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Will Sprout | HERO CHRONICLE | Chapter 2: Andante


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Bizele: Meow ♪ Mrow~♪

Hannah: Hehe, Bizele looks so happy! ♪

Will: He sure does. He really seems to enjoy the sunshine.

Bizele: Mrow~, meow~

Hannah: Huh? Why is he running toward the flower bed?

Will: Maybe something caught his eye?

Hannah: Bizele, what’s up?

Bizele: Mraaw!

Hannah: ...!

Will: Hannah-chan? What’s wrong?!

Hannah: B-B... Bug!!

Will: What?!

Hannah: W-W-What do I do, Will-san?! Bizele has it in his mouth!

Hannah: Wait, Bizele! Don’t come any closer! Please, Bizele!!

———

Gast: Hannah, Will!

Hannah: Big bro!

Gast: Sorry I’m late. Thanks for watching her, Will.

Will: I-It was nothing...

Gast: You havin’ fun with Bizele, Hannah? Couldn’t ask for better weather. The breeze feels great, too.

Hannah: Y-Yeah, I am, but... Just a little bit ago, Bizele had his sights set on a bug.

Gast: Did he? Makes sense, bein’ outside ‘n’ all. Everything end up okay?

Hannah: Yeah, Will-san took it somewhere else for me. All I could do was yell... I’m sorry.

Will: You don’t have to apologize. I understand why you were freaked out...

Gast: Wait, you good, Will? I coulda sworn Akira told me once that you hate bugs...

Hannah: Wait, is that true, Will-san?!

Will: Oh, haha... Yeah, it’s true. But I couldn’t show it with how scared you were, Hannah-chan.

Hannah: Did I force you to do something you don’t like...?

Will: I’m fine, don’t worry. Bugs are an inevitable part of caring for plants, so I know how to handle them.

Gast: Thanks, Will. I owe you one.

Will: I-It’s fine, really...

Hannah: I didn’t think you had any weaknesses, Will-san.

Will: Huh?

Hannah: I just seem like you can do anything, so I’m a little surprised... but also a little relieved.

Will: Relieved...?

Gast: Aah, I know what you mean. Will gives off that diligent, perfect honor student vibe, so it’s nice to see he’s as human as the rest of us.

Will: What are you talking about... Of course I have weaknesses. I actually think I have more than the average person.

Will: I don’t like bugs, I’m bad at cooking, and I can’t swim, either...

Hannah: Really...?

Will: There are a lot of weaknesses I’ve carried with me since I was a kid. It’s embarrassing to admit, though...

Gast: Ain’t nothin’ to be embarrassed about, is there? I mean, I’ve got my fair share of things I’ve never been able to get over... Okay, maybe it is kinda embarrassing.

Will: I’m not hung up on them or anything, though.

Will: The other day, Oscar-san told me it was okay to focus on what I’m good at instead of what I’m not... and that made me feel a lot better.

Will: I decided I was going to learn more about plants than anyone else, which would help with my Substance, too.

Hannah: Interesting... Sometimes I get overwhelmed by how many weaknesses I have, but maybe I’ll start thinking the same way as you, Will-san.

Will: Go for it. Working hard to overcome your weaknesses has its own merits, but it’s just as important to keep a positive mindset.

Gast: Is that why you’ve been training your abilities so hard, Will?

Gast: It seemed like you were putting more work into that than weight training and stuff lately... Hero abilities really are personal to each of us, huh?

Will: ...You noticed, huh?

Gast: ‘Course I did. That’s pretty amazing though, to be able to utilize your plant knowledge for your powers...

Gast: Maybe I should take a page outta your book and study. ...But how the heck would I study wind? I ain’t got a clue.

Will: I could help you, if you wanted.

Gast: Really...?

Will: What comes to mind immediately are things like meteorology and wind engineering... Oceanography might be good to study, too. I think there are plenty of fields you could dive into.

Gast: ...You’d really help teach me?

Will: I prefer to hone my strengths while also tackling my weaknesses head-on.

Gast: ...!

Hannah: Hehe, good thing you’ve got such a wise friend on your side, right big bro? ♪

Bizele: Mrow~♪

———

T/N: "Andante" is a musical term that means "moderately slow". My personal interpretation is that Will is taking a "slow and steady" approach towards becoming a Hero and overcoming the things that have always held him back.

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Will Sprout | HERO CHRONICLE | Chapter 1: First Step Towards Becoming a Hero


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Kitten: Meow, mrow

Ren: Oh wow...

Will: How cute! I’m glad it’s eating the food you brought.

Ren: Me too. I saw in a book that adding milk to it makes it soft so kittens can eat it!

Will: You’re so nice, Ren, taking the time to look that up. Look, Akira, isn’t it cute?

Akira: Yeah, it’s cute and all... but if it’s out here in a box like this, doesn’t that mean it was abandoned?

Will: Probably... Has it been like this since you found it, Ren?

Ren: Yeah, at first the box had a lid on it, too... I noticed it because I could hear it crying.

Akira: Who the heck would do something like this...

Shop Owner: Hey, you kids! What’re you doin’ over there?

Akira & Ren: Huh?!

Shop Owner: Don’t go feedin’ strays right by my shop! Then it’ll never leave.

Will: S-Sorry about that! It’s just... this little guy was crying because it was so hungry...

Shop Owner: Are you gonna come feed it every day, then?

Ren: If it doesn’t get food, then it’ll...

Shop Owner: What a thorn in my side.

Will & Ren: Ngh...

Akira: Hey gramps, did you know it was here?

Shop Owner: ...Yeah. But it’s a black cat. They’re nothin’ but bad luck.

Will: So you just ignored it?!

Shop Owner: So what? If you’re gonna lay the blame on someone, lay it on the piece of work that abandoned it here. I’ve got nothin’ to do with this.

Will: ......

Ren: Poor kitty...

Akira: Let’s bring it home with us, Ren. You’ve always wanted a pet cat, right?

Ren: I want to, but I have to ask my mom and dad first.

Will: I’ll ask my parents, too. If yours say no, I’ll try asking if it can stay with us instead.

———

Will: (...They told me no.)

(I figured that’d probably be the case, but still...)

———

Will: ......

(Huh? Is that thunder...?)

(Whoa, the sky is pitch black over there. It was clear just a minute ago...)

(...It looks like it’s raining over where the kitten is.)

(Its box is wide open, too...)

———

Will: Huff... Huff...

(Wow, it’s really coming down... An umbrella would be completely useless in this downpour.)

(Where’s the kitten...?)

(...Huh? It’s not in the box?!)

(Where did it go? Did it run into the street...?!)

Shop Owner: Aren’t you the kid from before...?

Will: Mister! The kitten... The kitten disappeared!

I came to check on it since I was worried about it being caught in the rain... What should I do? It’s completely defenseless...

Shop Owner: If it’s the black cat you’re looking for, then...

Kitten: Mrow!

Will: ...Huh?

———

Will: You brought it inside... thank goodness...

Shop Owner: It’s not like any more customers are comin’ today thanks to the rain, so I brought it inside. Cleaning up after it is gonna be a pain.

Will: Um... I asked my mom if I could keep it, but she said no.

I get sick and fall asleep easily, so she said I can’t be responsible for an animal...

Shop Owner: That’s too bad...

Will: Achoo!

Shop Owner: H-Hey now, you should dry off before you get sick. Jeez, hold on a minute—

Will: Mmm, toasty... Thank you for letting me borrow a towel and for making me milk tea.

Shop Owner: I can’t have you passing out here, now can I?

If you’re sickly like you say, you should think a little more before you act. Your parents are gonna be worried sick.

Will: But I was worried about the kitty...

...Someday, I wanna be a Hero.

Shop Owner: A Hero?

Will: You might think it’s impossible for a sickly kid like me... But I’ve made up my mind.

I’ve only just admitted that dream to Ren and Akira too - the boys that were with me earlier. They fully support me; they never told me it’s impossible.

That’s why I just couldn’t turn a blind eye when I thought the kitten might need saving.

Shop Owner: ......

Kitten: Meow, mrow~

Will: Hehe, it’s completely let its guard down around you, Mister. It looks right at home there on your lap. ♪

Shop Owner: If I leave it alone for even a second it starts whining at me. It gets on my nerves, so I just let it stay.

...If it’s already this attached to me, maybe I should just keep it and take care of it myself.

Will: Really?

Shop Owner: Besides, I don’t need kids loiterin’ around the shop every time somethin’ happens.

Kids like you... and your little friends over there.

Will: ...?

Akira? Ren?!

Shop Owner: Looks like you were all thinkin’ the same thing...

Good grief, they’re soaked to the bone, too... Watch the cat for me, will ya?

Will: Sure...

Shop Owner: Hey, you kids!!

Will: Hehe, he ended up being a good person.

You’re pretty lucky to get picked up by someone like him. Enjoy your new life, okay? ♪

Kitten: Mro~w ♪

———

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Will Sprout | Other Side Heroes 4★ Card Story | Stray Cat in the Lost Garden


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Jude: ......

Will: What’s wrong, Jude-san?

Jude: It felt like I was being watched just now...

Guess it was just my imagination.

Will: Being watched?

Asch: I’ve been feelin’ it too, ever since we got here. But every time I look around, there ain’t nobody there.

Jude: If it were residents of the Lost Garden, we should be able to drag ‘em out pretty easily. Whoever they are, they’re too good at staying hidden.

Asch: Easier to just say it’s in our heads.

Jude: True. This isn’t the time to be worrying about them, anyway.

Bianchi, are you doing okay?

Bianchi: ...I’m fine. You don’t need to worry about me.

Jude: We’ll find your family, don’t worry. All we can do is believe in that and keep looking.

Bianchi: Right...

Jude: I’m gonna go look over there. Call for me if something happens.

Bianchi: Okay. Then I’ll go this way...

———



Will: Bianchi-san.

Bianchi: ...!

Will-chan... What is it?

Will: Well... I haven’t found any leads or anything yet, but...

Are you really okay, Bianchi-san?

Bianchi: Huh?

Will: You look pretty pale is all... I’m sure you’re feeling a little restless because you’re worried, but please don’t overdo it, okay?

Bianchi: ...Thanks, Will-chan. Sorry to worry you.

It’s not just my family I’m worried about...

Will: What do you mean?

Bianchi: What I... did to Sei-chan...

Will: Bianchi-san?

Bianchi: ...I always thought Heroes were a lot more powerful.

A symbol of justice, always able to make the correct choice...

No matter what predicament they find themselves in, they can demonstrate miraculous powers in order to protect what’s important to them.

Will: ......

Bianchi: But I guess that’s not true. Then again, maybe that’s how Heroes always used to be...

...And I’m just a half-baked Hero.

I’ve got to get stronger.

Will: Bianchi-san...

Bianchi: Sorry, I said some pretty hideous things just now. I should just shut my mouth—

Will: I want to get stronger, too. Get stronger and protect those I care about.

Even if I were being forced to pick one to save, I’d still want to save them all.

I find myself wondering how I could possibly amass a power that great...

Bianchi: ......

Will: Ahaha, sorry... I’m only a rookie, but here I am spouting off like I understand how you feel...

Bianchi: That reminds me, Will-chan... When Sirius invaded the Tower before, you—

Bianchi & Will: ?!

———



Bianchi’s Younger Brother: Waaaaaah! Bianchi!

Bianchi’s Younger Sister: Bianchi, you came... thank you...

Bianchi: I’m so glad you’re safe...

Jude: I’m happy for you, Bianchi.

Will: I’m so glad they were found safe. To think that there were this many Tronis members hidden down here...

Asch: Yo, save your sappy little reunion for later.

Will: H-He’s right. We don’t know when this place might collapse, so let’s get above ground.

Jude: How are we supposed to get back?

Will: That’s... a good question...

Um, is there anyone here who knows where the exit is that leads to the surface? Any and all ideas are welcome, so if you have any guesses, please speak up.

Jude: Looks like we struck out.

Asch: There seriously ain’t a single person who knows?

Will: No way... After we came this far...

Jude: Should we just keep pushing on and hope for the best?

Asch: And how do you plan to make things right if we just end up wandering around lost forever?

Jude: Well, we won’t know unless we try—

Will: (What should we do?)

(We have so many people here...)

Bianchi: Hey, wait! Where are you going?!

Will: Bianchi-san? What’s wrong?

Bianchi: My brother said he saw a cat and took off that way...

Will: A cat?

Bianchi: Wait! Don’t go running off on your own!

Asch: What the hell’s goin’ on?

Will: Apparently there’s a cat over there...

Asch: A cat?

Will: ......

Asch: Hey, hold up...!

———



Bianchi: —Honestly, I can’t believe all that happened.

Will: I feel you.

Bianchi: It’s strange to think we were just in the Lost Garden a little while ago.

Will: I couldn’t believe that following the cat led us to the exit!

Bianchi: No kidding. Nothing short of a miracle.

Will: ......

Bianchi: Something the matter?

Will: Oh, it’s nothing... I just feel like it wasn’t a mere coincidence is all.

I think someone was guiding us...

Bianchi: ...And who might this someone be?

Will: ......

I think I’m imagining something too good to be true, so I’ll keep my thoughts to myself.

Bianchi: ...Suit yourself.

I won’t ask if you don’t want to tell, but if you ever do decide you want to talk, then I’ll be here to listen.

Will: Okay. Thank you, Bianchi-san.

...I hope I can repay you someday.

———

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 11


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Announcer: And now, we’re headed for this event’s climax!!

Yes! It’s the one-on-one battle between Akira Otori and Brad Beams!

Brad: Hah!

Akira: Take this! Uraaaah!



Announcer: Whoa, neither of them are giving an inch! The sparks are flying, adding flair to this fight!

Brad: Nice dodge. Normally that would’ve been a direct hit.

Akira: Hehe, I’ve gotten stronger, too! Don’t think I’m the same kid I used to be! ♪

Brad: Indeed you have.

Akira: Wipe that smile off your face! I’m gonna hit you with my brand new move!

Brad: ...Don’t tell me. Then I’ll know it’s coming.

Akira: Knowing won’t make a difference if you can’t avoid it!

Brad: Then let’s dance.

Akira: Let’s do this! Voltage max!!!

———



Akira: Next person!

Akira's Fan B: U-Um, I was so impressed by you. I don’t even know how many times my heart went crazy!

Akira: Thanks a bunch! I lost the fight, though...

But next time I’ll show you a win, so I hope to have your support until then!

Akira's Fan B: Of course! Oh, by the way, I’m getting married next week!!

Akira: Oh, right! Congrats, I hope you have a happy marriage!

Akira's Fan B: Thank you so much!

Akira: Next—

Brad: That was the last guest.

Akira: Oh, hey Brad.

Brad: I received a call from Dr. Nova. It appears everyone who came to see our LOM has been cured of Romantic Rampage Syndrome.

Akira: For real?!

Brad: The medicine is also looking promising, so those who couldn’t be here today should also be cured within the week.

Akira: Phew, that’s a relief...

Will: Looks like Akira’s performance at the LOM went well.

Oscar: I didn’t think their battle would be so lively.

Will: It certainly was impressive! ♪ My hands were getting all sweaty just watching them.

Akira: I ended up losing... and I couldn’t land my new move, either...

Brad: Your skill and power still both need work.

Akira: ......

Brad: But it was a great match.

Akira: Oh...

Just you watch, Brad! Next time, I’m comin’ out on top!

Brad: ......

I’m looking forward to seeing it.

Ping!

Will: ...Huh? Did the device just go off?

Oscar: Hm? I didn’t hear anything. Besides, the fans have already left.

Akira: Hey, what’re you two doing? Hurry up and get changed so we can go celebrate a job well done! ♪

Will: Sure thing!

Oscar: Where should we go, Brad-sama?

Akira: Hot dogs are always good, but let’s go for sushi this time! [1]

Brad: Then let’s call ahead. I’ll bring the car around.

Akira: Hell yeah, I’m gonna eat my fill! Voltage max!!!

———

[1] You probably already know that sushi happens to be Brad's favorite food. :)

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 10


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Akira: Tch, Eclipse brought a whole crew with ‘em!

Brad: It appears the Substance has already been recovered. Thanks to that, they aren’t paying attention to us.

Akira, I’m going to charge in and take back the Substance. Think you can keep up?

Akira: Hah, no problem! That’s what I’m best at.

Brad: In that case, I’ll be counting on you.

Ping!

Akira: Uh...

Brad: What are you doing?

Akira: N-Nothing!!

———



Brad: ...We managed to take back the Substance and drive back Eclipse, but we failed to achieve our original goal.

Akira: ......

Brad: I suppose that romantic something isn’t so easily found.

Akira: ......

Brad: You’ve been quiet. Are you that upset that Jay and the others came in to take over pursuing Eclipse?

Akira: ...I don’t care about that.

Brad: Then what is it? You’ve been unusually quiet since our fight ended.

Akira: What’s wrong with me being quiet?

Brad: ...If it really is nothing, then fine. But it’s only natural that I’d be curious why you’re acting differently than usual.

Akira: Erm...

(Whispering) ...ound it.

Brad: Speak up.

Akira: ...I found it.

Brad: Found what?

Akira: The romance thing.

Brad: Did you now?

Akira: When you think about why our fans love us, it’s because we’re Heroes, right?

They’re all counting on us and rooting for us...

And the thing they love the most is seeing us fight to protect the city and their livelihoods. At least, that’s what I think.

Brad: I see...

I was stuck only thinking about how to best answer their desires, but I bet you’re right.

That’s a great observation, Akira.

Akira: (whispering) ...I wasn’t even trying to notice, though...

Brad: ...?

Akira: You know what that means... Fight me at the Valentine’s LOM, Brad!

I’m gonna show off by taking you down and set every heart in the stadium ablaze!

I’ll take every single one of your fans for my own!

Brad: ...You’re on. But I won’t hold back.

Akira: You better not! Victory will be mine!

Brad: I’m looking forward to this.

———

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 9


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——The Previous Night——



Oscar: Hmm......

Brad: I’m back.

Oscar: If they want to see the night sky, then perhaps climbing to higher ground would be best...? But then camping gear would be required...

Brad: Oscar...?

Oscar: Oh, welcome back, Brad-sama.

Brad: Might I ask what you’re reading?

Oscar: Oh, this... While I was walking around a book shop, I noticed this magazine that features romantic locations and scenarios, so I purchased it.

However, as I started to read, I realized the content is quite difficult to understand - much more so than a regular book.

Brad: Is that so?

Oscar: Yes, but it seems that visiting the ocean at night qualifies as a romantic experience. Why don’t you and Akira try going tomorrow?

Brad: Are you sure it doesn’t specify going in the summer? I imagine the beach would be quite cold this time of year...

Oscar: You’re right... The sea breeze would likely be unbearable...

I apologize for providing you with poor information, Brad-sama.

Brad: Don’t worry about it.

Even if it’s cold out, you can still hear the waves at night, so it could still be considered romantic.

I’ll try taking him if there’s time. Thank you, Oscar.

Oscar: Y-You’re welcome! Good luck!

———



Akira: ......

Brad: ......

Akira: Man, it’s freezing...

Brad: ...The breeze is strong.

Akira: This probably is romantic and all, but it’s too cold out.

If Oscar were here, he’d definitely freeze and try to curl up to stay warm.

Brad: I could see it.

Akira: Hey, Brad? There’s somethin’ I’ve been wanting to ask you.

How was Oscar able to so easily charm all his fans like that? He doesn’t understand romance either, so I woulda thought he’d struggle like I did.

Brad: ...I have a guess.

Oscar doesn’t mince words.

And I believe it’s precisely because he doesn’t provide lip service that his honest, earnest feelings drive straight into the hearts of his fans.

Moreover, it’s likely that the fans that came to see him support him because they’re charmed by his character.

Akira: That makes sense. The fans that came to see us became our fans in the first place because they love us.

But then why weren’t you able to pull it off?

Brad: As the number of fans increases, their desires also diversify.

It seems I wasn’t fully able to understand that at the time.

Akira: You mean that everyone likes a different part of you? Like one person might like your appearance, another might like your whole “efficiency” deal, and another might like how you’re naggy?

Brad: Those feel like very pointed examples, but yes.

Akira: That means you just gotta find the one common thing they all like, yeah?

Brad: ...If such a thing existed, we likely could’ve avoided this situation entirely.

Akira: ......

Jack: “Emergency, emergency!

Eclipse has appeared in the vicinity of Olive Avenue. All Heroes in the area should make their way over at once.”

Akira: Eclipse appeared?!

Brad: They’re close...

Akira: Let’s go too, Brad!

Brad: Agreed.

This is Brad Beams of South Sector. I’m heading to Olive Avenue.

Jack: “Roger that... I will inform the Heroes on patrol.”

Brad: Let’s go, Akira.

Akira: Yeah!

———

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 8


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Handsome Character A: “You’re quite the interesting little lady, aren’t you... Nobody’s ever talked to me that way before.”

Akira: ......

Handsome Character B: “I’m the one who’s been in love with her all this time. Back off.”

Akira: ......

Heroine: “If you never intended to stick around, you shouldn’t have gotten my hopes up like that!”



Akira: (Whispering) ...Hey, Brad.

Brad: (Whispering) No talking during the movie.

Akira: I know, I know... But take a look around. For how popular this movie supposedly is, there’s hardly anyone here.

Brad: (Whispering) You still need to be quiet.

Akira: There’s no action or suspense or anything, and I can’t follow the plot...

Brad: ...There’s certainly competition and psychological warfare, though.

Akira: What? Where?

Brad: The two guys are fighting over the heroine, are they not?

Akira: ...? And what about that counts as a competition?

Can’t some Oscar-lookin’ dude swoop in to save the crying heroine or somethin’?

Brad: ...That’s not a romance movie plot. In fact, that’s about the furthest possible thing from it.

Akira: What’s wrong with someone like Oscar starring in a romance movie?

Brad: ...Be quiet and watch. You’re disturbing the other patrons.

Akira: ...Fine.

———



Waiter: Here is today’s fresh fish poire with herbed vegetable shellfish sauce.

Brad: Thank you.

Waiter: Please enjoy.

Akira: Man, this looks great! Not much of a portion, though.

Brad: This restaurant focuses on making food visually appealing as part of the experience.

Akira: Huh. The romance-o-meter isn’t reacting at all, though.

With it bein’ just the two of us, I feel like someone’s gonna question my manners and I won’t be able to enjoy the food at all.

Brad: You’d be able to eat without worrying about that if you were always mindful of your manners.

Akira: Ngh...

Brad: I was thinking that they had improved somewhat, but I suppose you’ve still got a ways to go.

Akira: Hey! I’ve gotten a lot better! I even tied my tie perfectly!

Brad: Do you want to be praised for something like that?

Akira: Tch... No way.

...Moving on. What was so special about that movie, anyway?

Brad: ...I believe it was the clever way the psychological descriptions of the characters were portrayed. I also enjoyed the way the acting enhanced the story.

Akira: You think? I didn’t understand a single thing about it.

If they were gonna fight over a heroine, I wish they’d done some sparring or arm wrestling or something to decide the winner.

Brad: ...That’s simply your own preference.

Akira: Then lemme ask you, Brad: Do you think that kind of movie is romantic?

Brad: Generally speaking, I can understand why the movie was classified as a romance. However, whether or not someone actually feels it qualifies as “romantic” depends on the person.

Akira: That makes no sense...

And in the end, the device didn’t make a peep the whole day - not during the movie, not on the drive over, and not at this fancy restaurant.

Brad: It would appear so.

Akira: What about you? Is there any place you can think of where you might feel a spark?

Brad: Oscar did recommend a place to me.

Akira: Oscar did?

Brad: Indeed. He apparently did quite a bit of research last night.

———

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 7


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Akira: What is it?

Brad: I have no objection to using this device to go search for a solution.

Akira: In that case, let’s get—

Brad: However, I can’t possibly shirk my other duties right now.

Akira: Huh?

Brad: There are discussions to be had regarding strategies to handle this case, and we also need to consider increasing the number of people on patrol with the state the citizens are currently in.

In addition, there are preparations for the LOM on Valentine’s Day to make. They must continue to move forward despite everything else.

If we’re going to allocate manpower, we should prioritize gathering data in order to come up with a solution. I’ll handle work for the team here.

Akira: ...I don’t like it. The two of us were the ones who failed to improve, yeah?

Will: Akira!

Brad: I can’t deny that.

It’s true that I was unable to successfully complete the task we were given at the mixer earlier.

However, if I have to choose between things I’d like to do and things I need to do, I’m going to choose to prioritize the latter.

Akira: ......

Oscar: ...Brad-sama would you allow me to fulfill those duties for you?

Brad: ......

Oscar: I’m not sure that I would be of much help for the strategy meeting if I were to attend, but I can make it work if the amount of time I spend on patrol needs to increase. I can also handle preparations for LOM on my own if needed.

Will: I can help Oscar, too! If it’s just offering support where he needs it, I’m sure I can handle that much.

Brad: ......

Nova: I’ll be attending the strategy meeting as well, and I’m pretty sure Vic will, too. I think we can handle things there.

But of course, if something comes up that we need your input on, we’ll be sure to contact you.

Brad: ......

Akira: ...So, what’s the verdict? Are you comin’ with me or not?

Brad: Oscar, Will, I apologize, but I’ll leave things to you. I’ll do as much as I can before the day is over, though.

Oscar: Yessir!

Will: Leave it to us!

Brad: Dr. Nova, please don’t hesitate to contact me if something comes up. I’ll be sure to get input from Victor as well.

Nova: Understood~

Brad: Akira, I’ll be accompanying you for this so-called “romance search”.

Akira: Yeah, that’s the way!

———

—The next day—



Akira: He told me to wait for him here, but where the hell is he?

Oh, there he is!

Brad: Apologies for the delay.

Akira: Whoa, your ride looks shinier than usual.

Brad: I washed and waxed it this morning.

Akira: ......

Brad: What’s wrong?

Akira: It’s just that even gettin’ to ride in this shiny, new-lookin’ car to go out, there wasn’t a single peep outta this romance-o-meter thing.

Brad: Hmm, I suppose that means going for a drive isn’t something that you’re interested in. Other people might feel differently.

Akira: Then what’s this feeling supposed to be? Gettin’ up early to be taken somewhere and all.

Brad: It’s hard to say.

Anyway, get in.

Akira: Alrighty, let’s head out!!

———



Brad: You said you were making the plans for today, so... where are we headed first?

Akira: First stop: the movie theater!

Brad: A movie? Classic choice. What are we going to see?

Akira: Uh, it’s... a movie called “Love Over Flowers” [1]

Will’s little sisters said that it was really good. It’s supposed to be popular with students, I guess.

Brad: So it’s a romance movie, then?

Akira: I have no idea, actually.

I looked for reviews and stuff online, and there’s supposed to be some kinda competition so I assume there’s gonna be some action scenes. Probably suspense, too, since I guess there’s psychological warfare involved.

Brad: ...Did people really write stuff like that?

Akira: Yeah, what about it?

Brad: It’s nothing...

Akira: Look, there’s this other movie with this super muscular actor that reminds me of Oscar shooting guns and stuff. I hope the movie we’re seeing is one like that, too. ♪

Brad: We’ll see. But with a title like that, I can’t imagine that’s the case...

———

[1] The full title of the movie is technically 花より恋だと空に叫ぶ which is more like "shouting 'love over flowers' to the sky" but that's really clunky sounding in English so I elected to shorten it, especially given the fact that "Boys Over Flowers" is a similar-sounding title that already exists irl.

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 6


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Nova: Goooood work out there, everyone! ☆ I was able to get some data from the people cured of Romantic Rampage Syndrome~

It looks like the people who came to see Will-kun and Oscar-kun are fully cured. Their vitals have returned back to normal levels.

Will: Oh, thank goodness...

Oscar: I’m glad it worked out.

Nova: But, y’see... While the two of you pulled it off, I unfortunately can’t say that things went according to plan for Akira-kun and Brad-kun.

Akira: Wait, even Brad?!

Brad: ......

Oscar: What is the meaning of this?! Any words that come out of Brad-sama’s mouth should carry an air of romance with them!

Nova: There were a lot of fans who came to see Brad-kun, after all. He had more than anyone else.

Brad: No, that shouldn’t matter. If things had gone according to plan, the event still should have concluded without issue.

I simply failed to meet the needs of the citizens who came to see me.

Oscar: Brad-sama...

Akira: So you’re saying Brad and I are on the same level this time?

Brad: It would appear so.

Akira: ...That’s pretty unlike you.

Brad: It seems I have more to learn about what “romance” entails.

Nova: The things that people find romantic and get their hearts going is completely subjective~

That’s why I made this based off of the data I gathered today, just in case it could give you some kind of hint.

A romance measuring device~♪

Akira: The hell is that...?

Nova: As long as you have this device, it’ll alert you with a little sound any time someone’s heart is set a-flutter.

That way, you’ll be able to know exactly when someone feels the love! I thought it could be helpful to have.

Oscar: Indeed, it could be a great help.

Akira: ...Oh god, not technology... How do you use it?

Nova: All you have to do is press this red switch. Then it’ll automatically detect...

Ping!

...And alert you with a noise like this.

Will: Wow... With a mechanism as simple as that, even Akira should be able to use it.

Akira: ...I told you, I only struggle a little with technology.

But yeah, I think I can handle this.

Hey... Could this device also tell me what things I might find romantic, too?

Nova: Yeah, it should.

Akira: Sweet. In that case, we gotta start looking.

Will: For what?

Akira: Romance, dude, romance! We gotta go somewhere and do some stuff to try to find it!

Will: Hmm... I guess there are plenty of things out there that could give us hints.

Oscar: Searching for romance... That’s a new one for me...

Nova: I think the same could be said for all of you, don’t you think?

Akira: Brad, you comin’ with?

Brad: ......

Akira: What is it?

———

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 5


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Akira’s Fan B: Um... I was hoping you’d be a little more dashing than that... I know, what if I were to become Brad-san’s fan instead?

Akira: Huh? Why would you pick Brad?! Do not go for that guy!

Akira’s Fan B: I-I mean, it could be Oscar or anyone else instead! Just please, try to keep me here with you!

Akira: I guess if you’re gonna be a fan of anyone, Oscar would be best... I still can’t compete with that guy’s muscles...

Akira’s Fan B: I’m begging you, please try to stop meeeee!!

———

Brad: You’re welcome to ride in my passenger’s seat any time.

Brad’s Fan B: Sigh, riding shotgun in Brad-sama’s car... ba-dum

Brad: (Looks like I managed to say the right thing.)

(However, this is taking much more time than expected... Considering the remaining number of guests, I’d prefer to proceed in a more efficient manner...)

Brad’s Fan C: Brad-sama! Please tell me off!

Brad: (These requests are getting more and more obscure...)

What would you like me to say?

Brad’s Fan C: Anything is fine! Tell me I’m lousy at my job or I’m insubordinate or something—anything at all!

Brad: ...Hmm.

———

Will: I can’t scold you like that. You’re probably the type who’s really hard on yourself, aren’t you?

Please, don’t push yourself too hard. Make sure you take breaks and take care of yourself, okay?

Will’s Fan C: Yeah, I’ll take more breaks from now on... He reprimanded me so gently... ba-dum

———

Oscar: Hmm... if being weak bothers you, then I think you should try some training.

Do you train at all now? If strength training isn’t your strong suit, then try starting with squats while holding only light weight and keeping the rep count down.

Oscar’s Fan C: I’ll do 100 sets every day!! Ba-dum

———

Akira: (They want me to scold them, but... I feel like I’m usually the one being scolded for somethin’...)

(Ugh, dammit! The more I think about it, the less sense this makes!)

Come on, don’t stand there and tell me to yell at you when you haven’t even done anything! Just go out there with your head held high talkin’ about how great you are all the time! Got it?!

Akira’s Fan C: Aah, what a chaotic way to tell someone off... ba-dum

Akira: Wait, that worked?

———

Akira: Maaan, it’s finally over...

Will: Good job, Akira. How are you doing?

Akira: That was such a struggle... Even then, there are still plenty of fans I wasn’t able to cure...

How are you faring, Will?

Will: I think I was able to cure everybody on my end...

Akira: No way, seriously?!

Will: I can’t be completely sure, though.

Oscar: Same for me. I’m not 100% certain, but I think it went well overall.

Akira: Dammit all...

Will: Akira?

Akira: God dammit! What is “romance” anyway?! How am I supposed to make people’s hearts “flutter” or whatever? This shit makes no sense!

The confident ones couldn’t make a single thing resonate, while the ones who were all unsure somehow pulled it off perfectly!

Will: Akira... We still have the mixer on Valentine’s Day itself. It’s not too late.

Akira: But still...

Brad: Akira, save this discussion until after we return to the tower. Let’s get out of here first.

Akira: Yeah, yeah, I got it...

———

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 4


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—The Day of the Event—

Akira’s Fan A: Um, your ever-cheerful and optimistic attitude is really inspiring to me! Do your best to become a Major Hero!

Akira: Thanks for the support! I'll become a Major Hero so fast your head will spin!

Akira’s Fan A: I’ll be watching!

Um, please accept these as well. They’re handmade, so I hope you like them...

Akira: Wow, thanks! ♪ Don’t mind if I do!

Man, these are awesome! Since they’re not too sweet, even I can savor every last bite!

Akira’s Fan A: Whew, Akira-san accepted them... ba-dum [1]

Huh... I feel a lot more calm now. My favorite Hero really is a balm for my soul, huh...

Akira: (Nice, looks like everything is going according to plan.)

(I’d love to keep this pace up until the very end, but... it’s getting harder and harder to stomach all these sweets...)

(I bet this is tough even for Will.)

———

Will: Wow, these handmade chocolates are amazing! ♪ The quality rivals the ones you’d find in a sweets shop!

Will’s Fan B: Wow, my favorite Hero ate a piece of my super sweet chocolate... ba-dum

U-Um... I heard that you really like sweets, Will-san, so I tried to make the world’s sweetest chocolate for you.

Will: Hehe, so you made them specifically to suit my tastes? That was sweet of you. ♪

Will’s Fan B: Yes, but they won’t keep very long... I gave you so many of them, too... I’m sorry.

Will: Oh, it’s no trouble at all! I’m going to check the dates on all of them to make sure I eat them while they’re still good.

So even if I get a bunch of sweets today, it’s no bother.

Will’s Fan B: Wow, you can handle a ton of sweet stuff... ba-dum (again)

———

Akira: (Looks like I had nothing to worry about. Typical Will.)

Well, I can’t fall behind! Next, please!

Akira’s Fan B: U-Um, Akira-san, I’m a big fan...

Akira: Thanks! Didja want a handshake? A photo? Whatever it is, I’ll give it to you at max voltage!

Akira’s Fan B: T-Then, um... You see, I’m getting married soon. I’d like for you to do your best to stop me from going through with it...

Akira: ......You want me to what now?

Akira’s Fan B: You just have to try to hold me back! Even if you’re just pretending! I look up to you so much, I just want you to do everything in your power to stop me...

Akira: You want me to stop you...? If you don’t wanna go through with it, why not just throw in the towel?

Akira’s Fan B: That’s not what I mean! I’m not getting cold feet or anything—my partner is an amazing person!

Akira: Then congratulations are in order, yeah? I hope you have a happy marriage!

Akira’s Fan B: Nooooo! That’s not what will make me happyyyyy... I mean, it does, but it doesn’t eitherrrrr!

Akira: Huh?

Akira’s Fan B: That’s not what I want! I want you to stop me!

Akira: Huh???

———

Oscar: You want me to stop you...

I’m not sure I understand the circumstances, but—don’t get married.

Oscar’s Fan B: Ahhh, the magic words straight from my favorite Hero’s mouth... ba-dum

———

Brad: Marriage is a lifelong commitment. If you’re hesitant to go through with it, I’ll listen to your worries.

Brad’s Fan A: Sniff... To think that Brad-sama would listen to me so earnestly... ba-dum

———

Will: (Oh, I think I saw this in a drama my sister was watching once...)

You’re getting married? To someone other than me?!

Will’s Fan A: That’s exactly what I wanted to hear... ba-dum

———

[1] トゥンク (tunk) is one of those words that's hard to decide how to translate. It is supposed to be a single onomatopoetic word to express someone’s heart fluttering in their chest or beating really fast... the exact thing needed to “cure” the people of the Substance’s influence.

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 3


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—The Next Day—

Brad: We have identified the Substance recovered at yesterday’s Valentine’s fan mixer.

Akira: Just what kinda Substance was it?

Will: Based on how the people at the stadium were acting, it seems like one that affects humans...

Brad: According to the Research Division’s investigation, those affected by the Substance will relentlessly pursue that which causes their hearts to flutter.

Dr. Nova said they came down with “Romantic Rampage Syndrome”.

Akira: Roman chick...?

Brad: Yes, romantic.

Oscar: Excuse me, but... Brad-sama, what might that condition be, exactly?

Brad: Apologies, but there isn’t a straightforward way to explain it. All I can say about it now is that it causes what we saw in the stadium yesterday—the bizarre scene with the citizens.

Oscar: ...It was strange indeed. Although they weren’t acting violent, I was unable to decide how to handle them without putting my hands on them.

Will: They had plenty of enthusiasm, that’s for sure. It was kinda like... Almost like we’d become celebrities, I guess?

Akira: That part wasn’t so bad!

Brad: The Research Division examined those who were affected for a short while, but they have since returned to normal and were allowed to return to their homes.

However, they are still investigating the details of this “Romantic Rampage Syndrome” and have not yet determined the root cause. It’s entirely possible they will fall back into a frenzy given the correct trigger.

They are also developing a drug to counteract the effects of the Substance, but it will take some time to complete.

Will: That makes sense... I hope they can finish it soon...

Oscar: Especially because it was our supporters who got caught up in it. We can’t just let this continue...

Akira: Hey, is there any way to return people to normal besides using a drug?

Brad: Hmm... I was just trying to see if there were examples of similar Substances encountered in the past, and I did find one that exerted a similar effect.

According to that information, if the person’s strong desire is fulfilled, then they should return to normal.

In fact, there are data from this case as well that suggest the affected citizens were able to stabilize their emotions after experiencing some sort of high.

Will: So you’re saying they can be cured by romantic feelings?

Brad: It’s a possibility, assuming romance or some similar thing is what they desire from the Substance’s effects, that is.

Akira: I gotcha... Hmm?

Oscar: What is it, Akira?

Akira: Wait, in that case, returning them to normal is a piece of cake, isn’t it?

Brad: How so?

Akira: We just gotta hold our canceled mixer again!

Then we can give all our fans the romantic feelings they want and they’ll be cured, right?

Hehe, that’s right, I’m the genius idea-having almighty Akira Otori! It’s an awesome plan. ♪

Will: Uhhh...

Oscar: ......

Akira: W-What’s with the lackluster response?! Don’t you think it’s a good idea?!

Will: Do you know the first thing about romance, Akira?

Oscar: If you do, please enlighten me. I’m quite ill-informed on the matter.

Akira: Um... It’s like, y’know! Like voltage max and stuff!!

Oscar: ...?

Will: That would mean you’re shouting how romantic you are on a regular basis. Are you okay with that?

Oscar: So “voltage max” is like saying “full-throttle romance” then.

Akira: F-Forget it! “Voltage max” does not mean “full-throttle romance” or whatever!

But I don’t really get the romance thing either, so we’ll just have to wing it! All we gotta do is live up to their expectations.

Will: ...I suppose it’s better than doing nothing. We might be able to move their hearts.

Oscar: What do you think, Brad-sama?

Brad: Hmm... Although it might be difficult to say what they want to hear, Akira does have a point. It would be more efficient to look into separate approaches that hold promise while we wait for the drug to be developed.

Will: Having more than one solution to the problem isn’t a bad idea.

Akira: All right!

Brad: Then let’s make arrangements to resume our cancelled event.

Akira: Now that the decision is final, I’m gonna set everyone’s heart racing! Voltage max!!

———

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 2


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Brad: There are more people gathered in here than the report suggested...

Oscar, you move to recover the Substance! Akira, you back him up.

Oscar: Yessir! Let’s move, Akira.

Akira: Right! Not that I have any interest in being your backup, though.

Brad: Will, you and I will lead the people somewhere safe.

Will: Understood!

Brad: Substance has appeared inside the stadium! Everyone, Please evacuate from here immediately!

Brad’s Fans: OMGGGGGG!!

Brad: What on earth?!

Brad’s Fan A: Brad-samaaa! Show me the evacuation route! Pleeease guide me!

Brad’s Fan B: Guide us through the skies, Brad-san!

Brad: The skies...? I apologize, but there isn’t time for this.

Will: Brad-san, I’ll lead them away!

Everyone, please follow me!

Will’s Fan A: Ohmygod YES! I’ll follow you! I’ll go anywhere you go, Will-san!

Will’s Fan B: Take me with you! Please give me some sweet words with extra whip on top!

Will: Um, extra whip...?

Brad: (The citizens are acting differently than normal... I don’t know the cause, but if this continues it will make evacuation quite rough...)

This is Brad. Can you hear me, Oscar? Akira?

Oscar: “Yes, I hear you.”

Brad: The citizens are acting strange.

Sorry, but it’ll take some time to evacuate everyone. Recover the Substance as quickly as possible.

Oscar: Yessir!

Akira: I mean, the people over here aren’t acting any better...

Oscar’s Fan A: Oscar-san, your muscles are insane! Hey, is that an itty bitty Substance riding on your shoulder?

Oscar: ...Akira, is there anything on my shoulder?

Akira: Nope, nothin’.

Akira’s Fan A: Akira-kuuun! Give us a “voltage max”!!

Akira’s Fan B: Akira, set our hearts on fire!!

Akira: This is some crazy atmosphere... We’ve gotta recover that Substance before it gets worse! Let’s hurry, Oscar!

Oscar: Right.

———

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Fluttering Hearts Seek the Romantic | Chapter 1


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—Several days before Valentine’s Day—

Akira: Heheh, looks like we have a full house.

Guess I should check over my outfit one last time while I have the chance ♪

Oscar: You’re in a particularly good mood. Are Valentine’s mixers that much fun?

Akira: Of course they are! The citizens who support us day in and day out come out to see us! What’s not to love? ♪

This is my chance to increase my fanbase. I’ll grab everyone’s attention!

I’ll take you down, Brad! I’ll get more chocolates than you, too!

Will: It’s good to aim big, but you do realize Brad-san is a pretty strong opponent, right?

Oscar: Will is right, Akira. I’d like to line up to see Brad-sama myself…

Akira: But you’re supposed to be on the receiving side!

Will: Akira, you’ll never make it to the end of the event if you get all wound up now. How about having some sweets?

Akira: Ugh… I can’t eat sweet stuff at a time like this.

Will: Huh? Why’s that?

Akira: Because we’re about to get a bunch of chocolate?

Will: Hehe, it sounds like everyone prepared all sorts of chocolate for us. I can’t wait to taste them!

Akira: You’re a different breed, Will…

Oscar: I refrained from taking my protein today as well. People wrote on social media that they would bring me supplements.

Akira: Man, fans are somethin’ else…

Will: You got messages like that too, didn’t you?

Akira: Yeah! I guess they’re preparin’ all sorts of different stuff for me.

That just means I gotta do my best for them in return! ♪

Brad: Sounds like you’re all having a nice chat. Are preparations complete?

Akira: All done! Here, look! We’re all set! ♪

Brad: Indeed. The citizens of the city have already gathered inside the stadium, too. We can prepare to head in at any time.

Oscar: Yessir.

Akira: Tch… You totally blew me off…

Anyway, who are people lined up to see right now?

Brad: According to the information from the staff, my line is apparently very crowded.

Akira: Dammit, of course it’s you…

But just you watch, Brad! Even if I lose the numbers game, I’ll get 5-star ratings from everyone!

Brad: That should be your goal. Making your fans happy is part of your duty as a Hero as well.



Jack: “Emergency! Emergency!”

Will: …! A message from Headquarters?!

Jack: “Substance has appeared inside the main stadium. Heroes, please make your way to the scene at once…”

Oscar: Inside the stadium…?

Brad: We need to recover it before any harm comes to the citizens. Let’s go, everyone.

Will: Roger!

Akira: Come on, for real?! This had to happen now?

———

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Will Sprout | LOST GARDEN Card Story - Walk in Step


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Will: Huff... Huff... Phew...

Billy: Oh, it’s Mr. Wilson!

Gray: Sure is... He came to get some training done too, huh...?

Billy: Woohoo! Motivation comes way easier when you’ve got friends around! I’ll get his attention—

Will: ...Whew...

Billy: H-Huh? He doesn’t have much of a game face on.

Gray: Oh... Maybe it’s because of what happened to Oscar-san...

Billy: Good point...

Gray: But even so, he’s here training and working hard... Not that I’d expect any different from him...

Will: Sigh...

Billy & Gray: ......

———



Will: Hey, I’m back...

Brad: Hello, Will.

Will: Brad-san?

I wasn’t expecting you. You’re not usually here in the dorms at this time.

Brad: ...Circumstances have changed. I wanted to check in with you and Akira, so I stopped by for a bit.

Will: Oh...

Brad: How is Akira doing? Is he eating enough?

Will: Y-Yeah, he’s getting plenty. Just this morning, he had three hot dogs...

But that’s what he ate yesterday for all three meals too, so I’m a little concerned about that. I guess it could just be a force of habit...

Brad: I see... Is he still going running and training like normal?

Will: Yeah... Akira has never been the type to sit idly by when something like this happens - he gets up and moves.

I’m actually more worried about whether or not he’s getting enough rest with how much more he’s been throwing himself into things.

Brad: Hmm...

How about you, Will?

Will: Me? I mean...

I’m still going to the gym, but to be honest, I’m not exactly giving it my all...

Akira is working hard, so I know I need to as well, but... I just haven’t been able to focus very well.

Brad: ...That’s perfectly understandable.

People like Akira are probably more rare. I know it’s in your nature to put forth your best, but make sure you don’t push yourself too hard, Will.

Will: Right... Thank you. The same goes for you, Brad-san.

Brad: Indeed... That reminds me, could I ask you for a favor?

Will: What is it?

Brad: There’s one last check-in I’d like you to do—

———



Will: (—Brad-san was right - Alexander-kun looks pretty down...)

(Normally if someone gets close to his cage, he runs wild trying to break out, but now he’s just curled up in a ball...)

(I guess he’s been really quiet at night, too.)

You okay in there, Alexander-kun?

...You’re pretty lonely without Oscar-san around, aren’t you? I totally understand how you feel.

I thought you might handle it the same way Akira does... But I guess the two of us have some things in common, don’t we?

...I know Brad-san said not to push myself too hard...

But I don’t think I should let this feeling inside keep festering...

———



Billy: Whoa, Mr. Wilson?!

Will: Hey there Billy-kun, Gray-san.

Gray: H-Huh...? Will-kun, weren’t you just training a little bit ago?

Will: I was, but I was pretty sloppy with it, so I came back to redo my workout.

Gray: Hm? That cage...

Billy: Is that Alexander?!

Will: Umm, I thought I could give a better effort if he was here with me... And he seemed like he needed a chance to clear his head, too.

Now then, I’ll set the treadmill up for an aerobic workout, and...

Gray: Wow... Look at that, Billy-kun. Alexander-kun started running on his wheel...!

Billy: Whoa! Is he trying to copy Mr. Wilson? Or maybe he’s trying to give his best, too?!

Gray: Will-kun and Alexander-kun are both trying to keep their spirits up and do their best, huh... They’re both amazing.

Billy: They sure are...

Hey, Gray, do you still have some gas in the tank?

Gray: Huh? Uh, yeah... I could keep going...

———



Will: Ha... Ha... Ha...

Billy: Ha... Ha... Ha...

Will: ...Huh?

Gray: Would it be okay if we joined you...? U-Um... If we’ll just be in your way, we can leave, of course...

Will: W-Why would you...?

Billy: The more the merrier! We can work even harder if we do this together, right? ♪

Gray: Billy-kun and I... We understand completely how your team is feeling right now, so...

Will: ...!

Billy: I know you haven’t given up yet, Mr. Wilson. Alexander hasn’t, either.

Gray: And also... Being depressed all the time isn’t good for your mental health, either...

I-I mean... Not that I have room to talk or anything... I-I think it would be good to try following Billy-kun’s lead...!

Will: You guys...

???:: Hey! I want in!

Will: Huh...?

Billy: Akiracchi!

Akira: What’s with this? There’s all this equipment around and you’re all lined up running together... You're pretty chummy, huh?

Lemme join!

Gray: Oh, Akira-kun... Do you remember how to operate it...?

Akira: Of course I remember!

LET’S GOOOO! I’M GONNA LEAVE YOU ALL IN THE DUST WITH MY VOLTAGE MAX SPEED—!!

Billy: No, no, Akiracchi! This isn’t a race~!

Will: ......

...Alrighty, let’s put our best foot forward too, Alexander-kun.

———

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LOST GARDEN Link Story -Siams- | Chapter 12 (FINAL)


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Gast: Let’s see here, who ordered chocolate...?

It was you, right, Hannah?



Hannah: Woah, it looks so good! Thanks, big bro.

Gast: Careful not to drop it. Should I hold it for ya?

Hannah: That’s okay, I can carry it. I promise not to drop it.

Sigh, treating me like a little kid again...

Gast: Haha, my bad... I mean, you are still a kid, though.

Hannah: That’s exactly the kind of thing I’m talking about.

Gast: Wh, what’d I do?!

Hannah: Sigh... It’s fine. I guess I’ll take advantage of it for today.

After all, it’s been so long since the last time we went out like this. Spoil me lots, ‘kay?

Gast: Man, you’re kinda scary like this...

Hannah: Oh, looks like the other order is ready!

Gast: Ope...

Huh... so this is the strawberry daifuku-flavored one...

Hannah: Gimme, gimme! I’ll take it to him!

Gast: Wh, hey...!

———



Hannah: Will-saaan! Here’s your strawberry daifuku parfait!

Will: Thanks. Woah, it looks awesome.

Hannah: I didn’t know they had flavors like this.

Will: This one’s pretty hard to find, so it makes me really happy when I do.

But I’m also glad to know that you like the parfaits from here too, Hannah-chan.

Hannah: Hehe, we always get parfaits from here when we go out.

Will: You mean with your brother?

Hannah: Um...Well, he does buy them for me too, but—

Gast: Hannah, you forgot spoons.

Hannah: Oops, you’re right!

Gast: Yeesh, always in a hurry... Glad t’ see her happy, though.

Hannah: Sorry, Will-san. Here’s your spoon.

Will: Hehe, thanks.

Gast: ......

Will: Isn’t this the first time in a while you’ve spent time together? I tagged along because you asked, but wouldn’t it have been better with just the two of you...?

Gast: Huh? Nah, actually...

Hannah: I wanted to come here to eat parfaits with you, Will-san. My big brother doesn’t like sweets much.

Gast: H-Hey, now... why am I being treated like a third wheel...

Will: Thanks, Hannah-chan... You too, Adler.

You were looking out for me because of what’s going on with my team, right?

Even though North had its own heap of problems to deal with recently...

Gast: You ain’t gotta worry about that.

Er, well... Guess it sounds kinda evasive if I say that, huh...

Hannah said she wanted you to come with no matter what, so... And I wanted to say thanks for lookin’ out for her while I was gone.

Will: I see...

Gast & Hannah: ......

Will: Honestly, I haven’t had any desire to go out lately if I’m not going on patrol. I’m really thankful.

I love these parfaits, too, and all the pretty flowers and plants are refreshing... I think this’ll be a nice pick-me-up.

Hannah: Will-san...

Gast: Will...

Will: ...Huh?

Cat: Meo~w

Hannah: Oh, it’s a cat!

Will: Woah!



Hannah: Are you okay, Will-san?!

Will: Ahaha, I’m totally fine...

What is it? Do you want some of my parfait, too?

Hannah: Hehe, how cute. Strawberry daifuku is a pretty rare flavor, huh?

Will: Now, now... Haha, you can’t eat that, okay?

Gast: This cat is pretty used to humans, huh... Does it belong to someone?

Will: It doesn’t seem to have a collar... I wonder if it’s one of the cats that Ren feeds all the time?

Gast: Ohh, that could be. I’ll take a picture and send it to Ren—

Hannah: Huh...?

Gast: What is it, Hannah?

Hannah: Oh!



Luca: ......

Hey. Good to see you two again, little miss, young master—

———

←Chapter 11 | back to masterlist
beyondskyfall: (Default)

LOST GARDEN Link Story -Siams- | Chapter 11


(←back to masterlist)



Luca: ...Sorry you had to see that.

Siams: It’s fine...

More importantly... what’re you gonna do now?

Luca: Hmm...

For starters, maybe I’ll go get a parfait?

Siams: A parfait???

Luca: That’s what came to mind when you asked me if I had somewhere I wanted to go.

Siams: Huh...

Luca: That doesn’t mean I’m giving up on Sirius. If there’s a chance I’ll see him again, I won’t back down...

But I know that’s not what I should be focusing on right now...

...I always tried, but the truth is I didn’t always understand exactly what Kai was thinking or what he wanted to say.

That’s how we ended up in this mess...

But... this time, I feel like I totally get what he’s saying.

Even though there were things I didn’t understand, one thing is for certain... For us, there was nobody else in the world as special as the other.

Siams: ......

Luca: Man, I gotta do somethin’ about this arm.

It’s hard to eat like this, so I guess it’s gotta be my priority. Haha, I’ve got a lot to do.

Siams: Don’t come back here.

I mean, you’re originally from the surface, so I don’t think it’ll be a problem for you, but—

Luca: Why don’t you come with me?

Siams: ...Huh?

Luca: You wanna leave Eclipse, don’t you?

Siams: ...!

Luca: That’s just what it seems like to me, but...

At the very least, it looks like you have some resentment towards Eclipse... or rather, towards Sirius. Come on, while you’re giving me a chance—

Siams: ......

Luca: If you want to escape, let’s go together.

You have them too, right? Places you want to go, people you want to see...

Siams: Cut the bullshit.

...I don’t have any desire to go to the surface.

Besides, me going to the surface and you going to the surface are two totally different things.

I can’t go to live up there. I learned that the hard way when I was a kid.

...It’s too late for me, anyway.

Luca: That can’t be...

Not wanting to go and not being able to go are two completely different conversations—

Siams: Shut it.

Luca: ......

Siams: I’m not trying to take advantage of the situation, but... can I ask you for a favor?

Luca: Huh...?

Siams: Bizele...

I want you to take him with you.

I might not be able to, but he can live up there on the surface. Besides, I hear cats like places the sunlight can reach.

Luca: ......

Siams: Will you do it?

Luca: ...Yeah.

Come with me, Bizele.

I’ll let you sunbathe all you want~

Siams: Sounds good. Thanks.

I know it’s sudden, but you know exactly where you belong. Be patient and wait for me, okay?

...See you around, Bizele.

Bizele: Mro~w

Luca: ...Siams.

Thanks—

———



Sirius: —Welcome back, Siams.

Siams: ...Yo.

Sirius: How did it go?

Siams: ......Sorry. I found him, but he got away.

Shin: ...Huh??

What the hell do you mean he got away...? You’re just gonna let it end there?

Siams: What was I supposed to do? ...He was able to escape.

Shin: You worthless little...

Sirius: You’re injured... Looks like you got into it.

You poor thing. Come here - I’ll fix you right up—

Siams: I’ll be your guinea pig.

Sirius: Oh my...

Siams: It’s my fault he got away... Besides, I’m used to helping you with your experiments.

Shin: Hey, don’t turn circumstances in your favor. Don’t think you’re going to get away with this, you worthless defect.

Sirius: Be quiet, Shin.

Siams was speaking to me. I’m the one who gets to answer.

Shin: Tch...

Sirius: I’m happy to hear you say that, Siams.

Hmm... Fine. Let’s head to the lab.

Siams: ...Yeah.

Sirius: Hehe, thanks. It’s reassuring to have your assistance.

This should make for an interesting trip—

———

←Chapter 10 | back to masterlist | Chapter 12→
beyondskyfall: (Default)

LOST GARDEN Link Story -Siams- | Chapter 10


(←back to masterlist)



Luca: Aaaaaaa...!

Siams: Ngh, ack...

Luca: Take this... and this, and this...!

Siams: Buzz off... Hraaagh!!!

Luca: Gah—

Siams: I told you to hold on... Listen to me!

Luca: Who... would even bother listening to...



Siams: Guh...

Luca: Why...

Why didn’t you tell me...?

Siams: ...Huh?

Luca: You knew that Sirius was alive, didn’t you...?

Siams: ......

Luca: ...Guess you would keep that under wraps.

Would’ve been pretty inconvenient if I found out... seeing as I’d absolutely go try to kill him...

Or maybe... Was this all a setup from the very start?

Earlier, when Sirius showed up... You were...

Siams: Tch, you’ve got it all wrong!

Luca: ......

Siams: You’re... you’re wrong...

That wasn’t my intention...

Luca: I don’t believe a word you say.

I can’t turn my back for a second... I’ve gotta kill him before he kills me first...

If I don’t, Kai can never rest in peace!

Siams: ......



Luca: Why didn’t he die... even though Kai did...

Does that mean he died for nothing?!

Siams: Guh... *hack*...

Luca: Haa...haa...

Talk about shit luck... Absolutely rotten luck...

But... Instead of living my life not knowing he survived, I’d much rather...

I’m gonna choke the life out of him... Kai—

Siams: Ngh, man... you’re so irritating...

All hesitation and no follow through... You’re a total pain in the neck...

Luca: ......

Siams: Are people who have never been on their own all this spineless...?

You don’t even know how to live now that your other half is gone, do you?

There’s no point in whining... I mean, he’s already dead.

Luca: Tch, why you little—!

Siams: Don’t let it corrupt you!

Luca: !

Siams: I don’t know if you’re doing all this in the name of revenge or what, but is trying to kill Sirius in Kai’s place the only thing you can come up with?

What the hell would be the point...?

Is there no option where you choose to live on your own?

Luca: ...Huh?

Siams: The reason I didn’t tell you about Sirius is because you can’t beat him.

I can’t even begin to understand Sirius’s strength... Honestly, I don’t understand what his ability even is.

If you were to face him head-on, it’s obvious that you’d be crushed like a bug.

Luca: I don’t care... That doesn’t matter to me...

If there’s anything that I can do for Kai, I want to—

Siams: That's the whole problem!!

Even if you think it’s better to try to turn the tables on him, chances are you’re gonna get captured and held as one of his guinea pigs for the rest of your life!

Kai: “You... don’t need me...”

Luca: ......

Siams: I haven’t been able to leave since I ended up in that exact situation.

Tch, even though I went through the trouble to save you... Can’t believe it was all for nothing.

Kai: “From now on, you need to live your own life, Luca...”

Siams: I mean, do you not have anything else to live for?

Luca: ...Huh?

Siams: I asked if you had anything else to live for. Anything besides taking down Sirius...

Somewhere you want to go... Or someone you want to see?

Luca: ......

Siams: You could go anywhere you want right now.

I’ll figure out a way to explain this to him, so... Get out of here. Leave the Lost Garden.

Luca: ...But...

Siams: But nothing!

Dammit... How do I get you to understand—

Bizele: Meo~w.

Siams: Bizele?

...What’s this? You find somethin’?

Luca: Those are...!!

They’re... Kai’s dog tags...

Siams: No way...

Luca: There’s no mistake... these are definitely...

Bizele: Mro~w.

Luca: ...

What the hell... You’re askin’ me what I’m gonna do now...?

Isn’t that right, Kai...?

Siams: ......

Wait, no... Am I understanding correctly?



Luca: He came here to tell me... exactly where I should go from here...

———

←Chapter 9 | back to masterlist | Chapter 11→
beyondskyfall: (Default)

LOST GARDEN Link Story -Siams- | Chapter 9


(←back to masterlist)

**SMALL DISCLAIMER:I have no idea how to "properly" romanize the name エア so I chose to go with Ayre for now because it looks was more pleasing to me than just "Air"... If we get a canon spelling later I will come back and update these chapters.**





Siams: (—Did he really get away?)

(...I mean, even if he did, there’s no doubt that he’d show up again trying to go after Sirius.)

Aaah, dammit...

Sirius: Welcome back, Siams.

Siams: !

Sirius: My, it seems I startled you. My apologies.

Were you lost in thought?

Siams: Nah, nothin’ like that...

Sirius: Haha, I certainly ruined this little reunion of ours, didn’t I? Apologies - let me start over.

Have you been doing well, Siams?

Siams: ...Yeah.

Shin: Where’d you run off to, anyway?

You took off as soon as I mentioned where Sirius was earlier. Where the hell did you go?

Siams: I was just... Looking for Bizele...

Shin: Huh? Don’t give me that bullshit lie. Tell me where you really were.

Siams: I told you the truth... Tch, what’s your fuckin’ problem...

Shin: Tch, you worthless piece of—

Sirius: Calm down, Shin. A one-sided conversation is meaningless.

Besides, he told you he was looking for Bizele, no?

Shin: You’re just going to believe him?

Sirius: Of course I am.

More importantly, might I interject?

Siams: ...What is it?

Sirius: Do you remember Kai, Siams? He was helping me out with some things here and there recently...

Siams: O-Oh, yeah, I remember...

Sirius: I just so happened to run into his twin, Luca Reinhardt. When he learned I was alive, he attacked me.

He said he was doing it in Kai’s place... Might this be some sort of revenge as well?

Siams: You’re one reckless son of a gun... He was trying to kill you, wasn’t he?

Sirius: I suppose so, but I won’t allow him to.

Perhaps this is a ridiculous thing to say, but my luck has been exceedingly good lately.

Why, just earlier, I was caught in a pinch and was saved just in the nick of time.

Siams: ......

Sirius: Even so, I’m certain Luca will attack again. He would be quite the thorn in my side if he started following me around, so...

That’s why I believe we need to do something about him before he does.

My foreword has become a bit long-winded, but... I’d like to leave the task to you, Siams.

Siams: ......

Sirius: If possible, I’d like you to capture him alive.

Siams: ...Why?

What will happen if I do...?

Sirius: I’d like to use him as a test subject for my current experiment.

He even seems to have conveniently mastered his ability. I couldn’t ask for a better participant.

As I said, ours was quite the unexpected encounter. If you end up with no choice but to kill him, I won’t blame you.

Shin and Ayre are busy dealing with another issue, which means the only one available to handle this is you... Will you help me?

Siams: ......

Sirius: ......

Siams: ...Fine. I just gotta capture him alive, right?

I’ll go now and finish this.

Sirius: Hehe, I appreciate it. I’ll be waiting here with bated breath—

———



Luca: ......

(Tch, what shitty timing... I totally lost him.)

(Did Sirius cause that explosion? I still don’t have a damn clue what his ability is.)

(Maybe that’s... how he survived...)

(I’m pretty sure he was blown away by Jay Kidman too... along with Kai.)

......

Bizele: Meo~w

Luca: ?!

B...Bizele...?

Bizele: Mro~w, meo~w

Luca: Shh! Be quiet! Please, just go away!

...!

Siams: Looks like you didn’t learn your lesson, now did you?



Luca: !

Siams: !!

Luca: Haaa...!

Siams: Ngh, what the...

Hold up! Listen to what I have to say first!

Luca: Dammit!

Siams: Hraagh...!

———

←Chapter 8 | back to masterlist | Chapter 10→

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