Resurrection Sunday - Regeneration
Season: Spring
Regeneration 1
Location: 2-A Classroom
I'm finished with my class diary, Adonis-dono.
Impressive as always, Kanzaki. You work quickly, and your penmanship is always top-notch.
Hahah. Our homeroom teacher, Sagami Jin, found it detrimental. "I can barely read your handwriting; it's too good," he said. I've been fond of writing since childhood, so you could say I'm fairly confident in my ability.
Is that so. I'm a bit envious. My Japanese writing skills aren't where I want them to be.
I'm the only one who takes so long at autograph sessions that a line forms. It's causing problems for the others.
Ah, that I understand. I've had my share of mistakes too. It bothered Hasumi-dono and Kiryuu-dono when I started grinding the sumi for my autograph.
They said I should be aware of the "teepee-oh"...
I'm told that often, but what is "teepee-oh" exactly?
Not even a look in a dictionary could tell me. Do you know what it means, Adonis-dono?
It's an abbreviation; the English initials for time, place, and occassion.1
Ah, that makes sense.
It would've been better if they'd said that right from the start. Why go to the trouble of saying it in English... let alone just by those initials?
Hmm. You can save time by using shortening long expressions. It's a good way to stay organized when things change frequently.
Your upperclassmen in AKATSUKI clearly see you as someone who can deliver excellent results.
On that note, I'm jealous. Everyone in UNDEAD tends to treat me like a child.
Especially Sakuma-senpai. He's always looking out for me and giving me praise. If he could, he'd likely hold me and pat my head while saying, "there, there".
Does that frustrate you, Adonis-dono?
I feel a great deal of gratitude towards them. But I've gotten stronger...
I don't want to be someone who needs sheltering. I want to be someone dependable who supports everyone. No... I want them to think of me as one of their own.
That's why I've been upping the weight I lift during my workouts, and right now, I'm focusing on my biceps. Being dependable means having powerful muscles.
Ohh, such well-developed biceps. Still, muscles are but another word for meat. Excessive exercise will only slow your pace and constrict your range of motion.
Then those muscles will simply get in the way. There's no need to strain yourself over this "toreiningu". Just let it all develop naturally.
Such is the human body, after all. Honestly, I don't care much for those excessive methods of practice from the West.
We're still growing. It's best not to complicate things now and have it impact you later.
Hmm... That's a good point. But I think it's better to plan your training carefully to be ready for any potential challenges ahead.
Ah, that is also true; yet don't overlook that fact that we're still fairly inexperienced... Adonis-dono.
In any case, you've ceased writing. It's important to follow through on commitments.
Right. All that's left is checking whether the doors are locked, then heading to the staff room to hand over the class diaries to Sagami-sensei.
Fufu. We're fairly close on the attendance sheet, hence why I'm blessed to be paired with you often for daily duties.
We have a good relationship where we compensate for what the other lacks, don't we, Adonis-dono? ♪
Yeah. If that's how you see things between us, I'm happy to hear it.
( Good. I'm talking to Kanzaki naturally... )
( I... — no, UNDEAD, recently rose against the Student Council during the S1 and DDD lives. )
( Playing a big part in helping to overthrow their rule. )
( We went head-to-head against both AKATSUKI and fine in S1 and the DDD, taking on the lord that Kanzaki serves and treasures. )
( We were as enemies. I wouldn't blame him for feeling angry and resentful towards us even now. Still, Kanzaki has always been a rejuvenating presence since the day we met. )
( I took advantage of that. Putting on a face as if nothing had happened to shamelessly grow even closer. )
( I hurt my friend, and I still haven't apologized. )
( I'm... weak. )
... Mm? What's the matter, Adonis-dono? Is there something on my face?
No... uhm, Kanzaki. Actually, there's something I need to talk to you about.
AWWRAH, comin' through! You in here, Adonis? Let's haul ass to our lessons together!
... Oogami. Your timing is really unfortunate.
Now see here, Oogami... -dono, I believe? You must open the door more quietly. Have some tact.
Aahn? Where're my freakin' manners then, I guess.
'Scuse me for bein' a bit of an unruly, stray dog... wait, just who're you callin' a dog, huh?! I'm a badass wolf!
No one said anything of the sort. ... You really are a boorish man, aren't you? Your conduct betrays your upbringing.
Aahn? Is your raised right upbringing the only thing your ass is proud of? I don't like that smug look on your face... ya spoiled brat!
... O-Oogami. Why're you always so aggressive? You need to get along.
Hmph. Where's my reason to give a shit, then? This guy's our enemy. Soon as he shows an opening I'm gonna tear his throat out!
... I'm not so out of practice that I'd lose to a brigand like you.
Regeneration 2
Location: 2-A Classroom
Anyhow. I heard "Andeddo" is taking a break from their activities, but you still have a "ressun" to attend?
No, I... I didn't hear anything about this. I thought we were off today. I was planning on going to Track and Field Club practice afterward.
Nah, we're still in time-out. That vampire bastard said we’re goin' through a recovery period for a little while.
I'm just here to ask ya to practice with me on your own. Y'think I walked all the way to class A just for fun?
Listen up, Adonis. The future is now.
We revived with a bang during the S1 and DDD, makin' sure every last one of those fools would remember the name UNDEAD...
But this is just the beginning—the jump-off point to our legend, am I right? Don't tell me you tapped out already.
Recovery period? Forget that noise. We've done more than enough relaxin'!
No more huddling together in the darkness, huggin' our knees to our chests like a coupla scared little brats while everyone else acts like they run the show!
We finally revived! We can't stop now! We've gotta flat-out dash to the top!
If it's you and me, we can make it happen! Right, Adonis?!
......
Keh! Whatever, fine. I'm not gonna force it if you ain't feelin' up to it. I'll do it all on my own, just like I've been doing this whole damn time!
I'm a proud lone wolf! Even if the rest get brutally taken down and they parade your corpses, "UNDEAD"'ll thrive through me! I don't need any decaying bodies!
Later. Sorry for buggin' ya.
... Wait. I'll go with you. You're right; this is out beginning.
I might have relaxed a bit too much in taking time off, but I've been working hard on bulking up. I should have bounced back from my fatigue by now.
What we need to focus on is our lessons. We're finally feeling a warmth in these bodies of ours, so there's no stopping us now.
Now we're talkin'. Only time you're allowed to bite it is when you're truly done for... Figures you'd get me, Adonis, as a fellow member of UNDEAD. ♪
That's right. I'm one of you, in UNDEAD.
... Kanzaki. Looks like my plans are changing a bit. I'm going to a lesson now. Is this going to violate any school rules?
I wish you wouldn't ask me each and every little thing regarding that.
Practicing on your own should be fine. Putting on a "raibu" performance for profit, though, is another matter altogether.
We aren't gonna.
fine provoked me into holdin' a live right after the S1 and then that bastard of a vampire scolded me plenty.
He made me promise not to do any unless we have a full roster ready, ...but.
I was reluctant at first. I just wanna go guns blazing on stage and sing my freakin' heart out, y'know?
Fufu. You really love to sing, Oogami.
Hah! And who the hell hates it, exactly? You ain't an idol if you do!
Very well. Now that I've a grasp on the situation, Adonis-dono, I'll take care of locking up and submitting the class diaries. Feel free to head for your lesson.
Mmh? I can stick around and finish the work with you first.
Not to worry; I can handle what's left. I have nothing planned after this, after all.
... What. Is AKATSUKI goin' through a period of recovery too?
After not even performing at the DDD? Bet you got cold feet after the way Trickstar beat your ass and had you backin' off in tears.
Hahah! What a riot, especially when you champions were actin' so high and mighty about being invincible and undefeated.
... A loser like yourself has no room to talk. Make a mockery of AKATSUKI any further and I'll cut you down.
Bring it! If ya can, that is. Settlin' everything with violence since you can't win in a live? About time the rotten Student Council revealed its true colors... !
Stop... I'm urging you. Please don't fight.
Oogami is my comrade and Kanzaki my closest friend. I don't want to see you two fighting... Actually, I can't do conflict like this at all.
Seeing it alone, ... pains me.
... Hmph. While normally I wouldn't let such transgressions pass quietly, I'll sheathe my blade and overlook this matter on account of Adonis-dono.
I will say this, however: don't get carried away.
The revolution succeeded and brought forth change to Yumenosaki. But that doesn't mean the Student Council, AKATSUKI, nor the school regulations have fallen into ruin.
We still stand whether it be the past or adjoining present. We'll be back on track in an instant if you lose your footing.
If you aren't looking at what's ahead and lose the people's confidence with such rude behavior... everything'll be right back to where it started in no time.
The vicissitudes of fortune, as it were. Thus it'd do you well not to ruin this miracle you've obtained through effort alone.
Build a brilliant, fulfilling future so we can look back on our dying hour and say, "I'm glad that we lost".
Though I don't mind if you yield and deem such a thing impossible. I'm always ready to take your place.
Regeneration 3
Location: Hallway
30 minutes later.
Heeeey! Sorry to make ya wait, Adonis!
I'm good at waiting. Back in my hometown, I often had to bide my time in thickets for half a day during the hunt.
You... You sure do make this backstory of yours sound like a total joke.
It's typical, to me. More importantly, that took a while. Did you manage to borrow the lesson room?
Nah. No luck whatsoever. It's tough when everyone and their mom's in a hurry to occupy it these days. Someone else already reserved it before us.
Every unit's been real active since the DDD.
Even when all they did before was perch on the sidelines before like a buncha fence-sitting scavengers, just watching the Student Council throw their weight around.
Fence-sitting...?2 I'm not quite used to these Japanese expressions yet, but I get the gist of what you mean.
Good. So anyway, we're gonna be using the Light Music Club's room again.
I'm in charge of the key, so we're free to use it whenever. It's even totally fair to claim all the noise we're gonna make is just club activities.
Alright. But I feel bad for intruding on your club all the time.
Who cares. We're buds from the same unit, right? If it bugs ya that bad, though, maybe we can head for Track and Field... practice on the field or whatever.
Hmm. The Track and Field club isn't the only group using the grounds, so we could potentially interfere with other activities happening there.
The wind whipping up the sand could also damage our instruments.
Hah. So you're sayin' it wouldn't be practical. Well, we do gotta take care of those.
Still, UNDEAD's appeal leans towards the wild side, which means we'll be having live outdoor performances more often.
We need to come up with a strategy to address that.
Hmm. You're right... what to do, huh. S'not like we can perform with a vinyl sheet coverin' my guitar, either.
That ain't wild or rockin' at all.
I think it's fairly rockin', actually. Isn't going against the grain and doing your own thing what rock is all about?
Hah! Like you know shit about rock. ... If I gotta be honest, though, I only started caring myself after Sakuma-senpai got mad famous for it in the past.
Hiiiiiiihhh?!
UWAUGH?! —Whoa! The hell's wrong with you, huh?!
Hakaze-senpai... ?
You went flying out of the Light Music Club room... what turned you so pale? Did I use that expression correctly? "Turned pale"3, that is.
Uh, huh? What're you... look, who cares about that right now! Move it, move it! I'm going home!
Ughhh, I knew I should've ignored these totally unlike me thoughts, the "maybe I should show up for practice for once" ones!
I regret everything! Sakuma-san's literally impossible to comprehend!
Wait. Don't create a scene and just walk away from it. I'm concerned... genuinely concerned about what happened, Hakaze-senpai. I want to help you if you'll let me.
Owowow! Don't grab onto me out of nowhere like that! You're gonna rip my hand off! Clean off! Your grip strength is too intense, big guy!
I trained that too. I want to get stronger. ... And to make things clear, it's "Otogari Adonis", not "big guy". It's about time you remembered my name.
Okay, okay! I surrender. Really! So can you let go of me already? Leaving a mark there might give girls the wrong impression, just so you know!
Kaoru-kuuuuun...
Hiihh! He followed me! Shoo, shoo! Don't come any closer, you pervert... !
Oookay. Are you gonna explain what the hell's going on' here, you damn vampire? Only a decrepit old-timer would go out of his way to cause problems for the youths!
How harsh... Still, I want to apologize. I didn't expect Kaoru-kun to reject me to this extent.
What a sad affair. Was I wrong to assume that we'd gotten closer... ?
Hold on. It's only normal to make a run for it when someone suddenly says something like, "let me suck your blood"—no matter how close!
Blood... ? Ah, yeah. It's about that time again, huh? We've been so busy lately it slipped my mind.
Eh? Looks like you know what's up, Doggie.
Don't call me Doggie unless you wanna get eviscerated, ya damn playboy.
Anyway, this same thing happened around this time last year.
Hey, vampire bastard. What're you bein' so cruel for, huh?
Anyone would take off after you told 'em, "I wanna suck your blood," completely devoid of any context. You got cobwebs up there or somethin', aahn?
Yes... forgive me. I had just woken up and my mind was a bit foggy, you see.
I'll go over everything now in explicit detail, so fret not, Kaoru-kun. Come back to the room with us. I assure you, I won’t do anything to hurt you.... kukuku. ♪
Regeneration 4
Location: Light Music Club Clubroom
Resurrection Sunday... ?
Ohh, you mean ''Easter''4. That's a holiday most Japanese probably aren't too familiar with.
Really? That's a surprise. Japan has such a unique cultural history.
Sounds like you're in the loop, though, playboy.
You know it. Girls won't dig you if you don't show any appreciation for national holidays.
But how does a holiday like Easter relate to all your controversial comments from earlier?
Ah, yes. You see... my clan has a ritual we follow during it, even though it comes with its fair share of challenges.
As the next head, I must partake of the blood of a youth, much like one would during the Spring Harvest5... essentially.
They insist on carrying it out rather regularly, actually.
Yet I find it an outdated and senseless act. I managed to set this aside by claiming I was busy, but...
Now that the matter of the DDD has been resolved, my clan grows impatient still.
They've become rather uneasy over whether I'll perform it properly or not. There's no knowing what they'll do next.
So I thought it best to nip this in the bud, as they're unlikely to back down.
With someone close at hand, that is.
Ngh. I don't entirely get it, but it sounds pointlessly humiliating... !
Kukuku. I want to clarify that my intention in seeking you out, Kaoru-kun, was simply because of who you are.
I was half-asleep and in a hurry just a moment ago, but the more I reflected the more I grew convinced you were the most suitable.
I implore you. If you wish to help me, won't you let me drink your blood?
Not even if gaze at me with those cute puppy dog eyes! It grosses me out!
Sniff, sniff. Flat-out denied...
There's no reason for concern; I wouldn't be biting you on the neck like in a horror movie. The blood is collected well in advance and mixed with grape juice to make a beverage.
Really? Kind of like a sacred wine6?
Indeed. I believe we're using the grape juice since I'm underage. Plus, it'll mask the taste; I'm not too comfortable with the idea of consuming someone else's blood.
Hence why I decided to ask you, Kaoru-kun. Won't you have mercy on me and come to my aid?
Uuu... sorry. I just can't! I'm open to anything a girl asks me to, but even if you paid me, there's no way I could do this for you, Sakuma-san!
...... (patheticly dejected sigh)
Eh? What're you acting so miserable for? Did I seriously say something that terrible?
I got it. How about Doggi... Koga-kun?
Since Koga-kun totally adores you, he'll gladly offer up that blood you need! Right? Right? ♪ (wink)
There's nothin' to like about someone who's just a shadow of his former self...
He can't use me anyway. Pretty sure you can only be part of that ritual once.
I did it before, which means I'm out as a candidate.
Certainly. The one having their blood sucked dry will be known as the sacrifice that I shall gratefully receive.
And in terms of the ritual, after the ceremony concludes... you die.
The dead can't be offered up, hence why I can't choose our Puppy here.
......
Sakuma-senpai. I have a suggestion. Would it be possible to use me instead?
I want to pay you back for always looking out for me. Unlike Oogami, I don't recall having participated in this ritual, so there shouldn't be any issue.
I'm fit to donate since I have a big and healthy body. Drink all you want, if you'd like.
Forcing someone to do something they don't want is immoral. Violence shouldn't have to be the answer.
Hah. Immoral and violent? You crack me up. Ain't both of those supposed to be our sales pitch?
That's just the image we put together. I thought Sakuma-san's vampire thing was just part of the overall concept we developed, too.
Fufu. Whether concept or simply a lie, it'll become real if you keep telling it for a hundred years or longer.
Or in this case, ... hand it down for generation after generation like my ancestors did with this long-established ritual.
I can't simply end the ongoing tradition I've inherited. I want to do something for my family since I know well how they feel.
But if Kaoru-kun is absolutely unwilling to help me, then... I guess I'll have to consider Adonis-kun's generous offer instead.
You should. Go ahead and drink my blood, Sakuma-senpai. Even though our blood types differ, there shouldn't be any problems since this isn't a transfusion.
Regeneration 5
Location: Light Music Club Clubroom
Mmh... you're the precious child my former mentor entrusted to me. I have no intention of causing you any harm, let alone with a needle.
I'm glad enough just knowing how you feel, Adonis-kun. Thank you. You're such a good boy. ♪
I... I wish you wouldn't pat me on the head like this. My second eldest sister will get upset if I mess up my bangs.
Ah, yes. If I recall correctly, wasn't she a beautician?
Wait, seriously? That's so chic ♪ I imagined all your sisters to be like, Amazons or something.
No, that sounds about right.
.... Hm?
We're baaack! 2wink, reporting for duty! ☆
Ahahah. It's looking pretty lively in here today. ♪
Here comes the twins, hella loud like always. Better keep that noise down or else.
Oh, dear. Oogami-senpai's in such a mood.
(whisper whisper) Must be another romantic dispute with that Sakuma-senpai, wouldn't you say, Missus Yuuta?
Oh, yes, Missus Hinata. That’s all they ever do, don’t you know?
UGYAAAH! Quit with all the irritating muttering, or I'll snap ya right in half!
Heheh. But can the likes of you crush us when we’re united in purpose?! Fusion! ☆
Try this on for size! We’re twice as tall when I’m on Aniki’s shoulders... ☆ Come ooon, come on! Let's see you get us now!
Pushing your luck with me when you're in the mood for it, huh? And here I was worried you'd be mopin' around.
Kukuku. The twins certainly are in high spirits. Tell me, has your volunteer work been rewarding?
You working as volunteers? That's remarkable.
Thanks! Only uh, this is actually sort of our punishment for breaking the rules during the DDD!
We're currently in "good kids restoring their reputation" mode. Today, we were even picking up cans on the coastline.
Heheh. No worries. With Sakuma-senpai pulling the strings and the transfer student on board, we'll be right back to our regular schedule in no time.
We haven't decided on what our first gig will be like after our return, though.
Sakuma-senpai, do you have any good job opportunities lined up? Even being extras for UNDEAD would hit for us right now.
Hmm, let's avoid calling you extras. I'd rather devise a plan that'll help you stand out.
We had you handling all the dirty work during both the S1 and DDD events, after all.
For that, I apologize to the both of you from the depths of my heart.
Ahahah! We knew we were signing up to be sacrifices when we took the job, Sakuma-senpai.
Losing there would've been miserable, so let's celebrate our victory instead.
We can bounce back from hitting rock bottom no problem! ♪
Where's all that confidence coming from when we haven't even settled on the direction for our unit yet? In fact, we're still in the midst of arguing about it.
Ehhh? But we aren't arguing. You're the one clashing with me all on our own, Yuuta-kun.
Since we're a pair, one person's opinion holds a lot of weight, right? This a big deal for us, so make sure you think it over before doing anything, Aniki.
Heheh. Onii-chan's always focused! On our happiness, I mean... ♪
On that note, Sakuma-senpai—
I was just pretending to be modest, but honestly, we deserve a ton of rewards for all the help we've given. ♪
You expert at begging, you. There, there. Let's come up with something, then.
Shouldn't you be minding your own business? You've got enough on your plate with that ritual, Sakuma-san.
Eh? A what? A ritual? I don't totally get what's going on, but it sounds fun. ☆
You'll latch onto anything, Aniki.
Fufu. Truth be told, such and such happened, and now I'm following through with one of my clan's rituals.
For all my procrastination thus far, it should definitely be as eye-catching as possible.
Hmm. Since everyone is willing to pitch in...
Perhaps it'd be best to organize a joint performance with 2wink, allowing me to act out the ritual during the intermission.
And if the Student Council were to approve our proposal, the funds would certainly enhance our preparations.
I didn't want my personal affairs to intertwine with my work as an idol, but...
We could solve various problems in one fell swoop.
Well. What do you think? Is it worth pursuing?
Hold up. Don't go rushin' through the entire process when no one got a damn thing you just said.
And don't skip all the details straight to the end, either. Give us an explanation that makes sense for once, ya vampire bastard.
Not to worry. I'll explain it all from the beginning properly.
I envision us as comrades who can understand the other without a need for translation, who can read each other's minds, but...
Not knowing what makes someone tick is what makes this fleeting life in the world of the living7 so amusing.
Regeneration 6
Location: Student Council Room
Hasumi-dono! Come, come. Sit down and enjoy some tea.
I appreciate it. I often find myself getting thirsty when I read for some reason.
It seems you don't notice when you're reading aloud a bit softly, Hasumi-dono. It's only commonplace for your throat to become dry when speaking at length.
Mmh. Now that you mention it, I was doing it to get a sense of the rhythm.
I must be doing it out of habit unnecessarily. Taking the time to observe every word is an essential rule of reading.
Eichi taught me how to speed read, but it feels like you don't retain anything with that method.
When it comes to short novels and haikai8, it's important to go beyond just a surface understanding of the concepts within.
Heh. As a novice, I might struggle to express a plausible opinion at times, but. If you believe it to be so, then it must be indeed, Hasumi-dono.
... Kanzaki. Come a little closer.
Hm? For what reason, exactly? Are you going to pat my head?
If that's what you want. Assisting with the Student Council when you're not a member... — honestly, your work has been invaluable to us.
Our students becoming active again is all very well, but your efforts have ensured our responsibilities haven't doubled or nearly tripled as a result.
We have to consider everyone's wishes, after all, especially as our influence is diminishing.
A machine that can't run unless it's well-oiled, unable to bear the weight of such a heavy load. How incorrigible...
Well, this happiness we never thought possible is preferable when compared to the time when everyone was lifeless.
That said. Is something bothering you, Kanzaki?
Mmh? Why would you think so?
You have split ends. That demeanor of yours is usually impeccable, so you're definitely feeling stressed in some way, right?
Why not go somewhere to relax and enjoy yourself? I won't object to it.
The Student Council is swamped right now, so I’ve arranged a break for you just in case. Things should settle down in about two weeks.
Heh. Attending you to you; nay, being of use to you is my happiness. It may sound idealistic, but that's what I wish to say from the heart.
... I see. Forgive me, Kanzaki.
Such is life. I'm fortunate to have come out from this with only a few split ends. In harder times, I would've cut my stomach after enduring such a losing battle.
Indeed... but this losing streak doesn't spell the end for us either.
Our wounds from the DDD live show are shallow, thanks to Eichi's quick thinking in getting us to withdraw early. We still have time to stage our comeback.
This is just the starting line. Things are going to get busier from here-on out, Kanzaki.
Aye, I can only hope. I trust my ancestors would be proud of the fact that I'm able to live as a warrior in this time, even without the presence of war.
ORAAH! Make way, Four-Eyes!
... I might be a virtuous priest, but your disrespectful behavior makes me want to whack you with the khakkhara9, Oogami.
Look up the word "manners" in the dictionary. That's if you can read.
Aahn? Nag, nag, nag—that's all your sharp tongue ever does. How 'bout I cut it out for you, huh?
(glaring)
Calm down, Kanzaki. He's just having some fun. I'll be perfectly fine.
Well? What do you want? Did you come here to catch us in tears and mock us after carrying out your revolution?
Bah. Like you'd be bawling your eyes out over somethin' so minor. You had your tear ducts removed the same time as your umbilical cord, am I right? Merciless Four-Eyes.
Enough. Stop pairing "Four-Eyes" with every negative term you can think of.
Kukuku. Some say the closer you are, the more you argue. How long will the two of you continue this back-and-forth?
Sakuma. ... What're you planning? It's unusual of you to come here of your own accord.
I can occasionally; I'm a living creature, after all. Nor am I here on a particularly special errand or anything. I merely came here to present my proposal like anyone else would.
An extremely natural act for an idol of Yumenosaki, no?
I suppose. On the other hand, ... it's odd to see you acting normally.
As leader of UNDEAD, it only makes sense you'd come here to submit your proposal.
... But it's hard to trust you when your words and actions always seem to have an underlying motive.
Kukuku. You needn't read into it too much. There is nothing that is strange in this world10, Hasumi-kun.
Hearing that from you is irritating, to say the least. But if all you wanted was hand over this proposal, why is Oogami here?
His presence isn't necessary. Have you got him on a tight leash?
I'm not a freakin' pet! I went with 'cause I was curious. I'm not gonna get in your way or trash the place or anything, so just ignore me.
Hmm... well, no matter. I don't have time to be concerned over every little thing.
Show me your proposal. I'll review it fairly and give my approval if it meets our standards.
Regeneration 7
Location: Student Council Room
Hmm. A proposal for a joint performance with 2wink titled "Resurrection Sunday".
True. Now's the time for our seasonal events like Easter... and this Resurrection Sunday, I suppose.
I take it it's an event aimed at reviving 2wink after they faced the consequences of their actions at the DDD, then.
The meaning will be revealed at a later time.
Though we resumed our performances following that S1 event from the other day, after lying low for so long, news of UNDEAD's official revival will start to spread like wildfire.
Which is exactly why we need to deliver an engaging performance, showcasing the diverse meanings of our return. A brilliant festival, as it were.
Only I've just come up with the outline, so the details are still a bit vague.
After speaking with the young lady, I believe it'll be fine to build on from here-on.
There's more than enough in here to execute it successfully. An eye-opening amount of detail, really.
It's good to see everyone so motivated and energetic, but recent projects handed to me are a bit rough around the edges.
There are plenty that make me want to say, "give this more thought," so this stands out as particularly strong.
That's not to say I won't thoroughly review this and highlight any flaws.
As it stands, your proposal doesn't appear to present any significant issues.
Oh? Then it's been approved? Thank you kindly, Hasumi-kun. ♪
You don't need to sound so fake when thanking me. All I did was accept something I thought presentable.
And that's only fair. I was a tad nervous since it's been quite a while since I've done th...
Ah. Actually, have I ever suggested anything?
As far as I can remember, no. Everything pretty much went the way you wanted.
Investigating your actions was a waste of time when no one questioned a thing.
In the past, at least. Now that I'm in this chair, it won't be so simple.
As it should be. It'd be far too dull if things were easy. ♪
That much about you hasn't changed... Anyhow, there's a single worrisome issue.
The theme of Resurrection Sunday... or Easter, in other words.
You'd be abiding by this seasonal theme, but the main concern is that another group has already completed a project called "Easter Night."
Hosting a concert with a similar theme so soon makes guests hesitant, thinking, "not again."
Still, Easter Night was originally an off-campus project.
The units from Yumenosaki Academy that participated then had the advantage of a promotional campaign near campus supporting them.
From the outside, though, it might not be so obvious. They'll assume you're aiming for the same routine.
I understand well what you're getting at. So, Tsumu... Aoba-kun and Sakasaki-kun from Switch were the main focus of that performance, yes?
They even took Valkyrie under their wing and took on projects to let them shine.
You're as well-informed as ever.
NDEAD has garnered a lot of attention thanks to your performance at the S1 and DDD lives from a few days ago.
But I don't want this submission of yours to overshadow Switch's impact. That would be frustrating for you, too, Sakuma.
Considering everything, we'll need to adjust the concept a tad.
Hmm. I'll give it some thought. It'd be a sad state of affairs if my adorable Sakasaki-kun came to hate me for interfering in his business.
When our time as the Five Eccentrics came to a close, that child was carrying a great many burdens on his shoulders.
Adding any more to that would be cruel. I wouldn't mind if held resentment towards me, for everything even now, but...
I'd like to avoid trampling on his heart, so that child can grow up in good health.
That being said, let's see to it that this project is a unique one.
We'll stray from the more modern approach of Easter and focus on a traditional Christian theme for our seasonal event.
Due to various circumstances, my clan will be involved as well. They'll feel right at home in a more orthodox setting.
True. Easter was originally a festival to celebrate the Spring Harvest in ancient times.
Which means you're settling on an old, forgotten festival for theme, essentially.
A revolution has taken place, and regardless of its positive or negative aspects, innovation is not solely focused on the future; there's also a distinct charm in appreciating the past.
Nonetheless, I've no intention to end this on a note that solely glorifies time gone by.
We should take inspiration from AKATSUKI, learn from our past, and work on blending the old with the new.
... Sweet talk will get you nowhere. But AKATSUKI's essence does revolve around transforming traditional arts into a more contemporary style.
Genuinely speaking, I really like the idea. It makes me want to support you.
The thought alone is encouraging. We could perform together with AKATSUKI if you'd like?
Hmph. We're experts on stage. You'd get eaten alive.
That, and we don't have the time for it.
Student Council members need to oversee each DreamFes event officially, so I’ll definitely work with you to get this project rolling.
You lot have put me through hell, and I have my own personal feelings on it, but...
I'm not so narrow-minded as to hinder the aspiring students of Yumenosaki ... no, the aspiring idols of Yumenosaki Academy.
I'm glad to receive any advice you're willing to offer. The S1 originated from Trickstar, and the DDD from Tenshouin-kun...
But as far as we're concerned, we'll be doing this ourselves for the first time in a while.
I'm sure there are plenty more oversights. Take up a red pen and grade it as you like. Review it thoroughly and mark any errors with an X so we can pinpoint the correct solution.
My turn to review your paperwork, then. Very well. I'm more than ready to grade you in red.
As a member of Yumenosaki Academy's Student Council, I accept your proposal for the "Resurrection Sunday" concert. I look forward to seeing what this festival of yours has to offer.
Regeneration 8
Location: Student Council Room
......
Oogami-dono.
... Hah? You got somethin' to say to me, bushido asshole?
Bushido asshole... ? I was pondering whether or not you'd drink what I pour.
Uninvited guest you may be, I would be ashamed as a warrior to not offer a cup.
I don't get you at all, but... yeah. Sure. I'll have some.
'Preciate it. Kanzaki, right? Are you always in here servin' as his handmaid or whatever? 'Cause you ain't half bad at it.
And will you always be following Sakuma-dono around like a mere pawn?
It seems that gallant devotion of yours isn't bearing fruit — a fine job indeed.
(clucks his tongue)
Pardon me. I overstepped.
It's whatever. I'm the one who opened my big mouth first, so.
My bad for earlier. I interrupted your good time with Adonis and picked a fight to snatch him right out from under you.
That's exactly what I wished to discuss with you. The tea was just an excuse.
Adonis-dono seems to be feeling down lately. Do you think there’s something specific on his mind?
He's always been a kind, gentle soul, but recently it seems to me he's suppressing some sorrow. For whatever reason I can't bear the thought.
You're in "Andeddo", a comrade from the same "yunitto".
Brothers who've endured the same hardships, in other words. Thus I thought you might be able to understand the workings of his heart better than I.
Hah. The guy may look huge and thickheaded, but he's actually pretty sensitive.
He’s likely feelin' anxious about our opposition to the Student Council during the S1 and DDD event.
Although we were definitely caught off guard at the moment, Adonis-dono didn't make that choice.
By and large it's not unusual for us to have to face each other. There's nothing left worth having a grudge over.
Tell him that, then. He's the kinda idiot who won't get it unless ya tell him flat-out, bein' a member of UNDEAD and all...
If you ain't honest with him he's not gonna get it at all. Not that I care.
Hmm... that reasoning is sound. Then I should head straight for the inner citadel as opposed to clearing the path of obstacles in an act of good faith.
Since I'm Adonis-dono's friend, not his enemy.
There ya go. That blockhead was pretty lonely when he came to Japan and couldn't make any friends.
I'm real glad you two became close.
Never stop bein' his friend, you hear?
— what am I, his GUARDIAN?! Ugh. This ain't like me at all. Just forget it.
Nay. Wolves truly are pack animals, aren't they?
... Oogami-dono. This may be a bit off-topic, but I'm curious about what really brought you to the Student Council.
You seem to be leaving the discussion of your plans entirely up to Sakuma-dono...
And while I can't speak for you, I also can't discern your motives when you're simply standing there without joining in.
It's... even now it's like a dream, the fact that that damn vampire's working together with UNDEAD again.
Like the second I turn away it's all gonna end up a lie an' everything'll vanish... a real convenient dream. It's pitiful, but it makes me anxious.
That asshole's the same as ever; I never what he's thinking.
Only lately it feels like he's pretending to take stuff seriously, like there's another side to the picture, so I had my doubts.
I can't stand the way his ass is always handlin' me with kid gloves on.
So I thought he might say somethin' to that damn Four-Eyes about his real motives.
Though from here it looks like they're just havin' a regular conversation... not that I'd ever be able to see through 'em if they were really puttin' their heads together to hide something.
Hmm... it doesn't feel like there's more than meets the eye on my end. He's simply eager to take part, just like any other member of "Andeddo".
You should trust and follow, even if it isn't in your nature to do so.
Keh. I'm not gonna sit when he says stay.
He's gotta be fed up with those idiots who fawn over him, just bowin' their heads all ready to do whatever he says.
I'm the only one who'll howl and bite and sink my claws into him whole.
Fufu. I'll never be able to tell if you're genuinely tamed or just playing the role of a wild dog. That's your unique talent, isn't it? This performance of yours.
Aahn? It ain't an act or some kinda performing art! I'm a proud lone wolf!
You two. It's great that you're getting along, but we're in the middle of a conversation. If you’re just going make a racket with your frivolous chatter, then leave.
It looks our project is likely to get approved without much hassle. Puppy, could you let everyone waiting in the club room know?
In the meantime, we'll be streamlining things.
Our Resurrection Sunday is on a more level playing field with the other DreamFes events than I thought, so we might be hosting it sooner than we originally planned.
Given we won't have much time to prepare, it's time to start practicing the basics.
Kanzaki, go ahead and join UNDEAD in their practice.
AKATSUKI's been an idle unit despite how busy we are. You'll lose your touch if all you do is push papers.
Aahn? You tryin' to chase us out so you can keep things confidential?
Quit presuming things. I'm saying that even if you stay here, you're just wasting your time.
Youth is short-lived. Spend your time in a way where you won't regret even a single second of it.
Hah! That's some pretty sanctimonious shit comin' from the Four Eyes who went wasted his over and over again, huuuh?
Fine. Let's go, Zakki... apparently we're just eyesores!
Zakki... ?
You truly don't mind, Hasumi-dono? While we've certainly been lacking in practice, it seems wrong to do on my own.
I don't. Go on ahead. Focusing all your time on Student Council work is a problem. It might be tough to admit, but don’t you think your priorities could use a little adjustment?
Especially after Yumenosaki Academy finally became a place where idols can walk tall now following that long, painful battle.
All I'm telling you is to take advantage of it.
Indeed. At the end of a detour lies a veritable paradise. You'd do well to have your fill.
Translation Notes
- ↑ Adonis first explains TPO in English and then reiterates it in Japanese. To keep things simple, I decided to alter this line a bit.
- ↑ Koga refers to the term 風見鶏 here, which can mean both a weather vane and an opportunist or fence-sitter. To reflect Adonis' confusion, I chose to tweak the line a bit while incorporating some bird-related imagery.
- ↑ Adonis seems a bit insecure here, as the phrase "血相を変える" is tricky. It suggests a change in complexion but doesn't clarify the emotion without an accompanying action.
- ↑ Kaoru is using the English word for 'Easter' here, so I opted for another name in the previous instance that resonates more with the event and the meaning of the holiday itself ( aka. the resurrection of Jesus Christ ).
- ↑ Rei's most likely making a comparison between his family's ritual and the observance of Passover. During the Spring Harvest Festival the first sheaf of newly cut barley is offered up as a sacrifice. There are also other rituals reminiscent of ancient pagan practices in which male lambs are kept and then sacrificed on the eve.
- ↑ Kaoru's using the term 御神酒, aka. omiki, a sake that's used in Shinto purification rituals. It's a bit similar to sacramental wine ( or grape juice ) used during the Christian Eucharist.
- ↑ Rei uses an interesting term here, aka. 浮世 which has many connotations: a fleeting life, this world and the next, a lamentable, melancholy world, etc. The Buddhist concept of the word is no longer used, but texts during the Heian period in regards to the sorrowful world would state things like, " because life is short and painful, it is best to float along and enjoy it." This coincides pretty well with Rei's mindset where he jokes while being simultaneously serious.
- ↑ A genre of linked verse poems that contains forms like haiku and senryū. One of the most famous poets of the Edo period, Matsuo Bashou, made it his life's work to transform this form of poetry into a literary genre to describe the mundane.
- ↑ The ringed staff of a Buddhist priest that's typically used either in prayer or as a weapon.
- ↑ A quote from Natsuhiko Kyogoku's novel The Summer of Ubume, in which the protagonist basically asserts that there is no supernatural, just things we don't yet understand. It's a fancy way for Rei to imply he has no ulterior motives.