#enstarstl

[paniniichan]

Ballade of the Lost Child - Prologue

Characters: Niki, Yuzuru Proofreaders: Aru, Oli

Niki: Nomnom…♪

Kuu~u. This “hashimaki¹” is super yummy! Guess I was lucky there was a food stand here.   

It’s so delicious, why don’t more people know about this?

This world truly is weird~. Society should acknowledge “hashimaki” so much more.

It’s a flour-based food and it’s super easy to eat. You can even choose its flavour.

(In falsetto) Welcome ♪ Which flavour sauce would you like? Soy sauce flavour? Or how about cheese? –Hm~m, I just can’t choose!  

…Whoops. Woah, that was close. I almost passed that place by accident…!

Nahaha. I suddenly forgot why I’d come out here since I came across such delicious food~. 

Ooh, this line is huge!? Is this for those doughy churros that are trending at the moment!?

I thought I could avoid the crowds by coming earlier, but there are already so many people here.

I guess people gather at places with delicious food after all~.

In other words, it’s not an exaggeration to say that “delicious food creates world peace”...!

Right, this is no time to be messing around. I need to get in line before it gets too long.

<At the same time>

Yuzuru: Let’s see. I believe all the necessary purchases should be complete by now.

One, two, three… I bought this too, and that one just a moment ago. This one was sold out, so I shall have to come back at a later date.

… Hm, it appears all is in order. I don’t seem to have left any oversights.

Niki: I’m really looking forward to it~. Coming across new food is always so exciting. ♪

Yuzuru: Oh my, do I hear a familiar voice?

Ah, so it belongs to Shiina-sama. He seems to be at the end of a queue.

Season Avenue is always bustling. Hence it’s odd to see so many people lined up in a single queue.

They all seem to be queueing outside that stand. I wonder what exactly is being sold?

If Shiina-sama is lining up, it’s likely to be some type of food or drink.

… (Looking around)

… The people who’ve moved away from the stand all seem to have brightly-coloured sweets in their hands.

From their shape, I would guess they were donuts… No, perhaps churros?

Churros…? Come to think of it, I believe the Young Master mentioned those the other day…

Something about a speciality store selling cute churros on Season Avenue.

I see. He must’ve been referring to this stand.

……

Hm… He truly seemed to want to eat them, so perhaps I’ll buy them as a gift for the Young Master.

I wouldn’t usually let him eat this kind of thing, but…

Recently, he seems to be putting more and more effort into both his studies and work. Why not spoil him once in a while…♪

Shiina-sama.

Niki: Huh? Fushimi-kun?

How strange seeing you here~? Did you also come to try the churros? 

Yuzuru: I believe they would be a good gift for the Young Master. Would you mind if I accompanied you?

Niki: That’s fine by me~, let’s get these trending churros together! A journey is most fun with a companion after all²…♪

Yuzuru: It’s not a journey, we’re merely waiting together in line.

Niki: Nope nope. This line is the “Food Road”! In other words, it’s kind of like the Silk Road³, isn’t it?

Yuzuru: Well, um. Are you trying to compare this long queue to a road?

Niki: Yup! 

Yuzuru: sighs. Since the “Silk Road” isn’t about food, but rather silk, I feel like it’s a bit of a strange analogy in the first place. 

Niki: It’s instinct, Fushimi-kun. I thought I should express it to you in some way or another. Anyway, I don’t really care as long as we can get these churros. 

Yuzuru: Please stop talking based solely on reflex⁴. 

I don’t often find myself surrounded by your type, Shiina-sama. If I had to say, Hibiki-sama comes the closest.

Niki: Really?　

I don’t keep any company that’s like Fushimi-kun~. I only have irresponsible and weird people around me.

Oh well, thanks to that I can usually take it pretty easy, so that’s a plus.

Yuzuru: By the way, Shiina-sama. It seems that most people here are eating their churros as they leave, so do you know if I could order them to go? 

Since they’re not for me to eat and are instead a gift for the Young Master, I’d like to get them for takeout if possible. 

Niki: Hmm~? Is that so? I was also planning on eating while walking around here.

Truthfully, this kind of food is usually eaten on the spot or while walking, so I’m not sure if they’d be alright to take home.

Ah, Fushimi-kun. Take a look at that guy over there!

Yuzuru: Sure.

Niki: It looks like he only just bought some churros.

They’re wrapped in a paper bag from the stand too! I bet that means you can get them to go–

Man: Uwahh!?

Niki: Eh, what happened!? A fight!?

That guy was shoved over and knocked down by another man in black!?

Man: My bag! Wait, get back here! Bag thief!

Niki and Yuzuru: A bag thief!?

-----

¹ Hashimaki is Okonomiyaki wrapped around chopsticks

² Japanese proverb which means something alone the lines of “no road is long with good company”

³ The Silk Road was a series of trade routes connecting Europe and Asia spanning over 6,400km (4,000 mi) named for its primary use of trading silk. Niki is trying to liken the queue that they’re standing in to a long road where food will be traded at the end.

⁴The literal translation of what Yuzuru says is for Niki to stop talking based on “spinal reflexes”. These reflexes being involuntary and based on instinct without input from the brain. It’s effectively the same phrase as “knee-jerk reaction” in English.

[eveningspringbreeze]

Madara's FS2 4* - Winter, in the Street Corners of Paris

Characters: Madara, Shu

Season: Winter

Shu: Mm… Yaawn...

(Perhaps it’s from pulling an all-nighter, or perhaps it’s burnout from finishing my deliveries, but it seems I’ve been fast asleep until the afternoon)

(Fortunately, I have plenty of time to spare until I must work again. So as to maintain perfection when working, I ought to rest properly)

(Perhaps I could relax with a stroll—) 

Madara: Excuse meeee!!! ☆

Shu: Gyoh!? M-mikejima….!? What in good heavens brought you here!? 

Do not bother me! Leave this instant! I do not want to have a barbarian such as you stampeding upon my atelier! 

Madara: Ahaha! This banter is so nostalgic! (1)

Didn’t we have a similar exchange back in Yumenosaki? If I’m not wrong, it was during Steamp— 

Shu: Non! I have no intentions of taking a trip down memory lane with you! 

You must have some business with me, right? Make it brief. 

Madara: Business, huh. And if “no” was my answer? 

Shu: …………

Madara: Sorry, sorry! I was just joking, you don’t have to glare at me all scary like that! 

Basically, Leo-san needed something from me. 

Shu: Tsukinaga did…? 

Madara: Yep. Apparently he’s been taking good care of a pen case that he borrowed from you. 

So much so in fact that he accidentally left behind the case’s stationary in this atelier. 

Shu: He’d only taken a pen case? Well, I suppose he is dexterous.

And that’s it? You came all the way to Paris just for Tsukinaga? 

Madara: Nah, I already had some work here in Europe, so I’m just dropping by.

Shu: “Dropping by”? No matter how trivially you say it, Europe’s not a place you can just casually travel through. 

 Either way, Tsukinaga’s forgotten belongings are not here. 

I had to send some luggage to the Starmony Dorms the other day, and I crammed in similar items as well. It’s probably all the way over there now. 

Good grief, why must everyone forget every little thing here? If they want to spend time overseas, perhaps consider bringing in some caution alongside? 

Madara: Mmhm. Since both language and culture are different, the way to do things here are bound to contrast with Japan’s. There’s no harm in being attentive. 

But also this atelier’s got such a homely feeling to it, it really calms you down. Maybe that’s why everyone’s losing their belongings here ♪

Shu: I'm not happy to hear that. This place isn’t a playground. 

Seems to me that you’ve been on a fool’s errand. Are you departing Paris after this? 

Madara: Nah. I’ve got time until my flight, so I’m planning on relaxing ‘til then. 

….Hmm? Why’re you dressing up? 

Are you going out? If so, please allow me to join you ☆

Shu: I refuse. I cannot relax when I’m near you. 

Madara: Now now, don’t say that! A journey is not just about the companions you have, but the people you care for along the way! (2) Having a friend is better than none…♪

<one hour later> 

Shu: …Seems like there’s a weekend flea market going on. 

Madara: Ooh, quite the Parisian spectacle! 

As you may or may not know, Paris is the one and only homeland for flea markets. 

It supposedly originates from the multitudes of secondhand-goods being sold resembling a flea infestation! (3)

Shu: I’m aware even without your quips, so do not spout such things at me. Just imagining it makes my back itch. 

Plus, that isn’t the only theory regarding its origin. 

I personally prefer the theory that it comes from the saying that “there is enjoyment found in taking the the time needed to search for treasure in the same way one would search for a flea”.

Madara: Enjoyment found in taking the time to search for things, huh. Truly, it must come from the exceptional feeling of accomplishment that comes with finding that rare piece of treasure. 

….Oh myyy? Something’s already caught my eye! 

This ceramic pot would be perfect for displaying plants ☆

Shu: Hm. Is gardening a hobby of yours? 

Madara: I wouldn’t quite call it a “hobby”. 

I’m not sure who started it, but my dorm room’s filled with plants, so I like bringing in some new ones from time to time. 

“Excuse me, shopkeeper-san! I’d like to buy this pot—” 

Shu: (....Ooh, looks like his constant traveling has lent him a rather good grasp on French) 

 (The real thrill of flea markets is the haggling. You must put your negotiation skills to its truest test….) 

<ten minutes later> 

Madara: —Thanks for waiting, Shu-san! 

Sorry for how long it took. I really hit it off with the shopkeeper. Before I knew it, we’d already talked for so long!

Shu: It’s alright. It’s good that your negotiations went well. 

It is of no concern to me what happens to you, however. But it would be a shame to watch an acquaintance get blatantly ripped off. 

Madara: Ah, so you were worrying about me. Thank you Shu-san, you’re a nice soul…♪

Shu: Don’t misunderstand. I simply do not want to feel unpleasant. 

Madara: Even then, that makes me happy to hear ♪

My haggling went great, so let me treat you to something as thanks for waiting.  

Tell me aaall about the specialties you’d recommend, Shu-san… ☆

Shu: Hmm… How about marron chauds— roasted chestnuts, then? 

It’s a winter specialty that you can find sold all around the city during the season. 

Madara: Sounds good! I’m sure it’ll warm us up. 

I can smell something fragrant over there, let’s go eat! 

---

TL Notes:

Shu’s lines aimed at Madara here is basically a 1-1 replica of a similar exchange in Steampunk Museum, which Madara tries to mention right after

Good old Madara idioms :] the original is 道連れ世は情け which doesn’t have an eng equivalent afaik? So I just used a shortened version of the meaning

This isn’t a correction or anything but Madara is so close to the actual most common theory… as Shu said there’s multiple theories, but one of the most common is that some of the goods sold in the markets were believed to have had actual flea infestations. I have never seen Shu’s theory before

This isn't proofread and was done in one go so feel free to correct me on anything!

[asahinagamine]

Midnight Encounter

Season: Summer

Writer: Yuumasu

Background: Seisou Hall Common Room

Tetora: (Whew.. That’s all for today’s quota!)

(Using a treadmill ain’t all bad, but it totally can’t beat outdoor running.)

(Running with all my might and feeling the wind against me feels amazing~ Not to mention, the continuous change of view.)

(But I’m kinda starving… Must be ‘cause I had my dinner early.)

(Uu~... I wanna eat something but I gotta endure it ‘till breakfast… I’m just gonna go back to my room and sleep right away.)

...Hm?

(Wasn’t there a rustling sound coming from the kitchen just now...)

(Ah. There it is again…)

(It’s too quiet for a person to be there… Umyu…)

(I think it’d be better if I check out what it is. At this rate, I won’t be able to go to sleep with this bugging my mind.)

Background: Kitchen

Tetora: (As I thought, there’s no one here. Although, I do hear sounds from behind the counter…)

(Could it be a criminal…? No-no, the security in Starmony Dorm should be flawless…)

(I’m getting more and more curious! I’ll just check real qui―)

AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!????

Kuro: Huh!?

Tetora: T-Taishou...?

Kuro: Jeez, it was just you, Tetsu. Ya freaked me with your yell.

Tetora: I’m so sorry! A huge shadow came outta nowhere so I couldn’t help but...

Taishou, what’re you doing here in the first place?

Kuro: I’m just lookin’ for somethin’. I’m sure I put it on this shelf.

But it’s pretty tough to find ‘cause there’s a lotta people putting their things in here too. It’s part of the inconvenience of shared spaces.

Tetora: Taishou, what’re you trying to look for? I’ll help you look for it too.

Kuro: Nah, it‘s fine. it’s just cup ramen, two guys shouldn’t be looking for somethin’ like that.

I put my name on it properly, but... Did someone carelessly eat it or somethin’…?

Tetora: Cup ramen... Is it fine to eat that at this hour?

Kuro: Ya talkin’ about how ya’d get fat if ya sleep right after eating? If your metabolism’s fast enough, it won’t be a problem if ya do it once in a while.

But Hasumi will complain non-stop if he finds out ‘bout this. So keep quiet ‘bout this, ‘kay, Tetsu?

Tetora: Ossu, ‘course I will! I’ll carry this secret to my grave!

Kuro: Uh, I’m not demanding that kinda pledge.

...Oh, finally found it. Two of them even.

Come join me. Here’s yours.

Tetora: Woah… Oh! Thanks, Taishou.

But is it really fine to eat this now? I could just have it tomorrow morni―

WOAHHHHHH!!

Kuro: Your stomach’s growlin’ pretty loudly. You’re not foolin’ anyone, Tetsu.

Don't overdo yourself. Let’s go eat together ♪

Tetora: You’re right… Uu~ I feel kinda embarrassed…

Erm.. I’ll go prepare the hot water!

Kuro: Then I’ll get our ramen ready. Lemme just tear off the film and...

Tetora: This should probably be enough water... Heheh, I’ve become a master at using kettles!

Kuro: Is that really somethin’ to be proud of? Ya just have to pour in water, press a button and there ya have it.

Tetora: Ah well, it was kinda hard for me. I was only able to learn how to use a kettle after practicing a lotta times.

You may not know about this but, I’ve actually once caused an explosion in an oven at Yumenosaki before.

Kuro: An oven? Didja make a bomb or somethin’?

Tetora: Nope, I was trying to make chocolates since it was Valentines’ Day.

Kuro: Wait a minute, the ingredients to make that are cream and cocoa powder, right? How were ya still able to make it explode? Did ya add gunpowder in it?

Tetora: I got no idea, it was just a mess. Cooking’s pretty hard, huh~

Kuro: I think it’s tough but probably not around that level…

Oh, looks like it’s boilin’.

I’ll pour the hot water. I’m worried you might burn yerself after hearing your story.

Tetora: Ossu! I’ll prepare the chopsticks in the meantime.

Thank you for the food! Mmm~ this ramen sure hits the spot~

But I still feel a lil’ guilty for eating this now…

Kuro: If you’re scared of getting fat, why don’t ya just stay up for a while? I don’t mind stayin’ up to talk to ya.

Tetora: Is that okay with you!?

Kuro: Yeah. It’s been a while since we last had a long conversation anyways.

Oh right, I was pretty worried ‘bout the karate club. How’s it been since then? Is it still as chill as ever?

Tetora: Yeah! Ever since you visited as an alumni, everyone’s been pumped up!

There are even members who’d practice early in the morning on their own.

I was able to learn a lot about handling my club juniors thanks to your visit, Taishou.

Now, I’m actually able to feel more like a Buchou!

Kuro: That so… Then how about next time, I come see how much your leadership skills have improved? ♪

Tetora: A-Are you talking about me!? I think I’ll be too nervous by your presence, but...

It’ll be great mental training for me, so feel free to visit anytime!

Proofread by: 310mc

[paniniichan]

Ballade of the Lost Ones - Directory

Characters: Niki, Yuzuru, Tsumugi, Madara, Rei, Hajime Prologue: 1 Wandering: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6

Breakthrough:

1 - 2 - 3

Epilogue:

1 - 2

[paniniichan]

Ballade of the Lost Ones - Wandering / Chapter 1

Characters: Yuzuru, Niki Proofreaders: Aru, Oli, Azu

Yuzuru: Excuse me, sir. Are you alright? You aren’t injured, are you?

Man: I’m safe, but my bag… Damn, it had something important inside…

Yuzuru: …

Shiina-sama. This could be dangerous, so please wait here for now. I will go and chase after that bag thie–

Niki: You thief~! You petty thief~! How dare you steal the stand’s churros along with that bag~!

Yuzuru: Shiina-sama!? P-Please wait a second!?

(What just happened? Before I could even move, Shiina-sama ran off to chase down that bag thief…) 

Ah, this is not good. Shiina-sama’s exceedingly strange behaviour caused my thoughts to cease for a moment.

Although we’re from different agencies, we’ve been placed in the same situation… I cannot risk Shiina-sama being exposed to danger. I must pursue him with haste.

Sir, I will also chase after that bag thief. I will do my best to deal with this situation and return your bag to you. 

Man: You’d do that for me!? Eh? Are you sure!?

Yuzuru: Yes, please leave it to me. 

(Now then. It seems that while I was busy dawdling around, the distance between myself and that bag thief had widened.)

(In order to catch up with and restrain him from here, I might have to take this a bit more seriously.)

(Fufu. I don’t normally have the opportunity to get this serious. It may be imprudent of me, but I’m getting a little excited.)

Don’t think you can successfully escape from my grasp. 

Man: …

Niki: Hey you~! Get back here right now!

Those who play with their food should suffer the absolute worst of the worst!? People like you deserve to be kicked to death by a horse, you hear me~!?¹

Yuzuru: That is an idiom said when a person interferes with another’s love life.  

Niki: Huh? When did you get here, Fushimi-kun? There wasn’t anyone next to me just a moment ago?  

Yuzuru: Fufu. In order to catch up, I decided to get a little serious. 

But let us set that aside. Shiina-sama, it seems like our bag thief is running into a back street.

Niki: Ah, you’re right! I wish he’d just accept the fact he’s going to be arrested already.² 

Yuzuru: Well, this might just be the perfect time for that. Since the main street is heavily crowded, pedestrians are simply in the way and I can’t take any extreme measures.  

But since the back street is devoid of people, it may be favourable for us.  

Shall we settle this in there?

＜Several Minutes Later＞

Bag Thief: Huff! Huff! How long are those guys gonna chase me!?

They’re way too stubbo–uwaah!?

Wh-What the!? Something hit me between my legs and I fell over… Is this a plastic bottle!?

Yuzuru: –Indeed. It was a little impolite, but I threw it to stop you from continuing to run away. 

Additionally, even if it had broken a bone in your leg, I would not have cared at all.

Well, I guess it is an extreme measure, even by today’s standards. 

But since I do have a position I need to protect, I tried to take the gentlest approach I could manage. 

 I humbly request for you to resign to your fate already. You won’t be able to escape anymore–

Bag Thief: Eek…! 

Niki: Ugh~, I’m shivering. Why does it feel five degrees colder in here? Is it because it’s so dark~?

Ah. It looks like he dropped all the bags right when he fell.

All righty, safe and sound ☆

We have successfully recovered the churros you snatched! 

Yuzuru: Shiina-sama, I think your priorities are out of order. Could you please secure the bag instead of those churros?

Man: Huff, huff…! Y-You two!

Yuzuru: –Hm? Ah, you followed us all this way?

It’s dangerous to approach a thief, so I had hoped you’d wait back there.

Niki: Hey sir, we managed to safely recover your churros! And we got your bag too! 

Man: Huff, huff… My bag! I’m sorry for the trouble, thank you very much!

Bag Thief: (Now. I’ll run away while they’re distracted…!) 

Yuzuru: …! Oh no! Stop right there!

Niki: Ngah! He’s running again!

Man: Please wait, you two! It’s alright, you don’t have to chase him anymore!

Yuzuru: …Why did you stop us? While we did return your baggage, he still committed a crime and should be handed over to the police. 

Niki: Yup yup. What he’s saying. 

Man: NO! This is so much more important! (He grabs Yuzuru and Niki’s hands)

Yuzuru and Niki: Eeh!?

Yuzuru:  …What exactly are you doing all of a sudden?

Man: Owowowowowowow!?

Niki: Fushimi-kun, Fushimi-kun. You’re really twisting the poor guy’s arm there.

Yuzuru: Please forgive my impoliteness. He suddenly grabbed our hands as if he was some kind of degenerate. My body simply moved for the sake of self-defence. 

Man: Me, a degenerate!? No, that’s wrong! That’s completely wrong! I’ve never even been a degenerate at all! 

–Please, won’t you two star in my movie!?

Yuzuru and Niki: …What?

Man: I’m sort of like a– huh? Where’d my business card go? Ah, not again! Well, uh, I’m a film director!

I’d like you to star in my film!

Yuzuru: E-Err…?

Man: My intuition is telling me to pick you! You two are high school… no, university students?

First of all, if you could kindly let go of my hand, please.

I’ll sufficiently compensate you for your performance of course! I don’t even mind if you treat it like a part-time job, could you please just collaborate with me on my film!?

Niki: This guy's super freaky!? He’s rattling on and on while leaning forward crazily, I’m getting a little freaked out!? Just what is his deal~?

Yuzuru: Uhm. Could you please take a moment to compose yourself?

Well. Unfortunately, we cannot appear in your film.

Man: Eh, you can’t? I promise I’m not a suspicious individual, and the job is respectable so–

Yuzuru: No. I’m not referring to that. 

The two of us are idols belonging to production offices. For that reason, any discussion of work must go through the appropriate processes with ES. Man: Idols…?

-----

¹ As Yuzuru mentions in the following line, “being kicked by a horse” is a Japanese expression used for people who interfere with others’ love lives.

² The expression Niki uses here (観念してお縄) can be exactly translated as “resign yourself to the policeman’s rope”. It basically refers to the art of restraining a person with a rope or cord, but also can refer to arresting.

[paniniichan]

Ballade of the Lost Ones - Wandering / Chapter 4

Characters: Yuruzu, Niki, Madara, Rei, Tsumugi

Proofreaders: Aru, Oli

＜The Next Day. During the script reading session＞

Yuzuru: “Huff…”

Rei: “Are you alright?”

Yuzuru: “...Ah, it’s nothing. I’ll recover soon enough.”

Rei: “You’re lying. Look. Even for a wound like this, it’s taking so long to heal.”

Tsumugi: “Everyone’s faith… Truly has faded this much.”

Madara: “Hey, is there even a reason for us to keep protecting this place…?”

Niki: “D-Don’t just say stuff like that~. It’ll be a-okay! This place is like our home after all.”

“And that way we can protect the tran…tran…kill..ity…?¹

Yuzuru: Shiina-sama, it’s read as ‘tranquillity’.

Niki: Ah, thanks~♪

“And that way we can protect the tranquillity of this land!”

Director: – Ummm. Could we stop it here?

Niki: Uwah! I’m so sorry! Is it ‘cause I can’t read the kanji!?

Director: Well... I was more concerned about your acting abilities than your ability to read kanji.

The character Shiina-kun is playing, “Hikaru”, is also beginning to doubt it himself…

To try to shake it off, he acts as cheerfully as possible. He has to say these things out loud to try to persuade himself.

So I want you to try not to become a character that is only cheerful.

Niki: Being totally cheerful is no good… Right, got it!

Director: Alright then, let’s resume from the next scene–

＜30 minutes later＞

Niki: …Ugh. T-Too hard…

Director: Yeah… Maybe Shiina-kun needs some more time to read through the script.

Niki: The others aren’t finding it that hard, I feel bad for causing so much trouble…

Yuzuru: You do know that the rest of us are not able to give a perfectly satisfying performance from start to end either?

Tsumugi: Besides, Shiina-kun only had shallow experience in dramas to begin with, so I guess it can’t be helped to some extent. 

Niki: It’s probably a little late to ask but… Why was I chosen to play the role of “Hikaru”? Even weirder, I’m one of the two lead actors. 

I know that some of the films Fushimi-kun acted in were selected for big awards. But I’m just a plain old idol chef?

Rei: That makes you sound like some dangerous person who cooks idols. 

Director: My reason for choosing the two of you is clear.

I believe Shiina-kun and Fushimi-kun are people with a ‘switch’.

Niki: Switch? But I’m a member of Crazy:B, am I getting transferred without notice?! 

Tsumugi: Uwah, welcome to Switch ☆ We welcome you with open arms~

Madara: Let’s all calm down. Let’s not finalise a verbal transfer without the producer’s prior knowledge. Anzu-san’s panicking, don’t you see?

Niki: So it’s not the idol group Switch? But what does ‘switch’ mean then?

Director: A ‘switch’ is a, well… um… I guess you could describe it as a “change of personality”.

When you’re in my position, you watch a lot of actors. But it’s rare to find someone with these traits.

Someone who can change their personality into another as if just flipping a ‘switch’. 

These sorts of people are most definitely perfect for acting jobs!

When the two of you were chasing that bag thief, I was positive I could hear the sound of your switches!

It was then that I thought, “This must be it! This has to be fate!”

Niki: Back up back up! Please don’t just get up in my face like that!

This director has to be the type of guy who loses sight of his surroundings when he’s excited.

Yuzuru: Yes. But that reasoning is…

Your viewpoint is very unconventional, no? It seems to be quite a strange one… I believe he fits the mould of someone within the creative field.

Niki: Ugh? Even if you call it a switch, it doesn’t click with me. I can’t get a feel for it.

What even is a switch? I’m not some kinda tool to test a bunch of lightbulbs.²  

Hm? What’s wrong, Anzu-san?

Uh~, sorry ‘bout that. It really is just what you say.

If I keep carrying on like this I’ll never get good results, so I’d like a bit more time to look over my role.

I think I need some time to mature, just like a piece of ham.

Yuzuru: That sounds good. Even if the director wants to speed up production, filming while the script reading is unsatisfactory would be counterintuitive.  

Let us dismiss this meeting for today.

＜Same Day at Night. Resting Room＞

Yuzuru: …… (drinking coffee)

Niki: Uu… Guuu…

Yuzuru: …What was that noise? It sounds like the groan of something dragging itself across the ground. 

It’s coming from over here.

Niki: Uu…

Yuzuru: Oh, Shiina-sama, what seems to be the problem? Why is it that you’re dragging yourself along the ground like that? Are you pretending to be some type of dead insect?

Niki: I wish I was a dead bug… B-But more important… Food…

Yuzuru: Food…?

These are some sweets I was saving as a snack, but I’ll hand them to you.

Shiina-sama, please have these.

Niki: ！Nomnomnomnomnom! Nomnomnomnomnom…!

– Fwah, I’m alive again~! Thank you so much, Fushimi-kun!

Errr. Today’s reading session really had my brain working at full power, so now I’m super duper hungry.

I thought I could replenish my sweets stash here, but I ran out of steam mid-way~.

Yuzuru: So that’s what happened. I’m relieved you didn’t pass away in the hallway here.

Well, the script reading today did stretch on much like a marathon, so it can’t be helped that you’re exhausted.

Niki: Nomnom. I guess you’re right~. My brain sugar levels pretty much ran out. My eyes got all blurry, and my hands started shaking. I thought I was gonna die. 

Besides, this acting stuff is super hard. 

I’m flattered by the director’s high expectations of me, but I honestly don’t think I can do it.

I’m not even used to acting, so playing a non-human character is way out of my league.

If it was a role for a chef, I could probably get that no problem. Sigh…

----- ¹ In the original, Niki is having trouble reading the kanji 安寧, which refers to public peace. I decided to translate this as ‘tranquility’ as it gets the general meaning across while being more complicated than simply ‘peace’ (which Niki would 100% be able to read). ² Referencing how testing lightbulbs in the past required someone to screw in the lightbulb and another to flip a switch.

[paniniichan]

Ballade of the Lost Ones - Wandering / Chapter 2

Characters: Yuzuru, Tsumugi, Niki, Madara, Rei Proofreaders: Aru, Oli, Azu

＜Several Days After the Bag Thief Incident＞

Yuzuru: Cleaning, cleaning, funfufufu~n♪

Moving the broom to a fixed rhythm is the most efficient way to sweep up the falling petals. My skills haven’t faltered either. 

Ah, meeting expectations as expected…♪

Oh, there seem to be more sakura petals falling over there. I’d like to clean those too if possible.

But I’m almost out of time, and in addition, I mustn’t completely take over someone else’s job. I must restrain myself.

Tsumugi: ……

……? (Rubbing his eyes as if he’s hallucinating)

Yuzuru: Oh? Aoba-sama, a pleasure to see you. 

You seem to be in a state of shock, are you alright?

What is the reason for you staring at me with such bewilderment?

Tsumugi: …Ah, this is ES, right? My brain confused this place for Yumenosaki Academy for a moment there. 

Maybe I should instead be asking why you’re cleaning here, Fushimi-kun? ES has its own cleaning staff, after all.

Yuzuru: I am well aware. I believe a member of staff was cleaning here until a short while ago, but it seems they’ve been absent for a while now.

When my hand subconsciously reached for it, a strong yearning swept over me and I simply began to clean. 

Since I have been living in the dormitory and no longer need to clean the Himemiya Family’s estate, I’ve completely lost the opportunity to pick up a broom.  

Tsumugi: Ah. Now that you mention it, I can see what you mean.

You don’t need to use a broom in any of the dormitory rooms. And all the other spaces are cleaned by the janitorial staff. 

Yuzuru: It is as you say– Ah, it’s that time already…!

Thank you very much for your understanding, Aoba-sama. Anzu-san has called for me after this, so you’ll have to excuse me soon.  

Tsumugi: Eh? You too, Fushimi-kun?

Truthfully, I’ve been called by Anzu-chan as well. You’re heading to the “COCHI” Meeting Room, right?

I was also going to head over there in just a moment.

Yuzuru: You’re going as well, Aoba-sama? I was sure it was a task I had to take care of.

Judging by this situation, others may be assembled as well.

＜30 Minutes Later. “COCHI”, a Coffee Shop Near ES Building＞

Niki: Huff, huff. Hiyaaaa~☆

Madara: Hi there! –Huh, wait? What’s up, Niki-san? You’re sweating like crazy.

Yuzuru: So it seems that Sakuma-sama, Mikejima-sama, Aoba-sama, Shiina-sama, and myself were all summoned to this place.

Niki: –Wha!? There’re way more people here than just me!?

What even is this? Anzu-neesan told me to come here so she could get my help with something, no doubt about it–

I thought I was gonna be taste-testing a new menu item, I even skipped all the way here from the dorms!?

I never once gave up, even when it felt like my legs were gonna break!!

Rei: So then, is that why you’re sweating so much? I can’t imagine you’d sweat that much naturally in early spring.  

Madara: Hahaha☆ Aren’t you just overflowing with energy?!

Niki: Noooo, I can’t do this anymore… I used up all my energy just getting here, I can’t move anymore. Goodbye, cruel world…!

Rei: Shiina-kun, what on earth are you doing? You’re being unexpectedly serious. 

Tsumugi: It would be fine if you ate something while waiting for Anzu-chan, wouldn’t it? There’s still some time until the meeting is supposed to start. 

Niki: Whoa! That’s a great idea!! Alrighty, I’ll take one “Seasonal Burger Plate”!

＜About 10 Minutes Later＞

Niki: Nomnomnom…♪ 

Madara: Niki-san sure eats a lot. Since I’m a big eater myself, I feel a sort of connection with you ☆

Yuzuru: I do recall Mikejima-sama set up food and drink carts at the school gates relatively frequently. 

Madara: That really brings back the memories. I can remember how a furious Keito-san would rush in after a while like it was just yesterday. Hahaha!

Yuzuru: Please do not laugh about such matters. As I was not a member of the student council at that time, I could only watch and remain in my position–

Oh? It seems like Anzu-san arrived at some point during that exchange. In that case, let’s end the stories of reminiscence. 

Anzu-san, welcome. …Yes, there are five of us gathered here. 

Ah, now that everyone who Anzu-san called for is present, shall we begin?

For what important matter did you bring us here today?

Eh? There’s someone you want to introduce me to?

–Ah, you are…

Niki: Nomnom– Aaah~! Aren’t you that guy whose bag was snatched the other day!?

Rei: What on earth do you mean by snatched?

Yuzuru: Truthfully–

＜Several Minutes Later＞

Rei: …Hm. So to summarise your story–

Fushimi-kun and Shiina-kun happened upon a scene of larceny, and this man they helped also happens to be a film director.

Madara: It seems that coincidences like these truly do exist.

Though I don’t think I’ve heard the story of “I met someone downtown who also happened to be a film director” before.

Rei: Well, there is a phrase that reality is often stranger than fiction.

 In any case, this director wanted to request for Fushimi-kun and Shiina-kun to star in his film and therefore made an offer to ES for a film production, however…

At the present moment, ES’ hands are full and he was pushed aside. 

Tsumugi: It’s a shame to say this, but as someone who is involved with office management I can give some insight.

Every department has its hands full with something this time of year, so it’s not easy to plan new projects. Therefore I think something like a movie that takes a lot more time is even more likely to be dismissed. 

Niki: Hm? Isn’t that strange though? Why did Director-san come here with Anzu-neesan if ES rejected it?

Yuzuru: I believe Anzu-san raised her hand to take on this plan as a part of “P Choice”.

Rei: Oh, I see. What a good idea.

After becoming an independent individual from the “P Association”, Ojou-chan has become responsible for the “P Choice” project.

Certainly, since this is the case, she can also take over projects that have been rejected from ES.  

Niki: So then the reason we were called here today is… Yuzuru: We will be appearing in this director’s film as a part of “P Choice”, correct?

[paniniichan]

Ballade of the Lost Ones - Wandering / Chapter 3

Characters: Yuruzu, Niki, Madara, Rei, Tsumugi

Proofreaders: Aru, Oli

Yuzuru: Is this the script for the film? Thank you very much. 

Niki: Umm… The title is “Ballade of the Lost Children”? 

I can’t tell what the story’s about from just this.

Tsumugi: …Ah, I think I understand.

From this summary it seems like a film about a group of gods that features multiple concurrent storylines… at least that’s what it seems like.

Niki: You read that so fast!?

Tsumugi: Ahaha. Since reading is my hobby, I became pretty good at speed-reading. 

Niki: Still, that was super fast~. You’re amazing…!

Yuzuru: Even if you say these characters are gods, I can’t form a mental picture of what they’re like. I can’t quite pin it just yet.

The Japanese deities are commonly associated with the phrase “eight million gods”.¹ There are so many that it’s easy to believe one could exist for every phenomenon.

Hm? What seems to be the matter, Anzu-san?

Ah, I see.  Since the director went through all the trouble of coming here, it would be best for him to explain the important details in person.  

Director: Got it. Please allow me to explain–

This film is set in the present day. 

The main characters are smaller local deities who spent many years assembling the faith of their people and protecting their land. 

As the people have begun to lose their faith with the changing times, the local deities are losing their divinity, little by little… It’s pretty much like the world we live in.

Rei: Religious faith, hm? The people of this era do feel out of tune with it.

Director: Yes. This story is also one of children engulfed by the changing times. 

With their loss of divinity, the protagonists will gradually change from gods into mere non-humans–

During this change, they become what we call ‘spirits’ or demons.²

As this occurs, the local deities’ behaviours are also influenced and they begin to transform.

Among them, there are those who hate the humans who so callously forgot their faith, those whose “individuality” has become unclear, and those whose existences also begin to wane. 

But these gods ask themselves if it’s necessary to continue to protect this land, and by extension the people who live there. That’s the story I want to tell. 

Yuzuru: ……

This is truly… a difficult story to portray, is it not?

Niki: You think so?

I haven’t done much acting work before, so I’m not really sure which bits are difficult.

Yuzuru: This script will require us to play the role of someone who is “non-human”. Since this is the case, I am unable to rely on experience or memory for my part. How am I to perform this…?

Niki: Hmmm. I think I get it now.

Rei: Kukuku… When you think about it like that, perhaps this is a role perfectly suited for one such as myself. I am a monster after all…♪

Madara: Hm? What’s wrong, Anzu-san?

I see. Even though the roles are hard, you have faith in all of our abilities? Got it.

 I’ll stay true to my character!³ Well if the producer told me so, I guess I have no choice but to do my best ☆

Niki: Yup! I don’t really know why I was chosen. But even if I’m not good at acting, I don’t plan on cutting any corners!

Director: Thank you all for saying that!

Anzu-san. If it’s possible, I’d like to start filming soon, so could we sort out scheduling right away?

Of course, I totally understand that all of you still have your own jobs to do. I don’t want to make you go to the trouble of taking time off.   

I’d like to progress with filming within any free time you all may have, even if it’s little by little.  　

Yuzuru: …? Yes, it does seem like that. It’s as you say, Anzu-san.

It’s almost like they’re trying to proceed with filming as soon as possible, no…?

Niki: Is there a reason why you need to film everything so quickly?

Director: Truthfully, this film is being entered into a competition.

There aren’t many days left until the submission deadline. I sincerely apologise for these circumstances, but I’d like to get the filming done as soon as possible. 

Tsumugi: Sigh... A competition?

Director: You must think I’m just doing this for personal gain, right?

Tsumugi: Eh!? No no, I didn’t intend for it to come across like that!?

Director: No, it’s alright. It’s because I’m a shameful person.

I want to create satisfying movies. Although I created a small film production company for that purpose, our administration is always falling short. 

If this film results in failure, I’ll have to close the company.

In my youth I was praised as some kind of a genius… but these days I don’t even know if I have any talent at all.

That’s why this competition is my last chance. 

Yuzuru: ……

Niki: There’s no chance… Were you looking around town for actors since you don’t have any money!? 

Director: Well, um. It costs money to hold auditions, you know? We don’t exactly have the extra funds to do that~. 

 Even if we did make an offer, we’re such a small company that it’s difficult to ask agencies or theatre troupes. I was actually turned away at the front gate. Hahaha.

Ah, but you guys are different! Please don’t get me wrong on that! I seriously wanted you to appear in my film, so I ran as hard as I could despite my lack of physical prowess to try and call out to you.

I was so lucky! Anzu-san really saved me when she reached out. Fortunately, I’m now able to work with you both. 

Niki: Anzu-neesan, why’d you pick this movie for the “P Choice” project? 

…Uh-huh? Ehh~. You watched one of this director’s films from when he was a student? So you’re a fan of his!

Director: Haha. As of recently, I’ve found my past titles and reputation to be mostly annoying. 

But if this leads me toward the road to salvation, I guess I can’t just abandon my past self.

Yuzuru: ……

I thought this was a strange coincidence from the start, and there is no guarantee we will be able to win this competition for you.

But if you think so highly of us, we shall record this film to the best of our abilities.  Director: Ah, if you will, I’ll be relying on you…!

----

¹ 八百万の神 - “Eight million gods” - Meaning too many gods to count

² The character used here is 妖, meaning mysterious or alluring. It could be an abbreviation for the word “yōkai” or just mean “calamity”, but I’ve decided to leave it as spirits for simplicity.

³ 面目躍如 - Madara typical idiom meaning ��to live up to one’s name’ or ‘demonstrating one’s worth’

[asahinagamine]

Shining Sparkling Star

Season: Autumn

Writer: Yuumasu

Background: Seisou Hall Common Room

Mitsuru: Look, my name is in the end credits! It’s amazing! 

Nazuna: Of course it is. You starred in that drama too~

Hajime: Fufu. This is the second time I’ve watched this drama but it was still entertaining.

Since I already know what happens in the story, I ended up discovering new details I hadn't noticed the first time. Those two hours surely went by so quickly ♪

Natsume: It was also entertaining for me as a first-time watchER. But I must sAY, no matter what Mitsuru-kun’s role iS, I still see him as an energetic boy who runs around anywhere and everywheRE..

It was quite the novel experience to see a completely new side to yOU. I didn't realize you could play the role of someone so coOL.

Arashi: I've heard the rumors, but it was still something else to see with my own two eyes! Even though I knew it was just Mitsuru-chan, my heart was still pounding... ♪

Especially that scene where you were asserting your dominance—I almost let out a squeal! 

That was so far away from the Mitsuru-chan that I know—it's almost as if you were a different person! How were you even able to pull off that role?

Mitsuru: They said I should be serious and cool and other stuff like that! Tomo-chan taught me how to act that way, so I did my very best!

Oh, and I had you in mind when it came to what sorta expressions I should make, Arashi-chan-senpai! What do you think? Was I cool?

Arashi: Oh my, me? Ufufu, that is such an honor. 

That’s right, you were very cool.. ♪

Mitsuru: Yaaayy! Arashi-chan-senpai praised me~♪

Hajime: Fufu. Isn't that great~? Because of this drama, it seems like people have been referring to Mitsuru-kun as an “ikemen”(1).

I’m often called “cute”, so I’m a little jealous of how people praise you for how "cool" you were ♪

Mitsuru: Ehem. Hajime-chan can also look cool if Tomo-chan teaches you how to act! I'm sure you can do it!

Hajime: You really think so? Tomoya-kun?

Tomoya: Mmm, I dunno. Considering it’s you and all, Hajime… You should try to imitate what Mitsuru did in the drama.

Hajime: Got it. ...There!

Tomoya: Woah!? 

Hajime: “Don’t make a sound… It'll be a huge problem if we get caught.”

How was that? Was I also cool enough?

Tomoya: Hey, don’t push me down all of a sudden!

Hajime: Eh~? Even though you were the one who told me to imitate Mitsuru-kun... 

Nazuna: Haha. It was pretty amazing, but Hajime-chin will always be Hajime-chin. It was adorable.

Mitsuru: Lemme give you an example instead! ...Here!  

Natsume: WaH… 

Mitsuru: “Don’t make a sound! It'll be a huge problem if we get caught!”

Natsume: And that earns you zero poinTS. Come oN, get off me alreaDY. 

Arashi: His acting just now felt like his usual self ♪

Mitsuru: Ahaha. It’s hard to act all of a sudden~ Before we start shooting, I’d always dash around to get into the mood. 

Nazuna: Speaking of shooting, Keito-chin mentioned that he happened to see Mitsuru-chin on set.

“He’s grown up to be more diligent about his work,” he said. Even though he rarely ever compliments anyone ♪

Mitsuru: Really? I gotta thank him later then.

It was hard playing a role as an “ikemen”, but I really enjoyed myself during the shooting.

Plus, our location is always changing! So I’d be like: where are we gonna shoot today~? And get all excited and stuff—and that got me real pumped up!

One of the actors there who knows that I like bread would always bring a lotta bread for me to try!! So I also gave them bread in return! 

It’s really an amazing food that can help connect people~! Ehem! That’s bread for ya ☆

Hajime: Fufu. I see that Mitsuru-kun never changes even on set.

Tomoya: He's just always going at his own pace no matter where he is. Well, that’s probably Mitsuru’s strong point anyways. 

Natsume: AnywaYS, this is an interesting way to market yourseLF. Is this the direction your agency wants you to gO?

Mitsuru: Market myself?

Natsume: YeS. How “Mitsuru Tenma” is marketED. 

Your fans who are already familiar with you standing on stage as a member of Ra*bits will get to experience a whole new side of you through this draMA. 

On the other haND, fans who come to know you through the drama will be blown away when they see you perform on staGE.  

That kind of gap isn't something anyone can simply dO. If that isn’t something that wasn’t instructed or planned by you thENー

I think that is an amazing talent you posseSS. 

Mitsuru: I don’t really get what you mean, but I think I just got praised. I’m glad to be praised a lot! Being praised feels good~♪

Nazuna: Fufun. My kids’ potential is pretty amazing, huh~

Of course, it's not just Mitsuru-chin! Tomo-chin here does his best in theater and Hajime-chin keeps on sharpening up his cuteness skill!

Everyone is really growing to be wonderful~ Uuuuu!

Hajime: Wh-Whoa! Nii-chan, please don’t cry!

Arashi: Here, a handkerchief. 

Nazuna: Sniff-sniff. Thank you, Arashi-chin...

Arashi: He really does have an amazing talent… 

Hey, Mitsuru-chan, what kind of role do you want to act in next?

Mitsuru: Next? H~mm… 

Nah. It’s not like I’m plannin’ on becomin’ an actor so I can’t think of anything right away.

But I’ll still do my best with all the roles I’m given! Now that I can do both “cool” and “cute” roles, I can grow so much bigger! 

Because I’m Ra*bits’ proud superstar! I’ll continue to dash in the future with everything I've got!

Tomoya: In order to do that, you also gotta do your best in your studies. Hard work is also important, okay? 

Mitsuru: I’m not good at that kinda thing… Tomo-chan, you do it for me!

Tomoya: How would that even work? You should do it yourself~

Mitsuru: Wah! Then I’ll half-do my best!

Tomoya: The ratio isn’t the issue here! 

Arashi: Fufu. That sight surely puts a smile on your face, doesn’t it? I’m looking forward to everyone’s future ♪

Mitsuru: Yup! Please look forward to it~☆

Ikemen is a term that’s used to reference good looking/handsome men, primarily younger men.

Proofread by: nazunyan + sophie

[asahinagamine]

Gemsphere / Masterlist

Season: Autumn

Writer: Yuumasu

Proofread by: nazunyan + ciel

Rough Diamond: 

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5 

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

[asahinagamine]

Gemsphere / Rough Diamond - 1

Season: Autumn

Writer: Yuumasu

Background: TV Station Set Backstage

Nazuna: “Welcome to the variety show that connects idols to viewers at home, Happiness Jam!”

“Good evening! I’ll be your host, Nazuna Nito from Ra*bits! Next up is一”

Mitsuru: “Yaay~! I’m Ra*bits’ proud superstar, Mitsuru Tenma~☆”

Tetora: “Ossu! Ryuseitai’s Tetora Nagumo here! Hope you’re ready for what we have in store for you today!!”

Shinobu: “From the same unit, Shinobu Sengoku of Ryuseitai! We four will be your guests for this episode!”

Nazuna: “As always, this program has a tradition to have a new theme depending on the guest idols. The theme for today’s episode is…!”

Mitsuru: “Tadaaah~! It’s ‘Treasure Appraisal’!”

“We’ll be takin’ it upon ourselves to appraise all of you guys’ treasures durin’ the show~!”

Shinobu: “The treasures we’re going to introduce today were recruited from this program’s website. Truly, thank you to everyone who submitted their treasure~”

Tetora: “We've got all sortsa treasures, all piled up and ready to be assessed! Please stick with us all the way to the end~☆”

Nazuna: “Alright then. The first treasure is… Well, before we get into that: Since we’re already here, we idols will be showing off the ‘treasures’ that we found within our own houses.”

“I can’t promise you guys anything as extravagant as silver or gold, but my personal treasure is this, right here ♪”

Tetora: “Hmm? A tiny li’l ring~?”

Nazuna: “It’s a ring made for babies called a baby ring. It’s a present that my parents gave to me when I was born.”

“Like the European legend that says children born with a silver spoon in their mouth will gain happiness in the future. Which is why people would often give their children silver spoons when they're born.”

“As time went by, the custom changed into giving them silver rings.”

Shinobu: “I see. Since it’s a ring, does that mean you can wear it?”

Mitsuru: “But if it’s that small, you can’t fit it on your finger, right?”

Nazuna: “Yup. That’s why I attach it to a chain to turn it into a necklace. But I rarely wear it since I don’t wanna lose it.”

Tetora: “A present given at birth is definitely treasure-worthy~”

“It’s my turn now, right? I’ve brought a mysterious DVD for mine!”

Mitsuru: “There’s no sticker on it, what’s the video about?”

Tetora: “I have no idea, which is why it’s called mysterious. The data was corrupted so I couldn’t check what’s in it一”

“However! The program’s staff hired a specialist to restore its data!”

“A never-before-seen mysterious DVD of the Nagumo family is about to be revealed! I haven’t watched it myself either so I’m looking forward to it~!”

Shinobu: “Wow… This seems to be filmed on a Sports Day. Judging by the atmosphere, is this in a primary school?”

Nazuna: “...Eh? Didn’t that kid just now look like Tetora-chin?”

Tetora: “Hm? Which one?”

Nazuna: “Uh… Ah, found ‘im. That kid wearing a red and white cap backwards.”

Mitsuru: “Now that ya mention it, they do look identical! It’s a tiny version of Tetsu-chan! Kya~kya ☆”

Tetora: .....

“I wonder when this was taken…”

Shinobu: “What do you mean when? It happened on your Sports Day, right?”

Tetora: “...Oh. Right, yeah.”

“My parents both work, so they never had the time to visit for school events at all.”

“I pretty much just took that as the norm. Which is why I thought they wouldn’t come during Sports Day either.”

Tetora: “From the video, it looks like they left after watching me run the 50-meter race…”

“Back then, I didn’t notice the way they were cheering “Go, go, Tetora!” but now it’s like, hitting me right in the feels.”

“Ahaha… Seems like this DVD became a bigger treasure for me than I had imagined.”

Shinobu: “Nihihi. I’m happy for you, Tetora-kun… ♪”

Mitsuru: “The show’s only just started, but it feels like we’re at the climax already. I wanna show my treasure too!”

Tetora: “Sorry for getting too deep into it—Next up, Tenma-kun! You take the lead!”

Mitsuru: “Fufufu. The treasure I brought is a bread-shaped eraser!”

“This thing’s amazing! I bought it when I was still in middle school, and even now it smells like freshly baked bread~”

Nazuna: “Sniff-sniff… It’s true! Kinda brings me back~”

“I also had scented-erasers when I was younger. But I lost of them somewhere.”

Shinobu: “And I as well. Mitsuru-kun’s incredible with taking care of his things~”

Tetora: “But Shinobu-kun must be really good at taking care of his things. That scroll ya have there looks pretty old.”

Shinobu: “Mufufun. This is a hidden scroll of the Sengoku family, passed down from generation to generation一”

“I’d be happy if that were the case, but my family does not possess such a thing.”

“This is just a ninjutsu scroll I found at an old bookstore last year. The owner mentioned that it was from the Sengoku period but…”

“It doesn’t have a date anywhere on it so I’m not confident it’s true. That’s why I brought it with me, since I wanted an expert’s opinion.”

“The result of the appraisal is inside this envelope. Nito-dono, would you do the honors of reading it?”

Nazuna: “Yup, gotcha. Lemme see… The result of the appraisal is一”

“It’s apparently a replica, but this scroll is still a hundred years old.”

Tetora: “Umyu~ That’s too bad, Shinobu-kun.”

Shinobu: “Yeah, a little. But it’s still from the Taisho era. It was still a long time ago compared to when I was born, so I’d still consider it valuable.”

“I’ll continue to take care of it! Thank you for the appraisal ♪”

Mitsuru: “A baby ring, a DVD, an eraser, and a scroll were a~ll of our treasures! It’s so cool!”

Nazuna: “And none of it was about the price someone paid or its general worth.”

“Alright then, thank you for waiting this long. We will now reveal the treasures that has arrived in the program!”

Tetora: “Happiness Jam, starts now~!”

Proofread by: nazunyan + ciel

[asahinagamine]

Gemsphere / Rough Diamond - 3

Season: Autumn

Writer: Yuumasu

Background: TV Station Set Backstage

Mitsuru: ♪～♪～♪

Tetora: Looks like Tenma-kun’s in a good mood~

Mitsuru: It’s all thanks to the bread Anzu-nee-chan gave me! Bread always puts me in such a good mood ☆

Here-here! Teto-chan should eat some too! 

Tetora: I’m good. I’ve already eaten a ton, so go ahead and help yourself to the rest.

This is the first time I’ve seen so much bread at once. It’s like a month’s worth of bread.

Mitsuru: Really? For me, this is less than a week’s worth.

Shinobu: Mitsuru-kun probably prefers bread for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! Though I suppose bread can be part of all three of them too.

Mitsuru: Fufun. I’ll always have room for bread ♪

Nazuna: Bread’s pretty great, isn’t it? It’s easy to carry around with ya.

Watching Mitsuru-chin eat made me pretty hungry too. I might stop by a convenience store to buy ice cream.

Tetora: Can I come with you? Apparently they’re selling limited-time kalbi rice balls.

Shinobu: I shall follow you too! Convenience stores are always changing up their products so it’s always a lotta fun to visit one.

Mitsuru: Ooh, I’ll come too! I’m kinda thirsty so I wanna buy myself a drink~

Tetora: Eh? We still got a lot of stuff here, are you really planning to buy more?

Mitsuru: Duh! And you can never have enough bread~!

...Eh? I think someone was knocking just now.

Nazuna: Ah—that must be Anzu.

Heeeeeey~ Anzuuu~ Everyone’s already finished changing, so you can come in now. 

Good work, Anzu. How’s the thing we talked about going? ...Oh, you’ve contacted the client already?

I can keep the box for a week as long as I don’t break it… Thank god.

Shinobu: The box… break it… Are you perhaps talking about the secret box earlier? 

Nazuna: Yup. I wanted to see what was inside it so I asked permission to investigate. 

I gotta give this to my professor as soon as possible. I hope I can meet them tomorrow. 

Tetora: Umyu… I’m also curious about what’s inside, but why would you go to such lengths just for that?

The staff couldn’t open it, either. It’s definitely gonna give you a hard time, y’know. 

Nazuna: Yeah, I know but… I just can’t help myself. 

When we introduced each treasure, we read the letters that came with them aloud, right?

I was the one who read out the letter about the secret box, and it's been lingering in my mind since then. They said they inherited this box from their grandmother. 

“Inherited”, implying that their grandmother has most likely passed away. She probably left this behind as a momento. 

Even if it’s for a TV program segment, it was still appraised by an expert. If we don’t find out what’s inside now, it may remain unknown forever... 

Whenever I think about it, I can’t stand the idea of giving up. I wanted to do something for them, so I asked Anzu if she could negotiate.

...Hm? You were also interested in what’s inside, so you were glad that I asked?

Shinobu: Nito-dono, I also feel the same way. I’d like to help even if my contribution won’t be much.

Mitsuru: Me too! If we all work together, I’m sure we can open this!

Tetora: How about we all work together to force this thing open?

If we do that, I’m confident it’ll open. Like chopping roof tiles―

Nazuna: No way, we can’t do that! I only got to borrow it on the condition that I wouldn’t break it.

Tetora: Ahaha, I’m kiddin’. This box looks pretty sturdy, so I’m not actually planning on it.

Nazuna: All right then, let’s get going. Anzu, I’m going to the convenience store with everyone, wanna come?

Tetora: ...Eh? You still have work to do? You sure are hard-working, huh… 

Mitsuru: I got this from you, but here’s some bread! 

Eat this and feel better! Woo~ Woo~ Anzu-nee-chan ♪

A few days later, after the day of the shooting

Background: Nazuna’s University

Nazuna: Heeeyyy, Anzu! Over here!!

Sorry for making you wait. One of the guys from my class got a hold of me.

...You feel bad for asking me to come and meet you all of a sudden? Don’t worry about that. You came here to give me stuff I need for work, right?

Thank you for taking the time to come all the way here. I’ll read through this before our meeting. 

...Did I find out anything about the secret box?

Nope, not at all. My professor was quite shocked since it was his first time encountering such a mechanism. They tried whatever they could but it still wouldn’t open... 

My professor suggested that I should take it for a CT scan(1) and requested it to a reliable laboratory, but I declined their offer since it’d take a month to finish. 

I’m looking through books from the library about crafts at the moment. I’ve borrowed a buncha books from our university’s library, so I might be able to find something...

Nazuna: I’ve only got a few days left until I have to return this secret box, so I’m gonna try to do everything I can to open it. The other three are also working hard to open it.

Since I’m the oldest, I can’t go throwing in the towel just yet!

...I’m reliable? Haha, of course I am. I’m ‘Nii~chan’ after all ♪

You’ve grown into a brilliant producer, but you’re still probably going to run into trouble from time to time.

And whenever that happens, you can always rely on your Nii~chan. I’ll always be there to help you… 

A computerized tomography scan (CT or CAT scan) uses computers and rotating X-ray machines to create cross-sectional images of the body.

Proofread by: nazunyan + ciel

[asahinagamine]

Gemsphere / Rough Diamond - 2

Season: Autumn

Writer: Yuumasu

Background: TV Station Set Backstage

Shinobu: “―and the estimated price for this traditional Japanese doll is… five million yen~!”

Mitsuru: “Ooh~ In their letter they said they bought it for a thousand yen, so that means… whoa, it’s worth five thousand times more than that!”

“Five thousand’s huge! I can't even eat five thousand pieces of bread in one go!”

“But why’d we price it for five million yen? Is it an old doll?”

Tetora: “Yeah, but I don’t think it’s worth that much just ‘cause it’s old.”

“This doll was apparently made by a famous artist, but the artist hid the doll away from the public so it was never actually shown to the world.”

“An incredibly rare posthumous work like this is only gonna increase in value as time goes on. Seems like the person who appraised this doll also wanted it for themself.”

Nazuna: “No way, that’s how amazing it is? Now that’s what I call a bargain!” 

“Thank you to the person who sent this for the appraisal request. Coming across a doll like this is a once in a lifetime experience, so please continue to cherish it ♪”

“Okay then, it’s finally time for us to say our goodbyes. How did everyone feel about the ‘Treasure Appraisal’ segment?”

Mitsuru: “I’m still not satisfied! I wanna see more and more treasures!!”

“If you guys found this interesting, please leave a comment on the program’s website! If we get a lotta responses, we might come back to do this again!” 

Shinobu: “Next week’s theme is, ‘Doki Doki Ruins’. It still hasn’t been revealed which idols are gonna be hosting it, so keep an eye on this show’s social media for any announcements... ☆”

Tetora: “Alrighty then, See ya!”

Nazuna: “Bye-bye~♪”

...All right, good work today, guys!

Mitsuru: I’m kinda hungry cause I kept talkin’ during the show.

...Anzu-nee-chan, ya brought some bread for me? Ehehe, thank you!

Chomp-chomp, munch-munch ♪ Bread after a long day of work is delish~!

Tetora: It’s a pretty good snack~♪

Anzu-anego, you got a minute? It’s about the time we spent filming… 

We got kind of carried away and took longer than usual episodes. Is that fine with the program?

Shinobu: ...Ooh. You're always on top of things, Anzu-dono! You've consulted with the staff already?

Tetora: The length’s fine since they’re still gonna edit it…? Whadda relief...

Shinobu: I wonder what the finished product will look like~ I’m looking forward to the day this gets broadcasted… ♪

Nazuna: Edited... Hm? What’s up, Anzu?

The program’s producer praised my performance as the MC? I actually hadn’t given it that much thought, but I’m glad to hear it!

It’s probably thanks to my experience with leading Ra*bits and being part of the broadcasting committee ♪

...Hey, Anzu. Do you remember the “secret box” we couldn’t open during the program?

Yeah, that. We had no idea how to open it, so what’s inside is still a mystery. I wonder if they’ll still broadcast that part.

...I see. They’ll probably edit that part out.

That makes sense. Since we have never found out what was inside of the box, the audience will probably just be disappointed by it.

.... 

…Hey, Anzu. Do you think I could borrow the secret box for a while? 

There’s a professor at my university that’s familiar with traditional crafts. I can’t guarantee that they’ll be able to open it, but they might know something about this if I asked them.

Even if this won’t be broadcasted in the show, I’d still like to do something for the client who sent this to us.

Proofread by: nazunyan + ciel