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utapri-hana · 4 months ago

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(5/10) Chill out time ~Welcome to the Antiques~ - LE Event Story Translation (UR Reiji, SR Otoya)

Synopsis: Reiji and Otoya, who were casted to appear in a drama, had to come up with their own ideas for the settings of it, such as what kind of store will they be running for and their roles in the scenario. During that moment, Reiji suddenly remembered about the concerns he had received from his listeners on his radio program regarding their career paths…

Ch 1:

Currently on the radio program recording. Reiji: And the one we listened to just now was "SONG LETTER" by us, QUARTET NIGHT. Reiji: Now then, on to the next one… We'll be reading the letters that we received from everyone~ Reiji: This time we decided to put up "career path" as a theme for the request submission… And oh boy, there were so many that came in. Reiji: And that's why for today, we're going to just showcase a few of them and I'll try my best to reply them! Reiji: Without further ado, we're going to start with our first letter! With radio name, "Rei-chan I love you". Thank you☆ Reiji: "Rei-chan, please listen. I've been rejected by more than 30 companies on my job interviews… Just what exactly should I do?" Reiji: Uh… that's pretty heavy. On to the next one, with "Ebi Mayo-san" who's also asking about job-related concern. Reiji: ”Reiji-san, please help me! I'm the only one who can't decide whether to go get a job or go to college!". This one is also quite a difficult problem. Reiji: And for the last one…is here. With radio name "I want to be healed". Reiji: "I'm having a hard time studying for entrance exam, and I'm worried sick about what would happen if I were to fail.” Reiji: Hmm, I understand how you feel. No matter how hard we try our best, all of the “what ifs” tend to pop into our head. Reiji: Now then… For the three letters that I read just now, they actually have "one thing in common". Did everyone notice it? Reiji: Whether it's about an entrance exam or job hunting, they're both are very tough because they're a major events that affects our life. And the road to getting there is steep and difficult. Reiji: At times like these, I'd think to myself that maybe it's a good idea to take a break if things are really tough and there's just nothing that we can do. Reiji: However, when I looked at all of the letters just now… I can genuinely sense everyone's feelings from it, that they still wanted to try again and do their best. Reiji: And I think having someone supporting you during this time will give you a courage to take a step forward. Reiji: That's why I will continue to support everyone, including ones that I can't read for today too. Reiji: And someday… Once you finally managed to get a vision for the future, then I'd love if you could tell me that during our concert or event. Reiji: Until then, I'll always continue being an idol and wait for you all ♪ - Reiji: And next we'll be airing this song. Good luck, everyone! I'll always be with you!

Ch 2:

-Reiji's Car- Reiji: (There were still quite a lot of letters that I couldn't read during the radio program huh) Reiji: (I guess everyone is more or less concerned about their own career paths~) Reiji: (Hmm…. Is there anything more that I can do for them?) Reiji: (I always received a lot of powers from everyone, and I do wanted to pay them back but) Reiji: Not only just on radio, if I could also cheer them up in some other waysー Reiji: Oh no! I'm too deep in my thought that I didn't even realize it was already this time. Reiji: (Now then, after this I have a meeting for that new drama that was about to start) Reiji: (I've looked over the proposal several times but… it seems like this one might be quite a huge challenge) Reiji: (Not to mention, I'll also be co-starring with Otoyan! This might be quite a lively and fun set☆) -TV Station's Conference Room- Otoya: Oh, Rei-chan! Have you seen the proposal for the drama yet? Otoya: I've been so excited for it. I keep reading them all over and over. Reiji: Oh, that's great~! I can really feel Otoyan's enthusiasm. Otoya: Hehe. But even so, isn't the way this drama being filmed is quite unusual? Reiji: You're right. I've actually been in a lot of projects, including ones from my childhood, but… Reiji: It's my first time to encounter one with this much freedom, so I think this might be quite a good experience for us. Otoya: Yep! As long as Rei-chan's with me in this drama, I believe that we can create something amazing! Reiji: Otoyan… Rei-chan is getting more and more fired up☆ Let's both do our best to make this project successful!

Ch 3:

After the meeting for the drama. Otoya: Hey, Rei-chan. I told you this before but… Otoya: As I thought, isn't this drama just amazing!? It has too much freedom! Reiji: Well~ It was definitely a lot than I expected. And to think that for the settingー Reiji: All that we know is that "we're running a store together" and "we've been friends since teenager"! Reiji: For our roles and what kind of store will it be, we're allowed to decide it by ourselves! Reiji: In fact, they even told us that we could also come up with what kind of scenario will it be if we want to! Reiji: Seriously, this is the first time that I've seen a drama that offer this much freedom. Otoya: Yeah… But on the other hand, it might also help us show and convey our feelings into it. Otoya: When I thought about it, it made me even more motivated! We need to start brainstorming right away! Reiji: Oh, that's the spirit~! You have to be like that if you want to survive in this industry♪ Reiji: …But, although what Otoyan said is true, I think this also came with a pretty big responsibility. Reiji: Depending on the setting and the story that we need to come up, it will affect everything that everyone need to prepare, including the location, the advertisement and the content of the drama. Otoya: Oh, you're right. That means we're going to need a lot of help from everyone around more than the usual drama shooting… Otoya: …But even so, there's this a strong part of me that wants to make this drama fun and enjoyable. Otoya: I'm sure it's going to be a difficult road, but I want to try and give it my all! Reiji: As expected of my Kouhai☆ I knew that Otoyan would say that. Reiji: I also feel the same way! I mean, it'd be such a shame not to enjoy such a wonderful project that was given to us☆ Reiji: This time we'll be working on it right off from the scratch, and surely there'll be a lot of things that we need to think about together but… Once again, please take care of me Otoyan♪ Otoya: Yep! Likewise, I'm in your care too!

Ch 4:

On the way home after the meeting. Reiji: Now then… for the store that we'll be handling for the drama later, what kind of store shall it be? Otoya: Hmm… Now that we're looking around the city, it made me realized that there are actually a lot of different kind of stores. Otoya: A shaved ice shop, a lemonade stand… Oh, a shop that sells out a set menu meal is also delicious! Reiji: *nods* …Wait, all of it was just food-related things! Don't tell me, are you hungry? Reiji: But you're right~ …Maybe an electronics store, a flower shop or a toy store. Oh, a suits tailor store might be interesting too! Otoya: Wow, so stylish! Aa~h, I've never thought of opening up a store by myself until now, so I'm really confused~! Reiji: Ahaha. Don't worry, there's still a little bit of time left before the deadline for the idea submission, so let's think about it carefully together☆ Reiji: (That being said, the stores that we mentioned before weren't all bad but… somehow I feel like we're missing something) Reiji: (Maybe it's because we can't see any convincing reason or vision for why we're running a business?) Reiji: (…Eh? Talking about visionー) Reiji: …That's it. This is similar to everyone's problems! Otoya: Problem? What are you talking about? Reiji: Well, you see. I was on radio recording a while ago, and at that time we were all discussing about everyone's "career path". Reiji: Although there were a bit of minor differences, but all of the people that wrote letter to me were all worried that "they can't see a vision for their future". Reiji: …We ourselves are idols now, but I think each of us had our own reasons for wanting to pursue this career. Reiji: Similarly, there must have been a reason or connection as to why these two characters wanted to open up a store together… Reiji: Maybe it's because we can't see their vision that we can't come up with any ideas at all. What do you think, Otoyan? Otoya: The reason why they wanted to open up a store, huh? I don't think I can think of it straight away… Reiji: Right~ Although I'm the one who bring it up, I also can't come up with any ideas at all. Reiji: If I'm not wrong, our next day off were overlapped together, right? Why don't we go to the different stores at that time and try to think about it? Reiji: I'm sure both of the main characters were also at lost as well. So let's both try to think of it again and be confused together!

Ch 5:

-Downtown- Otoya: Morning, Rei-chan! I know this is early, but there's actually something that I'd like you to hear. Do you have a minute? Reiji: Oh, it looks like you've just thought of something. Come here and let Onii-san hear it? Otoya: Okay! You see, I realized something that might be a hint for us when we're going on a search for a storeー - Reiji: I see… “Think of a store that you would run based on what we both have in common”, huh. Reiji: Nice idea, Otoyan! Very good☆ That way of thinking is perfect for us this time♪ Otoya: Really!? Thank God~ Now then, what would you think will happen if we were to open a bicycle shop? Otoya: We both can ride a bicycle so… What if for the setting, the one thing they have in common is because they were both in the same bicycle club during their highschool? Reiji: Bicycle club, huh… Working up a sweat every day, and sometimes fighting in preparation for competitions… Hmmm, talk about youth☆ Reiji: Ah, wait… if that's the setting, then wouldn't it be more likely for them to aim being a road racer rather than being a bicycle shop owners? Otoya: Whoa, true! That seems even more likely!! Otoya: Looks like we only might be able to manage a store after we retire or something. Sounds like it would be difficult given our age… Reiji: Right. But I have to admit that was actually a pretty good idea. We have a lot of time for today, so let's think of it again more carefully okay☆ -Park- Otoya: We managed to find quite a few good stores, and we also discovered a lot of things that we have in common, but… Otoya: But connecting all of the ideas from there is difficult. *sigh* I'm tired from all of that walking! Reiji: My legs are sore too… Well, it's important to take a breather at times like this, so let's go and take a break somewhere. Reiji: It's just that… It looks like a lot of stores are already on their last order now. Maybe we won't be able to get into any of them. Reiji: Oh well, it can't be helped. For now, let's go find a nearby convenience store and get something to drink or something… Hm? Reiji: (Now that I think about it, isn't this place is actually near that store…) Otoya: What's wrong, Rei-chan? Did you remember something? Reiji: Yep, just a little bit. I'm sure Otoyan will be happy, so look forward to it, okay☆

Ch 6:

Ch 7:

Ch 8:

Ch 9:

Ch 10:

#translation #event story #thank you!#Utapri #live emotion

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utapri-hana · 4 months ago

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I am so sorry 😂😂😂😂

#utapri #syo kusuru #He looks like he tells the best rooster jokes in town

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utapri-hana · 4 months ago

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I made a Ranmaru charm 🧿 for my phone! Hehehe

#utapri #ranmaru kurosaki #mod

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utapri-hana · 4 months ago

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Otoya Ittoki (Repeat)

Translator: Ladylancer (twitter: utatranslations)

Proofreader: Rasenth (twitter: agnadance)

Editor: Whitney (twitter: whitormiss), Snail

August — Allegro na Koudou

As summer vacation begins, many of my classmates leave to visit home.

Tomochika Shibuya: Well then, even though it's bothersome, guess I'll go home.

Haruka Nanami: Oh right, you’re headed back home today.

Tomochika Shibuya: Yep. I’ll be gone for the week…. Hey, aren’t you leaving too?

Select the Phrase!

I was planning to. (+ 0 Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Ittoki-kun said he always stays in the dorms during summer vacation, so we agreed to spend it practicing together….

Tomochika Shibuya: I see. You decided against going home to keep Otoya company… You’re such a nice person.

Haruka Nanami: N-not really. There's nothing to do when I go home, so I thought it would be better to practice.

We want to practice (+0 Love +10 Music)

Tomochika Shibuya: Wait, you can’t be planning to practice daily?

Haruka Nanami: Yeah. Ittoki-kun isn’t going home either, so we decided we would practice...

This is our chance (+10 Love +0 Music)

Tomochika Shibuya: Chance? Are the two of you planning to practice and raise your intimacy over the break?

Haruka Nanami: Intimacy…? With everyone gone for the break, it's easier to make reservations for recording rooms.

Tomochika Shibuya: That’s what you meant? How boring.

Haruka Nanami: ???

Tomochika Shibuya: Haha, don’t worry about it. I read into it too much, is all.

...What was that all about?

Tomochika Shibuya: Really though, practicing everyday… I feel like I’m gonna fall behind. Alright, I’ve decided. I’ll only stay home for three days and then I’ll come back to practice.

Tomochika Shibuya: I’m one of your rivals after all. I won’t lose to you!

With that, Tomo-chan left for home.

Knowing her, I’m sure she’ll be practicing a lot at home as well.

I’m going to do my best too.

Every day, Ittoki-kun and I work hard practicing together.

He sings the songs I write, and together we refine them.

Now after he sings, we go over the score, giving each other our opinions face to face.

Watching Ittoki-kun get better each day makes me work harder to aim for the top.

But skills can’t be gained quickly that easily, so I keep myself from trying things that are too far beyond our abilities.

That’s why I don’t know how much I should say to him.

Select the Phrase!

Say it honestly (+10 Love +15 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Ah.. about this part here…

I speak up with a timid voice and Ittoki-kun turns to listen to me intently.

Stay silent (+0 Love +10 Music)

On second thought, I’ll keep observing.

Find the right words (+0 Love +0 Music)

I stare at Ittoki-kun, trying to find the words to explain my thoughts.

Otoya Ittoki: Phew, I wonder if it’s coming together now.

Ittoki-kun mutters to himself as he looks at the music sheet.

I open my mouth a bit, but I’m at a loss for words, so I look down without saying anything.

Otoya Ittoki: Huh…. what’s wrong?

Haruka Nanami: Oh, ah, nothing.

Otoya Ittoki: Oh… okay then….

Otoya Ittoki: ...So you think I should soften my voice a bit here?

Eh…? He figured out what I was having trouble asking?

Haruka Nanami: ... Ah, yes. That’s what I was thinking. But, it’s difficult for singers to soften their voice without it making it too hard to hear…

Ittoki-kun, I’m so happy that you thought the same thing.

Otoya Ittoki: It’s fine. I’ve improved as well.

After that, we begin improvising melodies, putting lyrics to them, and singing them on the spot.

We write down the melodies we like and sing them again the next day.

We repeat this process every time.

Then, one day...

Ichinose-san calls me to the back garden.

Tokiya Ichinose: I apologize for asking you to come out here.

Haruka Nanami: It’s fine… May I ask why?

Tokiya Ichinose: I wanted to apologize again about what happened at the water polo tournament…

Haruka Nanami: Oh, no apologies necessary. It wasn’t that big a deal…

Tokiya Ichinose: No, I take full responsibility. I dislike not doing so…. That’s why… here…

Ichinose-san pulls a binder from his bag and hands it to me.

Tokiya Ichinose: These are scores of new songs by my favorite composer that I just happened to get my hands on the other day. If you are interested in them at all…

Haruka Nanami: T-this is…

It’s a binder containing sheet music for the new CD produced by one of the most popular music production teams.

Haruka Nanami: Such a special thing. I-is it really okay for me to have it…?

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes. It will be more useful in your hands than in mine.

Haruka Nanami: T-thank you so very much! I promise I’ll take very good care of them. These are such treasures! I need to enshrine them...!

Tokiya Ichinose: I am pleased that you are happy with it. Now I feel like I have fulfilled my responsibility to you. I will take my leave then…

Haruka Nanami: Yes! Thank you again!

Ah! To get my hands on something like this.... I’ll have to study this closely and carefully!

After that, I head to the classroom to practice with Ittoki-kun, but…

I want to look at the sheet music I just received as soon as possible and it makes it hard to concentrate.

Otoya Ittoki: And then, this part here… Nanami, are you listening?

Suddenly, all I can see is Ittoki-kun’s face.

Haruka Nanami: A-ah, what is it?

I turn my face away from him quickly.

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami, is something bothering you?

Haruka Nanami: Oh, ah… sorry.

Otoya Ittoki: You know, earlier…. Were you meeting with Tokiya?

W-what? Is he angry? He must be angry because I’m so inattentive.

Select the Phrase!

Yes (+0 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: He wanted to make up for what he did, so he gave me these scores.

I'm sorry (+20 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I’m sorry. I was given these really nice scores.

Haruka Nanami: I’m interested in them and I want to read them soon. That’s why… sorry for being so out of it.

I frantically apologize but Ittoki-kun just chuckles and smiles.

H-he laughed at me...

Actually... (+10 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: To apologize for the incident at the water polo event, he gave me a set of really nice scores, so I’ve been distracted...

Haruka Nanami: But being distracted is not good either. I’m sorry.

Otoya Ittoki: ... A score, huh? That’s just like him… Is that all?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! That’s all~

Otoya Ittoki: I see. That’s all it was… Hey, do you remember what I said after our re-test?

Haruka Nanami:Um…

Back in June, Ittoki-kun beat Ichinose-san at the recording retest.

And he said…

He wanted to… take me… on a date.

Since he never brought it up and summer vacation had long since started, I thought he had forgotten about it.

He remembered…

Haruka Nanami: Do you mean…

Otoya Ittoki: Yep. Please go on a date with me!

Haruka Nanami:A date…

I am fifteen years old but have never been on a date, even though I know what the word means…

What is one supposed to actually do???

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, though I said date, I mean, you know, as a way to deepen our relationship as partners…

Otoya Ittoki: Plus, remember what Rin-chan said? To make the best music and lyrics you have to refine your sensibility and that we can’t just learn from textbooks.

Otoya Ittoki: So... can we go somewhere together tomorrow?

Oh, I see.

Haruka Nanami: O-okay. I... I’ll go with you.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, then tomorrow, let’s meet up in front of the school at eleven A.M.?

Haruka Nanami: Okay! Tomorrow... at eleven.

Going out together… Thinking about that, I was so excited I could barely focus on practice for the rest of the day.

Haruka Nanami: Haaah... I’m going out with Ittoki-kun tomorrow. What should I wear? What do you think, Kuppuru?

Kuppuru: Meow.

Haruka Nanami: Oh right. You wouldn’t know what to do either, huh?

Tomochika Shibuya: I’m home! Ah, I’m beat… Hm? That cat is back. Kuppuru, right?

Haruka Nanami: Yep!

Kuppuru is a cat I helped on the day of the entrance ceremony. I found him shivering in the back garden in the rain, so I nursed him back to health….

He grew attached to me since then and now he visits my room two or three times a week. Kuppuru listens to me as if he understands what I’m saying, so now I always talk to him.

Tomochika Shibuya: Why not let him stay here? I won’t tell the teachers.

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Is that okay with you?

Tomochika Shibuya: Yeah. He’s fun to have around and, as long as he doesn’t mess up the room, I’m fine with him staying.

Haruka Nanami: Thank you, Tomo-chan!

Tomochika Shibuya: It’s fine, it’s fine! I’ve been practicing so much that I’m never in the dorms anymore, but as long as he’s with you, you won’t be lonely, right?

Haruka Nanami: Okay... oh, that’s right. Tomo-chan, you practice from sunup to sundown. That’s amazing!

Tomochika Shibuya: Well I have to or I’ll fall behind, considering how high the bar my partner is setting is.

Tomochika Shibuya: “I made it easier than before so you should be able to sing it,” he says. Yeah, easy if it was a song for a choir! How am I supposed to sing all those parts with my chest voice?

Tomochika Shibuya: I can’t believe how many times makes me change registers while singing. There are parts where I have to hold a note for longer than needed, notes that lower and raise by half-steps, I can’t sustain my breath, and...

Haruka Nanami: Whoa...

Normally, one sings with their “chest voice”.... You naturally sing from the chest, but as you sing higher, it shifts.

That shift is known as the “head voice”. The point where it changes from the chest to the head is known as a “vocal register transition”, or a passaggio.

If you sing using a mix of the head and chest voices, you can make your high notes have the same quality as your chest voice. But...

It’s easier to switch into head voice if you have the abdominal strength to support it, but…

It’s said that the vocal register transition is the hardest point to get right.

Tomochika Shibuya: The composition teacher professional said before, “I create songs while thinking of the artist I’m making them for.”

Tomochika Shibuya: I was moved when I heard that. My composer doesn’t have one single bit of that consideration in him.

Tomochika Shibuya: Putting aside the chance that he may just be making it difficult for difficulty’s sake, he thinks that what he’s making is simple. He’s so inconsiderate.

Tomochika Shibuya: Even so, I’m still going to give it my all singing it. I mean, I think his songs are good, but I wish he would think about me.

Tomochika Shibuya: Well, either way I will sing my ‘soul’ into this song!

Tomochika Shibuya:... Haruka. Make songs that you can put your feelings into and are fun to sing.

Tomochika Shibuya: I believe you can become that kind of composer.

Haruka Nanami: Yes. I’m doing my best. I will become a composer that thinks of the artist first.

The singer is putting their soul into my song, so I’ll make sure not to slack off. Absolutely…

No matter what kind of songs I write, I’m sure Ittoki-kun will be able to sing it.

That is why… I have to write the best song, one that will make Ittoki-kun shine the brightest…

Tomochika Shibuya: Ah~ man! I wanted to be your partner!

Tomo-chan hugs me tight.

Haruka Nanami: T-Tomo-chan.

Tomochika Shibuya: Won’t you switch for me?

Haruka Nanami: I can’t go that far… When you become a pro, I promise to write you a song!

Tomochika Shibuya: Haruka, you really are cute… Thanks, it’s a promise.

Tomo-chan pats my head.

I have to write a song for Ittoki-kun that makes him shine. For that reason, I have to learn more about him.

That’s why tomorrow’s outing is a good chance.

I’m sure that I will see sides of him that he doesn’t show at school.

I got nervous and showed up an hour early…

Waking up early this morning, I asked Tomo-chan to help me with my outfit, and she did my makeup a little bit too.

I could have stayed at the dorms longer, but then I got nervous about being late due to some sort of trouble…

Otoya Ittoki: Eh..? Nanami? Why are- it's only ten…

No way, Ittoki-kun?!

Select the Phrase!

W-what a coincidence…. (+10 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: Y-yeah… It was just by chance…

Otoya Ittoki: Well, since we’re both here, let's head out early.

Haruka Nanami: Y-Yes！

… I got here early. (+20 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: Me too… I was excited. Before I realized it, I was here.

Otoya Ittoki: I figured I was arriving too early… To think that you did too… Seems like we are similar in that way.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yeah. Seems like it.

Huh? Was this the right time? (+0 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: No, I think we’re supposed to meet an hour later, but I came here early….

Haruka Nanami: Me too. But… I’m glad that I didn’t make you wait. Otoya Ittoki: I didn’t want to make you wait either. I guess we had the same thought. Hahaha!

We arrive at the amusement park, Saotome Kingdom, inside the school grounds.

Otoya Ittoki: Alright, what should we ride first? Nanami, is there something you want to ride on?

Haruka Nanami: Let’s see…

Select the Phrase!

The Surprise House (+0 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: Then, let’s go!

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

We assumed it would be like any other surprise house….

As expected from a school facility.

The surprises are certainly more than we bargained for.

Otoya Ittoki: To think, the “Surprise House” was actually the principal’s second home...

Even though the brochure calls it “Shining’s Shock and Surprise House”... it’s actually his home.

Visitors are free to explore the house and if the Principal is home you can get a handshake and pictures.

… But the inside is like a maze, with stairs turning into slides and the walls flipping.... Washbasins drop from the ceiling, water rushes out of drawers when you open them, pitfalls....

It’s like a little trick mansion...

It seems that the principal mainly lives there…

I’m amazed that he can live in such a complicated home…

How about… The House of Terror? (+20 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: ....The House of Terror…. Nanami, aren’t you scared?

Haruka Nanami: N-no. I’m fine.

Otoya Ittoki: Say something if you get scared. I'll keep pulling your hand. Leave it to me!! Let’s go.

Otoya Ittoki: …

Otoya Ittoki: ...

Haruka Nanami: ...

T-that was scary… I thought the House of Terror was just a regular haunted house.

I didn’t think it was a museum of true horror stories…

Stories ranging from people becoming anorexic through dieting too much to troubles with frightening neighbors.

Recountings from people who had stalkers to someone getting trapped in an elevator for twenty-four hours.

The scariest of them all though, was the story of the person who dropped out because they made Shining angry.

Even though they had the talent and ability, they angered Shining once.

It said that after that, no agency would take them and they were forced to give up their dream and return to their parent’s home.

Every detail was reproduced vividly and makes me wonder if I’m next…

Either way, it makes me really scared…

The roller coaster (+10 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: The roller coaster. Nice choice. Let’s go!

Haruka Nanami: Yeah!

Before today, I never thought of a roller coaster being such a dangerous thing.

Otoya Ittoki: Ahh, that was tough.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yeah. But… we managed to clear it.

Otoya Ittoki: I guess.

As expected of a Saotome Academy roller coaster, it was not ordinary by any means.

When you get in, everything is normal until the safety bar comes down.

Each seat has a camera and microphone, and the speaker begins playing a melody as soon as the ride begins.

Apparently, you have to properly sing and get an interesting reaction while the roller coaster makes a lap.

If you don’t, the safety bar won’t unlock, and you have to go another round.

Singing on the ride is so hard, we finally passed on the fifth lap.

Otoya Ittoki: I don’t want to ride another roller coaster for a while.

Haruka Nanami: Me neither...

Otoya Ittoki: What should we do next? What’s good…

Haruka Nanami: Um….

As I look around, the large Ferris wheel catches my eye.

There shouldn't be any tricky, shocking gimmick on that…. Right?

Haruka Nanami: How about the Ferris wheel…

Otoya Ittoki: Eh…?

Haruka Nanami: ...? Do you not like them? Then I’ll find something else…

Otoya Ittoki: No. It’s not like that… Okay, let’s go.

Haruka Nanami: But…

Otoya Ittoki: It’s fine! I’m fine.

I wonder. It seems like he’s forcing himself… I hope I’m just overthinking things.

From the cabin, I can see the entirety of Saotome Academy.

One rotation takes twenty minutes—a long time for two people to be alone together.

Otoya Ittoki: ... Ugh. The scenery is pretty.

Haruka Nanami: Yeah…

Despite saying that, Ittoki-kun has had his eyes closed the entire time.

Otoya Ittoki: ...

Haruka Nanami: Wow, the school looks so small. Oh, I can even see the dorm. Ittoki-kun, look, look!

Little by little, the ground seems to shrink, looking almost like a miniature town. How cute.

Otoya Ittoki: ... Sorry. I’m at my limit.

Haruka Nanami: Eh...?

Ittoki-kun suddenly stands up, sits down next to me, and grasps my hand tightly.

His hand was shaking slightly...

Haruka Nanami: … Ittoki-kun, could it be you have a fear of heights?

After I ask that, Ittoki-kun’s face turns red as he nods slightly.

Otoya Ittoki: Aw man. I wanted to show you the cool side of me today!

Otoya Ittoki: When I was a kid, I fell out of a tree I was climbing. I’ve had problems with heights ever since…. I thought I was doing better.

His voice is firm, but his shoulders are still shaking slightly.

Otoya Ittoki: Sorry. Can I... borrow your shoulder?

Saying that, Ittoki-kun pulls my shoulder closer to himself.

I reach over and pull Ittoki-kun in a bit closer.

Haruka Nanami: ... Okay.

Otoya Ittoki: I must look really uncool right now.

Haruka Nanami: That’s not true…

I can feel Ittoki-kun’s warmth from where he’s touching my shoulder.

We have touched so many times before, and we’ve been alone together in the classroom so many times, but...

Why am I so nervous today? Only the location and clothes are slightly different…

Sporty, casual clothes suit Ittoki-kun, unlike the school uniform.

But… The rosary hanging down from his neck looks somewhat feminine and stands out to me.

A small cross hangs at the end of the crystal beads, glittering beautifully in the reflected sunlight.

He pinches the cross with his fingers and continues wrapping it in the crystals.

It looks like a habit he does when he’s stressed. He’s doing it over and over again.

Ah, again… I can’t help but chuckle and smile to myself.

Otoya Ittoki: Eh… what is it?

Haruka Nanami: Oh, nothing… I was just thinking how you’ve been fiddling with that this entire time.

Otoya Ittoki: Oh, this?

Haruka Nanami: Ittoki-kun, I was surprised to see that you wear a rosary. It’s unexpected. Are you a Christian?

Otoya Ittoki: Ah... yes. My mother was… She was Christian.

Haruka Nanami: Was…?

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah… She passed away a long time ago… She made this herself.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… sorry.

I shouldn’t have asked.

Otoya Ittoki: It’s okay. It happened when I was very young. I don’t even remember her face.

Otoya Ittoki: Plus… later I found out she wasn’t my birth mother.

Haruka Nanami: What do you mean?

Otoya Ittoki: My birth mother left me with her older sister after I was born…. She went missing a short while later.

Haruka Nanami: So, she might be alive somewhere…

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. I did some searching. About fifteen years ago, a plane crashed somewhere in a desert…

Otoya Ittoki: It appeared to be that she was on that plane, so there’s barely any chance she could have survived.

Otoya Ittoki: My foster father died from an accident before my foster mother died…. Well, I don’t actually know who my birth father is.

Otoya Ittoki: He might still be alive somewhere, but he probably doesn’t even know I exist. I heard that my mom kept me a secret from him.

Otoya Ittoki: I used to think “If I become famous, I can meet him”, and I began aiming to become an idol.

Otoya Ittoki: Though…. Now I’m having so much fun refining my singing and dancing, I don’t mind if I never meet him. That’s how I feel about it.

Haruka Nanami: ... You were always alone…

I was also alone because I wasn’t able to make friends, but I always had my parents. Ittoki-kun… you didn’t have that…

Otoya Ittoki: Don’t make that face. It wasn’t that lonely.

Otoya Ittoki: I grew up in an orphanage, so there were other kids there, and the matron was like a mother to me.

Otoya Ittoki: Plus… I don’t know who, but there was someone who helped me.

Otoya Ittoki: I wasn’t alone at all. And right now… you are in front of me, Haruka.

Haruka Nanami: Ah...

Otoya Ittoki: Oh…? D-did I just call you by your first name?

I nod, staying silent.

Otoya Ittoki: ...!!!

Otoya Ittoki: I can call Masa and Natsuki, even Tomochika by their given names, but it’s kind of embarrassing for me to use yours.

Otoya Ittoki: And… I always wanted to… but…

Otoya Ittoki: I never quite could...

Haruka Nanami: ...

Otoya Ittoki: That’s why… Is it okay if I use your name, just for today?

I want to say yes, but my voice won’t come out. Blushing, I give a small nod.

Otoya Ittoki: Really? Yes! Thank you, Haruka!

‘Haruka’... I feel my chest warm with every use of my name.

Otoya Ittoki: Also, you can do it if you want. Call me Otoya, I mean.

Haruka Nanami: Eh….

Call Ittoki-kun by his given name….

Thump-thump.

Otoya Ittoki: You don’t want to?

Haruka Nanami: No… I… uh…. Yes… I...

Haruka Nanami: O….

M-my heart….

Haruka Nanami: O… to….

It’s three syllables... They won’t come out.

My heart is pounding. I can’t breathe.

… H-huh? My consciousness… is… fading...

Otoya Ittoki: Haruka! Breathe, Breathe!

... Gasp!

Ittoki-kun gets up in a rush and grabs my shoulder.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, you scared me there.

With a sigh of relief, Ittoki-kun sits back next to me.

Otoya Ittoki: Sorry. I got ahead of myself.

Haruka Nanami: No... that’s not it.

I’m the one who has to apologize for my cowardice.

Haruka Nanami: U-um… L... let me try again…

Otoya Ittoki: It’s okay. Don’t stress about it.

He places his hand on my head. Large and warm, a man’s hand…

A small melody begins to unfold in my head, following the steady rhythm of my beating heart.

Otoya Ittoki: But one day, when you want to call me by my given name...

He gazes at me with tender eyes.

And then...

Shining Saotome: LOVE! IS FORBIDDEN! ABSOLUTELY! NO GO NO GO NO GO!!!

Haruka Nanami: !!!!!!!!!

Otoya Ittoki: !!!!!!!!!

The principal’s face appears in the carriage window and mixes in with the view of the sunset.

Otoya Ittoki: Eh, Principal Saotome!! But, we’re... this—top—wha—...eehhhh!

Shining Saotome: HA HA HA~! I thought this may happen, so I installed rockets into my boots!

Looking closer, flames are erupting from the principal’s shoes.

Shining Saotome: Anyways, I am sure neither of you are in love, correct!

We both shook our heads from side to side rapidly.

Shining Saotome: Oh. How odd. I could have sworn I smelled Love Air in this area.

Shining Saotome: Hrm… hrm, hrm, hrm. This is a Special Class Love Air!

Shining Saotome: I see. It’s in the next carriage over! My mistake! SORRY SORRY!

Shining Saotome: BUT, if love blooms, you will be expelled.

Shining Saotome: Don’t forget that. Forget nothing!

Shining Saotome: Now, goodbye. Adieu. Keep your friendship healthy.

With those words, the principal departs to the next carriage.

Otoya Ittoki: … What just….

Haruka Nanami: He watches over us even in places like this. He really cares for his students.

Otoya Ittoki: ... He’s definitely going beyond just “watching over us”.….

Otoya Ittoki: “Love is forbidden”. What a troublesome rule…

Haruka Nanami: Huh?

Otoya Ittoki: Nothing. We still have plenty of daylight left, so let’s make the best of it!

Haruka Nanami: Yeah!

After that day, I met with Ittoki-kun in the classroom nearly everyday.

But for the rest of summer vacation, I was never able to call him by his name.

I hope the day I can call him Otoya-kun comes eventually.

Mini Game

Ringo Tsukimiya: This time around, I want you to try a higher difficulty than before. Don’t worry. I’ll teach you properly~!

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hehe. I may look like this, but I’m a pro, you know! I’m quite good.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Though it’s the same song, I want to show you how the impression one gets can change with how it’s played. Learning this will help you complete your own compositions.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Alrighty. Music, start!

S Rank

Otoya Ittoki: Ah... what should I do? I can’t even look you straight in the eye... I’m partnered with such an amazing girl. Haha. I’m so happy.

Haruka Nanami: That’s my line. I’m happy to be your partner.

Ittoki-kun is a warm, happy and open-minded person who loves music…

As a composer and as a person, I am honored to be paired with such a person.

I definitely want to debut together, because I want the world to hear Ittoki-kun’s song.

Chapter End

#Repeat #otoya ittoki #game #translation

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utapri-hana · 4 months ago

Text

Otoya Ittoki (Repeat)

Translator: Ladylancer (twitter: utatranslations) Proofreader: Raz (twitter: agnadance), Nadie (twitter: NmoniaG) Editor: Mae (twitter: itoshikimaegirl), Snail (twitter: herbert_snail)

July — Manatsu no Crescendo

It’s summer and the pool is open. Time for the Water Polo Tournament!!

Every year, close to summer vacation, there’s apparently a water polo competition between the classes during the last gym class for the term. The participants are three students from A Class and three from S Class.

Volunteers—I mean, people who are chosen by lottery—will have a valiant battle in the pool… or something of the sort. This year, the ones who have been chosen from A Class are…

Otoya Ittoki-kun, Masato Hijirikawa-sama, and Natsuki Shinomiya-san.

As for the competing S Class members...

They are Tokiya Ichinose-san, Ren Jinguji-san, and Syo Kurusu-kun.

Ichinose-san is Ittoki-kun’s roommate in the dorms. Jinguji-san rooms with Hijirikawa-sama and Shinomiya-san is with Kurusu-kun….

Goodness… Is this really a coincidence? To me, it’s as if the lottery was deliberately tampered with.

Female Student A: Kya, you’re so cool, Ren-sama!

Female Student B: Syo-kun, look over here!

Female Student C: Tokiya-sama, go for it!

From the poolside, shrill voices pierce the air.

For being a combined period for A Class and S Class… it feels like there are too many people...

Ryuya Hyuga: Oi, girls! This isn’t for your entertainment. Hurry up and get back to your own classroom!

Female Student C: .... Fiiine.

Confronted with an angry Hyuga-sensei, the intruding girls leave the pool dejectedly.

Ryuuya Hyuuga: Seriously, Ringo, you should say something too…. Hey. It’s class time right now. Do you understand?

Ringo Tsukimiya: Of course I do.

Ryuuya Hyuuga: Then why the hell are you relaxing by the poolside?! You even brought a matching parasol for your pool chair.

Ryuuya Hyuuga: Are you just here to watch the show?! You’re a teacher first, so act like it!

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hmph. What’s wrong with it, you killjoy....

Shining Saotome: HAHAHA! Nothing good comes out of being so tight-laced, Ryuya-san.

Ryuuya Hyuuga: Guh… President. You appeared again…...

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ah, Shiny~~!

Shining Saotome: Ringo-san is one of my precious idols. His pale skin getting tan is a NO-NO. An enemy to his skiiin. Therefooore, I’ll allow him to watch from the poolside.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Yay! Thank you, Shiny! Love you!

Ryuuya Hyuuga: ...Tch. Really, he’s been sweet to you since way back.

Shining Saotome: HA HA HA~! SUPER sweeet!

Otoya Ittoki: Sensei! We’re ready, can we go ahead and start?

Ryuuya Hyuuga: … Oh, sorry…. Well then, let’s start the A Class versus S Class water polo competition…

Shining Saotome: STOP! Just a moment, PLEASE. If you please.

Ryuuya Hyuuga: … Is there a problem?

Shining Saotome: To do it the usual way is far too boooring. I’ll decide the penalty game!

Ryuuya Hyuuga: A penalty game…. First off, this is just gym class….

Shining Saotome: Hmmmmm. What’s good? So many choices~

Ryuuya Hyuuga: ... And he isn’t listening. He’s got way too much freedom, this old man….

Ryuuya Hyuuga: Sorry guys, once the president’s like this he can’t be stopped. To the losing team: don’t bother arguing and accept the penalty game.

Otoya Ittoki: Don’t worry about it, Sensei. A penalty game is fine. It makes the game more exciting and they’re fun to do.

Tokiya Ichinose: In this academy, Saotome-san’s word is law.

Masato Hijirikawa: Depends on the penalty game, but… I suppose as long as we don’t lose, it doesn’t matter.

Ren Jinguji: Hm. Only you could say something like that, Masato Hijirikawa! It’s obvious that I, Ren Jinguji, will win.

Jinguji-san points dramatically at Hijirikawa-sama. Could the two of them have a rivalry, just like Ittoki-kun and Ichinose-san…?

Masato Hijirikawa: ...? We won’t know until we compete, though.

Hmm.... It seems like Jinguji-san’s the only one getting fired up because of his strong dislike of Hijirikawa-sama….

Natsuki Shinomiya: Hey, Syo-chan. A penalty game sounds fun, doesn’t it?

Syo Kurusu: Not really. And don’t use "chan”! Call me “Prince”!

Natsuki Shinomiya: Okay, I understand, Prince Syo-chan♪

Syo Kurusu: ... Are you doing that on purpose?

Natsuki Shinomiya: ... Eh? What?

Syo Kurusu: Oh, forget it… talking with you makes my head hurt.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Really? I love talking with you, Syo-chan.

Shinomiya-san says that and pats Kurusu-kun’s head.

Syo Kurusu: Idiot, stop it! Don’t touch me like that. Don’t rub my head, hey!

They seem to get along well…. Rather, Shinomiya-san is one-sidedly showering Kurusu-kun with love.

Kurusu-kun looks like he hates it and, together, those two seem like a gentle dog owner and a little dog that hates being smothered, I guess.

Yes, that’s what it feels like.

Shining Saotome: Hmm. I’m conflicted. Oh right, YOU. Do you have any ideas?

Haruka Nanami: M-me? Uh, well….

Select the phrase!

Maybe a guerilla street live? (+0 Love +15 Music)

Shining Saotome: Oh. That sounds interesting. It also covers keeping composure on stage, so it’s pretty much killing two birds with one stone!

Maybe toilet cleaning? (+0 Love +10 Music)

Shining Saotome: Oh, a classic punishment. It’s not bad, but doesn’t have the right punch. MR. Yamada, take her seat cushion away!!

S-seat cushion?

Maybe running a lap around town while singing? (+0 Love +0 Music)

Shining Saotome: That’s a good idea, but the path would end before the song if it was just around town. Make it around the world.

A-around the world!!!

Shining Saotome: Yes. Hm. YES YES YES! It’s here! I have it. It came to my wise brain like a signaaal!!

Shining Saotome: That is the reason why the losing team must dress and act as females for an entire day!

Ryuya Hyuuga: ... The heck do you mean “the reason why”...? Anyway, I guess that’s that… but making them crossdress…. I feel sorry for them.

Otoya Ittoki: I’m fine with the penalty game, but why the crossdressing?

Shining Saotome: The reason why is…! ...!

Shining Saotome: Acting skills are indispensable for first-class Idols! Therefore, the losing team must crossdress and act like a perfect lady for the day!

Shining Saotome: If you can get through the day without being recognized as a man, you clear the mission! That kind of acting skill is the reeeal deal!

Shining Saotome: Surely someday, you will use those skills as an actor.

Ringo Tsukimiya: … What he says makes sense, but he definitely came up with that just now.

Ryuya Hyuuga: That’s probably right… but if they enter our agency, they’ll more or less be pushed around on the president’s whim.

Ryuya Hyuuga: Though having them get used to it now may not be such a bad idea. Well, they might not have to deal with as much as we did back in our day.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Maybe. Those were dark days. Still, Shiny’s decisions are absolute.

Ringo Tsukimiya: If Shiny says something is white, even black things are redefined as white. He’s nearly impossible to defy.

... Somehow, listening to the teachers’ conversations makes me feel like I’m catching a glimpse into the adult’s world….

Shining Saotome: Well then, let’s begin the “Girls swooning☆Tears may fall? The Great Handsome Guys Water Polo Tournament”!

With the principal's exclamation, the game begins.

Even though it’s supposed to be water polo, we’re not following the official rules. Instead, we’re at the school pool and playing the game with only a few team members. There are no goal posts either.

Rather, it’s as if we’re playing portball in the pool. One person stands on a diving board, taking the place of the goal.

When that person catches the ball, that is considered a goal.

In the past, when people played by the rules of water polo, people kept getting injured so now there are fewer people allowed to play in the pool during the game. So now, the current rules are set up for a 3 on 3 game, and on top of that, only four people can be in the pool. Shinomiya-san is playing as the goalkeeper for A Class. Ittoki-kun is playing offense and Hijirikawa-sama is playing defense.

Ittoki-kun, the most athletic in the class, immediately steals the ball from his opponents and makes his way to the goal.

I have to cheer A Class on.

Select the phrase!

Shinomiya-san, hang in there! (+0 Love +0 Music)

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah, Nanami-san. Yes, I’ll do my best.

Hijirikawa-sama, do your best! (+0 Love +0 Music)

Masato Hijirikawa: Thank you for your support. I’ll do my best to meet your expectations.

Ittoki-kun, fight! (+20 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: Hehe! Thanks, Nanami! With your cheering, I feel like I can do anything!

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami! Watch me! I’m going to score!

Haruka Nanami: Okay!

Ren Jinguji: Like I’d let you!

Otoya Ittoki: Whoa!

Masato Hijirikawa: Ittoki, I’ll deal with Jinguji. You head towards the goal.

Ren Jinguji: Hah! You’ll hold me back? You think you can do that with those scrawny arms, Hijirikawa, conglomerate heir?

Masato Hijirikawa: This has nothing to do with my family. This is a fight between the two of us.

Ren Jinguji: Oh? Our fight…. How interesting. This is a competition. Come at me; I’ll return the favor.

Jinguji-san tries to pass Hijirikawa-sama but then Hijirikawa-sama turns and jumps in front of Jinguji-san, blocking his way.

It’s going back and forth between offense and defense. And Ittoki-kun is….

Otoya Ittoki: GOOOOOOO!

Aiming straight for Shinomiya-san, Ittoki-kun throws the ball and the ball flies in a beautiful parabola, landing directly in Shinomiya-san’s arms.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah. I caught it.

Shining Saotome: A Class gets one point!

Otoya Ittoki: Alright, a point lead! Nanami, did you see my shot?!

Select the phrase!

Of course I did! You were so cool! (+20 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: Really?! Hehe. I’ll get the next one too.

I’m sorry, I missed it. (+0 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: Oh, I see… too bad. But there's going to be another chance, so keep watching me! Haruka Nanami: Okay.

Yes! Shinomiya-san, nice catch. (+0 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: Eh…. Really…

Natsuki Shinomiya: I’ll do my best next time too.

Otoya Ittoki: Well, okay…. Watch me next time, alright? Haruka Nanami: Okay.

Tokiya Ichinose: This isn't good. We have to stop their momentum somehow…. However, it will be difficult to stop Otoya right now….

Tokiya Ichinose: If that’s the case, we need to aim for their goalie, Shinomiya-san. Syo...

Syo Kurusu: Huh? What?

Tokiya Ichinose: When Otoya throws the ball at Shinomiya-san, I need you to distract him. You can do that easily, right?

Syo Kurusu: Well, I think he’ll look at me if I call out to him, but...

Tokiya Ichinose: Then please do so. We’ll be fine if you can distract him a little and block a goal from happening.

Syo Kurusu: G-got it. I’ll try.

It seems Ichinose-san is devising some sort of strategy. Are Ittoki-kun and the others going to be okay?

Masato Hijirikawa: Ittoki!

Hijirikawa-sama throws the ball to Ittoki-kun.

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah!

Ittoki-kun beautifully catches the ball that Hijirikawa-sama threw and heads towards the goal.

Otoya Ittoki: Natsu—

Syo Kurusu: Natsuki! Over here!

Kurusu-kun’s voice cuts through Ittoki-kun’s, diverting Shinomiya-san’s attention.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes, Syo-chan?

Otoya Ittoki: Ah!

Clang. The ball Ittoki-kun threw grazes Shinomiya’s face, causing his glasses to go flying.

Syo Kurusu: Ah, you idiot….

The earth begins to tremble…

… is probably an overstatement, but everybody feels an immense pressure equal to it.

RUMBLE!!

Syo Kurusu: He’s coming! He’s coming out!

Kurusu-kun shouts, his face a sickly, blue shade… “He”?... Who?

Syo Kurusu: Hurry, his glasses! Get Natsuki’s glasses back on before….

Thud.

Shinomiya-san punches the diving board. The next moment, it disappears without a trace.

…eh?

To be honest, I have no idea what just happened.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Eh, what? What’s going on? Don’t tell me, could it be like that time?

Ryuya Hyuuga: You, learn about your students already. Isn’t Shinomiya the one that goes on rampages when his glasses come off?

Ringo Tsukimiya: B-but I didn’t know it would come to this! Heeelp, Shinyyy!

Shining Saotome: Easy, easy, easy there. Everything is fine! I am here.

The principal says that but...

Rumble!

A black aura surrounds Shinomiya-san and rapidly begins to increase pressure.

Natsuki Shinomiya?: Hmph!

The dark Shinomiya-san crushes the poolside.

Haruka Nanami: Ah!

The shockwave knocks me off-balance, sending me into the pool.

Haruka Nanami: Glu-glub!!

I panic and flail, but I’m in so much shock that I can’t swim properly.

Otoya Ittoki: Haruka!

Otoya Ittoki: Hang on, I’ll save you!

Eh.... Just now, Ittoki-kun... called my first name… right?

I feel a sturdy hand grab my arm, pulling my sinking body out of the water.

Ittoki... kun? Ah… I can’t… my consciousness… is fading...

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami! Hang on! Get a hold of yourself!

Haruka Nanami: Ah…. Ittoki… kun?

Oh, he used “Nanami”. It must have been my imagination earlier.

Otoya Ittoki: Thank goodness. Oh, Nanami. You’ve got Natsuki’s glasses.

I’ve got…? Oh!

When I was struggling underwater, I must have grabbed them by accident.

Syo Kurusu: Give them here!

Haruka Nanami: ... Ah.

Syo-kun grabs the glasses from my hand.

Syo Kurusu: Natsuki!

Syo-kun runs towards Shinomiya-san while yelling, but Shinomiya-san doesn’t react at all.

Syo Kurusu: Grr…. NACCHAN!!

Syo-kun shouts with an embarrassed look on his face. Then….

Natsuki Shinomiya?: … Syo…chan?

For a moment, a peaceful look returns to Shinomiya-san’s face.

Syo Kurusu: Now!

Thud. Syo-kun throws the glasses… and they land perfectly on Shinomiya-san’s nose.

That moment, the pressure that surrounded us disappears as quickly as it arrived, and Shinomiya-san’s face becomes calm.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Huh? What’s wrong, everyone?

... Thank goodness. It’s the usual Shinomiya-san.

Syo Kurusu: “What’s wrong” isn’t the question here! How many times have I told you to be careful with your glasses?

Shining Saotome: S Class gets ten thousand points!

Otoya Ittoki: Huh?! What do you mean “ten thousand”?

Shining Saotome: That’s right! Just now, the short one threw those glasses and they landed perfectly.

Syo Kurusu: Don’t call me short!

Shining Saotome: Unlike the ball, the difficulty for throwing glasses is EXTREMELY HIGH. Therefore, the points gained reflect that.

Syo Kurusu: ... And right out the other ear….

Shining Saotome: So for this competition, it’s S Class’s overwhelming victory!

Ren Jinguji: Well, looks like our strategy won.

Tokiya Ichinose: So it seems.

Otoya Ittoki: How is that fair?! That has nothing to do with water polo!

Shining Saotome: HAHAHA! This school bends to my will!

In conclusion, the match came to end with the pool half-destroyed and S Class declared the winner.

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami, you okay? Do you need to go to the nurse’s office?

Haruka Nanami: No, I-I’m fine.

Otoya Ittoki: But... earlier, you fainted….

Haruka Nanami: I only lost consciousness for a little bit… Anyway….

Haruka Nanami: I’m looking forward to seeing you all crossdress.

Otoya Ittoki: Eh…. That…. I really have to do it, don’t I? I have to prepare for the worst.

Borrowing clothes from Tsukimiya-sensei, Ittoki-kun, Hijirikawa-sama, and Shinomiya-san dress up as women.

Natsuki Shinomiya: I didn’t know there were women’s clothing in my size.

Natsuki Shinomiya: I’ve never worn frilly clothes like these, so it’s kind of refreshing.

Shinomiya-san, being so tall, has a strong presence when he dresses up in women’s clothes, but since his personality is normally so soft, I wouldn’t feel strange even if I was told he’s a woman.

Masato Hijirikawa: Wearing a skirt…. How do I put it…? I can’t seem to relax….

Hijirikawa-sama is quite beautiful even without makeup, so when he crossdresses, he’s just… so beautiful… I can’t look at him directly.

Otoya Ittoki: Hey. Do I look like an actual girl?

Select the phrase!

Umm… well…. (+0 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I will refrain from commenting.

Ittoki-kun is very much, in a good way, a young boy, so I suppose he can pass as a boyish girl, but his muscle tone….

It’s not like he doesn’t look like a girl at all, but I wouldn’t be shocked if somebody told me that he’s crossdressing. Otoya Ittoki: I see…. Too bad.

You’re cute. (+10 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: You look like a tomboy; it’s a cute look....

Masato Hijirikawa: Tomboy…. I suppose that’s a good thing.

Otoya Ittoki: So you can’t see me as a girl? Boo-hoo.

You’re fine. (+20 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: If you say you are a girl, people will believe you are a girl! Just be confident!

Otoya Ittoki: … In other words, people can’t tell unless I insist.

Haruka Nanami: No, um... that's not it, it's just that you still look boyish, but like... in a good way... um…

Otoya Ittoki: It’s fine. I know I don’t look good crossdressing as a girl. Sorry for asking such a weird thing…. Otoya Ittoki: But hearing you say that I look okay helps.

Otoya Ittoki: ... Even so, having to wear this all day...

Masato Hijirikawa: Don’t complain…. This is the burden of the defeated.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Masato-kun is pretty; you might get asked out if you walk around in town.

Otoya Ittoki: Hehe, no way.

Tokiya Ichinose: Oh good, you’re still here Nanami-kun. I wanted to apologize to you….

Haruka Nanami: ???

Apologise? Ichinose-san? Why?

Tokiya Ichinose: During the water polo game, I was the one who told Syo to distract Shinomiya-san.

Tokiya Ichinose: Although I was trying to win the game to avoid dressing up as a woman, I never expected that would happen….

Tokiya Ichinose: It was my fault, so I apologise for putting you in harm's way…. Did you feel ill after that?

Haruka Nanami: I’m doing fine now. Besides, that just happened by chance, so what happened wasn’t your fault, Ichinose-san.

Tokiya Ichinose: I see…. Even so, I cannot let anything happen to you…. I take full responsibility. Allow me to walk you to your dorm.

Otoya Ittoki: Enough, Tokiya. I’M taking her home today. Right, Nanami?

Huh? Did we agree to that?

But…

Tokiya Ichinose: Is... that so?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, well…. Yes….

I decide to agree.

Tokiya Ichinose: Well then, this time I’ll let Otoya do it. Nanami-kun, I will come to apologize to you again. I won’t have any peace of mind if I leave things here.

Otoya Ittoki: Sorry, Nanami. I blurted it out without thinking, but I didn’t want him doing that.

Otoya Ittoki: I’ll go change. Give me a few minutes.

Haruka Nanami: O-okay….

As he said, Ittoki-kun escorts me back to my room.

Otoya Ittoki: Heh, this is a cute room. It’s the first time I’ve been in a girl’s room.

Haruka Nanami: O-oh, would you like something to drink…?

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, it’s fine. Don’t worry, I’ll be going soon. Anyways, are you sure you’re okay?

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I’m fine now.

Otoya Ittoki: I see. I’m glad to hear that.

Ittoki-kun looks me straight in the eyes.

He reaches out, pulling me into a tight hug.

Otoya Ittoki: Really, I’m glad. I was so scared. I wouldn’t know what I would do if you didn’t open your eyes….

He holds me tightly, almost painfully so.

Otoya Ittoki: Before I realised it, you became such an important person to me…. Nanami, I….

Otoya Ittoki: I don’t want to be apart from you. Please, stay my partner forever.

Haruka Nanami: Of course I want to stay as your partner.

Otoya Ittoki: I wouldn’t have let you go even if you said no. I can’t really find the words to explain….

Otoya Ittoki: This is the first time I’ve felt this. I’ve never had such an urge with anyone else before….

Otoya Ittoki: Having fun with everyone is fine, but you are the only one I want to hold on to. I won’t let you go. Even if I was ordered to, I wouldn’t.

Otoya Ittoki: That’s why I want you to only be my partner.

Select the Phrase!

Yes. (+0 Love +0 Music)

With a nod and smile, Ittoki-kun smiles warmly back at me.

Ittoki-kun’s… only… (+20 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: Is that... not okay?

Haruka Nanami: That’s not it. Rather, I was wondering if I’m good enough for you. Um… that’s why....

Haruka Nanami: Um…. I’m in your care. Otoya Ittoki: Yep. Same here.

Um, if I’m suitable. (+10 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I hope we work together for many years to come. Otoya Ittoki: I look forward to it, partner!

I want to follow him forever. Always from now on….

I thought that on that summer day.

Mini Game

Ringo Tsukimiya: You already got the basics down, right? Now we’re going into the real deal!

Arranging the assignment’s song in composing class…. You all are already doing song arrangement, right?

Today, I’ll have you actually perform that song!

When you actually perform a song, you’ll discover things you didn’t notice from just the sheet music and come to understand the song more deeply.

Ah, I just recalled, the level of quality of your performance will also be counted towards your score, so try your best.

I’m ready over here. Please begin when you feel ready.

S Rank

Otoya Ittoki: Wow! Perfect! How can you do it so well? Can I do it if I practise more?

Ittoki-kun, who listened in on my performance, spoke to me after I finished.

Haruka Nanami: Yes of course! You were better than me at the start.

Otoya Ittoki: I see. Let’s work together over summer vacation!

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

Chapter End

#repeat #otoya ittoki #utapri #game

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utapri-hana · 4 months ago

Text

Otoya Ittoki (Repeat)

Translators: Ladylancer (twitter: utatranslations), Raz (twitter: agnadance) Proofreaders: Belen (twitter: reiharus), Nadie (twitter: NmoniaG) Editors: Mae (twitter: itoshikimaegirl), Snail (twitter: herbert_snail)

June — Shining with ad libitum

June has arrived. Since we’ve just finished midterms, everyone is breathing sighs of relief.

Otoya Ittoki: Morning, Nanami.

Haruka Nanami: Ah. Ittoki-kun, good morning.

Otoya Ittoki: Oh, right. Look at this! Ta-da! Somehow, I managed to get 380 points in my five subjects! This is the first time I've done so well.

As he speaks, Ittoki-kun happily shows me his answer sheet.

Otoya Ittoki: Really, I hit the jackpot. It's all thanks to you!

Ittoki-kun’s ruffling my hair….

My hair’s a little messed up now, but I can’t help but feel happy about it….

Haruka Nanami: No…. That's just a coincidence….

Before midterms, Ittoki-kun and I, along with Tomo-chan, Hijirikawa-sama, and Shinomiya-san, studied together after school.

It was just a coincidence that what I taught Ittoki-kun during that time happened to be on the test.

But, even if that was all, somehow, it makes me really happy that we studied hard.

Tomochika Shibuya: Morning! Haaa~ Really, you saved me! Look: above average in all subjects! You're really good at teaching. In the future, you could master the art of being a teacher. I mean, I guess you've already mastered one art since you're a composer.

Tomo-chan starts laughing.

Haruka Nanami: Er… Um… I'm not really….

Masato Hijirikawa: … You needn’t be humble. You did a very good job.

Natsuki Shinomiya: He's right, you know…. That was the first time I'd seen such nicely organized notes.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, Hijirikawa-sama, Shinomiya-san. Good morning. Um, I hope they served you well.

Still, it really is embarrassing to be praised by everyone like this.

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami, why the red face? Ah, could it be… you’re embarrassed?

Haruka Nanami: Ah… yes. I've never had anyone compliment me like this before.

Otoya Ittoki: Is that true, Nanami? Even though you have a lot of good points. Okay then, from now on I'm going to compliment you a lot.

Haruka Nanami: Eh… y-you don't have to....

Otoya Ittoki: In exchange, praise me since I did a good job!

Ittoki-kun grins as he says that.

Haruka Nanami: I-I will!

Ringo Tsukimiya: Oookay, everyone. Take your seats please, homeroom is starting.

As the teacher enters the room, everyone takes their seats.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hehe, everyone is here today as well. You're such good kids.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Also, I've received the results from the midterm tests. Incredible, everyone! Your grades were as good as S Class'.

The teacher's statement causes cheers to ring throughout the classroom.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Today's idols need to be smart. When it comes to variety shows, being able to have clever answers can make a big difference.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ah! That's right, the test next month will be the practical variety show exam, so be prepared, okay?

Otoya Ittoki: Eh, really? That sounds interesting.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hehe. We have many practical exams!

He winks as he says that.

Tsukimiya-sensei really is cute.

Ringo Tsukimiya: For the variety show exam, you don’t necessarily need to have memorized the information, but if you do, it’ll be a big advantage. Well, random trivia knowledge and such is Shiny's area of expertise, so if you are interested, you can talk to him about it. He’d be delighted to teach you!

Wow…. The principal is also good at trivia. How knowledgeable…. He's amazing.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Well, there's no problem with the paper test, but…. The problem is today's recording test.

That's right. Along with midterm tests, there are also recording tests.

At the beginning of the year, a set piece was given to us; singers practiced with it, and composers made their own arrangements for it.

Composers submitted their versions and the idols are meant to record on the day of the test.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Even though the song is the same, the songs will all sound different due to the singers. Some will be better than others, of course….

Haruka Nanami: Ah… that's true….

Ringo Tsukimiya: There can be a lot of variation even among singers that do well.... There are nuances of rhythm and articulation, and not everyone sings with the same technique. All of you probably started out by copying your favorite artists’ techniques, and until now, you’ve all listened to and practiced songs with vocal tracks included.

Haruka Nanami: … So it will be just like always.

Without knowing the original song, it’s very hard to practice with just the backing track....

Ringo Tsukimiya: However, this time I’ve deliberately given you materials without a temporary vocal track.... It’s not just about fitting the lyrics to the melody. The extreme difficulty of truly singing, of creating a song…. I think you will come to understand that. However, all of you can do it. So, do your best!

The time for the recording test has arrived.

While taking the test, only one person will be in the recording booth at a time.

The people after them can observe from the room next door.

Because it’s Ittoki-kun’s and my turn, we make our way to the recording room.

Inside the booth, the students about to take the test are on standby.

Otoya Ittoki: Recording.... I’m excited!

Even though today is the real deal, Ittoki-kun seems to be himself.

Haruka Nanami: … You're not nervous?

Otoya Ittoki: Not at all. After all, we practiced a ton.

Ever since April, we've been practicing our assigned song.

We interpreted the melody line as best we could, while trying our best to match the rhythm and pitch. So we’ll be fine....

We'll be okay… I think. Why am I so nervous?

Ryuya Hyuga: Okay, we're all set over here. Are you ready to sing?

S Class teacher Ryuya Hyuga speaks into the mic that’s connected to the recording booth.

Ryuya Hyuga, while also an active idol, is also the director of Shining Agency.

A versatile person, he's not only an amazing actor and singer, but is also good at managing the office, writing lyrics, composing, and sound direction.

For today's recording test, he’s handling all the sound controls on his own.

Voice from the booth: Yes, I'm ready.

Ryuya Hyuga: Okay then. State your name and class into the mic. After that, I’ll play the track. You won't be able to restart if you mess up, so get ready.

Tokiya Ichinose: Understood. S Class, Tokiya Ichinose.

For some reason, when I hear that person’s voice, my heart thuds in my chest. That smooth, deep voice….

… I feel like I've heard that voice before. But where…?

As I continue to ponder it, Ichinose-san begins to sing.

… Wow. Both his pitch and rhythm are perfect. Hmm. But this isn't just perfect…

He's making the song entirely his own. He has absolute precision, a self-assured sense of rhythm down to a fraction of a beat.

He swings between off-beat and on-beat, matching each phrase to the music freely in a way that seems effortless.

Even his volume is perfect, so that every single note is audible.

His pronunciation is so clear that I can discern each and every word, down to each consonant and vowel.

He is also controlling his breathing so that the mic can't pick up his breaths. Every sound—every line—is clean and accurate.

Amazing… I think, even among professionals, there are few that can do the same.

Otoya Ittoki: That guy… he’s amazing….

I glance over at Ittoki-kun. His hand is clenched into a shaking fist, crushing the score.

Ryuya Hyuga: Well, that's good for now. As usual, an almost annoyingly perfect performance. Impeccable, even. In fact, you followed the music sheets with such precision that it’s missing some charm. Personal feelings aside, you passed the test flawlessly. You can exit now.

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes, sir. … Pleasure working with you.

I gasp in surprise when I see the student who walks out of the booth.

HAYATO-sama!!!

I couldn’t see his face very well from where I was sitting…. Now I know.

It’s undeniably HAYATO-sama. But… what is an active, mega-successful idol doing here?

Select the phrase!

HAYATO-sama?! (+0 Love +0 Music)

I exclaim without thinking.

HAYATO-sama turns to look at me with a strange expression before sighing.

Tokiya Ichinose: ... Oh, this again.

Otoya Ittoki: No, Nanami. This isn't Hayato. This is his younger twin brother.

Haruka Nanami: Brother? HAYATO-sama's? I had no idea. I'm a failure as a fan....

C-could I have an autograph? (+0 Love +0 Music)

Ryuya Hyuga: Hey, you. We aren't fooling around here. Besides, that isn't Hayato.

Haruka Nanami: ... What? No matter how you look at him, he looks just like HAYATO-sama.

Ryuya Hyuga: He's Tokiya Ichinose, Hayato's younger twin brother. Sorry about this, Ichinose.

Tokiya Ichinose: ... No, I've gotten used to it.

Haruka Nanami: HAYATO-sama's brother.... I've never heard anything like that....

.... (+20 Love +5 Music)

Ryuya Hyuga: As always, an impersonal, perfect performance.

Tokiya Ichinose: ... Thank you very much.

Ryuya Hyuga: That wasn't a compliment....

Haruka Nanami: Ah, um... Sensei, is this person...?

Ryuya Hyuga: Hm? Ah, this guy is the younger brother of a currently-popular idol. You've probably heard of HAYATO, right?

Haruka Nanami: Yes. I'm surprised to see someone who looks just like him.

Ryuya Hyuga: Well, it's no wonder they look alike. They're twins.

Haruka Nanami: Twins?! It's the first I've heard about that.... I see, HAYATO-sama's younger brother....

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami, could it be that you’re a fan of HAYATO?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes. The reason I decided to become a composer was because of him. He's an idol I look up to.

Otoya Ittoki: I see…. So that's what it was… HAYATO….

As if he's troubled, Ittoki-kun's profile changes slightly for a moment.

Was it... just my imagination?

Ryuya Hyuga: Okay, next! Otoya Ittoki, enter the booth.

Otoya Ittoki: … Yes.

Tokiya Ichinose: Otoya's song… Sensei, is it alright if I listen too?

Ryuya Hyuga: Huh? Oh, that's right, you two are roommates. Okay, listen to your rival’s song carefully.

Tokiya Ichinose: Rival? As if. He won't be able to surpass me. I’m just a little curious, that’s all.

Ichinose-san speaks with an amused smile.

The next moment, Ittoki-kun's recording test begins.

But Ittoki-kun isn’t his usual self at all, and even begins messing up in places he hadn't before.

We’re told to retake the test in two weeks.

Otoya Ittoki: Haaa....

Tokiya Ichinose: Otoya. Good job.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, Tokiya…. So you heard me too....

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes, I asked for permission to listen. Even though I couldn't bear to hear it, I would dare say there was a unique feeling to it. I thought your song was very much like you.

Otoya Ittoki: Wha…. It was…. It was that bad?

Haruka Nanami: N-no, not at all….

Tokiya Ichinose: Although you were vocalizing, you didn’t form a proper song. Even if you have feelings, they’re meaningless if you can’t convey them.

Ryuya Hyuga: You hardly have room to talk, seeing as I couldn’t feel any emotions in your song either. I wouldn’t buy either of your songs.

Tokiya Ichinose: What was wrong with my song?

Ryuya Hyuga: If you two fused together, you would be perfect. Ittoki’s technique is a little off…. And Ichinose, you don't put enough soul into your songs.

Tokiya Ichinose: Soul? Where does that unscientific nonsense come into it?

Ryuya Hyuga: That's why you’re no good. The feelings you put into a song can change its impact completely. What’s important is the human emotion, not just the actual song.

Tokiya Ichinose: I don’t understand at all. You're saying this so-called “soul” is in his song?

Ryuya Hyuga: Yeah, or at least more than yours. You have to expose your true feelings and put your heart into the song. Even though it sounds simple, it's actually very hard to do.

Tokiya Ichinose: Then, let me do the retest as well. Two weeks from now, I’ll perform a more perfect song than I did just now. Please judge me at that time.

Tokiya Ichinose: Let's find out whose song is better. I hope that’s okay with you as well, Otoya.

Otoya Ittoki: Okay. Challenge accepted!

Otoya Ittoki: A retest....

When I return to the classroom, I find Ittoki-kun alone and muttering to himself.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, er, cheer up…. You probably just happened to be in bad shape this time.

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah, but to say that my condition was the problem is just an excuse. Hearing him sing really rattled me. I… I was overconfident. I thought I was great at singing. I thought as long as I put my feelings into it, it would be a good song. But I was wrong. My songs are only at the level of a person singing karaoke.

Haruka Nanami: B-but…. This song was really difficult and there was no sample vocal track, so that made it even....

Otoya Ittoki: But it was the same for him. The conditions were the exact same, yet his singing was totally different. That was professional-level singing.

Certainly, Ichinose-san's singing was amazing. He could most certainly pass as a professional now.

Haruka Nanami: B-but I really liked your song, Ittoki-kun.

Otoya Ittoki: Really? Hearing you say that makes me happy. But, how I am now isn't enough. Nanami, will you… lend me your strength?

Ittoki-kun reaches out and grabs my hand.

Select the phrase!

If you're okay with me (+10 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: I'm glad. I thought you would say that. Let's work hard together!

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

Yes! Of course! (+30 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: We're partners, after all. We share a common destiny, so why wouldn't I help...?

Otoya Ittoki: Sharing a common destiny.... I like the sound of that. So, does that mean you'll stay by my side forever?

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Ah, sure. If you need me....

A lifetime.... It would be nice if we could work together until the very end.

Otoya Ittoki: I see. Hm. Of course! Because we're partners!

I'll do my best (+20 Love +0 Music)

I tighten my grip on Ittoki-kun's hand.

Otoya Ittoki: Your hand is so warm.... I feel relaxed. But....

Ittoki-kun looks deep into my eyes.

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami. You love HAYATO, right?

Ittoki-kun whispers something in a small voice and averts his gaze.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, sorry. It's nothing.

He suddenly releases my hand.

Haruka Nanami: ....

Otoya Ittoki: The difference between me and him…. I wonder what my strengths are. Right now, I feel like I'm going to lose even if I give it my all.

Haruka Nanami: That's not true. You have a lot of good points, Ittoki-kun.

Otoya Ittoki: But none of that means anything if it doesn't help me beat him. I wonder, am I better than him in anything?

Haruka Nanami: Maybe in “heart”….

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. But without enough skill, I can’t express that, right?

I don't agree…. I don’t think I'm getting my words across…. In that case….

I start singing the exam piece on the spot.

Otoya Ittoki: Eh…? Isn't this the exam song?

Even though I can write songs, I'm not very good at singing them.

Because of how shy I am, I trip over my words, my voice doesn't project very much, and my articulation is poor.

I know that I am not good at expressing myself, so I don’t sing well at all. But I want to show Ittoki-kun that singing isn't just about being talented at using your voice.

You have to sing with your heart.

Otoya Ittoki: ….

Haruka Nanami: ... H-how was it?

Otoya Ittoki: Honestly…. It wasn't that good. But….

Haruka Nanami: But?

Otoya Ittoki: For some reason, it felt warm.

Haruka Nanami: … Did you understand my feelings?

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. I felt it right here.

Ittoki-kun pats his chest.

Haruka Nanami: … I'm glad. It's true that Ichinose-san's song was really good. Both his rhythm and pitch were perfect…. But… there was no “heart” in it. And you don't have the same technical skills to put into your song, but your songs do have “heart.” Not every song that sells is well-sung, right? Even if they're a little bad, they will still touch the hearts of listeners.

Otoya Ittoki: I see. Certainly, there’s no reason why everyone should sing the same way. Surely, there is a song that only I can sing....

Otoya Ittoki: Hey, Nanami. Will you search for it with me?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! Let’s look for it together, your “song”….

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah….

Suddenly, the hand holding mine moves to grab my shoulder.

Otoya Ittoki: Once more, let's do our best!

Haruka Nanami: … Yes!

I gingerly reach out and grab onto Ittoki-kun’s shoulder.

Haruka Nanami: I'll do my best as well.

From then on, we practice every day until late into the night.

Otoya Ittoki: Ahh…. What should I do?

Haruka Nanami: For singing practice, there’s vocalization, rhythm, and articulation... right?

Otoya Ittoki: I see. Hey. What do you think I should start with?

Haruka Nanami: Well, let's see.

Select the phrase!

Vocalization (+10 Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Tsukimiya-sensei is always saying that vocalization is the best thing to work on first. But... apparently studying vocalization takes at least three years to master if you’re just starting out.

Otoya Ittoki: Three years…. That's too long. The graduation auditions would have already passed.

Ittoki-kun hangs his head.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, hang on a moment.

I begin flipping through the materials from the library, trying to find something we could work on now.

Haruka Nanami: Let’s see… It seems the most important thing is the breath control, so let's see how you do with that. Because your abdominal muscles are strong, you should be able to learn this quickly once you get the hang of it. Um, stand straight, pull down your abdominal muscles while pulling up your back… You should feel your backside lifting. Er… I think… like this…. Can you try touching here to make sure?

I take up the posture and signal with my hand to have Ittoki-kun touch me.

Otoya Ittoki: Errr… are you sure…?

Haruka Nanami: Yes. I think it would be easier for you to understand how your abdominal and back muscles should feel by actually feeling them. Well, right around here.

Otoya Ittoki: O-okay then....

Ittoki-kun reaches out tentatively.

Otoya Ittoki: … You have such a thin waist, Nanami….

Haruka Nanami: Huh? What….

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, s-sorry! I just….

Ittoki-kun blushes bright red, pulling his hands back.

Haruka Nanami: It's fine….

The atmosphere’s gotten awkward.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, well, um... Next up is to relax your body, and tense the muscles at the pit of your stomach. By doing that, you should be able to control your breath. Tomo-chan says that if you do that, you can make a single breath last a long time. She also said that it’s good if you control your articulation with your stomach.

I hastily change the subject.

Tomo-chan has been singing since middle school, and has tried a lot of techniques for herself.

Because of that, she's taught me all sorts of things.

Otoya Ittoki: The pit of the stomach… so, around here?

Haruka Nanami: Let's see… Bend over and exhale as much as you can, and then correct your posture before taking another breath. You should feel like your diaphragm is being sucked into your chest. I heard you should focus at the one point where the diaphragm is being sucked in the most.

Ittoki-kun begins trying it out as soon as I finish explaining.

Otoya Ittoki: Ugh…. This is really tough.

Haruka Nanami: Take a deep breath, hold it for five seconds, and then try breathing out all the way and straightening up like before, and hold for five seconds. It’s difficult, but it seems like it helps with technique. You know, Tomo-chan does three sets in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Otoya Ittoki: I see, Tomochika is doing her best too. Anything else? Are there any other exercises?

Haruka Nanami: Well, there's one where, while you’re singing, if you hold your hand in front of your mouth and can’t feel your breath, it’s a sign that your voice is resonating. A resonating voice uses very little breath. If you master it, you should be able to sustain your notes longer without straining for air....

Otoya Ittoki: I see... what else?

Haruka Nanami: Other than that, um….

After that, I tell Ittoki-kun everything I know about voice training.

Normally, just because you learned some tips and tricks, it wouldn’t mean you could master it quickly.

Ittoki-kun uses his natural intuition to make the knowledge his own.

Rhythm (+5 Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Well, it really sounds good when the rhythm is just right.

Otoya Ittoki: The rhythm…. You know, when I put too much feeling into my singing, I can feel my rhythm starts to slip.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, I know what you mean…. How about you teach your body to remember the beats, so you always feel the rhythm? Listen to the demo without singing, and count out the beats, 1, 2, 3, 4. While you do that, put your index finger and your thumb together on 1, switch to your middle finger on 2, your ring finger on 3, and your pinkie and thumb together on 4. The moment you put your fingers together is the “on-beat” and the moment you switch is the “off-beat.” Pay close attention to the “off-beat.”

Otoya Ittoki: Hey, you can do this with one hand. This makes it easy to practice.

Haruka Nanami: If you continue to count off the song, you’ll start figuring out where it’s best to sing. For example, it seems it can help to tap your hand on your thigh on the 2 and 4 while singing.That way, it should be harder for your rhythm to slip.

Otoya Ittoki: Got it. Let me try for a bit.

Ittoki-kun begins to practice while listening to the drum line.

He shouldn’t have been able to develop a sense of rhythm right away. However, it's not long before Ittoki-kun is able to make the test song’s rhythm his own.

His sense of rhythm must have been quite good from the start.

Articulation (+5 Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Um, you can’t immediately become good at vocalization and rhythm, but with articulation, as long as you are careful with certain points, I think there is room for improvement…

Haruka Nanami: Words have vowels and consonants, but vowels are what really make a rhythm. If you look at a music sheet, vowels are where the music notes are placed. It’s good to place the consonant a moment right before the vowel. If we’re talking about “KA”, then it’s good to have the “A” sound really fit into the rhythm.

Otoya Ittoki: Ooh, is that so? I've been singing without ever being aware of that!

Haruka Nanami: Also, try to overemphasize the consonants. I heard if you sing like how you talk, the consonants become lost and you can’t hear each word clearly anymore.

Otoya Ittoki: I see, overemphasizing.... Okay, gotcha. I’ll try it out.

Once Ittoki-kun begins singing, his articulation improves greatly.

An average person wouldn’t be able to do this just by hearing a piece of advice once.

Ittoki-kun really is amazing.

After that, we try everything we can think of.

Haruka Nanami: Okay, let's listen to what we just recorded.

When I play the recordings back, Ittoki-kun listens with a serious look on his face.

Haruka Nanami: What's wrong? I think you’ve gotten a lot better…

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. From listening to this, I would say my technique is improving. But it doesn't feel like it's enough. I can’t beat him like this…

Ittoki-kun clenches his fists.

I… I have to say something….

There should be a breakthrough strategy….

I’ve got to think about Ittoki-kun's good points and the songs that only he can sing….

Oh, that's right….

Haruka Nanami: Your expressions….

Otoya Ittoki: Huh?

Haruka Nanami: Ittoki-kun, when you sing freely, you put so much emotion into your face and hand movements. When you record, it's like you get nervous. You have no facial expressions and your hands don't move at all…. I know you’re taking it seriously, but you don't look like you’re having fun….

Otoya Ittoki: Maybe it really is like that…. I was just thinking that I had to sing well….

Haruka Nanami: I think that your emotions are a good point for your song, so why not try singing like you usually do?

Otoya Ittoki: It's true that your voice changes with your expressions and movements. Maybe that would help me convey my feelings better.

Otoya Ittoki: Of course, that's it! That feels way more natural. I’ll try it out!

And with that, the next song he sings is wonderful.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, this feels much more like my normal singing. Thank you, Nanami! If I was alone, I probably would have just gotten discouraged.

Haruka Nanami: … That's not true….

Otoya Ittoki: I'm really glad that I met you... and I’m so glad I came to this school.

Otoya Ittoki: Alright! I'm going to sing my heart out for the retake!

By the time I arrive at the recording room, Ichinose-san is already there.

Tokiya Ichinose: Well? Did you improve a little over these two weeks?

Otoya Ittoki: Yep!

Tokiya Ichinose: I'm looking forward to it.

Ryuya Hyuga: Okay, we’re all set here. Ittoki, head in.

Otoya Ittoki: Yes! ... I'm up.

Haruka Nanami: Okay, break a leg.

Tokiya Ichinose: ...!!!

Ryuya Hyuga: Oh… not bad. He’s advanced a lot in just two weeks.

Tokiya Ichinose: … Otoya, you're different from before. What is this heart-wrenching feeling…?

Even though Ittoki-kun's song is less technically perfect than Ichinose-san's, Ittoki-kun's song is more appealing to me than Ichinose-san's.

It’s a song that grabs you and doesn’t let go. It’s just enjoyable to listen to.

Ryuya Hyuga: It seems you finally realized it. He has something you lack.

Tokiya Ichinose: ….

Ryuya Hyuga: It's not enough to just sing the score. Well, even after improving this much, he still has a long way to go.

Ryuya Hyuga: There's no relaxing for you, Mr. S Class Ace.

Tokiya Ichinose: … If I’m missing something, I can deal with it. I can overcome my shortcomings.

Ryuya Hyuga: … Is that so? Well, good luck.

Hyuga-sensei claps Ichinose-san on the shoulder with a loud clap.

Ryuya Hyuga: Alright. Hang out in there until I can confirm the recording. I won't keep you waiting, though. This time, you pass.

Otoya Ittoki: Yes! Thank you very much!

Haruka Nanami: Alright!

Tokiya Ichinose: Hm? You are…? I see, you're Otoya's partner, correct?

Suddenly, Ichinose-san looks me in the eye. Seeing him this way, he really does look like HAYATO-sama.

Tokiya Ichinose: I heard about you from Otoya. Rather, he won't shut up about you, not even for a single minute.

Ittoki-kun talks about me?

Tokiya Ichinose: It seems that you’re a large part of the reason he’s gotten this far. How about it? Do you have any advice you can give me?

Haruka Nanami: A-advice?

To be asked so suddenly, um, well....

Haruka Nanami: Well… Ichinose-san, your music is… perfect, but it feels like it's in pain.

Tokiya Ichinose: In pain?

Haruka Nanami: Yes. I am sure you are facing your music seriously, and you are pushing yourself to make the best music possible. But.... As long as you are hurting yourself, your pain is passed along to those who listen to it. I like music too and I can understand the feeling of wanting to make a good product even if you were to suffer. But…. Go back to the beginning. Why not try singing with the feeling of loving music?

Tokiya Ichinose: The feeling of loving music…. Thank you, I’ll try that this time.

Ichinose-san laughs softly.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, no… I apologize. I said something really presumptuous....

Ryuya Hyuga: No, your advice really hit straight at the point. You’re shaping up to be a great composer.

Haruka Nanami: Th-thank you very much!

Ryuya Hyuga: … Okay, the review is done. Ittoki, you can come out now.

Otoya Ittoki: Thank you for your support!

Ryuya Hyuga: Nope, that was all your hard work. It all worked out somehow. Well then, next up is Ichinose….

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes. Otoya, it’s true that today you’ve done better. However, I’m not going to lose.

Otoya Ittoki: I know. I’ll be listening to your song carefully!

Ryuya Hyuga: We’re ready here. Cue the music.

Ichinose-san's song has gotten even better since the last time I heard it, two weeks ago. I even managed to feel some 'heart' as well.

Even so, it’s not quite there yet.

Tokiya Ichinose: How was it?

Ryuya Hyuga: Well, it was much better than last time. However…. There’s still something missing… but I guess this is it.

Shining Saotome: HAHAHA~ Not quite there, MISTER Ichinose.

Ryuya Hyuga: Gah, President!

Otoya Ittoki: Eh, the principal? Wha—where???

Tokiya Ichinose: Up.

Saying that, Ichinose-san points. Following his finger, I see the principal with his hands and feet securely holding onto the ceiling.

Shining Saotome: Nice job at discovering me, MISTER Ichinose. Really nice work. HUP!

Despite making that exclamation, the principal ends up falling from the ceiling. As he lands, he makes a very uncomfortable CRACK sound.

He stands up quickly, as if nothing had happened.

Ryuya Hyuga: Ugh. As always, he’s like a monster….

Shining Saotome: Hm~? Did you say something, Ryuya-saaan?

Ryuya Hyuga: ... No, nothing…. Nothing at all.

Shining Saotome: MISTER Ichinose and MISTER Ittoki. They are in different classes but are two buddies who share the same room.

Tokiya Ichinose: Our relationship is nothing special. It’s neither good nor bad.

Otoya Ittoki: No way! I always thought that we were friends!

Tokiya Ichinose: I don’t plan on becoming friends with my rival. As my roommate, my minimum requirement is to keep the relationship civil.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, I’m in shock....

Shining Saotome: Yes, you two are good rivals. You will surpass and be surpassed, work hard, and grow together. That is the way of Japan’s male youth. THAT’S WHY! The winner is YOU, MISTER Ittoki.

Otoya Ittoki: ... Eh…. Me?

Tokiya Ichinose: ... I… lost…?

Shining Saotome: It was a difficult decision. It was hard to decide which one of you was better. BUT, today MISTER Ittoki won by a close margin. Of course, MISTER Ittoki is nowhere near surpassing MISTER Ichinose in technical skills. BUT the song that made MY heart react was your song, MISTER Ittoki.

Haruka Nanami: You mean, the decision was based... on your preference?

Shining Saotome: You could say that, but preference is important. Plus, MISTER Ittoki’s speed of improvement is monstrous. I’m really looking forward to more! Expressing emotions requires a talent and sense beyond effort! And, MISTER Ittoki has it. Those are the songs that are called inspirational. People like those songs! As such, I like MISTER Ittoki’s song!

Ryuya Hyuga: No matter how good your technique is, no one will buy a song that doesn’t resonate with them. On the other hand, people may find that they want to listen to a song again, even if it is technically imperfect. In short, what matters if whether a person likes a song or not and if it’s to their taste.

Shining Saotome: THAT’S RIGHT. When my heart throbs, I want that song. Different techniques are only a means to express from the heart. There’s no meaning to technique if you don’t have heart. Remember this for next time! Learn to light your heart’s fire.

Tokiya Ichinose: ... Yes, sir.

Ichinose-san answers, clenching his fists.

I get the impression that he tries to be a calm person, but that he might actually be the fiery type.

Shining Saotome: Good boy. Both of you, keep up the good work! Well then, until next time.

The principal hits the floor with his fist and then a square-shaped fissure appears on the floor. The square portion of the floor begins to slowly sink like an elevator.

As soon as he disappears below, two floor tiles slide over the hole left behind and close it shut.

Ryuya Hyuga: I can never understand him…. Well, whatever. You pass the retake, both of you.

Ryuya Hyuga: Do your best to pass the first time around next time, okay? Rather, don’t make me have to do this bothersome thing again. Got it?

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes, sir.

Otoya Ittoki: Yes, sir.

Haruka Nanami: ... Congratulations on passing the retest.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, thank you…. But I still can’t believe I beat Tokiya. He really is good. On top of that, he looks just like HAYATO….

Haruka Nanami: Well… his looks don’t matter in this situation.... They're twins. It can't be helped.

Otoya Ittoki: But Nanami, you like him. HAYATO, I mean.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes. He is my favorite idol. He is always bright and fun. I feel better whenever I watch him. But lately… I like Ittoki-kun’s songs even more. Like the one you just sang, I really liked it.

Otoya Ittoki: Really?! Are you serious?

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

I nod earnestly. Even now I still really, really like HAYATO-sama, but….

Now I'm more interested in Ittoki-kun. When he becomes an idol, he may become even bigger than HAYATO-sama.

That's how it feels.

Otoya Ittoki: I see… I see now. So I’m…. Hey... Nanami. Will you go on a date with me?

Haruka Nanami: ... Eh?

Otoya Ittoki: As a thank you…. What I mean is… I want to know more about you.

Otoya Ittoki: Not just the school you, but more about the normal you.

Haruka Nanami: ... If you're okay with me… I wouldn’t mind.

Otoya Ittoki: Really?! ... Thank goodness. I was afraid you would refuse….

Haruka Nanami: ... I wouldn’t do that. Never…. When I’m with you… I have so much fun.

Otoya Ittoki: I’m happy to hear that. Once again, I look forward to being with you.

He extends his right hand.

Haruka Nanami: ... Same here.

I take his hand. I have to do my best for Ittoki-kun's sake. For that reason….

Select the phrase!

I have to study composing (+0 Love +10 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Alright, I'm going to write one song a day to get better at composing~!

Ittoki-kun watches me pump my fist in the air and laughs.

Ah... he's laughing at me.

I have to study songs, too (+0 Love +5 Music)

I'm sure it would be best for me to understand singing and vocals as well, not just composing.

I have to get closer to Ittoki-kun (+20 Love +0 Music)

As I'm thinking, I glance at Ittoki-kun and see him smiling at me.

I've been at this school for three months. There are still many things I don't know.

However, I am sure the two of us can aim even higher. That's why I'm going to do my best!

Haruka Nanami: Haaa… I ended up staying late again....

I always think I might be able to go home just a little earlier to write compositions and study music, but then I end up cleaning and helping the teachers….

I can rarely refuse anything if I am asked. Rather, I like that others can rely on me....

Kuppuru: Meow....

Haruka Nanami: Ah, Kuppuru. Did you come to pick me up?

Kuppuru: Mew!

Haruka Nanami: Haha… thank you….

I suddenly hear a beautiful voice coming from the back garden.

Ah, could it be....

Ah…. It’s Ichinose-san. And he's even better than before.

Select the phrase!

Listen (+0 Love +5 Music)

I listen to the song, not wanting to disturb Ichinose-san.

His voice is soft, kind, and clear....

It's a charming singing voice, different from Ittoki-kun's.

I don't want to bother him, so I decide to leave.

Leave (+0 Love +0 Music)

It seems that he's practicing in secret, so it would be wrong to disturb him.

Kuppuru: Meow....

Haruka Nanami: Shhh....

Kuppuru and I leave quietly.

Call out (+0 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Ichinose-sa....

I can't seem to make myself call out to him. His singing voice sounds so sorrowful....

It feels like something I shouldn't interrupt....

I leave quietly so that Ichinose-san won't notice me.

Haruka Nanami: Hey Kuppuru.... Ichinose-san is really great.

Kuppuru: Meow....

Haruka Nanami: We beat him once... but.... We shouldn't be content with just that. Everyone is working hard. I have to work even harder. I'll be overtaken quickly....

I figure that Ittoki-kun, since he’s rooming with Ichinose-san and his high abilities, must feel even more pressure every day….

I’m only able to make songs and I don't know what songs Ichinose-san's partner will make….

I will do what I can. I have to make songs that can draw out all of Ittoki-kun's appeal!

Mini game

Ringo Tsukimiya: Oookay, everyone! For today’s private lesson, you’ll be studying lyrics~! Normally, the composition comes first and you would be writing lyrics for that composition....

Ringo Tsukimiya: Depending on the situation, the melody is tweaked to help fit the lyrics in. There are some rare cases where, during recording, the lyrics are changed a little because they didn’t flow well with the composition.

Don’t think that just because you’re a composer, you should only focus on composing. Try studying a variety of things. The lyrics to a song are meant to go along with a melody, so focus less on the general flow of the words and more on the individual lines. Now then, I’ll have you write lyrics for this test composition! I thought that having you write everything from scratch would be difficult, so I made a fill-in-the-blank test. Choose the word from a number of words that you think would fit the song the best. Once you’re done, I’ll grade the test.

Well then, let’s begin!

S Rank

The next morning, I have Ittoki-kun look over the completed lyrics.

Otoya Ittoki: Wow... I like it. These words... I feel them in my heart. Your personality shines through. I love these lyrics!

Haruka Nanami: Thank you!

I see.... Ittoki-kun likes the lyrics.

What other lyrics would he like? I have to ask a lot of questions and get his input from now on too.

Chapter End

#Repeat #Otoya Ittoki #utapri #translation #game

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