rubestie | Entries tagged with arashi

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Mika, Tori, Ritsu, Arashi, Mao, Hajime, Yuzuru

Mika: Hey, Ritsu-kun. Ya hafta come quick. The program’s startin’ soon!

mika+tori

Tori: That’s right! Hurry up! Or rather. I know it’s Sunday and all, but it’s noon already. You should have woken up long ago.

Ritsu: …Fwaah, fu. I think Sundays are usually the days where you’re allowed to sleep past noon, though.

Arashi: The person who’s most excited of all of us to watch this show is Ritsu-chan, though, isn’t it? C’mere, you can sit next to me.

Mao: Ahaha. This side of you never changes~

Hajime: Everyone, I’ve prepared some tea~♪

Yuzuru: Sakuma-sama. Some warm tea should help you wake up. Here you go.

Ritsu: Yeah. Thank you~

Mao: Oh. It’s starting… “Top 100 Most Recommended Inns in Japan”!

Mika: Ta think that an inn that was on the brink of economic ruin would bounce back and become the number 1 most recommended inn. The world really works in mysterious ways…

Yuzuru: Well, the inn did have lots of potential from the beginning.

Hajime: They’re showing many different rooms, aren’t they? Ah, this is the room we stayed in. It’s as beautiful as ever.

Tori: Ah. Is this a room from the new building? Huh~, it looks really nice. It’s almost like some noble’s mansion!

Arashi: Oh my! It’s true. How lovely.

The building we stayed in was rebranded into the old building, and then they built an entirely new Western-style building to match.

Yuzuru: The new building appears to be popular with younger people. Thanks to that, the number of guests staying at the inn increased exponentially.

Arashi: Ritsu-chan, you ended up giving them advice on things outside of the rooms as well, right? What kinds of advice did you give out?

Ritsu: N~? Well, lots.

For example. That inn is located on the top of a mountain, so getting to and from it was pretty inconvenient, right? There was a shuttle bus going from the foot of the mountain, but that alone wasn’t quite enough.

Which is why we increased the number of shuttle buses going back and forth, and extended the routes so they could pick people up and drop them off at the train station and the neighboring towns.

Mao: I see~. That would probably make it a lot easier to get to and from the inn.

Hajime: Amazing. As expected of Ritsu-onii-chan…♪

Ritsu: Not really. While it feels great to be praised by Ha~kun like that, I can’t claim to have been the one in charge of rebuilding the inn. I don’t have enough knowledge of management or economics for that.

So I had Anija introduce me to some of his connections. And those people were able to help me out with a lot of advice.

I just went over the info they gave me, put it all together and used it as a basis for creating a new management plan.

Mao: You “just created the new plan” you say… That’s still more than impressive enough, you know?

Mika: Ah. They’re showin’ the old and the young master! They’re bein’ interviewed. They both look like they’re doin’ good ♪ And their faces have more color in ‘em!

Ritsu: …♪

Mao: N? What’s up, Ritsu? You look kinda happy.

Ritsu: I guess. I’m sure that inn isn’t in danger of shutting down anymore. The people supporting it are finally able to face in the same direction, after all…♪

ritsu+mao

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist>

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Ritsu, Arashi, Yuzuru, Mika, Hajime, Tori, Anzu

Ritsu: Anzu, good morning~

N? What’s wrong? You look so surprised… It’s rare for me to not look sleepy this early in the morning, you say?

Well, I did take some precautions. I can’t afford to participate in this match absentmindedly.

N~? It makes me happy when you praise me, but I dunno how to feel about being praised like a child like that.

Ah, we’re about to start filming so I better go get ready? I got it.

--That reminds me. Let me apologize to you ahead of time, Anzu. Sorry~. Well then, I’ll go gather my team.

(Fufu. She’s totally panicking now. That makes us even. She’s making a worried face now that she doesn’t know what to expect~)

(Well, it’s true that I have to apologize to her.)

--I’ve let everyone know about our plan, so now all that’s left is for the cameras to start rolling. Is everyone ready?

Arashi: Yup. I have to show everyone that the me of today is way different from the me of yesterday.

Yuzuru: Me too. I can’t keep showing only pathetic sides of myself.

Ritsu: --Alright~. Well then, let’s go. We’re getting revenge.

<Match starts.>

Mika: Naru-chan, wait up~

Arashi: As if hearing that would make me wait. Me and Mika-chan are enemies right now.

(This is exactly as Ritsu-chan predicted… They’re going with the same one-on-one strategy as they did during the practice match. And Mika-chan is tagging me again.)

(Of course, now that I know Mika-chan will be coming for me, there’s no way I’ll make the same mistake as last time.)

(For now, I have to make sure I separate Mika-chan from the others…!)

Mika: Ngah!? There’s no way? Naru-chan, did ya just get even faster!?

This won’t do. At this rate, I’ll lose sight of her. I need ta get faster as well…!

Arashi: Haa…haaa…!

(Mika-chan, you’re amazing! He’s actually keeping up with me so as not to let me get away!)

(As expected, it’s really tough to keep running at this speed… Hopefully I’ll be able to find the area I’m looking for soon.)

(--Ah. That place seems like it’ll do. I’m running out of stamina too, so it’s time for a gamble.)

Mika: Haa, haaa…. Ah. Naru-chan went in behind that pillar! I need ta chase after her!

…Wait, what!? Naru-chan ain’t here!?

Wh, where did she go!? I’m sure I saw her come in here…

Arashi: Mika-chan, I’m over here!

Mika: Eh!? Behind me!?

! Aah~! My ornament~!

Arashi: Haa….Hah. I’m glad. Everything went according to plan…

Mika: Naru-chan. How’d’ya get behind me? Did ya master teleportation?

Arashi: Fufu. As soon as I got behind the pillar, I hid myself in Mika-chan’s blind spot.

Mika: My blind spot? Since when did I have somethin’ like that?

Arashi: Above you, that is. There’s a metal decoration over there, right? I jumped up and grabbed ahold of that before kicking to get on top of it. After that, all I had to do was wait for Mika-chan to pass me by.

Mika: Woah~... So that’s how ya did it… I’m amazed ya were able ta reach such a high place.

Arashi: I probably wouldn’t have reached it under normal circumstances, but I had a top-speed running start, you see ♪

<Meanwhile…>

Hajime + Tori: --Hiiiiiiii!

Yuzuru: Ha!

Hajime: Ah! Tori-kun, look out!

Tori: Uwawa!?

Yuzuru: Oh my. Shino-sama managed to change Bocchama’s trajectory in a split second, allowing him to dodge my attack. How proficient of you.

Hajime: T, Tori-kun! Let’s escape this way!

Tori: Haa, ha…! Y, yeah!

Yuzuru: (Hm. I’m almost using my full power here, and yet… They keep dodging my attacks within a hair’s breadth.)

However, you still have a ways to go. You won’t be able to defeat me at this level.

Hajime: Haa…Ha. To, Tori-kun, are you okay…!?

Tori: Uuuu. I'm all outta breath…!

Hajime: Me, me too…! Fushimi-senpai isn’t out of breath in the slightest, how amazing…!

Tori: This isn’t the time to be admiring your enemy!

Uwaaaaa!? Yuzuru caught up to meeeeee! I’m scared, I’m scared!

Hajime: Hiiiiiiiiin!

Yuzuru: My, my. When you desperately try to escape me with those scared-to-death expressions, it makes me feel as if I’m torturing baby rabbits. It makes my conscience hurt, you know?

Tori: That’s definitely a lie~! You look like you’re having the time of your life, you demon~!

Wa, waa!? This is dangerous! He’s catching up!

Yuzuru: Now, Bocchama. Pick a god and pray.

Tori: Uwawawawa!? I can’t go on~...

--Now, Hajime!

Hajime: Yes! Fushimi-senpai, I’m so sorry!

Yuzuru: (! Shino-sama just jumped at me from my blind spot--)

Tori: Fufu. It’s obvious to me what Yuzuru is thinking ♪ Just how long do you think we’ve been together?

Yuzuru: It is as you say, Bocchama. This ends now.

Hajime: Eh!? I was completely in his blind spot before attacking, and yet…! He twisted his body to dodge my attack..:!

Tori: Ah. And he swiped your ornament!

Hajime: Aah!? You’re right… All of a sudden, my ornament is gone.

Yuzuru: Fufu. You pretended to be scared as you ran away, before gathering my attention to Bocchama. Meanwhile, Shino-sama would hide away and attack me from a blind spot… That was your strategy, was it not?

Tori: Uu…

Yuzuru: The fact that Bocchama can tell what I am thinking means that I can also tell what Bocchama is thinking.

Just how long do you think we’ve been together?

--However. The fact that you were able to drive me this far is worthy of praise. You are both very strong. This was a hard fought battle…♪

-

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter>

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Ritsu, Mao, Yuzuru, Arashi

Ritsu: …..

(H~m. I feel like I might have been too harsh back then…)

(But people like that won’t understand unless you give it to them bluntly. I regret the way I said it, but I won’t retract what I said.)

A place everyone can love, huh…

It won’t stay that way. Normally, this place would be filled with warmth, more than anywhere else. To think that all of that warmth would be lost all because of a simple misunderstanding.

<Five hours earlier. In Ritsu and the others’ room.>

Ritsu: -There you have it.

ritsu+arashi

Arashi: I see. I also couldn’t wrap my head around why the old master would want to shut this inn down. But after hearing his reasoning it makes sense.

Ah. I obviously don’t agree with that reasoning, though.

Yuzuru: I think I might understand his feelings a little.

There are some similarities between his feelings about not wanting to create a burden for the person he would leave behind, and how a servant wishes not to become a burden for his master.

Ritsu: Yeah. And so I have something I want to discuss with the two of you. I have a plan I want to carry out by taking advantage of the rules of this competition.

Yuzuru: The rules, you say?

Ritsu: Yup. The rule stating that “the loser has to follow the will of the winner.”

Arashi: That’s nice and all, but what exactly are you planning to do, Ritsu-chan?

Ritsu: You see-

<Present time. In the forest>

Ritsu: (Aah. The moon is really pretty tonight, looks like the weather will be clear for tomorrow’s match.)

Mao: Ritsu.

Ritsu: N? Ah, Ma~kun. What’s wrong? What are you doing here?

Mao: That’s my line. I went to the store to buy a drink, but then I saw a shadowy figure walking outside and thought it was a ghost.

Ritsu: Ma~kun is a scaredy cat as always, huh. I won’t be able to keep you as my underling if you keep acting like that, you know? You have to get used to this.

Mao: When exactly did I become your underling.

All jokes aside. What are you doing in a place like this?

Ritsu: N~? I’m just taking a walk. I was walking around and taking in the scenery surrounding this inn before our showdown.

Mao: Huh. It’s rare for you to do something like that, Ritsu. Did something happen?

Ritsu: I suppose… I thought I should take a good look at the thing I’ve decided to protect.

Mao: (Oh. This really is rare. For Ritsu to say something like this. He’s usually aloof and doesn’t tend to show much of what he’s feeling, after all~. But I like this side of him.)

Ritsu: What? What’s that smile for. You’re a little annoying…

Mao: No, no. It’s nothing, really. I’m just acting like normal, okay?

Ritsu: Beg to differ. What was up with all that enthusiasm during our practice match? You didn’t act like that at all when this project was first explained to us.

Well, I can pretty much guess why. Ma~kun decided to stand by the young master, didn’t you?

Mao: Yeah, that’s about right. It’s the same for you as well, no?

Ritsu: Pretty much. I want to help the old master communicate his thoughts. So I can’t afford to lose to Ma~kun’s team.

Mao: Sounds nice. That’s how a real showdown ought to be, after all! Let’s have a serious battle ♪

Ritsu: Ugh~. That kind of pure athleticism gives me the ick. I’ll forgive it when it comes from Ma~kun, though.

…Well then. The preface ends here.

Mao: Preface? What are you talking about?

Ritsu: We can have that serious battle of ours, but there’s something else I want your team to help out with as well.

Mao: You want our help?

Mao: Oh~, I got it. I like that. We’re in on that plan. I’m sure no one on my team would object.

N? If everything goes according to plan, the outcome of our match won’t matter so much anymore. And yet you still want to go all out against each other? Well, anything else would feel like cheating, so I’m fine with that.

Ritsu: Of course. I can’t sit quietly and accept losing.

And if we want to stir someone’s heart, we need to show them our very best effort first.

Mao: That’s true.

I see~. So the time has finally come for Ritsu to turn his blade on me? That makes me sad as your childhood friend…

Ritsu: Huh? I can’t believe you would say that after having your team beat us senseless during the practice match.

Mao: Ahaha. It was a joke. It’s true that I’m really looking forward to this, though.

We’ve had our arguments throughout the years, but we’ve never had this kind of showdown before.

I thought I would never get to experience a serious match with Ritsu in this lifetime. But this time it seems like I’ll be able to fight a serious Ritsu for the first time… ♪

Ritsu: It’s as if we’ve finally been given the chance to do just that. You’re seriously cheeky for thinking you can actually win against me.

Let’s do our very best this time, Ma~kun ♪

-

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter>

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Mika, Arashi, Hajime, Tori, Yuzuru, Ritsu, Mao

<The practice match begins.>

mika

Mika: (Uuuhm. First of all I gotta look fer Naru-chan, who’s my target.)

(This area’s pretty large. Apparently it’s smaller than the one we’ll be usin’ fer the real match, though. Which means it’ll be even harder ta find anyone durin’ the real match, huh.)

(--N? That person over there is… Naru-chan, I found ya!)

Naru-chan! Sorry ta bother ya, but I'll have ya be my opponent.

Arashi: Eh!? Mika-chan!? Kya…!?

Mika: I had intended to take ya completely by surprise. Ta think ya would be able ta twist yer body in an instant ta keep me from gettin’ yer ornament. As expected of Naru-chan ♪

But don’t go thinkin’ ya can keep protectin’ the ornament from such a weak position!

Arashi: Kuu… I guess it really would be disadvantageous for me to fight back in this position. I suppose I would be better off trying to run away for now.

Mika: Ah! Shit. She got away from me. Naru-chan’s leg strength has been honed from her time in the track and field club. Once she starts runnin’ it’s impossible fer me ta catch up with her.

(However. Naru-chan seemed like she was really stressed. Seems like things’re goin’ according ta our plan.)

I might be able ta win if I pretend ta lose sight of her before gettin’ close and finishin’ her off…!

<Meanwhile...>

Hajime: E~i!

Tori: Urya~!

Yuzuru: … (Casually steps aside to avoid the attack.)

Hajime: Haa….haa… Ugh, we’ve been attacking nonstop for some time now, but he keeps avoiding us…!

Tori: Let’s keep it up! Don’t give up, Hajime!

Hajime: You’re right. As long as we work together, we should have a chance…!

Yuzuru: (What kind of mental fortitude do these do have going on? To think they would be this tenacious…)

(I have been avoiding all of their attacks for now, but. Whether intentional or not, these two have been timing their attacks and coming at me from both left and right, which has made it difficult for me to find an opening to retaliate…)

Hajime: Ei, eiei! We can’t afford to lose this match…!

Yuzuru: (It seems this isn’t just an act, but that they really don’t want to lose.)

(Since this is a competition, it is not surprising that they don’t want to lose. But more than that, it seems like they are approaching this fight surprisingly seriously. I wonder what could have brought this on…)

(-Oh? While I was distracted I lost sight of Bocchama… Where did he go?)

Tori: Yuzuru! You’re wide open, take this~!

Yuzuru: (! He hid himself nearby and went for my blind spot!)

<Also meanwhile...>

Ritsu: (How strange. I’ve lost sight of everyone. Even though up until just now we made sure to stay close enough that we could see each other.)

Could it be… Did the other team separate us out of nowhere…?

ritsu+mao

Mao: Ooh. To think you would notice so quickly, as expected of Ritsu~

Ritsu: Wow. I see. So this is your team’s strategy, Ma~kun. The fact you made sure to separate us means you’re using a man-to-man offense to defeat us individually.

Mao: Yup, yup ♪ Hasn’t it been a while since we last had a one-on-one battle, Ritsu~? I don’t think we’ve gone head to head like this since when we played board games as children.

Ritsu: Ma~kun is so cheeky. Do you really think you can defeat me?

Mao: If this was a battle of wits then it would be one thing, but in this kind of physical battle I think I have a good enough chance of winning.

In other words. Here I come~, Ritsu.

Ritsu: !

(As Ma~kun says, at this rate I’ll be in trouble. Ma~kun has really good stamina, after all.)

Mao: Are you sure you're okay with staying on the defensive~? If you won’t fight back then I’ll overwhelm you in no time you know?

Ritsu: Kkh…!

(He’s good. That’s kinda annoying… Who does Ma~kun think he is?)

<After the match.>

Tori: Vi… Victoryyyy! Hajime! We did it! We really won!

Hajime: We really did it! Tori-kun!

Mika: Ngah~, our strategy worked well, it feels like a weight’s been lifted off my shoulders.

Mao: Ahaha. You were pretty nervous after all, Kagehira. I’m glad we were able to win, but this was just a rehearsal match. Let’s keep this up so we can do our best at the real thing as well.

Arashi: Ah, really! How frustrating! Mika-chan got me good. Even then, I never expected even Yuzuru-chan would lose.

Yuzuru: I have no excuses. It appears I underestimated my opponents a little.

Ritsu: I don’t think you need to apologize. If anything, this is my fault for not noticing the other team’s strategy sooner.

Since we are a team, the responsibility belongs to all of us. We win and lose as a team, right?

Arashi: That’s right. Plus, trying to pin the blame on any of us won’t do us any good.

Even then, what is going on with the other team? It didn’t seem like they were this desperate to win yesterday.

Yuzuru: I wonder. I was blown away by Bocchama and Shino-sama’s enthusiasm. I think I would have emerged victorious if not for that.

Ritsu: What on earth could have gotten into them?

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter>

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Mao, Hajime, Tori, Mika, Ritsu, Yuzuru, Arashi

Mao: I guess it might be best if each of us picked one target to go after? Even in basketball, this kind of man-to-man defense is often the easiest defense strategy.

It’ll become a one-on-one fight. But once one of us wins, that person can go cover for whoever is in danger of losing, so we can gain the advantage.

mao+hajime

Hajime: Well, our team already has the numerical advantage though.

Tori: But the other team has Yuzuru. I’m pretty sure Yuzuru on his own counts as three people at least.

Mika: Yukkun’s athletic skills are impressive, after all.

Mao: That’s true. It appears the program staff tried to make the teams balanced in terms of power rather than numbers.

Which is why we have to use that to our advantage…!

Hajime: I understand. Let’s go with Isara-senpai’s strategy!

Mika: Then ya can leave Naru-chan to me. It’ll definitely be tougher ta target her since I know her so well, but I should be able ta use that to my advantage as well.

Tori: Uuuhm. If we should be targeting the person we know the best then that means…

Does that mean I have to go up against Yuzuru!? Nowaynowaynoway! I would lose in a second!

Hajime: It’ll be fine! I’ll do my best to help Tori-kun out. Even if the two of us aren’t enough to defeat Fushimi-senpai, we should be able to keep him occupied until someone can come help us…!

Tori: Hajime…

Hajime: Ah. Someone like me might not be worth that much in a fight, but I’ll do my best to help, okay?

Tori: Oh come on, what are you saying! There’s no way you’re worthless. You’re plenty helpful.

…Al~right, if me and Hajime team up we can definitely take down Yuzuru together!

Hajime: Yes! Let’s do our best!

Mao: Then that leaves Ritsu for me.

I’m well acquainted with Ritsu’s personality and habits, but now that I think about it, I can’t remember ever having a serious showdown against him~.

Ah. When we were kids we used to play board games and TV games together, though.

Hajime: Which of you used to win back then?

Mao: Ahaha. There’s no way I could ever hope to beat Ritsu in a battle of wits, is there~?

Tori: I don’t know if that’s something to be so proud of.

Mao: Well, I’m pretty good at physical games. I should be able to put up a good fight.

-N? Ah, the staff are calling for me, so I’ll go check what they want.

ritsu

Ritsu: Fwa, yaawn… Good morning~...

Yuzuru: Ah, Sakuma-sama. Good morning to you as well.

Arashi: You’re as drowsy in the morning as ever, huh. Though just the fact you’re able to get out of bed is a huge improvement. I need you to work hard as the leader of our team, okay?

Ritsu: I have a much longer life span compared to you humans. Which means I improve myself at a proportionately slow pace.

Yuzuru: …Oh? Sakuma-sama, the staff are calling for you. It appears they want to go over the rules for the practice match.

Ritsu: Ah. Well, then I’ll get over there.

Mao: -Yes, okay. Then I take it we’ll be starting 30 minutes from now. I understand. I've got the schedule memorized.

Ritsu: Ye~s. I got it too. So now we just need to pass this info on to our team members, right?

N? Ah. The young and old masters have come to watch us. They’re standing over there with Anzu.

Mao: Oh, they are. If the young master is watching, then we really can’t afford to lose~

Ritsu: Eh?

Mao: Well then. Our little meeting is over, so in just half an hour we’ll be starting the showdown between our teams~. It’s just a rehearsal, but I hope we can both do our best to make it as realistic as possible!

Ritsu: …Ma~kun, what’s up?

Mao: Eh, what do you mean?

Ritsu: Aren’t you weirdly motivated? Where did all this come from?

Mao: Oh, that’s what you were thinking about. Well, a lot of things happened, and I suddenly got a huge boost in motivation.

Plus, this is my first time going up against you in a serious match like this, so I’m actually really looking forward to it.

Well then, let’s both do our best!

Ritsu: …Huh? That Ma~kun, what on earth is going on with him?

<30 minutes later.>

Mao: Looks like our practice match is starting any minute now.

Since we’re using a temporary stadium for our practice match, this area is much smaller than the place we’ll be using for the real deal. That means there won’t be as many props to hide behind, so be careful, okay~

They said that for the real match there will be lots of obstacles and shields for us to use.

Mika: U~n, seems like positionin’ ourselves is gonna be real important fer both attackin’ and defendin’.

Hajime: So it should be easier to hide during the real match. We might be better off if we focused on hiding and taking our opponents unawares.

Mao: Alright. This is just a practice match, but let’s keep our spirits high and prepare ourselves for the real deal!

Hajime: Yes!

Tori + Mika: Right~!

Mao: Let’s win this~!

mao

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter>

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Ritsu, Arashi, Yuzuru, Tori, Mika, Mao, Hajime

Ritsu: Haa~... I’m beat~... I’m not gonna move anymore.

Arashi: Oh, Ritsu-chan. You know it’s bad manners to throw away your luggage and sprawl out on the floor the second you enter a room?

Ritsu: It’s okay. I’ve already closed up shop for today.

This is the one time I’ll agree with Tori-kun about something. I will rue the fact that we didn’t take the bus here until the end of my days.

Arashi: I guess walking here on your own took more energy than I’d thought…

Yuzuru: Well, I also feel doubtful about that so-called consideration of the program staff in having us walk here.

Ritsu: Yup, yup. There’s nothing logical about that at all.

…N? There's this grating annoying sound. Is it coming from the neighboring room? Ma~kun and the others are staying there, right?

Yuzuru: This voice… That sounds like Bocchama.

Tori: Woah~! Amazing! Hey, look over here! The view from this window is amazing~!

Mika: It really is~. This looks really nice. As expected from a mountain top like this.

Tori: I’m gonna take a photo of this view too ✰ I wanna brag about it to everyone back home.

Mao: And this room is also really big and clean~. I almost feel bad about being given such a big room when we’re only four people.

Tori: I dunno what it’s called, but I really like this part of the room. It reminds me of a sunroom. I want a room like this in my home too.

Hajime: It’s called a “Hiroen”.

I have an idea. The view from this room is nice, but the view from the hallway and the lobby was absolutely gorgeous. Why don’t we go together and check it out?

Tori: Eh. Really? I’m in. Let’s go explore this place right away!

Hajime: Yes. And there were many koi fish swimming in the pond outside in the courtyard, I want to go see them as well.

Mika: I want ta check out the store while we’re at it.

…Wait, what? Is somethin’ wrong? Don’t ya want ta come along, Ikkun?

Mao: I’m tired so I’ll stay here and relax. It’s okay that you want to explore, but make sure not to cause trouble for the people here by making too much noise, okay~?

Tori: We know. Well then, lets goo~

Ritsu: The little ones sure are energetic. To think they were so tired out just a second ago.

Yuzuru: They’re probably so excited about arriving at the inn that they completely forgot about being tired.

Arashi: Fufu. But I definitely get why Momo-chan and the others would feel excited.

I did look up this inn online before coming here, but everything is so much better in real life compared to the photos I could find.

I’ll admit the hike here from the station was harsh, but this experience really makes it worth the effort.

Ritsu: Normally you wouldn’t have to go through that harsh hike in the first place, though.

Arashi: Oh, don’t be so cynical. It’s okay to expend a little effort now and then. And in the end, it let us come to this wonderful inn.

I have to say, this inn really is old-fashioned.

It’s been well cleaned and everything feels pristine, and the furnishings have more of an antique feel to them rather than feeling aged. It’s all so lovely.

It’s not just that everything looks beautiful, but it feels like every little detail is filled with love.

Yuzuru: Everyone. I’ve prepared some tea, so feel free to enjoy a cup.

Arashi: Oh my. Thank you, Yuzuru-chan. I’ll have one right away ♪

Yuzuru: The teapot and cups that were in the room have also been beautifully polished. I have to agree with Narukami-sama’s assesment about this inn.

I have experience in house-keeping and cleaning from looking after Bocchama.

From what I can tell, the people working at this inn have paid careful attention to every little detail in their room making, which is wonderful.

They’re not just keeping the place clean, but like Narukami-sama said, every part of this place exudes a deep feeling of love.

Ritsu: Love…

(I wasn’t really paying attention to any of that since I was so tired, but… N~?)

(...Yeah. It’s as they’re saying.)

(It’s old. But it doesn’t feel stale and boring. And somehow it also doesn’t feel overly formal and hard to relate to, like when you see an old masterpiece at an art museum.)

(I wonder what you would call this feeling.)

(...Ah, that’s it. It’s nostalgic. It almost makes me feel like crying.)

(Strange as it is, that’s the feeling I get from this inn. How weird. Even though this is supposed to be my first time visiting here.)

Arashi: -Well then.

Ritsu: N? What are you getting up for, Nacchan? Are you going somewhere?

Arashi: Listening to Momo-chan and the others made me want to go explore a bit as well. So I thought I would go join up with everyone.

Yuzuru: Sounds exquisite. Please allow me to join you as well.

Arashi: Oh but of course ♪ What about you, Ritsu-chan?

Ritsu: No thank you, I still need to recharge. The two of you should go together.

Arashi: Okie. Well then, we’re off.

arashi+ritsu

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter>

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Tori, Yuzuru, Hajime, Ritsu, Mao, Mika, Arashi, Anzu, Young inn owner and old inn owner

Tori: Hah, hah. We finally arrived. We've been walking for so long that my legs feel like jelly~. Ugh. My legs are so stiff… I can’t take another step.

Yuzuru: Fufu. You did do well to make it this far. Allow me to carry your luggage the rest of the way to the room.

Tori: Eh, is that okay? Thank you, Yuzuru.

Yuzuru: Would you like me to carry your luggage while I’m at it, Anzu-san?

Oh? I don’t mind. Please don’t hold back on my part. I will be carrying Bocchama’s luggage over there anyhow.

Ritsu: N? Is something wrong, Ha~kun? You’re zoning out.

Hajime: Ah, no. I was just admiring this courtyard.

I like the garden terrace in Yumenosaki as well, but this kind of Japanese-style garden has an entirely different flavor from that type of Western-style garden. It’s somehow refreshing.

I bet it would be fun to hold a tea party in this gorgeous courtyard ♪

Ritsu: I agree. We haven’t been able to hold our regular activitiesin FLAVOR lately, either…

It would probably be impossible for us to hold a tea party in the middle of this courtyard, but…

Once we’ve gotten settled in our rooms and things have calmed down, why don’t we go to the veranda and have a cup of tea together while admiring the view? Ha~kun?

Hajime: Uwaa, how lovely ♪ I would love that, Ritsu-senpai. I actually brought some tea leaves as well.

mika+hajime

Mika: Nn? I can see two men wearin’ Japanese clothing over there comin’ towards us… Could it be the people workin’ at this inn?

Mao: N~? Aah, that seems to be the case. We should say hi.

(One is a smiling middle-aged guy, and the other is an older man… So these people must be the young and old master who're the main characters of this argument.)

Hello, good morning. We will be in your care starting today. Uuhm, we are-

Young master: You must be the idols who were sent here from ES. We have received your messages.

Everyone, allow me to welcome you here. I am in charge of this inn, and my name is Kiriyama Masato. And this is my father, Kiriyama Tadao.

Mao: Oh, thank you. Nice to meet you.

Old master: …Indeed.

Mao: (Woah, how intense. The old master seems like he’s kinda strict.)

(Actually. Why would this kind of person even agree to participate in a project like this? He doesn’t seem like the type to watch variety shows at all. And even the inn feels like it takes itself very seriously somehow.)

(I feel kinda nervous all of a sudden… Did they really understand the point of this program when they consented…?)

Young master: ? Oh? Is something the matter?

Mao: Eh, ah, no, uhm~… It might be impolite for us to ask this of you, but. Are you really okay with making your decision in this manner?

Did they really explain the purpose of this project to you properly…?

Young master: Ah, so that’s what you were thinking about.

We were told that the idols gathered here now would “compete over the fate of the inn, and the winner will get the right to decide”. Is that not it?

Arashi: It seems like you’ve been properly informed then. But I can’t help but wonder what made you agree to this plan? We would all like to know…

Young master: It is as I've told the TV station staff.

Me and my father couldn’t agree on what direction to take this inn. No matter how many times we discussed it, we could never come to a conclusion.

At this rate, we will never be able to see eye to eye.

As embarrassing as it is, I doubt we would ever be able to decide anything unless we went with something like this. I expected this was the push we needed to be able to accept whatever outcome.

Mao: Huh…

Young master: Which means that we are asking this of you in full understanding of what it entails, please do not worry.

Rather, I would like to extend our apologies for any inconvenience we might have caused you because of our situation. And thank you very much for your cooperation.

Mao: Ah… No, the pleasure is all on our side, thank you very much!

Young master: Well then, everyone. There’s no point in standing around and talking in this place, so please allow me to show you all to your rooms.

mao+arashi

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter>

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Tori, Yuzuru, Hajime, Arashi, Mika, Ritsu, Mao, Anzu

Tori: You're kidding…?

Is there really an inn located at the top of this steep mountain!?

Yuzuru: Indeed, it seems like there is. Apparently this location used to be one of its selling points.

This place provides a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Many guests would praise it and say coming here feels like taking a trip into a different world.

Tori: Ah, that sounds like something that would’ve been trendy a while ago. But recently, convenient and fast travel has become more popular.

Nowadays you often see ads about travelling overseas in just a few hours.

Hajime: You have to take time off from work in order to go somewhere on vacation, after all. I can definitely see why people would prefer shorter travelling times.

Arashi: I wonder if those changes in trends are part of the reason behind this inn’s decline in popularity.

Tori: Even then, the sheer inconvenience of travelling to this place is just strange. Of course people would stop coming here. Anzu, you think so too, right?

Mika: N~. Well, this place really is a ways off, but there’s supposedly a bus ya could take from the station.

Tori: Th…there’s a bus!?

Mika: Yup, sure is. I looked at the inn’s website before comin’ here, and there were loads of different services listed there.

Tori: Then why do we have to walk up this huge mountain on our own feet!? What’s the meaning of this, Anzu!?

Yuzuru: Hm, I see. To summarize Anzu-san’s explanation, this is what the program staff decided?

It seems they want us to completely understand what the current situation is like at this inn.

They must’ve thought that this experience would make us more excited for our competition.

Uuuhm… Is this them being considerate?

Tori: There’s no way this is their way of showing consideration! Those staff members~! They’re definitely just making fun of us!

I hate this~! The only ones who would like it this high up in the mountains are tengu~! I can’t take another step! I’ve contracted a fatal case of don’t-want-to-mountain-climb disease!

Ritsu: How pathetic.

Tori: N?

Ritsu: To think a small hill like this would be enough to make you give up. How childish.

Mao: Oi~. How can you say such arrogant things when you’re the one riding comfortably on top of my suitcase. Or rather, get off~! This hike is harsh enough without having to carry you all the way.

Ritsu: Comfortably? Ma~kun sure is underestimating the art of suitcase riding. It’s hard work to maintain balance while on top of this thing, you know?

This feat is only possible thanks to my extraordinary core strength. You should be praising me for it, if I do say so myself.

Mao: Instead of working hard on top of my suitcase, I wish you’d apply that energy to walking instead~

Tori: How convenient of you to tell me I’m being childish when you’re the one hitchhiking on someone else’s suitcase!

Arashi: Now, now. Standing around arguing won’t get us any closer to the inn. With this pace, we’ll arrive even later than scheduled.

Don’t you want to get to the inn as quickly as possible so we can soak in the hot spring? ♪

Hajime: Ah! The hot spring! This inn apparently has free-flowing hot spring water~. I’m really looking forward to it.

Tori: A hot spring… W, well, I guess I’m also kind of looking forward to that.

Mao: Then, let’s set those hot springs as a reward for ourselves and keep working hard a little longer.

hajime

Hajime: Ah. Tori-kun, Anzu-san, look over there. That’s a wild flying squirrel! Waa…. The way it’s eating that acorn is so cute…♪

Tori: Where? Lemme see.

! Incredible~! It’s real! I’ve only ever seen them in zoos or in picture books, to think I’d be able to see a real one!

Hey, Yuzuru! Quick, get your camera! Take a picture of that flying squirrel. I want to show it off to papa, mama, and my little sister.

Yuzuru: Of course, Bocchama. I’ll make sure to get it from different angles just in case.

Arashi: Mika-chan, what have you been looking at since earlier?

Mika: Look. There’re so many different colors out in nature like this.

Even though these colors normally wouldn’t go well together, these surroundings makes everythin’ mesh really beautifully.

Ya’d never think the color of this leaf would go well with somethin’ blue, right? But then, if ya hold it up against the sky… Look, it somehow works out.

Arashi: Now that you mention it, it sure does. Even though I would never want to match those colors when I’m coordinating my outfits.

Mika: Right? But when we’re out in nature, it somehow comes together real nice. It’s so strange.

It might be interesting ta try and use these kinds of natural colors for makin’ art with sometime.

Arashi: I’ll be coming to visit your next art exhibition as well. Looking at Mika-chan’s art always makes me feel happy, after all.

Mika: Really? Hearin’ Naru-chan say that sure makes me feel confident. Thank ya…♪

Mao: Haa….Fuuu…. This is getting exhausting~

Ritsu: Ma~kun you weakling~

Mao: You do understand the biggest reason why I’m so tired is because I dragged you up half the mountain, right.

Ritsu: I’m walking properly on my own now, though. Don’t get so stuck in the past. What’s most important is to keep looking forward.

Mao: Guuu…! That sounds so nice, but I don’t wanna hear it from Ritsu~

Honestly though, we’ve been walking for a long while, how far is this inn? I can’t help but understand why there are few customers coming when it’s this much of a walk.

Ritsu: That’s true. We should be getting close enough to see it any time now-

Aah, as soon as I said it, our destination finally entered our line of sight.

mao+ritsu

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter>

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Mao, Ritsu, Mika, Arashi, Tori, Hajime, Yuzuru, Anzu

Mao: -Huh.

In other words, “Chanbara Night” is a variety show where the participants are divided into two teams that compete against each other.

mao+ritsu

Ritsu: Those kinds of competitive variety shows have been popping up all over lately, haven't they? They're definitely really trendy nowadays.

At this point, there are so many shows with that setting that they've started melting together in my head and I can't tell them apart.

Arashi: Well, it’s all about supply and demand, so it makes sense that they all tend to stay within the most popular genre.

This is my first time hearing about “Chanbara Night” as well.

Despite that, I’m surprised Mika-chan knew about it. Have you watched it before?

Mika: Yea~h. I’ve watched it before, but I can’t exactly say it’s surprisin’ that Naru-chan and ya others haven’t heart ‘bout it before.

“Chanbara Night” is a popular show produced back in my hometown, ya see. So it’s super famous around that area, but I don’t think it’s very well-known outside of there.

Each episode has its own theme for the teams who compete. The people who’re watchin’ pick which team they want ta cheer on, which gets ya weirdly invested and creates a sense of unity with that team.

Among the episodes I’ve seen, the most excitin’ one was about a showdown between those mushroom-shaped chocolates and the bamboo shoot-shaped chocolates.*

There was also a really excitin’ episode where the teams fought about whether fries or nuggets are the best side dish ta have with hamburgers.

Mao: Ah. So that’s how the team system works. I’ll admit it sounds kinda fun, like a festival. And both teams’ opinions are easy to understand or relate to… I feel like it would be difficult to pick a side.

Tori: Oh, O~h! I’m picking the bamboo shoot ones! I’d definitely side with the bamboo shoot ones. I love that chocolate and cookie combo~

Hajime: Eh. The bamboo shoot ones definitely taste good, but I have to give it to the mushroom ones. Those crackers are so crunchy and delicious ♪

Tori: Eeh~! I thought Hajime would be on my side! You traitor…!

What about you, Yuzuru? Of course, you’re on the bamboo shoot-faction with me, right?

Yuzuru: Uuuhm. I have to admit all this talk about mushrooms and bamboo is a tad confusing… Are these types of sweets you’re referring to?

And the fact that Bocchama knows about something which I do not… Well then, Bocchama. I’ll take it you have been eating sweets in secrecy again?

Tori: Ggh!? I, I have not!?

Come on, I was obviously just speaking in hypotheticals. My, my, Yuzuru~. Ahahaha………

Hajime: I understand how this “Chanbara Night” show works now. Then what kind of theme will we be competing about for this episode?

Ritsu: N~? Anzu is making a complicated expression, isn’t she?

…Hmm. So this episode’s theme will be different from any previous ones. And? What theme is that, exactly?

hajime

Hajime: Eeh!? We will be competing over the survival of an old inn!?

Ritsu: Ah, so that’s what it was. The number of customers coming to the inn has been decreasing, so the owners are falling into financial trouble.

So, the old owner and his successor and son, the young owner, are quarreling about whether they should close down the inn, or renovate it to be more modern.

And the winner of the showdown gets to decide the inn’s fate… huh.

Hajime: Doesn’t that mean that the fate of the inn is in our hands…?

Mao: Isn’t this theme way too heavy? Or more like, the burden put on us is way too heavy.

Yuzuru: I’m surprised that the two parties agreed to compete in this fashion in the first place… Could it be that the outcome has already been decided on, and this competition is simply a farce?

Hm. So the showdown is not rigged, the owners simply wish for a serious showdown to determine the inn’s fate.

Arashi: It sounds as if the show production heard about the owners fighting and decided to exploit the situation…

Aah, it’s true that projects are sometimes started because of things like this. I’ve heard people talking about it down at the TV station.

But normally the inn wouldn’t sign off on a project like this, no? Especially when the project seems so bad-spirited.

Mika: Huh~... So the other staff members thought the same at first, Anzu? But when they went ta ask the inn owners, they somehow gave their consent… I guess stranger things’ve happened.

Tori: I mean, it’s kinda strange that they’re moving ahead with this show when absolutely everyone involved thinks it sounds like a weird project.

Ritsu: In the end, the project was approved, and the request was sent to us.

…Honestly speaking, I don’t really feel like doing it. It feels like we’re invading a domestic dispute. I would prefer if we didn’t have to get involved in something like this, you know?

Hajime: Then, are you going to decline?

Ritsu: Well~, I’m not really in a position to pick and choose which jobs I accept right now. Even if it’s a local show, my popularity would plummet if I started refusing to appear on popular shows.

So even though I don’t feel particularly enthusiastic about this, I’ll pretend like I am and complete the job.

Mao: Yup, you’re right. It feels like a heavy burden, but the affected parties have all given their consent. We should just focus on getting the job done.

By the way, if we’re going to be competing in teams, then that means all of us here will be divided into two teams right? How are we gonna be divided?

Ritsu: Of course, me and Ma~kun are in the same team. I wouldn’t accept anything else.

…Hey, Anzu. Did you just avert your eyes? Don’t go around thinking you can fool me.

You know. You’re gonna have to explain yourself sooner or later anyways, so it might be safer for you if you tell us now.

Arashi: Now, Ritsu-chan. Stop trying to intimidate Anzu-chan.

Judging from how Anzu-chan is acting, the teams have been decided already, right? Would you tell us, please?

Hajime: …Uhm. So it’s me, Isara-senpai, Tori-kun and Kagehira-senpai on one team.

Yuzuru: Which means Sakuma-sama, Narukami-sama and myself will be on the other team.

Ritsu: Okay, I object. I super object. I just went on strike. There’s no way I’ll accept this. Why would you divide us like that?

Tori: Me too. I’m happy to be on the same team as Hajime, but why can’t I be with Yuzuru? How did you decide on these teams? It’s almost as if you made sure that the people who get along well are on different teams.

Eh? That’s exactly the point!?

Mao: -Ah, I see. Since the theme for the episode is centered around a parent-child showdown, they wanted to create teams where the opposing idols would be in a similar situation.

Ritsu: I don't care if the reasoning is sound or if it will get fans excited.

Mao: Hey now. Weren’t you just saying how you would pretend like you’re enthusiastic so you can complete the job?

Ritsu: That’s a completely different matter than this.

mao+ritsu

TL-notes:
* - Mika is referring to a popular type of chocolate/sweets sold in Japan named Takenoko no Sato and Kinoko no Yama. People are often very opinionated in preferring one over the other. Also the bamboo ones are apparently extremely sweet so. Makes sense that Tori would go with that one.

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter>

Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Arashi, Mika, Hajime, Tori, Yuzuru, Ritsu, Mao, Anzu

Arashi: Good morning ♪

Mika: Good mornin’

Hajime: Ah. Narukami-senpai, Kagehira-senpai, good morning.

-Wow, that’s a lot of bags you’ve got there~?

Arashi: Yup. We’d been talking about wanting to go shopping recently, you see. So me and Mika-chan went on a shopping spree before coming here today.

Mika: Thanks to ya I was able ta buy some nice winter clothing. Thanks fer the advice, Naru-chan.

Tori: And now we’re just waiting for Ritsu-senpai, Isara-senpai and Anzu to arrive?

There’s still a while left until the agreed-upon meeting time, so it’s not like they’re late yet. But I feel like I’ve been waiting for a while now~

I’m starting to get sleepy. Maybe I should’ve stopped by the dorm before coming here.

Hajime: Tori-kun and Fushimi-senpai arrived even before I did, after all. And you came straight from a job, didn't you?

Yuzuru: I thought we would have to go straight from the job here, but it appears I overestimated how much time we would need...

Aah, feel free to come sit over here, Narukami-sama, Kagehira-sama. There is open space here for your bags.

Arashi: Oh my, thank you. Well then, I’ll sit over here next to Mika-chan.

Mika: Heave-ho…

Yuzuru + Hajime: …(Gets up from their chairs.)

Mika: ? What’re ya doin’ standin’ up all of a sudden, Yukkun, Hajime-kun? Was it wrong fer me ta sit down?

Hajime: Ah…!

Yuzuru: …Now that I think about it, this meeting room is inside a cafe.

Hajime: Ehehe. I usually serve tea for everyone when I attend these types of meetings. I couldn’t help getting up to prepare tea out of habit.

Yuzuru: I’m in the same situation as Shino-sama. My body was moving unconsciously.

Arashi: Fufu. That’s a habit for you. But today we’re having our meeting inside a cafe. Both Yuzuru-chan and Hajime-chan are on the side being served today.

Everyone is probably feeling thirsty, so why don’t we go ahead and order some drinks for those of us who are here already?

Ritsu: Nacchan, please order a cream soda for me too.

Arashi: Oh my, Ritsu-chan came at just the right moment. Now, now, Ritsu-chan. What are you making Mao-chan carry you around for?

Yuzuru: My, did the two of you come all this way like that?

Mao: Ugh. You’re heavy… It’s not like I wanted to walk all the way here like this. But if I had kept arguing with Ritsu about it, we would’ve been late for the meeting. So I had no choice. Probably.

Arashi, please scold Ritsu for me. Ever since I ran into him on my way here, he’s refused to get off my back~

Oi, Ritsu~. You’ve been doing great lately with living on your own, right? To think I was so proud of you for that.

mao+ritsu

Ritsu: That’s right. I’m working so hard every day that I’m completely burnt out.

Which is why it wouldn’t be worth the effort unless I can have Maa~kun comfort me and spoil me every now and then like this. Right, Maa~kun…♪

Mao: Ggeeh…! Throat! That’s my throat you’re squeezing! Don’t use so much force when you hug me~!

Aah, I just remembered! This is how things used to be around spring last year!?

Arashi: My goodness. I wonder if you had repressed those memories…?

It’s been a while since the two of you have had work together, so I think Ritsu-chan is probably just really excited.

Mao: N? …Oops. Ah, sorry, Anzu. We were blocking the entrance, weren’t we?

Ahaha… That’s right. Ritsu has been like this all along.

C’mon, Ritsu. The meeting is about to start so get down from my back.

Ritsu: I guess I have no choice. Well, I guess it’s okay since we can walk back home together as well ♪

Mao: You’re planning on hitching a hike on my back on the way home too!?

Hajime: Everyone~. Please choose what you would like to order from this menu. I’ll order for everyone.

Yuzuru: Well then, it seems we’ve all calmed down. Could you please explain why you have gathered us here today, Anzu-san?

Tori: Well, I’d think it’s for work.

Hajime: Ah, that’s what I thought as well. Then, what kind of job is it?

Mao: N~? Are you writing the name of a show on the whiteboard, Anzu? What a weird title.

“Chance”... Nn? “Batsuori”...?

Ritsu: That’s read “Basara”. It refers to one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals who protect Bhaisajyaguru in Buddhism. So the title should be read as “Chance Basara Night”.

Mika: “Chance X Basara X Night”...

Aah, I see. I didn’t know the full name since people always just use the short version, but this is about “Chanbara Night”, ain’t it?

Mao: “Chanbara Night”?

Navigation:
<Prev chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter>

Serious Showdown * Chanbara Night

event

"Mao and Ritsu are set to participate in the showdown variety show "CHANCE X BASARA X NIGHT", where they will compete about the fate of an old, traditional Japanese inn. The two are fighting for opposing teams, as they are confronted with the conflicting feelings of the inn's owner and his son..."

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)
Season: Autumn
Characters: Ritsu, Mao, Hajime, Tori, Yuzuru, Arashi, Mika, Anzu

Chapters:

Prologue

The Sudden Job Request 1

The Sudden Job Request 2

The Burden on that Back 1

The Burden on that Back 2

Epilogue

Season: Summer

Writer: Haruka Kanata

Characters: Arashi, Ritsu, Niki, Hiiro

Ritsu: Uu~... It's hot~, I'm bored~, Nacchan, do something~

arashi+ritsu

Arashi: Alright. Here you go, I'll lend you this handheld fan. This should be able to make even Ritsu-chan cool down.

Though I have to admit it really is hot today…

I get that we're doing more photoshoots outside since it's summer and all, but the sunlight is so strong it's making me worried for my skin.

I made sure to apply my makeup before coming here, but my sweat will ruin it for sure. I hate this…

Ritsu: Ugh~... I can't move another step. Hey, Nacchan, let's find somewhere to take a break.

Arashi: Good idea. It just so happens we're right outside of Cinnamon, so let's get ourselves a cold drink to cool down.

Arashi: Excuse me~. Could we place an order?

arashi+hiiro

Hiiro: Yup. What would the two of you like?

Arashi: Oh my? If I remember correctly, you're a member of Alkaloid, right?

What are you doing here? Did you start working part-time or something?

Niki: Hey heeey! Little brother-san, what do you think you're doing!?

You're not employed here, you'll just cause trouble if you start acting on your own accord like this!

Hiiro: There's no need to worry, Shiina-san. I've learned how to calculate money properly, after all.

Niki: And how exactly do you plan on calculating that? You don't even know our prices.

Hiiro: Hm. You're exactly right. I'll reflect on that, Shiina-san.

Ritsu: …Seems like he isn't working part-time after all.

Hiiro: Indeed. I apologize for causing a misunderstanding. I was trying to investigate what types of drinks customers tend to order when it's this hot outside.

Arashi: Oh my, seems you had a good reason all along.

Why are you investigating something like that, though, Hiiro-chan?

Niki: Ah, I think that might be my fault actually.

You see, with the late summer heat is worse than expected, I was planning on developing some refreshing cold drinks to sell instead of the fall-themed products I had prepared.

I was struggling to think of what to make, and ended up asking little brother-san for help since we’re roommates.

He said he wanted to help me out, but I never expected he would try to help out at the cafe like this…

The way his actions have no pattern and rely completely on instinct sometimes is a strict reminder that he really is related to Rinne-kun, though they’re often completely different.

Hiiro: I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to cause trouble for Shiina-san.

Niki: As long as you reflect on it, it’s perfectly fine. The way you’re able to obediently take criticism and reflect on yourself is a good trait that Rinne-kun lacks ♪

Ritsu: I see~. Okay, now we know why this mysterious new part-time worker made his appearance, but-

Did you ever end up deciding on what kind of drink you want to make?

Niki: Ah~, we’re still not even close.

The only requirement is that I want it to be the kind of drink that can completely blow away this stubborn summer heat.

Ritsu: Blow away the heat, huh~. If that’s what you’re after, wouldn’t something carbonated be perfect?

I think that would make you feel refreshed in no time at all.

Arashi: Ritsu-chan is all about sodas, after all~. But you’re right in that when it gets this hot, you can’t help but start craving something carbonated, really.

Like lemon squash, for example. That would be absolutely delicious right about now, actually.

Niki: Ah~, lemon squash, huh. That really does feel a lot like summer.

Arashi: Right? Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is good for staying beautiful. They also help you recover from fatigue and improve your immune system, so it might be perfect to prevent heatstroke.

Hiiro: Umu. I really like lemons too.

Many cafes offer free lemon water during summer time. I think I’d be satisfied just with that.

Niki: It would be a huge inconvenience for the cafes if customers were satisfied just by some water, though~...

Hiiro: Of course I would never sit down at a cafe just for a free cup of water, don’t worry.

Aira also warned me not to do that. I made sure to remember.

Niki: That’s a relief. But lemon squash might really be the perfect drink~

We would be able to change the texture or flavor of the drink quite a bit just by changing up the spices, after all…

Ritsu: …Since we’re at it already, why don’t you create something for us to taste test?

And then you can take the winning lemon squash and start selling that.

Niki: Ah~, that’s a great idea! I just thought of a bunch of flavors I want to try too.

Lemme just go ask the manager for permission before preparing the drinks. Just wait a little bit for me, everyone!

ritsu+niki

Ritsu: I’m looking forward to being served some delicious lemon squash~

Arashi: …How strategic, Ritsu-chan. With this, we can save money on the drinks, right?

Ritsu: Now, what exactly are you referring to~? ♪

Niki: I’m back. Little brother-san, thank you for helping me carry all this!

Hiiro: There’s no need to thank me, Shiina-san. I want to help to pay you back for all the trouble I’ve caused you.

Arashi: Wow, you sure made a lot, didn’t you?

Ritsu: This feels like an open bar. What kinds of flavors are there?

Niki: This one’s got a bit of a bitter taste. It should be suited to adults.

And this one over here has nutmeg and stuff in it, so it has a bit of a spicy aftertaste.

And for this last one I used a somewhat rare spice, so I think you’ll enjoy a very refreshing taste from that one.

Arashi: Well then, I’ll have a taste of this spicy one.

Ritsu: Then I’ll drink the one you said had an adult taste to it.

Niki: How is it? Don’t hold back, hit me with your real opinions.

Arashi: N~... This lemon squash tastes more of grapefruit than lemon, doesn’t it?

It tastes very good as-is, but I don’t know if it counts as a good lemon squash.

Niki: I see. Lemme have another taste too.

N~. I think the mint I added might be interfering with the flavor I was aiming for.

Ritsu: This feels like we’re working on product development. You might not even need my help, then.

Arashi: Don’t say that, Ritsu-chan. How was that lemon squash?

Ritsu: It’s as good as expected. It goes swish-swish and crack-crack in my mouth.

Well, personally I would prefer a sweeter taste. But that’s probably just my preference.

Hiiro: This one had lots of lemon slices added into it, which makes it delicious. Could we add even more slices?

Niki: Nahaha. Little brother-san wasn’t lying about really liking lemons, huh.

Arashi: N~, I could make lots of comments about the various flavors, but I don’t know if I could say which one tastes the best…

But since we’ve been spoiled so much today, I would feel bad for Shiina-senpai if we gave a half-hearted review. Isn’t that right, Ritsu-chan?

Ritsu: Well, you’re right. I never expected we would get to taste-test so many flavors.

This was my suggestion and all, so I have to go all-out to fulfill my end of the bargain.

Arashi: I’m so glad you feel the same way I do, Ritsu-chan. Well then, once again, let’s work hard to find the most special drink that will blow away this summer heat.

I’m sure if we all work hard at trial and error together, we can find the most deliciously refreshing flavor ♪

-End-