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[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Epilogue

Talks of death

Location: Repayment Festival

Season: Spring, the following year

Keito: …Fufu. Thinking back on it, you really were harsh, Sakuma-san.

And at the time I was an immature idiot, so very stupid. Such youthful indiscretion—I’ll be embarrassed by it for the rest of my life.

DEADMANZ, huh…

A three person unit consisting of me, Sakuma-san and Oogami. It was left behind on paper, because I just don’t know when to let go.

Until the very end, I held onto that hope; I really thought that if things got too crazy, I could just cling to Sakuma-san’s sympathy and beg for help, didn’t I? I’m such a fool.

Kuro: …What’s with ya, Danna? It’s weird—are ya laughin’ at memories?

Keito: Yeah… As expected of someone so close to graduation, I’m getting all emotional. I’m remembering all sorts of things, really.

Kuro: That so. But now ain’t the time to get caught up in old memories. We gotta get outta here and go to Kanzaki.

He seems to be workin’ pretty hard all by lonesome, yanno.

Keito: No, it looks like Hakaze is helping him out too… So Kanzaki isn’t completely alone, but I’m still a bit worried, so I’d like to get to him as soon as possible.

Kuro: Don’t get too hasty, though. Ya shouldn’t move too violently, the DEADMANZ costumes were hastily made, so the sewing is a lil’ weak here and there.

Keito: But it’s a costume made by you, Kiryuu, so I trust its durability.

Kuro: That right? Actually, I was feelin’ pretty moved myself, ya see.

I changed some of the details, but this is still a DEADMANZ outfit just like ya asked me to make for ya back then.

As I was stitchin’, I found myself thinkin’ back a lot too.

When I think about it, I realize we’ve come a long way. We ended up standin’ side by side like this…

Comrades chasin’ after our dreams together—I didn’t expect things to turn out like this.

Keito: Really… I’ll be honest, even back then, I sensed there was something special about you.

Kuro: Haha, is that right? Ya sure I’m not just your replacement for Sakuma or something?

After breakin’ it off with Sakuma, ya still needed a weapon to achieve that revolution ya wanted.

Keito: Don’t be mean. I won’t say that wasn’t my intent… But in hindsight, I’m glad you were my accomplice.

Thank you, we ran side by side to the end.

It may not have been what I envisioned back then, but because of you… We reached an even better, more glorious conclusion.

Kuro: It’s not over yet, Danna. Don’t let your guard down, you’ve always had a poor endgame.

Keito: I’m aware. But this time, I won’t lose. This time, I’ll run to the finish line without falling.

Kuro: Sure. If you’re too sloppy, I’ll beat your ass, Danna.

Rei: (...It seems Hakaze-kun has yet to make it.)

(Doggie too—I wonder, will he truly be able to make it to me as well?)

(It appears to be that Adonis-kun is lending him the support of a friend, so I’m sure he’ll be quite alright.)

(Spending time doing nothing but waiting—it is quite the prolonged form of suffering.)

(Since then… I’ve kicked the child who clung to my leg aside, henceforth becoming distant with Hasumi-kun.)

(From then on, I have lived a life of freewheeling, a life of self indulgence.)

(I took my fill of adolescence and savored it.)

(I traveled the world, I flourished, and finally, thanks to the five oddballs, I’ve been fortunate enough to meet companions that share the same capability as I, and the solitude which follows.)

(Together with dear Doggie, who waited for me with the remnants of DEADMANZ in his hands, so oblivious to it all…)

(I came back as a part of UNDEAD, with which I was able to enrich my time spent here.)

(In betraying and hurting my friend, I attained this glory stained in blood and sin.)

(I ask not for forgiveness, Hasumi-kun. If I were to bow my head and apologize to you now, I am quite sure you would only knit your brows.)

(Our roads have parted, never to meet again.)

(But unexpectedly, some hapless fate allowed us to meet fortuitously, and thus we appeared on stage together once more.)

(This must be a gift from some whimsical god, or perhaps they’re just being malicious.)

(Once more, that sin I must carry is thrust into my hands… And I shall continue to live as one egotistic, arrogant human being.)

(That day, due to a voice singing for the dead, I passed on…[1] I was born anew, able to set out as a human once more.)

(What the future holds, I know not. By karmic retribution, I may not obtain anything I desire, and may just rot away here.)

(But, if my wish could be granted.)

(God. One more time, would you please hear out “my”[2] selfish desire?)

(...It is quite noisy outside of the auditorium. That voice, is it Doggie?)

(Ah, he’s finally caught up to me. I am happy to see you’ve grown into a strong man, one who may grant my wish.)

(When we first met, you were just an adorable little Puppy.)

(Because of such things, life is truly fun.)

(Kaoru-kun should be showing himself soon as well. I, too, should really be rousing myself before long.)

(I must raise my spirits, and my voice… If not, I shall be mistaken for a corpse, and be thrown into a coffin.)

(It’s still too early for me to die, so… For a little longer, I shall enjoy my life.)

(~……♪）

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Ok so. Rei uses the word 成仏 here, which can mean passing away and also... reaching salvation in Buddhist terms, reaching satori, or nirvana. It wouldn't fully make sense to take it only this way because when you do this, your soul isn't supposed to return to the mortal world, but the connotations are there no less.

Rei reverts to the pronoun he used in second year here, 俺 (ore), but keeps his current speech style.

[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Crowd 8

Talks of death and depression

Location: Underground Livehouse

Rei: “And by the way. The rules only vaguely stated this, but…”

“Votin’ rights go to every single person in the underground livehouse.”

“So in short, even us performin’ on stage count~”

“Meanin’ everyone here is allowed to sing, dance, an’ vote.”

“Well, unless ya have unusually low self-esteem, it’s human nature to wanna raise your own score instead of some stranger’s, right?”

“Yeah, feel what I’m sayin’? If ya get it an’ wanna join my group that’ll be formed later, raise your hands high!”

“One, two, three… Ooh, that’s a lot ♪”

Keito: ……

Rei: I think you get it. You’re smart, Bouzu, so I’m sure ya can work it out… it’s my victory.

That’s too bad. Ya worked so hard, but you lost. If I leave before the vote, the score you’re gonna get shall fall.

And, I made it known that right after this, I’m gonna be singin’ in another group anyway.

That new group won’t have a limit to how many members it can have. I’ll accept as many people as there are here in the underground livehouse.

So, naturally, everyone here’s gonna give themself the highest score.

Oh my. Looks like there’s no point in settin’ Kiryuu-kun on me to shut me up now. Even if ya restrained me now, it wouldn’t matter.

‘Cause I think everyone here has their heart set on joinin’ my side.

So, in the worst case scenario, we will still win even if I can’t sing. Anyone would vote for their cute selves, so victory is still ours.

The winner of this DEADMANZ live will be my group.

Now I won’t dare do it, but I could give the order, an’ make these delinquents even more wild than they are now~

That’s the rules, right? The losers of the DEADMANZ live yield to the winner…

So, it’s like becomin’ the ruler of the underground livehouse.

I could take the trouble you’re gettin’ from this underground livehouse an’ make it impossible for ya to resolve. Your whole plan would be set back, and as you’d fail to meet my requirements, you’d lose.

From now on, I’ve got no reason to serve ya.

So if ya can understand that, just give it up an’ surrender. This is checkmate.

There’s no rule sayin’ ya can’t join more than one group. Why don’t you guys join us?

So, let’s all get along an’ sing together. Come now, Bouzu ♪

Keito: …Why? Why are you doing this, Sakuma-san? I admit it, I was naive… I lost. But, I just don’t understand.

Everyone’s so unmotivated—hard, honest work just doesn’t have any value…

Everything is decomposing, decaying—how can you see the situation and turn a blind eye to it?

Why, why won’t you help me? With you as our boss, it wouldn’t be impossible to reform this miserable status quo!

I can’t do this on my own; I need your help!

I’m… I’m so weak, that a plan I poured all my heart and soul into polishing can be overturned with just the snap of your fingers.

Help me, I’m begging you, Sakuma-san.

Rei: I can’t. It hurts my heart, but I gotta turn ya down, even though ya bowed and begged for me.

So on the contrary, I’ll ask you this. Hey, Bouzu, if I did lend you a hand… Maybe Yumenosaki Academy will change for a bit.

Maybe, just like what ya hope for, everyone would start takin’ things more serious.

I could say hey, let’s do our best together, and cheer everyone one.

But, what happens after that? What happens when I graduate? What happens if I quit bein’ an idol. What happens if I betray ya again, like I did now?

We’d come right back to where we started. It’s possible that, because everyone treats me this way… maybe I’m some special being.

But it’s because we’re rare, these superior beings that are scarcely found, that we are called geniuses.

If ya include somethin’ like that as the main part—the very foundation—of all you’ve built… well, it just won’t sustain itself~

I’m not some god~ Sorry, but I don’t wanna keep walkin’ ‘round with the whole world on my back for everyone else.

I, too, have dreams. I have my own life. Are ya tellin’ me to sacrifice all that as some sorta charity work for everyone else? I hate to say it, but I'm sick of it.

If I really was born to be special, I wanna reach out and grab something nobody else can touch.

That’s why I became an idol—that’s why I was born.

Now, is that suuuch a crime? Is allowin’ me that much egotism a no-no~?

If that’s true, I wish I was never born. Instead of risin’ as some sorta corpse, I should’ve just sayed in the dirt.

Hey Bouzu, I just wanna live normally as my own person—is it monstrous for me to wish for happiness?

If ya want to live for yourself, is that arrogant?

Everyone else, they get to live like that, don’t they? So why am I the only one who can’t have that?

Is it because I’m not human, but some blood-suckin’ demon? Do you see me that way, too?

Well if I’m not human, I got no obligation to serve humanity, got it?

Keito: ……

Rei: This planet, it’s moved by a countless number of no-names. The main character of this world is that crowd of nobodies.

If just one remarkable character goes ‘round dictation’ everythin’, there’s a limit to how far they can go.

If ya create a system where the weak, foolish, countless people are the base—it’ll still work properly regardless.

But if ya use someone like me, they could go out on a whim an’ screw around, like I did this time…

Somethin’ like that will easily collapse. Take the fragile, fickle, an’ easy solutions an’ kiss them goodbye.

Build a structure so strong it could go through any sorta natural disaster an keep standin’. Build somethin’ so tough that even if I went on a rampage, it wouldn’t crack.

If ya do that, that’s when ya can say you’ve achieve your revolution, right?

…Whoops. I shouldn’t be chattin’ away like it’s nothin’, I’m gonna bore all the guests who gathered here to see us.

Sing, Bouzu. Save all the troublesome thoughts for home, ya can take ‘em there to think ‘em over.

You—you’re still so young… you got plenty of time ahead of ya to reflect on this.

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Crossroad ♱ Crowd 7

Location: Underground Livehouse

Keito: Kiryuu. Come to the stage, please.

Kuro: All right. Geez, I got myself tangled up in some weird shit.

Rei: Ohh. You’re wearin’ the same outfit as us, Kiryuu-kun—gonna sing with us?

Kuro: If it’s not too much trouble. I made an extra outfit just in case, an’ it seems to have backfired on me.

It’d be a waste to not wear an outfit after goin’ through the trouble of makin’ it, though.

He asked me to appear on stage with ‘im as his groupmate, even if it was only temporarily.

In exchange, he’s gonna officially recognize my clothing mendin’ as an on-campus job.

Gonna call it an on campus part-time job, an’ write it into the school rules.

Might be ‘cause I had a bad temper back in middle school, but I feel like if a teacher sets their eyes on me, I’m done for.

So if they took issue with me earnin’ a little extra money, ‘cause it’s against the school rules, it’d be pretty bad for me.

But, from now on, Hasumi will… Or more like, the student council, will protect my status.

I’ll be treated like a well-behaved student, who didn’t break any school rules.

So, that’s why I’m lendin’ my strength. Our goals have become the same.

If Hasumi—the student council—grow in power, I’ll benefit. If it goes under, I lose the shield protectin’ my back.

Someone could point out I’m breakin’ the school rules, report me to the teachers, an’ then I’m kicked right outta the school.

It’s important for me to avoid that, ‘cause I decided I’m gonna be an idol.

This time, I want to be the one who heals and gives hope to others—not the one who hurts them.

Because I know one of the things that cheered up my lil’ sis back when she was depressed, was these idols.

It isn’t fittin’ for a rogue like me, but…

I really wanna be an Idol. I can’t half-ass it then drop out.

Rei: Hmmm~... Doin’ some pretty heartless stuff, huh, Bouzu? You took a scary demon nobody could tame, threatened him, and made him do your biddin’.

Kuro: I didn’t word that good. He was honest and up front, gave me a whole passionate speech an’ convinced me himself.

Hasumi’s ideas are pretty naive, but I don’t hate ‘em.

Kuro: At the very least, it’s thanks to him that I’m standin’ on stage now. In front of this huge audience, I can sing my heart out.

I’m real happy. This is the kinda thing I’ve been waitin’ for.

“♪~♪~♪”

Keito: …Fufu. It looks like I picked the right type of music, Kiryuu’s powerful voice works perfectly with rock. It’s got some tremendous soul—if you look away for just a second, it’d kill you.

Kuro: I ain’t killin’ anything, what do you think I am?

Well, anyway. That’s what’s up, so… If Sakuma tries anythin’ uncalled for, I’ll stop him.

In every sense, right now I’ll be actin’ as Hasumi’s ally.

Keito: Indeed. I won’t take any losses—I plan on asking you to do more work like this in the future, after all.

Kuro: Haha. Next time, don’t ask me so outta the blue.

To be honest, ‘cause I was makin’ those outfits I didn’t get enough lessons in… I’m gettin’ fed up with how much trouble I’m havin singin’.

Whatever, I’ll cover that up with brute force! Hey hey, Rock n’ roll…!

Rei: Hahah. I see, ya thought this out. Kiryuu-kun’s a proud fighter, he’s able to keep me under control by force.

No matter what I’m plannin’, worst case scenario he can come over an’ restrain me.

At the very least, showin’ me it’s possible should keep me in check.

But yanno what, Bouzu? It doesn’t matter how strong Kiryuu-kun is… This ain’t some action manga, there’s no way he could take on tens of people all at once~

Ya probably thought that so long as you could stop me you’d be fine. But, this world has a whole buncha people in it that aren’t me.

And history, it’s always built by that nameless crowd.

Keito: …? What do you mean?

Rei: Seein’ is believin’. I’ll show ya the horrors of reality.

“Hey hey! Attention please! I’ve an announcement to make~!”

Keito: ( ? What’s he trying to pull? Should I ask Kiryuu to get involved and stop Sakuma-san?)

(No, our performance isn’t over yet… I would rather avoid starting up some sort of fight scene before the vote is done.)

Rei: “Uhh, sorry. Looks like I got my cue all mixed up. Just now, I was singin’ along with these three all nicely, but~…”

“Well, ya see, I’m not really one of ‘em~ ♪”

Keito: Hey, what are you trying to say? That isn’t what you promised—you were supposed to be my partner this time!

Rei: “Yeah. Guess you’re right, so I’ll rephrase that. I was with these guys, but…”

“But, before the votin’ starts, I’m sayin’ I’m not one of them. I can’t put up with ‘em anymore, so I’m leavin’.”

…I did promise I’d be your partner, but ya didn’t say I had to be your groupmate forever~ I got the right to leave whenever I want. Ya got a problem with that?

Keito: Wh…? Don’t be so egotistical, I don’t accept this!

Rei: Even if ya don’t accept it, the rules don’t care~

The groups are made up of volunteers. There’s nothin’ saying ya gotta write their names down an’ give ‘em a stamp of approval, and that if ya don’t it won’t count.

Hell, if Kiryuu-kun can jump in halfway through, what’s the problem with me hoppin’ out?

You were too vague—that’s your slip up.

Keito: (Guh… But I haven’t known Kiryuu for very long, I really didn’t know he’d join us until today.)

(No, I couldn’t put that much trust in Kiryuu.)

(In the case of an emergency, I set things up so Kiryuu could join at any time, but…)

(But Sakuma-san took advantage of that same vagueness in the rules, and used it to free himself.)

Rei: “An’ so the schemer drowns in his own scheme. Anyway, I’m outta there.”

“After that, I’m gonna form a brand new group on the spot.”

“Anyone who wants to join, come along up to the stage. I’ll take ya in as one of my own, so lets have fun singin’ together.”

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Crossroad ♱ Crowd 6

Location: Underground Livehouse

Rei: …Are you satisfied, Bouzu.

Keito: Yes. Everything is generally going as I planned. For once, you listened to me, just like you promised—I’m saved.

Rei: I don’t break my promises~ I won’t—never again.

But yanno, is this really lookin’ good for ya?

I’m standin’ on this stage as a part of your group, performin’ for the underground livehouse… So I did grant that wish of yours.

But, really, the hell’s it gonna change?

Keito: I’m sure you understand my intentions, yet you’re still putting me through the trouble of explaining?

The purpose of all this is to cleanse and control this underground livehouse, as it has become a hang-out spot for delinquents.

Rei: Yep. This all began with that, right? Defeatin’ the delinquents, gettin’ a good rep with the teachers and all.

You wanna remove the eyesores an’ strengthen your plan’s foundation, then move to the next step.

Keito: For that very reason, we are holding this event. This performance, the DEADMANZ live, will settle the trouble of this underground livehouse.

Rei: That name sounds a lil’ embarassin’, though. Like, c’mon, is this “DEADMANZ live” supposed to be dead or alive?

Ah well, I can tell you’re keen to bring lil ol’ Rei-sama-chan—who’s become so worn out he’s a livin’ corpse—back to life.

So it’s a live that’s by the dead, an’ for the dead, huh?

Kinda sounds like a buncha devils an’ demons bouncin’ around in hell, so the perfect name for this live, huh~? But I wouldn’t know.

Keito: Don’t get too deep into the name of it, I just didn’t have the time to pick out anything too artistic.

Anyways, the DEADMANZ live is a fierce live battle.

Anyone interested is free to form a group, and then they’d perform on stage for a set amount of time.

The audience will be the judge, scoring us as they see fit.

And at the end of all the performances, the group with the most points will be the victor.

As a prize, they’ll gain the right to control all groups participating in the event.

Rei: In short, you’re sayin’ that if ya lose, you gotta listen to the winners from then out, right~?

It’s the right approach when ya wanna corral a buncha delinquents, ‘cause they obey the law of power.

They live in a world of beasts—the weak are just meat the strong eat kinda thinkin’.

Of course, if ya lose, you’re gonna have to be obedient an’ do what you’re told. It takes guts to jump the mental hurdle of runnin’ that risk, but—

Keito: For that very reason, I’m bringing you out.

If you’re standing at the top giving all the orders, everyone will listen. It seems like those delinquents adore you, too.

And, on the off chance someone actually manages to win against you…

Then they could make the super-star Sakuma Rei obey them. That there, that’s an irresistible payout.

Rei: Ahaha. So I’m just bait on a hook, an’ you’re gonna cast me into the water to snag all the delinquents up an’ throw ‘em in a net like a buncha fish.

Simple but effective. The event's winners and losers will be explicitly stated, so it’s clean-cut.

Well, there’s no way people who haven’t been takin’ themselves seriously can defeat Sakuma Rei~ The outcome is clear as day—we’re gonna be the champions.

Bein’ honest, ya put me on the spot here without any rehearsals an’ all, so it’s gonna be a real challenge. But, well, I wouldn’t be Sakuma Rei if I couldn’t pull this off like it’s nothin’~

Anyhow, I gotta head back overseas startin’ tomorrow, so I can’t take part in all that governin’ stuff.

But since you’d be my groupmate, you can use my name to go reformin’ the underground livehouse as you please.

Sakuma-san is handing over all authority to me.

This is an order from Sakuma-san: sober up and become model students~… And that’s how ya plan on settin’ these delinquents on the right track, yeah? Wow, that’s well thought out.

Impressive, impressive. It’s just an empty theory, though.

Can ya guarantee these delinquents will keep their word? They could still go an’ do anythin’ they want outside of the underground livehouse, right~?

Keito: But the conditions you presented—that I must use you to fix the problems with the underground livehouse… they were along those lines, were they not?

And if I succeed, you will obey me from here on out.

If that’s the case, I don’t care what happens to them in the future—so long as you’re conveniently serviceable to me.

If I can solve the problem that is the underground livehouse, victory is mine.

That’s what the DEADMANZ live is all about.

Rei: You really think I’m some all-mighty god, huh? You’re thinkin’ way too highly of me… Well now, ya did good, for somethin’ ya thought up in just a week.

Ya gave me a reckless theory, but I can see ya worked through every lil’ detail of your plan, huh?

How voting works, makin’ the rules of this DEADMANZ live clear, ensuring victory by preparin’ outfits an’ givin’ lessons…

But ya know what, Bouzu? You’re still so naive~ It’s not like you’re the author of this story, ‘cause ya aren’t the one an’ only game master.

This is me and you tryin’ to outwit one another, a lot more like a game of chess.

Did ya really think I was gonna just shut up, sit back, an’ watch everythin’ unfold?

If I didn’t do anythin’, then yeah, everythin’ would play out just the way you planned.

…Buuut, I’m sorry to say, I’m not the kinda dumbass monster that can be tricked as easily as those ya see in fairy tales~

So don’t act like you’re winnin’ just ‘cause ya brandished some of your wit~

Keito: …Naturally, I anticipated that you wouldn’t keep quiet and move exactly how I wanted—I know you.

I’ve known you for a long time. So, I’ve put a precautionary measure in place.

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[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Crowd 5

Location: Underground Livehouse

Rei: “♪~♪~♪”

“Fuhahaha! Tremble, ya fuckin’ idiots![1] Every single one of ya looks tired of livin’—do ya not get the point of bein’ born~?”

“The war is over, and from it we rose! What do you desire in this time of peace? Scream it loud!”

“If ya keep your mouth shut, nobody’ll know~ Don’t ya dare be a buncha obedient babies~!”

“Guess I’ll have to say it for ya. You wanna take this wishy-washy, laid back world and fuckin’ destroy it—right?”

“Well then, shout! Bare your fangs an’ bite! Roar ‘till it comes echoin’ back to ya! Shout! Shout! Shout!”

“Vomit up your love, your curses, an’ pray! Bathe in blood an’ guts—go through the birth canal a second time, an’ be reborn!

“Give me your first cries—let me hear the sound of humankind! Rock’n’roll…☆”

♪~♪~♪

Koga: (Yeah! Wow, Sakuma-senpai’s sending shivers down my spine! I feel like I’m gonna die from this euphoria!)

(The crowd’s going wild, and I’m really standing on the same stage as Sakuma-senpai right now…!)

(It’s like I’m dreaming! Oh, don’t ever let it end! Even if my voice goes hoarse and I start throwin’ up blood, even if I start suffocating from a lack of oxygen, I want to keep singing with you…☆)

(Just look at me, Sakuma-senpai! I admire you!)

(I’ve been strumming at my guitar day after day, and I’ll keep going until it gets so worn out it disappears!)

(So recognize me for it! If only you would face me, and look at me with those crimson eyes that belong to hell’s king!)

(At that very moment, I could die…!)

“♪~♪~♪”

Rei: (Hey~... It’s great you’re havin’ fun and all, but ya should be facin’ the audience—not me.)

(These people are takin’ precious time outta their lives to gather here with us. If they feel like they wasted it, you’re dishonorin’ us idols.)

Koga: (Oh! Got it, Sakuma-senpai! This god will raise your stage, makin’ it more and more lively! Kyahahahaha…☆)

Keito: “♪~♪~♪”

(...Those two, they’re communicating through eye contact. Well, I have no clue if they’re really holding a proper conversation or not.)

(Though, I’m rather surprised. I caught a glimpse of it when we were doing lessons, but Oogami is more than just talk.)

(He has talent, the potential to blossom beautifully—but he’s still unripe, and far too wild.)

(When Sakuma-san is close by he becomes shockingly steady, as if he’s following after his example.)

(He must really like Sakuma-san, huh… Love, it makes one stronger.)

(That is a constant in all stories, a universal truth.)

(I was right to choose rock as the theme for this stage. It’s a genre Oogami likes, and something Sakuma-san has experience with.)

(When you compare the two, rock is actually more prevalent in culture overseas than our concept of idols.)

(What’s more, Sakuma-san really got a read on the underground livehouse’s clientele.)

(So, he’s making an impression by talking in extremes. Like, good grief, what’s with the whole “tremble, ya fuckin’ idiots” thing?)

(I’m the only one who’s been slacking in my studies here, but I put in enough hard work in the past week to at least match their rhythm.)

(I can see it. I can feel it in my bones—right now, we are strong.)

(We’d be able to stand toe to toe with Valkyrie, who are already well renowned and respected by the entertainment industry—no, we could even compete to stand beside professionals.)

(Aah, this is fun. I’m being involved in something greater—being melted down to the marrow of my bones and fusing with it.)

(My silhouette has disappeared, and I’ve become a part of something glorious.)

(With a passion I cannot produce on my own, I can venture into a story I’d struggle to ever reach on my own.)

(I love this feeling. I have a similar—or even stronger—feeling of omnipotence to that I get when I’m drawing manga.)

(In this moment, for just a short period of time, we are gods—the rulers of this world. That’s the illusion I get.)

(In this world, this reality, it feels like I’ve become one of the vital characters to the story.)

(I’m so happy, so blessed, to the point I can’t believe it. Ah, this is why I wanted to become an idol.)

(Writing manga allows you to become a god-like figure to that story. But, I’d prefer to do that in this world, where I live and breathe—)

(I don’t have to be the main character, I’m not cut out for it. But, I’d still like to take on the role of a character in a wonderful story.)

(A character who everyone cheers for, recognizes, and loves.)

(Even that unreasonable childhood friend of mine, Eichi, fell captive to the charming concept of idols…)

(And I, too, wanted to be one of them.)

(Idols, they’re the kind people who live in all the novels, manga, and stories I eat up. They’re fascinating.)

(They don’t live deep in the mountains, cut off from earthly life—they live mixed in with the world, with chaotic worldviews.)

(I admired them. That’s why I descended from the mountains, stepped into the world of the living, and that’s how I came to sing on this stage.)

(I am a novice who’s slacking on my Sadhana—It would be justified to lecture me, for I am such a vulgar person, so far from attaining enlightenment.)

(I want to have faith that this dream—this prayer—is not some wrongdoing.)

(Eichi. Your dream and mine, they aren’t really the same.)

(It could be that your goal of becoming a better idol aligning with mine is a coincidence… that is a possibility.)

(Even as someone who’s met you long ago, I can’t understand the corrupt, murky, pitch-black hatred that seems to burden your soul.)

(A darkness that, no matter how many sutras I recite, I cannot exorcise.)

(But still, I want to recuse you. You’ve always been the one person on the same page as me.)

(Like two halves of the same soul, we are no strangers—you are my best friend.)

(What’s more, I am the son of a Buddhist temple. To embrace, love, and rescue even a strange, unloved creature—that is the role of a monk.)

(You’re just like me, so by rescuing you, I feel like I can reach salvation myself.)

(Making your dream come true, that’d be the same as making mine come true.)

(...Isn’t that right, Eichi. My first, and only, reader.)

(Together, let’s weave a story. Let’s enjoy ourselves, just like we did as little kids.)

(O Buddha, please guide me; May the path I walk on be that of righteousness.)

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This is actually Koga's signature, “震撼しやがれ愚民ども”, which is often translated to “shake to your very core, ignorant fools” and the likes. It's found in melody in the dark as well as various stories.

[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Crowd 4

Location: Downtown

Adonis: F–forgive me. I suppose I’m still getting used to this country’s norms.

Souma: Cheerily, thou wilt learn in time. I, too, can give thee advice, Adonis-dono.

Adonis: Sure. As long as it’s fine with you, I’d be happy to have a chance to get closer to you.

Souma: Content. And I would ask the same of you ♪

Adonis: Of course. This is the first time I’ve had an actual friend from another country.

Location: Underground Live House

Souma: Tut, the crowd is so great, I find it hard to breathe.

Adonis: Yeah, everyone’s going wild, like a riot. Be careful not to run into anyone and get hurt, umm… Kanzaki.

Souma: Ay. Moreover, is it related to this place? I’m rather unfamiliar with it; might there be a special event being hosted today?

Adonis: Yes. The senpais who have been taking care of me are putting on a show here.

I happened to overhear some details while I was having a lesson with them, and I got pretty interested.

I’d like to study it if I can so that I can use it as a reference for myself. I have to become a great idol.

Souma: I feel the same, Adonis-dono. Unfamiliar and uneasy with this life I may be, there is nevertheless a certain stimulation when one is exposed to a new culture.

Adonis: Fufu. I’m sorry I made you come with me, Kanzaki.

I can’t thank you enough for showing me around and giving me your autograph.

Souma: Good now, I have no business after school, so a performance does quite befit me.

Further… I see Hasumi-dono, a man I do love and respect, standing ‘pon that stage.

Ne’er before I did hear him sing. ‘Tis profoundly interesting.

His voice is clear and beautiful, with a strong core to’t. Ah, how pleasant to mine ear it be.

Keito: “♪ ~ ♪ ~ ♪”

Adonis: …It is hard to believe that voice is coming from that slender of a body.

Incredible. There are so many talented people here to look up to. I want to do whatever I can to catch up to them.

Souma: Ay, then shall we devote ourselves to it together.

Kaoru: Heyyy~ You guys, you can’t just walk on in. I need to see your tickets~ ♪

Adonis: Mm. I see, so we need tickets. Sorry, where would we buy them?

Kaoru: Uh… I should be jumping for joy about it, but we had such an unexpectedly high turnout that we actually sold out of tickets.

So instead, you can just pay the ticket price and fill out this form, and then you can go ahead and watch the show.

‘Kay, just put your name and address here. We also take drink orders~ Well, we only have three items on the menu, though ♪

Souma: …‘Tis thee.

Kaoru: Geh… Well, lookie here~ Where’ve I seen you before?

Souma: Thou, the man who did so disrespect me before! That I would meet thee here—Thou shalt become the rust upon my blade!

Kaoru: Wh—Hang on, chill out…! Please. If you go swinging a sword around in a crowd like this, you’re gonna cause a big accident~ I’m sorry about before, so forgive me, okay? ♪

Adonis: Yes, Kanzaki, calm down. We don’t want things to escalate and be kicked out. Besides, we’ll always reach an understanding if we talk things out instead instead, even if we come from different countries or speak different languages.

Kaoru: Yeah yeah, just like that! Nice going, big guy! Love will save the world~ ♪

Souma: Gh… I relent. I’ll pay the fee and must I write my name in thy registry, then so I shall.

Kaoru: Oh, I didn’t expect you to be so understanding. That helps things along~ ♪

Souma: I’ve not forgiven thy behavior prior. Watch thy back on a moonless night, thou louse.

Kaoru: Uwah, looks like I caught the eye of some weirdo~... If it was a girl, I’d welcome it with open arms, but since it’s a guy this event is a total letdown.

Chiaki: Exuse me. Hakaze, are you in some sort of trouble? I can mediate it, no problem!

Kaoru: Eh, you’re talking like we know each other, but… who are you again~?

Chiaki: I’m Morisawa, from the same class as you. Please remember. Well, you don’t come to school all that much, so I guess you not knowing is understandable.

Kaoru: Ah, now that you mention it, I think I remember seeing you around somewhere. If I’m not mistaken, you’re in Ryuuseitai…

You guys don’t have the best manners, so you take care. Tell your buddies to as well, okay?

If you guys get too out of hand, you’ll get banned from entering the venue.

Chiaki: Ugh… Sorry, I’ll let them know. I don’t think anyone would listen to what I say, though.

Kaoru: Hmm? Well, that’s fine, you should at least enjoy yourself since you paid the fee. Can I get you anything to drink?

My recommendation is the watered-down orange juice ♪

Chiaki: Hakaze, you work at this underground livehouse? I wouldn’t really know, but are you in need of money? You must be off pretty bad…

Alright, I’ll order a whole bunch of drinks!

Kaoru: Urm. I think something isn’t clicking here… or rather, we’re on totally different pages here.

You seem like an earnest, good boy, Morisawa-kun~ So why are you a part of the infamous Ryuuseitai?

Chiaki: Despite the current status quo, we’re defenders of justice, that’s what the group stands for…

I want to see it live up to its name, so I’m going to reform it from within so it becomes that ideal group.

But, it’s really hard to change anything.

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Collaboration with: ciel

[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Crowd 3

Location: Downtown

Adonis: ……

(...This is awkward. I don’t know how to get there.)

(Today, Sakuma-senpai and the others are apparently having a Live at an underground music venue… For future reference, I thought I should go see it.)

(At this rate, I don’t think I’ll be able to even get there. Should I have asked Hasumi-senpai or someone to make a map for me?)

(But, it looked like Senpai and everyone else have been pretty busy lately.)

(Sometimes they’d get in touch with me and take me along to their lessons, but… They’re really only looking after me at Sakuma-senpai’s request.)

(It’s not like we’re friends or anything. They have their burdens, so I shouldn’t get in the way of that.)

(My older sisters get really mad if I bother them while they’re absorbed in their work, too.)

(And in restraining myself from doing that, I lost the chance to talk to them… This is no good. Try as I might, I am too nervous around strangers.)

(It’s already time for the Live to start, so calling Hasumi-senpai now is out of the question.)

(If they’re performing, there’s no way I’d get in touch with him.)

(Aside from them, I don’t know anyone…)

(I wonder if people are afraid of me because of my physique, I don’t feel like I fit in well at school.)

(Because Sakuma-senpai went through the trouble of introducing us, should I be more proactive in getting to know Hasumi-senpai and the others?)

(But since Hasumi-senpai is in a different year than me, there aren’t many times where we see each other at school.)

(Oogami rarely comes to school, and whenever I get close to him he glares at me, so I don’t think he likes me.)

(It’s hard for me to start up a conversation. If we were in the same club, or maybe a group, then maybe I could talk to them without any troubles.)

(After escaping the oppression of my older sisters, I thought I’d live more freely in this country.)

(But I’m used to having someone else ordering me around, so when I’m all on my own I don’t know what to do.)

(Do I have no choice but to wander as a foreigner, belonging nowhere?)

Souma: Good day, sir. How dost thou?

Adonis: …? Are you talking to me?

Souma: Ay. Dare I say, thou lookest to be lost. If thou dost will it, shall I be thy guide?

Adonis: Oh… That’s very kind of you. Thank you.

Souma: Nay, ‘tis but coincidence. I left something at the school and thus went to retrieve it.

I see thou wearest the same uniform as I; thou art my schoolmate, I presume. ‘Tis a natural thing to support and help one another.

As they say: He must needs go that the devil drives.[1]

Adonis: …I’m sorry, I don’t understand what you mean by that.

Souma: Ah, forgive me. It seems my manner of speaking is considered archaic to others. Oft people are quite baffled! Ha ha ha ♪

Adonis: No, it’s because I am not very familiar with Japanese yet, so I don’t understand it well.

Souma: Not familiar with it? Too modest art thou. Thou speakest fluently, and more correctly than I.

Adonis: ……

Souma: Hm? Prithee, is there something on my face?

Adonis: No… Sorry, I might be mistaken, but is that a Japanese sword attached to your waist?

Souma: Ay, is it strange? But that be true: It is a tachi, one passed down through the Kanzaki clan. Behold, lo, the blade’s beautiful pattern… ♪

Adonis: Wow… Incredible. This is my first time seeing one. A–are you a samurai, then?

Souma: Hm? I do come from a warrior line… I would not face judgment to call myself a warrior, myself, nor a samurai.

Howe’er, I still lack experience; I have no right to boast as one to embody all that a samurai is.

Adonis: No, I’d say you’re a samurai; you have a sword, after all. Everyone always told me you could only see them in movies…

This is amazing—There really were samurai all along?

Souma: Haha. Perdie, the Sengoku and Edo periods are not so distant in the past. There might e’en be a ninja around, should’st thou search for one.

How rapid this country did modernize; yet, it remains a land of warriors.

Adonis: W–would it be all right to take a photo with you? Sorry if that’s rude; I really want to show it to everyone in my home country!

Souma: O–ohh…?

Adonis: And if possible, I’d like to get your autograph, too! To Otogari Adonis-san, please…!

Do you know how to spell that? Oh, I don’t have any brushes or an inkstone like what a samurai would use, though!

Souma: Hmm… Adonis-dono, is it? I little understand it, but this is the first time I’ve been asked to give mine autograph. I would say I’m embarrassed ♪

Oh, but I have become an idol… I did think the day would come that mine autograph would be requested.

Now that time is upon me, and yet I find myself shaking.

Oh, that I had asked my calligraphy teacher to help me design a proper signature…

Umm, where would you have me sign?

‘Tis unfortunatel but I am but a novice idol… I have brought no shikishi boards with me.

Adonis: W–what’s best? Should I have you sign my shirt? I’ll take it off right now!

Souma: O me, in public…? I–I would imagine the… “convenience store” yonder doth sell shikishi boards, so shall I buy one.

Bare not thy skin without reason, Adonis-dono.

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Collaboration with: ciel

souma’s original idiom here is「袖振り合うも多生の縁」(sodefuri au mo tashou no en), which means that even a chance meeting is preordained. it was originally a buddhist saying about karma and fate, wherein the meetings we consider “chance” are actually destined due to our past lives. where normally the phrase is written as 袖振り合うも他生の縁 (same reading), where the 他生 (tashou) refers to one’s past life and their next life, souma actually uses an alternate phrasing with the kanji 多生 (also tashou). this slightly changes the meaning so that the “past lives” refer to all of one’s past lives, or rather the entire cycle of reincarnation. while the first is more widely accepted as the phrase, the latter (which souma uses) is considered the “correct” version.

[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Crowd 2

Location: Underground Livehouse

Rei: Bouzu~ Sorry to keep ya waitin’, I came in one piece.

Kuro: …Oh, is that Sakuma?

Rei: Eh? Kiryuu-kun. What are you doin’ here?

Kuro: I ain’t here to get in your way. I’ve been asked a favor, so I’m just stoppin’ by.

Hasumi an’ I exchanged contact info a while back, so we’ve talk over the phone every now an’ then.

When I don’t understand somethin’ I’m studyin’, I can just ask him to explain it.

He knows the schedule for lessons an’ events, so he’s the best guy to ask.

Rei: Uh-huh. Thought ya were some lone wolf who didn’t hang out with anyone, so I find this rather surprisin’. …Are ya gettin’ friendly with Bouzu?

Koga: Lone wolf? Are ya talkin’ about me, Sakuma-senpai!?

Rei: You ain’t a lone wolf, you’re a lone puppy, aren’t ya?

Koga: I am not some puppy! Anyway, ya know this dude, Sakuma-senpai?

Ya two seem weirdly familiar~An’ he even showed up to a few of my lessons!

Kuro: Don’t ya go pointin’ your finger at me.

…As ya can probably gather by lookin’ at me, I don’t exactly fit in at school. I tend to hang ‘round on top the roof or the gardens, places where there ain’t a lotta people.

Pretty often, I see Sakuma ‘round there. So, well, we’ve chatted a time or two, so I know ‘im.

…You’re a pretty popular guy, aren’t ya? Why are ya always hidin’ away?

Rei: Nah, well, I don’t like havin’ people around me all the time~ I mean, can’t really be helped ‘cause that’s how I live my life, but I can get real tired of it sometimes.

If you listen on and on to someone else’s problems, just keep on giving out advice…

Then it don’t feel like you’re livin’ your life to the fullest, yanno~ Or rather, that I ain’t livin’ my life at all.

Kuro: Hmmm. As an unpopular delinquent, that don’t sound half bad.

Keito: Kiryuu. I got changed right away, are you alright with how it looks?

Kuro: Ah. The basics are workin’, but I’m gonna need to make some minor adjustments.

I haven’t made a full on costume before, so I’m nervous an’ dissatisfied all ‘round.

Rei: Ooh? What’s that Bouzu, looks pretty fly… Gonna be singin’ in that today?

Koga: Kyahaha ☆ What’s up with ya, Hasumi-senpai, you’re rockin’ and rollin’~!

Keito: Aah Sakuma-san, Oogami… You’re talking like this doesn’t concern you; You’re going to be wearing this too.

I asked Kiryuu to prepare these custom-made outfits for today.

Since Sakuma-san was abroad, we didn’t have accurate measurements of his body since…

So the lengths on his outfit in particular might not be right. Try it on, and if it doesn’t feel right, the proper adjustments will be made.

Kuro: Yeah. Ya included that bit when ya commissioned me, so I’ll make sure it’s taken care of.

Keito: I’ll count on it. We’re going to be putting on a rather extreme performance, so it’s possible our outfits may get damaged while we’re out there singing.

Just in case, stay here until the end of the day.

…Plus, there might be something else I want you to do.

I’ll cover the entrance fee, of course. Feel free to order as many drinks and such as you’d like.

You made these magnificent outfits in just one week, so I would be happy to show you my gratitude.

Kuro: Nah, I had fun with it too. If ya ever need an outfit or two made, gimme a call, Hasumi.

Rei: Ahaha. You’re really gettin’ along huh, you guys? But ya look like total opposites, an honors student an’ a delinquent.

Keito: Kiryuu is more earnest than he looks. Sewing is his strong point, and he’s allegedly taken on a lot of requests to patch up outfits.

Accepting jobs on campus without permission like that is against the school rules, though.

In return for overlooking that fact, I got these outfits made at an amazing price.

I figured if they weren’t done in time, we could use one of the communal outfits from Yumenosaki Academy. But he did his best and pulled through, and I admire that. Once again, thank you, Kiryuu.

Kuro: Ya don’t have to thank me. More importantly, you guys are almost up—stop talkin’ an’ get ready.

So Sakuma, and uh… Oogami, was it? Change into your outfits, both of ya.

Rei: Hmm. I understand, roger that. I think I can predict what kinda request you’re gonna make of me today, Bouzu. It’s pretty much what I expected of ya, can’t wait to see how it turns out.

Hey, Puppy… We gotta change now, so don’t be so slow~

Koga: Eh!? Eek, don’t undress me against my will! I ain’t a kid, I can get changed by myself!

Rei: There’s ain’t a need to be shy, ya ain’t a little baby after all… Or I should say, the changin’ room is kinda small, so don’t go all berserk on me.

Koga: We can just take turns gettin’ changed, can’t we? We don’t have to go together, right…?

Kuro: Haha. Hey, the crowd here’s pretty lively, ain’t it. It’s way different to the usual idol show, I haven’t seen anythin’ like this before.

Seems like I’m gettin’ pumped up myself.

Keito: ……

Kuro: Hm? What’s wrong, Hasumi? Ya look pretty pale. Keep it together, you’re gonna be singin’ in front of other people soon.

Keito: I got that. But, I can’t get rid of my fear… What if I made a miscalculation—did I really make the right choice?

Well, I’ll see the outcome soon, dwelling on it now won’t change anything.

I must prepare myself for the worst, and try with all my body and soul—No, I must surrender myself to fate.

I’ll do everything humanly possible, and await my destiny. …No matter what, I’ll make my dream come true.

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[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Crowd 1

Talks of death and depression

Location: Downtown

The next day

Koga: Sakuma-senpai~!

Rei: Hm. Oh, good mornin’... Puppy ♪

Koga: Who ya callin’ puppy!? And it isn’t the time to say good mornin’, it’s dusk already!

Is that it, ‘cause Sakuma-senpai is always abroad… are ya jet lagged?

Koga: Ah whatever! Look here look here, I brought the guitar ya left in the underground livehouse, Sakuma-senpai!

I’ve taken care of all the maintenance it needed myself, fufun ♪

So tonight, make sure ya charm everyone with a performance so flashy it makes ‘em swoon!

Rei: Oh~ guess that’s why I couldn’t find it… I see, Puppy’s been takin’ care of it for me. Good boy, good boy ♪

Koga: Don’t pat my head!?

Rei: Haha. What a good mood you’re in, Puppy… This past week, did ya get some thorough instruction from Bouzu? How much have ya improved?

Koga: Oh. My knowledge is growin’ so fast I’m even surprised myself~ that priest is surprisingly good at teachin’!

I can even play the hard chords an’ all that now!

He gives me too many annoyin’ lectures, which kinda gets on my nerves, but he did really help me step up my game!

So, I guess I can say I’m a bit grateful for ‘im!

Rei: If ya are thankful, thank ‘im in person… That guy had some prep work to do, so it seems he got to the live house before us today.

Ya should help ‘im out with all that stuff. And if ya can, get along with ‘im from here on out, I think you two are pretty compatible.

Koga: Eh~... How many times do I gotta say it, I want Sakuma-senpai to teach me!

I’ve been patiently sticking it out and following shitty glasses around everywhere, and today it ends!

‘Cause from now on, I’ll always be with Sakuma-senpai…♪

Rei: Ahaha. I did promise that if ya learned enough to impress me, I might teach ya.

Gonna make sure ya give me a big surprise an’ dazzle me, hey?

Koga: Leave it to me! I’ll perform something that’ll knock the socks of of everyone in the audience, includin’ you!

Ahh this is so exciting, today I’m gonna play the guitar until I collapse! hehehee ♪

Rei: (Haha. Young boys can be so energetic, he’s got these sparkly eyes… I might’ve been like that too, when I first started playing guitar.)

(When did I get like this—just a corpse… Nothing can excite me anymore, it’s like I’ve become a dark shell of a person.)

Koga: Sakuma-senpai? What is it, ya don’t look very lively~...are ya jet lagged after all?

Rei: Nnn~ no. …If ya want, ya can keep that guitar as a sorta gift.

I haven't touched the guitar in a while, an’ I just plan on singin’ today.

It isn’t really some luxury item~ Take it as an apology for draggin’ ya into our affairs.

Koga: Eh? You mean, I really get to have Sakuma-senpai’s guitar? Yahoo ☆

But, is that really alright? This, it’s the guitar you’ve used since you were young, right Sakuma-senpai? Don’t you think this should be a keepsake?

Rei: Hell do ya know so much about me for. I said so, so ya just take it, Puppy.

Today, I’m going to bury the ties which I’ve draggin’ ‘round since bygone days, forever.

So if I kept a memento like that close by, every time I saw it I’d think back on that very past…

It’d make me all depressed, so it’s best to hand it over to someone else~

If you don’t want it, that’s fine.

Koga: How could I not want it?! Thanks Sakuma-senpai, I’ll take good care of it ♪

Rei: Ahaha. Ah, what simple-minded happiness… Well, I guess ya are still just a kid.

Bein’ all grown up juuust isn’t as much fun as I thought it’d be…

If ya can, keep on bein’ a radiant child like ya are now. The innocent smile of a child, it’s everyone’s greatest joy.

Location: Underground Livehouse

Koga: Ooh…? What’s all this, the underground livehouse is a lot more fancy than it usually is!

Woah, looks like there’s a summoning circle or somethin’ drawn here!

Rei: Did ya not hear anythin’ about this from Bouzu?

Koga: Eh? Umm~... I was told that I was gonna stand on stage with Sakuma-senpai today, who came back from overseas.

I was really happy just hearing that, so I didn’t catch all the fine print.

Rei: Ya really should pay attention, yanno.

Hmmm… As I’d expect of ya, Bouzu. Looks like ya got yourself acquainted with the taste of the underground livehouse's regulars…

Rock n’ roll style huh? I don’t mind that~

This seems kinda old an’ tacky compared to rock nowadays, like an old classic style of rock. It’s nice, givin’ a sense of nostalgia…

I can’t admire the nostalgic feelin’ of the good ol’ days yet, I ain’t some senile old man~

(...Bouzu is gonna run the student council from here on out, so he’s gonna act as part of the establishment, ain’t he…)

(But ain’t rock anti-establishment at its core? Isn’t he contradicting himself? Or is he not ready to let go?)

(Have you lost your way? You’re struggling in that ravine between your worldly desires and ideals, aren’t you, Bouzu? That must be so tiring—I’ll dismiss your soul, and help carry it across.[1])

(Divin’ into the flames like that… If ya aren’t reincarnated, it means ya were a person who could only get that far.)

(Let us have a debate, for old time’s sake. Let us fight, pittin’ belief against belief.)

(After all, that’s how we met. I won’t let ya say you’ve forgotten that~ Keito.)

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Rei's making an extended metaphor about Buddhist reincarnation. 引導 is a Buddhist term that is said at funerals to wish the recently departed a safe travel into the next life. Most Buddhists will cremate their dead as they believe it'll speed up the cycle, which goes until that chain is broken by attaining Satori (some may know this as Nirvana, or as many other names), something like liberation, the quenching of the major evils of the soul. If you aren't reborn, you were as good of a person as you could be

[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Monologue

Location: Student Council Room

Six days later

Rei: ~...♪

Keito: …Sakuma-san? I know you can see well in the dark, so I’m sure you’re fine, but at least turn on the lights.

Ah well, I guess it’ll save on the electricity bill. …You came back earlier than expected, the day you agreed to come back was tomorrow.

Rei: I know. I was itchin’ with excitement, so I came back home ‘cause I couldn’t wait any longer.

I’m only fuckin’ with ya. I just settled my work abroad faster than I thought I would.

The game, the fun, will start tomorrow. That ain’t changin’, so you can rest easy~

I’ll be workin’ in the student council room today, so ya can go prepare yourself for tomorrow, ‘til the very second the date changes.

In your stead, I’ll be workin’ on some student council work that’s been left undone for some reason.

Keito: Ah… I’ve been doing a lot of prep work for tomorrow, so I guess I’ve neglected my normal duties.

I came to the student council room to get it all done today, even if it meant I’d have to stay up all night.

What a surprise, seeing you here. It’s not like you—did you really feel like carrying out your duties as student council president?

Rei: Yep. Ain’t it like me, to work only one day of the whole week? The Sabbath, no less.

One sheet, two sheets, three sheets~...♪

Keito: What are you doing!? Don’t tear up those documents! It’s improper for a civilized person to commit such an act of barbarity!

Rei: If ya wanna hold bein’ civilized over me or somethin’, ya could at least process your data into a computer.

It’s convenient how ya can correct an’ delete stuff with just the push of a button. Plus, writin’ the same amount of work by hand can give ya tendonitis and all that crap.

It’s pretty hard to get rid of paper documents. If ya committed a crime, they’d be left as evidence an’ become a real hazard.

Really, it feels like you’re keepin’ record of every little detail—it’s unnecessary.

Is that it? If ya don’t make a livin’ as an idol after Yumenosaki Academy are ya gonna become a manga artist or somethin’?

It’s what all these documents are for, huh? Feel like you’re savin’ up a treasure trove of material?

Keito: …As you should know, my dream of becoming a mangaka is currently on hold. I don’t expect myself to be able to do anything and everything, I’m not that skilled.

Rei: Ahaha. Don’t just give up an’ abandon it—go for it, go for it. For humans, nothin’ is impossible~

Become insatiable, chase after multiple dreams at the same time an’ bring ‘em all to fruition!

Keito: Don’t speak based on yourself, monster. I’m leaving such detailed records behind in case our ambitions are destroyed halfway.

If someone wants to inherit this dream, then it’ll be easier.

It’s difficult to fumble through an unexplored jungle. To an extent, it’s easier to walk on a path that’s been cleared out and put on the map.

Rei: Sounds like ya plan on failin’ halfway in, the way you’re talkin’.

Ahh… Well, Bouzu, puttin’ ya aside for now—I heard that precious childhood buddy of yours is the type to not know if he’ll live to see the sun rise tomorrow.

Look, I’ve wanted to ask ya this for a while. Becomin’ a better idol, and reformin’ the idol industry to do so…

Who the hell’s dream is that, anyway?

Is that your own dream? Or could it be, you just wanna fulfill the wish of someone important to ya? ‘Cause if it’s the latter—you know you’re stupid, right, Bouzu?

If ya give up your whole life for someone else, what guarantee do ya have that it’ll pay off?

Ya can’t reach your personal destination carryin’ such an unnecessary burden on your back, the world ain’t structured to be that kind~

Keito: ……

Rei: Ah well, apologies for tellin’ ya off. These documents are useless now, so I’m tearin’ up up and throwin’ ‘em away.

Sure there’s a paper shredder, but I find it’s faster to rip ‘em with my own hands.

Keito: Useless… What do you mean?

Rei: Told ya already. To kill time, I solved some of the student council’s problems. I called around ya see, just like sayin’ bippity boppity boo ♪

If ya doubt me, ya can take a look for yourself. Well, I am gettin’ rid of all the documents that ain’t needed anymore ‘cause of it.

My work has changed the timeline, so there’s no use keepin’ documents of a future that’s been lost.

It’s just a waste of resources to keep them around, the least we could do is recycle ‘em.

Keito: …It’s really odd, you’re actually doing your job as the student council president.

What is going on here, some weird turn of events? Have you agreed with my plans and decided to move accordingly?

Rei: The opposite actually, Bouzu. Tomorrow, my path an’ yours are gonna split of, never ever to cross again. So, well, I decided to be of help to ya one last time.

As for tomorrow, I’m not really expectin’ ya to forgive me for it~ This won't make up for anythin’... So, well, just take it as a sentiment from me.

Keito: ? I don’t get the meaning of this. You’re a clever man, who should be more than able to explain things in a way anybody could understand. And yet you’re purposefully talking in such a puzzling way—why?

Rei: For ya to think it over, I guess. Life would be easy-peasy if momma bird always came back to feed ya, but then you’d never become strong enough to do anythin’ for yourself, stayin’ forever unable to spread your wings.

Keito: …Like I said, I don’t get it.

Rei: You’ll get it one day. Well, now, commit this to memory. These are the final words of Student Council President Sakuma Rei.

It’ll be troublesome if I baby ya too much, so I’m givin’ ya prior notice. Though it’s a game, I’m not going to go easy on you tomorrow—you’re gonna have to put somethin’ important on the line too.

Rei: So, if you don’t use me well… If ya can’t handle me, I’m done with ya.

I’ll resign from my position as student council president forever, an’ hand it over to someone more fittin’.

If ya don’t wanna part with me, give it all you’ve got, an’ keep your wits about ya. I still got some hope, Bouzu.

So don’t disappoint me~ I wanna see a good time.

I’m so bored, bored, bored, to the point I can’t stand it any longer… I don’t get any stimulation—feels like I’m barely livin’ at all these days~

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[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Curse 8

Location: Hasumi Temple, Main Hall

Keito: …And he’s gone. Listening to your free will as always, Sakuma-san.

Koga: Hey. What now, what should I do? Well, because Sakuma-senpai wanted me to, I guess I’ll be helpin’ ya.

Bein’ honest, I didn’t understand half the words that came outta Sakuma-senpai’s mouth. Did you make any sense of what he was tryna say?

Keito: Yeah… I can’t read his real motive, but I have a general idea of what he meant.

We’ve known each other for a long time, so I’ve come to understand his pattern of thinking, to a degree.

Koga: …You, are you and Sakuma-senpai really old pals?

I’ve been to a lot of his shows, but why haven’t I seen ya around~? Just what kinda relationship do ya have?

You two are often together at school though. Are you like normal buddies, which has nothing to do with your idol work?

Keito: That’s about right… That guy may call me his friend but, honestly, we aren’t that close. We’ve been involved with one another for quite some time, though.

The first time I caught sight of that guy, it was at a funeral home.

My home is a temple, as you can see. Ever since I was a young boy, I’ve frequently visited places like that to help with my parent’s business.

Back then I was a pretentious little devil, though I’ve been told I still am…

Now I can’t help but blush when I think about it, but I looked down on everyone my age, thinking they were a bunch of morons.

I didn’t fit in well with my surroundings, and became my parent’s work assistant…

In my spare time I’d read books, write, and play with the one childhood friend I accepted to be my equal.

Koga: Ha, you were a gloomy brat, huh? Well, I guess I don’t get along with those my age enough to talk.

Keito: Mhm. Well, one day I, who had such a miserable childhood… happened to meet a demon.

Like a lonely kid hallucinating up some imaginary friend, I discovered that Sakuma Rei.

For some reason, that guy’s pastime seemed to be strolling through graveyards… Whenever there was a Buddhist memorial, I’d catch sight of him in the vicinity or funeral home itself.

At first, I thought I was just seeing things. Even back then, he had such beauty that it felt detached from this world. The first time I looked at him I screamed, and in my shock I found myself unable to stand…

I think that man will make fun of me for it until the day I die.

Anyways. No one could ignore such a beautiful boy as him, so anyone visiting the funeral home would often stop and chat with him.

And, without fail, they’d take an immediate liking to him.

To top it all off, everyone would go asking him for his take on things. All their problems would be unraveled by him, and they’d become eager to seek out his guidance.

That’s how intelligent he was, even way back then.

And not only that, he wouldn’t boast about it, just delightedly talk with others. Anyone would fall in love with someone like that.

Before you knew it, people with no business with any of the funerals would show up—these devotees would turn up just because they were itching to talk to him.

It was eccentric. Men and women of all ages would surround him, listening to the speech of a boy that sat atop a gravestone as if it were nothing.

Respected adults would bow their heads to this little boy and ask for his wisdom.

It was enough to be frightening. But I was childish back then, and believed I was the greatest of them all.

I was haughty—I thought that I was the smartest—that I understood the logic of this world.

For that reason, I’d often challenge Sakuma-san to verbal disputes. Whenever I struck upon something I’d head to the graveyard, telling Sakuma-san all about my new pet theory.

That guy, he listened as if he found it amusing.

In hindsight, I was like a little kid rushing to my beloved parents about some big discovery I’d just made… going listen, listen!

That guy, he’d take the entangled points of an argument I’d painstakingly built up and put them in order—where I was at a loss, he’d provide a breakthrough.

He’d present reference books, and in one fell swoop, a conclusion was bestowed upon me.

Talking to him like that, it gave me a peace of mind. I didn’t have to think for myself, I could ask that guy whatever I’d like and receive his teachings…

Having experienced that, I almost gave up thinking for myself altogether.

But before long, I grew afraid. As long as that guy exists, someone like me isn’t needed.

There was a line between him and everyone else, it was obvious. He was transcendent, he was superior.

He was the sole omniscient and omnipotent god, and we were nothing but his extras.

Being near that guy, it degrades you to such a trifling existence.

I’d only just entered my adolescence when I realized that—I was terrified.

I met someone who reduced my life’s worth to zero.[1] To protect my self-esteem, I ran away…

From then on we didn’t talk much, and I grew up unconcerned with that person.

And then, in high school, we were reunited. Since that guy started up conversations so freely with me, we’ve reconnected, to the point where we started talking again…

But to this day, I haven’t been able to erase the fear I felt back then.

The main character of this story—of this world—isn’t me…

It’s a repulsive feeling when you realize that you’re just a minor character—no, that you’re nothing more than a backdrop who could be replaced by just about anyone.

It was as if I’d become empty. If the story, if the world doesn’t need me, then… Why was I even born?

Do you get what I’m trying to say, Oogami?

It seems like you wish to get close to that guy, but… a human isn’t strong enough to live alongside a god and survive with their sanity intact—it’s impossible.

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Okay. So what Keito says here is 零 (rei), which is Rei's name. If you aren't aware, it also means zero or nothing. So he's basically saying: I met someone who reduced my life's worth to rei (zero/nothing). Take it however you'd like to.

[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Curse 7

Location: Hasumi Temple, Main Hall

Rei: In spite of all that, if you think ya still hope to remake the world to your image, that’s fine.

Humans, they are the only animal on Earth that would dare defy God to try and change their own destiny.

Even if ya can’t change the flow of the current… you can still throw a rock in a big ol’ stream and make a ripple.

But if ya go excessively interfering like that, you can wreak havoc on the ecosystem an’ leave corpses floatin’ around atop the water.

If ya ain’t prepared for that, an’ if ya can’t accept that, then don’t go doin’ anythin’ unwanted.

‘Cause of that, I frankly don’t intend on cooperatin’ with ya as of right now, Bouzu.

It’s somethin’ so dangerous I can’t just sit back an’ watch… It’s to the point where I wanna stop ya from jumpin’ off that sheer cliff you’re headin’ towards myself, because you’re important to me.

Bouzu. Still, if you’re willing to sell your soul to the devil to get that dream of yours realized… If that’s the extent you’re ready to go to, I’m willin’ to lend ya a hand, with a few strings attached.

Do ya think I’m just talkin’ outta my ass? This sound like a lil’ ol’ joke to ya?

If that’s the case just laugh this all off and pretend ya heard nothin’. If you’re that stupid, then it’s just not worth it to help ya~

But if you seriously wanna put your life on the line, if for some reason ya wish to do that… I’m your man, you can come and put me to use.

I’ll help ya out and breathe life into that miracle ya desire, Bouzu.

To an extent, I feel indebted to ya. You’ve haven’t been nervous ‘round me or kept me at a distance—you’ve been my friend just ‘cause I’m me.

We’ve both grown into our roles in life, become old enough to understand the world around us, and our innocent talks have ceased, but…

I’ll still recognize you for that friendship, like a human being.

However, only once. I’ll hear out all your preachin’, and I’ll obey it, just this one time.

But that also comes with its condition, which is that ya can only use me to sort out your troubles with that underground livehouse.

‘Cause of me, things got all tangled up in there.

That place is only a short distance from Yumenosaki Academy, it could easily become a spot for a whole pack of rejects.

Seems like that could be the not-so distant future. History has its eyes on that place… And before things progress the way I see it, I can at least get said place in order.

Soon after this I’m headin’ back overseas, and I’m gonna finish up my obligations. One week should be enough time… Then, I’ll return for just one day.

And once that day passes, I’ll be crossin’ seas and settin’ foot on foreign land again.

And so during that one day, I’ll listen to one—and only one—of your demands, so you try and hush all that underground livehouse racket.

That’s the rules of the game, don’t that sound fun?

This is an exam, an assessment of your success… If you’re clever enough to use me properly and resolve the issue, from then on I’d yield to you, Bouzu.

I’ll move exactly as you desire. I’ll conduct the unmotivated punks, become the boss, or whatever else you’d want me to be.

So, Bouzu, better give it your all to satisfy this unreasonable demand.

If ya can’t, you’re finished, game over…

If ya can’t even use me to get a tiny lil’ underground livehouse the way ya want, then you won’t be able to save anything~

Savin’ Yumenosaki Academy an’ the idol industry would just be a pipe dream.

Just throw away those wishes that are far beyond your power, relax an’ enjoy your youth like the rest of us.

There’s no need for ya to choose to walk down a thorny path, Keito.

Yep, that’s all I had to say. I best hurry on out, or I’ll miss my flight, so I’ll be on my way. Ah, thanks treatin’ me to some good fruit ♪

Koga: Wa-wait a sec. You just got to go on an’ on about what you wanna say, and now you’re gonna abandon the rest of us?

That kid… Adonis or whatever, in return for takin’ care of him you’ll grant a request, right?

I’ll look after him too, so you should recognize my request as well!

Rei: Ehhh… I introduced ya to that band, so didn’t we already break even?

You’re doomed to fail if ya try an’ hold onto a wish that’s too big for your paws, Puppy.

Koga: Who the hell’s puppy? I gave you my name, I’m Oogami Koga…!

Rei: Wolves and dogs are almost identical. Though I consider dogs, who’ve gotten close with humans and thrived from it, a far superior species to wolves.

There ain’t a need to act all independent, so just evolve into a dog.

But hey, I guess it might be nice to take care of a peculiar animal every once in a while. Puppy, for one week… Work with Bouzu to get some guidance.

Bouzu, you see I’ve taught him all sortsa things. I may have to put Bouzu as the in-between, but ya can’t say you didn’t receive guidance from me, right~?

Koga: Eeh? Ah, um…? Is that right?

Rei: Yep. After a week, show me the fruits of your efforts. If I feel like I see a bit of talent shinin’ through, then I’d be cool with givin’ ya a lesson for real.

Bouzu’s still a, what do you call it, a weak lil’ guy with a head too big to carry, so you’re gonna have to help him out.

Well then… I’m seriously riskin’ missin’ my flight, so I’m outta here.

Adonis: Wait. Sakuma-senpai, what should I do? Shouldn’t I help them too?

Rei: You can do whatever ya like, Adonis-kun, but I think it’d be best if ya prioritize gettin’ used to the school settin’.

I’d like it if ya kept your nose out of trouble, just be a well behaved boy.

Instead of takin’ orders from any higher ups, like your opressin’ big sisters and I…

Do everythin’ ya wanna that you can, Adonis-kun.

Enjoy this youth, have your fill of human life.

And this goes for everyone here… You may be idols, but at the same time, you’re students. You gotta live out your teen years.

I, who others expect so much of, have to live inconveniently for it… So honestly, I’m rather jealous of you guys.

Well then. Bye-bee, I’ll see ya in a week ♪

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[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Curse 6

Location: Hasumi Temple, Main Hall

Keito: You guys, I cut up some watermelon to eat. There’s also some apples and Japanese pears.

Adonis: Thank you for this meal.

Koga: This ain’t the time to be eating fruit! Hey Sakuma-senpai, if you don’t give me a proper explanation, I won’t accept aaany of this!

How come you’ve been ignorin’ me all this time just to look after this guy from Bumfuck, Nowhere!

That~ain’t~fair! You gotta teach me too!

Adonis: It is rude to point at people. I believe, that is common among all countries.

And, I am not from Bumfuck, Nowhere. I can show you my passport, if you’d like.

Koga: Ugh, everything you do is annoying~! What the hell’s with you, you’re pissin’ me off!

You’re from Arabia, right? Well how do ya tell someone to die in Arabic?

Adonis: You shouldn’t say things like that so lightly.

When someone dies, there is always someone left to mourn. What’s more, there are times where telling someone to live is more cruel than telling them to die.

Koga: Ugh dammit, this conversation ain’t getting us anywhere, and I’m losing my patience!

Keito: Don't yell, Oogami. The main hall of this temple is designed to reverberate sound, so if you yell too loudly, my eardrums will hurt.

Calm down, eat your watermelon.

Koga: Ugh~ Fine, I’ll help myself, but why ya bringing us so many out-of-season fruits?

I ain’t got a sweet tooth, I wanna eat somethin’ like grilled meat.

Keito: It looks like one of our temple’s parishioners is experimenting with what they grow. They haven’t been able to cultivate some that are good for sale yet, so they gave them to us instead of letting them go to waste.

My family can’t handle all this food alone, so it’d be great if you guys helped eat it. Here, Sakuma-san, have some too.

Rei: Oh, thankies. Bon appétit~♪

Munch munch. …But ya know, Bouzu, I didn’t come here just to extort some food from you~

I might’ve snuck away from my business overseas to come back for a bit, but I gotta head back on over real soon~

This will be a quickie, so no need to take care of little ol’ me, I’ll be outta your hair soon enough.

Keito: Hm. So then, why did you come back to Japan in the first place?

Rei: Hum. Well, there really isn’t a need to be all mysterious, and it ain’t like I gotta lot of time to kill, so I’ll try an’ make this short and sweet. My main plan was to introduce ya to Adonis-kun.

I never stop movin’, I’m staggerin’ everywhere without planting my feet. I’m a busy guy, what with TV broadcasts an’ other things, both abroad and locally.

So, it’d be real difficult for someone like me to constantly look after this kid.

Well, it ain’t like he’s a baby or anythin’ either… He’s a competent boy, so I bet even if ya ended up neglectin’ him, he’d survive.

Nonetheless, this kid was entrusted to me by a former mentor of mine.

If possible, I was hopin’ ya could look after him too.

I thought to myself that if I left ‘im in Bouzu’s hands, I’d have a peace of mind. But that guy over there is with ya for some reason… uuuh, what’s your name?

Koga: Huuh? Ya can’t even remember my name?! Better etch this into your skull, I’m Oogami Koga! Don’t you dare forget that ‘til the day you die!

Rei: Yeah… Well, Oooogami~ Koooga~kun with the very cool name—if you’d like, how about ya take care of Adonis-kun, too.

You’re probably ‘round the same age, go on and make friends with him.

Koga: Huh? I don’t need friends~ I’m proud to be a lone wolf!

Rei: This kid’s got a ripe reaction to every little thing, don’t he… This is just gettin’ more and more amusin’

Well, there isn’t a need to think about it too heavily. Just keep an eye out for ‘im as you see fit on campus.

If it looks like he’s about to get mixed up with some trouble, all’s you gotta do is stealthily get ‘im outta there.

This kid, he may look tough, but he’s a good boy with a tender heart… Say someone goes pickin’ a fight with him, I bet he wouldn’t know just how to approach that.

So if someone bullies him, just casually help a guy out. I’m beggin’ ya, and naturally I’ll be doin’ my best to look after him, too.

…If anything troubles ya, just talk with someone about it, Adonis-kun.

Adonis: Got it. I’m indebted to you, Sakuma-senpai.

Rei: Nah, I’m just returnin’ a favor. Rewardin’ one favor with another, that’s one of the rules of a human society.

Keito: Sakuma-san. I’m well acquainted with your arrogance, but I think this is a new low… Aren’t you just one-sidedly pushing all the hassle onto us?

Rei: Of course, now that I’ve gone an’ asked a favor of ya I’ve gotta compensate ya, you have my word. Yeeep, I’ll reward you properly.

Bouzu. You got some use for me, seems like you’re tryna feature me in somethin’ big. But…

I’ve got a lotta obligations of my own, so I can’t really agree with the way you’re thinkin’.

You’re still youthful an’ naive, so this ain’t got anythin’ to do with you nabbin’ up a pessimistic view of life…

Talkin’ from experience, no matter how much the average person may flail about, he can’t turn the tides.

An individual person—even an outstanding man like yours truly, Rei-sama-chan—just can’t rewrite the world’s fate.

You must not try to change it. You ought to let it be, everything’ll take its course naturally.

That’s fine, ain’t it~? The idol industry is full of unmotivated people, an’ Yumenosaki academy is slowly washin’ away.

Stuff like that’s just fate, so how about ya just abandon hope and let the tides take ya along.

Even if one industry grows weary an’ dies out, another one’ll just spring from the ashes.

The talent an’ tech the industry had would flow to the new ones, and those industries can thrive.

So in the end, human civilization can get a lot more advanced.

If somethin’ vanishes without a trace, such is life, maybe the world didn’t need it to begin with.

I’m talkin’ extremes here, but if idols die out, all’s well so long as humanity carries on~ When somethin’ gets too old society oughta cast it away, keep sheddin’ its skin an’ come back anew.

I didn’t mean to go and quote Darwin's theory of evolution, but hey, that’s how natural selection works—the best are weeded out an’ survive to shape their environment.

That kinda thing ain’t a place humans should be forcibly stickin’ their hands in to meddle.

In this world God has created, we shouldn’t dare break the rules by intervenin’~

If ya brute force it, you’re gonna contort the machine of life an’ displace some cog, leavin’ it even more pitiful than it was before.

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[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Curse 5

Location: Outside the Hasumi Temple

Keito: ♪~♪~♪

Koga: (...!? Woah, what the hell’s this?)

(Comin’ from that little bitty Shamisen is this huge force!)

(If the roar of my guitar was an explosive… I’d call it a bomb, and that right there’s a machine gun! It’s like I’m being shredded by his sound…?!)

(This guy ain’t all talk! He’s top-notch!)

(As expected of Sakuma-senpai, who’s famous for hangin’ out with no one. He’s workin’ with this guy at every given opportunity, and it ain’t for no reason!)

(This guy… He really is Sakuma-san’s partner, or is it more like his right-hand man?)

(His docile looks tricked me, he’s a rock n’ roller too~!)

(I’m surprised, he’s actually pretty cool…☆)

Keito: …What is it, Oogami? Your hands have come to a stop. Perhaps you’ve become charmed listening to me?

Koga: Wh!? No, no, you just startled me ‘cause you started playing outta nowhere!

Oh, yeah, is that all ya got, senpai?! You just caught me off guard with a sneak attack!

Keito: Of course not, I’ve yet to warm up. I haven’t touched the Shamisen in quite some time, so I must re-introduce myself to it.

… I’ll only be raising the tempo from here on out. Try to keep up with me, if you can.

Koga: B-bring it! We’ll use that shamisen and my guitar to make a blend of Japanese and Western styled music!

I’m gettin’ revved up just thinking about what kinda never before seen tunes will be born! Kyahahaha ☆

♪~♪~♪

Keito: ♪~♪~♪

Rei: Ahaha. Things got pretty exciting ‘round here, even while the starrin’ actor was skippin’ out, eh~? Mind if I join in on this session?

Adonis-kun, there should be a Japanese flute ‘round here somewhere, so why don’t ya nab that. Let’s play wind instruments~ and if ya aren’t confident playin’ that, your ocarina should be fine too.

But since ya came all this way to Japan, don’t ya think it’d be nice to get your hands on a local instrument and give it a spin?

Adonis: ……

Koga: …? Woah, Sakuma-senpai… and? Eh, who’s that guy!?

Keito: Oogami, don’t let that stop your hands from moving. Stay focused, please. Your musical performance is all over the place, you novice.

Koga: I’ve been scolded!? Yeah yeah yeah, I’ll play until there’s a good place to stop for the time being

Aah damn it, I wanna give Sakuma-senpai a proper greeting!

Rei: Nah, ain’t no need to greet me. Let’s skip out on the formalities~♪

Adonis: ♪~♪~♪

Rei: Haha. With the ocarina mixin’ in there, it’s starting to sound like somethin’ where I got no clue what direction it’s tryna take.

But it ain’t too shabby, y’know. No matter what country ya were born in, we’re all just fellow dudes livin’ on the same planet.

Hmmm~ If I was in charge of playin’ this flute, the performance would lean too much towards the Japanese style and become unbalanced. So I’ll take a risk an’ sing a Swedish song to further the exotic atmosphere we’re workin’ with.

Everything arises from chaos. Let’s weave a melody of our very own, before some boorish god tries to stop us!

♪~♪~♪

Location: Hasumi Temple, Main Hall

Rei: Whew, Japanese tea is delicious ☆ Did it always taste this good?

I sure do forget easily. Well, my memory resettin’ itself makes things feel all fresh and new, so I think it’s fine! Ahaha ♪

Here, drink Adnois-kun, drink. A parishioner of this temple has gotta great tea field, ya see~ I think the tea from there’s the best in all of Japan.

Adonis: Thank you for this tea.

Keito: Hey. Sakuma-san… I don’t mind if you kick back and make yourself at home here, but the least you could do is explain yourself.

For starters, who is this boy I don’t recognize, and where’d you pick him up from?

Rei: Hmm~ somewhere ‘round Arabia. I got an old teach of mine who lived there, so I stopped by on my way to some work overseas, an’ he was left in my care.

So get this. His country’s always got some sorta quarrel goin’ on, so apparently Adonis-kun goes back and’ forth between Japan and his homeland every time there is a political upheaval or somethin’.

So as far as it goes, he’s a student of Yumenosaki.

Ain't that right, Adonis-kun?

Adonis: Yes… I, too, am a Yumenosaki Academy student. However, I haven’t been able to attend class that much.

Even in the case that I must return to my home country I take classes, they’re given to me as a form of distance learning… I am a special case, so my attendance is counted for like that.

Keito: Hm. I’ve heard of something like that. I see, you’re Otogari…uh, Adonis, I presume? Is that the right name?

Adonis: Yes. I am Otogari Adonis, that is correct.

My Japanese, can it be understood?

Keito: Yes, your pronunciation is clear and easy to comprehend. I take it that you’ve studied Japanese quite a bit.

Adonis: Well… It’s more that I naturally picked it up, since I had to travel between here and my home country from a young age. Though, it seems I speak rather awkwardly.

Being more, informal? Is what Sakuma-senpai taught me is the more desired form of speech.

So, that is what I am practicing. Because I, want to get along with everyone.

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[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Curse 4

Location: Outside the Hasumi Temple

Keito: Hey… Why are you making such a racket, at a temple no less, you rascal.

Koga: ♪~♪~♪

Keito: (...Huh? When I heard the timbre of a guitar, I thought it must be Sakuma-san, but I was wrong. I’m pretty sure this is the first year that tails Sakuma-san constantly, though.)

(I’ve got him on record for breaking the school regulations on multiple accounts, such as being tardy, causing property damage, and walking his dog on campus. I think his name was Oogami Koga.)

(He breaks the school rules without reflecting on his actions, and the majority of the time runs away to avoid receiving any sort of punishment, yet despite this…)

(That guy submits honest written apologies, putting my complaints with his attitude aside.)

(I don’t know what conclusion to draw from him. I mean, what kind of reason does he have to visit my house?)

(My family’s temple sits atop a mountain. I wouldn’t take him as devout, nor the type to climb all the way up our stone stairway to pay homage.)

(And I don’t think he’s lost either, the surrounding area is empty.)

…Hey. Oogami, was it? What are you doing here?

Koga: ♪~♪~♪

Keito: Quit playing that guitar at once. Not only is it noisy, but this level of disrespect is beyond the limit of what’s acceptable.

Koga: ♪~♪~♪

Keito: Ignoring me, are you now? You’re hopeless. …I could call the police on you if I wanted, you know?

Koga: Hah! If I was afraid of the police, then who am I to sing rock n’ roll!

If you really wanna stop me you’re gonna have to use some brawn! C’mon, I’ll take you on as an opponent any day! Kyahaha☆

Keito: Don’t yowl and howl. …I presume you’re aiming for Sakuma-san, yeah? Unfortunately, that guy has yet to show up.

It’s not like we made a formal arrangement to meet, there’s a possibility he won’t even turn up today.

After all, that person frequently fills his mouth with lies and absurd jests to mislead others.

Koga: Huh? You complainin’ about Sakuma-senpai’s way of life? In short, you’re pickin’ a fight with me! I’ll kill youuu!

Keito: You… Hm, you admire Sakuma-san?

Koga: …!? T-that’s crazy talk! I-it’s not that I like him or anything like that!

Keito: You don’t have to hide it. It’s obvious.

I can’t stomach that person’s everyday behavior, but as idols go, I’ve never seen better. Obsessed fans like yourself are not uncommon.

Well, it’s my first time seeing someone obsessed enough to put him off.

He said, “Dunno why, but feels like whenever I turn ‘round, he’s right up in my business. It’s creepy.”—you’re startling him. Show some restraint and don’t follow him around.

Koga: I-it’s not like I’m a stalker or anything!

And I’m not chasing him around with half-baked feelings! Don’t you dare lump me in with the groupies!

One day I’ll be just like him! No, I’ll reach even higher!

‘Cause if you climb above him, then you’re standin’ on top of the world, right? Do ya think there’s a problem with that!? Huh?

Keito: I take no issue with that. However, it’s best not to expect that you can rival that person. Even if it desperately tried until the end of time, it wouldn’t matter, the moon’s beams could never draw even with the rays of the sun.

Koga: Shut uuup~! I don’t care what aaanyone else tells me or thinks. The first time I saw that guy live was the moment I found my path in life, and my heart’s set on it.

I stumbled upon it without meaning to, but I found it!

I’m an idiot, so I don’t really know all the complicated bits!

But if I put in all the hard work to get even closer to that guy, I’ll be a better me than I am now!

I’m sure of that much! So that’s why I've been strumming away at this guitar with all my life! You don’t get this at all, outsiders should just butt out!

Keito: I, for one, would prefer to disregard you. But as you can imagine, I can’t just leave you as is when you’re kicking up a fuss at my house.

Hm… Hold on a second. I’ve thought of a perfect way to drive you out.

Koga: What? Gonna treat me to a cup of tea then politely request that I take my leave?

I won't fall for that sort of trick, you know! Today Sakuma-senpai is going to teach me to play the guitar, and until then, I ain’t leaving!

Keito: You came here for guitar lessons?

Keito: This is just something I happened to hear from Sakuma-san, but… I thought you were introduced to a decently popular band, and you’ve been doing activities with them at the underground livehouse, no?

Keito: Did you fail to get mesh with the band and have a sort of falling out?　

Koga: Hell naw~! That band has my thanks. They actually take shit seriously when it comes to music, so I’ve learned a lot from them!

But, I still want Sakuma-senpai to teach me!

You can’t just lazily throw a substitute at me an’ tell me “you’ll have to make do with this”, I ain’t gonna accept that!

Bring Sakuma-senpai out! I know from one of my band mates he’s comin’ home from overseas to this here temple!

Keito: Like I said, that guy has yet to show himself. …Ah, I see. So this is where I’d stored it.

Oogami. It seems that for you to listen to someone, you must first recognize them as superior to you.

If that’s the case, this will be simple. I shall make you experience first-hand that I am of a higher rank than you.

Koga: Ehh? Youuu–Don’t get all cocky just ‘cause you’re Sakuma-senpai’s favorite!

Ya look like you’ve never touched a guitar in your life, yet ya got the nerve to look all self-assured!?

Keito: I’m not a fan of guitars, but this guy here is my forte.

Koga: Huh? What kinda instrument is this, like some cute little guitar?

Keito: A shamisen.[1]

Koga: I’ve heard of that, it’s a cursed instrument ya make by murderin’ cats, yea? Well ain’t that punk rock~!

Keito: I have quite a few things to say in retaliation to that. But since it seems tactless speaking to you with words, I’ll let my performance do the talking instead.

Observe. The result of Sakuma-san’s training, my string technique.

♪~♪~♪

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A shamisen 三味線 (meaning three-strings) is a three-stringed Japanese instrument traditionally made from cat (or dog) skin.

[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Curse 3

Location: School's Main Gate

Keito: Hmm. Well, what’s your real business with me, Kiryuu?

Kuro: Right. A sorta friend of mine, Morisawa, wants to know where the Tenshouin’s young master’s bein’ kept.

Ya seem pretty close with that guy, so I was hopin’ you’d know.

Keito: ...I don’t remember talking widely about my realations with Eichi.

Kuro: At the school assembly the other day, ya introduced him as the student council’s new officer.

Talked about how ya knew each other since childhood and stuff. Dunno, didn’t commit all the small details to memory.

Keito: Oh… You listened to my speech earnestly at the school assembly, didn’t think you were the type.

Actually, it wasn’t like attending that school assembly was mandatory either. It was nearly deserted, and it felt like those who did attend were all just chatting away.

(We made it like politics, precisely because nobody would hold interest in revising our school regulations that way…)

(The plan was to capitalize on such carelessness and magnify our power, weaving reality as is convenient to us.)

(But obviously, there was bound to be somebody listening to me.)

(From now on, I need to be mindful of the details we let loose. To make sure no one catches on, this has to remain behind closed doors.)

Kuro: What’s up? You’re awfully quiet. Are ya scared of me… young master ♪

Keito: You don’t scare me. This is a country of law, so if you commit any acts of violence towards me, I’ll just summon the police.

For a delinquent like you, it’s arrest on sight. High school isn’t compulsory education, so you can’t use your muscles and brute your way on through it.

Kuro: I get that. Just answer my question already, where’s Tenshouin bein’ hospitalized?

Morisawa is real worried… Well, that guy saw Tenshouin’s health nosedive right before him, so it’s understandable.

But as a sorta friend, I wanna give him a peace of mind.

If he went and visited him, and saw he was lookin’ well, he’d sigh in relief. Or is his condition harsh enough that he’s not allowed visitors?

Keito: No, he’s been hospitalized for examination, so it’s all just for caution’s sake. The hospital’s located at… It’s hard to explain verbally, it’d be quicker to send a picture of the map to you.

Do you have a cell phone?

Kuro: Haha. Even a delinquent can use a smartphone, yanno. Don’t look down on me too much... Wait a sec, I'll write down my email address and phone number.

Here you go. Well, I’m not tryin’ to rush ya or anything, but please contact me today if you can.

Keito: If he’s your friend, you should know his contact information… so tell me that instead.

Kuro: Huh? I won’t just give out someone else's personal information without their permission.

Keito: … Surprisingly, you go about things the right way, Kiryuu. And it seems you’re capable of being considerate, so my opinion of you has changed slightly.

Kuro: Yup. I’m the type of delinquent who takes in stray dogs on rainy days.

Keito: A delinquent is a delinquent, though? Your demeanor and appearance cause people to misunderstand you. Just choose to conduct yourself more decently.

Kuro: Haha. It ain’t easy changin’ a way of life that’s ingrained into ya, young master.

Kay then, sorry for keepin’ ya. ...Later.

Keito: Right… See you, Kiryuu.

Location: Hasumi Temple, Main Hall

Keito: (Phew… I can finally take a breather.)

(You’re most relaxed in your own home, after all.)

(I hesitate to say it, since it sounds like something Kanzaki would say, but I just can't grow accustomed to the western style of Yumenosaki Academy.)

(The smell of trees, this serenity… This is where I began. My roots are planted here, alongside my childhood memories.)

(However, has Sakuma-san really not shown up yet?)

(This morning I received his sudden text, “I’m comin’ to your place today ♪”, so I hurried back home.)

(So it seems that guy came back already. He originally planned to be abroad for a while, though…)

(Did he do something wrong and get himself deported?)

(Whatever. I’ll hear it from the man himself. If he’s truly returned, then that’s promising.)

(For starters, I could try to impose clean-up duty on him, and make him fix all that underground livehouse trouble.)

(It’s his fault things got this complicated.)

(...This is hopeless. Getting involved with him is dangerous, he brings too many unexpected developments. I just experienced that first-hand, yet here I am, turning to him for help again.)

(He’s a human being, too. He has to have his limits, things he finds impossible to do.)

(He treats his constitution as something he can laugh off, calling himself a vampire like it’s some sort of joke.)

(But really, he isn't the same as those demons you’d see in a fairy tale.)

(......?)

(...What’s that, it’s awfully noisy out there. Sakuma-san, have you shown yourself?)

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[reikeip]

Crossroad ♱ Curse 2

Location: Student Council Room

Keito: ...Kanzaki. I hope you’re not here just to perform some comedy act. I do have some minor business to attend to, and I’d like to head home soon.

Souma: Ay, I again apologize that I was rude. Would it business thou dost wish to speak, ‘tis still my wish that you behold this sword.

Keito: I don't mind looking. But I'm not an antique’s dealer, I can't judge or appraise its value for you.

Souma: I see. That is surprising. I would expect thee to possess extensive knowledge.

In any case, not only is my wish that thou wouldst look at this, but also look after it as well. A few days ago thou didst scold me, and so did I re-examine the school regulations thoroughly.

I’ve read that if one does carry unwanted items within the school, they will be given a strict warning, and the item be confiscated.

Thus, I ask to entrust thee with the care of this sword.

When I tried to give it to a teacher he was badly frightened and cried, "Eep, please don't kill me!” So, I decided to bring it to the student council.

I cannot allow my beloved katana into another person’s hands, so in exchange I bestow this wakizashi… I propose we come to an agreement, wherein I forfeit this sword for the time being.

Keito: Even if I accepted this sword, I would be troubled finding a place to store it… Kanzaki, you are a sincere person. In today’s Yumenosaki Academy, I doubt there are many people who actually took a look at the school regulations.

Souma: Hasumi-dono. There is nothing that would make me willing to work on the side of injustice. I am full sorry that I follow now society nor anyone else. It seems we’ve a different set of values.

But would it were possible, I’d like to become closer and be friendly with them.

I desire not to bother anyone, so would I infringe upon any rule I would thus resign myself to the fitting punishment.

Howe’er. I pray thee, do not confiscate my beloved katana. I brought this wakizashi in its place…

My katana has been passed down through generations, so that it were taken would bring disgrace to my family.

Verily, I do not jest with you; my parents would have me commit seppuku.

Keito: Is that so… Well, I don’t know much about your family’s cheerful customs, but I think I get the gist. In that case, I’ll keep the katana.

But I’ll tell you now, I’m only holding onto it. After you earnestly repent and change your ways, I’ll give it back.

Souma: Oh, I humbly thank you! My tachi and this wakizashi are siblings, so they may grow lonely when separated. It is possible that they shall cry softly in the dead of night.

Keito: Don’t say such unsettling things. ...Well, you'd best watch yourself from here on out. Violating the Firearms Act is a serious crime, and I’d prefer if there were no arrests at our school.

Souma: Fufu. Thou say’st that out of concern for me, Hasumi-dono.

Worry not, the government hath authorized the Kanzaki clan to carry katanas. Lo, my license ♪

Keito: Even if you have your driver’s license, you can’t drive a car down hospital and school corridors. There’s a TPO for everything, you know.

Souma: Fufu. The phrase “tee-pee-oh” puzzles me, but I’ll take it to heart ♪

Keito: Right. Then, you may leave, Kanzaki, but do take care with your behavior. You don’t want people lumping you in with those idiot delinquents, right?

You may carry a sword around, but I know you’re an upright student.

Souma: Fufu. Thou art the only one to say that to me, Hasumi-dono.

Well then, I’ll excuse myself. Would I do anything strange again, may you reprimand me without remorse… Hasumi-dono ♪

Location: School's Main Gate

Keito: (Phew… Suddenly I’m worn out. What in the world is up with that guy?)

(There has to be a limit on how much this feels like a period drama. But it doesn’t feel like he’s forcing a character on himself either, so maybe his nature is just that of a samurai’s.)

(If he was produced properly, he may grow into a rather interesting idol.)

(But the current Yumenosaki Academy is not an environment where people can capitalize on their individuality, nor hone their skills and make the most of their natural talents.)

(Idol work has been reduced to a dead letter; they're merely a formality nowadays, what with how you can be so careless and still reap the same rewards.)

(The school can survive feeding off its past legacy for now, but it’s clear that the overall result will be that it withers, and dies.)

(But before that time comes, Eichi and I will perform some fundamental improvements… We’ll raise a revolution.)

(...Or something, but it’s easy for me to spout stuff like that. The reality is, the journey ahead is grim.)

(But that’s alright, we’ll take it a step at a time. With every word written you advance, and eventually it’ll become a completed story.)

(We’ll give it our best shot, so we can conclude our tale with the words “happily ever after.”)

(Luckily, we have reinforcements. As for teachers, the freshly appointed Kunugi-sensei was sympathetic to our student council, and became its advisor.)

(To become steady, we must sufficiently increase our sphere of influence.)

(Sakuma-san’s being non-cooperative, and Eichi’s hospitalized… There’s a limit to what I can achieve all on my own.)

(If only there was someone reliable, an accomplice I could take up with full confidence.)

Kuro: Ey, you there… Uh, the young master.

Keito: …? You’re Kiryuu Kuro, are you not? What do you want with me?

By the way, my name is not young master, it’s Hasumi Keito.

Kuro: Kate-o, huh… Hm, that’s some girly name.

Keito: Are you picking a fight with me?

Kuro: Haha. If I got into a fight with ya, it’d be more like pickin’ one someone who’s half my size.

But anyway, quit being so threatenin’. We sang together at that underground livehouse just the other day, y’know.

Keito: ? You were there too?

(Come to think of it, I think I did see him on our way to the underground livehouse.)

(And the fact that he was “hanging out” there… I guess the rumors turned out to be true, that guy’s a delinquent.)

Kuro: Haha. Well I can’t blame ya for not noticin’, that place had a big ass crowd.

Dunno how Sakuma brought everyone under control like that, ain’t no way I could’ve done it.

Keito: But, you probably could’ve pulled off something close enough. Threaten them in a deep voice, something like “You lot, get in gear or I’ll beat the life outta ya!”, and then the place would settle down real fast.

I’ve heard some rumors about you. That you’re the pride of your hometown, esteemed for your fighting skills. What’s someone like you doing, enrolling in an idol training school?

Kuro: What? Are ya saying delinquents aren’t allowed to wanna be idols?

Keito: ...No, I’m not.

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Collaboration with: ciel