[He doesn't know why Hiyori seems so stressed. He did say he wouldn't harm Hiyori, just all other idols. Hiyori seemed too kind for that, so he isn't sure he really understands what an idol is meant to be. In his mind, they're like a demonic creature hypnotizing his brother into worshipping them, but he isn't sure how.]
Our father has fallen ill, so Nii-san, being the eldest son, will become the new monarch should father succumb to his illness. Since he has not returned ever since he went to the city, it is my duty to bring him back home for the coronation.
[This... probably did not explain the situation.]
It is all right, Hiyori! Since you have saved me, I will take this into consideration for my goals. After all, I still do not know what an idol is, so I am not certain how to destroy it yet.
[Even though Hiiro did say he had no reason to annihilate him, that still leaves other idols in danger, including Hiyori's own family. It also puts their dreams at risk. Nagisa's dream, his own dream... even the dream that he and Eichi pursued together, along with the rest of "fine." All that blood they spilt would be for nothing, if the very concept of idols was destroyed.
Perhaps that's what motivates him now, above all else. Driving him onwards, even while he's stuck alone in this hellish environment, without Nagisa or his ex-comrades or even the boy to recruit. Maybe that's all he has now: this idea that he mustn't allow that stage to be his last.
But enough about that dreariness.
Hiyori asked for an explanation and Hiiro provides one, though it leaves him feeling thoroughly incredulous. He'd already mentioned the bit about his father being in bad condition. But his brother is a monarch? His father is a monarch? It just all sounds too far-fetched, even for someone who grew up in a noble household.]
Er...
[He furrows his brow, unable to keep up with all the jumping around.]
First of all, let me make sure I have everything straight... your father is the ruler of some far-flung rural village, but he's fallen tragically ill all of a sudden, which means it's time for the family heir to step in. So, you're on a quest to bring your brother back home to succeed the throne... correct? But your brother lives here in the city, and you have reason to believe he's working as an idol for some reason... is that it? Do I have that all squared away properly?
Umu! You have gotten everything correct. I am glad that I was able to explain it properly.
[Most people will tell him he doesn't make sense, so he's happy that he did. At least, Hiyori is able to follow. He looks pleased by that.]
It is about time my brother takes his duties seriously, so I must do everything I can to bring him home. Since he has strayed from the correct path, it is my duty to annihilate him. However, as the next monarch, the village and I need him. So instead, I must annihilate these idols that have led him the wrong way.
[Honestly, it's hard to get anywhere with this boy. Even if he accepts the boy's brother is a runaway monarch (still a tall order), there's still this unpleasant business to contend with. Couldn't his parents teach him some basic common sense (like "don't threaten to annihilate people") before sending him off on his merry way? Better yet, couldn't they have found him some accommodations to stay in? He knows the boy's father is (apparently) on his deathbed, but still.
He heaves out another sigh.]
I assume you don't really plan to kill anyone. So if, by "annihilation," you mean you want to destroy the industry, then I'm afraid I can't allow it. Not that you'll get anywhere if you try; that's far too big a job for someone your size. So, for now, let's forget all about that nonsense. You can stop throwing around words like "annihilate," and I'll kindly pretend I never heard a thing. And now that that's settled...
[Some of the sternness leaves his voice as he continues,]
While I'm being generous, there's one more thing I can offer. Tomorrow, I have a meeting with my producer. If you'd like, I can ask if he knows of any idols by that name you gave me. He should have access to all sorts of files, including ones belonging to different agencies. That should satisfy your curiosity, right?
...? Hmmm, I am not sure what any of those words mean. Is this 'producer' someone who can help find Nii-san?
[He starts with, since that was more important. He can't promise not to destroy the industry (or try to, at least), but it's not that important right now. He still isn't sure what an idol is anyway. No, what's more important is finding his brother.]
If they are able to, then I will not attempt anything. It is easy to destroy, but if it is possible to get Nii-san to come home willingly, then I will cooperate. You have my gratitude, Hiyori. If there is anything I can do to help, I will do so.
That's what I just said, isn't it? A producer is someone who manages idols, so he should be able to access the information you need. Not that every producer has access to other agencies' records, of course, but mine is a bit... different.
[Saegusa Ibara isn't a typical producer. For one thing, he's sixteen years old. For another, he's in training to become an idol himself. And third of all, Hiyori is pretty sure he uses dirty tricks to do his job more efficiently: intercepting people's emails, spying on other agencies... he just seems to love that sort of thing, treating the industry like it's a warzone, and he's some sort of general. But there's no need to get into all that, and nor is there any need for Hiiro and Ibara to meet. Ibara would scold Hiyori, no doubt, for violating the school rules and taking in such a suspicious character. And as for Hiiro, who knows what sort of violent vocab he'd learn from that poisonous snake?
No, tomorrow he'll ask Ibara a simple question, and that'll be the end of things. Hiiro will learn his brother's whereabouts, and they'll be able to settle their little conflict face-to-face, or else he'll learn his brother isn't working as an idol at any of the major agencies, and he'll go off to search for him in some other location. Either way, Amagi Hiiro and his baffling attitude will be out of Hiyori's life soon enough.
He can't help but sigh a little again as Hiiro switches from talking about destruction to offering to help, all with a good-natured smile on his face. Really, where did he learn manners from?]
I'm the one who's so generously helping you. All you need to do is avoid causing me any trouble. So for now, why don't you just go to bed for the night? You're welcome to sleep on the couch if you prefer, but you'd probably be better off sleeping in a real bed. The bottom bunk is mine, which means you'd be using the top one.
[Here, he gestures to the bunk beds.]
Oh, but first, one more thing.
[Although his tone remains pleasant and conversational, Hiyori's gaze narrows as he locks eyes with Hiiro before speaking his next piece.]
I know you said you don't plan to harm me, and I do assume you meant it. But on the off-chance you are as violent as your speech suggests, don't even think about attacking me in my sleep. My family is powerful enough to employ groups of prviate lawyers, so if something were to happen to me, and it was found to be your fault, you will be sued into oblivion, which means your village might just sink into ruin.
[He isn't sure what lawyers were, but he recognizes being threatened. Still, he smiles brightly at him. There is no sinister intention there, only the desire to protect him, and he gets that. After all, he did just pick up a person from the streets who he had no reason to take care of.]
Umu! Hiyori, you are such a kind person. Do not worry, since I want to be your friend, I will never let harm come to you.
... I am glad. When I first came to the city, I thought that most people would be cruel like I was told. Yet, I found so many nice people, and even managed to find a place to stay for a night. I might be able to sleep well.
[He's... been sleeping outside illegally, after all.]
By the way, Hiyori. You never did answer my question. Can you tell me about idols?
[Annnd now his smile falters, confusion marring Hiyori's features once again. He's glad Hiiro is being agreeable, of course, but there's such a thing as being too agreeable. And yes, of course, Hiyori is kind and benevolent, with a generous noble heart, but being called "kind" right after threatening someone is also kind of strange! And did Hiiro just promise to protect him?
He really has no clue what to make of things.]
Goodness, what is your perception of people...
[Hiyori mutters this mostly to himself.]
I'm not sure what it is you've heard, but assuming everyone in the city to be cruel is a bit much. Then again, I suppose we all have stereotypes. People who've lived in cities all their life might assume those from rural areas to be ignorant and uneducated... Though in your case, it looks like the first stereotype does hold.
[And now to glide right over that insult.
Hiyori blinks, surprised to be asked the same question again. It's true, though—he never did answer the first time.]
You said you wanted to know so you could destroy them, right? That makes me less-than-inclined to tell you, quite frankly! But I suppose it couldn't hurt to let you know the basics?
[He sticks a finger in the air, waving it as he gives his "lesson."]
Essentially, an idol is someone who sings, dances, and shines! There are other things we get involved with too, of course, such as talk shows. But songs are the universal language, so that's the main thing we're known for. The idea is that, while watching us dazzling idols perform, all your troubles will slowly melt away. You'll be transported to a land where only happiness exists—a sort of paradise, if you will. And your heart will be full to bursting with love for us.
[He asks, uncertain, even as he processes what was said. The act itself does not sound like much, but what is with the second half of what he said?]
So idols are able to bring people to another land? All of what you said seems odd, but the gist of it is that Nii-san might have been kidnapped and influenced into worshipping these idols, doesn't it?
[Hiyori nods enthusiastically in response to the initial question, still smiling.
And then his smile falls clean off once Hiiro continues.]
No, that's not at all what I meant...
[He sighs. Goodness, this boy is just as clueless as Nagisa-kun. But the irony, of course, is that idols were the one thing Hiyori didn't need to explain to his dear childhood friend; on the contrary, Nagisa was the one who explained them to him.]
It'd be easiest just to show you, but I'd rather not do that right now. Looking at screens before bed is bad for one's beauty sleep, so we won't be doing that tonight. I suppose you will be stuck in here tomorrow, though, since the meeting with our producer isn't until late afternoon, so perhaps you can entertain yourself watching videos until I return.
If not, he'll just have to wait to find out. Hiyori isn't in the mood to explain the birds, the bees, the meaning of life, or N*co N*co D**ga and Y**tube to his impromptu roommate at this late hour. Instead, he nods, pointing to the bunk beds.]
I've already claimed the bottom bunk, but the top one isn't being used, so you may as well sleep there. You can take your stuff up there with you, or leave it on the couch. Whatever's more comfortable.
I am grateful for your generosity, but why did you offer to let me stay with you? Since you are an idol, I would think that you would consider me your enemy. Even barring what I have said, it is not common to house strangers here, is it?
[Their village is one that is also very suspicious, so he understands the need for caution. However, Hiyori just pretty much invites him who can easily overpower him without a second thought. Hiiro may not hurt him, but it did not mean he wasn't capable of doing so.]
[Though Hiiro had seemed ready to go to bed just moments ago, he's on a whole different line of questioning now. It's a reasonable question to ask, though, especially given that someone once told him all city dwellers are "cruel." Hiyori looks off to the side, thinking for a moment about how to answer. Just why did he pick Hiiro off that bench?]
Honestly, I thought you seemed rather pitiful.
[It's the first thing that comes to mind, so it's what he says.]
While the weather hasn't been too bad, temperatures do drop at night, as I'm sure you're aware. It couldn't have been comfortable for you to sleep in such a place. And since this room was designed for two people, but I don't have anyone to share it with at this moment, I thought I might as well bring you here.
[A simple and straightforward explanation. One that even Hiiro can understand. Hiyori could leave it there, but after a brief pause, he chooses instead to continue.]
You're right to think what I did isn't common. Actually, it's against school rules, so I'll get in quite a bit of trouble if anyone finds out. That's why I can't allow you to leave until the coast is clear. But I'm not under that much supervision, so it was easy enough sneaking you in. And honestly, it's been a bit boring lately.
[Waking up, going to class, practicing alone and attending Ibara's meetings—this new life of his has been nothing to get excited about. The environment at Reimei is simply terrible, like Yumenosaki but worse, and though everyone knows his name, he doesn't know a single soul here. He could've avoided this situation—could've accepted that full ride to Shuuetsu, where at least he and Nagisa would have been together. But instead he chose Reimei, wanting to star over from the very bottom. Start over together with that boy he saw.
The one he hasn't seen a single time since.
He quits staring into space, returning Hiiro's gaze as he finishes.]
Although I am an idol, I'm a human being first and foremost. And in noble families like my own, we have a principle we like to abide by: "always act with generosity towards those who are less fortunate." [Aka "noblesse oblige."] Running into you was an opportunity to put that principle into practice.
Though of course, if you'd been ranting and raving about "annihilating all idols" when I found you, I would've stayed far away. But you didn't let that slip until I'd already taken you back to my room. So perhaps you do have some common sense after all?
I see... it was nothing like that. It is just that you did not bring up idols before then, and I could tell you were not a bad person. Since I was being offered a place to stay, I decided to simply follow along.
[He didn't even think about idols at the time until Hiyori mentions it... Sort of, or at least, until he got into a place full of idol wannabes.]
I am used to sleeping outdoors now, but it is much nicer to still sleep indoors. Given such an opportunity, I was too excited to think about anything else. It is difficult to sleep at night when I have to pay attention to my surroundings, yet here, you have such things as security that is available.
I am glad to know that such principles still hold true for your family. I will not let you regret showing me kindness.
[Yep. He knew Hiiro wasn't really trying to hide his true colors. Hiiro is just a straightforward person and well-mannered kid. When he's not threatening to annihilate everything Hiyori holds dear, that is.
He waits for Hiiro to finish before breaking into a big, warm smile.]
It's the same for me too, you know. I thought you seemed like a polite kid. Which is why all that talk about destroying things caught me off-guard! But I had it right the first time, I see. Yep, you're a good boy after all ♪
[So good, in fact, that Hiyori reaches out to give him a pat on his fluffy head. It's fine; Hiiro just bathed, so his hair should be clean. And speaking of bathing...]
I need to take a bath now, since I still haven't done that yet. While I'm in there, you can put yourself to bed or do whatever else you need to do. Since you're a good boy, I trust you won't rob me blind, or anything like that.
[Alright, he'll accept that "umu" as a "no, I won't rob you blind." Before going off to gather his sleepclothes, though, he'll answer Hiiro's question.]
Not all day. There should be time to talk in the morning; I like to have a leisurely breakfast, and of course my skincare regimen takes time, so I've been setting my alarm fairly early to start with. Speaking of breakfast, I suppose I'll have to bring you some... er, and I'll need to procure lunch for you later, too...
[He starts to frown, feeling the weight of responsibility creeping up on him. Since this was supposed to be just for the night, he didn't think that far ahead. Taking in a stray sure is troublesome!]
... well, if I find myself running out of time, there shouldn't be any harm in skipping just one class.
You do not need to feed me! I still have my rations to keep, and I do not wish to burden you further. Since I am already imposing on you, the least I can do is stay put.
[He's alive and healthy, maybe just a little hungry because rations weren't full meals but he can't hunt in the city, but he'll be fine.]
If there is anything I can do to repay you, please let me know.
Umu! I brought a lot when I left the village, in case I was not able to hunt in the city. There are so many rules against it, it was difficult to get food. The price of things were also much higher than I expected.
[They had money somehow, but prices were ten times more than he expected. It would be fine if he had found Rinne immediately, but because it's taking so long, he's getting to the point of being completely broke. Not a good position to be in.]
I will need to look for a job soon, if I stay here longer. If only Nii-san was easier to find...
Shouldn't your family have someone taking care of that for you? Unless you mean hunting for sport...
[No one in Hiyori's family has to do much cookint, let alone hunting; that's what their personal chef is for. Most noble households have one of those. But although Hiiro's sickly father is allegedly a monarch, Hiiro never specified whether his village was large and wealthy, or small and destitute. Hiyori has no idea what sort of conditions the boy lived in.
How likely is it that someone from such a radically different lifestyle could move to the city and become a successful idol...? Could the boy's brother possibly have done such a thing?
There's no use in wondering now. Hiyori shakes his head, returning to the topic at hand.]
Anyway—I don't know what's in that bag, but whatever it is won't last you forever. Someone in dire straits such as yourself shouldn't be turning down food. So, you might as well save that bag and accept my offer for tomorrow. If it'll ease the guilt squeezing your heart, just think of it like this: I already have myself to feed. It won't take much extra effort to pick up two meals instead of one.
[Though he does hate having to carry things himself. If only Tsumugi was still around to act as his servant...]
As for your brother, we'll find out where he is tomorrow, or at least we'll find out where he isn't. And if worse comes to worst, I guess you can crawl back here and get a job working for my family as a servant? But that's all hypothetical, so for now, try to rest up, okay?
Umu. Food around the village is scarce, so hunting is important to survive. It surprised me when I came to the city how abundant the food is here. No one would ever go hungry.
[He thinks about what he says, and even if he does feel like he's imposing, he offers him a grateful smile.]
Thank you, Hiyori. Today, I thought it would be same as it has been since I arrived, but I feel unbelievably fortunate. I will remember it for the rest of my life.
["Food around the village is scarce." Alright, so definitely "small and destitute," not large and prosperous. Knowing what he knows now, Hiyori can better understand why bringing back his brother seems like a matter of life and death to Hiiro.
Someone needs to save that failing village. Someone needs to rebuild the Tomoe Foundation. And in cases like this, it's always the older brother. Right? Shrugging off your responsibilities and leaving everything to the younger brother, why, that would just be unthinkable.
While Hiyori muses on such serious topics, however, Hiiro is smiling brightly again. And hearing his polite words of gratitude, well—that puts Hiyori in higher spirits. So high, in fact, that he reaches out again to pat Hiiro's fluffy head.]
Right, you're a good, cute boy, so of course you will! ♪
[Ah, what a polite child... He can't understand how the boy's brother could heartlessly run off and leave him worrying. Even if the pressure of becoming monarch got to be too much, the least he could've done was make himself easier to find.
But that's something they'll worry about tomorrow. "They," not just Hiiro alone, because Hiyori has made it his mission to help. There's no guarantee he'll have any luck finding Amagi Rinne, but with Hiiro relying on him, Hiyori plans to do his best.
He releases Hiiro's head and finally starts to head to the washroom.]
I'll be out soon, but if you've already fallen asleep by then, have a good night.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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[He doesn't know why Hiyori seems so stressed. He did say he wouldn't harm Hiyori, just all other idols. Hiyori seemed too kind for that, so he isn't sure he really understands what an idol is meant to be. In his mind, they're like a demonic creature hypnotizing his brother into worshipping them, but he isn't sure how.]
Our father has fallen ill, so Nii-san, being the eldest son, will become the new monarch should father succumb to his illness. Since he has not returned ever since he went to the city, it is my duty to bring him back home for the coronation.
[This... probably did not explain the situation.]
It is all right, Hiyori! Since you have saved me, I will take this into consideration for my goals. After all, I still do not know what an idol is, so I am not certain how to destroy it yet.
So Hiyori, what is an idol?
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Perhaps that's what motivates him now, above all else. Driving him onwards, even while he's stuck alone in this hellish environment, without Nagisa or his ex-comrades or even the boy to recruit. Maybe that's all he has now: this idea that he mustn't allow that stage to be his last.
But enough about that dreariness.
Hiyori asked for an explanation and Hiiro provides one, though it leaves him feeling thoroughly incredulous. He'd already mentioned the bit about his father being in bad condition. But his brother is a monarch? His father is a monarch? It just all sounds too far-fetched, even for someone who grew up in a noble household.]
Er...
[He furrows his brow, unable to keep up with all the jumping around.]
First of all, let me make sure I have everything straight... your father is the ruler of some far-flung rural village, but he's fallen tragically ill all of a sudden, which means it's time for the family heir to step in. So, you're on a quest to bring your brother back home to succeed the throne... correct? But your brother lives here in the city, and you have reason to believe he's working as an idol for some reason... is that it? Do I have that all squared away properly?
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[Most people will tell him he doesn't make sense, so he's happy that he did. At least, Hiyori is able to follow. He looks pleased by that.]
It is about time my brother takes his duties seriously, so I must do everything I can to bring him home. Since he has strayed from the correct path, it is my duty to annihilate him. However, as the next monarch, the village and I need him. So instead, I must annihilate these idols that have led him the wrong way.
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Yes, yes, I heard all that the first time!
[Honestly, it's hard to get anywhere with this boy. Even if he accepts the boy's brother is a runaway monarch (still a tall order), there's still this unpleasant business to contend with. Couldn't his parents teach him some basic common sense (like "don't threaten to annihilate people") before sending him off on his merry way? Better yet, couldn't they have found him some accommodations to stay in? He knows the boy's father is (apparently) on his deathbed, but still.
He heaves out another sigh.]
I assume you don't really plan to kill anyone. So if, by "annihilation," you mean you want to destroy the industry, then I'm afraid I can't allow it. Not that you'll get anywhere if you try; that's far too big a job for someone your size. So, for now, let's forget all about that nonsense. You can stop throwing around words like "annihilate," and I'll kindly pretend I never heard a thing. And now that that's settled...
[Some of the sternness leaves his voice as he continues,]
While I'm being generous, there's one more thing I can offer. Tomorrow, I have a meeting with my producer. If you'd like, I can ask if he knows of any idols by that name you gave me. He should have access to all sorts of files, including ones belonging to different agencies. That should satisfy your curiosity, right?
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[He starts with, since that was more important. He can't promise not to destroy the industry (or try to, at least), but it's not that important right now. He still isn't sure what an idol is anyway. No, what's more important is finding his brother.]
If they are able to, then I will not attempt anything. It is easy to destroy, but if it is possible to get Nii-san to come home willingly, then I will cooperate. You have my gratitude, Hiyori. If there is anything I can do to help, I will do so.
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[Saegusa Ibara isn't a typical producer. For one thing, he's sixteen years old. For another, he's in training to become an idol himself. And third of all, Hiyori is pretty sure he uses dirty tricks to do his job more efficiently: intercepting people's emails, spying on other agencies... he just seems to love that sort of thing, treating the industry like it's a warzone, and he's some sort of general. But there's no need to get into all that, and nor is there any need for Hiiro and Ibara to meet. Ibara would scold Hiyori, no doubt, for violating the school rules and taking in such a suspicious character. And as for Hiiro, who knows what sort of violent vocab he'd learn from that poisonous snake?
No, tomorrow he'll ask Ibara a simple question, and that'll be the end of things. Hiiro will learn his brother's whereabouts, and they'll be able to settle their little conflict face-to-face, or else he'll learn his brother isn't working as an idol at any of the major agencies, and he'll go off to search for him in some other location. Either way, Amagi Hiiro and his baffling attitude will be out of Hiyori's life soon enough.
He can't help but sigh a little again as Hiiro switches from talking about destruction to offering to help, all with a good-natured smile on his face. Really, where did he learn manners from?]
I'm the one who's so generously helping you. All you need to do is avoid causing me any trouble. So for now, why don't you just go to bed for the night? You're welcome to sleep on the couch if you prefer, but you'd probably be better off sleeping in a real bed. The bottom bunk is mine, which means you'd be using the top one.
[Here, he gestures to the bunk beds.]
Oh, but first, one more thing.
[Although his tone remains pleasant and conversational, Hiyori's gaze narrows as he locks eyes with Hiiro before speaking his next piece.]
I know you said you don't plan to harm me, and I do assume you meant it. But on the off-chance you are as violent as your speech suggests, don't even think about attacking me in my sleep. My family is powerful enough to employ groups of prviate lawyers, so if something were to happen to me, and it was found to be your fault, you will be sued into oblivion, which means your village might just sink into ruin.
[Then he turns cheerful again as he asks,]
Got that? ♪
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Umu! Hiyori, you are such a kind person. Do not worry, since I want to be your friend, I will never let harm come to you.
... I am glad. When I first came to the city, I thought that most people would be cruel like I was told. Yet, I found so many nice people, and even managed to find a place to stay for a night. I might be able to sleep well.
[He's... been sleeping outside illegally, after all.]
By the way, Hiyori. You never did answer my question. Can you tell me about idols?
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He really has no clue what to make of things.]
Goodness, what is your perception of people...
[Hiyori mutters this mostly to himself.]
I'm not sure what it is you've heard, but assuming everyone in the city to be cruel is a bit much. Then again, I suppose we all have stereotypes. People who've lived in cities all their life might assume those from rural areas to be ignorant and uneducated... Though in your case, it looks like the first stereotype does hold.
[And now to glide right over that insult.
Hiyori blinks, surprised to be asked the same question again. It's true, though—he never did answer the first time.]
You said you wanted to know so you could destroy them, right? That makes me less-than-inclined to tell you, quite frankly! But I suppose it couldn't hurt to let you know the basics?
[He sticks a finger in the air, waving it as he gives his "lesson."]
Essentially, an idol is someone who sings, dances, and shines! There are other things we get involved with too, of course, such as talk shows. But songs are the universal language, so that's the main thing we're known for. The idea is that, while watching us dazzling idols perform, all your troubles will slowly melt away. You'll be transported to a land where only happiness exists—a sort of paradise, if you will. And your heart will be full to bursting with love for us.
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[He asks, uncertain, even as he processes what was said. The act itself does not sound like much, but what is with the second half of what he said?]
So idols are able to bring people to another land? All of what you said seems odd, but the gist of it is that Nii-san might have been kidnapped and influenced into worshipping these idols, doesn't it?
[That sounds dangerous??]
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And then his smile falls clean off once Hiiro continues.]
No, that's not at all what I meant...
[He sighs. Goodness, this boy is just as clueless as Nagisa-kun. But the irony, of course, is that idols were the one thing Hiyori didn't need to explain to his dear childhood friend; on the contrary, Nagisa was the one who explained them to him.]
It'd be easiest just to show you, but I'd rather not do that right now. Looking at screens before bed is bad for one's beauty sleep, so we won't be doing that tonight. I suppose you will be stuck in here tomorrow, though, since the meeting with our producer isn't until late afternoon, so perhaps you can entertain yourself watching videos until I return.
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[Everything he says sounds like it came from a completely different world. Is this how idols work?]
I agree that an early night is important. Is it truly all right that I use this bed? I am grateful.
[He only had one bag's worth of stuff, and even then there wasn't much in it.]
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[He... does know what a video is, right?
If not, he'll just have to wait to find out. Hiyori isn't in the mood to explain the birds, the bees, the meaning of life, or N*co N*co D**ga and Y**tube to his impromptu roommate at this late hour. Instead, he nods, pointing to the bunk beds.]
I've already claimed the bottom bunk, but the top one isn't being used, so you may as well sleep there. You can take your stuff up there with you, or leave it on the couch. Whatever's more comfortable.
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[Their village is one that is also very suspicious, so he understands the need for caution. However, Hiyori just pretty much invites him who can easily overpower him without a second thought. Hiiro may not hurt him, but it did not mean he wasn't capable of doing so.]
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Honestly, I thought you seemed rather pitiful.
[It's the first thing that comes to mind, so it's what he says.]
While the weather hasn't been too bad, temperatures do drop at night, as I'm sure you're aware. It couldn't have been comfortable for you to sleep in such a place. And since this room was designed for two people, but I don't have anyone to share it with at this moment, I thought I might as well bring you here.
[A simple and straightforward explanation. One that even Hiiro can understand. Hiyori could leave it there, but after a brief pause, he chooses instead to continue.]
You're right to think what I did isn't common. Actually, it's against school rules, so I'll get in quite a bit of trouble if anyone finds out. That's why I can't allow you to leave until the coast is clear. But I'm not under that much supervision, so it was easy enough sneaking you in. And honestly, it's been a bit boring lately.
[Waking up, going to class, practicing alone and attending Ibara's meetings—this new life of his has been nothing to get excited about. The environment at Reimei is simply terrible, like Yumenosaki but worse, and though everyone knows his name, he doesn't know a single soul here. He could've avoided this situation—could've accepted that full ride to Shuuetsu, where at least he and Nagisa would have been together. But instead he chose Reimei, wanting to star over from the very bottom. Start over together with that boy he saw.
The one he hasn't seen a single time since.
He quits staring into space, returning Hiiro's gaze as he finishes.]
Although I am an idol, I'm a human being first and foremost. And in noble families like my own, we have a principle we like to abide by: "always act with generosity towards those who are less fortunate." [Aka "noblesse oblige."] Running into you was an opportunity to put that principle into practice.
Though of course, if you'd been ranting and raving about "annihilating all idols" when I found you, I would've stayed far away. But you didn't let that slip until I'd already taken you back to my room. So perhaps you do have some common sense after all?
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[He didn't even think about idols at the time until Hiyori mentions it... Sort of, or at least, until he got into a place full of idol wannabes.]
I am used to sleeping outdoors now, but it is much nicer to still sleep indoors. Given such an opportunity, I was too excited to think about anything else. It is difficult to sleep at night when I have to pay attention to my surroundings, yet here, you have such things as security that is available.
I am glad to know that such principles still hold true for your family. I will not let you regret showing me kindness.
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He waits for Hiiro to finish before breaking into a big, warm smile.]
It's the same for me too, you know. I thought you seemed like a polite kid. Which is why all that talk about destroying things caught me off-guard! But I had it right the first time, I see. Yep, you're a good boy after all ♪
[So good, in fact, that Hiyori reaches out to give him a pat on his fluffy head. It's fine; Hiiro just bathed, so his hair should be clean. And speaking of bathing...]
I need to take a bath now, since I still haven't done that yet. While I'm in there, you can put yourself to bed or do whatever else you need to do. Since you're a good boy, I trust you won't rob me blind, or anything like that.
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[There was nothing to unpack so he can sleep immediately, but...]
Will you be busy all day tomorrow? There is a lot I wish to ask.
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Not all day. There should be time to talk in the morning; I like to have a leisurely breakfast, and of course my skincare regimen takes time, so I've been setting my alarm fairly early to start with. Speaking of breakfast, I suppose I'll have to bring you some... er, and I'll need to procure lunch for you later, too...
[He starts to frown, feeling the weight of responsibility creeping up on him. Since this was supposed to be just for the night, he didn't think that far ahead. Taking in a stray sure is troublesome!]
... well, if I find myself running out of time, there shouldn't be any harm in skipping just one class.
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[He's alive and healthy, maybe just a little hungry because rations weren't full meals but he can't hunt in the city, but he'll be fine.]
If there is anything I can do to repay you, please let me know.
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Don't be absurd! You're a living creature; I can't just let you starve. What do you mean, "rations"? Are you saying there's food in that bag of yours?
[Nonperishable food??]
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[They had money somehow, but prices were ten times more than he expected. It would be fine if he had found Rinne immediately, but because it's taking so long, he's getting to the point of being completely broke. Not a good position to be in.]
I will need to look for a job soon, if I stay here longer. If only Nii-san was easier to find...
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[Time for another eyebrow raise.]
Shouldn't your family have someone taking care of that for you? Unless you mean hunting for sport...
[No one in Hiyori's family has to do much cookint, let alone hunting; that's what their personal chef is for. Most noble households have one of those. But although Hiiro's sickly father is allegedly a monarch, Hiiro never specified whether his village was large and wealthy, or small and destitute. Hiyori has no idea what sort of conditions the boy lived in.
How likely is it that someone from such a radically different lifestyle could move to the city and become a successful idol...? Could the boy's brother possibly have done such a thing?
There's no use in wondering now. Hiyori shakes his head, returning to the topic at hand.]
Anyway—I don't know what's in that bag, but whatever it is won't last you forever. Someone in dire straits such as yourself shouldn't be turning down food. So, you might as well save that bag and accept my offer for tomorrow. If it'll ease the guilt squeezing your heart, just think of it like this: I already have myself to feed. It won't take much extra effort to pick up two meals instead of one.
[Though he does hate having to carry things himself. If only Tsumugi was still around to act as his servant...]
As for your brother, we'll find out where he is tomorrow, or at least we'll find out where he isn't. And if worse comes to worst, I guess you can crawl back here and get a job working for my family as a servant? But that's all hypothetical, so for now, try to rest up, okay?
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[He thinks about what he says, and even if he does feel like he's imposing, he offers him a grateful smile.]
Thank you, Hiyori. Today, I thought it would be same as it has been since I arrived, but I feel unbelievably fortunate. I will remember it for the rest of my life.
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Someone needs to save that failing village. Someone needs to rebuild the Tomoe Foundation. And in cases like this, it's always the older brother. Right? Shrugging off your responsibilities and leaving everything to the younger brother, why, that would just be unthinkable.
While Hiyori muses on such serious topics, however, Hiiro is smiling brightly again. And hearing his polite words of gratitude, well—that puts Hiyori in higher spirits. So high, in fact, that he reaches out again to pat Hiiro's fluffy head.]
Right, you're a good, cute boy, so of course you will! ♪
[Ah, what a polite child... He can't understand how the boy's brother could heartlessly run off and leave him worrying. Even if the pressure of becoming monarch got to be too much, the least he could've done was make himself easier to find.
But that's something they'll worry about tomorrow. "They," not just Hiiro alone, because Hiyori has made it his mission to help. There's no guarantee he'll have any luck finding Amagi Rinne, but with Hiiro relying on him, Hiyori plans to do his best.
He releases Hiiro's head and finally starts to head to the washroom.]
I'll be out soon, but if you've already fallen asleep by then, have a good night.