#light novel translations

[alicescaling]

Brothers Conflict Season 2 Volume 2 #028

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#028 — Waking up to an unfair play.

After I make it out of Kichijōji station, I head straight to the mansion.

Although it’s night-time, the streets are still covered in people whirling around. Despite the hustle and bustle, though, all the noise feels so far away.

My mind is blurred, as if there’s a thick layer of haze covering it. I’m still in a daze over what happened.

….. At what that giant monitor back in Shibuya, in front of that crossing, had displayed.

It was the commercial from the brand that Fuuto-kun had said he’d been recruited to model for.

But instead of seeing Fuuto-kun in it, I’d seen Iori-san.

The same Iori-san that I haven’t seen or heard anything from since the day of my high school graduation, when he’d left the mansion.

(I never expected him to get into modeling… and why that commercial…?)

I think back to the conversation I had with Fuuto-kun in the kitchen a few months ago.

Fuuto: “I’m going to be an image model for this brand.”

I remember him mentioning that the contract was still tentative, but I’d thought that they were close to making it official.

And yet this happened.

Furthermore, Fuuto-kun’s angry reaction to Iori-san replacing him showed that had no idea he would be replaced as a model.

Fuuto: “There’s no way I’m just accepting this!”

Fuuto-kun’s face had been scary when he’d seen the commercial.

Fuuto: “.... I’m going into the office. You okay heading home on your own?”

After he’d said this, he’d called a taxi and gotten in, but he really didn’t look like he was in the state to be talking to anyone.

I’ve never seen Fuuto-kun so upset before.

(Fuuto-kun…..)

I’m really worried, but I have no idea what I could or should do.

Feeling helpless, I reluctantly return home.

“.... I’m home.”

When I get to the mansion, I mutter this quietly to myself instead of calling out like usual, and walk into the living room.

I smell a sweet fragrance waft through the air.

Louis: “Ah, Chii-chan, it’s you. So I was right after all.”

I see Louis-san standing in the kitchen.

Louis: “For some reason, I got the feeling that you’d be coming home soon. What perfect timing.”

“Louis-san. What do you mean by perfect?”

As soon as the words come out of my mouth, I hear the microwave oven chime, signaling that whatever's in it is done.

Louis: “..... this.”

Louis-san takes a large mug out of the microwave oven. He then pours the contents into two cups on top of the kitchen counter.

Louis: “It’s hot chocolate… here you go.”

He hands one of the cups to me. The same sweet fragrance I smelled from earlier wafts up from the cup, wrapping me up in it.

Louis: “A client gave it to me. It should be really yummy. They’re very particular about sweet things.”

“Ah… thank you.”

I lightly bring it to my lips. It tastes sweet, almost refreshing.

“Uwahhh, it’s really good.”

Louis: “Mmhmm. When you’re worried, it’s important to treat yourself to sweets.”

Louis-san lifts his own cup up as well.

Louis: “I don’t want you to make you worry, Chii-chan. That’s why I thought it would be good to make some for you.”

“Huh?”

For a moment, I find myself confused, not sure what he’s talking about.

Louis: “Would you like to sit down a little?”

Louis-san guides me to the living room sofa, and we sit down.

Louis: “Well, the thing is.”

Louis-san sets his cup down on top of the table.

Louis: “Today, I saw something. I was very surprised.”

Louis-san pauses to make sure that I heard his words.

I nod, waiting for what he’ll say next.

Louis: “I saw Iori-kun.”

I stare intently at Louis-san after he says this.

“Iori-san?”

Louis: “Someone I know asked me to help out with a model’s hair and makeup. When I went into the studio, Iori-kun was there.”

“........ I see.”

Louis: “I thought that I should call you and tell you. But when I tried to, the call got cut off before I could.”

“Eh?”

I think back to the call I’d gotten earlier while leaving campus.

(I see. So that’s what Louis-san had been about to tell me. Fuuto-kun had cut off the call before he could….)

— At any rate.

I’m certain that Iori-san’s become a model now.

The fact that Louis-san was called in to do his hair and makeup today means that he’s probably doing a lot more work than just that one commercial.

“I’m sorry. Someone I know hung up on you suddenly.”

Louis: “That’s alright.”

Louis-san tilts his head curiously.

Louis: “But Chii-chan, you don’t seem surprised. Could it be that you already knew? About Iori-kun.”

“………. ah.”

I find myself at a loss for words.

Louis: “You already knew, didn’t you.”

“Uhhhhhhmmmm……..”

Louis: “How’d you find out?”

Louis-san watches me intently. I’m left with no choice but to explain.

“Uhm, the truth is…”

I tell him about the commercial I saw back in Shibuya. But I omit the parts about Fuuto-kun being there, too. I feel as if it isn’t important to mention everything that’s happened with him right now.

Louis: “Huuuh. So Iori-kun’s risen to that level already.”

Louis-san picks his mug back up, and sips at his hot chocolate.

Louis: “Hey, Chii-chan.”

The light brown of the liquid in his cup swishes as he speaks.

Louis: “Could I ask you something?”

“What is it?”

Louis: “Are you alright with Iori-kun coming back home?”

“Ehhh?!”

The beat of my heart thrums loudly in my chest.

Louis: “I don’t know all the details, but…”

Louis-san brings his cup down from his face. His facial expression has changed.

Louis: “You’re related to why Iori-kun left the mansion. Aren’t you, Chii-chan?”

“.....!”

I’m at a loss for an answer.

I can’t say “yes”.

If I say “yes”, I’ll naturally have to explain why that is. And that means revealing what happened last Christmas, back at the cemetery.

And I really don’t want to do that.

But I can’t say “no”, either.

Something about Louis-san right now gives me the impression that he’d see through any lies or bluffs. He knows something’s wrong, and saying “no” might lead to an even bigger discussion.

So, we fall into silence. The atmosphere goes uneasily awkward.

— At that moment.

“Huh?”

Suddenly, the front door opens, and Azusa-san enters the living room.

Louis: “Azusa-niisan.”

Azusa: “Louis. …. ah, you speaking with her?”

Azusa-san approaches us.

There’s confusion written on his face.

Azusa: “The two of you seem gloomy. Is something wrong?”

“It’s nothing–”

Louis: “We’re talking.”

Louis-san cuts in.

Louis: “About Iori-kun, that is.”

Azusa: “Eh, Iori?”

Louis: “Iori-kun’s returned.”

Azusa-san’s face grows even more perplexed. From the side, I utter,

Iori-san’s become a model.

Louis-san and I explain that we’d unexpectedly found this out.

Azusa: “Iori’s a model now…. then.”

Azusa-san settles down on the sofa.

Azusa: “This is the first time I’ve heard about this.”

Louis: “It was news to me, too.”

Azusa: “It’s likely that other than you two, no one else knows, either. If he’d tried to contact home before, I’m sure Masa-nii and Kyo-nii would have told us.”

Azusa-san says this, then briefly sinks into silence.

Azusa: “But that’s besides the point.”

After a moment, he gently opens his mouth and speaks again.

Azusa: “Why has the atmosphere gotten so heavy after learning about Iori’s whereabouts?”

(Uuuu….)

His question causes my earlier worries to resurface.

(I’d thought that Azusa-san’s appearance might help change the atmosphere and give me an out, but…)

While I’m busy trying to think of how to best gloss over the question, Louis-san suddenly speaks up.

Louis: “There’s no need to worry about that, Azusa-niisan.”

Azusa: “Eh?”

Louis: “There are some special circumstances. You’ll trouble Chii-san.”

Azusa-san’s expression changes.

Azusa: “What do you mean by that, Louis?”

Louis: “..... I can’t say.”

Azusa: “Why not?”

“W-wait a minute, please.”

I hurriedly interrupt.

“Uhm, I’ll take it from here.”

I desperately try to think.

(.... it’s no good. If I try and cover everything up, it’ll only seem strange and lead to bigger problems. Now’s the time to be honest.)

“To put it briefly, I…”

Reluctant to tell them everything, I choose my words carefully.

“I’m related to…. I’m related to why Iori-san left the mansion.”

Azusa: “You are?”

“I can’t…. I can’t tell you everything. It’s complicated. But I have to do with why he left. That I can say for sure.”

My words cut off there, before I continue again.

“It doesn’t look like Louis-san knows the full situation, but… he realized something was wrong and was worried about me. He was concerned that I might be troubled by Iori-san returning home.”

I stop there, gauging Azusa-san’s reaction.

Azusa: “... continue.”

After he says this, I continue, slightly relieved.

“What happened between me and Iori-san was… very serious. There was a misunderstanding, and…. it was really horrible for Iori-san.”

Azusa-san nods.

“But we’ve moved past that. Iori-san and I have talked, and we’ve resolved things.”

I turn to look at Louis-san.

“So please don’t worry.”

Louis: “Chii-chan…”

“I’m really grateful that you’re concerned about me. But I’m okay.”

Louis: “But–”

Right when Louis-san is about to say something else.

Azusa: “.... Louis.”

Azusa-san says.

Azusa: “She’s said she’s alright. If we keep asking and prying, we’d be bothering her.”

Louis: “That may be true, but…”

Louis-san goes silent.

Azusa: “I think that we should–”

Azusa-san continues,

Azusa: “– trust in her. If she’s asked us to accept her answer, then I think that we should. Listening to her and complying with her wishes is the best thing we can do for her.”

Azusa-san turns to me.

Azusa: “I won’t ask for any more details about what happened between you and Iori in the past. But the future’s another thing. If any new problems arise, I want you to be able to speak up without feeling as if you need to worry on your own.”

Azusa-san gives me a smile.

“.... I understand.”

Azusa: “Alright. Then, we’ll end this discussion here. Does that sound alright, Louis?”

Louis-san turns in Azusa-san’s direction.

Louis: “Azusa-niisan.”

Azusa: “Yes?”

Louis: “Thank you.”

He says this with a smile. Azusa-san smiles back in return. The room’s atmosphere has completely changed.

Azusa: “I’ll be going now, then. The truth is, I only came up here because I was a bit thirsty and wanted something to drink.”

Louis: “I still have some more hot chocolate.”

Azusa: “...... eh? Ah, that sounds good. I’ll have some, thank you.”

Louis-san hands Azusa-san a mug, and Azusa-san takes it before leaving the living room.

Louis: “...... fuuu.”

Louis-san lets out a large sigh.

Louis: “That was splendid.”

“Right.”

I nod.

“Azusa-san really is a reliable person, isn’t he.”

Louis: “.... that isn’t it.”

Louis-san shakes his head.

Louis: “I was talking about you, Chii-chan.”

“T-talking about… me?”

Louis: “Chii-chan, you’re amazing. You’re incredibly strong.”

Louis-san lifts up his cup, drinking the last sip of his hot chocolate before standing up.

Louis: “The “Chii-chan Defense Squad” is no longer needed.”

“Ehh?”

Louis-san crouches down in front of me.

Louis: “Which is fine, I think.”

Louis-san’s arms wrap around me, his hands resting at my shoulders.

Louis: “From now on, we’ll be the “Looking After Chii-chan Association”.”

Louis-san pulls my body closer.

“Ahh…..”

He keeps holding me for a moment longer, hugging me tightly, before he pulls away again.

Louis: “I’ll be looking forward to it… Chii-chan.”

As he says this, Louis-san gives me a happy smile.

★☆★

(Ah, here, too.)

With December rolling in, the entire town’s become dyed in the Christmas spirit.

On my way back to the mansion from Kichijōji station, I spot a slightly large cafe across from the department store.

The cafe has an open terrace usually used for things like events. Right now, there’s a large, very magnificently decorated tree placed there, covered in lights and ornaments.

It’s already nearing dusk, so the terrace is dyed in dim red, green, and yellow lights, giving the place a sort of magical atmosphere.

I stop in place, my eyes fixated on the view.

At that moment.

(Oh, that person’s…)

There’s a man sitting alone at a table in the corner of the terrace, underneath the shadow of the Christmas tree.

He’s holding a drink in front of him, gazing down at the table he’s sitting at.

Because of this, I can’t make out the entirety of his face. But maybe it’s….

“Masaomi-san?”

When I call out and begin to approach him, the man looks up.

Masaomi: “Ahh. Are you on your way home right now?”

“Yes, I am. Do you have today off work?”

Masaomi: “Mmhmm. I went out to do a little shopping. Ah, would you like something to drink?”

“It’s alright, I can buy my own.”

I go buy a caffè latte and begin to return to our table.

When I do, see that once I’d left him alone, Masaomi-san had returned to staring down at the table.

I wonder what he must be thinking about.

(Could I be bothering him?)

I’ve already called out to him, though, so it isn’t as if I can just up and leave at this point.

I sit back down at my seat and ask.

“Um, Masaomi-san?”

Masaomi: “Mmhmm?”

“Is something bothering you?”

Masaomi: “Nope!”

Masaomi-san immediately shouts out.

Masaomi: “What a sudden thing to say. Nothing’s wrong, nothing’s bothering me, it’s nothing. Ahahaha……………”

He cuts himself off.

Masaomi: “Sorry. I’m a horrible liar.”

“..... I’m sorry, too.”

Masaomi: “Yes, you’re right. There’s no point in trying to hide it.”

Masaomi-san nods. Then, he lifts his cup up, and takes a small sip.

Masaomi: “...... uwahh, it’s completely cold now. I must have been here for a long time, huh.”

Masaomi-san looks at me with a shy smile.

Masaomi: “The truth is, I was thinking about Iori.”

“Iori-san?”

Masaomi: “Mhm. I was thinking about how nice it would be if he came home.”

He rests his elbows on the table, and places his chin on his hand.

Masaomi: “Ukyo did some investigating. And he found out that Iori’s working at the same production company as Fuuto.”

“Really?!”

After that commercial, I’ve started to see Iori-san in more and more magazines and advertisements.

Neither Louis-san or I had made any big fuss about it, but it’d be impossible to miss.

Iori-san being a model has become common knowledge.

But him working under the same producers as Fuuto-kun is news to me.

(Huh? W-wait a minute.)

That means that Fuuto-kun’s role in that commercial had been taken away by one of his colleagues.

(That’s….)

It must already be frustrating enough to have a job taken away from you, but to have a job taken away from you by your own production company must be an even bigger blow.

(Is Fuuto-kun alright….?)

Masaomi: “What’s wrong?”

Masaomi-san asks me worriedly.

“Ah, I’m sorry. I was just a little surprised, that’s all.”

I’m sure I’m the only one that knows that Fuuto-kun had originally been appointed to model for that commercial. That being the case, I decide it’s best to keep quiet about it.

Masaomi: “And so Ukyo talked to the producers.”

Masaomi-san continues.

Masaomi: “And it seems like Iori doesn’t want to come home.”

“Eh….”

Masaomi: “The person that Ukyo spoke to said that he didn’t want anyone to tell his family about him being a model. He knew that we’d find out eventually, but he didn’t want anyone to tell us directly.”

“Iori-san said that?”

Masaomi: “..... it seems like it. It’s heart-breaking, isn’t it. That he’d say something like that.”

Masaomi-san smiles miserably.

Masaomi: “I don’t understand. Why on Earth is Iori trying to distance himself from the family?”

Masaomi-san hangs his head.

Masaomi: “.... I’m the eldest son.”

“Masaomi-san.”

Masaomi: “That’s what I thought. But I really don’t know anything about Iori at all.”

“That’s–”

Masaomi: “Iori…”

Masaomi-san interrupts me.

Masaomi: “... when he was younger, he was always a quiet, understanding child. I can’t remember him ever causing any trouble, no matter how far back into his childhood I try to recall.”

Masaomi-san sighs.

Masaomi: “I have a lot of little brothers. Which means it isn’t easy to give them all the same level of care or attention. In the end, I’d always keep a closer eye on the brothers that were more naughty, or more likely to get into trouble. Because of this, I think that I didn’t talk to Iori nearly as much as I thought I did.”

There’s regret in his eyes.

Masaomi: “Especially after what happened with Fuyuka-chan.”

“.....”

Masaomi: “Even so, I want Iori to come home. I think that family should be together as much as possible.”

There’s pain and bitter regret on Masaomi-san’s face.

Masaomi-san, who’s always calm, and kind, and smiling.

Masaomi-san, who tenderly, gently, watches over the whole family. That same person is making this face, right now.

I feel as if I’m only now understanding the weight that Masaomi-san must be carrying on his shoulders as the eldest son, older brother to all of us.

“Ah, what an unusual expression.”

“Eh?”

Masaomi: “Huh?”

I instinctively survey our surroundings.

As I do, my eyes are met with the figure of a flashy looking woman.

They point the phone that they’re holding in their hand towards me, and grin in amusement.

Masaomi: “..... Hikaru?”

“Hikaru-san!?”

Hikaru: “Oh, am I interrupting? Masa-nii had such a novel expression on his face that I couldn’t possibly pass up the chance to document it.”

I hear the sound of his boots as Hikaru-san makes his way over to us, sitting down at our table as if it’s the most natural thing in the world.

His silky hair is fluttering beautifully, and I catch a glimpse of his slender, beautiful legs as his skirt flutters and he crosses his legs elegantly to sit.

There’s a gasp from the customers sitting nearby.

….. Right, I’m sure that for people who don’t already know, it’d be unthinkable to assume he’s a man.

Hikaru: “Evening, Imouto-san~ ♡”

Hikaru-san blows a kiss at me.

“Good evening. …. It looks like work’s going well. Good job.”

Hikaru: “Ah, perfect!”

Hikaru claps his hands.

Hikaru: “You get full marks for that reply. As one would expect from someone whose managed to tame our house full of wolves~”

“....... thank you very much.”

Hikaru: “But your nose gets zero points.”

“Huh?”

Hikaru-san turns in my direction, thrusting his wrist out in front of me.

“What?”

Hikaru: “You still don’t get it?”

He wags his finger at me as he says this. Then, I smell an aroma drifting from his fingertip.

“Is it…. your perfume?”

Hikaru: “Yup. It’s one meant for men, though.”

Hikaru-san smiles as if he’s enjoying himself.

Hikaru: “I wonder what kind of face Fuuto would make if he smelled it?”

“...... eh?”

As Hikaru-san’s words sink in, I gradually find myself understanding the meaning behind them.

“Hikaru-san, could that perfume be–...?”

Hikaru: “Correct. Don’t you want to see what type of face our impertinent little brother would make, too?”

“Please stop!”

I raise my voice without meaning to.

“Why– why would you even think about something as horrible as that!”

Hikaru: “Why? …. Alright, I’ll tell you.”

Hikaru-san suddenly gets up from the table. Then, he wraps his hand around my shoulder, leaning his face close to mine.

Hikaru: “To kick down one of my rivals. It’s like I told you– this time, I’ll be joining in the conflict as well.”

He’s using his “masculine” voice, his words ringing through my ears.

Hikaru: “All the brothers at the mansion are about “fair play”. But I,”

Hikaru-san’s arm around me tightens. I feel an unexpectedly strong pressure against my back.

Hikaru: “I am a Joker. I’m not bound by things like “gentlemen's agreements”. But, you know— the Joker is the strongest card.”

The anger in my heart dissipates, replaced with confusion.

It’s frustrating, but I’m unable to muster any words to retort against him. It’s like I can’t resist– as if my mind is being manipulated by him.

Hikaru-san straightens up. He returns to his “feminine” voice.

Hikaru: “As for my odds chart– I’m currently in the middle of making revisions.”

He says this with a laugh. The sound rings out through the terrace, like the ringing of a small glass bell.

Masaomi: “Ummmmm, er.”

I hear Masaomi-san’s hesitant voice as he falters.

Masaomi: “I’m sorry, Hikaru. I didn’t really understand anything you were just saying?”

Hikaru: “Hey, Masa-nii.”

Hikaru-san turns to look in Masaomi-san’s direction.

Hikaru: “Don’t you think it would be nice if Kaname were here?”

(Kaname-san!?)

Masaomi: “Why are you suddenly bringing Kaname up at a place like this?”

Hikaru: “Well, becaaaaause, Iori had a “special relationship” with Kaname, didn’t he?”

(!)

Something hot runs down by back.

….. There’s a limit. We might be siblings, but there’s a limit to the horrible things that he can say.

“Hikaru-san…..”

I speak up without meaning to, anger seeping into my voice. But Hikaru-san doesn’t pay any mind to the interruption.

Hikaru: “...... don’t misunderstand. I’m talking about back when we were kids.”

“Huh?”

Masaomi: “Ah…. ahhhh, that’s right!”

Masaomi-san speaks, seeming to recall something.

Masaomi: “Now that you mention it, I’m sure that Iori would always consult Kaname when he needed advice.”

I stand up from my seat despite myself.

“Really!”

Masaomi: “H–Hold on, what’s wrong?!”

Masaomi-san’s face is frightened. Embarrassed, I sink back into my seat.

“Ah, I’m sorry….. But is that really true? About Iori-san and Kaname-san?”

Masaomi: “Yes…. up until around middle school. It wasn’t frequently, but Kaname was the brother that Iori spent the most time with.”

(So that’s how things used to be…..)

Despite myself, memories of what happened during Christmas last year resurface in my mind.

(So back then, Kaname-san also…..)

I’d only thought of his actions being that of a brother’s, his sense of mission that of a monk’s, but… it was more than that.

(Ah! This… it resembles Natsume-san and Subaru-san!)

They were close as children, holding a more familiar relationship with each other than with the rest of their siblings.

So it must have made a big impact, come as a big shock, when that special bond fell apart.

Hikaru: “If Kaname were here, don’t you think Iori’d be able to work things out, some way or another?”

I disregard the sound of Hikaru-san’s light voice as I brood, deep in thought.

Masaomi: “But Hikaru. Kaname’s in the middle of his training right now.”

Masaomi-san speaks, a bewildered look on his face.

Masaomi: “Even if we asked him to come back, I feel like it’d be a while before he’d be able to return.”

Hikaru: “Ahh, that’s alright.”

Hikaru-san suddenly pats my shoulder.

Hikaru: “We’ve got his favourite little pupil right here.”

Masaomi: “Ehhhh?!”

“Huh?”

★☆★

— Four days later.

I’m waiting for him on the roadside, underneath trees decorated with lights.

I don’t know if he’ll come. But there’s no way I can afford not to wait for him.

I don’t know if meeting up with him will go smoothly. But there’s no way I can afford not to meet with him.

I watch as the clock moves, the second-hand needle ticking second by second, marking the passage of time. Before long, the time that we agreed upon finally arrives.

He’s a punctual person. So I’m sure that if he’s coming, it should be….

(Ah!)

At that moment.

In the sea of people walking down the road ahead of me, I see the face of the person I’m waiting for.

He’s getting closer and closer.

Before long, he must finally see me. A soft smile rises to his face.

Iori: “Good evening.”

“.... Good evening, Iori-san.”

– I’m so relieved.

That’s what I’m thinking. Somehow, Iori-san actually came.

Hikaru: “How about we use her as a substitute for Kaname? I mean, she might not be able to get through to him as well as the original, but she may be our best bet out of everyone else.”

When Hikaru-san had suddenly said that back at the cafe, I’d been astonished.

But after thinking about it more, no one else but me knows about what happened on Christmas last year.

Plus, I want Iori-san to return home as well. If there’s anything I can do to help, I’ll do it.

Iori: “I’m sorry if I made you wait long.”

Iori-san’s breath is illuminated by the streetlights around us, making it appear orange in color.

It’s as if I can see his aura surrounding him.

“No, you’re right on time. I’m the one who’s sorry for suddenly calling on you out of nowhere.”

Iori: “.... yes,”

Iori lets out a small chuckle.

Iori: “I was a little surprised when Louis-niisan suddenly slipped me a note while doing my makeup. There was only a time and place written on it, so I wasn’t sure what to think at first.”

“I thought it would be strange of me to suddenly up and contact you. So I asked Louis-san for help, since he sees you often due to work.”

Iori: “I see. You were trying to take care to be thoughtful. There was no need for that, but thank you.”

Iori-san gently reaches his hand out, and places it on the small of my back as if to urge me.

Iori: “How about we go for a short walk?”

Slowly, he begins walking forward, and I follow him.

It seems like Iori-san’s lost a little weight. He looks thinner.

But his face looks bright. His voice also feels calm and composed.

There’s a piercing he didn’t have before on his left ear. He’s wearing a purple jewel, one that glints in the light with each step that Iori-san takes.

Iori: “I actually don’t have much time. I have another shoot lined up soon, but this place is on the way to it.”

“Yes, Louis-san told me.”

Iori: “Ahh, I see.”

Iori-san smiles.

Iori: “So that’s why you chose here for our meeting place. That makes me happy. You’re very thoughtful.”

He moves his hand away from the small of my back, and instead takes my hand in his.

Iori: “It’s rather cold. But I suppose that’s to be expected, given it’s December.”

He gives my hand a slight squeeze.

Iori: “But I’m glad we’re here together.”

He turns to look at me, and gives me a smile.

Iori: “Above all, I’m happy that you reached out to me. I couldn’t say anything to you myself.”

Suddenly, Iori-san stops in his tracks. He lets go of my hand, straightening himself up as he turns fully towards me.

Iori: “...... I’m sorry.”

He bows deeply towards me.

“Eh…….”

I’m completely surprised.

“U-Um….”

Iori: “I wish for your forgiveness.”

Iori-san already has a very eye-catching appearance to begin with.

And he’s bowing deeply in the middle of a crowd of people. I can feel the curious gazes of the people around us.

“Er, please lift your head up.”

Iori: “Do you forgive me?”

“T-That…. I mean, forgive you for what exactly?”

Iori: “What I did last year.”

Iori-san slowly lifts his head up.

Iori: “At the time, I’d lost my mind. My senses.”

His voice intensifies.

Iori: “A year has passed, and it’s the same season as it was back then, which makes the memories surface again to my mind. What had I done to you? What had I tried to do? No matter how much I think back on it, my actions were unforgivable.”

“Iori-san…..”

Iori: “Nevertheless—”

Iori-san takes my left hand in his right one.

He then lifts it upwards.

“I-Iori-san–?!”

He brings it up to around my chest-level, then pulls it towards him, covering it with his other hand.

He’s holding my left hand in between his own two clasped ones.

Iori: “I’m starting to move forward.”

Iori-san shuts his eyes. A serene, gentle expression rises to his face.

Iori: “I’m no longer stuck at a halt. That day, I was revived. ….. Because of you.”

He then brings his forehead to our clasped hands, as if in prayer.

Iori: “...... thank you.”

He doesn’t move. Some time passes like this.

(........)

Iori-san is putting barely any strength into his grip.

I’m sure it would be easy to shake him off if I wanted to.

…. But I don’t.

Iori-san’s hands are cold to the touch, and trembling slightly.

No matter what, I don’t think I have it in me to shake off hands like that.

Iori: “..... thank you.”

Once again, Iori-san says this.

At the same time, I hear the faint sound of something metallic clink.

(Hmm…. ahh!)

There’s a bracelet wrapped around my left wrist.

“Th-this….”

Iori: “I want to give it to you.”

Iori-san removes his hands from mine, instead now taking my left hand with his own left hand.

Iori: “As an apology for everything I’ve done until now.”

I hold the wrist that Iori-san had put the bracelet on up to the light, watching as it glints.

It has a silver chain, and the bracelet is also decorated with an array of various different charms.

When it catches the light, it glimmers beautifully.

“But I…. I can’t accept this.”

Iori: “Is it not good as an apology?”

Iori-san smiles.

Iori: “In that case, how about you think of it as a thank you?”

“I haven’t done anything to deserve your thanks.”

Iori: “..... you’re distressed.”

Iori-san brings his hand away.

He then sinks into silence.

Iori: “Okay.”

After a moment, his smile returns.

Iori: “Then let’s do this. It’ll be a gift commemorating our reunion today.”

“Eh?”

Iori: “It’s almost Christmas, isn’t it? So think of it as me giving you a present. That should be alright, shouldn’t it?”

“Ah….”

To refuse after he’s said that would be impolite.

“I understand. I’ll accept it. Thank you very much.”

Iori: “...... that goes for you, too. Thank you.”

Iori-san looks down at his wristwatch.

Iori: “I’m sorry. I need to get going now. I’m sorry I can’t see you off. Being here with you made me really happy.”

“W-Wait a second please.”

As Iori-san begins to walk away, I hurriedly call after him.

If we part ways now, like this, then I won’t have achieved what I came here for.

“Um, Iori-san, will you be returning home?”

Iori-san slowly turns his head towards me.

Iori: “...... to the Asahinas?”

“Yes. Everyone’s waiting for you.”

Iori-san stares intently at me. Then, he speaks.

Iori: “Does that mean that you came here today as a representative for the rest of the family?”

“You can think of it that way.”

Iori: “....... I see. I understand.”

Iori-san slowly nods.

As he does, a kind smile rises to his face.

Iori: “Alright, convey this to the others, then. Merry Christmas. And Happy New Years.”

After he says this, Iori-san bows, and turns back around.

And just like that, Iori-san’s figure disappears into the hustle and bustle of the night.

★☆★

The elevator stops at the third floor.

Subaru: “Hn… oh, is this going up?”

Subaru-san, holding a cardboard box in his arms, goes to enter the elevator, but then steps back in realization.

As he does, the box he’s holding gets stuck in between the elevator doors as they close. I hurriedly press the button to open up the door again.

Subaru: “...... thanks.”

The doors open again, and I see even more cardboard boxes stacked up in the elevator hall.

“Are you tidying up?”

Subaru: “Ahh, I’m getting ready to move.”

“Eh, but it’s still December, though?”

When Subaru-san graduates, he’ll be joining a pro team based in Miyazaki, in Kyushu.

When he does, he’ll be moving there. But that’s still a long ways off.

Subaru: “Next year will be really busy. And hectic. I thought I’d get some packing done while doing my New Years cleaning.”

“That’s an awful lot.”

I step out of the elevator.

Subaru: “It’s mostly stuff like training equipment that I don’t use anymore. They’ve just been piling up. It’s a good opportunity to sort through ‘em.”

“Is there anything I can help with?”

Subaru: “No, I’ve got it myself. I’ll probably end up throwing most of it out.”

Subaru-san speaks up again, sounding like he just remembered something.

Subaru: “Speaking of, I’ve got my textbooks and stuff like my old test and lecture notes. Did you want them?”

“Eh?! Ah, please, please.”

Subaru-san’s an upperclassman in the same major as me.

Because of this, a lot of classes I’ll be taking will overlap with the ones he took, so having his old notes would be a huge help.

Subaru: “Alright, I’ll be sure to give it all to you later, then.”

“Thanks a lot!”

Subaru: “By the way, you were just out, weren’t you? Where’d you go?”

“Oh, I was in Omotesandō for a bit.”

Subaru: “Omotesandō?”

Subaru-san furrows his brows.

Subaru: “I don’t really go there. Were you out shopping?”

“Ah… y-yeah.”

I know that lying is wrong, but I feel like talking about Iori-san with Subaru-san right here and right now isn’t a good idea.

Subaru: “Ohhhh.”

Subaru-san smiles.

Subaru: “That’s why you’re wearing that.”

“That?”

Subaru: “There, what you’re wearing on your left wrist.”

“Ah….. you noticed it?”

Subaru: “Oi, oi.”

Subaru-san gives a strained smile.

Subaru: “I was a little…. No, the truth is that I noticed it back when you pressed the elevator button. When you stretched your arm out in front of me.”

As he says this, he laughs.

Subaru: “But I’m glad.”

“Eh?”

Subaru: “That you really did just buy it. What would you’ve thought of me if you’d worn it before?”

“Don’t say that.”

He then sets down the box he’s been holding.

Subaru: “Hey, do you have a sec?”

“What is it?”

Subaru: “Do you like stuff like it? That accessory?”

“Hm?”

Subaru: “... ugh, no,”

Subaru lets out an embarrassed laugh.

Subaru: “What I mean is. It’s like this. Someone gives you a present. But, y’know, sometimes you don’t like it, or you don’t wanna wear it.”

“Ahh…. I see.”

I think about my answer for a moment.

“It’s true that if it isn’t something you’d usually wear, or something that’s more your taste, you wouldn’t really wear it. But I think that you’d also just be happy to have been given something.”

Subaru: “I-I see.”

Subaru-san’s voice grows a bit livelier.

Subaru: “Alright, let me ask something else. In that case, what’s the most foolproof gift?”

“Ehh?”

Subaru: “I mean, there’s a ton of different types of accessories. Bracelets, and necklaces, and stuff.”

“Ahh, that’s right.”

Subaru: “And so with that in mind, I was wondering what the safest option would be. Hypothetically.”

“Hmmmmmm.”

I try to think of an answer.

“What in particular…..”

Subaru: “There isn’t one?”

“I mean, it really depends on the person. ….. Um, I’m sorry, but I don’t know much about these things. You’d probably find a more accurate answer on the internet.”

Subaru: “No, that’s all I wanted to know.”

Subaru-san gives me a smile, flustered.

Subaru: “I just wanted to ask you real quick, which was plenty. Thank you.”

“Oh, no problem.”

Subaru: “Well, I’m gonna head back to my room now. Sorry for keeping you.”

Subaru-san returns to the elevator hall. I head back into the elevator.

(What was that about just now?)

It’s unusual for Subaru-san to ask about accessories.

(..... but he noticed my bracelet.)

Subaru-san can be rather shy and reserved, but he showed how much he cares by noticing it.

Subaru-san doesn’t really talk much about himself. So there are still a lot of things about him that I don’t know.

But today, I saw a little beyond that.

Which makes me really happy.

(It’s nice to talk about all sorts of different things with him. It’d be nice if we could do this more often before he heads off to Kyushu.)

★☆★

After finishing dinner, I return to my room. It’s around 9pm.

Today I plan on watching a movie in my room.

I rented it about a week ago, and it’s due tomorrow. If I leave it sitting around for much longer, it’ll be overdue.

Mahoko: “You definitely need to watch it!”

Mahoko had told me this, which is why I rented it out. She’d apparently cried her eyes out while watching it in the theatre.

Mahoko: “It was amazing!! Ahh, it embodies what true love is!!”

(To be honest, it seems more like a comedy than a romance.)

It’d be a waste to return it without watching it, though.

I pop the disc into my game console.

It’s convenient being able to play both games and movie discs on it.

I start the movie. It begins with two sets of couples talking, each with their own respective date scene.

About 30 minutes into the movie, my room’s doorbell rings.

(I wonder who it is?)

I head to the front door. I peer through the peephole, and see Fuuto-kun standing out in the hallway.

For some reason, he looks dull and tired. I can see the exhaustion clear on his face, even through the scope of the door.

“Fuuto-kun.”

When I open the door, Fuuto-kun replies in a murmur.

Fuuto: “........ you’re so slow. How long does it take to open one door?”

I hear him sigh.

“Is something wrong?”

Fuuto: “This and that. …. hey, how long’re you gonna make me stand out here? Can I or can’t I come in?”

“Ah, sorry. Please, come in.”

I move to the side so Fuuto-kun can pass through.

Fuuto-kun stops right at the entryway.

Fuuto: “You can go in first.”

“Eh?”

Fuuto: “What, do you think I’m the type of guy who just barges in or something?”

“........”

Something feels off.

He’s always been rude, but his every word seems to be sharp, harsh.

Usually, there’s a sort of lightness to the things he says– although they can be annoying and offensive sometimes– and his tone’s still more joking than anything.

— But today’s different. He feels almost hostile.

Still, I can’t just keep standing here forever.

“Please, come in.”

I go further into my room, and say this.

Once I’ve made a little distance, Fuuto-kun enters my room as well.

Fuuto: “What, you’re watching something boring?”

Fuuto-kun suddenly spits out.

Fuuto: “I can’t believe that a university student’s watching some sugary, childish movie like this.”

Fuuto-kun snatches up the remote control and turns the TV display off.

“Ah!”

Fuuto-kun hurls the remote away, and aggressively takes off his coat.

Fuuto: “Ahhhh, this is so stupid.”

He drops onto the bed, his face-up towards the ceiling, leaning back.

Fuuto: “Hey.”

“Yeah?”

Fuuto: “It’s my fault.”

Fuuto-kun’s gaze stays intently stuck to the ceiling.

“Wh-what are you talking about?”

Fuuto: “The guys at the office say he got in contact with them. There were calls and emails. But no one said anything, so how would I know? And then he said that there was something important they needed to discuss, so we needed to meet in person. What’s up with that? Plus, in the first place, the client already pretty much decided on who they’d appoint, right? So it’d be okay if the agency declined, right? So why’d they okay it? The hell do they think of their talent?”

His words overflow, coming out disjointed.

Fuuto: “Besides, what kind of older brother just up and takes a job like this from his younger brother? It’s unthinkable, right?

His story’s fragmented, so I don’t have a complete understanding of what Fuuto-kun’s trying to say.

But my best guess is that he’s talking about that commercial.

Fuuto: “To make things worse, Seike had to go and say “don’t you think you’re prioritizing your solo work over your role in Forttê? I don’t think this is a bad thing for the other members”.”

(Seike-san?!)

I think back to when I met him at the university library.

(He didn’t seem like the type of person who’d say something so terrible, though…..)

Fuuto: “Why the hell’s he attacking me like that? I make sure to perform all my duties for Forttê, and I’ve got the agency’s permission to do my solo work. So why the hell’s he gotta complain?”

“F-Fuuto-kun…..”

I somehow manage to interject.

“If you’d like, I have some tea that I can–”

Fuuto: “I’m quitting.”

Abruptly, Fuuto-kun speaks.

“....... eh?”

Fuuto: “That’s why I’m quitting.”

Fuuto-kun stands up from the bed.

Fuuto: “I’m not working with those guys anymore.”

“D-don’t say that. Fuuto-kun, please, calm down–”

Fuuto: “What’re you saying?”

Fuuto-kun interjects.

Fuuto: “I am calm.”

There’s a cruel chill to his tone.

Fuuto: “I’m calm, and things have gone exactly according to plan. The two of us are alone, in your room, and the door is locked.”

“Eh……?”

Fuuto: “What, do you think I’m the type of guy to wait for permission to politely enter your room?”

Fuuto-kun laughs.

Fuuto: “Waiting for permission to enter someone’s room sounds like something a vampire would do, doesn’t it? Ahh, speaking of, I did cosplay as one before, didn’t I? At the school culture festival. Remember? …. Ahaha, it’s perfect!”

Fuuto-kun takes a single step forward.

Fuuto: “You don’t understand me at all.”

His face warps with anger.

Fuuto: “.......... you’re the same as them.”

He gazes intently at me, his eyes dark.

That instant, I’m filled with fear.

— I need to run away.

The thought rushes into my mind. But my legs won’t move.

No matter how much I will them to, it’s as if the feeling of oppression that Fuuto-kun is emitting won’t let me.

Fuuto: “I’ll teach you.”

Fuuto-kun draws even closer.

Fuuto: “Just what type of man am I? I’ll teach you, teach your body, until you completely understand.”

The light of the room casts a dark shadow across Fuuto-kun’s face.

I watch as his arm slowly rises.

At that moment, a strong, dreadful horror wells up in me.

“Help–!”

But my shouts are interrupted before I can finish.

Fuuto-kun’s hand muffles them, moving to cover my mouth.

Fuuto: “..... quit it.”

I feel Fuuto-kun press his body close to mine.

Fuuto: “Please, don’t do that.”

I feel the heat of his voice in my bones.

Fuuto: “I like you.”

His voice is strong, unwavering.

Fuuto: “I don’t care how. I’m going to make you mine, and mine alone.”

He removes his hand from my lips. But there’s no time for me to say anything.

Before I can, his hand wraps around my back, pulling our bodies tightly together, his grip harsh and domineering.

Then, replacing where his hand once was, Fuuto-kun covers my lips with his own.

(— Fu-Fuuto-kun!)

[kunikiiida-kuuun]

Sharing the link to Untold Origins of the Detective Agency Chapter 1 English translation because I don't want anyone to miss this masterpiece > Link

Everyone go say thank you to @ darkestjay868 and @bsd_edits on twitter!!!

[hopeymchope]

The entire "Danganronpa Kirigiri" series is now available in English.

I don't do Reddit much, which is probably why I only just learned yesterday (courtesy of @vampietears) that Danganronpa Kirigiri Volumes 1-7 have all been translated into English and made available as PDF versions in the past year.

I searched Tumblr for any mention of this and found absolutely none, so I feel confident that I'm far from the only person who didn't know these were available.

CLEAR YOUR SCHEDULES, DR fans! It's definitely going to take me some time to work through the whole series, but I hope (eh? eeeehhh?) to enjoy the process.

[sinisteredgirl]

Reminder that while Jinshi rants to Maomao about problems in his office, she also rants to him about her problems at work:

[kyupidos]

nobody understands my love for the yuus. novel yuu, manga yuus, in game yuu, every single one of them holds a space dear to my heart and the fact we’ll likely never see how the manga yuus’ stories end since we get a new yuu for every book makes me wanna die inside.

( i’m at least thankful we get to stick with yuuya bc he’s like my favorite yuu, but i can’t find where the translations are since the most i’ve gotten is right where book 1 starts..if anyone knows where to get more I WILL BE INDEBTED )

like?? you can’t leave me hanging on this with yuuken and koito 😕

WE’RE GOING TO GET MORE ABOUT ALL THE YUUS GUYS TRUST ME ( manifesting )

[ruanbaijie]

谢谢你，成为我长夜中的……[一轮月。] Thank you for being, in my long night, a shining moon.

SNOWFALL 冰雪谣 (2024) 1.15

[astranauticus]

inspired by this post by tumblr user @orphiclovers. the lines are direct quotes from the novel but the scene itself isnt a redraw of any specific novel scene, i just really wanted to draw black coat 1863 x white coat 1864 HSY lol

[brynnewithane]

Kaiju No. 8 Light Novel: Closely Observed! Unit 3 [Translate]

This is an UNOFFICIAL TRANSLATION of the Light Novel Kaiju No. 8. The translation and proofreading were done by me. Since my bias is Hoshina, I only plan to translate his story.

Hoshina's chapter is split into six parts. The following post includes my translation of parts 1 and 2.

***The translation that follows is not translated from the original Japanese, but rather from Vietnamese to English. Since this is my first attempt translating literature and English is not my first language, if there are any parts that seem unnatural or out-of-place please feel free to point them out. I’m open for feedback!👾 ***There are some segments that I've referenced from the translation of Kaiju No. 8: B-Side posted on the Mangaplus website. ***Word count: 2725

Chapter 3: Vice-captain Soshiro Hoshina

[PART 1/6]

“Phew, alright…”

With a soft thud, Hoshina set the stack of papers down on the table and took a deep breath. In his hand was the report on Kikoru’s match from the day before. He was evaluating it, through the lens of a vice-captain.

“Who would’ve thought it’d take this long, huh.”

Finishing off the last sip of his now-cold coffee, Hoshina made his way out of the room. Although work hours were over, he still had other plans await. As he strode down the corridor, he spotted the Metro TV crew heading towards him.

“Director! How’s the filming coming along?

The director nodded in return, “It went pretty well, everyone has been very cooperative after all. Mr. Hoshina, would you mind if we get a few words from you?”

“Me? But I’ve already been around the block though.”

“Ha ha ha. No, I just wanted to ask about the rookies. All of the officers this year are really something. The performance that Officer Shinomiya did yesterday was truly remarkable.”

“Well, that’s ‘cause the West Tokyo entry exam was way tougher this year, probably the hardest we’ve ever had. Plus, there were way more standout talents than usual this time around."

“I see. But now I’m more curious.”

“Curious ‘bout what?”

“It’s about Officer Kafka Hibino. Compared to the others, his basic physical strength seems pretty lacking. Would you mind telling us why he’s accepted to the Defense Force?”

The director couldn't help but wonder; it was no surprise at all. For days Kafka had shown no significant improvement to the crew. Whether it was marksmanship or obstacle courses, he consistently ranked last.

“Of course, we don’t just recruit folks based on combat abilities, y’know? We take a lot of other factors into account too. One of the reasons we accepted Kafka Hibino is…

“Is…?”

“Comic relief!” Hoshina smirked.

“C, comic relief, sir?” Hearing such a response, the director’s eyes widened.

“Novelty, y’know? He’s entertaining does he not? The impulsiveness and silliness and all. I’ve never seen anyone with an unleashed combat power of 0% before, and despite being physically weak, he’s bursting with energy. Not to mention he’s completely oblivious to his true potential, so he kept ended up running around like a headless chicken on the field.”

“T, That’s quite the harsh evaluation…”

“But I don’t dislike dummies like him.”

“And why is that?”

“Back in the day…” Hoshina scratched his cheek. "I met someone who was just like that. This idiot was constantly told to give up on bein’ a member of the Defense Force, yet he just kept throwin’ himself into it, no matter what.”

“So there really was a recruit like that? What’s that officer doing now?”

“Beats me. He’s likely assigned to some other unit.” Hoshina flashed a brief smile as he started to walk off. “Oh right, I’m about to hold a private training session at the dojo. The rookies will be there too, you could drop by if you’re interested.”

⁂ ⁂ ⁂

“Yaaaah!”

The soldiers’ exhort resonated throughout the wooden dojo. Apart from the outdoor training area, the Defense Force base also featured an indoor training room. Many officers would come here to train after dinner.

“My, my... It’s so crowded even during break time.” The director mumbled in admiration.

“This year’s rookies are really proactive.”

Hoshina was scanning around the dojo when he saw two individuals, both wearing armour(1), fighting intensely near the entrance. One of them caught an opening and leaped forward, swinging his bamboo sword(2) and striking his opponent. The victor removed his mask, revealing none other than Haruichi Izumo.

“Not bad Reno. Have you done kendo before?”

“I picked up a bit during middle school… But I couldn’t see that last strike of yours coming at all.” Reno, Haruichi’s opponent, also lifted off his mask and let out a sigh.

“Nah, you almost had me there too, man.” Haruichi smiled gently.

Nearby, a match took place between two individuals with distinctly different builds. One was a kendo expert senior, yet he was outmatched by his bulkier opponent who launched many heavy knocks from overhead.

“Woah that officer is really impressive. Is he a rookie too?”

“Maybe it’s hard for you to tell with a mask on like that, but it’s ‘she,’ not ‘he’, and yes she’s a rookie, her name is Hakua Igarashi.” Hoshina shook his head and replied to the director.

“Igarashi… Oh, is she the younger sister of Officer Jura from the Second Division?”

Igarashi Hakua is a promising rookie and Kikoru’s close friend.

As Hoshina looked around, a male officer approached. This young man had a muscular physique, piercing eyes, and tanned skin. He’s Aoi Kaguragi, a former member of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.

“Vice-captain Hoshina, would you mind having a sparring match with me?”

“Sure thing, let’s have a match.”

Once clad in his armour, Hoshina got into a ready stance, facing Aoi. As the referee signalled to start the match, a palpable tension filled the air. Others instinctively paused, as their attention was drawn to the two of them as well.

The fight began with two swords sharply clashing. Attacking first was Aoi.

“Ha-yaaa!” Aoi shouted as he charged forward, instantly closing the gap. He moved with a speed that left amateurs struggling to keep pace.

Hoshina skillfully parried with his bamboo sword and countered back. Aoi’s attack was neutralised. The two returned to a standoff, maintaining their distance once again.

Hoshina took the initiative this time. In response, Aoi swung his sword, attempting to strike first. Seizing the opportunity, Hoshina deftly flicked Aoi's sword upward, breaching his defence. A loud “thud” rang out as Hoshina landed a perfect hit onto Aoi’s mask.

“Men strike! (3)” (Face hit)

The referee’s voice rang out. The two exchanged bows at each other as the match ended. Once their mask was removed, Aoi’s face was glistening with sweat, in stark contrast to Hoshina, who remained calm and composed.

“Thank you, sir… I will strive to improve even more.” Aoi said, earnestly bowing his head.

“Nah, you did great! You’ve got some serious talent, y’know.” Hoshina complimented. Aoi was a rising star in the Ground Self-Defense Force, with relatively good kendo skills; he could even be ranked among the top in the Third Division.

(The rookies this year sure are outstanding.)

Applause sprang out as people enjoyed the duel between two formidable figures. Meanwhile, at the dojo entrance, an entirely different kind of match was unfolding.

“Heeeyaaah!!”

A man stumbled forward, ferociously swinging his bamboo sword. His wide, sweeping motions were all over the place, making it easy for his opponent to dodge, counter, and raise his sword high before slamming it down with force.

“Gack!!??”

The hit landed with such power that the mask seemed as though it was about to shatter. The man dropped to one knee on the floor.

“Sure-kill attack: Iharu Blade! How’d you like the power of my strike, old man!?”

“W, why you! Take it easy on me, won’t ya!?” Kafka stood up, removing his mask.

“That was me going easy. Seriously, why are you so ‘green,’ old man?” Iharu tilted his head.

“Well duh, I’ve never practised kendo once in my entire life. So, everyone else has, even Ichikawa huh… I guess all the Defense Force recruits are pros at this stuff…”

“Since you have zero experience in kendo, I assume you chose judo instead, yes?” Reno approached, striking up a conversation with Kafka.

“Hm? Nope, I don’t know judo either.”

“Huh? You weren’t required to take any martial arts class?”

“What martial arts?”

“Didn’t they require you to take either judo or kendo in middle school?”

“What’re you talking about?”

As the conversation drifted off course, Hoshina tucked his mask under his arm and walked toward them.

“Martial arts were made mandatory after the curriculum reform, which is why y’see nearly all of our rookies this year have some sort of experience—except you, Kafka.

“What, is that how it is!? Grk, even this has a generation gap!” Kafka stood up abruptly, clenching his fists. “Damn it, that means I need to train way harder. Vice-captain Hoshina, could you please instruct me as well? Let’s have a match!”

“Vice-captain, could I request the same for myself?”

“Hey Reno! Tryin’ to one-up me, aren’t ya!? Count me in too, sir!”

“Iharu, that wasn’t my intention.”

Seeing the rookies got all excited, Hoshina nodded, “Alright then. I’ll take y’all on—line up!”

A sharp "Thwack!" echoed through the air.

“Gack!”

A sharp "Thwack!" echoed through the air.

“Gurk!”

A sharp "Thwack!" echoed through the air.

“Agh!”

“All righty practice over. Y’all need to work on your basic skills.”

Upon the dojo floor, three members of Kafka lay scattered, their skill levels markedly inferior to Hoshina’s. After a lengthy observation of the scene, the director made his way toward them.

“Impressive! It’s clear that no one can even come close to your skill with the blade, sir. I wouldn’t expect anything less from someone hailing from one of the most renowned kaiju-slaying families in Kansai. Speaking of which, when you first enlisted, you weren’t here, were you? You were in Kansai, right sir?”

“Yeah, I got promoted by Captain Ashiro and transferred here.”

“I see! You must have been making a name for yourself since your early days then.”

“... That’s not the case at all.” Hoshina chuckled, looking a bit flustered.

This hesitancy of his somewhat confused the director.

“Vice-captain Hoshina.”

Hoshina shifted his attention when he heard a voice ring behind him. Kikoru stood there in her armour, her stern gaze peering through the mask.

“May I spar with you next, sir?”

“... ‘course.”

Raising her sword, Kikoru formed a ready stance. Judging by her form, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that her kendo technique was exceptionally polished. One could confidently assert that her skill was on par with Aoi’s.

(She's skilled in both firearms and swordplay. Truly astounding—a complete contrast from me.)

As Hoshina gazed at the rookies before him, memories of his own early days came flooding back—days before he joined the Third Division.

❅───✧❅✦❅✧───❅••❅───✧❅

*NOTE:

(1) Here, they are wearing a type of protective gear specifically used in kendo known as bōgu (防具) or kendōgu (剣道具). Since I saw most Western websites tend to use the terms “bogu” or “kendo armour,” I decided to simply use the word “armour” here for a smoother reading.

(2) Similar to that, I’ve chosen to use the “bamboo sword” here to make it easier to understand even though the proper term for it is shinai (竹刀).

(3) Men strike (面打ち) in Kendo is one of the most fundamental and commonly used attacks aimed at the opponent’s head. Other primary strikes include kote (wrist), dō (torso), and tsuki (throat thrust).

❅───✧❅✦❅✧───❅••❅───✧❅

[PART 2/6]

Hoshina was usually stationed in Kansai. However, on that day, he travelled to Tokyo for a meeting about a friendly kendo match with the Third Division, which was set to occur in a month. The kendo instructor of the Third Division was someone his father greatly respected, and a figure Hoshina had known since childhood.

“Sir, I’m glad to see you’re still doing well.”

“Not at all! I’m not as sharp as I used to be nowadays. I’ve been planning on stepping down as an instructor soon. So what do you say, Soshiro? Do you want to come and carry on my work?”

“Ha ha ha, I’ll consider it, sir.” Hoshina chuckled, quickly changing the subject.

Hoshina had received countless recommendations to become an instructor. Everyone in the Defense Force recognised his exceptional swordsmanship, yet they all believed it wasn’t suitable for practical combat. His father, superiors—everyone urged him to take on the role of a kendo instructor, suggesting he withdraw from the battlefield. Despite this, he still longed to remain on the front lines.

(I’m well aware… that my desires are selfish and stubborn.)

The meeting ended, and just as Hoshina was about to leave, he received a call from the general affairs office, informing him that the captain of the Third Division wanted to see him in the office.

(The captain? Wants to meet me?)

Even though Hoshina was completely perplexed, he had no choice but to go. Anxiously, he knocked on the captain’s office door.

“Come in,” a calm female voice replied.

As he opened the door and stepped inside, Hoshina was greeted by the sight of a young woman seated at the desk. It was Mina Ashiro, who had become the captain of the Third Division at a remarkably young age. The two were not far apart in age. He had seen her before, during the joint training sessions, but this was their first opportunity to talk directly.

“I apologize for interrupting you during your busy schedule. Soshiro Hoshina, at your service, ma’am.” Hoshina straightened his back and saluted to the captain.

“Third Division Captain, Mina Ashiro. I appreciate you stopping by.”

“Happy to do it, I have time to spare after all. I was planning to take a look around Tokyo for a bit before returning to base. Now then, what was it that you need me for, Captain?”

Ashiro turned her back, her gaze drifting toward the sombre sky beyond the window. 

“I’ve seen you in joint training before. Even from a distance, I can tell that your swordsmanship is exceptional.”

“Oh, thank you captain…”

(Why is she bringing that up all of a sudden?)

Hoshina couldn’t help but feel sceptical.

“Soshiro Hoshina, I heard that you’re a sword specialist.”

“Yes, that is correct.”

Hoshina could already sense what Ashiro was about to say. He let out a small sigh.

(Here it comes. She’s definitely going to tell me to give it up…)

The Third Division was in dire need of a new sword instructor during this time. It seemed that Ashiro would soon suggest that he leave the front lines and take on that role.

“I need your abilities. Will you join my force, Hoshina?” Ashiro said as she gently turned back to face him.

The gloomy sky gradually dispersed, and shafts of sunlight entered the room. Her gleaming eyes gazed directly into Hoshina’s.

“Huh…?” Caught off guard by the unexpected proposal, Hoshina felt as though his mind had gone blank.

“We cannot overlook the possibility that more powerful miniatured-size kaiju might emerge in the future. Also, unlike you, I’m awful with bladed weaponry. I wouldn’t even want to pick up a kitchen knife.”

(Okay but isn’t kitchen knives are a complete different matter…)

“When I pierce through the enemies, will you clear a path for me?”

“...”

No one had ever spoken to Hoshina like that, not even his father. He felt his heart racing intensely, unable to suppress the thought that, just by serving under her, maybe…  

(No, stop…)

Hoshina took a breath and exhaled slowly. He quickly regained his composure, and his heartbeat returned to a steady rhythm.  

(Don’t take it seriously; it’s just lip service. If I accept the offer, I’ll only become a laughingstock.) 

Since they were being courteous, one ought to return their gesture. That’s just how things should be done.

“I am truly honoured, but…”

Right after that, the shrill wail of the alarm echoed through the hallway.

“Excuse me, captain!” The door swung open as a bald officer rushed in. “We’ve received reports of a kaiju attack in Oume City. Miniature class, but there are large numbers of them, and over a dozen civilians were reported dead. About the details...”

Listening to the report, Ashiro nodded. “Understood. Ebina, rally the entire team, including those off-duty.”

“Roger!” Ebina responded promptly to the order. “Man, we’re still in the middle of restructuring the division and issues just kept cropping up.”

“We’re againsting the kaiju, they wouldn’t care less about our situation.”

Ashiro picked up the phone from the table and quickly issued orders. However, as she had just recently been promoted to captain, the chain of command was still in disarray. If they were to engage Kaiju, her unit would probably face a severe troop shortage. That was why she could stolidly make such a proposal.

“Captain Ashiro, I could head to the site as well if you will.”

“Wha!? You’re the guy who’s here for a business trip, right? You’re from a different division is it not?” Ebina frowned.

“I carried my suit and weapons. I can at least help with disposing of the yoju.”

“Yeah, but even so…”

Ashiro cut Ebina off. “Hoshina, as the captain of the Third Division, I’m asking for your aid. I’ll make sure to run it by your division as well.”

“Captain, are you sure about this!?” Ebina raised his voice. “Based on the kaiju’s estimated fortitude, this operation is going to be extremely dangerous.”

“He’s a close-combat specialist; he can definitely be able to help us a great deal. Isn’t that right, Hoshina?”

"Right." Hoshina nodded. "I'm the best there is when it comes to neutralising miniature kaiju."

────────────────────────────────────────────────

[barousagi]

barou respects women but not men

[calmlb]

The Day I Picked Up Dazai fan translation (in progress)

by DarkestJay868 <3

[alicescaling]

Brothers Conflict Season 2 Volume 2 #027

<— Previous || Masterlist || Next —>

“Over here.”

One of the staff opens the front door of the waiting room.

— At that instant.

I’m so overcome with surprise that I nearly lose my breath.

Dumbfounded at the sight before my eyes, I can do nothing but stare in shock.

#027 — To the end of the shining world.

Mahoko: “This is the end…. goodbye.”

Mahoko lifts her face up from where it’d been engrossed in her phone, and lets out a big sigh.

Mahoko: “Ahhh, I’m so relieved.”

Although I’m admittedly a little moved by her excessive sportsmanlike attitude, I speak up.

“But you’re okay? I thought you said that he’s super attractive?”

Mahoko: “Huh? Well, yeah, I guess I did.”

Mahoko plays with her fork, twirling some of the pasta on her plate around it.

Mahoko: “But still, being too casual’s a no from me. I mean, it’s okay to be casual, but when you cross over into too casual territory, I’m gonna have to pass.”

Since the two of us both have the same second period, we’d decided to go get lunch together at the school cafeteria.

Then right as we’d gotten a table, Mahoko had gotten a phone call.

…. Two minutes later.

Mahoko’d hung up the call, and promptly deleted the other party’s number from her contacts.

Mahoko: “Seriously, it’s like none of the guys at that mixer were any decent at all.”

After saying that, Mahoko laughs and stuffs her face with pasta.

It’s been about a month since we’d gone to that club.

Because I’d gotten myself dragged into trouble there, Mahoko and Sasakura-kun had also left the club early, but Mahoko had still managed to get her hands on the contact info from some of the guys there.

Although in the end, it didn’t seem like there was a single one of them that wanted to actually date her.

Mahoko: “Six guys, right? How’s it possible to totally fail this bad with six whole guys?!”

Mahoko spins her fork again with one hand, and picks her cell up with the other.

Mahoko: “Either way, I’ll just keep living off of Forttê!”

As she says this, she turns her phone screen towards me. Displayed are photos from one of Forttê’s live concerts.

Mahoko: “These are from a performance last weekend. Only premium members of their fanclub can download ‘em.”

Mahoko swipes through the pictures with her fingers. There are a myriad of them, from ones with the entire group, to ones highlighting only certain members.

Mahoko: “At the center of the stage is the leader, Eiichirou-kun…. Akaboshi Eiichirou-kun, that is. Then over next to him is the sub leader, Seike Ryou-kun. Then over here we’ve got….”

Mahoko points towards each of the members, introducing them as she goes through the pictures.

(Ah.)

Naturally, among the many pictures, there are also some of Fuuto-kun.

(Wow… so that’s the kind of feel Fuuto-kun gives off on stage.)

I feel sorry for Mahoko, but I haven’t really seen Fortte on stage before.

When Masaomi-san and Wataru-kun watch their performances on TV, the most I’ll do is look on from the sideline.

So seeing Fuuto-kun on stage is surprisingly a breath of fresh air.

Although Fuuto-kun prefers being an actor to being an idol, looking at how he is on stage, I don’t get that impression from him in the least.

(As expected from a pro, huh.)

Even though he’s younger than me, seeing him like this, he seems like he’s in a totally different league.

Mahoko: “Ohh, now you’ve really got me curious.”

Suddenly, I hear Mahoko’s voice ring out, sounding teasing.

Mahoko: “You’ve been staring reeeal keen at every photo with Fuuto-kun in it, Hina~”

There’s a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Mahoko: “Hey, hey, are you looking at him like a little brother? Or mayyybe as a guy??”

“M-Maho-chan!?”

W-what’s she saying all of the sudden?!

Mahoko: “I mean, I’m jealous of you, Hina! You get to live under the same roof as Fuuto-kun– seriously, I’m insanely jealous~!!”

“U, uhmm… okay, wanna switch places for a day, then?”

At a loss, I say that without meaning to, and Mahoko stops for a moment.

Mahoko: “Eh?”

Then, she blinks incessantly.

Mahoko: “Sorry. It’s okay.”

Several seconds later, Mahoko speaks.

Mahoko: “Even if we did spend a night together, I’d have no idea what to do.”

“Huh?”

Mahoko: “I mean, something like that’s totally forbidden. No matter how much I love looking, I can’t ever touch. That’s what it means to be a real fan.”

“I-Is that so.”

Mahoko: “But the thought makes me happy. Thanks, Hina!”

“You’re welcome…..”

With a huge grin on her face, Mahoko brings her phone in towards her.

Mahoko: “Still, this performance was seriously reeeeally good.”

She fixedly mumbles.

Mahoko: “I wanna show this to all the people who keep saying that Forttê’s gonna break up.”

“Break up?”

I’m a little surprised to hear such harsh words.

Mahoko: “Oh, it’s only gossip. The past few months, there’s been a lot of people online making a racket about it. This kinda thing happens all the time.”

“Huh, I see.”

Mahoko: “They’re totally just baseless rumors though, so I wouldn’t worry about it.”

I’m sure that that kind of gossip is inevitable for famous idols.

Mahoko: “Oh, right!”

Mahoko’s face suddenly goes serious, and she looks up from where she’d been gazing at her phone in awe.

Mahoko: “Do you have anything next class period, Hina?”

“No, I’m free.”

Mahoko: “Sorry to ask, but if that’s the case, d’you think you could look for this book for me? The library should have it.”

As she says this, Mahoko brings out a memo.

Mahoko: “I really need it for a report I’m writing that’s due tomorrow. Could you get it for me, please?”

“Yeah, sure. I was already planning on going to the library in the first place.”

Mahoko: “Thanks! In return, I’ll give you one of Fuuto-kun’s pictures. Can I see your phone for a sec?”

As she says this, Mahoko peremptorily snatches my phone from my hands.

Mahoko: “I can’t give you the pictures that I just showed you, so an official one’ll have to do…. ‘kay, it’s all set up now.”

When she gives my phone back, a picture of Fuuto-kun’s shining, smiling face is reflected back at me.

★☆★

(.......... it should be here.)

The book that Mahoko asked for is a bit of a particular, technical book.

At first, I had no idea where it’d be, and had to ask a librarian who’d pointed me to the right shelf.

The area that they’d led me to was a section of the library filled with a bunch of technical books, and was completely devoid of people. It’s the kind of place that comes to mind when I think of a library, calm and quiet.

I look up at the tall bookshelves, searching for the book that Mahoko requested.

(Uhmmm……)

At that moment.

“Kyah!”

Abruptly, I stumble and lose my balance.

Frantically, my hands grab at a nearby shelf as I fall. A dull thud echoes out.

In the still and silent as death library, the sound rings out big and loud.

“Ah… sorry.”

I hear a voice from below me. When I look down, I see a man sitting with his back against the bookshelf.

He’s sitting with one knee up, while his other leg’s stretched out. I realize that since I’d been looking up, I hadn’t noticed it, which is why I’d tripped.

“Are you okay?”

The man stands up, and helps me up from where I’d been leaning against a shelf.

“Ah, yes.”

The man is wearing a hat that’s pulled over his eyes. Until just now, I hadn’t been able to see his face. Now that he’s up so close to me, though, I can see through the shadows that’d covered it from view.

(Woah…)

I’m stunned by how beautiful he is.

It somehow feels like there’s more to it than him just being an attractive guy, though.

He has an inherent elegance to him, and he doesn’t seem necessarily cold, but there’s a sort of distant, unapproachable atmosphere to him.

“I thought that no one else would come here, so I was taking a nap.”

“I thought the same. I’m sorry for not noticing you.”

“No, it’s okay. It’s my bad. …. well, then, I’ll be on my way.”

As he says this, he slowly takes his leave.

(Huh…?)

Something pulls at my mind.

(I feel like I know him from somewhere….)

Be that as it may, this guy has an unforgettable beauty to him.

Of course, I’ve never met him before. And yet, for some reason, I’m getting deja vu.

(Why…)

Then, abruptly, two separate images in my mind begin to connect to each other.

The first being the face under the hat I’d seen just now.

The second being the pictures that Mahoko had shown me earlier.

“Seike-san?!”

Without thinking, I shout that out. He suddenly stops, his back still turned to me.

Seike: “....... shhhh.”

Seike-san merely turns half his body around to look back at me, bringing his index finger to his mouth.

Seike: “Don’t shout.”

“I-I’m sorry…”

Seike: “Are you a fan? Thanks for the support.”

He says this with a smile. I answer without thinking.

“Oh, no, I’m not–”

Seike-san’s face looks doubtful. Realizing how I must sound, I cut myself off.

Seike: “Huh, so you aren’t. But you recognize me?”

“U-uhmmm, that’s….”

The air goes awkward. I try to shake it off and flusteredly speak.

“Er, my name’s Asahina.”

Seike: “Asahina?”

Seike-san gazes intently at me.

Seike: “That sounds familiar. I’m sure that that’s Fuuto’s real last name… are you by chance his older sister?”

“Yes, I am.”

Seike: “Ahh, I see.”

Seike-san turns the rest of his body around, now fully facing me.

Seike: “It’s nice to meet you. I’m Seike Ryou. Thank you for always taking care of Fuuto.”

Seike-san is polite as he says this, lowering his head in a bow towards me.

At that moment, I feel my heart flutter.

His movements are incredibly gentlemanly and graceful.

I’m surprised, nervous that such a beautiful person is making that sort of gesture towards me.

“No, I mean, I should be the one thanking you. I’m sorry if Fuuto-kun’s been troubling you…”

Seike: “Huh?”

Seike-san lifts his face up.

His facial expression completely changes, going stiff.

Seike: “What did you hear?”

“Huh?”

Seike: “Right now, you just said troubling.”

“Eh….!?

I had only said that intending to be polite, as a formality. But Seike-san’s reaction was different. As if Fuuto-kun really has done something to trouble him.

Seike: “Well, I don’t know what Fuuto’s told you.”

Seike-san takes a step towards me.

Seike: “But to be honest, he has troubled Eichi a bit.”

“Eichi?”

Seike: “Ah, Eiichirou. Our group’s leader.”

Mahoko: “At the center of the stage is the leader, Eiichirou-kun…. Akaboshi Eiichirou-kun, that is.”

I recall the picture of him that Mahoko showed me earlier.

Seike: “Since you’re his big sister, could you tell Fuuto something? If things continue like this, something bad might happen.”

“Something bad…?”

Timidly, I ask.

“Could you mean, breaking up–?”

Seike: “Never.”

Seike-san replies immediately. His voice is sharp.

Seike: “That’s impossible. Unless Eichi says he wants to, there’s absolutely no way that we’re ever breaking up.”

“T-then…..?”

Seike: “Be that as it may, Fuuto’s selfishness is unacceptable.”

His face is serious.

Seike: “If you say that to him, I’m sure Fuuto will understand.”

Seike-san turns on his heel.

Seike: “I’m counting on you. It was nice meeting you, Onee-san.”

And then Seike-san leaves.

(The leader of Forttê– Akaboshi-san – and Fuuto-kun are fighting…?)

There’s a lot of gossip circulating online. Mahoko had said that they’re all just baseless rumors.

Seike-san had denied that the group would be dissolving.

In which case, that particular rumor isn’t likely to be true.

(But Fuuto-kun….)

★☆★

It’s past four thirty in the afternoon, and my last class of the day has ended.

When I give Mahoko the book she asked for, she tells me she’s off to write her report with a tired look on her face, and we go our separate ways.

As I make my way out of the school’s main gate, I get a call.

It’s from Louis-san.

“Hello.”

Louis: “.... Chii-chan?”

“Yes, hi.”

Louis: “Mhmm, hi.”

It’s rare to get a call from Louis-san.

“Is something wrong?”

Louis: “With me? No, I’m alright. The same as always. …. however.”

Louis-san’s voice seems hesitant.

Louis: “The thing is, Chii-chan.”

“Yes?”

Louis: “I wasn’t sure if I should say anything. …. but I feel like I should. So I will.”

The uncertainty in Louis-san’s voice disappears, suddenly becoming serious.

Louis: “Chii-chan. I saw him.”

“Saw him?”

Not understanding what Louis-san is trying to say, I parrot his words back as a question.

Louis: “Chii-chan, the truth is–”

At that moment.

“Yeah, yeah, over here.”

As I hear this, someone suddenly snatches my phone from my hand.

“Huh?!”

“Good grief.”

There’s a slender man standing there.

He’s wearing a stylish jacket and slacks, and has sunglasses on.

“I expressly come all the way here, and you’d rather talk with someone else on the phone?”

He glances towards the screen, then speaks into the phone.

“Sorry, but she’s busy with me now. You know how it is.”

Then, he abruptly, unilaterally hangs up.

“Wait a minute, what do you think you’re doing?!”

The man smirks.

“Haha… don’t get upset, Nee-san.”

(N-nee-san!?)

“To make it up to you, I’ll keep you company from now on.”

He pulls his sunglasses off with his left hand. Underneath is a face that I know well.

“Ah! Fuu–”

Fuuto: “Uh-oh.”

He adjusts his sunglasses back onto his face, bringing his right hand to cover my lips as he does so.

Fuuto: “No more of that.”

Then, he nestles up closer, his body pressing against me as he catches my elbow.

Fuuto: “Nee-san, you’re free right now, right?”

The man– no, Fuuto-kun– speaks in his unique, teasing tone.

Fuuto: “I’ve had the past three days off. Yesterday and the day before, I had some things to attend to, but today, I’m free. So, I’ve decided that I’ll be spending it with you.”

Fuuto-kun’s hand moves smoothly and quickly.

The moment that he lets my elbow go, he runs his hand down my arm, entwining his fingers with mine.

Fuuto: “C’mon, hurry up. I’ve got a few different places I wanna go.”

After he says this, Fuuto-kun begins walking, his fingers still intertwined with mine.

★☆★

“Welcome.”

An employee dressed in a sharp black tuxedo greets us.

Fuuto: “Are there seats available?”

“Yes, there are.”

Fuuto: “Alright, thanks. …. hey, don’t just stand there in a daze, hurry and take off your shoes.”

After we left Meiji University, we’d gone to Shibuya to watch a movie that Fuuto-kun wanted to see, before he’d brought me to Omotesandō.

Fuuto: “There’s a place I like there. It’s calming.”

He said that as he brought me here— an underground, lounge-style bar.

The ceiling isn’t that high, but the floor is considerably spacious.

The inside of the bar is a bit dark, the red and white tones of the furniture dimly lit.

Strangely enough, they require that you take off your shoes upon entry.

There’s a rug covering the floor that feels soft and fluffy, tickling the soles of my feet as I walk on it.

“Please, over here.”

We’re led to a circular space in the interior of the bar.

There are candles lit at the center of a round table, with a sofa encircling the circumference of the table.

Only the section facing the corridor is open and without a sofa, acting as an entrance to the seating.

(Wow… this place is amazing.)

The floor is much lower here than in the corridor, which when I sit, makes me feel like I’m completely locked up in the basement of a tower.

Fuuto: “It’s kind of interesting, isn’t it?”

Fuuto-kun sits down in the empty space a little to my right.

Fuuto: “This, this, and this. …. and this, as well. I’ll have the same drink as before. Two of them.”

Fuuto-kun points at the menu, briskly ordering without waiting for my input.

It’s sequential, like some sort of ritual, and when he’s done, the waiter bows before taking his leave.

“Do you come here often?”

Once all the food and drinks we ordered have been brought to us, I ask.

Fuuto: “No, not really.”

“Really? The waiter seemed to recognize you, though, so I thought you might be a regular.”

Fuuto: “..... hey.”

Fuuto-kun places the glass in his hand back on the table.

It’s a non-alcoholic cocktail, filled with an array of mixed fruits that look like little waves inside the drink.

Fuuto: “You do realize that I’m a celebrity, right?”

Fuuto-kun’s voice is laced with exasperation.

Fuuto: “Clearly you don’t, do you? I’m not just your little brother.”

“Ah…..”

Mahoko: “I mean, I’m jealous of you, Hina!”

Mahoko’s words cross my mind.

Fuuto: “It’d make me happy if you’d comprehend that, even just a bit.”

“.........”

Fuuto: “Got it? So, about the movie from earlier.”

Fuuto-kun begins to talk about the movie that we’d just watched.

But my attention is somewhere else, and his words barely reach my ears.

I don’t have any interest in the entertainment industry, or any type of show business.

Because of this, Fuuto-kun’s always been “my little brother who’s a celebrity” to me.

But that isn’t the reality.

Fuuto-kun is a member of a popular idol group, an actor who appears in movies and dramas, and a model for a brand that’s famous worldwide.

There are a lot of people in the entertainment industry, but only a few play such an active role in so many areas.

Furthermore, Fuuto-kun had said that he had no plans to stop being an idol, and is studying all sorts of things. I’ve seen some of it with my own eyes.

I’m sure he’s also put in a lot of hard work that I don’t know about to get to establish the status that he has now.

When I think about it that way, I realize that the way I’d talked to Fuuto-kun earlier was rude.

Then, abruptly, I feel a smack on my shoulder, and I’m pulled back to reality.

Fuuto: “Hey, are you even listening?”

“Huh?”

Fuuto: “Good grief.”

Fuuto-kun gives a big exhale.

Fuuto: “You should pay attention when someone’s speaking to you.”

“S-sorry.”

I say.

“I was just thinking about how I acted earlier.”

Fuuto: “Yeah?”

“I didn’t mean any offense. I’m sorry.”

Fuuto: “.... I see.”

Fuuto-kun lightly shrugs his shoulders.

Fuuto: “Well, it’s hard to get angry when you say it so honestly. I’m in a good mood today, so I’ll forgive you.”

Fuuto-kun smiles brightly.

Fuuto: “Besides, I’m very tolerant with my fans.”

“Fans?”

Fuuto: “You don’t have to keep hiding it.”

Fuuto-kun leans in towards me, and the space between the two of us disappears.

Fuuto: “I saw it, y’know. Your phone screen after I hung up on Louie-nii, Nee-san.”

(Ah!)

I remember how Mahoko had fiddled around with my phone screen at lunch earlier today.

Which means that the picture of Fuuto-kun that Mahoko had set up was still displayed.

“T-that’s….”

I flusteredly try to explain. But before I can, Fuuto-kun places his hand on my lap.

(Ahh!)

Fuuto: “I guess I’d say it makes me really happy. Yeah, that sounds about right.”

Half on reflex, I try to move Fuuto-kun’s hand from my lap. But before I can, Fuuto-kun quickly moves his body closer to me.

Fuuto: “Because I’m nice, I’ll do you a little service, too. Anyone could get their hands on that photo– I’ll give you something more special than an image.”

Fuuto-kun’s left hand captures my waist, pulling me closer strongly.

The movement’s so fast that my body doesn’t have the chance to react.

Fuuto: “Look here.”

Fuuto-kun’s face draws closer. Our cheeks are closely pressed together.

Fuuto: “Smile, Nee-chan.”

Fuuto-kun points his smartphone in our direction. The light of the flash flickers.

Fuuto: “Hold on… hmm, can’t you look a little happier?”

Fuuto-kun shows me the picture he just took. I’m wearing a distressed looking expression on my face.

Fuuto: “Well, whatever. ‘Kay, next, you’re going to be the one servicing me, Nee-san.”

As he says this, Fuuto-kun places his phone back on the table, and pushes on my shoulder with his empty hand.

(Ahh….. )

My body slants. I fall back against the sofa, my back pressed against the cushions.

Fuuto: “It’s good that we took our shoes off already, huh.”

Fuuto-kun grabs my legs, holding them up so that they’re stretched out across the sofa.

I can’t help but feel terribly anxious.

I struggle to regain my footing.

Fuuto: “Oops.”

But Fuuto-kun doesn’t allow me to.

He presses against both my knees, squeezing them together so that I can’t move.

Fuuto: “........ ahh.”

Fuuto-kun looks down over me with a grin.

Fuuto: “This angle’s nice, isn’t it.”

As he says this, Fuuto-kun reaches his hand out to retrieve his smartphone from where he’d set it earlier.

Fuuto: “I feel like this would make an even more special picture. Don’t you think so too, Nee-san?”

“F-Fuuto-kun…..”

I trail off, stopping there. My head’s in disorder, my words leaving me.

Fuuto: “Hm?”

Then, Fuuto-kun looks towards his phone’s display, a displeased frown on his face.

Fuuto: “Again? Why’re they sending me so many messages today? I said I’m on break.”

At that moment, it feels like I’ve found a thread of hope.

“Y-you’re not going to look at it?”

Fuuto: “Haah?”

“I mean, it’s a message from work. Is it okay to not read it?”

Fuuto: “Ahhhh, that’s how it is.”

Fuuto-kun laughs.

Fuuto: “I see. I can’t say I hate that kind of work ethic. Besides, they say that it’s all the better when you leave the fun for later.”

Fuuto-kun turns his attention from me and gives a sidelong glance to his phone screen.

Fuuto: “Then, I’ll live up to your expectations….”

Immediately following this.

Fuuto: “Ngh……!”

Fuuto-kun’s expression completely changes.

(Ehh?!)

Before my eyes, he begins to bite at his lip, his eyes wide. His cheeks tremble, so much that the tremors begin to spread to his shoulders down to his arms, then his hands, and soon, his entire body begins to tremble heavily.

Fuuto: “This has to be some sort of joke…”

(.....!)

His voice as he says this is one I’ve never heard before.

Anger. Hatred. Humiliation.

It’s a voice so heavy, so overcome with all of these emotions, that it sounds like none of them at the same time.

“.........”

I find myself at a loss for words. I can’t bring myself to say anything, not sure what to do with the situation, only able to stare at Fuuto-kun helplessly.

Before long, Fuuto-kun’s gaze meets mine.

“!”

At that instant, Fuuto-kun suddenly shoots up to a stand.

He pulls a bundle of bills from his wallet, and slams them onto the table.

After, he captures my hand with amazing speed, yanking me along with him as he goes to leave.

“F-Fuuto-kun!”

I do my best to speak up while I stumble along with him.

“What are you doing?! Hold on, wait a moment– hey!”

But Fuuto-kun doesn’t stop.

“That hurts, you’re hurting me, Fuuto-kun!”

After I yell this out, Fuuto-kun seems to finally come to his senses, and he stops. Once he does, he speaks in a low voice.

Fuuto: “..... Shibuya.”

“Shibuya?”

Fuuto: “I said Shibuya!”

Fuuto-kun raises his voice.

Fuuto: “We’re going, now. Both of us!”

★☆★

— A few minutes later.

The taxi that we’re in finally arrives at the intersection in front of the JR Shibuya station.

The entire car ride, Fuuto-kun was silent the whole time. There was a weight in the air, a heavy sort of atmosphere that kept me from trying to talk to him.

After Fuuto-kun gets out of the car, he marches through the streets, cutting through cars and people alike before looking up at an enormous monitor.

On it, there are commercials being shown one by one in succession. Fuuto-kun watches each of them go by, his gaze intent.

(What’s wrong?)

I’m sure that whatever it is, it has to do with the message that Fuuto-kun got from work. But what exactly it was in that message that made Fuuto-kun so upset, I can’t begin to guess.

Fuuto: “Tch!”

I hear the sound of Fuuto-kun clenching his teeth.

A male model is displayed on the monitor. Small writing appears on the edge of the screen.

(Ah–!)

At first glance, the words seem unassuming– but to the trained eye, they’d be impossible to miss.

It’s the name of the famous brand that Fuuto-kun had been recruited by.

The image begins to pan up.

First, we see the model’s feet.

Then their hips.

Their wrist.

Their fingertips.

Then, there’s a close up of what they're holding in their fingers– a bottle of perfume.

At that moment, I finally understand why Fuuto-kun is so angry.

(That model isn’t Fuuto-kun…)

The model’s face isn’t in view, but there’s still no mistaking it.

He and Fuuto-kun have entirely different auras.

Fuuto: “.................”

Fuuto-kun is shaking.

Just a look at him is enough to sense the intense furiosity that he’s emitting.

Why this is happening, I have no idea.

But clearly, Fuuto-kun hadn’t been hired as their model after all.

The image being displayed begins to shift again, panning up so that the collar of the model’s shirt is now visible.

“Ehh?!”

A large jolt of surprise runs through my body.

With the model’s collar displayed, I can make out the silver chain around their neck.

I know that chain. I’ve seen it before.

There’s no way I’m mistaken.

There’s no way I could ever mistake it.

It’s wrapped around the model’s neck twice in a way that gives the chain two layers.

(That…)

The display changes yet again– this time, the model’s face is visible.

And I’m proven right.

Fuuto: “What!”

Fuuto-kun exclaims.

Fuuto: “W-what, this–...”

Instinctively, I turn my attention towards him, and am met with an expression of absolute shock.

The intense anger he’d been emitting until now has disappeared.

The monitor displays a young man smiling.

It’s gentle and elegant, but there’s also a melancholy to his smile that I can’t quite place.

It’s someone that we both know well.

It’s—.

…. Iori-san.

[etrevil]

[fg083nrt]

Hello 👋

You can now pre-order your copy of KKHD 💴🩸 anthology on toranoana

Organized by @quintal187, it has a ton of cool kakuhida artists!!! Some even came from retirement to contribute. It's pretty exciting! ☺️

I made a little 16-page NSFW comic with the loose plot of "Day in the Life of an Overworked Man and his Ball of Manic Energy Immortal Partner.". Also, a colour illustration 🐈💖🐈 !

Here's the tiniest of previews:

I am really honoured to be a part of this anthology, and I've learned a lot throughout the process! Thank you so much @quintal187 for organizing this project and bringing everyone together, I am forever grateful for this opportunity 💖💖💖

For overseas shipping, use a proxy. This is the officially recommended proxy. I personally use Japan Rabbit, and if you have your own proxy, feel free to use that as well <3

[ratsbanes]

reminder that in the light novels dazai is described as having black hair and not the butt ugly brown he has in the anime

[lunarystarry]

Random:

I like to think that Ace and Yuu are the Tamaki and Haruhi in TWST

[wildflower-otome]

Clover no Kuni no Alice ~Promise Red~ Light Novel Translation (Complete) Summary: Sequel to White Calling. By arrangement with the Boss of the Hatter Family, Blood Dupre, Alice is now living temporarily at Heart Castle until the Assembly period is over. However, for some reason, the Prime Minister, the White Rabbit Peter, is behaving strangely and suddenly starts to avoid Alice….. Despite not knowing what he’s thinking, her feelings for him continue to grow—In the midst of their estrangement, what fate does the bewildered Alice choose!?

Prologue ACT 1 – What awaited after falling was a white rose ACT 2 - Phantom silver, secrets of the roses ACT 3 – Heartbeat that calls for a singular red ACT 4 - Taking a breather, ash-coloured love ACT 5 - Hearts that must be spoken to be understood ACT 6 - Inseparable person, beloved family ACT 7 - Red eyes make a binding promise Epilogue