#akehoshi hinomiya

[mamadayoo]

My beloved bros (template will be below)

:3

[akewanchan]

[Break My Case] Personal Story - Akehoshi Hinomiya, Part 1

Translation by akewanchan. Source is mobile game Break My Case.

TL note:

(edit) Thanks to Imai for letting me know that Kyousuke is actually a reference to Kyousuke from Stand My Heroes!

For clarification, Hinomiya is referred to as Ninomiya in an instance. This isn't a typo!

Ain’t sayin’ working yourself to the bone or yer surroundings don’t play a role.

I’ve seen folks pullin’ it off.

The real thing… Talent as ya say, got no mercy… 

Livin’ in high cotton, all the luxury, don’t come to mind no more.

No doubt I wished a lifetime supply of it by now. 

Akehoshi: ….

Akehoshi: (..... I’m home?)

Akehoshi: (Eh… managed to get back home properly. Good goin’)

Moving my head a wee bit while probing ‘round for my phone was ‘nough to make my world spin, making me all sluggish. 

Akehoshi: (Aaah. Still hammered as I can be. I’m parched…)

Akehoshi: …Ah. Darnit

Akehoshi: (Ain’t refilled dispenser’s bottle.)

Akehoshi: (Do recall thinking ‘bout 30 minutes before leaving the house yesterday, how I gotta swap it out since I’d wanna have a sip in the morning.)

Ain’t like anybody’s gonna complain ‘bout sleeping in on a sunday with no plans in store.

Even then, I sorta had a hunch I wouldn’t be able to hit the hay a second round if I tried to.

Feelin’ as if I was lifting a heavy load, I stood up.

Akehoshi: …Bwech

A wave of nausea washed over me yet again from gulpin’ down lukewarm tap water ‘till the last drop.

Akehoshi: (Shoot. Reckon I went too far yesterday. Sitting here and not rememberin’ what got me plastered like this just means I’m done for.)

Akehoshi: Shoulda called it quits halfway through…

Woman: …Huh! Don’t tell me, is that Ninomiya Akehoshi?

Man: Whozzat?

Woman: He’s a celeb. Y’know, that “way too angelic child actor!” guy. He showed up in TV dramas until he grew quite a bit. 

Akehoshi: Ahaha. Sure can see through the darkness in here, eh. You watched ‘em? Thank ya kindly

Woman: Eeeh, oh my god…! He’s the real deal!

Akehoshi: (....Real deal.)

That’s right, yet it ain’t.

Unfortunately, I was different.

From beginning to end, all the way through.

Akehoshi: (….Oh)

Akehoshi: Someone’s awake. Morning

Yuragi: …You’re alive.

Akehoshi: Ahaha, do feel like I’m on death's doorstep. Am muddling through one way or n’other

Akehoshi: Did I cause a ruckus in my drunken stupor when I got back? Pardon me for waking ya up if I did. 

Yuragi: Don’t you remember

Akehoshi: Not a darn thing for a while now. But good goin’ on my part for making it back home, right?

Yuragi: …

Akehoshi: (Huh. What’s that look for.)

Akehoshi: …Reckon that it ain’t~

Yuragi: Yesterday, what did you do.

Akehoshi: Eh? That’s new. Usually it’s in through ear and out the other with you when I’m doin’ the talking.

Akehoshi: Was just havin’ a drink to answer ya, though

Yuragi: Anything else? 

Akehoshi: Other stuff… nothin’ in particular?

Yuragi: …. ‘Kay

Yuragi: Then, s’fine

Akehoshi: Eh. Wait

Yuragi: What

Akehoshi: Naw, ain't it my line to ask what

Yuragi: …

Akehoshi: (If I did do somethin’ wrong, he oughta been pissed the moment he saw me, no? Seriously, what… Ah)

Yuragi: ---You scared me… Lights aren’t on either, what are you doing

Yuragi: …Can you stand?

Akehoshi: ….

Yuragi: Water. Want some?

Akehoshi: Don’t

Yuragi: Eh

Akehoshi: ---I said, I don’t need anything.

Akehoshi: … Aaah….

That feeling of swatting his hand away, the sound of water hitting the floor.

And then, the tone of voice I usually never use against other people.

Akehoshi: (....That ain’t a look of anger. It’s one of concern, huh.)

Yuragi: Remembered?

Akehoshi: I did

Akehoshi: Had been mullin’ over it myself of how I kinda drank a wee bit too much yesterday.

Akehoshi: But turns out it was more than that. Sorry for all the trouble I caused ya

Yuragi: ….

Without a word Yura turned the other way with a hmph, opened the freezer and started diggin’ through the stock of ice cream.

He picked out one, and while I was thinkin’ he’d just go back to his room-- He put that popsicle on that table, leaving it as is. 

Akehoshi: …Eh. You mean you’re giving this, to me?

Yuragi: I’m going to bed, don’t wake me up.

Akehoshi: Ah. Sure, thanks

Akehoshi: ….Reckon I made him worry.

Around the time I headed to my room after a quick shower, my mood improved somewhat compared to when I woke up. 

Akehoshi: (....Still rock solid, eh.)

I absentmindedly looked around my room while hitting the top of my ice cream with a spoon.

And then my eyes caught a glimpse of a DVD set from that old TV drama that was brought up plenty yesterday. 

Akeboshi: (...Watched it more than enough by now.)

Ain’t like I had anything I wanted to do, so I opened the DVD set to kill some time until my ice cream thawed.

Out of the six CD’s, I took out the 5 with ease and put ‘em on playback.

Akehoshi: …..

A child actor lucky enough to hit it big, his career lasted just short of 10 years until retirement. As a final conclusion to his acting career he received a spot in a TV drama set in a school.

I reckon that I, a so-so kid who wasn’t fated to be the main lead until the very end, received the main focus in an episode as a gift of kindness. 

However.

Akehoshi: …Yer amazing no matter how many times I watch it. Kyousuke-san. 

Akehoshi: The “real deal” is different.

He debuted a few years before I called it quits, and he made a beeline for the top spot within my generation.

What kinda connections or brute force got nothing to do with it, that much is clear when you sit through it just once.

Akehoshi: (That’s why… no matter how many times I watch it.)

Akehoshi: …What’s with that? That awkward silence just now. 

Reason why it didn’t take him 10 years to have grasped them roles as a rookie wasn’t luck or his surroundings, and this one episode makes me realize again and again each time. 

Akehoshi: (Aah, shoulda stopped right there before turning around.)

Akehoshi: (S’important line, yet it’s all pouring out--)

Akehoshi: …. Haha, 

Doing it more like this woulda been better, doing it more like that woulda been better.

Realizing I hadn’t learned my lesson thinking ‘bout stuff that wouldn’t reach my past self, a halfhearted chuckle escaped my mouth.

With my own strength, I wasn’t able to grasp what I wanted. 

It didn’t come true.

Just like this TV drama that’s frozen in time, no matter how many times I’ve seen it by now, it won’t change.

Akehoshi: …..I’m sure the Akehoshi-kun on screen wouldn’t wanna hear the ramblings of a guy who got off that ride a long time ago either, eh. Let’s just stop here

“My one and only wish, won’t come true anymore.”

Once I got that through my head, not a single thing mattered anymore.

But, I reckon that was for the best.

Rather than obsessing ‘bout what I can’t get, taking what I do get is a way of living that’s more suited for the likes of me.

Akehoshi: (Ah, spoon’s getting through.)

A blend of vanilla, chocolate and cookie cream. 

I stuffed my mouth with a spoonful while wondering where you can even find these sorta things, and sure enough it was so sweet I could only laugh.

Akehoshi: (Felt it in my bones this ain’t the thing to stomach when yer hungover.)

Akehoshi: (But, it do seem to be the flavor Yura likes. Let’s just eat it all up.)

Akehoshi: ….. Thank ya.

Looking at the wall, I gave my word of gratitude to Yura who’s surely drifted off to dreamland by now, and I took one more bite.

This sweetness so strong it’ll jolt you awake, slowly melted away together with this lazy afternoon.

[akehoshimystar]

[Break My Case] Invitation from the Spirit World event and cards translation 👻

Translation by Kalos (@Kumonkunliker on X)

Some card translations by Zorao (@yuragi_aporia on X or @okogespaws on tumblr) and Cazzy (@kyun7chau on X or @akewanchan on tumblr)

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10

🎃👻🍬🦇💀🧡🎃👻🍬

Yuragi R - Napping Undead (by Zorao) Akehoshi SR - Gravekeeper Mummy Kyoya SR - Moonlit Vampire (by Cazzy) Haruhi SSR - Death Navigator (by Cazzy) Tomose SSR - Sneering Specter Mao SSR - Mysterious Melody of Silk

[sasaranurude]

Coly, the company behind Mahoyaku and Stand My Heroes, have announced a new game. Some friends and I realized that despite looking somewhat generic at first glance, it's got a handful of intriguing things going on with it! So here's a quick kind of long introduction to/my thoughts on Break My Case!

First: the website! The music on the site is really good! Go listen while you read this post!! There are 12 people listed as composers in the credits page, and it seems most every VA involved has at least a bit of experience with singing or music projects. The tone is a bit dark for a rhythm game (though I'm not ruling that out entirely), but otherwise it seems like there's gonna be a music focus. Cool! As far as other staff goes--the main scenario writer is also the writer of Stand My Heroes, and the character designer is Utako Yukihiro, who also did some work for B-Project.

The story concerns a cafe with a myriad of eccentric employees that runs an after-hours service where they solve problems. The exact nature of all this is left pretty vague.

And the draw for a game like this: The characters! Interestingly, they're divided into different departments at the cafe. What exactly those departments do isn't clear yet. As for the characters themselves--the more we looked at them, the more we liked them, lol. Quick summaries about what intrigued us about each guy. Note that these are not translations, none of us are fluent in Japanese (we all know just enough to get by with the google+jisho combo lol), and this should all be taken with a grain of salt.

The Main Office, consisting of Ai Kosaka, Yuzuru Kise, and Roka Suoh. (Names are listed in western given-family order because that's what the site uses for romanized names.) Roka is the one who owns the cafe, is the oldest character in the bunch at 36, and is that fun "mysterious guy with unknown backstory and an endless amount of weird acquaintances, who acts incompetent but might actually be hypercompetent" type of trope.

On account of the whole acting-incompetent thing, Ai and Yuzuru run the actual cafe business. And normally I won't be including fullbody character art in this post but I have to make an exception just this once.

Anyways.

Tumblr won't let me put four images in a row. Come on man. I wanna maintain the BMC's site style. Why are you mean to me. Anyways. The Simulation Department, consisting of Kou Ayato, Mao Ukyo, Akehoshi Hinomiya, and Yuragi Kanno. "Simulation" is its English name given on the site, but the Japanese given would probably read more like "relationship department".

Kou is a footloose playboy and Mao is a serious intellectual type, but apparently Kou will ask Mao to pretend to be his girlfriend so that he can avoid trouble with women. That's gay. I love that. (Mao is a guy [as far as we know], he just likes makeup--he's not the only one in that cast who does, either!) We all want Mao's outfit.

Akehoshi was a sleeper hit in the group chat, because his bio has a sentence about how he's the most normal-looking-yet-dangerous employee at the cafe, and also explicitly describes him as being like a dog, and naturally we all went crazy for the silly puppy as soon as we realized that he was in fact a silly puppy. Yuragi, on the other hand, likes cats. Such a classic for his character design trope, lmao.

The Administrative Department, consisting of Taiga Tsukimoto, Haruhi Ichikawa, and Sei Okiya. Taiga looks cool but if you look at his fullbody he's wearing awful sweatpants and apparently he cries while watching anime. I love this for him. Haruhi is a streamer because that's like an obligatory character trope now I guess. Sei was very popular in the group chat for being the single most suspicious character in the cast. What's his problem.

The Watchdog Department (or enforcement department, if you translate the jpn) consists of Shizuka Fushimi, Takeru Mikado, Soyogu Shinkai, and Shinobu Aizawa.

My friend described Shizuka as a "wet looking glasshole" and yeah. ok. unfortunately he does look like that. But it's ok he's allowed because his bio says he prefers quiet, orderly places with plants and no people and keeps to himself in common spaces but his own room is a complete mess. AKA he's an autism king. So I like him.

Takeru was obviously a hit because look at them. Takeru and Mao talk about makeup together, apparently. CUTE! Shinobu is the most fashionable guy in the cast and his bio says he has a few screws loose, which is amazing. Good for him. I have nothing to say about Soyogu I think I forgot he existed until I was putting this post together and I only looked at these all guys a few hours ago

The Negotiation Department, with Kiho Arima, Kyoya Shido, and Riku Tateshina. I described this group as "grandma, grandpa, and Columbo" and then the group chat couldn't call any of them anything else. And I do mean grandma. Because. ok. another fullbody. Because oh my god we have to look at Kiho.

GIRL. WHAT. IS. THAT. YOU'RE WEARING A CARPET. YOU'RE WEARING A COUCH. kiho is apparently a fortune teller and my friend acted as if this excused the outfit but i DONT agree i don't think anything excuses this. WHAT IS THAAAAAT

Kyoya is an artist and Riku is a psychologist so honestly this is a really fun bunch of jobs going on in this department. Riku is described as someone who falls in love easily, and he's most interested in Ai (from the Main Office, the very first guy in this post). We couldn't tell if the implication there is that he's in love with Ai, or if he falls in love with random people and yet his true attention always drifts back to Ai. Both of these options are gay.

The ST (special tasks) Department, with Yomose Onda, Yu Nina, Kamiya, and Urara Manami.

Yu had his life saved by Tomose and has now dedicated himself to him, to the point of being ready to die for him. YOU GOTTA LOVE THAT. INCREDIBLE TROPE. UNBEATABLE. GAY AS HELL. All we know from Tomose's side is that he's "fond" of Yu. That's fine I'm sure you can learn to love him. Or learn to hate him. Whatever's more entertaining.

Kamiya has no memory, hence the singular name. I'm sure whatever's going on there is weird and interesting. Urara is the youngest character, at 20. THAT'S RIGHT. THE YOUNGEST CHARACTER IS 20. THERE ARE ZERO TEENAGERS! THE AVERAGE CHARACTER AGE IS AROUND 26. THIS SHOULDN'T BE AS NOTABLE AS IT IS BUT THAT'S GACHA GAMES FOR YOU. Anyways I like Urara because I think he looks like an angry kitty.

Anyways, that's the gist of what we know about BMC--or BreMai, if you wanna go for something closer to the jpn abbreviation--right now. More info might drop at/around Animate Girls Fest, since they seem to be giving out game beta codes there. I don't know if I'm completely sold on it just yet--coly did just have a detective-themed gacha game fail a few months ago with &0. But we're not even completely sure it is a gacha yet, or what kind of gameplay it might have otherwise, so... there's a bit of hope. Maybe it'll be a weird cool dark rhythm game! Who knows!!!

[okogespaws]

Translation Masterlist

✧ Event stories

🏫 After School: Day by Day

✧ Card stories

🍬 Kanno Yuragi SSR [Dreamlike Space] SSR [A Special Seat by the Window] SR [The Warmth on my Lap] SR [Today, I'm your Big Brother] R [The Ultimate Moody Person] R [Napping Undead]

💻Fushimi Shizuka SSR [Light Shining Through Stained Glass] SSR [Complete Operation] SR [Silent Archer]

🦎Suoh Roka SSR [#FFC02D]

⚔️ Shinkai Soyogu SR [As an Assistant]

✧ Personal stories

🍬Personal Story - Kanno Yuragi

✧ Homescreen Conversation

🍬Kanno Yuragi

⭐ Hinomiya Akehoshi

[akewanchan]

[Break My Case] R Card Story - Akehoshi Hinomiya, "An obsession with no bounds for being good at getting spoiled."

Translation by akewanchan. Source is mobile game Break My Case.

Every now and then somethin’ like “I just gotta get a mouthful of (blank)” crosses my mind. A craving for curry, or ramen and the like.

Today was exactly one of those days. And these kinda times are wearisome all on my own.

Just as I was pondering ‘bout it, the timing of my afternoon shift was perfect, since I happened to be together with---

Kou: How amazing Akehoshi, you really got that craftsmanship in you

Akehoshi: I know right? I’m your guy when it comes to takoyaki

Right in front of our eyes was a fifth generation takoyaki pan gettin’ scalding hot. 

Akehoshi: (Appliances always go breakin’ on ya without notice, so no risks for today~)

Akehoshi: Grease up with a wee bit of oil and then put all the dough in evenly.

Kou: Eh, hold on a sec

Akehoshi: Hmm? What's up?

Kou: The ingredients, what’cha got?

Kou-kun was looking at the ingredients with a startled expression. 

Akehoshi: Hum. Aaah-, ya one of them peeps who get riled up over not having a sliver of octopus? It was all in the spur of a moment, so didn’t have any in the fridge

Kou: It suddenly popped up in my mind, it’s impressive enough that you even had flour.

Akehoshi: That’s just the gumption of a Kansai native, ain’t it?

Kou: I’m not gonna play the straight man here

Kou: Anyway, any squid paste, kimchi, curry roux? And what’s your track record with these

Akehoshi: Got what we got, and got what we don’t got

Kou: Great anxiety inducing answer to get back. Well, I can imagine as far as having kimchi, yeah

Akehoshi: Look forward to trying ‘em out

Akehoshi: Alright, got ‘em done. Dig in while they’re pipin’ hot

Kou-kun was making a face showing he wasn’t fully convinced, yet he still properly gave his thanks for the meal.

Kou: …Uwah, no way man, it’s delicious

Akehoshi: Ain’t it~? No beating how amazing Takoyaki-san can be even when ya shoot your shot by throwing whatever ingredients in.

Kou: Look at you calling them by Takoyaki-san. Though, they seriously are good.

Akehoshi: Naw with all respect I did have a hunch they'd turn out like that. I’m glad it's delicious enough to have yer fill with.

Kou: By the way, since I’m done eating the first batch. What ingredients are in store for the second one?

Akehoshi: Hmmm, how ‘bout we keep it exciting and leave that for you to find out?

Kou: …..

Akehoshi: What’s that face for?

Kou: Just thinking about my trust in takoyaki, and my suspicions towards you.

Akehoshi: Wait a sec, takoyaki got a leg up on me in Kou-kun’s confidence ranking before I even realized.

Kou: Well y’know, it’s Takoyaki-san for the takoyaki, while Akehoshi is just Akehoshi.

Akehoshi: Yer awful~ Well ain’t no biggie, let’s have our fill, brush up properly and give it our all for the afternoon~

Akehoshi: (Yeah, takoyaki do be tastin’ better when eating together with someone else.)

[akewanchan]

[Break My Case] SR Card Story - Kyoya Shido "Moonlit Vampire"

Translation by akewanchan. Source is mobile game Break My Case.

Part 1

The venue, right after the event had wrapped up, was enveloped in a peculiar atmosphere. 

The scene of people, who took up the forms of “otherworldly beings”, cleaning while having lighthearted conversations and picking up candy, was rather out of place and strangely fascinating.

As I was basking in the afterglow, I ended up joining a conversation between a mummy and a vampire right beside me without realizing. 

Akehoshi: Kyoya-san, you and that costume are a match made in heaven. It’s gone way past the level of just matching yer looks by now.

Kyoya: You think so?

Akehoshi: If ya came out like “Actually, I’m a vampire that has lived for thousands of years” to me right now, I’m confident that all I would think is somethin' along the lines of “Yep, not surprised”

Akehoshi: Don’tcha agree with me, Yashiro-san?

Yashiro: Yes. I wouldn’t be as surprised either

Kyoya: I’m wondering if a “thank you” would be applicable in this situation.

Akehoshi: Ahaha, ain’t denying it, eh

Yashiro: The idea of vampires who lived for hundreds of years blending in with society, is something you often see in foreign TV dramas and anime, after all… 

Akehoshi: Wouldn’t want ya comin’ after my blood if that were the case though

Kyoya: I’ll stay within the lines

Akehoshi: Naw, ain’tcha just straight up admitting to it now

Akehoshi: Come to think of it, if ya get yer blood sucked by a vampire, don’t that mean you’ll turn into one, too?

Yashiro: I'd rather say there are more scenarios along the lines of, if a vampire bestows its own blood to you, you’ll be able to become one of their kin.

Akehoshi: Aaah, that’s more like it

Akehoshi: If ya really became one, yer looks won’t change for the most part, but ya will live for a loooong time, right?

Akehoshi: Thinkin' of it, being turned into one of theirs does feel like being the chosen one, in a sense

Kyoka: Interesting… Meaning I’d be able to choose a human to grant eternal youth and a longer lifespan to. 

Akehoshi: Vampire-san, what’s with that schemin’ look?

Kyoya: I’m not plotting anything. It’s just that, if Ai-san was a vampire… is what I was imagining, simply put. 

Akehoshi: Ah– right, right.

Yashiro: ?

Kyoya: Preserving such an appearance, and attitude towards life for hundreds of years to come would be magnificent, is it not. 

Kyoya: …I could say the same about Yashiro-san, however.

Yashiro: …Eh?

Hearing my name being brought up right after Kosaka-san’s stopped all my thoughts in their tracks for a brief moment, yet the conversation continued as if nothing had happened. 

Kyoya: Nonetheless, if turned into one of my kin, would that not lead to the birth of a new hierarchical order?

Kyoya: Whether it is Ai-san or Yashiro-san, the possibility of a change in attitude towards me existing is undesirable. 

Akehoshi: That’s what yer mulin’ over?

Kyoya: I inadvertently let my imagination run wild

Part 2

Akehoshi: But, what ‘bout all the mental stuff up in yer noggin’ if you’d actually live for that darned long as a vampire?

Kyoya: I believe that accumulating many experiences within perpetuity itself will deepen your understanding of all and everything.

Kyoya: You’d gain the mental state of enlightenment rather than a philosophical outlook, to speculate.

Akehoshi: Ooh… sounds kinda much, eh

Kyoya: You think so?

Kyoya: As your understanding increases, so will the options regarding your own way of life

Kyoya: Eventually, you’ll reach a state of mind where there will be no unnecessary hesitation, even regarding what choices to make, and the perfect self has been realized.

Kyoya: If you consider it to be a game with a goal to aim for, doesn’t that just pique your curiosity?

Akehoshi: A game, huh. Wait, but don’t that mean there’s no end even if you got to the goal?

Kyoya: Unless a stake is driven through my heart, that’s indeed the case. 

Yashiro: That’s true, instead of hundreds of years, continuing to live for thousands, or tens of thousands of years, is also a possibility…

Akehoshi: Darn, just talkin’ bout it was enough to tire me out

Akehoshi: I sure ain’t cut for life as a vampire, I’ll tell you what

Kyoya: I see. Such an approach exists, too.

Akehoshi: Kyoya-san’s in a league of his own for not overthinking all the troubles

Yashiro: Indeed… I can easily imagine him enjoying the idea of pursuing perfection, and maintaining said perfect self for eternity. 

Akehoshi: Putting it like that, ya might say he’s really on the path to becoming a vampire.

Kyoya: Why thank you— is what I’ll respond to you with, this time. 

—

Kyoya: Thank you for your hard work today

Yashiro: Thank you too

Right as I got changed and left the venue, Shido-san had also finished with everything. 

Yashiro: (After the conversation we had earlier, all I can see is a temporary disguise to blend in with society…) 

Kyoya: Has Akehoshi-kun returned home already? I had lost sight of him while being busy with preparing to return home— 

Kyoya: Haha. He came back the moment I mentioned him.

Akehoshi: Glad I made it in time. Here ya go, a treat for all the hard work ya put yourself through~

As he said that, Akehoshi-kun handed me some orange juice.

Yashiro: Thank you

Akehoshi: This one’s for Kyoya-san

Kyoya: Oh, it’s tomato juice.

Akehoshi: Somehow caught my eye when I dropped by the konbini

Akehoshi: If ya prefer n’other one I’ll go buy somethin’ else, so just lemme know

Kyoya: No need to. I’ll gladly accept this.

Kyoya: Although not a chance it would be comparable to real blood now, would it

Akehoshi: Scary, scary

Yashiro: (Even if Shido-san turned out to be an actual vampire in the end, I truly wouldn’t be surprised.) 

On this night where reality and unreality were intersecting each other, that feeling within me had grown a little stronger again— 

[akehoshimystar]

Ai R

A Brilliant Eye for Aesthetic

The knocking sound came right after Yuzuru and Yashiro had gone out for some business.

Akehoshi: Pardon my intrusion. Hello.

Hmm? Is it only Ai-san today?

Hinomiya and his cheerful voice barged into the room and looked around restlessly.

Ai: They're out for some business right now. If there's anything you need, I'll let them know.

Akehoshi: It's not really anything serious.

.….But anyway, I might as well present this to His Majesty in person.

Here you go. A gift from my client.

After he’s done talking, Hinomiya handed over a Japanese sweet in a wooden folding box.

Ai: This is... a famous confectionery from a long-established store.

I heard it's not easy to get one’s hand on this rare gem.

Akehoshi: Oh yeah? So it's really famous after all~

The customer was really grateful to Aporia and she gave me lots of them.

I've already placed one in the staff room, so I figured I should leave it here as well.

Ai: (A reward is also a visible evaluation.)

(The client must have been satisfied with Hinomiya that she gave him this many.)

Well done, Hinomiya.

Not long after, Hinomiya tilted his head with a puzzled look on his face.

Akehoshi: ……..Oh, I see. Ai-san, you must really love this, right?

Ai: (………………Huh?)

Akehoshi: I'm happy to learn what Ai-san likes.

In that case, maybe you should hurry up and secure it while they're not around.

Hinomiya muttered and started arranging the contents of the box on the edge of my desk.

Ai: Hey, Hinomiya. What are you doing?

Akehoshi: It's okay. I'll take the box home and get rid of the evidence, so please eat it before you get caught.

Ai: (I think Hinomiya is getting a wrong idea.)

I just told you to keep up with the good work.

Akehoshi: Aha, leave it to me. If I get some from a client again, I'll make sure to bring you tons of them.

I'll tell Yuzuru-san and Ito-san to eat the one from the staff room.

Well, that’s all from me. See you later.

Ai: Hey, don’t leave in the middle of conversa-

The extremely laid-back man said what’s on his mind and quickly left the office.

Ai: …….

Ugh, whatever. As long as he does a good job, I don't mind.

I picked up one of the sweets lined up on my desk and opened the washi paper. Before bringing it to my mouth. Its taste is worthy of being called a masterpiece.

[akehoshimystar]

Akehoshi SR

Gravekeeper Mummy

Part 1

The morning of the Halloween café. After checking the equipment, I went out onto the floor and found Akehoshi-kun and Yuragi-kun setting up the tables.

Ito: (They’re almost done now… I think I'll go and help someone else.)

I was about to leave the place, so I decided to call them out to check everything. But before I could open my mouth…..

Akehoshi: Hey, Yura, are you listening? Yuuuuraaa? Yuragi: ……..

Yuragi-kun glanced at Akehoshi-kun for a while before he sighed and went back to his work.

Akehoshi: Hey, isn’t it about time? Don’t you feel like doing “trick-or-treat”? Yuragi: ……Who cares. Akehoshi: You don't have to be so shy. We get along well, don’t we? Yuragi: Shut up, can you be even more stubborn?

Yuragi-kun clearly showed his rejection with his actions and words, but Akehoshi-kun didn’t seem to care and continued anyway.

Ito: (It’s amazing how their relationship looks kind of balanced…. or some other adjectives…)

As I lost track of the right time to talk to them, Yuragi-kun noticed me.

Yuragi: Oh, deputy.

Yuragi-kun's expression became more serious than usual, then he held out his hand.

Yuragi: Trick or Treat. Ito: Eh? Yuragi: Don't you have one? Ito: Oh! I have some chocolate right here. Yuragi: Thanks.

Akehoshi: Eh! You literally did that to her on first sight… Aren’t I the only one left now? Ito: (I see. So he’s hung up on that.) (That being said… It’s a bit surprising to see Akehoshi-kun being so serious about festive event.) Akehoshi: .….Deputy, hear me out? Yura has been going around trick-or-treating with other members today. Haruhi-san gave him some homemade cookies from Taiga-san, and Kyoya-san gave him a box of sweets. Ito: (What a superb lineup.) Akehoshi: Maochi had prepared some sweets for Tomose-san to hand out as well, so he got a macaron and marshmallows. Ito: (As expected of Mao-san. He even sent me a reminder to bring some sweets as well.) (But to think that Yuragi-kun got some from Onda-san as well… He really is something…) Akehoshi: And all that’s left is me. Yuragi: ..….No thanks, I’m good.

Yuragi-kun’s obstinacy could be seen in the way he abruptly turned his face away.

Ito: (I'm sure there's a reason for that…)

Akehoshi: ………

Perhaps he didn’t do it consciously. But Akehoshi-kun cast a glance towards the kitchen, and seems like he’s worried about something.

Ito: (Could it be….) Akehoshi-kun. I'm sorry if I cannot replace him��� Trick or treat.

Akehoshi: ……………………Woah, that caught me off guard.

I might have said something unrelated. But that thought only lasted for a moment when I saw his face immediately light up.

Akehoshi: Alright, hold on a sec~

Part 2

After being trick-or-treated by me, Akehoshi-kun walked briskly to the kitchen. Before taking out a box the size of both hands from the fridge.

Akehoshi: Look! Halloween-limited edition cream puffs. I thought we should all eat them together, so I ordered a party set. Yuragi: ………… Akehoshi: It's been a while since I've been this impatient. I was quite sure Yura would be the only one who's going to do trick-or-treat. That's why I've been waiting for him for ages, but he never said a word.

Contrary to what he said, Akehoshi-kun was smiling. As for Yuragi-kun……

Yuragi: ……………………Akehoshi’s eyes, mouth, and way of ending the sentence. Akehoshi: ? Yuragi: Your eyes dropped lower than usual, your mouth went a bit up, and you dragged the sentence on for too long. Akehoshi: Really? Me? Ito: (I didn't notice at all…) Yuragi: You kept insisting that I say "trick or treat". So I thought you were up to something.

While Yuragi-kun was hesitant to speak what’s on his mind, Akehoshi-kun laughed cheerfully.

Akehoshi: Ahaha. I mean, you’re not wrong. But the surprise was a success anyway. It’s a special event, so I want everyone to have fun. Ito: (That’s what he said, but…)

Out of six members, Yuragi-kun has the most tendency to do trick-or-treat. He is definitely the member who enjoys Halloween candy or sweets in general the most.

Ito: (I think he actually prepared it because he wanted Yuragi-kun to be happy.) Yuragi: Haaaaah……. Trick or Treat. Akehoshi: ! Eat up, eat up~. You too, deputy. I’ve got plenty, let's eat together. Ito: Thank you. I'll take you up on that. Akehoshi: Oh, but be careful. The flavors are berry sauce and custard… But I told you it's Halloween exclusive, right? There’s only one piece that has tabasco and mustard in it.

Yuragi: …….. Ito: (Oh my… Yuragi-kun's is frowning really hard right now…) Akehoshi: I only noticed it after my purchase. Sorry. Ito: (Obviously, Akehoshi had no ill intentions… In fact, it was 100% goodwill and kindness, I think…) Yuragi: …I know I had a bad feeling about this. Well, whatever. Akehoshi, you take responsibility and sniff out the odd one. You like tabasco, don't you? Akehoshi: It would have been better if they had used mayonnaise instead of mustard.

“I have to get back to preparing for the opening soon”. While thinking about work, I couldn't help but listen to their lively conversation.

Ito: (…Ah, I get it. It’s not really a perfect balance.) (Maybe they're just close enough to say whatever they want to each other.) Yuragi: Don’t just stand there and laugh, do something about this dude. Ito: …..I'll try. Akehoshi: Ahaha.

[akehoshimystar]

Mao SSR

Mysterious Melody of Silk

Part 1

Tea time was drawing to an end. The floor, which had been bustling since the cafe opened, started to have more room to stand.

Mao: Looks like we can finally catch a break. I'll go check the stock now. Ito: Oh, I can do that.

At that moment, without warning, the sound of something breaking echoed.

Mao: ! It’s number 5, bring a broom and dustpan.

Mao-san looked me in the eye and stated, then headed toward the dining area with unwavering steps.

Ito: (Wow, even at a time like this, his instruction is still as efficient as ever.) ???: Yashiro Ito: !

I suddenly turned around and met Onda-san, who was supposed to be taking a break, handing me a broom and dustpan.

Ito: (Another one with impressive mobility and adaptability…) Tomose: If there’s an injury, I'll take over. Ito: Thank you. If that’s the case, I'll get in touch with you right away.

As I approached the sofa seat at the back, known as number 5, I scanned through the glass fragments scattered on the floor.

Customer 1: I'm so sorry…! Mao: It’s okay. I'm glad no one was hurt. Ito: Excuse me, I'll clean all the shards at your feet and bring you another glass of water later. Customer 1: Thank you so much.

Customer 2: …T-That was a shock. Isn’t the timing way too perfect. Customer 1: Don't say such a scary thing. Mao & Ito: ………

Mao-san and I exchanged glances. The customers seemed a little uncomfortable as they continued.

Customer 1: We were talking about hearing a strange sound coming from the wall when the water in the glass started shaking out of nowhere. Customer 2: Then the glass just fell by itself, almost like a supernatural phenomenon. Customer 1: I mean… Not only is the interior of the shop atmospheric, but everyone's costume is also very realistic… Customer 1: I wondered if we had ended up summoning the real thing.

Their expressions looked even more worrisome as they spoke.

Ito: (What should I do? What are the right words for this…?)

Mao: …….Fufu. Ito: (!)

For a moment, I thought I had misheard. But Mao-san was smiling quietly as he swayed his pure white veil.

Mao: I'm sorry if we've gone overboard. Our kiddos just love to play pranks and bit too much. But rest assured. They will never bring you harm. Ito: (Oh…)

I could see the customers' faces brighten up when Mao-san followed up with a witty remark. Thanks to his quick thinking, their smiles returned, and the matter was finally settled…or so I thought.

As I headed to the kitchen, I was greeted by Akehoshi-kun and his serious face.

Akehoshi: Hey, did you hear a strange sound, deputy? The customer who had just left said that they had heard “bang…bang…” from the wall.

Part 2

….The sound of footsteps echoed regularly. After closing time, the floor was terribly quiet. So silent that the hustle and bustle earlier almost look like a lie.

Ito: (.…. No. 4, all clear. No lost items.)

As I made the final check, what Akehoshi-kun had told me was still lingering heavily in my mind.

Ito: (In the end, the sound coming from the wall remained a mystery.)

Akehoshi: That person said that they heard it several times in a row and then the sound suddenly stopped just like that. By the way… It’s not just one customer who said that.

Ito: (.…I’ll just get this done in a flash and meet up with Mao-san.)

Just as I was heading to the sofa seat starting from number 5.

--- Bang…!

Ito: (This sound…)

I cautiously approached the wall, and the sound got even louder.

Ito: (.….There’s no mistake about it.)

A unique sound, almost like metal being struck, could be heard from the other side of the wall.

Ito: …….

I couldn't help but take a step back……

???: Ito.

After calling out my name, someone tapped me on the shoulder from behind.

Ito: !?

Mao: Sorry for startling you. Although I did call you countless times… Ito: M-Mao-san…? Mao: Yes, it’s me.

Mao-san nodded in relief when I called out his name. As for me, not just feeling relieved, I also lost all the strength, staggered and leaned against the wall.

Mao: You’re good? I finished cleaning up the break room, so I came to help you… But I think I ended up giving you a shock instead, sorry. Ito: Ah, no. I should apologize as well. It’s just that I suddenly heard the sound coming from the wall, and I thought maybe… maybe it was really a supernatural phenomenon… Mao: Ah, the one during the daytime. Do you want to know the culprit? If you want to find out so much, I don’t mind letting you in on a secret. Ito: ! Do you know what behind that sound? Mao: Strictly speaking, it's a name associated with a phenomenon. That sound is…….

Part 3

Mao: Just a water hammer. Ito: Don’t tell me….. When someone suddenly open and close a faucet, it makes a banging sound…? Mao: Yup. That being said, I think the reason it makes such a loud noise is probably the characteristics of this building. It's an old building to be rebuilt, so I think it's been a while since the last maintenance. Ito: Then what about the glass… Mao: They said the water in the glass was shaking before it fell, right? I think that was caused by the vibration of the smartphone. Maybe they were distracted by the sound of the wall and didn't notice. Ito: (Ah…)

Indeed, if you set the vibration strength to maximum and place the glass on the edge of the table, that’s certainly possible…

Mao: If all the conditions are met, the glass will fall naturally. Even if there’s no supernatural phenomenon. Ito: (I see…) Mao: What do you think? Nothing is scary once you know the reasoning behind it, right? Ito: Yes. Mao: .……Ito, are you not good with ghosts or horror sort of stuff? Ito: As you may have guessed… If only I could be as knowledgeable and logical as Mao-san, I might be able to think more rationally…… Mao: ……Even if I managed to convince myself with logic later, I might not be able to do anything about the momentary feeling of fear.

From the way he talked, he might be speaking from experience. As the curiosity occupied my mind, Mao-san continued.

Mao: …….When I was little, my sister once took me to a haunted house and we got separated. While searching for her, I found a large mirror. And I could see a human-like figure reflected behind me, but when I turned around, not a single soul was in sight. Then I looked in the mirror again…… This time I couldn't even see myself. Ito: Eh?

Mao-san smiled mischievously after my voice came out involuntarily.

Mao: That’s what you can expect from the horror house, right? But I clearly remembered that no ghost showed up in the mirror… That chilly feeling from the thought that maybe I've already disappeared from this world… still remains strangely. So when I called out to Ito earlier…..

Mao-san suddenly sealed his mouth and gave me a slightly bitter smile.

Mao: I was a little surprised that you didn't respond at all. It was like you had really become a ghost. Ito: (Ah. That’s why you came all the way here to tap me on the shoulder…) (That explains why he looked relieved after I responded…) Mao: Maybe the costume inflicted too much influence on me. Ito: Umm, Mao-san. Mao: ?

Before I knew it, I was holding up the hand mirror I had taken out of my pocket.

Ito: As you can see, Mao-san is standing right here, right now. Mao: ……..

After a long silence, Mao-san shrugged his shoulders slightly.

Mao: Fufu… Ahaha! Sorry, I didn’t mean to laugh. I just couldn’t contain myself when you’re being that straightforward. Ito: It’s okay, I'm glad I was able to make you smile. Since you also eased my worries by explaining the paranormal phenomenon that happened during the day. Mao: And now thanks to Ito, I also feel relieved. Thank you.

Mao-san smiled as he thanked me. Coupled with the costume, he looked somewhat fleeting. But he stood before me with a definite presence that affirms his existence.

[akehoshimystar]

Akehoshi SR

Want a drink?

Part 1

There are a number of empty cans lined up on the table. After work at Aporia, Mao-san and I were invited by Akehoshi-kun, who mentioned that he felt like drinking at home today.

Akehoshi: This is frickin’ good. Wanna try?

Mao: What’s the alcohol percentage? It's not safe to recommend something to others based on your own feelings.

Akehoshi: Let’s see….9%. A single digit. No prob, right?

Ito: By most standards, that's probably on the high side.

Akehoshi: What’d ya think, Ito-san?

Ito: I do like alcohol, but I'm not that much of heavy drinker.

Mao: From my perspective, both of you are decent drinker.

Akehoshi: Then how about this one? The newly released pop-up really lured me in.

Ito: Sicilian lemon flavor? Sounds stylish to me.

Mao: How is it different from regular lemon?

Akehoshi: I've been asking the same question. Ito-san, if you're curious, mind handing me your glass?

Ito: Thank you….. Oh, this is good.

Akehoshi: How is it? Does it feel like Sicily?

Mao: Where is that question even coming from?

Ito: Hmm, it's less bitter than regular lemons. Maybe it has a mild refreshing taste...?

Akehoshi: Oh, simple and easy. You might as well do the reporting.

Ito: I've been consuming food-related pieces of media lately so that I can answer when customers ask me how the food tastes.

Mao: There you go, Miss Serious. Well, that’s Ito's good point... Oh, it's already this late.

Mao-san glanced at the clock.

Mao: I'm going to miss the last train if I don't head back soon.

Akehoshi: Ehhh, I’m still not done yet.

Not to mention, once Maochi goes home, Ito-san will follow suit.

Mao: Even if I didn’t go back, it’s already this dark.

Ito: Time sure flies..... Shall I take you to the station?

Mao: No, that would be even more dangerous. Besides, I can at least defend myself.

Akehoshi: Oh, then how about I come with you?

Yura ain’t here today, so I might need someone’s presence. 

It'll be just the two of us on the way back after dropping Maochi off, but as long as we are not alone in the same room, it's fine, right?

Part 2

And so, after seeing Mao-san off, Akehoshi-kun stopped by the convenience store saying he had something to buy.

Akehoshi: Since we're here, let's stroll around before we head home.

The breeze feels awesome, and the stars are beautiful. I wanna use this chance to sober up a bit.

Ito: (I guess Akehoshi-kun had been drinking quite a bit...)

I don’t really mind.

Akehoshi: Aight, let's go!

Akehoshi: Don’t you think the park look completely different at night than during the day?

Ito: Indeed. Well, I don't think I see much when I pass by the park at this time at night.

Akehoshi: Yeah, it’s terrifying if there are strange people around. Ito-san has a point.

A lot of cats gather here during the day, so Yura comes here a lot too.

Although when I make a beeline to them, both Yura and the cats scatter.

Ito: (I can picture that.)

……….

Akehoshi: Hmm? What's wrong?

Ito: After listening to what you just said, I imagined this park with the same scenario.

I don't know if it’s on point, but I wonder if I know everyone well enough to be able to imagine that precisely.

That thought just came to me suddenly.

Akehoshi: Is that a happy realization?

Ito: With all due respect.... Maybe? I know I sound very vague…

Akehoshi: Ahaha, even if it's just a sudden thought, I'm glad it makes you happy.

Ito: !

From Mao-san. Hmm….

mA0: I'm already at home. Thank you for coming all the way to the station

I'm more worried about whether you got home safely or not. Akehoshi being there didn’t lessen my concern at all.

Akehoshi: What did he say?

Ito: He said he’s already home. Let me reply.

(I guess I don't need to say the latter part.)

Akehoshi: Go ahead. I'm glad Maochi arrived without a hitch.

As I was about to reply, I dropped my gaze to the LIME screen again. I almost heard the voice coming from Mao-san’s texts, which were supposed to be electronic set of letters. His face even appeared.

Ito: (“To be able to imagine that precisely”, huh…....)

Fufu.

Oh. Ahhh!

Akehoshi: What’s going on?

Ito: Akehoshi-kun, didn’t you buy that at the convenience store?

Akehoshi: ………

Akehoshi: Ice cream!

Darn it, it's definitely melting. I think I need to head home now.

Be that as it may, Akehoshi-kun walked slowly so as not to leave me behind. I replied to Mao-san while keeping the fact that everyone except for the ice-cream had safely returned home in my heart.

[akehoshimystar]

Akehoshi SSR

Under the Sun, On Your Lap

Part 1

Akehoshi: Ito-san, anything over there~?

Ito: Nothing at all. What about Akehoshi-kun?

Akehoshi: No different from you.

The customer who requested Akehoshi-kun's service dropped an earring here. I have no problem looking for them with him, but….

Ito: This is not getting anywhere... Could it be that they’re somewhere other than the park?

Akehoshi: I don't think so. The request was to act as lovers having a picnic, so we were here the whole time.

Ito: Hmm. Try tracing the movements at the time of the request in your head again.

Akehoshi: Oh, nice idea. Maybe we can pinpoint the location

Ito: We’ve got customer privacy, so I'd appreciate it if you didn’t talk too much.

Akehoshi: Consider it done.

Let’s see…. First, we walked over there. We talked about how nice the weather was and how perfect it was for the picnic while looking for a nice place.

I was thinking of finding a spot in the shade, but someone had already been there, so we decided to spread a picnic sheet on the grass around here...

Akehoshi-kun made a gesture of spreading out the sheet to recreate the scene.

Ito: Then it should be around here.

Akehoshi: Strictly speaking, I may be wrong, but I think I got most parts right.

Then, I lined up the bento boxes on this side… I guess?

And then, I rested my head on her lap.

Ito: (... It went from 0 to 100 all of a sudden.)

Say, Akehoshi-kun, you’re the one lying down...?

Akehoshi: For this time, yeah.

Ito: (...So there's no chance that the client’s earrings would fall off while lying down.)

Do you remember what else you did?

Akehoshi: Yeah, well... Lots of stuff.

Ito: …. A lot?

Akehoshi: I don't mind explaining everything, but are you sure you want to hear it?

Ito: If it has nothing to do with the earrings, then no thanks.

Akehoshi: Ah, it’s not that much related anyway.

Akehoshi-kun has extremely few NGs. But there is no doubt that there’s a line drawn in that “lots of stuff”.

Ito: (That being said, I realized once again how deep that world is...)

Part 2

Akehoshi: Hmm. I can't find them after all.

We searched pretty much everywhere around the picnic area, but there were no earrings in sight at all.

Ito: If we can't find them here, I don’t think they fell off anywhere near here.

Akehoshi: But when I asked this park’s management center, they said nothing resembling those had come to them at all.

Here’s my thought…. Maybe it was taken by an animal?

Ito: Oh, that's certainly possibile...

Akehoshi: They say crows love collecting shiny things.

Either way, if we're going to consider that possibility, we'll have to expand our scope of searching.

Ito: Agreed. Let's search the whole park then.

I'll go over there.

Akehoshi: ……..

Ito: Akehoshi-kun?

Akehoshi: Ah, it’s nothing. I just thought that Ito-san is really into it.

Ito: Eh?

Akehoshi: Oh, it’a not like I’m messing with you or anything.

We’ve been looking for them for a while now, so I thought it was only natural that you'd say you were tired.

Not only did you not show any signs of that, you were seriously helpful.

Ito: That’s a given. I'll do everything I can until I find them.

Akehoshi: I know you will. Because you’re like this, I couldn’t contain my gratitude at all.

Thank you so much for helping me.

Ito: ...Don’t mention it…. But you're welcome.

Akehoshi: Ahaha. I’m really thankful~

Well, I'll take you up on your offer.

Ito: What do you mean?

Akehoshi: If Ito-san seemed tired, I would suggest that I search for them on my own, but I guess I'm going to give up on that idea.

Ito: Ah, I see.

(Changing the thoughts all of a sudden like that is just so Akehoshi-kun.)

I actually like it when Akehoshi-kun asks for help like that.

Ito: Okay. You don’t have to be so reserved, feel free to rely on me.

Akehoshi: Then, let's do a cheering yell to get ourselves fired up.

Ito: A yell?

Akehoshi: Yup. Follow my lead, okay? Here I go~

Let's do our best to search for them together~ Oh~!

His shout was so low-energy that I couldn't help but laugh. Of course, I also did the "Oh~!"

Part 3

Ito: Ah.

It was a little while after I started searching the entire park that I found them shining brightly on a bench.

Ito: (It was placed neatly near the edge…. Which means someone must have picked them up after they had fallen on the ground.)

(They probably didn’t want anyone to step on them.)

I thanked the stranger in my heart and immediately called Akehoshi-kun over.

Akehoshi: Ito-san, have you found them?

Ito: Yes, it matches the description I heard. Here you go….

Akehoshi: Wow, thank you so much!

I handed him the earrings before he grabbed my hands tightly.

Ito: …….

Akehoshi: Hmm? Earth to Ito-san?

Ito: Um, let me ask just in case, what is this for...?

Akehoshi: This? It's just a flow of events. Uh~…. So that they won’t fall down again?

Ito: Make sense, I guess...?

Just when he was about to convince me…..

Mao: Akehoshi? Ito? What are you doing?

Ito: !

Akehoshi: Oh, Maochi. You’re on a break?

Mao: Yeah... There’s a more pressing matter here, Akehoshi. What’s with that distance?

Akehoshi: Ahaha, there you go again~

But don’t get the wrong idea~. This is purely because Ito-san found the earrings that my customer had lost.

Right?

Akehoshi-kun smiled as if there’s no other implication before taking only the earrings and letting my hands go.

Mao: …….Haaah. Ito, you’re okay with that?

Ito: No problem at all. It’s true that I’ve just found the earrings.

Mao: ….Fine.

Akehoshi: I'm glad you found them.

If Ito-san loses something, just let me know. I'll help you.

Ito: Thank you...?

I felt like I had just been given a strange privilege for some reason. Seeing Akehoshi-kun looking happy like that, I once again felt refreshed that the earrings were found safely.

[akehoshimystar]

Chapter 7

Suddenly, I looked towards the entrance where I heard the scream. At the door, there is a person wearing a bloody demon mask, holding a dimmer blade.

Ito: !?

In a panic, I turned to Onda-san for instruction. However, he seems to be looking further into the distance, not towards the noisy entrance.

Ito: (Onda-san…?)

When I turned my eyes back to the entrance where I heard the scream, I saw someone snatch the knife. That person stared intently at the knife…

Kyoya: It's really well made. But it’s very likely that it’s fake. The woman who screamed: Eh?

Man dressed as an evil spirit: I-I'm sorry! I didn't expect you to be so surprised…!

After removing the evil spirit mask, the face of a young man was revealed.

The woman who screamed: Ah… That really shocked me… Yeah, it really is fake.

Akehoshi: Wouldn't anyone be surprised if a realistic evil spirit like that was standing behind them?

Akehoshi-kun handed the woman a glass of water.

The woman who screamed: Oh… Thank you. Akehoshi: Even so, your costume is seriously authentic. Were the mask and costume handmade?

Man in evil spirit costume: Yup. Do you know "Find me!"? I have made up my mind to dress like the character from that game. Kyoya: This blade is made of plastic, but the shine is fairly realistic. Not to mention, the damage on the handle part is just like a frequently-used meat cleaver. You must have a lot of talent for this. Man in evil spirit costume: You flattered me! It took a lot of trial and error actually…! Kyoya: Truly breathtaking. I'd like to take a closer look, so can I borrow that knife for a bit? I promise I’ll definitely return it before you leave. Man in evil spirit costume: Eh? Ah… Sure! Feel free to check it if you’d like! Shall I teach you how to make it as well!? Kyoya: Haha. I will just appreciate your sentiment. Since you've taken the trouble to dress up, do enjoy yourself.

Akehoshi: Have you calmed down a bit? Do you want some hot drink? The woman who screamed: Thank you… I'm really sorry for screaming out of nowhere….. Akehoshi: Don't beat yourself over it. I'm not good with scary things either, so I might have screamed louder than you did if that had been me in your place. The woman who screamed: ….Ahaha. You don’t look like someone who would do that. Akehoshi: That's what I'm often told. But I'm more sensitive than I look.

Shido-san, who smartly confiscated the overly realistic fake knife. And Akehoshi-kun, who quickly came to her side while she had been crouching down in fear, and brought back her smile. I let out a soft sigh after witnessing both of them being the master of their own craft.

Tomose: Yashiro, can I talk to you for a sec? Ito: Yes.

Following Onda-san's gaze, Mao-san in the dining area was looking at us with a serious look on his face.

Ito: (There was definitely something going on between these two.)

As Mao-san put his mouth close to the intercom, a noise entered my ear.

Mao: [Tomose, you’re skeptical about the man at the entrance, aren't you?] Tomose: Correct.

As the two of them talked over the intercom, the other staff members naturally shifted their attention to him. A man in suit peered in from the doorway. He's not wearing any costume.

Tomose: Ukyo, you also noticed? Mao: [He has been watching me all this time. He still does.] Ito: …!

Mao-san walked with his back facing the man in suit. That man was following him closely with his eyes.

Tomose: You know him? Mao: [Not in the least.] Tomose: …….. Everyone, be careful. Don't stare too much. Don't look at anyone who doesn’t seem confident or change their expression. I'll handle him.

Onda-san's voice resonated heavily, slowing it down a little so that no one missed what he's saying. Feeling the tension rising rapidly, I checked the position of everyone in the store.

Ito: (…Whatever happens, stay calm. I need to do what I can.)

My calm heart was slowly but surely beating faster.

Mao: […Everyone, all you need to do is listen.] Ito: (…Mao-san?)

Mao-san's small voice echoed through the tense atmosphere.

Mao: […….Got it?] Ito: (…..Eh?)

Haruhi & Yuragi: ……….

Kyoya & Akehoshi: ………..

Mao-san’s instructions were concisely summarized. Soon after the full details were shared. His calm and unflinching reply resonated powerfully.

Tomose: ……Got it.

I can’t check whether my answer is correct. I can’t get rid of this uncertainty. There certainly are risks. But. If my assumption is correct, I can't run away from him. As soon as I gave my orders, Tomose walked towards the entrance. And then….

Tomose: Welcome. Do you have a reservation? Male: Ah, no. A reservation.…. I guess so? The name is Soneto. Tomose: Soneto-sama? Mao: [..…Tell him there’s no reservation under that name.] Tomose: It seems we haven't taken any reservation under that name today. Male: Uh….. Ah! Then…. How about "Mason Eliot"?

Mao: ! Male: If there is no reservation, I’m fine with not going in the cafe. But…. There is a staff member here named Mao, right? Tomose: ……… Male: I came to meet that person. Mao: …………

Yuragi: ! Mao……………… Haruhi: It's okay. Onda-san is there with him. Ito: …………

Mao: Welcome. You must be Soneto Kazuki-san, right? Male: Eh? Mao: Mari-san’s son. Male: ! Don’t tell me you are… Mao: Yes. Perhaps it is me you wish to see. I’m Mao from Aporia.

Chapter 8

[akehoshimystar]

Chapter 6

Onda-san and I arrived at the café later than the appointed time.

Kyoya: Good morning. We're all set now Just take your time to get ready. Ito: Thank you.

Haruhi: We have already prepared everything in the kitchen as instructed. Can I leave the rest to you? Tomose: No problem. Thanks.

Akehoshi: Good morning. It must have been a pain to be summoned so early in the morning. Yuragi: I already heard about the situation from Mao. Ito: Where is Mao-san…?

Mao: Good morning. If you’re struggling to put on the costume, just let me know. Ito: Mao-san. Good morning. (Somehow he looks really natural in that costume…..) …………Looking forward to working with you today. Mao: ……………… Did you hear about Mari-san? Ito: Yes. Mao: You worried about me, right? Ito: ……. Mao: Thank you. But I’m okay. It seems like her son has already returned, so I'm planning on paying her a visit next time. Today I just want our customers to have a good time. And I hope you do the same, Ito. Ito: …….Yes, I will. (Mao-san has such a strong will.)

Akehoshi & Yuragi: ……….

Suddenly, I noticed that Akehoshi-kun and Yuragi-kun were looking at Mao-san with a slightly different gaze than usual. Although they quickly looked away and returned to their own posts. It certainly felt like there was warmth behind those eyes.

Opening time has approached. A sorcerer costume for me, and a devil costume for Onda-san. After putting on intercoms that matched the color of our attires, Onda-san and I both hurried to the kitchen.

Kyoya & Mao: Welcome.

Akehoshi: Welcome~ Oh, it's Eimi-chan. Did you bring a friend? Eimi: Yeah, I'm here! Akehoshi-kun, you look so cool in that! Akehoshi: Thank you. You and your friend also look lovely in your costumes.

Girl dressed as a pumpkin: Oh, the Dracula guy is so cool…! Kyoya: Fufu, thank you. Allow me to show you to your seat.

Woman dressed as a witch: Hi, Mao-kun! Mao: Welcome. Nice makeup you’ve got there. It matches your outfit very well. Ito: (It’s only a matter of seconds before this place is filled up with regulars.) (I guess that’s to be expected from people with extremely high customer service skills.)

The café business was going smoothly. Among the people who dressed up, no one was seen dressed as an evil spirit from that game at all. Everyone was just enjoying themselves in their costumes. And that just solidified the possibility that Mari-san was the sender.

Haruhi: Ukyo-san’s anagram theory is correct no matter how you look at it.

Ichikawa-kun in the dining area said that to me in a small voice as I was making drinks.

Ito: Exactly my thoughts. However, as long as there is no clear answer, we need to consider various possibilities. Haruhi: Hmm, I guess so. Is this pumpkin latte for table A? Ito: Yes, please take care of it. Haruhi: Sure thing.

Mao-san returned and replaced Ichikawa-kun who had just headed off to serve.

Ito: Any customer caught your eyes?

Mao: No one so far. What about you, Tomose? Tomose: I've have been looking around and haven’t seen anyone we should be wary of. Mao: Okay. Thanks. Alright, time for you to go back to the kitchen. If anything happens, I will report it via intercom. Tomose: If you find something out of place, even minor things, report right away. I will be the judge whether I need to take action or not. Mao: Got it. Anyway. I hope there won’t be a situation that makes Tomose resort to brute force. Ito: …….

After that, we continued our work while keeping an eye out for anyone suspicious in the café. And nothing happened, time simply passed while everyone enjoyed the Halloween atmosphere.

Haruhi: Ughhh… I can't do this anymore. Don’t wanna move even an inch. Just let me go home and sleep the night away already. Ito: Thank you for your hard work. Here, have some water.

I offered a glass of water to Ichikawa-kun in the staff space set up in the corner of the hall.

Haruhi: Yeah, hydrating myself to do even more work. Ito: Sorry to inform you this, but we still have two more hours to go…. Haruhi: Sureeee…..

Next to the disappointed Ichikawa-kun, Yuragi-kun muttered to himself as he stared intently at the hall.

Yuragi: I guess the sender of that card and gem was the late Mari-san after all. Haruhi: …..Well. If no one shows up, that should be it. Yuragi: Which means it’s also true she had sent it while she had been fighting the illness. Ito: Yeah. That seems about right. Yuragi: She was suffering until the very end. And yet, she still thought of sending that message to Mao. Haruhi: ………. Yuragi: I really can’t help but wonder how she felt at that time. What exactly did Mari-san want to do here? Ito: (Yuragi-kun…) Yuragi: And what did she want him to find? Haruhi: ……That’s still a mystery.

“Find me!”

Those words carry a lot of weight now. I wonder what Mari-san was thinking as she had been bedridden. No matter how much I think about it, she's no longer in this world. The answer will never be verified. But seeing Yuragi-kun thinking about the answer, I couldn’t bring myself to tell him, "There's no point in thinking about it." Because I felt that searching for the answer was meaningful in itself.

Haruhi: Thank you for the water. Ito: Ah… Don’t mention it. Haruhi: Haahhh. What can I say, I guess I'll just have to work.

“Just two more hours.”That's what Ichikawa-kun said while standing up.

Female’s voice: KYAAAAAAAA!!!

Haruhi & Yuragi: !?

A woman's screech echoed through the store as dusk approached.

Chapter 7

[akehoshimystar]

Chapter 5

Ito: (If Mari-san is going to pull such an elaborate prank, I have to be prepared as well.)

I wondered if there was anything I could do, so I have been playing the horror game "Find me!" little by little every day.

Akehoshi: ….Huh? It’s not everyday I get to see Ito-san that focus on the game. Ito: Akehoshi-kun. Akehoshi: And a scary one at that~ Ito: Oh. It’s not really a personal preference or anything… Akehoshi: Ahaha, I know. It’s about Maochi, right? I heard he had an idea who might have sent that jewel and card. Ito: Yeah. And I realized that this game might be the motif, so I gave it a try for a reference sake. Akehoshi: Hard working as always, huh. Can I sit next to you and watch? I've got a little time before my work appointment tonight. Ito: Go ahead. It's not something that’s really worth showing, though.

Akehoshi: That’s not my aim. What I want to watch is you, Ito-san. Ito: Eh? Akehoshi: Yura said that your reaction while playing this game was quite amusing. Ito: (Yuragi-kun!)

Tomose: Coming in. Ito: Onda-san? Good work. Akehoshi: Hello. It's quite rare to see Tomose-san in the office. Tomose: Not really. My stay tends to be short, so you probably didn’t have that many chances to meet me here. Yu has put together some changes to the recipes for the upcoming Halloween event. If Kise isn't here, make sure you give it to him later. Ito: Wow, it’s already done…… Thank you. He’s at the store right now, so I'll take care of it for the time being. Akehoshi: Tomose-san is also a member of the dress-up event, right? Did you hear about Maochi's customer? She might come to the event. Tomose: Information acquired. Akehoshi: Let's find that person together. Tomose: I'll respond if there is instruction. Unless that happens, the hall is under your jurisdiction. Akehoshi: Ahaha. I guess so. Tomose: I’ll take my leave now. Ito: Yes, thank you for your cooperation.

It only took the flash of a moment for Onda-san to leave the office.

Akehoshi: As clear-cut as ever. Just like Yu-san, Tomose-san draws the line when it comes to work as well. Ito: (Drawing the line, huh….)

"The hall is under your jurisdiction" Those words remind me vaguely of the lunchtime service the other day.

Ito: (…I wonder if it was also the case at that time.) Akehoshi: So… Did you get anything from that game? Ito: Unfortunately, there wasn't much to say… Ito: It's a game with very little text, and there's no clear explanation for why the protagonist's mother became an evil spirit. Akehoshi: Really? Ito: The system allows you to advance to the next room every time you find an item. First, it's a drawing the protagonist made as a child. Then, it's a sticker that he put on the closet. After that, it’s the first portrait the protagonist drew of his mother. The next one is the shoes he wore at the entrance ceremony, followed by his elementary school test papers… From all those clues, I can see that she really cared about the protagonist. Akehoshi: Ah. So those were things his mother treasured. She must be happy to see all the stuff that serve as proof of his growth… Ito: Yeah. Akehoshi: …..She loves, she cherishes, she’s worried. Maybe she’s so attached to the point where she can’t leave him behind even after death. Ito: …..An attachment issue? Akehoshi: I've never been a mother or died, so I can’t say for sure. But maybe that's how it goes. She used to be a human being after all. Ito: ………………I guess so.

Strong love can become obsession. Even if it's the unconditional love of a mother to her child.

Akehoshi: And what happens to the protagonist and his mother at the end of this game? Ito: There are several endings. There is one happy ending where the protagonist realizes that the evil spirit is actually his mother and she is able to rest in peace. As for the other route…. There is the one where the protagonist doesn't realize until the end… I guess that’s a bad ending where the evil spirit aka. his mother takes the him away. Akehoshi: I see. Ito: (.………Just a theory. What if Mari-san sees Mao-san as the protagonist of this game?) (Actually. Let's stop there.)

"She’s a loving and kind person.” Recalling what Mao-san said, I admonished myself for imagining something bad. But then I remembered the price of the jewel, and the bad thought began to arise again. I just hoped that it would end up being just a rude misunderstanding on my part.

The morning of the opening day of the Halloween cafe arrived. The situation suddenly shifted from 10 to 100….

Ito: Passed away...? Tomose: ………

Yuzuru: Yes… It hasn’t been long since her demise. I called the number written on the request form, but it seemed like she had been away for a while, so I left a message instead. Then…. Yesterday, her son called me back. He informed me she had passed away the other day after a long battle with illness. Ito: Is that so… Was that message card and jewel sent by Mari-san? Yuzuru: It's a matter of privacy, so I couldn't confirm the request, but it's highly likely that Soneto-sama send it. It seemed like her decease had occurred just a few days before that. Tomose: …I'm no expert on games or riddle. But can someone who's been fighting an illness pull off that stunt?

Ai: That's why I called you here. If the sender is really Soneto Mari, no one will come into contact with her at today's dress-up event, right? In that case, I'll consider finding out more about her son and leave this to the police. But the problem here is…. What if the sender is not Soneto Mari. Since invaluable jewel is involved, it may be necessary for the ST Dept. to deal with this matter. Plus, the one who will contact you one day will either be the real sender…. or the third party. Tomose: If the third party's goal is to steal the jewel or harm Aporia or customers, that’s when I’ll act. Ai: That’s the plan. Ito: …….. Ai: The letter was addressed to Ukyo, so I did everything I can to ensure his safety. I even had Shido pick him up from his place this morning. He has his own way of defending himself, so there's no need to stick around him. Just respond according to the situation. Tomose: Copy that. Ito: …………Kise-san. Have you told Mao-san about Mari-san……? Yuzuru: Yes, I have. I called him as soon as I found out yesterday.

Kise-san said with hesitation and smiled sadly. The expression on Mao-san's face when he told me about Mari-san suddenly came back to me.

Ito: (…Mao-san may not be the type of person who would lose focus on his work because of that.) (Even if that's the case, I'll do my best to support him to the best of my ability.)

Chapter 6

[akehoshimystar]

Akeshoshi SSR

A few moments before the meeting

Part 1

Ito: Oh, it’s Akehoshi-kun, good work.

Akehoshi: If it isn’t Ito-san. Don’t you have day-off today?

Ito: I forgot something. Sorry for interrupting your snack break, please continue.

(Oh, what Akehoshi-kun is having right now is really popular at the moment. I heard there's a line before the store even opens, so I don’t think it’s something I’d ever get my hand on.)

Akehoshi: Hmm, Ito-san, wanna eat? It's super good, y’know?

Ito: If it’s that good, then Akehoshi-kun should have it all to himself. I don't mind at all.

Akehoshi: Delicious stuff is meant to be shared, no?

Ito: ..…..Well, I'll take you up on your offer, then. Don’t mind if I do.

What a nice wrapper... It might be a waste to open it.

Akehoshi: Ahaha, that's an exaggeration.

Well, it's true that there was quite a line before I got to buy this.

Ito: Akehoshi-kun was also in the line? Ah, maybe it’s for Yuragi-kun?

Akehoshi: Not really, it's part of a request. I took the chance to buy some for myself too.

Ito: I see.

Akehoshi: With that said, don't be modest now.

Akehoshi-kun unwrapped the sweets without any hesitation and handed it over to me.

Akehoshi: Wanna have some?

Ito: (Is this what they call open up with “Ahh”….)

…….I’ll help myself, then.

After hesitating, I took the sweets and brought it to my mouth.

Ito: ......! So good...!

Akehoshi: Haha, you really just dodged me. But I guess it’s fine since I already got to see that face of yours.

Ito: It's a bit of a challenge to put something in my mouth when someone picks it up for me.

Spatial awareness is not really my forte, sorry if I made a mistake.

Akehoshi: Haha, what are you even saying?

I just thought it might be easier to eat that way. Don't worry about it.

Ito: (So he was just being considerate...)

Akehoshi: By the way, what about your forgotten belonging?

Ito: Oh, that's right. I'm sure it was around here... Found it.

I took out a book that was on the lost and found shelf.

Akehoshi: “The way to shorten the distance between you and your partner ~How to get along naturally~” Is this for study?

Ito: Yeah, I might be interacting with a lot of different people from now on, so I want to sharpen my communication skills.

Akehoshi: What a hard worker. I’m kinda impressed.

Ito: Nothing impressive at all. I won't be able to catch up with everyone unless I learn, simple as that.

Oh. Of course I'm not assuming that I would magically master the craft simply just from reading this.

I can understand what's written in the book, but when I think about how to put it into action, there are a lot of things I can’t wrap my head around.

Akehoshi: I think it's plenty incredible that Ito-san is so considerate when she talks.

But, in that case….

Akehoshi-kun opened his mouth as if something fun just crossed his mind.

Akehoshi: Wanna go out with me after this?

Part 2

Akehoshi: My shift has just ended, the timing couldn’t be any more perfect.

And with that said, we went to a cafe near Aporia. Akehoshi-kun sat down and relaxed before checking out the menu.

Ito: (Did he invite me for dinner...?)

Um, is there something you’ve been wanting to eat?

Akehoshi: Hmm? I just want to know more about Ito-san~

Akehoshi-kun looked at me intently and smiled. Meanwhile, I froze up, not understanding the situation.

Ito: (What's going on here?)

Akehoshi: Awww. Ito-san doesn't get it~?

Ito: ?

Akehoshi: For example, if someone was told something like that, most people wouldn't feel bad about it, right?

Ito: You mean, the thought of wanting to know more?

Akehoshi: Yup. I'm interested in you~

Ito: (Don’t tell me….)

Ito: I can understand what's written in the book, but when I think about how to put it into action, there are a lot of things I can’t wrap my head around.

Akehoshi: In that case…

Ito: (Are we practicing Akehoshi-kun’s “natural way of becoming good friends” right now?)

Not only did you give me sweets, but you even gave me a lesson... Thank you so much.

Akehoshi: Ahaha, why so stiff. Well, it’s Ito-san we’re talking about here.

Ito: That reminds me. Is there a reason for changing the location?

Akehoshi: Not really, I just wanna have dinner with Ito-san.

Well, places like this certainly feel more like it’s for private time than the workplace. I love the idea of being able to chat with you more leisurely.

Part 3

Ito: (I guess there’s no logic behind it, he’s just relying on his instinct... What can I say.)

Akehoshi: Now what should we do next, maybe try to express your feelings more honestly~? Somehow that sounds like a class goal.

Ito: (Express my feelings more honestly...)

You have a point, Akehoshi-kun. You tend to praise a lot of things directly.

Akehoshi: That’s just my honest thought, though.

Ito: And that brightens up the atmosphere, I always think that part of yours is amazing.

I can tell that Akehoshi-kun’s words aren't just flattery. Maybe that's why you manage to capture people’s heart.….. I see how it is...

Akehoshi: Ahaha, there ya go again.

Ito: Eh?

Akehoshi: Didn’t you just do the same thing with your compliment just now?

Ito: !

Akehoshi: Saying this myself might be weird, but honest feelings can tug your heartstrings.

I realized that thanks to Ito-san. Thank you.

Ito: I should thank you as well. If I were able to put it into practice, it's all thanks to Akehoshi-kun giving me the hint.

Akehoshi: It's amazing that you can do all this with just a hint. Good, good

Akehoshi-kun stroked my head and I froze up once again. However, I didn’t feel any discomfort from the way he touched me.

Ito: (Some people might have a negative reaction to this sort of thing.)

(It's amazing how he can do it so easily without making me uncomfortable.)

Um, is this also another way to close the gap?

Akehoshi: Hmm?

Akehoshi-kun tilted his head, not really understanding what he'd been told.

Ito: (Is this all natural to him?)

I went to get something I forgot, but it turned out to be a day where I learned more than I could have learned from the book.