marshmallows is such a refreshing sight.
Hisoka: ...Stares.
Tsumugi: Do you want one?
Hisoka: ...Yes.
Tsumugi: Okay.
Hisoka: ...Munch.
Homare: Isn't that what you call telepathy?!
Tasuku: Not at all. Mikage is just easy to predict.
Homare: Hmm… I wonder why we can't do it as well as them.
Tasuku: Because you're just too difficult to understand, and we're just fundamentally different. Let's practice the dance part for now.
A3! Event: Dance with Butterfly Episode 2 Translation
Tasuku: Good morning.
Director: Morning.
Tasuku: Pleased to be working with you today.
Director: Me too. I'm glad you accepted our offer.
I started watching Mankai Company's plays after working together with Tenma-kun and Settsu-kun.
I was blown away by your expressiveness, Takato-kun. I have high expectations for you.
Tasuku: I'll try my best to meet your expectations.
Director: You'll do just fine if you perform like usual.
Actor A: …Are you Takato-san?
Tasuku: Hm? Good morning.
Actor A: I heard you received an offer from the director. You're originally from the theater industry, aren't you?
Can you refrain from delivering a theater-like performance when shooting a drama? This industry also has its own kind of performance, you see.
If you plan to perform like that, to be honest with you, you'll be having a hard time. Your performance will feel out of place, and you will stand out in a bad way.
That's all I want to say. See you later.
Tasuku: …
(Don't deliver a theater-like performance, huh…)
Staff A: Oh… I'm sorry. I'm sure he didn't mean anything bad… He's been devoting his life to on-screen acting, you see. He's desperate to survive in this industry.
Tasuku: …I see.
(I know that feeling.)
(Besides, I know that acting on-screen is different from acting on the stage. Well. Let's try to perform as much as I can.)
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Staff A: We're done checking!
Tasuku: Good work today.
(Was my performance really okay…?)
Director: Good work. Thanks for performing in a way that I wanted to. Your performance was really great.
Tasuku: Thank you…
(I don't know if that performance can be called "a good performance." Can I call it "my usual performance"? Can it really be considered good for on-screen acting…?)
Director: You don't seem to be convinced. I guess that's to be expected since this is your first time. You'll get familiar with it the more you act on-screen.
Tasuku: The more I act on-screen, huh.
Director: Aren't you going to appear on the screen more after this?
What kind of actor are you aiming to be in the future?
Tasuku: …
(I simply want to aim higher as an actor. I simply want to polish my skill.)
(What kind of actor I'm aiming to be…? I don't even have any specific target or ideal.)
(Can I even improve when I'm being vague like this…?)
Director: Give it more thought, Takato-kun, because I know you can continue working in this on-screen industry.
Tasuku: …I will.
Tasuku: I'm home.
Izumi: Welcome home, Tasuku-kun. How was the shooting?
Homare: Just to let you know, we have started the meeting.
Tasuku: Don't just start the meeting when I wasn't here.
Tsumugi: Now, now. Have some drink.
Tasuku: Thanks.
To put things simply, I learned a lot through this shooting.
But… I'm sorry. I know you all are looking forward to it, but I don't think I can show you a good performance.
Guy: You don't seem confident. How unusual of you.
Hisoka: …Did you oversleep?
Tasuku: Of course not. I'm not you.
I was just doubting if the kind of acting they use for on-screen production suits me.
Izumi: But that director speaks highly of your acting. He even guarantees you'll appear more on screen.
I figured you'll receive more offers in the future.
Tasuku: …Give me some time to think when that time comes.
Izumi: Did something happen?
Tasuku: No. I just thought I wanted to challenge myself.
Izumi: Okay…
(It'll be such a waste, but there's nothing I can do if he himself said so.)
Tsumugi: I guess we should just let him be if he doesn't have any problem with it.
Azuma: Maybe it's just not the right time yet.
Tasuku: Should we do it around here?
Homare: "I'm going to perform a Street Act with Tasuku-kun today."
Tasuku: Are you still filming? I'm going to start.
Homare: Hey, you over there. Can you film us with this camera?
Audience A: Huh? S-Sure…
Tasuku: What are you doing?
Homare: I was just thinking of filming our Street Act while we're at it.
Tasuku: Goodness…
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Tasuku: "Hey. We still don't have any choreography for the new song. What are we going to do at tomorrow's shoot?"
Homare: "Huh? We have a shoot tomorrow?"
Tasuku: "Did you forget? Tomorrow at 7. Don't you dare oversleep. Actually, never mind that, what are you going to do for the choreography?"
Homare: "Don't worry. I'll do something about it."
Tasuku: "'Do something about it'? You think you can just solve it like that? Head to the lesson room and practice. NOW."
"Or else, you'll get fired. Even the CEO got mad at you the other day."
Homare: "My trillion fans will cry if you fire me."
Tasuku: "You think you have that many fans? Well, whatever. I've already warned you. Do as you like."
Homare: "Shall we dance?"
Tasuku: "You fool. We'll only cause a commotion if we dance here. Gosh. Don't come crying at me if something happens, you hear me?"
Homare: "1, 2, 3, 4…"
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Tasuku: Thank you for watching.
Homare: Thank you!
Audience B: I thought they were dancers at first!
Audience C: Turns out they're actors~.
Tasuku: Don't make me dance all of sudden.
Homare: I think I've made the right choice, though, because our next play will be about pair dancing. I mean, you were having fun at the end, weren't you?
Tasuku: …
Staff A: Mankai Company sure has a lot of great actors. Takato-san, Arisugawa-san. Your performance just now was amazing.
Tasuku: You are…
Homare: Do you know him, Tasuku-kun?
Tasuku: He's one of the staff at my drama shoot the other day.
Staff A: You did really great during the shoot. Even the director said he'd like to give you another offer in the future.
Homare: Oh, my. That's great to hear.
Tasuku: We're currently preparing for our next play, so appearing in a drama is a bit…
Staff A: I know. Let's talk about it again once we make the official offer.
Tasuku: No–.
Homare: For your information, I also welcome any kind of offers.
Staff A: I'll find a role that will suit you, Arisugawa-san. I'll be taking my leave, then. See you again.
Tasuku: …
Homare: Tasuku-kun. I don't think there'll be any problem if the offer comes after our play wraps up.
I know you said it doesn't suit you, but I think you should give it another try if there's a chance.
Aren't you determined to break out of your own shell?
Tasuku: …
(I want to break out of my shell. I really want to. But how do I do it? What kind of actor do I want to be once I break out?)
(As long as I can't come up with a clear answer, I won't be able to improve on anything–all I do will be engaging myself in a new field. That's all.)
(Besides, it'll only be rude to those who devote their all into on-screen production if I do it with a half-hearted feeling.)
Homare: Tasuku-kun?
Tasuku: What you said is right, Arisugawa. It's just… I want to break out of my shell in my own way.
I still don't know how to do it, but… As an actor, I want to achieve something through this play. I have to achieve something.
Especially because I'll take on the lead role this time. I want to do something that I won't regret.
I want to focus on our upcoming play first.
Homare: I see. That's just so you, Tasuku-kun.
Tasuku: I'm sorry to make you go along with me, but… Let's deliver the best performance ever.
Homare: That's my intention from the start.
I'm with you all the way. I will support you.
Homare: …
Tasuku: "Let's deliver the best performance ever."
Homare: (Best performance ever, huh…)
…Phew.
(I'll support you anytime, anywhere, Tasuku-kun. This is also to repay your kindness for always fixing this pocket watch.)
