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apothecaryscript · 2 months ago

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Memo for Episode 11 (Ep.35) “The Hunt”

馬閃(バセン)「茘(リー)、という国名(こくめい)は、その一文字(ひともじ)で、建国(けんこく)の物語(ものがたり)を��(あらわ)している。草(くさ)の下(した)に三(みっ)つの刀(かたな)…。草は華(はな)、帝(みかど)の先祖(せんぞ)である王母(おうぼ)を指(さ)し、その下の三つの刀は王母を助(たす)けた三人(さんにん)の武人(ぶじん)を示(しめ)す。三つの刀のうち、下二(ふた)つに比(くら)べて大(おお)きい刀は、北(きた)の大地(だいち)・子北州(しほくしゅう)を指(さ)す。子北洲一帯(いったい)は、高粱(コーリャン)や麦(むぎ)を栽培(さいばい)していて、さらに北に行(い)くと、山岳地帯(さんがくちたい)が広(ひろ)がり…て、聞(き)いてるのか！？」

Basen “Rī, to-iu koku-mei’wa, sono hito-moji’de, kenkoku’no monogatari’o arawashite-iru. Kusa’no shita’ni mittsu’no katana… Kusa’wa hana, mikado’no senzo-de-aru Obo’o sashi, sono shita’no mittsu’no katana’wa Obo’o tasuketa san-nin’no bujin’o shimesu. Mittsu’no katana’no-uchi, shita futatsu’ni kurabete ookii katana’wa, kita’no daichi, Shi-Hoku-shu’o sasu. Shi-hoku-shu-ittai’wa, kōryan’ya mugi’o saibai-shite-ite, sarani kita’ni ikuto, sangaku-chitai’ga hirogari…te, kiiteru-noka?!”

Basen “The character used to write the name of our nation, ‘Li,’ also depicts the story of its founding. Three swords under grass. ‘Grass’ is for ‘flower,’ representing the Mother Royal, ancestor of the emperor. The three ‘swords’ under it represent the three warriors who helped her. Of the three swords, the one larger sword represents the Shihoku-shu, the northern lands. That entire area grows sorghum and wheat. If you go further north, you enter a mountainous region… Hey, are you listening?!”

In this line, Basen explained the Kanji “茘(リー)” in detail. For your better understanding, please see below.

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馬閃「何でこんな娘を父上(ちちうえ)は…」

Basen “Nande konna musume’o chichi-ue’wa…”

Basen “Why does my father care so much about this girl?”

The fact that he said this to her shows how young and immature he is, although she is also at fault for dozing off while listening to his explanation.

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猫猫（はて？）「何(なに)か、変(か)わった趣向(しゅこう)でも？」

Maomao (Hate?) “Nanika, kawatta shuko’demo?”

Maomao (Huh?) “Is this some kind of strange rule?”

趣向(しゅこう/Shuko): There seems to be no word which directly refer to it in English… Idea, plan, or taste is used depending on the context.

趣味・趣向(しゅみ・しゅこう) is sometime used in Japanese. 趣味(Shumi) is “hobby”. For example, let’s say I have a hobby of Karaoke and I have a karaoke party with my friends once a month. And I say 「来月は趣向を変えて、コスプレでアニメソングのカラオケパーティをしよう！」. It means “Next month, let’s do something different and have a cosplay karaoke party singing anime songs!” In this case, 趣味(Shumi) is “hobby: karaoke”, and 趣向(Shuko) is “how we enjoy karaoke: cosplay and sing anime songs”. So I guess I can say 趣向(Shuko) is an idea to enjoy something based on your taste.

The word is also used in the following line later;

猫猫（狩りは、宿(やど)から30分(さんじゅっぷん)馬(うま)に揺(ゆ)られ、徒歩(とほ)で��時間(いちじかん)山(やま)を登(のぼ)った高台(たかだい)で行(おこな)われる。お偉方(えらがた)が捕(つか)まえた獲物(えもの)をその場(ば)で調理(ちょうり)するという趣向(しゅこう)のようだ）

Maomao (Kari’wa, yado’kara sanjuppun uma’ni yurare, toho’de ichi-jikan yama’o nobotta taka-dai’de okonawareru. Oera-gata’ga tsukamaeta emono’o sono-ba’de chori-suru-to-iu shuko’no-yoda.)

Maomao (The hunt takes place at a location half an hour away by horse, and then one hour up the mountain by foot. It seems like the point of the event is to cook the game caught by the nobles on the spot.)

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猫猫「そうですか…」（やっぱり壬氏様はいいとこの出(で)なのか…うん、うん）

Maomao “So-desuka…” (Yappari Jinshi-sama’wa ii-toko’no de nanoka… Un, un.)

Maomao “I see.” (So Master Jinshi is from a good family, after all.)

いいとこ(ii toko): good family, good place = いい所(ところ/tokoro)

The word is also used in the following line later;

李白「こんにちは？あ～！嬢(じょう)ちゃんか！どうしたんだ？こんなとこで」

Rihaku “Kon’nichiwa? Aaa! Jochan-ka! Do-shitanda? Konna toko’de.”

Lihaku “Hello? Hey! Little miss! What are you doing all the way out here?”

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高順「小猫は例(れい)のことを何一(なにひと)つ知(し)らない」

Gaoshun “Shaomao’wa rei’no koto’o nani-hitotsu shira-nai.”

Gaoshun “Xiaomao knows nothing about it.”

例の（れいの/Rei’no）: the, that, it

This word is used in situations where the speaker and listener know what it refers to, or when they feel embarrassed to say it directly. It enables you to speak without a third party being able to understand.

The word is also used again in the following line later;

男１「これが例(れい)の…随分(ずいぶん)小型(こがた)だな」

Otoko-Ichi “Korega rei’no… zuibun kogata dana.”

Man-1 “Is this it? It’s quite small.”

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猫猫「はぁ。もともと壬氏様のお食事(しょくじ)です」

Maomao “Haa. Moto-moto Jinshi-sama’no oshokuji desu.”

Maomao “Well, it’s your food, after all.”

はぁ(Haa): casual and broken way of saying “はい: Yes”. It shows that Maomao is questioning why he asks such a question. Otherwise “はぁ” may be considered a rude response.

もともと(Moto-moto): originally

壬氏「本当にいいのか？！」

Jinshi “Honto’ni ii-noka?!”

Jinshi “Are you absolutely sure?”

Maomao has no idea why he’s asking so emotionally, but you all do, maybe. His condition is already not good at this point, and he seems to be unable to control his emotions.

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壬氏「ああ。むしろ食え」

Jinshi “Aa. Mushiro kue.”

Jinshi “Yeah. In fact, I order you to.”

むしろ（Mushiro）: rather

むしろ＋命令形(めいれいけい/Meirei-kei: instruction form): Or rather, do it.

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猫猫「なぜと言われましても…そういう体質(たいしつ)ですから」

Maomao “Naze-to iware-mashitemo… So-iu taishitsu desu-kara.”

Maomao “All I can say is that’s just how I’m built.”

体質（たいしつ/Tai-shitsu）: constitution, physical makeup

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猫猫（お若(わか)いとは大変(たいへん)である）

Maomao (Owakai-towa taihen’de aru.)

Maomao (It’s not easy being young and vigorous.)

If I translate it directly, it will be “It is tough to be young.” But Maomao’s way of saying is suggestive, such as “お若い” instead of “若い” even though it’s not necessary to add “お”(Keigo, honorific) for Basen in her monologue. And also judging from the context, we can understand that “…and vigorous” is hidden in her line.

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猫猫（湯(ゆ)あみまでできるとは…贅沢(ぜいたく)だなぁ…。明日(あした)は狩りか…。つつがなく終(お)わるといいけど）

Maomao (Yuami-made dekiru-towa…zeitaku-danaa… Ashita’wa kari-ka… Tsutsuga-naku owaru-to ii-kedo.)

Maomao (A bath, too? How extravagant. The hunt starts tomorrow. I hope it goes without incident.)

つつがなく（Tsutsuga-naku）: formal word which means safely, well, without any incident/trouble.

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男１「ここで、あの方には死んでもらう」

Otoko-Ichi “Koko’de, ano kata’niwa shinde-morau.”

Man-1 “This will be where they die.”

方（かた/Kata）: It’s like a Keigo of “人(ひと/Hito): person”, same as “お方(おかた/Okata)”. With “お” or without, it means honorific feeling to the person. And if it means more than two people, 方 becomes “方々（かたがた/Kata-gata）”, so this 方 only refers to the single person: Jinshi. I wonder why they translated it as “they”, which could lead viewers to mistakenly believe that Maomao was also a target. If I were to translate it, I would use “that gentleman.”

死んでもらう（しんでもらう）: It's hard to translate this expression into English. ～してもらう means “have someone do” and maybe “Here, (is the place where) that gentleman shall die (for us).” would be my direct translation. In Japanese, such expressions are often used, especially in movies or games, just before someone is going to kill the other person, as a softer way of saying.

This line can be more polite, if you change もらう to いただく: ここで、あの方には死んでいただく.

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猫猫「ちょっとご指名(しめい)があったもので」

Maomao “Chotto goshimei’ga atta-mono’de.”

Maomao “I was asked to join.”

指名する(しめいする/Shimei-suru): ask for a certain person, appoint, designate

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猫猫（李白様も指名を受(う)けたのはいいが、地方出身(ちほうしゅっしん)の身(み)。他(ほか)の気位(きぐらい)の高い護衛たちに、追(お)い出(だ)された口(くち)だろう。最近(さいきん)どんどん出世(しゅっせ)しているようだが、その分風当たりは強(つよ)くなる）

Maomao (Rihaku-sama’mo shimei’o uketa-nowa iiga, chiho-shusshin’no-mi. Hoka’no kigurai’no takai goei-tachi’ni, oidasareta kuchi daro. Saikin don-don shusse-shite-iru-yodaga, sono-bun kaze-atari’wa tsuyoku-naru.)

Maomao (Master Lihaku got invited to join too, but he’s from the countryside. The other prideful guards must have pushed him out. He seems to be climbing the ranks recently, but that does tend to be met with resistance.)

～口（くち）だ(～kuchi da): be one of those who～

気位の高い（きぐらいのたかい/Kigurai’no takai）: have lots of pride, prideful

風当たりが強い（かぜあたりがつよい/Kaze-atari’ga tsuyoi）: windy, windswept, receive harsh treatment, greatly criticized

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猫猫（避暑地(ひしょち)とはいえ、今日(きょう)は天気(てんき)も良(よ)く暑苦(あつくる)しい。��適(かいてき)に過(す)ごすのも一苦労(ひとくろう)だな…。…こんな暑苦しいのに、ずっと覆面(ふくめん)をつけて…料理(りょうり)にも手(て)を付(つ)けないつもりか？どんなに怪(あや)しい覆面姿(ふくめんすがた)でも、上座(かみざ)に座(すわ)っていれば、この中で一番(いちばん)の上客(じょうきゃく)ということなのだろう）

上座（かみざ/Kami-za）: the top seat of honor, upper seat ⇔ 下座（しもざ/Shimo-za）: the bottom seat, lower seat

I don’t know how it is in China, but in Japan, there are usually 上座 and 下座 in each room, and the guests are guided to 上座. Normally, 上座 is located at the farthest from the door/entrance, and 下座 is at the closest. It depends on each room, and even if it’s not the farthest from the entrance, the seat near the 床の間（とこのま/tokonoma） alcove or one with a good view may be the 上座.

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猫猫（あれが楼蘭妃(ロウランひ)の父(ちち)、子昌様。子北洲の長(おさ)で、この狩りの主催者(しゅさいしゃ)だ。…ん？何か言われたのか？…いや、あのやたら外面(そとづら)のいい宦官が、あんなあからさまな態度(たいど)を取(と)るだろうか…。もしかすると、この暑さのせいで…）

Maomao (Are’ga Roran-hi’no chichi, Shisho-sama. Shi-Hoku-shu’no osa’de, kono kari’no shusai-sha-da. …N? Nanika iwareta-noka? …Iya, ano yatara soto-zura’no ii kangan’ga, anna akarasama-na taido’o toru-daroka… Moshika-suruto, kono atsusa’no sei’de…)

Maomao (That’s Master Shishou, Concubine Loulan’s father. He is the leader of the Shihoku-shu region and the organizer of this hunt. Hmm? Did he say something to him? Would that infinitely well-mannered eunuch show such an obvious attitude? Wait, could it be, because of the heat…)

外面のいい（そとづらのいい/Soto-zura’no ii）: looks nice outside (but…)

It’s usually used in a negative sense, like “彼は誰にでも外面はいいが、家族には横柄だ（かれは、だれにでもそとづらはいいが、かぞくにはおうへいだ : He looks so nice with everybody outside, but he’s arrogant towards his family.”

あからさまな(Akara-sama-na): obvious, bald, bare, blatant

It’s also usually used in a negative sense, like “彼女はあからさまに私に意地悪だ（かのじょは、あからさまにわたしにいじわるだ/Kanojo’wa akara-sama-ni watashi’ni iji-waru da : She’s obviously mean to me.”

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壬氏「自分でやる！お前のも貸(か)せ。俺の方(ほう)が力(ちから)があるだろう」

Jinshi “Jibun’de yaru! Omae’nomo kase. Ore’no-hoga chikara’ga aru-daro.”

Jinshi “I’ll do it myself. Give me yours, too. I’m stronger than you.”

猫猫「はあ」

Maomao “Haa.”

Maomao “Yes.”

Here is はあ instead of はい again, which shows Maomao is wondering why his mood seems worse. I think they just translated it as “yes”, because replacing by “yeah” or something would sound too rude.

猫猫（良かった…さっきより体調(たいちょう)は良さそうだ。機嫌(きげん)は悪(わる)そうだけど）

Maomao (Yokatta… Sakki-yori taicho’wa yosa-soda. Kigen’wa waru-soda-kedo.)

Maomao (Good, he looks healthier than earlier. His mood seems worse, though.)

It’s interesting that Maomao has no idea about his behavior, in spite that he’s just embarrassed.

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猫猫「粗末(そまつ)な物(もの)で申(もう)し訳(わけ)ありませんが、食(しょく)していただけますか」

Maomao “Somatsu-na mono’de moshi-wake ari-masen-ga, shoku-shite-itadake-masu-ka.”

Maomao “I know it isn’t much, but would you like to eat any of this?”

粗末な物(そまつなもの/Somatsu-na mono): something shabby/poor/simple

That is a standard phrase to humble, which is used when giving a present in Japan, but in this case Maomao is saying that because butterbur is just a vegetable and it’s not something gorgeous.

～していただけますか(～shite-itadake-masuka): Would you mind if～? Could you～, please? Would it be possible to～?

Although they translated it into “would you like～,” I feel something is off a bit. I think “I’m afraid it’s just something simple, but could you please eat this, please?” is better, because she is not asking him if he’ll eat it, and actually, she’s asking him to eat it.

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I’m sure you all thought “Don’t end here!” The incident where he jumped into the waterfall wasn’t in the original web novel, so when I read this in the light novel first, I was so surprised and thought “What? What’s going on?!” I’m really looking forward to the next episode, but I’m also a little worried, because some online and YouTube posts have overemphasized the sexiness of the scene. (Sorry, it might be the opposite of what you expect!) Anyway, let’s enjoy the next episode together!

#apothecary english #apothecary romaji #the apothecary diaries #apothecary diaries #learning japanese #japanese #薬屋のひとりごと #薬屋のひとりごと　英語 #薬屋　英語　学習 #japan #KNH #season 2

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shiningwonderland · 1 year ago

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Syo Kurusu (Repeat)

Translator: Terry (Twitter: turtlemudge)

Proofreader: Raz (Twitter: agnadance)

October — Five-Second-Early Vicenda

It's now October. In class, everyone's talking about what we should do for the school festival.

Syo Kurusu: Hmm. We have the chance to use the stage… it'd be a shame to waste it.

Haruka Nanami: Yeah.

Syo Kurusu: Considering the graduation audition, maybe a song would be best… but wouldn't it be boring to do the same thing twice…?

Syo Kurusu: Is there anything just the two of us can do…?

Haruka Nanami: Just the two of us… hmm…

Select the Phrase!

漫才 Stand-up comedy duo (+5 Love, +0 Music)

Syo Kurusu: A comedy duo? You're already too naïve—if you tried to be stupid on purpose it'd be a disaster.

Haruka Nanami: I'm...naïve?

Syo Kurusu: Yes. You totally are.

Syo-kun swats lightly at my forehead.

Haruka Nanami: Then, what if I played the straight man…? "Don't be ridiculous" or something…?

Syo Kurusu: Nope, you have no sense of comedic timing. Rejected!

社交ダンス Ballroom dance (+15 Love, +5 Music)

Syo Kurusu: Dance, huh…? Well, it'd be good rhythm practice, at least… But then again…

Syo-kun starts measuring our relative heights with his hands.

Syo Kurusu: Unfortunately… our heights are almost the same.

Haruka Nanami: I trip over my own feet so I don't think I can dance well... I would get in your way.

Syo Kurusu: I'd be fine with ballroom dancing at a party or something, but that's not the same as performing for an audience… Let's think of something else.

Haruka Nanami: Sorry…

アンサンブル Chamber music (+15 Love, +5 Music)

Syo Kurusu: Chamber music? What do you mean?

Haruka Nanami: Like a duet for piano and violin, or something…

Syo Kurusu: Well, if that's what you want to do, I don't have a problem with it…

Syo Kurusu: … But it also sounds like the sort of thing that Natsuki would insist on butting into.

Haruka Nanami: Well, then, Shinomiya-san could join us…

Syo Kurusu: If he does that, what will his partner do? They'll be out of a job for the festival.

Haruka Nanami: Oh… that's right.

Syo Kurusu: Well, it's not a bad idea. It can stay as an option, but let's keep brainstorming.

Haruka Nanami: Okay.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, actually, wait! Your sense of rhythm is really good, so dance seems like a good fit for you… If we could pull that off, you'd look so cool.

Syo Kurusu: I can definitely do that!

Haruka Nanami: Really?

Syo Kurusu: Hey. Who the heck do you think you're talking to? I'm Syo Kurusu, the world's greatest idol. There's nothing I can't do!!

Haruka Nanami: Then, shall we do a dance? Ah, but I can't dance since I never learned how…

Syo Kurusu: I've never actually learned how, either. But whatever, we'll figure it out somehow.

Haruka Nanami: Hmmm. My reflexes are… terrifyingly poor… I'm not sure I can actually do it.

Syo Kurusu: Oh. I see… I was sure that the two of us could find a way to manage it, but…

Haruka Nanami: Oh, wait, I could make a song! I'll make a really cool song that's perfect for you, Syo-kun!!

Syo Kurusu: Yeah!! A collaboration by the two of us!! All right, now I'm stoked!!

Haruka Nanami: Yeah!! Ahh, I'm getting excited already. What sort of song should I make?

Select the Phrase!

アニメソング Anime song. (+0 Love, +5 Music)

Syo Kurusu: Why an anime song? I mean, I don't hate the idea, but…

Haruka Nanami: Ah, I just thought… it would be a good fit for you, somehow.

Syo Kurusu: I mean… there's a lot of anime songs out there already, aren't there?

Haruka Nanami: Oh… that's true…

J-POP. J-pop. (+0 Love, +15 Music)

Syo Kurusu: Since it's dance music, I don't think it has to be particularly Japanese. Besides, it doesn't need lyrics, right?

Haruka Nanami: Oh… right. But I'd like to do something stylish and cool, with a melodious feel.

Haruka Nanami: If possible, maybe something I can add lyrics to and make into a song later…

Syo Kurusu: Well, okay then… Oh, but make sure it's a good speed to dance to. If the tempo's too high it'll just wear me out.

Haruka Nanami: Sure.

演歌 Enka.* (+0 Love, +0 Music) *Enka is a music genre that resembles traditional Japanese music, usually in the style of sentimental ballad music. It is popular amongst older people.

Syo Kurusu: How the heck am I gonna dance to that?

Haruka Nanami: I thought it would be original.

Syo Kurusu: That's TOO original. Let's go with something normal.

Haruka Nanami: Okay.

A few days after that, I finish the new song.

Haruka Nanami: … What… do you think?

Syo Kurusu: … So is this what you hear when you think of me…?

Haruka Nanami: Huh…?

Syo Kurusu: Oh, nothing… I was just thinking… so, this is me, huh.

Haruka Nanami: Well… yeah. I tried to imagine a song that would fit you. Something bright and sparkling and bursting with energy… I'm happy that you picked up on that.

Syo Kurusu: It was obvious as soon as I heard it that it's my song! … I was just thinking, I'm really happy with it.

Syo-kun smiles happily.

Haruka Nanami: You… like it?

Syo Kurusu: A good song is one thing, but… There are tons of artists who never manage to find a song that really fits them, no matter how hard they try.

Syo Kurusu: But you… you've made a song that's just for me. A song that'll really let me shine…

Syo Kurusu: As a singer, that's what makes me happiest of all, I think. I'm really lucky I met you.

Syo Kurusu: I really feel that way… but anyway! Yeah! Let's get started on the dancing part!!

Haruka Nanami: O-okay! I'm ready when you are!

Syo Kurusu: Uhh. One, two, three, four… whoops, that's wrong…

Haruka Nanami: Should I lower the speed a bit?

Syo Kurusu: No, it won't come together right if it's any slower. This is fine.

We practice for hours. Syo-kun trains his muscle memory, perfectly internalizing the rhythm.

Syo Kurusu: … haa, haa, haah… I think I'm starting to get it…

Haruka Nanami: "Starting to"? You're doing great. You've been amazing to watch.

Syo Kurusu: No… I'm still not quite quick enough. … It'd be better… if it were more… precise…

Syo Kurusu: I want the audience… to appreciate your song through my dancing. I want the people watching to feel that joy in their hearts.

Syo Kurusu: … I… really… love… this song… Let's practice… again…

*Wobble*.

Syo-kun's body lists to one side.

Syo Kurusu: … Ugh…

Haruka Nanami: Syo-kun…!

I immediately rush over, trying to support him, but…

*Smack.*

He bats my hand away.

Syo Kurusu: Ah… sorry. But, I'm really okay…

Haruka Nanami: Syo-kun…?

What was that? Syo-kun seemed different from his usual self… My chest tightens.

Even though he says he's fine…

Syo Kurusu: Welp, back to work!

Select the Phrase!

無理しない方が... Don't overdo it. (+10 Music, +0 Music)

Syo Kurusu: I'm not!!

Syo Kurusu: Dammit…

Haruka Nanami: … Syo-kun?

Syo Kurusu: It's nothing. I'm seriously fine. Stop worrying…

Despite Syo-kun's words, I'm worried…

Is there anything I can do to help?

お水飲む？Would you like some water? (+10 Love, +10 Music)

Syo Kurusu: Nah, it's fine…

Haruka Nanami: It's just, you've been sweating a lot, and it can be bad to get too dehydrated. And just now it looked like you got a bit lightheaded…

Syo Kurusu: Oh, yeah, I guess.

Haruka Nanami: I'll get you a water bottle.

Syo Kurusu: Okay, thanks. You're a big help.

少し休憩しない？Shall we take a break? (20 Love, +0 Music)

Syo Kurusu: I don't need it.

Syo Kurusu: …

Haruka Nanami: But… you look a little pale…

Syo Kurusu: This is nothing.

Haruka Nanami: It's not nothing!

I reach out and grab the hem of Syo-kun's uniform, gripping it tightly.

Haruka Nanami: I'm... worried, so… please…

If you train too hard today, you'll have terrible muscle pains when you practice tomorrow. So…

When I say this, Syo-kun reluctantly finds a chair and sits down.

Apparently he can be quite stubborn…

Oh, I know…

I crouch down and start massaging Syo-kun's calves.

Syo Kurusu: … Hey! What are you doing?

Haruka Nanami: What…? I'm giving you a calf massage.

Syo Kurusu: … Haah…

For some reason, Syo-kun sighs deeply.

Syo Kurusu: I can't believe you. Don't just do things like that out of nowhere.

Haruka Nanami: … What do you mean?

Syo Kurusu: Never mind! Just, don't go around touching other guys like this, all right?

Syo Kurusu: Especially not Ren! If you tried something like this on him, there's no telling what he'd do to you…

Haruka Nanami: What he'd… do?

Syo Kurusu: Don't make me say it. Figure it out yourself! If you don't get it, just shut up and do as I say!

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes sir!!

Syo Kurusu: Good!!

...W-what was that about?

And so, we continue practicing hard, day after day.

We finish the song, refine the dance steps, and keep developing the choreography.

At this point, all that remains is memorization—learning the movements not with the mind, but with the body.

Even on the day of the school festival, we reserve an empty classroom and practice right up till the last minute.

Syo Kurusu: … Hah, hah, hah. I've just about… got it, I think…

Haruka Nanami: Yes!! I can't wait to see you perform it for real!!

Syo Kurusu: What time is our performance again?

Haruka Nanami: It's at 2 PM.

Syo Kurusu: All right, then I still have an hour to practice.

Haruka Nanami: … It might be better to rest for a bit…? You haven't even eaten yet…

Syo Kurusu: Nah, I'm good. I want to keep perfecting this. I want to practice right up till the last second.

Haruka Nanami: Why do you need to go that far?

Syo Kurusu: Well, when I'm up on stage, everyone in the audience is waiting to see me, you know?

Syo Kurusu: Even if the tickets are free, everyone is spending their precious time to watch me dance.

Syo Kurusu: I don't want to waste the audience's precious time. I want them to enjoy themselves, to be glad they decided to come to my performance.

Syo Kurusu: So, I don't want to show them anything less than my best. I want to keep working right up until the last second so I can show them just how well I can do.

His expression is one of a serious professional. Even though he hasn't made his debut yet, Syo-kun already seems like a full-fledged idol.

He's a true performer, one who refuses to compromise on any part of his performance.

He refuses to settle for "good enough."

Haruka Nanami: I'll… play the song again, then.

Even with ragged breathing, even with sweat dripping from his brow, Syo-kun keeps dancing.

By now, I'm sure it's agonizing, and yet Syo-kun is still grinning widely as he dances.

He'll only get to perform this once in front of an audience. He's challenging himself to get as close to a perfect performance as he physically can.

I can understand how he feels.

I think over my compositions and lyrics over and over, hundreds of times, and if that leads to even one improvement, then it's worth it.

During the editing process, it's fine to include only the good parts of each take.

But with a live performance, you only get one shot. Even if you practice a hundred times before a single live performance, if you can't display the pinnacle of all your efforts during that one performance, all that hard work becomes meaningless.

That's why he keeps improving. If he practices a hundred times, he'll create something better than what would result from 70 or 90 repetitions.

The only way to raise the quality of his performance is to single-mindedly train his muscle memory until he's memorized it perfectly.

And so, Syo-kun keeps practicing, over and over. Rather than relying on luck to grant him a good performance, he won't settle for anything less than a guarantee.

Over and over and over. Right up until the last moment before the performance…

That is the duty of a professional… Syo-kun knows better than anyone else just what he's aiming for.

Syo Kurusu: Ugh…

Suddenly, Syo-kun collapses, clutching at his chest.

Haruka Nanami: S-Syo-kun!

I panic and rush over, trying to lift him up, to no avail. Syo-kun's face is twisted up in pain as he pushes his clenched hand hard against his rib cage.

Syo Kurusu: Don't… yell… It's nothing… serious. If I rest for a moment… it'll go back to normal…

It's not just that he's tired, or that he tripped, or anything like that.

Haruka Nanami: But… This seems like something serious. I, I need to call an ambulance, or…

As I start to rush out of the room…

Syo Kurusu: No, it's fine…

Still pressing a fist to his chest, Syo-kun reaches out with his other hand to grab my arm.

And then he shakes his head in protest.

He seems to be in a lot of pain… Why is he stopping me?

Haruka Nanami: Syo-kun…

Trying to ease even a little bit of the pain Syo-kun is in, I wrap my arms around him, hugging him gently.

I really want him to see a doctor as soon as possible, but even though I'm still considering rushing off to call an ambulance, I don't think Syo-kun would release my arm to let me go.

Somehow, I can't bring myself to leave his side.

Syo Kurusu: *pant, pant, pant*

His ragged breaths continue for a long time, but after resting for twenty minutes or so, he seems to start breathing a bit easier.

Syo Kurusu: Sorry… to worry you. I'm okay now.

Haruka Nanami: Really…? You're really, truly fine? You don't need to go to the hospital?

Syo Kurusu: Yeah. Also… you cannot tell anyone about this.

Select the Phrase!

でも…… But… (+0 Love, +0 Music)

Syo Kurusu: I'm serious. Tell absolutely no one about this… If people heard that I'd collapsed, then… it'd be bad, okay? Don't… tell anyone.

Since he's going this far to press the issue… there may be more to this than I know.

Haruka Nanami: … O-okay.

I nod as I agree, but… honestly, I'm still really worried. Syo-kun, what's wrong??

どうして？ Why not? (+20 Love, +0 Music)

Syo Kurusu: It doesn't... matter why.

Haruka Nanami: Yes it does. You looked like you were in a lot of pain, Syo-kun… We should at least tell one of the teachers…

Syo Kurusu: We don't need to. Please, just listen to me. Don't tell anyone…

Syo-kun pleads with me, gripping the hem of my uniform tightly. He looks really upset.

Haruka Nanami: … All right, then. I won't tell anyone.

Syo Kurusu: Thanks. Seriously, thank you… Just, wish me luck for the real thing, yeah?

Syo-kun breathes a sigh of relief, and his grip loosens.

誰にもって…… No one at all…? (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Not even Kaoru-kun?

Syo Kurusu: No, don't… Especially not him…

Haruka Nanami: Why? He's family…

Syo Kurusu: That's exactly why you can't. You'd be scaring him for no good reason. So please, keep quiet about this, okay?

Haruka Nanami: … I understand.

And now, we're backstage.

Syo-kun seems to have returned to normal in the time we had before the performance. And yet… I can't help but feel uneasy.

Syo Kurusu: We're next… I'll stay calm on stage, no matter what… Stay humble, don't get cocky…

He whispers words of affirmation to himself.

From beside him, I can see an expression of utter confidence on his face, brought about by his focus and determination.

Haruka Nanami: Syo-kun…

I'm still extremely worried, but there's no way I can stop him.

I know that trying would be a waste of effort. Syo-kun isn't the type to let anyone stand in his way.

Syo Kurusu: What I said just now is what I say to myself when the moment of truth finally comes. It helps me get my head in the game… Okay, here I go!

Syo-kun thrusts out his tightly clenched fist, then opens his hand in a single, explosive motion. That's the signal to begin.

Haruka Nanami: Yeah… You've got this.

Otoya Ittoki: Next up, S Class's littlest idol, Syo Kurusu!!

The MC, Otoya Ittoki-kun, introduces Syo-kun.

Syo Kurusu: Syo Kurusu, S Class! I'm gonna dance my heart out!!

Matching the beat of the song, Syo-kun dances exuberantly.

High leaps. Gorgeous footwork. Powerful, energetic movements without a single atom of tiredness anywhere in his body.

I wonder if anyone would ever believe that just thirty minutes earlier, he was clutching his chest in agony…

Syo-kun's dancing is too perfect for anyone to suspect a thing.

Most of all, his brilliant smile never falters. He dances as though overflowing with joy.

Otoya Ittoki: Ladies and gentlemen, Syo Kurusu!!

Syo Kurusu: Thank you very much!!!

Tokiya Ichinose: … Syo, you've really improved.

Ren Jinguji: Excellent work, Shorty!! That one step sequence was superb. Even pros might not hold their own against a performance like that.

Ichinose-san and Jinguji-san, who were watching with the rest of the audience, praise Syo-kun highly.

And yet…

Kaoru Kurusu: …

Kaoru-kun alone watched the performance with a complicated expression, never once taking his eyes off his brother.

Syo Kurusu: See? I told you it'd be fine.

Haruka Nanami: … Yeah. You're okay now, too? Does anything hurt?

Syo Kurusu: I'm a little tired, but… it's the good kind of tired, you know? Right now, it seems like the best feeling in the world!!

Haruka Nanami: Syo-kun, that was amazingly cool! You were dazzling.

Syo Kurusu: Well, if you want to get picky about it, I made plenty of mistakes. But I was able to really give it my all, so I don't have any regrets. It was awesome!!

Haruka Nanami: Yes! It was so obvious you were having a great time. I got excited just watching you. But… I'm still a little worried about your health.

Syo Kurusu: Okay, okay. I was hoping to check out the rest of the festival, but if you're gonna insist, I'll go back to the dorms and rest. Satisfied?

Haruka Nanami: Yeah. Please give yourself plenty of time to recover.

Syo Kurusu: You got it!! I'll be all better by tomorrow!!

Right after our conversation, Syo-kun leaves for the dorms.

Syo-kun… Are you really okay…?

In the end, I get worried enough that I furtively follow after Syo-kun. When I do…

I spot Kaoru-kun lying in wait for him on the path to the dorms.

Syo Kurusu: Kaoru…

Kaoru Kurusu: Syo-chan… you've been having symptoms, haven't you.

Syo Kurusu: Of course not.

Syo-kun looks away, blowing Kaoru-kun off completely.

What does Kaoru-kun mean, symptoms…? What kinds of symptoms?

Could these symptoms have caused the pain Syo-kun went through before the performance?

Kaoru Kurusu: Don't lie!! I could tell just by seeing you up there. You might be able to hide it from everyone else, but you can't fool me.

Syo-kun goes quiet, listening to what Kaoru-kun has to say.

Kaoru Kurusu: Syo-chan, please… let's just go home. Being an idol is more than you can handle. You can't do this.

Kaoru Kurusu: You've always been so careful. Why are you being so stubborn about this?

Syo-kun clenches his fists tightly.

Syo Kurusu: I just… don't want to look bad in front of her…

Kaoru Kurusu: … In front of who? Who is "her"? Whoever she is, she can't be more important than your health, right?

Syo-kun…

What should I do? It's a bit too late to come out of hiding, but I shouldn't be eavesdropping like this.

*Snap.*

While I'm wondering whether or not to leave, I take a careless step and break a twig under my foot.

Syo Kurusu: Who's there!?

Oops…

Haruka Nanami: I'm sorry… It's just me.

I raise a hand weakly, stepping forward.

Syo Kurusu: Haruka… Did you hear…?

I nod.

Syo Kurusu: I see…

Kaoru Kurusu: Syo-chan? What's wrong? Don't tell me you haven't told her anything about this…

Syo Kurusu: Sigh… Honestly, I just couldn't bring myself to do it.

Syo Kurusu: But if you've already heard this much, there's no avoiding it. Haruka…

Syo-kun fixes at me with a serious gaze.

Haruka Nanami: Yes?

Syo Kurusu: I'm sorry I didn't tell you this before. It's important information that you deserved from the start, as my partner.

Haruka Nanami: …

Syo Kurusu: I have a serious heart condition.

Haruka Nanami: Then, what happened earlier was…

Syo Kurusu: That was one of the milder symptoms. It wasn't serious. But... when I overdo it a bit too much, that's what happens.

Syo Kurusu: There were a few times growing up when I was pretty sure I was gonna die from it, but…

Kaoru Kurusu: Syo-chan…

Syo Kurusu: But then I started karate, and got stronger. At this point, it doesn't really affect my everyday life.

Syo Kurusu: Now, I can try as hard as anyone else… and honestly, I want to give it my all… I really hate it when people fuss over me, too.

Syo Kurusu: So, will you please keep quiet about this?

Haruka Nanami: …

I can see the strength of Syo-kun's will shining in his eyes, and simply nod silently.

Syo Kurusu: Thanks. Oh, and don't you worry about it, either. I'm perfectly fine, and I want this to change anything.

Kaoru Kurusu: You're not fine at all!! Are you planning to just keep pushing yourself too far?!?

Kaoru-kun suddenly explodes in Syo-kun's direction.

Syo Kurusu: I'm telling you, this time was just a coincidence. Otherwise I've had plenty of energy, and haven't had any problem staying on top of things.

Kaoru Kurusu: … Syo-chan, you promised before you moved into the dorms that if you experienced any more symptoms, you'd move back home right away. You promised you wouldn't make us worry.

Syo Kurusu: I…

Kaoru Kurusu: Liar… You swore to me you'd come home, and yet even though I'm begging you, you're still…

Syo-chan. Please, please come home.

Syo Kurusu: I'm not going to.

Kaoru Kurusu: Why…? There's no way you can keep this up without hurting yourself. It's too dangerous. What are you thinking?

Syo Kurusu: We've been over this. I came to this school so I could follow my dreams.

Kaoru Kurusu: But forcing yourself to the point of collapse won't grant that wish either!

Syo Kurusu: I'm telling you, I'm fine! I won't be collapsing anytime soon.

Kaoru Kurusu: I don't believe you… There's no proof that you won't. … So I'll just stay here.

Syo Kurusu: What!?

Kaoru Kurusu: Until you come home with me, I'll stay here at your school.

Syo Kurusu: Seriously…?

Kaoru Kurusu: I won't go home!! If you won't look after yourself, Syo-chan, then I'll have to look after you!!

Kaoru Kurusu: If you won't do it, then who else can!? You can't make me leave!!!!

Syo-kun and I exchange perplexed looks.

Syo Kurusu: … and then, well, he just straight-up refused to leave, so I brought him back to my dorm room….

After that, Syo-kun, at a loss for what to do, takes Kaoru-kun with him to his room for the time being.

Of course, he avoids mentioning his heart condition to Natsuki-kun.

He explains that Kaoru-kun is just having a childish tantrum because he doesn't want to leave his side.

Natsuki Shinomiya: How cute!!!

Shinomiya-san, overjoyed, is quick to embrace Kaoru-kun the second he spots him.

Natsuki Shinomiya: You're welcome to stay as long as you like!!

As long as he likes…? I don't think that's allowed…

I hope Kaoru-kun realizes that…

Select the Phrase!

大丈夫……だよね I'm sure it'll be… fine… (+10 Love, +0 Music)

Feeling worried, I glance briefly over at Syo-kun.

When I do…

Syo Kurusu: It'll be fine. Don't look so worried!!

Saying this, Syo-kun pats me kindly on the head.

これから、どうなっちゃうのかな I'm not sure this will end well. (+5 Love, +0 Music)

When I hang my head in worry, he rests his hand on my shoulder.

Syo Kurusu: Don't look at me like that. You don't have to worry. I'll handle this.

Grinning, Syo-kun gives me a thumbs-up.

翔くん…… Syo-kun… (+25 Love, +0 Music)

I suddenly realize that I'm gripping Syo-kun's sleeve tightly.

Syo Kurusu: … Hm? What's wrong?

Haruka Nanami: Ah… no, it's… nothing.

I let go quickly, but with a resigned smile, Syo-kun takes my hand and squeezes.

Syo-kun's hand… it's so warm. The heat I feel from his palm seems to be melting away my worries.

Even though he's in the toughest spot in all this, he's still looking out for me…

I can't accept that. I need to get my act together so I can be the one reassuring him…

MINI GAME

Ryuya Hyuga: Now then, today we're returning to the fundamentals with a rhythm test. "Fundamental" doesn't mean "basic," though, and it'll be harder this time.

Ryuya Hyuga: Relax and go for it!! You wanna be a composer, so impress me!!

Ryuya Hyuga: That said, I'll still be giving you an example first. Try to follow my lead.

Ryuya Hyuga: Let's go!! Don't fall behind!!

S RANK

Syo Kurusu: You know, there are times when I've started to get discouraged. But because you're here with me, always smiling, I've had the will to keep fighting. Thanks.

Haruka Nanami: No, I… I've just wanted to see you do your best…

Haruka Nanami: … If it'll help you, Syo-kun, then I'll never stop smiling.

Haruka Nanami: If you ever start feeling discouraged, don't keep it to yourself, okay? Let me know.

Haruka Nanami: I may not be the most reliable person in the world, but I should be able to support you at least a little bit.

I want to become someone Syo-kun can rely on. The first step is to keep improving my skills as a composer…

Chapter End

#UtaPri #SyoRepeat #Syo Kurusu #Repeat

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