#Akuneko

[seraphirism]

[Special Halloween Party-Sanrio collab] – All butlers.

[dialaiya]

[caccophony]

It's a little early for a Christmas/anniversary celebration, but I'm posting it now anyway <3

[kotegiris]

[Event Story] Cage of Black Raven Translations

Chapter 1: The Black Raven’s Introduction Chapter 2: The Black Raven’s Gathering of Members Chapter 3: The Black Raven’s Attack Chapter 4: The Black Raven’s True Identity Chapter 5: The Black Raven’s Dining Table Chapter 6: The Black Raven’s Letter Chapter 7: The Black Raven’s Release Chapter 8: The Black Raven’s Stroll Chapter 9: The Black Raven’s Doubt Chapter 10: The Black Raven’s Crisis Chapter 11: The Black Raven’s Mask Chapter 12: The Black Raven’s Cage Chapter 13: The Boy’s Name

[oqwomyo]

Butler's wedding party. Haures' card translation.

Part 1.

- Devil's Palace Garden -

- A Few Days After the Party -

*Step step step*

Haures: Tomorrow is finally the day I can spend time alone with Master...

Haures: Fufu... This will be fun. Being alone with Master after a wedding-style party...

Haures: In a way, it's like a vacation with family...

Haures: ...Oh my god, what am I saying... Phew... I'm excited.

Haures: I'm a butler... Moreover, I'm a leader who should set an example for other butlers.

Haures: I should always try to act like a butler.

Haures: Alright. After that, I need to check the plans for tomorrow again.

Haures: I need to make careful preparations so I can have a great time with Master. In the morning, we'll head to town by carriage...

Haures: ...Huh? This is...

***

When I was walking in the garden... I noticed Haures crouched down, looking at the flowers. He seemed lost in thought. Even when I approached him, he didn't seem to notice.

You: Haures, what is it?

Haures: Eh...? Ah, Master...

Haures: My apologies. I didn't notice you...

You: You were looking at the flowers.

Haures: Yes... It looks like Ammon planted some new varieties.

Haures: These flowers seemed familiar to me... I couldn't help but stare at them.

You: What kind of flowers are these?

Haures: No... In fact, I don't even know their names...

Haures: When my sister was little... I distinctly remember her giving me a flower just like this.

You: Lady Tricia...

Haures: Yes. It happened when she was very little.

Haures: Oops... Sorry. I talk too much about myself...

Haures: Master. Tomorrow is the day we'll spend time together.

Haures: If you don't mind, I'd like to show you around the city using the plan I prepared.

Haures: Do you have any requests, Master?

You: As long as we're together, I'm fine.

- I'll leave it up to Haures.

Haures: Heh... Okay.

Haures: As Master's butler... I'll do my best to make sure you enjoy this day.

Haures: Well then, Master. I have some preparations to make, so please excuse me.

You: Uh-huh, I'll be looking forward to it.

Haures: Thank you. Then...

Haures bowed to me, and then... He left after looking at the flowers once more.

That night... I was planning to go to bed early to prepare for tomorrow... Suddenly, Haures came to my room.

Haures: My apologies, Master. Forgive me for visiting so late.

You: What happened? Haures.

Haures: Yeah, to be honest... We were planning to go to the city tomorrow, but...

Haures: The plans have changed a bit. Could you please spend some time with me at the mansion?

As long as I can spend time with Haures, I don't care where I am, but...

You: Okay, but what happened?

The reason why he changed his mind... It was bothering me.

Haures: Uh... To be honest...

Haures: Looking at the flowers during the day... I mentioned that I remembered a moment from the past.

You: It was about Tricia.

Haures: Yeah. Actually, these memories...

Haures: This flower is from my sister... I remembered her asking me to marry her.

You: M-marry..?

Haures: Yes. Of course, Tricia was just a baby then...

Haures: She didn't really understand the meaning of that word... I think she was just imitating what she saw in a picture book.

Haures: ...Still, she loved me as an older brother... She made that clear...

Haures: It was so touching to see her express her love so sincerely... I was happy.

Haures: Remembering how I felt back then... I thought about it.

Haures: Sometimes, in order to make the other person happy... It's important to express your feelings...

You: To be honest about your feelings...

Haures: Yes... When I was thinking about it... I decided to change the plan.

Haures: That's all I can say for now. This story will continue tomorrow...

Haures: Well then, Master, I apologize. Have a good rest today.

You: O-Okay...

After Haures left... I repeated his words in my head many times. "To make another person happy, it may be important to honestly express your feelings." While I was thinking about these words... I didn't notice how I fell asleep.

Part 2.

- Devil's Palace Room -

The next morning... I was in my room, waiting for Haures to come get me.

Haures: Master. I've come.

You: Come in.

Haures: Good afternoon, Master.

Haures: Sorry for the wait. It took me longer than I expected to prepare.

You: Don't worry.

Haures: I see... Thank you for understanding.

Haures: Then, Master. As I said yesterday...

Haures: I'd like you to spend time with me in the mansion today. And what we... will be doing...

Haures: Master. Is it okay if we go to the garden?

You: The garden?

Haures: Yes. There's something... That I'd like to give to Master.

When Haures said that... His eyes were as serious as yesterday. When I looked at those eyes... Without asking why, I would follow him to the garden.

You: Okay, Haures.

Haures: Thank you.

Haures: Then... Let's go.

Being a little nervous... I went to the garden with Haures.

- Devil's Palace Garden -

- A few minutes later -

After we arrived at the garden... Haures asked me to wait. He said that he would bring what he wanted to give me. I glanced at the flowers that Haures was looking at yesterday. The flowers that brought back memories to Haures... The pale petals leave a beautiful impression.

You: Beautiful flowers...

When I thought about it... I heard a voice behind me.

???: Heh... Does Master think so too?

When I stood up and looked around... Haures was standing there holding a bouquet of flowers. The one tied with a ribbon... They were the same flowers we saw. Although I was confused... I couldn't help but sigh at the beauty of the bouquet.

You: How beautiful...

Haures: Fufu... Thank you, Master.

Haures: It seems Master liked it... I feel relieved.

Haures: It's just a bouquet of wildflowers, so it may not be as colorful as the flowers that are used for gifts, but...

Haures: In order to convey the feelings of the precious Master... I thought these flowers would be perfect.

Haures raised his head... And turned to me with a serious expression.

Haures: This may not be the appropriate choice of words for a butler, but... Please allow me to say it this way.

Haures: ...I love you, Master.

Haures: You have a kind and beautiful heart... The fact that I serve you...

Haures: I will always be proud of it.

You: Haures...

If you look... Haures' eyes were serious.

Haures: Master. If you can, I beg you...

Haures: This bouquet of flowers contains my feelings... Could you accept it?

Haures: To me, you are... Such an important person.

Haures: If Master wishes, I will...

Haures: Forever and ever... I promise to always be with you.

Haures handed me the bouquet. His eyes showed his incredible sincerity... I could feel his trust in me. When I received the bouquet of flowers he gave me... I took a step closer to him.

You: Likewise, take care of me from now on.

- I promise, Haures.

Haures: Master...

When I answered... Haures finally relaxed his face. His expression was completely different from before, with a calm smile on his face... And a feeling of comfort spread across my chest. Looking at me... Haures also narrowed his eyes happily.

- Devil's Palace Room -

- Later -

To decorate the room with a bouquet of flowers... Haures and I returned to the mansion.

Haures: Master. I'll bring a vase.

Haures: I'm thinking of decorating the room with the flowers I gave you earlier... Is that okay?

You: Sure.

Haures: Okay. Then I'll do it.

After saying that... Haures untied the ribbon and took off the wrapping of the bouquet. And the untied bow... Haures looked at it as if he wanted to say something.

You: Is there something wrong with the bow?

Haures: Ah... No, nothing.

Haures: But, um... The bouquet took so long to wrap...

Haures: However, it can be unwrapped in an instant... I was thinking about that.

You: Maybe this bouquet...

- Has Haures wrapped it?

Haures: Yeah... Honestly, that's it.

Haures: I'm not very good with my hands... I wanted to ask Ammon to wrap this bouquet, but...

Haures: In the end... Although I failed many times, I wrapped it myself.

Haures: Wrapping the flowers with someone else's hands to convey my feelings to the master... It felt wrong.

You: Is that so...

Haures: Yeah. I'm just ashamed of how clumsy I am.

You: That's not true.

- Thank you for doing this for me.

Haures: Master... Thank you.

Hearing my words... Haures smiled happily. But that smile... As Haures began to arrange the flowers in the vase, his expression gradually began to darken.

Haures: Um... Trimming the stems a bit to fit the vase...

He was having a hard time handling the flowers... I could tell he was taking it seriously. His awkward sincerity... I felt so happy.

You: ...Hey, Haures.

Haures: Yes. Master, what is it?

I took one of the flowers he gave me... I extended both my hands to him.

You: I love you too.

- Haures is important to me too.

Haures: ...!

Haures closed his eyes, and then... He blushed a little.

Haures: Fufu... Thank you, Master.

Haures: I got to meet such a wonderful person... I'm happy.

Haures: And, this... I feel a little embarrassed to say this myself, but...

Haures: I... I'm happy that Master thinks of me as someone important.

Haures looked at me... He narrowed his eyes in a friendly manner.

Haures: Um, Master... My plans for today...

Haures: When we drink tea together... Can we rest together?

Haures: I want to calm down and talk about various things with Master.

Haures: Like talking about memories...

You: What about the future?

Haures: Fufu, yeah. I think it would be fun to talk about it.

Haures: Master, please... Let's continue to be together forever.

Haures: Master is more important than anyone... I will make you happy like no one else...

After saying that... Haures carefully took the flower I offered him. This flower in his hands... It became bright and delicate.

[kamidukki]

Sneak peek of the upcoming 3rd anniv visual

[im-peech]

[Shinonome Yuhan Birthday Card 2024]

*This is my very first time translating (big help from screen translate :>) so there will be mistakes and grammatical errors, please feel free to correct them!

*Note before reading the Butler story: This story contains spoilers for the “Water Dragon Song” event story. We recommend that you read up to chapter 12 of the event story before reading this card’s story.

If you wish to avoid spoilers, please click on the button on the upper left corner.

…………

Chapter 1 - Throw away everything

[One day before Yuhan’s birthday]

Summer is almost coming to an end.

Yuhan’s birthday is tomorrow.

This year’s birthday, I have already decided what to give to the butlers.

A ring worn on the little finger… It’s a “pinky ring.”

Wearing the ring on the pinky finger of the left hand… It seems that its meaning is “preventing happiness from escaping.”

Understanding the meaning, I immediately set out the present for Yuhan… I prepared a ring with a small Spinel set in it.

And I wanted to prepare the situation for giving over the ring… I wrote a letter to Yuhan.

“On your birthday, let’s have dinner together.”

…

After the butlers have gone asleep… I left the letter in front of the door of the butler’s office in the villa.

I’m looking forward to seeing Yuhan’s reaction after reading the letter. Then, I fell asleep.

[Yuhan’s birthday day]

*Knock.. Knock…*

Yuhan: Lord, may I come in?

> “Of course.”

> “Yes.”

Sound of door opening

Yuhan: Good morning, Lord.

> “That costume…”

Yuhan: Yes, this… This will be my birthday costume this year.

Flure’s technique for making clothes… It’s truly something to behold.

> “It suits you very well.”

> “You look splendid.”

Yuhan: Fufu. Thank you very much, Lord.

Yuhan: What I asked you about today has something to do with this costume…

I would like to talk to you about my birthday.

> “About the letter?”

Yuhan: Yes. Thank you very much for the wonderful letter.

Yuhan: So it was written in the letter… I would like to ask you about the idea of “Let’s have dinner together.”

> “About that…”

I explained the situation to him.

Today is Yuhan’day… So I want to go out somewhere together, celebrate his birthday, and enjoy his birthday to the fullest.

As a finale, we will enjoy dinner together. At dinner, we will decide where to go next.

I told him that since it was his birthday, I wanted him to enjoy it without any hesitation.

> “Let’s enjoy your birthday without worrying about anything.”

> “Let’s go and eat Yuhan’s favorite food!”

Yuhan: Lord…

Yuhan: Thank you for thinking so much about me, even though I am just a servant…

Thank you very much.

Yuhan: I’m glad that the Lord thought of me like this… I am so honored that I cannot express my feelings in words.

Yuhan: However… I am happy enough thanks to the Lord’s feelings

Yuhan: Besides, I have the chance to sit at the same table as the Lord…

As a butler, this is unacceptable behavior.

Yuhan: So… Please spend today for the Lord’s happiness, not mine.

> “But I want to congratulate Yuhan.”

> “But I want Yuhan to be happy.”

Yuhan: Lord…

Yuhan: Fufu… 

I can't believe you care so much about my sake. 

Yuhan: The Lord is always so kind.

If I decline this any more, I will end up losing this chance…

> “Is there a place you want to go?”

Yuhan: A place I want to go…

Hmm, there are some but…

This is a little… That would be a selfish request.

Above all, it would be troublesome for the Lord.

> “I don’t mind it.”

Yuhan: Lord…

Fufu, thank you very much.

Yuhan: Well then…

I apologize for the inconvenience… Please accompany me with my selfishness all day today.

In this way, we can make Yuhan’s “selfishness” come true… I started preparing to go out.

[After a while]

We were visiting a fashionable clothing store. The atmosphere is somewhat different from other shops in the town… 

> “This store is…”

Yuhan: This is… 

An acquaintance of Mister Yimin has opened a kimono shop.

Yuhan: Lord, do you remember Mister Yimin?

> “Previously, in the Eastern land…”

Yuhan: Yes, in the Eastern land… He is Shinonome Yimin, who lives in the city of Shanglong.

After the Lord and Hanamaru-san returned from their request in the Eastern land…

I started corresponding with Yimin.

Since then, we were able to connect on good terms.

Yuhan: Above all, about my missing relatives… I also learned that Yutao is living a happy life.

However, if possible, at that time… I also wanted to visit the city of Shanlong with the Lord. 

> “Yuhan…”

Yuhan: Oops, I’m sorry. It seems like I’ve gotten off topic…

So… During the exchange of letters with Mr. Yimin…

An acquaintance of his was at Espoir… I heard that he had opened a kimono shop that sells clothes from the Eastern land.

> “Is that so…”

Yuhan: About that… Umm…

I think this is a really selfish request…

At the store today… The clothes from the Eastern land, I want to see the Lord wearing them…

> “Why not choose clothes for Yuhan?”

Yuhan: Yes… At that time, I was the one who couldn’t go to Shanlong city

So I was unable to see the Lord wearing the costume of the Eastern land… I’ve always regretted it…

Yuhan: So please, today…

For me only… Could you please show me the image of the Lord wearing the costume of the Eastern land?

> “Of course.”

> “I understood.”

Yuhan: Thank you very much. Now, let’s go inside the store.

Chapter 2 - Throw away everything

[Espoir’s kimono shop]

We entered the clothing shop and looked around.

Yuhan picked up the beautiful costume that caught his eye.

Yuhan: Lord, I would like you to wear this costume. I think it goes well with the color of the Lord’s eyes and hair.

Follow Yuhan’s recommendation… I decided to try the clothes.

> “How is it?”

Yuhan:...!

It suits you very well, Lord.

You look many times more stunning than I imagined.

Yuhan: Fufu… I can’t believe I could have such a wonderful Lord all to myself…

I am truly the luckiest person in the world.

> “Umm…”

Yuhan: Arara, are you embarrassed? 

Hmm.. I don’t want to cause troubles for the Lord, but it seems like the Lord doesn’t want to do it… 

Please forgive me just for now. It’s so difficult to suppress my feelings… Since the Lord is now so astonishing.

> ‘A-about that…”

Yuhan: I will not offer any unwarranted flattery to the Lord.

> “Thank you…”

Yuhan: Haa… Although I’m just one of the servants…

I would like to keep such a beautiful figure of the Lord to myself only… Could it be… I never thought I would feel this way towards the Lord I serve…

Yuhan:...

Oh… that’s right, Lord.

Actually, while the Lord was changing clothes, I also found a hair accessory that goes well with the outfit, it makes me feel relieved…

Could you please let me put it on for you?

> “Of course.”

Yuhan: Thank you.

Well then, let’s get a little closer. Please turn around, Lord.

I followed his instructions and turned around. Yuhan approached me from behind. When I see Yuhan behind me with the hair accessory, I realize that we are closer than usual.

> (S-so close…)

Yuhan: Lord, are you nervous? There’s a force on your shoulder,,, Please make it easy… It will be done soon…

> “Y-yes.”

Yuhan’s voice echoes in my ears and his hand touches my shoulder. It makes my shoulder tingling and feverish… I’m even more nervous.

Yuhan: Well, it’s done. It really suits you.

While my mind was blank with tension… Before I knew it, Yuhan had finished putting the ornament on my hair.

The hair ornament glimpsed… It suits me so well when I see myself.

When it matches with the costume, I feel like I had truly become a resident of the Eastern land.

Yuhan: I’m a little disappointed that I finished putting it on so quickly. I wish I could have touched the Lord a little more.

> “Huh?”

Yuhan: No, it’s nothing.

I can’t go further than this.

Yuhan’s attitude seems to be hinting at something, making my heart fluster… I take another look at my reflection in the mirror.

Then.. an elderly man called out to me from the back of the store.

The shopkeeper: Hey, those two wonderful people over there!

If you don’t mind… Would you be willing to be the subject of the photos I take as a hobby?

Yuhan: Become the models of the photo…?

I can’t believe anyone other than a photographer owns a camera as a hobby. You really like photography then.

The shopkeeper: Aa. When I see beautiful scenery, I just want to take a picture of it.

You two look so picturesque that I was wondering if I could take a picture.

As a thank you, I’ll give you both some of the photos I took.

Yuhan: Hmmm… If you take a photo…

I can keep this image of the Lord close to me forever.

> “Eh?”

Yuhan: Fufu.. It’s nothing.

Well then, Lord… If the Lord is okay with it… I would like to take a photo with you… Could you please forgive me?

> “Of course, it’s okay.”

Yuhan: Fufu, is that so. Thank you very much, Lord.

Then, we had some photos taken.

It takes some time for the photos to load.

We decided to shop inside the store until we could get the photos.

After a few minutes… The shopkeeper showed us the completed photos with a smile on his face.

The shopkeeper: Hey you brother, you had such a gentle smile in all the photos.

Yuhan: I have a gentle smile…?

> “What’s wrong?”

Yuhan: No… when I was in the military…

No one ever told me that I had a kind smile… I was a little surprised…

With the Lord by my side, I seem to have changed without even realizing it.

After saying that, his smile was just as gentle as in the photos.

Yuhan: Fufu… As a butler, I probably shouldn’t have expressed such thoughts, but…

This photo… It’s like a family photo.

> “A family photo…”

Yuhan: The Lord, dressed in the costume of the Eastern land, is truly wonderful.

This photo has become my treasure… Every time I see this…

This year’s birthday… There was an important person next to me. I will remember it forever.

Yuhan’s fingertips lightly touch me in the photo. Unlike before, I wasn’t able to touch it directly.

I once again felt a numbing, sweet sensation.

Yuhan: Well then, Lord. Shall we look for a restaurant to have dinner?

> “Understood.”

Yuhan: The costume and the hair ornament you are wearing right now… Please let me give them to you as a present.

Thank you for a wonderful date.

I was a little worried about giving him a present although it was his birthday but… Looking at Yuhan’s happy face… I decided to indulge his feelings here.

> “Well, can I return you a favor?”

Yuhan: Thank you very much, Lord.

After that, at Yuhan’s request, we head out to dinner. And I was wearing the costume of the Eastern land. 

[Espoir Restaurant]

[After a while]

Yuhan: Fufu… Thank you for the meal. 

All the dishes are very delicious, Lord.

> “It was exquisite.”

I dined out at a restaurant with Yuhan… It was a newly opened restaurant on the outskirts of Espoir which serves the flavors of the Eastern land.

Thanks to the clothes that Yuhan selected earlier, I have become accustomed to the atmosphere of the store.

Also, the seats were in private rooms… There was no need to worry about what other customers saw.

Yuhan: With my Lord wearing the same clothes as those in my hometown, eating the food in my hometown… It was truly a dream-like time.

Yuhan: Lord, we made many wonderful memories together today… Thank you very much. These memories will definitely support me in my future life.

Yuhan said that and smiled, he looked very blissful.

> “Your birthday isn’t over yet.”

Yuhan: Eh? Lord?

I stand up in front of Yuhan, who can’t hide his confusion… Then I held out a small box containing the gift I prepared for him. Of course, inside the box is the pinky ring I am going to give to him.

I took Yuhan’s hand as he stared intently at the box. I placed the box in his palm.

Yuhan: Um… Lord. What is this box?

> “Try opening it.”

Despite being confused, as instructed, Yuhan opens the box. Peeking out from the inside was a ring with a spinel set in it… The ring emitted a powerful radiance, as if it had captured Yuhan’s honesty.

Yuhan: I never expected this… Could it be.. The present the Lord prepared for me?

> “Yes. Happy birthday.”

Yuhan: It’s truly… a beautiful ring.

After that, I told Yuhan everything. I had decided that Yuhan’s birthday present would be a pinky ring. The reason is… I wish for “Yuhan’s happiness to go on…”

In particular, I chose the one with spinel inlaid… Spinel has the meaning of “supporting efforts and leading to clear thinking.” In order to support Yuhan, who spared no effort, that’s what I wanted.]

Then I took the ring out of the box and put it in Yuhan’s pinky finger of his left hand.

I’m proud of Yuhan, who doesn’t care about his work in both literary and military endeavors. I told him my true feelings.

Yuhan: Lord…

Fufu… I can’t believe I was able to have my Lord put the ring for me directly… It’s like a proposal from the Central land, I was a little surprised.

I became a demon butler with the intention of dedicating myself to fighting angels… for others’ happiness.

And to the most important person of this world, my Lord… I am so content that I can’t express it with words.

Yuhan: I will cherish this ring for the rest of my life… I promise to never let go of you.

This proof of happiness that I received from the Lord… I will never let anyone take it from me. I will live with this ring for the rest of my life… No, even if this body perished… I promise to continue to be your servant… if I could serve you for eternity.

Yuhan: I couldn’t be happier. My mind, my body, and my life will stay like this…  I want to live for you and end my life for you.

That’s right, I was able to meet someone like this… It was really good.

> “Yuhan…”

Yuhan: Lord, please… Please continue to keep me by your side. I will always be there… I am your very own butler.

> “Of course.”

Hearing my words, he burst out a soft smile and gently stroked the ring on his left hand. His eyes were quietly lowered, but… There’s one thing that can't seem to be hidden, Yuhan’s happy smile… I, too, feel happy.

THE END

[hanatandao]

FINALLY AFTER 31 PULL 😭🌹 I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOUUUU (sry Teddy, I'll pull for your birthday later)

[yuuchiun]

Guys can we talk about this?

[rose0725]

Background on the home screen from the new event

[dyscanthe]

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder — Intro Post.

Hello I’m Caxia, she/they, a newbie in translating JPN content as well as in the AKNK franchise, which is why most of my works are always tagged with rough translations since they may contain mistakes, please bear with me (˶˃ ᵕ ˂˶) .ᐟ.ᐟ feel free to interact and make friends with me, i love making friends!

#akuneko translations — aknk story translations by yours truly

#akuneko art exhibit — aknk artworks by yours truly

#akuneko trivias— aknk related trivias

#guestbook — askbox replies; ask is always open!

#caxiamblings — unrelated posts to akuneko; feel free to mute/filter!

#announcement board — self explanatory tag

Event Story Translation Masterlist

Butler Story Translation Masterlist

Your local neighborhood Yuhan Shinonome kisser, reporting for duty ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و

[seraphirism]

【栄光の刻印】 | 3rd Anniversary - All butlers.

[dialaiya]

HE HAS FANGS

[caccophony]

~Pick your battler butler!~

[kotegiris]

[2024 Birthday Card Story - Haures] At the Closest Place

this is for a request i had to translate a haures card story! thanks again to a friend of mine for sharing this with me!

Chapters 1 & 2

Chapter 1

As the season changed from spring to summer… May arrived, and Haures and Fennesz’s birthday drew near.

I already decided what to give all the butlers as a birthday present this year.

A ring for the pinky finger… A “pinky ring.”

Wearing a ring on the pinky finger symbolizes “preventing happiness from escaping.”

With that in mind, I quickly decided to choose a gemstone ring for the two of them.

But while I was choosing… I was unsure what gem would suit them.

Since it’s for their birthday… I wanted to pick a gem that was perfect for them.

While I kept thinking about it, there was a knock on the door.

Knock, knock…

> Come in.

Haures: Excuse us, Aruji-sama.

Fennesz: Sorry to disturb your rest.

> What is it?

Fennesz: Actually… It’s a bit awkward to be saying this ourselves, but…

Fennesz: Uhm… It’s almost our birthday, isn’t it?

> Y-Yeah, it is.

Haures: …We were very happy that you celebrated our birthday with us last year…

Haures: Fennesz and I had a pleasant time.

Haures: However, after thinking about it…

Haures: Celebrating both our birthdays on the same day… Isn’t it a bit hectic for you, Aruji-sama?

Fennesz: Yes. I’m very grateful that you’re celebrating it with us, but… We’d like you to be able to spend time with us without having to rush.

Haures: So Fennesz and I discussed it and… We came up with a suggestion.

Haures: If you’re going to celebrate our birthdays… Maybe it’d be better to celebrate it on different days…

Fennesz: It feels a bit shameless to suggest how to celebrate our own birthdays, but…

Even though they seemed somewhat embarrassed, they told me their suggestion… I’m sure it’s because they’re worried about me.

I wanted to respect their opinions to not let their kindness go to waste.

> Alright, let’s do that.

Haures: Thank you, Aruji-sama.

Fennesz: Thank you.

Fennesz: Well then, uhm… We’ll be excusing ourselves now.

Fennesz: Sorry to disturb you. Please enjoy your rest.

> Yeah, thanks.

After the two had left… The thought of their smiles on their birthday naturally came to mind.

While imagining how happy they’ll be… I was also able to happily pick the gemstones.

One day in May… I wrote a letter to Haures.

“Tomorrow, wear your birthday outfit… Let’s spend the day together, just the two of us.”

When he reads this letter… I’m sure he’ll understand that it’s for his birthday.

Then, the following morning after I delivered the letter…

Haures came to my room wearing his birthday outfit.

Haures: Excuse me, Aruji-sama.

Haures: Thank you for the thoughtful letter. Just as it said… I came here wearing my birthday outfit.

> It looks really good on you, Haures.

Haures: Fufu… Thank you. It’s thanks to Flure.

Haures: He made wonderful birthday outfits for us this year too.

Haures: Now then, Aruji-sama. I’ve read the letter you gave me, but…

Haures: It’ll only be two of us today… Is that correct…?

I explained to Haures.

I told him that this whole day is for him… We'll go out somewhere together and enjoy his birthday to the fullest…

And finally, we’ll have dinner together.

I told him that since it’s his birthday, I want him to enjoy himself without holding back.

Haures: I see…

Haures: Thank you, Aruji-sama.

Haures: To be able to spend the whole day with my beloved lord… There’s no greater joy than this.

Haures: Technically speaking… As a butler, perhaps I should refrain from…

> Today’s special!

Haures: Fufu… I see. So this is a special birthday privilege from you.

Haures: Then… I’ll allow myself to indulge in this special privilege to my heart’s content.

> So, where do you want to go?

Haures: Let’s see. …Actually, I’ve had something in mind for a while…

Haures: If I can freely spend time with you… I have something that I want to do.

> What is it?

Haures: Yes, actually… If you’re alright with it…

Haures: I’d like to… exercise and work out with you…

> Exercise?

Haures: Yes. I’ve always thought about it while training with the other butlers, but…

Haures: If we work out together… I think it’ll naturally deepen our bond.

Haures: Not the usual stretches, but… By doing something more rigorous…

Haures: I want to share that feeling with you…

Haures: Of course, if this is too strenuous for you… Then, please don’t push yourself.

> U-Uhm…

Haures: I do have another idea in mind… If you’d like, would you like to hear what it is?

Haures told me that he had another idea, but… I’m sure that he actually wants to do the first one.

I want to do everything that he wants since it’s his birthday.

> Let’s do the first idea.

Haures: Huh…? Is that alright with you?

> I want to exercise with you too.

Haures: Fufu… Thank you, Aruji-sama.

Haures: Now then, I’ve just changed my outfit, but… Since I don’t want to dirty the outfit Flure made for me…

Haures: I’ll be changing into clothes that are easier to move around in.

> I’ll also get changed.

Haures: Understood. As soon as I’m done, I’ll come get you.

After Haures and I both changed into workout clothes…

We went to the garden and prepared to begin our workout.

Haures: Now then, Aruji-sama. Before we begin exercising, first let’s start with stretching.

Haures: It’s important to warm up our bodies and increase our flexibility to prevent injuries. 

Haures: First, please copy what I do. 1, 2, 3, 4…

> 1, 2, 3, 4…

Haures: Next is the other side. 1, 2, 3, 4…

Haures: Nicely done. Next, please stand back to back with me.

Haures: I’ll slowly lift your body… Please relax.

Haures: Here I go. 1, 2, 3, 4…

> 1-1, 2, 3, 4…

Haures and I diligently stretched our bodies.

It felt nice stretching together, and I felt my body slowly warming up.

Haures: It seems like our bodies are warmed up now. I think it’s about time to start exercising. 

Haures: First, we’ll go through the forest to the lake. The weather now is cool and refreshing.

> I’ll walk! > I’ll run!

Haures: Fufu… The goal is for you to work up a good sweat, so please go at your own pace.

Haures: I’ll be next to you, supporting you. Let’s do our best, Aruji-sama.

> Got it.

Following Haures’s kind words, I began going at my own pace.

Even if it’s just a little, I wanted to show Haures my good side… So, my pace naturally became faster than usual.

-A little later-

Haures: A wonderful pace, Aruji-sama! We’ve already arrived at the lake.

Haures: Let’s take a short break around here. Aruji-sama, please take a seat on this mat.

> T-Thanks…

I was a bit out of breath since I went at a faster pace than usual, but…

Haures prepared a mat for me to sit down on. The breeze passing through the lake was very pleasant.

> It feels so nice…

Haures: Fufu… I’m glad. It was worth taking you here.

Haures: I also pass by the lake often on my runs… The breeze here feels very nice.

Haures: It feels like nature is encouraging me… It makes me think that I have to work even harder.

Haures: But… The one I really want cheering me on is…

Haures: Uhm… Aruji-sama. Can I ask you for a favor?

> What is it?

Haures: Uhm. …Actually, the reason why I took you here today is because…

Haures: In a place with no one else around, I… Want you to cheer me on.

> Cheer…?

Haures: Yes. Usually when I train, especially when I’m doing weight training alone…

Haures: And I’ve hit my limit, and I feel like giving up… Your face always comes to mind.

Haures: If it’s for you, this is nothing… If it’s for you, I can push myself more…

Haures: Whenever I have those thoughts… I think about how much strength I’d get if you were there actually cheering me on…

Haures: I can’t get the thought out of my head.

Haures: Aruji-sama… If it’s alright with you, I’ll start doing weight training, so…

Haures: Could I ask you to stay by me… And cheer me on…?

I don’t know how much of an effect my cheering will have, but…

If this is what Haures wants, then… I’ll do what he asks. 

> Leave it to me, Haures.

Haures: Fufu… thank you.

Haures: In that case… I’ll start training.

Chapter 2

Haures: Haa… Haa…

Haures: Guh… I’m… at my limit…

> You can do it, Haures!

Haures: ……！ Aruji-sama……

Haures: Uohh!!! Not yet…!!

Even though he already did an incredible amount of one-arm pushups… He kept doing more with me cheering him on.

I didn’t want Haures to overdo it, but… Seeing him do his best naturally made my cheers surge forward.

> Haures, you’re doing great!

Haures: Hah, hah, hah… This is nothing…

Haures: I can still… keep going…

-A little later-

Haures: Fuu…… Thank you, Aruji-sama.

Haures: Thanks to you… I’ve broken my record by quite a bit.

Haures: Just as I thought. When someone dear to me is cheering me on… I become stronger than usual.

Seeing Haures so content made cheering for him worth it.

And I… Also wanted Haures to cheer me on.

> Would you cheer for me next?

Haures: Huh…? You mean…?

> I’ll try doing weight training too.

Haures: You will…?

Haures: You must still be tired from the exercise earlier, but… You still want to do more…

Haures: How wonderful. Seeing you so eager… It’s very lovely!

> Thanks.

Haures: I understand. Then let’s get started with something that’ll be suitable for you on this mat.

Haures: …I’ll also give it my all to cheer for you. Let’s do our best together, Aruji-sama.

After that, Haures taught me the correct form, so I don’t hurt myself…

The empty lake was filled with the sound of my voice that I wrung out from my abdomen and Haures’s firm and kind cheers.

-A little later-

Haures: Aruji-sama… Thank you for going along with my selfishness today.

Haures: To think that we’d exercised until the evening… Are you tired?

> Nah, I worked up a good sweat.

Haures: Fufu… I’m glad then.

Haures: Of course, I’m happy to cheer you on, but…

Haures: I’m happier when you cheer me on…

Haures: Maybe.. I’m more suited for a life of being supported by those dear to me.

> I feel like I also tried harder today.

Haures: Fufu. Hearing that makes me very happy.

Haures: Now then… We’ve worked up quite a sweat…

Haures: Let’s take a bath when we return to the mansion. I’ll be your bathing assistant for today.

> You will?

Haures: Yes. I’ve already asked Fennesz in advance.

Haures: I’ll also give you a massage to relax your muscles, so you don’t feel sore tomorrow.

> T-Thanks.

Preparing the bath and a massage… He’s very thorough.

I felt bad since it’s Haures’s birthday. When I honestly told him how I felt… Haures gently smiled at me and then answered me.

Haures: Fufu… It’s the opposite, Aruji-sama. It’s because it’s my birthday that I want to do things for you that I normally can’t.

Haures: Being able to serve you… Makes me happier than anything else.

After returning to the mansion…

Just as Haures suggested, I had a relaxing bath to wash away the sweat…

After getting out of the bath… Haures gently massaged my flushed body.

He humbly said, “I can’t do it as well as Fennesz,” but…

Because my body was tired after working out together… I actually felt a sense of relaxation that I never felt before.

-A little later-

Haures: Aruji-sama. About tonight’s dinner…

Haures: I’m sure you’re already tired, so… Why don’t we have dinner at the mansion?

> At the mansion?

Haures: Yes. Actually, I’ve already asked Lono… The ingredients for tonight’s dinner have already been prepared.

Haures: Everything will be prepared by me… is something I can’t let happen, but… I intend on at least handling the prep work.

> Then let me help too.

Haures: …Fufu I thought you’d say that.

Haures: If it was the usual me… I’d tell you to rest since you’re already tired, but…

Haures: … Like how we exercised together… I’d be happy if just for today, we could cook and have dinner together.

Haures: If the two of us prepare it together… I’m sure it’ll be delicious…

> Yeah, let’s do it together.

Haures: Yes…! Then, to the kitchen.

With that, Haures and I headed towards the kitchen and began to prepare the birthday dinner.

At first, we planned on just doing the prep work and then having Lono cook, but… We started to enjoy it more and more as we cooked, even as we made mistakes…

In the end, we did all the cooking… It took some time to finish, but the two of us enjoyed our dinner.

Haures: Fuu… Thank you for the meal, Aruji-sama.

Haures: Cooking was hard, but… I’m glad we finished eating everything.

Haures: Thanks to your seasoning, even the deformed vegetables that I cut were delicious.

> It’s thanks to both of our hard work.

Haures: Fufu… Yes, you’re right. When I’m with you, I can always do my best no matter what it is.

Haures: Aruji-sama… Thank you for granting my wishes today.

Haures: Even though it’s my birthday… There is no greater happiness than spending such a joyful day with you.

Haures: No doubt I will cherish the memories of today. From now on, every time I do something, I will remember you by my side, cheering me on.

Haures: And each time I do, I will work even harder than before.

Haures: Thanks to today’s memories… I feel closer to you than ever before…

Haures was thanking me, but… I'm actually the one who wants to thank him.

Not just for always being considerate of me, but… For always giving me a happy and fulfilling time.

For this reason, I prepared a present to express my gratitude to him.

> Haures, could you hold out your left hand?

Haures: My left hand…? Alright.

Haures: Here you go, Aruji-sama. Is this alright?

…The way he obediently and quickly held out his hand was just like him.

Looking at his dignified manner, I felt like he’d accept anything. Encouraged by him…

I held out the small box in front of him… And opening the lid, I showed him the ring inside.

> This is for you.

Haures: Huh…? Aruji-sama, this is…

Haures: It’s… a ring? You’re giving it to me…?

> I’ll put it on for you.

I gently took his left hand that he held out and slowly slid the ring onto his pinky finger.

Then… I told him the meaning of the pinky ring that I gifted to him.

I chose this as a birthday present because… I wish for Haures’s everlasting happiness.

A green agate is embedded in the ring. It has the meaning of good health and longevity…

I chose that gemstone because I wish for his mind and body to be stable and harmonious. I explained everything to Haures.

Haures: So this ring has that kind of meaning…

Haures: You’ve thought about me that much…

> Happy birthday, Haures.

Haures: …Thank you, Aruji-sama.

Haures: Today was already an irreplaceable memory, but…

Haures: Thanks to you… I’ve gained another treasure.

Haures: The ring you gave me and your kind feelings… I’ll cherish them for the rest of my life.

Haures: Fufu… At any rate, the amount of wonderful memories are piling up one after another…

Haures: Every year I gain more happy memories… In the past, I could have never imagined living this kind of life…

Haures: But right now… Like this, you’re by my side…

Haures: I can’t imagine having any other life. In the future… I want you to always stay by my side…

Haures: Not as a butler, but… I wish for this from my heart as a man.

Haures: That’s why… Aruji-sama. At your side…

Haures: At the place closest to you… Please let me continue to support you.

> …Of course, Haures.

Just like how Haures supports me… I also want to support him at the place closest to him.

That feeling must have gotten through to Haures. With a relieved smile, he nodded his head in reply.

Then, with affectionate eyes, he gazed at the ring on his pinky finger.

In the distant future… The day may come when we can sit side by side and look back on today.

While imagining a future like that for the two of us… I also kept gazing at his pinky finger.

END

[oqwomyo]

3rd Anniversary. Bellen's card translation.

Part 1.

 

Some time after the audience with Mr. Elboa… In the ancient forest village… We decided to take a rest.

 

- Ancient Forest Village –

 

One day… I was walking together with Belen in the village.

 

Bellen: Ancient forest… It’s a beautiful place, rich in nature.

Bellen: Maybe it’s the purity of the air… I feel like I can become healthier just by breathing.

Bellen: Master, do you think so too?

 

You: Of course, I understand you a little.

 

Then… A voice, that sounded like a sob, was heard from somewhere.

 

Ancient Forest Residents: Sob… Sob… Ugh…

 

You: Someone… is crying?

 

 

Bellen: …It looks like they are. Besides, it looks like there’s more than one person crying.

Bellen: I'm worried... Can we go and see?

 

You: Yeah.

 

Bellen: I hear voices from the other side.

 

We walked in the direction where the crying was coming from.

 

*Step step step*

If you follow the sound of the crying... You can see the villagers gathered. And in the middle... The ancient people, motionless as if sleeping, were lying in a coffin.

 

You: This is...

 

Belen: ……….

 

Aro: Ah, Bellen-san, Name-san.

Chenoa: Good afternoon.

 

You: Hello...

 

Aro: Why are you two here?

Bellen: While walking around the village, we heard a voice... We were curious, so we came to see you.

Bellen: This is... A funeral, right?

Aro: Yes... A villager died yesterday.

Aro: So now... We are burying him, returning him to the earth.

Aro: In the Western Land, when dead people are buried in the ground...

Aro: They return to the ground... And they say that they become forest spirits and watch over people.

 

You: I see...

 

The ancient people placed flowers in the coffin. The person who slept in the coffin looked very young.

 

Villager: Sob... Sob... Dad...

Bellen: Dad?

Aro: Yes... This baby is his child.

Bellen: I see... People in the ancient forest, it seems, do not know how old they are.

Aro: For us, people of the ancient forest... Physical growth stops at a certain point...

Aro: Who is an adult and who is a child... Knowing who is who can be difficult for people who come from other lands.

Now that I think about it… When I visited the Western Land with the basement butlers… Miyaji explained that the ancient people's growth stops halfway through their lives. And… Also that they don't live long.

 

Villager: Sob… Sob… Uuugh…

Bellen: ……….

Bellen: ….I want to pick flowers.

Bellen: I want to mourn him too. I don't know anything about him, but…

Bellen: When he becomes a forest spirit… I want him to continue watching over everyone.

Aro: Thank you, Bellen-san. I'm sure he'll be happy too.

Bellen: Then… Master, I'm sorry, but can I ask you to give me some time?

 

You: I'll go pick flowers with you too.

 

Bellen: No, it's okay. Master, rest here.

Bellen: I'll pick some for Master too and come back.

Bellen: Be a good child and wait for me here.

 

You: …Okay, be careful.

 

Bellen: Yes. Then I'll go.

Chenoa: Bellen-san. If there are flowers, they'll be blooming over there.

Bellen: Thank you. I'm going.

 

And Bellen left me... He went to look for flowers.

 

- A few minutes later -

 

Bellen said he'd be back soon, but... He took longer than we expected.

 

Aro: I wonder how far Bellen-san went to pick flowers?

Chenoa: Is he having trouble finding flowers?

Chenoa: I said where the flowers were… But they were probably all picked by now…

Aro: Hm~m… There were a lot of flowers in other places…

Aro: After everyone picked them all… I’m not so sure about that anymore…

 

You: I’m a little worried…

 

Chenoa: I agree… I don’t think anything happened, but…

 

You: I’ll go look for Bellen.

 

Aro: Oh, okay.

Aro: We’ll be here… If anything happens, don’t hesitate to reach for us.

Chenoa: Be careful and don’t go too far into the forest.

 

Thanks to Aro and the others… I’m going to look for Bellen.

 

*Step step step*

 

I walked into the forest in the direction Bellen was going. And soon… I found him near the bushes.

 

Bellen: ………

Part 2.

 

Bellen holds a flower in his hand… He has a bit of a gloomy expression.

 

Bellen: …….

Bellen: …..Hah.

 

You: Bellen, are you okay?

 

Bellen: Wha…

Bellen: Master, you scared me.

Bellen: Why are you here…. Did you come for me?

 

You: You haven’t returned for a long time.

 

Bellen: I see… It seems like I made you worry.

Bellen: Sorry, Master. Are you feeling lonely?

Bellen: I can’t believe it’s been so long… I was so caught up in the flowers that I didn’t notice how quickly time passed.

Bellen: Then… Let’s go back to the village together?

 

You: You sighed a while ago…

 

Bellen: Sighed..?

Bellen: Ah… Did you hear…

 

You: Something happened?

 

Bellen: Hmm~m…

Bellen: If I continue to worry Master like this… It won’t be good.

Bellen: …To be honest, seeing the funeral earlier… I remembered Mr. Goetia’s death.

Bellen: Surrounding the motionless Mr. Goetia… Everyone was crying.

Bellen: …People’s death… People are saddened when they see it…

Bellen: …I still can’t get used to it.

Bellen: Even if someone who has nothing to do with me died… My chest tightens.

 

You: So that’s it…

 

Bellen: …Oh, I’m sorry.

Bellen: I wanted you to stop worrying, but… Hearing that made you even more worried, right?

Bellen: I’m fine. Don’t worry.

 

If he doesn’t like funerals... Maybe he doesn’t have to force himself to come back. Why not just give Aro-san the flowers and go somewhere else? Having thought so, I decided to tell my thoughts to Belen.

You: If it's hard, then don't force yourself...

 

Bellen: ...No. I want to mourn properly too.

Bellen: I'll come back and give flowers.

 

You: Is that so... Okay.

 

And we... We're back for the funeral.

 *Step step step*

 

Aro: Bellen-san, Name-san. Welcome back.

Chenoa: You were so late... Did something happen?

Bellen: We're back. Sorry for making you worry.

Bellen: I wanted to pick the most beautiful flowers... I took my time choosing, and it seems like too much time has passed.

Bellen: Thanks to Master who came... I made my choice.

Aro: Heh... I can't believe you care so much about the beauty of flowers... Bellen-san, you're really kind.

Bellen: That's not true. In fact, I'm sorry for making you wait.

Bellen: If Master hadn't come... I might not have returned yet...

Bellen: Thank you for coming for me, Master.

 

You: Y-Yeah.

 

Bellen: So... Then...

Bellen: Right away... Can we lay flowers?

Chenoa: Yes. We haven't laid anything yet, so let's go together.

 

Approaching the coffin... We carefully laid the flowers.

 

Bellen: ………

Bellen: Rest in peace...

 

Bellen closes his eyes and prays silently. The way he prayed earnestly for the stranger... I felt his kindness. Like Bellen, I close my eyes... I offer my prayers straight from the heart.

 

You: (Please watch over everyone.)

 

Bellen: ……..

Bellen: …..Master...

Bellen: …….Heh...

 

And... After praying, we decided to leave the burial site.

 

- A little later -

 

After saying goodbye to Aro-san and Chenoa-san… Bellen and I were walking in the forest together.

 

Bellen: ……..

 

You: …Belen, does it still hurt?

 

Bellen: …No, everything is fine.

Bellen: …If I say that, it will only make you more worried.

Bellen: Sorry, Master. I am really fine.

 

You: Is that so…

 

Bellen: Uh-huh.

Bellen: …..

Bellen: Fufu… Master, why are you looking like that?

Bellen: You are so worried… Master is a truly kind person.

 

You: I think it is natural.

 

Bellen: That is not true.

Bellen: Getting close to another person’s heart… You pray earnestly even for a stranger.

Bellen: It is not natural… Master is a special and wonderful person.

Bellen: Because there's such a kind person by our side... I think that's what saved the hearts of all the butlers.

 

You: All the butlers..?

 

Bellen: Because... The devil butlers are hated all over the world... People say terrible things, don't they?

Bellen: No matter how much we risk our lives to save people... We'll still be despised.

Bellen: Even thinking about it... It's too painful.

Bellen: But everyone... They have Master they care about.

Bellen: Every time something happens... We have Master who worries about us and is grateful to us.

Bellen: The existence of such a person... I'm sure it's a support for everyone.

 

You: I wish it were like that...

Bellen: Fufu... Be confident, master.

Bellen: It's been a while since I met Master...

Bellen: When I'm with Master... I think I can understand what other butlers feel..

Bellen: Without realizing it... I feel like I'm starting to be drawn to such a wonderful Master.

 

You: Eh?

 

Bellen: I want to protect this person… There’s a certain charm about Master that I can’t help but think about.

Bellen: Strong and kind… Such a sweet Master.

Bellen: I’m so lucky to have met such a person.

 

You: Um… Thank you.

 

Bellen: … Fufu. Master, your face is turning red.

Bellen: Did I make you flustered?

 

After saying that… Belen gently stroked my head.

 

Bellen: There, there …

Bellen: Master really is a very sweet child.

 

You: …Are you teasing me?

 

Bellen: I would never. That’s not true.

Bellen: I’m not saying that as a joke.

Bellen: I’m glad I met you, Master… I’d be happy if we could be together forever.

Bellen: I really think so.

 

Bellen looks at me with kind eyes. I couldn’t… I looked away.

 

Bellen: …Listen, master.

 

You: What is it?

 

Bellen: Remember what I told you about the future the other day?

Bellen: After all the angels disappear… What would I like to do?

 

You: Yes, I remember.

 

Bellen: As I told you then… There are many things I would like to do.

Bellen: I want to open an orphanage, and I want to open a bar. I would also like to travel.

Bellen: And…

Belen: If Master was here… I’m sure it would be more fun.

 

You: Bellen …

Bellen: If I had said that when we first met… It would have caused you problems.

Bellen: But… I seriously think so.

Bellen: The future with master… I want to see it.

Bellen: What about you, master?

You: I...

Bellen: ....

Bellen: ...Fufu. Okay, it seems you're very confused.

Bellen: There's no need to answer now.

When Bellen said that... He gently touched my lips with his index finger.

Bellen: Confused and lost... And when you find unwavering feelings within you...

Bellen: Tell me.

Bellen: I... Will accept any answer.

You: (...Truly any answer..?)

Seeing my confused face... Bellen winks at me mischievously.

Bellen: ...Well, of course...

Bellen: In order to get the answer I desire... I'll do my best.

Bellen: From now on... Let's spend a lot of time together, Master.

Bellen strokes my head again. His gentle and sweet smile... I imagined a future with him.