*Right now, all of the main story has been translated by Koi (@yukikazing on TWT), so I will be pausing main story translations until I feel like I am done with other stories I wish to translate. Thank you!
✈︎ I am playing as the male MC and will be referring to him by his canon name, Kaede Hamasaki. I will also be using he/him pronouns. The story stays the same regardless of which protagonist you choose!
✈︎ I highly recommend reading alongside the story in the game! Everything is fully voiced, and the live 2d is awesome! The models are very expressive, and there's a lot of tone that's hard to convey in just text. So, if you can, reading along is encouraged!
✈︎ It has been said that you can read any of the chapters in any order, though Chapter 001 - Sun will R1ze! has a lot of lore and world building in it.
✈︎ Day2 is read as “Days”
✈︎ Personally, I am only translating this chapter and none of the others, sorry!
✈︎ I’m not fluent in Japanese, this is not proofread, and I’ll probably make some edits here and there if I want to change anything.
✈︎ Day2 are 16 year olds and they use phrases like GOAT, so I’m probably going to localize a little bit. Not by much though, as I’m not too confident in my ability to do this yet. Just keep in mind that they’re younger! Akuta, Ushio, and Nanaki are the ones who use slang the most.
✈︎ Sometimes, words are highlighted in green / red / pink in the game! This tends to signify important terms to remember! I’ll be doing this in purple to match my site theme!
I might update the notes too if I forgot anything!! Thank you~
The Red Mafia has infiltrated a high-end gala in order to steal a powerful stone, the Custodio power gem. What will happen when a strange man decides that the Red Mafia is their perfect target?
Also available on Wattpad: https://www.wattpad.com/user/TheRedMafia
Note: We will be updating the story every two weeks here and on our Wattpad!
Next Update: [Updated]
Word Count: 2252
Edited 3/13/2024
TW: Body Gore
2 weeks after the "The Outage"
“Velvet Bolton?”
The assassin quickly turned around, her hand falling near the hilt of the dagger hidden underneath their black skirt. There stood a boy, his brown eyes as wide as saucers. Velvet looked him up and down, narrowing her eyes on the small name tag with ‘Jonathan Furgleson’ scrawled on it in dark marker. He seemed about her age, but the name didn’t ring any bells inside her head.
“Who are you?”
The boy frowned before motioning to the tag. “It’s me, Jonathan. Our parents work together.”
“Your…parents.”
“Mhm, Rebecca and Liam Furgleson. We run the Star Hospital on Pilax. Do you really not remember?”
Now that name caused Velvet to groan internally.
“I’m sorry-”
“Oh, it’s okay! After…Caran, I didn’t think you would ever return to your dad’s place. But it’s great seeing you! I’m just surprised the media hasn’t reported it at all.”
“Velvet, is…is everything alright?” Maroon’s quiet voice came through the small earpiece in her ear. Their British accent, which sounded genuine yet annoying at the same time, caused her to groan internally. Velvet glanced to where they were across the hall, dressed in a white, long-sleeve button-up and black slacks. They gave her a worried look but she just shook her head before turning back to Jonathan.
“No, I’m sorry. My name’s not Velvet, sir.”
Jonathan’s eyes widened again as he looked at them.
“Oh- no I’m sorry! I should’ve let you speak! I’m sorry for bothering you, ma’am,” he quickly stuttered. Velvet plastered on a smile and held out the tray of muffins they were carrying to him.
“Chocolate chip muffin?”
The boy met her eyes again and smiled.
“I’d love one, thanks.”
Velvet handed one of the small plates to him and watched him scurry away before letting their smile fade. They set the tray down on a table, drawing the attention of several small children who pounced on them as soon as they were in reach. The assassin took a few steps back, stepping lightly to avoid noise coming from the black heels on their feet, and slipped into a small closet behind them.
“Who’s Caran?” Mad asked. Velvet groaned as they adjusted their hair to sit in front of their face.
“None of your fucking business, cōnfectus.”
“Alright…why’d you lie about the muffins?”
The assassin let out a small chuckle.
“Keeping my cover. Jonathan is deathly allergic to blueberries. One bite should take care of him.” The other side of the line was silent for a few seconds, causing Velvet to roll their eyes.
“Really, Mad? You need to get over this whole thing.” The robot didn’t respond. Instead, the sound of it muting its mic echoed through the communications channel.
“Meus deōs, this is stupid. Maroon, any sign of the gem?”
Nothing. A chill went down her spine. They quickly peeked their head out of the door and scanned the hall. Maroon had completely vanished from the party, their tray of appetisers now in the hands of another waiter.
“Shit,” they mumbled, “Mad, stop sulking and get into the security system.” A loud beep played in the teen’s ear.
“I’m not sulking.”
“You are. Find Maroon.” Velvet slipped back out of the closet. The swarm of kids had dispersed and they quickly picked up the gold tray again. They made their way toward the stairs at the end of the hall, dodging a few running children and patrons.
“It looks like their beacon is in the…west corridor?”
Velvet frowned.
But that’s on the opposite end of the venue from the gala, they thought, stepping up the first step, “...can you access the cameras there?”
“Already done. It…that’s not good.”
“What’s not good?”
“Take a look at your phone.”
Velvet reached the top of the steps and quickly took a left. She held the tray in one hand and quickly pulled out the small device from their skirt’s pocket. A video played on the screen, displaying an unconscious Maroon being thrown over the shoulder of a man and dragged out of the area.
“Oh you’ve got to be fucking kidding me,” she muttered. Tossing the phone back in their pocket, they took off sprinting down the hall.
“I’m relying on you to guide me, Mad.”
“Okay, take a left here soon. But there are two guards down the hall, so be careful. I’m not sure I’d be able to shut off an alarm with my current access.”
“No alarm, got it.” Velvet slowed, glancing around the corner. Sure enough, two guards stood in the middle of the walkway, chatting. Velvet paused for a moment and drew their dagger. They tossed the tray onto the ground in front of them, forcing the guards to turn toward the noise.
Velvet threw the blade forward, watching as it embedded its point in the throat of the first guard. The other guard watched their friend fall to the ground, shock on their face. The assassin picked up the tray again and hurled it at the second guard’s head. It collided, causing them to stagger to the side. Velvet jumped forward but the guard quickly recovered and swung a punch at them. It hit Velvet’s arm and they stumbled away from the first guard’s now-unconscious body.
The guard glared at her, reaching their arms out to pin their arms to their sides. Velvet barely stepped out of the way, forced to roll backwards. The assassin scanned the room before letting out a groan. The guard steadied themself again, but Velvet was already on their feet again. They jumped to the left and ripped one of the heels off of their foot, swinging the point straight into the guard’s temple. They crumbled to the ground, blood slowly seeping out of the puncture wound. Velvet ripped the heel out of their skull, sliding it onto their foot as they grabbed their blade as well.
“What the hell?” Mad exclaimed through their earpiece. Velvet rubbed the now-bruised area of their right arm.
“What is it now?”
“You didn’t have to kill them!”
Velvet slid their dagger back into its sheath on their left leg.
“What is with you and this anti-murder bullshit?”
“Anti-murder-” Mad mumbled angrily, “What is with you and murder?”
“Really? That’s what you choose to ask?”
“Yes!”
“Gods, you’re annoying,” the teen breathed, “Where are they now?”
“I’m…not seeing them on the cameras anymore. There must be a blind spot or something.”
“What about Maroon’s beacon?”
Keyboard clicks echoed through the microphone as Velvet started down the hallway once again.
“It’s turned off.”
“It’s what?”
“It’s-”
A fist slammed into Velvet’s right temple, knocking the earpiece out of their ear and forcing them to the ground. The world spun but Velvet attempted to stand up again. She made it to her feet before nearly falling down again. Someone quickly grabbed them and pressed a hand to their mouth. The teen attempted to thrash out of their grip but their vision slowly faded to black.
Velvet groaned as she opened her eyes to a pitch-black room. They blinked awake to the large man staring into their eyes from point-blank range. Velvet jumped a little.
“Velvet Bolton. Daughter of Unor Bolton. Heir to the Bol-” The large man was cut off when Velvet attempted to kick his legs. The man backed away out of Velvet’s reach.
“I am Large Man.”
“...what?” Velvet questioned, looking him up and down. The man remained still, eyes locked on Velvet.
“I am Large Man.”
“Well, I can see that, but what’s your name?”
“Large Man.”
“No, like your actual name.”
“Large Man.”
“...How do you spell it?”
“L-apostrophe-A-R-J-space-M-A-H-N-N-N-H.”
“...your parents must hate you.”
“My father’s name was L’Arjre Mahnnnh. It's Guh’Okkian.”
“I- of course. How silly of me.”
The man nodded. “Correct.”
“Alright, get on with it. What do you want?”
L’arj Mahnnnh cleared his throat and crossed his arms.
“You are Velvet Bolton. Daughter of Unor Bolton. Heir-”
“Yeah yeah, I got it. You don't have to go through the whole spiel.”
“Understood.”
“So, uh,” the teen muttered, “What’s with the restraints?”
“You’re a hostage.”
Velvet glared at him. “No, really? I never would’ve guessed.”
“That’s why I told you.”
“Oh my gods,” Velvet breathed, rolling her eyes, “Alright L’arj Mahnnnh, why are you holding me hostage?”
“At first I had just come for the Custodio power gem but after realising you were here as well, I changed my plan to capture you along with the gem. The reward for your return is quite plentiful, you know.”
“There’s a reward now?”
“Yes.”
“Of course- whatever. So where’s your boss?” Velvet looked around the dark room but could see no one else. L’arj Mahnnnh frowned.
“I have no boss. Why do you assume L’arj Mahnnnh has a boss? Is it unreasonable for a strong man to be the boss? You are perpetuating the stereotypes that have plagued my people for years.”
Velvet blinked a few times. “...Sorry?”
“You should be. Now stay here while I get Margaret Pembrooke, Daughter of Maximillian Buysse from the broom closet I hid them in.”
Velvet watched him walk out of the dark room before quickly turning their attention to the ropes tied around their wrists and legs. They were attached to a few hooks that seemed to be glued to the brick wall.
Margaret? They thought, Who- oh. I get it now. With one tug, the hooks were ripped off and sitting uselessly on the floor. Velvet unwrapped her wrists before sliding the rope off of her ankles. They quickly jumped to their feet.
The room was nearly empty, except for metal racks lining the walls and two large machines. L’arj Mahnnnh had shut the door behind him, presumably locking it as the knob refused to budge. Velvet glared at the metal handle before turning around again. Nothing was on the wall where they had been tied up and their dagger was nowhere to be found.
If I’m right, he should be bringing Maroon right to me. Makes my job easier, Velvet thought, sitting back down near the fallen ropes. They slowly wrapped them around themself again, looser this time, before placing their hands behind their back. The door slammed open, causing the assassin to jump slightly. L’arj Mahnnnh shoved someone forward and they fell to the ground a few centimetres in front of Velvet. A certain red-and-black-haired teenager looked up at her, tears running down their face. Maroon’s eyes widened when they locked eyes with Velvet but L’arj Mahnnnh quickly pushed them against the wall next to her.
“Quit your crying Margaret Pembrooke, Daughter of Maximillian Buysse.” L’Arj Mahnnnh commanded. Maroon took a deep breath before looking up at him.
“That is not my name.”
L’arj Mahnnnh kneeled down and grabbed the rope wrapped around Maroon’s legs and stomach. Maroon choked back a sob as he raised them so their eyes were level with each other. Velvet quickly ripped their arms out of the ropes again.
“Put them do-” They were cut off by a sudden scream of pain erupting from L’arj Mahnnnh. Velvet sat frozen as thousands of small mushrooms burst out of his skin and covered the floor of the room. Blood splattered and pooled beneath him, painting the black room red. He tried to scream but his airways were soon clogged by the fungi that Maroon had summoned. He clawed at his throat as he began to lose consciousness from lack of air.
Maroon had been flung to the ground in L’arj Mahnnnh’s panic, banging their head on the cold concrete and quickly losing consciousness. L’arj Mahnnnh collapsed and squirmed near the door before his body grew limp. Velvet sat there for nearly half a minute before quickly shaking their head.
I…am starting to understand Zaeor’s logic now, she thought, slowly standing, Maybe that crazy son of a bitch is on to something. They slowly hoisted their teammate onto their back before stepping over L’arj Mahnnnh. His eyes were open still and he twitched a bit, but Velvet just chuckled.
“Painful. Have fun, L’arj Mahnnnh.”
Mad paced anxiously around the cockpit of their ship, the Umbrella. With nearly half an hour of radio silence from their teammates, the assistance droid had begun to assume the worst. That was until a loud banging came from the door.
“Mad, open the fucking door!” Velvet called out. It jumped up and quickly slammed the button to open the door. It swung open, revealing a bruised Velvet with an unconscious Maroon draped across their back.
“Holy-” they mumbled, quickly grabbing the younger teen in their arms, “What happened?” Velvet cracked their neck before shutting the door behind them.
“L’arj Mahnnnh attacked us. Apparently, he was also after the gem and got the jump on us.”
“Don’t you mean ‘a’ large man?”
“If I did, I would’ve said it,” they muttered, “He’s some kind of bounty hunter. I’m going back in to get the gem, watch-”
“No, you’re not.”
Velvet glared at the robot in front of them.
“What?”
“You’re in no state to go back in there. We’ll go back to the mansion and regroup.”
The assassin let out a strained laugh before putting a hand in front of the door’s sensor.
“And you’re in no state to stop me.” Velvet waved her hand but nothing happened. After trying it a few more times, she looked up at Mad and their T.V. displayed a green smirking emoticon.
“You fucking-”
“Let’s go, I’ll grab some ice for your arm and you can tell me about this…large man.”
Latin Translations:
cōnfectus - worn out, exhausted
meus deōs - my gods
She catches the door as it swings closed behind her, prevents its inevitable slam. Her anger had never been loud or brash, but it was there to anyone who knew. There in her clenched jaw and the tap, tap, tapping of her nail against a diamond ring. Mateo Reyes had achieved a rare thing in angering Masha Vetrova, and it seemed he hadn’t even intended to do so. But she isn’t thinking of Mateo as she paces down the bright corridor of the hospital, sweeps down one flight of stairs. Instead, her mind is on a woman at ‘the side of a mountain’; on questions she’s oddly hesitant to ask.
An elevator ding snaps her back to reality. It’s going up - but her anger makes her impatient. By the time the doors have slid open, it’s going down. (And if those doors seem to snap back together as soon as she’s stepped on, a person would be wise not to mention it.) There’s only one other in the lift - a doctor, she presumes. He’s staring, a reaction that she’s used to but ill-timed with her irritation. She turns away sharply, but can still feel his eyes repeatedly flicking onto her back. He should know better. “Doctors are meant to be smart,” she says, pivoting slowly to face him with a pointed look. He had made the mistake of paying her attention, and now he paid the price of having all of her’s in return. “Tell me. Sixth floor, Reyes and Sokolova - know their case?”
Kaede: (It’s around the time we agreed to meet up. …I wonder if Kiroku-kun had fun.)
Hm?
Kaede: Wow, what’s this? There’s an egg-like object with legs. Is it a youkai? Having something like this displayed at the entrance… It’s creepy but cute too!
I wanna take a picture. Where’s the camera app…
Kiroku: Hah, hah…!
Kaede: Wah!
Kiroku: Gh…!
Kaede: You surprised me…!
Why are you in such a hurry, Kiroku-kun?
Egg: ………
Kiroku: (Moving side to side) ……!
Kaede: (He’s panicking while trying to see what’s behind me…?)
Kiroku: Ah, wah… Mn…!
(Please don’t look… over there…!)
Kaede: Eh? What is it?
Egg: ………
Kiroku: Uh…!
Kaede: … He ran away.
Huuh!? The egg-like object isn’t here anymore…!
Location: Maze Town in Shodoshima
Kiroku: Hah… Hah… Hah…!
(…I lost it… What do I do…)
(I have to tell everyone on the walkie talkie app…)
Dewawa: You sure you wanna teLL?
You wanna be the one who tells everyone that you lost the egg that everyone tried so hard to take care OF?
Kiroku: ………
Dewawa: They’re already gonna be upset won’t thEY?
And on top of that, you haven’t made any progress with the lantern art riGHT?
Pinfu: Right～
They might think you’re so pathetic since you can’t do anything at all〜
Kiroku: ………
Rouzel: That’s not true! You should just contact them! I’m sure that everyone would be worried!
Ripris: It… doesn’t matter what you do ssu…
Both chasing the egg… and contacting everyone… is such a pain… ZZZ.
KB: Personally, I believe the best solution would be to contact the rest of themーー
What will you do, Kiroku?
Kiroku: ………
…I’m not… telling them.
Location: Otomari Chuuzaemon Inn in Shodoshima
Akuta: This olive soumen is SUPER good! I can munch on it as much as I want! Endless munching!
Muneuji: The fried soumen from the other day was good, but this soumen is good as well.
Nanaki: Is Chief here?
Akuta: Oh, nah he’s not here right now.
Muneuji: I believe he went out with Kinugawa earlier.
Nanaki: Yeah? Then I guess later will be fine.
Akuta: By the way Nanaki, are you in a good mood? You’ve been all smiley lately. Did something happen?
Nanaki: Oh actually, I was just working on the song for the encore of the summer festival. The one that’s supposed to match the BPM of the fireworks,
I just wanted to show it to the chief a little since I finished it.
Akuta: EH!? Nanaki, you can make music!?
Nanaki: Well. Yeah I can.
Akuta: REALLY～～～～?! I also challenged myself to make music before, but I couldn’t do it y’know～～～～!
Man, I can’t even read sheet music. The notes just look like tadpoles dancing…
I really respect people who can make songs〜!
Meaning I really respect you, Nanaki～～～！
Nanaki: You’re going way too hard on the praise.
Akuta: You don’t gotta be humble! Actually, I really wanna make a song one day, so you gotta help me!
Nanaki: If I feel like it.
Akuta: Let's go!
I gotta make a plan to get you to feel like it soon～～～！
Muneuji: …By the way.
Yesterday, Kinugawa was the one who got the egg, wasn't he?
But I haven’t seen his face at all today.
In other words, that would mean he still has the egg.
Nanaki: Now that you mention it, you’re probably right about that.
Muneuji: And he hasn’t come online on the walkie talkie app at all today… If I’m being honest, I’m a bit worried.
Nanaki: You think something bad happened?
Akuta: Nahh, I’m sure he’s all good! I mean that guy looks like he’s strong!
Muneuji: No… He could’ve been abducted by an alien.
Nanaki: I-I’m not too sure about that.
Muneuji: I don’t think it’ll be a problem since Chief is also with him, but just in case, I’m going to look for him outside.
Nanaki: No, I’m pretty sure you’re getting too anxious. You should calm down.
Muneuji: If he got abducted, it’d be too late to save him…! (Quickly runs away)
Akuta: Huh?
Kiroku: …I finally… found it.
(But… I think it got scared of a crow… and started clinging to the branch of a tree…)
Egg: ………
Kiroku: …You can’t… get off?
Egg: ………
Kiroku: (If I spread out my shirt… it can act like a trampoline.)
…Come here.
Egg: …!
Kiroku: …You did it. That’s great.
Egg: …!
Kiroku: (…Cute… Okay I have to… hurry and bring the egg to everyone…)
(But.)
(Looks around.)
Kiroku: (I don't know where this is… And it’s getting dark. I should talk to the kids[1]… Ah.)
I… don’t have the finger puppets…
(No, before I look for them, I have to hand the egg over to the next person…)
(I’m getting a lot of notifications on the walkie talkie app… I should respond to everyone… No, but)
Dewawa: They’re already gonna be upset won’t thEY?
And on top of that, you haven’t made any progress with the lantern art riGHT?
Pinfu: Right～
They might think you’re so pathetic since you can’t do anything at all〜
Kiroku: (I definitely can’t… I need to do this… on my own.
I have to hurry and bring the egg home…!)
(But, I also can’t just leave those kids behind… Especially on a trip to a place I might never come back to…)
(We’ve been together for practically my whole life… Those kidsーー)
Ah……
Kaede: Kiroku-kun! Thank goodness…!
Sakujiro: So you were in a place like this.
Kaede: You did have a GPS with you, but I was really worried when you just up and left like that!
Kiroku: I… I’m… sorry…
Kaede: No, it’s fine. I’m just glad that you’re safe. But next time, don’t run around so much that you end up getting lost.
Also… Here.
Kiroku: …Ah…!
Kaede: I found them on the side of the road. They’re yours, right Kiroku-kun?
Kiroku: …Yes… They’re… my friends…
Kaede: I thought so. Be careful not to drop them next time.
Okay, let’s go back to the inn!
Kiroku: …………
Kaede: ………
(Kiroku-kun… He’s been looking uncomfortable this whole time... Almost like he wants to say something, but can’t.)
(Kiroku-kun is quieter than most people, but that doesn’t mean he’s not interested in his surroundings.)
(In fact, it feels like he’s more considerate about his surroundings than most people are.
That’s whyーー)
(If only I could find a way to get him more comfortable…)
Oh right!
Kiroku-kun. Let’s use PeChat.
Kiroku: Eh…?
Kaede: If it’s hard for you to put something into words, maybe it’d be easier for you to put it down in writing. We can give it a try.
Kiroku: ……
Kiroku: ……
…My next message.
…Is going to be… a little longer…
Kaede: Got it. I’ll wait for you.
-
-
-
-
Kiroku: ………
(I’ll… open the walkie talkie app.)
Akuta: “Ahー Ahー Mic test! Testing, testing, one two three. Is Kiroku-san thereee? Go ahead.”
Kiroku: Ah…! He…llo… Go… ahead.
Akuta: “I’m glad we finally got in contact with you! Muneuji was really worried about you, y'know. He jumped up and ran out of the inn. Copy."
Kiroku: …Co…
Akuta: “So, so? How are things on your end? You still on planet Earth?”
Summary — ✈︎ Kaede finds Nanaki, who ended up getting separated from the rest on Angel Road. Nanaki shares a couple of things with him that he has been keeping a secret.
Nanaki: ーーChief, you’re always chasing someone around huh.
Kaede: Ahaha, well, it’s because you’re all a bunch of cute, free-spirited troublemakers!
Now then, we have to hurry up and get home but… The path connecting the islands ended up disappearing into the sea again. Let’s wait for one of the arranged ferries to come by.
Nanaki: … Mhm.
Kaede: ……
Nanaki: ……
Kaede: (I wonder if it’d be okay for me to ask what’s been bothering him today.
I don’t want to be insensitive, so I’m a little worried about what to do.)
Nanaki: …For some reason.
Kaede: Yeah?
Nanaki: For some reasonーー Everything is just becoming troublesome.
Kaede: Mm… Like what?
Nanaki: … Like having to hide various things, and stuff.
Kaede: Having to hide things?
Nanaki: Like that night. How I, one of the “problem children”ーー
How I ended up in the old building that night, for example. Having to hide things like that.
Kaede: ……
Nanaki: You haven’t heard a single thing about that night Chief.
Don’t you want to know?
Kaede: Even though I want to know what happened, I don’t want to force any of you to tell me if you don’t want to.
It’s the same now. I’ll listen to anything that Nanaki-kun wants to tell me.
Nanaki: … I see. Thenーー
The story that’s troubling me the most.
I want to tell you, so I will.
I’m the epitome of “the person I fall in love with is my type.”
On top of that, I have a hard time controlling my emotions, and I fall in love really easily. I end up falling in love with people who never reciprocate my feelings.
Basically, I’m just a hopeless romantic who always ends up falling for someone.
Kaede: I see…
Nanaki: I know that I’ll never be able to find someone who likes me back, so I don’t want to fall in love with anyone, but no matter what happens, my feelings end up growingーー
I know my feelings will never get reciprocated, but my mind gets stupid.
I thought that, maybe this time… maybe this time it’d work out in the end.
Kaede: ……
Nanaki: To have to sit on that feeling of hope was really hard for me.
So on that dayーー
Nanaki: Hey, tonightーー
Could you come to the rooftop in the old building?
I have something I wanna tell you…
???: …I’ll think about it.
Nanaki: Just to clarify, it wasn’t Akuta or any of the others. We just happened to meet each other in the end.
Kaede: So, on the night of the explosion, you all weren’t planning on gathering togetherーー
Nanaki: It was just a coincidence.
Everyone has their own reasons for going to the building that night.
It’s not my place to talk about anyone else’s reasons though.
Kaede: (So that’s how it is…)
So the person you had feelings for…
Nanaki: They didn’t come.
They probably ended up figuring it out. Maybe because of my vibe?
On PeChat, they texted things like “I can’t make it tonight” and “I’m planning on seeing that movie with someone else” …Right after the time we promised to meet.
Kaede: ……
Nanaki: I ended up getting cut off completely over text, so I couldn’t even express my feelings to them.
Kaede: That’s so…
Nanaki: Don’t make that kind of expression.
I’m just… Well, I’m content with this type of ending.
I know that feelings like love can be a dangerous weapon, so I’m not holding any grudges against them.
It’s justーー That bitter, painful feeling is still here.
It takes a lot to get over something like that.
Nanaki: That’s why, I don’t want to fall for someone again.
I don’t want to get close to anyone.
My “love” is bound to end up messing things up again, and it’ll just end up destroying me.
Kaede: (I’m starting to understand why Nanaki-kun has been keeping his distance and acting indifferent now.)
(He’s purposely trying not to get too close to someone. He doesn’t want to get hurt again…)
Nanaki: But, I’m sure that I’ll end up falling in love with someone again. That’s just the way I was born.
And every time that happens, I’ll end up getting heart broken again. I’ll end up feeling this pain again.
Kaede: ……
Nanaki: Even though I managed to get this far without thinking about it, the movie we promised to see together got brought up. It got harder to bear.
That’s why it’d be better if I could just forget it all.
…It’s why I’m trying so hard to forget about it.
Kaede: I don’t think you should.
Nanaki: Eh?
Kaede: I think that you don’t have to try so hard to forget about it. I’m sure it’s painful, but it’s the type of pain that you should keep with you.
Those feelings were your genuine feelings, so that pain is something that will stick with you. Because “Nanaki-kun's feelings” are important and precious.
Soーー I think that even painful feelings are something you should value.
Nanaki: ……
Kaede: I’m sure that you’re a very loving person, Nanaki-kun.
Nanaki: …I don't know about that.
But, I can't reach an understanding with the other person about those feelings, then what’s the point?
I know that in the future, I’ll have to endure another cursed love like this again, butーー
Being able to have that type of connection with someone… If I’m being honest, I can’t imagine loving someone and having that love be returned back to me.
Kaede: I get it. I also can’t imagine myself in that type of situation at all.
Nanaki: ……
Kaede: There’s no one out there who knows what will happen in the future.
But, because you don’t know what will happen in the future, you need to love yourself before you love anyone else first. So, when that important person appears in your life someday, you’ll be able to love them with your whole heart.
Nanaki: …You…
Kaede: Yeah?
Nanaki: …Nah, nevermind. Thank you for listening to me.
Kaede: (Ah, he was able to laugh a little… I’m glad.)
…Oh yeah.
Nanaki-kun, you said that you liked music right?
Nanaki: Eh? …Well.
It’s less that I like it and more… I make it.
Kaede: Ehh, you can make music!? That’s amazing!
Nanaki: … Do you want to hear it?
Kaede: Can I?
Nanaki: I can allow it this time.
Kaede: Thank you!
Nanaki: Okay. Sorry about the low-quality earbuds though.
Kaede: ………
Nanaki: What do you think?
Kaede: T-This is amazing…! It’s such a good composition…
It’s like you’re a pro…!
Nanaki: Yeah.
…Specifically, unlove.
Kaede: Eh?
Nanaki: That’s my second secret.
I’m… unlove.
Kaede: Ehhhhhh!? That underground artist that made the music for the hospitality live!?
Nanaki: That’s right.
Kaede: Waiー, holdー, hold on a second, I’m super shocked right now…!
Nanaki: So you really didn’t know huh. Well, I thought that was the case.
Kaede: (But I didn’t see anything like that in the documents…! Kafka must’ve done something…!)
The Morning Squad’s song was really… really amazing! There were a lot of guests who fell in love with Nanaki-kun’s music!
Nanaki: … Do you also like my music, Chief?
Kaede: I love it!!
Nanaki: ……!
Nanaki: ( …He’s gripping… my hand…)
Kaede: Even though they don’t know the real you, I’m sure there are a lot of people out there who deeply, deeply love “Nanaki-kun’s talent”!
That’s why you should cherish and love yourself even more, Nanaki-kun! Okay?
Nanaki: …Hand.
Kaede: Ah, I’m sorry, I just unconsciously grabbed it.
Nanaki: … It’s fine, you don’t have to apologize.
I have a low body temperature, so it’s okay if you keep holding it.
Kaede: Eh?
Nanaki: Chief’s hands are so warm.
It’s fine if we can stay like this, for just a little longerーー
Akuta: WHAT ARE YOU DOING OVER THEREEEE!?
Ushio: Wow… We came to tell you that the ferry came to pick us up, but… Just what were you doing?
Should we just go home?
Kaede: Akuta-kun and Ushio-kun!
Akuta: That’s so unfair! I wanna hold Sensei and Nanaki’s hand too!
Akuta: Squeeze squeeze! Squeeze Squeeze〜!
Nanaki: What’s up with this? Have you become a youkai who holds hands with people?
Kaede: Owowow…! Akuta-kun, don’t press the pressure points by our eyes while we’re confused!
Ushio: Sigh… Whatever, let’s just hurry up and go.
Location: Beach in Shodoshima
Kaede: Wow… A view like this is truly wonderful at night.
Akuta: Ah, y’know, it looks like a scene from this movie…
Ushio: Ah yeah, that famous one.
Kaede: I saw that one too! Now that you mention it, the last scene did have a view that looked like this one huh. When the heroine jumped off the shipーー
Nanaki: Actually, I haven’t seen that movie…
Now the promise I made got broken.
Kaede: Eh… I’m sorry! Did I spoil it!?
Akuta: The movie’s ending got spoiled〜！
Ushio: Guilty.
Kaede: I-I’m sorry… really…
Nanaki: Hahaha…!
It’s okay. I’m the type of person who can enjoy a movie even if I get spoiled.
…But next time, can you watch it with me?
Kaede: (Nanaki-kun has a refreshed expression. Even if it was just a little, I’m glad I could help out…)
Of course!
Location: Otomari Chuuzaemon Inn in Shodoshima
Kaede: (Whew… The water was nice and warm. Before I go to sleep, I think I’ll record another cassette tape for Kafka.)
Travel Diary. It was a sunny day today too.
We had a training session in the morning today. The coordinator, Gannosuke-sanーー
Akuta: Snore snore… I can’t eat… anymoreee…
Nanaki: Light snoring…
Kiroku: ………
Sakujiro: Oh? You’re still up?
Kaede: Yes, thank you.
…There’s a lot of trash and candy wrappers around huh. Everyone had a great time.
Sakujiro: They seem to have tired themselves out after playing around.
I will take them up to their rooms when I am finished cleaning up.
Kaede: I’ll help you!
Sakujiro: Thank you very much. …Oh? This is…
Kaede: (T-That's…! That drawstring bag that probably has something shady in it!)
T-That’s um… If I’m remembering correctly, it’s someone’s personal stuff! Tomorrow, I’ll return it to the owner soーー
Sakujiro: Is that so? Then, if you’ll please.
Kaede: Yes!
(Uu… What is this? It’s… heavier than I thought it’d be…! It’s slipping from my handsーー Ah!)
Kaede: What is this… An egg…?
Akuta: Ngghh… What is it～? … I heard some kinda loudーー
[002-A06] Anemic Killer Horseshoe Crab～Night before the Counterattack～
Summary — ✈︎ Kaede visits the Lion Theater to watch the movie that Akuta produced by himself. When he enters the theater, though, he finds Akuta sitting there with a gloomy expression on his face.
Characters— ✈︎ Akuta
Location: Lion Theater
Kaede: Excuse me…
(This place is the Lion Theater, isn’t it?
I guess it hasn’t started yet. No one seems to be hereーー)
Akuta: ……
Kaede: Hee!
Akuta: …Ah, it’s… Sensei?
Kaede: That scared me… Just what on earth is on your head…?
Akuta: I’m, the demonic, horseshoe crab. This whole world, I’ll curse it.
Kaede: I-I see… That’s a pretty unique way of talking…
Akuta: ……
Kaede: Umm… I came to watch the thing on this tissue…
Akuta: Human, if you, want tissues…
There’s, still some, in that, mountain over there.
Kaede: (That box is filled to the brim with tissues…!)
(He definitely ordered the wrong amount…!)
Akuta: Go ahead, and take, as many, as you like.
Kaede: Don’t be so hasty! You can still use them for the next screening! You should save them for later!
Akuta: ……
Kaede: (He has such a gloomy expression… It’s hard to see him like this, especially based on how he was before… I feel so bad for him.)
Is it fine if I sit next to you?
Akuta: Do what… you please…
Kaede: Thanks.
…They’re still doing screenings here, huh?
I thought this place was abandoned a long time ago.
Akuta: They’re not, it’s my, playground, that I sneak into…
Kaede: But isn’t the screening…?
Akuta: I rented, the projector… Got a bunch, of part time jobs… like, demolition, shopping for women, walking dogs, and stuff.
Kaede: I see… You worked really hard for this day huh.
But I don’t think it’s good to sneak in here though.
Akuta: ……
Kaede: (He’s shaking his sword tail sadly…
I wonder if I could do anything to cheer him up)
Let’s wait a bit longer.
Someone else might show up after all.
Akuta: … Mm, nah it’s fine.
My ass 's starting to hurt… Ahaha.
Kaede: ……
Akuta: Y’know.
In the past, this place used to be where entertainment began in HAMA.
Kaede: … Yeah. I heard something like that.
Akuta: I wish I could’ve filled it with a lotta people again.
If only I were a more famous, a galactic filmmakerーー
If only I was the type of human… that could have an influence on people more.
Kaede: … Akuta-kun…
Don’t stay stuff like that, cheer upーー
Akuta: Then… I’d be so popular I could die… And I’d be swarmed by a loootta women…!
I wanna play tag shirtless on the moon～～～!
And I’d eat lots of mochi with Bunny-chan and Bunny-kun～～!
And then, we’d build a huge 365LDK [1] house up there, and we’d have a drinking party where we’d drink a lotta shots～～!
Kaede: Akuta-kun.
Akuta: Yup!
Kaede: Since I’m here, I wanted to watch the movie that was going to be shown. Is everything ready?
Akuta: ーーOf… course!
Everything's all set!
I’ll get everything started real quickly…!
Akuta: Hey hey, look look, this is a real projector! Isn’t it SUPER cool～～～!?
It’s so incredible. It has the weight from all these years… and the brightness is completely next level!
Didya know? When you’re talking about projectors, they project the film directly onto the screen. Directly! Isn’t that cool? It’s not data at all!
The colors from the film are projected exactly as they were from recording!
It’s the real colors, not ones from an electric signal , y’know?
That’s why! I put a lotta effort into making the visuals look good!
Now then, now then… Take a look!
“Mysterious! The Anemic Horseshoe’s Counterattack!”
Jessica [2]: “NOOOOOOOOOO!”
Philip: “What’s wrong!? I heard a scream just nowーー Nee-san!?
What’s wrong Nee-san!?”
“NEE-SAAAAAAAAAAAAN!”
Dr. Henry: “Yet again, there’s another dead body just like this…”
“The only common thread between them was that they were struck in the head with a terrifyingly sharp blade.”
“It’s almost like… they were stabbed with the tail sword of a horseshoe crab.”
Demonic Horseshoe Crab: “Guh… GUYAAAAAAAH!”
Dr. Henry: The demon is scared!? Just what on earth could scareーー”
“It can’t be… The syringe!?”
“I see… After having your blood taken for medical reasons for tens of thousands of years… You must’ve grown to resent humans.”
“I pity you, demon.”
“Butーー … This is goodbye.”
Akuta: Whatdya think!?
Kaede: … Um… It was very innovative… Like it’s Avant Garde… Or like a roller coaster.
It was unprecedented… It was…
… It was a bit incoherent.
(Ah. I said it…)
Akuta: OH, incoherent! Yayyy〜 I’m happy〜! WOOO〜!
Kaede: (Wah, I’m relieved… Even though I accidentally said what was on my mind, I’m glad you don’t seem to be hurt…)
(…But really, everyone…)
(Really, could they not have come to watch even just a little bit?)
……
(I need to calm down… I’m sure that Akuta-kun is a hundred times more frustrated than I am)
(Today, this kid was both the star of the film and the director. I didn’t really get the message, but it was a great film in my opinion.)
(I’ll just return home today without showing him the proposal. I wouldn’t wanna spoil the mood.)
Then, it’s about time I go.
Akuta: Stoーp.
Kaede: Eh?
Akuta: Didn’t you come here to finish talking about that thing?
Kaede: No, but…
Akuta: Let’s hear it. …As a thank you gift for watching.
Location: Cafe 369
Akuta: D-Delicious… Meat buns are SERIOUSLY delicious～～～～!
Heyhey! Is it okay if I get 20 more!?
Kaede: Yeah, get as many as you want.
Akuta: YAYYY! Thanks! You’re like a god, Sensei!
Munch munch, it’s too gooood!!
Kaede: (He told me he’d hear me out, but ended up asking me to get him something to eat instead…)
(I can’t believe he spent all the earnings he got from those part time jobs on equipment, costumes, and those tissues… He hasn't had a proper meal in days.)
Are you gonna be able to fill up on those meat buns?
Akuta: I will I will! They’re super tasty and big, and they’re fluffy and dense! It’s like eating a proper meal!
Kaede: I’m glad then… But what about your family? You didn’t say anything?
Akuta: Nah. I’m pretty much the only one there.
Kaede: … I see.
(Maybe he has a complicated family situation…)
Okay then, feel free to eat as much as you want.
Akuta: Thanks!
Kaede: Then you can just listen to me while you’re eating.
So the plan isーー
We have decided that the members of the Community Revitalization Club will participate in a study tour as candidates for Ward Mayors.
During this training, they will experience work that a Ward Mayor typically does, and thus gain a deeper understanding of the job.
By the end, they will be graded based on their performance and contribution to the missions assigned on site.
If you pass this test, you will be officially appointed as a Ward Mayor…
That’s how the plan goes.
Kaede: This is the plan and the parental consent form…
Akuta: I didn’t get it at all. It’s stupidly difficult.
Kaede: To make it a bit more understandable… Oh I got it.
Akuta–kun, you want to be a more popular person right?
Akuta: Eh, that’s what you’re saying…?
Kaede: Yes it is. Listen closely, Akuta-kun.
First up, I think that using videos as an expression is a great way to boost tourism.
Also, by having a lot of people watch the video, many more people will start to get interested in Akuta-kun’s work. You’d gain people who look forward to what you want to put out!
Akuta: ……
Kaede: What’s more, being a high school student as the Ward Mayor is sure to give you more attention at school too.
Andーー
The tissues that Akuta-kun worked so hard to make ended up getting treated so poorly.
Even though they were at a party, it was so carelessーー
Akuta: ……
Kaede: The people who let the equipment Akuta-kun spent all his money on go to wasteーー
I think we should make them look back on this day and regret not coming!
Akuta: ーーHaha!
Sensei, somehow you ended more stoked than I was～～!
Suddenly, you looked all fired up like a punk, it was crazyy!
You’re more interestin' than I thought～～～!
Kaede: S-Sorry. I got heated without realizing.
Akuta: Nah. Thank you for that.
Kaede: ……
Akuta: Alrighty… Let’s do thisss!!
For the sake of movies! And to be more popular～～～！
The others are being kinda reluctant too, aren’t they?
I’ll find a way to get them to agree, so it’ll be all good!
I’ll get them to go on that study tour thingy!
Leave it to me!
Kaede: T-That’s reassuring, thanks.
But tomorrow is summer break, isn’t it? Do you have their contact information?
Akuta: ‘Course I do!
Kaede: (I see, so they stay in touch with each other.)
(At school they didn’t seem to be all that close at school when I saw them though.
They had a strange distance between them.)
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Notes — ✈︎
And LDK stands for "Living Dining Kitchen" Typically you'd say like 1LDK or 2LDK for a one or two bedroom house respectively. 365LDK is . a 365 bedroom house.
Summary — ✈︎ The day before the study trip, Kaede decided to research the origins of the explosion at Asu High. He comes to realize that Akuta and the others are at the age where they may not be considered children anymore.
Nayuki: You’re not pushing yourself too much, are you?
Doesn't the Day Squad’s study trip start tomorrow?
Kaede: Yeah… But, I still have some stuff that I really need to finish before I leave.
Nayuki: If you’ll have me, I could help. You have to be prepared for tomorrow.
Kaede: No no, I couldn’t ask that of you…
Nayuki: … Are you even aware of what time it is right now?
At the rate that you’re going, you won’t have time to sleep.
Kaede: Ehーー It’s 10PM!? I-I’m in big trouble…
Nayuki: So, where should I begin?
Kaede: I’m really sorry…! Umm… Thenーー
Location: HAMA House
Daniel: Oh, welcome baーー... Uh, that’s a lotta luggage you got there.
Kaede: I’m back. These are just some things I’m gonna need for tomorrow’s tripーー
Excuse me, sir[1]. They’re about to slip, so if you don’t mind, could you please hold onto it for a minute…!
Daniel: No waay, I don’t like working overtime. I’ll go ahead and wait on the sofa so hurry up and get over here.
Aahh I feel so light〜 Both of my hands are completely free〜.
Kaede: Gh…!
Nayuki: You can lean on me for some help. Here.
Kaede: No, you’re barely more balanced than I am Nayuki-kun, so it’s okay. I wouldn’t want to cause you any more trouble.
Thank you so much for all of your help today. You helped me out with my work and even went shopping with me.
Nayuki: It’s no problem. I’m glad I could be of help.
Location: HAMA House Living Room
Daniel: Insect repellent, sunscreen, cooling gel sheet, body wipes, bandages, fever reducers, motion sickness medicine…
I was expecting you to buy some good stuff but… All of this is just really boring.
Where’s the sake? The snacks? Other shit you get when you're shopping?
Kaede: There’s none of that stuff. Everyone going on the trip are 16 year old children. They can’t even take certain medicines
Daniel: They don’t need it. But, I mean, wouldn’t the adult stuff be fine for kids that age?
Kaede: Ehh?
Nayuki: I searched it up. It seems the adult version of those medicines is appropriate for people that age to use.
Kaede: Wow, quick! Thank you.
I see, it’s good that they can take the adult ones…
Nayuki: I’m sorry, I didn’t think to look it up while we were shopping together.
Daniel: Well, isn't it fine since they’re able to take it? Better than letting young kids take adult doses.
Location: HAMA House Private Room
Kaede: (Alright. Now that I’ve conquered the list of things to buy…)
(In the meantime, I managed to find more entertaining things that are aimed for adults. Now, I just have to wait until tomorrow. )
Ah, now that I think about it…
(“Hama Asunaro High School”... “Incident”... and search.)
Ummm, let’s see, let's see…
One day in June, at midnight.
At Hama Asunaro High School in the HAMA 5 ward, there was a sudden explosion in the old building.
The building collapsed, but fortunately, none of the students nor teachers were caught in the accident. There were no injuries.
The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and is currently under investigation
Kaede: (Come to think of it, I’m sure I remember seeing something about an explosion on the news…)
(Th-The old building looks so damaged…!_
(I’m surprised everyone’s safe, since they were all here…)
(I’m really glad no one was injured… But it’s really hard to believe a child could damage something to this scaleーー Wait no.)
Daniel: But, I mean, wouldn’t the adult stuff be fine for kids that age?
Kaede: (Like Daniel-san said earlier, they’re at that age where they wouldn’t be considered “children” exactly anymore.)
(Umm… What else is there…)
I heard this from my friend who lives in HAMA, but apparently the sound was super loud www. Like a big BOOM www.
It’s so annoying that there’s so many students there already, but because of that incident, outsiders who were curious started wandering around the school gates. It’s super troublesome. But, come to think of it, wasn’t there a student who disappeared from Asu High recently? They’re definitely related to each other.
Are there any signs of a conspiracy?
Asu High has to reveal the truth immediately!
Kaede: (Ahh… The opinions on dazzle are also pretty rough…)
(A student’s disappearance… So something like that happened.)
……
Akuta: I’ll get them to go on that study tour thingy!
Leave it to me!
Kaede: (Earlier, I got a reply on PeChat saying “it’s all good!”, butーー)
(I wonder if the study tour will go smoothly the whole week…)
Location: Tokyo Metropolis International Airport Lobby
Akuta: Sensei, over here over here!
Muneuji: Good morning.
Sakujiro: Good morning. The weather is good today, isn’t it?
Kaede: Yes! Good morningーー……
Nanaki: ……
Kiroku: ……
Ushio: … Yawwnn… Tired.
Kaede: ……
Ushio: What. Is it so rare for a person to yawn?
Kaede: Ah, sorry. That’s not why I was looking…
(The mood is pretty low, but everyone really showed up….)
(I’m so glad.)
(Akuta-kun managed to persuade everyone… Thank you…!)
Akuta: ……
Kaede: (Ahaha. I’ll have to thank him again later.)
Muneuji: Sensei, here are everyone’s parental consent forms.
Kaede: Thank you. It helps a lot that you collected them all.
By the way, you don’t have to call me “Sensei”.
I mean, I’m not even an official teacher.
Muneuji: I see. Then, what would you like us to call you?
Kaede: Hmmm… “Chief” is okay.
Muneuji: I got it. I’ll call you that then. ーーSee you later.
Sakujiro: … As I thought, he is familiar with organizing students. As expected of the Anthroposophical Astronomy Club head and the vice president of the student council.
Kaede: The An…?
Sakujiro: The Anthroposophical Astronomy Club.
Kaede: I see. So that’s why he’s able to hold himself up well.
(I feel as if everyone is a bit more cooperative than before, but I wonder what Akuta-kun said to convince them to come…)
Sakujiro: The Anthroposophical Astronomy Club.
Kaede: Ah, yes, I got it…
(Hm…?)
Akuta: Hey, Muneuji… It’s your turn next.
Muneuji: Okay, put it in here.
Kaede: ( …They put something in a cute pink drawstring bag. Is he returning something he borrowed?)
Sakujiro: Then… I’m leaving by car, so I will be leaving now. Excuse me.
Kaede: Okay. We’ll see you when we get out there. Please be careful.
Sakujiro: Yes, you as well.
By driving safely, I should arrive earlier than the plane does.
Kaede: Alright, everyone. We should also be going.
Akuta: YAAY! My heart is all prepared! Everythin’s OK here, Sensei!
Ushio: Speaking of going somewhere, where are we supposed to be going? You didn’t write it down in the proposal…
Kaede: Y-Yeah… I thought it’d be nice to keep it a surprise.
(In reality, I was trying so hard to quickly write a good proposal that I just forgot to write it down…!)
Ushio: …Hmmm. That seemed like it was a lie, but I’ll pretend like I believe it.
Kaede: Thank you.. … Ahem.
Well, the place we are heading to isーー
Shodoshima!
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Notes — ✈︎
Chief here (部長) is different than the Chief (主任) that Kaede is called. In order to not cause any confusion, I put sir since I'm pretty sure Kaede is just trying to be like >_< please help me sir..! rather than trying to actually call him something out of respect.
