duckletranslations - Tumblr blog

[duckletranslations]

hihi! i'm mika (mika_enstars on twitter) 'm an enstars fantranslator and a wiki mod; as you might (or might not) know, the masterlist previously pinned by the enstarsENG twitter has been taken down by it's owner, and i'm planning to host a new one under a github address.i was wondering if you'd be interested in having your translations hosted on it! it's not currently public and won't be announced until the new year, likely. you'll have all right to change your mind at any time too ofc.

I'd love to have my translations hosted! Thanks for thinking about me and for your work creating this ofc, and I can't wait to see it!

[duckletranslations]

“Fantasy Fairy Tale” Directory

Writer: Mitsuki

Associated Gacha: Fantasy Fairy Tale (foreign exclusive)

Cast: Ritsu (5*), Arashi (4*), Madara (3*), Hajime (3*), Leo, Izumi, Tsukasa, Eichi

Translated by: @duckletranslations

Chapter 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 (completed)

Associated bloomed CGs:

[duckletranslations]

Fantasy Fairy Tale Ch 5

Season: Summer

A few days later, at the Snow White musical performance

Leo: Wahaha! This musical is so much fun! I have no idea how the next story will unfold!

I tried to make a memo of the inspiration coming to me here and there during the musical, but Mama and Ritsu sitting next to me grabbed me and I couldn’t move! They really went too far!

Ritsu: ‘Scuse me~ Tsukipi~, why are you talking as if Mikejimama and I are out to bully you? If we let you graffiti all over the theater, it’ll make a ruckus.

The staff here won’t be as lenient as Kei-chan, they won’t let you go after a few lectures~?

Leo: Huh? Anzu, I see you have a notebook and pen, can I borrow them?

Oh, thanks so much, I love you! Starting now, I’ll compose a song called “Princess Snow White and The Queen Are Good Friends” ☆

Madara: Hahaha! That would be hard to understand for people who haven’t watched this musical, right? But I reaaaaally love this reversal fairy tale!

Hajime: The amazing performances by the actors were so impressive, I can still vividly remember each scene on the stage ♪

The queen that Narukami-senpai played was no longer a vicious stepmother, but treated Snow White like her own daughter and helps make her look pretty. But one day, she asked the magic mirror—

“Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?”

Madara: “You, my queen, are very beautiful, but the most beautiful person in the world is Princess Snow Whiiiiiiiite!”

Hajime: The queen heard it and was shocked. No, she was very happy! They threw a grand celebration ball for Snow White. However, Snow White was unexpectedly captured by an assassin disguised as the prince of a neighboring country.

Snow White ran away and was rescued by a kind huntsman. The worried queen disguised herself as an old woman selling apple pie, and as she searched for traces of Snow White, she heard the news….

Madara: Finally, mother and daughter were able to reunite at the dwarves’ house in the forest. It was really touching and happy…...♪

More than that, Arashi’s performance was so brilliant that I couldn’t see Arashi as a beginner at all. During the curtain call, I was clapping so hard with all my strength and now my hands huuurt ☆

Arashi: Ufufu, the sound of Mama’s clapping was super loud. I heard it even from the stage.

Sorry for making you wait long. I changed out of the costume of The Queen before coming. That outfit is just so elaborate and pretty.

I want to appear on more stages, wear more gorgeous costumes, and fully enjoy the longing gaze and applause of the audience while under the spotlight even more…..♪

Ritsu: Fufu, Nacchan, I know you’re really excited from just finishing the show, but can you leave telling me your impressions for the after-party?

Arashi: Ara, that’s right. On the stage, I was concentrating so hard that now I’m starving.

Then let’s go right to Cinnamon, my treat today ♪

Madara: So, to celebrate Arashi-san’s successful performance in this Snow White musical, everyone, cheeeers—!

Arashi: Cheers~ ♪ Ufufu, to have such a grand after-party is a little embarrassing.

But while I’m on the soapbox, I’d like to give you all my thanks again.

Thanks to your support and help, I was able to stand on the stage of my dreams as the ideal Queen of my imagination.

Ritsu: Haha, don’t be shy Anzu, accept Nacchan’s thanks.

Once Ha~kun and I learned about the situation, you know how you asked Aoba-onii-chan to contact the NewDi officials and request permission to the theater side to create a new script.

If you think about it, everyone already knows the story of Snow White; if you present it as it is, people might find it boring.

And, as a condition for reproducing the musical, Tsukipi~ said he would compose for them for free….The way I see it, the other party definitely benefited?

Leo: Huh? I don’t really get the complicated things, it’s just that writing songs for Naru is fun!

And the script adaptation was so much fun! As I read it, notes sprang out one by one! Like this! ♪ ~ ♪ ~ …..

Madara: Hahaha, I think this sound is coming from Leo-san’s stomach, thoughhhh?

Arashi: Ara, you’re quite chatty. The food we ordered is here, so eat all you want ♪

Ritsu: Gulp, gulp…..ah~ ♪ Making it so that the Shinonon Brand is available to order at Cinnamon is one good deed Ecchan’s done.

Hajime: Ehehe, if you like it, I’ll brew it for you any time~

Also, Narukami-senpai ordered so many tasty-looking desserts that I don’t know which to try first ♪

Leo: Wahahaha! Instead, let’s take a picture and send it to the Knights group chat, Suo~ and Sena will envy us!

Arashi: Ufufu, it’ll most likely only be Tsukasa-chan wanting in. Izumi-chan might just point out that I don’t know how to control my calorie intake.

For a long time, I was dieting so strictly that it even got Ritsu-chan worrying over me. Now that my modeling and acting careers are over, I can treat myself on today at least ♪

Madara: ……

Arashi: ….Mama, you’ve been quiet for a while now, does the food not taste right?

Madara: Ahaha, of course not. I’m embarrassed, but it’s because out of all the people you invited to the musical, I’m the only one who didn’t help you out.

Arashi: Ah seriously, how could you say something like that! I might actually get mad!

You helped Anzu-chan by delivering her important message, also you encouraged me and cheered me on as you promised…..

Because I had a strong person like you by my side, I could rest easy and chase my dream with courage.

Madara: Hahaha, so that’s how you see it. I’m Mama, so of course I watch over cute kids whenever…..☆

Leo: Eh, Anzu, did you like the desserts that just came out? You just asked the employee to pack various boxes, didn’t you?

…..Ah, you have to go back to NewDi for work, and you want to give these desserts to Oba-chan as a thank you gift?

Arashi: Ufufu, no need for apologies, Anzu-chan. I’m sincerely satisfied just from showing you my hard work on the stage and celebrating together.

It’s about time anyway, so should we end here for today?

Leo: Yeah! I ate ‘til I was full. How about I go to NewDi with Anzu to find Oba-chan! To thank him for taking care of Knights’ very own Naru!

Madara: Then Mama will be off now, wait for Mama you twoooooo ♪

Arashi: Ara, then I’ll also—

Ritsu: ……

Arashi: Oh? Ritsu-chan, why are you suddenly leaning your head against me? Are you just playing cute?

Ritsu: Zzz, zzz

Arashi: Ara. He’s fallen asleep?

Hajime: Haha, sure seems that way. If you’re alright with it, shall we stay a little longer? So Ritsu-onii-chan can rest well.

In order to match the script to Tsukinaga-san’s composition style, Ritsu-onii-chan actually helped Anzu-san and put a lot of effort into the script.

To make it happen, Ritsu-onii-chan even went to Hasumi-senpai for advice on scriptwriting, and he barely finished it within the time frame.

Oh jeez, Onii-chan didn’t want you to know about this, so can you pretend you didn’t hear anything?

Arashi: Ufufu, don’t worry, Hajime-chan. Just like that, looks like we have another secret between us.

I’ll have to make time later to directly thank and say hi to Aoba-senpai. Right now we should be with Ritsu.

If you ever have any troubles in the future, I’d like for you to rely on me. I’ll pull out all the stops to help solve them.

Ritsu: Zzz, zzz ♪

Hajime: Ufufu, it looks like Ritsu-onii-chan is having a good dream. He’s smiling so peacefully ♪

Arashi: Yeah. His sleeping face is really cute. He really looks like an innocent baby ♪

Good night, Ritsu-chan…..♪

[duckletranslations]

Fantasy Fairy Tale Ch 4

Season: Summer

Ritsu: Hehehe, looks like our plan was a success. Nacchan hasn’t noticed even still.

There was actually nothing weird in the apple pie. We just used the most normal recipe.

However, by giving Nacchan certain psychological hints, we can achieve the same effect, of course ♪

Hajime: Narukami-senpai, I sincerely apologize! For the sake of making you believe that you’d have to reveal your true heart if you ate the magic potion, I played along with Ritsu-onii-chan’s acting……

Arashi: What? You guys got me again?!

….Hehe, is that how you thought I’d react?

Ritsu & Hajime: ????

Arashi: Of course I noticed. Because Ritsu-chan and Hajime-chan are good things that wouldn’t do anything to harm others.

Plus, when I ate the apple pie, my body didn’t feel the slightest bit weird. I felt like I could still say any contradictory words.

You guys had good intentions in wanting me to confide my worries in you, so I decided I might as well help you finish your act until the end ♪

Hajime: ….Haha, so we actually were fooled by you.

Ritsu: I’m a little annoyed, but your acting was so good that Ha~kun and I were deceived. Won’t it be a shame if you don’t act~?

Hajime: Um, while I was listening to Narukami-senpai, there was something I was wondering. If you think playing The Evil Queen would be too hard, can’t you switch to a different role?

The way I see it, the gentle and beautiful Snow White fits you very well, I think ♪

Arashi: Fufufu, thank you for the praise, Hajime-chan. However, unfortunately, the casting for this musical has been decided well in advance. So it wouldn’t be that easy to independently exchange roles.

Besides, a nameless rookie like me with no experience wouldn’t be able to get a role with such similar importance just like that.

Hajime: I-I’m sorry. I thought in too simple terms.

Ritsu: Mm….come to think of it, out of the roles of The Prince, Hunter, and Dwarves, the Queen suits Nacchan the best, other than the lead role.

Alright, I think the time has come for #1 advisor to work out some wisdom for the comrades that are always at his side ♪

Nacchan, there are only two paths left for you to take. One is to follow your heart and give up on this opportunity—

And the other is to channel your own jealousy and adapt to the Evil Queen role.

Arashi: Channel my jealousy….?

Ritsu: Right, so according to Nacchan’s understanding of The Evil Queen character, the key is to portray strong jealousy towards others.

As long as you can’t sympathize with her understanding of beauty, it might be better to call on your jealousy in a different way and apply it to your acting.

Apparently there are actors that burst in emotion by recalling sadness and pain when they must act with tears.

Arashi: Yeah, that’s a really common acting technique, isn’t it? But I can’t recall a single situation where I would get jealous…..

Ritsu: Oh~ really? Then Ha~kun and I will think of it for you.

Hajime: Eh, you want me to go first? If someone else has something that you can’t have yourself, wouldn’t you get jealous?

For example, I bought some cosmetics that you’ve always wanted. And it’s a limited edition that even though you had to wait in a long line for, you still couldn’t get!

Arashi: Ara ara, if so then I’m happy for you, Hajime-chan. I do think it’s a shame that I couldn’t buy it. If you could share even a little of that luck with me, that’d be nice~

Hajime: S-so that’s how it is. I want to coolly say “Of course!”, but I don’t think I can afford to buy such expensive cosmetics. Ahaha….

Ritsu: Hm, as expected, Ha~kun is too nice. At that level, Nacchan wouldn’t be swayed.

You and Mikarin and close friends, right? How would you feel if I cling to and play cute with him the entire day, to the point where you can’t make time to go shopping with him?

Arashi: Ufufu, if you and MIka-chan get along that well, I’d be really proud.

I always hope that Mika-chan would make more friends and smile even brighter. So I hope that you get along with that kid in the future, as roommates.

Ritsu: But I’m saying I’d do that without Nacchan saying anything anyway~ Because it doesn’t matter if I have a monopoly over Mikarin—

What about Kunugi-sensei?

Arashi: …..!

Ritsu: Back then, I’d often spend the evenings playing piano in the music rooms at Yumenosaki. But sometimes if I’d run into Kunugi-sensei on watch, he’d tutor me.

Nacchan, you felt a lot of anger upon learning this truth, right~?

Arashi: Ara, I hate that. How did you even remember something like this! At the time I was so immature, I thought that you were getting special treatment from Kunugi-sensei.

After a while though, I suddenly understood. Kunugi-sensei will do his job as a teacher to protect and teach all his students as equals.

He’s really good at playing piano, so I’m fine with Ritsu-chan being taught by him. I don’t mind a single bit.

Ritsu: ……Tch~ this is no fun. Nacchan, you just won’t slip.

This time, I don’t even have any more methods. To celebrate your victory, I’ll award you with the “Doesn’t Get Jealous At All” prize~ ♪

Hajime: Hey, weren’t we supposed to help solve Narukami-senpai’s troubles? Why did it turn into a weird game?

Uh, I’ve been wanting to say this, but…. No matter what advice we give, the most important thing is that you tell us your sincere thoughts.

If you received a job that doesn’t fit your self-image, please ponder what meaning that work has to you—

There was a time when I was struggling with my image of a “beautiful girl” idol and didn’t know how to treat my fans, Senpai helped me realize. That photobook, I’ll always cherish it.

Ritsu: Huh? What photobook?

Hajime: Ehehe, that’s a secret between just Narukami-senpai and I ♪

No matter what role Narukami-senpai plays, she’ll always be my warm and strong “Arashi-onee-chan”....♪

Ritsu: Hn…..I’m somehow sad that Ha~kun and Nacchan had a secret without me knowing, but I agree with his words.

Nacchan, you don’t always have to look like such a good kid in the eyes of the adults. It’s okay if you do whatever you want. No matter what you decide, we’ll be by your side.

Arashi: Hajime-chan, Ritsu-chan….thanks a lot for thinking about me this much.

I understand, I’ll listen to the sound of my heart and find the “right answer” for me.

(If that’s how it’s going to be, then naturally I’ll have to give that up—)

[duckletranslations]

Fantasy Fairy Tale Ch 3

Season: Summer

Hajime: Narukami-senpai, thanks for attending the tea party with me and Ritsu-onii-chan ♪

I brewed tea with a flower that has a beauty effect, so if it’s alright with you, please drink it.

Arashi: More than happy to~ Any tea brewed by Hajime-chan is sure to be good ♪

But you don’t have to thank me so politely. I already had such a fun time choosing accessories with you!

Oh yeah, when we entered the garden just now, I think there was some sort of sweet fragrance. It didn’t seem like the tea?

Ritsu: Tada~ That would be the delicious apple pie made by Chef Ritsu Sakuma~♪

Arashi: Ara? This apple pie, it’s kinda—

Ritsu: Kinda…..?

Arashi: Ufufu, you don’t need to look so nervous, Ritsu-chan. It’s not like I thought anything looked weird.

It actually looks mysterious because it’s too ordinary….did you really make this apple pie?

Ritsu: Eh, you’re so mean~ For the sake of thanking you for helping my cute little brother, I even specifically made it look just like the kinds you’d normally see at the store.

Hajime: Ehehe, I can vouch for Ritsu-onii-chan on that one. For the sake of treating Narukami-senpai, Onii-chan prepared really hard this time!

Ritsu: Is it that you like my original desserts better, Nacchan? Great, I don’t mind remaking it at all. Fufufufu ♪

Arashi: A-ara, I didn’t even say that I didn’t like this!

Anyway, thank you, Ritsu-chan. Then, I’ll eat it well….♪

Ritsu & Hajime: …..(Looks intently)

Arashi: Munch, munch....Mm, once you break through the flaky crust, the sweet and sour apple flavor melts in your mouth, it’s really yummy ♪

But if you keep looking at me so intently while I’m eating, it’s a little embarrassing?

Ritsu: Hehe, so Nacchan really has no sense of crisis. It’s already too late now.

By taking just a bite, the poison spreads through your entire body….. ♪

Arashi: Wh-what is this….. You’ve poisoned me?! Am I gonna drop dead soon or something!?

Hajime: Narukami-senpai, please calm down for now! The truth is, we got a “true-heart-revealing magic potion” from Sakasaki-senpai. We mixed it into the apple pie while making it.

So having eaten it, you have no choice but to speak your true thoughts to us, whether you like it or not.

However, this potion has no effect on your physical body, so you don’t have to worry!

Ritsu: Whoa there, Ha~kun, what am I supposed to do now that you’ve already said it all? I wanted to keep teasing her, so.

Hajime: Uuuu, it’s that I feel so sorry tricking Narukami-senpai…

Arashi: Wait. I’m completely lost now. Seriously, why are you guys doing this to me…?

Ritsu: No reason, other than we want to know what you’re struggling with recently, but you won’t talk about it, and laugh while dodging the question as you always do.

It might be extreme, but I think it’s creative ♪

A few days ago at the Staff Canteen

Ritsu: Jeez… Ecchan definitely said he wanted to have dinner with the former Tea Club members, but in the end he suddenly went out to eat with some higher-ups.

Hajime: Ufufu, I’m sure there’s a lot Eichi-onii-chan has to consider from his perspective, so he must have been in a position where he really couldn’t refuse the meal.

Ritsu: Hmph. I got a message saying he’ll bring high-quality sweets and tea leaves next time as an apology. I guess I’ll forgive him for now….

Huh? Over there, the person holding a plate and looking around, isn’t that Anzu?

Hajime: Ah, it really is Anzu-san! The restaurant’s full of people, doesn’t she look like she can’t find a seat?

Ritsu: Oi~ Anzu, c’mere~ our table has an empty spot~

Hajime: Ehehe, I think it’s been a while since I’ve eaten with you, Anzu-san. I’m so excited ♪

Ritsu: Ecchan leaving us an empty spot must be the will of the heavens……Haha, it’s nothing, don’t worry about it.

Hajime: Oh, you ask if the accessory-choosing went well? I mean, of course. Narukami-senpai has such a discerning eye. She always decisively chose what was cutest and most suited to me ♪

However—and I might be mistaken—when we were shopping at the Fancy store, it seemed like she was forcing herself to pay attention, and occasionally she was thinking to herself.

Anzu-san, you thought so too? …..Ah, so you felt it from the way she talked when you first called Narukami-senpai requesting her help.

Ritsu: So you’re worried that you might have burdened her when she was already busy?

I was under the impression that Nacchan knows very well how much work she can give herself. So she wouldn’t have agreed just for the sake of agreeing.

Hajime: Mm…. I also would like to know what she’s really thinking, but I don’t think it’d be easy.

It would be nice if there was a way to get Narukami-senpai to talk first. Like, some sort of magic potion that makes you reveal your true heart if you drink it….?

Ahaha, I apologize. That was too far-fetched of me, right? These days I’ve been getting a lot of practice reading fairy tales, and I think it’s even made my thinking become more childlike.

Ritsu: …..No, I think what you’re saying makes sense. A potion like that might even exist in the world.

Hajime: Eh? F-for real?

Ritsu: Even if it doesn’t exist, we’ll have to make it exist for ourselves…..♪

Arashi: …..So that’s how it is. You guys got me. You mean I’ve looked to be in pretty bad shape, to the point where everyone is paying mind.

Alright. I was going to think hard about it alone, but maybe a better answer will come out of hearing your opinions.

Since joining Dramatica recently, I was actually hooked up with a job at the theater run by NewDi—a role in the musical Snow White.

Hajime: Huh, Snow White here too….?

Arashi: But the role I’m going to play is the most vicious one—The Evil Queen.

I bet the office probably wants to get newcomers to adapt quickly by assigning them characters close to their own personality….

But in order to properly play The Evil Queen, I have to display a spiteful[1] heart that doesn’t hesitate to put down and oppress others for the sake of expressing her beauty.

That’s the exact opposite of the beauty I strive for. Everyone has their own beauty, so just because someone is more beautiful than me in the world, I won’t be jealous.

Even while constantly honing my own beauty, I’ll encourage and help those around me who want to be beautiful.

What I want to create as a queen is a utopia where everyone can live peacefully and happily with smiles on their faces.

Ritsu: I remember that’s what you said at Knights’ Requiem too, isn’t it?

Arashi: That’s right. It’s what I truly think, and it hasn’t changed even now.

So I don’t think I can empathize that well with the character of The Evil Queen, and I’ll have a hard time showing a suitable enough act.

However, if I reject this request now, wouldn’t it make it hard to get acting roles in the future…. So I haven’t been able to make a decision.

Ufufu, that “true-heart-revealing magic potion” is really crazy. Pouring all the words pent-up in my chest at once, I feel so much lighter.

Ritsu: ……

[duckletranslations]

Fantasy Fairy Tale Ch 2

Season: Summer

Leo: Euuuu, where are you, where are you? I swear when I was on the stage earlier I could see you well…!

Madara: Leo-san! If you’re looking for Mama I’m right hereeee ☆(waving with all his might)

Leo: Whew, I finally broke through the crowd and reunited with Mama! Beep-boop-bop-boop-beep-boop-beep! DaiUchuu~!

Madara: Hahaha, you still haven’t separated from your alien character?

So I get to see it again! It’s interesting to see Wataru-san and Nagisa-san playing any sort of aliens, but in my eyes, Leo-san’s acting is the most natural! It’s seriously perfect!

Leo: Hehe, I gave the inspiration for the crossover story between Les Miserables and high school student life to Keito, and I made the theme song!

So when Keito wrote the script, I guess he created an alien character with me as his model! I could comfortably memorize my lines in between composing time, so it was a huge help ♪

Arashi: I see, that sounds so nice. I’d love to have my own character too!

Leo: Uwah, it’s Naru? Where the heck did you suddenly appear from?

Ah, wait, let me fantasize! Don’t tell me you rode the “Les Miserables” spaceship and crash-landed?!

Arashi: Ara, I’m sorry. ‘Cuz I just finished what I had to do and came to watch Dramatica’s original musical in an extremely normal car.

Leo: Ah! If I knew Naru was coming, I would’ve reserved a good seat for you like I did for Mama!

Arashi: Ufufu, it’s okay, I bought a ticket early. Honestly, compared to sitting quietly in the audience watching the musical, I think I would’ve much rather liked to act my heart out on the stage top.

But the rehearsal times clashed with other work I had, so oh well.

Madara: So that’s why your spirits look so low, Arashi-san? Alrighty, Mama will give you headpats and lift them for you! There there, how sweet of you~♪

Arashi: Seriously, can you not treat me like a child too~?

Also I’ve been offered an acting job from NewDi, so I decided to take this opportunity.

So today I’m here to learn as an acting newbie. But the acting of my senpais was better than I expected, to the point where I was surprised, I mean.

I felt somewhat burdened wondering if I would be able to do as well…..but there’s probably no point in thinking that now?

Leo: Yeah! You’re gonna make it even if you don’t overthink. If it’s you, Naru, it’ll be alright!

Madara: Indeed, indeed! When the time comes, Mama will arrive on scene and cheer you oooon ☆

Arashi: Ufufu, thanks~ Leo-kun, and Mama too ♪

Do you guys have work to do after this? I’m thinking of going to Season Avenue to refresh myself.

Leo: Mama and I have work so it looks like we’re going to have to stop by at the office. So I guess we’ll say our goodbyes now! Bye~☆

Arashi: (I went around to my usual favorite stores, but in the end I didn’t see anything I wanted to buy.)

(No, it’s more like I’m not in a shopping mood. Which is so unlike me—)

Madara: Excuse me~~~! Arashi-saaaaaan! Stay standing right theeeeere!

Arashi: —Huh?! You totally surprised me! Why are you here, Mama? Didn’t Leo-kun say you were going back to the office with him?

Seriously, if you shout so loud like that on the street, I’d think people’s heads would turn?

Madara: Ahaha, sorry, sorry! The thing is, Anzu-san had something she urgently needed you for, so check your phone!

Arashi: ….Anzu-chan?

Madara: Just now, Leo-san and I ran into Anzu-san, but she looked to be anxious so we asked her if something was wrong.

She sent you several messages this afternoon and you read none of them. And even when she called, you didn’t pick up so she was super worried.

Because we just met up with you and we knew where you went, I ran here to find youuu!

Arashi: ? That’s weird, I didn’t get any messages today though?

…Oh god, my bad! I put my phone on silent mode during the musical, but when I left the theater to go shopping, I completely forgot to switch it back!

Anyway, Mama, did you run all the way to Saison Avenue just to let me know about this?

In the situation I already finished my shopping and left, you would have done that in vain…..?

Madara: My speed is the best, of couuurse! After all, I’m the former president of the track and field team. Racing against time is my specialtyyy ☆

Anzu, that child’s built up the habit of dealing with her problems alone, so she rarely relies on others.

That’s why if I can be of any help, however small, I’d like to do my best to help realize that childs’ wishes.

And before I left, I promised Leo-san that I’d deliver Anzu-san’s message quickly.

Even if you run away to the ends of the heavens, Mama will find you no matter whaaaat…..♪

Arashi: Sounds like I’m being tracked down by Tim Roth’s hounds, for some reason I’m scared…..

Madara: Basically give Anzu-san a call ASAP! With that, Mama’s mission is complete. Bye ☆

Arashi: Ara, in true Mama fashion, he disappeared before I could blink. Without even giving me a chance to thank him.

OK, gotta hurry up and do what I gotta do—oh, the phone connected in a second.

Hello~ Anzu-chan, it’s me~

I had my phone on silent mode for something earlier, so I didn’t check any messages on time. Sorry for making you worry.

So what did you need to see me for?

—Ah. So Ra*bits is going to read the story of Snow White on the radio in a few days, and the client would like to dress Hajime as Snow White and do a photoshoot for promotional material?

You prepared Hajime-chan’s outfit in advance, but something came up so you can’t go with him to the fancy store to choose accessories—so you wanted to ask me?

Of course! Leave it to me! This kind of thing is my forte, after all. I totally love decorating things cutely too ♪

And no matter how busy the Producer work is, when you need to rest, make sure to rest well, and don’t overdo it. Got it, Anzu-chan?

When you’re free later, you’ll go shopping with me, okay? It’s a plan ♪

…….

(About Snow White…..)

[duckletranslations]

Fantasy Fairy Tale Ch 1

Season: Summer

Tsukasa: “...That concludes Knights’ Performance for our princesses.”

Leo: “Thanks once again for coming to see our performance today…..☆”

Arashi: “Ufufu, seeing the intoxicated smiles on your cute faces, you must have fallen for my dancing figure, right?”

“Now, now, won’t you answer, who is the fairest of them all~? [1]

“Yes yes, thank you! So true, it’s indeed me…..♪”

Izumi: “Uh, Naru-kun, you just answered your own question. Your self-flattery’s kinda over the top?”

“‘Cuz the most beautiful person in the world is me, and you’re like, second place at best. Right, Kuma-kun?”

Ritsu: “Ehh~ ‘S not like I’m the magic mirror, don’t ask me~?”

(....?)

(That’s weird, Usually Secchan would read the room and not cut Naru-kun off like this.)

Arashi: “Ara, I hate that. Wake up on the wrong side of the bed much, Izumi-chan? I’m the most beautiful person in the world.”

“Isn’t your narcissism going way too far? You’re just upset because you’re jealous of my beauty, right? How petty.”

Izumi: “Whaaat? Me, jealous of Naru-kun? You’re joking, right?”

Arashi: “Well, whatever you say, I’ll never recognize any other person as the most beautiful over me!”

Ritsu: (What’s going on, Naru-chan’s consistency is gone, she immediately lost her temper against Secchan.)

(The coldness from the two of them has frozen the atmosphere of the scene. The fans have even started exchanging anxious whispers and glances amongst themselves.)

Tsukasa: ….

Ritsu: (whispering) Su-chan, you’ve noticed too right? Let’s just quickly say something so the live ends smoothly.

Tsukasa: Um…. actually, I’m somewhat bewildered right now. Our two senpais arguing over who is the most beautiful person in the world? It’s almost like the famous scene from Snow White.

Ritsu: (Uh, what, my intentions must have flown over Su-chan’s head, he’s completely missed the point?!)

Leo: “Wahaha! I’ve already completely laid down the burden of the ‘Ou-sama’. I just wanna become a wandering minstrel! I’m not gonna be involved in any sort of trial!”

Ritsu: (It seems that Tsukipi has no intention of stopping the fight either. It’ll be hard, but I guess I have to step in and stop the fight.)

“ —”

(Eh? I can’t make a sound right now?)

Izumi: "Hm. As neither Naru-kun nor I can persuade the other, let’s fight with the honor of the knight on the line!"

Arashi: "Good, I feel the same! The princesses who’ll support me—I wish for them to stand behind me!"

Ritsu: (And according to Su-chan’s orders, Nacchan and Secchan drew their swords and led their fans to their respective sides. In the blink of an eye, the entire venue was consumed in a whirlwind of frenziness.)

(...I understand now. It’s a nightmare that can’t exist in reality.)

(Otherwise, I wouldn’t be unable to open my mouth or move, and stand by and watch them fight as if in third person like so.)

(Ahh, it’s so agonizing….. I feel like I won’t be able to breathe)

(Anyone is fine, so please save me, please wake me up—)

???: ……Onii-chan, Ritsu-onii-chan!!

Ritsu: …….Ugh! Hoo, hoo…..!

Hajime: Ritsu-onii-chan, are you okay?

A bit ago your expression looked so agonized that I woke you up thinking you were having a nightmare….

Ritsu: Ah, so that sound was Ha~kun….thank god, I thought I’d never wake up from that sleep.

That was a seriously scary dream. But now all I can remember is that it was vaguely related to Snow White.

Hajime: Snow White….could that be because I read that fairy tale to you right before?

Previously, when Ra*bits read the story of Hansel and Gretel on a radio program, we got good reviews and were asked to appear again….

In order to build up my confidence, I wanted to hear about Ritsu-onii-chan’s feelings this time. But in the end, I accidentally made you have a bad dream. I’m so sorry….!

Ritsu: No no, you didn’t do anything wrong Ha~kun, rather, I just fell asleep without even realizing.

Your voice reading the story is as soft and pleasant to listen to as a lullaby, so I’ll give you 100 points once again ♪

Also I need to give you my thanks. Thank you for returning me to the warm world of reality from that hopeless dream, prince ♪

Hajime: Prince….?

Ritsu: But after waking up, my throat feels dry. I’d like to drink some delicious blood.

Hajime: Ri-Ritsu-onii-chan? Your hand is super cold—

Ritsu: My dear prince, why don’t you help me all the way until the end and allow me to drink your blood? ‘Cause then, I think I’ll be able to come to my senses for sure~♪

Hajime: Uwaa, please don’t do that! So you mean I actually woke up a dangerous vampire?!

If your throat is dry, I’ll brew you a cup of red tea. I can guarantee it’ll taste better than my blood. Ahahaha….

By the way, isn’t Eichi-onii-chan going to take part in a photoshoot for an OJS boy styled magazine? Won’t he have more of a “prince”ly feeling than me? [2]

Ritsu: You mean “Uncle Style” man? Sounds like it suits Ecchan well~♪ [3]

Eichi: Achoo! ….oh, someone’s been gossiping about me?

Hajime: Eichi-onii-chan! You’ve worked hard today~ Quickly, sit down and rest. The tea and sweets have all been prepared ♪

Ritsu: Oh? So Ecchan’s come. I thought for today’s tea party, Ha~kun and I would be able to have a good time together, just the two of us.

Eichi: Haha, this is a place where I can relax for even just a moment, so no matter how busy I am, I must make time for a cup of tea with you guys.

For instance, I just heard Hajime-kun say Eichi-onii-chan is indeed the “prince” of his imagination…. Ahh, even my heart is soothed ♪

Ritsu: Eh~ Is that not you hallucinating? The way I see it, Ecchan is just like an evil villain trying to steal my child.

Now, Ha~kun, run away with the vampire grandfather instead. Let’s escape from the clutches of the evil Emperor ♪

Eichi: Mm, sounds like a fun story. So starting now, after I close my eyes and count to ten, I’ll go catch you guys.

Run around to and fro as much as you’d like, hehehehe….♪

Hajime: Wait, what is this outcome?! Are we playing hide-and-seek?

Ritsu: Shh…. be quiet, Ha~kun.

The game’s already started, so let’s quickly find a safe spot and try not to get caught by the Emperor….♪

The Korean of this famous quote literally translates to “Who is the most beautiful person in the world,” without a separate word for “fair.” So when Arashi and Izumi go back and forth arguing over who is more beautiful, it serves as more of a continuous direct reference in the original Korean. I had Arashi say it only the first time to get the reference in, as it would have been silly to keep using “fair” in place of “beautiful” throughout the conversation.

I believe OJS is an abbreviation of Oujisama, which connotes “Prince Charming” type boy. The term was used in the White Lily gacha story, where Hiiro+some others had to learn the OJS concept to use in a photoshoot.

Ritsu calls Eichi an “ahjussi(KR)/ojisan(JP)” which connotes uncle/middle aged man. The joke is how Ojisan can be abbreviated to OJS, just like Oujisama, so the direct wordplay might be lost in translation.

[duckletranslations]

Sweets Club (Tsukasa Idol Story)

Cast: Tsukasa, Sora, Shinobu, Souma, Izumi

Writer: Yumasu

Associated Card

Season: Fall

Tsukasa: So it’s my turn now—hah!

Sora: Haha~ ♪ The menko[1] was flipped~ Shinobu-chan has nothing left in his hand, so Tsukasa-chan wins!

Shinobu: To have defeated me with your newly-learned menko hitting techniques. Suou-kun, how impressive~ ♪

Tsukasa: It’s all thanks to the kind teachings from both of you. By the way, where did you learn this?

I’ve always known it was a children’s game, but I have never tried it in this way.

Shinobu: I learned it for ASOBI club activities. Specifically when we were requested to teach kindergarteners traditional games.

Tsukasa: As expected for Circle activities—

Ahh oh no, I had completely forgotten…!

Shinobu: Wh, what is wrong?

Tsukasa: I am responsible for the sweets at our next Sweets Club meeting, yet I am still struggling on choosing something good.

Until now, I’ve been taking Sweets from my favorite shop, however the number of candidates is decreasing.

If you know of any decent Sweets shops, would you mind telling me?

Sora: Decent dessert places~.... Sora can’t think of a single thing! What about Shinobu-chan?

Shinobu: U~um, I don’t have anything either. The only things that come to mind are cheap sweets or snacks. Suou-kun, I don’t know of any Western sweets shops that you might like.

It might be good to ask friends? If we ask everyone, I’m sure you’ll find a good store…..♪

Tsukasa: Ah no no, you needn’t go that far for me. It would only cause more trouble.

I will think of it as seeking out a new store and continue my search.

Sora: ….Ah. Sora just had a good idea~♪

Tsuka-chan, bring an apple pie that Sora likes!

Tsukasa: Apple pie?

Sora: Sora loves apple pie, but recently it was gifted to him by Senpai!

HiHi~, it was super delicious! Sora was blown away by the perfect combination of sweet and sour~♪

Tsukasa: To the point that you were blown away…. I would like to try that as well. What store is this Pie from?

Sora: It wouldn’t be sold in any stores though~? Because it was baked for Sora!

If you’d like to eat it, you could try asking! He’s a nice senpai, so he would definitely make it for you~

Tsukasa: I’m sure he’s busy, and he would prefer not to be bothered by anything outside of work.

Handmade…would even a novice cook like me be able to make it?

Shinobu: I will look it up on my phone. “Apple pie” “recipe”....

Oh, a lot came up!

Tsukasa: Let’s see…it seems that if you want to make a pie in earnest, you would first need to make the dough.

It’s a lot of work and seems difficult…

Ah, you’re back, Kanzaki-senpai. You’ve worked hard today.

Souma: Yes, “I’m home now.” What are you two looking at with your heads huddled together like that?

Sora: A recipe on a cooking website! Tsukasa-chan says he’ll attempt to make an apple pie~ ♪

Tsukasa: I have not decided if I will attempt it. I also lack confidence that I can do it well.

It’s one thing if I alone were eating it. I cannot even fathom making something passable enough to serve to the other Sweets Club members.

Souma: Hm…. I know a little about apple pie making techniques.

As we are roommates, I will help you.

A few days later

Izumi: —Okay, so why am I being caught up in Kasa-kun’s problems?

Souma: That would be because Sena-dono is a member of Niki’s Kitchen.

Do the activities of Niki’s Kitchen not include airing a cooking video to the “internet”?

I suddenly remembered that Shiina-dono always says that he would like to have Sena-dono be filmed whenever you return.

Izumi: I don’t have free time, so if you don’t tell me about a filming ahead of time, it’s not happening?

….Well, I don’t have anything scheduled right now so it’s fine. And I don’t hate cooking.

Sora: Oh oh? You don’t have free time but you say you’ll do it?

Tsukasa: It is because Sena-senpai has difficulty being honest.

Izumi: Hold up, Kasa-kun, I can hear you?

Come to think of it, how do we get started again? You know, the part where Shiina does a silly greeting.

If Shiina isn’t here, doesn’t someone else have to do it? I seriously don’t want to be the one though.

Shinobu: Sena-dono, you’re actually being quite involved?

Tsukasa: Fufu. Naturally, he can’t be honest…. ♪

After some time

Izumi: —Have you sprinkled all the powder? Then lay out this dough and beat it with a rolling pin.

Sora: Got it, Sora will do it! Tap-tap, tap-tap…. ♪

Izumi: No no, a little harder.

Gimme the rolling pin….Like this!

Shinobu: Oho. So you put strength into it like that.

Izumi: If you wait around too long, the butter will melt and make the dough too tough. Keep beating it until it becomes easy to stretch.

Tsukasa: (...It says to add sugar and fry when the apples become soft, but what kind of condition does “soft” refer to?)

(The dictionary mentions “smooth and tender” but what in the world is a smooth and tender apple…?)

Izumi: Kasa-kun, you shouldn’t let your mind wander while cooking. If you get hurt it’ll be a mess, y’know.

It’s definitely soft enough. Can’t you start adding sugar now?

Tsukasa: …Sena-senpai, somehow you look like you are enjoying yourself. You seem so full of life.

Izumi: It’s ‘cause dessert-making is a specialty of Knights. Although you’re an exception.

Tsukasa: Ugh, right at my weakness… I apologize for my poor performance.

Izumi: Don’t be sorry—instead, work hard. Everyone’s a beginner at first, right?

The first time I held a knife, my hands were shaking so bad. And by the time I got used to it, there were a few times when I got carried away and accidentally cut my fingers.

Growing up by failing over and over again, you have memories of that kind of experience too, right? Cooking’s no different.

With this apple pie today, won’t your repertoire grow? I’m saying it’ll work out if you build up one by one.

If you do that, one day you’ll be good at cooking too. You’ll become able to say “it’s a specialty of Knights.

Tsukasa: Sena-senpai….

Izumi: Just that, I think it’ll take quite a long time….. ♪

Hey now, I said no breaks. Put on the rest of the sugar, then fry it on high.

A few hours later

Tsukasa: Marvelous ….☆ Both the shape and taste are exquisite.

Could it be because it was just freshly baked? Out of all the Apple Pies I’ve had, this is the most delicious….♪

Souma: Part of it may be that it was freshly baked. However, it is undoubtedly due to being handmade.

Sora: HaHiHuHeHo~♪ Sora also likes how this tastes! He thinks the Sweets Club members will like it too!

Shinobu: Agreed ♪ My hands can’t stop~, munch-munch….

Tsukasa: Thanks to everyone, we were able to make an exquisite Apple Pie. Going off of this experience, I will try to make it myself next time.

Izumi: You’ve set your sights high. You’ll be fine without our help?

Tsukasa: Yes. If I succeed, that will be the end. If I fail, though, I will keep on trying.

One day, I’ll puff out my chest and say “this is the specialty of Knights.” Please wait, Sena-senpai….♪

*menko is a traditional Japanese card game that dates back to the 17th century. Menko also refers to the cards used in the game. Basically, players try to flip over a card on the ground by throwing down a card of their own. Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menko

[duckletranslations]

“Ariadne” - Directory

Writers: Kino Seitaro, Akira 

Associated song: Yubisaki no Ariadne

Characters: Crazy:B, Ibara

Translated by: @duckletranslations​

Prologue

Labyrinth of Questions: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6

Answers to Illusions: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7

Epilogue: 1 - 2

[duckletranslations]

Ariadne Ch 16 - Epilogue 2

Season: Fall

Rinne: ….Everyone, y’all feelin’ the hype?

The Ariadne Live is coming to its climax! Now it’s finally time to show “that” off ♪

Kohaku: The song we’re about to sing, it was the hot issue during The Minotaur’s Labyrinth: based on the original song “Ariadne’s Thread,” this one’s called “Ariadne at my Fingertip.”

HiMERU: As you may have seen in the program, HiMERU chose both the Door of the Past and the Door of the Future.

Even though unfortunately, the Door of the Past could not be opened.

Thanks to all of your support, a new song based off of “Ariadne’s Thread” was able to be created.

Niki: For real, this song was possible thanks to Crazy:B and all the fans! I’ll sing as hard as I can to reach your hearts~ ♪

Rinne: So, we’ll get ready and come back! Just wait a bit~ ♪

HiMERU: (The stillness before singing, it only ends up making the heartbeat’s sound clearer.)

(The people in the audience have probably watched the digest video of The Minotaur’s Labyrinth.)

(Thinking about it again, the studio bus that we rode in the beginning was dark like this as well.)

(If we call that the entrance to the labyrinth, the real exit is here.)

(The darkness just before being enveloped in the light of the live venue—that nightmare, is the opposite of that dream happening now?)

(Not as “me,” but as HiMERU, he will do his best to sing.)

—Shiina, are you ready?

As in the lessons, you and HiMERU appear first in this song, alluding to what happened in The Minotaur’s Labyrinth. The two of us must be in perfect sync.

Niki: I’m A-OK! To make up for how I couldn’t on the show, this time I’ll match you perfectly~ ♪

….Ah, before that,

I’m hungry, so I’m gonna stock up on some calories for a bit!

HiMERU: ….Pardon?

Niki: You wanna eat some too, HiMERU-kun? They’re tasty, these cookies ♪

HiMERU: Cookies before singing. Would your throat not become dry?

Niki: Mm~ Is this not allowed? This cookie is so full of calories, it’s just right. I thought it would be okay because with this, I won’t get hungry even after a long lasting live~ ♪

Back at Hot Limit, there were food stalls, also plenty of other shows underway, so our turn was short. But it’s not like that this time ♪

HiMERU: ….Naturally. Shiina is Shiina. Perhaps it would be safer that way.

Should HiMERU too, sing like HiMERU?

HiMERU: ♪ ~ ♪ ~ ♪

Niki: ♪ ~ ♪ ~ ♪

…Nyahaha. HiMERU-kun, you’re in the zone more than ever ~ ♪

I’ll try my best to match you even better than at the lesson!

Niki: The lessons were hard and burned my calories, and what’s worse, I even had to appear on a weird variety program, but—

Accepting even a glutton like me, that’s Crazy:B.

This song that you like, HiMERU-kun, I want to finish it while doing my very best.

HiMERU: —Fufu. It looks like you are making quick on getting in sync, Shiina.

And it’s not just you. Amagi and Oukawa too.

Rinne: Heheh, that goes without saying ♪

Kohaku: This’s a song of us Crazy:B. HiMERU-han can’t be the only one showin’ off his finest self!

Rinne & Kohaku: ♪ ~ ♪ ~ ♪

HiMERU: ♪ ~ ♪ ~ ♪

(Are you listening, “HiMERU”. The one and only, the best idol "I" have chosen.)

(You may still be wandering in a labyrinth with no end in sight right now. However, “I” will be waiting on the shining stage.)

(Until then, “I” will keep “Ariadne’s Thread.” It is a solo song, but also a song of the two of us, “HiMERU” and “I.”)

(So please. Grab onto it. The other end of the thread that’s tied to this fingertip.)

(Grab it, and hold tight. Until you climb out. I’ll keep watching over the place where you’ll be.)

(Before then, it won’t hurt to get along with these friends for a while.)

(In this unit that has anything, where “I” can just be “myself” …… ♪)

[duckletranslations]

Ariadne Ch 15 - Epilogue 1

Season: Fall

2 weeks later, the day of the Ariadne Live, behind the stage

Rinne: Now, now, we’ve all been waiting long—It’s finally the premier of our Ariadne Live!

Out of all our single lives, this is the biggest one yet. And ya guys aren’t gettin’ nervous?

HiMERU: —Yes. HiMERU has prepared everything in full for this day.

Kohaku: I’m good too. I’m all fitted up in this outfit, so all that’s left is finishin’ the live.

Niki: Me too, I came on a full stomach! And I also stashed plenty of supplies behind stage beforehand~♪

Rinne: Great. Then there’s no problem. Let’s make sure to show our stuff to all the fans who were disappointed in “The Minotaur’s Labyrinth!”

HiMERU: Fufu. That was the plan from the beginning.

The last of the Minotaur’s Labyrinth—Although Shiina opened the Golden Treasure Chest slightly too early, and in the end, we could not obtain “Ariadne’s Thread.”

Rumors of the program came about, and the composer of “Ariadne’s Thread,” upon seeing them, wrote a new song based on “Ariadne’s Thread.”

Niki: The Vice President is really so practical— as soon as he saw the rumors, he went as far as to start preparing the Ariadne Live for a new song release!

Kohaku: Seriously, where does the palm of that person’s hand start and end? I mean, he’s gotta have known it’d end up like this from the start?

In the end, it was all just out of spite from Bogie Time, an’ it was more popular too. Also, he was even able to profit outta sellin’ the Ariadne Live.

Just like how the winner of the gamble is never the betting man, but always the owner of the betting board.

Rinne: But for us, who’ve mostly been in the rough so far, this kind of luck ain’t gonna happen twice?

Look. The venue of the Ariadne Live—I’m sayin’ we can capitalize on it.

HiMERU: —Yes. Because in this world, hard work does not necessarily lead to results.

Once we give thanks to the thread tied to our fingertips for leading us to this concert venue, shall we go live?

Since the Door of the Future ended up being chosen, it should be sung as a song for a unit. As for “Ariadne’s Thread,” that can be untied in due course.

Niki: Nyahaha. That’s right! This “Ariadne at my Fingertip” is a song won by us Crazy:B! Let’s all sing it together.

HiMERU: —Yes. That is what HiMERU wanted.

One week earlier, at CosPro’s office

HiMERU: —Vice President. HiMERU respectfully declines your offer.

Ibara: For this to happen. Are you really okay with doing that?

While it’s true that “Ariadne’s Thread” was not obtained in The Minotaur’s Labyrinth, the de facto rights belong to CosPro.

Having played the role of the evil Vice President of CosPro, I thought it wouldn’t be bad to give “Ariadne’s Thread” a shot in a guerilla live~?

HiMERU: It’s because doing everything according to what the Vice President wants is infuriating.

HiMERU’s way of existence is always determined by HiMERU. There will be a better time to sing a song from his solo days—these are his thoughts.

Ibara:A better time….is there even one?

I don’t know when it will come, but since you say that, shall I leave it to you?

As for me, if you would do the pleasure of singing “Ariadne at my Fingertip” at the Ariadne Live, there will be no problems!

We are trying our absolute hardest to improve publicity and attract audiences! So, I ask that you do your part and perform the live. HiMERU-shi?

Through much effort, I focused on Crazy:B. Wouldn’t it be awkward if I failed to rake in any profits for CosPro?

HiMERU:Yes. Do not worry about that.

—However. Whatever reason the Vice President would have for doing something beneficial to Crazy:B—It ended without being revealed. Was there some ulterior motive behind it?

Ibara: No. There was no such grand ambition. It was all just out of spite from Bogie Time ♪

Besides that, there are many other troublesome issues to deal with such as the mess of the CosPro seniors and GFK—if I don’t get rid of the stress from time to time, wouldn’t it take a toll on my health?

HiMERU: —Deepest condolences. So that happens to be your lot in life.

Similarly, To say HiMERU does not understand the feeling would be a lie.

Because “I” am also being played within the fates of other people. And even so, “I” will still remain in this place.

[duckletranslations]

Ariadne Ch 14 - Answers to Illusions 7

Season: Fall

HiMERU: …….

(Seriously, what trouble.)

(This situation Shiina and the other Crazy:B members are pushing for—)

(If it were “me,” “I” would immediately choose the Door of the Past and win back the song of “HiMERU’s” past)

(—Would the pure and beautiful “HiMERU” want that?)

(Obviously, “Ariadne’s Thread” is an important song for “HiMERU.” Since his solo days, it was a precious thread to the relationship with his fans)

(However, “HiMERU” would not say he wants the song back to the extent of dropping his comrades in hell.)

(Such weakness of “HiMERU’s” is a shame, however.)

(......Okay)

(“I” am nothing more than a shadow anyway.)

(Shadows surpassing the will of the “real,” this should never happen)

(Even if that song is precious to “HiMERU” himself —no, to “me,” “I” am the shadow of “HiMERU.”)

—It’s decided.

HiMERU was completely lost in thought. HiMERU would not like to cling to the glory of his solo days at the expense of his comrades.

Therefore. He chooses the Door of the Future.

Niki: What are you saying! I won’t forgive that kind of thing….!

No, not just me, but everyone in Crazy:B won’t forgive you!

Since when did Crazy:B become a unit of good kids? Making it so we get what we want is what we’re all about!

If one person just toughs it out then everyone else can live — if that’s the kind of reason why you’re giving up “Ariadne’s Thread,” just choose the Door of the Past on the left!

Otherwise, it’d be just like at MDM when Rinne-kun was about to go back to his hometown. HiMERU-kun, I’m sure you also thought that he shouldn’t have done such a senseless thing….!

HiMERU: Shiina….

—No. “HiMERU’s” wish: it is to help everyone.

Niki: You can’t! If you do, I’ll make it so only you starve when we all hang out at Cinnamon!

That’s how precious it’s become to us! I thought, throughout the Minotaur’s Labyrinth, “Ariadne’s Thread” became something that all of us want!

Now, “Ariadne’s Thread” isn’t just HiMERU’s own thing!

HiMERU:Something that all of us want….?

Niki: That’s right. It’s the same as the Golden Treasure Chest that you and I opened!

The beef tongue too, we could only get it because everyone helped me—so it’s “all of ours”.

So please, I hope you don’t give it up—I don’t want you to give up on your past.

HiMERU: …….

Shiina. Thank you. Because of you, HiMERU has cleared his mind.

Niki: ! So you’ll be choosing the Door of the Past?

HiMERU: —No. There is not much time, but please listen.

As you say, Shiina, the past, the future—both are precious to HiMERU.

Solo and unit activities too. Why did they decide on this unit of misfit good-for-nothings from all over, people HiMERU doesn’t even know….is what HiMERU thought at the time of our formation.

Niki: Uh? I mean, isn’t that a bit much!? Although, I know the feeling!

HiMERU: However, at some point—whether the poison spread, or it started tasting like honey. The activities of Crazy:B became a part of HiMERU.

So HiMERU will give up neither the past nor the future.

Shiina. Apologies for wasting your time. Could you stand in front of the treasure chest on the right?

Niki:The right…..wait a minute! Are you still trying to choose the Door of the Future!?

HiMERU: That’s not it. For HiMERU, the past and future are important, but it’s not just the past and future that humans live in.

What we live in, building moment by moment in not one side or the other: it’s the present.

Niki: ?

Yeah, no, I don’t really know what that means. ….So what do you mean?

HiMERU: —Fufu. There’s no time, but HiMERU ended up going on about it without thinking.

While HiMERU was listening to you speak, Shiina, he was reminded of how we opened the beef tongue treasure test together.

If two people can open a single treasure chest, he wondered, what about two people opening two treasure chests?

The right to challenge the Golden Treasure Chest mission belongs to only the person who wanted its prize.

However, this mission is a “bonus mission,” specifically, this mission does not exist.

In other words, the Golden Treasure Chests, which lead to the doors of past and future, can be opened at the same time—and that, is now HiMERU’s answer.

Niki: So that’s how it is….that’s right!

If you open the Golden Treasure Chest on one side, then the one on the other side can’t be opened….if that’s the case, that means neither side is locked yet!

HiMERU: Yes, that’s it…. ♪

So, Shiina. HiMERU will open the Golden Treasure Chest on the left, so please open the Golden Treasure Chest on the right.

Can, you lend a hand?

Niki: Of course, I’ll help you till the end! Cuz of the Minotaur’s Labyrinth in which we all fought together ♪

HiMERU: Vice President, you have no problems, right? Because the case of opening Golden Treasure Chests at the same time was never specified in the rules.

Ibara: Ahaha! As expected of HiMERU-shi, your insight is amazing! Breaking through the gaps in the rules like that, isn’t it reminiscent of Crazy:B’s leader?

At the same time, I couldn’t confirm the sensor movement of the Golden Treasure Chest’s opening the other time. Go ahead and try.

Of course, two people being in perfect sync with one another—that’s also a story in itself.

Niki: ….Mm. So it’s definitely alright. Right, HiMERU-kun?

HiMERU: Yes. It’s just like, unless you truly believe in your own victory, you’re out of luck—as our leader said, of course.

Are you ready, Shiina?

Niki: Yep! I’m ready!

HiMERU: Understood. Then, we will overcome this “Minotaur’s Labyrinth,” and take hold of the past and future at the same time.

Together with the guidance of “Ariadne’s Thread.”

HiMERU & Niki: One, two….!

[duckletranslations]

Ariadne Ch 13 - Answers to Illusions 6

Season: Fall

Niki: Huff, huff…. HiMERU-kun, d’you know how many minutes are left?

HiMERU: About 10 minutes left. Just around this corner is the last room of the labyrinth.

Niki: That should be plenty! Now all we have left is to clear the Golden Treasure Chest mission and make our way to the exit.

HiMERU: This is the Vice President we’re talking about. Who knows if we can get out that easily. Let’s be as careful as possible, and challenge the mission.

Here’s the last room—

—So. HiMERU was right to have a bad feeling.

Niki: Wh, what do you mean….? There’s not one exit…..but two!?

HiMERU: If you could show your intentions—what on earth is this kind of contrivance?

Ibara: Fufu. “The Minotaur’s Labyrinth” is finally coming to an end. First of all, should I tell you that you’ve worked hard?

Considering all your hardships so far, at the end of the day I’d like to comfort Crazy:B. The last Golden Treasure Chest mission is a bonus mission.

In this bonus mission—even if you do not challenge the mission, it is designed so you can certainly get your hands on its contents anyway!

There are two final Golden Treasure Chests. There are also two exits.

In fact, each treasure chest contains a prize and exit key. And of course, you can get the contents without the mission ♪

In other words, HiMERU-shi, the song from your solo days you so want, “Ariadne’s Thread,” might as well already be in your hands. ♪

Niki: Oh wow, what a large haul!

What a relief, HiMERU-kun ♪ To be able to get “Ariadne’s Thread,” that alone made it all worth participating, right? ♪

HiMERU: …..

Niki: HiMERU-kun? What’s wrong, why are you making such a serious face?

HiMERU: Shiina. This mission is not so simple. This could be the most malicious mission yet—the absolute worst mission, even.

Surely you remember earlier, when Amagi and Oukawa were taken away, there was a time limit for escaping in order to lure us in?

Niki: Mm. That happened—what’s the meaning of that?

Oh, is it that one of the doors is a fake, and if we go through we’ll splash in muddy water!....something along those lines?

HiMERU: HiMERU considered that possibility, but if that were the case, there would be no need to prepare two Golden Treasure Chests.

If there are two treasure chests and two doors, the two doors in front of us gain different meanings.

—There is no time. We must come to a hasty deduction.

Namely, this mission is a crossroads. If HiMERU escapes with “Ariadne’s Thread,” the natural conclusion is that Amagi and Oukawa will not be able to be saved.

If you choose one side, you lose another. Truly, it’s a mission that encapsulates the unpleasant personality of the Vice President.

Ibara: Oh, my, my? It is regretful that you call my personality unpleasant~♪

In this situation, now that you can sing a masterpiece once sealed away, free of charge, you should be so happy that you’re crying!

HiMERU-shi’s deduction was correct. Thanks to that, I’ve been saved the trouble of explaining!

The door you face on the left is the Door of the Past!

The Golden Treasure Chest in front of it contains the desired “Ariadne’s Thread”, and the key to the Door of the Past.

Now, the door you face on the right is the Door of the Future!

The Golden Treasure Chest in front of it contains the key to the Door of the Future.

Niki: So…. I understand that HiMERU-kun’s song is in the Golden Treasure Chest with the Door of the Past’s, but what’s in the Door of the Future’s?

When I heard it, I was under the impression the Door of the Past is definitely a better choice.

HiMERU: That’s the thing, however. It could be that Amagi and Oukawa are being held in front of the Door of the Future.

Niki:Ri-Rinne-kun and Kohaku-chan……!?

HiMERU: Yes. Events that have been repeated in “The Minotaur’s Labyrinth” so far—

The question of whether to choose your comrades or choose yourself keeps coming up, HiMERU speculates.

Ibara: Yes. As HiMERU-shi predicted, the Door of the Future leads to the place where Amagi-shi and Oukawa-shi are being held.

A sensor will activate the moment one of the Golden Treasure Chests is opened, and the Golden Treasure Chest on the other side will forever be unable to be opened—that’s the way it’s set up ♪

It is truly a crossroads! It is on you, HiMERU-shi, to save your comrades!

Of course, since it’s just a variety show, I have no intention of keeping them locked up in the underground labyrinth forever.

In the case you do not select the Door of the Future, your captured comrades will receive a penalty—about that, it will be the most humiliating penalty so far.

For example….ah yes. How about Amagi-shi and Oukawa-shi, for the next month, must do a cow cosplay and say “moo” at the end of their words ♪

Niki: That…. You could pin it on Rinne-kun for his bad behavior, but the penalty is too heavy for Kohaku-chan!

And you even hated being called “Ibanyan” so much. Forcing that same thing that happened in Bogie Time onto your kouhais in the agency is abuse of power!

…..W, well, I’m sure you’ve decided on your answer, HiMERU-kun?

The reason why Rinne-kun and Kohaku-chan threw themselves away was all for the sake of “Ariadne’s Thread.” If it’s those two, I think they’ll accept the penalty!

HiMERU: ……

Niki: Hey, HiMERU-kun! I think there’s no reason to be hung up on this!

Because we’ve come all this way for the sake of “Ariadne’s Thread” —go on and open the Golden Treasure Chest on the left!

Ibara: Ahaha! Now’s not the time to be thinking so long?

Seven minutes remain! Whether you choose the song or comrades—if you would, HiMERU-shi, show the audience your choice….☆

HiMERU: —HiMERU is thinking over that right now. Would you shut that chatterbox mouth of yours for just a moment?

Ahh, seriously—

[duckletranslations]

Ariadne Ch 12 - Answers to Illusions 5

Season: Fall

HiMERU: Shiina, HiMERU will let go of you for now.

Niki: Huk, haa…. Th, thanks. For now, the cows have been returned.

HiMERU: —Yes. It is uncertain how long Amagi lasted, but it is now sufficiently safe.

It is fortunate that we obtained the map from that Red Treasure Chest. If we had gone even one wrong way, we would have reached a dead end…. There would have been no way of avoiding contact with the cows.

It was a close call, shall we say. A silver lining for us in the midst of misfortune.

There. Look down that aisle. What you see over there is your Golden Treasure Chest, Shiina. Don’t let your guard down until the end, and recover it carefully.

Niki: Did it. Finally we’re here! Beef tongue, beef tongue ~♪

HiMERU: —Shiina. If you touch it too hastily, you may get caught.

The Vice President may have handled things moderately, but he still dug a few traps in this labyrinth. Especially now, with the Golden Treasure Chest in front of you, it would be an ideal location to set a few traps.

Niki: Oh, that’s true. If I get eliminated here, I won’t hear the end of it from those two later.

Carefully, carefully…. Alright, looks fine!

HiMERU-kun, let’s open the lid together.

HiMERU: —Hm. HiMERU too? The Golden Treasure Chest lid does not seem any heavier than that of the Red Treasure Chest.

Niki: No, that’s not it.

This Golden Treasure Chest was only able to be reached thanks to Kohaku-chan, Rinne-kun, and HiMERU-kun joining forces.

If I open it all by myself, wouldn’t it just lessen that sense of accomplishment~?

So, I’d like HiMERU-kun to help as well. Food tastes yummier when eating together than eating alone—I think it’s the same idea ♪

HiMERU: —Right. As you said, Shiina, this is a prize we all won together.

The two of us opening the chest together—shall we capture that scene on camera, and fire an arrow of counterattack back at the Vice President and the audience at home?

Niki: Nyahaha ♪ HiMERU-kun, seriously, you’re really practical on that front~?

Well, that’s the HiMERU-kun that we've cooperated with in all sorts of ways. Then, I’ll receive and appreciate your words and help ♪

HiMERU & Niki: One, two….!

Mission clear!

Niki: Oh yeah! The long-awaited beef tongue!

—On top of that, a set of cookware is included to make it ready-to-eat!

Gas stove, frying pan, paper plate, and even wooden chopsticks. And even seasoning! With this we can cook away ♪

HiMERU: —Fufu. So we’ve finally reached a prize. It’s been a long road.

You’re watching, right, Vice President? HiMERU will not stand to feed your ego any further.

On this momentum, “Ariadne’s Thread” will be recovered.

Ibara: Clap, clap clap…. ♪ (applause)

Congratulations! You finally got a prize from a Golden Treasure Chest ♪

Difficulty, dedication, and solidarity between comrades in perfect harmony has led to your acquisition of the beef tongue! I think this will be very touching!

After all of that, to say the prize you’ve received is beef tongue is somewhat extramundane, isn’t it?

Niki: No, no, food is actually so important, to the point that you would use the word “extra”! In our society today, there may be fewer instances of starvation, but humans still cannot survive without eating!

Ibara: Whoa, excuse me! You know, I also know the importance of provisions! Let’s see, I’ve had my own fun before?

I’ll leave it at that. By the way, for your cooking, I’ve lovingly prepared something, fitting for a meal.

I would appreciate it if you made sure to take a look~♪

HiMERU: Lovingly prepared something….?

Niki: Ooh, ooh, what is it? Vice President, are you adding on rice or side dishes!?

Ibara: Oh no, no. As I am far away from you all, I unfortunately cannot deliver those supplies.

I’m not sure if this can be a replacement, but I will deliver the video of the two who were eliminated receiving their penalties.

The misery of your comrades tastes like honey[1]—witness their last moments of dignity!

HiMERU & Niki: !?

Kohaku: Seriously. I’d say tying us up would make for a gruesome broadcast…..!

HiMERU-han, Niki-han. Y’all watchin’ this video from over there? If it’s really true, I’ll let ya know what’ll happen to us.

It seems we’re dead set to be captured by the Minotaur. And they say to lure in the two people left, we’re gonna be punished startin’ now.

Rinne: Snakeyboy is even more fired up seein ya be way careful, Merumeru.

Now that Niki’s hunger’s satisfied, it’s your turn, so be more careful, would ya?

So, you’re on a 15 minute timer starting now. If y’can’t escape the labyrinth within the time limit, they’ll confiscate the Golden Treasure Chest prizes.

I’m tryin’ t’challenge these latecomer rules, but I don’t have time to talk about it. That’s it for what I have t’say.

Bye guys! Let’s meet at the exit ♪

Niki: Ahh, they’re taking Rinne-kun away!

What to do… Rinne-kun and Kohaku-chan, it’s our fault they’re suffering like that. It’s too much, Vice President.

HiMERU-kun. Let’s run to the exit right now and help those two…!

HiMERU: —No. To act so hastily would be playing right into the Vice President’s hands.

For now, eat the beef tongue to recover your strength. It won’t be too late to rescue the two of them after that.

According to the map, HiMERU’s Golden Treasure Chest lies at the exit of the labyrinth. Let’s get back in shape, and quickly head to the exit.

Niki: ….No, we don’t have to go that far, the seasoning alone’s enough for me!

HiMERU: Wait, Shiina….you can’t be!

Niki: Gulp, gulp....! Ahh!

Right now, I’ll be fine on only the beef seasoning! More importantly, right now we gotta go to the exit!

HiMERU: …..!

—Shina, I salute you for your actions.

The time limit, 15 minutes—we’ll run at full speed.

Niki: Yessir!

The phrase is supposed to go "The misery of others tastes like honey," but Ibara went out of his way to say comrades instead.

[duckletranslations]

Ariadne Ch 11 - Answers to Illusions 4

Season: Fall

Rinne:Now now, let’s pick up the pace a lil more, Merumeru! Keep lagging behind like that and we’re gonna get caught n’ done in?

HiMERU:—Indeed.

Niki:Wait, Rinne-kun…! That’s absurd!

HiMERU-kun’s got me on his shoulder. If you’re gonna say that, how about you and your lightweight body try looking after me?

Rinne:Talking nonsense isn’t gonna make the cows wait for you. They have no way of understandin’ the situations of humans and all.

What we can do is: before those guys catch up to us, get to the Golden Treasure chest.

Otherwise I’d be real sorry to Kohakyun, who threw his body away to the cows.

Niki:But still, you’re being too unruly. Your hands are empty, so if you’re gonna complain, how about helping out HiMERU-kun?

Rinne:‘Scuse me? What’s so bad about being unruly? When has Crazy:B ever been about sacrificing the self?

D’ya get it, Niki? The reason Merumeru’s helpin’ ya is that’s what he wants.

Lendin’ a shoulder to the healthy Niki that works soooo hard even when he’s hungry—wouldn’t I be the criminal to snatch the honor of such an esteemed role from him?

Or what? You want me, not Merumeru, to be takin’ care of ya?

Confessin’ to me at a time like this, ya caught by the “suspension bridge effect”? ♪[1]

Niki:You….! I was being genuine!

HiMERU:Shiina. Do not take Amagi’s words seriously.

HiMERU still has stamina left, and Amagi also has his own role to play. It was simply a strategic decision.

Niki:Wh, what are you talking about…..? Strategy?

HiMERU:The rules state that touching a cow results in elimination. This would be a harmful penalty for HiMERU and Shiina, who still have their Golden Treasure Chests left.

Each person must challenge their own mission to get the Golden Treasure Chest’s prize. In other words, if Shiina is taken out, the mission is an automatic fail.

Conversely, Oukawa and Amagi, whose challenges have finished, do not incur any losses if they are penalized.

So in this situation, it is better for Amagi to be able to move freely. Because if necessary, Amagi could act as a shield for HiMERU.

Niki:Our…. shield…

Rinne:It’s really not that grand. It’s just about giving priority to women, elderly, and children at any given moment.

Specifically, Niki who’s starving, and Merumeru who wants to get back “Ariadne’s Thread”.

In this Minotaur’s Labyrinth, you guys still have things that you’ll do your damndest to get your hands on.

Even if other people’d hear it an’ think “how silly,” or even if it has no worth or use in society—

To cherish such trivial things, that’s Crazy:B. Don’t say ya forgot all about that?

….Uh. The sound of footsteps is gettin’ closer. Did Kohaku-chan get taken out?

Now it’s my turn to send ya guys off. Hang in there, HiMERU, Niki.

Dudududududu!

Rinne:….Run!

HiMERU:—Let us go. Shiina, are you able to walk?

Niki:Of course. I can run too, on my own feet.

If it’s to save the beef tongue I’ve craved, I can go the extra mile!

HiMERU:Please take care of the rest, Amagi…..!

Surely, HiMERU will save the Golden Treasure Chest that sleeps in this labyrinth!

Rinne:Indeed. In this savage variety show shoot, no way we can leave empty-handed. You guys are our last hope.

…Nice. There’s no camera in this spot.

It’s sure been a while, but I gotta use the Amaterasu Okami art. It doesn’t fit the Crazy:B image, so I didn’t want to use it, but.

Don’t worry, dear cows, I’m just gonna put’cha to sleep by piercin’ a secret pressure point.

“Do not recklessly hurt livestock” —if I’m gonna fight with martial arts techniques I learned in my hometown, I oughtta follow the teachings I learned in my hometown.

How’s….this!

Ibara:Hm, I can’t look past this. Just now, the sensor on the cow went off, you touched the cow from the blind spot of the camera, didn’t you?

It’s a pity, but Rinne Amagi has fallen prey to the Minotaur and was eliminated!

Rinne:Come on. I’ve been tryin’ to avoid the surveillance, guess it’s really that unforgiving. Haven’tcha ever heard about “privacy infringement?”

But the game isn’t over yet. Don’t give up and fight until the end, HiMERU.

It’s ok. The story of “Ariadne’s Thread,” the guide through “Minotaur’s Labyrinth”: wasn’t it originally about that kind of perseverance?

For those unfamiliar, suspension bridge effect, a fun nickname for this psychological phenomenon. Basically, being in a life-threatening or thrilling situation makes one more likely to fall in love.

[duckletranslations]

Ariadne Ch 10 - Answers to Illusions 3

Season: Fall

Niki: Keuk, huk…. euk, I’m hungry~ !

Can’t take anymore. I can’t even move cuz my stomach is stuck to my back…!

Rinne: Well, ya still have energy to cry, so. How ‘bout we just get a move on~

Niki: What was that? An impersonation of the Vice President?

Saying things like “Get a move on.” If even Rinne-kun takes the Vice President’s side, what am I to do…..!

Rinne: It’s not like that. I’m just tryin ta find the Golden Treasure Chest ASAP and get that beef tongue. If we don’t, you’re gonna keel over.

Kohaku: Niki-han, your complexion’s lookin’ pale, even I’m worried.

HiMERU: According to the map, there seems to be a Golden Treasure Chest at the end of this one-way-road. Before Shiina hits his limit, we must quickly proceed to the mission.

Niki: I, I understand. I will also try my hardest…..!

…..Nng?

HiMERU: What is it, Shiina.

Niki: No, it’s that something feels weird under my feet. Like the ground feels strangely soft.

What could this be…. If I look closely, the color of the soil is only different around here. Mmmm?

Kohaku: Wait. Niki-han. Under your feet, ain’t that sensor like the locks on the Golden Treasure Chests?

….Mm. It’s just made of a material that has a similar color as the ground, so no doubt?

Niki: What are you saying?

Rinne: The way that a sensor is installed at the beginning of this one-way-road—

Urgent Mission!

Avoid the Minotaur that appears in the labyrinth, and reach the Golden Treasure Chest!

Rinne: This sound of footsteps….. I’ve heard ‘em in my hometown before. No shot….

Dududududududu!

Kohaku: What’s that!? Cows….. a herd!?

Niki: Cows….when you say that do you mean beef tongue!?

HiMERU: —It seems so. Perhaps this is the mission with Shiina’s prize.

Kohaku: Is this really the time for an objective analysis! Those cows, they look t’be runnin’ right at us!

HiMERU: Vice President, could you please elaborate on the mission?

Ibara: Ahaha! Surprised? To go along with the name “Minotaur’s Labyrinth,” we prepared real cattle!

This mission is the most dire crisis of “Minotaur’s Labyrinth”! Get your hands on the Golden Treasure Chest before the cows get you!

Anyone whom a cow touches will be considered prey to the monster of the labyrinth, the Minotaur, and will be eliminated!

Well, these cows have been specially trained, so they are not dangerous!

They follow people well, so I imagine if you get too close they will surround you and lick you!

…..So rest easy and work on the mission ♪

Kohaku: Rest easy, my ass! If we get hit head-on, sure as hell we’re gettin’ hurt!

HiMERU: Agreed. HiMERU is so shocked, he is at a loss for words.

However, he should have seen this coming since the earlier quiz mission. Knowing the Vice President, of course he would actually have a monster appear in the “Minotaur’s Labyrinth.”

HiMERU failed to expect that the monster would be real cattle. Was the Vice President thinking this would be better than someone wearing a cow mask?

Rinne: That must be it. Guided by “Ariadne’s Thread,” the escape from the labyrinth where the Minotaur lives—

Callin’ yourselves Eden based on the Bible, “Viper”-kun has his poetic moments from time to time?

HiMERU: Fufu. Records of war really do get treated as myths with the passage of time. To think an actual cow would come to be called the Minotaur.

Niki: Uh, well we have to run away! At this rate we’ll all be surrounded, and a terrible sight will get broadcast…!

Quick, let’s go! If we don’t run away all together—

Uwah, euuuk…..!

HiMERU: —Shiina. Your legs are shaking. It looks like you’re having trouble standing.

HiMERU will lend you a shoulder. Shiina, you must survive for the sake of completing the mission.

Niki: But…. if you do that, HiMERU-kun, even you might get caught up in it too!

If so, what will you do about “Ariadne’s Thread?”

HiMERU: That—

Kohaku: …..Jeez. Whatta pain.

HiMERU-han, Rinne-han, Niki-han. I’m gonna lure the cows away, so go find the key.

HiMERU: Oukawa….

Niki: Is, is that alright? He said if a cow touches you, then you’ll be eliminated, so Kohaku-chan running with the rest of us might be…..

Kohaku: When I worried over ya Niki-han, dog tired outta hunger, guess I looked like easy game, huh.

No. We looked like easy game from the beginning. Whatever Vice President-han was thinkin’ when he dragged us into this underground labyrinth, I can’t even fathom it.

But we’re the troublemakers of the idol industry. Those infamous good-for-nothings of Crazy:B, prolly thought it’s ok to shove them around like this.

Actually, that’s the truth. Not bein’ invited to proper lives or events. Singin’ songs at nightclubs, gettin’ the plans for Hot Limit from Anzu-han—

Those who live in the shadows have their own place there, an’ we won’t deny ‘em that. However, to step foot in the shadows, an’ mock ‘em for it—well that’s unforgivable.

Rather than runnin’ away, I gotta show my finest self for the last time, that’s the path I’ll pave.[1]

Rinne: Haha. Now wasn’t that a cool speech, Kohaku-chan.

HiMERU: —We’ll leave the rest to you. Oukawa.

Niki: Hold up, you two—what if Kohaku-chan gets hurt!?

HiMERU: No, if this is Oukawa, he will be fine. Because whatever circumstances Oukawa has gone through, he is somehow very well trained.

Judging from that unfazed attitude, if it weren’t for the rule, “you cannot touch a cow” he certainly would have already stopped all of them right here.

Niki: Neh! Well, well still—

HiMERU: Hurry up and go first, Shiina.

The only thing the idol HiMERU can do is not let Oukawa’s self-sacrifice be in vain.

Rinne: It’d be terrible to see all four people be eliminated.

After so much trouble, Kohaku-chan threw himself away for us. Doesn’t it just make sense to trust in that?

Niki: Un-understood. I’ll also believe in the both of you!

Kohaku: With that, it should be enough. The only thing we can do t’leave Vice President-han speechless: puttin’ on the greatest performance in this Minotaur’s Labyrinth.

And if that happens, even we’ll become a tiny bit free—

Alright. Dear cows. Wanna play with me?

Kohaku says this will be his "flower path," a Korean expression that is used for wishing a good future upon someone, or holding yourself excellently for said future. Simultaneously, it could imply bittersweetness in separation and hope for reunion, fitting for this situation, with the added correlation between Kohaku and flowers.

[duckletranslations]

Ariadne Ch 9 - Answers to Illusions 2

Season: Fall

Tens of minutes later

Niki: Mm~. This doesn’t look like it either.

This looks like a dead end too. Kohaku-chan, did you find anything?

Kohaku: Nope. My end’s also blocked off.

It’s fine and dandy that we decided to buckle down and recover HiMERU-han’s song. But findin’ an exit’s already tough enough. There goes the labyrinth’s spite, striking once again.

Niki: Isn’t this so much more brutal than what the Vice President challenged in Bogie Time? Back then there were a lot of strange traps, so there being few traps now is helpful.

It’s as if the whole point is to make us wander aimlessly….

Kohaku: Y’can’t say “as if,” when it’s actually true. To think this’ll sell well…. that’s questionable at best.

Anyway, I wonder how things are on Rinne-han and HiMERU-han’s side. They’re investigating the opposite end from us, so…

Niki: Yeah. Our side was just full of dead ends, so there’s gotta be something on Rinne-kun’s end.

I wanna get the Red Treasure Chest right this time and get the water or food.

Kohaku: Oh yeah, I got two or three Red Treasure Chest problems right on our way here, but it paid the bare minimum amount of food.

It was a pretty small amount in proportion to the effort we put in and our amount of people. On top of the series of mistakes that caused us to lose the other Red Treasure Chest missions many times over.

People say that poverty makes your wits dim and your character poor, which applies mighty well to our current situation. I’m afraid our minuses are stackin’ up and eventually we’re gonna get stuck.

Niki: Mm, for sure, my calories are in shortage!

I think I’m starting to lose it. So hungry~....

Kohaku: Ah yeah. I’m especially worried about your hunger Niki-han, stuffin’ anything in your mouth no rhyme or reason as ya did.

Niki: Oh, did that happen? Nyahaha, I don’t really remember ♪

Kohaku: It darn seemed like you were conscious, but y’can’t remember? I guess ya were groaning like a beast.

Well, if ya go feral I’ll be stoppin’ ya. Now I’m startin’ to wanta challenge the Red Treasure Chests.

Niki: Mm, mm. As the name suggests, the Red Treasure Chests are more common than the Golden Treasure Chests. Isn’t it just a matter of time until we run into one~?

Rinne: Bingo! C’mere, Niki! Some food’s waitin’!

Niki: Ooh, speak of the devil!

Where, where! I’ll hurry over so please wait for me!

Kohaku: Niki-han! Runnin’ ahead so suddenly like that’s dangerous—

…Hoo, he’s already off.

Seriously Niki-han, when it comes to food, don’t his instincts completely take over? As if he up and becomes a wild animal?

Kokoko. Even so, the way I can’t hate ‘em sure is Niki-han’s—no, Crazy:B’s merit ♪

Niki: Rinne-kun, where’s the food? I wanna eat soon!

Rinne: No, look straight. I didn’t find food, but a Red Treasure Chest.

You’re also hungry, right? Let’s finish the mission and get us some good food ♪

Niki: Alright, sounds good! Touch the key, grab—

Quiz Mission!

Question Number 8: What is the name of the author who wrote “Divine Comedy,” which features the Minotaur in the episode of Hell?

Niki:Aw yeah~! It’s a quiz mission!

This is HiMERU-kun’s specialty ♪ Huhuhu…..it’s been a while since food~♪

HiMERU:You are quite hasty, Shiina. The contents of the chest have not yet been determined to be food.

However, the answer is simple.

The answer is “Dante Alighieri,” He was the poet who wrote “Divine Comedy” that consists of three episodes, “Heaven,” “Hell,” and “Purgatory.” Isn’t that right, Vice President?

Ibara:Correct!

Your range of knowledge is quite extensive, HiMERU-shi~

Of course, it would be a given if it pertained to your hobby of military-related trivia. But I can’t believe you answered this liberal arts question so easily!

I would like to ask you where you could have learned it. However, putting that aside for the moment—yes, the correct answer was “Dante Alighieri”.

The Minotaur’s role in the episode of Hell in “Divine Comedy” is to torment all heretics. One could say it’s exactly like the situation Crazy:B is in now~♪

Kohaku:All heretics, y’say. —All heretics, y’say. —Other words, y’mean how we’re the Crazy:B who doesn’t go along with CosPro’s demands, and acts as we please... plus we’re stuck in this labyrinth to boot.

HiMERU:Since the program is linked to “Ariadne’s Thread,” it was named “Minotaur’s Labyrinth.” So that’s how it is.

Well, there’s a bit more of a playful feel than that. Is this even regular content for a variety show?

Ibara:Thank you for the feedback. We will use the complaints you mentioned for future improvement—Also a lot of time has passed in the second half, so please pick up the pace!

The prize for answering correctly is a map of this labyrinth. With this, you may easily find the way to the exit or a Golden Treasure Chest!

With that said—you must remain vigilant until the end. The fact that I prepared this map means

Enjoy hell to the fullest, gentlemen ♪

Niki:Heyyy. Wait a minute, Vice President! What about my food?

As I thought, I can’t go on anymore….. I’m so hungry I’m at my limit! If you’re my boss, I would like you to properly supply me!

Ibara:As a certain famous person once said! The key to solving poverty is not to give them fish, but to teach them how to fish!

Handing over the map of the treasure chest locations is like handing over food! Isn’t that so, Shiina-shi?

Niki:No, no, no, no! No matter how I see it, fishing methods don’t matter right now! If you really are a strategist, I think you should keep the saying, “You can’t fight on an empty stomach.” in mind…..!

Ibara:Yes, I will keep that in mind!

There is not much of the labyrinth left. Please keep up the good work until the end! Salute~☆

Niki:Ah, uh, sure

….Like hell! Was that not just some muddled up hodgepodge!?