COSMET

 

Akira: Uooghhh…

 

Gast: Hm?

 

Akira: UOOOGHHHHH!!!

 

Gast: Oh, Akira! Heya.

 

Akira: Gast!

 

Gast: What’s got you in such a hurry?

 

Akira: I ain’t in a hurry or anythin’. I just couldn’t hold it anymore.

 

Gast: Whaddya mean…?

 

Akira: Y’know how we got a test next class?

 

Will was buggin’ me to study, so I tried, but I couldn’t hold back the dashies.

 

Gast: Aah, so yer good ol’ hatred of studyin’ flared up.

 

But like… we had a test comin’ up?

 

Akira: Yep! C’mon, study with me! You could help me get motivated.

 

Gast: Sorry, I’m headin’ out right now.

 

Akira: Huh, where to?!

 

Gast: Nowhere in particular. Gonna ride my bike with Asch.

 

Akira: BIKING?! WITH ASCH?!?!?

 

Gast: We head out together sometimes. Didn’t expect that, didja?

 

Akira: First time I’m hearin’ about it! No fair! I wanna go too!
 

 

Will: AKIRA!!!

 

Akira: Ah…

 

Will: Running all this way… wait, Adler?

 

Gast: Hey, Will.

 

Will: ……

 

Gast: Ah, just sayin’, but I didn’t call Akira out here. Ya two were studyin’, yeah?

 

C’mon, Akira. Back to studyin’ ya go.

 

Akira: Uu…

 

Gast: Haha, ya got this ♪ I’m rootin’ for ya~

 

Akira: DAMMNITTT!!!

 

Akira: Stop~~~ I don’t wanna take the test~...

 

Gast: Yo, Akira. Finally time, huh?

 

Akira: Gast! You’re takin’ it too? Didja study?

 

Gast: Nope.

 

But I brought up the test with Asch, and he started yellin’ at me to take it.

 

Said he wouldn’t go drivin’ with me otherwise, so I figured I’d take it just to take it.

 

Akira: Hmm…

 

It’ll piss me off if ya still get a better score than me.

 

Gast: Ooh, wanna have a little competition?

 

Akira: Nah… I’ve gotta put my all into just gettin’ past this test…

 

Gast: Haha, ya really do hate tests, huh?

 

Akira: Bye, then… Hopefully, I’ll see ya on the other side…

 

Gast: Woah, dramatic much?
 

Akira: HAAAAHHH~~~...

 

Gast: Good work ♪ Glad to see you back in one piece.

 

Akira: Am I still alive…? It feels like I was trapped in there for a whole century…

 

Gast: You’re a-okay. Looks like the same ol’ Akira to me.

 

I was sorta stressin’ about you running out. I bet ya wanted to, right?

 

Good job holdin’ yourself back.

 

Akira: I can do it when it counts…

 

Gast: Yep. I remember ya started gettin’ good grades near the end of our Academy days. Ya can do anything ya put your mind to.

 

Akira: I’m not sure if I did well yet, though…

 

Gast: Well, don’t sweat it, ‘kay? What matters is that ya got through it…

 

Ah, right. Got some time, Akira?

 

Akira: …?
 

Akira: WOOHOOOO~~~~~~~! THIS FEELS GREEEEAAAAAT…☆

 

Gast: That’s good to hear.

 

Akira: Thanks a bunch, Gast! This is the best treat I could ask for ♪

 

Gast: Ya can still feel the wind behind me, right?

 

Akira: Yep! It’s been a while since I’ve ridden with you. This is great!

 

PHEW~~~~~!!! I’m so glad I pushed myself through that test~!

 

These things rock. Maybe I should get my license.

 

Gast: Why not?

 

Ah… but you’ll hafta study for it, though.

 

Akira: Ugh…

No—I can do this! Akira Otori can push through anything he puts his mind to!

 

Gast: Haha, that’s right.

 

Well, I can always give ya some pointers, and Asch might be willin’ to help out too.

 

Akira: WHOO!!! Just you wait, tests!

 

Akira Otori’s got this in the bag ☆

Will: My wish is…

To become a hero.

My body's not very strong, so I'm not sure if I can, but…

Akira: Don't say that. 

Will: Huh…?

Akira: I'm sure ya can pull it off. I'm sayin’ so, so you know it's true!

Ren: Yeah! You'd make a great hero, Will.

You're so kind and helpful, and you're not a bully like Akira.

Akira: And you're not a crybaby like Ren.

Ren: I-I'm not a crybaby!

Will: Huh… Thanks, guys.

I'm glad you guys are the first people I told about this ♪

Ren: Why don't you make a wish to the stars, Will? I'm sure it'll come true.

Akira: Yeah! We'll make sure ya say it three times.

Will: … Okay.

I'll become a hero, I'll become a hero, I'll become a hero—
 

Will: What the two of you said to me me that day is what brought me this far.

That's why I wanted to thank you. Thanks, Akira.

Akira: … That happened?

I mean, you're the one who put in the work, so ya don't gotta go outta your way to say all that now…

Will: Yeah, but I feel the same way. I'm not hung up on what you said, so you don't need to apologize.

Akira: That so?

Will: Yep.
 

Brad: ……

Oscar: Is something the matter?

Brad: I think we can call this LOM a success.

Oscar: I agree. Though the meteor shower stole the show at the very end…

Brad: But that's what we wanted, isn't it?

Will: Why don't we wish upon the stars too, everyone?

Oscar: Sounds good to me. I'm not good at speaking, but if I use my ability, I might be able to…?

Akira: Hey, that's cheating.

Oscar: I-It is…?

Will: That's not true. Akira's just making stuff up.

Akira: Just watch: this is how ya make a wish.
 

I'll be a genius, I'll be a genius, I'll be a genius! See? I managed to say it in time, right?

Will: That's the same wish you made last time…

Akira: Ah…

Brad: So you're still at square one, I see.

Oscar: And you didn't say it in time, either.

Akira: S-SHUT IT, SHUT IT, SHUT IIIIIIT!

 

Brad: God's wish is thus: to bestow a prize to the strongest in all the land. Those who believe they have what it takes shall come forward and take part in a tournament.

“Following the messenger’s announcement, many confident warriors stepped forward.”

Akira: A tournament, huh? That's the perfect opportunity to go show everyone who's top dog around here.

Will: This is another step in my journey to become a hero. I'll give it my all.

Brad: “With their own motivations, Akira and Will both entered the tournament.”

Akira: Take that!  (uses ability)

Will: Hah! (uses ability)

Brad: “They both climbed the ranks, and had their long-awaited reunion as their final match.”

Akira: Never thought I'd be fightin’ you here. Glad to see ya, Will.
 

Will: Me too, Akira.

Akira: … A'ight, don't hold back now!

Will: You know it!

Akira: Take this!

Will: …!

Brad: “With the two of them evenly matched, it was a fierce bout to behold.”

Will: (Ugh… this firepower is so intense. And he's not even going into overflow… Akira's amazing.)

(But I'm the main character here. I can't lose now!)

HAH!

Akira: Gah…!

Hehe, you're not half-bad, ain't ya ♪

Will: Right back at you.

Oscar: Neither of them are going down without a fight… Even though I know how it's supposed to end, it feels like it could go either way.

Brad: They keep making up new dialogue on the fly, after all.

Well, the audience seems to be enjoying it, so I suppose it's fine.

Oscar: Yes. You hardly ever see this much excitement even during the typical LOMs.

Brad: It seems this match will be settled now, though.

Will: This should do it! Haah!

Akira: Agh…

Brad: We have a winner. Will takes home the prize!

Akira: Shit, I blew it… I was givin’ it my all, y'know…

Will: Akira…

Akira: You'll make a great hero, Will…

Will: … Thanks.

Brad: “With Will having earned his narrow victory, the messenger, having kept watch over the match, appeared before the two men.”
 

You were both a sight to behold.

Though a victor was decided, each of you showed true strength and sportsmanship.

God feels it insufficient to only grant one a prize.

Thus, His command is such: as proof of your valor, the two of you shall rise into the heavens above, and have your valiant deeds recognized throughout the land.

Will: What…?

Brad: And you, Will, shall hereby protect this land as its hero.

Will: O-Of course! Thank you so much!

Brad: A hero has been born today. Give us your blessings, o stars above!

“And so, Will become a hero loved by the people.”
 

“The day came where the two men ascended to the heavens, where they turned to stars and shined brilliantly forevermore.”
 

Little girl: It's so pretty…! Wow… Look, sis, they're so pretty!

Girl B: Right? I told you the meteor shower wouldn't be scary.

Little girl: I-I wasn't scared…! Just a little creeped out…

Girl B: C’mon, now’s the time to make a wish. Do you have any dreams you want to come true?

Little girl: Yep! I have a whole bunch ♪
 

Office worker A: Woah, now would you look at that…

Office worker B: What's with ya? Why'd you wanna come up here after the stream ended?

Office worker A: I wanted to see the shooting stars myself. I don't think I've been sparing a glance up at the night sky at all, recently.

Office worker B: Me neither… But wishes, huh~ I'm drawin’ a blank.

Office worker A: Haha, I feel ya. Maybe I'll just wish for our work to get cleaned up soon.

 

← | →

Starry Night Masterlist

Akira: Ooh, look who's awake.

Will: G'morning, Akira. You're up early.

Akira: Got a little too psyched, ended up waking myself up.

Will: You doing okay? You were up pretty late last night too…

Akira: Of course! If anything, I'm at max voltage!

I've come up with some stuff for the LOM, so listen up ♪

Will: Someone woke up on the right side of bed, huh? What'd you come up with?

Akira: For starters, I'm gonna play the last boss who gets in the way of the main character's dream. I'm thinking of him being the strongest bandit in all the land.

Will: Bandit…?

Akira: Yep! He's the MC's childhood friend, but also his opp who tells him he can't be a hero.

Will: So an antagonist who gets in the way of the protagonist's dream…

Why'd you wanna play a character like that?

Akira: It'll make the MC feel more alive, yeah? Like his dreams comin’ true actually means something.

Will: We can't both be the protagonists?

Akira: Don'tcha want the audience to be willing to dream?

Will: … Yeah.

Akira: Then you should be the only protag. No one's a better fit for the role than you.

I know that the best, so just trust me.

Will: … Haha, what's with you today?

Alright then. Whatever you say, genius director Akira Otori.

Akira: Glad to see ya on board!

Make sure ya play the role to the fullest, ‘kay? Or I'll be stealing the spotlight from you!

Will: Ahaha, so you do wanna be in the spotlight!
 

Oscar: The issue seems to be resolved. It's all thanks to you, Brad-sama.

Brad: All I did was share a few words with him.

Akira: Ooh, you guys are up too?

Listen up! I've come up with a great plot ♪

Brad: Let's save it for later. We should have breakfast first.

Oscar: Allow me to prepare something. Please take a seat, everyone.

───

 

Akira: HAAAH!

Will: Ah…

 
Akira: C'mon, get it together, Will.

Will: No, you're way too into this… we don't have to lean so hard into it…

Akira: The hell are ya saying? If we don't go hard, then the audience won't get hyped up.

Will: … I mean, I guess.

Akira: Ya don't want people to think a sloppy performance like that's enough to achieve their dreams, do ya?

Will: ……

Alright. I'm the main character, I can't go losing to the villain.

Akira: Hehe, that's more like it.

Will: Just a day left until the LOM, huh… We kinda rushed through everything since it was on such short-notice, but I'm glad everything seems to have worked out.

Akira: Yeah. The costumes Bianchi made ain't half bad, either.

Will: Are you really okay with the constellation imagery they added? I thought for sure you'd have a problem with it…

Akira: Well, it looks cool, and I figured bein’ a Cancer can't be all that bad.

Will: Hehe, that's good to hear.

Akira: Now we just gotta polish our moves for the real deal.

Will: … Hey, Akira.

Akira: Hm?

Will: Can you spare a few minutes after the LOM? There's something I wanna tell you.

Akira: Wha… you too?

Will: ? What do you mean?

Akira: I actually had somethin’ to talk to ya about too.

Will: … You don't wanna talk about it now?

Akira: Nope. It's gotta be after.

What about you?

Will: I think I'd rather hold on until after too.

Akira: Heh, what's with you, makin’ a big show outta it?
 

Will: Hehe, I could ask you the same thing.

 

← | →
 

Will: I think we can go with this plan.

Akira: Hmm… Well, there's nothing wrong with it…

Will: What's wrong? You'll stand out just fine, so there's no problem, right?

Akira: Well… I guess, but…

Will: ? What's bothering you?

Akira: ……

Brad: At an impasse?

Akira: … Brad.

Will: My apologies, we're having trouble settling a few things…

Oscar: Here, I made you some coffee. Why don't the two of you drink this and take a break?

Akira: Thanks.

Will: Ah, I had some cookies that'd go perfect with this ♪

Oscar: There's a cup for you as well, Brad-sama.

Brad: Thank you.

So what's all the fuss about?

Akira: We're not fussin’...

Will: We've settled on the general direction we're going in, so we're trying to figure how the story's going to go.

Brad: I recall the motif being centered around heroes from Greek mythology?

Will: Yes. We're thinking of showing a play that follows a hero on his path to become a constellation.

We thought about there being two protagonists—childhood friends—who dream of being heroes and face some tough trials and tribulations.

We figured that if we did some mock battles with drones or you two to present the story, it would excite the audience…

Brad: Sounds just fine to me.

Will: But Akira doesn't seem satisfied at all…

Brad: What has you so discontent?

Akira: It's not like I'm “discontent” or anythin’, but…

Brad: If you have something to say, then say it. We're getting nowhere like this.

Akira: D-Don't need to tell me twice…

I don't got any problems with the story or details themselves.

But I… I think Will should be the only one aimin’ to be a hero.

Will: Huh?

Akira: Yeah, it'd be way better if Will was the only protag. I'm sayin’ so, so there's no two ways about that!
 

Will & Brad & Oscar: ……

Akira: W-What? Say somethin’, would ya…

Will: I mean…

Oscar: Hmm…

Brad: It's a shock that someone as ostentatious as you are would ever hand over the role of the protagonist.

Akira: H-HAH?! It's not that weird?!

I'm just sayin’ that Will should definitely be the only protagonist this time around! That's it!

Will: ……

Akira: Don'tcha wanna be the protag, Will? The person who achieves his dream of becomin’ a hero…

Will: Of course I do.

But why would you say something like that?

Akira: W-Well…

Will: ……

Brad: I get the picture.

You two figure out everyone's roles yourselves.

Akira: What's up with you? You're never so quick on the uptake…

Brad: But the PR Department, not to mention the citizens, are expecting great things from the two of you because of that article.

I'm not saying you have to take the lead role, but keep in mind that there are expectations you have to live up to, Akira.

Akira: Uu…

Fine, I'll figure it out. I'll play the damn crab if I have to.

Brad: Crab?

Well, alright then. I'll report the particulars to the PR Department.

Akira: Please do.

Will: Akira…

Akira: Are we done here? I'm gonna hit the gym for a breather.

You come too, Oscar.

Oscar: Alright.

Will: ……

Brad: Are you concerned about him?

Will: Yes… wasn't he acting strange? I can't picture Akira saying something like that…

I thought he always wants to take center stage…

Brad: Any idea why he said that?

Will: None at all…

He's been a big help, so it's not like he isn't motivated…

Brad: ……

Will: I'm gonna go talk to him.

Brad: Hold it, Will.

Will: ?

Brad: Let me handle this.

Sometimes, it's easier to open up to a third party. And I have a feeling that's the case this time around.

I'll share what I find out later, should I consider it necessary.

Will: A-Alright…

 

← | →
 

Akira: So much for holdin' off until nighttime.

Oscar: Good thing Brad-sama reminded us to bring an umbrella.

Will: Yeah…

Oscar: Well, cheer up. It's not that heavy, so maybe it'll lighten up.
 

───

 

Akira: Ya jinxed it.

Oscar: S-Sorry…

Will: You don't have to apologize, Oscar-san. We can't control the weather.

Akira: We're gonna be soaked at this rate, so let's have our meeting after hittin’ the shower.

Will: Alright. I guess we'll have to put off our stargazing for now.

Oscar: ……
 

───

 

Akira: Ah~, that warmed me up! Ya can't beat a good shower after gettin’ soaked!

Will: Well, the water really chilled us down. Did you see Oscar-san shivering?

Akira: The rain's still goin’ strong, huh…

Welp, no helpin’ that. Let's get our meeting started.

Will: Okay!

Akira: Let's settle on the theme first.

Will: Ah, how does “dreams” sound?

I'd like it if the LOM could help everyone entrust their dreams to the stars.

Just like I did back then.

Akira: Dreams, huh…

Well, why not? It suits ya.

Will: Alright! I knew you'd say yes.

Akira: What should we do about the outfits?

We can't just stick on some star hats and call it a day…¹

Will: That would be a sight for sore eyes alright…

Akira: I’d totally wanna see Brad wear one, though.

Will: Hm… A little off topic, but what about a zodiac motif? Still related to stars, right?

Akira: No way!

Will: W-Why not?

Akira: You might be fine gettin’ to be a bull, but I'm a Cancer! Y'know, the crab one!

It's so mid! Weak! Lame!

Will: Um, I'm not saying you'd have to be a crab.

Plus, there must be a cool story behind it, y'know? It's a zodiac!

Akira: No there isn't! Didn't some monkey hit the crab in the head with some fruit and kill it? That’s just depressin’!²

Will: Are you sure that's the zodiac crab?

Akira: I heard somethin’ like that back when I was little.

Will: Hm, is someone there? You can come in.
 

Oscar: Excuse me.

Will: Oscar-san?

Oscar: How's your meeting going?

Will: We settled on a theme, but are still stuck on the motif…

Oscar: Then I have just the thing to help.

Akira: Huh? Whatcha got there, Oscar?

Oscar: This is a home planetarium.

You couldn't go stargazing because of the rain, right? I thought this could let you see the stars inside.

Will: Wow, thank you, Oscar-san. You didn't have to go out of your way.

Akira: Where'd ya get somethin’ like that from?

Oscar: Oh, I just borrowed this.

Will: From who? Victor-san?

Oscar: From Dino-san. He bought it online.

Akira: Seriously, what does that guy not have?

Oscar: I tried it out in the West Sector's living room earlier, and it was a sight to behold.

Will: Oh, now I wanna see…!

Akira: How's this thing work? C'mon, Oscar, hurry!

Oscar: Calm down a bit, would you? Could you turn off the lights, Will?

Will: Of course!
 

← | →

 1. By "star hats", he means something like this. ↑

2. Akira is really talking about the Japanese folktale "The Crab and the Monkey" here. The actual story behind the zodiac crab gets explained later. ↑
 

Will: Look at all the shooting stars…

Akira: Good thing ya managed to stay up, Ren.

Ren: I-I'm not sleepy! You're the one who took a big nap!

Akira: I-I wasn't napping! I was just, uh… pretending to sleep! Yeah!

Ren: You were snoring, though!

Akira: Urgh…

Will: C'mon guys, no fighting!
 

Don't you guys have any wishes you wanna make?

Ren: Um… Hm, I'm not sure…

Will: It can be anything, like something that's been catching your eye, or the kind of person you want to become.

Akira: It's a no-brainer for me ♪ Look, I'll say it three times before the stars go away.

I'll be a genius, I'll be a genius, I'll be a genius!

Yay! I said it in time!

Ren: What kind of wish is that?

Will: Haha, it suits you, Akira.

Akira: Ah! I guess I'm already a genius, huh!

Ren: (sigh)...

What are you gonna wish for, Will? I wanna know.

Will: Well, it's kinda embarrassing to say it…

Akira: I wanna hear! What kinda wish is it?

Will: My wish is…

To become a hero.
 

───

 

Will: That was the first time I ever told anyone I wanted to be a hero.

Reporter: What a nice story. Talking about your dreams with your childhood friends during a meteor shower… how romantic!

Will: I'm glad to hear that. It's a very precious memory for me, after all ♪

Reporter: What kind of wish did you make, Akira-san?
 

Akira: ……

Will: Akira?

Akira: Huh…? Woah, sorry, I tuned out.

Will: What's up with you? Weren't you going to town until now?

Akira: Just got some stuff on my mind, y'know?

What were we talkin’ about, again? Somethin’ about a meteor shower, right?

Reporter: Let me repeat myself.

Everyone's highly anticipating New Million's next meteor shower that's right around the corner, but what did you wish for on the stars when you were younger?

Will: I talked about how we and Ren saw the meteor shower together.

Remember when we all stayed over at your house?

Akira: Ah~, I guess that happened…

I remember the stars being super pretty but… did I wish for somethin’?

Will: You wished to be a genius.

Akira: I did? I was born a genius, though?

Will: You said that too.

Reporter: It's only natural to forget some things from your childhood.

What about the meteor shower that took place five years ago? Did you wish to be a hero again?

Akira: … I don't remember…

Will: I don't really remember that one, either.

Akira: ……

Hadn't we both already set our hearts on becomin’ heroes?

And then we enrolled in the Academy, and legend of the genius hero Akira Otori was born!

Reporter: Haha. Well then, I'd like to ask you about your time in the Academy next.

Akira: Okay! Keep the questions comin’!

→
 

Gah… And I can’t even begin to understand the pain you were in. This is the first time I’ve ever cursed this constitution of mine so much.
 

And I couldn’t even treat you… Even though Bianchi was in pain right in front of me, I couldn’t do anything to help! I was so useless, it made me want to just disappear!

Bianchi: Um, I just stubbed my toe, so that’s a bit much. You're still on that?

Jude: I couldn’t get the sight of Bianchi in pain out of my head all night… I’ve never seen Bianchi look like that before!

Bianchi: Well get it out, then! That reaction of mine wasn’t beautiful at all, so I’d much rather you forget it!

Look, you’re taking this much too hard. It’s not like I’m going to die…

Jude: No—we got off lucky this time, but if something doesn’t change, I'll end up losing you at this rate.

If such a thing happened, I'd feel nothing but regret and misery for the rest of my life. I must learn how to take care of any injuries you might sustain.

Bianchi: Ugh, you're so annoying! Then go off and learn it, why don't you?

Jude: Are you trying to encourage me? Thank you, Bianchi! I'll set off at once, just for you!

Bianchi: Of course… good luck with that.

(Setting aside his motivations, it'd do him some good to learn how to treat injuries and such. Of course, that's only if he takes it seriously…)

 

───
 

Jude: (If I want to learn how to treat injuries, I've got to head to where the injured people are.)

(There's no doctor, but there should at least be someone taking care of their injuries themself.)

… That was quick.

Will: Stop getting into such petty competitions, you two. You'll just get hurt at this rate.
 

Ren: We weren't competing. Akira just started bothering me.

Akira: Huh?! You're the one who started going faster to show me up!

Ren: As if. I was going to go at that speed regardless.

Akira: Stop shittin’ me! I know ya had your incline set the same as mine too!

Will: Guys… keep it down, would you? Look, someone else is here already…

Jude: Welcome inside. It's good to see you.

Akira: Woah, Jude! What, ya finally wanna go at it with me?

Not really sure what you're doing here, but that doesn't matter right now! I'll take ya up on your offer!

Jude: What are you talking about? I'm just here to learn how to treat injuries.

Akira: Oh, to make sure you're prepared for when I beat your ass? Good thinkin’—

Will: That's enough from you, Akira!

Um, why do you want to learn that, Jude-san…?

Jude: For Bianchi.

I've never felt any pain before, much to my chagrin. I know how to stop excessive blood loss, but when it comes to treating other people, I don't really know how far to go.

Will: I-Is that so…?

Ren: … I'm heading out now, Will.

Will: Ren?! We haven't even taken care of your injuries yet, what are you saying?

Ren: I feel like something bad’s going to happen. Not sure what, though.

Will: But we still have to treat your injuries…

Jude: That's right. You two just sit tight and let me take care of it. I know I said I'm not sure how to treat other people, but I've had people treat my injuries many times before, so it should be fine.

Ren: How's that supposed to make me feel better?

Akira: What’ve ya been goin’ on about? Hurry up and come at me!

Jude: Hm… You should be a good place to start. Let's start the treatment now…

Will: Ah, please wait! And please shut up already, Akira!

Akira: H-Huh…?

Will: W-Why don't you practice on these manikins first, Jude-san…?

Jude: Manikins?

Will: Uh, if I remember right… here they are!

They're mannequins you practice different treatments on. I'll show you how, so let's practice with these first.

Jude: I see… I suppose it's a little soon to jump into the real thing. Let's hurry on with it, then.

Will: Of course. Come on, show us where you got injured, you two.

Jude: Hmm… So that's how you bandage someone up. Let me give it a try…

Ren & Akira: ?!

Will: … Its arm broke off.

Jude: This thing sure is fragile. Well, I doubt an actual arm is that frail too. Let me try on a different doll—

 

───
 

 

Ren: … Good thing we didn't let him treat us.

Akira: H-How many did he even break…?

Will: U-Uh, Jude-san? I don't think you need to be so heavy-handed. Do it a little gentler, like this…

Jude: I see… I'm not sure I can, but I'll give it a shot.

Will: Yes, exactly like that! You've gotten so much better!

Jude: Heh, I think I've gotten a handle on this.

Will: That's great. Well, let's keep at it ♪

Jude: I should probably move on to the real thing now, right?

Akira: W-What’re ya lookin’ at me for?!

Ren: I already took care of my injuries.

Jude: I see. Well, no worries.

Ren: H-Hey, what are you…

Jude: Isn't it obvious? I'm undoing the bandages so I can start from scratch.

Akira: K-Knock it off! I'll pass!
 

Jude: What are you running away for? I've gotten a handle on it, haven't I? So there's nothing to worry about. Right, Will?

Will: Huh? Ah… well, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to give it a shot. I'm sure a time will come where you'll have to do it for real anyway.

Akira & Ren: Will?!

Jude: Alright then.

Akira: It's not “alright”! Leggo of me! Stop it already, if ya put that much force into it…
 

GWAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!!

 

───

 

Jude: So as you can see, I've learned how to treat injuries, Bianchi.

Bianchi: Huh, already…? You haven't caused any trouble, I hope?

Jude: Of course. The patients let out some pretty big screams at first, but I got a handle on controlling my strength in the end. I'm confident in my ability to treat your injuries, Bianchi.

Bianchi: “Screams”...? Now just who did you—

Akira: Gah! It's Jude! He's over there!
 

Jude: Ah, you two. If you ever get hurt again, you know where to find me.

Ren: D-Don't mind us, we're just passing through. Let's go, Akira.

Akira: R-Right…

Jude: What's wrong with them?

Bianchi: Jude…

You've caused loads of trouble! Go after them and apologize!
 

Jacqueline: Lookie, that stand over there sells really delicious hot dogs! It's Akira-chama's favorite ♪

Akira: You sure know your stuff, Robot! Their hot dogs are the best!

Jacqueline: Geez, Akira-chama! It's not "Robot"! It's "Jack" and "Jaqueline"!

Brad: Welcome to the Red South, Commander. Allow me to give you a short introduction.

Red South Street has the atmosphere of a downtown, with most of the people who live here being middle class citizens. There are many cheap cafés and shops located here.

It's considered a comfortable place to live, work, and enjoy yourself, so a lot of students live here as well.

Akira: Ooh, what a fancy explanation… ya sound like one of the teachers from the academy!

Brad: Being knowledgeable about the area we've been assigned to is one of our duties as heroes.

Oscar: I'd expect nothing less, Brad-sama. I must learn from your example…

Will: What do you think of Red South, Oscar-san?

Oscar: Let me see… Red South is very welcoming, and most of its residents are of the outgoing sort. Because of my appearance, I tend to scare others, but the people here don't hesitate to come up to me and show me support. It means a lot to me.

Speaking of which, this is where your actual homes are, right, Will?

Will: Yes. Me and Akira are from the Red South.

Ah, that's right! Commander, if you're ever looking to buy some flowers, please stop by our place! We run a flower shop!

Oscar: A flower shop, huh… a lot of the shops here seem to align with the citizens' activities.

Akira: Fufun, now that I've been stationed here, I'm gonna make Red South the best spot in all of New Million!

Brad: Don't get carried away… as a rookie, you should first focus on completing the missions assigned to you.

Akira: What'd ya just say?!

Will: Stop that, Akira! Brad-san's taking care to teach us as our mentor, so watch how you speak to him!

Oscar: If you defy Brad-sama, I won't let you get off scot free.

Jacqueline: You gotta get along, everyone!

Jack: Goodness… Brad, Oscar, Akira, Will—Thank you for your time.

Commander. Our next stop is Blue North City.

 
 

← Part 2 | Part 4 →
 

(Has Akira already started his personal training, I wonder? I feel bad for making him wai—)

… Huh?
 

Jude: …… 

Will: (W-Who's that…?)

(And what are they doing, for that matter? … Is that a hammer?)

Jude: …?

Will: Ah—

Jude: Who are you?

Will: I… I'm Will Sprout, a rookie! I'm a part of South Sector's…

Jude: Huh. What does a rookie need from me?

Will: Um, well… I reserved this room so I could do some personal training…

Jude: This room?

Will: … Huh? Why isn't Akira here?

E-Excuse me! I need to double check something!

Jude: ……

Will: !! Uwahh, I messed up…

I'm so sorry! It appears I was mistaken about the time!

What is wrong with me… I apologize for disturbing you…

Jude: I don't really mind.

Will: ……

Jude: What?

Will: Ah! Um… what are you doing?

Jude: I'm building a chair.

Will: A chair? In the training room?

Jude: A citizen asked me to make one for them.

Some strange rumor spread after I repaired something for some restaurant, so I sometimes get this kind of request.

I'm using this room because it's soundproof. Jack got mad when I tried to work in the Anti-Eclipse unit's shared room, you see.

Will: O-Oh… well, I guess the noise wouldn't be an issue anymore in this room, but…

Jack: OIII!!!

This room is for training, not DIY!

Jude: Again…? Weren't you mad because I was being too loud before?

Jack: It is against the rules to use this room for anything other than training. I must ask you to halt your activities this instant.

Jude: (sighs)... Then where can I work on this?

Will: U-Um…! I know a place that might be okay…!
 

───
 

Jude: … Good thing you told me about this place.

It doesn't seem like using a hammer or electric saw would garner any noise complaints if I work here.

Will: And you're not breaking any rules either ♪

Jude: You suggesting this place was a big help. … Will, was it? Thank you.

Will: D-Don't mention it! I was the one who got in your way earlier… I'm glad I could help.

Jude: What are you doing?

Will: I'm tending to the flowerbeds. This is my hobby, you see… Plants are living things, so I come by to give them water and remove the fallen leaves everyday.

Jude: Huh…

Will: Um, may I ask your name? I'm seen you around, so I know you're a member of the Anti-Eclipse unit, but…

Jude: Jude Ares. I'm part of the 12th generation, one above yours.

Will: I knew it…!

Jude: You knew it?

Will: Ah! Um, well… I've heard of you before…

Jude: That so?

Will: (I heard that he's really popular among the citizens, especially among women, and is always receiving gifts.)

(Apparently his popularity matches Faith-kun's, so his name left an impression on me…)

Jude: ……

Will: (Yeah, I can definitely see why he'd receive lots of presents.)

(Building stuff at the citizens' requests… that's so cool…)

Jude: What?

Will: !! It's nothing…

Ah, but I'd like you to teach me about DIY, if possible.

I'm a total beginner, but can you make those kinds of things easily?

Jude: … Do you want to build a chair like this one?

Will: Ah, no. I was thinking about redoing the layout of the flowerbeds….

I've been frequently tending to the flowers since my admittance, so I got permission to do as I like with them. Since I received a new space, I was thinking that it would be nice to make some changes.

Jude: So stuff like making frames with brick or tile, and putting up fences, huh…

They're not that difficult to build. Once I'm finished with this chair, I wouldn't mind showing you how.

Will: Are you sure?!

Jude: I'm off today, and Bianchi's cooped up with their work for the design department… To be honest, I have more free time than I know what to do with.

I only ever do this kind of stuff when I'm dying of boredom in the first pla—

Will: You really are cool, Jude-san!

Jude: Hm?

Will: Willingly doing favors not only for the citizens, but even for someone you just met…

You're a model hero! I'd like to learn from you!

Jude: ? What are you talking abou—

Bianchi: KYAAAA...! WHAT ON EARTH ARE YOU DOING??!!!
 

Will & Jude: …!

 

Bianchi: Put that hammer down right now, Jude!

Jude: Got it.

Bianchi: Over here, Will-chan! Hurry on over!

Will: ???

Bianchi: Just what are you trying to do, Jude?! I can't believe this!

Thank goodness I was here by chance… Had I been any later, Will-chan's life might've been…

Will: My life?! What on Earth are you talking about, Bianchi-san…

Bianchi: He probably got into one of his moods, and tried to have some kind of strength contest with you, right?

With such a dangerous weapon in hand too… what were you thinking, doing that to such an adorable rookie?!

Will: I-I think we have a misunderstanding here! He was using that hammer not as a weapon, but to build a chair!

Bianchi: Huh?

Will: He was building a chair for one of the citizens. A strength contest is something he'd never….

Bianchi: Is that true, Jude?

Jude: Yes, perhaps… but none of that matters anymore.

Will: Huh?

Jude: Have you managed to clear off part of your work, Bianchi? Did you finish making a nice outfit?

Bianchi: I-I'm still not finished. I just came out for a change of pace…

I'll apologize for misconstruing the situation, so could you please not get in my way?

Jude: A change of pace, huh? To be able to see Bianchi at such a time… I'm surely the happiest man in the world.

Will: ……

Bianchi: Were you even listening to me? Besides, you were working on your DIY work, weren't you? Keep on at it, why won't you?

Jude: There's something more important than that—than my entire life—standing right in front of me.

Bianchi: Goodness, can't you tell I'm saying you're annoying me? Do not follow me!

Jude: Wait for me, Bianchi…!

Will: U-Um… you're forgetting… your hammer, you know…?