haranami

Izumi: (I did as he asked and told everyone to come to the courtyard, but…)

(One, no one’s here. Two, nothing’s happening. And three, it’s freakin’ cold! This is sooo annoying!)

Tsukasa: Pardon me, Sena-senpai, but why did you instruct us to come out here?

Izumi: Don’t look at me! I’m the one who should be asking that, actually!

Tsukasa: Sigh… I see. At any rate, you seem to be enjoying the party just as I am.

That bright red hat of yours makes you look like a frolicking child, eager to celebrate Christmas; it’s quite adorable ♪ 

Izumi: You’re the last person who gets to call me a child. And besides, this is just a little symbol that shows I'm one of the organizers. It’s so crowded, it’s hard to tell who’s in charge.

Oh, but go find one of the other three if there are any problems. I’ve got better things to do. 

(No idea where two of them are, though… Hm?)

Tsukasa: That’s the sound of a Helicopter… Oh!

Sena-senpai, look above you!

Izumi: …Huh?

Location: Inside the Helicopter

Wataru: “Merry Christmas, dear partygoers…☆ Do forgive me for speaking through this megaphone from so high up in the sky!”

“I, Hibiki Wataru, have come to deliver an Amazing fir tree in Santa’s stead!”

“As such, I must ask a few of you to move! It’d be terribly dangerous to stand underneath!” 

“Adonis-kun, Puppy-kun, please move five meters to the right— no, my right… Yes, wonderful!”

“Thank you for your cooperation! On that note, down she goes ☆”

Location: Courtyard 

Midori: Woah. This is the first time I’ve ever seen a tree come down from the sky…

Tetora: I’m pretty sure it’s everyone’s first time. This sure doesn't happen every day~

Shinobu: Indeed. It’s so warm and cozy, and I’ve greatly enjoyed myself. This is sure to be an unforgettable Christmas party…☆ 

Wataru: “It should be fine for me to jump down from this height. Here I come ☆”

Fufufu. It’s in the perfect position, not even a millimeter out of place.

On that note, it’s time for the finishing touch! Ladies and gentlemen, please feast your eyes on this!

Ready or not… One, two, Amazing…☆ 

Aira: Wow… Look at that, the tree’s sparkling! This is suuuper ra~vely ♪

Hiiro: I don’t think the tree itself is sparkling. In my opinion, it’s simply been decorated with lights.

Aira: Ugh, stop getting caught up in the details! I know that already, okay?!

I wonder if anyone could help me take a photo? Let’s get one of the four of us together ♪ 

Mayoi: The four of us…? You’re including me as well…?

Aira: Of course! Who else would I be talking about, if not the members of Alkaloid?

Tatsumi: Fufu. Perhaps we should get a head start before the crowd comes in.

Madara: …I’m glad it went off without a hitch. You really saved the day, Wataru-san.

Wataru: Why, I believe that’s my line. Wasn’t it difficult to set up the lights all on your own?

Madara: Yooou bet. I was on the edge of my seat, worrying if someone would start yelling and calling me an intruder or something. 

Everyone was too caught up in the party to notice lil’ ol’ me, though. Hahaha! 

Izumi: Don’t you “hahaha” me! You two took way too long! 

Madara: Izumi-san, Tatsumi-san.

Tatsumi: What a splendid present — thank you very much. This is the first time I’ve ever seen such a huge Christmas tree.

As you can see, my younger unit mates are ever so excited about it ♪ 

Izumi: I’m still annoyed that you left us hanging for hours without any news, but… Whatever, I guess. I’ll let you off since you managed to make it work.

Christmas without a tree is like Knights without me…♪ 

Madara: All’s well that ends well! You know, I was talking to my friend to let them know that we arrived safe and sound…

And they told me that they went above and beyond my request for a spectacular tree. 

We’d sure have needed one heck of a car to drive it back. I’m glad Wataru-san was quick-witted enough to come up with this solution.

Wataru: I’m simply grateful that it all came together somehow. Now please, bask in the tree’s glory!

The poor souls who were unable to attend the party will surely be able to enjoy some Christmas spirit just by gazing upon it ☆ 

Tori: …Hey, Hibiki-senpai.

Wataru: Hm? What is it?

Tori: Um… Well, did you… for me…?

Wataru: Himegimi?

Tori: …Nevermind, it’s nothing.

It’s freezing out here, so let’s head back inside. Yuzuru and the rest made a bunch of yummy food for us!

C’mon, hurry up already ♪ 

Wataru: Fufufu. You’re ever so lively, Himegimi. You needn’t tug on my hand like that; I’d follow along anyways.

After all... I, too, wish to enjoy Christmas with you all…♪

Oh, my! I’m so overjoyed, a flood of roses is pouring out from my hands! 

Niki: Woah, that was cool~ Are you good at magic?

Wataru: Why, yes! Would you like to see another trick? I’d be happy to take out some confetti or doves for you…☆ 

Yuzuru: Hibiki-sama, please leave it at that. We mustn’t make a mess of the room.

Wataru: Rest assured, my doves are more than capable of cleaning up after themselves. It's an ill bird that fouls its own nest…☆ 

Niki: Nahaha, must be nice! It’d be neat if I could just manifest food from my hands whenever I wanted~

But anyways, let’s get back on track. On behalf of Niki’s Kitchen, I’m really happy that you asked us to help out, too!

This is our chance to show off the fruits of our efforts. Just leave it to us — we’ll pour our hearts and souls into making food that’s perfect for the Christmas party~

Madara: I’m sure you’ll knock it out of the park! I can’t waaait…♪ By the way, could you discuss the expenses with Wataru-san the day after the party or something?

He’s gonna add ‘em all up and give the invoice to Keito-san.

Niki: To Hasumi-kun? Is he the big boss behind all this?

Wataru: When I consulted him about having a party, he agreed to consider it a dorm recreational activity. As such, we’ve been given some spending money.

You needn’t spare any expense! Please cook to your heart’s content…♪ 

Niki: Ooh, now we’re talking! I’ll keep that in mind and start working on the menu.

Yuzuru: I believe we can now bring the meeting to a close. Thank you for attending, gentlemen.

…Hibiki-sama, could I have a moment of your time?

Wataru: Oho? What do you need, Butler-san?

Yuzuru: I’d like to thank you for organizing this Christmas party.

Though he may not show it, the Young Master is greatly looking forward to the festivities. 

…Still, I should have been the one to take on this mantle. I want nothing more than to do something for the Young Master in his parents’ stead.

However, I had far too much solo work planned; I was unsure if I’d have enough time to prepare. I sincerely apologize for my indecision.

Wataru: Please raise your head. You’re carrying out your duties perfectly, Butler-san.

Despite his bustling schedule, Himegimi is still able to remain hale and hearty… And that is wholly due to your efforts, is it not?

Yuzuru: I suppose, but—

Wataru: Allow me to remind you that I am not doing this solely for Eichi or Himegimi’s sake. This party is for everyone in the Starmony Dorms…

And, naturally, that includes you as well. I truly do hope that you’ll enjoy this Christmas, Butler-san.

(Imitating Tori) “Merry Christmas ♪”

Yuzuru: Hibiki-sama… Fufu, it seems you’ve taken a shine to copying the Young Master.

Your voices are exactly alike, but I’m afraid you’ve still a ways to go before you can measure up to his cuteness ♪ 

Location: Common Room

<The day of the Christmas party.>

Tatsumi: Izumi-san, here is the green and red tinsel you requested.

Izumi: Thanks. I’ve got my hands full, so could you put ‘em on that table over there?

Hm… I knew it, the right side of the ribbon really is too low.

I doubt anyone else gives a crap, but it’s seriously getting on my nerves.

Wataru: Greetings from under the stepladder! ‘Tis I, your very own Hibiki Wataru ♪ 

Do you need any help, perchance? I’d be more than happy to lend you a hand ☆ 

Izumi: Alright, then. I’m gonna press down on the middle of the ribbon here, so could you hold the ends in place? I’ve already put some tape on, so you just need to stick it onto the wall.

You better be careful climbing the stepladder! If you make me fall, let’s just say reindeer won’t be called reindeer anymore.

Wataru: Fufufu. Please rest easy; there’s no need for me to use the stepladder at all.

I can reach simply by raising my arms like this…☆

Izumi: Eeeeek! What the heck is going on?! Why are your arms wriggling around like that?! And why are they growing longer?!

Wataru: Would you like me to hang up this tinsel as well? This time, I’ll lend you my hair ♪ 

Izumi: Aghhh, that’s sooo gross! Can’t you put up decorations like a normal person?! 

Nazuna: Haha, it sure looks like Izumi-chin is having fun ♪ I feel all warm inside just watching him.

Hajime: Nii~chan, Kazehaya-senpai, where do these Santa and reindeer dolls go?

Tatsumi: Let’s see… Could you put them on top of that sofa, please?

Hajime: Of course~ Mr. Reindeer’s all soft and fluffy! He feels so nice to hug ♪ 

Nazuna: Hehe, I know right? It caught my eye when I was walking down Saison Avenue yesterday. I figured it’d be perfect for the party, so I ended up buying it.

Tatsumi: Not only have you been so considerate, you also went so far as to help with the preparations. I cannot thank you enough.

Nazuna: Don’t sweat it! The party’s going to be held in the dorms, so it’s only natural that we’d pitch in a little.

Besides, I actually like doing busywork like this. I get all excited when I see everything come together little by little ♪ 

The party’s going to be pretty chill, right? People can come and go whenever they want. I hope that helps us reel in plenty of guests~

Tatsumi: I, too, am praying for that. May everyone’s hearts be at peace, even if only for a short moment…♪

Wataru: Fufufu. With the power of teamwork, the wall is now fully decorated ♪ 

Izumi: Ugh, I’m on my last legs… I need a break…

Wataru: Oh my, you seem rather tired. Why don’t I give you a massage? ☆ 

Izumi: Absolutely not! You’re the reason why I’m this exhausted, and don’t you forget that!

Madara: …Heeey there, Wataru-san. Could I borrow you for a sec?

Wataru: But of course. What is it?

Madara: I can’t really get into it here… Mind if we head out to the courtyard?

Location: Courtyard

Izumi: There it is again, that laugh — “hohoho”… 

It sounds like an old man, but their voice is kinda husky. Who is that? The culprit behind this wild goose chase?

…It’s sooo annoying how they added an echo! Hey, quit ho-ho-ho-ing, and show yourself right now!

Tatsumi: This voice… Could it be…?

Izumi: What, is it someone you know, Kazehaya?

Tatsumi: No, but I have confidence in this conjecture of mine. 

O person yet unseen, could you possibly be Santa Claus?

Wataru: Hohoho~ That’s correct! Hereee… you go ☆ 

Madara: Hm?

Tatsumi: Oh, my… 

Izumi: Huh? The heck… Are these Santa hats?

Wataru: Fufufu. I’m Santa, and you’re Santa, and so are you…!

So let us make like Santa and soar through the skies on a sleigh! We shall deliver presents to all the good children out there! Merry Christmas…☆

Izumi: Could you, like, explain what you’re talking about before you start getting all carried away? I literally have no idea what’s going on.

Madara: I’ve gotta agree. Wataru-san, could you help us understand what this is all about?

Wataru: But of course! It all started when Eichi suggested that we hold a Christmas Party for Himegimi.

It then struck me that I’d like for everyone in these Starmony Dorms to enjoy the festivities — not only our dear princess! 

Everyone has been oh so busy lately, so there’s been a rather heavy atmosphere weighing down the dorms. You all must have noticed it as well, yes? That’s exactly what I’d like to dispel.

However, I’m afraid that I’m not capable of organizing such a large-scale party on my own; in order to find some little helpers, I discreetly hung up a poster within the common room.

I was hoping that a few people with too much time on their hands would crack the code I left…☆ 

Izumi: Too much time on their hands, huh…

Wataru: Then, a Christmas miracle! I did, indeed, find people with nothing better to do — people who could save me from this predicament! Three of them, in fact! Allow me to offer the Chosen Ones a big round of applause: clap, clap, clap ☆ 

The Santa hats suit you perfectly, dear wastrels! Now, won’t you join me in making this year’s Christmas an Amazing one…? ☆ 

Izumi: Quit saying that we’ve got no other plans every three seconds! Look, I just happened to be free today — it’s not like I’ve got all the spare time in the world!

Tatsumi: I truly do wish to assist you, but I’m afraid that I might not be able to make time during Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

I have a few Alkaloid jobs to do, and I must attend the Christmas service at my family church.

I am able to adjust my schedule on days aside from the 24th and the 25th, however…

Wataru: That’s more than alright with me. In fact, I, too, was considering a day other than the 25th.

Even if, by some stroke of luck, we were able to have the party on Christmas day, I doubt very many idols would be able to attend.

We’d best pick a day when our entire Santa Squad is available. 

Tatsumi: In that case, please allow me to join you. I’m sure the youth will be delighted at the prospect of a party.

Madara: I was worried about everybody looking all down in the dumps, too. It’s especially important for people to take breaks during times like these...

By which I mean I’ll be joining you as well! How ‘bout you, Izumi-san?

Izumi: I mean… Organizing a party sounds like a pain, but this heavy atmosphere in the dorms is even more of a pain. Like, it seriously sucks.

That’s why I’ve been trying to have my meals when there are fewer people around. I’m the only one who gets to be in a bad mood around here.

Madara: Does that mean you’re hopping on the band-sleigh too? Hahaha! You sure aren’t upfront about your feelings ♪ 

Izumi: Oh, put a sock in it. I wouldn’t even be me anymore if I started being all open.

I’m pretty sure my plans for this one day before Christmas got cancelled… Hold on a sec, let me check on my phone.

…Yep, there it is. If you don’t mind having the party on this date, I guess I could tag along.

Tatsumi: That suits me perfectly. I’m free on that day as well.

Madara: So am I. What about you, Wataru-san…? Haha! That huuuge smile on your face is answer enough! 

Wataru: Yes, I’m ever so moved that the party date was decided so smoothly…☆ I hope we can make this a very merry Christmas indeed, my fellow Santas ♪ 

Izumi: Um? Sure, I agreed to help you, but I didn’t give you permission to turn me into Santa. Anyways, what do we do now?

Wataru: I’d like to discuss the finer details of the party, but perhaps we should head indoors first.

Tatsumi: A splendid idea. Although the sunlight is quite warm today, we may fall sick if we stay out here for too long. Let’s continue this discussion over warm drinks.

Location: Common Room

Tatsumi: Now, then… What kind of Christmas party should we hold?

Every year, my family church invites a choir over to sing hymns. It creates the perfect ambiance for the celebration; what do you think?

Izumi: That’d probably be too dull. I guess we could pull it off if we had a big ol’ church too, but we’re working with the common room here.

We don’t need a whole choir. As long as we decorate the tree and play some Christmas songs, we’d already have a pretty decent party on our hands.

Madara: A tree, huh? I might be able to ask a friend of mine for help.

One sec, I’ll try calling ‘em.

…Hello? Yep, it’s me! It sure has been a while. How are yooou?

Hahaha! Yeah, I haven’t seen you since we took those pictures at Santa Claus Village. That sure takes me back…☆

Tatsumi: Santa Claus Village? Is he referring to the one in Northern Europe…?

Wataru: I believe so. Our dear Festival-Man-san has been active in Japan as of late, but it appears that he used to be quite the globetrotter. 

Madara: …That’s right. It’s a special occasion, so I want a tree so spectacular it’ll knock everyone’s socks off. Think you can handle it?

Ooh, you’re a lifesaver! I really owe you one — thanks sooo much!

…Yup, yup. I’ll tell you the shipping address later. Bye byeee ☆ 

The preparations for the tree are all done and dusted! They’re gonna pick the finest fir out there just for us.

Izumi: You settled that in, like, a minute flat. Who even are you?

Tori: ‘Scuuuse me! 

Wait, is no one else here? Looks like we’re the first to arrive.

Yuzuru: Yes, it appears so. I haven’t received any messages on Hold Hands either.

Tori: It’s the end of the year, so I guess everyone’s super busy. Hibiki-senpai’s a whole other beast, but I’m worried about Eichi-sama… What if he collapsed or something?

Yuzuru: There’s no need to look so sullen. I’m sure he’s simply running late, caught up in some other task.

Today is a holiday that we of fine have established for ourselves. I have no doubt that they’ll arrive soon.

Tori: Mhm… That’s right. It’s important to take breaks — especially when you’re busy — and that’s exactly why we came up with these Eichi Days.

I wanna ease all of Eichi-sama’s worries, so I’ve gotta keep a smile on my face!

Yuzuru: Fufu. You never cease to impress me, Young Master. Yes, please keep at it ♪

Allow me to prepare tea and refreshments while we wait.

Tori: Oh, I can take care of the snacks.

Yuzuru: There’s no need to trouble yourself so. I am your butler; it is my duty to do such things.

Tori: It’s no trouble at all! I’m the one who picked everything out, so I wanna lay them out myself.

Yuzuru: Are you quite certain? This is a special occasion: Eichi Day. It would be my pleasure to devote every waking hour to waiting on you… 

Tori: I’m not a little kid, and I’ve told you time and time again to stop treating me like one. All I need to do is put these cakes on a plate. 

I’ll pick them up nice and gently so that they don’t get all squished… See, I can do it too! Easy peasy, cakey no squeezy ♪

Eichi: It seems like you two are having fun. Won’t you let me join you?

Tori: …Oh, it’s Eichi-sama and Hibiki-senpai!

Eichi: Sorry to keep you waiting, Tori. And you as well, Yuzuru.

Tori: It’s okay! I’m just glad that you’re here now. I guess I was right — you must be busy, huh?

Eichi: I’m afraid so, but I’m certainly not alone. Everyone’s up to their ears in work at this time of year.

The SS finale is just around the corner, and to add insult to injury, filming sessions for New Year TV programs are happening every other day.

Of course, there’s a plethora of other jobs to do. We all have magazine interviews to attend, guest appearances to make, and the list goes on… I’m sure every single unit is running on a tight schedule.

This is ES’s first New Year, so I’ve naturally been rushed off my feet trying to deal with everything.

Wataru: In that case, I’ll have to hold on to you more tightly! Come, Eichi — won’t you give me your hand and allow me the pleasure of a dance? ♪ [1]

Let us sing, oh let us spin and sway! You're a fool to dance, a fool to watch! If you're a fool either way, what a loss not to dance! A loss, a loss…☆ [2]

Tori: Quit calling Eichi-sama a fool! Besides, he’s probably all tuckered out, so you can’t force him to move around.

Now that we’re all here, we should sit down and drink our tea before it gets cold.

Eichi: Yes, that sounds like a plan… Yuzuru, aren’t you going to embrace Tori today? What happened to those butler-ly desires of yours? [3]

Yuzuru: Not at the moment. For now, I’ll simply enjoy the refreshments he’s purchased, but rest assured that I’ll give him plenty of hugs later on.

Wataru: What’s this? Did Himegimi pick out these cakes for us? We’ve each been given different types! 

Tori: Mhm! I chose an elegant opera cake for Eichi-sama, and a sweet-and-sour chocolat rouge for Hibiki-senpai.

The tart with heaps of strawberries on it is for Yuzuru, and the sachertorte is mine. I bought everything at a patisserie that Shiratori showed me~

Eichi: Shiratori-kun? …That’s right, you performed together as a Shuffle Unit a short while ago, didn’t you? 

Tori: Yep. He pointed the store out to me when we were on our way home from a Branco photoshoot. Apparently, it’s super famous, and celebrities visit all the time.

We’re actually gonna meet up tomorrow ‘cause we’ve got Branco work to do, so I bought a whole cake for us to share~

Shiratori said that everything’s too fancy for him and way out of his budget… I wonder if he’ll get all surprised? ♪ 

Eichi: Fufu. Nothing makes me happier than to see you look so excited. Everyone’s singing your praises; even I’ve been hearing people laud you nonstop. It seems Branco was a smash hit.

As StarPro’s representative, I’ve yet another reason to celebrate this success. Thank you for going above and beyond my expectations.

Tori: Ehehe. I’m Branco’s leader, so it makes me super happy to hear that ♪ I’ve been getting compliments from all sorts of people.

I was kinda stumped when we were given documents that just said, “Do something awesome,” and there were a ton of obstacles we had to overcome when we were filming the music video… 

But the ups and downs brought us together, and now we can all join hands. We’re gonna touch the hearts of everyone who sees us, I just know it!

I really am glad that I got to be part of Branco. 

Wataru: Yes, it’s truly wonderful that you were chosen. As a fellow member of your unit, I’m ever so proud of you.

“Merry Christmas ♪”

Tori: Hey, quit mimicking my voice! Did you seriously memorize the dance moves too?! You actually do resemble me, and it’s wigging me out~!

Eichi: I adore that music video as well. I watch it whenever I’m tired and in need of a break, or an escape from reality. Why, I think I’ve seen it over a hundred times ♪ 

Yuzuru: A hundred times…? I’m no stranger to finding solace in the Young Master, but please remember that you still need other things, such as nutrition. I entreat you to take care of yourself.

Eichi: What I don't need is a lecture, thank you very much. I’m far too busy to partake in the festivities — can’t I at least enjoy a bit of Christmas cheer by watching the music video?

Tori: You’re too busy for festivities, huh…? I’m not as swamped as you, Eichi-sama, but I’ve got quite a bit to do as well.

Plus, I don’t think Papa and Mama can come home, so my little sister’s probably feeling lonely.

I’m trying to come up with a surprise present for her, but I haven’t decided on what to get.

I just hope it makes her so happy, all her sadness melts away…♪ 

Eichi: You’re a wonderful brother, Tori. So long as you’re by her side, I’ve no doubt that she’ll have a very merry Christmas.

I’m sure Santa’s saving his loveliest presents for good children like you two.

Now the question is, what should I get you…? I’d love to host a party at the dorms or such…

But the other idols will surely be busy; it’d be difficult to get people to attend.

Wataru: Fufufu. Difficult, perhaps, but impossible? Far from it! Fret not, I’ll cast a spell for you all on that Holy Night!

But hold on— Eichi, you brought up this idea to give me inspiration, didn’t you? 

Eichi: It seems you’ve seen right through me. You’re right, of course. After all, I have the utmost faith that you’re capable of achieving the impossible. Are you up for it, Wataru?

Wataru: But of course! Please entrust this matter to your humble director. I’ll ensure that this party is absolutely unforgettable…☆ 

Tori: I just hope it’s not unforgettable in a bad way. Oh, and you can’t interrupt Santa while he’s hard at work, got that~?

Next Chapter


Translation notes:
[1] Eichi uses the word てんてこ舞い (extremely busy) which has the character for dance (舞い) in it. So in the next line, Wataru literally replies, “Isn’t it dull to dance on your own? Why don’t we dance together?”

[2] Wataru is quoting a well known song from the Awa odori (Awa dance) that's performed during the Bon festival. You can find out more about it here.

<Days later on Saison Avenue, which is being blocked off to be used as a filming site.>

Kuro: “That’s right… I'm the one who killed him.”

“You got me good, Detective. I never would’ve guessed that you'd be able to track me down with 5-year-old evidence.”

“Hurry up and arrest me, then. From the very moment I killed him, I knew there’d be no turning back—”

Keito: ...Hm. Kiryuu's putting on quite the performance.

I made time to visit the shooting location during my break because I was worried for him, but it seems my fears were unfounded.

However, I didn't expect to see you two here as well… Mikejima, Eichi.

Madara: Hahaha. I was his mentor, even if just for a little while — 'course I'd wanna see how my student’s doing. It looks like the independent practise that Eichi-san and I helped with has paid off!

We're both great at hiding our real intentions, so we were perfect for the job, huuuh?

Eichi: This isn't something I should be proud of saying, but we both neglect to demarcate the boundaries between good and bad. That's precisely why he could learn from us.

…But that’s beside the point. I think this victory should be ascribed to the fruits of his efforts as opposed to my competence as a teacher.

Mitsuru: He's soooo~ cool! Kiryuu~senpai feels like a whooole different person after the big reveal!

Adonis: Yes, I'd expect no less from Kiryuu-senpai. The pressure he exerts is comparable to that of a professional actor’s.

Madara: Oho? What're you two doing here?

I heard this drama's one of RhythLink's projects; are you guys gonna act in it too?

Adonis: Kiryuu-senpai asked us to come here. As you said, we're members of RhythLink as well, so we may be given acting roles in the future.

I have almost no experience in that field, so I'll be appearing as an extra today.

Mitsuru: I've been in a buncha dramas lately, so I wanna observe other people!

I like the way Tomo-chan acts, but I'm super duper interested in people who have cooler styles too ♪ 

Kiryuu~senpai's acting has tons of depth to it, so I'm gonna use it as a reference for the future! 

Madara: Oh, yeah? That's right, you two seem so pure — like you don't have a darker side to you.

Yup, yup, studying passionately is a virtue! Mama's reaaaal happy you're learning from this ♪ 

Keito: Kanzaki was here a while ago, and he said this experience was of use to him as well.

Perhaps this is due to RhythLink's nature, but it seems as though our office has many frank, straightforward idols… With any luck, Kiryuu will be able to inspire them.

Eichi: Yes, his hard work will serve as an example for his juniors to follow. ES, the place where idols can connect organically, is the cradle of advancements just like this one.

On that note… It appears that Kiryuu-kun is doing well, so I'll return to work.

I have to give more thought to ES's new movie project: the sequel to Fist of the Shangri-La Idol.

Keito: Hm, that book you're holding… Could it possibly be my D?

Eichi: That’s right, it’s one of Mizuhanome-sensei’s works ♪ 

They’re a bit amateur-ish, but the themes explored within his stories are actually quite interesting.

I was thinking of using them as the motif for a new plotline; it would be nice to make a movie based on them.

Keito: ...Eichi. There's something I need to speak to you about.

Eichi: What is it, Keito? You’re on the cusp of having the movie debut of your dreams, so you should look happier. Come on, smile, smile ♪

Keito: Give me one reason to.

Eichi: Ahaha. Stop that, Keito. This is a filming site, you know, and you can't scold me in front of our juniors.

Oh… I’m terribly sorry, but I'm afraid I simply must be on my way.

Keito: Hold it! Don't you dare run away!

You truly are the root of all evil! How dare you play around with my D like that! Come here, I'll personally ensure that you’re never capable of pulling foolish pranks again!

Eichi: Fufu, you’re so scaaary~ But you still have a soft spot for me, don't you? ♪ 

I’m going to live my life and work towards my goal with all my strength, regardless of the impediments that may hinder me. If any opposing forces, no matter how fearsome, should try to stand in my way, I’ll overcome them all.

Come, Keito! Right now, you’re the only one who’s capable of stopping me…♪

Keito: Agh, I must be the unluckiest person in the world to have a childhood friend like you!

They say ill weeds grow apace… At this rate, he'll live for a century yet…!

However, I didn’t expect that you’d be attending as well, Anzu. 

I was worried that some sort of disagreement would break out between you and the RythLink higher ups.

Cease that at once. Doe eyes will not work on me. Good grief, you were in a veritable maelstrom of strife.

As the central figure of the P Association, you’re in a unique position. And that makes you the antithesis of RhythLink’s “hammer down the nails that stick up” policy. 

It appears that you were even involved with the recently-executed Fist of the Shangri-La Idol project — I wouldn’t have been surprised if a war had broken out during the meeting.

…No, there’s no need for you to apologize to me. It isn’t as if you did anything wrong. Just as the principles of Christianity and Buddhism differ, so do those of individuals’.

But I must caution you against thoughtlessly placing faith in others. I need to warn you so you don’t do anything foolish, like walk headfirst into the traps of those who seek to sully your good name.

…Hm? Why was I unusually focused on my phone during the meeting, you ask?

It was nothing, merely a trifling matter — it was just about my doujinshi.

You’re looking forward to my new publication?! No, that isn’t what this is about!

Don’t look at me with those sparkling eyes of yours! I do not plan on releasing a new volume!

…Good grief. That’s right, you’re a fan of my works, aren’t you? I was being too brash.

It might be alright for me to disclose the details to you. However, we’re here in this empty office alone; this is quite the unfavorable situation. When the timing is right, I’ll tell you the whole story.

Come now, it isn’t anything grave. I simply noticed that Eichi has been borrowing and reading my doujinshi night after night…

So I wanted to teach him a lesson somehow.

Eichi: You’ve revealed your true colors, hm, Keito?

Or should I call you… Mister K?

Keito: …Eichi. Why are you here?

Kuro: I came with him, Hasumi no Danna.

Keito: There’s nothing I can do if you overheard me. I was being too hasty.

Yes, you’re right; I’m Mister K.

Eichi: I wasn’t completely sure, but it appears that my suspicions were quite founded.

I won’t take your D— your doujinshi anymore if you don’t want me to, but I do wonder why you chose to execute such a large-scaled operation.

Keito: Hmph. If I hadn’t done all this, I doubt you would’ve ever reflected on your actions. Ill weeds grow apace.

Eichi: What a cruel way to put it. I can’t deny your statement, though…♪ 

Keito: You’ve learnt your lesson the hard way now, right? I even went through all the trouble of asking Mikejima to be your opponent. To put it frankly, this was all a waste of time.

Eichi: Do you really think so? It’s fun to do these sorts of things every once in a while, so I have no complaints at all.

Keito: Eichi.

Eichi: Ahaha. Sorry, sorry~ Nothing good will come out of angering you further, hm?

You have every right to be mad. I’ll find a different way to relieve my stress next time, I promise.

Kuro: Haha, he hasn’t reflected at all ♪ 

Keito: Eichi’s always like this. Good grief, he’s absolutely incorrigible.

Kuro: The case is finally closed now, huh? Good job.

Eichi: You too, Kiryuu-kun.

Oh, that’s right. We’ve finished our work, so why don’t we all have lunch together? I’ll take you to a lovely restaurant ♪ 

Keito: Hey, wait a second! I’ve only just eaten lunch, you know!?

Eichi: Come now, there’s no need to hold back. It’s Eichi Day today, after all… ♪   

Keito: That’s your tradition, isn’t it…!?

Kuro: C’mon, don’t give him the cold shoulder. He’ll probably be considerate and take us somewhere we can have a light meal or somethin’.

Keito: If it were anyone but Eichi, I’m sure they would. Knowing him, though, he’ll likely take us to a lavish buffet. [1]

Eichi: Ahaha. Even I wouldn’t go that far, you know ♪ 

I’ll make sure to bring you to a place that serves light meals, so consider this an apology for taking your D as well… ‘kay?

Keito: No going back on your word, is that clear?

Eichi: But of course. I only mess with you out of love, you know.

You’re my one and only childhood friend. I’d never do anything bad to you… ♪ 

(...Now that I’ve gotten to the bottom of this, it was a rather normal incident.)

(This was all just a battle Keito instigated because he wanted to rile me up… He came up with a plan to reprimand me for my ungentlemanly actions, starting a strange war by proxy.)

(But something still isn’t quite right. I feel uneasy, almost as if I’ve eaten something strange — is this hunch of mine unfounded, I wonder?)

(Would Keito really plot such an elaborate plan? Despite how straightforward, how independent he is?)

Please wait just a moment. There’s one last thing I’d like to confirm.

Keito: Hm?

Eichi: The K in Mister K might not stand for Keito after all.

Keito: What are you on about, Eichi? I told you that Mister K is my pseudonym.

Eichi: …You did, but now that I think of it, something was off from the very start. I didn’t know what was going on, so I simply followed the directions given to me as though I were a mere doll— 

It felt like I was in a spy movie; I couldn’t see the full picture at all.

But suppose this war by proxy was incited for a different purpose…

That there was meaning to this odd combination of Kiryuu-kun and I.

I can barely believe this myself, but… Kiryuu-kun, aren’t you the true Mister K?

Kuro: …… 

Looks like you saw right through me.

You’re real sharp. Yeah, I’m the one behind all this.

Eichi: So I was right. But why on earth did you come up with such a roundabout plan? Won’t you explain yourself to me? 

Kuro: How do I put this? Hmm… No, this is no use. I ain’t good at explainin' things.

Listen. The thing is, I killed someone.

Eichi: What…? 

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Translation notes: 

Madara: Ooooi, Eichi-san! Kuro-san! Is our game of tag over already?

At this rate, my big, grand scheme is gonna go to waste!

I stole your friend’s precious D, so I thought you’d come at me more fiercely…

Maybe I should’ve gone all out and taken the guy himself hostage! That’d probably light a fire under you, huh?

Kuro: …Tch. Look at him, actin’ like he hasn’t even broken a sweat. If he keeps sprintin’ around nonstop in the gardens and the rooms like this, we won’t stand a chance.

Eichi: It appears that our opponent is quite the formidable one.

I expected that you’d be able to put up a good fight, but Mikejima-kun is the captain of the track-and-field team. It’d be impossible for us to win against him in a game of tag.

All we can do is try to use our knowledge and numbers against him.

It’s me, you, and Keito, who’s watching over us from above. If we put our heads together, we’d be a match for even Manjushri. [1]

Kuro: Oi, don’t kill Hasumi off like that.

Eichi: It’s quite alright; I can make death jokes if — and only if — they involve Keito.

Besides, I was on the brink of death myself just a short while ago… ♪

Kuro: There you go again, callin’ ‘em “death jokes.”

Well, whatever. We aren’t gonna get anywhere just standin’ around and shootin’ the breeze like this. Hurry up and tell me what you’re thinkin’, would ya? You’ve gotta have some kinda clever idea, right?

Eichi: But of course. That being said, my plan isn't fully fleshed out, and even I have to admit that it’s rather trite.

You’re very agile, so I’d like you to chase after Mikejima-kun, leading him towards the place where I’ll be waiting in ambush. There, we’ll perform a pincer attack.

Kuro: Gotcha. A pincer attack, huh?

Luckily for us, Mikejima’s gotten real far away — it’s the perfect time to split up. I’ll lead him to the ambush site and grill him good.

Eichi: Wonderful. First things first, we have to decide where to guide him…

Location: Seisou Hall 2nd Floor Passage

<A while later.>

Madara: Hmmm? Looks like I’ve lost sight of ‘em again.

If the people who’re “it” don’t put in more effort, the person running away’s gonna get reaaaal bored! What a pickle, what a pickle!

But I’ve been preeeetty curious… about what this D or whatever is actually about.

Maybe I should take a quick peek? I’m pretty sure Anzu-san’s a fan too, so I might be able to gain some new insight.

Alrighty, then… Oho?

Kuro: Finally found ya, Mikejima.

Madara: Ooh. You came in the nick of time, Kuro-san! I was about to read each and every page of this D!

Looks like you came alone — is Eichi-san resting ‘cause he got all tuckered out from running around?

Is he okaaay? I’d be a tiiiny bit worried if he had to get hospitalized again.

Kuro: Then you can rest easy. He’s just takin’ a lil’ break so he can cook up our next plan of action.

He told us to go play tag by ourselves for a while to kill time.

Madara: Hoho, that’s good to hear!

Alright, then — show me what you’re made of! I wonder if you’ve got what it takes to catch me, Kuro-saaan?

Kuro: I let my guard down earlier, but you’re not gettin’ away this time.

Come at me! If you think you can get away, you’d better put your money where your mouth is!

Madara: Ooh! How scaaaary!

(Here I go! There’ll be a flight of stairs around this corner here. Once Kuro-san’s in the blindspot, I’ll get away with a sprint.)

Kuro: (...That’s probably what he’s thinkin’, but he’s fallin’ right into our trap.)

(He’s not gonna run straight; he’ll take the stairs, and that’ll put some distance between us. But Tenshouin’s waitin’ right behind that corner. He’s gonna snatch the D away the moment Mikejima arrives.)

Madara: (I’ll slow down a lil’ at this turn — mmgh?)

Eichi: Take that!

Madara: Nuoh. Were you here the whole time, Eichi-san!?

Uh oh! Looks like you managed to grab onto the corners of the D.

That’s not good enough, though!

Eichi: (It’s futile. At this rate, Keito’s D is going to tear; I have no choice but to let go.)

Madara: Fufu. Woooonderful! Seems like you’ve given up!

Eichi: What a shame — we were so close to victory. In terms of physical strength, it truly is impossible for me to win against you.

However, I shan’t allow myself to quietly give up and let you have the D. No, this is far from over.

Madara: That so? I hope you know the same trick won’t work on me twice. Do you have any other ideas, I wonder?

Eichi: Fufu, I certainly wouldn’t tell you if I did. I'd hardly be worthy of the name Tenshouin Eichi if I didn’t have some sort of trick up my sleeve, though; I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have a backup plan or two.

Madara: Ooh, lemme give you a rooound of applause! You just wouldn’t be Eichi-san if you didn’t, huh ♪

I hope you show me your next plan sometime soon.

…Oh?

Kuro: I won’t let cha forget about me, Mikejima!

Madara: Woah, you almost slipped my mind! Good job sneaking up on me, Kuro-san!

Did you plan on catching me while I was chatting with Eichi-san? Sucks to be you, though — I’m taking my leave here!

Whoopsy daisy… ♪

Kuro: He threw the D down the stairs?!

Eichi: That isn’t all, Kiryuu-kun. Mikejima-kun threw himself down the stairs as well.

Kuro: He’s freakin’ insane. He jumped over the railing all the way down to the first floor, and now he’s gone.

Dammit. I feel like I’m playin’ against a little kid. He’s slippery as an eel, dodgin’ us like that.

Anyways, what’re we gonna do next? You said you’ve got a couple of backup plans, right? D’you think any of ‘em can help us get back the D?

Eichi: “I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have a backup plan or two,” huh.

That was quite the outrageous bluff, if I do say so myself. I have nothing of the sort prepared, you see.

Kuro: Haaah? The hell? Do you really not have any other ideas?

Eichi: There’s no need to fret; I have confidence in my abilities to plot and scheme. It should be easier for me to come up with more ideas now that I have a blank canvas in front of me.

Let me ask you something before I start pondering our strategy, though... Did you notice something odd about the D?

Kuro: Somethin’ odd?

Eichi: Yes. I felt as though something wasn’t quite right when I glanced at it earlier. I wonder why that is?

Kuro: That doesn’t really help… It doesn’t matter whether or not somethin’ was off about it — we’ve gotta do somethin’ about Mikejima.

I ain’t really jumpin’ for joy at the thought of this, but I’ll follow whatever plan you come up with.

Eichi: You’re a great help, Kiryuu-kun.

…Ah.

Perhaps I can use the strange feeling I had earlier as the basis for my next plan.

Kuro: …You sure 'bout that?

Eichi: Yup. It’s an all-or-nothing sort of gamble, but I’d like you to assist me.

The second phase of the D Recovery Plan begins… Now.

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Translation notes: 

1. Manjushri is a bodhisattva that is known to be the embodiment of transcendent wisdom.

Location: Dormitory Library

<The following day.>

Eichi: ...I can’t find it.

How odd — I'm quite sure I left it here last night. Could someone have taken it…?

Keito: SO IT WAS YOU, EICHIIIIIIIIIIIIII!?

Eichi: Keito? What on earth happened for you to be so boisterous this early in the morning...?

Keito: Don't you “what on earth happened” meeee! What exactly is the meaning of this letter?!

Eichi: Letter…?

Let's see, “I've taken your doujinshi. If you want it back, come to the book room at noon”...?

…?

Keito: Don't you dare play dumb with me! Swear on the Buddha's name that you'll tell me the truth and explain yourself!

You bastard, you took my doujin— my “D” without permission, didn't you? You stole my D because you wanted to play around and see how I'd react, didn't you?!

You're absolutely incorrigible! As your childhood friend, I’ve overlooked all the trouble you’ve caused up until now, but you've tested my patience far too many times!

Sit down, Eichi! I'll behead you right here, right now...!

Kuro: Oi, oi. Calm down a lil', Hasumi no Danna. You look like Acala or some kinda demon or somethin'. Did Kanzaki's spirit come and possess ya? [1]

Eichi: Keito. That’s a facial expression an idol should never make. Look, Kiryuu-kun’s rather taken aback as well. Let’s discuss this more calmly, shall we?

Keito: I need you to take this seriously, Eichi! Having others see my D would be a fate worse than death…!

You’re going straight to Kuronawa hell! But don’t worry — I’ll still chant sutras for you! Although I doubt that they'll even be effective! [2]

Eichi: Didn’t I just say that we should discuss this calmly…? Now, what exactly is that letter?

Keito: What...? Do you really not know, Eichi?

I assumed that you were trying to pull another prank on me by leaving that letter in my room.

You’re certainly the only person I can think of who would do something like this.

Eichi: This is all a misunderstanding. It is true that I’ve borrowed and read your D in this book room countless times.

However, that was simply because I wanted to read it myself, not because I wanted to show it off to others.

Keito: Oi. Don’t confess your sins so nonchalantly.

…Well, I suppose this is better than hiding it. You planned on returning the D to my room afterwards, didn’t you?

Eichi: But of course. It wouldn’t be interesting at all to show it to other people. I simply hide it in the book room temporarily; I always retrieve it the next morning.

And then I calculate when you’ll leave your room and return it to your shelf when you aren't present.

But even so, you were far too careless, Keito. You desperately didn't wish for others to see them, and yet you chose to hide your D in a place as easily noticeable as your bookshelf.

Keito: Tch… I had no other choice.

We all have roommates now, and actively trying to hide the D would only have raised unnecessary suspicion. That’s why I decided to take a risk and simply leave it on my shelf.

Kuro: I don’t get why you’d have to hide your D or whatever in the first place. You made it yourself, right? Why don’t cha just show it off to people?

Keito: That D is my treasure. You wouldn’t like it either if someone stole away your sister and exhibited her to the whole world, would you? This is a similar situation.

Kuro: Ah, gotcha. I’m not really okay with you puttin’ her on the same level, but… I get what you’re tryna say.

Basically, Tenshouin did somethin’ kinda like tellin’ the whole world ‘bout your secret lovechild, huh? And that’s why you asked for my help so early in the morning, Danna.

Eichi: Ahaha! “Secret lovechild”! That's certainly an apt comparison.

Keito: Oi. Don’t say “lovechild” — you’re going to stir up unwanted misunderstandings.

Kuro: C’mon, it’s just an example. Don’t take it too seriously.

I don’t really get the situation now, though. If Tenshouin wasn’t the one who left that letter, how’d it get into your room?

Eichi: You’re in the wrong for getting mad at me, you know. Couldn’t you at least apologize a little?

Keito: Absolutely not. I assumed it was you because you enjoy making fools out of people. You need to reflect on this.

In any case, the letter had already been left by my pillow by the time I woke up. It would be utterly unimaginable for anyone other than Eichi to have done this.

Eichi: …Actually, this might be Mikejima-kun’s doing.

Keito: Is there a reason why you think so?

Eichi: Yes, I met him in the book room yesterday night. He noticed me hurriedly trying to hide the D; he may be using it to play a trick on us.

Keito: It’s certainly possible that Mikejima did this. He's never been particularly fond of you.

Eichi: However, it truly is quite perplexing. Why on earth would Mikejima-kun endanger himself in such a way?

It seems to be all loss, no gain — or perhaps I should say that there was no need for him to stick his nose into this at all.

Kuro: Maybe he just hates you so much, he couldn't take it anymore?

I dunno the details, but back during MDM, you worked so hard to increase Alkaloid's popularity you wound up in the hospital.

Eichi: And you believe that’s similar to the deeds I’ve committed in the past?

…I don’t quite think you’ve hit the nail on the head yet. Everything I did was simply part of my strategy to help ES survive and become a rising force in the industry.

I wanted to assert the fact that, in such a situation, idols like Alkaloid are what we need.

Additionally, Mikejima-kun himself once collaborated with Alkaloid.

If he wanted to denounce me, there surely would have been other ways to do so. I doubt that his motive would be so simple.

…At any rate, we certainly won’t get anywhere by merely making conjectures about his feelings.

Above all, communication with the culprit is needed. The letter says, “Come to the book room at noon”... Say, why don’t you let me handle this matter?

I am the one who started this mess, and luckily, today happens to be Eichi Day.

Additionally, because I’ve only just gotten out of the hospital, I have quite a few breaks scheduled in — I can certainly be more generous with my time than Keito can.

Keito: No. I’m absolutely sure that nothing good will come out of leaving this to you. There’s simply no other option than to take care of it myself.

I need to attend a lunch meeting with the RhythLink executives later today, but I won’t be able to eat my food in peace unless this matter concerning my D is settled.

Kuro: C’mon, I’ve been tellin’ you to calm down a little. You’ve gotta prioritize the meetin’ and stuff, Hasumi no Danna.

Eichi: Hmm, so you’re choosing to side with RhythLink? You’re leaving me all alone?

Keito: What are you, a child? I don’t report to you.

Additionally, it’s a bit complicated, position-wise. It appears that the RhythLink higher ups who have been keeping an eye on your ES movie enterprise plan are consulting each other about giving one of the agency’s younger idols a significant promotion in a drama or movie.

RhythLink has been a rather well-established name in the movie and music industries for a while now; they’re currently stuck in something of a dilemma, ruminating over whether they should pick an agency veteran or a fresh face.

Eichi: Ah, are you referring to Fist of the Shangri-La Idol? I attended the advance screening that was held, and it appears that the movie immediately received good reviews. The prospect of a new project is already on the table.

Keito: Good grief. You weren’t directly involved this time, but you're still leading me around by the nose — you always have been. I thought I’d be free from all this politicking after I left the Student Council but, on the contrary, I’ve been inundated with it.

Eichi: Ahaha. How very like you ♪ No matter where you go, you simply can’t escape your fate of always helping others.

Keito: You’re the last person I want to hear that from.

Kuro: Anyways, you go and prioritize all of that stuff, Hasumi no Danna.

I’ll handle this D thing for you. If you weren't around, Akatsuki probably wouldn't have been able to keep up with the other bigshots in RhythLink — there's so many of 'em, after all.

So if Akatsuki’s general is in a pinch ‘cause of his personal affairs, there’s no way I could leave him alone.

Keito: Forgive me. I’m causing trouble for you, Kiryuu.

If my idiotic childhood friend does anything strange, feel more than free to punch him in the gut. If the situation calls for it, you can even strangle him.

Kuro: Haha. I don’t really wanna be a murderer at this age.

Sure, I got into a lotta fights back when I was a lil’ rascal of a kid… But I think I’ve grown outta doing stuff like hurting people for my own convenience.

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Translation notes:

1. Acala, protector of the Dharma, is an important figure particularly in Japanese Buddhism. He’s known for his expression of “extreme wrath.” 

2. There are 8 major levels of hell in Japanese Buddhism; Kuronawa hell is for thieves, amongst other offenders.