Chapter 1: A Bolt Out Of The Blue* * Expression similar to the same English expression. Translated by : Kaori Hasegawa Sponsored and brought to you by : Alberto Mazzetto Proofread by : Mike Chapman and Shampoo Story and Art by : Masakazu Katsura <5> Hiromu: Oh my God! Even though I wanted to become a comic book artist, it didn't mean I wanted the kind of thing that happens in a manga to happen in my everyday life... This is exactly like "Seiten no Hekiheki"... *Correctly, "Seiten no Hekireki" means "A Bolt Out Of The Blue" A girl from the video came out of the TV. <7> Len: Ouch, ouch, I hit my chin... Hiromu: What...you...suddenly... Len: Well, calm down. Don't worry, don't worry, just think of it as an accident. Hiromu: You made my...precious kiss...an accident. This must be the 'Fire on the other side of the river"...* *Expression, meaning you should look at it without concern. Len: How cute, you call yourself "Boku".* *Boku means I, but it's used a lot by little boys. Sound: Suka. <8> Len: Now, I'll introduce myself again! "Boku"'s* name is Len Momono. *After this, she starts calling herself boku. Hiromu: Don't mock me! Len: Usshi. <9> Hiromu: I need to go back in time a little bit to explain why this happened. When I still had my favorite long-hair style... By the way, as it later becomes, my name is Hiromu Taguchi, I've just become a junior in high school. Sign: [Rakkan Private High School] <10> Sound: Pan. Girl: So rude!! Why... Why did you!! Hiromu: The guy who was just slapped is Toshiki Karukawa, who is the same age as me and my best friend, for the time being. I don't know why, but he's very popular. He changes girls one after another... Girl: I can't stand you anymore... Toshiki: Ku... Toshiki: Well, I can't help it. I'm that kind of guy, so. <11> Sound: Zuga. Sound: Dada. Toshiki: Guwa-. Toshiki: U-. Hiromu: You did it again. Toshiki: Oh, were you watching us? Hiromu: How many girls did you do it to, since the begging of this year. Hiromu: A guy like you will, sooner or later, "Eat your own ear." Sign: [*correctly, "Eat yourself*"] *Hiromu always uses idioms, but usually jumbles the words. "Eat yourself," what he meant, means to destroy yourself. Toshiki: Hey, more than that, do you have time this afternoon? Hey. Hiromu: Art class. Toshiki: Hey, it's Saturday, let's enjoy. <12> Toshiki: I got a good tape, it's powerfully kinky, especially since it's completely uncut. I don't have my own VCR, so let's watch it at your house. Hey, Hiromu-chan, it's okay, right. You should see these things, and you'd better have interest in girls. Sound: Ba. Hiromu: My VCR isn't made for playing such things. Toshiki: Hiromu. Sound: Fun. Toshiki: He's still as finicky as usual... I guess his childhood scars haven't healed yet... <13> Girl: Here you are. Girl: You said you were going out on a date with me today! Right! Toshiki: Eh? Really? Well! Just... Hey! Hiromu!! What about the video!! The video!! Hiromu: You have a date, right. This is exactly "You must reap what you sow." Well, then. Hiromu: He's this way every day. But every time, girls come to get closer to him... Anyway, his big problem is that he makes promises too easily. I wonder if it's true that he's never liked a girl from his heart... <14> Hiromu: I decided...then, I would never start liking any girls... Hiromu: Then... Hiromu: I like you. So, well, please see me even after we enter junior high. Sound: Gu. Hiromu: Anymore, that pain, no thank you... <15> Hiromu: I'm too busy improving my drawing, so... I don't have time to start liking a girl. Sign: [Drawing Club] Hiromu: Hello. Youta: So many people came, huh. I guess everybody came because of the theme. Hiromu: Oh, teac...no, Moteuchi-san. Hello. Hiromu: He's Youta Moteuchi. He's a picture book artist, and on the side, he operates this school. I guess he doesn't like to be called "Teacher, teacher," so it's forbidden to call him "Teacher." Sign: (Youta Moteuchi: (25)] <16> Hiromu: Dammit! Today we have a nude model... This is what he meant by "because of the theme..." Hiromu: Because I was slow, I could only get this position... Hiromu: I can't draw more than this... <17> Sound: Doki doki doki doki doki doki. Hiromu: Anyway, I'll draw from her face... Sound: Doki doki. Sound: Doki. Sound: Bachi. Hiromu: Our eyes met... What should I do... Sound: Dokun dokun dokun. Sound: Kusu kusu. <18> Sound: Dokin. <19> Sound: Dokun dokun dokun. Hiromu: More than that, I couldn't see her. I thought this would be exactly like, "A bolt out of the blue"... Hiromu: At night... Toshiki finished up his date quickly and came to my house... But, I...couldn't stop my heart from beating hard. Video: Ah... No... No... <20> Hiromu: That...new girl... I may have fallen in love with her with one glance... I know the reason, she looks like the girl who rejected me four years ago... Sound: Doki doki doki doki doki doki doki doki. Hiromu: I had such a hard time, but am still not tired of it... Anyway, am I cured from that wound... Toshiki: Hey! Hiromu! Look at this, it's gorgeous! Video: No... Haa. No. No... Ah haa. haa. Video: Haa. No. Ha ha ha. Ah haa dan... Toshiki: Wow. Video: Haa haha... Haa haa ah-. Haa. Hiromu: It's been a week since then. Hiromu: That was the only time I could see her from the front. I can only see her back... I can't ever see her from the side...because I'm afraid she may notice my eyes... Hiromu: But... If I close my eyes, any time, I can remember her face clearly from that time... Sound: Doki doki doki. Hiromu: Did I start to really like her... <21> Shirakawa: Excuse me... Hiromu: ...This...beautiful voice is... Hiromu: Her! Shirakawa: Would you give me a piece of your eraser? Hiromu: Eh! Eraser. Sound: Ase ase. Sound: Ni. Sound: Sa. Sound: Su. Sound: Doki doki doki doki doki doki. Hiromu: Ah... I touched her...finger a little bit. Shirakawa: Thank you. Hiromu: I can't see her face... No matter how hard I try, I can't move my neck more than this, and I can't see her face! <22> Sound: Zu. Hiromu: What?... Hiromu: But... Sound: Doki doki doki. Hiromu: Why me? There are many other people, but why me? Why!? Sound: Doki doki. Hiromu: Why?... Boy: Hey, let's go have a cup of coffee. Boy: Sounds good, let's, let's. Sound: Zawa zawa zawa. Boy: Oh, Shirakawa, don't you want to come with us!? <23> Shirakawa: Um... Then... Sound: Doki doki doki doki. Sound: Dokun dokun dokun dokun. Sound: Don don don don. Hiromu: Ah, I have something to do, sorry! Boy: Oh, okay, bye! Hiromu: Dammit, why is it!? I'm like a repulsive magnet to her, even though I actually want to stay with her... Why!... Sound: Doki doki doki. <24> Hiromu: Why... "Why" reminds me... Sound: Za za za. Hiromu: Why me... Hiromu: Why, out of so many people, did she ask me for an eraser!? Sound: Za za. Hiromu: Why... Sound: Za. Hiromu: Could it be... Sound: Doki doki doki. Hiromu: Maybe she's worrying, "Oh, no, he's leaving"... Sound: Doki doki doki. Hiromu: She may care... Sound: Doki doki doki. <25> Hiromu: Of course not... I'm stupid... I don't even know her name. Gee... This must be said, I don't know my level... I got excited by myself, and, without reason, expected...just that... Hiromu: But I discovered reality, and I'm starting to cry... I quit... I'll quit now. Hiromu: If it's now, I can go back. I'll try not to like her more than this. The scar from that time hasn't yet healed. If something happens like last time, this time...I surely won't be able to live... Hiromu: But... It didn't end like this, I didn't know I would come across a weird video shop, and video girl, then. It can be said, "Even Buddha wouldn't know"...* * Expression meaning something happens very unexpectedly. End of Chapter ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 2: A Carp Unable To Travel Upstream On A Waterfall* * Similar to the expression, "Like a fish going upstream." Translated by : Kaori Hasegawa Sponsored and brought to you by : Alberto Mazzetto Proofread by : Mike Chapman and Shampoo Story and Art by : Masakazu Katsura <27> Hiromu: It's been a long time... Hiromu: It's been a really long time since I've started liking a girl... Hiromu: But... Hiromu: If I know I'll lose in the game, then I shouldn't play because I don't want to be hurt... Because if it's now, I can turn back... Hiromu: I won't go to art class for a while. So I don't see Shirakawa-san, and I can calm my feelings down... I will...live just for manga, like I have been until now... <28> Sound: Sha sha. Shouko: Oh, you're drawing, as usual. Sound: Piku. Hiromu: What are you doing. Don't look, Ozawa!! Return to your class. Shouko: What are you talking about. You want to be a manga artist, right. Then it's a job meant to be seen. Anyway, let me see. Hiromu: She is Shouko Ozawa (10th Grade). Like Toshiki, we've known each other since elementary school, and she's one of them who knows about my dark past. I've never once thought of her as a girl. Shouko: It's between you and me, let me see. <29> Shouko: Let me see! Hiromu: No!! Hiromu: Ah. Sound: Sa. Toshiki: Gee, you're still horrible, your fatal problem is in your drawings of girls. If I were a reader, I wouldn't read your comics. Hiromu: You don't have to be so rude... Toshiki: Hiromu... This is...who? It's extremely good. Who is this.. <30> Sound: Ba. Hiromu: Wa-. Toshiki: Did you...start liking...someone? Toshiki: Right! Right! Is that right! Toshiki: Good job! A really good job! Your childhood scar has healed! Let's cook bean rice, bean rice*!! *It's a meal for special occasions. Hiromu: You're exaggerating. Hiromu: he is...really happy for me... I think he's a nice guy at these times... But... <31> Hiromu: But... I'll quit this... I know it's hopeless even if I start liking her... Toshiki: What are you saying!! You, who wasn't interested in girls, started liking some girl. It's stupid to quit!! And, this is your chance to improve your drawings of girls! Shouko: Hey, Toshiki! Aren't you interested in the girl he started to like? Toshiki: Um. Shouko: Let's go see the girl. Hiromu: No!! What are you talking about!! Toshiki: Good idea! Good idea! Sound: Bun. Toshiki: Do you think she's in this school? Shouko: No... If that's so, we'd already have known it. Toshiki: Then, is it the art class!? <32> Toshiki: Leave your hands off! Hiromu: I said no!! Hiromu: I'm "An uninvited carp traveling upstream on a waterfall"! I'm trying not to like her. Then, why do you do this to me. Shouko: If you want to say it right, it should be "A carp unable to travel upstream on a waterfall." Sign: [It means no matter how hard one tries, it's impossible.] Toshiki: Why are you stopping? Toshiki: To like someone is a very important thing, you won't have so many chances, so you shouldn't stop, otherwise you'll face the wrath of God. Sound: Kira. Hiromu: Your words don't have any power to persuade me. <33> Toshiki: I don't care, anyway! You naturally started liking. It's unnatural to stop! Hiromu: I'm scared...anymore. I don't want any pain... Toshiki: H-Hey. Sound: Da. Sound: Ja. <34> Ayumi: Ah... Hello. <35> Sound: Peko. Ayumi: Ah... Class? <36> Shouko: That must...be her... Toshiki: She looks so much like Reiko Shimada. If she were in high school, instead of elementary, she would've looked like her. Toshiki: I wonder why Hiromu started liking someone who looks like the one who gave him pain... Toshiki: But... Because she looks alike, if he can get along with her, his scar may completely heal. Shouko: He shouldn't...that girl... Toshiki: Why, all of a sudden. Is it because she looks like Shimada. Shouko: No... <37> Shouko: I think you noticed her uniform, but she's a student at Shinsie High, right. There is a bad rumor about her... Toshiki: Rumor? Shouko: Yeah... I heard it when I went to their school festival. I was away, but I remembered her because she looks like Reiko Shimada... It must be her... Toshiki: What kind of rumor. Shouko: Well... <38> Toshiki: Don't be silly!! It's girls' peculiar nonsensical talk, isn't it! Sound: Dan. Shouko: Wh-What, it has nothing to do with me, don't be upset with me! Toshiki: It does have something to do with you! You said he should stop because of that stupid rumor!! Shouko: Why are you so upset! Toshiki: Listen! If you tell it to Hiromu!! I won't forgive you! <39> Toshiki: Stupid. he could lose...this big chance because of such a stupid rumor. Right, Hiromu... Sound: Gatan gatan gatan. Toshiki: He was going to die even though he was a kid... He's had pain and pain, he refused every girl, but now he could actually start liking a girl. Toshiki: This time, I want to let him succeed. Toshiki: Otherwise... He won't start seriously liking a girl, like me... <40> Toshiki: Hey! Hiromu!! I brought a good tape! Hiromu: The dirty tape again!! Hiromu: Help yourself, I'll be drawing manga! Toshiki: Well, don't say that. Toshiki: You need this right now, so watch!! Sound: Guwa. Hiromu: Stop! Hiromu: Uwaaa!! Sound: Za-. <41> Sound: Van. Hiromu: Ah. Hiromu: What? What is this? Toshiki: It's the tape from the junior high sports festival, you ran in the class relay race. Toshiki: With your eyes, you can see that you have charm and have self-confidence! Toshiki: Oh, see, look at that! Every one of them in the class was cheering for only you. Wow, nice going! Gee, if people see the serious part of you, a guy like me would fall in love with you. Hiromu: This is a perfect "Drop in the bucket." If I see this, not only will I lose my self-confidence, but it depresses me... If I can say, I was the last one at the time... Hiromu: But... Hiromu: I can feel Toshiki's kindness. With this small brain, he thought to cheer me up... With his kindness, I'm starting to feel that I will do my best... <42> Toshiki: By the way, Hiromu. Hiromu: Um? Toshiki: I think that even if you could be, you can't be liked with that hair style. Hiromu: Eh? Shouko: Ugyahahahahaha. Hi- hi. Hiromu: You don't have to laugh so much... Toshiki forced me to cut my hair. Shouko: S-Sorry, sorry. Shouko: Fine, fine, looks neat. Hiromu: Hah. <43> Hiromu: Fu... Hiromu: I don't know why Toshiki became so serious about another... This way, he would look like an idiot, so I'll ask her for a date, and save his reputation. Shouko: Eh? Hiromu: Um? Shouko: Ah... Toshiki: Th-That idiot!! <44> Toshiki: Shouko, I need to talk to you!! Come here!! Hiromu, you go back to the class room!! Shouko: U. Sound: Da da da da da da da. Shouko: Just a second. Shouko: I haven't told him!! Toshiki: Are you sure!! You really haven't, right!? Toshiki: Even though it's a rumor. Toshiki: If Hiromu hears that... <45> Boy: Eh, no kidding. Are you serious!! Hiromu: What was Toshiki's problem... Boy: I'm serious. I heard some girl, named Shirakawa from Shinsei High. See this! I got her picture from a Shinsei High student. Hiromu: Um? ...Shirakawa? Boy: Wow!! She's cute! This girl will really let us sleep with her. Boy: Yeah, I heard she sleeps with anyone. Hiromu: Eh? Eh!? End of Chapter ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 3: One Rumor, Seventy-Five Days* * Expression meaning, if it's a rumor, it will only last seventy-five days. So, if it lasts longer, then it's probably not a rumor. Translated by : Kaori Hasegawa Sponsored and brought to you by : Alberto Mazzetto Proofread by : Mike Chapman and Shampoo Story and Art by : Masakazu Katsura <48> Boy: I heard, whenever she's alone with a guy, she suddenly takes her panties off, and says, "You can do it like this, right." "Do whatever you want." Hiromu: It's a lie... A lie... Boy: Gee, so she must be a slut. With such a face. Boy: Well, it's surprising that a girl with this kind of face would be so easy. Hiromu: It's a lie!! Sound: Puchin. Sound: Ga. <49> People: Zawa zawa. What!! It's a fight, a fight! What, what!! Zawa zawa zawa. Shouko & Toshiki: Um? Toshiki: Hiromu! I'll help you! Sound: Baki. Boy: Gu. Sound: Zuka. Gogo. Shouko: Oh my God... Teacher: Hey!! All of you, what are you doing!! Sound: Doka. Baki. <50> Toshiki: It was just a rumor! Don't worry. Shouko: That's right! Toshiki & Shouko: But, it's spread to this school as well... Toshiki: I've decided... Toshiki: People say, "One rumor, seventy-five days*," but... I can't wait seventy-five days! <51> Hiromu: I'll actually ask her for a date, and I'll prove she's not that kind of girl, like the rumor says!! I feel sorry for Shirakawa-san like this!! Sound: Guwa. Sound: Dopyuuuu. Toshiki: Ah! Hey!! Hiromu!! Toshiki: Oh no... He's running recklessly! If he goes crazy, he'll turn into a reckless jerk! Shouko: We have to stop him, quickly. Toshiki: It happened that time when we were kids, too. Because I said something... Toshiki: You're stupid. Girls aren't cute and beautiful, like you think. They throw up and take a shit. So does Shimada. Sound: Puru puru. <52> Hiromu: Such..! Such..! Shimada-san doesn't do such things!! Toshiki: It triggered a tragedy! This is a similar situation again... This is not...good! Shouko: It's not time for flashbacks!! Bringing him back is first! Sound: Pan. Toshiki: That's right. Toshiki: Um? Sound: Bashi. Girl: I was waiting for you all yesterday!! It's so rude of you, just ignoring me!! Toshiki: Eh? Eh? Shouko: Then, I'll go. Sound: Ga. Girl: Just a minute! What are you to Toshiki!? Shouko: What? <53> Sound: Hiro hiso. Sound: Za. Sound: Gugu. <55> Hiromu: There she is! Sound: Ba. Sound: Gaku. Sound: Shu. Sound: Goro goro goro goro. Hiromu: Ugaga. Sound: Za. Sound: Dosa. <56> Ayumi: Eh? Toshiki: Dammit, where did he go!? Sound: Muku. Hiromu: Shirakawa-san!! <57> Toshiki: Down there!? Hiromu: Please, someday soon, go out on a date with me!! Teacher: What are you! What school are you from!! Toshiki: Hiromu. <58> Hiromu: Ha! Toshiki: That idiot... This is exactly the same as that time! Hiromu: At the time... Suddenly... I remembered clearly about that time... <59> Toshiki: You're stupid. Girls aren't cute and beautiful, like you think. They throw up and take a shit. So does Shimada. Sound: Puru puru. Toshiki: You can't go out with girl while having those kind of images. I know you'll just keep worrying, so give up completely. Okay! Hiromu! Sound: Puchin! Hiromu: Such..! Shimada-san doesn't do such things!! I'll go out with her, and find out about her, and then I'll prove you wrong!! Toshiki: Oh? Where are you going, Hiromu. Sound: Da. Hiromu: Shimada-san! Hiromu: I...like...you! So, well...please see me even when we enter to junior high! I mean, please go out with me!! <60> Sound: Kuru. Shimada: Haven't you ever looked in a mirror!? Are you saying you want to go out with me, with that kind of face!? It's 100 million years too early for you!! How can you say that, in front of everyone!! Where does that confidence come from!? I'm so embarrassed! You're stupid!! Die! Go home, and shit, and go to sleep!! People: Wa ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha. <61> Hiromu: It's the same... Sound: Dokun dokun. Hiromu: I did the same thing... Sound: Doka. Hiromu: It's hopeless... Toshiki: Hiromu... Ayumi: Okay... Ayumi: Okay... <62> Sound: Bashi bashi bashi. Toshiki: Nice going, this is dandy!! Hiromu: Ouch!! Ouch. Sound: Bashi bashi. Toshiki: Now, we have to decide what you're going to wear for your date! Hiromu: It's too early. Hiromu: Hey, stop it. Sound: Poi. Toshiki: We were over-anxious. So the rumor was just a rumor. Shouko: But... Why did she agree so easily... Shouko: Isn't it just like the rumor, because she'll go out with anybody? Toshiki: You think very depressingly. Let's think more positive, brightly! Hiromu: Ah... A date with Shirakawa-san... It seems like a dream... <63> Hiromu: Finally, Sunday...has come. Hiromu: We were staunchly quiet, just wandering around the city. I was like that because I was extremely nervous, my mind was blank, and I couldn't think of what to do... Hiromu: Just walking around wasn't fun, so we decided to go see a movie... Ayumi: It's so crowded... Ayumi: Oh, brother, there are spaces! Hiromu: Eh!? <64> Ayumi: Ah, I'm sorry! Hiromu: I found out one thing... Shirakawa-san has a brother... Anyway... It was kind of embarrassing... Hiromu: The movie was over, and we really had nothing to do, and so, at last, we came upon a very familiar town, "Shimokitazawa"... Then, I remembered the most comfortable place. Hiromu: Well... Don't you want to go to art class? Ayumi: Eh?... But... It's closed today... Hiromu: I...know where Moteuchi-san hides the key. That's right. If we talk about drawing, we may be able to keep up a conversation... <65> Sign: [Drawing Club] Hiromu: That's... Hiromu: What I thought, but... Sound: Doki doki doki doki. Ayumi: You look good with that hair style... Hiromu: Eh? ...Oh... Thanks... Sound: Shi-n. Hiromu: I have to say something! Something!! Sound: Doki doki. Ayumi: I'm sorry about earlier... You kind of look like my deceased brother, so... I mistook... Hiromu: Ah... It's okay. Gee... What a cold response... E-n... Sound: Doki doki doki doki doki. Hiromu: I have to say something to follow it up... Say something... Ayumi: Well... Sound: Giku. <66> Ayumi: Why...did you ask me out...today? Hiromu: Eh?... Because... Well... Sound: Doki. Hiromu: Uoooo. Why can't I open up now! Talk about this and that, everything!! That I am thinking in my mind!! Sound: Doki doki. Hiromu: Anyway... Anyway... I have to say, "Would you see me again?" or "Please go out with me," or something else. We'll just go home. I have to say it... I have to say something quickly!! Sound: Doki doki doki. Sound: Kata. Hiromu: Ah!! Say! Say it!! Hiromu: Well... I heard a rumor about you... <67> Hiromu: What am I saying!? Ayumi: ...You heard a rumor?... So, it's spread to other schools as well... Hiromu: She said it and became quiet... The air seems frozen... Hiromu: I don't know how much later... One minute... Thirty minutes... One hour... Well, a very long period of silence went on for me... Suddenly...in an instant, she silently stood up, and... She said... Ayumi: You can do it like this, right. Do whatever you want... End of Chapter ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 4: The Mind Isn't Here * Another expression, but pretty self-explanatory, like, you can't think. Translated by : Kaori Hasegawa Sponsored and brought to you by : Alberto Mazzetto Proofread by : Mike Chapman and Shampoo Story and Art by : Masakazu Katsura <70> Hiromu: I couldn't move... I was just watching, observing her actions, while she put her hands in her skirt, as I say correctly, "The mind isn't here." I was in that situation, and I didn't know what was going on... <71> Sound: Su... Sound: Susu... <72> Ayumi: You can do it like this, right. ...Do whatever you like. Hiromu: Ha. Ayumi: I don't care...anymore... I don't... <73> Boy: I heard, whenever she's alone with a guy, she suddenly takes her panties off, and says, "You can do it like this, right." "Do whatever you want." Hiromu: It's not true! This must be a mistake or something!! She's a pure girl!! Hiromu: It's not a mistake. The one who's in front of you is the real figure of her. She's a slut, just like in the rumor! Hiromu: Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Sound: Gata. Pikun. Sound: Yoro... <74> Hiromu: Why. <75> Hiromu: Ahh!!! <76> Hiromu: Ha ha ha. Hiromu: Uppu. Sound: Ga. Sound: Gashan. <77> Toshiki: Hey, Hiromu, are you home. Sound: Kon kon. Sound: Gacha gacha. Toshiki: Oh... He's still on the date with her. Dammit. He's doing well!! It's all right, I'll ask him for the results of today, tomorrow. Sound: Po. Sound: Popo. Toshiki: Un, shit, it started to rain. <79> Toshiki: Hiromu?... <80> Toshiki: ...Were you rejected? Toshiki: Dammit!! That bitch!!! Hiromu: No... Hiromu: No... It's not her fault... Such an easy thing, I couldn't realize, I'm the one who isn't normal. Hiromu: I forgot that I shouldn't start liking a girl... <81> Toshiki: Hiromu... Shit... He'll be hopeless like this... Toshiki: Dammit... Dammit... Sound: Zaaaaaaa. Sound: Paaaaa. <82> Toshiki: What?... Was there a video shop around here... <83> Sound: Fuwa. Sound: Ga. Toshiki: Wait... <84> Toshiki: This one is "Neo," if we can choose, let's go to the new one. <84 & 85> Sound: Go go go go go go. <86> Gokuraku: Welcome. Sound: Biku. <87> Sign: [Idol] Toshiki: Wow. Toshiki: They're all cute... Toshiki: Plus, I've never seen any of them. Sound: Pi-n. Toshiki: That's right... It's now, so I'll show a cute girl to Hiromu, and let him know how good girls are. If I let him get away from girls now, he'll seriously hate girls. It's called counter-irritation. Toshiki: An Adult Video is too much for him, so an Idol tape is just about right... Now, which girl... Hiromu: Well... is this the video rental shop? Gokuraku: That's right. <88> Gokuraku: This is a video shop that only pure-minded people can see. Hiromu: What? Gokuraku: There was another one, right. Our tapes have heart, unlike that ones. So, don't worry. Gokuraku: There's no membership fee, or rental charges. Just take the one you like. Hiromu: Ah... But... I'm not in the mood to watch tapes right now, so... Toshiki: Clerk! Clerk! Oh, here he is! Gokuraku: Um! What!? There's another one!? Sound: Gata. <89> Toshiki: Hey, Jijii*! The girls tapes are only those on that shelf. * Jijii is a bad term used for old man. Gokuraku: Ji-Jijii... Toshiki: Well... They don't have one that strikes me! Toshiki: Um. Toshiki: Oh! There it is! It strikes me! You hide the good ones, you shitty-Jijii! Gokuraku: Well... This one was just finished today, so I haven't tested it yet. I'd say it's a prototype. Sign: [Let's be in Love ...] Toshiki: I don't mind. I don't care. We'll rent this. Hiromu: Is he pure, too? End of Chapter ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 5: Water In A Sleeping Ear* * Expression meaning to be surprised. Translated by : Kaori Hasegawa Sponsored and brought to you by : Alberto Mazzetto Proofread by : Mike Chapman and Shampoo Story and Art by : Masakazu Katsura <91> Toshiki: I like it!! Sign: [Let's be in Love ...] Gokuraku: Wait a second. Toshiki: It's okay. We'll become members right now. How much is the membership fee, and the rental fee? Gokuraku: I don't need them, but it's just been completed. I have to test it out. Come back tomorrow. Toshiki: Hah! There may not be such a suspicious video shop tomorrow. I shouldn't let this chance go. From the beginning, this is for Hiromu. <92> Hiromu: Hey, Toshiki, the clerk said no, so let's not rent it. Toshiki: Oh yeah, even if I like it, it doesn't do anything. I have to ask Hiromu. Toshiki: Hey, Hiromu, don't you like this type of girl? Sound: Ga. Sound: Piku. Hiromu: I... Hiromu: I don't want to see a girl right now! Sound: Ba. Toshiki: You have to force yourself to see it. "Fight poison with poison*," people say, right!? If you don't do this, you'll never be able to like a girl, ever! * Expression like "Fight fire, with fire," meaning that to stop one thing, you use that same thing against it. Sound: Piku. Sign: [Let's be in love.] <93> Toshiki: Anyway, we'll rent this. I don't know, even if you charge us!! Hiromu...! Let's go home!! Hiromu: Wait! I don't want to rent it. Gokuraku: He's trouble... Gokuraku: Here... This is a membership card. If you pray with this card, this shop will appear anytime. Use it... Gokuraku: You found this store, and brought yourself in here. You need that tape now. Watch it even if you think you're tricked. <94> Sign: [Chapter 5: Water In A Sleeping Ear] <95> Hiromu: Introducing myself came later, but... I'm living on the top floor of this apartment building, which used to be a storage room, which was remodeled. It's the room my brother bought, but he's in Hokkaido, on his job, so I'm here to watch the room. Hiromu: Toshiki comes here almost every day... he doesn't like being at his house, so... Hiromu: Living alone is so lonely, so it usually helps me, but... I wanted to be alone today... <96> Toshiki: If you spend time with a bright, carefree girl, a timid person like you would want to be in love again. Wow! This is really for you, Hiromu!! I chose a good one. Toshiki: I don't understand, the playing time is until you will be in real love. Toshiki: hey, Hiromu! What are you doing. We're going to watch the tape. Hiromu: Why don't you go home and watch it alone. Toshiki: Stupid! Then there's no meaning for me to rent it. It's for you to see! Hiromu: I'm not in the mood to see that kind of tape! I want to be alone. <97> Toshiki: Okay, we'll watch it, Hiromu!! Hiromu: Do whatever! Toshiki: I'll do whatever. Sound: Kuiiin. Shakon. Toshiki: See! It's starting! Sound: Za-. <98> Sound: Za-. Sound: Za-. Sound: Van. Len: Good evening! Nice to meet you!! Len Momono! It's a pleasure to meet you! <99> Sound: Chira. Len: You, over there, look so depressed. Cheer up. Sound: Piku. Toshiki: Hi Hiromu. You're being encouraged by the tape. You're sympathetic. Len: That's right, you are. <100> Toshiki: It was just an accident, right. Just accidentally, the conversation matched, right. Len: Don't think you won't be in love anymore. If you do that, you won't be happy. So, let's find a new love with me, starting today. Toshiki: Dammit. I feel like I'm being made fun of. I'm getting upset! This tape! Should we stop it! Hiromu, I'm sorry I made you watch such a stupid tape. Len: you really worry about him. Len: Your feelings of wanting to heal his wound will lead me into that world. Your pure heart. <101> Toshiki: That world? Are you saying you're getting out of there. Sure! Interesting. Do it! Hiromu: It was a strange site. Toshiki got upset with the girl in the video, and she treated him lightly... They're talking. Len: Than, I'll take your word. Hiromu: It was exactly "Water in A sleeping ear," an unbelievable thing happened. Sound: Katsu. Toshiki: U. Sound: Shuoooo. <102> Toshiki: Um. Hiromu: The light was...somehow...warm... Familiar... And, it felt very good... Sound: Fuwa. Sound: Kuru. Sound: Su... Sound: Su... <103> Sound: To. Sound: Zuru. <104> Sound: Zu. Sound: Dosha. Len: Kya. <105> Len: Ouch, I hit my chin... Hiromu: You did...that...suddenly. Sound: Dobo dobo. Len: Calm down. Don't worry. It was an accident. Hiromu: My important first kiss is...an accident. This is like "The fire on the other side of the river"... Len: Um. You said, "Boku." how cute. Sound: Suku. Len: Now, I'll introduce myself again! <106> Len: My name is Len Momono-chan. <107> Len: Usshi. Hiromu: No, usshi. A girl shouldn't call herself "Boku." Don't steal it from me. Toshiki: It's not time to complain about that, Hiromu!! Toshiki: The girl who was on the tape is in front of you!! Be a little shocked!! Hiromu: I'm shocked, but... But, she is out, so what can I do about that. <108> Toshiki: I sometimes get confused at how your mind works... Toshiki: From the beginning, what are you! Are you a magician? Len: A Video Girl. Toshiki: What is that. Is it an Adult Video actress. Len: Well, I encourage and comfort boys... Well, if I can say it, I'm like a boy supporter. Toshiki: Oh, I see. Toshiki: This must be a new service at the video shop... Anyway, it's such a bold production. <109> Toshiki: At first... I'll ask you to do the same thing you did to Hiromu. Len: Then, let's communicate, skin to skin. Sound: Pan. Toshiki: ...I see... I guess it was too...sudden. Toshiki: Then, from the beginning, I want to see you in your birthday suit. Len: No!!! Toshiki: ...Then, would you just be in your underwear. Len: No!! Toshiki: ...Then, would you wear a bathing suit. Len: No! <110> Sound: Kuru. Len: I'm not an "Adult Video," so I can't do such things at all!! Toshiki: You can at least lift up your skirt, right!! Sound: Ba. Sound: Baki. Toshiki: Gyan. Hiromu: Stop it Toshiki!! Hiromu: That's your bad part! This perverseness!! Len: Oh, no!! Horrible!! I hate that guy!! <111> Hiromu: You... Hiromu: I'm sorry... You can go home now. Len: No. i have to take the responsibility of getting your first kiss. I'll make you capable of being in love! That's my duty! Hiromu: At the time, I thought, "It's impossible,"... At the time... End of Chapter ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 6: An Autumn of Emergency* * Expression meaning a time of emergency, or crisis. Translated by : Kaori Hasegawa Sponsored and brought to you by : Alberto Mazzetto Proofread by : Mike Chapman and Shampoo Story and Art by : Masakazu Katsura <114> Hiromu: I was shocked last night...because that girl came out of the VCR... Hiromu: Video Girl Len-chan, who said that she would heal the wounds of my heart. Sound: Giiiiiiii. Hiromu: Toshiki seems to like her, but... <115> Hiromu: She seems like she's started to like that room, so i guess she'll live there, but... Hiromu: Is she really there... Wasn't it a dream. Len: Good morning. Len: Were you trying to rape me while I was sleeping. <116> Sound: Su. Sound: Doki. Sound: Gu. Len: Um? <117> Hiromu: Of course I wasn't trying to rape you in your sleep. Len: Well, you don't look like that. Len: Anyway, I started to like this house. It's comfortable. Sound: Piku. Hiromu: It's trouble for me! Why do I have to live with you*. * This time, he used "ore" Len: "Ore"? What's wrong? Suddenly, you don't you "Boku"? Hiromu: No, I've been using "ore" for a long time. Hiromu: Now she won't steal "boku". I bet she won't call herself "ore". I feel like she's making fun of me by stealing my word, so. <118> Len: Oh, but I like the word "boku," so I won't stop. Sound: Pi-n Po-n. Hiromu: Who? So early in the morning. Sound: Pipo pipo-n. Hiromu: Yes, yes. Sound: Gacha. Toshiki: Hi! Hiromu: Toshiki!? <119> Hiromu: What's up? So early in the morning. Toshiki: Well, I'm thinking about living here starting today. Sound: Dosa. Hiromu: Wait!? Len: Oh no. Len: Why!? Toshiki: Because you're here of course. Sound: Sa. Len: Gi. Toshiki: If I can say so myself, I haven't been refused by girls much. I can say that you are the first girl who did that... Toshiki: So, I'm interested...in you. Len: Don... Len: Don't get close to me!! Sound: Ba. <120> Toshiki: Now, I'll come get you! Len: No. Sound: Dota dota dota dota dota. Sound: Dote. Len: Gya. Toshiki: Oh... Partially visible red dots, must be strawberries. Hiromu: How indecent! Toshiki!! Stop it!!! Sound: Baki. <121> Len: He can't do this, right! You won't allow it, right!! That such a guy would live...here. Hiromu: Haa haa. Hiromu: I*... I** think it would be better if Toshiki were here, than me being alone with a girl. * Boku, **Ore. Toshiki: You said it well!! Nice, Hiromu, you have a large mind. Sound: Ga. Len: Why! Why!! You saw him earlier, then why!!! Hiromu: But... If he's here, you would be in danger, so isn't it better if you go back to the video shop? Toshiki: Wha? <122> Len: I can't do that... Since I was played, I want to help you, and about your first kiss, also... Toshiki: Lucky. Hiromu: Anyway... We have to go to school now, so watch the house for awhile. Len: Eh? Aren't you going to eat breakfast? Hiromu: I don't have time to fix it. Would you fix it for us? Len: No, no, I can't cook. <123> Hiromu: You're a girl, but you can't cook. Len: What!? It sounds weird, it sounds like you're saying that I'm not a girl if I can't cook! Len: Anyway. I* ...not... I'm** so hungry. I haven't eaten anything since my tape was played last night. * Watashi, ** Boku. Hiromu: After all... I don't think I can live with you... I don't want to see a girl eating food so messy, or going to the bathroom. Len: Gee, you're really weird. Girls get hungry and go to the bathroom, too. Your ideas are weird... I think. Sound: Piku. Toshiki: Okay! Then, I'll be in charge of cooking!! Hahaha!! It's settled! Len: No! You, go away! <124> Hiromu: Gee... She said whatever she liked. Well, I guess she doesn't mean to be rude... Anyway, we gave her a little money for food, and we...went to school... Toshiki: Well, don't mind her. She's a nice girl who not dual-sided. Hiromu: Yeah... I don't mind. Shouko: Hi! Shouko: Hi! Hiromu, how was your da... Toshiki: Uooo. Shouko!! All of a sudden, I wanted to hold you!! Sound: Gaba. Shouko: Kya-. <125> Shouko: Stupid!! What are you thinking. Stop it. Toshiki: It's taboo to talk about the date. Shouko: Eh? Shouko: Hiromu... Toshiki: Hiromu, you're going to art class now, right. Hiromu: No, I'm not going. I can't leave you alone with that girl, and... <126> Hiromu: And, I may happen to see Shirakawa-san... I imagined Shirakawa-san over Len-chan's actions when she tossed her hair, maybe because I still have some sweet feelings about her... The sweet feelings that...she's not actually a girl who would so easily sleep with anybody, and that she's the girl I thought she was... Hiromu: With these feeling, if I will know the truth I would feel exactly "In the pull of emergency..." * Expression meaning there is danger, and it is a life an death situation. Toshiki: Now! Eat a lot. I may not look like it, but I'm a good cook. Toshiki: What? What's wrong, Len-chan? You look down. Len: I'm sorry, Hiromu-kun. Sound: Peko. <127> Len: While I was eating potato chips alone, I was thinking, I might have hurt you with my thoughtless words this morning. Len: I was played because you had a wound in your heart about girls, but I make your wound deeper, rather than healing it. Sound: Gusu. Hiromu: I see... She's seriously thinking about the wound in my heart... I shouldn't be too rude to her... Hiromu: It's okay... I'm not concerned about it, so cheer up. <128> Len: Eh!? Really, good!! I'll do my best from now on. Len: Well, I'm hungry now that I'm relieved!! Toshiki: Good! Then, let's eat. Len: Ha, oh yeah. If I eat messy here, what will happen... It may be a good chance to wake him from his weird, wild fantasy. Girls eat messy sometimes, too... Well! It's a little embarrassing, but... Len: Itaadakimasu.* * Expression we use before we eat. Other than that, it's hard to explain to foreignors, but it's like how the English use a prayer before eating. Sound: Gatsu gatsu gatsu. <129> Sound: Gatsu gatsu gatsu gatsu gatsu. Sound: Gatsu gatsu gatsu gatsu gatsu. Hiromu: I'm starting to regret having any kind of feelings toward her. Len: Ah. It was good. Len: Gochisousama.* * The expression we use after we finish eating. Len: What vulgar actions I'm taking. E-n. Hiromu & Toshiki: Gochisousama. Sound: Kyu-n. <130> Len: Ah... What should I do... Is it because of the potato... This is...too much... Sound: Doki doki doki. Len: But... Repeating these things can wake Hiromu up! Sound: Doki doki doki doki. Len: This is extremely embarrassing, but I have to sacrifice myself! That's right! Well!! Sound: Doki doki. Toshiki: What's wrong, Len-chan? Sound: Pu. <131> Hiromu: After all, I don't want to live with you. Sound: Bun. Len: I did it because I thought it would be good for him, but... I'm so embarrassed I could die. Hiromu: If you're not going to leave, I'll leave!! Sound: Dota dota dota. Toshiki: Hey, Hiromu! Sound: Tyurururu. Hiromu: I was really thinking about leaving, but...then...Moteuchi-san called me. End of Chapter ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 7: Hearing Something A Hundred Times Isn't The Same As Seeing It Once* * Expression similar to "A picture is worth a thousand words" Translated by : Kaori Hasegawa Sponsored and brought to you by : Alberto Mazzetto Proofread by : Mike Chapman and Shampoo Story and Art by : Masakazu Katsura <134> Hiromu: Gee! Who is it, at such a time. Sound: Tyururu. Sound: Pi. Hiromu: Yes! Hello. Youta: Ah, hello? Is this Taguchi-kun? Youta: Good evening. This is Moteuchi. Hiromu: Oh, hi, good evening!! Sound: Peko peko. Toshiki: Hey, you. Isn't it too rude? Do people usually fart after each meal? Len: But... I was so embarrassed I could die, but... But... For Hiromu-kun... <135> Toshiki: Can you really heal Hiromu's wounds? You look like you're making it worse. Len: Gusu. Toshiki: If you really came out of the VCR, then... Len: Then? Youta: It sounds exciting over there. Hiromu: Ah... My friends are here... Hiromu: What could it be... Did he find out about the broken statue. Sound: Doki doki. Hiromu: Well, then... What is it... Youta: Well, nothing really, but... <136> Youta: I'm a busy-body, so. Sorry, I'm just anxious... Hiromu: Oh... No. Don't apologize, please... And?... Youta: See, you've never skipped class before, and seem to be working hard... But, you haven't come recently, so I was just curious. Ai: Hey! Dinner is ready, dinner!! Youta: Okay! Youta: If you want to come again, any time is welcome. Hiromu: Ah... Sure... What should I do... <137> Toshiki: Let's hit the VCR that is playing you. Len: Eh? Eh? Toshiki: Sometimes electrical things get fixed if you hit them. You must be having a problem. Let's hit it. Len: Waa, don't! If you do something weird, I'll disappear. Youta: Well, Taguchi-kun. Hiromu: Ah... Yes. Youta: Can I come by your house now? I have something to give you. Hiromu: Eh? <138> Hiromu: Right now!! Hiromu: I'm not going to leave because a guest is coming, but... Len: Really! Good!! Hiromu: Don't feel relieved! I haven't forgiven you! I don't want him to be with such a vulgar person!! Len: Eh. Hiromu: You can't complain if you're ever returned!! <139> Hiromu: Then... Hiromu: After about an hour, Moteuchi-san came... Sound: Gacha. Youta: Good evening. Hiromu: Ah. Hi... <140> Hiromu: As soon as Moteuchi-san arrived, he became like a stone... I wonder why... Hiromu: I soon noticed, it was because of Len-chan's bizarre clothes... Hiromu: She's Momono-san. And, he's Karukawa-kun. Toshiki: Hi. Len: Nice to meet you. I'm Len Momono, I've been taking care of Hiromu-san's place. Hiromu: I don't know about that. <141> Youta: You're wearing some very unique clothes. Len: Eh. Hiromu: ...Not good, if he asks Len-chan more about this... I don't want Moteuchi-san to be shocked, and I don't want things to get any bigger. How can I manage... Toshiki: She came out of the video tape we rented from some weird video shop. Hiromu: Idiot! Toshiki!! Toshiki: It's all right. He won't believe it, he'll think it's a joke. Youta: Oh. I want to see this video shop. Would you take me there? Toshiki: Do...you believe it? Youta: If you take me there, it's supposed to be true, and it will be. Youta: Hearing something a hundred times isn't the same as seeing it once. <142> Hiromu: So then, I wanted to surprise Moteuchi-san and one more reason... Anyway, we came out of the top of the building... Youta: Gokuraku, huh. It's been a long time. I didn't expect to see another Video Girl while I was still alive... Toshiki: What is he. He looks like he's enjoying it... I wonder if he just enjoys being like a kid, and listening to kids' nonsensical words. Hah, he'll soon pop his eyes out. Hiromu: Moteuchi-san is a nice person... He didn't even doubt me. He must be full of curiosity. Hiromu: He said i only have to pray with this membership card. Hiromu: Please come out! Please come out! <143> Hiromu: Um. Hiromu: What? Len: S-Sorry! Nothing! Hiromu: She was...for a moment...very serious... Sound: Paaaa... <144> Hiromu: Let's enter, Moteuchi-san. Youta: Eh. Toshiki: Hey, Hiromu, wait! Youta: I can't see... Gokuraku: You cannot get along if you're just pure. It means you've become a grown up... <145> Youta: Old man!! Gokuraku: You've become dignified. Youta: I thought you were killed... Gokuraku: Yeah... It was close. Gokuraku: I was saved by the new generation... Youth who believe in "love," people who would doubt the Gokuraku's ideas... Youta: I see... Anyway, I'm glad... <146> Hiromu: What? He isn't here... Toshiki: Hey, that guy didn't come in. Did he get scared. Toshiki: Who are you looking for? Hiromu: The clerk... I'm thinking about asking him something...since I'm here. Youta: That man with the coat disappeared, so I guess Gokuraku has become better, hasn't it. That Video Girl looks like she has "heart." Gokuraku: Well, no. Even though he disappeared, nothing happened to Gokuraku... Youta: Eh!? Then... Gokuraku: Don't worry. We are the group against Gokuraku, called Neo-Gokuraku. Youta: Neo Gokuraku? Gokuraku: They tried to deny "love." We're trying to nurture "love". <147> Gokuraku: We introduced "The Emotion System" into Video Girls, so they are just like humans, and counseling professionals are doing the programming, so. There are no worries. Except for Len, she was just finished, so we haven't checked her yet. They took her by force. Gokuraku: I hope they'll return her before any problems occur... Youta: Old man... Let me tell you something brash... If they return her, please refuse it. Gokuraku: Um... Why. Youta: Because, she would be hurt. She was played as a professional, and if she's returned without being able to help, she would be hurt, if she's human... Youta: She may expect it...or know it. She looks so sad, it may be because of that... Gokuraku: Um... You're right... Um... Sorry... ...I almost made another mistake... <148> Youta: Don't do that. I didn't mean that... You're nice, and doing your best... Gokuraku: No... After all, I may not be so different from Gokuraku's people... Gokuraku: My stupidity hasn't just come about recently... In the past, I gave you a hard time... Youta: Old man, everything about it is fine. Ai is fine. Youta: She was able to become human because you risked your life, and you did your best. Gokuraku: It's a miracle... I thought it was hopeless... Good... I'm very glad... I see... I see... <149> Youta: Please see her someday. Gokuraku: Yeah. Please let me see her. Hiromu: He isn't here. Where did he go... Toshiki: What do you need the clerk for. Toshiki: Are you trying to... Gokuraku: Are you looking for me? Toshiki: Oh...you're here? <150> Gokuraku: Can I help you? Hiromu: Yes, actually. Gokuraku: Well, how can I calm him down... Len: Oh well, I couldn't help it. I'm not shocked at all. I'm not depresse!! Hiromu: Shut up!! Would you be quiet!? Len: U. Gokuraku: Len... Hiromu: We... This isn't good... <151> Hiromu: Len-chan's clothes are too bizarre, so my neighbors may be surprised. Would you prepare as many normal clothes for her as possible. She'll be living as a normal person for a while, so... Hiromu: Certainly, I thought of returning her a little bit, just like everyone thought I would... But when I saw her serious eyes... I'm insensitive, so I noticed at that time... Len: Thanks... Hiromu: I realized her eyes looked so hard, so I reconsidered. I couldn't act straight... When I got out, Moteuchi-san was there, waiting. I received the stuff he wanted to "hand to me"... It was, surprisingly, Shirakawa-san's pouch... End of Chapter ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 8: Smoke Doesn't Rise Without Fire* * Expression similar to, "Where there's smoke, there's fire" Translated by : Kaori Hasegawa Sponsored and brought to you by : Alberto Mazzetto Proofread by : Mike Chapman and Shampoo Story and Art by : Masakazu Katsura <153> Hiromu: Moteuchi-san! Why didn't you come in. Youta: I couldn't see it... But I believe what you said. <154> Hiromu: Eh? Really?... Then, it really doesn't mean everyone can see... Len: E. E. E. Youta: Is she crying because she's happy... That must be it... Is it the old man's effort? Or, Taguchi-kun's kindness? Well, anyway, I'm glad she wasn't returned... Youta: Do your best. Len: Eh? <155> Len: Ah. Yes! Hiromu: What? "Do your best." It sounds like he knows what's going on... Youta: Oh, yeah. I have to give it to you. That was the reason I came here. Youta: It's Shirakawa-kun's... <156> Hiromu: Eh. Youta: It was dropped in the art room. Her train pass was half exposed so I found out it was hers. Hiromu: B-But... Why me? Youta: I thought it was better if I hand it to you, but am I wrong?... Hiromu: If I'm told that, then... Youta: Well... I don't know if I can help you, but... I'll listen to you about anything. Youta: I want to help you. Hiromu: Eh!?... Why are you... For me... <157> Youta: I could...see this video shop when I was your age... <159> Hiromu: The next morning...there was a box at the door. In the box, there were many of Len-chan's clothes, and money for Len-chan's living expenses. Toshiki: Well... Toshiki: What are you going to do about the pouch. Toshiki: Do you want me to take it to her? Hiromu: No. I'll do it. That's what Moteuchi-san meant, so he handed it to me. Hiromu: As soon as possible, I'll make up my mind and go give this to her. Len: Kyaaa!! <160> Len: U. U. Toshiki: What's wrong. Len: There are only mini skirts in the box. There aren't any pants or long skirts!! Len: What is this. I'm in serious trouble, what is this reaction. <161> Len: Kya. Sound: Ba. Toshiki: Mini skirts are all right! There is no problem! It's good, it's good!! Len: It's trouble, because there's a guy like you!! Sound: Do. Hiromu: Oh, she's strong. Len: By the way, about the pouch. It's not as soon as possible, it's right now. Toshiki: Eh? Len: Oh, yeah. there is something I have to ask you. <162> Hiromu: Len-chan's question was the reason I encountered "Neo Gokuraku." Toshiki: He can't do something that would open up his wounds now. Hiromu: That's all right, Toshiki... Hiromu: I'll tell you. I thought Len-chan must be in a fight, and trying to do her best since she was encouraged by Moteuchi-san... So... Hiromu: I told her the details of everything from the time of elementary school... And, about Shirakawa-san, she was the same girl as in the rumor. Len: But, I wonder if the rumor is really true. Toshiki: You're stupid. True or not, Hiromu saw the facts with his own eyes. Len: But, Hiromu-kun, you thought she wouldn't be like that kind of girl at first, right. <163> Hiromu: Well... Yeah... Len: I think the best to heal Hiromu-kun's wound is to go out with Shirakawa-san, who you finally started to like. Sound: Ba. Toshiki: That's what we thought, too. But when he opened the lid, she was the girl who hurt Hiromu. Then, what would happen if he goes out with her now. Len: If...she were hurt by the rumor? Len: If she misunderstood that Hiromu-kun believed the rumor, and so she thought that's your goal? If she became desperate because of that? <164> Len: If...she became desperate because of that, then it's easy to solve the problem. Toshiki: What? Why is it easy to solve if she becomes became desperate? Hiromu: We really don't know what she's saying. Len: Well, because, if you think about a date, you can say that... If she becomes desperate, it means she thought, "You're different from the others..." So, if I can say it clearly, the one she trusted was believing in the rumor, so, it means that she likes you, too. Hiromu: I...see... Such an idea would never come from us. I didn't think about why Shirakawa-san went on the date with me at all. So, I was just thinking about myself. Hiromu: Toshiki is the guy who can never start liking a girl. He wouldn't understand the feelings of betrayal... <165> Hiromu: Toshiki, who doesn't know about love, and I, who don't know about girls, wouldn't think of such a happy thing, ever... Len-chan may be able to heal my wound... But... Toshiki: But what if she went on a date with him, just because she's crazy about guys? Len: That's why we should go see her. You can be sure when you hand this pouch to her! Nothing will come out of just worrying and thinking. Hiromu: But... We say, "Rumors don't rise without fire." Len: Hiromu-kun... Sound: So. Len: If you want to say it, it's "Smoke doesn't rise without fire." <166> Hiromu: With Len-chan's support, I went to Shirakawa-san's school. We'll find a girl who knows Shirakawa-san at this school, and ask her to bring Shirakawa-san. Len-chan will talk first, and with good timing, I'll come out with the pouch. It's our scenario, but... Len: She's late... I wonder if she's not coming... Hiromu: Then...should we go home... <167> Len: Here she comes. <168> Ayumi: What is it? Len: Well, we have something to give you, and before that, I have something to ask you. It's about the rumor about you. Ayumi: Eh? Len: With...any guy... That rumor, is it true? Or not? Toshiki: From the beginning, get to the point! <169> Hiromu: It was Len-chan who said she may be hurt by the rumor! Ga. She's so insensitive!! Toshiki: Hey! Hiromu!! Sound: Pa. Hiromu: Len-chan!! Ayumi: Taguchi-san! <170> Len: Gee, I told you to come out only when I give you the signal! Hiromu: Ha. Sound: Gya. Toshiki: Oh my God, it's a mess. Sound: Jari. <171> Ayumi: The rumor...is true... Len: Oh no, the air is tense. Toshiki: Who's fault is it? End of Chapter ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 9: Don't Touch God And You Won't Be Cursed * Expression similar to, "Let sleeping dogs lie." Translated by : Kaori Hasegawa Sponsored and brought to you by : Alberto Mazzetto Proofread by : Mike Chapman and Shampoo Story and Art by : Masakazu Katsura <174> Ayumi: The rumor is true. <175> Len: Hiromu-kun! Chase after her! Hurry, go after her! Hiromu: It's okay. Len: Eh?? What do you mean? Toshiki: That was not well done. Girl: Wait, you! <176> Girl: What do you want! What did you do to Ayumi!? Len: Well... About the rumor about her. Sound: Pan. Len: Ouch... Hiromu: H-Hey! Girl: That rumor is a lie!! <177> Sound: Ta. Hiromu: Ah, just a minute, this! Sound: Gu. Girl: What. Len: I'm glad the rumor was a lie. <178> Toshiki: Hey, I wonder why she said it was true, even if it's not. Hiromu: ...I don't know... Toshiki: So...Maybe she doesn't like Hiromu... Len: Stupid, it's the opposite. Len: She likes you, so she said it. Can't you see it in her mood? Len: Oh... So what I said was correct... <179> Len: I have something to do, so you guys go ahead and go home. Toshiki: H-Hey. Toshiki: Hiromu... What do you think? Saying something true is false, and she likes you... What does it mean? Hiromu: Of course I don't know... Toshiki: Let's think about it. Hiromu: It's all right. Even if she likes me and lied to me. Either way, she's trying to get me to hate her, right? Toshiki: If you talk like that, then who is Len-chan working so hard for? <180> Hiromu: But... Toshiki: Then, fine. I'll think by myself. For myself. Toshiki: I don't know what girls are thinking... I want to understand a little bit, Toshiki: What does breaking up even though you like a person mean? Well... Um... If I think simply and heartfully... Does it mean, "you're too good for me?"... Then she has some regret... Or, she committed a crime in the past or something... <181> Toshiki: ...Not suitable for Hiromu... If she found out about your fascination with girls... Toshiki: Maybe the rumor was too exaggerated, but... She may not be a virgin... Sound: Chira. Toshiki: I'm just kidding! Well!! Think of another reason!! Hiromu: ...If so, she's a person from a different world. Even if I could go out with her... She's not, a guy like me would have problems later, and we would be hopeless... Then I shouldn't do anything, "Don't touch God, and you won't be cursed." <182> Len: Ah. Len: Hey, i want to talk to you. <183> Girl: Ayumi, you, go home. I'll talk to her. Girl: This is fine. Len: Then, here. Girl: And, what? Finish up quickly. Len: I'm thinking about finding the source of the rumor and stopping it... Please, help me. <184> Girl: Strange girl. People: You are betraying me. Come with us. People: All right, all right. Girl: The source of the rumor is that one, the one in the middle, who has the lighter-colored hair. <184> Len: Oh... He looks handsome. Girl: Ayumi's ex-boyfriend... Len: Eh!? Shirakawa-san's ex-boyfriend? Eh, why would he spread such a rumor. Girl: Hah. Len: Okay! Girl: Okay? What are you going to do!? Len: I'm going to complain about the rumor. <186> Girl: You're stupid. It's impossible. Don't even try. Len: Nothing will happen if someone tries. Like this, Shirakawa-san will keep being hurt by the rumor. It's not good. Len: Then, I'm sorry to take up your time. Girl: Ah. Girl: I'm sorry that I slapped you earlier... Len: That's okay. It was because of your kindness, so. <187> Sound: Ta ta ta ta ta. Len: I'm home. Toshiki: Kuka. Len: What an easy-going guy. Toshiki: Ku. Len: Hey. Listen. The truth about the rumor is coming out. <188> Toshiki: Oh... Len-chan, you're here. Welcome home. Len: Gee... How can you sleep while everyone else is worrying. Toshiki: I got sleepy because I was thinking about difficult issues. Len: And! I found out which guy is spreading the rumor! Toshiki: Wow! Are you serious!! Len: Leave it to me!! i tried to talk to him, but he refused me. Too bad!! Hiromu: Len-chan... Just for me... Toshiki: And! And! Who is he! Len: Well, it's shocking. <189> Len: Shirakawa-san's ex-boyfriend. Toshiki & Hiromu: Eh!? Toshiki: Just like I thought. Len: Eh? As you thought, what!? What!? Toshiki: Well... I was thinking about the psychology behind trying to be hated. Toshiki: If she found out the Hiromu is fastidious about girls, she may not be as naive as Hiromu thinks... She may not be a virgin... And, if she had a bad boyfriend, there is a stronger possibility... Len: Wow, it's sharp thinking for your level!! Toshiki: Take off the "for your level" part. <190> Len: But, it's not such a big problem... Hiromu: Hey... Len-chan... Hiromu: I was thinking...but, you're...nice to me, and I have fun being with you... If I live like this, with you, my wound may get better... Len: What do you mean? Hiromu: I mean... Well... My level is different from hers... Or a different world. She's already an adult, and I'm still a kid... How can I say... I think... It's impossible... <191> Len: Hiromu-kun, I've lost all my respect for you. What do you think girls are!? Len: Don't you think girls are human!! You said something that sounds nice, but. I heard it as, "Experienced girls don't have a right to go out with me!!" Hiromu: She's angry... This is the first time I've seen her angry... Sound: Kuru... Len: Hold me, right now!! Toshiki: Eh!? End of Chapter ----------------------------------------------------------------------