kumakuma | Entries tagged with meowsketeers

〈Location: Airport〉

〈The next day〉

Leo: No matter when you come, the airport’s always so spacious~ !

The melodies are coming to mind just from thinking about people coming and going in the background. Aah, I wanna compose!

Izumi: Have a little more self-control. It was Leo-kun who said he wanted to see me off at the airport, wasn’t it.

Leo: Wahaha. And here I am at the airport, am I not? With that, you’re dismissed!

Izumi: Saying something like that again…… Are you sure you didn’t just come to the airport to play~ ?

By the way, are the other members still not here yet?

We’ve already found d’Artagnyan’s foster parents, but it seems like it’s taking a while to hand him over.

After all, if they’re handing it to ‘Knights’ newcomers, it’s only natural that I get priority, right?

Leo: Don’t talk like it’s all they can do to send off an old soldier~ If those guys are busy, I’ll just see you off by myself.

Izumi: No, but we’re not as old as an old soldier, are we?

…...well, after you graduate high school, you’re instantly roped in with the adults~ It’s not like I don’t know that sort of feeling.

This time, like an adult, I’ll go home without wasting time.

There's no need to get emotional every time I go overseas. I know we’ll be meeting sometime soon.

Leo: That’s right. The position of students― we’ve already transcended that sort of human relationship system, haven’t we~ ?

As long as we’re alive somewhere in the world, we’ll always be able to meet, no matter when or where we are.

Izumi: …...if you put it that way, boarding starts in an hour. I should check in my luggage and head to the gates soon.

It’s a shame that Kuma-kun and the others weren’t able to come, though. They just won’t be getting any souvenirs to make up for it―

Ritsu: Wait, Secchan!

Izumi: Oh?

Tsukasa: Haah, haah…… Aah, I’m relieved. We made it just in time……

Arashi: Sorry about that. It had gotten late after we regretfully said our goodbyes to d’Artagnyan.

Leo: Aren’t you glad you made it on time~ ? Because if you guys didn’t come to see him off, Sena was saying it would be fine that you guys didn’t get souvenirs, you know? Safe by a hair!

Arashi: You were going to buy us souvenirs? In that case, Izumi-chan, buy me some duty-free cosmetics, please ♪

Ritsu: I’m good with anything. If I have to pick, maybe black tea?

Tsukasa: Then, I’d like some cookies from overseas please. Something that would go well with black tea would be good ♪

Izumi: Aren’t you being too shameless for running late and having only just made it~ !? And anyway, isn’t it fine for you to buy those yourself, Naru-kun~ ?

Arashi: No, it’s not fine. Especially those from overseas ♪

Izumi: And rejected~. I’ll leave Naru-kun’s souvenir up to my good sense and budget.

And for the other two, I’ll just pick whatever I feel is good.

…...ah, I wanted to ask Kuma-kun something at the very end. The problem was settled with no hard feelings?

Ritsu: Yep. All sorts of inconveniences popped up but…… ‘Knights’ is more solid than I thought.

As long as we continue with our activities, I think more problems will arise. But I’ll treat them with a more level head next time

The situation with the newcomers, the situation with d’Artagnyan, and any problems that come up in the future, taking everything into account― I’ll do my best as ‘Knights’ advisor.

Arashi: Ufufu. Considering all that, the mood fell while we were saying our goodbyes to d’Artagnyan, didn’t it?

Tsukasa: Fufufu. It really wanted to see you seniors. Ritsu-senpai and d’Artagnyan were especially affected ♪

Ritsu: S-shut it! Don’t tease me! These past few days, I've been going crazy because I was together with it― that was just because I wanted to tickle its fur!

Izumi: Hhmm. I’m relieved to hear that. Just be careful that the problem doesn’t start up again, won’t you?

Ritsu: I’ll keep that in mind. So you can rest assured, Secchan.

Arashi: Bye-bye. I’ll be expecting a souvenir ♪

Leo: See ya! I’ll call you if something happens again!

Tsukasa: Leo-san, if you do that sort of thing you’ll ruin Sena-senpai’s health you know?

Leo: Nah, I think Sena’s gonna come back while throwing profanities.

Wahaha, having both positions of idol and model is a difficult path to take. Which will he choose in the end~ ?

Izumi: Leo-kun’s the same though. You’re also being both a composer and an idol aren’t you?

Tsukasa: Fufu. I was probably needlessly worried about ‘Knights’ seniors' vitality.

Well then…… safe travels. Sena-senpai.

Izumi: See you guys. Work hard and don’t slack off while I’m gone, alright?

Arashi: Ufufu. Well, that’s seeing him off done, Suou-chan?

Ritsu: That’s right. As ‘Ousama’, give us our next order.

Tsukasa: Yes, Of course.

Let’s return to the ES Building and get started on our lessons immediately.

In order for us to teach our juniors at Yumenosaki, we cannot neglect our own performance.

‘Knights’ new knight story― it is just beginning.

…...isn’t that right, my seniors ♪

〈Location: ES Garden〉

〈Several days later〉

Ritsu: Hafuu, I’m tired……

The interviews with the foster parent candidates sure took up a lot of energy. I’m glad that everyone thought that the people at the interview seemed like ‘good people’.

But d’Artagnyan…… You’re a guy that gets pretty intense when it comes to your preferences, huh?

Despite your attachment to ‘Knights’ members, why is it that you’ll threaten someone else with your fur on end. Could it be that you’ll be lonely if you can’t see me anymore?

Ahaha. I’ll be troubled if you stare at me so intently.

Even though you’re giving me those eyes, I can’t keep you. Right now, all I can do is hold you.

A lot of newcomers joined ‘Knights’, and Tsukipi~ and Secchan graduated from Yumenosaki.

In this situation, I’m the most senior knight at school.

Something like getting involved with and saving everyone, no matter who― I can’t perform a role like that without anija. On the contrary, I want to protect the relationships I have right now with everything I’ve got.

Instead, by my picking you up, I’ve probably gone over my limit.

If that happens, then you’ll also become unhappy. You understand, don’t you, d’Artagnyan?

Mn…… You’re asleep. When did you……

Well, that’s fine. This one’s smart, so you’ll understand properly, won’t you.

More importantly. The newcomers that were told to leave by Su~chan, I wonder if they’re doing well?

…...hello. It’s me.

No. I’m sorry too. The introduction of the other ‘units’ at Yumenosaki was pretty meddlesome, wasn't it?

If you want to, I’d be happy if you kept me company as well tomorrow……

Eh? It’s already enough? Is that alright……?

You want me to look at ‘WholeHands’?

Y-yeah. I got it. Then, I’ll be back in a bit.

…...a video? This is, no. If I’m not seeing wrong, it’s that, huh.

The newcomers’ dance video’s been put up on ‘WholeHands’.

“Having reflected on what happened the other day, could you please come back to ‘Knights’ once more”......?

Fufu. I see that’s how it is…… ♪

…...Ah, hello. Sorry again.

I saw the dance video. This was after a lot of lessons, wasn’t it. They’re moving better than before.

As far as I can see from the video, I think it’ll be alright for them to come back to ‘Knights’.

Is it okay even if they’ve quit once already, you say……?

Ahaha. If that’s the case, then you wouldn’t have sent the video in the first place, would you? On top of that, it showed the extent of such a lesson.

Yep. I think I’ll mediate for Su~chan.

Reflecting then working hard in their lessons to at least prove themselves to us seniors, that sort of spirit― there’s no doubt they’re worthy of being in ‘Knights’.

Don’t be ashamed. Rather, even though I’m a senior, I feel sorry. If that’s true, I should have taken care of it at an even earlier point.

―Like Athos, who guided d’Artagnan.

Huh? You don’t know ‘The Three Musketeers’? Is this the ‘generation gap’?

No. You don’t have to go out of your way to read it, it’s our story right now.

You’ve done your best, thanks for your hard work. Well then, I’ll talk to you again.

(......I’m glad. The other members who’ve seen the video will also give positive responses.)

(It seems there’s no need for me to go to the trouble of mediating this, is there?)

Perhaps d’Artagnyan’s not an unlucky black cat, but a black cat of fortune that brought me a message.

‘Don’t take the novice knights’ spirits lightly’...... something like that

…...That’s it.

“Emergency contact. If there is anyone amongst ‘Knights’ members who wishes to keep a cat, please contact us. Newcomers should also feel free to ask.”...... there.

With this, I think I’ll still be able to take care of you from time to time…… Then the selfish cat here will also be satisfied, won’t you?

Since I’m just one person, I can only hold you with my own two hands. If you were in ‘Knights’, surely there’ll be many more people who will hold you.

Thank you for making me realise that, d’Artagnyan.

〈Location: Simple Studio〉

Izumi: …… and that’s how this whole foster parent searching thing started?

Tsukasa: Yes. If this goes on, ‘Knights’ activities will be affected. And I want to find d’Artagnyan some good foster parents.

Ritsu: I’m sorry about before, Secchan.

I was hung up about not having done anything for ‘Knights’ newcomers, so I want to at least find d’Artagnyan a good home.

Izumi: Hhmm. Well it’s fine if it makes Kuma-kun feel better, right?

Since I’m so generous, I’ll count what happened yesterday as water under the bridge, so you should be thanking me, you know?

Ritsu: Fufu. My thanks to you is greater than the whole of the Mediterranean Sea. …...Isn’t Florence somewhere around there?

Izumi: Florence is inland, so there aren’t any seas next to it. Kuma-kun’s been overseas, but you’re surprisingly ignorant when it comes to geography?

Ritsu: Ahaha. That’s because I’m usually asleep from jet lag.

Leo: Wahaha! Art is an explosion…… ☆

Izumi: …...why’s Leo-kun suddenly drawing pictures? It’s some sort of abstract art and it’s pretty creepy at that?

Leo: This? I wanted to try making an eye-catching description of d’Artagnyan!

What do you think, Sena? It’s cute, isn’t it~?

Izumi: Cute……? Can you give me a detailed explanation of how it’s cute?

Leo: You don’t get it~? Even though this is all the drawing skill I can muster!

Arashi: You’ll just have to overlook it, Sena-chan. You know there’s that saying that “the heavens never grant two things to a person”.

Since this is also a request from ‘Ousama’. Isn’t that right, Suou-chan?

Tsukasa: Yes. Naturally, as ‘Knights’ leader, I should be taking the initiative to find a solution. In this sort of situation, throwing people at the problem is appropriate.

From the countless number of foster parent applicants, let’s search for the one who seems like they can properly care for it.

Nobody gets to choose their birth parents, so we have to choose parents who are well suited to raise it.

Arashi: Ufufu. Even though I’m already keeping kitty cats, every kitty is cute. We absolutely have to find it a wonderful owner…… ☆

Leo: I’ve also gotten used to going to the archery club and caring for Little John, so it’s fine to count on me~ ♪

Tsukasa: You seniors are all so reliable. …...Sena-senpai, could you also look through these documents?

Izumi: Fine fine. If you’ve already set this much up, it’s not like I have much of a choice.

On that note, since I’m helping, I won’t forgive any half-assed work. And don’t you forget it.

Leo: Yep yep. As expected of the new ‘Ousama’! Reasonably solving the people’s problems, looks like the days of my reign are over~ ♪

That’s right, why doesn’t ‘Ousama’ also draw a portrait of d’Artagnyan~? ‘Ousama’ has an interest in art!

Arashi: Suou-chan. After you make the portrait, could you come and help me as well? I have to prepare a lovely photo for d’Artagnyan-chan ☆

Tsukasa: Of course. As ‘Ousama’, handling that much is easy.

Izumi: If that’s the case, ‘Ousama’, could you run over to the convenience store and buy me a drink? I’m thirsty since I rushed here right after finishing my lunch, you know?

Ritsu: Ah, can you get one for me as well? I haven’t eaten anything since this morning.

Tsukasa: Senpais…… Could you not use my obligations as ‘Ousama’ to make me run your errands?

Come on now. If you have the time to make banter, please read these documents. There are still a lot of documents left.

Leo: Ohh~? Is the new ‘Ousama’ ignoring the dissatisfactions of his people?

Tsukasa: S-so it seems…… I agree with you. ‘Ousama’ only exists for the people…...

But I can’t say something like that! Please supply your own drinks by yourselves!

Leo: Uwoh! Please stop this madness! We don’t want to be purged over a reason like this, so we’ll agree with you!

Tsukasa: Hrm…… Then can you please also keep the teasing to a minimum?

Ritsu: in any case, this is getting pretty long, so let’s take a break for a moment.

I wonder if d’Artagnyan’s also hungry- it’s been walking restlessly around the studio.

Hey come here, d’Artagnyan. I’ve prepared some food for you…… ♪

Arashi: Ara, Ritsu-chan. It seems all that aggression was a lie. You’ve become pretty good friends, no?

Ufufu, let me feed it too ♪

Ritsu: Fufu, I’ll let you go after me…… ♪

Izumi: What’s with that parental act. Just when did the two of you become such good friends?

Ritsu: Umu. We had a midday nap together, and I’ve come to understand d’Artagnyan a little better.

Could it be that it’s lonely, I wonder……?

Izumi: It’s lonely……?

Ritsu: Yep. Even though I was in the garden together with d’Artagnyan, it was reacting to people’s laughter. It was staring fixedly at them like it was jealous.

So could it be that d’Artagnyan possibly came to depend on 'Knights', who was at the center of the gathering, like the live― that’s what I thought.

Ahaha…… Saying all that, I probably projected too much though?

Arashi: Nah. I’m sure that’s right ♪

Even though it’s only been a little while, let’s become good friends, d-Artagnyan-chan.

Us brave knights, we’ll take you to a place where you can be happy.

〈Location: Staff Cafeteria〉

Izumi: Aah, come on, soo~ annoying!

I finally come home and this is how I get treated!

Omnom…… Aah, since I’m irritated, there’s no helping eating the fried prawns that I like, right?

Even though I’m still not lifting the ban on fried food. I’m just really annoyed.

Leo: Thanks for the fried shrimp~ ♪ Swap with my wiener!

Izumi: Hey, give it back! A wiener is clearly not on the same level as fried shrimp!

Leo: It’s good to exchange something one for one! We did it overseas for stuff like job introductions right~?

Izumi: How convenient that you forgot that I already thanked you for that earlier!

Arashi: Come on. Don’t make a fuss while we’re eating, both of you. It’s bad manners, you know?

I get that Izumi-chan’s in a bad mood, but since you’re the senior here, it’d be better if you calmed down a little, right?

Izumi: Hhhm. You’re siding with Kuma-kun as well, Naru-kun?

‘Knights’ has changed. A lot of newcomers have joined through Yumenosaki, haven’t they?

Since the amount of members has increased, there’s no need for us nagging OBs anymore, right?

Arashi: Actually it’s the opposite. In order to not let the two of you down, we’ve been working even harder ♪

But with no breathing room, everyone’s ready to snap. You saw it yourself, right Izumi-chan?

Izumi: I suppose so, but you didn’t have to put it that way…...

But losing it over just having his blanket used? I didn’t think he was being backed that far into the corner.

Arashi: Yeah. Well, here's my guess.

There was trouble with the new kids during the live the other day. Since then, Ritsu-chan’s been more pensive than ever, you know?

I might have brought it up a little before, but right now at Yumenosaki, these knights applicants― a lot of juniors who look up to ‘Knights’, have joined.

But― since they can’t keep up with the strict lessons and the required professionalism, a number of them have dropped out before they've even lasted a month.

Admittedly, our best live was the one we held with Leo-kun and Izumi-chan a while back.

All the gears were a little misaligned that day, and Suou-chan recommended the problematic ones to withdraw.

Every time a newcomer drops out, ‘Knights’ performance becomes more stable.

But it’s something else when you push a child who wants to stay to leave. I wonder if that’s what Ritsu-chan was thinking.

Leo: Purging to reach his ideals~? My, what a bold ‘Ousama’!

But, ‘Knights’ is just such a group~. Technically Suo~’s done nothing wrong, you know?

Izumi: Yeah. Personally I’d like to work with guys who are motivated too. If you’re going to be joining ‘Knights’ who’s known as one of the big 3, you’d want to be prepared, no?

Arashi: Mm. That’s what I would like as well, but― you can’t really say this sort of thing is a peaceful way of solving things, right?

Since Ritsu-chan was worried for ‘Knights’ back when things were unstable, don’t you think this might be dredging up those memories?

Leo: Wahaha, that’s because Rittsu’s a nice guy~ ♪

Izumi: Being the arbitrator whenever ‘Knights’ was at risk of breaking apart― but that sort of kindness can be harmful too, I feel.

For the preservation of the group, you need discipline. That’s what the ‘Ousama’ next to Kuma-kun― Kasa-kun is demonstrating by what he’s doing.

Speaking of, where is Kuma-kun? He said he was going to cool his head then up and went somewhere.

Arashi: Suou-chan’s just gone to find him, so let’s contact him.

…...ara? Can the two of you look at ‘Hold Hands’? It looks like we got a message from Suou-chan just now.

Leo: What is it what is it……?

Izumi: I want you to help me find foster parents for d’Artagnyan? What on earth is he on about?

Leo: That guy’s got his own way of thinking, no? In any case, let’s hear what he wants to say ♪

Come on let’s go. Sena, Naru!

Izumi: No, hold on. I haven’t finished eating lunch yet.

Good grief. Can you not get excited over every little thing that happens? Do you want to be manipulated like that~?

Arashi: Ufufu. This is more like ‘Knights’ now isn’t it?

After all, knights always have to follow the authorities.

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〈Location: ES Garden〉

Ritsu: ......

(The thing I was afraid of ended up coming true.)

(It’s my fault that ‘Knights’ ended up fighting again. Just how did it get so bad?)

(If only this cat hadn’t been there. No, I should have been calmer.)

(It would have been better if I had analysed the situation calmly like I usually do and brought it to a positive conclusion.)

(That’s how we’ve been overcoming all the crises we’ve had up until now.)

(But, as I thought, the number one reason is―)

(I still haven’t gotten over the newcomers getting dropped.)

Haah, d’Artagnyan’s still sleeping. Honestly, I’m jealous of how peaceful he looks.

Suou: Ritsu-senpai, you’re here, as I expected.

Ritsu: Hmm? Ah, Suu~chan.

I’m really sorry about earlier. But could you leave me alone?

I’m going to sit here and reflect on my actions until this stupid cat wakes up. If I ignore the cat in the studio and it gets restless, it’ll probably be even more troublesome.

Suou: Fufu. Despite what you’ve been doing, you’re actually really kind to animals, Ritsu-senpai.

Ritsu: Mmn, that’s not it...... Anyone would be annoyed if their midday nap was interrupted, right?

So I’m taking the opportunity to also serve out my self-reflection over all the fuss I kicked up earlier. If you’re taking a nap, then you won’t be able to cause any damage.....?

Suou: Let’s put that aside for the moment. I want to imitate Ritsu-senpai’s kindness.

Ritsu: You give me too much credit, Suu~chan.

Suou: Is that so? But I’m thinking that I do actually want to learn from Ritsu-senpai's attitude towards things.

Oops, I’ve gone off on a tangent. Is it alright if I borrow some space, unless Ritsu-senpai doesn’t want me to?

Since we’ve stopped the retrospective halfway, I was thinking of doing some 'things that I should be doing' in my spare time.

Ritsu: Uwah, what’s with that big pile of documents...... Is that work from New Dimension?

Even though it’s something you don’t have to do outside, you’re going to stick around here with me?

Suou: No. It’s work that I have to get Ritsu-senpai’s input on.

Ritsu-senpai. You wouldn’t mind if we started searching for foster parents for d’Artagnyan, right?

Ritsu: Search for foster parents......?

Suou: Yes. It hurts a little to do this with my seniors getting all attached to it, but.

So far it’s been causing problems for ‘Knights’ activities, and plus, Ritsu-senpai isn’t particularly fond of it either, right?

I’ve checked with the police and it doesn’t seem like anyone’s lost their pet cat.

These are documents from the not-for-profit organisation that searches for foster parents, as well as information on people who’ve expressed their wishes to be foster parents.

Ah, Arashi-senpai and Sena-senpai will be the mediators, so you don’t have to worry ♪

Ritsu: Why are you going so far for me......? I started the trouble after all.
There’s no need for Su~chan and Nacchan to go out of your way to help, you know?

Suou: No. I can’t just overlook this. I’ve noticed Ritsu-senpai’s distress after that dispute earlier.

Rather― I’m sorry that it took me so long to notice.

I was trying too hard to be an ‘Ousama’ that controlled the knights. As a result, a number of newcomers ended up being dropped.

At the very least I should have given them a proper explanation before they officially joined.

Ritsu: Mmn, no, I should be the one apologising.

Since I’m a senior, I should have been able to do more. Instead, I just went with what the new ‘Ousama’ said, I was being too passive.

If that was the case, then I should have been more outspoken.

On top of that, I didn’t tell anyone about my dissatisfaction and then just blew up at everyone― I’m really sorry.

......honestly. Su~chan’s grown. Good boy~ good boy~ ♪

Suou: Owah? Patting my head is not enjoyable Ritsu-senpai!

We’re not children anymore, just what are you implying, doing something like this……

Ritsu: I don’t mean anything...... just expressing my gratitude physically.

I’m just happy that as the new ‘Ousama’, Su~chan’s being so considerate.

Suou: ? If you're not, then as a leader, wouldn’t that just be incompetence?

Ritsu: Doing all the things that are normally taken for granted, it’s one of Su~chan’s virtues. Of course, I’ll thank Nacchan as well.

To be honest, I was at my worst today― I’ll tell you the truth, I had a dream about ‘Knights’ newcomers dropping out.

I’m scared of how we’ve been doing things- hurting other people while we move forward.

I had a nightmare and then saw the black cat as some sort of messenger of misfortune and I lost it― really, how immature of me.

Suou: Being afraid and being doubtful, these sorts of things happen to everyone.

In fact, isn’t ‘Knights’ a unit that has gone through their fair share of complications?

Especially if it’s the Ritsu-senpai who knew the ‘Knights’ from before I joined- there were far more troubles then, wasn’t there?

History likes to repeat itself, so it is difficult to move on without getting hurt―

But, humans are constantly learning. So this time, we’ll just have to try our best to make sure we don’t stain our hands with blood, isn’t that right?.

Ritsu: Ahaha...... I’m glad you're trying, but you’re comforting me with impossible ideals. That sort of thing, that’s rather mean of you, Su~chan ♪

Hey Su~chan. Let me help with searching for d’Artagnyan’s foster parents.

Suou: ...... is that alright?

Ritsu: Yeah. It doesn’t seem right if my kouhais are doing all the work and I’m not doing anything. If you like, I can look after it until you find a foster parent.

But this isn’t meant to be atonement. It just doesn’t feel right leaving it alone― a new knight with no-one to depend on, I want to find it a place to belong.

Suou: Thank you for your cooperation, Ritsu-senpai.

Oya. It seems d’Artagnyan’s woken up. Fufu. It’s shaking its tail happily ♪

Ritsu: Oh. I guess I misjudged you, d’Artagnyan. You’re surprisingly cute when you shut up......?

Suou: Fufu. If it’s this cute, then we’ll be able to find foster parents for it pretty quickly. Let’s go find a home for it.

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〈Location: Simple Studio〉
〈2 hours later〉

Suou: The cat didn’t let go during the retrospective after all.

In the end...... fufu. It’s pretty cute isn’t it, sleeping so soundly on Ritsu-senpai’s lap ♪

Ritsu: It’s not cute at all...... It’s hot and it’s noisy when it meows, it’s a terribly unlucky black cat.

Leo: Oi, don’t just call the cat 'cat'! We gave it a name earlier, didn’t we~?

It’s 'd’Artagnyan¹'! Our newest knight who has been drawn in by us ‘Knights’!

Ritsu: Huh. 'd’Artagnyan' is a good one. But weren’t you saying something like 'Nekojiro'?

Suou: I’m pretty sure Sena-senpai rejected it and said a name like that “has no sense”.

Izumi: That’s right. Leo-kun really has no naming sense. The others we had were things like 'Catty' and 'Nekosuke'......

Thanks to that, I’d thought about going home so many times.

Arashi: But we did manage to hold the retrospective properly, so you shouldn’t get angry ♪

Izumi: Yeah yeah. If I recall, several of the newcomers ended up quitting?

Suou: Yes. The ones who imagined ‘Knights’ to be something else stated they were leaving.

At the very least I would have liked to see them really get involved, like d’Artagnan― d’Artagnyan here.

Arashi: Aren’t young people these days bad at that? I think it’s that they’re denying the problems they’re facing without listening to each other……?

Izumi: You’re still young yourself, Naru-kun. If you’re saying that, then doesn’t that make us OBs² old people~?

Arashi: Oh dear. Don’t you think I’ve taken on a senpai-like air?

But if you think back on it, ‘Knights’ has been quarrelling for ages.

It might even act as a strong incentive for mature children― in other words, I think Suou-chan’s judgement is correct.

Leo: Yep. Stuff like deciding on the newcomers, we’ll leave that to ‘Ousama’ Suo~.

So, it’s like a guy that comes back to prove himself after being told to quit will come back better than before. Suo~ is that type of person, right~?

Suou: Ahaha. I’m embarrassed……

In that sense, then d’Artagnyan’s a rising star who came from the countryside.

Ritsu: No no. Don’t just up and make it a member of ‘Knights’. I’ll end up suffering.

Leo: If you put it that way, then you’re Athos³, Rittsu! As the oldest of the Musketeers, you’ve gotta take care of the newcomer!

Ritsu: Can you not turn me into a character just like that? I’ll be really inconvenienced.

This cat― d’Artagnyan what does it see in me? Sure, I take naps during lunch, but I’m not seeing the resemblance between me and a cat.

But just kicking it out with no good reason is a bit too heartless, if only there was some way it would move away by itself.

Arashi: Right. All this time it’s been clinging to you weirdly― could it be that it finds Ritsu-chan’s scent comforting?

If that’s the case, shouldn’t we think about it this way? It might be satisfied with something that has Ritsu-chan’s scent on it...... ☆

Ritsu: Huh, I see. Something that’s got my scent on it, huh?

......How should I put this, I can only come to an unpleasant conclusion.

Suou: An unpleasant conclusion......? Could it be you’ll be terribly saddened once you’re free?

Ritsu: No. I’m happy I’ll be free, but the only thing in this simple studio that has my scent on it......

Suou: The thing that’s always in this studio is Ritsu-senpai’s favourite blanket...... isn’t it?

Ritsu-senpai. If we give the cat the blanket, it’ll probably let go of you, so should we give it a try?

Ritsu: No way, no way. I really like that blan―

Uwah!?

Ah, wait! Don’t suddenly pounce for my blanket you idiot cat!

Suou: Aaah......! That’s no good, the cat’s mistaken Ritsu-senpai’s blanket for a toy!

Please stop! You haven’t gotten permission to touch it yet?

......it’s not listening to a word. As they say, cats really just do what they want.

Ritsu: Ughh, I underestimated how fast this guy is......!

Give it back……! I don’t want such an unlucky black cat to use my blanket......! Everyone else, help me out here! I’m gonna take my blanket back......!

Leo: Oi oi. There’s no need to get so worked up over something like this right, Rittsu?

I know it’s a bother but if you get violent in here then it’ll be dangerous, no?

Ritsu: Nope, I really like that blanket! I really will not allow it to use it so unreservedly.

Ah, don’t sharpen your claws on it! Why is this happening to me, this stupid cat is―

Suou: Sorry, Ritsu-senpai. I apologise for making such a big fuss over something that could have been solved simply. If necessary, I’ll compensate you afterwards.

That being said, please calm down, Ritsu-senpai.

From here on we should concentrate on the lesson, since it would be wasteful if we don’t properly use what little time we have left before Sena-senpai has to leave again.

Ritsu: Doing something like cutting off someone who has gotten close to you just because they’re a hindrance......

If it has to come to that, then it’s much better to have just stayed far away in the first place!

That’s why I hated it! This guy, acting so brazenly without knowing anything…… I should have made my refusal clearer......!

Otherwise the only conclusion is for everyone to hurt each other. So―!

Suou: Ritsu-senpai...... P-please calm down! You're being a little strange today?

Calm, calm ......♪ Hey, this isn’t like the usual Ritsu-senpai.

Ritsu: But......!

Izumi: ......Kuma-kun, that’s enough.

Ritsu: Secchan......?

Izumi: Are you okay, Kuma-kun?

I have bad days too, but today’s the day me and Leo-kun― ‘Knights’s OBs are here together?

If you make a racket it’ll ruin the mood you know?

I don’t know if it was because of the cat, but you couldn’t concentrate during the retrospective, could you?

If you’re really not feeling it, maybe it’ll be better if you go take a nap like you always do?

Or, how about you explain yourself to me and Leo-kun? Maybe it’s better now that the generation's changed, us OBs should just hurry up and retire?

Ritsu: No, that’s not what I said―

Leo: Sena, I’m going to have to stop you there.

Rittsu’s in the wrong for getting worked up, but we shouldn’t be making light of it you know~?

Izumi: I know what you mean, but it’s just that don’t you think they’re being rude given that we’ve finally come home after so long?

You know how hard it is to make a round trip between Florence and Japan, right, Leo-kun?

Leo: I know I know. The oh-so-long trip to Japan is really difficult!

But, if you keep fighting, then it can’t be helped. Let’s leave it for today. This isn’t a place where you should just pull out your sword, this is a retrospective.

Izumi: ......Hmph.

Suou: I’m sorry, Sena-senpai. I wasn’t considerate enough.

As Leo-san suggested, let’s end it here for today. Ritsu-senpai, you’re okay with that too, right?

Ritsu: Yeah. I’ve cooled off a little now.

Sorry I went overboard...... I didn’t mean to hurt anyone.

Notes:
¹ d’Artagnan is the protagonist of story of The Three Musketeers

² OB standing for 'old boys' or alumni/ graduates

³ Athos is the oldest of the Three Musketeers and is very protective of d'Artagnan in the story

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〈Location: Simple Studio〉

Leo: In any case, he’s late, that Suo~!

He gets angry when I come late so I came early today. What a troublesome guy!

Izumi: Honestly. It’s unbelievable that he’s wasting my precious time! Soo~ annoying!

Could it be that Leo-kun’s wanderlust infected Kasa-kun?

Leo: Eh? What what? That’s an interesting idea~ Sena!

Wahaha. It’s the fate of ‘Knights’s leader to be cursed by wanderlust!

I was tormented by the curse for many years and in the end Suo~’s inherited it......☆

Arashi: If such a curse existed, it’s becoming a real nuisance.

A~ah, I’m really glad I wasn’t the one to take over the title of ‘Ousama’.

Izumi: Really though. You say that like it’s a joke, but what about that fight you had over the throne in ‘Requiem’? Isn’t that putting it too lightly?

Whatever. If ‘Ousama’ becomes overly authoritative, it’ll be a new kind of difficult.

Leo: Yep yep. Unless it’s an ‘Ousama’ who brings happiness to his people!

Unless, ‘Ousama’ is completely alone. In which case me leaving the throne to Suo~ would become kind of meaningless you know~?

Izumi: Nevertheless, that doesn’t give him the right to be late. Really, just where the hell is he......?

You’ve seen my schedule in my phone haven’t you, Leo-kun? You know how I can’t even stay in Japan for a week, right?

Leo: I’ve seen it, but-

If you’re so concerned about your schedule, then why don’t you marry it!¹

Izumi: No, I don’t think you understood what I meant.

Suou: (Wheeze) Haah...... Sorry to have kept you waiting everyone.

Leo: Oh? Speak of the devil!

Izumi: Kasa-kun, you’re already 30 minutes late. What is the meaning of this?

Suou: Please excuse me. I was going to go call Ritsu-senpai but I got involved in a little incident.

Arashi: A little incident? Speaking of, I don’t see Ritsu-chan here, did something happen?

Suou: Yeah. To be honest―

Ritsu: I told you to let go of me didn’t I! Why can’t you understand me you stupid cat......!

Do my clothes smell like catnip......?

Suou: ―a stray cat got attached to Ritsu-senpai and won’t let go of him.

Izumi: Unbelievable. This is why you were late?

This is your best excuse? Now why don’t you tell me why you were actually late?

Ritsu: I’m sorry. This guy absolutely will not let go of me. The ES building strictly forbids animals, so it must have had a hard time getting in.

Izumi: There’s got to be some way to pull it off? Come on. If you hold it by the neck like how a parent cat carries a kitten―

Owah. This guy tried to scratch me! If you were human and you tried to hurt a model’s skin, you’d have to pay compensation, you know~?

Leo: Wahaha. You’re scaring the cat! It looks so funny with its fur all standing up on end~♪

Aah, inspiration is flowing!

How about “I stepped on a cat~ intense version”, that sort of song~? Umm, gimme something to write with something to write with…...

Arashi: Come on. Let’s not get irritated alright, Izumi-chan? Don’t you go making it worse too, Leo-kun.

Hey hey, let’s just move on and start the retrospective.

Suou: That’s right, Narukami-senpai. I’m thinking, if we just ignore the cat, it’ll most likely let go.

Well then, Narukami-senpai, can you play the video of the live?

Arashi: Yeah. It’s ready like you asked for.

Ufufu. Everyone is excited to see our charm ♪

Leo: Hold it! The video right there!

Arashi: ? What is it, Leo-kun? Did you find a mistake?

Leo: No that’s not it! Look here, at the front row seats!

Ritsu: I don’t see anything……? You’re not going to say something like "My level of inspiration's finally high enough to let me see ghosts" are you?

Leo: Over here, look reaally closely by this fan’s feet. Look, it’s a little hard to see since it’s black, but you can just make out Rittsu’s beloved cat!

This guy, it saw Rittsu at ‘Knights’s live and came to meet him!

Ritsu: Haa……? No way it’d be something so unrealistic…...?

Owah, what? Don’t suddenly start licking my cheek~?

Suou: Such a reaction, it probably really did come to meet ‘Knights’.

Isn’t it just the cutest? It probably fell in love with Ritsu-senpai’s brave figure at the live ♪

Arashi: Ufufu. Ritsu-chan’s a lot like a black cat, so maybe it sensed that the two of you were similar and became your fan?

Look here. Even though it’s a stray cat, it’s fur is surprisingly clean ♪

Ritsu: Don’t say things so nonchalantly! This absolutely is no longer your beloved retrospective at all! Secchan, you too, isn’t this taking up your precious time......?

Izumi: Well, ‘Knights’ cherishes their fans after all.

If you’re getting so much love, then don’t think too hard on it, alright? I’ve already given up...... ♪

Leo: Is that so~? Then you’ll just have to let the cat do as it likes until it’s satisfied, Rittsu ☆

Ritsu: Ughh, can you guys stop thinking “It’s a cute cat, so let's let it do whatever it wants”!?

To me it’s an unlucky black cat! Aah come on, what a disaster……!

Notes:
¹ the Japanese says ‘become Schedule-san’s child’, but ‘why don’t you marry it’ feels like a more accurate English version

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〈Location: Simple Studio〉

Tsukasa: All of you newcomers, you know why I called you to the ES Building, right?

Being new cannot excuse the lazy performance you put up during the live the other day.

Did you not consider the fact that you were giving off a bad impression for the other hardworking members as well?

…...I’m going to get straight to the point. If you have no intention of changing your attitude, please withdraw from ‘Knights’.

If you’re here because you want to have fun being an idol, then there are other alternatives besides ‘Knights’.

We are a 'unit' that is constantly improving through strict lessons.

......Stay in the wrong group, and everyone else will suffer along with you.

Right. With that said, going forwards, I wish you all the best in your activities.

......Good luck.

Arashi: They’re crying, those kids.

Ritsu: Yeah. ......You feel bad for them, but it’s for the sake of the others. I mean, they were mismatched as a group.

One can only hope to come across a good ‘unit’.

But those eyes......

(I feel bad for them. They’re crying and all we’re doing is standing here watching them. They look like they want to say “What’s wrong about wanting to have fun being an idol?”―)

(Those pure eyes that seem to know nothing about the world.)

(From here on out, I wonder how many ‘unqualified people’ will be cut.)

(It’s just the nature of the job, but seeing all the newcomer knights getting criticised like that, as expected, it really makes your heart hurt.)

(But, that’s just the way it is in ‘Knights’.)

(Knights who solve problems through duels and in some cases and settle withdrawal or dissolution by fighting. It’s that sort of ‘unit’.)

(Like that, covered in blood, we were able to advance.)

(But this self destructive cycle, these wars― how long will they go on for?)

(Perhaps it will never end......)

〈ES Garden〉

Ritsu: Huh-...... Was that a dream……?

Uuu, I’m drenched in cold sweat. To top it off, my body feels heavy for some reason……

As I thought, I haven’t been able to let go of what happened that day. I thought I’d have forgotten about it by now.

(......huh? What’s with this feeling? Something’s wriggling around near my stomach!)

(Who is it? Am I getting attacked by one of the newcomers? Surely it’s not one of the pranks that Tsukipi~ set up.....?)

Hold on. You don’t disturb people when they’re sleeping. Thanks to you, I’m in a bad mood, you know?

If you’re messing with me, I’ll make you regret it......!

......h-huh?

It’s a cat. A black cat is sitting on my stomach!

Ugh, so this guy is the cause of it!

Get off. You’re heavy and it’s too hot......!

Ughh, it doesn’t seem like it's going to move.

In that case, I’ll be returning the favour appropriately. Are you ready, you stupid cat?

I won’t allow anyone― no, I won’t allow anycatto get in the way of my sleep.

No matter how innocent you seem, using me as a mattress is a grave sin.

Nghhh......!

AH. Hey, don’t dig your claws into my stomach. I thought you liked it here......!

Tsukasa: Ritsu-senpai......? What are you doing?

Ritsu: Oh, Suu~chan. You came just in time.

Can you take care of this cat somehow? It messed up my afternoon nap just then.

Tsukasa: Hmmm...... So Ritsu-senpai’s having a turf war with a cat?

Fufu, isn’t this just an awfully cute black kitty? If it were me, I think it’d be better to just let it sleep ♪

Ritsu: If we gave out passes for cuteness, then we wouldn’t need the police. What, does 'Ou-sama' not want to be criticised by his subjects~?

Tsukasa: Well, that goes without saying.

Anyway, Ritsu-senpai. May I have some of your time?

Ritsu: I’ve got plenty of time but― could it be that something’s happened in Yumenosaki’s 'Knights'? Did the juniors organise a coup-d'état?

Tsukasa: No. If there really was a coup-d'état I wouldn’t be standing here so carefreely.

A few days ago, ‘Knights’ had a live, right? I wanted to hold a retrospective before Sena-senpai goes back to Florence, so I’m calling all my senpais together.

Ritsu: I see. A retrospective on the previous live......

I suppose it’s true that the new members are somewhat lacking in their teamwork.

Tsukasa: Yes. Although the fans loved it, for us, it was a very unsatisfactory live.

If ‘Knights’ are to become known across the country― no, across the entire world, we cannot be satisfied simply with maintaining the status quo.

Let’s make use of this retrospective for our future activities!

Ritsu: Suu~chan, aren’t you just super excited? I feel like this is the most energetic I’ve seen you yet.

Tsukasa: Hmph. It’s to be expected of a leader.

Since the coronation was completed without any problems―, it’s now the king’s duty to do everything he can to repay his people.

Actually I wanted to ask, from Ritsu-senpai’s point of view, did it really seem like I got that excited?

Ritsu: Sorry sorry, I didn’t mean to tease you.

In any case― seems like some of your energy rubbed off on me Suu~chan. Let’s follow the new 'Ou-sama'.

Tsukasa: I’m glad I have your understanding, Ritsu-senpai.

Well then, shall we go? It’ll be bad for the cat, but I’ll have to return it to Ritsu-senpai.

Ritsu: Mm. Really, what a troublesome cat. Thanks to it I had a nightmare……

Tsukasa: I'm sure it's just that- a bad dream. Because we’re living in reality, not in a dream.

What’s more, our reality is bright― it's a reality where we are in an environment that lets idols truly shine.

In order to be thankful for that, we have to be disciplined and work hard going forwards.

Ritsu: Mm~ If that's what Suu~chan’s come to believe, then it’s fine, right?

(Well, I suppose it’s alright to just forget about the nightmare. As much as you worry about the past, the history of battles fought can never be erased.)

(Last year’s 'Knights' fell into disarray after conflicting over whether or not to disband.)

(And yet over time, we managed to come together.)

(It’s difficult, with the increasing number of newcomers― I want to think that someday peace will come back to us.)

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