shiningwonderland

[shiningwonderland]

Ai Mikaze (All Star) Memorial

Memorial 01 - I refused

Translator: Nadie (Twitter: NmoniaG)

Proofreader: Raz (Twitter: agnadance)

Editors: Noemi (Twitter: dreaminbeyond)

Haruka Nanami came to me and said that she wanted to be my partner.

How unexpected.

For someone like me, who didn't want to pair up with anyone, it was a rather unwanted favor.

But in this case, it was a respectable piece of work, and the agency did have its policies.

Besides this work, there were several things to consider to see if she'd be qualified to be my partner.

If she doesn't have any potential, it's better to decline.

As soon as I got the call from the agency, I went to my room and booted up my PC. If it was a simple background check, I could do it from here.

"...It was Haruka Nanami."

I typed in the name and hit the search button.

The background information that I saw was really quite ordinary.

Normal family background, normal birthplace, raised normally, took piano lessons.

That's when she began wanting to become a composer, and passed the Saotome Academy entrance exam.

After graduation, she joined Shining Agency and gained some experience through various jobs, but her chance to debut never came.

Then at the press conference the other day, she was invited by Shining and ended up with us… it seems.

"...That's enough of a background check."

I couldn't get sufficient information out of it. It would be best to investigate the humans close to her later.

…Humans close to her. Who could they be?

I kept thinking to myself the next day as I walked down the hallway of the agency.

"Oh! Ai-chan!"

Suddenly, a voice called out to me.

"Hey, long time no see! But we might see each other more often from now on!"

"We are also starring in this upcoming movie~!"

I saw Syo and Natsuki at the resting area of the lobby. Both of them held the same handouts in their hands as I did.

"Ah, it's you two. I had just received the documents for this as well..."

"Ai, you're the lead actor, right? That's amazing! We only play small roles, but I'm glad we can be in the same movie!"

Carefree smiles flashed across Syo and Natsuki's faces.

The two of them had gathered around a table and appeared to be checking their handouts.

That reminded me that those two were Haruka Nanami's classmates.

I wanted to know more, so I approached them.

"You two haven't changed. Syo doesn't seem to have grown, either."

"H-hey! Don't talk about my height the moment we meet! But I'll let you off easy this time since I've been working out!"

Syo flexed his arm. It seemed that the special training during the Master Course bore fruit—he seemed to have gained some muscles.

As for the other one…

"Natsuki, you've been eating sweets recklessly since the end of the Master Course, haven't you?"

"Hehehe, I'm properly abstaining from sweets!"

From the looks of it, his appearance hasn't changed. Maybe it's because I drilled him on how to maintain his shape.

"I'm still using the calorie chart you gave me, Ai-chan~! That's why—look! I brought a homemade smoothie!"

He walked toward me with a large tumbler in his hand and then opened the lid.

"Hm, I'm impressed."

"It has a lot of vegetables and fruits in it, it's really healthy! It also makes your skin smooth! Ah, Syo-chan, should I teach you how to make it? It also has lots of milk and yogurt in it, so maybe it can help you grow taller?"

"No, I'll pass."

"I suppose since 'small animals' and 'beauty' are popular keywords among women, wouldn't it be good to be equipped with both as an idol?"

"You…! No, at times like these, I've learned it's less of a pain to just let things go. Yup."

As Syo nodded profoundly, I thought that this would be a good time to change the topic.

"By the way... what kind of girl is Haruka Nanami?"

"Huh?" "Nanami-san?"

Syo and Natsuki had blank stares.

I suspect they were so surprised because I was expressing interest in another person.

However, it's my top priority right now to ask them what kind of person she is.

"I can't go into any details, but I have to get to know more about her. She is... a composer, right? You both work with her frequently, and more importantly, you know each other from your academy days. So what kind of girl is she?"

"...Um, er… What kind… Well, she's normal...? She's just a regular good girl."

"A good girl, huh? What about her talent and knowledge of music? Does she have a promising future as a composer?"

"A p-promising future? Come on, don't ask me such tricky questions! Now that I think about it, she hasn't had a chance to debut yet..."

...So she's a lost cause.

As I was thinking, Syo started mumbling.

"Her music is, how can I put it... it has the power to make people happy."

"The power to make people happy?"

"That's right. She's still inexperienced, but she's also a hard worker, so she's sure to become popular."

Natsuki, who had been silent the whole time, put the tumbler to his mouth and smiled softly. Syo continued.

"By the way, have you heard the main theme song?"

"Theme song? Not yet."

"I tell you, you have to listen to the song first, then you'll get it! Talking to people is not her strong point, although she's very withdrawn, she's the type to communicate through her music."

"Hehe, that's right. Nanami-san's personality really shines through in her compositions."

"Hm, her personality, you say? Alright, I'll give her song a listen."

"Yeah, do that!"

It would be a hassle, but if I went back to the agency, I would at least be able to get a demo sample of the song.

Natsuki put the tumbler down and clapped his hands together.

"That's right! While you are at it, will you listen to my favorite song?"

"And that would be?"

Instead of answering, Natsuki pulled out his bag and started rummaging through it.

"Some time ago, Nanami-san made a song during her free time as she was helping me with a recording. Um, I think I have it on my music player... Huh?"

Natsuki restlessly rustled through his bag.

"Leave it for now. First I have to go back to the agency and try to find her song."

"In that case, I will send it to you later, Ai-chan."

Then we talked a little bit about work and that's where I left them.

After I had asked several people at the agency about her, I went back home.

Once I settled down, I listened to the song I've retrieved from the agency.

"...Not bad."

The personality that Syo and Natsuki mentioned was audible in the song, but only to the extent that I could tell that she was an earnest person.

Judging her work from a professional point of view, it had many unrefined parts, but her expressive range was wide, and she had a certain kind of originality.

Could this... have potential?

"But it's just her compositions."

I stood up and turned away from my PC.

Apart from composing, she was unremarkable. She also seemed to be a very withdrawn person.

Although she has the talent, her timidity seems to have prevented her from moving forward, which explains why she hasn't been able to debut yet.

As I had planned from the beginning, if she has no potential, I'd refuse. That would be the best solution for the both of us.

I grabbed the documents for my upcoming movie.

This was my first leading role. I had to put all my efforts into this challenge.

I had my own work to do and my own purpose to fulfill.

A partnership would only put me through the trouble of training a newcomer. Besides, I've already done that within the Master Course.

Especially in my case...

"I'll refuse."

I stopped thinking and reached for my phone.

I called the agency and informed them briefly of my refusal.

From there, she would get a call from the agency. Everything was settled. Everything was going smoothly.

I ended the call and looked at the time.

"9 PM... I need to prepare for tomorrow's work."

I had wasted a considerable amount of time. To grab the documents on the desk, I reached out my hand.

"...Uh."

I heard a rustling sound, as my hand must have knocked the papers down, they all fell to the ground.

"Ah, come on... now I have to clean this up, or it'll look just like the professor's place..."

As I was sorting through the documents I had placed on the keyboard, I noticed an email popping up.

"It's from Syo...? What could it be?"

From: Syo Kurusu This is Nanami's song. Natsuki doesn't know how to send it, so I'm doing it for him. For reference.

...Ah, so it's about the song Natsuki liked.

I decided to give it a listen and waited for the download to finish. Soon a piano accompaniment could be heard. It's a rather simple melody.

The melody played as my BGM as I continued to clean up.

"Gal-gal-gal-gal! Galpi-kun ♪ Soft and delicious! Juicy beef ♪"

Natsuki's voice rang out from the speakers.

"What...?!"

"Po-po-po-po! Pork-chan ♪ Gently smiling Piglet-san ♪"

Caught by surprise, my hands stopped while the song continued next to me. Though you could hardly call it that. It was more of a play song with a childish melody.

"Strong! Mighty! Sticky Mochi ♪ Amazing things~ The world is round ♪"

"And here I thought her compositions had potential..."

I take it back. There was no potential. Useless. What a pointless song. What were you even thinking, making him sing such a song?

The song continued. Aside from the piano and Natsuki's singing, there was another laughing voice.

Occasionally, the piano would stop and the clapping of hands could be heard instead.

"Maybe 'It sounds like fun' would be more accurate..."

With a strange feeling in my chest, I moved my hand to stop the song.

"Well... at least it seems to be popular with them."

I muttered to myself. After I finished sorting, I began the next task.

[shiningwonderland]

Repeat and All Star Translation Progress

We're a bit late updating, but we have finished the main chapters and the True Love End (the best ending) for Repeat Masato's route! Hurrah! :) The links to each chapter are below! https://shiningwonderland.tumblr.com/directory-repeat

We are going to finish up the remaining chapters for Tokiya's route, and we will be officially finished doing the main chapters for each boy! After that, we will then start translating the alternate endings (Friend End and Love End) and memorials for every Repeat route! As for All Star, we are in the middle of finishing up Ranmaru's route's chapters so stay tuned!

[shiningwonderland]

Hello! Does the team plan on translating any of the other games?

Hello Anon! Yes, our current plan is to continue translating! However, starting a new game will require more planning, so we'll finish Repeat and All Star first before making any decisions. - Nadie

[shiningwonderland]

Masato Hijirikawa (Repeat)

Translator: Raz (Twitter: agnadance)

Proofreader: Nadie (Twitter: NmoniaG)

Editor: Mae (Twitter: itoshikimaegirl)

QA: Rei (Twitter: wolfe_raine)

True Love End - Just Für You

Masato Hijirikawa: Thank you very much.

Hijirikawa-sama finishes singing and takes a deep bow towards the audience.

The hall bursts into applause and cheering.

They're even calling for an encore… Every single person has been enraptured by Hijirikawa-sama's voice, including me…

I would've never thought a song could seep into my heart in this way… and touch me so deeply…

I've never heard a song so wonderful that it brings tears to my eyes.

What is this feeling of joy?

His voice was deep and passionate, and his expression was filled with sorrow. It was as if he was acting as he was singing.

His song was so miraculous that images flashed behind my closed eyes as he sang.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: Masato…? So this is Masato's song… How long has he been capable of this…

I pray for good results as I wait for the announcement.

For the graduation ceremony, the winner is decided by the votes from nine judges, including the principal, and the audience.

The nine judges each score the individual performances out of 10 points.

The audience votes for which students they think had the best performance. The one who gets the most votes wins ten points, second place gets nine points, and this continues up until tenth place.

The person who receives the most total points wins. They become a new idol at Shining Agency and proceed to aim to become the top idol.

For the ones who do not win, they can still join Shining Agency as long as they have over 85 points.

Also, there are people from other agencies who come to see the audition…

So even if one were to not get into Shining Agency, there’s a chance that they would be scouted by a different agency afterward.

But we have to produce outstanding results.

If we don't, Hijirikawa-sama won't be able to meet his requirements and will be forced to return home.

The only way for us to survive is to win. Please, God, let Hijirikawa-sama win!

Ringo Tsukimiya: The winner of this year's graduation audition is… Masato Hijirikawa!

Cheers erupt once again.

Female Student A: Amazing… I was so moved that I cried.

Male Student A: Yeah, it was a great song. It really got to me.

The audience claps and cheers without stopping, demanding an encore.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Congratulations! It was a wonderful song. Your feelings touched my heart. Listening to it made me feel warm inside.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Maa-kun, you'll surely become a great singer. That girl's composing was also excellent. She brought out your charm to the fullest…

Ringo Tsukimiya: You're a great pair in many ways. I'm looking forward to your future together. Keep doing your best!

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, I will!

Masato Hijirikawa: Haru! Did you listen to my song?

Hijirikawa-sama runs into the stage wing and asks me with excitement.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes, I did! Your singing was fantastic. It touched my heart.

Masato Hijirikawa: I see… That's your song. I sang my love for you.

Masato Hijirikawa: I’m wondering—are you willing to accept my feelings?

Haruka Nanami: Of course.

Masato Hijirikawa: I see… I'm glad. I spotted my father in the audience. It seems he came to listen to me.

Masato Hijirikawa: I'll go and declare to him once more that I want to spend my life with you…

Masato Hijirikawa: I think he understands now that he listened to my song. Will you come with me?

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I will.

Masato Hijirikawa: … Father… Thank you for coming today. I see that you have listened to my song.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: Yes, that Fujikawa was very insistent that I should come listen. But…

Fujikawa… He must mean Jiiya-san. Ahh, I'm so thankful!

Masaomi Hijirikawa: I understand why he asked me to come here today. You had a good look in your eyes. 

Masaomi Hijirikawa: They were the eyes of a fighting man–the eyes of a grown man with a loved one to protect. You've grown.

Masato Hijirikawa: Father…

Masaomi Hijirikawa: It seems that you have found your path, and that you are qualified to follow it. Give it your all.

Masato Hijirikawa: I-is that all right?

Masaomi Hijirikawa: Yes… I've raised you thinking everything was for your sake, but it seems that my method was wrong.

Masato Hijirikawa: … I always thought that you hated me… I didn't know you thought of me that way…

Masaomi Hijirikawa: What kind of parent hates their child? The moment you were born, I wished for your happiness…

Masaomi Hijirikawa: … I was being clumsy. Even now, I'm not sure if the path you've chosen is correct or not. 

Masaomi Hijirikawa: To tell you the truth, I wanted to raise you under my wing a little longer.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: But even if I were to try stopping you, you wouldn’t listen to me, right? So there's no point in doing so.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: That song was magnificent.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: I want to try believing in your dream. I'll put my faith in it… Do your best.

Masato Hijirikawa: Thank you very much!

His father grins and turns to face me.

Uuu… I'm so nervous!

Masaomi Hijirikawa: Are you the one who composed that song?

Haruka Nanami: Ah… y-yes!

Masaomi Hijirikawa: … It's a great song. I'll leave my son to you.

Hijirikawa-sama's father bows to me.

Hijirikawa-sama and I walk down the path towards the dormitories while holding hands.

Masato Hijirikawa: Haru… About that ring I gave you…

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes. I have it.

I take out the sachet from my pocket and give it to Hijirikawa-sama.

Masato Hijirikawa: I want to make my vow to you again.

Hijirikawa-sama opens the sachet and takes out the ring. Holding my hand, he slides the ring onto my finger.

Masato Hijirikawa: I vow to protect you for the rest of my life. I'll put my heart and soul into making you happy.

Masato Hijirikawa: So… will you walk alongside me for the rest of our lives?

Haruka Nanami: … Yes.

Masato Hijirikawa: No matter what troubles we may face, or how many days will pass by, I vow that I will continue loving you for the rest of my life.

Hijirikawa-sama looks me straight in the eye.

Masato Hijirikawa: Please accept this.

Masato Hijirikawa: Close your eyes…

Following his request, I slowly close my eyes.

He puts his hand on my cheek and our lips brush.

It’s a small and fleeting kiss.

I slowly open my eyes and we gaze at each other.

Haruka Nanami: …

Masato Hijirikawa: …

Then…

His arms wrap around me tightly, and he kisses me again.

A long kiss, like a vow that will last for an eternity… 

This is most likely just the beginning of our romance.

A few days pass…

We've been called to the principal's office.

Shining Saotome: Congratulations on your victory!

Masato Hijirikawa: Thank you very much.

Haruka Nanami: T-thank you…

Shining Saotome: Love… I felt the love between you two. To put it simply, you love each other, don't you?

Shining Saotome: You can't hide it from me. There's nothing the Saotome Eye can't see!

Romance is forbidden. Those words pierce my heart.

I don't want to lie to the principal, but…

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes.

Hijirikawa-sama answers him resolutely.

Haruka Nanami: Huh…?

Why…?

Masato Hijirikawa: We respect each other as a singer and composer, and…

Masato Hijirikawa: We love each other. Our deep bond can't be hindered by anyone…

Shining Saotome: Hmm, you've got guts for proclaiming that at this point! I'm taking away your debut.

N-no!!

Shining Saotome: … That's what I would normally say, but it seems that the Hijirikawa conglomerate has given you two its full support!

Shining Saotome: The Hijirikawa conglomerate is a big client of Shining Agency. I can't neglect that fact!

Shining Saotome: So now you know! I'll give a special allowance for you two to date! BUT you must keep it secret from everyone else!

Shining Saotome: I was also in love once, but I was young and lost sight of that love.

Shining Saotome: You two still lack experience! BUT I believe that you two will overcome any obstacle!

Shining Saotome: You two are bound by a strong bond! Also, you both are comrades aiming for the same goal, so I'm sure that it will be AAALRIIIGHT!

Shining Saotome: Just keep it under wraps and make sure everyone around you doesn't find out about your secret romance!

Haruka Nanami: Yes, sir.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, sir.

After that, Hijirikawa-sama is immediately hired to begin work as a new idol.

He's preparing for his CD debut and starring in a Hijirikawa conglomerate commercial…

Also, since he won't be able to take a long break after he formally debuts, Hijirikawa-sama's father…

… has allowed us to stay at the Hijirikawa conglomerate's vacation home.

Masato Hijirikawa: We only have two days with each other, but let's spend quality time together.

Haruka Nanami: U-um, that's fine, but why are you holding me?

We're watching TV on the sofa in the vacation home together, but…

At some point, I ended up on Hijirikawa-sama's lap.

He's holding me from behind as I sit on his lap with my back facing him, like how a child would sit on their mother's lap on a train.

Masato Hijirikawa: Hm? Yes, I want to hold you as long as I can.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, um… I'm glad, but, um… This is a little embarrassing.

Masato Hijirikawa: What are you so embarrassed about? It's only the two of us.

Haruka Nanami: Yes… That's true, but…

Masato Hijirikawa: You don't want to be held by me?

Haruka Nanami: Huh? Um, no, I don't mind…

Masato Hijirikawa: Then let's stay like this a little longer. The night has just begun. Is it bad that I want to proclaim my love to you in my arms like this?

Haruka Nanami: No, not at all…

Masato Hijirikawa: I see. I'm glad.

He lightly kisses my hair.

He continues kissing down towards my neck.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, umm…

Masato Hijirikawa: For so long, I've wanted to hold, touch, and feel you…

Masato Hijirikawa: All these feelings that I've kept bottled up inside of me for so long are overflowing, and I can't stop them.

Masato Hijirikawa: I love you so much that I don't know what to do with myself.

Masato Hijirikawa: Please, don't stop me. Accept my love.

Haruka Nanami: Okay.

Masato Hijirikawa: Nn…

Haruka Nanami: Nn…

Hijirikawa-sama's an idol, so it will be a very long time until I can announce that I'm his lover.

However, I won't be discouraged. I'll keep doing my best so that one day, I can stand by his side confidently.

I want to be with him forever and ever…

I LOVE YOU!

Thank you for playing.

Fin.

[shiningwonderland]

Ranmaru Kurosaki (All Star)

Translator: Nadie (Twitter: NmoniaG)

Proofreader: Raine (Twitter: amagiyas)

Editor: Snail (Twitter: herbert_snail)

Chapter Five - Unexpected DISTORTION

Masato Hijirikawa: Welcome back to another episode of "Ranmaru Kurosaki's Rock 'n' Roller"! Tonight's program is packed once again!

Ren Jinguji: We'll introduce you to all kinds of high-spirited rock styles. Make sure to stay until the end!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: No time t'lose! We're starting off with a banger today! Steel yerselves and listen up!

Kurosaki-senpai snaps his fingers toward the camera.

At the same time, the song that he selected for today starts playing.

Kurosaki-senpai, you're so cool!

The other day he told me to come to the studio before our meeting to watch his program.

"Ranmaru Kurosaki's Rock 'n' Roller" is a midnight show hosted by Senpai.

It's popular for its information on rock music, atypical for idols, as well as its upbeat and loaded corners.

I was put in charge of the opening song for this show. That's why I came here today to watch it.

Masato Hijirikawa: Now, for the next segment of this show: "My—"

Ren Jinguji: "My—"

Ranmaru Kurosaki: "Rock 'n' Roll"!!

The announcement of the name of the next segment is followed by the strumming of a guitar.

In this segment, viewers send in various "rock-related incidents" which Kurosaki-senpai then rates on a rock meter.

It's a popular segment on the show.

Masato Hijirikawa: Well then, the first Rock and Roll is "G" from Kyoto… Hm…? This is…

Hijirikawa-san's eyebrows knit together upon reading that outloud.

Masato Hijirikawa: In any case… let's just continue. I'll read it.

Masato Hijirikawa: "The young master of my household is striving to become a top idol…"

Masato Hijirikawa: "In order to celebrate his successful debut, I went to visit a CD shop…"

Masato Hijirikawa: "I placed the young master's CDs in front of every other CD on the shelves! Rock and Roll!"

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Son of a—Yer just inconveniencin' other musicians! Nothin' rock 'bout that! Zero points!! Zero-ck and Roll!

Kurosaki-senpai hits the button in front of him with full strength. Then, "0 Points" appears on the monitor.

That's too bad, Mister "G."

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ugh, whatever, Ren, read the next one!

Ren Jinguji: Okay, Ran-chan. Hm, the next Rock and Roll's rock name is... "Joe G"?

Ren Jinguji: "I'm the bodyguard of the third son of a certain conglomerate." Wait, that's…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What's wrong, Ren? Go on.

At Kurosaki-senpai's urging, Jinguji-san continues to read.

Ren Jinguji: "One day, I noticed a dark shadow trailing him. So I took my .44 Magnum from its holster. The wasteland's bird of prey—A Desert Eagle."

Ren Jinguji: "I didn't realize it then. But who would have thought that this would be related to the intrigue of an international diamond organisation?"

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Rocker stop!!

Kurosaki-senpai stops Jinguji-san.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What happens next's no joke! I give ya 80 points, but don't ever send another message t'us again!

Kurosaki-senpai hits the rating button with gusto.

You got a high score, Mister "Joe G"! Congratulations!

And just like that, the program comes to a seamless end. Everyone is now taking a break in the dressing room.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The messages today weren't that good. Hopefully we'll have better luck next time.

Kurosaki-senpai slumps down on a chair.

Senpai looks tired. Maybe I should get him something to drink…

Select the Phrase!

オレンジジュース　Orange juice (+10 Love)

There's nothing better than vitamin C to beat the exhaustion after a recording.

Haruka Nanami: Kurosaki-senpai! Here, have some orange juice!

I pour the juice in a cup and hand it to him.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Orange juice…? Do I look like a kid t'you? I'm not you…

Haruka Nanami: Oh…

He has a point, it doesn't really fit his image…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, whatever. It has vitamins, which is good for the body... I'll take a sip.

He takes the orange juice and downs the whole cup.

コーラ　Cola (+15 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Senpai, take this!

I hand him a can of cola that I bought at the vending machine.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Aight… Rock and cola, a nice combination. Good thinkin'.

He drinks the cola with a satisfied expression.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: —Ahh! Cold and tasty. It's no beer, but that really hit the spot.

Seems like he's happy about it. That's good!

お茶　Tea (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Ah, Senpai, take this!

I serve Senpai some of the tea from the pot in the dressing room.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hm, thanks. Pff, hot! The temperature's too hot!

Senpai, who wanted to chug the whole thing, starts coughing.

When I look at the tea pot I can see it's boiling, explaining why the temperature was so high.

Haruka Nanami: I'm sorry! A-are you hurt?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: That burned… Make sure t'only pick cold drinks from now on!

Haruka Nanami: U-understood..!

I reply while handing him some water.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: So? Any ideas for the opening song?

He asks after taking a breath.

Haruka Nanami: Let's see… How about a band?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: A band?

Haruka Nanami: Yes. It's an opening song for a rock show, and since everyone can play an instrument I thought it would be nice to have you all perform.

Masato Hijirikawa: I see… Everyone is used to seeing us sing, but it's a rare sight to see us play our instruments.

Ren Jinguji: Not to mention that playing an instrument is sexy. I'm sure it'll do well, Lady.

Haruka Nanami: Thank you!

Kurosaki-senpai folds his arms and seems to contemplate something.

Does he not like the idea?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It ain't a bad idea, but…

He mumbles a few words.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I'd play the bass, Masato the keyboard and Ren the saxophone. But we don't have drums or guitar.

Haruka Nanami: We could have the instruments programmed. Or we could ask someone to help us with that part.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Programmin' would kill the soul of it, and askin' randos for help would also…

"Mmm…" he adds in a low voice.

Then…

Jii: If you will pardon me.

I hear a familiar voice from behind the door.

That voice belongs to…

Haruka Nanami: Jiiya-san?!

I open the door and see Jiiya-san, Hijirikawa-san's elderly manservant, standing in front of me.

Jiiya-san previously enrolled in the Saotome Academy which is where I first met him.

Jii: My, my, I just wanted to check in and see how things have been going since we last met. Hm? You are the Jinguji scion! And you are…?

Jiiya-san stares at Kurosaki-senpai unblinkingly.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Who the hell are ya…?

Jii: I am Fujikawa, a butler at the Hijirikawa household. Could you possibly be the Kurosaki—

Masato Hijirikawa: Hold on, Jii, why did you barge into the dressing room without notice?

Hijirikawa-san asks while trying to read Kurosaki-senpai's facial expression.

Masato Hijirikawa: And also, Jii… Could it be that you sent an email to a certain rock show?

Jii: Whoa, COUGH, COUGH! What could you possibly mean?

Jiiya-san suddenly chokes.

Jii: Aaah, that reminds me! I wanted to give you this, Young Master!

Saying this, Jiiya-san takes a letter out of the breast of his kimono.

Masato Hijirikawa: What's this…? Oh, are those the documents I asked for?

Hijirikawa-san eyes the documents.

Masato Hijirikawa: Hariya Holdings… So it's… Hariya?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hariya?

Upon hearing what Hijirikawa-san said, Senpai looks up in surprise.

And then…

George: Pardon me.

Huh? I remember that voice too…

As the door creaks open, a tall man enters the room.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, George-san!

George: Ah, so you're here as well. The Hijirikawa scion too… It has been a while. Hm? Are you…

George-san now, too, stares at Kurosaki-senpai.

Ren Jinguji: Oh, right. This is my senpai, Ranmaru Kurosaki—Ran-chan. This is George, my family's butler.

Jinguji-san introduces him to Kurosaki-senpai.

George: I knew it, you are the heir of the Kurosaki family.

Ren Jinguji: And? What brings you here? That said, there's something I want to ask you. Did you send an email to a certain rock show—

George: Ughhh, an old wound on my back is suddenly hurting.

He says, seemingly wanting to interrupt Jinguji-san, then taps his fist on the palm of his hand as if he's remembered something.

George: That's right, I just remembered—I came here to give you the picture I got of the man you've mentioned before.

George-san takes a picture out of his pocket.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …!

Senpai is startled when he sees the picture.

Haruka Nanami: Huh? I feel like I've seen that man before…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What? Where have ya seen him?

Kurosaki-senpai asks me surprised.

Haruka Nanami: I can't quite remember, but I believe I saw him and some other people in front of the agency last month…

Haruka Nanami: They were pacing back and forth.

Haruka Nanami: They stuck out to me since they didn't seem to be affiliated with the agency nor did they look like journalists.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …That Hariya… Why's he suddenly lurkin' 'round…

He mumbles while looking at the picture.

Now that I think of it, Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san did mention some trouble regarding their conglomerates.

Could that person be related to that?

Haruka Nanami: Do you know that person, Senpai?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Yeah…

He then seals his mouth shut and we set off on our way to the next place.

Jii: I see… So that's how things turned out. You became Kurosaki-dono's partner…

Afterwards, Kurosaki-senpai left the studio without uttering a single word.

Hijirikawa-san and Jinguji-san also went separate ways to their next job.

I wanted to know more about the conversation from earlier, which is why I am now at a café with Jiiya-san and George-san.

There seems to have been some discord between the two households. Adding to that, there may have been some competition.

But since Jinguji-san and Hijirikawa-san started getting along, the relationship between their families seems to have calmed down as well.

Jii: What happened to Kurosaki-dono weighed on my mind as well…

Jiiya-san sighs and takes a sip from his black tea.

George: Yes, I wondered what had happened to him after the previous head of the Kurosaki family passed away. I never would've imagined that he'd be Ren's…

Haruka Nanami: Umm, are you both familiar with Kurosaki-senpai's family?

Jii: Because they are from conglomerates, they have many similar connections. Of course, their fates are also intertwined…

Jiiya-san and George-san both nod in agreement.

Jii: The head of the Kurosaki family, in other words, Kurosaki-dono's father was an exceptionally great and kind man.

Jii: Because of this, he was taken advantage of by other companies during the economic depression, and on top of that, he was betrayed by the people he trusted...

George: After that, he tried many things to restore his household to its former state. When he began to engage in unfamiliar business, it caused him great anxiety and he passed away soon after.

Jii: It was a difficult time for every conglomerate. There was no leeway to help anyone else.

Jii: I heard that the Kurosaki family members who were left behind were then taken care of by the wife's family. I'm glad to see him in good health.

Jiiya-san sighs in relief.

Jii: However, in a world where we don't know what will happen… The young master seems worried about you and Kurosaki-dono too.

George: Well, in case something happens, give me a call. If there is something I can help with, I will.

Jii: Yes, me too! And please take good care of our young master as well.

Both of them hand me their business cards.

Haruka Nanami: Thank you so much. Oh, by the way… what are the two of you holding there?

I ask what has been on my mind for a while now.

Jiiya-san has a long, narrow nylon case strapped on his back.

And George-san is wearing wooden sticks at his hip.

Could those be…

Jii: Oooh, what an excellent question! I've recently gotten into a new hobby.

Jiiya-san then goes on to take out…

Haruka Nanami: An… electric guitar?

Jii: That is correct!

He plays an unexpectedly heavy rock riff on the guitar.

The guests at the café give him a round of applause.

Jii: To tell the truth, I was once quite fond of the shamisen. An instrument like this one is quite simple in comparison.

With that said, Jiiya-san starts playing an extremely fast diminished arpeggio.

Haruka Nanami: Incredible… You're so good!

Knowing that Jiiya-san was the one who taught Hijirikawa-san the piano, maybe he's a natural when it comes to musical ability.

Haruka Nanami: And George-san those… are drumsticks, right?

George: Correct.

George-san takes the drumsticks from his hip and starts spinning them around.

George: I was looking for a weapon that I could use in all situations. I had considered nunchaku at first, but these here are more inconspicuous. 

George: Originally I started playing drums to disguise myself, but grown quite fond of them.

George-san starts to lightly hit the table with a driving drum beat.

That's… so cool!

The guests give another round of applause.

Jii: Well then! I have my guitar lesson soon, so I must excuse myself!

George: Yes, I too have to excuse myself now. A friend of mine's band will be starting practice soon, so I'll be going.

As they chat about their bands, they excuse themselves and go their separate ways.

They seem quite energetic.

I'm happy that they made up, but…

I'm still worried about Kurosaki-senpai.

Senpai was acting weird when he saw the documents these two had delivered earlier…

Haruka Nanami: Maybe I should call him…

Select the Phrase!

直接会に行く　Go to him (+15 Love)

I remember that Senpai's next job was an interview for a rock magazine at a studio.

That studio isn't far from here, so I could see him in person…

With that, I leave the café.

メールをする　Message him (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: I'll try messaging him…

I take out my phone.

But I don't know what to say after that conversation earlier…

I remember that Senpai's next job was an interview for a rock magazine at a studio not far from here.

Haruka Nanami: I could go to him directly…

I put my phone back in my pocket and get up from my chair.

電話をする　Call him (+10 Love)

Haruka Nanami: If I could only hear his voice then…

With that thought in mind, I take out my phone.

But what should I say once I call him…?

It occurs to me then that Senpai should be in the middle of an interview for a rock magazine at a studio not far from here now.

Haruka Nanami: In that case, I can go to him directly…

I put my phone away and leave the café.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The coexistence between idols and rock? Never thought 'bout that.

I could hear Kurosaki-senpai's voice from inside the studio.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: 'Course if the composition isn't right, the whole song will change. You gotta watch out in the technical aspect, but that's just trivial.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Although I'm an idol, my way of life is still rock. Even when I'm singin' a rock song, I wanna make sure that the audience is enjoying themselves. 

Kurosaki-senpai faces the interviewer and answers seriously.

He is really thorough and simply fantastic when he talks about music.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Instead of a rock song or an idol song, I'll be singin' a song for myself at the upcomin' Song Festival.

Ah… He's talking about our song…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: By the way, we'll perform as a three man band on my rock program. Each of us'll blow away your expectations, so buckle up.

He says with a smile.

Finally, the interviewer ends the interview with a slight bow and stands up.

Even after the interviewer leaves, Kurosaki-senpai remains seated on his chair, resting his chin on his hand.

Could he be thinking about something?

I hesitate to call out to him, so I continue watching him from a distance.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hm? So it's you. What's with that dumb look?

Kurosaki-senpai calls out to me after noticing me.

He seems more like his usual self which is a relief.

Haruka Nanami: Um, I happened to be close by, so… if you'd like, we could walk home together?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Fine. Since you've no homin' instinct, I'll take ya home.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It'd be a real pain if ya get lost. Let's go.

After leaving the studio, Senpai says nothing.

I don't say a word either. The silence between us stretches on.

Then, Senpai suddenly opens his mouth.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hariya was… a faithful subordinate of my old man.

Along the way, little by little, he starts to drop things about his past.

Maybe he could tell that I wanted to know.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: He wasn't just a subordinate, he was also active in the shadows of the Kurosaki family.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Like destroyin' information that shouldn't be made public. Basically doin' the dirty jobs that we wouldn't want t'dirty our hands with.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …Well, it's a story that ya don't need t'know more about. Just forget it.

The story he told me was something that never happened anywhere near me, so frankly, I cannot understand how he feels.

It's a world far from reality... That's probably the best way to describe it.

But from the way Senpai speaks about it, it's painfully clear that this is his reality.

Haruka Nanami: So that's what happened… But didn't you say your father trusted Hariya-san?

Haruka Nanami: Then why did he leave your father's side…

Jiiya-san mentioned before that his father was betrayed by a subordinate that he trusted, but…

Was that really Hariya-san?

If that's the case, it's terribly sad.

Haruka Nanami: I think it's very hurtful when someone you trust leaves your side…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Who knows. I'm not Hariya, so I dunno where that came from.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: But… it's not all bad memories. It's thanks t'him that I had the opportunity to play the bass.

Haruka Nanami: Thanks to Hariya-san?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Whenever we were drivin' in his car, sometimes we would listen to the music he liked. It shook my soul.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: From low tunes, which I could feel in my core t'accurately beatin' and calmin' rhythms—I was absorbed in those sounds.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Even with other sounds playing, all I could hear was that one specific sound. That was the first time I heard the bass.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hariya, who had a certain amount of knowledge 'bout music, arranged a bass for me. I'm grateful t'him for that.

Senpai, whose expressions were a little tense, now has a soft look.

Like immersing himself in memories of the past, far away and nostalgic.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: 'Cause of my old man's passing, the colors of the world disappeared.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Whatever I did, all I could see was a horrible reality where everythin' was dull. I was just going through the motions each day.

As if his body is melting into the twilight, Senpai seems to be trapped in an illusion.

Carrying the problems of his family, enduring it all by himself.

Unable to ask anyone for help nor able to utter any complaint…

Beneath his strong shell hides a lonely shadow.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Music was my sole light, the only color in all this time.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: That's why I chose this path. It's only when I sing songs and play the bass that I feel like I exist.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: On stage, my fans demand for my music and I answer them. I live for music…

Now I feel like I understand how he can shine so brightly on stage.

That's why his fans are so precious to him.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: That's also how I ended up bein' able t'make music with you.

Those words pierce my heart. I feel a range of complex emotions, not only happiness but also sadness as well.

When I think of all the hardships and sadness he had to endure, I just can't feel any real happiness.

That's why I want him to be happy, even just a little. I want him to live happily.

For that, I will do anything…

This is what I vow in my heart.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey… What's with that glum face?

Haruka Nanami: I'm sorry… I'll do my best.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Where'd that come from? It's got nothin' to do with what we were talking 'bout. Man…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: However, it's gonna be annoyin' when Hariya actually makes a move. He's really persistent…

He heaves a sigh.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ya better watch out as well.

"There's no knowin' what he'll do if he finds out you're my partner," he replies jokingly.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: If possible, it'd be safer for you to stay close t'me, but…

Haruka Nanami: But I have work at the agency and also need to compose your solo song…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Yeah… If anythin' happens, call me right away.

Haruka Nanami: I will.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Not t'mention the Song Festival. Your debut depends on it... So there's no time t'take precautions.

Haruka Nanami: I'm sorry…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Dummy, there's nothin' you need t'apologize for.

He says, side-eyeing me.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: By the way, ya said somethin' 'bout being close by but what were you doing? There's nothin' here except for the studio.

…That's right!

Haruka Nanami: Er, well, I—I wonder what I was doing…? Haha…

Perplexed by his sudden question, I answer.

He's right! There are only residential houses near the studio.

The studio itself is also in a location that is difficult to find.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't ask me, dummy. Ya shouldn't tell such obvious lies. You were… worried 'bout me, right?

Kurosaki-senpai asks as if eyeing me.

Select the Phrase!

そんなことありません　I wasn't (+15 Love)

Haruka Nanami: N-no, I was just, um…

I try to act tough because he has seen through my heart.

I try to deny how worried I was, but my attempt to answer fails.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh? She actually tried to say somethin' just now. 'Kay, fine. I'll leave it at that.

He bumps my forehead lightly with his hand, wearing the smile of a mischievous child on his face.

心配でした　I was worried (+30 Love)

Haruka Nanami: I was worried. Like really, really worried and there was nothing I could do…

Haruka Nanami: I know that you don't want to rely on me, but please tell me if I can do anything.

I push myself and express my honest feelings.

I didn't want to concern him but once I started thinking about him, my mouth just moved on its own.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Oh… I get it. I just wanted to tease ya. No need t'answer so seriously.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Anyway… thank you, Little Miss Partner. Let's work together.

He taps me on my shoulder very gently which makes me really happy.

……ごめんなさい　...Sorry (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: I'm sorry for lying.

But I was worried about you, so…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't apologize. I don't mind. 'Sides, I'd never fall for a lie like that.

"You're an exaggerator," he laughs, leaving me speechless.

Haruka Nanami: …!!

This is his happy smile. So he can laugh like that...

In that moment my heart skips a beat.

At the same time, I want to see more of his smiles.

How I'd like to experience various things with him.

Haruka Nanami: What color do you like, Kurosaki-senpai?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What? Why d'you ask?

Haruka Nanami: You mentioned earlier that your life was colorless.

Haruka Nanami: I just thought about dyeing your life in your favorite color…

I want to add color to his life with my music.

I want to walk a sparkling and shining path of music with him.

And if possible, I want him to find happiness aside from music.

These are my honest feelings.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …Any color's fine, really. What would you pick?

Haruka Nanami: How about a rose color? "La Vie en rose..." There they say life is rose-colored.

I remember the red bass pick he gave me for Christmas which reminded me of a rose petal.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …Pfft. I ain't really suited to roses. How'd you come to that conclusion?

Haruka Nanami: You're gallant like a red rose, and the thorns protect the body, which stands for your strong side.

Haruka Nanami: And then, the deep red stands for your passionate and energetic personality…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Enough. Let's leave it there…

Haruka Nanami: In any case, we can start with the things we can do!

Haruka Nanami: I want to find things we can enjoy together outside of music and work!

I said we could do it, but I haven't thought past that yet.

When I try to explain my feelings, I can't help but over-explain.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You really are weird. You won't gain anything from goin' that far.

Haruka Nanami: But it might make you smile!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: !!

Haruka Nanami: And that's more than enough for me.

Haruka Nanami: Um, er… did I say something strange?

Senpai stops in his tracks looking surprised. I start to worry, wondering if I've been talking too much by myself.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …Nah. It'd be great if that came true one day.

Haruka Nanami: Yes!!

We then talked a little about the upcoming Song Festival, as well as the TV program. Afterwards, I returned back to my dorm to which he had accompanied me.

I have bothered him again.

The thing with Hariya-san worries me, but this way I was able to hear about Senpai's past directly from him.

I feel like I've gotten closer to his heart.

I remember what he said about his past.

Haruka Nanami: Maybe he trusts me a little bit more now?

The fact that he would tell me about his past on his own would have been unthinkable not too long ago.

He had experienced so many unimaginable things in his life.

A life in which, for the most part, he was the one who got hurt.

But that's why he's so strong and capable of doing everything by himself.

Haruka Nanami: Okay! I'll work hard and make an even better song!

I don't know what I can do to help him, but I will work hard on the things I can do, one step at a time.

I head straight for my desk and begin working on the song.

A few days later, I received a call from Kurosaki-senpai.

It's rare for him to be the one to reach out. So, while suppressing my happy mood, I go to see Kurosaki-senpai.

I wonder what he wants?

I'd like him to give his solo song a listen, which is why I brought the demo track with me.

I implemented all the advice he gave during our meeting last month. 

I really hope he'll like it…

This isn't my first time here, but standing in front of his apartment makes me nervous.

I want him to listen to my song, but I'm also looking forward to seeing him—these feelings are building up in my heart.

Haruka Nanami: Hello? It's me, Haruka Nanami.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Yeah, come in.

Contrary to my nervous heart, Senpai seems somewhat gloomy.

Haruka Nanami: I'm coming in then.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: D'you have… the demo track on ya?

In this unusual atmosphere, I stand quiet with my head hung low when he suddenly asks.

Haruka Nanami: Hm? Um, yes I do.

He gazes at me with serious eyes, making my pulse quicken.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Lemme hear it.

He says quietly.

I nod and borrow his audio set in the living room and press the play button.

SONG: "BRIGHT ROAD" (S RANK)

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I understand your feelings now…

He mutters once the song ends.

Haruka Nanami: My feelings…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Mh-hm. You've worked real hard.

As he says that, he pats my head gently.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: But… this song ain't good enough for me t'sing it.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I'm puttin' an end to this partnership. Plus, I won't perform at the Song Festival so go look for someone else. That's all I wanted to tell ya.

Kurosaki-senpai looks me straight in the eye while saying that.

Haruka Nanami: Wha…?

This is all so sudden. I'm at a loss for words.

My head is spinning trying to understand the situation.

Select the Phrase!

どういうことか尋ねる　Ask what he means (+15 Love)

Haruka Nanami: What do you mean?

There must be a reason.

I never imagined to hear such words from him after the talk we had on our way home.

Haruka Nanami: I'll fix the song if you don't like it! So please, tell me the reason.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …There ain't a reason. I decided that I don't have t'sing it. That's it.

As if to hide his feelings, he drops his gaze.

嫌だと食い下がる　Persist (+20 Love)

Haruka Nanami: No! This is way too sudden!

I grab his arm and frantically protest.

Haruka Nanami: If I did something wrong, I'll fix it!

Haruka Nanami: So please…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Shut up! …Calm down. It's not 'cause of you.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It's somethin' I've decided. Nothin' more.

Kurosaki-senpai brushes my hand off and sighs lightly.

言葉が見つからない　I can't find the words (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: …

I'm so shocked I don't know what to say.

I cast my gaze down without saying a word.

I must have made some sort of mistake. That's why he's had enough of me.

I reflect on my own shortcomings.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …My bad. I must have surprised ya, I'm sorry.

Only his voice resounds in the living room, followed by more silence.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: This is my problem. It has nothing t'do with you.

He declares after a short while.

But in his expression, I could feel hesitation.

Whenever Senpai declares something, he'd do so with unyielding confidence and firm resolution.

Right now, he seems different.

Haruka Nanami: I can't agree with that.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …!

Maybe my words take him by surprise, but he looks back at me.

Haruka Nanami: I know we haven't known each other for long, but all this time I've been watching you.

Haruka Nanami: That's why I know that you're not someone who'd say something like that without a reason.

Haruka Nanami: So please, tell me.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: There's no need, or rather, I won't tell ya.

Haruka Nanami: Does it have to do with Hariya-san?

I can't think of any other reason. The way he responds right now is just like when we talked about Hariya-san back then.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: He's no joke. Stop sticking your nose into this.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: There are things in this world that you don't need to know about.

Haruka Nanami: But I want us to work together! It's better to do things together than alone.

Haruka Nanami: If I can help in any—

Haruka Nanami: Eek!

He grabs my shoulders and pushes me against the wall.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Know your place, woman… Didn't ya hear me? I said that there's no need to know anything more. Don't make me repeat myself.

I've never seen him with such a sharp gaze.

…It's scary.

Instinctually, my body starts trembling against my will.

I know this person in front of me is Kurosaki-senpai, but…

He feels like a stranger.

Being caught between his powerful arms, there is nowhere to escape.

I can't even avert my gaze.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You're too soft. Reality ain't as simple as ya think.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Stop pretendin' that ya get it. That's what I hate the most. It makes me sick…

Haruka Nanami: …I-I'm so sorry.

He's as angry as he was in November when he told me not to pity him…

But even back then, his expressions and tone of voice were entirely different.

The words he hurls at me, as well as the fear, seem to take hold of me, dragging my body down along the wall.

He stops me from moving by grabbing my elbow as if he would not allow me to run away.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What do you know 'bout me? Have ya ever seen real darkness? Do ya know what it feels like t'hit rock bottom?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Have ya ever been betrayed by someone ya trust?

Haruka Nanami: …!

A shriek of grief.

The words he whispers in my ears with his deep voice pierce my heart.

Those words are heavy and in them echoes a glimpse of honesty.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hariya's simply ruthless. It'll just be a bother if I keep people around me who can't even protect themselves.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: By that I mean—you're in the way. And you're draggin' me down.

Haruka Nanami: !!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ya said ya want to help me? You can start by never showing your face to me again.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't expect me t'take responsibility for your life as well…

It's true, I was inconsiderate and let myself into his heart, and that's why he's telling me these things now.

I hurt him and this is how he expresses his sadness.

Even if I repent for my shamefulness, it won't be enough...

Various feelings muddle together as my eyes begin to burn.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Now you know… This is the kinda guy I am.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hurting others 'cause of my egoism, and ready t'do so simply 'cause I believe it's right.

For a brief moment, as he draws back, I see a lonely expression on his face.

Haruka Nanami: …

It was just for a split second, but that expression was real.

I can feel it.

But what should I do?

Select the Phrase!

信じる　Believe (+20 Love)

I want to believe in him.

Whatever he says, I'll believe in the Senpai I got to know.

He said some harsh things, but he isn't someone who'd do so without a reason.

I'll just wait and trust him.

Until he tells me the truth.

Believing is the only thing I can do right now…

見守る　Watch him closely (+15 Love)

I'll watch him closely.

Just like he did for me.

He has always taken care of me without me noticing.

That was his way to show kindness—by not hurting the other person.

I want to return all the favors I owe him by believing in him.

This is the only thing I can do right now.

諦める　Give up (+0 Love)

In order to not burden him any further, giving up may be the best decision.

I know that this is what he wants.

But I wanted to trust him.

His expression earlier was just so lonely.

I can't leave him alone.

Even though he just refused me, I'll trust him and wait… 

In my heart I've decided to trust him…

But he might think I'm lying if I tell him that.

I know now that "trust" isn't a word that should be used lightly around him.

Haruka Nanami: …

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I'll take the silence as your answer.

Kurosaki-senpai mutters.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: With that our partnership's over. Glad I don't have t'deal with such meaningless stuff anymore.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: This was also the best choice for ya. The babysittin' ends here.

Haruka Nanami: …

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …Say somethin'. Or are ya still scared? …My bad…

I don't reply and simply turn my head.

Then I leave Kurosaki-senpai's apartment.

Back at my dorm, I look at the solo song on the sheet music that I've adjusted.

I was helpless when we first met—so much so that I wasn't sure if we could make music together.

But as we continued to make the music we loved, we got to know each other a little better.

When I was nervous during the Christmas Live, he drew a sign and his signature on my palm.

Afterwards, he even opened up to me a little bit about his family…

Then we worked on his solo song.

It's a song full of memories, and a song that will determine my fate.

I should have gotten to know him better, and yet…

I open the data on my desktop.

Haruka Nanami: Was it… the right thing to do…?

As I ask myself, I keep looping the same song.

I wanted this song to be performed at the Song Festival.

But I composed this song with Kurosaki-senpai in mind, and no other person could complete it.

I want to perform at the Song Festival with him and debut as a professional composer.

I strongly wish for that.

Now, however… I no longer have a partner.

At least, I believe this is what he intended. So I just keep holding on to this faint hope.

That's the current situation.

On the surface, I'm pretending to accept the end of our partnership, but no matter how much I think about it, I don't know if that's the right choice.

Soon, I slump over the table and fall asleep…

The next morning…

I wake up to a phone call from the agency: "There is something urgent to discuss regarding Ranmaru Kurosaki."

I continue lost in a dream in which I was wandering in deep, black darkness.

The next morning.

Arriving at the agency, I stand dumbfounded before Hyuga-sensei.

Haruka Nanami: What…? Kurosaki-senpai… hit someone…?

Ryuya Hyuga: Yeah… We got a call this morning. It happened around midnight.

He says that the person he hit was an aide of a sponsor of the Song Festival.. Hyuga-sensei hands me an envelope.

Ryuya Hyuga: Open it.

Inside the envelope is…

Haruka Nanami: That's…!

Inside is a picture of Kurosaki-senpai who is about to hit someone who looks like a bodyguard.

…And Hariya-san who's being protected by that bodyguard.

The sponsor, Hariya-san, was on his way back from a meeting at a broadcasting station and a cameraman happened to also be there by chance. Or so it seems.

Hyuga-sensei lets out a sigh.

It appears Hariya-san became angry and sent a copy of the picture to the agency this morning.

Haruka Nanami: That can't be. Kurosaki-senpai wouldn't do something like that…

Ryuya Hyuga: A message was sent with the picture, demanding that Ranmaru be fired. Otherwise, they will not only make the picture public but also terminate their sponsorship for the Song Festival.

Haruka Nanami: What?!

I can feel the color draining from my face.

Ryuya Hyuga: In any case, we can't grasp this situation at all. That's why I thought we should listen to what Ranmaru has to say for himself, but he's not answering our calls…

Hyuga-sensei scratches his face with a troubled expression.

Ryuya Hyuga: So I thought maybe you would know something at least… Whoa, hey!

Without letting Hyuga-sensei finish his sentence, I turn towards the door and start running.

Ryuya Hyuga: Don't do anything ridiculous! Tell him that too!!

Haruka Nanami: Will do!

I shout behind me and storm out of the agency.

Haruka Nanami: Kurosaki-senpai! It's me, Nanami! Please, open the door!!

I bang on his apartment door .

Haruka Nanami: Kurosaki-senpai!!

Eventually…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …

The door opens slowly and Kurosaki-senpai peeks out.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Ya… What didya come 'ere for?

Haruka Nanami: Um… I heard about what happened last night from Hyuga-sensei.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: And?

He replies coldly.

I hold his gaze, refusing to be shaken by his cold demeanor. 

Haruka Nanami: What… What on earth happened?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …It's exactly as ya heard.

Haruka Nanami: That…

Senpai does look rough, but he's actually nicer and more considerate than anyone else.

I know that.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I met Hariya and told 'im I won't perform at the Song Festival. I knew he's part of it, that's why.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Then we got into an argument. He pissed me off, so I punched him.

Haruka Nanami: An argument…?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It has nothin' t'do with ya. It's an old and borin' story…

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I feel much better now. I was finally able t'hit that sneaky bastard.

Kurosaki-senpai says in disgust and laughs lightly.

Haruka Nanami: I… believe in you. You are not the type of person to hit someone without a reason, Senpai.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What makes ya believe in me so strongly? You saw the picture, you can't be that blind.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: If you trust someone enough t'be betrayed by 'em, maybe you're better off not trustin' anyone in the first place.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I can survive on my own without trustin' or relyin' on someone else.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: If there's a problem, I'll fix it myself. That's how it's always been.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't force your weird ideals on me.

But…

Haruka Nanami: The Kurosaki-senpai that I got to know, however…

Haruka Nanami: Helps you find the way when you go into the wrong direction. He protects the elderly when debt collectors come to their restaurant.

I tell him eagerly while having my eyes fixed on him. 

Haruka Nanami: He wasn't violent toward the debt collectors either. The one time he did raise his hand, it was because he got angry when he saw that they were attacking a weaker person.

Haruka Nanami: That Senpai is in fact considerate, kind, and someone who understands other people's feelings!

Haruka Nanami: That's why he'd never… he'd never hit someone because of anger… Clearly, something must have happened!!

Kurosaki-senpai meets my gaze and chortles.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: That's why I said you're too soft. I fooled ya with my little act.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The real me's cold, and doesn't give a damn 'bout other people's feelings. I trust nobody… only money.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Good for you that our partnership's over. It's even better for you t'stay away from me.

Haruka Nanami: Why would you say that…?

I ask as he gently strokes the side of my face with the back of his hand…

That's when I realize that I'm crying.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I don't have the ability t'make people happy. My very existence brings those close t'me misfortune.

He mutters these few words.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I ruin bonds and the people I should be trustin'.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: That must be 'cause I can't trust 'em, 'cause I keep runnin' away instead.

As he says so, he grasps my hand, pulling me closer.

And hugs me tightly.

Haruka Nanami: Kurosaki… senpai…?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't shed tears for me…

He wrings these words out close to my ear.

For a while, we continue to embrace each other in silence.

Eventually—

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Take care… Be strong and live a good life. I know you can.

He pulls back from the hug.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai!

Immediately, when he turns his back to me, I call out to him.

Haruka Nanami: I'll wait for you! I'll wait until you come back!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …

For an instant, he stops in his tracks.

Without a word, he opens the door and disappears into his apartment.

And the door stays closed.

Chapter End

[shiningwonderland]

Masato Hijirikawa (Repeat)

Translator: Raz (Twitter: agnadance)

Proofreader: Nadie (Twitter: NmoniaG)

Editor: Mae (Twitter: itoshikimaegirl)

QA: Rei (Twitter: wolfe_raine)

March - The Beginning Coda

The graduation audition is right around the corner, so we're practicing in one of the few recording rooms today.

Masato Hijirikawa: … It's just not coming together.

Haruka Nanami: I think maybe your rhythm is too exaggerated.

Haruka Nanami: Masato-kun, since you’re so diligent, you might be trying to match every note as perfectly as possible. 

Masato Hijirikawa: I see… What should I do about it…?

Select the Phrase!

 体を動かしてみては？ How about moving your body? (+10 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Tsukimiya-sensei told us a long time ago that we should feel the rhythm in our spine. 

Haruka Nanami: It's said that it's good to move your body in order to feel the rhythm.

Haruka Nanami: When you do, instead of forcing it, try imagining a pendulum swinging back and forth in a constant arc. I think that would help with avoiding overpronunciation…

Haruka Nanami: Umm, so move your hips like this.

I put my hands on Hijirikawa-sama's hips and try moving them.

Masato Hijirikawa: H-hey! W-where are you touching me…

Haruka Nanami: Ah! I-I'm sorry!

I thought that doing it like that would be easier to understand, but… I'm sorry.

I sharply pull my hands away from him. 

Haruka Nanami: B-but, umm… I think it's better to move your body to the rhythm instead of standing still.

レガートを意識して。 Try singing in legato. (+0 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I think that you're too focused on the 1, 2, 3, 4 rhythm in your head.

Haruka Nanami: How about trying to flow with the rhythm instead?

弾まないように。 Keep a steady breath. (+0 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Your voice might be peaking because you're trying too hard to match the rhythm.

Haruka Nanami: Your voice will break at the fine parts, so you might be able to express yourself better if your notes are more connected.

Masato Hijirikawa: I see… I think you're onto something. I'll try.

Masato Hijirikawa: Also, my lung capacity is low… Sometimes I run out of breath and my voice becomes thin.

Haruka Nanami: Let's see…

Select the Phrase!

姿勢を変えてみましょう。 Try changing your posture. (+10 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: You need to have good posture in order to breathe efficiently. First, stand up straight.

Haruka Nanami: Also, engage your abs by pulling them down, and your back muscles by pushing them up. Try to consciously focus on each of these movements.

Haruka Nanami: Try squeezing your butt and lifting it up.

Haruka Nanami: I heard it's good to keep your upper body stable and not let it wobble when you're singing.

Haruka Nanami: Um… like this. Try touching my abdomen and back.

Masato Hijirikawa: O-over here?

Haruka Nanami: No, here.

I grab Hijirikawa-sama's hand and put it on my belly.

Masato Hijirikawa: … Don't touch me so carelessly… I'll be overcome by the desire to hug you. 

Haruka Nanami: Ah… umm… uh…

Masato Hijirikawa: Don't make that face…

He pulls on my arm and pulls me into a hug.

Masato Hijirikawa: Every time I see that face of yours, I lose all control.

Haruka Nanami: … I-I'll be careful. I'm sorry…

Haruka Nanami: B-but, your singing will change significantly if you improve your posture, so please give it a try.

みぞおちに意識を・・・。Focus on your diaphragm… (+5 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Umm… “If you pull up your diaphragm, you can hold a note for much longer.”

Haruka Nanami: That's what Tsukimiya-sensei said. Instead of breathing out normally, it's close to squeezing out air.

Haruka Nanami: If you're having trouble with holding a note, try focusing on your diaphragm. 

Haruka Nanami: Let's see, it's around here.

I poke the pit of Hijirikawa-sama's stomach.

Masato Hijirikawa: I'm grateful that you're teaching me, but please do not touch the opposite sex so carelessly…

Masato Hijirikawa: I'm fine with it, but if you try the same thing to Jinguji, he'll get his hands on you. 

He lightly pokes my head.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… I'll be careful.

Haruka Nanami: Anyway, I think things will change if you focus on that part, so please try it out.

ファルセットで・・・。 Try singing in falsetto… (+0 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: If you can switch well, you won't use as much breath as using your chest voice. Try doing that with parts you're struggling with.

Haruka Nanami: You should be able to sing more easily.

Hijirikawa-sama listens to my advice and promptly tests it out.

He smiles with satisfaction at his improvement.

Masato Hijirikawa: I should've been able to realize this sooner on my own, but I'm glad you were here to tell me.

Masato Hijirikawa: Hello, this is Hijirikawa… Huh? G-Grandfather is…?

Masato Hijirikawa: … I see. I'll come right away.

He hangs up his phone and lets out a long, deep sigh.

Haruka Nanami: Umm… What's wrong?

Masato Hijirikawa: … Grandfather passed away…

Haruka Nanami: …

If I remember correctly, Hijirikawa-sama's grandfather helped him enter this academy.

They also went to watch plays together… He was an important person to him…

Masato Hijirikawa: I'll be returning home. There's a chance I won't be able to return to the academy for some time.

Select the Phrase!

待っています。I'll be waiting. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Masato Hijirikawa: Thank you.

He pets my head.

Masato Hijirikawa: I feel guilty leaving you to yourself, but I would like you to wait for me. I'll do my best to return as soon as possible.

わかりました。I understand. (+0 Love, +5 Music)

Masato Hijirikawa: Can you still make progress by yourself?

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I can.

Masato Hijirikawa: I see… I'll try to return as soon as possible. Please wait for me.

Haruka Nanami: I will.

私のこと��気にしないで。Don't mind me. (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I'll be okay. I can work on my own.

Masato Hijirikawa: …

Without warning, Hijirikawa-sama takes my hand and pulls me into a hug.

Haruka Nanami: U-um…

Masato Hijirikawa: I'm sorry… Can you… let me do this? Just this one time…?

Haruka Nanami: … Yes.

Masato Hijirikawa: I will make sure to return to you, so please have faith in me and wait for me.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I'll be waiting.

A week has passed and yet Hijirikawa-sama hasn't returned to the academy.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Oh my, Haru-chan. You're still here?

Tsukimiya-sensei calls out to me after I've been working in the classroom past 9PM.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… yes. I want to brush up my arrangement as much as possible before the deadline.

Ringo Tsukimiya: I see… You're a hard worker… Has Maa-kun contacted you since then?

Haruka Nanami: … No, not yet…

Ringo Tsukimiya: I see… Maa-kun… I wonder if he's okay? I hope he'll show up to the graduation audition.

When Hijirikawa-sama returned home, he told the academy that he'll be taking a break for some time and hasn't sent a message since.

I've tried sending him a text through my phone, but he hasn't replied to it.

Time keeps passing by while we don't know what's going on with him.

What if he doesn't come back at all…?

Sometimes that thought crosses my mind and I feel like anxiety is crushing me.

Ringo Tsukimiya: The only thing we can do is believe and wait for him. I know that'll be tough to do, but do your best.

Ringo Tsukimiya: But if you get so anxious that you can't handle it anymore, please don't hesitate to ask me for help.

Haruka Nanami: Of course. Thank you very much!

…

Meow.

Hearing what I think is a cat's meow from a distance, I open my eyes.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… I fell asleep…

The clock is pointing at midnight.

???: Good morning, my sweetheart.

???: … I was hoping to watch your sleeping face a moment longer… But it seems that I have awakened you. 

Haruka Nanami: …

A prince is right before my eyes.

He has jet black hair, lightly tanned skin, and an elegant, soft smile.

He looks like a prince straight out of the Arabian Night picture book that I saw as a child…

I'm captivated by him, but…

Haruka Nanami: … Um, my apologies, sir, but who are you, and where did you come from?

Cecil Aijima: My name is Cecil… Little Lady.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… umm… I'm Haruka Nanami.

I introduce myself and bow.

Cecil Aijima: I know you very well. I have come to save you from the sea of sadness.

Cecil Aijima: Your mana is in the abyss of sadness. He cares for you and yearns for you.

Cecil Aijima: However, he is locked away in a cage. He is waiting for the light.

Cecil Aijima: His light… that is you.

Cecil Aijima: A song… Please offer a song. Your heart's song…

Haruka Nanami: A song…?

Cecil Aijima: Yes. Your song that goes by the name of "love" is imbued with magic that will save him.

Cecil Aijima: Saving him will also save you.

Cecil Aijima: Sing, Haruka… Sing the song of love to him…

Haruka Nanami: … I will.

I find myself nodding to him, and start singing a song for Hijirikawa-sama.

I can't sing as well as Hijirikawa-sama, but I'm sure the feelings we put in our song are the same…

Cecil Aijima: Thank you… You can relax, now… Everything is fine…

Wind blows through the open window and rustles the curtains.

The pure white curtains cover Cecil-san from view for an instant, and when they fall back, he has already disappeared.

Haruka Nanami: … What was that? Was that all a dream?

"The feelings we put in our song are the same…" The breeze caresses the curtains, beckoning for the coming of spring.

I was so uncertain… but, for some reason, now I feel calm.

The day of the graduation audition has arrived, but I still haven't received a message from Hijirikawa-sama.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Maa-kun hasn't come after all…

Haruka Nanami: There's still time.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Yes, but…

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hey, Haru-chan. If Maa-kun doesn't arrive, shall I sing for you instead?

Ringo Tsukimiya: If I do that, then at least your song can be graded.

Select the Phrase!

ありがとうございます。 Thank you. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I'll be okay. Hijirikawa-sama will definitely arrive. I believe in him.

Ringo Tsukimiya: I see… Then I won't say anything.

Ringo Tsukimiya: If that's what you believe, Haru-chan, then I'm sure Maa-kun will arrive. I'm sure of it.

評価はいりません。I don't need a grade. (+0 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: There's no meaning to all of this if I don't do this with Hijirikawa-sama…

Ringo Tsukimiya: I see… Then I won't butt in. I hope he arrives.

お気持ちは嬉しいです。 I appreciate your concern. (+20 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: But this is Hijirikawa-sama's song…

Ringo Tsukimiya: … I see you treasure your bond with him… It's a wonderful thing.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Then I too will believe that Maa-kun will arrive…

Haruka Nanami: Thank you.

Hijirikawa-sama barrels in out of breath.

Masato Hijirikawa: Haa haa haa… Haru, I'm sorry I've kept you waiting.

Haruka Nanami: Masato… kun.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Maa-kun! I'm so glad! You made it to the rehearsal! Come on, quickly, quickly!

Masato Hijirikawa: Understood!

Hijirikawa-sama slowly marches towards the stage and confirms where he should stand.

He sings a little bit to check the sound and microphone levels.

Even though he’s only just returned, he proceeds to do his rehearsal with utmost composure.

There's very little I can do for Hijirikawa-sama other than give him the song data.

What should I do right now…?

Select the Phrase!

見守ることだけ。Watch him from afar. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

All I can do is watch him from the stage wing, or send fighting spirit telepathically towards the stage…

A-anyway, I'll do what I can.

祈ることだけ。Pray for him. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Heaven, above! Please, please let Hijirikawa-sama sing to the best of his ability!

Let him win the graduation audition!

Please, I beg of you!

God, Buddha, almighty Shining Saotome!

I become desperate and pray to as many gods as I can think of.

信じることだけ。Believe in him. (+20 Love, +0 Music)

All that's left is believing in Hijirikawa-sama and the fruits of our labor.

We worked so hard, so I'm sure it'll be alright.

Our song, lyrics, feelings–everything has permeated his body. I'm sure he wouldn't be able to forget even if he wanted to.

That's how familiar he is with the song.

There's nothing I can do for Hijirikawa-sama now, but there's one thing left I have to do.

I head towards the classroom to finish up my last task.

This task is dependent on our grades and will determine the order of when Hijirikawa-sama will sing his song in the graduation audition.

I'm sure there won't be much of a difference in his performance no matter when his turn is.

But… Hijirikawa-sama is doing his best. I have to do my best to the very end too.

Mini Game 

Ringo Tsukimiya: So, we’ve reached the last lesson. This is the match determining whether you can become a professional or not.

Ringo Tsukimiya: There’s nothing more I can help you with. All that’s left is for you all to do your best at the graduation audition…

Ringo Tsukimiya: This is the final check. I’ll be grading you with the same standards as the judges, so perform thoroughly.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Be sure to get good results. I believe in the two of you.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Okay, show me the best performance you’ve got!

S Rank

Masato Hijirikawa: Even to the very end, you do amazing work… You're outstanding.

Masato Hijirikawa: I'm blessed to be able to sing your song. I'll sing of our love with all my power and devotion…

Haruka Nanami: I was in such a rush that I wasn't able to say it, but… Masato-kun… welcome back.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, I'm back… I feel kind of strange to say that…

Masato Hijirikawa: I've kept you waiting for so long. I'm sorry that I wasn't able to contact you.

Haruka Nanami: No, umm… I believed in you…

Hijirikawa-sama embraces me tightly.

Masato Hijirikawa: It took a long time to be able to convince my father and relatives.

Masato Hijirikawa: At one point, all of my relatives were reprimanding me and my determination almost faltered, but suddenly, I felt like I heard you sing…

Masato Hijirikawa: I was able to recall what's really precious to me.

He lets me go and looks towards the stage.

Masato Hijirikawa: I've also completed the lyrics. I wrote them while I was thinking of you…

Haruka Nanami: … I look forward to them…

Masato Hijirikawa: Please do. Now, let's weave a new future with the song we've created…

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

Masato Hijirikawa: … My turn's coming up…

Haruka Nanami: Ah… Please wait.

I call out to Hijirikawa-sama to have him stop for me, then I fix his slightly crooked cravat.

Haruka Nanami: You're good now.

Masato Hijirikawa: Thank you.

Haruka Nanami: Good luck!

Masato Hijirikawa: I'll be heading out now.

Hijirikawa-sama pecks me on the cheek and smiles. He proceeds to head towards the stage, brimming with confidence.

Chapter End

[shiningwonderland]

Masato Hijirikawa (Repeat)

Translator: Raz (Twitter: agnadance)

Proofreader: Nadie (Twitter: NmoniaG)

Editor: Mae (Twitter: itoshikimaegirl)

QA: Rei (Twitter: wolfe_raine)

February - Passionate Fistel

(*Fistel is an abbreviation for Fistelstimme, which is the male head-voice and is sometimes equated with falsetto.)

It's February. I was worried what would happen when Hijirikawa-sama's father visited during the New Year, but…

Thanks to the principal, we've been allowed to keep working together until March.

Nothing much happened after that incident, so we've been able to focus on making our music.

The lyrics haven't been finished yet, but I've been promised that they will be done by the graduation audition.

I figure I can look forward to the finished lyrics when he sings onstage.

I can listen to the song with a fresh perspective that way.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hello, everyone! Good morning! What a lovely day!

Male Student A: Good mooorning!

Haruka Nanami: Good morning!

Ringo Tsukimiya: Today, I have a happy announcement to make!

Ringo Tsukimiya: You all know what the TV show Song Station is, right?

Students: Yes, we do!

Song Station is an incredibly popular TV show that has brought wonderful music to many living rooms for over twenty years.

TV shows about music are said to be in a tough spot nowadays, but it miraculously still holds a high viewer rating. 

Oh yeah, I think a lot of the idols who performed on that show were from the Shining Agency...

Ringo Tsukimiya: We've been given the opportunity to choose one pair of students go on a tour to see Song Station!

A Song Station tour!

D-d-d-does that mean that I could possibly meet HAYATO-sama…?

Ah!

I'm aiming to be a professional, so I can't just act like a fangirl…

… I have to keep it together…

Ringo Tsukimiya: Since only one pair is allowed, I think we'll have to decide by lottery but… Please raise your hand if you want to go!

Select the Phrase!

はいっ！Yes! (+10 Love, +15 Music)

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ah, that's a good response! I'll let you pull first!

・・・はい。... Yes. (+0 Love, +5 Music)

Ringo Tsukimiya: Oh my, if you want to go, you have to raise your hand high! There are times when it's important to be enthusiastic!

・・・どうしよう。... What should I do? (+0 Love, +0 Music)

I want to go, but…

Masato Hijirikawa: I do.

As I dawdle, Hijirikawa-sama raises his hand.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Oh my, I see Maa-kun wants to go too. I'll let you pull first!

We begin pulling papers from the box that Tsukimiya-sensei has provided us.

I hope I get it! Ba-dump, ba-dump, ba-dump…

Ringo Tsukimiya: Okay, everyone! Did you get your papers? Please open them up at the same time!

Ringo Tsukimiya: Three, two, one… go!

I gently open my lottery paper.

Ah… Did I lose the lottery?

It reads, "No, you didn't lose, you won! Hurrah! Papa, tomorrow's a home run!"

*This is a reference to a very old Yoshinoya (a Japanese chain restaurant) commercial.

…

I don't really understand what this is talking about, but… Does this mean that I won the lottery?

Masato Hijirikawa: … What's wrong, Haru? Show me.

Hijirikawa-sama reaches out for my paper.

Haruka Nanami: Ah…!

His hand brushes the tip of my finger, and I accidentally drop the paper on the floor.

Masato Hijirikawa: … Don't pull back so suddenly… You dropped it…

Hijirikawa-sama is scolding me, but like mine, his cheeks are also light pink.

Masato Hijirikawa: … It's a strange sentence, but… I assume this means that you won.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Oh my, oh my. It seems like you two won the lottery! Hehe! I'll be going with you on the day of, so I'm looking forward to it!

The day we go on the Song Station tour happens to be Valentine's Day.

On Valentine's Day, girls give chocolates to the boy they like.

I don't know if that is allowed in our school that bans romance, but…

I've never been able to participate in this holiday, so I want to try it this year…

Recently, girls not only give chocolate to their crushes, but their friends too.

I think as long as I treat this like ochugen and oseibo—the customs in summer and the end of the year when people give each other gifts to express their gratitude, then maybe it's okay…?

As I think about that, my hands start moving by themselves…

When I come back to my senses, I've already knitted a scarf.

I didn't have many friends up until now, so I'm very good at hobbies that I can do by myself.

I wonder if what I made is good enough to give him… 

It's the morning of the day we go on the Song Station tour. 

Haruka Nanami: … Huh?

I notice that I've ended up in a place I've never been before. Why am I in this forest?

This morning, I remember from when I changed to when I left the dorm, but…

I'm supposed to meet up with Hijirikawa-sama at the front of the school gates…

This isn’t good. I can't remember anything after that.

Ren Jinguji: Did you finally wake up, Princess? ♪

I'm deep in thought when I hear a voice right beside me.

I see Jinguji-san sitting next to me.

But why is Jinguji-san here?

And where am I?

Haruka Nanami: How did I end up here?

Ren Jinguji: Who knows? How do you think you did?

He puts his hand on my cheek and has me look up at him as he whispers into my ear.

…

Haruka Nanami: Ah… Umm… W-was I sleepwalking?

Ren Jinguji: If that were the case, then that doesn't explain why I'm here.

Haruka Nanami: … Ahh, that's true…

Ren Jinguji: So let's assume that we're lost in the forest. The temperature is going to keep dropping, but neither of us have coats. What would you do in that situation?

Haruka Nanami: … I don't think there's anything we could do…

I don't understand the meaning of his question, but I feel like it would be rude not to try answering…

Ren Jinguji: Wrong! This is what you do…

He drapes his blazer over my shoulders and then hugs me tight.

Haruka Nanami: Um… Uh… What are you doing…?

Ren Jinguji: Sharing each other's warmth. That's the answer.

Haruka Nanami: Umm…

I-I don't understand what's going on at all.

Haruka Nanami: Umm, today I have an appointment to go wait at the school gate and head to Song Station, so…

Ren Jinguji: If I told you I wouldn't let you, what would you do?

Haruka Nanami: Huh?! I would be in a pinch!

I would feel so bad if I don't go because I managed to win the lottery.

Ren Jinguji: Heh, you're being difficult… Maybe I should go ahead and take you away by force. If I do that, would you pay more attention to me?

Jinguji-san loosens his embrace, looks into my eyes and smiles.

Haruka Nanami: Umm… Could it be that it was you that brought me here, Jinguji-san? Why?

Ren Jinguji: Heh… Did you finally figure it out? You're pretty dense. That's an easy answer. It's because I decided the moment I met you that I'd snatch you away.

Snatch…?

Haruka Nanami: Are you kidnapping me for ransom? I'm poor…

Ren Jinguji: That's such a bad joke. Who do you think I am? I would never do that. You're such a clueless lady.

Ren Jinguji: … Will you answer me differently if I ask you the same question as before?

Jinguji-san caresses my cheek.

Haruka Nanami: Kya! What do you mean by before…?

Ren Jinguji: I asked you why not choose me over him… you remember, right?

Haruka Nanami: You're doing all this just to ask me that? 

Ren Jinguji: Perhaps? I ordered George to kidnap you. He dealt a light blow, knocked you out, and carried you to his car…

Haruka Nanami: Umm… Isn't that a crime?

Ren Jinguji: The end justifies the means, as long as you fall in love with me in the end. I'm confident that I can capture your heart. 

Jinguji-san traces his index finger over the edge of my lips.

Haruka Nanami: I… I love Hijirikawa-sama. I won't belong to anyone else.

I flatly turn him down.

Ren Jinguji: Even if I told you that I'll leave you here if you don't become mine? Do you even know the way back?

Haruka Nanami: I'll do my best to return on my own.

I don't know where I am, but I'm confident my connection to Hijirikawa-sama will lead me back to him…

Ren Jinguji: … Is that guy really that good? Even better than me?

Haruka Nanami: Yes… And… you don't even actually love me, Jinguji-san…

Ren Jinguji: … That isn't true. I love you, Lady.

Haruka Nanami: I can tell… Jinguji-san's eyes are always looking through me and straight at Hijirikawa-sama.

Ren Jinguji: I throw in the towel. You're quite a princess… Yes, you're right. I don't like him.

Haruka Nanami: Why…?

Ren Jinguji: From the start, he’s had everything that I've ever wanted that I could never have, and yet he's trying to toss that all away.

Ren Jinguji: And yet, he can’t break ties with his family. He hates his household, and yet he can't disobey them. I think we're similar, to be honest.

Haruka Nanami: You two are similar…?

They're completely different, in my opinion.

Ren Jinguji: Yeah, but what we wish for is different. I want to be the heir to my family, but I can't. No matter how hard I try, I’m completely useless to them. 

Ren Jinguji: On the other hand, he'll eventually become the head of his family even though he doesn't want to… I'm completely aware that what I'm feeling is just childish resentment.

Haruka Nanami: Jinguji-san…

Ren Jinguji: But if my rival suddenly finds happiness… if he manages to overcome the same emotional burden as I feel… 

Ren Jinguji: I just… won't be able to bear it.

Ren Jinguji: Lady, the reason I had you kidnapped is probably not just because that old man asked me to…

Jiiya-san asked Jinguji-san…? He wants to separate me from Hijirikawa-sama that badly?

Ren Jinguji: I felt like somewhere in my heart that if you could change him, then you could change me too…

Ren Jinguji: But… it seems like there's no room for discussion.

Masato Hijirikawa: Haruka!!! Are you okay?!

Hijirikawa-sama ran towards me.

Masato Hijirikawa: Why you…!

Hijirikawa-sama sees us and throws a punch at Jinguji-san.

Ren Jinguji: Guh!

Haruka Nanami: Kya! S-stop!

Hijirikawa-sama's punch lands on his left cheek, and Jinguji-san falls on the ground.

Ren Jinguji: … Oww… Don't punch my face, I'm going to be an idol, after all. 

The corner of his lip is cut and bleeding. Jinguji-san wipes some blood off as he gets back on his feet.

Masato Hijirikawa: Silence. You deserve a thousand deaths!

Masato Hijirikawa: I'm so sorry… I'm late. Were you scared?

Hijirikawa-sama takes my hand and pulls me close.

Masato Hijirikawa: Did he do anything to you?

Select the Phrase!

いえ何も・・・ No, nothing… (+0 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: We just talked a little.

Masato Hijirikawa: … Really? 

Haruka Nanami: … Yes.

Masato Hijirikawa: Then I suppose everything's okay… 

ぎゅって・・・ He hugged me… (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Masato Hijirikawa: What?! … Then I'll have to bury you here…

Haruka Nanami: U-um… The only reason he hugged me was because it was cold. There was no other meaning behind it…

Ren Jinguji: I admit that when I was hugging her… the thought of taking her away crossed my mind.

Masato Hijirikawa: Why you–!!

Haruka Nanami: J-Jinguji-san…

Why is he riling him up…

Ren Jinguji: But the lady is not here in my arms right now. I've returned her to you. Isn't that good enough?

Masato Hijirikawa: … Yes. Don't go near her ever again.

大丈夫です。I'm okay. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Jinguji-san… is actually a good person…

Masato Hijirikawa: A good person? Jinguji?

Ren Jinguji: Yeah, I'm an ally of women. However, the lady is so charming that I thought that it would be a great chance to receive a single kiss from her.

He winks at me.

Masato Hijirikawa: … I really do have to bury you here…

Hijirikawa-sama grumbles under his breath.

Ren Jinguji: I'll pass. Also… I've already returned her to you. Isn't that good enough?

Masato Hijirikawa: … Don't go near her ever again.

Jii: Haa, haa, haa, I've finally caught up to you! I never knew that the young master is so fast!

Jii: So what did you think? Did you witness that lass' betrayal with your own two eyes?!

Masato Hijirikawa: Jii… That was uncalled-for.

Masato Hijirikawa: Even you know very well that she's not that kind of person.

Jii: But, Young Master… I'm so worried about you!

Jii: You're going to take over the family one day, and yet you're being deceived by this lass…

Masato Hijirikawa: I came to this academy on my own will. You understand that too, Jii.

Jii: …

Masato Hijirikawa: It's a miracle that I met her, a wonderful composer in this academy… No, I think it's destiny.

Masato Hijirikawa: I like her, and she likes me back.

Masato Hijirikawa: But these feelings are different from the romance between a man and a woman.

Masato Hijirikawa: We acknowledge each other's taste in music, we strive to improve our skills, and I respect her as a musician.

Masato Hijirikawa: I don't love her just because she's a woman.

Masato Hijirikawa: You should understand, because you competed with her music, just how much I, as a singer, need her…

Masato Hijirikawa: She makes one of a kind music in this world–she is my dream.

Masato Hijirikawa: I know this academy forbids romance. I'm an idol, so my net worth will drop if there are rumors that I'm frivolous.

Masato Hijirikawa: I am aware of that, but I don't recall any rule against feelings of love.

Jii: Well that's…

Masato Hijirikawa: Jii… You're the one who taught me music. Will you also be the one to take it from me?

Jiiya-san takes in Hijirikawa-sama's words and lets out a deep sigh.

Jii: … I admit defeat.

Jii: I've served the young master for seventeen years. I've lived this entire time thinking that the young master's happiness would be taking over for your father.

Jii: But… You found another path for yourself.

Jii: At first, I thought this was just a phase and that you'd quickly figure out that this was all a mistake… but it seems like that isn't the case.

Jii: I understand. I will always be on the young master's side.

Jii: I will report back to your father. Please, fight with all your might.

Masato Hijirikawa: … Jii. Thank you.

Jii: Young lady… I'll leave the young master to you.

Jii: Please make a wonderful song that will open up a bright future for the young master.

Select the Phrase!

はい、必ず。Yes, certainly. (+10 Love, +10 Music)

Jii: I see… My apologies for putting you through hardship. Let's hurry to Song Station!

Haruka Nanami: Yes, sir!

未来・・・か。The future… (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Jii: Yes, his future… Take the weight of it on your shoulders.

Masato Hijirikawa: There's no need to get worked up about it. I'll weave your future. We can link our futures with each other.

Haruka Nanami: Yes! I'll make sure to make a great song… For you and your future, not anyone else.

Jii: Yes! Then, let's go to Song Station! If we don't hurry, we'll be late!

頑張ります。I'll do my best. (+5 Love, +5 Music)

Jii: It's obvious that you're already going to try your best. I'm saying that you should produce good results!

Haruka Nanami: Yes! I promise that I will!

Jii: Good! Then, let's head to Song Station. Hurry!

We all arrive at the Song Station studio five minutes before it's about to start.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ahh, you've finally arrived! You were all late, so I thought that you weren't coming! I was so nervous!

Masato Hijirikawa: I'm sorry we're late.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Anyway, I'm glad you made it. It's my turn to sing now, so watch closely!

Masato Hijirikawa: Understood.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, sir.

So this is a TV studio, huh?

It's so much larger than what’s visible on TV, and the ceiling is so high.

And, unlike a normal ceiling, it’s built like a mesh with many lights hanging from it.

Haruka Nanami: Wow…

Ryuya Hyuga: Hey, stop getting distracted. Your teacher's going to put on a good show, so you better pay attention.

He lightly pokes my head.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, Hyuga-sensei.

Ryuya Hyuga: Shh, it's about to start.

On stage, Tsukimiya-sensei is more dazzling than I've ever seen–his whole being is embodying his song.

There is a small, yet grand story told through the song.

The story dances, bounds, and bursts forth on the stage of melody.

He charms everyone who listens to him, pulling them into his dominating presence.

At times, he exudes such sex appeal that it makes my heart skip a beat.

When Tsukimiya-sensei finishes his song, the entire audience lets out a sigh of astonishment.

Haruka Nanami: … Amazing.

Masato Hijirikawa: Ahh, the aura he created pulled me in, keeping me spellbound.

Ryuya Hyuga: He's not exceptional at singing, but he has a presence. 

Ryuya Hyuga: It's not enough to just be good at singing. Even if you aren't that good, a song that makes an impression will be praised. That's just how it is.

Hyuga-sensei taps his chest with his fist.

Ryuya Hyuga: It's different from just pure skill–it's being unique. There's countless people who are skilled, but there are a few people who have a distinct way of singing.

Ryuya Hyuga: That's a professional performance. He makes everyone happy… A professional idol who inspires dreams in everyone…

Ryuya Hyuga: Aim to be a real idol. Hone your individuality. What we need is an idol like that! Do your best!

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, sir!

Haruka Nanami: Understood!

We walk back from Song Station without exchanging a word.

Tsukimiya-sensei's song was so mind-blowing that we're left bewildered.

Masato Hijirikawa: Professionals are on a whole different level. To be honest, I was shocked–dumbfounded, even.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, Sensei was so different from how he usually acts… So that's how a professional does their job…

Masato Hijirikawa: Haru… We must debut.

Haruka Nanami: I agree.

Ah, I just remembered. I should give him this…

I take out chocolate and a scarf, then hold them out to Hijirikawa-sama.

Haruka Nanami: … U-umm… Masato… kun… T-take this…

Masato Hijirikawa: What's this…?

Haruka Nanami: U-umm… Today's Valentine's, so… Um, I love y…

Masato Hijirikawa: Wait, let me say it.

Masato Hijirikawa: I love you. No matter what happens, even if we end up being torn apart by hardship…

Masato Hijirikawa: I vow to keep loving you. I have something for you, too…

Huh?! Today's Valentine's Day. Girls are supposed to give boys a present. 

Hijirikawa-sama takes an omamori pouch from his uniform's pocket and opens the top.

There's an old ring inside of it.

Masato Hijirikawa: Your hand…

Hijirikawa-sama takes my hand and slides the ring onto my left ring finger.

Haruka Nanami: Umm…

Masato Hijirikawa: I won't ask you to keep wearing this. Even though we love each other, right now, we are just a singer and a composer.

Masato Hijirikawa: In public, we're work partners. We can't have others find out that we're in a relationship.

Masato Hijirikawa: But, one day… when I'm strong enough to cut my ties with my family and finally solve all my problems, then…

Masato Hijirikawa: I want you to be only mine for the rest of my life. This is the proof of my vow…

Haruka Nanami: Masato-kun…

Masato Hijirikawa: This ring is an heirloom from my grandmother. The family crest is engraved on it.

Masato Hijirikawa: This is a protective ring that is meant to be worn by my future wife, which is why I want you to keep this.

Select the Phrase!

………。 … (+0 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I'll take good care of it.

Masato Hijirikawa: Thank you.

プロポーズですか？ Is this a proposal? (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Masato Hijirikawa: I suppose you can take it as one. I can't say when at this moment… but this is a sign of my conviction.

Haruka Nanami: … Am I good enough for you? I'm sure someone else is more suited…

Masato Hijirikawa: Don't say such sad things. You're a wonderful woman.

Masato Hijirikawa: There's no woman better for me than you. I… like you the way you are. Please, I want you to be only mine.

Haruka Nanami: … Of course.

Masato Hijirikawa: Then, this is our vow…

Hijirikawa-sama takes my hand and kisses the ring that he just put on my finger.

そんな大切なもの...。 I can't keep something so valuable… (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Is it okay for me to have this?

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, I want you to keep it.

Haruka Nanami: Understood. I'll… keep it safe…

Masato Hijirikawa: As long as you have that, you'll always be mine.

I'm so happy that I could faint…

Ah! This is no time to space out! I have something to hand him too.

Haruka Nanami: Umm… would you mind taking this?

I hand Hijirikawa-sama the package containing the scarf.

Masato Hijirikawa: Of course… Thank you.

Hijirikawa-sama opens up the package.

Masato Hijirikawa: This looks so warm. However…

His outstretched arm pulls me into his chest.

Masato Hijirikawa: You're… the warmest of all.

Haruka Nanami: Masato-kun…

I can hear Hijirikawa-sama's heartbeat as my ear is pressed against his chest.

Ba-dump. Ba-dump. His heartbeat is a little fast, but it's pleasing to my ear.

Hijirikawa-sama's heartbeat and warmth permeate into my body...

Masato Hijirikawa: Haru, I want to walk with you like this for the rest of our lives. We need to debut at all costs. I'll be counting on you again tomorrow.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I'll do my best!

I don't know what will happen here on out, but we can do this together. I'm sure we can overcome any obstacle.

I have utmost faith in us.

Haruka Nanami: I'm home~!

Tomochika Shibuya: Ohh, welcome back! So how was it?

Tomo-chan asks me with a curious look on her face right after I arrive to the room.

Haruka Nanami: I learned so much! Seeing a TV show live is so different. Tsukimiya-sensei was so cool~

Tomochika Shibuya: Ahh, no, not that, today's Valentine's Day, right? Did you give him the scarf?

Huh? Did she say s-scarf…?

Select the Phrase!

なんで知ってるの！？ Why do you know that?! (+5 Love, +0 Music)

Tomochika Shibuya: Hoho. Bulls-eye… I knew that you knitted a muffler, so I hazarded a guess.

Tomochika Shibuya: Hmm, I see…

Haruka Nanami: Um, ah… you're… not wrong, but romance is banned, so…

Uuu… Right after I decided to get my act together, this happens…?

I'm too careless! H-how can I cover this up…?

うん。Yes. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Tomochika Shibuya: Hoh…

Tomo-chan gleefully narrows her eyes.

Haruka Nanami: Huh? Ah, no, I didn't mean to say “yes”, it's actually…

Tomochika Shibuya: You were knitting that scarf with such a serious look on your face, so I thought that maybe that was the case, but to think I was actually right… Ah, youth…

な、何のこと？ W-what are you talking about? (+5 Love, +0 Music)

Tomochika Shibuya: The scarf you were knitting this whole time! So what did you do with it? You didn't give it to anybody?

Haruka Nanami: Uh, no… actually…

Anything I say is going to sound like an excuse, because I don't have it on me anymore.

Umm, umm…

Tomo-chan bursts out laughing when she sees how troubled I am.

Tomochika Shibuya: It's okay, I'm not so tasteless where I'll ask you who you gave it to. So? What happened when you gave it? Did they take it?

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes…

Tomochika Shibuya: I see, that's great… But you gotta be more careful if you're this easy to read.

Haruka Nanami: Uu…

Yes, I am well aware.

Tomochika Shibuya: I want you to be happy, so this is just a warning from your best friend.

Tomochika Shibuya: Listen carefully. If you're dealing with romance, no matter how happy you might be, you shouldn't get over excited!

Tomochika Shibuya: I know this will be difficult because you're no actor, but if you want to make your relationship work, you better hide it no matter what!

Tomochika Shibuya: If you don't, you won't be able to achieve your dreams. You don't want to be expelled before the graduation audition, right?

Tomochika Shibuya: If there's anything I can help with, I'm your girl! Just don't get expelled. 

Haruka Nanami: Thank you… But why are you being so kind to me?

Tomochika Shibuya: Because I like your music! My secret scheme is for us to get into Shining Agency together and make you compose music for me.

Tomochika Shibuya: Do you have any complaints?

Haruka Nanami: No, of course not… I'll do my best!

I see, Tomo-chan likes my music. I'm so happy!

Tomochika Shibuya: If you're expelled, there's a certain someone who won't be able to debut anymore. You're not just affecting yourself.

Tomochika Shibuya: I want to enter Shining Agency with Otoya, Masayan, Natsuki, and you! We're friends, after all!

Haruka Nanami: Yes, of course… You're right.

I shouldn't get too excited. Hijirikawa-sama gave me his ring because he believes in me. I can't stomp on those feelings.

No matter how happy I may be, I won't show it on my face. I won't let people find out.

I swear to myself tonight.

Mini Game

Ringo Tsukimiya: Haa, time flies! The entrance ceremony for this term feels like it was yesterday, but now it’s almost graduation…

Ringo Tsukimiya: One year is so short. We all grow so close, and yet we’ll part so soon.

Ringo Tsukimiya: But if you manage to get into Shining Agency, you’ll be my kouhai! I want everyone to do their best to get hired!

Ringo Tsukimiya: You have to polish your song even more to be able to get a good score on your graduation audition.

Ringo Tsukimiya: I’ll do my best to give you advice, so let me hear what you have so far.

Ringo Tsukimiya: So, are you ready? Then let’s begin! 

S Rank

Masato Hijirikawa: I would expect no less. I can relax when I watch you. You're stable and don't make many mistakes. Your music comforts me.

Haruka Nanami: Thank you very much. I'll try even harder!

Chapter End

[shiningwonderland]

Hi! First of all, thank you very much for all the translations you've provided! So, do you plan to translate the rest of the guys' memorial after you finish translating Ranmaru's route?

Thank you so much for your ask! Yes, we plan to get to the Memorials after Ranmaru, Masato, and Tokiya are finished. However, the order may be random, based on preferences or birthdays! We work in a small team, so it might take a while, but it will be worth waiting for, because there are some great Memorials! With that said: Thank you very much for reading and supporting our translations! -Nadie

[shiningwonderland]

Just curious, but how do you all decided which chapter to translate next? Or is it whenever one's translated and proofread?

Hello! The group began having separate teams that translated their favorite guy’s routes simultaneously, but now we work in a smaller team that focuses more on one or two routes at a time. Since the order of uploading was somewhat scattered at first, we’ve been working on filling in the unfinished routes as we see fit (sometimes just from preference or whoever’s birthday was coming up)!

[shiningwonderland]

Masato Hijirikawa (Repeat)

Translator: Raz (Twitter: agnadance)

Proofreader: Nadie (Twitter: NmoniaG)

Editor: Mae (Twitter: itoshimaegirl)

QA: Rei (Twitter: wolfe_raine)

January - New Satz

In order to make up for the time we’ve lost, we’ve been focusing on practicing. 

We have continued preparing our song during the winter break in the classroom and the recording room.

I've been wondering how far I can push Hijirikawa-sama's voice and what its strongest point is.

I want to try everything. Hijirikawa-sama's singing voice is just so wonderful…

I keep thinking that he can do more and have a wider range of expression–I want to aim even higher. 

Haruka Nanami: Do you want to try singing one key higher?

Masato Hijirikawa: Isn't that too high? I guess it's worth giving it a try. Try playing the song.

Haruka Nanami: Got it!

Every day, we practice like this late into the night. 

Masato Hijirikawa: Hm? It's already so late… Let's wrap it up for today.

Hijirikawa-sama is looking at the clock. It's already 9PM. It's late, but I think that we can still do a little more.

We didn't spend much time together during November and December…

I'm having fun spending so much time together right now. I'm happy just being near him. 

Select the Phrase!

もう少し。Let’s keep going. (+5 Love, +10 Music)

Masato Hijirikawa: Let's start from the top one more time.

Haruka Nanami: Okay!

We go through the song one more time and then we go home.

また頑張れます。We can still do our best. (+10 Love, +5 Music)

Masato Hijirikawa: It's good to do your best, but…

He grabs my arm and pulls me into his chest.

Masato Hijirikawa: What if you get sick? Today's colder than usual, so you might catch a cold. 

Masato Hijirikawa: … You're freezing. You shouldn't let your body get this cold. You're a lady, after all…

Hijirikawa-sama pats my back gently.

そう・・・ですね。Yes… You’re right. (+0 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Understood. Let's stop for now.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, that's good. Let's hold hands and go back. I don't want you to slip and hurt your hands…

Haruka Nanami: Thank you, but I don't trip that often.

Masato Hijirikawa: Don't say that. I just want to be careful. You're clumsy, after all.

He grins at me.

We step outside and see the heavily falling snow. We share a large umbrella and our  shoulders touch.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… It's snowing. It was just sleeting this morning… Hehe, I'm happy!

Masato Hijirikawa: Does it make you want to sing…?

Haruka Nanami: Yes. I love singing in the snow, especially the moment it turns from sleet to snow.

Masato Hijirikawa: You may not remember, but we met before on a snowy day.

Hijirikawa-sama firmly grips my hand.

Haruka Nanami: Huh…?

Masato Hijirikawa: I've told you this story before, how a girl healed my heart… It was you, Haru.

Haruka Nanami: I… saved you, Masato-kun?

I call Hijirikawa-sama “Masato-kun” without realizing it.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, but I didn't realize at first that you were the girl who gave me a dream…

Masato Hijirikawa: March of two years ago, you were singing outside on the street as the snow was falling. No one noticed you or turned to look at you, but you seemed to be having so much fun.

Masato Hijirikawa: I was so surprised and thought you were so strange for singing outside in that kind of weather, but I never forgot your song.

March… Is that when…

Masato Hijirikawa: You said you wanted to sing in the snow because sleet, which is neither snow nor rain, finally became snow.

Masato Hijirikawa: You told me once that you're insignificant and incomplete, but eventually you want to take shape, like how sleet becomes snow. 

Masato Hijirikawa: I felt the same way. I've always wondered what a shallow person like me is capable of.

Masato Hijirikawa: You said that anyone can become snow if they put their mind to it. I was so moved by your song that I began singing too, which was when you said that it would be a waste if I didn't become a professional singer.

Masato Hijirikawa: Your words touched my heart deeply. That was the first time anyone praised me for being me. I was so happy.

Haruka Nanami: Ah…

I see, it was that time. To think that person was Hijirikawa-sama…

That day, I was so happy that the sleet became snow that I began singing outside.

Sleet isn't snow nor rain–it's an incomplete, insignificant existence.

It would be able to pile up if it became snow, but it melts the moment it touches the ground.

I also felt insignificant back then.

The moment the sleet was chilled by the winter cold and transformed into snow, I felt confident.

No matter how painful and tough life could be, if I keep trying, I could transform into something like snow… 

My parents tried to stop me, but I grabbed my keyboard and went outside to sing.

I kept singing outside in the snow for a very long time. At some point, someone began singing with me and praised my song… That's as far as I remember.

But, after that, I got a fever… and was bedridden for a week.

A part of me thought all of that was just a fever dream, but…

It was all real. Now, that person is here right in front of me.

He's the one who praised my songs and gave me the courage to become a composer…

I would've never thought it was Hijirikawa-sama…

Could this be destiny? It was the red string of fate that brought us together, right?

Masato Hijirikawa: I was able to work this hard thanks to your words. I found my dream, went against my parents' wishes and came here.

Masato Hijirikawa: If I didn't meet you, I would've rotted away on that road that day. At the very least, I think my heart would've died.

Masato Hijirikawa: You gave me the will to live… I've always wanted to thank you. It seems we have reunited without even realizing it.

Masato Hijirikawa: The first time we met, your hair was long, and you looked very different compared to now. I didn't notice you were the same person. 

Masato Hijirikawa: That day in August, I saw you sing… and I knew the song you were singing–the same one that girl sang that time…

Masato Hijirikawa: That moment, I realized you were that girl, and I felt lightheaded from joy.

Haruka Nanami: Summer… Ah, that time… You suddenly hugged me… My heart was throbbing.

Masato Hijirikawa: I see, I'm sorry about that.

Haruka Nanami: No, it's fine. I also…

Haruka Nanami: I gained the confidence to become a composer because you praised my song. Thank you so much.

Haruka Nanami: But… you should've told me if you knew that time…

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, it would've been great if I could have told you that time…

Masato Hijirikawa: But if I told you that and knew for sure that you were that girl from that time, then my feelings would have become unstoppable.

Masato Hijirikawa: I've always wanted to meet that girl again and have her listen to my singing again… Her words have always supported me…

Masato Hijirikawa: My feelings of admiration become similar to feelings of love. I would feel the need to sing if that girl was in front of me. I would have to love her.

Masato Hijirikawa: That's why I couldn't tell you this entire time. But now… I have confessed my feelings to you at last.

Masato Hijirikawa: That's why there's no reason to keep it secret anymore. Let me thank you again. I am so grateful to you.

Select the Phrase!

こちらこそありがとうございます。 No, thank you. (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I was only singing because I wanted to… I don't remember that time very well… So…

Haruka Nanami: I got a fever because I was singing in the snow, so I couldn't tell how much was real or just a dream…

Masato Hijirikawa: It was a chance encounter out of a dream, but it was real. The proof is that I'm here right now.

He draws me closer to him by putting his arm around my shoulder.

Masato Hijirikawa: Now I can feel your warmth. This is my treasured reality. I've fallen in love with you twice now.

出会いって不思議ですね。 Meetings are so perplexing. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I gained confidence because you, Masato-kun, praised my music.

Haruka Nanami: The reason I wanted to become a composer was because I wanted to make songs for the idol HAYATO-sama, but…

Haruka Nanami: But I was insecure and doubted whether I should aim for that or not… but your words saved me.

Masato Hijirikawa: I see… Our words saved each other.

Hijirikawa-sama slides his arm around my shoulders and pats my head.

Masato Hijirikawa: Our meeting was a miracle and our destiny. Us becoming partners is also destiny… This has been the meeting of a lifetime.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I think so, too…

そんなことないです。 Not at all. (+0 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I am glad to be of use to you.

Masato Hijirikawa: You're not just that–you saved my life. You should be proud of that. I want you to keep playing music for me.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, I'll do my best.

We've continued making music together.

Our song is the only one of its kind in the world… 

There are no lyrics yet, so Hijirikawa-sama is making up the lyrics as he sings, but…

Masato Hijirikawa: I think it'd be easier to grasp the mood if there were lyrics.

Haruka Nanami: I agree—let's think of them together.

Masato Hijirikawa: Ah… well, I actually have a draft written up.

Haruka Nanami: Really?

Select the Phrase!

見せてください。Show it to me. (+15 Love, +0 Music)

Masato Hijirikawa: But… it isn't exactly… finished yet…

Haruka Nanami: What kind of lyrics are they? I'm sure they're fantastic…

Masato Hijirikawa: I don't know what kind of lyrics you're expecting. I don't think you would expect these lyrics coming from me…

Haruka Nanami: Lyrics I won't expect? I'm so curious! Can you show them to me?

Masato Hijirikawa: … Well, umm… I wrote about my hidden feelings for you…

Haruka Nanami: Hidden feelings…?

Masato Hijirikawa: Correct… It's… like a love letter.

Masato Hijirikawa: I can't show you an incomplete love letter. I'll finish them by the audition, so… can you be patient for me?

Haruka Nanami: Of course, but please show them to me once you're done.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes, it's a promise. These lyrics are dedicated to you, after all.

聴かせて欲しいです。Please sing it for me. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Masato Hijirikawa: That's what I'm planning to do, so can you wait for me a little longer?

Masato Hijirikawa: I… need courage to sing this… I need time to mentally prepare myself.

Haruka Nanami: Understood. I'm looking forward to it.

もしかしてあの時の・・・Could it be from that time…? (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Umm… but you've dropped them once in the hallway, right?

Now that I think about it, Hijirikawa-sama was in quite a panic.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yeah, you're right. I wasn't planning on writing lyrics at first.

Masato Hijirikawa: However, I wanted to get my thoughts sorted out, so I started writing about my feelings for you, and it became a song without me realizing it.

Masato Hijirikawa: Every time I think about you, melodies form in my heart. The words naturally connect to each other. 

Masato Hijirikawa: But, this is… I didn't know your feelings at that time.

Masato Hijirikawa: I saw my feelings as self-centered and tried to hold them in, but this time it's different.

Masato Hijirikawa: There's a bond between us. Our hearts are connected.

Masato Hijirikawa: This isn't what I should be singing right now. I want to rewrite these lyrics to match my current feelings.

Masato Hijirikawa: Then, I want to sing this love song to you…

Hijirikawa-sama strokes my hair as he whispers to me.

Masato Hijirikawa: I want to change this incomplete affection to love and present it to you. Can you wait until then?

Haruka Nanami: Of course, I'll wait as long as it takes.

Writing songs and lyrics…

I know that's important.

But we shared our feelings, we kept to ourselves from the time of the school festival up until now.

What we are feeling and thinking…

What we're struggling to give up and struggling to grasp…

Lastly, about how we're here.

We can't easily summarize two months of feelings in words.

Sometimes in song, sometimes through piano, our music together…

We forget to eat or sleep…

We talk to each other endlessly to fill in the blanks from when we didn't meet.

Masato Hijirikawa: Did you wake up?

Haruka Nanami: Nn…

Masato Hijirikawa: It seems we spent all night together.

Hijirikawa-sama whispers into my ear, chuckling with a grin.

Haruka Nanami: Ah…

I notice that it's already morning and that I fell asleep on Hijirikawa-sama's shoulder.

Haruka Nanami: I-I'm sorry!

Masato Hijirikawa: There's no need to apologize. I'm also guilty of sleeping. Also…

Hijirikawa-sama puts his palm up to shade his eyes while looking outside through the window.

Masato Hijirikawa: The sun's so bright.

I've heard that the sunlight is deathly bright if you pull an all-nighter, but…

I would've never thought the winter sun was this bright and piercing.

My body is weary, and I don't want to take one step, but…

I feel sunny in my heart, like the scorching sun out there that's shining down on us.

Just having Hijirikawa-sama next to me is enough to give me courage and energy. 

Masato Hijirikawa: Last night was so valuable… I am full of regret that I didn't spend time talking to you the past two months.

Masato Hijirikawa: It was a problem that could have been solved if we just worked things out… Please forgive me… 

Hijirikawa-sama touches my hair and looks at me with gentle eyes.

Masato Hijirikawa: … Everything about you is precious to me. Your hair, eyes, lips… I want them all, even your heart…

Haruka Nanami: Masato-kun…

I want to reach out and embrace him.

But I can't. I mustn't…

Jii: Young master! Young master, where are you?!

Haruka Nanami: Wah!

J-Jiiya-san?!

Masato Hijirikawa: Jii…? You returned to the mansion before the New Year… Ah! Oh, last night was…

Hijirikawa-sama's expression clouds over, sighing from bewilderment.

Haruka Nanami: What happened?

Masato Hijirikawa: There was a family conference at the beginning of the year… I completely forgot.

Masato Hijirikawa: I'm the eldest son, and yet I didn't report that I wouldn't be present. This isn't good… I've let my guard down…

Jii: Young master! I know you're here! Please come out, young master!

Jiiya-san's voice is closing in on us.

Masato Hijirikawa: We have to escape from here.

Haruka Nanami: Huh? Escape?

Hijirikawa-sama grins, takes my hand, and runs away.

Haruka Nanami: U-um…

Masato Hijirikawa: You may find it odd that I'm not acting like a man, but I'll sacrifice my pride to protect what I need to protect.

Masato Hijirikawa: If they find out we were alone together and the reason I wasn't present yesterday…

Masato Hijirikawa: They'll force me to go back. It's my mistake, but I want to avoid that at all costs.

Masato Hijirikawa: I don't want to lose this time I have with you here.

Masato Hijirikawa: Love is a mysterious thing. It makes people so stubborn… Do you hate me for being like this?

Select the Phrase!

そんなことないです。Of course not. (+5 Love, +0 Music)

I know that in reality he's very earnest and kind.

Masato Hijirikawa: … I see. I'm glad.

 嫌いになんてなりません。I would never hate you. (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I'll love you no matter what happens.

Masato Hijirikawa: No matter what happens…? You're strong…

Haruka Nanami: That isn't true…

Masato Hijirikawa: I need to become stronger so I can protect you.

Masato Hijirikawa: I'm not going to spare any effort for the sake of protecting you, my one and only.

・・・好きです。… I love you. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I love you, Masato-kun.

Masato Hijirikawa: I… I see… Um… I'm a little embarrassed being told that directly…

Masato Hijirikawa: Over here…

We enter the recording room. Hijirikawa-sama puts his arm around my shoulder, and we hide in the shadow of the sofa.

Haruka Nanami: U-umm…

Masato Hijirikawa: Shh, quiet…

He presses his index finger to my lips.

The grip of his hand around my shoulder tightens, pulling me in close enough where our cheeks start touching.

Jii: Young master~! Hm, are you here?!

Masato Hijirikawa: … He left…

Hijirikawa-sama lets out a sigh of relief. Then…

Masato Hijirikawa: Ah…

We exchange glances and Hijirikawa-sama's cheeks redden.

Our lips are close enough to feel each other's breath…

His eyes are filled with melancholy–I almost want to touch them.

At that moment…

Thud! 

The boards in front of us open up and Jiiya-san appears.

Jii: You were here, Young Master? I've been looking everywhere for you!

Jii: !!!

Jiiya-san takes a look at us, and his eyes widen so much that they look like they'll fall out of his head.

Jii: W-w-w-w… WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!

Masato Hijirikawa: … Practice.

Jii: What can you be possibly practicing while secretly having an affair with that lass?! 

Masato Hijirikawa: Singing practice, of course. Can't you see this is a recording room?

Jii: You don't need to be touching a lass to sing a song!

Masato Hijirikawa: We're only hiding because Jii was making so much noise…

Jii: Are you saying this is my fault?!

Jii: The only reason I'm here is that the young master was missing during yesterday's evening meeting…!

Jii: Ahh! Young master, you were such an honest and sweet child, why would you make up such excuses…

Jii: AH! Could it be that lass is deceiving you?!

Masato Hijirikawa: No… That's not it.

Jii: Hrrrm… It's outrageous that you, a mere peasant, deceive the young master! 

Jii: This is a different issue from that time I lost our duel as composers. Now it has come to this, I refuse to lose to you again, even if it costs me my life!

He leans in, his face close to mine.

Haruka Nanami: Huh…? U-umm…

Masato Hijirikawa: Jii, stop! I won't forgive you if you lay a finger on her.

Jii: What's that?! Are you challenging Jii, the master of the assassin's fist?

Hijirikawa-sama silently nods, holding his glare at Jiiya-san.

Jii: … I must report back to the master.

Jiiya-san leaves, his shoulders trembling as he goes.

Masato Hijirikawa: …

Haruka Nanami: Masato… kun…

Masato Hijirikawa: … I'm fine.

As he says that, his face goes pale and his balled up fist starts trembling.

The following day, we are called to the principal's office.

Masato Hijirikawa: Excuse me.

Shining Saotome: HA HA HA~ Excuse YOU!

Masato Hijirikawa: Umm… What have you called us for…?

Shining Saotome: I'm not the one who called YOU. This guest did!

Masaomi Hijirikawa: You're late…

Masato Hijirikawa: … Father…

Masaomi Hijirikawa: Masato, you're returning home.

Masato Hijirikawa: … One year hasn't passed yet. We agreed that if I didn't produce results after a year, then I'll go back.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: I know what the results will be without seeing them. What are you planning to become attending this pointless academy?

The principal's eyebrows shoot up at the words “pointless academy”.

Masato Hijirikawa: At least I can be a human being here. I can be myself.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: … Your future has been decided. You're taking over the Hijirikawa family. That's your destiny. Haven't you had enough fun?

Masato Hijirikawa: Isn't destiny something we create for ourselves? There's no worth in a dream that has been forced on me. I'm not your puppet.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: You're talking like you know everything. Who do you think is the reason you've survived up until now?

Masato Hijirikawa: I am grateful for you raising me, but I decide my life on my own terms.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: The life you decided for yourself is this? I heard from Fujikawa that you were covering up playing with a girl by saying it was music practice.

Shining Saotome: Hrm?! I can't let that slide! Relationships between girls and boys are prohibited!

Masato Hijirikawa: You're misunderstanding. Jii kept chasing us, so we were hiding…

Masaomi Hijirikawa: There's no reason for you to hide if you weren't doing anything shameful. Also, why weren't you present during the family conference? 

Masaomi Hijirikawa: It's unbecoming of a Hijirikawa family member to cancel plans without notification.

Masato Hijirikawa: My sincerest apologies, I did not remember.

Masato Hijirikawa: I will be careful to not repeat the same mistake again.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: You don't have another chance.

Shining Saotome: Hrrrm? I'm being ignored over here?

Masato Hijirikawa: That's not for you to decide, Father.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: How dare you… Who do you think let you attend this stupid academy?

A vein bulges on the principal's head at the words “stupid academy”. 

Masato Hijirikawa: Grandfather is the one who helped pay for the academy fees. Also, we agreed that I will pay back my debt within half a year after graduating.

Masato Hijirikawa: If I can't return the debt within half a year, then I will accept that I'm unworthy. I'll give up and inherit the household.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: No matter how skilled you could be, that isn't the amount of money that you can pay off just by graduating from this academy. It's pointless.

Shining Saotome: HRRRRRRM? I hate being ignored! AND my academy is number one in the entire galaxy!

Shining Saotome: Being able to debut from here is a BIG BANG achievement! Mr. Hijirikawa is a student with great potential! Insulting him is NON NON NON NON NON NON NON allowed here!

Masaomi Hijirikawa: As his father, I would know more than anyone if he had talent or not. 

Masaomi Hijirikawa: I also know what would give him the most fulfilling life. Strangers have no right to meddle in our affairs.

Masato Hijirikawa: Father… I am me. I'm not you. I want to build my life on my own terms.

Masato Hijirikawa: Why don't you understand me?

Masaomi Hijirikawa: You don't understand anything… We're going back home.

Shining Saotome: NON, the one going back is YOU!

The moment the principal snaps his fingers, several kuroko–traditional Japanese stagehands dressed in black robes and black veiled masks–appear out of thin air.

Masaomi Hijirikawa: W-who are you people…? Wha! AAAAAAH!

They lift Hijirikawa-sama's father onto their shoulders and carry him out of the room.

Shining Saotome: HA HA HA~! I'M the one who makes the rules here!

Masato Hijirikawa: Principal… why…?

Shining Saotome: HA HA HA~! YOU are one of my adorable students! It's a teacher's duty to protect their pupils!

Shining Saotome: AND I hate getting ignored! I was HMPH, so he got POOFED!

Shining Saotome: BUT breaking the romance ban rule is ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY FORBIDDEN! Take that to heart!

Masato Hijirikawa: Understood.

Haruka Nanami: Understood.

We've been saved by the principal, but…

The feeling of unease remains in my heart…

We return to the classroom and silently stare at our music sheets.

I occasionally turn to look at Hijirikawa-sama and see him staring at one point of the sheet with a stern face.

Hijirikawa-sama…

Even though the principal rescued him, he must still be upset that his father disapproved like that…

What can I do for him right now?

Select the Phrase!

ピアノを弾く。Play the piano (+5 Love, +10 Music)

I'm not good with words, but I can play music.

As I continue to play without speaking, Hijirikawa-sama grins, sits next to me, and starts playing the piano with me.

We don't need words. The time we have together is everything…

歌う。Sing (+10 Love, +10 Music)

I begin playing the piano and proceed to sing to my heart's content.

If I can sing my feelings that I can't express by just talking…

Hijirikawa-sama begins singing with me as well.

As our voices overlap, I feel like our spirits do as well—my heart feels so much lighter now.

I'm not alone because I have someone who I can truly share my feelings with.

That thought reassures me.

 手を握る。Hold his hand (+0 Love, +0 Music)

I put my hand over Hijirikawa-sama's hand to cheer him up, if even a little.

Hijirikawa-sama gives me a sad smile and pulls his hand away.

… Ah, I see… The principal just told us that romance is forbidden.

I have to be careful…

No matter who is against us or whatever kind of situation we might get into, we must keep going.

The graduation audition is so soon, we don't have any time to waste.

MINI GAME

Ringo Tsukimiya: Are you close to finishing your song? You're in trouble if you don't have a rough done by now.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ah, I just remembered. If you're stuck, you should try performing your song and then listen to a recording of it.

Ringo Tsukimiya: You should be able to notice things you didn't notice before. Now that I think about it, how about you let me hear your performance?

Ringo Tsukimiya: I'm your teacher, after all. I can give you advice on your song, so please play it for me.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Okay, so let's begin. Are you ready? Start!

RANK S

Masato Hijirikawa: When I'm with you, I forget the passage of time. I understand that's not good of me.

Masato Hijirikawa: However, I can't stop my feelings for you.

Haruka Nanami: Umm… I also lose track of time when I'm with you, Masato-kun. I get lost in a daze…

But I have to be more careful.

Chapter End

[shiningwonderland]

After translating these 2 games, what will you translate next? Is there going to be a next one?

Hello! It will take a long time for us to get through all the extra content in Repeat and All Star, so we'll think about it after we finish up those two games!

[shiningwonderland]

Ren Jinguji (Repeat)

Translator: Nadie (Twitter: NmoniaG)

Proofreader: Raz (Twitter: agnadance)

Editor: Snail (Twitter: herbert_snail)

QA: Rei (Twitter: wolfe_raine)

True Love End - With a Cantabile Kiss

Such a grand and magnificent voice. His technique was endlessly mesmerizing to everyone who listens.

Jinguji-san pushed the senses he was born with to the maximum. It was his greatest performance yet.

He had perfected not only the song but also every single move he made.

He had fully grasped how the audience saw and heard him and made his moves accordingly.

Even without seeing his movements, his voice alone was enough to feel the expression in his singing.

Each word was so clear that it went straight to the heart.

He made everyone here realize that once a prodigy like him puts effort into something, they're unbeatable.

Jinguji-san, you kept your promise to me.

"No matter what I have to sacrifice, I'll become a professional." You made me realize the weight of those words.

Before he went on stage, he told me that I'll understand when I hear the song.

After hearing his song, I understand that he used all his power to make my dream of debuting together come true.

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Female Student A: Amazing... Not only was he cool and kind, but he's also such a talented person... I've never seen Ren-kun so passionate.

Male Student A: That was really awesome! There's no way anyone could beat him. Even if you scoured the globe, I doubt you could find anyone who could beat his voice.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Ren... you... I see now that this is a great song. I understand why you were so confident in it. You are an even more wonderful singer than our mother.

After the song ends, Jinguji-san bows deeply to the audience, then winks and throws them a kiss.

"WAAAH—!"

Almost every woman screams at the top of their lungs.

Jinguji-san makes his way to the edge of the stage, smiling at the shouts of joy as he goes.

Soon all the contestants had their turn, so now all we have to do is wait for the result.

The winner of the graduation audition will be determined by the votes of the audience and the nine judges, which include the principal.

Each of the nine judges can award up to ten points for a performance.

The audience votes for their favorite performance. First place with the most votes gets ten points, second place nine, and so on up to tenth place.

The winners will be the ones who have the most points from the two voting systems combined. They will be hired by the Shining Agency as a new idol and can take the next step towards becoming a top idol.

Students who don't win but score at least 85 points can still be hired by the Shining Agency.

There are also agents from other agencies watching the graduation audition…

Even if you don't get a chance to join the Shining Agency, you might still get scouted by other agencies.

If that's true, then that's good to know.

But it's different for me now. If I don't win, I can't become a professional.

Jinguji-san's singing and performance were perfect.

But the composition was made by me... I wonder if it could make full use of Jinguji-san's true strength...

The more amazing Jinguji-san becomes, the more anxious I get.

Ryuya Hyuga: The winner of this year's graduation audition is… Ren Jinguji!

An astonishing amount of cheering and applause erupts from the audience. And it is all directed at Jinguji-san.

Ryuya Hyuga: Here is your trophy. You imbued that song with your signature charm, complete with a stellar performance.

Ren Jinguji: Well, it's just that easy if I really try.

Ryuya Hyuga: Really, you... Well, you're not wrong. Honestly, you should have just done that from the beginning.

Ren Jinguji: That's different. It's the song that let me go all the way. It brought out my real strength, no, even more of my appeal.

Ryuya Hyuga: That so? In that case, you won this time because of the song.

Ren Jinguji: —And let's not forget the girls at the venue who cheered me on... Thank you… It's all thanks to everyone's support.

And with that, Jinguji-san lifts the trophy up high and winks at the audience.

This results in more shrill cheering.

Shining Saotome: You have secured such a large number of fans even before you made your debut? I expected nothing less!

Ren Jinguji: Well, it's more that the ladies can't get enough of me. But... there are more important things than that... Right?

Jinguji-san turns his attention to me while I'm still in the wing of the stage and flashes me a broad smile. My heartbeat quickens just by our eyes meeting.

When I heard this song earlier, I felt this overflowing love. I felt like I couldn't hold back those feelings anymore.

Although I had decided for us to remain partners as idol and composer...

I might accidentally tell him I love him again if I met him now.

I didn't know what to do, so I escaped from the wing of the stage without saying a word to Jinguji-san.

Ren Jinguji: …!

Our gazes only met for a moment, but as I was turning, I saw his eyes widen in surprise. He was about to say something.

Unable to stop, I leave this place behind.

I hurry away without a word, but it is for the best.

I can't possibly cause him more trouble after he has worked so hard, and I don't want to disappoint him.

But… I love him… I love him so much…

I can't stop these feelings, so it's better if we don't meet for now...

The door opens with a clatter and Jinguji-san bursts into the classroom.

Haruka Nanami: Jinguji-san!!

He must have been in a hurry. His shoulders heave with his ragged breathing.

Ren Jinguji: There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you, Lady. My goodness, why did you disappear so suddenly... Hah, hah...

Ren Jinguji: Did my song… not reach your heart?

Haruka Nanami: That's impossible! It clearly reached my heart!

Haruka Nanami: Your feelings about your desire to become a professional reached me to a painful degree. That's why I want to continue working with you...

Haruka Nanami: As your partner, I'll try not to cause you any trouble. So please let me stay with you!

… That… should be enough…

My love for him will only burden him. So this is enough.

Jinguji-san responds to my words by pushing his hair up with a troubled expression on his face.

Ren Jinguji: You're wrong... That's not what I was trying to convey... Besides, if that was the case, why did you run away?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, um... I'm sorry... I... got scared...

Haruka Nanami: I didn't know what to do... Listening to your song made my love for you overflow, I couldn't hold it back...

Ren Jinguji: …

Haruka Nanami: I have to organize my feelings.

Ren Jinguji: …

Haruka Nanami: With that in mind… I…

Ren Jinguji: …

Haruka Nanami: …

Ren Jinguji: … You were… scared? That should be my line.

Haruka Nanami: What…?

Ren Jinguji: … I was also scared… this whole time…

He was scared? Him?

Why…? I look intently at Jinguji-san's face.

Ren Jinguji: …

Haruka Nanami: …

Ren Jinguji: …

But he remains with a troubled expression on his face, looks as if he wants to say something, and then bites his lip hard.

Could it be because I said the word "love" again?

Could he be thinking of ending our partnership right now?

He has already told me that he is going to pretend that he did not hear it.

As professionals, our relationship should stay as composer and idol.

Just because I was irresponsible and confessed again... He must be completely fed up with me by now...

Haruka Nanami: … I'm sorry...

Unconsciously, my tears overflow.

Ren Jinguji: Why are you apologizing? There's nothing to apologize for. You're the one person I never want to make cry, and yet how did it end up this way…?

Ren Jinguji: —! …Despite loving you so much.

He mutters softly in a trembling voice, his fist slightly shaking.

Haruka Nanami: Huh…? What did you just say…?

I think I misheard. This cannot be true.

Ren Jinguji: It's so strange... I've whispered words of love so many times, and yet... When I'm in front of the person I really care about, I can't say a single decent line.

He hugs me, squeezing me tightly.

Ren Jinguji: …Haruka… I love you…

Ren Jinguji: It's hopeless, I can't think of any other words than these. But I was always so afraid... I was afraid you'd break if I touched you...

Ren Jinguji: I have never really loved someone like this. I didn't have the confidence to cherish anyone either.

Ren Jinguji: I never realized I was such a cowardly human being. The more I loved you, the more I was afraid of losing you... to the point where I couldn't touch you.

Jinguji-san…? A coward…?

Ren Jinguji: I wanted to treat you kindly, but I couldn't control these feelings well, so I ended up hurting you with my insincere attitude and words. All of this in spite of the fact that I love you very much.

Ren Jinguji: I was irritated because I was forcibly suppressing those emotions, and sometimes I even lashed out at you. Despite that, you were always kind and honest with me.

Ren Jinguji: Since I'm saying this all of a sudden, you may not believe me. But I'm going to say it as many times as it takes until you do. I'm in love with you and I cherish you very much.

Haruka Nanami: …!

Ren Jinguji: I've been in love with you ever since that day in August when you composed a song just for me. I love you so much, I’m losing my mind.

Ren Jinguji: No matter what, I wanted your dream to come true, I wanted you to become a composer. Helping you achieve this dream was my only expression of love...

Ren Jinguji: I misunderstood you, spun my wheels, and hurt you over and over again. I felt like I was being torn to pieces when I pushed you away while you were lost, hurting and barely holding on.

Ren Jinguji: Back then, however, I thought this was for the best. Because I know that spoiling people meaninglessly can make them useless so easily.

He did that… for me?

Ren Jinguji: Out of all people I didn't want you to become like that. I knew you could have collapsed under the circumstances, but I tried desperately to suppress the urge to hug you.

Ren Jinguji: I forced myself to act cold to you. But in reality, all I wanted was to embrace you, kiss you and let you cry as much as you want in my arms...

Ren Jinguji: I was depressed because I thought you hated me. I comforted myself by telling myself that as long as the results were good, I'd be okay. Now that your dream has come true, I can no longer hide my feelings.

Ren Jinguji: I love you. I can love no one but you. I love you so, so much that it's unbearable! I love you… I love you with all my heart.

He hugs me so tightly and whispers "I love you" in my ear over and over again.

Haruka Nanami: There are times when one song can convey a message better than a thousand words.

I lift my head and look into Jinguji-san's eyes.

Ren Jinguji: Huh…?

Haruka Nanami: Since the moment I heard your song I knew it. You conveyed it to me. But I was simply too scared to admit it…

Haruka Nanami: But what if I misunderstood? I didn't want to be shocked and gave up before believing it. I ran away, but now I don't doubt it anymore.

I understand without a doubt that he loves me deeply.

Ren Jinguji: Am I really enough? Are you really fine with me?

Haruka Nanami: … Yes.

I nod my head deeply.

A smile spreads over his whole face and he hugs me tightly once more.

Ren Jinguji: Thank you, Lady. I will definitely... make you happy.

He mumbles in a husky voice. His hand trembles as he gently combs through my hair.

Ren Jinguji: I love you... I love you, Haruka. So much, it's suffocating... Sorry, I can't hold back anymore...

After giving me a peck-like kiss, he smiles oh-so-softly for just a split second before leaning in for another one, longer and more passionate this time.

Haruka Nanami: …Nh…

We felt each other for what seemed like an eternity before slowly parting our lips.

And then we strongly and tightly embraced each other.

Ren Jinguji: I've… lost my composure. I'm so lame... But I like you so much that even my composure dissolves.

We look at each other and then kiss again. Then we stare intently at each other once again.

Ren Jinguji: Nh… Huff. Lady… We'll be together forever now. I won't let you go until the day I die. I'll never let you go...

Jinguji-san whispers into my ear.

And, at that moment.

Shining Saotome: Thanks, I've heard every last word!

The principal comes breaking through the ceiling of the classroom.

Haruka Nanami: What?! P-Principal!!!

Ren Jinguji: Boss… The mood was so good just now. Did you come here to interrupt us?

The moment Jinguji-san saw the principal's face, he returned to his usual composure.

Shining Saotome: YES, that's riiight! Canoodling in the classroom is a big Non Non Non!

Ren Jinguji: Excuse me, at least say that we were having a passionate moment.

Jinguji-san suddenly flashes a calm smile.

Haruka Nanami: J-Jinguji-san, you can't say that!

Ren Jinguji: It's okay, Lady. We can't hide anything from the boss, so there's no need to keep up appearances. Besides, no matter what anyone tells me, I'm not going to stop loving you.

Haruka Nanami: Jinguji-san…

Shining Saotome: Ignoring me and creating this rosy atmosphere is also a Non Non Non!

Haruka Nanami: Oh, s-sorry…

Ren Jinguji: So? What do you want to do? Expel us? Or maybe withdraw our victory? 

Jinguji-san asks, to which the principal sinks into deep thought with a "Hm."

Shining Saotome: … To do so now would only mean that society would look at ME with cold eyes...

Shining Saotome: That song was already exposed to the public. In addition, it was decided that this song would become a commercial song as soon as it won.

Shining Saotome: Things kept changing because of me, so I can't go back on my words. This song will be played on all the TV stations like crazy.

Shining Saotome: You guys will become the center of attention. You will be so famous that I can't fire you just because you love each other.

Ren Jinguji: Hmph. I was expecting you to say that, Boss.

Shining Saotome: But to think that you, someone who was raised without knowing love, got to find it here at my academy… Fate is an interesting thing.

Shining Saotome: Normally, I would pull you apart, even if it's by force... However, I believe you will grow stronger by loving each other.

Shining Saotome: Besides, your love can't be stopped even if I were to try. Looks like you two have already overcome quite a few obstacles.

The principal suddenly flashes a kind smile and looks at me.

Shining Saotome: I'm sure you'll be able to handle idol-work and "love" well at the same time.

Ren Jinguji: Naturally!

Jinguji-san's smile is brimming with confidence.

Shining Saotome: …"Naturally," you say? There you have it. Then let me see with my own eyes the future you are heading for.

Shining Saotome: I'm going to make a special exception for you just this once. BUT! Make sure the people around you don't find out!

Ren Jinguji: O.K., Boss. I'll show you my flawless acting.

Shining Saotome: I have high expectations for you!

And like that, the principal leaves the classroom.

Ren Jinguji: We should also get going. I can't pledge my love to you here properly.

Jinguji-san softly pulls me closer by my shoulder and starts walking.

Seiichiro Jinguji: There you were, Ren. You weren't in your room, so I looked everywhere for you.

Now Jinguji-san's big brother has appeared.

Ren Jinguji: What did you come here for?

Seiichiro Jinguji: I went to see Saotome earlier. Technically, I'm still your guardian, so I came to affix my seal on the letter of consent.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Starting tomorrow, you'll be a full-fledged member of the Shining Agency. Isn't that great?

Ren Jinguji: Thanks, I guess.

Seiichiro Jinguji: It was a great song. You shone so brightly. You seemed so bored of your life until now, but I'm glad you've finally found something important to you.

Ren Jinguji: Yeah, singing… and the love of my life.

Jinguji-san glances at me fleetingly.

Seiichiro Jinguji: I see... That's great to hear.

Ren Jinguji: Great to hear...? Do you really think so? It could be the source of a scandal.

He wrinkles his face, looking unconvinced.

Seiichiro Jinguji: I know you'll be fine. And if you love her, then I'm sure you won't try to expose her to the inane mass media.

Seiichiro Jinguji: And to be honest, I'm relieved. I wasn't sure if you could really love someone since you never received parental love.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Looks like that worry was unnecessary. Your eyes... they’re kinder now. That's why you're going to be okay now.

He flashes a kind smile. It's a smile that looks a lot like Jinguji-san's.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Besides, that person is no longer here. He had us at his mercy for too long. You’re free now.

Ren Jinguji: Free…? Brother, what are you talking about—

Seiichiro Jinguji: Well, I'm the heir, so I have to inherit the conglomerate. But you can live your life however you want, Ren...

Seiichiro Jinguji: I won't let anyone complain as long as I'm the head of the conglomerate.

Ren Jinguji: Brother... I always thought you hated me. I thought you hated me just like Daddy did...

Jinguji-san mutters in a dumbfounded tone.

Seiichiro Jinguji: I could never hate you. You are my precious little brother.

Seiichiro Jinguji: It’s true, we haven't had a conversation like this for a long time. Our age difference is quite big, and it seems that we have neglected to try to understand each other.

Seiichiro Jinguji: And... I'm sorry, I couldn't protect you because I couldn't stand up to our father. I'll make sure to protect you from now on.

Ren Jinguji: No need. From now on, I'll start a new life with my lady. So I don't need your help.

Jinguji-san tightly grasps my hand.

Ren Jinguji: It's enough for you to watch over me, brother. I'll go my own way without losing my way. So don't worry.

Seiichiro Jinguji: You have grown up, Ren. That must be thanks to you, Nanami-san. Looks like I'm in the way here, so I'll leave now... I wish you every happiness.

Haruka Nanami: Your big brother was a nice person after all. He really cares for you, Jinguji-san.

Ren Jinguji: Seems like it… He was always next to me, but I was so busy thinking about myself that I never noticed his real feelings. Looks like I've still got a lot to learn.

Ren Jinguji: I did not notice his affection when we were close. I notice it now at a time when we are separated. There was nothing I could give back to him...

Haruka Nanami: That’s fine! You can just focus on restoring your bond, one day at a time!

Haruka Nanami: We can work hard and help revive your brother's company together!

Haruka Nanami: For you and your brother, this would be like a collaboration!

Haruka Nanami: There are so many things we could do! …Oh, we should make a song first! —!! I just got inspiration for one phrase!

Haruka Nanami: I have to write it down… Um, where is my notebook…

Ren Jinguji: Here are your music sheets. You always work so hard. Not just for yourself, but for others as well. That's one of the reasons why I fell in love with you.

Jinguji-san hands me blank music sheets and a mechanical pencil.

Haruka Nanami: T-thank you very much! Um…

Ren Jinguji: You really are such a music lover... But... That's why you shine the brightest when you compose.

He whispers into my ear and gently pats my head.

Jinguji-san stays by my side and watches me tenderly until I've finished writing the composition.

Ren Jinguji: Ohhh… This is good. This song is just your style, it's nice.

Jinguji-san smiles happily at the finished sheet music.

Ren Jinguji: Oh, that's right. Lady, do you have some time later? I want you to spend some time with me.

Haruka Nanami: Of course!!

Haruka Nanami: U-um… Is it really okay for me to be here?

At Jinguji-san's insistence, I went to the boys' dormitory and to Jinguji-san's room.

Ren Jinguji: We're going to be saying goodbye to this place soon, so I thought it wouldn't be a bad idea to make some memories while we still can.

He pulls me closer by my shoulder and kisses me on my cheek.

Haruka Nanami: Memories…?

What? What kind of memories?

He hugs me tightly from behind and whispers into my ear.

His breath tickles my ear and my body shudders instinctively.

Haruka Nanami: U-um… This is also Hijirikawa-sama's room... Won't it bother him if he comes back and I'm here...?

Ren Jinguji: Don't worry, he won't be back today. He'll be eating somewhere else with his father and little sister, since they've come to visit.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… I see…

Ren Jinguji: So... yeah. You get it, right? I can't contain myself anymore.

Jinguji-san puts his palm on mine and intertwines our fingers.

The heat I feel through our firmly joined hands reaches deep into my heart.

Ren Jinguji: I love you, Lady. I would like to do anything for you. What would you like? What do you demand from me? 

Haruka Nanami: Ah…um… I would be happy if we could stay together... I can't think of anything else... Um, I'm happy right now...

Ren Jinguji: How modest. I can't think like that. Lift your head… Nh…!

Haruka Nanami: …!

The kiss is so fiery I might melt.

Ren Jinguji: Just being together isn't enough. I want to touch you, kiss you and leave my marks all over your body to show that you're mine. Nh…

Haruka Nanami: … Ah…!

Jinguji-san's lips trace a line from my nape to the back of my neck.

Ren Jinguji: I love you. It's the first time I've ever loved someone like this.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… I… I love you too.

Loving someone for the first time and being loved for the first time can be quite confusing.

Ren Jinguji: Yeah, I know, Lady.

He hugs me securely and kisses the area around my eye.

Ren Jinguji: I want to treat you carefully, but at the same time I want to hug you so tight you might break. Even I am at a loss as to what to do.

Ren Jinguji: Surprisingly, I seem to be quite clumsy. I want to be gentle, but I can't hold back. I love you so much it's driving me crazy. All I want is you.

With his eyes gazing directly at me, I can feel my heart beating fast, thumping hard in my chest.

Ren Jinguji: I can't imagine a life without love or a future without you.

His arms tighten around me.

At this rate, he might hear my uncontrollable heartbeat.

Ren Jinguji: I'll keep saying it with my voice, with my hands, with my eyes. I love you. No one else, only you… Nh…

Haruka Nanami: … Nn…

It's an intense kiss that almost leaves me gasping for air, making me dizzy.

But it's so pleasant that I want to devote all of myself to him.

Haruka Nanami: … Ah…!

Everything is spinning, and the moment I start to wobble, Jinguji-san supports me lightly.

Ren Jinguji: …Huff… huff… Sorry, I guess that was a bit too passionate.

Haruka Nanami: …Ah… no… I also… want to feel you more… So…

Ren Jinguji: Are you sure you should say that? Remember, there's just the two of us here. You can't be sure what I'm going to do.

Ren Jinguji: Not even I seem to be able to hold back these emotions anymore. Will you still say yes to me? Are you sure, Haruka?

Haruka Nanami: … Yes.

Ren Jinguji: I love every part of you. I will cherish you more than anyone else in the world, so please... become mine. Nh—

And then Jinguji-san kisses me so passionately that I almost lose my mind.

Such fiery, intense and passionate love melts my heart. The time we spend in this delirium passes in the blink of an eye.

After that, Jinguji-san's workload increased every day. And so did his popularity.

I support him as his own special composer and his partner.

While things have been hectic, there has been no time for just Jinguji-san and I. But I'm happy that we're working hard together.

And then, one day…

Jinguji-san invited me to a party venue.

When I woke up this morning, I found a dress in my room with a note on it that said: "I want you to wear this dress and come to the party."

Confused, I put the dress on and hurried to the party venue.

Ren Jinguji: I've been waiting for you, Princess. Mm-hm, my choice was perfect. You look beautiful in this dress.

Haruka Nanami: U-um… What is this?

Ren Jinguji: Happy Birthday.

Haruka Nanami: Huh…? Oh… Today is my birthday…

My birthday… He remembered it.

Ren Jinguji: Come on. You even forgot your own birthday? Are you, by chance, working too hard again?

Haruka Nanami: But I won't forget your birthday… It's February 14th, Valentine's Day.

Ren Jinguji: Correct. As a result, I mostly get chocolate for my birthday. That's not too bad, but I would have preferred it to fall on a different day.

Haruka Nanami: In that case, I'll make something that isn't chocolate. Is there anything you want?

Ren Jinguji: That's an easy one. What I want is you, Haruka.

He takes my hand and kisses it.

Haruka Nanami: M-me? B-but wasn't I already yours…?

Haruka Nanami: I mean… Since I'm technically your… girlfriend…

Aaah, I'm blushing.

Since we started working together, Jinguji-san has been shining brighter and brighter. Is it really okay for someone like me to call herself his girlfriend?

From time to time, I get insecure about it. 

Ren Jinguji: Yes, you are my girlfriend… for now.

For now... Yes, he's right. The day may come when I'm not his girlfriend anymore.

Since Jinguji-san is so wonderful, I have these wistful thoughts occasionally.

I still want to stay as his partner. Even if this might sound greedy.

At least, let me give him my music.

Ren Jinguji: Why are you making such a sad face? Come on, lift your face, Princess. My future wife is not supposed to look so sad.

Haruka Nanami: What…?

Ren Jinguji: Ah, I guess I'm taking things a bit too far for now. But... one day... I'd like to live with you.

Ren Jinguji: I can't imagine a life without love or a future without you. I'll definitely make you happy, so please entrust your life to me...

Haruka Nanami: …Okay.

Ren Jinguji: Thank you, I love you, Lady!

Jinguji-san smiles happily and kisses me on my lips.

Ren Jinguji: The ballroom belongs to us tonight. Let's have fun and dance the night away.

Haruka Nanami: Yes…

And then we go hand in hand and dance to our hearts' content.

Sometimes we caress each other, whisper to each other, or hold each other close.

To spend a time like this together, alone, is the greatest treasure.

And the best birthday present of all.

Fin

[shiningwonderland]

Ren Jinguji (Repeat)

Translator: Nadie (Twitter: NmoniaG)

Proofreader: Raz (Twitter: agnadance)

Editor: Snail (Twitter: herbert_snail)

QA: Rei (Twitter: wolfe_raine)

March - Believe your Musician's Soul

Before I knew it, it was already March. I only have three days of my extended time left.

The music that left me hasn't come back to my heart, so I just stare at the music sheet, unable to do anything.

The only thing I can do is to stare at the sequencer in silence.

I have to do this. This project has already started moving, regardless of the fact that I can't come up with any melodies, and regardless of the fact that my heart might break in the process.

This song is my responsibility, so even if I complain about it, there is no one who can help me.

Jinguji-san taught me that. Even though we didn't come up with a solution, at least it got my dying heart moving a little.

I want to play something. I try to squeeze out the few things I know and search for the music that I've played.

In search of my own music, I reproduce, trace, and recompile. And yet...

As the deadline approaches, I can't find my own music no matter what I do, and at this point I don't know what else to try.

Haruka Nanami: …Sigh…

Syo Kurusu: Your complexion looks bad lately, are you okay? Did something happen? If you don't mind, I can lend an ear.

Haruka Nanami: …Thank you, but it's nothing…

I signed an NDA, so I can't and shouldn't tell anyone about it.

Tokiya Ichinose: … How are we supposed to believe that when you have such a pained expression on your face? It’s hard to watch you smile like that.

Haruka Nanami: …

Ren Jinguji: If she says it's nothing then it must be nothing, right?

Syo Kurusu: What's up with you? You're her partner. Aren't you worried?

Ren Jinguji: Nope, not at all.

Jinguji-san takes a quick look at my face and flashes a smile.

Oh… I see, so Jinguji-san believes in me.

What he means is, 'I'm not worried at all, so just work hard.'

Syo Kurusu: Wow, that’s cold! You should at least console your partner when they’re feeling down!

Ren Jinguji: She's not an amateur, she's a professional. Too much consolation would just trivialize her efforts - kinda rude, don't you think? So it's okay, don't worry.

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

He recognizes me as a professional and believes in me.

Things like that shouldn't discourage me, and I'll be fine. That's what he thinks.

I can't lose here—I want to surpass his expectations. 

Ren Jinguji: Ah, that's right. Lady, I know you're busy, but could you give this a listen and let me know your thoughts on it by tomorrow?

He drops a CD on my table.

Haruka Nanami: Could this be…

Ren Jinguji: It's the song for the graduation audition. I've recorded a few different takes and want to hear your opinions on it.

Jinguji-san is working hard on his own too!

Select the Phrase!

はいっ、頑張りますっ！　Understood! I'll do my best! (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Ren Jinguji: Heh, you don't have to go that far. Just let me know what you think of it. Jinguji-san says with a wry smile.

レポートにして提出します！　I'll write a report and turn it in! (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Ren Jinguji: No need to be that meticulous. I just want to hear your opinions.

Haruka Nanami: No way! I can't just do that! After all, I…

Haruka Nanami: I'm also betting my life on the graduation audition! So let me work hard for it!

Ren Jinguji: Your life…? That's a bit of an exaggeration, don't you think? But that just shows how serious you are about this. In that case, I'll wait for your report.

Haruka Nanami: Okay! You can leave it to me!

I thump my chest with my fist. Jinguji-san smiles kindly at me.

すぐ聴きます！　I'll listen to it right now! (+0 Love, +0 Music)

Ren Jinguji: No can do. Class is about to begin. Once it's over, I want you to listen to it without rushing.

Haruka Nanami: Oh… right… Okay, understood!

As soon as the bell rings and class is dismissed, I make a hasty exit and go back to the dormitory.

Obviously, I need to listen to the CD Jinguji-san gave me.

Of course, I love to compose songs, but even more than that, I love to hear someone else sing along to my compositions...

Even more so when it's the person I love singing it...

Ten seconds have passed since I inserted the CD. I really love the silence before a song begins.

When will it start and what will it be like?

My heart beats faster with excitement, and as it peaks, the first note plays.

Haruka Nanami: Oh… That's really good…

His voice is now even more stable than before, and his rhythm is no longer shifting.

Haruka Nanami: He's been practicing properly…

On this CD there are ten tracks—in each he sings with slightly different nuances.

In one he sings dazzlingly. In the next, passionately, and in another, a little lonely.

Coming up with so many different variations must have been very difficult.

It's hard enough to make even one version. He's bringing his song closer to perfection by singing it over and over while changing the style, all by himself.

Still, he made ten… How much effort did that take?

While I was complaining, he never showed the slightest sign of his own struggles and continued to work hard on his own...

Once I'm done listening to each song, I take my headphones off.

Select the Phrase!

すごかった。　That was amazing. (+0 Love, +0 Music)

It's the same melody and lyrics in each but they all sound so different.

Just the melody and lyrics don't make it complete. Only when people add their emotion-filled singing to it, can it become a song…

There are those who sing but also those who listen.

Since I was so focused on my job, this had completely slipped my mind.

次はメモを取りながら聴こう。　I should take notes while listening to it again. (+0 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Hmmm… The 1A melody was good in the second track… And the chorus… Hmmm. The last chorus was really nice in the tenth track…

I write down the first things that come to my mind, while listening to the songs on repeat.

Since there are ten tracks, it is easy to tell which one is the best.

However, since the A melody is quite nice in the second track, and the B melody is good in the fifth track, I can also recompose it.

They have the same melody and lyrics, yet they are so different.

The melody is not the final form of a song.

The potential one melody hides must be limitless.

There's as many variations as there are singers. I see… I understand now… 

There is a little bit of light shining in my heart that has gone astray.

組み替えてみよう。　Let's recompose this. (+0 Love, +10 Music)

The first chorus… On this track, 2A is… Four… No, it's six… Let's listen to it again.

I'm recomposing it—I'm listening to it over and over again while clipping and connecting one section, then listening to it again…

That way I'm making one song from all of the takes…

However, there is no answer to what perfection is.

This song is just a checkpoint. Obviously, the higher the degree to which this song is perfected, the better.

But that's not all there is to it. Just adding vocals to the same melody grants it limitless potential.

I'm not alone. And completing this song is not the final destination.

With that in mind, the heavy rain clouds that cover my heart start to lift.

Since then I've listened to the CD over and over again. I picked out the bits I personally liked from all ten versions.

Then, I made one song that I felt was it!

Ren Jinguji: Hey, morning! Did you listen to the CD?

Haruka Nanami: Good morning!

As soon as I see Jinguji-san's face, I stand up and immediately rush over to him.

Haruka Nanami: So! I gave it a listen! And then… well…

Select the Phrase!

迷いが晴れました。　My worries were dispelled. (+0 Love, +0 Music)

Ren Jinguji: Hm, that's good. Can you work with it?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! And, well… I did my best rearranging the tracks you gave me into a song…

I'm handing Jinguji-san the CD with the song I recomposed yesterday.

Ren Jinguji: Thank you. I'll refer to it.

Jinguji-san then kisses the CD.

勉強になりました！　I learned a lot! (+10 Love, +10 Music)

Ren Jinguji: You… learned from it? Well, that wasn't initially its purpose but I'm glad you deemed it useful.

Jinguji-san smiles gently and pats my head.

I'm so happy that I almost reach out to him, but I pull back my hand out of reflex… Now is not the time to let myself get spoiled.

Jinguji-san then averts his gaze and drops his hand from my head.

作ってみました！　I made this! (+20 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I tried my best putting the best parts together.

Ren Jinguji: Oh…? So you went that far. Sorry about that, I know you're busy.

Haruka Nanami: No, it's fine! I had a lot of fun. And I was able to remember something important.

Ren Jinguji: Can you give it your all now?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! All thanks to you, Jinguji-san!

Let's go back to the beginning and think about it once more. 

With the intention of adding a voice to it… I have to remember the feelings from the time when I wanted Jinguji-san to sing for me…

I barely make it to the deadline and finally hand the song to my client.

But…

"We deeply apologize. After receiving several compositions, we are still not satisfied with this one."

"Whether we will give you one more chance, or whether someone else will be assigned to this task, is still under consideration. We appreciate your patience during this time."

… says the email.

Haruka Nanami: No way…

No matter how many times I read it, the sentence stays the same. The shock is so big that I continue to blankly stare at the screen of my laptop.

The next day, due to my fatigue and the emotional shock I had received, I developed a fever.

Now really wasn't the time to be confined to my bed… Not only can I not get any work done, but I can't go to class either.

Ren Jinguji: Lady, are you in there?

I hear a voice and some knocking. For a moment, I think I must have misheard it.

Haruka Nanami: Ah! J-Jinguji-san?! W-wait, I'll open the door!

Ren Jinguji: I heard. They told me you got a cold? Now really isn't the time for that… In any case, you have to get back on your feet fast.

Ren Jinguji: Here, I brought you some food. I got egg porridge from the cafeteria. Eating is important when you feel physically weak.

Jinguji-san holds up the paper bag to show me. This makes me really happy because I haven't eaten anything since this morning.

…Sob. I'm sorry for all this.

Haruka Nanami: T-thank you. And um, I'm sorry. I know health management is also part of work, so this… Oh! I can't infect you!

Haruka Nanami: What if you were to catch a cold before the graduation audition? Um, so…

M-my mask. I have to put it on… Huh, I can't find it…

A cold infection spreads over the air so… as long as I stop breathing for now…

Ren Jinguji: A little won't hurt. And… you're probably sick due to overworking yourself, Lady. Come on, let’s get you into bed…

Jinguji-san puts the paper bag down and lifts me up in his arms.

Haruka Nanami: Eek! U-um… I can walk on my own…

Ren Jinguji: It's fine… It's okay to make myself at least a little useful in times like these, right?

He flashes a wry smile and his eyes are slightly downcast.

Ren Jinguji: Really… I let you out of my sight for a bit and you go and overwork yourself… What am I to do with you…

Jinguji-san mutters in a 'dear me' kind of tone.

He then carries me to my bed and covers me with my blanket.

He also brushes my cheek as he puts his hand on my forehead to take my temperature.

Ren Jinguji: Your face is all red… And your cheeks are heated… Did you take any medicine?

I shake my head from side to side. Jinguji-san then goes to the paper bag and, from it, takes out a Chinese spoon and a container of porridge. 

Ren Jinguji: In any case, you should have a small meal first. Taking medicine on an empty stomach is not good for you. Here, open wide, "ahhh."

Haruka Nanami: Uh, e-excuse me… I-I can eat it on my own!

Ren Jinguji: No can do. Let me do it... I've sometimes dreamed of this... I mean, for someone to gently nurse me when I was bedridden with a cold.

Ren Jinguji: Well, right now I'm the one who's nursing you, but... I'm going to do everything for you that I wish someone had done for me.

That's right… Jinguji-san didn't have a mother that could nurse him back to health…

Haruka Nanami: I-in that case, if you ever catch a cold and get bedridden, let me take care of you, Jinguji-san!

Ren Jinguji: Heh, thanks. I'm happy to hear that. Well, I'm taking my health seriously, but if I do get sick one day I'll be in your care. I'm sure if you nurse me, I'll be cured.

Ren Jinguji: So far, George has had to do it for me. But George's way of nursing is pretty rough. He'd just tell me, "Eat!" or "Sleep!"

Haruka Nanami: Whoa, that's quite…

I can somehow totally see George-san being that way.

Ren Jinguji: That's why I always wanted to try this out. Foo, foo. Here, "ahhh."

Haruka Nanami: Er… A-ahhh…

I open my mouth and Jinguji-san lifts the Chinese spoon with the porridge to it.

…T-this is way more embarrassing than I initially thought…!

Ren Jinguji: Is it good?

Haruka Nanami: Y-… Yes… But it's a little embarrassing after all…

Ren Jinguji: One more then. Foo, foo. I have to cool it down properly, if not, your cute lips could get burned and we wouldn't want that. Hm, this should be fine. Okay, "ahhh".

He blows on it to cool the food down, then takes the Chinese spoon and lightly pushes it against his lips to measure the temperature. Then…

Jinguji-san turns the spoon to me with a smile on his face.

Haruka Nanami: Um, er… L-like I said… I-it's embarrassing…

It's so embarrassing, but… Jinguji-san grins lightly, seemingly enjoying this…

Haruka Nanami: Er, ah… Ahhh.

In the end, I let Jinguji-san feed me the whole porridge until there is nothing left.

Haruka Nanami: …T-thank you for the meal. Um… It was delicious.

Ren Jinguji: Sorry that it was so simple​. Oh… Looks like… a grain of rice got stuck next to your mouth.

"Mwah," he pecks the corner of my mouth and quickly pulls his lips away from mine.

Haruka Nanami: Wha! U-uhm!!

Ren Jinguji: Thanks for the meal, Lady. That was delicious.

He says, wearing a smile that betrays his glee.

Haruka Nanami: A-a-a—…

My face is burning up from this embarrassing situation. I want to say something but am speechless as I repeatedly open and close my mouth.

Ren Jinguji: Hehe, sorry. Looks like I teased you a bit too much. I need you to get well soon, so we can't have your fever getting worse, Lady.

Jinguji-san laughs innocently like a mischievous child. I didn't know he could make such an expression…

I don't think I could stand it if he were to look at me with such gentle eyes.

I cause so many people trouble… Like Jinguji-san for example, I'm causing so much trouble for him…

And yet I failed to show any kind of results. In the end, I even came down with a fever, causing even more trouble.

Haruka Nanami: U-um… I'm sorry. I… Although I got this job… it ended up with this outcome…

Ren Jinguji: What? Could it be that you're already giving up?

Select the Phrase!

そんなことっ！　No way! (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I decided to debut no matter what it will take. As long as there is a chance I won't give up!

Haruka Nanami: It's just that… The chances are so low… I apologize… for being so pathetic…

I'm about to cry while saying this, so I try my best to hold my tears back.

Ren Jinguji: What's important isn't the past—it's the future… As well as the will to connect with that future.

Jinguji-san gently pets my hair.

あきらめたくないです。　I don't want to give up. (+15 Love, +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: But… All I can do now is wait. I thought about composing a song while waiting, but…

Haruka Nanami: I fear I might trouble them by sending them too many things… What should I do…? What can I do…?

Haruka Nanami: So I guess the only thing I can do after all is to wait… If I think too much about it I might get another fever… I'm pathetic.

Suddenly, his outstretched hand touches my forehead.

Ren Jinguji: Maybe you overheated because you usually follow your intuition and rarely use your head.

もう、どうしていいのか……。　I don't know what else to do… (+0 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I don't want to give up. I want to debut, but…

Haruka Nanami: I can only wait for their reply… And I'm… scared of the result.

Ren Jinguji: Can you… still go on? Or would you like to quit here?

Ren Jinguji: This won't be the only case. As a professional, you'll get through the same experiences many times from now on. Are you confident that you can endure that?

Ren Jinguji: You still have the chance to quit now. Your music is free and full of artistry. You may be better suited to create music as a hobby, where there's no pressure and there's no limit to what you can make.

Haruka Nanami: That… may be true. But I want everyone to listen to my compositions… rather, to the songs I'll compose.

Haruka Nanami: At first I only looked up to HAYATO-sama so I only thought about making music for idols. But things are different now.

Haruka Nanami: Now I want you to sing my songs, Jinguji-san. And then I want the whole world to listen to them!

Haruka Nanami: I love your songs. Your presence in itself is shining so brightly that it's blinding. And I want to let everyone know that.

Haruka Nanami: I want to move them deeply. That's the reason why I want to debut no matter what.

Ren Jinguji: Okay, Lady. I see your eyes are still full of life. Your fever should settle soon. We can make another song when that time comes.

Ren Jinguji: Don't even think about it not turning out well. You're a composer after all, so all you have to do is to compose while following your heart.

Haruka Nanami: Alright!

Ren Jinguji: But for now… you should rest until your fever goes down. And your next assignment will be to work hard but not too excessively, 'kay?

He lightly kisses my eyelids and gently runs his hand through my hair.

It feels so good that I fall into a deep sleep on the spot.

There were still no results. Despite that, I continue working on my composition in the recording room.

Haruka Nanami: Ah!!

Jinguji-san's big brother??? W-why is he here?

Seiichiro Jinguji: Am I interrupting?

Haruka Nanami: N-no, not at all… U-um, I apologize for the mess…

Seiichiro Jinguji: Don't worry, I don't mind. Do you mind if we talk a little?

Haruka Nanami: Ah! Of course…

Seiichiro Jinguji: I'm sorry for having you make so many retakes on the composition. It must have been tough.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, n-no, I am the one who should apologize for not being able to deliver anything satisfactory.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Personally, I liked each of your songs. Your compositions are so straightforward, innocent and so honest…

Seiichiro Jinguji: I'm sure your compositions reveal your personality. I'm glad that someone like you got to be Ren's partner.

Haruka Nanami: No, you flatter me… All I really do is cause Jinguji-san trouble…

Seiichiro Jinguji: It must be quite difficult for you. One might say it's because he’s… unreadable.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Even as his biological brother, there are times when I can't tell what he's thinking.

Haruka Nanami: Jinguji-san is really…

Select the Phrase!

優しい方です。　He's such a kind person. (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Seiichiro Jinguji: Well, he's only kind to women on the surface. He never enters a serious relationship, so he just ends up being showered with attention by women. 

Seiichiro Jinguji: I was a little worried because I thought he would always be like that. Sooner or later this behavior towards women would lead to conflicts.

Haruka Nanami: Uhm… I think you're right about him being kind to women. But he's also someone who cherishes his companions.

Seiichiro Jinguji: His… companions? Meaning you are being cherished by him as well?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! Jinguji-san is always kind to me!

繊細な方です。　He's such a delicate person. (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: There is a sense of sensitivity in the inner workings of his heart that allows him to notice even the most fine details. I think this is why he is so popular with women.

Seiichiro Jinguji: You're right, rather than being cunning, he has this strangely skillful side.

華やかな方です。He's such a dazzling person. (+0 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: He's always so dazzling to the point that he's sparkling.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Yeah… He inherited that kind of presence from our mother.

Seiichiro Jinguji: I see... Ren really has a good partner. I'm glad I sent him to this academy.

Haruka Nanami: Um... Jinguji-san told me that he was forced to come to this academy... Is that true?

Seiichiro Jinguji: Right, the fact that he was half-forced is true. He's... Well, you can’t help feeling bad for him.

Seiichiro Jinguji: He lost our mother right after he was born, so our biological father became displeased with him. Father suspected that Ren wasn't his child.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Of course, that's not true... Father loved our mother deeply, so the shock of losing her must have been too great.

Seiichiro Jinguji: That must have taken a mental toll on him. Regrettably, all his irritation and grief was focused and directed at Ren.

Seiichiro Jinguji: As for us—we couldn't protect him from that. No matter what we said, Father was an absolute figure in the Jinguji household, so no one could oppose him.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Despite receiving our father's harsh treatment, I think Ren still grew up big and strong. That's because George supported him behind the scenes.

Haruka Nanami: George-san did…?

Seiichiro Jinguji: Yes, and he still does. He only helps him a little bit, but it's thanks to George that Ren was able to grow up without going down the wrong path.

Seiichiro Jinguji: But... With our father's death, even though Ren gained freedom, he lost his purpose in life.

Seiichiro Jinguji: He left the school he used to attend and wandered aimlessly around the city, doing nothing.

Seiichiro Jinguji: There were times when it seemed like dangerous people were trying to deceive him. Things couldn't go on like that, so I enrolled him here.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Ren tried to hide it, but when he was a child he admired idols.

Haruka Nanami: Idols?

But at first he hated the idea of becoming an idol...

Lately, he seems to enjoy singing and dancing. Jinguji-san looks so happy when he sings.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Correct. He would secretly watch idol videos while singing and dancing along to them. Even then, I thought he had a talent for it, but...

Seiichiro Jinguji: I would have suggested for Ren to become an idol, but I couldn't tell him that in front of our father. At that time, it was basically taboo to talk about anything related to our mother.

Seiichiro Jinguji: But our father is no longer with us. I thought that if he got in touch with the profession he once admired, he would surely find something he could devote himself to...

His big brother... He does care about Jinguji-san.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Looks like the plan worked. All thanks to you and everyone else.

Haruka Nanami: Oh no, I didn't do anything...

Seiichiro Jinguji: I doubt that he would be so serious about something without you doing anything.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Ren seems to be quite fond of your compositions. Yesterday, he visited me without making an appointment beforehand.

Haruka Nanami: What…?

But Jinguji-san even hates his big brother being mentioned as a topic...

He visited him on his own regard? And that without an appointment… What did he visit him for?

Seiichiro Jinguji: For formal reasons, he brought the specifics regarding the work we commissioned from you, and he also wrote a new proposal.

Seiichiro Jinguji: He came to promote his and your song. If I recall correctly, it's the song that he will sing for the graduation audition.

Haruka Nanami: Huh… U-um… By "promote" you mean…

Why did he do that?

Seiichiro Jinguji: Hm? Did Ren not tell you about it?

Haruka Nanami: Um, well… I don't know what this is about…

Seiichiro Jinguji: It's about the commercial song. With your song we can certainly increase the buying interest. At least, that's what he, brimming with confidence, presented to us…

Seiichiro Jinguji: When we told him that the song didn't fit the image of the product, he replied that the song's appeal was too good to worry about such details.

Seiichiro Jinguji: He then emphasized that it will also definitely leave a lasting impression of the product. For that, however, we need verification.

Seiichiro Jinguji: So I told him that if the song is good enough to win at the graduation audition, then we would use it.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Using a song like that would also come with its prestige, and I initially intended to use one of your songs regardless.

Seiichiro Jinguji: On top of that, using him for the commercial of one of our products just makes sense. It wasn't a bad deal.

Seiichiro Jinguji: However, if the execution of the song was bad, we would have to order a new one, which would be difficult and cost us due to the long delay.

Seiichiro Jinguji: I didn't know whether to take the risk and bet on you two or not... That's why I came here to ask your opinion.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Regarding this project, I wanted to know if you haven't given up yet. Do you want to try this new challenge together with Ren? And—above all—are you confident in yourself?

All the songs I confidently turned in within this one month got rejected.

So… No, I no longer have confidence in my own talent.

But... This song is not only my composition. It also has Jinguji-san's vocals. I composed it in anticipation of Jinguji-san singing it.

Even if my strength alone isn't enough, when we combine both of our forces the possibilities become infinite.

Jinguji-san has presented me with this chance. I can't let it go to waste.

It will surely be fine. We can… no, we will win!

Haruka Nanami: I'm confident. Please allow us to do this!

I declare with resolution.

Seiichiro Jinguji: Understood. I'll steer the conversation in that direction. I have high expectations. Please do your best.

Haruka Nanami: I will!

After that, thanks to Jinguji-san's big brother informing the principal about this, I was saved from dropping out of the academy.

In exchange, I won't be granted a second chance to debut if we fail to win the graduation audition.

That's what I promised.

Haruka Nanami: The audition will be held soon. I have to do my best!

Mini Game

Ryuya Hyuga: Laugh or cry about it but the graduation audition only happens once. There are no retakes.

Ryuya Hyuga: To perform your best song on stage, you have no choice but to practice in the background. Each time you listen and perform, the quality of your song will improve.

Ryuya Hyuga: Think of this as the real deal. In preparation for the audition, find the faults in your song and crush them! Got it?

Ryuya Hyuga: This is the final lesson. Put in your spirit!

S RANK

Ren Jinguji: To say the truth, I was confident in myself—confident that I would never get serious about anyone. You truly are a puzzling girl.

Haruka Nanami: I'm… puzzling? People often tell me that I'm weird…

A laugh slips out of Jinguji-san.

Huh? Did I say something strange? Japanese is so difficult.

Finally, the day of the graduation audition is here.

Haruka Nanami: It looks like it’s about to start.

If we don't win this, my dream of becoming a composer will never come true.

W-what should I do? My heart won't stop racing and my… my hands won't stop shaking…

A hand then falls on my shoulder from behind me.

Haruka Nanami: Jinguji-san…

Ren Jinguji: Are you nervous? Well, I can't blame you. You'll lose everything if we don't win here. But no need to worry. After all, I am the one who will be singing.

Ren Jinguji: Losing isn't even an option for us! I'll go all out all for this moment! I'll wager everything on this one song.

After that declaration, he slicks back his hair with his hands and licks his lips with his tongue. 

Oh, that's his habit. He does that every time he gets serious…

Jinguji-san and I feel the same way. It's the feeling of wagering everything on this graduation audition. 

Haruka Nanami: T-thank you very much, and, um… This might not be the time for this but I wanted to ask you why you went so far for me?

I believed that Jinguji-san didn't want to interfere with my work.

During the time I lost my spirit, he coldly kept his distance from me. I was lonely, but I was the one who took the job so it had nothing to do with him.

That's why I worked hard on my own.

Still, he looked into the details of my job, wrote a proposal and with it, went to his big brother to promote our song.

Jinguji-san is always so kind. But I've always felt his kindness is passive—he isn't the type to be proactive.

That's why I want to know: Why did he do it?

Haruka Nanami: You went to your brother to negotiate about the commercial song, didn't you? I thought you hate talking to your big brother, so why—

Unexpectedly, he puts his index finger on my lips, cutting me off.

Ren Jinguji: Who knows? Right, you can find the answer in… the song… Once you hear it, you'll understand everything.

With that said, he flashes a smile that brims with confidence and rushes out onto the stage.

Chapter End

[shiningwonderland]

I joined the fandom recently (15 years late, I know) and I just found this gem of a tumblr account!! Thank you so SO much for the translations! I just finished reading all of Natsuki's route and it made my night, really. I hope the team has a great day!

Aww, welcome to the fandom! We're so glad to hear that there are people who are still interested in the original Utapri games and lore! We're getting through the main chapters of each route of Repeat and All Star first, but we're looking forward to getting to the alternate endings and memorials (side stories which flesh out the story even more)! Look forward to them. :)

[shiningwonderland]

I’ve been in the Utapri fandom for ages but I’ve never had a chance to read through repeat and all star until you guys started translating! I’m looking forward to reading the rest of all stars routes and memorials. Keep up the fantastic work!

Hello, we appreciate your comment! We're glad that people are still interested in the original Utapri games after all this time! Happy to be of service and we'll do our best~!

[shiningwonderland]

thank you so much for all the hard work on these translations <3 it's really lovely to finally have a non-summarized understanding of what happens in the games. It's a lot of work, I imagine. Thank you

Thank you so much, we appreciate it! We're passionate about getting out as much of the original Utapri lore out there in English little by little!

[shiningwonderland]

Hello! Do you plan to make a "patch" translation for PSP and Nintendo Switch? I would like to play the game actually with translation, not to read it on web site. Thank you!

Hello! We have no plans on making a patch at the moment since we don't have the skills to make one and are solely focusing all our efforts into translating the script into plain text form. We apologize for the inconvenience!