#lookin' at you Mado

[acanth3]

追憶＊マリオネットの糸の先 / Reminiscence＊End of the Marionette's Strings

EPISODE 1

Mika: Hmmm? Only 30 minutes till’ our live and Nazuna-nii isn’t here yet…

Shu: Kagehira. Quit shaking, it’s uncomfortable. To rephrase it, it’s vulgar.

Don’t get distracted just because nobody is watching us, Valkyrie must always remain graceful.

If you behave unsightly I won't allow you to go up on stage. Understand? 

Whether you are there or not, it won't matter. 

Mika: Nnnnh, I’m sorry Oshi-san Standin’ around in the same place gets annoyin’. Is it okay if I follow you for a bit? 

Shu: Don't move on your own, even if you walk just a little you’ll soon forget what you have to do. 

As far as I’m worried you’ll ruin your costume.

Mika: Nnnh? Osh-san is worried about me~? I’m so happy.

Shu: What I’m worried about is the costume, not you! Just how much effort do you think went into tailoring the costume?

Kagehira, just take responsibility. 

It’s not something easy where you can just wash it if it gets dirty.

Mika: Nnnn~ I’m happy with our matchin' costumes. Oshi-san makes new costumes every live performance

So refreshin’ ♪

This is our general costume for Valkyrie right? Ha~ It’s cool, make us look like antique dolls ♪

Shu: It’s not supposed to create a nostalgic feeling, but the trend where it’s good if it’s new...I can’t stand it. 

I’m used to tailoring these kinds of costumes, I’m the only one who can prepare/tailor the costumes on my own. ♪

Mika: Nnnn, Mado-nee is also wearin' a matching costume! Cute~♪

Shu: That’s right, that’s right, praise more.

Rather than wearing it just because it looks cute on Mademoiselle, it’s only natural it looks good because I designed it. 

You too...Well it only looks good on you because you’re only good appearance-wise. 

Mika: Eh? Really? I’m happy~ Oshi-san has praised me~♪

Shu: Don't jump around! It would be a problem if you hooked your clothes somewhere, you careless person.

Nazuna: …..

Mika: Nnnhn!? I was surprised... Nazuna-nii how long have you been standin’ there? It’s quite late, I was worried! 

Nazuna: ….. 

Mika: Don’t act so intimidatin’! I’m older than you Nazuna-nii. I wont know what to do if you suddenly bowed yer head~...

Nazuna: …..?

Mika: Nnnn? Lookin’ at the costume? This is our basic Valkyrie costume, I get to match with you Nazuna-nii~♪

Nazuna: …..♪

Mika: Yeah! I think it looks great too! I’m sure it’ll look good on you too, Nazuna-nii.

Shu: Kagehira. Just shut up for a little bit. 

...It’s very late, Nito

Nazuna: …..

Shu: Well I’d say it’s okay, hurry get dressed. Your costume is over there. 

It’ll be difficult to wear it yourself, I’ll help you. 

Nazuna: ….. nods head 

Shu: Aaa, Nito, Nito, Nito…♪ My perfectly tuned, beautiful lovely marionette. Even today as well, you are perfect…☆

It’s a miracle of God given by heaven.

It’s such a shame to share this brilliant frame to average people in this world, I wish to keep it all to myself…♪

But unfortunately it cannot happen. 

Those insects are very disturbing these few days, so we have to defeat them. In order to do that we need you. 

Don’t worry, I’ll clean up this mess soon. 

Because it’s ‘fine’ we’re up against I thought what it would be like against Tenshouin, but after all, it’s child's play. 

They are not only the enemy of Valkyrie, of course there are others snobs within our eyes.

Let’s kick it all away, destroy it and pack it into a cheap stuffed toy♪

These days, including me, there’s a group called ‘ The 5 Eccentrics’ and so on.

At this point, everyone seems to be watching us silently. There is nothing in this world that tunes out our reign/superiority. 

Just a little more and this world will turn into a beautiful exhibition designed by me. 

It won't take long, just a little more patience. 

Nazuna: …..nods head

Shu: Nito, cute little rabbit…let's create a perfect world for you with no dust.

First of all, let’s begin to prepare for this showcase. 

Even if you spare the trouble of helping us, it’s still troublesome. 

Separated from the fools and the weak… let’s only bring the most beautiful and valuable into heaven.

Now, the beginning of a fun puppet show~ KaKaKaKa ♪

notes: i love shu sm im gonna die

[ibasae]

Sprout*Waning Hermitage - Epilogue

Mika: Ow, that hurts!

Uuu...--accidentally stabbed myself really hard with this needle~...

I would never make this kinda mistakes normally... Must be 'cause this fabric is so expensive 'n I got nervous usin' it.

Shu: Kagehira? Ah, there you are. I went to your dorm to look for you, but you weren't there.

...Hm? What are you up to?

Mika: Ah, Oshi-san! 'M just doin' some needlework.

Shu: That is an awfully small piece of clothing... could it be?

Mika: Yup yup! 'S clothes for the doll Oshi-san got me.

Shu: Is that so? I can't say I didn't notice myself. Everything else about her was kept next to perfect, yet her clothes have succumbed to the wear of time.

Mika: Yeah! She's just such a pretty doll, her torn clothes are made so awfully obvious in contrast, right? So, I've always been plannin' to make her new clothes.

It's just that, when I finally got the motivation to sew somethin' with my best fabric, I didn't get very far due to my nerves...

Shu: Good grief... Because you are making a masterpiece, you are merely using fabric suited for that. As an artist, I would understand if you were a bit over the moon, but there's no need for this excessive stress.

Mika: Wueh~ That's easier said than done~

Speakin' of which, why was Oshi-san lookin' for me? Do you need anythin'?

Shu: Oh, I just wanted to give you this. Here, keep it.

Mika: Eh, doll clothin'?

Shu: I did say I noticed the state of her clothes as well, didn't I? I simply made her an outfit in my free time is all.

I didn't know you had the exact same thought... However, you can never have too much clothes, as they say. Plus, changing her outfit every now and again will refresh her mood.

Mika: Uwa! Oshi-san, thank ya kindly! I'm sure the doll will be super happy as well ♪

Ah! Right-- 'S such a rare opportunity. Since Oshi-san made new clothes for her, I'll help her put it on right now, 'n let's all get lunch together at the courtyard.

It's such fine weather outside today too, I'm sure it'll be a relaxin' time.

Shu: My, I didn't know you'd go off whims like that.

Mika: Ehehe, I don't see a problem with it! Especially since that we've been trainin' ever since Oshi-san came home.

Shu: What am I going to do with you... Ah, I suppose we did work hard on the new song. It would be okay if we took a short break.

Mika: Ah, if that's so, bring Mado-nee as well~ I haven't seen her in a long time.

Having lunch with everyone on such a sunny day... I'm sure it will be a time filled with happiness ♪

[twilightmalachite]

Hermitage - Epilogue

Author: Nishioka Maiko (with Akira)

Characters: Mika, Shu

Translator: Mika Enstars

"Goodness… You create the best with the best materials. In order to feel joy as an artist, you mustn’t give in to fear."

Season: Winter

Location: Starmony Dorms Common Room

Mika: Ouch!?

Uu… I pricked my finger real badly~…

I don’t usually make these kinda mistakes… Guess I really am jus’ nervous I’m gonna mess up with this expensive fabric…

Shu: Kagehira? Ahh, just in time. I went to your room, but you weren’t there.

…Hm? What exactly are you up to?

Mika: Ah, Oshi-san! I’m sewin’ right now.

Shu: Those look like some very small clothes there. Could it perhaps be for⁠—

Mika: Yup! They’re for the doll that ya gave me as a souvenir, Oshi-san.

Shu: I see. Their clothes had actually caught my attention too. The clothes had begun to deteriorate after so long.

Mika: Mhm! Their little body’s still super pretty, but doesn’t it just make their worsenin’ clothes stand out even more? So I thought to give ‘em some new pretty clothes!

But, I ended up buyin’ real expensive fabric in my excitement, and now I’m too nervous to get any work done at all.

Shu: Goodness… You create the best with the best materials. In order to feel joy as an artist, you mustn’t give in to fear.

Mika: I know, but… I can’t help it~!

But Oshi-san, why were ya lookin’ for me? Do ya need me to do somethin’?

Shu: Right. I thought to give this to you. This is for you.

Mika: Eh? Is this western-style doll clothes?

Shu: I told you earlier that I’d noticed her clothes as well. I made them during a gap in my schedule.

I didn’t expect you to have the same idea, though… Well, it doesn’t matter how many clothes she has. Changing her clothes will give her a good change of pace.

Mika: Uwah! Oshi-san, thank ya so much! I’m sure the dollie will love ‘em as well~♪

Mika: ! Oh, I know!

Since ya put so much effort into makin’ this, Oshi-san, how ‘bout I change her into her new clothes and we can all have lunch together in the courtyard?

The weather’s great today. I’m sure it’ll be real nice~!

Shu: Quite the sudden plan, isn’t it?

Mika: Ahaha, it’s fine! Since ya came back, we’ve been doin’ nothin’ but traning, Oshi-san.

Shu: I suppose you’re right. Since we gave it our all working on our new song, I don’t mind relaxing for a bit.

Mika: Ah, Mado-nee should join us too, then~! It’s been so long!

I’m sure everyone will be happy to enjoy a delicious lunch in the warm sunshine together! ♪

← prev | story directory

[dontf8arthereaper]

Meanwhile at the moon the time has come the messiah's fang used their full power and open a cluster of gates unleashing an unholy legion of horrors ready to invade and finally be free from the dark realm to take over the outside world at Shinki' s request as the war has already won from the very beginning of their invasion.

Through the gigantic gate clusters all the horrors together fly into the sky of makai towards the clusters for them to enter into the outside world from both the earth and the moon. With lord Tsukuyomi ceased to exist along with the legacy, pride and the arrogance of the lunarian scourge the moon is now an abandoned and empty rock for all the moon rabbits became the mado horrors of today under control of Shinki, Zedom as well as their other superiors. The demons of makai tore the entire apocalyptic earth to an asunder. Piece by piece as their freedom is truly a beautiful sight to be hold.

Along with the horrors came the mechanical beings handcrafted by Gyanon themselves known as the Gōryū madou automatons once used by the makai order as wespons against the horrors thousands of years ago in the golden age of gensokyo now under the control of the messiah's fang in Shinki's unholy legion. The legion of the undivided horrors marched across the world killing and devouring most of the variant horde while both Zedom and Gyanon watched in joy.

Gyanon couldn't be me more happier at the smell of freedom and the sight of their own brethren matched fourth into land and the goddess of makai watched the gate clusters unleashed all her children into the realm al along with the goddess of death Sariel who is quite impressed with the progress so far while she counted how many souls she just collected to be converted into horrors.

" AHAHAHAHAAAAHHH! YESS! YESS! IT IS COMPLETE! NOTHING CAN STOP US NOW! NOTHING CAN TAKE US DOWN! I HAVE ALREADY WON IN THIS SHIT HOLE OF A REALM! "

" Oh uh shinki careful not to laugh too hard you'll crack your back like last time. "

" Well at least now your alive again, dear old friend. "

" Oh shinki, you lookin ' fabulous since 98 girl, did ya get one of them skin ointments...? ~ "

" Uhh I'm a goddess dear, I always stay fresh... "

" Ehh your clothing could use some work sweety, but don't worry! Just like with Zedom, let's give you a makeover! "

" What I need is a drink... "

[darkner-king]

Is it the duke's duty to take care of you shall you get sick?

“I can take care of myself, even when sick... But yes... He tends to take care of me. Force me to rest.”

“....As does someone else.”

[jewwyfeesh]

Sakura & Rose - Endeavours of the Heart 3

Writer: Mitsuki

Characters: Kagehira Mika, Kiryu Kuro

Translated by: jewwyfeesh

Mika: As long as I can be of help ta Oshi-san, I’ll be real happy, and my worth’ll be realized.

Season: Spring

Location: Yumenosaki Academy Rooftop

Mika: Sob sob sob… I was chased out by Oshi-san… on top of that, Oshi-san ain’t lookin’ like he enjoys Ritsu-kun’s creations very much…

Just like Oshi-san said, I still lack design sense…

If I were ta increase my design sense, maybe I’ll be of help to Oshi-san.

Oshi-san’s said this before–an artist must have a pair of eyes that are good at observin’ things. Would it be better if I were ta start from this step?

Is there anythin’ around me that can increase my design sense…?

(Eh? Is that Kiryu-senpai o’er there? It seems like he’s lookin’ over here, too.)

Kuro: Hey, Kagehira. Saw you starin’ blankly at this strange lookin’ thing just now. Did somethin’ happen? Has it gotta do with Itsuki?

Mika: Uwah! Kiryu-senpai, how did’cha know?

Kuro: Haha. After all, you do spend most of your time together with Itsuki.

If you’re willin’, could’ya tell me what happened? It’s Itsuki after all… it’s not very reassurin’ if that guy’s left alone to entertain himself. So it’s better to reconcile, and fast.

Mika: Reconcile? Ah, ah… Kiryu-senpai, yer mistaken, I hadn’t fought with Oshi-san…

Actually, the situation’s like this…

Kuro: Oh, so that’s how it is. You’re feelin’ guilty for unintentionally givin’ Itsuki a scare. On top of that, ya also wanna increase your own perception of design. Am I right?

Mika: Mhm. As long as I can increase my perception of design, Oshi-san’ll be saved some trouble. And I might be able ta help out a li’l bit whenever Oshi-san’s outta inspiration…

As long as I can be of help ta Oshi-san, I’ll be real happy, and my worth’ll be realized.

Kuro: Looks like Itsuki’s the most important person in your heart.

Mika: Mm, Oshi-san’s the most important person ta me… even though sayin’ this is rather immature[1], I do hope that Oshi-san’ll regard me as his most important person…

Kuro: Haha. In this case, I’ve thought of an idea. How ‘bout makin’ some clothes for Mademoiselle[2]?

Mika: Make clothes for Mado-nee?! No no no, I hadn’t got Oshi-san’s permission. How am I ta make clothes for Mado-nee without his permission?

But also, if Mado-nee were ta wear the clothes I make with my current sewin’ skills, it would only serve ta bring shame upon her…

‘Tis outta the question, Kiryu-senpai… I ain’t able ta do this…

Kuro: Don’t be in a hurry to refuse, Kagehira. Let me finish.

First of all, I’ll help ya sew up the wrong side[3] of the outfit, so ya don’t hafta worry ‘bout that.

Moreover, if the clothes are approved by Itsuki and subsequently worn by Mademoiselle, that’ll mean that he commends your design. Who knows, maybe in the future he’ll let ya help him out.

Not only that, but, if Itsuki were to travel far from home in the future, whenever he sees Mademoiselle wearin’ this outfit, he’ll think “ah, this outfit was made by that guy Kagehira. Speakin’ of which, he is pretty competent.” or somethin’ along those lines.

Although I can’t help ya become the most important person in Itsuki’s heart, I think that if you’re able to convey your intentions to Itsuki, it’ll definitely increase your level of importance in his eyes.

Mika: I understand! By makin’ clothes for Mado-nee, it’s to say that my feelin’s will always be with Oshi-san, as if I’m still by Oshi-san’s side. Is that right, Kiryu-senpai?

Kuro: All of that is correct.

Mika: After listenin’ to senpai’s words, I do wanna make an outfit for Mado-nee… but to request for senpai’s assistance, will it cause trouble for ya?

If it causes trouble for senpai, I can go look for other ideas. Thinkin’ about makin’ an outfit for Mado-nee… even though I wanna do it, I’m also kinda worried…

Kuro: ‘Tis all good. I’m also pretty free nowadays, so helpin’ you ain’t gonna be a problem for me.

I’m also Itsuki’s friend, and you spend lotsa time by his side… so I’m confident we’ll be able to create an outfit that’s in accordance to Itsuki’s tastes.

The decision’s yours to make, Kagehira. If you wanna do it, come find me in the dojo.

Mika: Mm! Thank ya kindly, Kiryu-senpai. Still, I think it’ll be better to ask Oshi-san for permission first.

Kuro: Mm. Though, I’ve been meanin’ to ask, what’s that strange lookin’ thing you’re holdin’ in your hands?

Mika: They’re treats[4] Ritsu-kun gave me. There’s are few more in this bag here. I’m currently wonderin’ how am I gonna deal with all of them…

How ‘bout I give some of ‘em to you, Kiryu-senpai.

Kuro: Uh, this appearance… are these really snacks[4]…?

But since they’re of my kouhai’s sincerity, I’ll accept them.

Mika: Mhm, then I’mma go ask Oshi-san now. Bye, Kiryu-senpai!

Kuro: Mm. Goodbye, Kagehira.

The term used here is an idiom "不知天高的厚", which literally translates to "not knowing the height of the heavens nor the depth of the earth". It means to have an exaggerated opinion of one's own abilities, to be ignorant, or to think that one knows everything.

There is no appellation on the wiki as to what Kuro calls Mademoiselle, but since the original text used her full CN name (玛朵莫塞尔) I assumed Kuro calls her "Mademoiselle".

The 'wrong side' refers to the back of the fabric, or 'the side that isn't pretty' (lol). Usually, the pattern on the 'wrong side' of fabric is lighter, and the colors more faded. A little more on it here.

Light refreshments, pastries, snacks, desserts… all of them can be used interchangeably here (head in hands). It's another of Ritsu's creations, let's leave it as that www

[curseofbreadbear]

FREDDY DO BE LOOKIN NASTY THO || ALWAYS ACCEPTING! || @madrcams​

madrcams asked: "Wow Freddy. You look like you dropped down a chimney into an ashy fireplace!" Just like Santa on a bad day of work. "Do you need help with that?" [madrcams to GlamFred. how did u get so dirty in only a few hours boy??]

[Mado's words might have been playful, but they struck the poor bear, who did take some degree of pride in looking his best. In fairness, he worried about his appearance more during the daylight hours, when there was a crowd to please ( and a risk to take if he wasn't at peak performance at all times ), but...it did hurt just a bit to hear that he looked like he'd been the victim of falling down into an ashy fireplace. It couldn't be that bad, could it?]

[Alas, one look at his dirt and muck-covered body suggested otherwise. He looked like he'd been dragged through one of the racetracks at Roxy Raceway with how scratched-up he was, and there was a thick film of grease and filth covering his once-shimmering body that truly gave him the appearance of an ash-covered chimney sweep. How had it gotten this bad? This...must have been why it was so heavily-advised for them not to run around during the twilight hours, as well. The staff always seemed rather peeved when they had to polish an animatronic who'd been "through the wringer," so to speak...Freddy dreaded what they might say when he showed up in Parts and Service tomorrow.]

[That was why Mado's offer actually caused him to perk up -- she...wanted to help him? That...would actually be much-appreciated. Although he had tried in the past to "dust himself off," he couldn't ever really get past the first layer or so, and it never really turned out well. Still, it was enough to avoid getting an earful from the technicians, so he'd been rather diligent about it if he was out and about in the night...before now, that is. Mado's assistance might prove rather useful.]

❝ You would do that for me? ❞ [Freddy sounded hopeful, yet reluctant; he didn't feel deserving or worthy of that sort of aid, so...he didn't accept it just yet.] ❝ It would be much appreciated. I am...not very good at cleaning myself. ❞

[acanth3]

スカウト！スノウドーム / Scout! Snow Globe

EPISODE 2/8

Mika: Oshi-san, are ya there?

Shu: I’m glad you’re here, Kagehira ♪

Mika: Oh? Oshi-san…what's wrong? You're in a very good mood..

You’ve never greeted me like that before..

Shu: Is that so? From now on I’ll change it and do this

Mika: Wha!? Oshi-san yer bein’ so honest! Normally you would fly curses at me! You’re really in a good mood huh…

By the way, Oshi-san, have you been sewing again? Did you deliver/finish our costumes?

Wouldn’t it be better to just rest yer body for a little while?

Shu: You’re always so kind, always caring about me.

You don't have to sacrifice yourself just for my sake and spoil me with your kindness.

Mika: Nnnn!? O-Oshi-san! You just said I'm ‘kind’ to you!?

Could it be that my ear’s are broken? Oshi-san, can you fix em?

Mademoiselle: ‘Mika is always so kind, isn’t that right Shu-kun?’

Mika: Mado-nee!? Wow, it’s been such a long time ♪ You haven’t talked to me lately, how are you? I’ve been lonely~

Mademoiselle: Fufu, long time no see ♪ Always so cute~

Mika: whispering Hey, Mado-nee…Oshi-san seems like he’s in a strange state…? I don’t wanna spoil his good mood either but..

whispering Haa!? Could Oshi-san have fallen into the fountain at school!?

whispering It’s a rumoured old story, those who fall into the fountain are asked which is better ‘a beautiful teacher’ or an ‘ordinary teacher’!

whispering Maybe the fountain spirit replaced Oshi-san~?

Mademoiselle: whispering Oh? Isn’t that the story about ‘Golden tea’?

whispering That story can’t be true! Because there’s only one Shu-kun in this world, maybe he’s just become obedient to Mika-chan’s kindness, right?

Mika: Well if he’s suddenly bein’ so kind to me like that, it’ll make my head itchy.

Mademoiselle: It’s okay! I’m sure you’ll get used to it eventually.

Mika: But is it really okayyyy? By the way Oshi-san, didn’t you finish the costumes for Star Fes yesterday? What are you makin’?

I don’t want Oshi-san to make any more costumes other than the ones for Star Fes when there shouldn’t be any more events for awhile?

Shu: This costume is for around the waist

Mika: Huh? The thing that looks like a mop is s’posed to go around yer waist?

Shu: It’s an essential accessory for a dance meant for ‘Memento Forest’, you must carefully finish it.

Mika: ‘Memento Forest’? A dance for it..? What is that?

Like some kinda black magic? I think it’ll be alright if Oshi-san believes it. I should be a little more sympathetic.

Mademoiselle: You wear it around ‘the waist’ and dance as a memento both day and night.

Mika: Huh!? Are we gonna do somethin’ like that!? Ain't Oshi-san gonna faint?

Mademoiselle: No they’re a part of a tribal war. ‘Those who break the will and lose have no choice but to fall.’

Mika: Wow~ It sounds like somethin’ Oshi-san wouldn’t like very much. “It’s barbaric and not elegant at all!” he’d say somethin’ like that.

Wait! What’s the tribe even for? Why is Oshi-san makin’ somethin’ like this in the first place?

Mademoiselle: Because Shu-kun is an understanding person of ‘Mohamed Ali’ 

a/n i have no idea what is going on

Mika: Oh~ The guy who became a world champion! But fighting wise in a tribe, it’s pretty persuasive.

Shu: This costume is specially made 

Knitted with freshly cut wunyol

Clothes which use 100% wunyol are the warmest and strongest in any extremely cold areas.

Mika: Hmm I see, even if it’s just that the waist is warm, it’s also the other places that get cold. 

And what even is wunyol? Is that wool? Also, freshly cut? Does that mean there’s some wunyol in this club room?

Kind of scary. Oshi-san, how are you doing? Lookin’ at you now yer just sewin’ not knittin’.

Ahh! I can’t catch up!

(...The both of em are actin’ strange!)

Mademoiselle: When you cut wunyol you cut it within the streamlined, Fufu, fufufufu ...!

Mika: (EeeeEH?! It’s scary, scary! Did they both eat anythin’ strange?)

(I’ll just ask them both to stop sewing at once and rest, then they’ll both go back to normal, right?)

Uh, Oshi-san? Can’t ya take a break? I’ll make you some really delicious tea and serve you some croissants! And a day off too!

Shu: …..

Mika: Nnnnn! Oshi-san don’t ignore my words~ Listen to my story I’ll get sweaty and sew with all my heart~!

Hmm? Come to think of it…it’s rare for Oshi-san to be covered in sweat, isn’t it? And he seems to be shakin’.

Shu: ….*falls down*

Mika: Uwaaahh!? Oshi-san and Mado-nee have both fallen down!

[twilightmalachite]

Raison d’être - The Nameless Girl 3

Author: Akira

Characters: Mika

Translator: Mika Enstars

"That’s what’s cute ‘bout him. I really want Oshi-san to do whatever he wants t’do and shine brightly without havin’ t’worry ‘bout me."

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Season: Winter

Location: Shu’s Atelier (Paris)

The next day at noon. At the atelier near where Itsuki Shu is boarding…

Mika: (Hmm, what to do…)

(Oshi-san seems t’be talkin’ with the landlady where he’s boardin’ at… Apparently, she’s an old friend of Grandfather’s from when he was in Paris.)

(So he thought maybe she’d know a thing or two ‘bout the “MADEMOISELLE” person.)

(That’s what Oshi-san said he had “in mind”, wasn’t it?)

(Still. Like Raffaello-san said, there’s a deadline fer the Funeral Contest. We can’t afford t’dawdle—)

(So t’help out, I’m here t’investigate the atelier.)

(Like where Oshi-san’s boardin’ at, this atelier… It was also used by Grandfather way back then.)

So by lookin’ around here, I may be able to discover some new info ‘bout Grandfather.)

(But, I dunno how t’even start… What if I accidentally knocked and broke some valuable work of art or somethin’ expensive? That’d be horrible…)

(There is a deadline, but it’s a vague one that says it’s whenever Grandfather picks one of the family member’s projects.)

(So we can take our time thinkin’ ‘til Grandfather gets proposed a funeral service he thinks is right fer him. So it feels like we got no time, but we surprisin’ly do.)

(Well, there’s also still the possibility that Grandfather’ll pick someone else’s plan at any moment and make all of our efforts meanin’less, but…)

Mika: (It’ll still be meanin’ful for Oshi-san to get in touch with his beloved Grandfather’s past, right? It’s stimulatin' his curiosity and motivatin' him to create.)

(Even I’m startin’ to get kinda curious!)

(If I can learn ‘bout “MADEMOISELLE”-san, Mado-nee’s look-alike—I feel I’ll be able t’connect with Mado-nee more.)

(I haven’t been able t’talk with Mado-nee much lately, so I’ve been missin’ her a bit.)

Raffaello: “—Found anything?”

Mika: Nnaahh!?

D-don’t talk outta nowhere like that! I don’t like gettin’ surprised!

Raffaello: “My apologies. I hadn’t realized you were so close to me.”

Mika: Ah, so ya were sittin’ on the desk… So ya really did arrive ahead of us, huh? Ya must be tired from the trip.

Raffaello: “My body is that of a doll’s, so I do not get tired. You’re also quite a strange kid, aren’t you?”

Mika: Nnah~, I’m glad t’have someone t’talk to! Oshi-san had left me tellin’ me t’do my own investigatin’ elsewhere, so I was lonely.

Raffaello: “Fufu. My father was like that too, going about his own way with little care about those around him. I suppose it’s in the blood.”

Mika: That’s what’s cute ‘bout him. I really want Oshi-san to do whatever he wants t’do and shine brightly without havin’ t’worry ‘bout me.

I love the Oshi-san who looks ahead and walks proudly with his chest out…♪

I honestly’d rather him to not pay attention to a dirty doll lyin’ out on the side of the road—

Raffaello: “…My father once said something similar.”

Mika: Grandfather did?

Raffaello: “Of course, I didn’t hear it firsthand. It was something depicted in my mother’s diary, now buried alongside her in her coffin.”

Mika: Nnah~… I’d like to also give the diary a look, but it wouldn’t be right t’dig up her grave, wouldn’t it?

Raffaello: “That’s right. But do not worry, I’ll explain as much as I can recall.”

Mika: But I don’t like that, you can jus’ tell lies that are convenient t’ya.

Raffaello: “Fufu. You’ll just have to trust me.”

“Anyways. Unlike you, I am unaware of what is in the diaries you have, so I do not know if you know this or not, but…”

“My mother was a dollmaker.”

“My father was a big fan of my mother’s work, you see.”

Mika: “MADEMOISELLE”-san would make dolls? Like Oshi-san does?

Raffaello: “That’s right. You might find some of my mother’s work that my father purchased on display here.”

“Look, here is a taxidermy wolf—Or so it may appear to be one, that is.”

“It’s not a real taxidermy wolf. You will understand if you touch it. It’s a doll made by my mother, elaborately crafted down to every pore.”

Mika: Nnah, so this ain’t the real thing?

Ooh… Lookin’ at it closer, I can see its eyes are somethin’ like glass marbles! Well, I dunno, maybe real taxidermy animals have those too.

Raffaello: “Yes. Truthfully, it would be much cheaper to buy a real taxidermy wolf, and it would be much more accurate to one as well. It’d make use of the actual corpse itself, after all.”

“Even so, my mother was committed to recreate each and everyone one of these organic objects.”

“To reproduce God’s creations in nature with her own, human hands.”

“No matter how sophisticated the smartphone, no matter how high the pixel count of a camera, humans will never cease to reproduce nature with their own hands. Landscape paintings never become obsolete.”

“Something like that. Unlike my mother, I am no artist, I do not know what I am talking about…”

“But my mother surely felt there was some “significance” to that.”

Mika: ……

[ ☆ ]

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[twilightmalachite]

Hermitage - Tuesday 1

Author: Nishioka Maiko (with Akira)

Characters: Mika, Hajime

Translator: Mika Enstars

"Y’know? I used to be able to be one of Oshi-san's dolls."

Season: Winter

Location: Starmony Dorms Common Room

Mika: Umm… Maybe something like this?

♪~ ♪~…

Hajime: …… (applauding)

Mika: Hm?

Hajime: That was a splendid performance, Kagehira-senpai!

Mika: Huh? What’s up, Hajime-kun? It’s already so late. Isn’t it already past midnight?

Hajime: Ehehe, I had a hard time falling asleep. I thought maybe if I drank some warm milk, I’d feel sleepy, so I was on my way to the kitchen.

But I noticed there was a light on in the common room, so I peeked in. Your dance was so wonderful I couldn’t help but stare, Kagehira-senpai. I’m sorry to get in your way.

Mika: Nah, yer not in my way at all. I was so busy concentratin’ I didn’t even notice!

Hajime: Are you doing review late at night? Even though you just had practice today already…

You’re such a hard worker, huh Kagehira-senpai~. I have to take notes!

Mika: Ahaha… Well in this case it’s cuz I’m no good. I have to become more doll-like!

Hajime: More… like a doll?

Mika: That’s right~. ‘Cuz our new song’s based on the image of the old Valkyrie.

In the MV, I’ll be playin’ the role of a doll, but… The quality doesn’t satisfy Oshi-san’s vision yet.

So I’m practicin’ on my own right now. I still can’t get it right~…

Hajime: That sounds tough… I’d probably hit a roadblock myself if I were in your shoes.

Mika: Yer right~… I’m hittin’ a huuuuge roadblock right now…

But, as long as I can keep improvin’, I’ll get closer to perfection, and I won’t have to make Oshi-san compromise! I’ll have to keep doin’ my best…!

Location: Starmony Dorm Room (Ritsu, Mika's Room)

Mika: Phew… I kept doin’ my best, but I’m not sure if I’m improvin’ or not… Oshi-san’s gonna get angry at me tomorrow…

…Hm?

(Ah, I thought I felt someone’s gaze on me, is it me or is the dollie on the chest lookin’ at me?)

C’mere, you… Hey, dollie? What can I do t’become more like a doll? ‘Cuz, I wanna become one.

……

Hmm. Guess there’s no use askin' the dollie ‘bout this. It doesn’t talk back like Mado-nee does.

? Hm~?

Ahaha, it kinda looked like the dollie made a troubled face. I guess it’s ‘cuz it’s dark in here.

This doll sure is nicely made, though. I gotta try to think of a name soon, huh?

What name should I… Yaaaawnn~…

Nnah~, did I push myself too hard… today…? So sleepy…

Time passes…

Mika: Ahaha, mhm, that’s right.

I’m be playin’ a difficult role in our new song’s MV. But, I’m absolutely no good at it.

If I don’t improve, Oshi-san’s gonna get mad…

I wish I could become a doll like you.

Y’know? I used to be able to be one of Oshi-san's dolls.

But, I guess that’s all faded away recently… ‘Cuz I can’t remember the sensation from those days.

It makes me real happy to be a human on equal footing with Oshi-san, and it’s what Oshi-san wants too, but…

It’s not like I was ever unhappy bein’ Oshi-san’s doll, either.

Eh? Yer sayin’ you’ll grant my wish? Fer real?

I’d be super happy if you did~. ♪

Eh? Is it ‘cuz I’d get closer to the level of perfection Oshi-san wants?

Yup! I hate draggin' Oshi-san down.

Huh? What did’ja say?

No, I can't hear ya… It sounds like yer voice is gettin’ farther and farther away.

Mika: Umm? Stay, you… ever… then?

Nah, I really can’t make ya out…!

Hey, could ya say it again, dollie?

Nnah~? Huh… This electronic sound, isn’t this…?

Mika: …Nn~?

Yawwwnnn…

……?

(Huh? Was I dreamin’ just now…? What was it about again…?)

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[dontf8arthereaper]

Lord Tsukuyomi was vibing in rebuilding his capital and people than Zedom' s like " Okay perfect, Lord Tsukuyomi your ass is gonna get grass and after I'm done with you I'll use your body alive as a vessel to bring back one of my homies while I turn the rest of your peoples into mado horrors because they call me the general of slaughter bitch." But then lord Tsukuyomi said. " I like to see you try you mega block lookin' ass hellraiser puzzle box knock off. " then Zedom took offense to that and said. " Okay bitch time to piss on the moon. " and then the second invasion of the moon began.

[jewwyfeesh]

Sakura & Rose - Endeavours Of The Heart 5

Writer: Mitsuki

Characters: Kagehira Mika, Kiryu Kuro, Itsuki Shu, Mademoiselle

Translated by: jewwyfeesh

Shu: Non! Kagehira, why did you bring this terrifyingly horrendous thing back!?

Season: Spring

Location: Yumenosaki Handicrafts Club Room

Kuro: For Itsuki to fall asleep lyin’ on the table like that, he must be exhausted.

Mika: Uh… should we wake Oshi-san up? Nevermind, forget it, I’m real nervous right now, I’m scared of bein’ scolded.

Kuro: Relax. After all, this is the fruit of our painstakin’ effort. We won’t be defeated so easily.

Even if we’re denied, every experience is also an opportunity for growth, so ya don’t hafta be so worried.

Mika: Mm, thank ya kindly, Kiryu-senpai. Then, I’ll go wake Oshi-san up.

Oshi-san, Oshi-san, please wake up…

Shu: Uwah! Who!?

Oh. So it’s Kagehira and Kiryuu. The both of you have arrived at an opportune time.

This is my newest outfit creation. What do you think?

This piece adopts the trendiest, most artistic designs of present time.

Kuro: Regardless of whether it’s the selection of cloth or the style and design of the piece, they’re impeccable. As expected of Itsuki.

Mika: O-Oshi-san’s work is just too good…

How ‘bout��� Iet’s forget about it… Kiryu-senpai… I don’t think ours can compare to Oshi-san’s creation…

Maybe I’m still too far behind… goin’ so far as to entertain the thought of designin’ outfits for Mado-nee…

Kuro: What relation does that have? Take it out and let Itsuki have a look. I think the both of us didn’t do too shabbily either.

I am rather lookin’ forward to seein’ Itsuki’s shocked expression.

Shu: What are the both of you muttering about over there? Though, I had found it rather strange ever since the both of you appeared before me together.

Kuro: Haha, it’s just that Kagehira has a li’l gift for you~

Shu: A gift? Just what are you up to, Kagehira?

Mika: Actually, Kiryu-senpai and I made an outfit for Mado-nee together…

T’was hopin’ that Oshi-san would have a look…

Shu: Making clothes for Mademoiselle? What the hell are the both of you up to?

Kuro: Kagehira’s the one who wanted to increase his design sense in hopes of helpin’ you out in the future, Itsuki.

Shu: Hmph, so that’s how it is. Even though I do want to say one’s sense or perception of design cannot be improved so fast, I’ll take a look… for the time being.

Hmhmhm, it’s obvious that this piece is a combination of two styles.

Even though this particular method is widely used by people now, it can only be described as the easy way out of doing things.

If one does not pursue perfection in a particular direction, that art or skill will be reduced to mediocrity.

Not to mention, this piece emphasizes the Japanese-style a little too heavily. That is to say the both of you have much room for improvement, especially you, Kagehira. Your understanding of Western styles needs to be deepened.

��Woah, what a beautiful dress! Is this the outfit Mika-chan and Kuro-kun made for me?”

Mika: Mhm, hope that Oshi-san and Mado-nee will like it.

Shu: “Thank you very much, Mika-chan, Kuro-kun! I really want to try it on!”

“Even though Shu-kun criticized you both quite a fair bit, perhaps Shu-kun does like it a lot as well, if his happy expression is anything to go by.”

Kuro: Ahaha, Itsuki, your expression has already betrayed you.

Shu: Hey hey hey, the both of you! Would it hurt you not to speculate on others’ thoughts whenever you wish?!

But, since you like it, then I’ll accept it temporarily.

Mika: Mhm, thank ya kindly, Oshi-san! Thank ya very much too, Kiryu-senpai, for yer help~

I’m real glad to be able to see Oshi-san and Mado-nee’s happy expressions~

Oshi-san, Oshi-san, seein’ that yer so happy, how ‘bout eatin’ some desserts[1] now to celebrate? I still have some leftover here.

Shu: Non! Kagehira, why did you bring this terrifyingly horrendous thing back!?

Take it away quickly!

Kuro: Itsuki, despite the dessert’s[1] appearance, it’s actually pretty good.

Mika: So Oshi-san, kindly close yer eyes and open yer mouth~ Say “ah~”

Shu: Even if I close my eyes, I won’t be able to eat that thing. Take it away, take it away!

Kiryu, what are you doing?! Don’t you dare bring that thing anywhere near me!!

(Speaking of which, why do I feel a sense of déjà vu? It’s almost as though I had been fed some disgusting thing by another person sometime before…)[2]

Light refreshments, pastries, snacks, desserts… all of them can be used interchangeably here (head in hands). It's another of Ritsu's creations, let's leave it as that www

This is a reference to ch2 of Shu's Zodiac - Dragonfruit story! In it, Nazuna tries to feed him some dragonfruit~ A translation by Ana from tsukihitranslations is available here.