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himehikoshrine · 7 months ago

Text

Weekend Lesson Stage Script (EN)

This is the full Stage Script from the game menu for Weekend Lesson. (Apologies if there are typos, especially one's not already in the game menu version).

There is one part early on where the EN game script mixes up a few lines that I tried to put back in order (Hasekura's 'monologue' about Shiroma at the end of act one). Otherwise I tried to keep things as they are.

As with the others, there are lines and details in the stage script that are not in the performance you see in game, where they are shown only as text-over summary.

Also, as with the others, any ad-libs and such would not be here. The last-minute changes for Weekend Lesson are in line delivery, mostly, rather than lines, so it may not be as noticeable. Of course, you can access it from the game menu, if you’ve got it, but this version is searchable! Because someone else beat me to this project for Sleepless King here [x] that makes this the last of the stage scripts for the collection. You can find my transcription of Mary Jane here [x], of Oh, Rama Havenna here [x], and of all versions of Sissia of the Central Nation here [x].

Weekend Lesson

By Neji Kokuto

(1) Chapter 1

•Outside the Great Galleon

Two women walk together through a business plaza along the shoreline.

They notice a peculiar-looking building in the shape of a ship.

Kanna: Ms. Ando! There’s a ship right in the middle of the business plaza. It looks as if it’ll set sail any moment!

Ando: Oh, Kanna. There’s no way there would be a ship on land.

Ando: That’s a building designed to look like a ship. And there are no sailors in it, but office workers.

Kanna: Really? What a very unique building it is. It must be a new company.

Ando: That company’s much older than we are.

Kanna: Whaa?!

Ando: I believe you may have heard of it. The company’s name is…

Louis exits the building.

Louis: Good morning! Good morning!

Louis: From space exploration research to selling food and beverages, Great Galleon SJB is here!

★Dance

"We Are the Great Galleon"

Louis: Allow me to explain what our company is!

Louis: It’s been 200 years this year since our founding. An old company whose founder built up our assets through trade and said, ‘If you set sail, head for Acapulco!’ and always, always, challenge yourself!

Though I’m not sure what that means…

Louis: Our business has expanded to over a hundred countries. Our sales are on the level of national budgets, and our stocks have only been rising. Prime ministers and presidents are nothing compared to our president. Oh, but I kid. Well, probably.

Louis: Our pay? It’s good, of course. This suit is tailor made Paul Louis. ALL my personal belongings are Paul Louis.

Louis: The work environment? Our employee benefits are perfection. Our company bistro serves nutritionally balanced, healthy meals, and our employee gym is always bustling with invigorated employees working up a sweat!

Louis: ‘Overtime’? What is THAT? Oh right, that evil concept I’ve heard so much about. Our company is nothing but wholesome, with abundant vacation time.

Louis: Recreational leave, maternity leave, family leave, confession leave. Even our crew who might get rejected from a love confession can feel at ease.

Louis: When you feel fulfilled in your private lives, your motivation to work rises. And we don’t neglect upskilling our employees, either. That all comes back in contribution to the company.

Louis: What do you think? Amazing, isn’t it? The Great Galleon SJB!”

Louis finishes his line. Everyone disperses.

Next to Louis, Hasekura hurriedly exits the building.

Hasekura: Documents… Documents…

Louis: Hasekura? If it isn’t Hasekura! Good morning my friend, my colleague!

Hasekura: Ah… Good morning, Louis.

Louis: You weren’t at dinner with our group the other day. What’s the matter? We go out every month, remember?

Hasekura: I thought I’d bring down the mood if I went, so I didn’t go. Once a month is pretty frequent, too…

Louis: What are you talking about?! Everyone missed you. It’s ONLY once a month!

Hasekura: I’ll try and join next time. Well, I have to go turn in these documents.

Louis cuts off Hasekura as he tries to get away.

Louis: We were talking at the dinner, you know.

Hasekura: Y-Yeah? About what?

Louis: You see, I’ve actually been entrusted with a big project coming up.

Hasekura: You really are amazing. You’re the star performer out of all of us hired that year. Tell me more about it at the next dinner. I’m just going to turn in these documents…

Louis cuts off Hasekura as he tries to get away.

Louis: I’m being told a promotion’s just around the corner for me, but I really like not having the responsibility, so I’m in a bit of a tough spot.

Hasekura: Oh, I see. I can understand that.

Louis: Though I know I should happily accept being able to be part of a new project as the result of my hard work.

Hasekura: Right yeah, that’s true. So, I’ll just be submitting these documents…

Louis grabs Hasekura’s shoulders as he tries to get away.

Louis: it’s just, I can’t handle this project alone.

Louis: The ship’s captain, no matter how skilled he is, can’t overcome stormy waters without a crew…

Hasekura: Yeah… I got caught in another long talk with Louis.

Hasekura: I’m at fault. I’m at fault for trying to walk past him…

Louis: …In other words, I want you to help me. You’ll do it, won’t you Hasekura?

Hasekura: Huh? What was that?

Louis: I’m saying I want you to join the project that was entrusted to me!

Hasekura: Me? I can’t, Louis! I’m not as talented as you. I’ll just get in everyone’s way.

Louis: Hasekura… you gotta aim higher. ‘If you set sail, head for Acapulco!’ Right?

Louis: Your guardian angel can’t help you fly if you stay curled up and looking down like that all the time. You gotta change, Hasekura!

Hasekura: S-Sure…

Mukai: Hasekura, there you are.

Mukai: Our boss was making a fuss about not having the documents they needed first thing in the morning.

Hasekura: Mukai, I’m sorry. I got to work early today, but…

Louis: Oh, if it isn’t Hasekura’s subordinate, Mukai. How are you this fine day?

Mukai: Louis, I see you’re the culprit.

Mukai: Hasekura’s supposed to get the negotiation documents for Europe to our boss. Please don’t hold him up.

Hasekura: Er, no Mukai, I’m the one at fault.

Louis: Mukai, can you convince Hasekura here? He really should join my project.

Louis: If he does, you can join the project, too. We can open a path to success together. You ever heard this before? ‘If you set sail’…

Mukai: Where Hasekura needs to head isn’t Acapulco, but our boss’s desk.

Mukai: Besides, if you have that big of a project, shouldn’t you be busy as well?

Louis: Ah, that’s right! I had a meeting first thing in the morning. Sorry, Hasekura, Mukai, I’ll take my leave now!

Louis leaves.

Hasekura: I’m sorry, Mukai. I caused you trouble.

Mukai: A project, huh? Isn’t there a possibility he’ll just use you however he needs and take all the credit himself?

Hasekura: I think he really just wants to give me a chance, since I’m so hopeless.

Mukai: Do you want to do that project?

Hasekura: I… Well…

Mukai: For now you just need to get those documents submitted. Please get going.

Hasekura: Yes. Understood.

Two employees pop out of the shadows.

Employee A: What a fun Friday it is. The golden glittering of the world after 5 PM

Employee B: The things we want to do are as countless as the stars. What should we do today?

Employee A: Oh my, Hasekura. How are you today? What sort of fun are you going to have today?

Hasekura: Er, no, I’m just… going to go home and do nothing, I guess.

Employee A: Oh my, what a lazybones!

Employee B: Then what about tomorrow? How do you spend your days off?

Hasekura: I sleep until noon on my days off… And then do nothing… And then sleep when it’s nighttime, I guess.

Employee B: Ohhh, how dreadful!

Employee A: You need to sparkle more!

Employee B: She’s right, how about you come out with us?

Hasekura: Er, uh, well…

Employee A: We’ll find a way to bring your life to life!

Mukai: Stop.

Employee A: Oh, if it isn’t Mukai! What are your plans today?

Mukai: We’re in the middle of work right now, so we can’t talk.

Employee B: Well, aren’t you all business. I see a hint of a cool sparkle in your eye.

Mukai: Hasekura, let’s go.

Hasekura: R-Right… Excuse us.

Hasekura stops after walking for a short while.

Hasekura: I’m sorry, Mukai…

Mukai: This company has a lot of people who love themselves and want to make others their little clones.

Hasekura: I feel like I’m being targeted because I’m such a boring person…

Mukai: How about picking up a hobby? It’ll be a good shield for you, too.

Mukai: Is there anything you’re interested in?

Hasekura: There’s nothing I can think of… Ah.

Mukai: It’s Shiroma from reception.

Shiroma: Hasekura, Mukai. Hello.

Mukai: Hello.

Hasekura: …

Shiroma: Well, goodbye.

Hasekura watches her walk away, unable to say anything.

Mukai: Are you okay not saying hello to Shiroma?

Hasekura: I didn’t?!

Mukai: I certainly didn’t hear it.

Hasekura: Damn it…

Mukai: Let’s just get those documents submitted. I’ll come with you.

Hasekura: Sorry…

Monologue

Hasekura: Rome…

Hasekura: Our company is a large corporation where anyone would want to work. It must have been due to some mistake that I was able to get in.

Hasekura: I have no place here. All my peers are climbing higher into the distance as I continue to cause trouble to my subordinates.

Hasekura: Throughout it all, she is my only source of peace. Her gentle smile comforts me.

Hasekura: She is a faraway land to me. My Rome. A beautiful capital, just out of reach.

(2) Chapter 2

•Bistro

Mukai: Excuse me. Two iced coffees please.

Mukai: Hasekura, we’ve finished putting together the project overview.

Hasekura: Sorry… I somehow got you involved in Louis’s project.

Mukai: It’ll help me develop my skills, so it’s no big deal.

Mukai: Are you sure you’re all right being a part of the team?

Hasekura: Someone like me is being allowed to join on a big project. I should be grateful for the opportunity…

Mukai: But…

The door opens

Mukai: …Hm? Speak of the devil. It’s Louis.

Louis: …

Hasekura: Oh, you’re right…!

Shiroma: …

Hasekura: Shiroma! Why is she with Louis…

Hasekura: …

Hasekura: Mukai, I’m heading back to the office.

Mukai: But the iced coffees aren’t here yet.

Hasekura: B-But…

Louis: Aren’t I lucky to find you here during lunch? Having lunch with you would make the food even more delicious!

Shiroma: Oh, Suzuki. You’re such a sweet-talker.

Louis: Call me Louis. That’s what everyone calls me. Also, I really meant what I said.

Louis: How about dinner sometime? I know a good place.

Shiroma: Sure, if the opportunity comes up.

Hasekura: …

Mukai: The star performer of the office and its most captivating beauty having lunch together. A pair that would stir the hearts of anyone who laid eyes upon them.

Hasekura: Hahh… You’re right…

Mukai: …

Mukai: Are you sure you’re all right with this, Hasekura? This work, the accolades, and the woman you admire are all in your coworker’s sights.

Hasekura: Huh?! It’s not like I…

Mukai: How about you try going after them yourself? Some things can change with just one word, just one step.

Hasekura: Er…

Hasekura: I don’t have that kind of strength.

Mukai: Hahh. Let’s go. We can still get out now without having to talk to them.

Hasekura: O-Okay…

Fade out

•City (Night)

Hasekura: …Hahh.

Hasekura: The city’s bustling tonight. It is a Friday, I guess.

Hasekura: Maybe I should wander around a bit.

Shiroma: …

Hasekura: …?!

Hasekura: That’s… Shiroma… Oh no, she’s coming this way!

Footsteps come closer, then fade away.

Hasekura: Oh good, she didn’t see me. Er, no, wait, why did I hide? I should have just greeted her!

Hasekura: I wonder where she’s going? It’s dangerous for someone as pretty as her to be walking the streets alone…

Hasekura: …

Hasekura follows behind Shiroma

•Outside the Ando Dance Studio

Shiroma: …

Shiroma walks up the stairs.

Hasekura: Is this where Shiroma was headed?

Hasekura: There’s a sign… ‘Ando Dance Studio’?

Hasekura: Is she learning how to dance? I wonder what style of dance it is…

Ando: They’re social dances.

Hasekura: Huh?

Ando: Good evening.

Hasekura: A, h-hello! Er, I was just interested in dance, so…

Ando: Then would you like to observe a class?

Hasekura: Aaaahh, no, no! I’m sure it would be a bother to the instructor and their students. I’m a beginner, I’ve never danced before…

Ando: Oh no, beginners are more than welcome. I can assure you that these are the words of the dance instructor.

Hasekura: The dance instructor…? Er, are you the one teaching the class?

Ando: Yes. Come on in.

Hasekura: Ah… Okay…

•Inside the Ando Dance Studio

Ando: I’m back.

Kanna: Welcome back!

Kanna: Oh? Who’s the new guy?

Ando: This person is…

Shiroma: Hasekura?

Hasekura: …Shiroma.

Ando: Oh, Shiroma, do you know him?

Shiroma: Yes, he’s a coworker of mine.

Kanna: A coworker? So he works at Great Galleon SJB?!

Kanna: Then he’s part of the corporate elite!

Hasekura: I just happened to get in on a fluke.

Shiroma: But still, why are you here, Hasekura?

Hasekura: Er, well…

Ando interrupts to help him.

Ando: You mentioned you were interested in dance, right?

Hasekura: Ah, yes, that’s right. Are you learning dance here too, Shiroma?

Shiroma: No, I…

Kanna: Shiroma occasionally comes to watch me dance! She used to do social dancing during college.

Shiroma: I don’t anymore, though. Do you have any experience dancing, Hasekura?

Hasekura: I’m a complete beginner, actually…

Shiroma: You’ll be able to dance right away under Ms. Ando’s guidance.

Shiroma: All right, I’ll be leaving now… Hasekura, do your best, okay?

Hasekura: R-Right!

Sounds of footsteps leaving and the door closing.

Hasekura: Shiroma…

Kanna: Hasekura. You didn’t come here chasing after Shiroma, did you?

Hasekura: Wha-?!

Kanna: There were people like that during college, too.

Kanna: Are you sure you’re interested in dance and not Shiroma?!

Hasekura: I-It’s not what you’re thinking!

Ando: Kanna, don’t be rude now.

Kanna: Shiroma hates people like that!

Hasekura: I’m joining!

Ando: Oh?

Hasekura: Please let me join your class!

Ando: Are you sure?

Hasekura: Please.

Ando: …All right. Well, since we’re here, how about we start the lesson.

Hasekura: O-Okay.

Hasekura: Oh, no… Am I going to be okay? I’ve never danced before.

Hasekura: And this is social dancing at that. The thought of dancing with women is just too much for me…

Ando: Let’s try walking first.

Hasekura: Walking? In a dance class?

Ando: Yes. Try walking straight and coming back here.

Hasekura: All right.

Hasekura: …I should be able to manage this much.

Sounds of footsteps retreating and then approaching.

Ando: I see. I got it now.

Hasekura: Got what?

Ando: I have an idea of how you’ll improve, Mr. Hasekura.

Ando: Posture is important in social dancing. Mr. Hasekura, can you try walking one more time?

Hasekura: Like this?

Ando: Stop!

Hasekura: Okay!

Ando: Hasekura, look in the mirror. How would you describe your posture?

Kanna: He’s slouching forward with a tilted pelvis!

Hasekura: …What she said.

Ando: Ugh, Kanna!

Ando: Hasekura, let’s start with shoulders back.

Hasekura: Like this?

Ando: Yes. From there, hold your head upright with your chin parallel to the floor. Make sure your line of sight doesn’t drop to the floor.

Hasekura: Right…

Ando: Look again in the mirror.

Hasekura: My posture’s better.

Ando: Right? Now let’s try walking again. Push off your back foot and land on the heel, rolling forward to the ball.

Hasekura: Push off my foot and land on my heel, rolling forward to the ball…

Hasekura wobbles along unsteadily.

Hasekura: Huh? This is hard… I’m only walking.

Ando: It’ll get easier if you count while walking. One-two, one-two.

Hasekura: One… two, one, two…

Hasekura continues learning to walk.

Fade out.

Ando: All right. That’s it for today’s class. Good work, everyone.

Hasekura: It’s over already? All I did was walk…

Ando: But you’re tired, right?

Hasekura: Well… yes.

Ando: As you go about your day, keep an eye on your posture in any reflections that you pass by.

Ando: All right then, I’ll see you next Friday!

•City (Night)

Hasekura: I’ve gotten myself into a predicament…

Hasekura: I’ll just make some excuse and drop out after a while… Hm?

Hasekura: I can see my reflection in a showroom window.

Hasekura: The posture I learned in class… was like this, I think.

He fixes his posture in front of the glass, which worsens again as he starts walking. He fixes his posture in front of another pane of glass. He exits the stage with his posture somewhat improved.

(3) Chapter 3

•Dance Studio

Ando: Good evening, Hasekura. Let’s begin today by practicing how to walk again.

Hasekura: Okay.

Hasekura walks.

Footsteps.

Ando: Much better than last week! I see you’ve been practicing.

Hasekura: There’s just a lot of mirrors and glass around town…

Ando: But there are people who improve and those who don’t. You’re clearly the type to apply yourself and get results, Hasekura.

Hasekura: Oh, no, it’s not…

Ando: Now then, let’s add something else to the walking today.

Ando: And that will be me.

Hasekura: What do you mean?

Ando: I’ll walk alongside you, Hasekura. Try walking while adjusting your pace to mine.

Ando: All right, let’s go.

She begins teaching blues dancing for beginners.

Ando: Front, front… side.

Hasekura: Side? L-Like this?

Ando: Yes. Next, back, back…side!

Hasekura: Like this…

Ando: Now just repeat those steps. Front-front-side, back-back-side.

Hasekura: Front, front, side, back, back, side…

Ando: Yes, not bad. Now let’s use our hands.

Ando: Hasekura, try stretching your right hand out straight forward.

Hasekura reaches his right hand out forward.

Ando: Gently curl your hand as if you’re carrying a ball.

Hasekura slowly curves his right hand.

Hasekura: Like this?

Ando: Yes. And now your left. Stretch out your left arm to the side and bend your joints upward.

Hasekura: Like… this?

Ando: Yes. Now let’s incorporate the steps. Front, front, side. Back, back, side.

Hasekura: Ah…this… makes me feel like I’m dancing.

Ando: You are dancing, in fact.

Hasekura: Really?!

Ando: Social dancing looks difficult at a glance, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it.

Ando: All right. Lastly, clasp your left hand with mind and put your right arm around my waist.

Hasekura: Huh?!

Ando: Now, let’s dance! Front, front, side. Back, back, side!

Ando: Say it with me, Hasekura!

Hasekura: R-Right. Front, front, side! Back, back, side…

Ando: You’re dancing!

Hasekura: Dancing… I’m dancing…

The two of them dance.

Fade out.

Hasekura: Even someone like me can dance…

Hasekura: Er, no, it’s just because you’re a good teacher. I didn’t really do anything.

Ando: You’re able to dance because you took this practice seriously.

Hasekura: Th-Thank you…!

Ando: Let’s learn a new step while you’re still in that mindset of success.

Hasekura: O-Okay!

(4) Chapter 4

•Office

Employee A: Another Friday’s come again at last.

Employee B: A golden spark to set off our weekend.

Hasekura: …

Employee A: Oh dear, Hasekura. Where are you off to in such a rush?

Employee B: Will you be getting into some mischief this weekend?

Hasekura: Er, no, I don’t have any plans in particular…

Employee A: Ever the layabout! Why not come out with us, then?

Employee B: She’s right, Hasekura. Let us share our sparkle with you.

Hasekura: No, I… E-Excuse me!

Employee A: Aww, a pity what a sloth he is! That Brian Hasekura!

Employee B: Friday after five is when we come alive! Enjoy yourself amongst the living, Brian!

Mukai: …

Mukai: It’s pretty unusual for Hasekura to turn someone down so firmly…

•Dance Studio

Hasekura: I got here earlier than usual. I’ll practice the steps I learned from last time…

Kanna: Hey, Ms. Ando. Are you really not entering competitions anymore?

Hasekura: …?

Ando: Not this again, Kanna.

Kanna: but you studied dance abroad and even joined an international competition!

Kanna: You were the one who inspired me to dance, Ms. Ando!

Kanna: I want to see you shine in the spotlight…!

Ando: Forget about that. It’s all in the past now…

Ando: Ah! Hasekura…

Hasekura: G-Good evening… Um.

Kanna: I’m going home for today.

Ando: Kanna!

Footsteps of Kanna leaving.

Ando: …Hahh.

Hasekura: Ms. Ando…

Ando: I’m sorry. Let’s begin practice.

The two of them dance awkwardly.

Hasekura: Ms. Ando… Should we end the lesson for today?

Ando: no, it’s fine…!

Ando: I’m sorry. I really am no good.

Ando: Hasekura, would you mind if I asked you to join me for a moment?

Hasekura: I’ll do what I can.

Ando: All right then, let’s go!

Hasekura: Huh? Where? Whoa!

Ando rushes out of the studio, pulling Hasekura by the hand.

•Piano Lounge.

Hasekura: Is this… a bar?

Ando: It’s a piano lounge.

Sound of the door opening.

Piano music can be heard playing.

Hasekura: I see. Everyone’s dancing to the music.

Ando: You can dance with anyone you find interesting. Just approach whoever you like.

Hasekura: Er, ah, no, um…

Ando: Heh… Then may I have this dance?

★Song

“Ms. Robin”

Hasekura: It’s really difficult to dance with other people around! I keep bumping into everyone.

Ando: A bit different from the studio, isn’t it? You have to find an open spot. Over there, look.

Ando leads Hasekura

Hasekura: Wow, we got through.

Ando: Heh…

Ando: …

Ando: Hasekura, do you enjoy dancing?

Hasekura: Huh…?

Ando: The truth is… you came to the classroom because you were curious about Shiroma, weren’t you?

Hasekura: …!

Ando: I apologize if I’m mistaken.

Hasekura: …What got me started, was exactly what you said.

Ando: If dancing is challenging for you, then…

Hasekura: Ah…

Hasekura: I was surprised that even a person like me could dance.

Ando: Huh…?

Hasekura: I can’t accomplish anything at all, so it made me happy to be praised for being able to dance.

Ando: But you work for a famous company with so much history.

Hasekura: There’s no overtime and it’s easy to take paid leave. It encourages a good work-life balance. It’s the perfect place to work.

Ando: That sounds lovely.

Hasekura: I’m sure it would be for normal people. But I want to work overtime, and I don’t want to go on vacation.

Ando: Huh?

Hasekura: I’d rather work at my own pace than rush myself just to get out on time, even if it means working overtime.

Hasekura: I feel worthless, having nothing to do when I have so many empty days off. I would rather work in that case.

Hasekura: Everything about it that others envy just feels like pressure to me.

Ando: Ah, I’m sorry… How rude of me.

Hasekura: No, I’m just fighting against the times. It’s my own fault. I’m surpassed by my peers, I cause trouble to my subordinates, and I’m just a boring guy.

Ando: That’s not true at all!

Hasekura: Huh?

Ando: To me, you’re a fun person to be around, Hasekura.

Hasekura: Fun? Me?

Ando: Yes. I mean, someone once so afraid of dance is now dancing out in public.

Ando: I’ve never witnessed such an incredible change.

Ando: Seeing you now makes me feel proud for starting my own studio.

Ando: Yes, it was a good thing to have gone down this path…

Ando: …Hasekura! Let’s dance with more liveliness!

Hasekura: Whoa… W-Wait, Ms. Ando!

Hasekura and Ando dance together.

The song ends and the stage fades to black

(5) Chapter 5

•Office

Mukai: …

Hasekura: …What is it, Mukai?

Mukai: Hasekura, recently… You’ve gotten taller, haven’t you?

Hasekura: Taller? I don’t think I could suddenly grow taller at my age.

Mukai: You look more fit.

Hasekura: You’re just imagining things.

Mukai: Other employees around us were talking about how you’ve been looking more handsome lately.

Hasekura: Huh?! I’m sure it’s just mockery… Oh.

Mukai: What is it?

Hasekura: The social dance class…

Mukai: Social dance?

Hasekura: Oh, no, it’s nothing.

Mukai: Did you start a dance class?

Hasekura: Yeah… It’s strange for a guy like me to be dancing, huh?

Mukai: No, though it is unexpected. So that’s why your posture and movements have changed.

Hasekura: My posture’s just slightly improved, that’s all…

Shiroma: Mukai, Hasekura. Hello.

Hasekura: Ah, hello.

Mukai: Hello.

Shiroma: Let’s all work hard today.

Shiroma leaves.

Mukai: You’re even able to greet her now.

Hasekura: Ah… Y-Yeah…

Mukai: It’s Friday today. How about you keep up that momentum and ask her out on a date?

Hasekura: Wh-What are you talking about?! There’s no way I can do that. Besides…

Mukai: Besides?

Hasekura: I have dance class today…

Mukai: …He really has changed.

•Dance Studio

Hasekura: Hello.

Kanna: Oh, Hasekura! Perfect timing! Listen to this!

Hasekura: What is it?

Kanna: Shiroma will be joining us today!

Shiroma: Come on, Kanna, you’re making a fuss.

Hasekura: Shiroma!

Shiroma: Hello, Hasekura. I’ve heard your dancing has improved.

Hasekura: No, it really hasn’t…

Ando: …

Ando: We must let Shiroma see what you can do, Hasekura. Now then, let’s begin…

Sound of a door swinging open energetically.

Louis: Pardon me! The name’s Louis of the Great Galleon SJB!

Hasekura: Louis?!

Louis: I heard you were in this dance class, Hasekura! Why didn’t you tell me? I’m hurt! …Oh?

Shiroma: Louis.

Louis: If it isn’t Miss Shiroma.

Hasekura: Louis, what are you doing here…?

Mukai: Louis, please don’t do anything rash!

Hasekura: Mukai?!

Shiroma: Mukai.

Ando: Hasekura, Shiroma… You know them?

Hasekura: We all work together at the same company. Mukai, what’s going on?

Mukai: When I mentioned you were taking a dance class, Louis said he wanted to learn, too.

Louis: After seeing how much Hasekura changed from a simple dance class, I wanted to try it out, too!

Louis: But I had no idea Miss Shiroma would be here as well.

Hasekura: Shiroma’s just here to watch her friend dance. Don’t make it out to be something strange.

Louis: Come to think of it, I remember talking about this at lunch the other day, Shiroma. That you learned dance in your days as a student.

Louis: I’m sure Miss Shiroma’s dancing must be quite lovely. Don’t you think, Hasekura?

Hasekura: What are you saying, Louis? That’s…

Kanna: …

Kanna: Oh! How about this, then?

Kanna: The two of you compete against each other in dance, and whoever wins can dance with Shiroma!

Shiroma: Kanna?!

Ando: What are you talking about, Kanna?

Kanna: There’s a dance party hosted by the Ando Dance Studio in a month, right?

Kanna: It’s an event where people young and old gather to have fun dancing.

Kanna: So Hasekura and his talkative friend can compete to see who’s better at dancing, and the one who stands out most can dance with Shiroma.

Kanna: Wouldn’t it be romantic to see two men fighting over who gets to be her partner?

Ando: Kanna, that’s hardly the purpose of a dance contest.

Louis: No, it’s an interesting idea! I don’t have any experience with dance, though I do have confidence in my physical abilities.

Louis: I’m sure I won’t lose to Hasekura.

Mukai: …!

Mukai: Louis, you’re always like this!

Hasekura: Mukai?

Mukai: You’re always trying to show off your superiority by looking down on Hasekura!

Louis: You’ve got it all wrong, Mukai. I’m only speaking the truth.

Mukai: It’s even worse that you don’t realize what you’re doing!

Mukai: Shiroma, this competition is just idiotic, but how about accepting his terms? I won’t feel satisfied until Louis’s arrogance is beaten down!

Hasekura: What’s wrong? Calm down, Mukai. This isn’t like you.

Mukai: I’m completely calm!

Shiroma: …All right. I do enjoy dancing. I’ll practice dancing for the party.

Hasekura: Shiroma?!

Louis: That settles it, then. I apologize for the fuss. Who’s the one in charge here?

Ando: … That would be me.

Louis: A pleasure to meet you. My name’s Louis. I’d like to ask for your guidance.

Ando: Everyone has their own personality, so I won’t be teaching you the same way as I do him. Let’s find a dance style that suits you.

Louis: Now that sounds promising. How about we get right into practice? Strike while the iron’s hot, as they say.

Hasekura: …

•Outside

Hasekura: That was a surprise. I didn’t think you’d come to the studio, Mukai.

Mukai: I’m sorry… This is all because I mentioned your dance class to Louis.

Mukai: And on top of that, I made everyone agree to that stupid competition…

Hasekura: There’s no use trying to change what’s been decided. I’ll just do what I can, though I think it’ll be difficult to win.

Mukai: Hasekura, you’ve been practicing all this time, right? Louis is starting just today, so…

Hasekura: You saw him, didn’t you? He only just started and he’s memorized steps and begun dancing already.

Hasekura: If he keeps getting better at this pace, he’ll pass me in no time.

Mukai: That’s not true!

Hasekura: Mukai?

Mukai: Do your best. You can win for sure.

Hasekura: I’m sure you’re just being considerate. Don’t worry about me. I’m the one at fault, not being able to do things a normal person can do.

Mukai: …

Mukai: I’m sick of hearing that!

Hasekura: …Urk?! Mukai...?

Mukai: Whenever anything happens you’re always saying, ‘It’s my fault,’ ‘It’s my fault,’ but what did you ever do that was so wrong?!

Mukai: If you keep saying how much you’re at fault, what do you want me to say?!

Mukai: Would you be satisfied if I told you that you were at fault?!

Hasekura: Mukai, I didn’t mean it like that…

Mukai: Every time you demean yourself like that, it hurts me too!

Hasekura: Mukai…

Mukai: Damn it… Excuse me!

Hasekura: Mukai! Mukai!

Sound of Mukai running off.

Hasekura: Mukai…

Ando: …Hasekura.

Hasekura: Ms. Ando! Ah…

Ando: I’m sorry. I overheard your conversation.

Hasekura: No, it’s my fault… Ah.

Hasekura: …

Hasekura: Mukai’s a new hire who’s always calm and considerate. I should be leading by example, but I only ever cause him trouble…

Hasekura: he’s such a strong person, I never imagined that he could be hurt by anything.

Hasekura: No, I never even thought that he might feel that way.

Hasekura: That he would be hurt on my behalf. All because of me….

•Office

People cross paths within the office.

Hasekura is looking around for Mukai

Hasekura: …

Hasekura: How am I supposed to face him now…

Mukai: Good morning.

Hasekura: Mukai…!

Mukai: What’s the matter? let’s get going.

Hasekura: R-Right…

Hasekura: Mukai, about last week…

Mukai: Let’s just call off the competition.

Hasekura: Wha…

Mukai: It’s ridiculous to be forced into some contest because someone else wanted it, when you’re only doing dance as a hobby.

Mukai: I’ll go around and apologize to everyone.

Hasekura: Mukai.

Mukai: I’m just like all the others, trying to push their own ideals on how you should live your life.

Mukai: This was what I wanted, not you. The whole thing is my fault.

Hasekura: No, it’s not!

Mukai: Hasekura…!

Hasekura: I know you said it for my sake.

Hasekura: You should come to the dance party, too.

Hasekura: I’ll win against Louis.

Mukai: …

Hasekura: Er, well, I don’t want to pressure you, so…

Mukai: I’ll come… No, I want to support you.

Mukai: I believe you’ll be able to win, Hasekura.

Hasekura: Mukai… Right!

(6) Chapter 6

•Dance Studio

Louis: Hasekura, I’m glad that I’ll finally get to see your A-game today.

Hasekura: I’m not sure ‘A-game’ is what I would call it, but I am taking this seriously.

Kanna: They’re totally fired up! This is so exciting!

Ando: There’s only a short amount of time, so let’s choose one type of dance for each of you and practice it thoroughly.

Ando: I believe a quick, lively step dance would suit Louis. You’re good at them, right Kanna?

Kanna: Leave all the footwork to me! I’ll be a great partner for you.

Louis: Looking forward to it, Miss Kanna.

Kanna: Wow, he’s so cool!

Ando: Hasekura will learn an elegant waltz. I’ll be your partner.

Hasekura: Thank you very much.

Ando: now then, let’s all work hard for the dance contest!

Everyone begins practicing.

Louis and Kanna dance with nimble footsteps

Kanna: One, two, three, one, two, three! Wow, you’re really good, Louis!

Louis: Haha, thanks!

Ando: They seem like a good pair.

Mukai: …

Ando: Hasekura?

Hasekura: So that’s what Louis looks like.

Ando: You see him every day at the office, don’t you?

Hasekura: I do, but… I’ve never really looked at his face.

•Outside

Louis: All right, see you next week, Hasekura!

Hasekura: Right.

Hasekura: …I’m not used to seeing coworkers after work like this.

Ando: Hasekura.

Hasekura: Ms. Ando. What is it.

Ando: Well… I was just thinking about what you said while we were dancing.

Hasekura: Yeah…

Hasekura: Up until now, I’ve always looked down as if to avoid others’ attention. I never tried to look them in the eye.

Hasekura: But now that Louis and I are competing, I’ve looked directly at him for the first time.

Hasekura: He was dancing his best and breaking a sweat… He might actually be a hard worker.

Hasekura: It was sort of a revelation to me, after only feeling intimidated by him for so long.

Hasekura: I’m starting to feel like dancing has made me notice things I wasn’t able to before.

Ando: Hasekura…

Kanna: Wow, that’s so amazing!

Hasekura: …?

Ando: Kanna?

Kanna: Louis and Hasekura are steadily getting better and better! My idea was a huge success!

Shiroma: Jeez, getting everyone involved, too…

Hasekura: Shiroma’s with her…

Ando: The two of them are going to dinner, I imagine.

Hasekura: They’re close, huh…

Kanna: You’re so lucky, Shiroma. I’m jealous two guys are competing over you.

Kanna: Hey, so what are Louis and Hasekura like at work?

Shiroma: Louis is popular within the company and well known in general. He was recently put in charge of a big project.

Kanna: And Hasekura?

Shiroma: Hasekura is…

Shiroma: Scary.

Hasekura: …?!

Ando: Oh…?

Kanna: Scary? How so?

Shiroma: Hasekura seems somewhat hollow inside… I don’t know what he could be thinking about.

Shiroma: I get scared every time our eyes meet. I’m always smiling awkwardly to brush it off.

Hasekura: …!

Kanna: Ohh, no way! Tell me the details over dinner!

Sounds of the two of them leaving.

Ando: Hasekura…

Hasekura: I-I’m sorry. Haha… I feel bad for eavesdropping on them during such an awkward conversation.

Hasekura: Just when I thought I was starting to be able to see things I couldn’t, who knew I’d also realize I wasn’t actually seeing the things I thought I did.

Hasekura: I really am no good. It’s not a new problem for me. I’m at fault. I’m… I’m…

Ando: You’re not at fault.

Hasekura: …!

Ando: You’re not at fault Hasekura. You’re not…

Ando: Hasekura. Let’s dance.

Hasekura: But, I just don’t feel like it right now…

Ando: And that’s why you should. Cast off in a stormy night and your boat will simply sink.

Ando: At times like these, you need to keep warm and wait it out until the sea calms down.

•Dance Studio

A waltz plays.

Hasekura: …

Ando: …

Hasekura: …There’s a part of me that can see why Shiroma would be scared of me.

Hasekura: But… it still made me sad to hear it.

Ando: …

Hasekura: …I’m going to forfeit the competition.

Hasekura: I don’t want to do anything to scare Shiroma any further.

Hasekura: And I think… I should quit dancing as well.

Hasekura: I’ll just return to my life from before… That’ll be fine. I don’t need anything…

Ando: Are you really all right with that?

Hasekura: I am.

Ando: Then, why do you look so sad?

Hasekura: …

Ando: I know I shouldn’t be talking about this right now, but I don’t think Shiroma was actually afraid of you.

Hasekura: But she said…

Ando: I know. I heard it too, after all. But, I just can’t believe it…

Ando: She was listening intently about how you were progressing. She was smiling as she said you were amazing.

Hasekura: Then why…

Ando: I don’t know. But if you end things now, you’ll never know the answer.

Ando: Hasekura, do you really want to stand still for the rest of your life?

Hasekura: …

Hasekura: …I don’t want to stand still.

Hasekura: …I guess I was having fun. Dance felt like the first thing I was capable of doing in my life.

Hasekura: Yeah, that’s right. I’m having fun. I may be in pain, but even now, I’m still having fun dancing.

Hasekura: …I don’t want to stop.

Ando: …Ah.

Hasekura: What is it?

Ando: It’s because you smiled, Hasekura.

Hasekura: I did? I didn’t realize…

Hasekura: It’s hard to believe I could smile when I’m on the verge of tears.

Ando: It’s because of dance.

Hasekura: No, it’s because of you, Ms. Ando…

Ando: Me?

Hasekura: Ah, it’s nothing… Is it okay if we dance a while longer?

Ando: Sure.

(7) Chapter 7

•Dance Studio

Ando: One, two, three, one, two, three… Yes, perfect.

Hasekura: Thank you very much.

Kanna: Louis, you’re so good!

Louis: Thanks!

Hasekura: He’s really improved a lot.

Hasekura: I was just thinking that he might be a hard worker, but now I’m actually a bit frustrated.

Hasekura: Maybe it’s because I don’t want to lose.

Ando: You have your own strengths, Hasekura.

Ando: I’ll be dancing in a way that highlights those strengths, so don’t you worry.

Hasekura: Thank you…

Hasekura: …

Hasekura: But if that’s the case, won’t you feel held back, Ms. Ando?

Ando: You’re the star here, Hasekura. You don’t need to worry about anything like that. Now then, let’s dance.

Hasekura: Ms. Ando…

Hasekura and Ando dance.

Ando: One, two, three, one, two, three…

Hasekura: …

Hasekura: Do you ever feel like you want to stand out, Ms. Ando?

Ando: Huh? …Well, there was a time in the past when I did.

Hasekura: In the past?

Ando: When I did competitions as a dancer, I would think things like, ‘I’ll be the most dazzling person in this hall!’

Hasekura: That’s normal if you’re in a competition, isn’t it?

Ando: That’s what I thought, too. But…

Ando: At some point, I would only be satisfied by being commended with awards.

Ando: I danced not because i wanted to dance, but because I wanted to win awards.

Ando: Maybe that’s why dance became less and less fun for me…

Ando: One day, I just quit and turned my back on it. I swore to never enter another competition again.

Hasekura: I never imagined…

Ando: I didn’t want to use dance as a way to fight.

Ando: But I think my thinking has changed a little.

Hasekura: …?

Ando: Hasekura, your improvement was faster after it was decided you would have this competition, right?

Ando: I feel there are things that can improve when you compete with others.

Ando: I felt perhaps that my days competing were not a waste.

Hasekura: Ms. Ando…

Ando: Well, let’s end here for today. I’ll see you next week, Hasekura.

Hasekura: …

Kanna and Louis are about to head home.

Hasekura: Kanna.

Kanna: Hm? Yeah?

Hasekura: Do you have a moment…?

(8) Chapter 8

•Party Hall

Louis: The day’s finally here, huh, Hasekura?!

Hasekura: Yeah…

Shiroma: …

Hasekura: Shiroma is smiling in her usual way…

Mukai: Hasekura.

Hasekura: Mukai.

Mukai: I know you’ll be great out there.

Ando: I’m the host of this dance party, and my motto is to have fun. You have some freedom here, too. Please dance to your heart’s content.

Louis: I’ll go first. Watch me.

Hasekura: Yeah, all right. Do your best.

Louis: …

Louis: Hey, Hasekura, I envy you, you know?

Hasekura: Huh…?

Louis: No matter what happens, you’re always firmly grounded and work steadily through any sort of boring work. And you do it so well.

Louis: You’re the exact opposite of me. I respect you for that.

Hasekura: Louis…

Louis: That’s why I won’t lose. All right, I’m up. Miss Kanna, may I have your hand?

Kanna: Yes!

Mukai: I never knew that’s how Louis felt…

Hasekura: …

Music for a quick step dance plays.

Ando: Louis is much better now than when he’s practicing. I see he’s the type who does his best performing for an audience.

Mukai: He’s so good, even an amateur like me can tell…

Hasekura: He’s our star performer in our group at work, after all.

The music changes to a waltz.

Mukai: The song has changed.

Ando: It’s finally time.

Hasekura: I wish I could tell myself from a few months ago that I’d be dancing in a competition here.

Ando: I wonder how you’d respond.

Hasekura: ‘I don’t really know how, but I’m sure they just let me in on a fluke.’

Ando: Heh heh. All right then, let’s dance.

Hasekura: Yes.

Louis: I wonder what sort of moves we’ll see from Hasekura.

Kanna: I’m sure you’ll be surprised.

Kanna: By him AND Ms. Ando!

Ando: Let’s relax and enjoy ourselves.

Hasekura: Right.

Ando: One, two, three, one, two, three…

Hasekura: One, two, three, one, two, three…!

Ando: …?!

Hasekura begins dancing, leading Ando.

Louis: Hasekura’s leading?

Hasekura dances so that Ando stands out.

Ando: Hasekura, what’s the matter? You won’t stand out at this rate. You won’t be able to win against Louis!

Hasekura: I realized… No, it’s something I knew from the start. I just finally became aware of it.

Ando: Aware? Of what…?

Hasekura: Unlike Louis, I don’t want to stand out.

Ando: Huh…?

Hasekura: I hated myself for being too reserved to step out in front of performative people, but that’s actually a unique part of my personality.

Hasekura: Rather than stepping forward myself, I like supporting the people who are made for the spotlight.

Hasekura: And Ms. Ando, there is no one better suited for it than you. No…

Hasekura: It’s that I want more than anything to see you in that spotlight now.

Ando: …!

Hasekura: That’s why I learned how to dance from Kanna in a way that makes you look beautiful.

Hasekura: If you set sail, head for Acapulco.

Hasekura: That’s our company motto. I don’t know what it means, but it just sort of gives me courage.

Hasekura: Please dance, Ms. Ando. For your sake.

Ando: …

Ando: Can I count on you to lead?

Hasekura: Yes.

★Dance

“Compass Line”

Kanna: Ms. Ando looks just as she did when she used to compete…!

Louis: He’s managed to surprise us with a brilliant strategy. No, this is Hasekura showing off his true strength. Mukai, looks like the competition’s decided.

Mukai: …Yes, it does.

Mukai: Everyone on the floor is watching the two of them dance.

Shiroma: …How lovely, Hasekura.

The song ends.

Kanna: Yes! Hasekura, it was a huge success! Everyone’s eyes are fixed on Ms. Ando!

Ando: Kanna…

Kanna: This is what I wanted to see! I’m so happy! And now I understand that you can shine even when you’re not competing, Ms. Ando!

Kanna: You can shine whenever it is that you want to!

Ando: Thank you, Kanna…

Kanna: Hey, Hasekura. Shiroma told me she used to be afraid whenever she saw you.

Kanna: She said she could never tell what you were thinking.

Hasekura: Ah…