#hehehe masked apple boi

[cherry-blossom-qf]

A mysterious masked apple-themed-warrior has appeared~🍏

(reuploaded cuz it was somehow marked as "mature")

[personallysunny]

MAJDHSJD. okay this willl be long so. also it‘s a bit goofy sometimes

Dream: Often portrayed as either very cutesy or very tired, usually a mix of both but with a mask of cutesy; ate the apple either for Nightmare or because he‘s too damn tired of everything but can uncorrupt and corrupt (usually) any time he wants (with excuses for drama); wears an eyepatch on left eye to avoid anyone seeing the corruption; depressed bean but hides it pretty well and the mainest ship is still cream

Ink: the saddest most pathetic wet eyes you‘ve ever seen; when trapped in white spaces he will die (like. become emotionless); there are two versions where he‘s cutesy and short or where he‘s the bad boy tall one

Blue: often portrayed as having a yandere side and for 20 people at the same time; eyes are blue stars unless provoked then they‘re red; carries knives around; occasionally seen wearing dresses/skirts

they are also often doing self/harm but that is covered up quite a lot so

I soo I so knwo see know it this hhhhhh sniljiqjlkjqlinzil hehehe :3

[maiji]

[alt text and transcript for images. Comic drawn in pen featuring the three demon generals Shachi, Hokushin, and Kirin from Yu Yu Hakusho in a corporate office-type AU. They are coworkers and wearing business suits. Kirin has a face mask instead of his original metal face covering design.]

S-Class Office Politics Panel 1 A hand gesturing at a line graph going up on a presentation. Shachi: And that's my projection for exceeding sales targets for this fiscal.

Panel 2 Shachi, Sales smugly adjusts the lapels of his suit. Behind him is the gaudy final visual of a 160-slide PowerPoint that reads "Thank you - any questions??????" with bouncing dollar sign animations and pie charts rotating at different speeds. Shachi: Brilliant work, I know.

Panel 3 Hokushin, Project Manager and Kirin, Data Analyst stare back at Shachi. They both look unimpressed at what they have just witnessed. Hokushin is taking notes while Kirin, who has a popped shirt collar and untied tie, sits very casually, an arm resting on his leg. Hokushin and Kirin: ……

Panel 4 Hokushin: …Thank you for the in-depth presentation, Shachi. Moving forward, if you could kindly reply to my emails with your status updates, that would be greatly appreciated- Kirin: Your calculations are bullshit.

Panel 5 Hokushin silently shifts his gaze to Kirin.

Panel 6 Closeup of Shachi glaring down.

Panel 7 Closeup of Kirin, bored and looking for a fight Kirin: The only numbers that make sense are the ones you ripped from my report. And your PPT looks like a 3-yr old put it together.

Panels 8-9 Closeups of an outraged Shachi and an impassive Kirin. Both of them have little line graphs under them labelled "Demon Energy" with rising values. Shachi: You wanna say that to my face, you 24/7 mask wearing freak?! Kirin: I am saying it to your face. At least I think the misshapen blob I'm staring at is your face.

Panel 10 Hokushin, still with the same stoic expression, holds out his hands to either side of him, making a "stop" gesture in front of Shachi and Kirin who are facing off. Hokushin: All right, let's take this conversation offline. I'll send out a status update and we'll touch base at the end of the-

Panel 11 Shachi jabs a finger at Hokushin Shachi: We are offline you smarmy glorified secretary, I'm sick of you and your smug PM jargon!!!

Panel 12 Shachi continues to rant, while Hokushin turns briefly to Kirin, happy to stoke the fire, makes unhelpful comments. Shachi: No one reads your long-winded emails anyways!!! Kirin: Yeah I don't read them either

Panels 13-14 Shachi snatches up Hokushin's pen from the table. Shachi: And who the hell still takes physical notes in meetings instead of using a laptop??!! With a lame overpriced fountain pen like some pretentious old granny to boot??!! He stabs the pen against the table, snapping the tip.

Panel 15 View from behind Shachi's head. Hokushin and Kirin look down at the broken pen.

Panel 16 Hokushin's gaze lifts back up to Shachi, while Kirin's gaze slides over to look at Hokushin.

Panel 17 A very angry Hokushin gets up, with a line graph of his demon energy shooting through his speech bubble and heading for the edge of the page. Hokushin: Oh my god you did not seriously just bend the 18K gold nib on my mother-of-pearl-inlaid fountain pen with apple blossom scented ink Kirin: clapping his hands with glee (oh boy this is gonna be good he he he he he)

Panel 18 Exterior view of explosion at an office building with office grunts standing around outside.

Panel 19: Some grunt: …looks like another senior team meeting broke out in a fight. Other grunt: Guess that's why it's called a breakout room.

---

Repostober commentary: Every so often I think of this comic and I chuckle to myself at my brilliance. Hehehe hahaha.

If you enjoyed my demon salaryman snark fantasy, you can read Hokushin and Kirin's post-series canon-compliant adventures (so sans Shachi, alas, if anyone cares) in The Enemy of My Enemy is My Coworker and The Left and Right Hand of the Emperor!!

Demon generals salaryman AU as described in this post.

Hokushin’s pen and ink combo definitely exists in real life in case anyone was interested. I thought about putting more effort into this but OH WELL lmao

I think the individual pages might be a bit long for tumblr because the resolution looks crappy on desktop, but if you view on my tumblr or in mobile (or click on the images individually) it should be OK.

[raiiningforever2ice]

Yandere!Light x Reader [Death Note]

Requested on Quotev: https://www.quotev.com/story/12466031/Oneshot-book

(Y/N)= Your Name

(Y/L/N)= Your Last Name

You walk out of school and start making your way home. You usually didn't take the bus since the distance was quite small. Whistling along to the time of a song you recently heard, you felt something cold on the top of your head. You stopped and looked up. The sky was now gray and it was drizzling.

Letting out a sigh, you search your bag for your umbrella only to realize you forgot to take it with you. That's when it started pouring, your hair and clothes immediately getting soaked.

"Ugh! Of all the things I could forget..." Seeing as you had no choice, you started running.

Now fully soaked, you approach the bus stop as you squeeze the water out of your hair. Standing under the cover something catches your attention from the corner of your eye. Looking towards the alleyway right next to you, you see something lying on the floor. Being the curious person that you are, you dismiss the bus closing up and go to find out what that was. 

"A notebook?" You squat down and take it. 

You flip through the pages in case you could find the name of the owner, but it was completely empty. You close it and notice big white letters on the cover.

"Death Note... What? Is this some kind of merch?"

"No. It is what it says it is." A gruff voice spoke out behind you.

Surprise painted on your face you turn around to face the person. The moment your eyes land on them, you let out a loud gasp, the mysterious notebook falling from your hands as they flew up to cover your mouth.

A large being, thin as a skeleton holding what looked like a scythe, a huge grin on its face which was almost fully covered by a grayish white mask. Black hair standing up from the top of its head defying the rules of gravity and bandages wrapping around its body.

"Now now deary, I suggest you don't get anyone's attention. Hehe after all, you're the only one who can see me. You wouldn't want people to think you're crazy huh?" It chuckled.

"W-who are you?!" 

"Oh me? Heh I'm Deridovely! A Shinigami, at your service.... or not! Heheh"

"Shinigami? They actually exist?" 

"As you can see! And you're the only one who can see!" The Shinigami burst out in full on laughter.

"W-why am I the only one? And what is this notebook?" You questioned.

"Well you touched my Death Note! The moment you did, I became visible to you alone! As for the book... I did tell you, it is what it says." The grin on its face widened more if possible.

Confused and a bit annoyed that you still didn't get the full truth, you open the book again. This time you notice on the inside of the cover what seemed to be a list. Scanning your eyes over it, you quickly come to realize that in front of you are a set of rules on how to properly use the Death Note.

"I can...kill with this?" You whispered as the Shinigami smirked.

Afraid of the power this notebook holds, after taking one last look at Deridovely you place it in your bag, determination now evident in your eyes. You once again started making your way home, the Shinigami trailing close behind you and chuckling. 

...

About a month has passed, and you managed to use the Death Note without making anyone suspicious. You used it to kill only the worst of criminals. Deridovely had taken a liking to calling you the 'Timid assassin' as you always refused his suggestions of going a bit more wild with the power he had given you. You refused to toy with people's lives unless they truly deserved it.

"Did you know that another Death Note was dropped in this world?"

Not taking your eyes off your homework you motioned for Deridovely to continue.

"Hehe apparently a boy your age has found it. Said something about being 'Justice' and 'God of the new world'. Seems like a reach heh?" The creature who you had come to be somewhat of a friend to you cackled.

"God of the new world? Yeah, it does sound a bit weird... Doesn't he sound dangerous?"

"Hmm how so?"

"I mean, a new world? That’s a big promise. What is he planing to do?"

"Hehe from what Ryuk tells me, this boy is you but in a nutshell, as you humans like to say."

"So, killing criminals?" You asked throwing an apple his way.

The God of death who had become kind of addicted to them, quickly caught it and devoured the fruit in one bite letting out a sigh of satisfaction.

"Well, yes. But he said that he won't hesitate killing anyone who dares to cross him."

"Hm... I don't really like this… Who is he anyway? Though I have a few suspicions..."

"You do?"

"Well yes... This one boy from my class. He's been acting really weird lately. I don't think he noticed but a few days ago I caught him mumbling to himself something about checking out the news for any new criminals and that all of them deserve death... Do you think it's him?"

"That, I can't tell you deary!"

"I'll buy you as many apples as you want!"

"Tempting, but no!"

"Oh come-" you were interrupted by your mother's voice coming from the living room.

Confused, you exit your room and make your way over to her. She was standing in front of the TV, hand up to her mouth as her widened eyes stared at the screen.

"Mom?" You looked at the television and gasped.

Criminals being reported dead, one after the other across the whole country. 

"That must be him. Heh he's going crazy with that book isn't he?" Deridovely chimed from next to you.

Your mom, unaware of the third presence in the room, clicked her tongue in semi-annoyance.

"I can't believe this!" she exclaimed "How is that even possible? Every criminal just...just drops dead!" 

"Yeah... Weird." you mumbled and went back to your room. 

As you walk in you notice your phone lighting up with a notification. Seeing that it was a text from an unknown number you decide to find out who that person is. 

'Hello...who is this?' 

'I'm Yagami Light. I found your number from one of our classmates. There's something important I have to tell you.' 

'Oh! Hello. What would you like to tell me?' 

'I need you to come over to my house. It's important.'

'Is everything okay? When would you like to meet?' You bite on your nail in anticipation as Deridovely peers above your shoulder and chuckles. 

"What are you laughing at?" You turn around and glare at the Shinigami. 

"At your face hehe. Your feelings for this boy are very obvious with how red your cheeks are hehe!"

"No more apples for you." You hold back a laugh as Deridovely dramatically falls down to the floor. 

"You're cruel!" 

"Not really!" You giggle but get interrupted as another message pops up on your phone screen. 

'It's very urgent so, when the rain clears up a little. Is that okay with you?' You gulp staring at the text for a moment before you respond.

'Okay sure. Could you send me your address?'

"So, you're going?" 

"Well yes, he said it's important so..." 

"And if it is a trap?"

"Aw Deri! That's why you're coming with me!" 

"As much as I don't hate you and love the apples you give me, you know I can't kill someone who's not supposed to die yet. Right?" He said tilting his head to the side.

His sudden seriousness surprising you, you stop gathering your things, you hide your Death Note well, making sure your mother won't see it and look at him.

"Of course I do. And I don't want you to. But, if needed you can get us out of there somehow right? Make a distraction or something?" 

"What a prankster you've become! Of course I can hehe!" 

"Great then!" You smile and toss another apple at your bizarre friend. 

As time passed and the weather got better, you got less and less determined about your visit. 

After all it isn't very encouraging knowing that you may be walking right into a serial killer's hiding spot...

...

You thank Light's mother as she takes your jacket and umbrella from you. Giving you a sweet smile, she guided you to her son's room. You thanked her once again and walked up the stairs with the Shinigami following behind you. 

You clear your throat as you knock on his door. He immediately opened and greeted you with a huge grin. 

"(Y/N)! Thank you for coming! Step inside!" He moved to the side to let you in. 

"Thank you, Light." You said sitting on his desk chair as he motioned you to. 

As he goes to sit on his bed, you hear Deri speak. 

"Well Ryuk I wasnt expecting you to be here!" 

Discreetly looking towards him you quickly realize that Ryuk must be the other Shinigami Deri mentioned earlier.

So that means-

"(Y/N). I wanted to tell you that I know what you are." Light walks up to his desk and grabs a notebook which was hidden among his homework. 

"And I...am Kira." 

"W-what... What are you talking about, Light?" Your grip on your bag gets tighter as he got closer to you. 

"You know exactly what I'm saying. One day, as you were walking home I noticed you talking to yourself... At least that's what it looked like to others. But I, being in the same boat as you, knew better." He towers over you, his breath fanning on your face.

"I've had the book for a while now. And I was as discreet as you were while using it. But I couldn't just tell you I knew the truth. No, I had to make you suspicious before just confirming it. So you see, me returning all those lingering glances to you during class isn't just because I like you as much as you like me..." His face gets even closer to yours. 

"T-then what else?" You ask completely disregarding the mutual confession of feelings. 

"Well... I want us to be rulers of the new world. God and Goddess of a clean, rid of crime place... And all it takes is me being yours and well, you being mine." He whispered and placed his lips upon your in a slow kiss. 

Pulling back, he brought the Death Note up to eye level. 

"This right here, will be both our weapon and shield as we fight crime on our way to true salvation. We are this world's hope!" He said, opening his arms as in to lure you and hold you in them. 

"I've killed so many people to stand here in front you. To be worthy of you! And I will kill many more to protect us. To protect you. So please consider this!" He grabs both of your hands and stares in to your eyes. 

Dizzied by his kiss and very passionate speech, you gulp down the lump stuck in your throat. He sounded... Crazy. Obsessed. Obsessed with power and obsessed with you. 

But how can I say yes to this? This is completely nuts! 

Knowing you have to say something, you took a deep breath thinking over your words.

"Light I-" You were interrupted by a loud knock in the door.

You both stepped away from each other as his mom looked apologetically at you two.

"I'm very sorry but something important has come up. We need to go visit your father at the hospital." 

"Mother! What happened?" Light asked and walked towards her.

"Well he collapsed during work. It's not bad, he probably overly exerted himself again but they took him in just in case. We should go see him..." 

"Yes-yes right away." He grabs his jacket and hands you your bag which had fallen to the ground. 

You quickly thank him as you all go downstairs. Grabbing the rest of your things, you say goodbye to Light's mother and head to the door. 

"(Y/N)." Light stops you. 

He comes up to you and leans down just a bit to whisper to your ear. 

"I'd do everything for us to be together. Everything... Now be safe on the way back!" He grins at you. 

"Y-yes right... Goodnight Light." 

Walking away from Light's house, you feel the presence of your Shinigami companion next to you. 

"Where did you ran off to Deri?" 

"Well hehe I had to make a distraction for you, right?" 

"Wh-what! Deri!" 

"Well deary don't you worry. I just made that brat's father feel a bit under the weather. He will better after some good sleep!" 

Sighing in relief you smile in his direction. 

"Well, thank you! You really helped me back there..."

"So what are you gonna do now? Will you accept?"

"I don't think so... It's too intense for me..."

"Sound choice deary!"

"I hope so... Hey that grocery store is still open! Let's get you some apples!" You laugh and run towards the market, the Shinigami rushing excitedly after you.

[dolphin-enthusiast]

a lovely evening to you, darling~!! 🌺💗✨

i hope you are well love!! i've seen that you've written a bit lately, that's wonderful! keep working hard for me my dear, but also remember to allow yourself breaks and time to rest when you need it! 💞

oh my darling, why do you have to be so sweet??? you seem to find everything about me cute and pleasant, it genuinely surprises me!! i never thought i could be so likeable,, it feels amazing to know that someone actually thinks all of that! ah, i really don't deserve you, do i? i'll just have to make up for that with sweet remarks of my own, hm~? 😘

ah, and that good day quinn talked about?? well, my mamma surprised me yesterday with a secret beach trip!! my family hasn't gone anywhere all summer due to the pandemic, so i was really excited, especially since my mom and i love the beach so much! we brought our masks of course, and took a 2 hour drive over!

i got to sunbathe and jump waves and mess around with my siblings in the water, it was very fun,, the only not-so-fun part was when my sister was trying to take photos of me, and this group of guys started to catcall me,,, luckily my dad stomped over, and one glare from him sent them running hehe, he can be very scary when he wants to 💫

for a good chunk of time, my sister and i had fun in the shallower parts of the water, trying to find baby clams! there was a ton, and some swam up to my hand when i held it underwater!! we also found a little sea snail and a hermit crab, they were all so so cute!! i named the snail salato, and the crab pizzico, italian for salty and pinch 🌺 it was sad when we had to leave them, but i hope they're doing fine in the ocean! ✨

we went to dinner at this nice italian restaurant, and my papa secretly ordered a glass of schiava wine for me behind my mother's back hehehe!!! but goodness, that restaurant had the most lovely pomelo tart, i wish i could've ordered a second one to bring home with me,, i guess i'll just have to find a recipie! 🌠

after dinner, we all went to an amusement park on the boardwalk!! we went on all sorts of rides, and i even faced my fear of rollercoasters by going on a really scary one with my twin!!! i didn't like that one since it was too intense for me, but we went on some less intense ones which i did end up enjoying!! ahhh it was so nice!

i also got to go on my favorite ride a few times, which is this giant thing with swings attached, and lifts you really high into the air and spins around,, it feels like flying almost! oh my, what i would give to go on it with you 💗

there were these three people in the park,, one boy tried to get me to ride on a coaster with him, another one gave me his coat when i was shivering, and this girl tried to win one of those gigantic teddy bear plushies for me??? ahhh it was really flustering, i don't understand why they were being so nice to me, a total stranger, but i was really flattered about it 😖💕

when we started to head back to our car, we stopped to get a snack, and i got to have a caramel apple,, oh gosh i hadn't had one in so long, it was so good!! i also had some ice cream, and my sister tried to take a photo of me when i got a bit on my nose hehehe 😊

i ended the night dancing to some old music outside with my father, and we even got to dance the tarantella!! my mom joined us too, and she's not a big dancer at all! it was quite a lovely day, i wouldn't trade it for the world 🌹

well, it's getting late now, and school starts tomorrow for me :( that will probably bring some changes of writing time/frequency for me, but i'll know that i'll make it work!! i'll have to anyway, since i know writing you will help me pull through this school year 💖💖💖 with that, goodnight and sweet dreams caro!! i'll see you tomorrow! 💋

- love from the moon and back, your waifu xoxo 💋💌🌹💓✨

ps: oh stars, the only thing that would've made the day better is if you were there dolcezza, it would be lovely if we could share some drinks and enjoy the sea breeze at night 💘

(here's some photos, as a treat!!)

[keyenuta]

TW One-Shot: The Spider and Snow White

Context: for the psst few days, me and a few friends began joking about a Crack ship between two-faced!Neige and Anansi. And just like usual, my shipping but actually began to like the idea of the ship. So here's a one shot about it, hope y'all like it!

Laughter echoed throughout the white gold room as Neige and Anansi interacted with the chat. Teasing and playfully flirting with Neige's fans as the pair didn't exclude the other in this either. In slight jabs, and quick teases, the two little shits teased and messed with the other. A slight poke here, a tickle there, and haughty look there were each thrown back and forth. But both parties knew they couldn't go too far, it was the internet after all. And after a while, suddenly a bright blare of snow white's hum blasted from the laptop as Neige ooed at the donation.

"Ah, thank you so much for the 50 madool Donation Skele-mom67, it truly means the world to me~ heheh" Neige gave a closed eyes smile as a rush of "awwwws" filled the chat, while snickering Anansi poked Neige's cheeks, shifting a playful look at the prince beside him as he finished the message, giving the chat a faux valley girl accent.

"Hey Neige~ love your work, you're sooo, adorable, but I was wondering could you and your "prince" sing a song together? Againthsbkyiusomuch" giving a friendly smile to the camera, Neige swatted Anansi's hands from his cheeks as he giggled

"Heheh, well thank you for calling me adorable dear, it's very appreciated. And as for a song, hmm, that sounds fun, what do you think Nansi?" Quipped the prince, to the resting spider, gifting the camera a fanged smirk, Anansi shrugged

"Sure I'm up for it, although~" he sang leaning forward winking to the chat, Anansi held a hand next to his mouth as he loudly whispered "I don't think Neige could handle it, ya know all the flirting would keep him from finishing the song dearie" at the whispers, Neige pouted as soon it transferred into a sharp smirk only Anansi could see, as in moments Neige whispered into Anansi's ear in a sly tone.

"I bet i'd get you to blush before i do, little spider~" he teased sweetly

"Oh-ho? Try me dough boy, give me all ya got~ but don't complain if you're in this "lil' spiders" web again~"

"Heheh, oh i doubt I will, hope you enjoy being number 2 dear~"

"Careful princey, fly too close to web and you'll get caught. But sure, let's go!"

Reaching into his pocket, Anansi took out a "borrowed" black-blue phone and played a karaoke version of the song as the chat began to blow up in hype.

Song

Chuckling and bobbing his head to the music, Anansi's red orbs closed, while moments later, a silky melody escaped his pursed lips "Oohh~dada-oh-da-oohh," a creak sounded as Neige leant forward in his chair, he knew the spider could song, but still, each time that melody soared, he felt a chill down his spine, his little spider wasn't going to make this an easy bet hm? He thought, and right as that thought echoed, a feathery touch brought him from his mind. The hand, although coarse, held so much warmth, and with them both being in camera, he had to give his fans a show.

So leaning into the hand, Neige fluttered his eyes shyly, watching the comments go crazy with excitement as Nancy continued on, getting closer and closer with every verse,

"The very first time that I saw your brown eyes~" lifting up his head, Neige went with the song, and gazed lovingly at Anansi, ready to see just what his prince had in store for him. And just like that, the gap between the was closed on seconds, as the spider leant forward. Touching their heads together, slick black locks met kinky dreads as the heat between the two filled the small gap as the lyrics drifted on,

"your lips said "hello," and I said "Hi"~ I knew right then you were the one~ " at this, the actor felt their lips brush with every lyric, and despite all this, Neige hid his smirk and teased the spider with an eye roll. Tell me that's not all you have dear~ his eyes said, but in a second a rapid verse dissipated that tease

"But I was caught up!" Rapidly, Anansi yanked the prince towards him, twirling him to rest his back against the spider, while his drifted across his jaw, while Anansi smirked against his ear, his fangs tickling his love while the melody continued, as once more, Neige went with the music. Leaning his head back, gifting the spider an easier angle as the two gazed at the fans in the chat, exploding and typing frantically with energy, only fueling them both even more. "In physical attraction~"

"Oooh~" hummed Neige

"But to my satisfaction~" meeting Neige's face, the two leant forward once more, both smiling as the song continued on as Nancy turned up Neige's chin, only for the actor to whisper "well, aren't you handsy today, my prince~" as Nansi replied

"but, baby you were more than just a face~ And if I e-(N:ever) fall in love" now straddling Anansi, Neige and him sang together, Anansi's baritone intertwined with Neige's tenor in a beautiful vibrato

Duet: Again~

Anansi: I will be sure that, the lady is a friend~

Anansi: And if I eeee-

Neige: (ever fall)

Anansi: in love again~ I will be sure that the lady is a friend(x2)

As the chorus reached its last notes, Anansi couldn't shake the pater in his chest, nor could he get rid of the wide grin he got from the last verse

Anansi: and if I ever fall in love so true~, I will be sure that, the lady's just like you~

As the words left his mouth a scarlet eyes met brown, and for the briefest of moments. Despite the teasing grins and the grounds of the bet, Neige and Anansi both felt a spark that usually only showed up behind closed doors when their masks are off. But with the show having to continue, Neige used this spark, and truthfully smiled lovingly at Anansi, cupping his brown face in his pale hands, giving his prince a truly loving smile as Anansi finished his last verse, wrapping his arms around Neige's waist, gifting him the same.

"I swear that next time, they'll be~ a friend" the note drew out like a whisper on a breeze, as if it was a real promise. Nodding to his words, Neige took in a breath, nearly singing in a whisper as he rested his head against Anansi, as his rosey lips parted into,

"If I said that I, can be your one and only~" gulping, Neige sang "promise that you'll never leave me lonely~ I just wanna be the one you need" as the sound vibrated, Neige rested his arms in Anansi's neck as the spider mutters something illegible. But what was easy to see, with a smile gracing his lips. Neige kept on, "I just wanna be the one who serve- (A:serves you~) and now once again, their voices melded together in a fusion of want and emotion. As now, despite themselves, through this song, it was as if the two spilled their hearts to one another with every note

Duet: Sometimes i feel as if I don't deserve you~

Closing his eyes, Neige kept going, leaning even more against the spider, their chests meeting as he sang out, nearly kissing Anansi with how close they were, a scent of apples and spice wafted between the two as their heads rested together.

Neige: I Cherish every that we share~ And if I e-(A: Ever fall) In love again~ I will be sure that, the lady is, a frieeend!" As Neige held out the note, every E flowed up an octave, cascading down Anansi's back like a waterfall, gifting him a chill this time, but As well, the spider also viewed it as a challenge, amd so, knowing what notes came next, he prepared his voice for what was to come. Lightly pushing Neige away, the two continued to sing.

Neige: and if I e-(A: Ever fall) In love, so true~ I will be sure that(sure that) The lady(the lady's) like you~

As Neige sang, a low "my friend" raised up more and more, every lyric that Neige sang, the louder and higher, and longer the note became. The second my friend eclipsed the first, and after that, Anansi got so high, he approached the limit of a baritone, and with the final my friend, he let it run out, no longer able to keep it going that high for so long, as in the chat, and as well in Neige's eyes, there was a look of shock at those notes, as now, all that was left to do was ride the song out.

And as the lyrics reached their ends, but by bit, both of the students got closer once more, until their voices were nothing but a whisper, as finally their lips once again brushed together, and with one peak to the chat, both saw one message that flooded the stream.

"KISS!" and so, not wanting to disappoint their viewers, and sealing each of their promises, the two students kissed, as both their faces burnt bright red. Seems like this bet was a draw after all.

[prism-rush]

King of Prism Road to Shiny Seven Stars 2 Main Story translation

Good Afternoon! The Steamy Hot Spring Tag Battle

Since this is the second event in the Road to SSS series, you may want to read the first one if you haven’t yet:

Road to SSS 1 Main Story

Translators Notes: You also may want to watch episode 39 of Rainbow Live if you haven’t yet. (Even if you’ve never seen Rainbow Live before. Just watch it anyway trust me ahah.) I LOVE this event. Nothing happens in it. Haha no that’s not true. This event actually sets up the plot for the entire Road to SSS series of events. But before and after that it’s just a bunch of connecting scenes of the boys being boys. And that amazing ending!! It’s classic and even funnier than I remembered it being. This event is the kind of filler I could only dream of being able to see in the anime someday. Oh, and rock/paper (without scissors) is a way of making teams. That wasn’t a typo ahah.

(One morning, at the Edel Rose dorm…)

Leo: *yawn* Huh… it’s not even 5 am yet…? 

(This keeps happening again and again lately. At first I was happy to think that maybe I’ve become a morning person.) 

But waking up before my alarm goes off every morning has been making me feel tired during the day… Ohh.. And since I haven’t been sleeping well it’s been drying out my skin. 

(Oh! Now that I think of it, I saw a special in a magazine about skin problems! It was called… Chronic Skin Trouble! Beware the Turning Point…) 

C-Could it be!? No, No… it can’t be… I’m sure… probably… maybe…. 

O-Okay! Since I’m up anyway, I think I’ll go for a walk.

(Outside)

Yukinojo: Oh…? It looks kind of sickly… 

But I suppose as its caregiver that’s my own fault…

Leo: Yuki-sama! Good morning. You’re up early.

Yukinojo: Leo. Good morning. You too.

Leo: I just woke up on my own for some reason. I haven’t been sleeping well lately…

Yukinojo: I see… Things have been hectic with the new school year. Maybe you built up some stress without realizing it?

Leo: Now that you mention it… I think you may be right, Yuki-sama. Are you tending to your bonsai tree?

Yukinojo: Yes. However, it’s not going too well. But I guess a bonsai can’t be built in a day…

Leo: ….? 

(I don’t really know what he’s getting at, but Yuki-sama sure seems unhappy.) 

Don’t worry! I’m sure Mr. Bonsai Tree will come to understand how much you care about him.

Yukinojo: Leo… Heheh, thank you.

Leo: N-No problem. It was nothing.

Minato: ~ ♪ Yup, almost time for harvest.

Leo: Minato-san! Good morning!

Minato: Saionji? Good morning. You’ve been waking up early recently.

Leo: Yeah, I have. For some reason I just can’t sleep well… *yawn*

Minato: If that’s the case then I’ll whip you up some black tea with freshly picked herbs! That will wake you right up.

Leo: Wow, this turned into my lucky morning! Thank you so much!

Minato: I’ll start making breakfast as soon as I’m done watering the garden.

Leo: Yay!

(Inside)

Kakeru: Hmmm… as usual the price of oil is high…. If the price of materials keeps rising it will drive up the price of commodities… Someone has got to do something before it’s too late….

Leo: (Wow…! Kakeru looks so serious when he’s reading the paper in the morning!)

Kakeru: Hm? What is it, Leo-kyun? If you keep staring at me with those pretty doe eyes of yours, you’re gonna make me blush ♪

Leo: Oh, I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to stare!

Kakeru: It’s no biggie. Would you like a glass, Leo-kyun? It’s veggie juice. They say a morning’s dose of vitamin C is good for your skin…

Leo: I’ll take it!

Kakeru: …Slow down there. Are you feeling a little sleepy? It looks like you’re starting to get bags under your eyes–

Leo: WAH! D… Don’t look…!

Taiga: …….

Kakeru: Hm? Was that…

Leo & Kakeru: Taiga-kun!? / The delinquent!

Kakeru: He’s always the one who sleeps in the latest. What’s he doing up so early? I smell something fishy….

Leo: And carrying such a big bag with him… He’s not just going out for a walk, is he….

Taiga: ….. *glances left and right*

*tip toe, tip toe*

Kakeru: Leo-kyun, what are you doing?

Leo: Ah! (I automatically hid myself like I was doing something sneaky!)

Taiga: ….Okay. I’m not forgetting anything am I?

(At around the same time, in the mountains somewhere)

Louis: Wow, look! All the green scenery is so beautiful!

Alexander: Yo. Louis Kisaragi. I’m gonna take a nap. So wake me up when we get there. Got it?

Louis: Hey, Alec-kun. What kind of a job do we have today again?

Alexander: Whaa? You forgot?

Louis: Eheh. Just kidding. I’m looking forward to the event today.

Alexander: ….. As usual I have no idea what’s going on in that head of yours.

Staff: Louis-san, Alec-san, we’ve almost arrived!

Alexander: Zzz….

Louis: Alec-kun, time to wake up. We’re getting close.

Alexander: …O.. Oh yeah… Hm? That mountain….

Louis: …Is that steam rising up?

Staff: Yes! This area is famous for hot springs!

Louis: Hot springs….

(Meanwhile…)

Kouji: Are you two ready?

Kazuki: All set! Hiro, don’t forget anything.

Hiro: Wait a sec, Kazuki. Why are you only telling me that.

Kouji: Ahah. It’s a little exciting to think the three of us are actually going on a road trip.

Kazuki: Haha that’s right. And this time we’re headed to…

Hiro: Ohoho. Well let’s get on the road already. To that oh so familiar place… 

The Rainbow Hot Springs!

(Back at Edel Rose)

Taiga: (The waterfall where Kazuki-san did his training… If I go there, then maybe I too…) 

I don’t have much money on hand. But as long as I can stay on the bus for as long as possible I should be able to get there somehow. 

And I’ll make up the difference with walking. Determinated walking! 

Kazuki-san! You’ll see! Someday I’ll catch up to you.. and then… I’ll overcome you!!

Leo: Hmm hmm hmm….

Kakeru: Leo, what’s wrong? You keep pacing back and forth.

Leo: There’s gotta be something going on with Taiga-kun! I just know he’s hiding something!

Shin: Kakeru-san, Leo-kun, good morning! *yawn*…

Yu: *yaaawn* Is breakfast ready yet…?

Kakeru: Shh! Be quiet you two!

Shin & Yu: ???

Leo: Could it be that Taiga-kun… is running away from Edel Rose!?

Kakeru: Running away!?

Shin: WHAAAT!? Taiga-kun is running away!? Since when did that happen!?

Yu: *yaaaawn* ..... Who’s running away?

Leo: Anyway, we have to stop him!!

(Concerned with Taiga’s suspicious behavior, the group secretly followed him…)

Yukinojo: A bus terminal… It seems whatever he’s sought out to do, he won’t be sticking around here…

Shin: But it doesn’t look like he’s getting on a bus to Aomori…

Minato: So he’s not going back home then.

Leo: C-Could it be he doesn’t want to be around us anymore…?

Kakeru: No, I doubt that…

Yu: I’m hungryyyy.

Yukinojo: Oh. It looks like he’s getting on a bus for Hida.

Leo: After him! Quickly!!

*sneaky sneaking*

Yu: Hey. If we get on the same bus as him he’s bound to see us.

Shin: W-We have to think fast or we’re gonna miss it!

Yukinojo: Okay then. Let’s use these old newspapers!

Leo: Mask your face!

Kakeru: Whatever you say… This is starting to get kinda fun.

(A few minutes later)

Taiga: *snoring*

Minato: He fell right asleep as soon as he got on the bus. It must have been tough getting up so early for him.

Yu: ….. We’re practically right next to him. How is it he still hasn’t noticed….

Kakeru: Out delinquent has got his cat-like “anti-social shield” blocking out the world around him running at full capacity ♪

Yu: …..

Shin: B-But anyway, it’s a good thing we were able to get away with this without being noticed.

Leo: I wonder how far he’s really planning on going…

Minato: We’ve really been riding for a good while now…

Kakeru: It’s been maybe about five hours.

Yu: I’m starving you guys.

Shin: Where are we headed to? I’ve never seen this place before…

Taiga: *snore* *sn…* …Ah! (Oh crap! I’m gonna miss my stop!)

Leo: Oh, Taiga’s up! He woke up and it looks like he’s getting off the bus!

Shin: This is…

Leo: Rainbow Hot Springs….?

Yukinojo: Hot springs! How excellent!!

Leo: I guess Taiga’s just coming for a bath….?

Minato: Secretly in the mountains, by himself…?

Bus driver: Everyone off who’s getting off! Door closing…

Yu: Hey hey hey we have to get off the bus too!

Kakeru: Hold up!

Leo: W… Wait for us!

Yukinojo: Leo, stop pushing me–

Minato: Ah, Tachibana now you’re pushing me–

*THUMPTHUMPTHUMP*

Shin: AHH no we’re falli–!

Everyone: …Ouch….

Taiga: ….Oh?

Everyone: ……Oh.

Taiga: What are you guys doing here!?

Leo: Taiga-kun! How terrible of you to abandon us all without saying a word!!

Taiga: WHA!?

Minato: Kougami! If something is troubling you, just talk and we’ll listen!

Kakeru: And if you’re looking for hot springs, I could recommend a way better place than this dump!

Taiga: ….What are you guys even talking about….

Shin: Um… well… see we were all worried about you running away from home and…

Taiga: Huh?

Everyone: (Ah, he said it!)

Taiga: Um, guys. I have no particular reason to run away.

Kakeru: Called it!  

Yu: So it was all Leo’s misunderstanding?

Leo: B… But! Then what were you doing sneaking out so early in the morning?!

Taiga: Uh. About that…

Leo: About what?

Taiga: Well… the truth is… 

………..

Everyone: …….?

Kakeru: Oh ho! Taiga-kyun is turning red!

Minato: Just like a bright red apple!

Yukinojo: Do you have a fever?

*touch*

Leo: W-W-Woah! He’s burning up!

Shin: Ahhh! We need to call a doctor!

Taiga: LAY! OFF!!!

Yu: Look, he’s got plenty of energy. So what’s the deal? You must have some sort of reason for coming this far out into the mountains.

Taiga: Yeah. 

T…. This is the place where Kazuki did his training for the Prism King Cup….

Leo: Wow! So you heard about this place from Kazuki-san?

Taiga: …No, I just heard a rumor about it… So I decided I would try training here too.

Leo: So that’s it… Ahh! But you gave me such a fright! Sorry we all jumped to conclusions….

Taiga: It’s fine… Don’t sweat it.

Leo: But now we’ve all selfishly tagged along behind you and gotten in your way…

Kakeru: Leo-kyun, calm down. What Taiga really meant was “Thanks so much for worrying about me!” So no worries ♪

Taiga: ….Nobody asked you.

Yukinojo: But if you only had told us you were going to a hot spring, I could have brought my personal toiletries….

Kakeru: Yuki-chan, that’s what you’re upset about?

Minato: Well, well. Since we’re all here anyway, how about we all have a dip?

Yu: As long as we can get some food already!

(Inside)

Shin: Wow…! This is… 

A five star hotel?

Yu: It does say that. The sign does. …Just the sign.

Yukinojo: Five… star… hotel…

Minato: The walls have cracks…

Taiga: ……

Kakeru: Oh my. It seems “Five Star” is just the name….

Leo: Ahah… But it’s kind of a delightfully mysterious place, isn’t it. This is fun.

(Despite their many concerns and various questions, the boys put away their luggage and headed to the hot springs…)

Minato: Wow… So Kazuki-san did his training way out here, huh?

Kakeru: Ahah. Check out at the seven kappa statues. They’re really funny-looking!

???: Good afternoon, everyone!

Shin: Huh? That voice…. !? Hiro-san!!

Kazuki: Woah, how’d you end up all the way out here, Taiga? You sure came a long way!

Taiga: KAZUKI-SAN!!!

Kouji: Look time, no see everyone.

Minato: Kouji-san! You too?

Yu: Whaaa!? What are you guys doing here…

Hiro: We came in when we heard some familiar voices. Eheh. How’s the water?

Kakeru: To think we’d run into all three members of Over the Rainbow in a place like this…

Taiga: Kazuki-san, why are you all here?!

Kazuki: Um. Uh yeah, about that…

Taiga: About what…?

Kazuki: Well, um, the thing is… Kouji and Hiro said they just really really wanted to see the place where I did my training! Ahahah!

Shin: …….

Yukinojo: …….

Leo: …….

Minato: …….. ?

Yu: …….

Taiga: Something’s off….

Kakeru: (…They’re hiding something.)

Hiro: Oh come on now. Let’s not harp on the details and just enjoy the bath together! …Ahhh… this place is just like I remember it. It hasn’t changed a bit.

Kouji: But we sure have. Things weren’t quite so relaxing the last time we were here.

Hiro: Ahaha… those old times…

Kazuki: Yeah! And to think that the three of us would find ourselves back here again! And that we’d come all the way here by Kouji’s car!

Everyone: Car?!

Yu: What?! Since when did you have time to get your license?!

Kouji: The genius songwriter Kouji Mihama doesn’t need to take a driving test more than once. ♪

Yu: Hmph! I could get a license easy-peasy. I could get one right now if I wanted to.

Minato: Oh… I’m sorry. Could it be the three of you actually came here to spend some quality time alone….?

Hiro: Well, that was the plan. But a hot spring with our beloved underclassmen is even more fun!

Kouji: That’s right. There’s nothing like getting naked to bring everyone closer together!

Kazuki: We haven’t all gotten together like this since Shin and Taiga’s entrance ceremony. Let’s take this opportunity to have a good time together!

Everyone: All right!

(Later)

Minato: Phew… That hot spring sure hit the spot.

Leo: There’s rainbow face lotion! “Make your skin shine in seven colors!” What does that do… !?

*clink, clank, clink, clank*

Yukinojo: Oh…!

*clink, clank, clink, clank*

Taiga: ……

Kakeru: Chan-Yuki, that massage chair is sure making some ominous sounds…!

Yukinojo: Hm? Yeah. But it feels so good. I’ll let you use it next.

Kakeru: Thanks, but no thanks. I’ll pass ��

Yu: *gulp, gulp* ….Ah! There’s nothin’ like milk after a hot bath!

Kazuki: You bet! Fresh, chilled milk from a glass bottle is the best! Taiga, you want some?

Taiga: Okay! *gulp, gulp*

Kazuki: Hey, slow down! If you chug it all in one go you’ll choke!

Shin: Ah, Yu! Hold on a sec, you have kind of a milk mustache going on….

Yu: S.. Stop it! I can take care of it myself!

Kouji/Hiro: *smiling like idiots*

Shin: There, I got it!

Yu: …..Hey. What are you guys looking at?

Hiro: Huh? Kouji did you see something?

Kouji: Nothing, nothing. How about you?

Yu: Grrrr…. I can’t stand you guys.

Kazuki: ….Oh, it’s almost time. Where’s the remote control… Ah, here it is.

*click*

Shin: …..A press conference?

Tanaka (on TV): Tanaka.

Shin: Oh! I remember that guy from the Prism King Cup….!

Hiro: Ah, the announcement is finally starting! His opening statement just now  was so gracious and dignified.

Shin: Huh? (What opening statement… was that it…? But I thought all he said was his name…?)

Tanaka: Tanaka!

Over the Rainbow: WHAT?!

Tanaka: Tanaka….!

Kazuki: A street style….

Tanaka: Tanaka.

Hiro: Duo tournament….

Tanaka: TA-NA-KA!

Kouji: Is about to be held!

Everyone: WHAAAAAAT?!

Shin: How can you tell?!

Hiro: Everyone here’s going to participate, right?

Kazuki: Picking who your duo partner will be is gonna be really important!

Kouji: I wonder who we’ll all end up with.

Everyone: H… Huh….

Taiga: (A street-style duo tournament….) U.. Um… Kazuki-san… who are you gonna partner with…?

Kazuki: Me? I… uh… *side glance*

Hiro: Heheh. This sounds fun.

Kazuki: ….I haven’t decided yet. There’s still a lot to consider before making that decision.

Taiga: …Oh… I see.

Shin: Hiro-san, you’ll partner with Kouji-san right?

Hiro: Me… No, not me. I’m the definitive idol. So street-style is, well… It’s important for me to keep up my image.

Yu: Hah! If you’re scared of the competition, just say so!

Hiro: ….!!

Shin: I wonder who I could partner with….

Taiga: Hpmh. Well, whoever I end up pairing with, I’ll be aiming to win.

Yu: Don’t forget about me! When I get under those big lights, you’ll all know… the power of Zeus!

Yukinojo: Street-style, huh… (This is a field I never thought my path would cross through. But this may be a good opportunity to break out of my shell.)

Kakeru: It looks like everyone’s rearing for a fight!

Minato: Oh yeah, what about you Kazuo?

Kakeru: ……. Well, it doesn’t really matter much to me. ♪ Oh! What about you, chan-Leo?

Leo: M-me?

I’d love to join. But I don’t think anyone would stand a chance at winning with a partner like me…

Kouji: There’s still a lot of time to think things over before the tournament.

Hiro: Yes indeed. It’s not like all of us are forced to participate.

Kazuki: …….

TV: And this concludes the announcement by President Tanaka. Next up is the evening news….

Kazuki: Well, since the announcement is over, shall we go?

Kouji: Ah, that’s right.

Taiga: Kazuki-san, go where…?

(Later)

Kazuki: Okay, we’re here!

Taiga: This is… the waterfall where Kazuki-san did his training…!

*POUR*

Taiga: …Yikes! Kazuki-san, you actually trained under this ferocious downpour!?

???: HUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

Kouji: Hm? There’s someone there?

Shin: Alexander-kun!?

Kazuki: Ohhh! Look at him go!

Alexander: Wha? That voice… Pfft. Him again. How dare he just appear out of nowhere whenever he feels like it. Well, whatever. Right now I need to keep total concentration.

HUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!!

Yukinojo: That primitive roar could nearly part the waterfall…

Yu: What an amazing aura…

Kazuki: Alec will be in the duo tournament for sure… Now I’m really looking forward to it.

Leo: (As I thought… Something like that would probably be impossible for me…)

Taiga: Hmph. He’s got nothin’ on me. I’m not gonna lose to the likes of him!

Hiro: …..

Kakeru: Hiro-san?

Hiro: …Eheh. He’s really something else. That Alec.

Kouji: (Hiro…)

Kazuki: ……

*grumble*

Kakeru: Oh?

Minato: S-Sorry, that was me….

Kouji: Hehe. No need to apologize. That’s our signal it’s time for dinner, isn’t it?

Hiro: Indeed. I think it’s about time we headed back to the hotel.

(And so they returned to find a very colorful meal waiting for them…)

Minato: These are some ingredients I’ve never seen before. What’s this…?

Kouji: Apparently it’s local vegetable from the mountain. It turns a bright, yellow color during cooking.

Minato: Wow…! So that’s its natural color. And the taste… it’s a bit bitter, but it pairs well with the sweet sauce.

Kouji: You’re right! It would be great to try in a western-style dish with olive oil!

Minato: Wow…! And then you could add garlic and chili peppers to make something like aglio e olio…

Shin: Wow! It’s practically shining! I’ve never seen rainbow colored cooking before!

Yukinojo. Neither have I. So they call this “rainbow fish” I see.

Kakeru: Oooh! And this egg custard is delish!

Leo: And the welcome sweets were so good!

Taiga: ….. (Is this sashimi… even edible…?)

Kazuki: *chew chew* Just like I remembered! The food at this place is amazing!

Taiga: ………… *chomp*

 It… it IS!

Yu: Ack…. (Rainbow-colored steamed fish paste… !?) *slide*

Kouji: Oh? How odd. I thought I already ate the fish paste.

Yu: Hey, Kouji! If you don’t learn to clean your plate like me you’ll never grow big and strong!

Kouji: …..Oh, is that how it is. In that case I’ll let you have my serving too.

Kazuki: What great food! I’m stuffed! Oh yeah, this place has table tennis, right?

Hiro: You’re full of energy tonight. Okay then, I’ll take you on. Shall we have a tournament?

Kouji: What are you going to give me when I win?

Hiro: Oh what’s this? The genius songwriter Kouji Mihama thinks he’s already won.

Kouji: But you were thinking the same way weren’t you?

Kazuki: Ahaha. You guys never change. What about all of you? Will you join is too?

Taiga: I’m in!!

Leo: I… I’d like to join.

Yu: I’ve only just finished eating so I’ll hang out here to digest.

Hiro: I guess you just have no confidence in winning, then? If you’re scared of the competition you should just say so.

Yu: WHA……!

Hiro: Well, the appeal of playing table tennis in yukatas after a bath is better understood by adults, isn’t it? I guess you’re a little young…

Yu: Huh… !? Hmph. Well if you really insist on losing to me that badly, I’ll grant your wish. Just don’t cry about it later.

Hiro: Ehehe, you think you can beat me?

Kouji: Hiro, you’re such a kid.

Kazuki: Look who’s talking.

Minato: I’d like to spend a bit more time researching these recipes.

Kakeru: And I think I’d like to just relax after eating such a big meal. So I’ll see you guys later!

Yukinojo: *chew, chew*

Shin: *chew, chew*

Kouji: Shin and Yukinojo are still eating. I think we’ll be fine with six members for table tennis.

(And so the group relocated to the game room.)

Kazuki: …Hm? They only have one table for table tennis.

Hiro: What should we do? We could make a bracket and play one-on-one.

Kouji: But if we do that then a lot of us will be sitting around waiting… So how about we play 2 on 2 doubles, and the other two can referee?

Kazuki: I agree. Let’s do that.

Kouji: Okay, I think we’re ready then. I’ll explain the rules just in case… Usually you just lob the ball back and forth to each other. But hot springs table tennis is different…

Yu: …Oh? (What have I gotten myself into.)  

Kouji: At the perfect opening, when your very fiber of being screams “NOW!” you must seize the moment to return the ping-pong ball… The bond between you and your partner will be the one thing that decides your fate. 

THIS IS IT! THE SECRET RULE TO HOT SPRINGS TABLE TENNIS!

Kazuki: That was a “rule”?

Yu: In the end, we’re still just hitting the ball back and forth though aren’t we?

Hiro: I guess so. Well it’s not like this is an official tournament or anything. We might as well play along.

Kouji: Well then. I’ll be everyone’s cheerleader.

Yu: Uh, could you not.

Kazuki: Ah, well then, I think I’ll cheer along with Kouji. Okay, Taiga! Show ‘em what you got!

Taiga: Alright!!

Kouji: Let’s make teams with rock/paper. 3, 2, 1….

Kazuki: Oh ho. These teams sure are interesting…

Yu: Ugh. Whaaat. I’m stuck with Hiro…. ?

Hiro: I guess you’re probably not ready to defeat me anyway.

Yu: GRRRRRR…..

Leo: And I’m with you, Taiga-kun. Okay! Let’s do this!

Taiga: You’re goin’ down!

Kouji: Okay, let’s get started. Game on!

Yu: Take this! You bow to the name of Zeus!

Hiro: Ah! Yu, don’t take your eyes off the court!

Yu: I don’t need your help!

Leo: (Okay, next turn I’ll..)

Taiga: Ah!

Leo: Eek!

Yu: Hiro!

Hiro: I got this!

Taiga & Leo: …..!!

*roll*

Kouji: The Hiro/Yu Team are the winners!

Hiro: Thanks! It was all because of you, Yu! (…Yu might actually be a good partner for the duo tournament.)

Yu: Heheh! Yeah you better be grateful! (Being on a team with Hiro was a lot easier than I thought…?)

Kouji: …Heheh. It seems like the two of you may have discovered something new.

Kazuki: Taiga, Leo, don’t sweat it!

Taiga: …….

Leo: I’m really sorry, Taiga-kun. I…

Taiga: It’s not your fault.

(Meanwhile, the boys who chose to remain in the banquet room made an interesting discovery of their own…)

Shin: Hmm? Kakeru-san, what’s this thing?

Kakeru: Oh hoooh! I have had quite the experience with these ♪

Shin: Huh….!?

Kakeru: And this song lineup is giving me goosebumps!

Shin: Songs…? Could it be this is a karaoke machine?

Kakeru: YES! How nostalgic. This really is a hot springs hotel vacation.

Minato: Oh, oh. And here are the mics.

Kakeru: Thank you Minatocchi! Well, that settles it. We’re having a karaoke tournament!

Yukinojo: Karaoke tournament?

Kakeru: Yes yes. For this tournament the winner is whoever has the most fun! First up I think I’ll sing a duet with Yuki-chan! ♪ Shall I choose the song?

Yukinojo: Sure. I’ll leave it to you.

(And so began the impromptu karaoke tournament….)

Yukinojo: Yes, for your love~♪ I’d climb a distant mountain~♪

Kakeru: Yes, for your love~♪ I’d cross the deepest sea~♪

Kakeru & Yukinojo: Now… Fate will bind us… ♪

Shin: Wow… Yukinojo-san and Kakeru-san are really good at this!!

Minato: 100%! They got a perfect score!! Kazuo has a real knack for karaoke.

Kakeru: Ahaha. I spend a lot of time around older men.

Yukinojo: I have had similar experiences. I’ve been exposed to a lot of enka music.

Shin: I want to hear more!! Sing me your favorites!!

Yukinojo: Oh, really? In the case I’ll pick the next one.

Kakeru: Okay♪ We’ll keep on romancing the crowd.

Yukinojo & Kakeru: ~~~~♪

Minato: Their duet is really in sync. It really warms the heart… It’s almost like I can see the ol’ homeland floating before my eyes….

Shin: Minato-san?

Minato: Zzz….

Shin: ….He fell asleep sitting up. (Ah. I think I’ll take a bathroom break…)

(Shin leaves.)

Shin: What a nice night. I think I’ll go for a walk before I head back.

A duo tournament huh? I wonder who I should enter with.

“Shooting”? In a place like this?

Hm. The last time I tried shooting was…

???: Good evening.

Shin: Yeah it is such a nice eve–W-WOAH Louis?! What are you doing here?!

Louis: Hi. I had a Schwarz Rose job nearby.

Shin: Oh, I see! Did you come by yourself?

Louis: No. Well I am alone now, but.

Shin: I see….? (He had a Schwarz Rose job… I wonder if Alexander-kun came to do the same job?)

Louis: Shin, you look really good in your yukata.

Shin: Huh–really? Thank you! You look really nice too, Louis!

Louis: Ehehe. I’m so happy.

Shin: Oh yeah, Louis! Let’s try shooting together!

Louis: Huh?

Shin: I’m sure it will be super fun!!

Louis: ….Sure.

Hehe, I feel like I’m burning up.

Shin: Oh?! What’s wrong? Are you getting sick?!

Louis: The opposite. Having you here with me, I’ve never felt better. Thank you.

Shin: I don’t really know what you mean but…. You’re welcome?

Louis: Hehe. Well, will you teach me how to shoot?

Shin: Ah! Sure! Let’s go then! (I’m from Edel Rose and Louis is from Schwartz Rose.) 

(But… If only I could do a duo show with Louis, I think it would be really fun.)

(While everyone else was enjoying the hot spring hotel…)

Leo: …..*sigh* A street-style tournament huh… And a duo tournament… I can’t enter by myself… (In the table tennis match Taiga-kun and I weren’t in sync at all… and never mind that, it’s a street-style tournament. For someone lacking in manliness like me it would be impossible…) 

(But what does manliness even mean to me anyway–)

*POUR*

Leo: Huh? Where am I… 

(I was so lost in thought I just kept walking without paying attention to where I was going.)

…I ought to get back before I make everyone worry.

???: HUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!!!

Leo: That voice… Yamato-san? (He’s still here training!? Could it be he’s been here all this time…?) He’s got a firm goal in mind, and he’s working so hard for that goal he believes in… 

Yamato-san is so masculine and cool. 

I’m nothing compared to him, I… I wouldn’t even be worthy of kissing his feet…. *sniff*

Alexander: ………..What!? Dammit…..! 

AHHHH!!!!

*SPLASH*

Leo: Huh?

*silence*

Leo: Huh? Huh? Did he just fall into the waterfall basin… 

AH! There’s no time to waste! I have to go and save Yamato-san!!

*SPLASH*

Leo: *gasp* *panting* Heave….. HO!!!

Alexander: ….Ug……

Leo: Phew… Somehow I got him out. 

Is he still breathing…? Okay, he’s good. But his eyes aren’t open yet. 

Yamato-san! Yamato-san, stay with me! Yamato-san!!

Alexander: …Ugh… W… Where am I….?

Leo: Ah! Yamato-san!! Can you see me!?

Alexander: Huh….? You’re one of those… Edel Rose…..

Everyone: Leo! / Saionji! / Leo-kun!!! / Chan-Leo!!!

Leo: Everyone! What are you doing out here…?

Yu: That’s our line.

Yukinojo: We’re out here looking for you because we were worried sick about you, of course!

Leo: *gasp* Yuki-sama….

Kakeru: We heard from the delinquent that you seemed down after the table tennis tournament.

Leo: From Taiga-kun?

Taiga: …..Sorry…. about what happened… at the table tennis tournament….

Leo: No, I’m the one who should apologize!

Minato: Well anyway, we’re all just so glad you’re safe.

Shin: We’re so glad!!

Leo: Everyone…

Kouji: By the way, why are the two of you soaking wet?

Leo: Ah! Oh yeah Yamato-san! It was crazy! He fell from the waterfall and–

Hiro: What?! He did?!

Kazuki: …..Wait. Leo, does that mean you–

Leo: Hm?

Anyway I’m just glad Yamato-san is OK now!

Kazuki: (Leo carried Alec through that rough current… by himself?!) 

Haha! Leo, you’re amazing!

Everyone: (….! Leo really saved Alexander all by himself!! Wow!!)

Alexander: ….Uuh… that laughing voice….. 

KAZUKI NISHINA! SHOW YOURSELF!

Leo: No, Yamato-san! You need to get some rest!

Hiro: …… Hehe. I guess nobody can compare to the true Leo. (Things are sure gonna get interesting in the street-style duo tournament…)

(One morning a few days later)

Everyone: Let’s eat! *chew, chew, chew*

Kakeru: Oh ho? Chan-Leo you seem to be in high spirits today.

Leo: Eheh. For the first time in a long time I had a full night’s worth of deep sleep! And thanks to the hot springs, my skin is tight, most, and smooth! ♡ (I got myself all worked up over a lot of things along the way, but...) 

I am gonna be me, the way I am! That’s the best thing to be!

Taiga: (That jerk Alec… He pushed himself to his absolute limit…) I have to train even more!

Kazuki: Taiga, you’re on fire! I won’t lose either!

Hiro: The duo tournament, huh….

Kouji: Hiro?

Yu: Oh what’s this, are you gonna participate after all? Don’t worry, I’ll let you lose gracefully when the time comes.

Hiro: I’m sure you would. But I’m the definitive idol, so…

Yu: Ugh, that again?

Hiro: (….If I do participate, it would have to be as the true me.)

Continue to Road to SSS 3 Main Story