#DREAM-CHASING PERFORMERS AND SONGS OF HAPPINESS DELIVERED INTO THE BRILLIANT NIGHT

[leaderoffestivals]

EnStars x Merc Storia Ch 3 Pt 1: Let the Melodies Resound

Madara: If that’s how it is, that means it’s time for the real deal to take centre stage, riiight?

Yuu: Madara-san?

Madara: It’s the job of an idol to captivate and entertain after aaall! Come, enjoy this idol’s stage to your heart’s content!

Scenario Writer: ? Season: ? Characters: Mikejima Madara, Amagi Hiiro, Shiratori Aira, Ayase Mayoi, Kazehaya Tatsumi (EnStars: MaM & ALKALOID) Merc, Yuu, Rustoa, Segideel, Segideel, Various Villagers, Village Boy (Merc Storia)

Aira: Hello~ there! Please take this flyer~! It’s for the upcoming stage play, “The Prince of The Land of Tears”! It’s an absolute must-see, you know~? I LOOOVE~ ♪

Villager A: Sure! I’ll invite my father and Micchan along to watch too!

Aira: Thank you so much! —Ah, I’m giving these out in order of first come first serve, so please, wait patiently for your turn, okay~?

Villager B: Alright! I heard there’s an ex-soldier performing innit, right? I just wanna know the details, that’s all!

Villager C: Mama, look! There’s a description of all the stage props being used here!

Villager D: Oh my~, you’re right! Ehhh~, they’ve even got instruments that make use of electricity here. I’m so excited to find out what kind of show it’s going to be~!

Tatsumi: Yes, do look forward to a production that has great attention put into every detail.

Rustoa: WOOOW~, you’re terrific, guys! I had such a terrible time when giving out flyers on my very first day. I even went and gave the flyers out in bundles by mistake!

Hiiro: We have experience in this, you see. You can count on us to help with tasks with this, anytime!

Mayoi: Uuu~gh, whereas for me, I’ve always broken down and collapsed whenever it’s time to carry out these activities, so I’m a good-for-nothing who can’t be considered experienced at all…  

Aira: Mayo-san, you make up for that by giving your best in other areas, don’t you~?

Rustoa: You guys seem to have had your share of experiences as well, huh?

Tatsumi: Our group, which we call ALKALOID, didn’t have a path that could be considered smooth sailing from the very start.

We’ve even had to take on jobs of distributing flyers to promote other idols’ Lives as part of our work.

Aira: I never imagined that experience would come in handy in a place like this, though~!

Rustoa: So that’s how it is… … But, is it really all right for me to trouble you guys to distribute flyers for my show on top of giving me instruction, though… …?

Tatsumi: It is fine. We’re helping each other out in times of need. You reached out your hand to all of us when we were in trouble too, didn’t you?

Rustoa: Tatsumi-kun… …

Segideel: FUWAWAA~!

Rustoa: What’s wrong, Segi-san? There’s something going on with that crowd over there—?

Eh, Madara-kun!?

(Blooming World BGM plays)

Madara: Hey everyone, gather around! For those who have already seen the show, come watch it again! And for those of you who’ve yet to see it, do make it a point to come down and watch the stage production, “The Prince of the Land of Tears”!

The travelling tale of a lonely Prince who weeps all the time! What kind of encounters await him on his journeyyy~? You gotta come find out for yourself!

Villager E: Wow~! That’s got me interested! Gimme one of them flyers, won’t ya, laddie?

Villager F: Me too! Me too!

Madara: Excellent~! The start time of the performance is clearly written here too. Please take the time to read it through before the actual show!

Aira: As expected of Mikejima-senpai. His ability to communicate is as outstanding as ever. I should watch and learn from him too—

? ? ?: —Oops! UWAH~! Please pardon me! I tripped over a rock—!

Aira: Ah, no, the fault is mine… …

Eh~? Yuu-kun?

Yuu: Aira?

Aira: Wow~! We haven’t seen each other since yesterday~!

Yuu: That’s right. But, what are you doing here?

Aira: We’re distributing promotional flyers for “The Prince of the Land of Tears”! We can make inquiries with regards to inter-world transfer and help Rustoa-san out at the same time, so we’re killing two birds with one stone, see?

Merc: That’s a brilliant idea!

Yuu: I really wish we could help out too, but we’re on our way to the forest right now to take care of some business.

Tatsumi: Oh my. Is that how it is?

Yuu: Yes. Lately, the monsters in the forest have been behaving agitatedly, as if they’re strangely on edge, for some reason.

Merc: The organiser of the event feels that’s a matter of concern too… … That’s why Yuu-san is on his way to the forest to check things out.

If there’s any trouble with the monsters during the event or its preparation stages, it would cause all parties involved a lot of grief.

Yuu: It’s been fifty years since this event was last held and many people will be sure to attend. I think it would be best if nothing untoward happens.

Aira: It’s been FIFTY YEARS… …? This event must feel pretty special for everyone, huh!

Tatsumi: You’re right.

However, if monsters were to enter the event venue, the event itself would be in jeopardy from the very start.

Mayoi: A—about that… ... Will the two of you be alright on your own, Yuu-san, Merc-san?

Yuu: Eh~?

Mayoi: I’m so sorry! It was never my intention to stick my nose into your business…!

It’s just that, you know… … Just like how it was with us, there’s no telling if your encounters with monsters will be limited to just one, and while you’re using Healing magic, you might get attacked or something… …

Wouldn’t that be an extremely difficult situation for you, no matter how skilled a Healer you are?

Merc: It’s true Yuu-san is a gentle Healer who empathises deeply with the hearts of the monsters, but when it comes to combat, he is pretty crapp—he doesn’t inspire much confidence at all.

Yuu: You were about to say ‘crappy’, weren’t you?

Mayoi: … …

Uh—urm, if that’s the case… …, I’m powerless and have no combat experience, so it’s a certainty I will be absolutely useless in any given situation, but even so—

Would it be possible for me to assist you in any way, Yuu-san?

Yuu: Eh~?

Mayoi: (… … Just like Rustoa-san, Yuu-san and Merc-san both reached out to help us when we were so disoriented and clueless about our situation.

I don’t possess high levels of communication skills like Madara-san, nor do I have physical abilities on par with Hiiro-san… … I’m so exceedingly weak and powerless, but—)

W—what does everyone think?

Tatsumi: That’s a wonderful idea.

Aira: But then, what are we gonna do about the flyers~?

Madara: HA-HA-HAA! I’ve heard the entire story, you knowww!

We have enough people here. It would be wayyy more efficient to divide ourselves into two groups; one to distribute the flyers, and the other to venture into the Forest.

Today’s the first day of flyer distribution so we would need more hands to help with that—

And as for me, I’m all but finished with mine. How about we entrust this place to ALKALOID and Rustoa-san, while I accompany Yuu-san and Merc-san to the forest?

Yuu: Eh, but if it’s like that… … Are you truly fine with this arrangement?

Madara: Umu! I don’t hate physical work at aaall, you know? I would also be very happy if you’d let yourselves depend on Mama!

Yuu: Yes!

Merc: We gladly accept!

Yuu / Merc: MAMA!

Madara: HAHAHA~! That has totally caught on now, huh!

Yuu: And to everyone as well, thank you so much!

Aira: Not at all, don’t worry about it!

Hiiro: Alright then, we’ll focus on distributing flyers here.

Madara: Yes. Please excuse us, but we’ll be leaving this place to you guys.

Yuu: Let’s get along well with each other!

Madara: Got it! The forest is thataway, right? ALRIGHT, LET’S GOOO!

Yuu: —Eh! You’re too fast! PLEASE WAIT FOR US, MADARA-SAAAAN!

—————-To be continued——————-

Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 Pt 2

Translator’s Notes

[dfroza]

by reading the Scriptures we should see God as our Creator

who is Light and Love, and pure Justice who created everything perfect and good, and who has promised to make all things right again from all the damage we ourselves have done on beautiful earth and its sacred ground.

and we should see grace illuminated in the Son, revealed by the Spirit to the heart who is the inspiration for our thoughts in Love and in correction, also the inspiration for the writing down of the sacred texts to conserve spiritual truth for thousands of years.

A point seen here shared in an email i read this morning:

When filled with holy truth the mind rests.

...."we have the mind of Christ [the Messiah] and do hold the thoughts [feelings and purposes] of His heart".... 1 Corinthians 2:16b The Amplified Translation

...."Be still, [in a certain and steadfast trust] and know that I [am] God".... Psalms 46:10 NASB

and we see the significance of the written Word and its conservation in Today’s reading with chapter 8 of the book of Acts that begins with Saul’s persecution toward those who believed in the message of Heaven’s New Covenant of grace revealed, which led to his humbling and conversion, a metamorphosis into Paul as an apostle of grace who wrote of significance in the Letters of the New Testament

[Acts 8]

Now, Saul agreed to be an accomplice to Stephen’s stoning and participated in his execution. From that day on, a great persecution of the church in Jerusalem began. All the believers scattered into the countryside of Judea and among the Samaritans, except the apostles who remained behind in Jerusalem. God-fearing men gave Stephen a proper burial and mourned greatly over his death.

Then Saul mercilessly persecuted the church of God, going from house to house into the homes of believers to arrest both men and women and drag them off to prison.

[The Gospel Spreads to Samaria]

Although the believers were scattered by persecution, they preached the wonderful news of the word of God wherever they went. Philip traveled to a Samaritan city and preached to them the wonderful news of the Anointed One. The crowds were eager to receive Philip’s message and were persuaded by the many miracles and wonders he performed. Many demon-possessed people were set free and delivered as evil spirits came out of them with loud screams and shrieks, and many who were lame and paralyzed were also healed. This resulted in an uncontainable joy filling the city!

[Simon the Sorcerer Converted]

Now, there was a man who lived there who was steeped in sorcery. For some time he had astounded the people of Samaria with his magic, boasting to be someone great. Everyone, from the least to the greatest among them, was dazzled by his sorcery, saying, “This man is the greatest wizard of all! The divine power of God walks among us!” For many years everyone was in awe of him because of his astonishing displays of the magic arts.

But as Philip preached the wonderful news of God’s kingdom realm, and the name of Jesus the Anointed One, many believed his message and were baptized, both men and women. Even Simon believed and was baptized! Wherever Philip went, Simon was right by his side, astounded by all the miracles, signs, and enormous displays of power that he witnessed.

When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that the Samaritans had accepted God’s message of life, they sent Peter and John to pray over them so that they would receive the Holy Spirit. For they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus and were yet to have the Holy Spirit fall upon them. As soon as Peter and John arrived, they laid their hands on the Samaritan believers, one after another, and the Holy Spirit fell and filled each one of them!

When Simon saw how the Holy Spirit was released through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he approached them and offered them money, saying, “I want this power too. I’m willing to pay you for the anointing that you have, so that I also can lay my hands on everyone to receive the Holy Spirit.”

Peter rebuked him and said, “Your money will go with you to destruction! How could you even think that you could purchase God’s supernatural gift with money? You will never have this gift or take part in this ministry, for your heart is not right with God. Repent this moment for allowing such wickedness to fill you. Plead with the Lord that perhaps he would forgive you the treachery of your heart. For I discern that jealous envy has poisoned you and binds you as a captive to sin.”

Simon begged, “Peter, please pray to God for me. Plead with him so that nothing you just said over me may come to pass!”

[Philip and the Ethiopian]

After Peter and John had testified and taught the word of God in that city, they returned to Jerusalem, stopping at many Samaritan villages along the way to preach the hope of the gospel.

Then the Lord’s angel said to Philip, “Now go south from Jerusalem on the desert road to Gaza.” He left immediately on his assignment.

Along the way he encountered an Ethiopian who believed in the God of the Jews, who was the minister of finance for Candace, queen of Ethiopia. He was on his way home from worshiping God in Jerusalem. As he rode along in his chariot, he was reading from the scroll of Isaiah.

The Holy Spirit said to Philip, “Go and walk alongside the chariot.”

So Philip ran to catch up. As he drew closer he overheard the man reading from the scroll of Isaiah the prophet. Philip asked him, “Sir, do you understand what you’re reading?”

The man answered, “How can I possibly make sense of this without someone explaining it to me?” So he invited Philip up into his chariot to sit with him.

The portion from Isaiah he was reading was this:

He was led away to the slaughter

like a lamb to be offered.

He was like a lamb that is silent

before those who sheared him—

he never even opened his mouth.

In his lowliness justice was stripped away from him.

And who could fully express his struggles?

For his life was taken from the earth.

The Ethiopian asked Philip, “Please, can you tell me who the prophet is speaking of? Is it himself or another man?”

Philip started with this passage and shared with him the wonderful message of Jesus.

As they were traveling down the road, the man said, “Look, here’s a pool of water. Why don’t I get baptized right now?”

Philip replied, “If you believe with all your heart, I’ll baptize you.”

The man answered, “I believe that Jesus is the Anointed One, the Son of God.”

The Ethiopian stopped his chariot, and they went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, Philip was suddenly snatched up by the Spirit of the Lord and instantly carried away to the city of Ashdod, where he reappeared, preaching the gospel in that city.

The man never saw Philip again. He returned to Ethiopia full of great joy. Philip, however, traveled on to all of the towns of that region, bringing them the good news, until he arrived at Caesarea.

The Book of Acts, Chapter 8 (The Passion Translation)

Ethiopia is said to be the “birthplace” of coffee.

A chapter of the New Testament paired with the closing chapter 3 of Habakkuk and accompanied by the lines of Psalm 4 and Proverbs 4 for the 4th day of january, and Psalm 15 for the 15th day of Winter

[Psalm 4]

For the worship leader. A song of David accompanied by strings.

Answer my prayers, O True God, the righteous, who makes me right.

I was hopelessly surrounded, and You rescued me.

Once again hear me; hide me in Your favor;

bring victory in defeat and hope in hopelessness.

How long will you sons of Adam steal my dignity, reduce my glory to shame?

Why pine for the fruitless and dream a delusion?

[pause]

Understand this: The Eternal One treats as special those like Him.

The Eternal will answer my prayers and save me.

Think long; think hard. When you are angry, don’t let it carry you into sin.

When night comes, in calm be silent.

[pause]

From this day forward, offer to God the right sacrifice from a heart made right by God.

Entrust yourself to the Eternal.

Crowds of disheartened people ask, “Who can show us what is good?”

Let Your brilliant face shine upon us, O Eternal One, that we may know the undeniable answer.

You have filled me with joy, and happiness has risen in my heart, great delight and unrivaled joy,

even more than when bread abounds and wine flows freely.

Tonight I will sleep securely on a bed of peace

because I trust You, You alone, O Eternal One, will keep me safe.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 4 (The Voice)

Listen to me, you elite among men:

How long will you defame my honor

and drag it down into shame?

Will you ever stop insulting me?

How long will you set your heart on shadows,

chasing your lies and delusions?

Pause in his presence

The Book of Psalms, Poem 4:2 (The Passion Translation)

what are you chasing in life on earth?

[Psalm 15]

A song of David.

Eternal One, who is invited to stay in Your dwelling?

Who is granted passage to Your holy mountain?

Here is the answer: The one who lives with integrity, does what is right,

and speaks honestly with truth from the heart.

The one who doesn’t speak evil against others

or wrong his neighbor,

or slander his friends.

The one who loathes the loathsome,

honors those who fear the Eternal,

And keeps all promises no matter the cost.

The one who does not lend money with gain in mind

and cannot be bought to harm an innocent name.

If you live this way, you will not be shaken and will live together with the Lord.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 15 (The Voice)

[Proverbs 4]

Gather, children, to hear your father’s instruction.

Pay close attention so you will understand,

For I am passing down to you important precepts.

Do not abandon these valuable life lessons.

Back when I was young—the very image of my father,

and yet from my mother’s view, still her only boy—

My father, with his years of experience, became my teacher.

Father: Son, grab on to every word I say to you—hold them close—

stay true to my instructions as you live, and they will serve you well.

Whatever it takes to gain Wisdom, do it.

To gain understanding, do it! Never forget this!

Never stray from what I am telling you.

If you don’t forsake Lady Wisdom, she will protect you.

Love her, and she will faithfully take care of you.

Gaining sound judgment is key, so first things first: go after Lady Wisdom!

Now, whatever else you do, follow through to understanding.

Cherish her, and she will help you rise above the confusion of life—

your possibilities will open up before you—

embrace her, and she will raise you to a place of honor in return.

She will provide the finishing touch to your character—grace;

she will give you an elegant confidence.

Hear my words, my son, and take them in;

let them soak in so that you will live a long, full life.

I have pointed you in the way of wisdom;

I have steered you down the path to integrity.

So get going. And as you go, know this: with integrity you will overcome all obstacles;

even if you run, you will not stumble.

Tighten your grip around wise advice; don’t let it slip away.

Protect Wisdom, for without her, life isn’t worth living.

Do not start down the road of the wicked—

the first step is easy, but it leads to heartache—

do not go along the way of evildoers.

Stay away from it; don’t even go past it—

and if you find yourself anywhere near it,

turn your back and run as far as you can in the opposite direction.

For evildoers are so twisted they cannot sleep unless they have caused harm;

they’ll lie awake all night until they figure out a way to cause someone to stumble.

For they feed on evil the way most eat bread;

they drink violence the way most guzzle wine.

Yet the way of those who do right is like the early morning sun

that shines brighter and brighter until noon.

Evildoers travel a dark road because they love to hide their deeds in darkness;

they can’t see the perils ahead that cause them to stumble.

0 My son, pay attention to all the words I am telling you.

Lean in closer so you may hear all I say.

Keep them before you; meditate on them;

set them safely in your heart.

For those who discover them, they are life.

They bring wholeness and healing to their bodies.

Above all else, watch over your heart; diligently guard it

because from a sincere and pure heart come the good and noble things of life.

Do away with any talk that twists and distorts the truth;

have nothing to do with any verbal trickery.

Keep your head up, your eyes straight ahead,

and your focus fixed on what is in front of you.

Take care you don’t stray from the straight path, the way of truth,

and you will safely reach the end of your road.

Do not veer off course to the right or the left;

step away from evil, and leave it behind.

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 4 (The Voice)

[Healing Words]

Listen carefully, my dear child, to everything that I teach you,

and pay attention to all that I have to say.

Fill your thoughts with my words

until they penetrate deep into your spirit.

Then, as you unwrap my words,

they will impart true life and radiant health

into the very core of your being.

So above all, guard the affections of your heart,

for they affect all that you are.

Pay attention to the welfare of your innermost being,

for from there flows the wellspring of life.

Avoid dishonest speech and pretentious words.

Be free from using perverse words no matter what!

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 4:20-24 (The Passion Translation)

can you have peace within, no matter the outward circumstances? will you still trust in Love to make things right, eventually, when things on earth go wrong?

we see such hope displayed in the closing lines of the ancient writing of Habakkuk:

Though the cherry trees don’t blossom

and the strawberries don’t ripen,

Though the apples are worm-eaten

and the wheat fields stunted,

Though the sheep pens are sheepless

and the cattle barns empty,

I’m singing joyful praise to God.

I’m turning cartwheels of joy to my Savior God.

Counting on God’s Rule to prevail,

I take heart and gain strength.

I run like a deer.

I feel like I’m king of the mountain!

(For congregational use, with a full orchestra.)

The Book of Habakkuk, Chapter 3:17-19 (The Message)

and for those who wrongfully attack innocent people, at some point it will fall back on their own heads, just as seen written in verse 14 of the same chapter:

Their warriors rushed in to scatter us,

thrilled to consume their poor victims in secret,

But You turned their weapons against them

and pierced the heads of their warriors with their own arrows.

The Book of Habakkuk, Chapter 3:14 (The Voice)

[leaderoffestivals]

EnStars x Merc Storia Ch 3 Pt 2: Let the Melodies Resound

Yuu: Huff, huff… That Madara-san… he really has lots of stamina… doesn’t he… …? I guess… he’s been singing and dancing… for long periods of time… …

Merc: Are you going to be alright, Yuu-san?

Yuu: Yes, I’ll be fine somehow—

—GEH! UWAH! WH—WHAT ARE YOU DOING ALL OF A SUDDEN!

Madara: HA-HA-HAA! It’s much faster this way, riiight?

Yuu: Yes, but that doesn’t mean you should carry me under your arm!

Madara: Putting that aside, with this game trail winding its way through tall trees and nary a man-made structure in sight… …, this is a bona-fide natural forest. 

Who would’ve thought there would be such a place filled with so much nature so close to the event venue?

Hmmm. With this much overgrown greenery here, it’s reeeally conducive to hide and lie in wait, though—

Yuu: … …!

Segideel: Fuwawawawa~!

Madara: Making a grand entrance, huh… …? It looks to be the same species as Segi-san, doesn’t it? 

The colour’s really different, though…

Yuu: Yes, when Segideel gets into an excited state, the colour of their body changes!

Madara: (I wonder if it’s the same phenomenon as when humans get red in the face when they’re excited?)

Segideel: 💢 FUWAWAWAAAAA~! 💢

Madara: I’m reeeally not a fan of indiscriminate attacking at all. Yuu-san, are you good to go?

Yuu: Yes! But first—PLEASE put me down! My vision is spinning around so much I feel drunk!

Madara: Whoops! That isn’t good at all. Oh myyy,  I thought I was carrying you properly but apparently I wasn’t… … 

Segideel: Fuwawaaa~! 

Madara: … … Whoops!

HA-HA-HAA! You’ll never land a hit like thaaat! 

Merc: Madara-san is dodging the attacks so effortlessly even though he’s holding onto Yuu-san like that. Madara-san, who in the world are you?

Madara: Who in the world am I, huh? Well, I’m probably not just an ordinary idol. 

… … Yuu-san. I’ll draw Segi-san’s attention away. You’ll be able to focus on your Healing technique then. 

Yuu: Yes! Got it!

Madara: Right, leave it to me. COME ON, SEGI-SAN! OVER HEEERE!

Segideel: Fuwaa~, fuwaaaa~! 

Madara: Haha~! You’re pretty good! How about this, then?

Segideel: Fuwawa~!

Madara: You managed to dodge that too! Brilliantly done! 

Merc: They look like they’re dancing… …

Madara: (It’s been dodging attacks in a set rhythm for a while now. If that’s the case, intentionally disrupting the tempo might do the job—) Yuu-san!

Yuu: Not yet… …! Segideel, listen to me! 

Segideel: … … —gh! Fuwaa~, fuwawa! 

Yuu: Ah! It took to the sky!

Madara: It must’ve sensed Yuu-san was about to do something.

(If this keeps up, we’ll be in for a protracted battle. Now then, what should we do?)

Segideel: … … ! 

~ ♪

Madara: … …Music? Is it coming from the direction of the town?

Yuu: This melody—is it one of those being used in the event?

Merc: It indeed is. The music actually managed to travel this far, huh?

Segideel: Fuwawa… …

Madara: Has its movements slowed down in response to the sound? 

Segideel: FUwaAAA~

Aira: Ahaha, he’s started to dance. It feels so healing to watch Segi-san like this, huh~... …

Madara: Ohhh, I see now. So, Segi-san loves singing and dancing, huh? 

Yuu: Ah, yes! I only just learnt about this, but Segideels appear to be monsters with a strong affinity to sound. They’ve been observed to gather in places where music is playing—

And there, they’ll dance together. 

Madara: If that’s how it is, that means it’s time for the real deal to take centre stage, riiight?

Yuu: Madara-san?

Madara: It’s the job of an idol to captivate and entertain after aaall! Come, enjoy this idol’s stage to your heart’s content! 

(Blooming World BGM plays)

~ ♪

~ ♪ ~ ♪

Yuu: ... Oh. That's... that's amazing...!

Segideel: ... Fuwawa ♪

Merc: 🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸... ...

Ah! We went and got lost in the music too! Yuu-san!

Yuu: Yes! Now that its movements have stopped… …! Let it be delivered… …!

Segideel: Fuwaa~?

Fuwawawaa!

Madara: Hm? Whoops...?

Merc: It’s trying to climb onto Madara-san’s shoulders now?!

Yuu: UWAAH! What in the world are you trying to do, Segideel?!

Segideel: FUWAAAaaa!

Madara: A-HA-HAA! If this is all it wants to do, it’s no sweat to me at aaall!

Yuu: You’re way too strong!

Madara: By the way, you’re sooo affectionate, Segi-san! I’m really surprised you’re willing to come so close and cuddle like this even though you were attacking so aggressively before!

Is this the power of Healing magic? It’s really impressive, you knowww!

Yuu: Ah, that’s not it.

The reason this Segideel is so friendly towards Madara-san is not due to any effect of the Healing technique, but because of Segideel’s own free will. It is Segideel’s own earnest wish to be Madara-san’s friend. 

Monsters are just like humans; they have their own hearts. There are monsters who, even after using the Healing technique, will still fear humans and keep their distance far away from us. 

Madara: … … Heart...

Is that so… …

Segideel: Fuwawa?

Madara: I don’t know what it is you like about me, but if this is from Segi-san’s own free will, I’m reeeally happy you feel that way! 

Segideel: FuWAaa! 

(Meanwhile, back in town...)

Tatsumi: Please, do definitely make time to come down to watch ‘The Prince of The Land of Tears’. 

Mayoi: This is the last bundle of flyers, right? I think I should be able to distribute them all without collapsing somehow… …

Aira: We didn’t manage to learn anything about inter-world transfer, but the townspeople promised they would help us out, so I guess we can say we made an acceptable kind of progress after all?

Rustoa: Thank you! Thanks to all of you chipping in, you’ve really helped me out! 

? ? ?: Urm, may I please have the remaining flyers? I want to give them out to my friends and family!

Rustoa: Eh? Oh, you came to visit me!

Village Boy: Ehehe~! I heard you were distributing flyers with some cool onii-chans here. 

Mayoi: Is he an acquaintance of yours?

Rustoa: Yes. We’ve known each other since my days in the private army. He came to watch my debut performance as well!

Back then, Segi-san wasn’t with me yet, so it was a true-blue solo performance. 

Segideel: FuwaAAaa!

Village Boy: 🌸 I see. The number of friends you’ve made have increased! 🌸

I was really surprised and worried when Rustoa said he wanted to become an actor, but I think it's amazing he's working so hard towards his dream!

I'll definitely come to see your show no matter what, so be sure you get everything perfectly done, okay?

Rustoa: I promise to make it a stage you can truly enjoy with all your heart. I believe a true actor is one who can put up such a moving performance, the audience forgets about the time!

Aira: (I can feel a strong determination in every word he says. It might be presumptuous of me to think this way, but he truly reminds me of myself after all.

He’s just like the ‘me’ back then when I was so desperate to continue being an idol. That’s why when I look at Rustoa-san, I want to cheer him on!)

We'll definitely support you with everything we’ve got!

Rustoa: Thank you so much!

—————-To be continued——————-

Chapter 2 | Chapter 4

Translator’s Notes

1) I hope you enjoyed it!

2) This is unproofed, so if there’s any feedback, please DM me.

[leaderoffestivals]

EnStars x Merc Storia Chapter 2: The Prince of The Land of Tears

Madara: 😏✨ 

Mayoi: Why in the world are you looking my way―― C-can it be that you’re actually referring to ME? Th-that’s IMPOSSIBLE! You can’t offer someone like ME up to our benefactor―… Uuu~ Aira-san, SOMEONE, please say somethinggg―!

Scenario Writer: ? Season: ? Characters: Mikejima Madara, Amagi Hiiro, Shiratori Aira, Ayase Mayoi, Kazehaya Tatsumi (EnStars: MaM & ALKALOID) Merc, Yuu, Rustoa, Segideel, Theatre Troupe Girl, Chairman (Merc Storia)

Rustoa: ―Someday definitely~, I’ll be able to smile. And that is why I~, will continue to look forward~!

I am~ the Prince~, of The Land of Tears~ ♪

Aira: … … …

(“The Prince of the Land of Tears”―That’s the title of the script that’s been written and directed wholly by Rustoa-san alone… …

I really like this heart-warming story about a lonely Prince who used to live alone in the Land of Tears, but then sets out in search of friends and manages to develop bonds with various people he meets along the way―

―The pair of brothers who regretted the rash parting of ways after a quarrel, the princess who lacked confidence in herself, a lost boy who did not know his way home… … 

The setting’s a little too complex in some places, but there are many interesting characters too. Howeverrrr… …)

Segideel: Fuwawaa~...

Rustoa: Oh~hh, my Prince~, please tell me~, how may I~, be able to dry your tears~? ♪

Mayoi: A―about that, please hold! It’s commendable that you’re focusing on the song, but you also happened to be neglecting the steps there― 

And since you’re playing multiple roles by yourself, even a seemingly negligible delay can and will affect your performance greatly later on.

I know it must be greatly annoying to be told such by someone like me, but let’s start over again―this time, with the same precision as the hands of a clock. 

Rustoa: YES, MASTER!

Mayoi: EEEEK―NO! Please! Do not bow your head to meeee!

Madara: Haha~! Isn’t it wonderful to have such a hardworking disciple, thouuugh? 

Aira: (... … …

I never imagined things would turn out like this… …) 

Aira: KI―KINGDOM~!?

And what even is Mehterhaane!? Does such a place even exist in Japan? Or is it from someplace overseas―?

Yuu: Hm~m… … Mehterhaane has 18 countries, but I don't remember ever hearing of one named ‘Japan’ listed among them.

Aira: N―no way… …!

Mayoi: Could it be… … that we’ve somehow been transported to another world―one different from the one we know? 

Tatsumi: It’s hard to believe when you say it so suddenly, but―

―we’ve indeed encountered those unknown creatures called ‘monsters’ which do not exist in our world, and witnessed the power of Healing techniques―

All of that makes Mayoi-san’s theory of us having been transferred between worlds seem increasingly plausible. 

Madara: Hmm~m. If that were true, was our transfer here an accidental occurrence, or an intentional one? 

… … …

Yuu-san, a question; is this a phenomenon that’s a common occurrence in this world?

Yuu: Eh? No… … At the very least, I have never heard about anything like this happening before.

Mayoi: In other words, we’re just like lost children, brought here without knowing the reason why and with no way of knowing how to get back home, aren’t we?

Aira: You’re kidding me… … Please don’t tell me Hiiro-kun’s knowledge of roughing it outdoors is actually gonna come in handy in our situation like this?

Hiiro: Umu! I’ll be happy if it proves to be helpful!

Aira: That isn’t something to be genuinely happy about! 💢

Tatsumi: Everything will be alright. As the saying goes, “When three people gather to exchange ideas, great wisdom equal to that of the sages may deign to arise.” We have more than that number gathered here, and more importantly, we are all comrades who know each other well. 

I’m sure we will definitely find a way to get back home. 

Aira: Tattsun-senpai… … …

Hiiro: (... … I want to bring laughter to the lives of others with my singing and dancing. That’s what I said to Nii-san during MDM. 

I want to become an idol. Even though I still do not understand what the essence of being an idol means.

Together with everyone from ALKALOID, here… …)

We will get back home, Aira. Together with everyone here, as well. 

Aira: … …!

Yes, you’re absolutely right. We’ve overcome all those ordeals and were able to continue being idols together. We definitely can’t stumble or falter in a place like this!

I have to grit my teeth and strive harder as a member of ALKALOID―Our fans are waiting for us to do just that, too. Alright~, I’m starting to feel more positive about our situation now!

Hiiro: If Aira’s feeling cheerful again, that makes me happy too!

Rustoa: What an exquisitely beautiful camaraderie you have… …! Alright! It’s decided! I will do everything I can to help you guys!

Aira: Eh~? 

Rustoa: I’m only a fledgling actor who just finished his debut performance, but I’ve managed to establish a pretty wide circle of contacts from that. 

I’ll ask among everyone I know if there’s anyone in the same situation as you guys!

Yuu: Then, that goes for us as well. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help. 

Merc: We’d be absolutely delighted to assist you!

Aira: Would you guys really do that for us~?! Ahhhh… … That would really help us out!

Hiiro: It’s really reassuring to have the number of allies around us increase when we’re in such unfamiliar territory!

Tatsumi: We will strive to give our best as well. With these numbers here, we’ll be able to gather information even if we have to split up our party.

Rustoa: In the case, let me lead you to the event venue. That’s where everyone who’s involved in the event is gathered right now. 

Aira: Yes, thank you so much~!

Madara: (... … Rustoa-san―and Yuu-san and Merc-san too. All of them are such kind-hearted people that I can’t help feeling worried about it. However, it’s a fact that all of us were saved because of that kindness too… … …)  

I’m a person who lives by the principle of returning the favour received in kind. If you’re ever in need of a helper on stage, do feel free to call on me anytime! 

Rustoa: Do you really mean that~!?

Well, you see~... … In truth, the Rustoa Theatre Company I belong to consists of only two members―me, and my partner, Segideel. I’ve always wished for someone to give me some objective feedback about my performance!

I would really like it if you could come and view my rehearsals during any pockets of free time you might have… … Would that be too much to ask? 

Aira: Not at all! If it’s just something like that, I’d be more than happy to help you out anytime! 

Madara: That’s riiight. Come to think of it―acting might not be their specialty, but we do have someone who’s exceedingly capable of giving advice on both singing and dancing with us~! ✨

Mayoi: Why in the world are you looking my way――― C-can it be that you’re actually referring to ME?

Th-that’s IMPOSSIBLE! You can’t offer someone like ME up to our benefactor―… Uuu~ Aira-san, SOMEONE, please say somethinggg―!

Aira: Yes, yes! That’s a great idea! I’ve been taught by Mayo-san before, so I can totally vouch for Mayo-san’s ability as a mentor!

Rustoa: Are you truly such an amazing person?! Please, I implore you! Grant me your support!

Mayoi: AHHHHH―STOP―PLEASE! The only thing a person like meeEE is capable of is smashing each and every one of your expectations to the groUNDDDD!

Aira: (All that happened one day ago… …

And that’s how we ended up mentoring Rustoa-san on his acting skills in our free time, huh…

… …Hmm?)

Theatre Troupe Girl: Ah, Chairman! Look, our costumes have finally arrived! That means that everything's ready for the actual show!

Chairman: Indeed. Everything’s looking good from my side, too!

Theatre Troupe Girl: Ahh~! I’m so excited, I just can’t wait for the actual performance to begin! Chairman, please join me for practice! Lalala~ ♪

Chairman: Hey! Wait a minute! Where are you going while singing like that!?

Aira: … … Ahaha~

? ? ?: … … Ra…Ku

Rustoa: Aira-kun? 

Aira: UHYAAA~!? Ru-RUSTOA-SAN―WHEN DID YOU GET HERE~!? Weren’t you just up on stage a moment ago… …? 

Hiiro: Mayoi-senpai instructed us to take a break just now. 

Aira: Oh, is that so?

Tatsumi: Yes. We’ve been moving without a break since this morning. It’s important to keep oneself properly hydrated too. 

Rustoa: Haaa~. It looks like there are still many areas I’ve got to work and improve on. However, I won’t give up now!

This is a really rare opportunity for me to receive personal coaching from an idol after all… … ALL RIGHT, LET’S DO THIS! 

Mayoi: NO~! That’s why I’m telling you, PLEASE, take a short break now… …!

Madara: Haha~! You’re reeeally a lot tougher than I thought you’d be, though!

Rustoa: Even though I may look like this, I used to be a soldier in the employ of a private army. 

I would guard the safety of travellers touring throughout this Kingdom, and I’d have to battle monsters sometimes too, so I’m pretty confident about my physical stamina and endurance, you know!

Besides, I need to make this show a success, no matter what. I’ll do everything I can to make it happen.  

Aira: No matter what… …―

Rustoa: That’s right. No matter what.

Tatsumi: … … I do think it’s natural for actors to wish for the success of their performances, but I can sense an especially strong personal will from you as well. 

Is there any particular reason for that? 

Rustoa: You’re right, there is. 

I mentioned earlier that I used to belong to a private army, didn’t I? 

I had to quit because of a reason… … But then, it so happened I was invited to watch a stage play to raise my spirits… … 

And there, I had my heart stolen from me, by that performance. 

Rustoa: I was so moved by the actors’ singing, dancing and their entire story―I couldn’t control the emotions welling up inside me at all. 

Throughout that performance, I had a thought. O​​hhh. I want to be an actor. 

I want to be an actor who can touch the audience’s hearts and make them feel joy.  

​​Rustoa: And so after that, I kept attending auditions desperately. I really wanted to be an actor, with all my heart, you see. 

However… … none of it worked out. I was terrible at both singing and dancing. I couldn’t catch the attention of any theatre group or convince them to take me in. 

I was so ridiculously untalented, it was just laughable. As an actor, I was quite simply put, an underachiever.

Aira: (An underachiever… …) 

Rustoa: The one and only talent I have in me, is the will to keep trying, with everything I’ve got. There was a child who made me realise that… …

And that’s how I came to start my own theatre company, even though its members consist of just me and Segi-san now.

Aira: (Wanting to achieve something so badly, desperately trying to make it come true… … However, reality is just that cruel… …

… … Even so, it’s simply impossible to even think about giving up on that dream. Rustoa-san is just the same as I was. The ‘me’ who just couldn’t give up on being an idol… …)

Rustoa: My comrades from the private army have always supported me even though I’m like this.

All the props I’m using on the stage today have been gifted by them. They even went and ordered this custom-made instrument from another country called an ‘electric guitar’, which is quite wasted on me, but―

I want to create a stage with our performance and their props which can make everyone in the audience smile with all their hearts.

Tatsumi: And therein lies the reason as to why you need the performance to succeed, ‘no matter what’. 

Rustoa: Yes, that’s right. 

Mayoi: … … Even though it may be troubling for you if someone like me were to give you my support, but―

Aira: ―We will definitely cheer you on as you strive towards your dream, Rustoa-san. 

Rustoa: … …!

Thank you. 

Hiiro: Umu! I’m really looking forward to seeing Rustoa-san’s performance on stage!

Rustoa: Right! Ahh~ even so… … I’d really love to see you guys perform on stage sometime as well. I’m sure it’ll definitely be a very glamorous and thrilling stage too!

Madara: A free-for-all performance, huh… …? Ohhh, I see~, that sounds really interestiiing!

Aira: Mikejima-senpai? What’s with that look on your face… …? What in the world are you thinking of doing… …? 

Yuu: Ah~! There you guys are! We’ve brought some refreshments for you!

Merc: We have lots of sweets and tea for everyone here!

Segideel: Fuwawaaa~!

Rustoa: Ah, it’s Yuu-kun and Merc-san! Segi-san is here, too!

Segideel: Fuwaaa~... …!

Hiiro: … … Are you offering those refreshments to me? Thank you so much!

Segideel: FUwaAAA~ 🌸 

Aira: Ahaha, he’s started to dance. It feels so healing to watch Segi-san like this, huh~... …

(I was really surprised to hear that he was Rustoa-san’s partner, but I guess a Healed monster can be considered an excellent companion like this too… …?

However… …)

Segideel: Fuwa, FUWAAA~

Madara: Ohh~! Are you offering those to me too~~? Mama is reeeally grateful for that!

Aira: (I guess we really ARE in a different world after all… …)

—————-To be continued——————-

Chapter 1 | Chapter 3

Translator’s Notes

1) This is unproofed, so if there’s any feedback, please DM me.