[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?
Liguang: You're looking at the pictures of that joey?
Muneuji: That incident has given me much to think about. And I… can't deny it makes me feel a little lonely.
So much so that I doubt I'd have been able to tear myself away had I been alone.
…Lu-senpai. To tell the truth, I had a rabbit myself when I was a child.
Liguang: …! That's the first I've heard of it.
Muneuji: While I've experienced separation before, today had a different type of loneliness to it.
But no matter the reason, you mustn't misjudge the distance you keep from animals. I'd like to thank you once more for your advice at the time.
You have my gratitude, Lu-senpai.
Liguang: I understand your feelings well. You should keep that loneliness close to your heart as a memory of our trip.
Muneuji: Right…
When we return, would it be alright if I went to your room to see your rabbits?
Liguang: Of course.
Muneuji: !
(…This study trip has given me experiences I'd never have had otherwise. What's more, I feel as though the distance between Lu-senpai and I has narrowed.)
Our time left is short, but I intend to continue treating this study trip properly. Once again, I'll be in your care.
With that, I'll be heading to sleep soon. You must be worn out from all that driving as well, so relax and—
Liguang: Stop.
Muneuji: Hm?
Liguang: You had something to say around noon, didn't you? No… even before that.
Ever since deciding on the itinerary, I've felt as though you've been hesitating to say something.
Muneuji: Ah…
Liguang: Tomorrow is the last day of our trip. Do you really have no regrets?
Muneuji: …Nothing gets past you, Lu-senpai. Actually, there's one more animal I'd like to see.
And that would be…
Liguang: …!
Muneuji: What do you think?
(Our itinerary would change drastically. What matters most here is whether or not Lu-senpai is interested…)
Liguang: …
I also wanted to see this one.
Muneuji: Huh?
Liguang: …Shall we change our itinerary? So we can go and meet some.
Muneuji: You mean…!
(I thought my ears deceived me for a moment—I can't believe Lu-senpai was also hiding his passion for that animal.)
We-well then, instead of going east to Sydney, let's change our route!
Liguang: Changing it will require a lot of annoying procedures, but… well, that's fine.
On top of that, I believe there's yet another fine establishment around that area. —Look.
Muneuji: …!?
(Lu-senpai… so he noticed how I felt. If we go here, I'll get to…!)
I'm grateful, Lu-senpai.
I shall undertake the duty of confirming how to get there and altering our return flight!
Liguang: Heh, I'll leave it to you.
Muneuji: Right. Don't mind me, and get some rest.
Liguang: (Despite the tedious work ahead of him, he looks happy. …I suppose that shows just how badly he wanted to meet that animal.)
(I thought him to simply be serious and mature—but today, I feel I've seen many different sides to Kaguya.)
Sakujiro: How precious…! I'd no idea joeys were so small.
Nanaki: Strolling through the woods with this little guy must've been a great experience.
Muneuji: When we sat down for a break, it thought my pocket was its mother's pouch and stuck its head inside.
Sakujiro: It must be quite rare for them to grow so attached.
Muneuji: The mother kangaroo is… here. Look, her pectoral muscles are magnificent, and even Gannosuke-san would be astonished by the length of her eyelashes.
Sakujiro: …
Fufu. Could it be that it warmed up to you both because Lu-san's muscles and your eyelashes resemble its mother?
Nanaki: I had the same thought.
Muneuji: Now that you mention it… Perhaps it did see traces of its mother in us. I'll be sure to tell Lu-senpai later.
Sakujiro: Incidentally, were you able to see a koala?
Muneuji: Indeed, I managed to observe a wild koala at the natural park.
And not just that—on our final day, we dropped by Koala Park, and got to hold some.
Nanaki: Uwah, that sounds great…! How was it?
Muneuji: It clung onto my arm, and not only was it rather strong, it dug its nails in as well.
But… it was so precious that I could feel my heartstrings tug.
Ah, and yes, Lu-senpai also seemed somewhat happy to hold a koala.
Sakujiro: Ooh…?
Nanaki: A-and? Did you manage to meet that animal in the end? It didn't look like it was on the itinerary…
Muneuji: Yes, we did indeed meet…
quokka wallabies.
Nanaki ＆ Sakujiro: !!
Muneuji: Incidentally, both Lu-senpai and I were fortunate enough to take a picture with one. Here's mine.
Nanaki: Wo~ah… waaa~~~~~aah! So cute…!
Sakujiro: As you'd expect of one known as the happiest animal on earth. Just looking at this expression brings a smile to my face as well!
Muneuji: To tell the truth, I hesitated to account for my own personal feelings for this study trip, and kept quiet about wanting to hold a koala and meet quokka wallabies.
But in the end, I was able to safely speak my mind—
Furthermore, I learned that Lu-senpai also held a hidden passion for quokkas. Ultimately, we changed our plans, and managed to fulfill both our desires.
Sakujiro: Is that so?
Fufu, your whole face is lit up. What a truly wonderful picture.
Muneuji: Lu-senpai also seemed just as… no, perhaps even more at peace than when he held a koala.
Nanaki: …Lu-san did?
Sakujiro: I'd actually been curious about that myself since hearing about the koalas.
The thought of Lu-san making such a joyous expression in front of a third party… to be frank, I can't quite imagine it.
Nanaki: …Hey, hey, do you also have the picture of Lu-san with a quokka?
Muneuji: We both took them with our own phones, so no, I don't.
But I'm sure Lu-senpai would be glad to show you if you ask.
Nanaki & Sakujiro: (I really doubt that.)
*Liguang enters*
Liguang: …
Muneuji: Oh, speak of the devil. Back already?
Liguang: Yes. I was only out yesterday to drop off souvenirs.
Muneuji: Is that so? Your younger sister was delighted, I'm sure.
Akuta: We're ba~ack! Oh, what's everyone in here for?
Muneuji: Our surroundings are becoming more and more dense…
Joey: !
Muneuji: Hm?
Joey: ! …!
Muneuji: Now it's hopping up and down for some reason. Is it trying to draw our attention to something…?
Liguang: There's nothing of note here, though. If I had to say, these eucalyptus trees are considerably tall—
Muneuji: Ah…
L-Lu-senpai…!
Liguang: What.
Muneuji: On that tree, there's a koala…!
Liguang: !
Muneuji: We finally saw one…! So they were in that high a spot!
Liguang: I can only see a speck.
Muneuji: Koalas reside at high elevations, so you often hear about them being difficult to observe. Taking that into consideration, I brought along some binoculars!
Liguang: You prepared that much to see a koala?
Muneuji: N-not for my own personal satisfaction, I assure you, fieldwork is simply such a rare occurrence—
Liguang: We have time. Observe and admire as you like. You've been longing to see one, haven't you?
Muneuji: …!
Liguang: Nobody ever said you can't enjoy yourself on a study trip.
Muneuji: …
Then—I won't hold back.
Ooh… rather than hugging the bark, it looks more like it's digging its nails into it.
So bushy… And that blank expression is truly adorable…!
Lu-senpai, please, use the binoculars yourself. It'd be a waste to miss this…!
Liguang: ……Well, opportunities like this seldom come around. I'll borrow them.
Oh…? It looks quite tired. Its eyes are half shut.
Muneuji: Likely a result of it being earlier than it's natural active hours. Isn't it three times as bushy as you imagined?
Liguang: Yes, it is bushy. Considerably so.
…Had you not been here, I wouldn't have been able to observe it this well.
Muneuji: I've hardly done much.
We hadn't seen any at all thus far, so I was thinking we might have to give up… I'm truly relieved.
Joey: …♪
Muneuji: Could it be that you led us here because you noticed us searching for a koala?
Liguang: (That's not— …no, now's not the time to say that.)
Muneuji: Because of your help, my desire to encounter a koala was realised. You have my gratitude, thank you.
Liguang: …Will you not be taking pictures?
Muneuji: Ah- you're right.
*taking a picture*
Muneuji: Even with the zoom, it's so high up that I can only take a small picture…
But I've burned the sight into my eyes, so I'm satisfied.
Apologies for spending so much time on this koala search. Let's start afresh.
Joey: …?
Muneuji: You should return to your mother and companions with haste as well. Goodbye now.
*walking*
Liguang: …
Muneuji: …Lu-senpai. It's following us.
Liguang: By chance, surely.
Muneuji: …
Muneuji: Phew… we've walked quite a bit. I'd heard it was a wide area, but experiencing the scope of it myself is something else.
Liguang: Should we have a quick break?
Muneuji: I'll take you up on that. …You've been hopping along this whole time as well, aren't you tired?
Joey: ?
Liguang: …Doesn't look like it.
Muneuji: Heh, perhaps this little one simply sees it as playing in the woods.
Liguang: Perhaps.
Liguang ＆ Muneuji: …
Muneuji: Lu-senpai, I believe that once we leave the sanctuary, we'll be going straight to our lodgings…
Liguang: Right. Tomorrow we'll be leaving the island, then heading from Adelaide to Sydney.
Muneuji: Yes, about that…—
*rustle*
Liguang: What.
Muneuji: …- Excuse me, hold on.
Joey: …♪
Muneuji: H-hey, why are you sticking your head in my pocket…!?
Liguang: Did you bring food?
Muneuji: No, I didn't want to risk impulsively feeding the animals, so…
Joey: ? …??
Muneuji: Th-that isn't your pouch…!
Liguang: …Pff, hah.
Muneuji: It really must miss its mother.
Liguang: Perhaps. …Ah, looks like it's given up.
Muneuji: Phew…
But now it's parked its rear on my shoes. …Will you really not calm down unless you do that?
Joey: …
Liguang: Now it seems it intends to sleep there.
Muneuji: …So it really was tired, then? I suppose there's nothing I can do. Lu-senpai, would you mind resting here with me a little while longer?
Liguang: I don't mind. You can't exactly move like that anyhow.
Muneuji: Lu-senpai's given his permission. After a quick rest, the two of us are going to leave, and when we do, I need you to not kick up a fuss.
Are you listening…?
Liguang: (…He's acting like a parent.)
Liguang: Kaguya, it's been enough time. The sanctuary will close if we don't start leaving soon.
Muneuji: Right…
Liguang: *sigh*… It's completely adjusted itself.
Muneuji: …Wake up now. We have to leave.
Joey: …?
Muneuji: Apologies. I can't express enough how much I'd like to spend more time with you, but…
(We're about to leave, so surely just a bit is fine? Just a light touch on its little head—)
Liguang: Kaguya. Don't pet it.
Muneuji: Ah…
Liguang: I mentioned before how I went to Australia on a school trip, yes? At the time, a wild bilby searching for food warmed up to me.
I found myself wanting to protect it, take it home with me… but of course, I couldn't.
Muneuji: So even you have those thoughts.
Liguang: …I suppose. The guide sternly warned that we can't let the animals become accustomed to humans, or they'll be unable to return to the wild.
Wild animals can have their futures robbed by the actions of humans. Pushing them away is a form of kindness.
Muneuji: …!
(I was happy that this joey warmed up to me, and almost tried to pet it on top of that.)
(But it would be bad if it couldn't return to where its mother is. It's still so small.)
I appreciate you stopping my thoughtless behaviour, Lu-senpai.
Ultimately, we are only guests in this environment. Disturbing the present and future of these animals isn't our place.
Apologies, I'm standing up now.
Joey: …!
Muneuji: We have to go now. From now on… you can't follow us anymore.
Liguang: (His reluctance to part is clear as day—but acting decisively is one of Kaguya's good points.)
Muneuji: Lu-senpai, um… not to say I'm still reluctant or anything, but…
Liguang: What.
Muneuji: I just can't help but worry about how we haven't seen this little one's parents or companions even once…
What if it wasn't playing, and really did get lost?
Liguang: …We'll inform the sanctuary staff on our way back. They'll have a good understanding of animals, and so should be able to make an appropriate decision.
Muneuji: ! Right, let's do that.
Liguang: …Hm?
*rustle*
Liguang: Stop Kaguya, something large is coming.
Muneuji: ! It's a kangaroo.
Liguang: I understand it's a fully grown adult, but isn't it still quite large…?
Muneuji: I-indeed. Those large pectoral muscles are quite captivating.
Joey: !!
Muneuji: Ah, the pouch…
Liguang: So she's its mother.
Muneuji: I see… So the mother came to pick it up. That's good.
…
Liguang: There's still time to say goodbye. You don't seem to be the only one reluctant to part.
Muneuji: Lu-senpai…
Joey: ?
Muneuji: I was able to see the koala I desired because of you. But above that, I'm glad to have met you at all.
Thank you for spending time with us, even if only for a small part of our trip.
I hope you live a full, happy kangaroo life here on this caring, protective island.
Joey: ！…！
Liguang: It's jumping again. Just like when it led us to the koala.
Muneuji: It must be the little one's way of saying goodbye… I'm sure of it. "See you again".
Liguang: (Despite his firm parting words, he looks lonely now that it's far away.)
*rustle*
Liguang: …
Muneuji: !
(Lu-senpai put his hand on my shoulder. For him to refrain from speaking at a time like this…)
Muneuji: Lu-senpai, that's not a rock. That… is a fur seal!
Liguang: It's a…!?
…Looking closer, they're all over the place. No wonder it's known for its fur seal colony.
Muneuji: The sight of them is just as impactful as the dynamic nature. I'd only ever seen them in zoos before, so I'd no idea they could grow so large.
Liguang: Come to think of it, I believe you can also see sea lions and true seals on other parts of Kangaroo Island.
Muneuji: Indeed, it seems many marine mammals from the Antarctic Ocean build colonies here.
Incidentally, Lu-senpai, do you know how to distinguish true seals from fur seals and sea lions?
Liguang: …True seals have no earlobes. Additionally, their forelegs can't support their bodies, if I remember correctly.
Muneuji: I'd expect no less from you. My preliminary research also turned up this—
Apparently, the reason true seals always lay curled up is a result of their physical structure.
Sea lions and fur seals are both in the Otariidae family, which possess earlobes, so distinguishing between them can be tricky at a glance.
But as their name implies¹, fur seals are covered in an abundance of fur in order to retain heat.
Liguang: I see. Now that you mention it, I can see some on those ones down there.
Muneuji: The smooth forms of true seals and sea lions are lovely, but the somewhat fluffy feeling of fur seals is nice too.
Liguang: (Fluffy feeling…?)
Muneuji: Ah, I almost forgot to take pictures. I absolutely must show this herd of fur seals to the others—
*taking pictures*
Liguang: (…Well, never mind that. I should take pictures too.)
Liguang: We'll have to proceed on foot from here on out. Are you feeling weary from all the travel so far?
Muneuji: I had a big lunch, so I'm full of energy.
Rather… the more we happened upon animals while driving, the more I wanted to see them up close.
Ah… are you worn out yourself? Driving with passengers in the car is quite tiring, I hear.
Liguang: I'm not that fragile. Let's get going if there are no issues. We have until the evening to walk around freely.
I wonder if we'll be able to find koalas with such limited time… We can't afford to mess around.
Muneuji: ! You're right, we should get going immediately.
We can probably expect to find them at the top of eucalyptus trees. I've seen many pictures of them sat on the forks, clinging to the trunks, but—
Liguang: Oi, Kaguya, watch your feet.
Muneuji: Ah… a tree branch. I might've fallen had you not warned me. Thank you.
(…Not again. I can't keep losing focus and playing around like this.)
(Wanting to see wild koalas is no reason to be walking around so carelessly.)
Ahem. Even in Australia, this is one of only a few places naturally inhabited by disease-free koalas.
In addition to mammals like koalas, you can also find a variety of other animals, like birds and reptiles.
*flapping*
Muneuji: …That surprised me… A bird just flew in out of nowhere.
Liguang: (Blue head, orange chest and bill, and green wings. This eye searing bird must be…)
A rainbow lorikeet. It's a type of parrot.
Muneuji: Yes, the articles I read say they're very loving and take quickly to humans—
*flapping*
Liguang: …
Muneuji: Lu-senpai. The rainbow lorikeet is on your shoulder.
Liguang: …I don't need you to tell me that.
Oi. Don't peck my hair, bird.
Muneuji: …Just as the articles said.
Liguang: How do I deal with this…?
Muneuji: Ah! You mentioned your younger sister requesting pictures, yes?
On top of that, we need to take pictures in order to report the fruits of our training.
Muneuji: And this… is undoubtedly a once in a blue moon opportunity…!
Liguang: Huh…?
Muneuji: Hold still, please…!
*taking pictures*
Muneuji: Phew… more wonderful pictures couldn't possibly exist. They'll put a smile on your sisters' faces too, I'm sure.
Liguang: …
Liguang: Short-beaked echidnas, red-tailed black cockatoos, possums… We've encountered quite a few animals we couldn't identify as well.
Muneuji: Walking through a forest and coming across wild animals like this is quite refreshing.
Though, fascinating as it is to be surrounded by such distinctive creatures…
Liguang: We've yet to achieve what we set out for: finding a koala.
Muneuji: It's still too early to give up. Koalas are nocturnal by nature, so I'd like to persevere to the very end.
*rustle*
Liguang: Kaguya, stop. That thicket has something—
Muneuji: ! A kangaroo… or rather, a joey?
Joey: …?
Muneuji: Even the wallaby we saw from the car was larger than that. Its countenance comes across somewhat childlike too…
Liguang: It's staring at us with its large doe eyes.
Liguang ＆ Muneuji: So cute…
*taking pictures*
Muneuji: Lu-senpai, look…! I just took the most wonderful picture of it peering into the camera.
Liguang: As have I—a perfect shot. It's like it understands what the cameras are for…
…
Can you spot its parents or companions around?
Muneuji: Ah, now that you mention it…
You'd typically imagine a mother kangaroo carrying her child in her pouch, but this joey is alone… Did it get lost?
Liguang: It's a wild animal. Humans shouldn't do anything unnecessary, particularly when they're young. Leaving is likely our best option here.
Muneuji: Concerned as I am, you're right.
Liguang: Hm? …Looks like it's off somewhere itself.
Muneuji: Let's get going. We need to take our time and search for a koala.
Joey: …♪
Liguang: Why is it looking back at us?
Liguang ＆ Muneuji: (Don't tell me—)
(Does it want us to follow it?)
Liguang: …Well, we're free to walk where and how we please.
Muneuji: And that just so happens to be the same direction this little one wants to go.
…Let's go, Lu-senpai.
Liguang: Right.
¹The Japanese term for fur seals (ottosei/オットセイ) doesn't actually imply this, but the sentence felt quite redundant in English without adding that in there
Liguang: (Starting from South Australia’s capital, Adelaide, we'd also be able to reach today's destination by air.)
(The choice to take the ferry was made based on the chance of meeting sea life, but even if we don't, the fine weather makes up for it.)
Muneuji: …
Liguang: …Do you not feel nauseous reading on a boat?
Muneuji: Oh, Lu-senpai. I'm not reading so much as simply taking in the images in this book, so there's no harm to it.
Liguang: Ah… the one you bought at the South Australian Museum yesterday?
Muneuji: The exhibits on natural history and Aboriginal cultures are quite fascinating. I was thinking I'd share my findings with the others once we return.
Liguang: (…He really is diligent, hm. It's hard to see him as the same age as the other youngsters in the Noon Team. In fact, compared to the idiot, there's every chance his mental age is…)
Muneuji: Did you come to feel the breeze, Lu-senpai?
Liguang: No, there was an announcement that we'll be reaching Penneshaw harbour soon.
Muneuji: Ah, I must have been too focused to notice.
If we get lucky, we should soon be able—
Passenger: Kyah!
Muneuji: !
Liguang: Over here. Look at the sea.
Muneuji: Ooh, a dolphin…! Lu-senpai, there's a dolphin swimming around!
Liguang: Yes, I see it.
Spotting one on the ferry to Kangaroo Island is supposedly quite rare. This is a good omen.
Muneuji: Had you not come out to inform me, I'd likely have been too absorbed in the book to catch it.
Right, I should take some pictures.
Liguang: Same here—my younger sister requested I take some for her.
Muneuji: You have both an elder sister and a younger sister¹, yes? I also intend to show these to Princess and the others.
*taking pictures*
Muneuji: Taking pictures each time we encounter an animal will likely fill up the camera memory in the blink of an eye.
Given that we're headed for Kangaroo Island, we'll of course find kangaroos there…
But Australia is said to contain over a thousand different species of wildlife that can be found nowhere else.
Liguang: May as well have our fill of the various animals while we're here.
Muneuji: Indeed—on that note, I hear it's permitted to hold koalas in this continent…
Liguang: Right, that was in the data Sojun collected too. I didn't think to include it in the schedule, but—
Muneuji: !
(I didn't think before I spoke, but is holding koalas really a matter worth including in the itinerary…?)
(This trip is for studying, through and through. Changing the plan on a whim would disappoint Lu-senpai.)
…That, is indeed something I happened to learn while looking into regulations on koala conservation.
Liguang: It must be quite popular with tourists. Perhaps we can decide what to do about it once we arrive?
Muneuji: No… we should act in accordance with our plan.
Liguang: I see.
(I thought him to be very serious, but… Did he not say that because he wants to hold a koala himself?)
Liguang: Seatbelt?
Muneuji: Fastened. Having an international driving license is just what I'd expect from you, Lu-senpai.
Much as it pains me to have my senpai drive me around… I'll be in your care on this occasion.
Liguang: You can't get a licence at your age regardless. …Let's set off.
Muneuji: I'll handle the navigation system… oh, it's in English. Destination: "Flinders Chase National Park".
Liguang: That helps. I imagine I'll be at risk of missing the guideboards until I adjust myself.
Muneuji: Why, this is simply the duty of the one in the passenger seat. I have a portable paper map in case of emergency too, so no need to worry.
Liguang: …Do you not get worn out, acting like this all the time? If it's out of consideration for me, you should stop it now.
Muneuji: No, this is simply how I am. I'd appreciate if you wouldn't worry about me either, Lu-senpai.
Liguang: That's all well and good, but—
…-!
*car screeches to a halt*
Muneuji: Woah…-!?
Liguang: Sorry. Are you alright?
Muneuji: Yes, nothing happened with how quickly you reached out to support me. But, what on earth…
Liguang: Something jumped in front of the—
Liguang: A kangaroo… no, it's too small.
Muneuji: Indeed, its hind legs and tail are both short. More to the point, this tiny figure must be—
A wallaby…!
*taking pictures*
Liguang: …Looks like it's crossed.
Muneuji: I see no trailing wallabies. We can continue onwards.
The scenery distracted me from noticing, but there appear to be many warning signs about animals leaping out.
Liguang: Even JPN has signs like those for deer and wild boar if you head into more rural areas…
But you'd be hard-pressed to find any for kangaroos and wallabies.
Muneuji: Hm…?
What animal's on that one? It… looks like a pig, but I don't think that's right.
Liguang: It's a wombat. …There's some crossing the road now.
Muneuji: Ooh…! Lu-senpai, one of them is tiny!
Liguang: Must be parent and child. …Still, we've not even crossed half our planned distance yet.
I'd heard Australia has many incidents of roadkill, but I didn't imagine it would be this much of a risk.
(Should I try driving more carefully? It'll take longer than planned, but there's no way around it.)
*taking pictures*
Muneuji: I'll keep a closer eye on the road ahead. And I'll be sure to share the pictures of the wallaby and wombat family with you afterwards, so you can relax and focus on driving.
Liguang: Right, please do.
……Look out ahead, I mean.
Muneuji: This is Admirals—
*wind blows*
Liguang: … That's quite some wind.
Muneuji: We must be experiencing the forces of nature that shaped Admirals Arch into this form.
Liguang: It's an extraordinary sight.
Muneuji: Those jagged rocks are rather mystifying—it baffles the mind to think that the wind and waves can mould such shapes.
Liguang: Hm…?
Muneuji: What is it, Lu-senpai?
Liguang: I feel as though that rock moved just—
¹Muneuji refers to Liguang's sisters as 姉君/anegimi and 妹御/imoutogo, which are very respectful terms used to refer to another person's elder or younger sister respectively
Kafka: And so, the results of the raffle say that our next study pair will be Liguang and Muneuji, going to Australia.
Muneuji: (So my turn has finally arrived. With a senpai I hold in such high regard, no less.)
Lu-senpai, you have my regards for your guidance on this study tour.
Liguang: Right.
(I was wondering what I'd do if I got paired with some idiot or brat, but it looks like I avoided the short end of the stick. Kaguya likely won't cause much trouble.)
Nanaki: Australia's pretty big, seems like there's lots of things to check out.
Kafka: Everyone’s heard about its World Heritage Sites like Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef at least once—and its wildlife tourism is second to none.
Chief: Yeah, yeah. It'd be great to learn about the Aboriginal cultures there too, or have a tour of the architecture in the city!
Putting together an itinerary that'll make the trip meaningful for you two specifically might be fun too.
Nanaki: What do Muneuji and Lu-san have in common… Is there anything other than being senior and junior in the Student Council?
Muneuji: Right, reconciling that point will likely be important. With that in mind, I'm already looking forward to planning the trip.
Sakujiro: That said, there are many areas where transportation is inconvenient. Should any issues turn up while planning your itinerary, please, do consult me any time.
Muneuji: You have my gratitude. However, this isn't a simple trip—it's a study trip. I want to handle it with my own ability as much as possible.
And so, Lu-senpai. Once I have completed my research on Australia, I'd like to consult you on our observation locations. Would you mind allowing me a few days?
Liguang: Not at all. I'll be doing my own research as well.
Muneuji: Alright, I'll send you some potential meeting dates. Be sure to let me know if you happen to be busy on any of them.
Sakujiro: I don't think we should have to worry about sending these two off.
Chief: You can say that again. Muneuji-kun's very well put together, and I'd never even think to worry about Liguang-san!
*flip*
Liguang: …
(I had Sojun do the preliminary investigation, but the results are quite biased. Why is there so much emphasis on the animals there…?)
(Koalas, kangaroos, wombats. Everywhere I look… hm?)
*flip*
Liguang: …!?
(What on earth, this animal is…—)
Linxing: Ah, Onii-chan, you're still here? I thought you'd headed back to the dorms.
Liguang: I'll be staying here tonight.
Linxing: Are those documents for work?
Oh, a koala! So cute~! Are you getting into them lately, Onii-chan?
Liguang: What kind of conclusion is that?
I'll be going to Australia for a study trip as part of my role as a Ward Mayor. I had Sojun compile this data to help decide where to observe.
Linxing: Oh wow, sounds fun! I'll help you pick.
Liguang: No need.
Linxing: Did'ya hear about this place? It's been trending on dazzle lately, you get to feed kangaroos!
And if you go on a wildlife tour, you HAVE to take lots of animal pics! …Ah, want me to show you some neat camera settings?
Liguang: No need.
Linxing: And I'd just LOVE if you could grab me a souvenir or two from—
Liguang: No ne… Oi, didn't you say you'd help select observation spots? That last one's just a request.
Linxing: Well, if I'm gonna help, the least you could do is buy me something while you're there!
Liguang: (Splitting hairs when she's the one poking her nose in like this… Good grief…)
Muneuji: Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to meet here today, Lu-senpai. Let's dive right in and start planning our itinerary.
As you have seniority, I'll hear out your opinions first.
Liguang: Before that. I hadn't asked, but have you ever been to Australia before?
Muneuji: No, this will be my first time.
Liguang: I went there on a school trip with Asu High.
Muneuji: Then by all means, I'd love to hear about your experiences from back then.
Liguang: We went around the typical spots, but even those showed a unique array of nature in the ecosystem… and I gained a deeper understanding on living creatures.
How do you feel about going to see Australian wildlife that can't be found in JPN?
Muneuji: I had the same idea, actually. Though I got it from consulting the others in the Noon Team and Karigane-sensei¹…
No matter where you ask, it seems the charm of Australia lies in meeting unique animals.
I was also thinking we could learn more about the wildlife tourism and conservation that Oguro-san mentioned.
Liguang: …Any animals in particular?
Muneuji: Huh?
Liguang: Australia is a large place. The animals change depending on location.
Visiting a zoo or something similar would allow us to see a great number at once—
However, I'd rather observe them in their natural habitat if possible.
Muneuji: That's a good point…! Though it may be typical, I really would like to spot a koala or kangaroo myself.
And… um…
Liguang: ? Do you have something to say?
Muneuji: Ah, no… …… In addition to land animals, I've heard the marine life is also quite the sight, so I'm interested in that too.
Liguang: We'll travel south, then. There should be plenty to see in the Antarctic Ocean.
Muneuji: Um… Lu-senpai, do you have any animals you want to meet more than others?
Liguang: More than others…
(There's that animal from the data Sojun prepared…)
(I want to mee- to see some, but its habitat is quite small. Traveling there would raise complications.)
…Not in particular.
Muneuji: I… see.
Liguang ＆ Muneuji: …
Liguang: Moving on, what should we do about urban tourism?
Muneuji: Looking at a major city is certainly a must.
Liguang: …Well, it is a trip for training. We can't fill the entire schedule with animals.
In terms of major cities, it would have to be Sydney. If we schedule it for the final day, we can get around without exerting ourselves and return easily as well.
Muneuji: …
(Sydney is on the south-east… The complete opposite of where that animal resides.)
(Starting south and moving east would make meeting it completely impossible…)
Liguang: Oi, what is it. Speak up if there's something you want to do.
Muneuji: —Ah! No, excuse me. Let's start finalising our schedule.
(If Lu-senpai were to mention that animal himself—then we could discuss including it in the itinerary, even if we had to force it…)
(But if I'm the only one who wants to, I'll leave it. This trip is for both of us, not just me.)
Liguang: …
Chief: Liguang-san, Muneuji-kun. Have you made sure you've got everything?
Muneuji: I packed with plenty of time to spare, and my final checks turned up no issues.
Liguang: We can get anything we miss when we're there.
Sakujiro: Please do take care on your travels, you two. Nothing is more formidable than Mother Nature herself!
[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.)
The Dazzling Academia that I Yearn For [Event Story] (Masterlist)
Event Synopsis:
As Kinari was browsing through the photos taken by the Original Azekawa Kinari, he comes to realize just how much his Original had treasured his "school friends", and upon thinking further, concludes that there will never be a chance for him to attend "school" in his current state...
He decides to confide in Muneuji, who happened to be helping out at flower Laundry with him that day. In turn, he receives a certain offer.
That is, to attend a new service established by Muneuji's acquaintance-—a metaverse school program called, "mahorova Gymnasium", as one of its beta-testers.
With other participants such as Renga, Kiroku and Ryui in tow, Kinari steps forward into an unfamiliar place called, "school".
Story:
Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
Track 5
Track 6
Track 7
Track 8
EP
ーーー
Translation & Graphics: Vie | Proofreading: Lesli-Lou, Caela
[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.
[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!!
[18TRIP] MY LIFE is NO CUT! - Akuta & Kiroku FULL VER. KAN/ROM/ENG
Akuta, Kiroku
Thank you to @patibato for proofreading!! ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و ♡
— ✈︎
空からビビッと降ってきた！
Sora kara bibitto futte kita!
Something shocking fell from the sky!
そのとき何かは動く…
Sono toki nanika wa ugoku…
Just then, it started to move…
マイライフイズノーカット！
Mai raifu izu no katto!
MY LIFE is NO CUT!
ほらねみんな夢中さ
Hora ne minna muchuu sa
See? Everyone’s locked in,
世界ツナぐスクリーン (無限大…)
Sekai tsunagu sukuriin（Mugendai…）
Like I’m connecting the world through a screen（Infinitely…）
ずっと卵のままじゃ
Zutto tamago no mama jya
So staying inside an egg,
カッコつかない
Kakko tsukanai
Would be super lame
応えたい（はいカット！)
Kotaetai (Hai katto!)
I want to respond (And cut!)
気持ちに（胸張って！）
Kimochi ni（Mune hatte!）
To your feelings（Hold your head high!）
大丈夫（大丈夫）
Daijoubu（Daijoubu）
It’s okay（It’s all good!）
かっこいいじゃん！
Kakkoijyan!
‘Cuz you’re awesome!
さあさそろそろ目を覚まして
Saa sa sorosoro me wo samashite
C’mon, it’s about time to open your eyes
やっと出会える！（守るよ）
Yatto deaeru!（Mamoruyo）
So we’ll finally meet!（I’ll protect you）
パカッとビキッと産まれて
Pakkato bikitto umarete
Emerging with a crack and a bang
（おはよう）
(Ohayou）
(Good morning)
ねぼけた世界に吠えてやれ
Neboketa sekai ni hoete yare
Let out a shout to this sleepy world
（がうがう）
(Gao gao）
(Roar roar）
うつむいたり背伸びしたり歩き回ってりゃ羽ばたける
Utsumui tari senobi shitari aruki mawatterya habatakeru
If you keep looking down, or bite off more than you can chew, just roam around and you can spread your wings
（Talk with this world La La ♪）
(Talk with this world La La ♪)
(Talk with this world La La ♪)
銀河級のカットを
Gingakyuu no katto o
When it comes to these galactic cuts,
もっと描きたい。
Motto egakitai.
I want to draw them more.
もっと知りたい！
Motto shiritai!
I wanna know more!
マイライフイズノーカット！
Mai raifu izu no katto!
MY LIFE is NO CUT!
フクザツなワンシーン
Fukuzatsuna wan shiin
A complicated scene
フィルムから逃げ出した
Firumu kara nigedashita
Escapes from the inside of a film
（こっちおいで）
(Kocchi oide)
(Come over here）
「ゆっくりでもいいから話してみてよ」
「Yukkuri demo ii kara hanashite miteyo」
“It’s okay to take your time, tell me about it”
空からビビッと降ってきた
Sora kara bibitto futtekita
Something shocking fell from the sky!
大事なトレジャーエッグ
Daijina torejyaa eggu
A cherished treasure egg!
大胆不敵…！
Daitan futeki…!
Bold and fearless…！
抱きしめるぜ！
Dakishimeru ze!
I’ll hug it tight!
パカッとビキッと産まれて
Pakkato bikitto umarete
Emerging with a crack and a bang
（おはよう）
(Ohayou）
(Good morning)
ねぼけた世界に吠えてやれ
Neboketa sekai ni hoete yare
Let out a shout to this sleepy world
（がうがう）
(Gao gao）
(Roar roar）
うつむいたり背伸びしたり歩き回ってりゃ羽ばたける
Utsumui tari senobi shitari aruki mawatterya habatakeru
If you keep looking down, or bite off more than you can chew, just roam around and you can spread your wings
（Talk with this world La La ♪）
(Talk with this world La La ♪)
(Talk with this world La La ♪)
銀河級のカットを
Gingakyuu no katto o
When it comes to these galactic cuts,
もっと描きたい。
Motto egakitai.
I want to draw them more.
もっと知りたい！
Motto shiritai!
I wanna know more!
伝わるはず
Tsutawaru hazu
It’ll be conveyed
画はきまった！
E wa kimatta!
I decided on the shot!
一緒にやろう。
Issho ni yarou.
Let’s do it together.
よーいアクション！
Yooi akushon!
Gotcha, then ACTION!
マイライフイズノーカット！
Mai raifu izu no katto!
MY LIFE is NO CUT!
「カーット！！」
「Katto!!」
“AND CUTTT!!”
「緊張した…」
「Kinchou shita…」
“I was so nervous…”
「おつかれ！」
「Otsukare!」
“G’job!” [2]
The lyrics specify that they’re using different spellings of “ore” (俺 - Kiroku, オレ - Akuta), but I didn’t write it in the romaji so it didn’t look like they were saying “ore” twice.
This part isn’t in the lyrics officially, but it’s there so it noted it down!!
