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verdantcrimson · 14 hours

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Kanna Natsu Idol Story - 1

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[Two years since ES was established. In a corridor of an ES building leading to the Starpro office]

Kanna: Thank you very much for helping me, Miss Anzu.

Kanna: As you can see, I am a child, so escaping from a situation where I am surrounded by a crowd of people is difficult.

Kanna: Though, if I had used my head, I think I might have been able to escape, call for help, and have my pursuers apprehended.

Kanna: But using my brain on those people is a total hassle.

Kanna: A complete, and total, hassle.

Kanna: … Yes? No, I’m not lost.

Kanna: So you’re the type of person that judges people based on their appearance, right.

Kanna: No, I’m not criticizing you. Just categorizing.

Kanna: I find talking to other people to be a hassle.

Kanna: Ideally, I would like to be able to have a conversation by categorizing people as much as I can, and then only using a fixed set of phrases that correspond to that category.

Kanna: I want to have conversations using only a set of standardized phrases, like: “For sure”, “Maybe”, “That’s nice”, and the like.

Kanna: A computer could do that. It could handle things with just some numbers and a program.

Kanna: Why can’t the same method of operation work for humans?

Kanna: Ah, It’s okay. I wasn’t actually looking for an answer. It was just a question I asked myself, and presented.

Kanna: Please don’t worry. I will think for myself and find the answers to all of my questions.

Kanna: Yes. I have no expectations of you, or anyone else.

Kanna: Now, if you would excuse me. And really, thank you very much for helping me out just now.

Kanna: … Hm. Yes, what is it?

Kanna: Aren’t. Yes, yes, how can I help you?

Kanna: Quite the annoyance you—

Kanna: Yes. No, I’m affiliated with ES.

Kanna: I’m Kanna Natsu, and I’ve recently begun working as an idol here.

Kanna: Yes. People say that I’m like a stray cat that can’t quite get used to humans. It means I am ‘Natsu Kanna-ected’ with and don’t miss other people. Quite interesting, right?

Kanna: Would it be better if I had laughed? But that would be a hassle.

Kanna: I think my life would be much easier if I at least learned to smile politely, but that really is such a hassle.

Kanna: Yes. Ah, you know about me? I thought so too.

Kanna: I have long since concluded that I am like an exotic creature that has a tendency to make the headlines of newspapers and magazines.

Kanna: The people pursuing me earlier were magazine reporters that have been following me around recently.

Kanna: The entertainment industry is a world where you could throw a stone into the crowd and hit a genius, quite literally, so I didn’t see the need to bring it up.

Kanna: That sort of sensibility, I envy it.

Kanna: When humans see something behaving oddly, it’s surprising and interesting to them, it seems.

Kanna: Ah, I wasn’t being sarcastic. I honestly envy it. It’s quite tedious to have to add a note clarifying my intent at the end of each and every sentence.

Kanna: Hm. Eh? You’re asking me if I’m a celebrity…?

Kanna: So you only knew who I was because of me being a new idol, Miss Anzu? You remember seeing my name and face on the roster?

Kanna: I get it. Yes, you are that kind of person. I understand now.

Kanna: That’s right. There are people who don’t know who I am. Heh.

Kanna: So. It seems I have overestimated my importance.

Kanna: Ah, that was my first laugh in fifteen days. Tomorrow, my facial muscles are going to be sore.

Kanna: Thank you very much. I was able to have a rare experience.

Kanna: …Hm? Yes, anything else?

Kanna: I am an ES affiliated idol, so you should know that it isn’t out of the ordinary for me to be walking around here.

Kanna: Do you not understand this? It would be a hassle if you didn’t.

Kanna: ……

Kanna: Hm. So you thought that there might still be reporters remaining around the area? You thought to call for security, just in case?

Kanna: “A kind and gentle person”, “A respectable member of society”, “A very noble, goddess-like person”.

Kanna: Of these three, which do you prefer?

Kanna: I would like to present you with an evaluation. Because I appreciate your concern, and your words are commendable.

Kanna: However. I am inexperienced at communicating with people, so I don’t know which words would be most touching.

Kanna: That is why, I would like you to pick what words I should give you.

Kanna: That is all. ...Is that wrong of me to do?

#Kanna Natsu

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verdantcrimson · 6 days

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Heaven and Earth / Creation of Heaven and Earth - 6

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[A few days after the meeting with Ieyasu-sensei. A memory of a hard-earned meeting with Nobunaga-sensei, who was traveling overseas]

Nobunaga: — That old geezer is such a geriatric pain in the ass, why don't you just give him the axe already?

Nobunaga: He's nothing but dead weight, seriously.

Keito: Erm—

Nobunaga: Of course, that playboy that dares to call himself a scholar, when all that comes out of his mouth is talk of money and a foul-smelling breath, ought to be axed too.¹

Nobunaga: Just looking at them brings misfortune.

Nobunaga: The other two might’ve said something similar already, but I don't want to be lumped in together with those guys.

Nobunaga: As long as you agree to my conditions, I'll cooperate.

Keito: No, uh, those are quite difficult to, I mean—

Nobunaga: Then, end of story. Bye-bye.

Keito: P-Please wait, Nobunaga-sensei!

Nobunaga: Don't call me that name. You have some nerve, seriously. I like Nobunaga a lot, but that's exactly why I feel totally unworthy of that title.

Nobunaga: Though in the end, the rest of the world views history as nothing more than a hobby or a plaything.

Nobunaga: I despised seeing what I loved being brought down to such a level, so in a moment of youthful impulsiveness, I cooperated with ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth’, but—

Nobunaga: The more I tried, the more I despaired. That's why I'll have to pass on this.

Nobunaga: I don't want any part in this, so find someone else. If you insist on having me, get rid of the geezer and that playboy like I said earlier.

Nobunaga: I won't compromise any more than this. I do feel sorry that you guys have been handed a landmine of a job, but I don't do charity cases, ‘kay?

[End of flashback. Back in the Yumenosaki Garden space]

Souma: … And that is how it went.

Souma: Every single one of the ‘Three Sages’ were idiosyncratic individuals, who seemed to be beyond the scope of our control.

Koga: Speakin’ from the perspective of someone just casually listenin’ to a story, it feels like all of ‘em are pretty interestin’ characters.

Koga: If ya can use that to your advantage, you’d probably end up with a real entertainin’ show.

Souma: You really are speaking from the perspective of a casual…

Souma: In fact, what had made ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth’ such an interesting show was the unique ways each scholar would research, interpret, and discuss various historical events.

Souma: However, in reality, when in a position wherein one has to direct and mobilize these characters, one can do naught but clutch their head.

Koga: All three of ‘em are makin’ completely contradictory demands. Even if ya tried to satisfy them all, it probably just wouldn’t work.

Souma: Indeed. Suppose we did simply comply with all of their demands. First, we would have to remove both Hideyoshi-sensei and Ieyasu-sensei.

Souma: In addition to this, we would have to create a version of the show that would generate a large profit without altering the contents of ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth’ in the slightest.

Souma: However, by removing two of the renowned scholars from the show, its contents have already been altered beyond repair.

Souma: Enthusiasts of the show are likely to stop watching, and thus, it will yield no profit.

Koga: Even if ya forced it to happen, if Hideyoshi and Ieyasu participate, Nobunaga’d probably up and go— That’s how it feels.

Souma: Yes. If one were to attempt to fulfill the conditions of one, they would not be able to fulfill that of another.

Souma: In order to satisfy a single demand, we would essentially be sacrificing something else, so it seems as though meeting them all at the same time may prove to be a rather tenuous undertaking. So we haven’t a clue what to do.

Souma: That is why we have concluded that this is beyond our capacity and are currently requesting aid from Anzu-dono so that we may work together to concoct stratagems.

Koga: Oh, Anzu’s comin’ over for a business trip? I’m sure it��d feel better with her handling things.

Koga: But it makes ya think, coordinating the demands of everyone involved and stuff is probably a producer’s job anyways. Why are they makin’ the idols do the negotiatin’?

Souma: All I can say is that this may be a poor practice that has carried over from our days under Yumenosaki… Though it would not be a falsity to say that the members of the ‘Three Sages’ are comrades who once worked together to create this show, so to speak.

Souma: Therefore, I believe directly meeting and communicating ideas with them to be a necessity.

Souma: We would not want to incur their wrath or to have them stir up trouble once the show begins to air, after all.

Souma: To have each participant on the same page before show production begins is not a poor idea in the slightest.

Koga: Ya say all that, but d’ya think they’ll ever agree on anythin’?

Koga: I felt my head spinnin’ just listenin’ to that story. They’re all facin’ completely different directions, aren’t they?

Souma: In that regard, one can only hope that the leadership of Hasumi-dono and Anzu-dono will guide us.

Souma: Naturally, both Kiryu-dono and I shall each do our utmost, in order to improve our position, however slightly.

Souma: Fufu. It feels as though I have been tossed right into the midst of the Sengoku Era, my future uncertain. Though truthfully, I am unexpectedly excited. Ah God, bestow trial and tribulation unto me—²

Souma: Until now, our AKATSUKI has remained solid and stable with Hasumi-dono at our center. That is why there have been no major developments.

Souma: It is for this reason that I eagerly await to see how we shall grow after such a large undertaking.

Souma: The moon is that which waxes and wanes with the seasons. And so, we who bear the name of AKATSUKI ought to change to suit the times.

Souma: Though at this time, I am unsure if this change is a sign of good fortune or ill omen—

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Translation Notes

In Japanese, the colloquial term for 'firing someone' literally translates to something like 'to decapitate them'. Given her namesake's grisly penchant for turning the skulls of his enemies into sake cups (Though this tale is largely anecdotal) I tried to retain the brutality of the phrase. Nobunaga-sensei has a very sharp way of speaking.

Souma is quoting Yamanaki Yukimori, who famously prayed to the crescent moon when the clan his lord was in was declining. He wished to be given hardship rather than witness his lord's clan fall into ruin.

#Heaven and Earth #Keito Hasumi #Souma Kanzaki #Koga Oogami

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verdantcrimson · 29 days

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Gourmand Fragrance / Wagashi Revolution - 7

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[A few days after show filming]

Nazuna: Phew… I’ve been so busy all morning, but I can finally take a breather now.

Nazuna: I was thinking of making some tea for myself. Would you like some too, Keito-chin?

Keito: I’ll have some. I’m quite parched as well, as one would expect.

Nazuna: Making sweets first thing in the morning really made me appreciate the folks that wake up and make Valentine’s chocolate every year.

Keito: Yes, I’ve recently become quite aware of this myself. Those that can cook are deserving of respect, naturally.

Keito: This isn’t just limited to Valentine’s day either. Kiryu and Kanzaki cook quite regularly.

Keito: Anyone that cooks for another person deserves respect.

Nazuna: Yup! Though I wish Kuro-chin didn’t have work today. He would’ve loved to see Souma-chin’s happy face……

Keito: There’s nothing that can be done if he has work to do. Besides, I’m certain Kanzaki will express his gratitude to Kiryu the moment he returns.

Nazuna: Haha, right ♪ I can practically imagine Kuro-chin recoiling from the overload of compliments Souma-chin will give him.

Souma: —Hasumi-dono! Is Hasumi-dono here~?

Nazuna: Woah, I’m getting some serious déjà vu¹. Welcome back, Souma-chin and Mitsuru-chin.

Nazuna: We’ve been waiting for both of y— Uwah!?

Mitsuru: Nii-chan~! I knew you were amazing, Nii-chan~! You’re so cool for making such cute wagashi!

Nazuna: Mitsuru-chin, don’t jump on me without warning! You might knock me over!

Tomoya: Huff… Puff… Kanzaki-senpai and Mitsuru run so fast…

Hajime: Ahaha.. Both of them got so excited after Anzu-san showed them the show…

Keito: Show…? Did you guys happen to see ‘Gourmand Fragrance’ already?

Souma: Indeed! Anzu-dono informed us of it! A culinary programme that featured wagashi planned out by Hasumi-dono was to be broadcasted.

Souma: It is just what one would expect of Hasumi-dono! I, too, was entranced by the charm of ‘Barentainsu’ wagashi.

Souma: The ‘haato’-shaped nerikiri was extremely cute. The sight of Hasumi-dono struggling to shape the paste into a ‘haato’ was adorable too. ♪

Keito: Don’t fixate on that bit, Kanzaki. What I was doing doesn’t matter.

Souma: Really? I found that portion of the program to be particularly delightful…

Souma: However, why did you not summon me, Hasumi-dono!?

Souma: The program was fascinating, but I could not help but feel excluded.

Keito: I’m sorry about that. However, you were so downtrodden, that I wanted to prove to you that wagashi could be the main attraction before you ate these.

Souma: Hm? Might these be the wagashi that you and the others made during the program, Hasumi-dono?

Keito: Yes. Kiryu and I are always indebted to you, Kanzaki. We made these Valentine’s wagashi to express our gratitude to you.

Keito: Kiryu is away for work at the moment, but he helped prepare these, so his feelings have been properly included.

Souma: Hasumi-dono, Kiryu-dono…! Words cannot express how happy I am!

Souma: I shall pass these wagashi down to my descendants as a family heirloom…!

Keito: No, eat them. They'll go bad.

Souma: Ah, you are indeed correct. However, it truly feels like such a shame to eat them. ..

Hajime: Fufu, I'm happy for you, Kanzaki-senpai. The wagashi that your senpai made look quite delicious. ♪

Mitsuru: Right~... I wanna eat em too……

Tomoya: Hey now, Mitsuru. Saying that will just make it harder for Kanzaki-senpai to eat them, right?

Nazuna: Why are you guys acting like this has nothing to do with you? There's something for everyone in Ra*bits too, of course!

Nazuna: I was on the show too. Here, have as muuuch as you want.

Mitsuru: Really!? Yippee! I love you, Nii-chan~♪!

Tomoya: Thank you very much Nii-chan. Are you sure it's okay for us to have this?

Nazuna: Why wouldn't it be? If you don't eat it, we'll end up with a bunch left over and that'll be a real pain.

Nazuna: Go on, eat up! I was thinking of how happy you all would be as I made them, after all~♪.

Souma: … Everyone from ‘rabbitsu’ seems to be quite happy as well.

Souma: Though such jubilance is to be expected. There is no reason to feel otherwise. ♪

Keito: …… Kanzaki. Were the wagashi to your liking?

Souma: Hm? I said it earlier, did I not? I am most content with these wagashi, filled with your and Kiryu-dono's feelings!

Keito: I see. I'm quite happy to hear that Kanzaki, however…

Keito: Honestly, I'm far from content myself.

Souma: What!? Why could that be?

Keito: I heard you say you “wanted wagashi to be the star of Valentine’s day.”

Keito: We've been able to draw attention to wagashi on Valentine’s day with this show.

Keito: However, there has been no visible impact on the public. The most we could do was draw attention on Valentine's day for this year.

Keito: I have no doubt that wagashi will be forgotten yet again on Valentine's day next year.

Keito: Therefore, it would be unfair to conclude that wagashi have become the star of Valentine's day.

Souma: Hasumi-dono……

Keito: I'm not satisfied with this outcome. If I have to do something, I'll aim for an absolute victory.

Keito: Chocolate has become integral to Valentine's day due to the marketing strategy of an old confectionery.

Keito: The industry devised tactics to attract mass attention and turn chocolate synonymous with Valentine's day.

Keito: …… If you think about it, it's quite similar to how idols are marketed. Then, this ought to be our area of expertise.

Keito: We could create an Era where wagashi dominate the Valentine's day market.

Keito: That's what I'd like to accomplish using AKATSUKI.

Keito: —Those are my thoughts. What do you think, Kanzaki?

Souma: I apologize for underestimating you, Hasumi-dono! It is as I thought, you are truly worthy of my loyalty!

Souma: It would most certainly be my pleasure to assist you in this. After all, this tale originated from my own desire……

Souma: And above all else, I wish to see the world Hasumi-dono envisions by his side! ♪

Keito: Yes. I'll be counting on you then, Kanzaki.

[END]

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#Gourmand Fragrance #Keito Hasumi #Souma Kanzaki #Tomoya Mashiro #Nazuna Nito #Hajime Shino #Mitsuru Tenma

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verdantcrimson · 1 month

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Gourmand Fragrance / Wagashi Revolution - 6

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[A few days later, on the day of the show filming.]

Keito: …Hm? Anzu, did you come here to watch the shoot?

Keito: You have my gratitude. Today’s shooting was only possible thanks to you, Anzu. Thank you.

Keito: You say that you’re ‘looking forward to receiving something in return’? Naturally, I’ll return the favor somehow.

Keito: Well, it’s nearly time for filming to begin. For now, I’ll express my gratitude by making the best Valentine’s day wagashi possible.

Keito: Yes, do look forward to it.

Rei: “Greetings, everyone~♪, ‘Gourmand Fragrance’, the cooking program that shows you simple sweets that you can make and enjoy at home, starts now~.”

Rei: “Since this episode is a Valentine’s day special, the four of us plan to make adorable Valentine’s chocolates.”

Nazuna: “The simple sweet that we’re going to show you how to make this time is a kind of wagashi called nerikiri!”

Nazuna: “Wagashi and Valentine’s day are a strange combo, don’tcha think?”

Keito: “However, wagashi are still a kind of sweet at the end of the day, and nerikiri is quite aesthetically pleasing.”

Keito: “You can even make heart-shaped nerikiri. It’s a cute wagashi that’s perfect for Valentine’s day.”

Kuro: “Some people say it’s hard to make, but it’s surprisin’ly easy.”

Kuro: “Hasumi danna over here ain’t used to makin’ sweets, but he still managed to whip up a delicious batch. ♪”

Nazuna: “Well, experience is the best teacher, so let’s get cooking!”

Rei: “First, put the glutinous rice powder in a heat-resistant bowl and add water.”

Rei: “We’ll leave that step to Hasumi-kun, our beginner cook, just to show you that newbies can make this dish too. ♪”

Keito: “Yes. Firstly, we’ll measure out our rice flour and water.”

Rei: “Be sure to follow the recipe properly. Or else, you may end up with dough so hard that it’ll break your teeth.”

Keito: “Don’t make fun of me all the time, you’re incorrigible. However, like you said, we do have to be cautious about the measurements.”

Keito: “Thirty grams of rice flour… Phew, alright. Water is… Sixty grams.”

Keito: “Mm? There’s not enough water. Just a bit more…”

Keito: “Ugh, there are twice as many grams this time. Incorrigible…”

Rei: (He’s pouring water in and out repetitively. It’d be easier if he made adjustments using a smaller cup...)

Rei: (Hasumi-kun is struggling quite a bit to make these sweets. It’s a far cry from his usual self.)

Rei: (His fans will surely be happy to see this new side of him. ♪)

Keito: “... Alright, I’ve set aside sixty grams. Let’s move on to the next step.”

Keito: “Add half of the water to the rice flour… Ah, I see. So do I have to divide the water in half?”

Keito: “I should’ve measured out the halves separately in the first place… The method I used was just bad!”

Rei: “Now now, calm yourself, Hasumi-kun. A slight error is no cause for concern. There should be no issue if you just eyeball the measurements.”

Keito: “Personally, I’m not a fan of the ambiguity of measuring by eye… Is this around the right amount?”

Keito: “No, I think I poured too much in. There’s only ten grams of water left!”

Keito: “Guh, I knew I should’ve measured it out properly...”

Rei: “Oh dear, this battle might drag out for longer than expected…”

[After that incident, the cooking progressed smoothly…]

Nazuna: “♪~♪~♪ Alright! We’re done making the nerikiri paste!”

Nazuna: “Look, Kuro-chin! I dusted a bit of cocoa powder to make it brown! It’s cute, right?”

Kuro: “Yup. The chocolate color is perfect for Valentine's day.”

Nazuna: “Right~? But now comes the most important part of nerikiri making.”

Nazuna: “Wagashi are all about appearances! What kind of shape should I give them to make them look fitting for Valentine’s day?”

Nazuna: “There’s white paste and brown paste… I’ve got it!”

Nazuna: “Shape it into a ball, add some ears, and then use a chocolate pen…”

Nazuna: “And I’m done! Have a look, Kuro-chin, It turned out so cute!”

Kuro: “A white and chocolate-colored rabbit, huh? It’s exactly the sort of wagashi you’d make, Nito. ♪”

Kuro: “Oh, and if ya look closer, it’s got a heart-shaped tail. Ya did great with the details.”

Nazuna: “Eheheh, right~! That’s a discreet little detail I added. If it was just a rabbit, it wouldn’t be Valentine’s themed after all. ♪”

Nazuna: “What about you, Kuro-chin?”

Kuro: “Me? Well, I kinda made ‘em without worryin’ too much about Valentine’s, but I settled on makin’ a couple of flowers for now.”

Nazuna: “No, wait, aren’t you a little too good at this, Kuro-chin!? These white and brown roses are practically blooming!”

Kuro: “Haha, the stick used for craftin’ was kinda like a sewin’ needle once I got used to it. It felt a bit like makin’ clothes and ended up bein’ surprisingly fun.”

Kuro: “But, I still gotta figure out a way to add a Valentine’s touch to it like you did, Nito.”

Kuro: “Got it. I’ll try makin’ the next one with heart-shaped petals. ♪”

Nazuna: “Ooh~ Kuro-chin, you’re amazing! I won’t be outdone by you though!”

Nazuna: “I’ve still got a lot of leftover ingredients to work with, and I’ll come up with a whole bunch of ideas for Valentine’s nerikiri. ♪”

Rei: (Hm… Seems like Kiryu-kun and Nito-kun’s wagashi-making is going smoothly.)

Rei: (And I was wondering about what would happen to Hasumi-kun at first too, but—)

Keito: “...Yes. Look, Sakuma. I was able to shape it into a cute heart.”

Keito: “I can make nerikiri that suits Valentine’s day too. ♪”

Rei: “Kuku, indeed. It’s a wonderful wagashi that wouldn’t be shameful to serve up in the slightest.”

Rei: “I won’t be beaten by everyone else either. I shall make wagashi worthy of being the star of Valentine’s day as well. ♪”

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#Gourmand Fragrance #Keito Hasumi #Kuro Kiryu #Rei Sakuma #Nazuna Nito

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verdantcrimson · 2 months

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Gourmand Fragrance / Wagashi Revolution - 5

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[The next day]

Nazuna: —So yesterday, me and Keito-chin did some research to figure out what kind of wagashi to make for Valentine’s day.

Nazuna: Kuro-chin, you should have a look at the recipe too.

Kuro: Yup. Already heard about what we’ll be makin’ from Hasumi danna.

Kuro: What was it… We were gonna make a kind of wagashi called ‘nejikiri’, right?¹

Nazuna: You meant to say ‘nerikiri’, right? Saying we’re going to make screw cutters is scary, Kuro-chin!

Kuro: Sorry. Didn’t really check exactly what the name was. So, what kind of wagashi are nerikiri, exactly?

Nazuna: It’d be quicker to just show you on my phone. Nerikiri is a kind of wagashi made with bean paste that’s also fun to look at.²

Kuro: Ahh, I’ve seen those. Kanzaki brings them to me sometimes.

Kuro: I get it. Now that you mention it being fun to look at, I can see how cute they are.

Kuro: When Kanzaki gave ‘em to me, I ate ‘em without really lookin’ too close. I feel kind of sorry about that now.

Nazuna: Ahaha, well I’d feel good eating something delicious too.

Kuro: So, why’d ya decide on nerikiri?

Nazuna: After our market research, we realized that people like cutesy stuff for Valentine’s day.

Kuro: Ah, s’pose that’s true. Girls love cute things, after all.

Kuro: Recently my little sister’s started preppin’ to make chocolate. I’m lookin’ forward to what kind of chocolate I’m gonna get. ♪

Nazuna: Ahaha, Kuro-chin, you’re on good terms with your little sister as usual~.

Nazuna: On Valentine’s day I’ll bet we’ll get to see you looking all smug because you got chocolate from your little sister. ♪

Kuro: I don’t plan on showin’ that side of myself so easily. Besides, it’s gonna be busy that day thanks to the Chocolat Festival.

Nazuna: You really think so~? You tend to slip up a lot when it comes to your little sister.

Nazuna: Well, we’ll save that fun for the day of. For now, let’s focus on wagashi!

Nazuna: Since you can shape nerikiri however you’d like, I thought we might be able to create a cute design for Valentine’s day!

Nazuna: Making the nerikiri paste is pretty time-consuming, but there’s nothing you can’t do at home! What do you think?

Kuro: Right. If we leave the cute design work to you, Nito, there won’t be much to worry about.

Nazuna: Yup! When it comes to cute stuff, leave it to us Ra*bits!

Nazuna: … Is what I would really like to say, but I’m not great at cooking.

Nazuna: So that’s why we’ll be relying on you, Kuro-chin!

Nazuna: Kuro-chin, you’re great with your hands, so I’m sure you’ll be able to make the cutest nerikiri of them all!

Kuro: M’not sure if I can live up to those expectations, but I’ll do what I can.

Kuro: Anyways, Hasumi danna and co. are runnin’ late. Are they not back yet?

Nazuna: They’re taking more time than you normally would to buy ingredients, aren’t they? I haven’t heard from them, so I’m a little worried.

Keito: Sorry, did we keep you waiting?

Nazuna: Woah, speak of the devil. Welcome back, Keito-chin and Rei-chin.

Kuro: Ya took your sweet time comin’ back, didja get into some sorta trouble?

Keito: No, we just stopped by the office to drop off a proposal.

Nazuna: A proposal? Well, it’s fine if you happened to find the time while out shopping, but I wish you’d tell us beforehand.

Keito: I’m sorry, the proposal was put together in a hurry after some discussion with Sakuma.

Keito: At the time I left, it hadn’t been completed yet, so I was unsure if we’d be able to submit it.

Kuro: A proposal that you finished in that much of a hurry? What kind is it?

Rei: It’s a plan for Valentine’s day wagashi. We went to the agency and proposed a cooking show with the theme of ‘Wagashi as the star of Valentine’s day’.

Nazuna: Wh- What!? Why’d you go and do that!?

Keito: I apologize for not asking you first. In retrospect, it wasn’t a good idea to put off having a proper discussion about it in our frantic rush to create a proposal.

Kuro: I don’t really care. I’m used to bein’ pushed around by you, danna, and it’s not like I can’t think for myself at all, right?

Nazuna: I don’t mind either, but could you at least explain why you made that plan?

Keito: The reason is quite simple. It’s to solve the problem that we encountered during our research yesterday.

Nazuna: It was the fact that the fancy, formal image of wagashi didn’t match people’s preferences for Valentine’s day sweets, right?

Keito: Indeed. Though that isn’t the case in actuality.

Keito: We will remedy this by appearing on a cooking show to promote them. We’ll introduce and make all sorts of cute looking wagashi.

Keito: Let’s spread the word that “wagashi can be the star of Valentine’s day too!”

Nazuna: Keito-chin, I didn’t think you would go that far……

Rei: It just so happened that the agency was looking for a Valentine’s day project aside from the Chocolat Festival.

Rei: Little lady Anzu is helping out too, so as long as things proceed smoothly, the plan should go through.

Nazuna: I-Is it really going to happen so fast?! Actually, that’s concerning…

Keito: I feel that way too. The fact that the agency is looking for additional Valentine’s day projects alongside the Chocolat Festival sounds too good to be true.

Keito: It feels like someone conveniently suggested it to them in advance, doesn’t it?

Rei: Goodness gracious, whatever are you suggesting? I haven’t got a clue myself.

Keito: … Well, it’s fine. I’ll let this odd coincidence slide for now, since it’s working in our favor.

Keito: Kiryu and Nito, I’m sorry for getting you involved without asking you first. Like I said before, if you can’t do it, feel free to turn me down right now.

Keito: In which case, Sakuma and I will simply film an introductory program by ourselves.

Nazuna: Don’t start talking like a stranger, Keito-chin! Since we’ve come this far together, I’ll definitely join in!

Kuro: Yeah, danna. It’d be worse if ya decided to have us be the only ones left out.

Keito: … I see. Thank you, both of you.

Rei: Fufu. Now that we’ve decided on this, we ought to start our practice in making the wagashi that will be introduced on the cooking show.

Rei: We can’t be making concrete chocolate on filming day, now can we? ♪

Keito: Hmph. Even if you hadn’t said that, I’m well aware that I’m the weakest link of the bunch.

Keito: However, you have no reason to worry. I’ll make them perfectly on the day of.

Keito: I’ll prove that wagashi can be the star of Valentine’s day too!

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Translation Notes

Nejikiri is, well, a screwcutter. I couldn't translate the pun, so I did my best.

Nerikiri are small, detailed sweets made of sweetened white bean paste and rice flour. They come in a variety of designs and shapes. I happened to stumble across an artist's Valentine's nerikiri. Have a look!

#Gourmand Fragrance #Keito Hasumi #Kuro Kiryu #Rei Sakuma #Nazuna Nito

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verdantcrimson · 2 months

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Gourmand Fragrance / Wagashi Revolution - 4

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Nazuna: Keito-chin, what are you getting? I think I'll have that limited time chocolate strawberry drink after all!

Nazuna: Ah, and also... I'll have this chocolate parfait!

Nazuna: Since we came here to do research, we ought to eat as much as we can, right? ♪

Keito: You don't actually care about our goal. You just wanted to eat a parfait, didn’t you? Nito.

Nazuna: Th- Th-That's not what it is! More importantly, what are you going to get, Keito-chin?

Keito: Hm. I'll take the chocolate cake.

Nazuna: ... That's all? Don't you want any of the other delicious looking treats?

Keito: You aren't plotting to sneak a bite of mine, are you?

Nazuna: N-No, that isn't why!

Nazuna: ...... Well, it might be?

Keito: ... I see. In that case, I'd like to order an additonal chocolate ganache pudding.

Keito: You seemed like you were having trouble deciding between this and the pudding earlier.

Nazuna: No, I really didn't mean to make you do that... Are you sure it's fine?

Keito: Truthfully I'm a little concerned about the calories, but I'll burn them off on the walk back.

Nazuna: Ah, I guess I wasn't really thinking about the calories.

Nazuna: I've gotta be careful about eating too many sweets and gaining weight...

Keito: We've decided on what we want, so let's call the waiter over and place our order.

[A few minutes later]

Nazuna: Ah, here it comes, Keito-chin. Uwah, this chocolate parfait is so cute ♪ I almost can't bear to eat it!

Keito: Stop, Nito. Let me take a picture of that parfait before you start eating.

Nazuna: Whoops, that's right. Photos are important for reference purposes.

Nazuna: The chocolate strawberry drink looks pink and cute, just like how it was on the menu... Um, huh?

Keito: Hm? What's the matter, Nito? Did they get the order wrong?

Nazuna: No, I don't think so...

Nazuna: Hey, Keito-chin? What do you think this straw is?

Keito: ...... Yes. This is what is known as an 'Avec straw'.¹ They often appear in romantic comedies and other adjacent manga.

Nazuna: Wh- What does 'Avec' mean...? Actually, what do you mean by 'they appear in romantic comedies'?

Keito: It’s likely that the waiter mistook us for lovers and tried to set the mood.

Nazuna: I'm not a girl! Where and how could Keito-chin and I ever get mistaken for a couple!?

Keito: Oi, Nito. Don't make a racket, you'll disturb the people around us.

Keito: You might not want to hear it, but you do have a feminine looking face, Nito...

Nazuna: Even if that is true, you can tell I'm a man by the way I speak, right?

Keito: They probably weren't listening in on a customer's conversation too closely. On the contrary, it would be disturbing if they did eavesdrop...

Nazuna: Ugh... Good point.

Keito: Additionally, if you were to assess it with a clear head, it isn't a particularly surprising misunderstanding. Valentine's is a couple's event, generally speaking.

Keito: Since we entered the store together, it wouldn’t be odd for someone to presume that we were a couple.

Nazuna: That might be true, but that's one thing! This is another!

Nazuna: Jeez, this makes me want to start stuffing my mouth from despair! I'm going to drown these icky feelings in sweetness now!

Nazuna: Munch, munch... Mm~ It really is so sweet and delicious. I feel like I can forget all my troubles like this. ♪

Nazuna: It doesn’t just taste good, it's also sooo cute that just looking at it makes me happy.

Nazuna: Your chocolate cake has a heart shaped mark drawn on with a chocolate pen, Keito-chin.

Nazuna: My parfait also has a heart shaped cookie on top. Every single part of it really is cute, down to the smallest details. ♪

Keito: Yes. In spite of being advertised as being a richer chocolate flavor, this chocolate cake is also quite sweet.

Keito: ... It's so sweet that I've gotten a bit of heartburn.

Nazuna: Hey now, are you doing alright, Keito-chin?

Keito: I'll be fine. However, you should eat this pudding, Nito...

Nazuna: R-Right. You were kind enough to order it because I wanted to eat it in the first place, after all...

Nazuna: In that case, I could eat the chocolate cake too...

Keito: Just that much is enough. I've already had a bite, so I'll take responsibility and eat it all.

Keito: However, it'll be difficult to go to another shop after this...

Nazuna: I got too greedy, so my stomach's gonna be full...

Nazuna: Ahaha. I ended up losing sight of our goal and enjoying the chocolate instead.

Keito: Yes. However, you'd be wrong to underestimate me, Nito.

Keito: I was still able to do a bit of research by walking around the shop and trying some of the goods.

Keito: As it turns out, Valentine's day is associated with cute things and giving out love.

Keito: The trend these days is that cuteness is justice.²

Keito: With that in mind, don't wagashi have a reputation for being little more formal?

Nazuna: Ah, that's true. When I think of wagashi, they feel strongly associated with being elegant.

Keito: There are wagashi that look cute. However, the association between those two concepts hasn't been conveyed to the world.

Keito: ... Yes. I feel like I can finally see a way out.

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Translation Notes

The 'Avec' in avec straw is actually French for 'together'. I guess these would be called sweetheart straws, or couple straws?

The phrase 'cuteness is justice' is popular slang that basically means 'if something is cute, it's justified'.

#Gourmand Fragrance #Keito Hasumi #Nazuna Nito

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verdantcrimson · 2 months

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Gourmand Fragrance / Wagashi Revolution - 3

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Nazuna: We made it. Oi~ Keito-chin, hurry up and come here!

Keito: Don’t be in such a hurry, Nito. We’ve got plenty of time.

Keito: Or are you perhaps going to tell me that you have some work to attend to at the last minute as well?

Nazuna: No, no, it’s all good, so don’t get riled up!

Nazuna: … Jeez, are you still mad about Rei-chin being a no-show?

Keito: I’m not mad about that. It makes sense to prioritize your work, after all.

Keito: However, if he had other obligations, he should’ve made it clear. Since Sakuma proposed the idea, I ended up mistakenly assuming that he would accompany us.

Nazuna: Ahaha, but Keito-chin, you put on airs and said that we should “begin researching right away.”

Nazuna: It’d be embarrassing for you if he replied with “Oh, but I’m going to work later though.”

Keito: Don’t bother trying to re-explain it to me. Seriously, how incorrigible…

Nazuna: Sorry, my bad. Anyways, that being said, why’d you pick downtown as the research spot, Keito-chin?

Nazuna: Don’t you think it’d be better to pick a spot closer to ES…?

Keito: If we’re near ES, then Kanzaki might find us out. I’d rather that not happen.

Nazuna: Hm? Were you planning on doing this without telling Souma-chin?

Keito: Yes. I felt like surprising Kanzaki in any case.

Keito: I discussed it with Kiryu earlier, and we were thinking of making Valentines wagashi to give to him to express our gratitude towards him.

Nazuna: I get it. It’s a good idea. Well, now I’m thinking about making some for everyone else in Ra*bits in secret too.

Nazuna: Alright! Then let’s get fired up and start our research!

Nazuna: Though it’s pretty crowded here in spite of it being the middle of the day on a weekday. Is it because of Valentines?

Keito: Most likely. Though, the congestion at this time of day is preferable. The main target of Valentines is young women, after all.

Keito: Around this time, most students are still attending school. After school lets out, it’ll likely become crowded with girls again.

Nazuna: Now that you mention it, most of the people milling around the stores look like college-age women.

Nazuna: Ah, Keito-chin, that store over there has a huge line!

Keito: Yes. Apparently, that’s a famous Western confectionery. They’re selling limited seasonal Valentines chocolate cake.

Nazuna: I want to try one for our research, but judging by the length of that line, it might take a few hours to even get inside the store…

Keito: Good point. Then, we might have better luck with the wait time at the coffee shop across the street.

Keito: Hmm, it looks like they have some limited chocolate flavored drinks and parfaits for sale.

Nazuna: Ooh, this cake is super cute. The strawberry chocolate drink looks yummy too! ♪

Nazuna: I love strawberries, you know~ ♪ They’re pink and cute, so I kind of feel drawn to them…

Nazuna: Ah, there’s a crowd over there too!

Nazuna: It looks like that store sells white chocolate. They sell white chocolate ganache you can give out as gifts as well!

Nazuna: Uu~... All of these shops look so good, I don’t know which one we should go into~

Nazuna: Or maybe it’d be better if we went to all of them? I mean, we’re researching here, so it might be good to visit every single—

Keito: Oi, Nito. You’re getting carried away. You haven’t forgotten why we’re here, right?

Keito: Our goal is to research ideas for Valentines wagashi. Don’t forget that.

Nazuna: I- I know. I just got a little excited looking at everything..

Nazuna: Though it really is incredible. Every store has attractive goods that pull you in.

Keito: For the confectionery industry, Valentine's day is a business opportunity they can’t ignore.

Keito: All of these stores must have worked desperately on their marketing tactics in order to make the most of this lucrative sales period.

Nazuna: O-Oh. Well, I guess that’s true. Somehow, I feel like all the magic was just killed…?

Keito: Originally, Valentine's day was a part of a confectionery company’s commercial strategy. It’s common to hear people call Valentine’s a conspiracy created by chocolate companies.

Keito: And they would be right, because Valentine’s day in Japan finds its origins in the founder of a certain western confectionery company. ¹

Nazuna: H-Haha.. Is that so?

Keito: The founder of this company brought the Valentine's day tradition here from abroad. However, there's something peculiar about it all.

Keito: During Valentine’s day overseas, gifts given aren’t limited to chocolate.

Keito: Japan is the only country that restricts Valentine’s gifts to chocolate. Do you know why that is, Nito?

Nazuna: Eh? Ummm, because of the founder?

Keito: Correct answer. Seems like you were properly listening to me.

Keito: When the tradition was imported here from overseas, it was changed to make it so that only chocolate would be given of all the possible gifts.

Keito: All of this was part of the founder’s business strategy to deal with sales drop in February.

Nazuna: I- I see. Keito-chin, you sure know a lot~

Keito: Well, there are other theories. By the way, while it is customary in Japan for women to give chocolates to men, this too—

Nazuna: You’re still going!? Keito-chin, did you maybe forget what we came here for?

Nazuna: We’re supposed to research the Valentines marketplace, Keito-chin!

Keito: Hm… True. Time is money, after all. We ought to make good use of it.

Nazuna: Okay, for now, let's just go to the coffee shop you spotted earlier, Keito-chin.

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Translation Notes

This is actually true! Keito is referring to Morozoff Ltd. You can read more about it here + here (this page is in japanese)

#Gourmand Fragrance #Keito Hasumi #Nazuna Nito

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verdantcrimson · 2 months

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Gourmand Fragrance / Wagashi Revolution - 2

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[The next day]

Keito: —Seriously, this is completely incorrigible. Can’t anything be done about how ambiguous the term ‘medium heat’ is?

Keito: What does ‘heat the water to around 50 degrees’ mean, exactly? They ought to clearly state what temperature to use!

Keito: There are vague instructions like “Pay attention to the room temperature as well!” here too...

Keito: … No, there’s no use in complaining about this. Anyways, how should I deal with the situation at hand?

Keito: If I ask for Kanzaki’s help, I’d be able to get it done in one go, but I’d like to keep it a secret from him this time…

Nazuna: Rei-chin, why don’t we take a break and get something to drink… Huh? Keito-chin?

Rei: How rare. I never thought I’d see Hasumi-kun cooking.

Nazuna: That sweet smell… Are you making chocolate?

Nazuna: Keito-chin, did you start trying to make chocolate immediately?

Nazuna: Would it be okay for me to eat some? I just got off of work and I feel like having something sugary~

Nazuna: Oh, but only if you have any leftovers, obviously! You might have wanted to give it to someone else.

Keito: No it’s- Um, That is… It’s not an issue. In fact, it would probably be best for you to have some.

Nazuna: Thanks, Keito-chin! In that case, don’t mind if I do…

Nazuna: Thank you for the food~♪

Nazuna: ~~~~~~Gh!?

Nazuna: Gyah!? This is unbeweivabwy hawd, Keito-chin!

Keito: … Sorry, Nito. I had been considering the possibility that maybe I just had a weak jaw, but it seems that I had simply failed.

Nazuna: You should’ve told me! I bit into it as hard as I could because I had no idea!

Nazuna: Uu, my tooth hurts… Rei-chin, are my teeth okay? None of them broke, right?

Rei: Worry not, Nito-kun. Your teeth remain aligned and in perfect condition.

Rei: My my, Hasumi-kun. It seems like you’ve created a rather deadly weapon.

Rei: Or perhaps it was meant to be a prank, replacing actual chocolate with fake chocolate.

Rei: In that case, should I have played along?

Keito: Hey, quit making fun of me. It was my bad, okay?

Keito: Guh, I knew I shouldn’t have tried making sweets without Kiryu.

Nazuna: Come to think of it, why isn’t Kuro-chin here with you, Keito-chin?

Keito: Kiryu has work scheduled for the entire day today. Since I had a bit of free time on my hands, I figured I would start practicing on my own.

Keito: However, I never expected that accomplishing my first goal, learning how to temper chocolate by heating and cooling it, would be so troublesome…

Rei: Hm. Hasumi-kun, you mentioned just now that this was your ‘first goal’. Does this mean you’re aiming for something else?

Keito: Yes. Nito is already aware, but what Kanzaki said yesterday is stuck in my head now.

Nazuna: Hm? What Souma-chin said— Do you mean the wagashi thing?

Keito: Exactly. After that, Kiryu and I had a discussion, and we came up with the idea of making wagashi that would be the star of Valentines to give to Kanzaki.

Keito: Kanzaki is always working so hard for AKATSUKI’s sake, and we wanted to express our gratitude to him…

Keito: Most of all, that disappointed expression he had on his face yesterday just won’t leave my mind.

Nazuna: I see. So I guess Keito-chin felt the same as me all along.

Nazuna: Actually, ever since I saw Mitsuru-chin’s sad face, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about if there’s anything I can do.

Nazuna: It’s so frustrating when there’s nothing I can do to help my cute juniors when they’re counting on me.

Keito: Yes. Kanzaki truly believed that I would be able to solve the issue and came to me as well.

Keito: So I feel like I should have been able to find some way to fulfill those expectations.

Keito: To do nothing for lack of a perfect plan, or to say that someone else might be better suited, excuses like those are no different from running away.

Rei: Fufu. You two have such lofty ambitions. It sure does pique my interest. ♪

Nazuna: Yeah, I totally get it, Keito-chin. It’s uncool to just do nothing!

Rei: However, if you’re struggling this hard to simply temper chocolate, how do you expect to create wagashi impressive enough to cause a sensation?

Keito: Urgh, you hit a bit of a sore spot there…

Nazuna: He’s right though.

Keito: Okay. So why aren’t wagashi popular for Valentines? There has to be a cause.

Nazuna: Putting aside technical concerns for now, what sort of wagashi can we make that would get people talking?

Rei: Since it’s Valentines season, how about doing some research on the kinds of sweets that people prefer?

Rei: Earlier, when I was walking around ES with Nito-kun, I saw quite a few Valentines Day Fairs going on.

Nazuna: Isn’t that great? Cinnamon was also advertising a limited-time menu.

Rei: So what do you say, Hasumi-kun?

Keito: Hmph. It’s irritating to be sweet-talked into something by Sakuma, but he has a point.

Keito: It’s a good idea. I’ll take your advice this time. You have my thanks, Sakuma.

Keito: Now that that’s settled, I’ll begin researching right away.

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#Gourmand Fragrance #Keito Hasumi #Nazuna Nito #Rei Sakuma

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verdantcrimson · 2 months

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Gourmand Fragrance / Wagashi Revolution - 1

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Nazuna: Ah, it's Keito-chin and Kuro-chin! What are you up to, standing around here and chatting?

Keito: Hello Nito. Kiryu and I were just talking about the upcoming Chocolat Fes.

Kuro: Apparently they're gonna be holdin' it at ES this year too. Wouldn't hurt to be prepared.

Nazuna: I get it. These days it's been pretty hectic at ES because of the Chocolat Fes.

Nazuna: Since you guys are discussing it, that must mean AKATSUKI has plans to participate, right?

Keito: Yes, something like that. We won't be doing anything large-scale though. We have big plans lined up for after Chocolat Fes.

Keito: Additionally, I heard that Kanzaki is going to participate in the Yumenosaki Chocolat Fes.

Keito: If he were to participate in the ES event on top of all that, it would be exhaustive.

Keito: On that note, what is Ra*bits planning to do? Most of your members are enrolled in the academy after all.

Nazuna: Ah, Tomo-chin and the others are going to be participating in the Yumenosaki Chocolat Fes too.

Kuro: Haha, I'm glad that those guys are gettin' along well like usual.

Nazuna: Yup~ ♪ But well, I don't want to push an unreasonable load onto Tomo-chin and the others.

Nazuna: So basically, just like AKATSUKI, Ra*bits won't be doing anything too huge on the ES side.

Kuro: I see. So I guess that us graduated lot are gonna be able to spend this years Chocolat Fes peacefully.

Keito: It feels odd, being able to relax at this time of year.

Nazuna: Ahaha, right~? All I remember is being super busy making chocolate.

Keito: …Making chocolate, huh? I can't say I have any memory of doing that myself.

Nazuna: Huh? Really?

Keito: During my time at the academy, being a member of the Student Council meant that I was more involved in the operational aspect of Chocolat Fes.

Keito: So in my case, all I remember is being perpetually busy dealing with all the trouble that would crop up at the academy.

Nazuna: Hmm? But didn't AKATSUKI perform? There were rumors about it…

Keito: I erased that part from my memories…

Kuro: Haha, cause danna must've been pretty embarrassed. Back then, AKATSUKI gave a sexy performance that was pretty far out from our usual.

Kuro: Danna did the 'Bakyuun~' thing completely seriously and was writhin' in agony after the live show.

Nazuna: What do you mean!? I'd want to see that!

Keito: Don't say anything unnecessary, Kiryu! Seriously, you're just incorrigible…

Kuro: My bad. Well, danna was right when he said he was mostly busy with his lessons and planning.

Kuro: He was so busy that we ended up outsourcin' our chocolate to a vendor.

Keito: Yes. Though, I've always wanted to make my own chocolate at least once.

Kuro: In that case, why don't ya try it this year? Ya said it just now, that you'd be able to take things easy this year after all.

Nazuna: What Kuro-chin said. If you don't know how to make them, I can help too. ♪

Keito: ... Right. This could be a good opportunity to learn. Firstly, I'll have to buy a recipe book—

Souma: HASUMI-DONO! Is Hasumi-dono here!?

Nazuna: Owah!? You surprised me! What's wrong, Souma-chin? Mitsuru-chin, you too?

Mitsuru: Nii-chan! It's a good thing you're here too! I needed to ask you something really badly!

Kuro: What's gotten into ya, Kanzaki, Tenma?

Souma & Mitsuru: Why is it that wagashi are not included in 'Barentainsu'!? / Why aren't wagashi a part of Valentines!?

Kuro & Nazuna: … What?

Keito: Sigh… It turns out that it wasn't anything as pressing as I had anticipated.

Keito: First of all, both of you need to calm down. If you make such a ruckus, it'll disturb everyone else in the office.

Souma: Oh, that is true. That was rather inconsiderate. Do forgive me.

Mitsuru: I'm sorry. But I felt super bad for the wagashi and I wanna help them as fast as I can!

Keito: I really have no idea what you're on about. What happened and why? You need to explain things properly.

Souma: Yes. Actually, a few days prior, the owner of the wagashi shop that the Kanzaki clan favors confided to us.

Souma: Since the main character of 'Barentainsu' is undoubtedly 'chocoraito', it is inevitable that the sales of wagashi declines during this period.

Nazuna: Now that you mention it, when you think of Valentines, the image of traditional sweets like those hardly comes to mind.

Souma: The decline in sales is in itself not an issue, as the shop owner is able to make a recovery in profit during other periods of time.

Souma: However, they expressed a sadness that wagashi could not be the main attraction of 'Barentainsu'

Nazuna: I get it now. So Mitsuru-chin heard about it from Souma-chin?

Mitsuru: Mhm. I felt real sad when I heard about it from Souchan-Senpai.

Mitsuru: I mean, wagashi are yummy, but they aren't the main focus of Valentines day, right? I feel so sorry for them…

Kuro: I see. So you're thinkin' somethin' like, "those poor sweets", huh?

Mitsuru: But I dunno know how I would even make wagashi into the main attraction…

Mitsuru: That's why I told Souchan-Senpai to ask Nii-chan and Hasumi-Senpai for help.

Souma: Indeed. I immediately determined that Hasumi-dono, who has led us of AKATSUKI through many a tribulation, would surely be able to bestow an appropriate plan to us.

Keito: I'm honored that you think so highly of me, but I'm not reliable when it comes to culinary matters.

Keito: Since Kiryu usually cooks, he would probably have some good ideas…

Kuro: I'm kinda in the same boat here. I have some experience makin' sweets, but I only know how to bake simple confectionaries.

Kuro: Actually, wouldn't you know more about this than us, Kanzaki? You're probably better at makin' sweets than me.

Souma: Hmm. However, I haven't a clue as to what sort of Wagashi would be suitable to be the main 'Barentainsu' attraction.

Souma: Therefore, I determined that the most dependable person would be Hasumi-dono, who has both insight and a deep understanding of such things…

Keito: I would like to do something about this too, but…

Mitsuru: What do you think, Nii-chan? If you know a good way to do it, please tell us!

Nazuna: M-me? It's not like I'm a good cook either, though.

Nazuna: I'm sorry Mitsuru-chin. I can't help you out…

Mitsuru: No, it's okay. I know I asked you to do something hard.

Souma: Umu. My apologies to you as well, Hasumi-dono, Kiryu-dono. I so abruptly asked for advice on an unreasonable matter and inconvenienced you.

Souma: We shall excuse ourselves now. Hmm? What seems to be the matter?

Mitsuru: Uu, I still wanna make wagashi the main character of Valentines day somehow…

Keito & Nazuna: ……

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Translation Notes

Wagashi are Traditional Japanese sweets. I'll be honest, I just didn't want to type out the whole phrase over and over again.

#Gourmand Fragrance #Keito Hasumi #Kuro Kiryu #Souma Kanzaki #Nazuna Nito #Mitsuru Tenma

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verdantcrimson · 2 months

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Gourmand Fragrance Chapter List

Written by: Kanata Haruka

Status: Complete, Unproofread

Season: Winter

Characters: Keito, Kuro, Souma, Rei, Tomoya, Nazuna, Mitsuru, Hajime

With the theme of 'Wagashi as the star of Valentines day', Keito decides to take on the challenge of creating fitting traditional Japanese sweets for Valentines. He conducts some market research alongside Nazuna.

Wagashi Revolution: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

#Gourmand Fragrance #Keito Hasumi #Kuro Kiryu #Souma Kanzaki #Rei Sakuma #Tomoya Mashiro #Nazuna Nito #Mitsuru Tenma #Hajime Shino #wip

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verdantcrimson · 3 months

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Heaven and Earth / Creation of Heaven and Earth - 5

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[The day after, on the grounds of a shrine in the Kansai region]

Ieyasu: —Absolutely, I’d be thrilled to help!

Ieyasu: If that show, which is like my dear child, is at stake, then stepping up is a matter of my pride as a man!

Ieyasu: Hrrmph! Hrrmph! Hrrmph…!

Kuro: … What’s up with the buff old guy workin’ out on shrine grounds?

Keito: Don’t be disrespectful.

Keito: That man is ‘Ieyasu-sensei’, often regarded as the leader of the ‘Three Sages.’

Keito: Furthermore, he’s one of the most renowned historians in Japan, though he primarily works as a Shinto priest.

Keito: Although our religions may differ, I’m the son of a temple too, so he’s the most relatable of the ‘Three Sages’ for me. Kiryu, Kanzaki, please don’t be rude.

Kuro: Hideyoshi-sensei rubbed that in my face real good, so I’ve understood that properly now. I’ll use a little more tact and be polite.

Ieyasu: HEY! YOU SPEAKING QUIETLY OVER THERE, DON’T MUMBLEEEEEE!!!

Kuro: What, so they’re all just gonna be pissed at me no matter what I do!?

Ieyasu: The problem is that young folk these days have no energy!

Ieyasu: The world belongs to you youngsters, and yet, all you do is meet with people you already know and talk incessantly!

Ieyasu: So in that respect, you are a fine one! Firstly, you have a good physique!

Kuro: Huh, ya mean me? Bein’ favored by a weirdo feels strange, hey!

Ieyasu: FWAHAHA, He called me a weirdo! I like your spirit! That’s how young folk ought to be! That’s the privilege of youth!

Ieyasu: What say you, would you like to work out with me!?

Souma: Fufu. This person has a personality that one would not expect of a scholar or teacher.

Keito: W- Well, when he was on ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth’, he wore glasses and had a more intellectual sort of aura—

Ieyasu: I’m serious about my work, obviously.

Keito: And Hideyoshi-sensei too, behaved far more politely and intelligently on the show.

Ieyasu: DON’T SPEAK SO POLITELYYYY!!!

Keito: Huh!?

Ieyasu: I’d like for you to shake off the constraints that the adults have put upon you and stretch your wings freely!

Ieyasu: No, it is our duty to make sure that you can live that sort of life!

Ieyasu: That is why, as I said before, I shall cooperate with you to the fullest extent these old bones will allow for!

Ieyasu: However! You must promise me! Promise that you won’t damage ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth’, the program that we have risked so much to create!

Ieyasu: You must respect your ancestors! Follow in the footsteps of those who came before you!

Ieyasu: We are but lucky travelers who just happen to be able to board the great boat that our predecessors built for us!

Ieyasu: That is my main principle as a historian! It is something I will never compromise on!

Ieyasu: Having energy is a virtue of youth, but that energy ought to be exercised in a healthy manner!

Ieyasu: Don’t waste your youthfulness on something stupid like destroying the artwork on display in a museum!

Ieyasu: That’s all I wanted to say! If you can adhere to these points, I will support you with all my might! Hrrmph, hrrmph, hrrmph…!

Souma: (whispering) It looks as though Ieyasu-sensei is quite similar to Hideyoshi-sensei, in that he is one who cannot be relied upon.

Kuro: I get the sense he’s a stubborn old geezer. Ah, he kinda reminds me of Itsuki’s gramps.

Keito: I understand the feeling though. It’s only natural to not want something important to you to change.

Keito: Ieyasu-sensei is known for being conservative, but that’s also the reason he is beloved.

Keito: More importantly, Ieyasu-sensei is the oldest of the three, with an impressive track record and authority in the world of academia compared to the other sages. That isn’t to say that the other two sages are unneeded, but—

Keito: If Ieyasu-sensei turns us away, then other academics in the field may follow his example and do the same, refusing to cooperate with us.

Souma: It seems that he is a heavyweight in the field, so to speak?

Keito: All of the ‘Three Sages’ are like that, in a way. For instance, Hideyoshi-sensei whom we met yesterday has a great reputation amongst younger scholars and college students.

Keito: You could even say it’s his ‘youthful charisma’.

Keito: Nobunaga-sensei, who we are scheduled to meet with, is extremely popular with women and foreign scholars.

Keito: In fact, in many countries abroad, you’d be more likely to find someone who knows of Nobunaga-sensei than the other two sages.

Keito: So conversely, if we manage to have all three Sages come together, we’d be able to garner support from all audiences. People of all ages, genders, whether they be Japanese or foreign.

Souma: That seems quite idealistic… However, as you had said earlier, Hasumi-dono, it is nothing but a pie in the sky at the moment.

Ieyasu: —By the way, you over there, by the looks of that sword you must be a member of the Kanzaki family, correct!? I have two or three questions to ask you, so come to the parlor room with me! I’ll serve tea!

Souma: Uwah!? Sensei, I implore you not to pull my arm so suddenly!

Kuro: Incredible. Kanzaki has a strong core y'know, so even if ya tried to push him by force he wouldn't budge an inch. That old man is draggin' him around like it's nothin'.

Keito: Don’t just be impressed by something so strange, we’re going after them, Kiryu!

Keito: SENSEEII, we don’t mind if you want to talk to Kanzaki, but if you could just cooperate with us on the program in return…!

Ieyasu: That is another matter entirely! It's not right for youngsters to be sly and use such conditions! If you're really a man, don't be cowardly and use clever schemes, use your body...!

Keito: It's no good! This sensei is the type that'll only understand the language of brute force! Kiryu, you're up!

Kuro: Eeeeh...? Well, I guess it's better than havin' to use my brain, right?

Prev | Chapter List | Next

#Heaven and Earth #Keito Hasumi #Kuro Kiryu #Souma Kanzaki

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verdantcrimson · 4 months

Text

Memories of Ensemble 2023 (AKATSUKI edition)

Thank you to Saki for helping me obtain Souma's. I only had two accounts prepped '00

Keito: This past year you've worked hard. It must have been quite the special year for you.

Keito: With the start of this new organization and system, I feel as though everyday has been dizzying, However.... In retrospect, it was also quite fulfilling.

Keito: Everyday we encounter new things and take on another challenge. Sometimes we may face adversity, but we grow stronger for it.

Keito: Fufu. I've also been paying close attention to your exploits as well, right Anzu? I could learn quite a bit from you.

Keito: All of these things have allowed AKATSUKI to shine. I'm grateful for it.

Keito: I wonder what next year will bring. I'm sure a new paths will reveal themselves yet again.

Keito: No matter what may await us, AKATSUKI will remain... Let us deliver to the world the light of our beautiful moon.

Kuro: Haha, so the year's almost over. It's been a good year for ya, little miss.

Kuro: When I first started workin' at Rhythlink, I kinda felt like I'd lost my way... But that helped realize how many different paths there were for me to take.

Kuro: But thanks to the members of AKATSUKI and you, little miss, I realized there's a world of possibility, even for someone like me.

Kuro: I ain't good at studyin', but it makes me feel like there's a lot I can learn from bein' an idol.

Kuro: if I make the things I learned into my own, one by one, I'd be the best, right? I wanna be able to say "I'm an Idol!" with pride.

Kuro: Little miss. I hope I can learn more from ya in the years to come.

Kuro: I'll work hard to be the best version of myself. I'll be countin' on ya... ♪

Souma: Anzu-dono, you have been of much help to me this year as well. I am truly grateful... ♪

Souma: The year has come to its end in the mere blink of an eye, it seems. It feels as though it was only yesterday that I moved up a year, and now next year, I will finally graduate.

Souma: I shall make use of all that I have learned at Yumenosaki for AKATSUKI. It would bring me great joy should you support me, Anzu-dono ♪

Souma: The two of us have had quite a hectic year, yet we managed to share our thoughts with one another and discern the best path forward to take.

Souma: Fufu. Next time, we both shall be working on a new 'suteji'. I know not what shall occur, but I await it eagerly regardless.

Souma: Let us go forth into an even better future with our convictions.

Souma: For next year, and the years to come. Anzu-dono, I shall be relying on you... ♪

#Keito Hasumi #Kuro Kiryu #Souma Kanzaki #Memories of Ensemble 2023

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verdantcrimson · 4 months

Text

After some quick research, I believe both of us have been Thoroughly Bamboozled. I will be editing all of my TLs now. Thank you for pointing it out though.

An Exchange of Information Between Instructors

Writer: Suika

Season: Autumn

TL: verdantcrimson

(Unproofread)

Keito: (A message on Whole Hands? …… It’s from Shiratori.)

Keito: (It’s a photo from the camping trip that the ‘Keito Lecture’ circle went on the other day…… Hm, This is a good shot.)¹

Keito: (Though there were a few hiccups, it was likely a valuable experience)

Keito: (Originally, I had intended it to be something that would help ascertain how Amagi was adjusting to society, however… I think it might be good to have practical lessons as an ongoing thing.)

Keito: (It'd be nice to visit various museums and galleries in order to gain a wide variety of knowledge.)

Keito: (In that case, I had better start researching suitable candidates for the location of our next practical learning session.)

Ibara: Oh, if it isn’t Mr. Hasumi?

Keito: Saegusa? Quite a coincidence for us to meet on the same floor.

Ibara: Indeed. Are you about to attend a meeting, Mr. Hasumi?

Ibara: You seem to be in good spirits, could it be you’ve been assigned some sort of major RhythLink project?

Keito: ‘In good spirits’ you say? You shouldn’t spout nonsense.

Ibara: Oh, was I mistaken? I deeply apologize for my error.

Keito: (.... Come to think of it, Ibara also leads a circle, ‘Ibara Lecture’.)

Keito: (I’ve vaguely heard of their activities, however…)

Ibara: … What’s the matter, Mr. Hasumi? I can sense that you’re staring me down for some reason.

Keito: Mm, sorry. I was just thinking about the circle that you’re in.

Ibara: ‘Niki’s Kitchen’ is what comes to mind when I think of the circles I belong to, however… No, you may be referring to ‘Ibara Lecture’.

Keito: Yes. Actually recently, ‘Keito Lecture’ went on a camping trip as a practical lesson, and it turned out to be quite the fruitful learning experience for us.

Ibara: Camping, you say? Well, it certainly is true that skills like setting up a tent, or starting a fire, would be better learnt through experience rather than through a class lecture.

Ibara: It’s quite important to be trained in such things so that you may act quickly when the need arises. How impressive, as expected of Mr. Hasumi!

Keito: Cut it with the sycophancy.

Keito: Instead, how about you tell me about what your main activities in ‘Ibara Lecture’ consist of?

Keito: We both happen to be a part of groups with similar names and activities. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to exchange information, don’t you think?

Ibara: That would be just fine. I have some time before my next meeting as well.

Ibara: Let’s see… I started ‘Ibara Lecture’ in order to share useful business knowledge.

Ibara: Hence why many of the lectures cover related content. Recently I held a course on team and asset management.

Keito: Hm. As per my expectations, it’s something typical of you, Saegusa. This sort of content isn’t covered in ‘Keito Lecture’.

Keito: My circle mainly covers general knowledge and exam prep. The closest thing to business would be the etiquette course.

Ibara: Isn’t that quite good? Business etiquette is a basic skill that every working adult needs, which is why it is important to learn and unwise to ignore.

Ibara: By the way, we do academics in my circle too.

Keito: Oh? That’s unexpected. Do you do exam preparations in ‘Ibara Lecture’ as well?

Ibara: It wouldn’t be good if we only focused on idol related studies and neglected our student life, would it?

Ibara: Naturally, the curriculum would change in response to the students being taught. That can be said for both ‘Ibara Lecture’ and ‘Keito Lecture’.

Ibara: After all, was it not Mr. Amagi that was responsible for the inclusion of a general knowledge course in ‘Keito Lecture’?

Keito: Yes. He lacks common sense at times. Studying is important, of course, but I figured I would have him learn the rules of everyday life.

Keito: Luckily, he’s enthusiastic about learning and able to quickly absorb what I teach, so it’s been rewarding to have him as a student.

Keito: However, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to cover something like ‘team and asset management’ to prepare for the future.

Keito: Unfortunately, I am not too familiar with the subject myself. What to do…

Ibara: …If that’s the case, why not invite a guest lecturer to teach the subject?

Keito: A guest lecturer?

Ibara: Yes. At ‘Ibara Lecture’, we invite guest lecturers over to speak at times.

Ibara: It’s best to ask an expert in the field to guide you on the subject after all. Changing instructors also prevents classes from getting stale.

Ibara: So in your case, Mr. Hasumi, said expert would be me, Ibara Saegusa. I would be thrilled to conduct a business centric class if you’d let me. ♪

Ibara: (It wouldn’t hurt to curry favor with Mr. Hasumi, the right hand man of the former student council president, and current representative of Rhythm Link’s idols.)

Ibara: What do you say? I don’t think it’d be a bad idea for the members of ‘Keito Lecture’.

Keito: True. They do say that you ought to ‘go to the mochi shop for mochi’, after all.

Ibara: I do suppose there is! Well then, let’s schedule a date for the lecture right away!

Yuzuru: What are you scheming this time?

Ibara: ……!

Keito: Fushimi? Do you have a meeting to attend as well?

Yuzuru: Thank you very much for all of your hard work, Keito-sama. The meeting I was attending just concluded, as a matter of fact.

Yuzuru: As I was about to make my way back to the office, I happened to hear a familiar voice and attempted to locate its source to ascertain what may have been occurring…

Yuzuru: Keito-sama. Even if his logic is true, and it would be prudent to invite a guest lecturer, I advise you to reconsider whether or not you should invite Ibara.

Ibara: There’s really no need to be so wary. It’s not like giving a single guest lecture is doing much of a favor, is it?

Yuzuru: I truly wonder if that is the case. After that, were you by any chance planning to continue further discussions with Keito-sama in order to gain his favor?

Keito: Fushimi, calm down a little.

Ibara: (Hmph, Yuzuru sniffing me out was a miscalculation on my end.)

Ibara: (Further propositions would likely not bear any fruit. I’ll continue this another day.)

Ibara: Whoops, looks like I’ve been running my mouth. I have another meeting to go to, so I’ll be taking my leave now.

Ibara: Mr. Hasumi, if you happen to change your mind on the guest lecturer matter, do feel free to contact me whenever. ♪

Yuzuru: Goodness, you must never let your guard down around him.

Yuzuru: Keito-sama, please do be cautious as to not allow that man to slither into your bosom.

Keito: Thank you for your advice. However, I’m not an idiot.

Keito: I am well aware that Saegusa is an adversary I must be careful of. We also meet at the Summit after all.

Keito: Also, I never intended to invite him as a guest lecturer at all. Since this matter concerns ‘Keito Lecture’, I must be meticulous in my judgment.

Keito: It’s never too late to ask Amagi and the others what they would like to learn before inviting a guest lecturer.

Yuzuru: I see now. I fear I may have overstepped my bounds slightly.

Keito: Don’t worry about it. Your words and actions from earlier were surely a result of your own deduction of the situation.

Keito: Whatever that might be, my conversation with Saegusa was ultimately productive. I’ll take these ideas back home with me and formulate a course of action from here.

Yuzuru: Fufufu…… ♪

Keito: ……? Did I say something odd?

Yuzuru: No, I merely feel fortunate to be under the tutelage of someone like you, Keito-sama.

Keito: Hmph. Since I was the one that started this circle, I can’t be half-hearted about it. I’m simply acting naturally.

Keito: Besides, there are benefits to being in the position of a teacher. You could say that we all learn from each other

Keito: Fushimi, you too. If there’s anything you would like to learn about, do not hesitate to tell me.

Keito: I can’t say for sure that I’ll have anything to teach you, but it is my duty as an instructor to listen to the needs of my students and respond to the very best of my ability.

Translation Notes

This is a reference to the events of the Keito Lecture scout story

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verdantcrimson · 4 months

Text

An Exchange of Information Between Instructors

Writer: Suika

Season: Autumn

TL: verdantcrimson

(Unproofread)

Keito: (A message on Hallhands? …… It’s from Shiratori.)