Ushio Group Seasonal Event - AMAKARAKU @ U-40α has New Releases!
Akuta Feature Event - Nuovo Cinema Dinosauro
Nanaki and Yodaka Seasonal Event - Coffee and Mermaid (collab w/ patibato !)
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Novels:
My Best Friends - Kiroku
Seventh Heaven - Nanaki
Coordinates of Kaguya - Muneuji
The Father's Basement - Muneuji 1.5
Fifth Silence - Nanaki 1.5
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Homescreen Lines:
TBA
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Songs:
Brand New Dawn - R1ze (FULL VER.) [ENG]
We are HAMA Tours - Conductors (FULL VER.) [KAN/ROM/ENG]
Glass World - Kiroku & Nanaki (FULL VER.) [KAN/ROM/ENG]
Yoake no Polaris - Muneuji & Ushio (FULL VER.) [KAN/ROM/ENG]
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Notes:
Updates with every addition to the page ! My page is best viewed on desktop at https://kfkr1ze.tumblr.com/ ! Thank you ! HAMA nice trip !
I'll keep any updates with future translation plans and if anything comes up with me under the tag #updates !!
If you're curious about the way I translate things, I have a section under TL Notes and FAQ on my site!! This goes over things like Kiroku's friends and their speech quirks, what I call Muneuji's sister, etc.
[Liguang SR] With the Happiest Animal on Earth - Our Family is Ours, Their Family is Theirs
(Proofread by @kfkr1ze | Graphic by Yen | Best viewed on my site!)
Part 1
Sojun: Welcome back. Good work on your study trip, both of you.
Liguang: Mm.
Muneuji: You asked Sojun-san to pick you up, Lu-senpai?
Liguang: I anticipated my luggage becoming unwieldy with souvenirs. You get in too, Kaguya.
Sojun: Right this way. I'll take you to the dorms.
Muneuji: I appreciate the offer, but I'll be returning to my family home rather than the dorms, so I'll accept the thought alone.
Liguang: I'll be doing the same. We can't be that far apart if we're both in Hama, come on.
*driving*
Muneuji: Apologies for the route change. Thank you again.
My younger sister's been excited for her souvenir since I sent the pictures from our stay, you see… so I wanted to get home to her right away.
Liguang: Aah… that stuffed animal you bought?
(He purchased it after I discovered his fondness for animals, so I was certain it was for himself, but I suppose it was actually a souvenir for his sister.)
Muneuji: You said your own younger sister requested you send her pictures too, yes? Have you done so already?
Liguang: …She can wait until I return.
Muneuji: True, getting to talk about your travels while showing the pictures directly may be the best way to go about it. I'm sure she'll be overjoyed.
Liguang: …That's not what I meant.
Muneuji: ?
Liguang: (Were she to be as innocently happy with the pictures as the young Kaguya, I'd have no complaints, but my family is… far more troublesome.)
Sojun: —and that's all I have to report. If there are no particular issues…
Liguang: Stop.
Sojun: ?
Liguang: It's a souvenir. Take it.
Sojun: … Thank you.
…
Liguang: What? Is there something else?
Sojun: When we were in the car not long ago, Kaguya-san was talking to you about his own family, but…
During your absence, Linxing-sama was also eagerly awaiting your return.
…I'll excuse myself now.
*Sojun leaves*
Liguang: …
Part 2
Liguang: Oi… how much longer is this going to take?
Linxing: The queue's moved pretty far, so probably about an hour?
Liguang: …*sigh*.
Linxing: Come o~n, don't go spreading bad vibes! It's not like I had a choice in this either, my boyfriend suddenly couldn't make it and I need SOMEONE to ward off the flirts on weekends!
Liguang: I didn't know I'd be lining up for hours on end.
Muneuji: —Lu-senpai?
Muneuji's Sister: Senpai?
Liguang: Hm…?
Kaguya? Running into each other while out with our sisters is certainly the coincidence.
Muneuji: This is my sister, Miki. Princess, go on and introduce yourself to Lu-senpai and his younger sister…
Miki: I'm Kaguya Miki. Nice to meet you, Senpai!
Linxing: Awright, let's open them on three!
Miki: Kay! One, two—
Aah! Pink!!
Linxing: Blue!! Oh wow, looks like we both got what we wanted, Miki-chan!
Muneuji: Isn't that nice, Princess? Patiently lining up together for all that time was worth it.
Liguang: You had me stand in line so long for such a small mascot?
Linxing: Always the grumbling with you~ Kaguya-kun was more than happy to do it himself, you know!
Ah, speaking of, thanks for looking after Onii-chan in Australia, Kaguya-kun!
Muneuji: Not at all, if anything it was I who was in Lu-senpai's care.
Linxing: Don't be silly! Going overseas with no-one but him sounds like a pain in the ass~ He's so stubborn!
Liguang: Oi, why exactly is it you're thanking him?
Linxing: Ah ah ah, don't make such a scary face in front of Miki-chan.
Miki: Senpai's not scary!
Linxing: Huh!? Really?
Miki: Onii-chan showed me the fotos! The one with Senpai and the birdie was so cute!
Muneuji: I showed her a number of pictures with you in them, but she seems especially taken with that one.
Miki: And he told me lotsa stories too! He said he respecks Lu-senpai a lot!
Liguang: … Is that so.
Miki: And, um… ehehe. You're super cool too!
Liguang: …What a perceptive young girl. Would you like to order anything else?
Linxing: Hey now~? Why are you putting on such a kind face when all you ever do with me is nag, nag, nag!?
Kaguya-kun's sooo sweet to Miki-chan, but my own brother won't even give his ACTUAL sister the time of day~
Liguang: *sigh*… I wouldn't accompany you on such an annoying shopping trip if that were the case, now would I.
Linxing: Then will you call me "Princess", Onii-chan?
Liguang: Just what kind of princess steals someone's phone, flips through the folders, and bursts out laughing after seeing the travel pictures?
Linxing: …
Liguang: …
Muneuji: Heh… looks like you also have a good relationship with your sister, Lu-senpai.
Miki: Linxing-chan loves her Onii-chan, huh! Like me!
Linxing: That's not… exactly wrong, I guess.
But still, couldn't you stand to follow Kaguya-kun's example more?
[Muneuji SR] With a Kangaroo Family - Internal Conflict Over a Certain Animal
(Proofread by @kfkr1ze | Graphic by Yen | Best viewed on my site!)
Part 1
Muneuji: Phew…
Liguang: You're coming back from school this late? I thought today was a day off.
Muneuji: ! Did you only just return too, Lu-senpai?
I attended today to go over some student council business. Though it took longer than I thought it would…
Liguang: Event preparations, I take it?
Muneuji: Precisely. While sorting out details for a particular festivity, an issue with the Friday evening slot came to light… So we held an emergency meeting to discuss what to do.
Liguang: Hm, what was it?
Muneuji: The owner of the facility we were going to rent double booked by mistake, so we aren't able to use it anymore.
Bemoaning will get us nowhere, so we spent the whole day searching for a new venue.
Liguang: I see. …And did you manage to do so?
Muneuji: We… didn't, ashamed as I am to say. Everywhere seems to be fully booked, what with the event taking place on the weekend.
Liguang: …
Muneuji: Ah… you only just returned yourself, didn't you. Apologies for having you listen to such drivel, you must be tired.
Liguang: Stop.
*ping*
Liguang: …I've sent you a link. Try looking into it.
Muneuji: Wha…
Much appreciated, Lu-senpai! I'll contact them right away…!
Muneuji: (—Such is what happened recently, but…)
(I'd never have thought I'd be going on a study trip with Lu-senpai.)
(Not only is he an alumnus of the student council, but he's very reliable too—I couldn't be happier to be paired with him.)
(And with the way he helped me out the other day, I should avoid being a bother to him. Thus, I must prepare a sufficient amount of material to go through for our meeting to discuss the itinerary.)
Ushio: Muu-chan. What're you staring at that screen so hard for?
Muneuji: I was thinking I'd start sorting things out for my paired training.
Ushio: To Australia, yeah? Let me know if you need any help.
Muneuji: Thank you. Discussing the itinerary from various points of view alone will help, so I'll absolutely take you up on that.
Akuta: AND NATURALLY! You'll need my keen eye for that too, yeah!?
Ushio: UWAH… don't just pop up out of nowhere, Idiotake.
Akuta: I'm not the only one hyped for M'lord's paired training, yknow~?
Kiroku: Ah, I'd… also like, to research… together. Since, I always… learn a lot, from everyone's… experiences.
Nanaki: Ah, I'll lend a hand too. You taught me a whole bunch when I went to Finland, after all.
Muneuji: ! I didn't even ask, and yet… you have my thanks, everyone.
Part 2
Akuta: —and Australia's like, a holy grail of movies!! Peak cinema gets shot there all the time!!
Nanaki: The music scene's got quite a bit to it too. Bands that use traditional Aboriginal instruments in particular have been pretty hot lately—
Muneuji: I see, movies and music… I wouldn't have thought to look into them myself.
Kiroku: This is, nice… I want, to go on… a paired training, too… soon.
Ushio: Depends who it's with.
Sakujiro: —Working hard, I see. Chief and I have brought some refreshments to support such studious young minds!
Muneuji: Much appreciated.
Chief: How's it going?
Muneuji: There are so many intriguing things to see that it's making my head spin.
Sakujiro: Then why not focus on nature and animals, as the President suggested? It's the road most travelled, but that just shows what a rich subject it is.
Muneuji: (That's true… Lu-senpai keeps rabbits, so I can't imagine he dislikes animals.)
Nanaki: Ho-hold on…! Hey, this is… I-I just looked up some Australian animals, and…-!
Muneuji: Hm, what's the matter?
Nanaki: Just- look…!
Muneuji: —-!!??
Kiroku & Ushio & Akuta: !!!!!
*sparkle*
Muneuji: (Such… such adorableness. I absolutely must witness this creature with my own two eyes…)
Chief: Ah- Liguang-san, welcome back!
Liguang: Mm.
Muneuji: (! Right, I wanted to express my gratitude for his help the other day.)
Pardon me, everyone. I'll be stepping out for a moment. …Lu-senpai!
*running*
Liguang: What is it?
Muneuji: I wanted to extend my gratitude and give a report regarding the situation with the Student Council the other day.
Because of your help, we were able to secure a venue with no issue. You have my sincerest thanks for your assistance.
Liguang: …Pay it no mind. You worked hard yourself.
More importantly, have you been doing research on Australia? I thought I heard something about animals.
Muneuji: Right, we're currently conducting an investigation into the animals and general wildlife present there. Nanamegi found one animal in particular that—
(…Is it possible that Lu-senpai would be just as entranced by it's preciousness…?)
Liguang: There's still time until the meeting, so don't overdo it.
Muneuji: Ah… I-I, appreciate, the consideration.
(No. This is a study trip. To say I want to meet cute animals would be improper… I imagine.)
(…Not to mention childish.)
Liguang: If that's all you needed, I'll be going now.
Muneuji: Apologies for keeping you. I'll see you at the meeting.
Liguang: Right, I'll continue my own research as well.
*Liguang walks away*
Muneuji: (This paired training isn't just for learning about Australian culture—I’ll surely have much to learn from Lu-senpai himself.)
(I have to pull myself together as tightly as possible.)
++ I should say this here too, I forgot people might not follow on TWT HAHAHA
I have a ReiOu site for 18trip stories as well! For those who would want to read with Momiji as your Chief + anyone who just prefers the layout can read on there !
I know some people still prefer Tumblr instead, so I'm still planning on cross platform uploading! I just need to work on some formatting / grammar errors I noticed when setting it up, but I haven't gotten around to it yet (college is beating my ass can you tell)
Right now, I've TL'd Kiroku's 1.5 novel and it's on the site! It'll be uploaded here too soon! I'm working on Ushio's (and Akuta's when it comes out tonight) which will also just be on the site until I fix my blog!
hii ^_^ i know the event is going on rn but i was wondering if you're planning on tl'ing the current nanaushi event eventually?
Hello !! Yes, I'm planning on collabing with Lesli-Lou ( @ patibato ) to translate it! Whenever it's completed, it'll be uploaded on their sites and I'll reblog / link it myself as well! o(^▽^)o
[Muneuji SR] In the Sepia Coloured Classroom - Learning With and About Each Other
(Proofread by @kfkr1ze | Best viewed on my site!)
Part 1
*chatter*
Muneuji: (…Is this where my next class is being held?)
(Including the ability to choose your classes and visit different rooms is just what I'd expect from Takato-senpai. I shall enjoy this lesson alongside my fellow beta testers.)
(Now, where should I—)
*door opens*
Muneuji: !
*Ryui sits down*
Ryui: …
Muneuji: (Ryui-san is taking this class as well? In that case…)
—May I sit next to you?
Ryui: Huh?
…Oh, Kaguya? Sure, do whatever you want.
Muneuji: Thank you. Well then…
*Muneuji sits down*
Muneuji: … …Hm.
Ryui: ? What're you lookin' around all nervous for?
Muneuji: Ah, it's nothing. I typically sit in the very front of the room, is all, so seeing it from the back felt awfully unfamiliar.
Ryui: Very front, huh… Can't relate.
Muneuji: True, you have headed towards the back row without a second thought thus far. Did you always do that during your student days?
Ryui: When I could, yeah. Not like I could be arsed taking notes.
Muneuji: Hm… What DID you do during class, then?
Ryui: Sleep.
Muneuji: …I suppose you were worn out from extracurriculars?
Ryui: Never did any.
Muneuji: …Were you up late for cram school each night, perhaps?
Ryui: What, you think I'd go?
Muneuji: Hm… Student council work, then!
Ryui: Not if hell froze over. …ᵁⁿˡᵉˢˢ ᵀᵒᶦ ʷᵃⁿᵗᵉᵈ ᵐᵉ ᵗᵒ.
Muneuji: … …Is that so.
(I had a feeling, but it seems us two are complete opposites in many ways.)
(We can interact like this through our connection in Hama Tours, but… if we had been in the same school, studying in the same classroom—)
(Perhaps we'd never have interacted.)
*bell rings*
*door opens*
Gymnasium Teacher: —Alright, greetings everyone.
Muneuji: Ah, the teacher's arrived. Let us prepare to—
Ryui: …Ya~wn.
Muneuji: (! He's already positioning himself to sleep…!?)
Part 2
*bell rings*
Gymnasium Teacher: —With that, we'll end class here for today.
*chatter*
Ryui: …Aau~gh, I'm sore.
Muneuji: (I worried numerous times whether I should wake him or not, but…)
You really did sleep the whole way through.
Ryui: Told you I would.
…Damn, those are some notes.
Muneuji: Hm?
Ryui: Don't even need to read 'em to tell. That's the kind of attentiveness you only get from a goddamn diligent model student.
Muneuji: I suppose that's a compliment? You have my gratitude, Ryui-senpai.
Ryui: Not really a compliment. And I'm not your senpai.
Muneuji: That said, senpai. During the lesson just now, there was a matter that even someone as "goddamn diligent" as I couldn't follow.
You were dreaming until a second ago, so… would you mind looking it over for me now?
Ryui: Huh? …Guess I oughta. Can't say I'm not curious what's stumped Mr. "first place in national mocks". Lemme see.
Aah… minor's right to rescind, huh. It's a trick question, too.
Answer's number four.
Muneuji: …! So it is. You understand it?
Ryui: Well, yeah. Think of it like this—
Muneuji: I see, I get it now…! I'm in your debt, Ryui-senpai.
Ryui: Well, it's a full-fledged legal issue, not exactly common knowledge.
Muneuji: …I didn't realise just how intelligent you are, Ryui-san. I'm impressed. You even excel at teaching—you truly can't judge a book by its cover.
Ryui: Oi. Stop running your mouth like that.
Muneuji: Ah, pardon me.
Ryui: Heh, no worries.
Muneuji: …Then, would just a touch more bother be alright?
I can't envision you taking your studies in school seriously… so just how did you come to be so knowledgeable?
Ryui: You're blunt as hell, y'know that?
Muneuji: Uu-chan can attest to my nerve.
Ryui: …Well, it's nothin' much, just self-study. Way easier to concentrate alone than in a crowded school.
Muneuji: Self-study…! That can't have been a simple task either.
Ryui: Nah, you get used to it.
Teachers can't get on your ass as long as you do enough studying.
Muneuji: I see… that's quite interesting.
Yes, sitting next to you today was the right decision indeed.
Ryui: Where'd that come from?
Muneuji: Before this class, I assumed that even if we'd attended the very same school building, we'd never have interacted… but allow me to correct that.
Ryui: Don't need to correct somethin' I'd never heard before…
Muneuji: With a senpai like you nearby, I'm sure every day would be inspiring.
Ryui: …
Muneuji: Coming to know differing values can help one mature. And so, to have had this opportunity today… is a great honour indeed.
Ryui: … …You really are so goddamn diligent.
Muneuji: Ryui-senpai. You shouldn't say "goddamn" so much, it's bad manners.
Ryui: Hah, you're a hundred years too early to be lecturing me about manners. Now c'mon, next class is gonna start.
Kiroku: What, is it… Kurama? It's pretty late, for a talk.
Ushio: …Well, uh.
When you hear the phrase "a dreamy world filled with sweets", what colours come to mind?
Kiroku: Huh?
Ushio: ……
Ushio: …*sigh* mahorova BD Event, huh. Leave it to this company to decide to entertain other people on our own birthdays.
Muneuji: —Yet despite your complaints, you're hunched over your desk, diligently refining your plan. I find that quite endearing.
Ushio: Not like I have a choice, Chief-san and Karigane-san would never shut up about it otherwise.
Muneuji: Naturally. That said, I do think it's about time you take a break—I've brewed you some of my special gyokuro.
Ushio: …Thanks, I appreciate it.
… Do you have any advice or whatever?
Muneuji: Let me think… It may be arrogant to offer suggestions, given my knowledge only comes from mine happening before yours, but—
For my BD Event, I was able to create an ideal world that embodied what I "like"¹. Though it may have been within mahorova, I flew above the skies.
Ushio: Right. You looked like you had a lot of fun with it.
Muneuji: I can still distinctly recall the joy and passion I felt from the event.
So I think it would be a good idea to fill it with the things you like yourself, and things you'd like to do, to your heart's content.
—That way, you won't miss. You'll surely be able to hit the target of the ideal form and solution you seek.
Ushio: …Things I like, huh.
(For me, that's gotta be PatiBato and sweets—)
(An event just for me, filled to the brim with the things I "like". A world just for me, that I want to create…)
…Ah.
Ushio: —PatiBato Chapter 146, "Sweet Studies for Our Dreams".
Some people say it's just a stupid slice-of-life chapter that got shoved in out of nowhere, but personally, I feel like it re-contextualised the main themes of PatiBato for me…
Plus, you can really appreciate Reito's charm here, so it's one of my favourites!
And since I have the opportunity, I want to make my own interpretation of the "Sweets Dreamland" featured a reality—
Kiroku: … I, see…
Ushio: (Now that I've decided what I want to make, there's just one problem—the sweets dreamland is only referenced in dialogue. "A dreamy world filled with sweets.")
(And if I get just one thing wrong, I might actually burst a blood vessel and die…!)
Kiroku: … …
Ushio: (That's where Buddharupa comes in. He's fully educated on the original work, so if I incorporate his tastes, I'm sure it'll be as close to ideal as it can get…)
Are you gonna answer? Don't stress over it, I'm only asking because I have complete faith in your tastes.
Kiroku: …Thank, you.
Cream, and sugar, are white. And the mild yellow… of a sponge cake, after mixing in, the eggs and milk… definitely, has, to be included, I think.
Ushio: …What else?
Kiroku: If it's, dreamy… then… to make it feel, a little unusual… A refreshing, lime colour…
Ushio: Sounds good. I'm noting this all down on my phone, so say anything that comes to mind.
*Kiroku nods*
(I'd never come up with this. Getting Buddharupa's opinion was probably the right choice after all. I knew he'd prioritise the setting of PatiBato in his answer.)
Kiroku: Can you make, something with that…?
Ushio: We'll see.
(With this, I'll be able to make a sweets dreamland that's as consistent with my ideal as possible.)
(My very own "Sweets Dreamland"!)
Ushio: Kukuku… AAAHA HA HA!
¹The word emphasised with quotation marks in this story (好き) is the same word emphasised with red in Season 1 Track 3 of his novel
Part 2
Akuta: —WELCOOOOOME! TO A ZERO CALORIE ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET! THE SWEETS-SPLATTERED DREAMLAND IS NOW OPEEEEE~N!!
Ushio: Hey! Could you not go giving other people's areas a weird name!?
Nanaki: Well, putting the name aside…
Sakujiro: It is a heart-pounding, splendid area indeed. Adorable confections and baking utensils are floating about everywhere, so even just walking through is a treat.
Muneuji: Indeed. The scenery is gorgeous no matter where you look. And naturally, it creates a craving for sweets… just as I'd expect from Uu-chan. Only a professional confectioner could do this.
Ushio: Well, this much is nothing.
(After getting Buddharupa's opinions, Karigane-san gave me some flawless advice even though he shouldn't have known anything, so I managed to make a space I can accept…)
Akuta: …*sniff sniff* Somethin' smells good! Anyone can use the kitchen, yeah?
Nanaki: Yep. Anyone who's interested can get a recipe by the entrance and try to make something.
Muneuji: I'm glad that the ingredients won't go to waste no matter how many mistakes there are, what with us being in mahorova and all.
Akuta: Oh! Renga-san and the others are making something over there!
Renga: Take a look, Liguang! This is my golden rose cake!
I chose gold leaf for the rose petals to make it luxurious, and the cream smells like roses too. Go on, take a bite!
Liguang: No thanks. What part of that is supposed to look like a rose? Even a kindergartener could make something better by playing in the sand pit.
Renga: Why, you…!
Tao: Ea-easy now! It doesn't matter how it looks, I'm sure it'll be delicious either way.
While we're here, should I take a picture to commemorate it? It'll make a nice memory to look back on that way. Sound good?
Akuta: Huuu~m. We can seriously make stuff that's all our own, huh.
Nanaki: (…Hm? Is that chocolate pudding floating over there? A pound cake with ice cream, amezaiku, traditional Japanese sweets, fruit jelly…)
Muneuji: …Hm. Those are—
…Everyone. Would you lend me your ears for a moment?
Nanaki: What's up, Muneuji?
Muneuji: Do the sweets floating over there seem familiar?
Nanaki: You too? I've been curious about them for a while…
…Ah! I know, they're the specialties of PatiBato characters.
Muneuji: Correct. I see you also noticed the pattern.
Nanaki: Which means this is probably—
Nanaki & Muneuji: A PatiBato themed area!
Akuta: Heh… so, you've finally noticed? Impressive. But such was clear to myself the moment I set foot upon this domain.
Sakujiro: With how wholeheartedly you all studied the work that winter's day, it was only a matter of time before you'd notice.
Particularly when this area is overflowing with Kurama-kun's love for sweets… and for PatiBato.
Kiroku: Yeah…
Muneuji: Looks like he was able to fill it with the things he "likes" in his own way.
Sweets Loving Older Sister: The recipe we got at the entrance was super easy to make. Here, the pudding's ready. Give it a try.
Sweets Loving Younger Brother: Wow, so good~! Make it again when we get home, Onee-chan!
Ushio: …
Nanaki: …So even he can make a face like that. He's watching over the customers so warmly.
Muneuji: …There's no need to say anything more. I'm proud, and sincerely happy, that I could bear witness to this area.
Sakujiro: Quite right. Now then, shall we all work hard to make some sweets ourselves?
Akuta: HELL YEAH! Time to make the hundred-tier Mount Fuji pudding cake of my dreams~!!
Ushio: (…Phew. No major issues so far. The atmosphere of this event isn't so bad.)
Chief: Ah, Ushio-kun, there you are!
I tried making a chocolate cake, would you mind giving it a taste?
Ushio: …Well, I guess that's fine. Pretty bold to give ME, of all people, a chocolate dessert.
Chief: Huh…?
Ushio: …Here goes.
*eats*
Chief: (I feel like he just said something really ominous… will he like it?)
W-well? Did I get the taste right?
Ushio: … The sponge is good, but the cream is completely unbalanced, you used way too much. On top of that, the chocolate flavour is too weak, it's too sweet, and you whisked it too much.
Chief: Uu… got it. Need to focus more!
Ushio: Well, given you don't usually make this stuff, it's pretty good. Do your best next time.
Chief: ! Next time…
Ushio: What? Did I say something weird?
Chief: Nope! It's nothing.
(Will he eat it for me if I make one again?)
Ushio: Well, even if you're going at a snail's pace, it's still better than doing nothing. Do what you can manage.
Chief: Right! I'll redeem myself as soon as we're back at the dorms so that I don't forget how much this place makes me want to bake.
Ushio: Huuh, it's making you feel that?
Chief: Yeah, it's got me all pumped up. You incorporated some imagery from PatiBato into it, right?
Ushio: ………What.
Chief: What?
Ushio: HUH!?!?
Chief: Huh? Am I wrong!? I thought that must be it… Plus, I heard Akuta-kun and the others mention PatiBato…
Ushio: No, wait, huh!?!? They noticed too!?
(I'm gonna die of shame… did they really have to pick up on the little details? No, they didn't say anything about it when we met up earlier, so—actually, thinking back on it, I feel like they were kind of smirking…)
~~~~~!! Don't just stand there looking worried, it's embarrassing!
Chief: N-now now…! I think it's nice that I could see more of the things you like, Ushio-kun.
Everyone else is enjoying your hospitality as well. All those smiles we can see from the kitchen prove that your devotion has gotten through!
Ushio: …-.
Chief: I'd like to keep learning about the things you like in the future too, Ushio-kun.
Ushio: (Saying such embarrassing things without batting an eye… how stupid can they be?)
Chief: What's wrong, Ushio-kun?
Ushio: …Just thinking that you should be careful what you wish for. Alright, thanks for the chocolate cake!
My turn now. Could you stick around a bit?
Chief: Huh? Sure, but where should I…?
Ushio: You want to know what I like, right? Then I'll make the super spicy cake recipe I poured my sweat and tears into researching, just for you.
Your tongue will go numb, and the very concept of sweetness will disappear. It's a taste you'll never forget.
[Ushio SR] The Immovable Star Floating In Space - Senpai's Harsh Lessons
(Proofread by @kfkr1ze | Best viewed on my site!)
Part 1
Muneuji: Now, remember what I taught you before, and go again from the top.
Chief: Got it!
*door opens*
Chief: Oh, Ushio-kun.
Muneuji: Is something the matter, Uu-chan?
Ushio: Just needed to speak with you for a sec, Muneuji, but… Are you practicing?
Muneuji: Indeed. Chief requested to try their hand at drawing the bow again—
…Ah.
Ushio: ?
Muneuji: Apologies, your arrival made me recall that I promised to accompany Princess to her piano lessons today…
…Uu-chan. Could you teach Chief in my stead for the time being?
Ushio: Wh… NOW!?
Muneuji: I'll return within the hour. My apologies to you as well, Chief. I'll be sure to make it up to you.
Chief: Ah, sure thing…!
*Muneuji leaves*
Ushio: …
Chief: …
Um… you came here to practice kyudo anyway, right, Ushio-kun? I'll be relying on your guidance.
Ushio: (…They're going along with it? No need to lower their head and all.)
I'm not going to teach you or anything… just behave and do what Muneuji told you. You're only on the basics of the basics right now anyway.
…Well, I guess I can watch you until Muneuji gets back. But that's all you're getting from me.
Chief: …! Thank you!
(Alright, time to carefully put what Muneuji-kun taught me into practice under Ushio-kun's supervision.)
Ushio: …
Chief: (Open my chest as I draw the bow… Make sure my shoulders are relaxed. Ready my aim—)
*draw*
*fire*
Chief: (Nope, figures I wouldn't make it…)
Ushio: …Your posture.
Chief: What?
Ushio: Your core is shaking. Shift your centre of gravity back a bit.
Chief: ! Will do…!
Ushio: Lift your gaze more, too. Make sure you're looking directly at where you want to shoot.
Chief: Right!
(Okay, draw it slowly…)
*draw*
Ushio: …
Chief: (Make sure my centre of gravity isn't too far forward, and be careful not to lower my gaze. Steady my heart, and find the right moment to shoot…)
(Find the right moment, to…)
(…My hands are trembling too much to draw…!)
Ushio: …Hold on. Are you even breathing?
Chief: —*gasp*!
Ushio: Lower your bow a moment.
Chief: *pant, pant*…! I had, stopped breathing… thanks for that…
Ushio: …Pff. It's not good to be that focused, you know. Maybe you ought to take a quick break?
Part 2
Chief: (Ushio-kun ended up telling me to take a break… that was probably a good call.)
…Owowow.
Ushio: What.
Chief: Looks like I chafed my thumb. I was concentrating so hard, I didn't even notice…
Ushio: Aah, that. Pretty typical when you're just starting out.
…Guess I gotta do something. Wait here a sec.
Chief: Huh?
Ushio: Pretty sure it should be around…
Here.
Chief: …A first aid kit?
Ushio: I just happen to know my way around the place, been coming here since way back when.
Here, a bandage.
Chief: …! Thank you!
Ushio: Also… lend me that bow.
Chief: Huh? Sure, here you go.
Ushio: …
Chief: (He put a mark on the string…?)
Ushio: Nock the arrow here. It'll make it harder to injure yourself like you just did.
Chief: Woah…!
Ushio: (Marking the string… Muu-chan did that for me too some time back. Feels kinda nostalgic.)
Chief: Thanks for doing so much for me, Ushio-kun. You're a really reliable senpai…!
Ushio: ……
Ushio: HUH? I'm not trying to be your senpai or anything, I'm just doing what Muu-chan's been doing for me up until now. Don't go twisting my actions like that??
Chief: Uu, sorry. That just slipped out…
(Ushio-kun is surprisingly willing to help, though. …I feel like I've seen a new side of him.)
Ushio: Keep grinning like that and I'll send a pic to the authorities. C'mon, if you're gonna keep practicing then get to it already.
Fifth Silence - Track 3: A Love Song Dedicated to You
‣ Proofread by @patibato !
— ✈︎
“……”
As soon as we got back, I started composing.
Well, ‘Started’ isn’t the right word. It’s more like it just happened on its own.
It was like the songs were flowing through my head, and I was just transcribing them.
Isn’t this what it means to go mad, Great Uncle?
This is how it felt for you too, isn’t it?
If this really is a curse, then I’m sure it did.
Unable to move forward or backwards, my feelings just festered and decayed.
“Gh…”
If you won’t stay by my side.
If you won’t be mine.
Why did you hold my hand back then?
Why did you acknowledge me and say you liked my songs?
The Sun, the stars, and the Moon too, you showed me all of these beautiful things.
Why would you give it all to me and then tell me I can’t have it?
“……”
―I buried my head in my hands.
I really have been driven to madness.
What point is there in resenting his naivety, scolding him for it, and blaming him?
But to hell with it all.
Me, you, the world, this love― Everything.
— ✈︎
I sent the completed song to Unknown within the next few days.
I received an immediate reply.
It was only delayed by a few minutes, enough to make me assume they listened to it immediately after they got it.
“It’s amazing.”
After that short reply, a longer message came through.
I skimmed through it.
“This is exactly what I was looking for, the second coming of Nanakuma! The distinct characteristics of unlove still remain, yet despite the fact that it’s entirely different, it still carries Nanakuma’s scent! It’s spectacular!!!”
I wasn’t really expecting any reaction in particular from this person.
What I managed to gouge out from inside myself after I peeled away at the surface was a curse.
Just knowing that devastated me, and I was so exhausted.
“The lyrics also pass with flying colors! The key point was to contrast the fourth movement! A love that began to be tainted with madness! Though your words differ from his, you share the same feeling that Nanakuma reached!”
Is that so? It passed?
That's good. Unknown seemed to be pleased as well.
Without feeling any happy feelings in particular, I began to read the lyrics I wrote myself.
My swollen eyelids burned hotly.
“By my side / you are always / dreaming of somewhere far away”
“Before you run away / from this fading world,”
“You foresee the colors in the sky / of the place I will never be / with a straight face.”
“……”
The list of their opinions continued to grow.
It seemed like Unknown was pretty excited.
“At the end of the fourth movement, Nanakuma and “that person” reached a world of silence. Even in a world without meaning or joy like music, if the two could be together,
it would have felt like reaching Heaven.
But “that person”, from start to finish, never looked in Nanakuma’s direction!
Of course, he could not endure a situation such as that!
Nanakuma died, driven mad by love!”
Is that so? He was driven mad?
That’s good. I think there are times where it would feel better to be dead.
I was getting tired of reading all these comments, so I decided to send a text to cut them off.
“Have you heard the rumor about the sheet music being cursed?”
“I have. But I don’t believe it, since I’m not cursed myself.”
Is that so? They’re not cursed?
That’s good. So this curse only affects my great uncle and myself.
“You truly are the spitting image of Nanakuma! I look forward to seeing more from you. As promised, I will send over the information regarding the fifth movement now.”
Then, the data they sent to me only contained the address to a particular place.
I thanked them, but never received a reply back.
It seemed like they were looking forward to it a lot, which was good.
If a future does exist, then I’m looking forward to it too. Seriously.
— ✈︎
I shared the address with Onii and we decided to head there as soon as possible.
“…Here?”
“This is a music store… right? A second hand one.”
We arrived at a rundown music store.
Antique pianos, acoustic guitars, broken clarinets… There were a lot of vintage-looking instruments lined up at the front of the store. They still looked usable, but they were extremely old and worn.
At the back of the shop, the unfriendly looking owner was polishing a trumpet.
When we walked in, they glared at us like a cranky ramen shop owner who didn’t greet customers when they came in, but then their gaze softened lightly as they pointed to a lone piano.
Urged on, I walked up to the piano and lifted the slightly raised lid.
…And a stack of papers were jammed inside.
“Are these music box punch cards?”
“I’m pretty sure there were some at Gramps’s house.”
Each card had a variety of sounds punched into them.
It wasn’t in a music sheet format, so I wasn’t able to decipher it or play it back in my head instantly, but… there’s no doubt this was the fifth movement.
“So it’s not sheet music, but punch cards huh…”
“So you play each of the cards, record it, and then combine them all at the end to form a song. It’s a bit out there, but it’s definitely like our great uncle.”
Onii shook his head, impressed, but I felt like I understood why Great Uncle decided to leave the song in this format.
Since I’m sure the song would probably just get more and more mad from here.
He couldn’t allow it to end on a beautiful note, so he had it sealed away within something that has a beautiful tone.
He made the rest, but he never intended on letting anyone hear it.
…That’s probably what it was.
“There are lyrics too.”
There were two sheets of paper alongside the punch cards.
One was a note that had “I’ll contact you again.” In beautiful handwriting.
On the otherーー These lyrics were written.
“The stars you had dropped / the sun that had burnt out / the moon that had broke,”
“The molten and blackened sky / this crumbling love / this broken world.”
“By your side / leeching / clinging / rotting / cursing.”
“……”
I felt like I was slipping into my great uncle’s mind just by looking at it, so I averted my gaze.
When I looked up, I saw Onii was also staring intently at the lyrics.
“Onii?”
“Uh… Ahh, sorry. I just thought the atmosphere changed a lot from the fourth movement.”
“Yeah. People change a lot. …In all sorts of ways.”
After that.
I double checked with the store owner, but they obviously weren’t Unknown,
It seemed like the punch cards weren’t store property either.
In other words, someone must have chosen this particular spot and left it there for the pickup.
The owner was a quiet person. They even refused to tell me who left them there.
My guess is that Unknown is probably a regular at the store.
I’m assuming so based on the owner’s attitude when we walked in.
It might take a while for the owner to warm up to you, but once they have, they feels like the type who would forgive you for anything.
Like if you wedged a personal stack of papers inside an important item until a young man arrived to pick them up, for example.
“So, is it right to assume Unknown had the fifth movement?”
“I’m getting even more curious about who this guy is…”
We obtained the sheet music, but we still don’t know what the true identity of Unknown is.
Nevertheless, we were satisfied with what we accomplished, and we headed back home.
— ✈︎
“What’s your plan with your fifth movement, Nanaki? Maybe you should record it and drop it while you have the chance?”
“I’m gonna pass on that. The song I’m planning to release is Great Uncle’s song. Mine’s more like some kind of deviation from that.”
“Then I’ll make it my most cherished possession.”
“That really is an exaggeration… but okay. I’ll send you the sheet music and the audio.”
Onii nodded, so I sent him the data immediately.
Onii was thrilled and quickly began to check the data.
“…Who did you make this song for?”
For a brief second, it appeared in Onii’s eyes.
“When you say who…”
“You wrote this while thinking about someone, didn’t you? I can tell, y’know.”
Like a night sky devoid of stars, like a sun that was reduced to ashes, like a moon that fractured and lost its light…
“Was it for him?”
“Huh?”
It felt like staring into a dark, bottomless void.
“…Well, I guess it’s pretty rude to ask a musician something like that.”
He quickly bounced back to his usual self, so maybe it was just a joke, or maybe I misunderstood something, or maybe he was just swept up in the atmosphere of the lyricsーー
“Don’t scare me like that, Onii.”
“Sorry, sorry. Maybe I was just jealous of the person who got you to write lyrics like this.”
“Geez…”
Anyways, to sum it up… The results we got today were pretty satisfactory.
“No, I just came to deliver the equipment Nanaki asked for…”
“There’s no need to be so shy, please come in! Right, Nanaki-kun?”
“Since Chief asked, Onii… -san, you have some time to spare, right?”
And that’s how――
“Well, I guess I could stay for a little bit.”
Onii ended up visiting the HAMA House.
Being led by the giddy and excited Chief, the three of us headed to the living room to talk a little bit.
“It would’ve been great if I could’ve left the equipment at our parent’s house.”
“You have school and work, so it would’ve been hard for you to go back and forth between the dorms and the house, wouldn’t it? Plus, I’ve been wanting to see Kuguri again, so I thought it was perfect timing.”
“What a thoughtful big brother…! Unfortunately, Kuguri-san is out on business at the moment…”
“I dropped in so suddenly, so it’s okay. Don’t worry about it. By the way, I’m sorry for introducing myself so late. Thank you for always looking after Nanaki.”
Onii said with a smile as he bowed his head to Chief.
Chief waved both of his hands frantically, looking embarrassed yet very happy at the same time.
“Not at all, Nanaki-kun is the one who always helps me out so much…! If it’s no trouble to you, I’d love to hear how things are going at home!”
“Doesn’t that make it feel like a home visit? Chief, have you really become a teacher after all?”
“Ahaha… Well, it is my job to protect all of your student lives!”
And so――
Something I would’ve never imagined happening occurred. A pleasant conversation between Onii and Chief broke out.
“I see, so Nanaki’s doing well. I knew it already, but it makes me happy to hear it directly. Nanaki is my treasure of a little brother, y’know. He’s thoughtful, handsome, and a natural genius. He’s the kind of kid who could do anything if he put his mind to it at such a young age. Even then, he works so hard, he really is a rare breed.”
“Is that so…! No, I completely agree with you!”
“You’re going a bit too hard on the praise, Nii-san…”
“Really? I’m only telling the truth though. Chief-san is nodding along too.”
Onii said with a straight face, while Chief nodded along with a smile.
Once I saw that, I felt less inclined to interject.
“And about home, Nanaki… Both of our parents say he’s a good kid pretty much all the time. For the Nanamegi family, their second child is their pride and joy. I think so as well. The other day was our mother’s birthday, and Nanaki got these new earrings for her. She loved them so much that she wears them around every single day. Nanaki isn’t just gifted musically, he’s also gifted at making other people happy. He has such good tastes too. There’s this other story…”
This is bad. Onii’s in his “bragging about his little brother” mode.
Maybe it’s just because he doesn’t have anyone he can talk about this kinda stuff with, but he’s just firing off like a machine gun without leaving any room to pause and take a breath.
As for Chief, his eyes have been sparkling as he said things like, “What a loving family…!” So it wasn’t much of a problem, but… I was a bit embarrassed.
Well――
“Nanaki-kun, you have such a great big brother!”
Chief seemed to be enjoying himself too, so――
“Nanaki really is an amazing kid… I feel convinced after hearing all of your stories…!”
Thanks to Onii, it seems like my reputation with Chief has gone up a bit, so it’s all worth it… Yup. It is.
ー✈︎
“Sorry for getting carried away like that. I had a lot of fun.”
“Thank you for today, I had fun too!”
“Then, I’ll walk back with you Nii-san.”
“Mm, thanks. …Then Chief-san, good night.”
“Good night! Please stop by for a little longer next time!”
Onii turned around as Chief waved goodbye to him.
“Chief-san is a real easy guy to talk to.”
“…Yeah. He really is.”
“‘Nii-san.’”
“…I knew you’d say something about it. Obviously I can’t go around calling you Onii.”
“But it’s so cute. I like when you call me Onii.”
After seeing me glare at him, Onii’s expression relaxed into a smile.
But then, he lowered his gaze and muttered.
“…Hey, Nanaki.”
“Hm?”
“Um, about Chief-san…”
“Huh?”
“Nevermind. …I’m looking forward to the fifth movement you’re going to make.”
ー✈︎
After parting ways with Onii, I came back to the dorms and found Chief in the middle of cleaning up.
“Oh, I’ll help.”
“Thanks! Your brother was right, Nanaki-kun is so thoughtful!”
That’s what he said, but anyone would put away the cups left around from a guest.
Chief was always appreciative during times like this, but it felt a little lonely to me. He seems like a parent who’s happy their child is helping out.
“……”
I casually spoke to Chief, as if to change my mood.
“…It feels like the dorms are pretty quiet today.”
“Yeah, a lot of people from the other groups are working overnight today. There’s only a few people from the Morning Squad and the five from the Day Squad here today.”
“Is that… so…”
That’s when my heart started to beat a little faster.
It was so quiet, it felt like we were the only ones here, but it turns out that thought wasn’t too far from the truth.
Chief was humming to himself as he dried the cups he finished washing.
As I wiped down the table, my heart started beating even faster.
This might be what it’d be like if I were living alone with Chief.
Tomorrow would be my day off, and it’d just be the two of us in the same house.
Then, we’d talk about what we planned on doing next.
Maybe we’d listen to music together, or go on a stroll together in the middle of the night, or something…
“And that’s a wrap on cleaning! It’s getting late, so you should hurry on to bed.”
“Ah…”
Then, I awkwardly fumbled my way back back to reality.
Usually, I would just nod without saying anything and go back to my room. That would be the usual, routine thing to do.
But today.
It felt like it was just the two of us.
Stepping into something that felt a little forbidden.
“Together, could we g-g-go on a…”
“Yeah?”
I mustered up all my courage.
“Could we go to the convenience store tonight? Tomorrow’s my day off, but I had some work I needed to do, so I wanted to get some midnight snacks…”
It wasn’t a stroll, though.
“I guess it can’t be helped… I can’t let you walk around alone at this time, so sure!”
I was saved by Chief’s enthusiastic thumbs up.
ー✈︎
The city is quiet at night.
As we walked together side by side, a lot of different words floated around my mind. I felt a little antsy when there were occasional moments of silence, but Chief didn’t seem to mind at all, which made me feel weirdly frustrated.
“What’re you going to buy?”
“…I haven’t decided yet.”
“Cool! Then you should get whatever catches your eye.”
We kept walking until we reached the convenience store, then we both went inside.
“Oh, you want to eat now?”
“…I’m hungry, so.”
“Then, let’s eat together.”
We bought steamed buns and canned coffee.
We ate as we walked.
In a silent world where everyone else is laid to rest.
It reminded me of my great uncle’s lyrics, so my thoughts started to wander in that direction.
It felt like a waste to just walk around aimlessly.
I want to go back to the reality from my dream.
I want reality to be better than it was in my dream.
I want to make a place where it’s just the two of us a reality.
I don’t want to go back like this.
“Should we drink the coffee in that park?”
The night made me feel bolder, so I invited Chief out.
What that meant was:
‘Why don’t we run off somewhere, just the two of us?’
“Hmm, we could during the daytime, but it’s pretty dark, and it’s dangerous this time of night…”
But Chief kept on checking the time.
What this meant was probably:
‘Because I’m a kid.’
If the one asking was Oguro-san or Kamina-san, he gladly would’ve agreed to play at a park.
I’m a kid, so I have a curfew that stops me here.
“Then, I’ll give up.”
“Let’s play together in the daytime next time.”
But these are the kinds of things I like about Chief too.
He has a strong sense of responsibility, and he’d never put a kid in danger.
He’s a mature person with good morals.
He’s someone who understands my talent.
He’s cheerful, kind, and a little oblivious.
And― his hands are so warm.
I wish I could hold hands with him again.
If Chief was with me, if he would hold my hand forever, maybe I could live without music.
Maybe I’d be satisfied even if all sounds disappeared from inside my head.
“Oh, a car.”
“Oops.”
A narrow road.
The moment the car passed by us, I instinctively grabbed Chief’s arm and pulled him towards me.
But he slipped away from me like a bar of soap.
Away from the passing car, and my hand.
“……”
I’m aware that it was just bad timing.
Chief is the type of person who’d take a hand that’s offered to him, not the type to avoid it.
But.
“Am I―”
Not good enough?
It’s fine if it’s a lie, just say that I’m good enough.
“Let’s hurry back home! Nanaki-kun, you have work to do, right?”
He’s smiling.
He smiles as if there isn’t any ill intent in his body, as he slipped away from my hand.
Because I’m a kid.
Because he sees things differently than I do.
Because adults and kids perceive things differently.
I’m confident that I could vault over my age in one big step, but I’m sure you don’t feel the same way.
“Got it. …I’ll work hard on my job.”
I’ll always be ready to take that step, waiting for your go signal.
If you’d let me, I’d chase after whatever bone you threw me forever.
Just a few years between us has closed the lid on that in your head.
In the scenario where you fall in love with someone else, but I’m still in love with you;
Would I be able to endure that?
Would I be able to wish for your happiness?
“…Today, the moon is,”
I look up at the sky.
A city that’s been laid to rest.
A silent world. A beautiful moon.
This is like… A love curse.
I can feel myself stagnating, like a drain that’s stopped up.
Great Uncle, I don’t think I could stand it.
I could tell Akuta knew something was up, but I managed to hide my phone screen in time and quickly went back to my room. I jumped into my bed and pulled the covers over my head.
ー✈︎
A mysterious message sent by a mysterious person.
Whoever this person was, how did they know my email?
How did they know I was unlove?
I couldn’t figure it out no matter how many times I read over the message, but even though I could feel alarm bells ringing in my head, the curiosity in me welled up at the idea of learning more about my great uncle’s music.
I wanted to know more, I wanted to follow this lead, and I wanted to be the one to obtain it.
So I’m convinced a fifth movement exists.
“Who am I speaking with?”
I sent.
It wasn’t like this was the first time someone figured out I was unlove.
Like how the kind-hearted music critic, Adolf-shi, did.
“I can’t tell you that right now. I’m just a fan of you and Nanakuma.”
I received.
As for how they found my email… I’m not sure, but anyone with a bit of experience in that kinda thing could probably figure it out if they wanted to.
Still, I can’t rule out the possibility that this is a troll, or that someone was trying to harass me or something. I had the passing thought that dealing with this kind of person might be more trouble than it’s worth.
But I couldn’t stop my fingers from typing.
That’s how captivated I was with “the fifth movement.”
“Then excuse my frankness, but what did you mean by the fifth movement?”
“Anyone in certain circles already knows that you’ve been collecting the sheet music. The public only knows about the first four, but there’s more to that piece.”
I was wondering what “circles” they meant, but it’s no matter.
…I already figured that was the case.
Because if it were me, I wouldn’t have ended the piece there.
“Even if you say that, I still have a lot of questions… But still.”
Even if he’s suspicious and shady, it doesn’t matter.
I’m gonna stick with this person.
…The continuation of my great uncle’s story of music and love.
I want to see the proper conclusion through to the very end.
“So? Where’s this fifth movement?”
“In order for me to give it to you, you must fulfill my conditions first.”
“Is it money or something?”
“Not quite. I’d like you to write the fifth movement yourself.”
“Huh?”
I never would’ve guessed they’d say something like that.
For a second, I thought the entire thing about the fifth movement was made up and they were just some fan who wanted someone to write a sequel to the original, but―
“I’m not asking you to create the perfect replica of the fifth movement or anything. I’d just like you to write it as if you were imagining what the sequel would be like… It should be based on your own interpretation, tastes, and sense.”
“So it’s fine if it’s original? Like one of those quizzes where there’s no wrong answers?”
“Exactly. If the song satisfies me, then I’ll show you where the original fifth movement is. In that sense, you could say it’s something like a quiz. How does a two week deadline sound?”
“……”
Things were progressing so quickly, I forgot to give them a reply. I just kept reading as they continued.
“Since you’re the spitting image of Nanakuma, Nanaki-san, I’m sure a challenge such as this will be a walk in the park for you. Well then, I’ll be in touch.”
…And the message ended there.
Snapping out of my daze, I tried replying with things like “Hold on a moment,” and “Wait,” but I didn’t receive a reply.
“Seriously…?”
Could I even do something like that?
Me? Continuing my great uncle’s song?
Just to fulfill the demands of some person who could just be conning me?
I immediately started to send another message.
The recipient was Onii, of course.
I told him about how I received a strange message.
About the existence of a fifth movement.
Everything I knew from my exchange with the person called Unknown.
And the conditions they set for me.
Then, Onii replied to me.
“I’d like to meet up to talk ASAP.”
“? Sure, I don’t mind, but…”
We had plenty of opportunities to talk about this, it didn’t even have to be in person… what had gotten into him?
I was a little confused, but I ultimately decided to go back to my parents house.
I let Akuta know I was staying the night and I’d be going to school from there.
ー✈︎
Before I could even catch my breath after making it to my parents’ house, Onii got straight to the point.
“Maybe you should take a break from finding the sheet music for a while? I don’t think it’s a good idea to keep going until we verify the identity of this guy and find out everything we can about the fifth movement.”
Maybe it’s just because he was worried for me, but Onii didn’t seem too thrilled about the discovery.
His handsome face was twisted in concern as he stared at mine.
“…I get why you’re hesitant. But, don’t worry, I don’t plan on blindly believing this Unknown person.”
“So we’re just gonna put a pin in it for now, yeah?”
“Now you’re being too hasty. …I plan on making my own version of the fifth movement.”
“WHY!?”
Onii yelled out in a loud voice.
I thought that was a little weird.
Onii has always supported my mission to collect the sheet music ever since we found the first movement. He’s always been the type to respect what I wanted to do.
Maybe Unknown is actually a much more dangerous threat.
Well of course they are, they’re just some random person who dug up private information about me and contacted me out of nowhere… but…
“The fifth movement might be something I could only get with a chance like this.”
I couldn’t stop thinking about that.
Hearing me say that, Onii’s eyebrows furrowed a bit.
“I don’t feel any type of way about Unknown. I’d eliminate anyone in the world who would harm you, Nanaki, so you don’t have to worry about that.”
“That’s a little extreme… but putting that aside, if you’re not worried about Unknown, then why are you so cautious over this?”
“……”
Onii was silent for a moment, looking unusually hesitant before he finally spoke up.
“…You recorded up until the fourth movement. Of course, I was the first one to listen to it all. And it was amazing. It even has your own arrangement. I wanted to walk around boasting about just how talented my little brother is.”
“…Thanks for that.”
“But, after I listened to it… I got a bit of an uneasy feeling… So I decided to do some research on the sheet music myself.”
“An uneasy feeling?”
What in the world did he mean by that?Maybe this was something like his older brother instincts kicking in… Actually, what the hell is an older brother's instincts anyways?
“Instead of asking just our relatives, I looked into fanatics that were collecting all sorts of information related to Nanakuma… People who were in communities like Adolf-shi, underground websites, and things like that. When I was just looking for the sheet music, it was pretty straightforward, but this time was a bit more unusual.”
“Right. Did you find anything?”
Onii hesitated again before he slowly started speaking once more.
“‘The curse of our great uncle’s sheet music.’”
“…What’s that?”
“Our great uncle’s sheet music has a curse on it. If you collect all of them and play the whole thing, you’d go insane and die. That’s why he tore it apart and sold it in pieces rather than selling it whole.”
“……”
“Great Uncle died because of that very curse that his sheet music had.”
“…Uh, that’s…”
I hesitated at that too.
There are a lot of things in this world that can’t be proven with science, but… A curse…?
And on top of that, Onii, who I considered to be more on the realist side, seems fully convinced…
“I get what you want to say, Nanaki. I mean, who would believe in a rumor like that? It’s not like I wholeheartedly believe it either.”
“Then…”
“But… What if it were true? What if you get cursed…? Your sense and your talent is very similar to our great uncle’s, so maybe it’s possible.”
I see, I got it now.
So that’s what it boiled down to.
Onii’s typical overprotectiveness is coming out.
Onii had that kind of side to him.
Like he cares about me a little too hard.
I’m grateful for that side of him, though.
So, as he sat there looking depressed, I decided to lightly pat his back and laugh it off. That's my job as a younger brother, after all.
“It’ll be fine, Onii will eliminate the curse.”
“It’s not that simple, y’know… No, you’re right.”
“Right? So I’m gonna do it. I might have to rely on you again, but I really want to know the conclusion of Great Uncle’s love and the song.
“……”
Onii stared at me for a while before he shrugged his shoulders in defeat.
He agreed to help me, but added, “I’m not a fan of the idea, but if Nanaki really wants me to.”
I knew that my Onii was the best brother ever.
Onii watched as I laughed cheerfully, unable to hold back the beaming smile on my faceーー
“It’s better if you don’t learn about love. Not other people’s… or your own, either.”
He seemed to mutter something like that to himself, but my parents came back home before I could ask him what he meant, so it got glossed over in the end
ー✈︎
And so, the next day came, and I began to compose my own version of the fifth movement.
With school, my club activities, and my work as a Ward Mayor, my free time was pretty limited,
Since I didn’t have much time until the deadline was over, I tried to avoid making any other plans and focused solely on composing for the next two weeks.
I told everyone in the Day Squad that I had a job that suddenly popped up.
Akuta promised to keep quiet as much as he could when he was in our room, and Kiroku told me he’d try to help out in any way he could.
Muneuji taught me some breathing techniques to help with concentration, and even though Ushio didn’t say anything in particular, he offered me some broken chocolate that he said he had left over from baking.
And soー
“Okay…”
After preparing myself as much as possible, I holed myself up in my room and continued composing in silence.
I tried checking my phone several times, but Unknown didn’t send me anything else.
“……”
About my great uncle.
About the characteristics of his songs. His mannerisms.
About what he must have been thinking. The world he saw. The things he felt.
As if I fumbled around my imagination, I slipped into my great uncle’s world.
*knocking*
“?!”
Startled by the sudden knocking, I jumped in surprise.
Then, I heard Chief’s voice from the other side of the door.
“Nanaki-kun, are you there? Your brother came to visit.”
“Huh!?”
[Kiroku SSR] FAV collection - The Texture of Youth
(Proofread by @kfkr1ze!)
Part 1
*sketching*
Kiroku: …
(Even though, I must've sketched the scenery here countless times… my lines feel all wrong. I can't, concentrate…)
…Phew.
*door opens*
Yukikaze: Kiroku. How about taking a break now?
Kiroku: Kamina, san.
Yukikaze: You've been drawing through your lunch, haven't you? I brought you some onigiri and miso soup, so feel free to eat up.
Kiroku: Thank, you.
Yukikaze: …Are you thinking about something in particular while you draw? If you don't mind sharing with me, I'll listen to any troubles you have.
Kiroku: Wh…
Ah… well, um… …I was… thinking, about, my BD, area.
I… want, to use art… of, course. …And the first thing, that came to mind…
…
Yukikaze: …Take your time. Don't force yourself to talk about it if you don't want to.
Kiroku: The first thing, that came to mind… was a solo, exhibition. A dream where… I show, everyone… the things I've drawn… the things I've, made… so far.
But… is it really okay… to hold… an exhibition, for myself…?
Yukikaze: I don't see the issue.
Kiroku: Y-you answered so quickly…!
Yukikaze: Because I didn't have to wonder what to say.
I want to support your dream. If you're unsure, I want to push you forward. And I can't imagine I'm the only one who feels that way.
…What's more, when I mentioned my own dream of holding a solo exhibition, you didn't laugh, and supported me, didn't you? Do you remember?¹
Kiroku: I, do.
Yukikaze: That made me very happy. You gave me the courage to take a small step forward.
Kiroku: …
Yukikaze: There's still time, so don't feel you have to answer right away.
Let's take care of that empty stomach first. Then you can take your time to think.
Kiroku: All, right. Thank you… for the food.
…Yummy.
(…I have people who'll push me forward.)
(Kamina-san… isn't the only one. There's Chief, the Noon Team, Karigane-sensei… people who… accept my art…)
(So… I'll—)
*school bell*
Akuta: Woohoo! Let's head home ~one and all~
Kiroku: Ah… actually, I…
Nanaki: You're staying again?
Kiroku: …Mhm. To… continue, the picture.
Muneuji: I was astonished when I heard from Chief that you would be displaying a brand new piece made for your birthday exhibition.
Moreover, I'm amazed that you're attempting something so large you need to borrow the art room.
Ushio: Making a new piece with so little time left is gonna whittle away your HP. Sure you can do this?
Nanaki: You've been working yourself non-stop since you decided on this…
Kiroku: I'm fine… for now, at least.
Muneuji: If you do find yourself in trouble, don't hesitate to let us know. We'll gladly back you up.
Kiroku: …Thank, you. I'll… get going, now.
*walking away*
Ushio: …Is he really gonna be okay?
Kiroku: …I'm, back.
Akuta: Oh! Welcome back, Kiroku~!!
Nanaki: Late again today, huh. Go get changed first, I'll heat up your curry while you do.
Kiroku: …Thank, you. I'm… pretty hungry, so. That helps.
Ushio: …He slouches enough as is, yet it still managed to get worse.
Muneuji: Hm. As we thought, it seems he's overdoing it. Everyone, now is the time—
Akuta: But of course, I couldn't agree more! —Day2, move out~!!
Everyone: YEEEAAAH!!
Kiroku: …Phew.
(My event is tomorrow. Nayuki-san said I have until the morning of, so… just a bit more. If I just add a little more—)
*door opens*
Akuta: Heya! Are ya winning, boss!?
Kiroku: …Guys.
Nanaki: We brought some refreshments. I get wanting to do your best, but it'll all be pointless if you collapse.
Muneuji: This is what you've been working on…!?
Ushio: ᴵⁿᶜʳᵉᵈᶦᵇˡᵉ…
Nanaki: It'll be making its debut tomorrow…
Akuta: Yeah, yeah! It's not just crazy, it's absolutely insane! Actually, no, it's fabulous great pegasus max!!
Ushio: Really stretching your vocabulary there.
Muneuji: …Ah, we shouldn't be interrupting you. Apologies. Let's hurry and set up a supply box on this table.
*rustling*
Akuta: We made these onigiri with Yukikaze-san. We've got tuna mayo, bonito flake, plum, and pollock roe fillings all here at the Day2 convenience store~!
Kiroku: (…It's so, lively.)
(Until now, I only ever drew with my "friends" around, but—)
Akuta: Hey hey! Kiroku, what kinda onigiri do ya want?
Kiroku: (Now, I'm not alone.)
I'll, have… a tuna, mayo one.
¹Referring to Kiroku's "Day2 On The Stage" SR
Part 2
Sakujiro: This way marks the proper route through Kinugawa-kun's solo exhibition! Please follow along without straying from the path, everyone!
Day2 ＆ Chief: Yes sir!
*crowd chatter*
Nanaki: It's pretty packed, huh. Everyone here came to celebrate Kiroku… to see Kiroku’s art.
Chief: Yeah…! Oh? Isn't that…
Kiroku: That… producer, from, Kanazawa?
Akuta: With the Watanabe collection!
Kiroku: (Back then, he had me redo it, at first. What is he thinking… looking at my work now?)
*walking*
Chief: Woah… there are so many pieces! It's so colourful…! This blackboard art especially stands out, it's beautiful!
Akuta: Oil paintings, sketches- ah, there are even puppets like Dewawa and co.
Muneuji: Painted paper sumo wrestlers and origami Buddha statues, and the okiagari doll from the live painting session are also on display.
Sakujiro: I doubt there are enough hours in the day to take it all in properly. It reminds me of a certain art gallery in France.
Ushio: (Huh, he put up some PatiBato art too. Clearly labeled as "personal fanart", good on him for doing this proper… ly…)
(Wait, hold up, what's that one! I've never seen that Reito sketch before!? Huh? He didn't tell me about this!?)
Muneuji: Uu-chan? You suddenly started trembling, what happened?
Ushio: Ah, um, i-it's nothing?
Nanaki: This isn't just about the art itself—it feels like the culmination of everything Kiroku's made since joining Hama Tours.
Sakujiro: Indeed. Though, the one attracting the most attention—
Chief: …? There's a huge crowd by that area.
Kiroku: The one, hung up there, is… my newest. It's titled—
Chief: "The Guides of Hama"…?
Sakujiro: He's gone beyond detailed! This enormous canvas holds the likenesses of us all at Hama Tours, Shuumai, and the pet robots.
Such delicate yet daring use of colour! Texture that strikes a vivid impression in all who behold it! And the life in each and every brush stroke—how it makes my heart tremble!
Akuta: Ma~n, it's still crazy no matter how many times I see it! Kiroku's art! Is irresistible! It's the most dazzling thing ever!
Chief: In…
Incredible, Kiroku-kun! You can make such wonderful art! O-oh no, I'm getting to emotional to speak…
Bearded Critic: What's that? Kinugawa-sensei is present! Pardon me, I'd love to have just an hour of your time to talk!
Fan of Kiroku's Art: Pl-please sign this! I watched your live okiagari doll painting—it stole my heart!!
Location: Hama Asunaro High School Community Revitalization Club Room
Sakujiro: ――Alright, everyone. Good work on submitting your work experience reports.
I have read through everything you submitted, and all of your reports were EXTREEEEEEEEMLY interesting!
Kiroku: Eh… you read… through everything…? In just… a few seconds…?
Akuta: Kari-sen, your aura is INSANEEEE!!! How many eyes do you have!?
Ushio: Literally. I find it hard to believe this guy isn’t an android himself.
Sakujiro: Fufufu, you flatter me so. At any rate…
Your summer work experience assignment has been completed! Please give yourselves a round of applause for your efforts!
All of the Day Squad: LET’S GOOO!!!
Location: HAMA House Living Room
Raito: ――I see. I’m glad everything turned out well. You all worked so hard.
Nanaki: It’s all thanks to your investment, Raito-san. Thank you.
Muneuji: I’m deeply grateful for the valuable experience you allowed us to have.
Akuta: Plus you even gave us some pocket money too… You’re way too generous, dude… Is this what it means to be a real man…?
Raito: Haha. I didn’t do anything special. I just gave you back the profits you earned. Just think of it as something you worked for.
Nanaki: Right…!
Raito: Ah right, regarding the future of “Seafoam Coffee”, I’ve decided to entrust it to a reliable company. Of course, the name you all chose will remain the same.
Nanaki: ! That’s great… Thank you so much!
Kafka: Ah, there you are. Nanaki and company.
Muneuji ＆ Nanaki ＆ Akuta: ?
Kafka: Do you all still accept coffee orders? I have to work a little harder, you see. Would you mind making a cup of coffee for me?
Muneuji ＆ Nanaki ＆ Akuta: ――Of course!
Location: HAMA House Dining Room
Kafka: Mmm, it smells good.
Oh right, I’ve been wondering this for a while, but how did you come up with the name “Seafoam Coffee”?
Nanaki: Ahh, umm… “Sea” and “Coffee” are pretty self explanatory, but “foam” comes from thisーー
Nanaki: Look, when you pour hot water over coffee beans, foam appears. All of us were practicing hand-drip coffee and we got really into our conversation about the foam.
Muneuji: Initially, it was created after we combined the words together, but Natsume-san interpreted it as the word “seafoam” in relation to the ocean. He thought it was beautiful sounding and it reminded him of The Little Mermaid.
Kafka: I see, that does sound like Yodaka.
Daniel: Oh, what’s this? You’re making coffee? Niceee, I’ll take some too. Ahh, and I oughta bring some to Nayuki since he’s always working his ass off too.
Kafka: Fufu, it looks like “Seafoam Coffee” won’t be going out of business anytime soon.
Location: HAMA House Boar Room
Muneuji: Pardon my intrusion. I came to deliver your coffee.
Location: HAMA House 3F Balcony
Nanaki: Here, Kugu-nii. I brewed the coffee you asked for.
Kuguri: Ah, thank you. I’ve been waiting for this.
Location: HAMA House Terrace
Akuta: ーー‘n thennn, after you let it steep for 3 mins, you just press this bar on top anddd…
You got a French press coffee! See!? It’s light work, right!?
Well, I can only handle like 2 drops of it though!
Ten: Ughh… Tired. Nanaki～ Could I get some coffee?
Liguang: My apologies, Kaguya. Could I ask you for some coffee?
Netaro: Waru [1]! One coffee with sugar and spice, and everything romantic and nice!
Location: HAMA House Dining Room
Nanaki: Ah, Natsume-san. Good work today. I heard the coffee roaster arrived todayーー
Woah, is this it? It’s a lot bigger than I thought it’d be…
Yodaka: Fufu. After hearing about the recent coffee trend going around at HAMA Tours, Raito decided to splurge a bit on one. It was quite generous of him.
Nanaki: Haha, right. Since we’re here, do you want to roast some beans together? …A dark roast, just how Natsume-san likes it.
Yodaka: Fufu, that sounds wonderful. Then if you’d like, how about we brew each other some coffee using those? With hand-drip coffee, even if we use the same beans, the taste will differ depending on the brewer, won’t it?
Nanaki: That sounds nice.
Nanaki: …Mm, it’s delicious. As I’d expect from the coffee you’d brew, Natsume-san. It has a rich taste with a subtle and pleasant sense of bitterness.
Yodaka: Thank you. The coffee you brew, Nanaki, tastes refreshing upon the first impression. But there are several different elements that intricately intertwine with one another, creating a beautiful sense of harmony on the tongue, almost like music. I really like it.
Nanaki: …Haha, that’s a little embarrassing.
Yodaka: There’s nothing embarrassing about it. Your skills are practically like a professional, Nanaki. I would love to have you serve coffee at Yumejuya one day.
Nanaki: Were you planning on expanding the café menu?
Yodaka: That would be a good idea… I was also thinking of making cocktails using espresso.
Nanaki: Oh wow, those exist?
Um, Natsume-san. If you don’t mind, could you teach me more sometime?
About coffee, and about Natsume-san as well.
Yodaka: Indeed, that sounds wonderful. I was also hoping to hear more about yourself as well, Nanaki. So we should definitely have a nice conversation with each other.
Perhaps we could have one over a nice cup of coffee.
Previous — ✈︎ Masterlist
Notes — ✈︎
Waru is Netaro’s nickname for Akuta if you weren’t sure!
You’ve had the strength to carry these feelings with you for so long, so I’m sure you have the courage to take that next step forward.
Yodaka & Asumi: !
Nanaki: I don't think that courage is meaningless. There has to be worth in confessing, I know it.
Asumi: … …Yeah. I see. You're exactly right.
*waves crashing*
Asumi: —I'm going to go see her.
Yodaka & Nanaki: …—
Asumi: …After a lot of thought, I decided I wouldn't confess, and simply treasure these feelings inside me forever. But…
For me, that only made my feelings swell up, and I just ended up hurting myself more and more.
I don't know if confessing will lighten my feelings or make them unbearably painful, but… I think I should face them head-on, so I don't have any regrets.
Yodaka-san, Nanaki-kun. Thank you for giving me advice on this. All the things both of you said have cheered me up.
Yodaka: (Aah, I see…)
Nanaki: Glad to hear it… …Yeah. Now that you've said that, I can finally say this—
—I'll be rooting for you.
Asumi: Right…!
Yodaka: (Is that how it is—…?)
*waves crashing*
Location: Beach
*coffee brewing*
*coffee pouring*
Yodaka: —Here are your two coffees.
Asumi: Thank you. I'll get going to senpai's house, then.
Nanaki: Safe travels.
*walking*
Nanaki & Yodaka: ……
Nanaki: …I wonder if she'll be alright.
Yodaka: ?
Nanaki: It feels a little late to say this, but…
I'm a bit worried that I overstepped with what I said. Hopefully I didn't push her in the wrong direction.
Yodaka: Don't worry. I think your perspective is exactly what she needed to hear.
Nanaki: —…
Yodaka: I also told her what I thought about it… and I only said what I truly felt. But even so—
Location: Seaside, in front of the Coffee Truck
Yodaka: Both of these options you gave yourself seem exceedingly cruel and painful, almost as if it were a potent poison. The only thing it would do is cause yourself to suffer.
…If you were to consume that poison, you, along with your feelings of love, would dissolve into foam. If that were to happen… I cannot say I believe it’s the right course of action.
Location: Beach
Yodaka: All this time, I only focused on ways to avoid hurting anyone, since I subconsciously thought that was the right thing to do… so all my advice hinged on that.
It's a bad habit of mine.
But listening to you both, watching you both… I began to truly believe that conveying your feelings would be nice.
Yodaka: As you said, communication is important, and just as valuable—that's what I realised.
Nanaki: —Right.
Nanaki: (In the past, I'd probably have thought the same way she did. But now—)
Akuta: Here ya go, thanks for waitin'! Uh, next customer! Let me take your order!
Location: Seaside, in front of the Coffee Truck
Muneuji: Thank you for waiting. Here are your Turkish coffee and mocha blend iced coffee.
Raito: Haha, they're certainly doing well.
Yodaka: Aren't they? One of our regulars wrote an online article about us as thanks for giving her advice.
Nanaki: I didn't know Asumi-san did that kind of work.
Yodaka: It never came up in our discussions, did it.
Nanaki: Asumi-san… probably won't be coming here again.
Yodaka: I wonder. Whatever the case, she's moving forward, so there's likely no reason for her to look back anymore.
Nanaki: …That's true.
(That day…)
*waves crashing*
—That day, she was anxious all the way up until it was time for them to part, at which point she finally confessed.
Her senpai was shocked, thought for a moment, apologised for not being able to return her feelings, then said "Thank you for telling me, I'm glad that you like me."
When she told us, she was sobbing uncontrollably—
Yet weirdly enough, her face was free of worry.
It was such a lovely expression that I couldn't help but envy her.
Location: Seaside, in front of the Coffee Truck
Nanaki: Ah, right, there was something I wanted to ask you, Raito-san.
Raito: Hm? What is it?
Nanaki: I want to try making lattes and espressos as well, so… could you lease an espresso machine for us?
Raito: You want to do that now? I know we've been able to bring in quite a bit of revenue and successfully turn a profit, but we'll be closing soon, you know? Getting an espresso machine for so few days would be…
Yodaka: Haha, apologies. It was actually me who said I wanted to make espressos.
Raito: Huh?
Yodaka: If we can't get a machine, I'd be happy with a moka pot and milk frother. I imagine they'll pay for themselves in no time, so would you consider it?
Raito: …Heh, I see. Got it. I'll arrange something right away, then.
Nanaki: …
Akuta: You've been speaking up a lot more lately, Yodaka-san. Finally feels like you're a real coro… co-owner!!
Muneuji: Indeed. There was a certain sophistication in the way you initially took a step back, but… it seemed quite lonely too, so I'm glad to see your current attitude.
Nanaki: —That reminds me, Natsume-san. Isn't it time for your break?
Yodaka: Aah, you're right. I'll excuse myself for a moment.
Nanaki: Want some coffee? Just let me know what kind you like, or if you’re in the mood for something in particular…
Yodaka: Perhaps a strong, dark roast coffee, then.
Raito: Sorry for the wait. I brought the cooking utensils you guys requested. Could you make sure it’s all there?
Akuta: Thanks a bunch! A hand mixer aaand the tiniest pot ever…! If you just looked at these, you prob wouldn’t be able to tell what kinda truck we run huh?
Raito: Hahah. I do find the idea to serve Dalgona coffee and Turkish coffee to be quite interesting though.
Nanaki: This area gets a lot of international tourists, plus we’re in the tourism industry ourselves.
I thought serving coffee from various different countries would be pretty unique and interesting.
Raito: I see. It’s certainly true that differentiating yourselves from other stores by highlighting unique features is a good idea. Any advice from you, Yodaka-san?
Yodaka: No, this was their plan. I trust the three of them to be able to handle other matters as well.
Raito: I see.
Muneuji: Natsume-san has held onto that firm stance since the very beginning. Although I’m honored that you have faith in us that much and entrust us with the responsibility, I can’t help but worry that you may have actual complaints or opinions that you’re not voicing.
Nanaki: True. Natsume-san, please feel free to tell us if anything comes up.
Yodaka: …Right, thank you both.
Location: Road by the Seaside
Akuta: It’s so hoottttt～ Let’s finish up these deliveries so we can have some snowcones at the beach…
Nanaki: Yeah, sounds good. …Wait, huh?
Akuta: ? What’s up?
Nanaki: Over there, is that…? …Sorry, Akuta. Give me a sec.
Akuta: EHHH!? WHERE ARE YOU GOING, NANAKIIIII!?
Nanaki: ――Asumi-san!
Asumi: ! Nanaki…kun.
Nanaki: S… Sorry to call out so suddenly… I was working on a delivery and I just happened to see you…
Asumi: I don’t know about the details or anything, but it seems to be because of her partner.
Nanaki: …Ah.
Location: Seaside, in front of the Coffee Truck
Touma: It’s not about buying coffee beans or anything, but… I actually had something I wanted to try doing overseas.
I was working myself hard to save up money to do it… But I just got so busy that I completely forgot about my goal and my feelings behind it.
Location: Road by the Seaside
Nanaki: ……
Asumi: What do I do…? I’ll never be able to see her again.
I decided not to confess my feelings, but I never thought I wouldn’t be able to see her again… Uuu… Sniff…
Akuta: Heeey Nanaki, why’d you――……
Wait, woah, holding my horses…… I’m a guy who can read the room.
Nanaki: …Asumi-san. I really can’t bring myself to root for you after all.
Asumi: Eh?
Nanaki: Since you’re clearly not okay with this at all.
To keep suppressing your feelings like this until everything turns out okay again would――
(For example, if I put myself in her shoes. If I couldn’t say anything to that person, and then I found out that we’d never see each other ever again…)
――It’d feel more painful than dying.
Asumi: !
Nanaki: I understand what you’re feeling. I know just how much the feeling of love could feel like holding a deadly weapon against another person.
But unrequited feelings aren’t something that you can easily throw away. No matter how hard you try to keep them deep inside, you’ll always think about wanting to “convey” them, won’t you?
Plus―― Even if the other person doesn’t respond the way you hoped they would…
Maybe if you expressed those feelings, and they’re properly received, maybe “something” could come out of it…!
Asumi: Nanaki-kun…
Nanaki: …I still want to believe in that possibility. Rather than just success or failure, these feelings could lead… to something beyond that…
Asumi: …But…
Nanaki: ………
Asumi: ………………
Akuta: ……RIGHT, RIGHT!! Excuse me for a bit, you twooo～
Nanaki: Akuta…
Akuta: This is just a suggestion buuuut…
If ya want, how about coming to my fave coffee truck in the whole world to drink some super yummy coffee and refresh our heads?
Akuta: SO, YODAKA-SAN! Make that thing! Y’know, that! The newest thing we have on our menu that’s super fluffy!
Location: Seaside, in front of the Coffee Truck
Yodaka: Thank you for waiting. Here you are. This is the Dalgona coffee that Akuta recommended.
Asumi: Thank you…
Yodaka: I take it you heard about Aika-san’s plans to move?
Nanaki: The way you phrase that… Did you know already, Natsume-san?
Yodaka: I happened to run into her the other day.
Yodaka: ――Eh? You’re moving overseas?
Aika: Yes. …But, I haven’t even told the kouhai I’m closest to about it yet. It feels like I’m betraying her in a way, so I’m not sure how to go about telling her about it.
Location: Seaside, in front of the Coffee Truck
Yodaka: I knew you would hear about it eventually, but… I suppose she finally told you, right?
Asumi: …Yes.
Yodaka: (…It truly is difficult, isn’t it? If you told the person, it’s inevitable that you would hurt her.)
(But if you were to keep it hidden, that would hurt the both of them even further.)
(So just what could you do to avoid an outcome where someone gets hurt?)
Asumi: …It’s delicious.
The first coffee I had with my senpai when we were students was sweet like this too.
I can’t remember when it started… Even back then, I already loved her so much… Uu… Uugh…
Yodaka: ……
Nanaki: Um… Asumi-san.
Asumi: ?
Nanaki: I know I’ve already said so much, but putting aside the question on whether or not you should confess, why don’t you meet with Aika-san in person and talk to each other?
To spend some time with each other again, even if it’s over one cup of coffee… That would be enough.
Yodaka: (Nanaki…)
Nanaki: I get being scared. But――
You’ve had the strength to carry these feelings with you for so long, so I’m sure you have the courage to take that next step forward.
