CHiRAL CAFÉ e Youkoso Part 2 of 2
CHiRAL CAFÉ e Youkoso(literally "Welcome to CHiRAL CAFÉ")
3:The owner that grants wishes, interview rhapsody
Konoe: [stretches] The weather is good~
Youji: But, we're quite free today.
Konoe: That's true. Once lunch time is over there aren't many customers.
Akira: Well, the afternoon is a time when not many customers come.
Youji: In this period of time when there's no customers, let's go handle the miscellaneous work.
Akira: That's a good idea.
[Door opens]
Konoe: Ah, a customer! Welcome!
Youji: Welco- Ah...
Zenya: Yoo-hoo, Youchin~ I came today too~
Youji: [sigh]
Zenya: What? You're so happy to see me?
Youji: No...uh...
Zenya: I am the customer you know? I would prefer you to be smiling~
Youji: We-welcome...
Konoe: Thanks for always coming, uh, erm...
Zenya: It's Zenya~! Okinaga Zenya. It'll be good if you can quickly remember my name~
Konoe: I a-apologize.
Zenya: That's fine. Greet me well from the next time onwards~
Konoe: Y-yes! Um, is it only one person?
Zenya: Today it's three~ Hey, over here~
[Footsteps]
Keisuke: U-umm... Good afternoon.
Akira: Keisuke? What happened?
Keisuke: No, er...umm...
Zenya: There's still one more person~
Asato: ...Go...od...af...ter...noon...
Konoe: Asato?
Youji: Eh? The two of you know each other?
Konoe: Yeah.
Akira: Well...yes.
Zenya: The two of them kept on peeping into the shop either from inside the bushes or the shadow of the telegraph pole, so I called them.
Akira: What were you doing, Keisuke?
Keisuke: I heard Akira was working here so I wanted to come over to take a look...but such a stylish shop doesn't match me at all...and I was thinking or what I should do if I caused you trouble...
Konoe: Asato too, you could just come in normally.
Asato: I wanted to see Konoe...but, I don't know what to do here...besides, I don't have any money...
Zenya: So, I said to them "Let's go in together"~
Akira: So that's what happened...
Keisuke: S-sorry, Akira...
Akira: It's fine. It's not anything bad anyway.
Zenya: By the way, I'll leave it to the three of you~
Konoe: Understood. Then, everyone, to the seat inside...
Zenya: Okay~
Akira: Please come this way...
Akira: What would you like to order?
Zenya: Hmm. I want coconut juice, Keisuke, what will you order?
Keisuke: Eh? Um...Coffee!
Akira: Cold or hot, how do you want it?
Keisuke: H-hot.
Akira: Do you want to add whipped cream or milk foam? Or, would you like neither?
Keisuke: F-fo? S-soy cream? Uh, uh, ummm, I don't know, so just put everything in!
Akira: Keisuke. Calm down.
Keisuke: S-sorry. Somehow I'm very nervous...
Akira: You'll be fine. I'm here aren't I?
Keisuke: T-thank you...
Konoe: Asato, what do you want?
Asato: Hm, this is full of things I haven't seen before, so I don't really know...
Konoe: That's true...Something that Asato would like would be... Oh, how about Japanese tea? We have quite a variety of it.
Asato: I like tea.
Konoe: The most popular are brown rice tea and green tea... Black tea is good too.
Asato: Konoe, you know a lot.
Konoe: Well yeah. The shop's menu has to be memorized. Oh, there is also tea with the smell of flowers that you like.
Asato: Then, I'll order that.
Konoe: Understood~ Please wait a moment.
[Waiters leave]
Zenya: Hey, I have something to ask the two of you~
Asato: What is it?
Zenya: Why do you keep looking from outside? What's the reason?
Asato: Because I feel anxious about Konoe...
Keisuke: I too, towards Akira...
Zenya: Whatwhat? You like him?
Keisuke: Ah! Ah, umm, it's not that...
Asato: I, like Konoe.
Zenya: Fufu~ I'm the same too~
Keisuke: Eh?
Zenya: I like Youchin too~ That's why I come to the shop everday~
Asato: So that's it...
Zenya: But Youchin is a staff member, so he can't really tend to me~
Keisuke: Ah...that's true...
Asato: I hope that they can stay for a while and talk to us customers...but if it's for too long it may cause them trouble...
Zenya: That's why Makocchan and Tecchan are too sly~
Asato: Who's that?
Zenya: They are my friends who are working here together with Youchin. But working together, that's so cunning~
Asato: I also want to work with Konoe...
Zenya: Isn't that so? I too want to work with Youchin~
Asato: How about Keisuke, don't you want to work with Akira?
Keisuke: It's not that. If I was here I'll just be a hinder, but...
Zenya: Alright~ It's decided! [stands] Excuse me~ Youchin! Youchin come here~
Youji: I'm here. What is it?
Zenya: From today onwards we're going to work here. Nice to meet you~
Youji: Eh?!
Zenya: Keisuke and Asato also said that they want to work here. So we're going to work part-time here~
Youji: E-even if you tell me this, I'm at a loss...
Zenya: It doesn't matter does it~
Youji: It's not good! In any case, I'll call the superiors...
Zenya: Eh~? It can't be helped~
Tetsuo: Then? You want to work in our shop?
Bardo: Deciding all of a sudden, what do you want?
Zenya: By the way, why is Tecchan here?
Tetsuo: Because I'm sub-chief of the hall. The chief is on leave today.
Zenya: Hmm? Then, who is this old man?
Bardo: I'm Bardo, the manager and chief of the kitchen here.
Zenya: Then this makes things simple. From today onwards we're going to work here~
Bardo: Oioi, that's impossible.
Keisuke: That's true...
Asato: It's indeed not possible...?
Bardo: It’s not that we’re reluctant over this and that, but we don’t know your reason…
Asato: Reason?
Bardo: The reason why you want to work in my shop, what you want to do, and what you can do.
Tetsuo: We also have the right to choose.
Bardo: That’s right. From our standpoint, there also has to be some merit for us.
Keisuke: I see…
Bardo: Well it’s fine. This is also some kind of fate, so let’s have a simple interview here.
Keisuke: Is that okay?
Bardo: I too want capable people to work here. So, who will I interview first?
Asato: Is it okay to start from me?
Bardo: Okay. Then, in simple words tell me your name, what you’re good at, and what you want to do in this shop.
Asato: Understood. My name is Asato. Although I don’t quite know what I’m good at, I like combat sport.
Bardo: Combat sport huh…Doesn’t sound like it is of much use to our shop…
Asato: Is that so…But, I think I’m good at manual labour.
Bardo: Mmhm, that’s pretty good. Then, what do you want to do in our shop?
Asato: I want to be with Konoe.
Bardo: …What’s that? That isn’t working is it?
Asato: But, because I’m with Konoe, it is fine.
Bardo: What will you do on days when Konoe’s on leave?
Asato: I will take leave too.
Bardo: …There’s no meaning to that.
Asato: It’s not allowed?
Bardo: You want to come here not to work, but because you want to be with Konoe, right? That isn’t working is it? Think carefully about it!
Asato: I see…Understood…After I have carefully thought about everything, can I have an interview again?
Bardo: Sure, I’ll be waiting.
Asato: Thank you.
Zenya: Ah~ Poor Asato.
Tetsuo: Shut up.
Zenya: Tecchan’s scary~
Bardo: Then, who’s next?
Keisuke: Ah…me. Um, my name is Keisuke. I’m Akira’s childhood friend, we have always been together since young, but Akira is always cool and strong, so I looked up to him all along, but I am lousy in whatever I do, so I have always been causing trouble for Akira, but Akira has always treated me very gently…
Bardo: Enough about your past. So anyway, can you tell us about what you’re good at?
Keisuke: S-sorry! E-eh, I don’t know what I’m good at, but I think I’m pretty good at fiddling with machines…
Bardo: Mmhm, It’s good that you’re good with machines. It looks like we can count on you with repairs and such.
Keisuke: Also, about what I want to do in the shop, because I can’t do anything if Akira’s not here…
Bardo: [Sigh] What will you do when you have to work alone?
Keisuke: What should I do…
Bardo: This is something you should think for yourself.
Keisuke: Y-you’re right…
Bardo: If you have to depend on someone else all the time it’s a little…Although it’s regretful, you’ll have to give up this time.
Keisuke: As I thought, without Akira, I’m no good…
Zenya: Oh dear, are you alright Keisuke? You look awful.
Keisuke: I…I…
Zenya: Hm? What happened to Keisuke? Oh well.
Bardo: Oh, so you’re the last?
Zenya: Yes~ My name is Okinaga Zenya, please call me Zenya~ I usually study at Komanami Gakuen~
Bardo: That means, you’re from the same school as Tetsuo, Makoto and Youji?
Tetsuo: Yeah.
Zenya: The things I like are shopping and playing with my iguana Christie~
Bardo: Sounds like they don’t have much to do with work…Well, do you have experience with receiving customers?
Zenya: Nope~ I have never worked before.
Bardo: Then, are you good at cooking? How about things like that?
Zenya: When it comes to things like cooking, Kitani does all of them so there’s no problem.
Bardo: Kitani? Who’s that?
Tetsuo: If you have to say it he’s the servant.
Zenya: Kitani is awesome! Cooking, doing the laundry, driving, receiving the customers, he can do anything difficult~ So, you can leave all the work in the job to Kitani~
Bardo: Hm? Wait, isn’t it strange?
Zenya: What is?
Bardo: From the way you put it, wouldn’t the one working here be the person called Kitani?
Zenya: Yeah, Kitani will work here, while I’ll be lovey-dovey with Youchin. Isn’t it a great idea~?
Bardo: Then when will you work?
Zenya: My job is to be with Youchin~
Bardo: You…Erm…As long as you’re not working on your own you’re rejected. Or should I say, you’re all rejected.
Zenya: Eh~ Why?
Tetsuo: We have no need for a person who cannot do anything on his own.
Zenya: Why are you butting in?
Tetsuo: I’m sub-chief of the hall. We don’t need people who are a hindrance at work.
Zenya: What. Things like not being able to do anything, being a hindrance, what do you mean by that!
Bardo: Hey, calm down, Zenya.
Zenya: Shut up!
Bardo: Keisuke, go talk to Zenya!
Keisuke: [Mumbling, turning into Kurosuke!] …What am I to Akira? What am I? I…I…
Asato: Keisuke? Is something wrong?
Keisuke: Arghhhhh! [Breaks things] Whatever it is, put me together with Akira~ I’m no good without Akira~ If I’m not with Akira, I’ll ruin your whole shop~ Hahahaha~
Zenya: Kitani! Where is Kitani! How about Youji, come out Youji! If you don’t, I won’t know what will happen to this shop! Hahahaha!
Bardo: I don’t quite know what’s happening, but if you’re picking a fight I’ll take you up on it.
Asato: If you do anything to Konoe I won’t forgive you!
Tetsuo: If you cause trouble for the shop I won’t go easy on you.
Zenya: Hahaha, I’m not joking~
Keisuke: Bwahahaha…Who shall I start with first, huh?
[Door opens]
Arbitro: Oh, what’s the commotion? [Walks in] Greetings, gentlemen, how are you? It has been a while.
Zenya: Who are you? You’re noisy.
Bardo: Arbitro, such a rare sight, that you would come here.
Arbitro: What’s wrong with coming to my own shop?
Zenya: Hey you, you’re from this shop?
Arbitro: I am this shop’s owner. Please watch your attitude!
Asato: Owner…what does that mean?
Tetsuo: It means he’s the top of this shop.
Keisuke: So? What did you come here for?
Arbitro: To manage the staff and run the shop is my duty.
Bardo: We do fine even if you’re not around anyway.
Arbitro: What are you saying! Such a commotion happened while I wasn’t around!
Tetsuo: It has nothing to do with it.
Arbitro: So, was a interview going on?
Zenya: This has nothing to do with you.
Keisuke: It’s not the time for a pervert like you to appear.
Arbitro: Hm~ Well then shouldn’t I, as the owner, make sure of you in person~?
Zenya: The likes of you?
Arbitro: Hmm~ First, you with the golden hair and eyepatch, you have quite good looks. Your fashion sense is good too, such a magnificent material. We’ll have you from today onwards.
Zenya: Hmph.
Arbitro: And you over there…Your strength and wildness emitting from the work clothes wrapped around you is good too. And that heat of a hungry beast…You seem to have even more power than our Akira, I’m looking forward to it.
Keisuke: Stronger than Akira?
Arbitro: Both of you are good material. Alright, I’ll employ the two of you.
Bardo: Hey! Stupid owner, what are you thinking?
Zenya: Look, you should have done this from the start.
Keisuke: So it’s settled then? I look forward to working with you.
Arbitro: Well first is the regulation for working in this shop…Firstly…Put this on~!
Zenya: What’s with this eye mask?
Arbitro: For those of you who passed the interview that I, the owner conducted in person, please put on this specially made mask! [Puts mask on Keisuke]
Keisuke: What?! Arghhh! I can’t remove it!
Arbitro: [Puts mask on Zenya]
Zenya: Argh! What’s this, it’s disgusting! Arghh!
Arbitro: This is the special mask that only people approved by me can wear! Plus, it matches mine…Mmm, magnificent!!
Keisuke: [Growls] Damn it…Stop it!
Zenya: No, it’s disgusting…Kitani, save me! Kitani!
[Keisuke and Zenya runs off screaming]
Arbitro: Hey! The two of you! Where’re you going! Stop it right there!
Asato: Oh…The two of them has left…
Tetsuo: Yeah.
Asato: Is it fine for them to keep wearing that mask?
Tetsuo: It’s not a problem.
Bardo: Well, since they’re driven away the result is alright, that’s good isn’t it?
Asato: Is that so...
Bardo: Although he was a useless owner, you could say he was finally of some use today.
Tetsuo: To fight fire with fire, huh.
Arbitro: Seriously, it’s so uncivilized that they do not understand the magnificence of this mask! Such ignorance! Not even a hint of admiration. Don’t you think so, gentlemen?
Bardo: Well, shall we go back to our work?
Tetsuo: You’re right.
Asato: I’m going back too.
Bardo: Ah, I’m sorry about today.
Tetsuo: My deepest apologies for all the trouble caused today. Please come again. All of us will be awaiting you.
Asato: Understood. I’ll come again. [Leaves]
Arbitro: Hey, you guys! Were you listening to what I was saying?
Bardo: Ah…because of those two the room is in a mess…
Tetsuo: [Sigh] The work has increased.
Bardo: Let’s rest after tidying up.
Tetsuo: Yeah.
Bardo: [Carries on talking and ignores Arbitro]
Arbitro: Hey! You guys! Listen to me! Hey!!
Asato: Konoe, thanks for today. It was fun.
Konoe: Eh, you’re going back already, Asato?
Asato: Yeah. It would have been good if I could take my time, but I can’t. I have to get back soon.
Akira: Come to think of it, just now, Keisuke and the guy called Zenya went back very quickly…Did something happen?
Asato: Yeah, the two of them ran off with something weird stuck to their faces. I wonder what that was?
Akira: That Keisuke, what was he doing? Seriously.
Asato: I wonder if Okinaga’s okay?
Konoe: Say, Asato, during the interview there was a big commotion in the longue, did something happen?
Asato: Everyone failed the interview.
Konoe: Ah…I see.
Akira: It’s such a pity, Asato.
Asato: But if I studied hard, I could go for an interview again. Bardo said so.
Konoe: Oh, that’s great!
Asato: So, I have to quickly get home to study. Since I want to work with Konoe.
Konoe: Good luck. It’ll be great to work together.
Asato: Yeah. Wait for me. Bye.
Konoe: Thank you very much.
Akira & Youji: Thank you very much.
4:A frank talk, the ramen is hard-boiled
[Motomi singing while cooking]
[Door opens]
Motomi: Welcome!
Rin: Hi! How are you, old man?
Motomi: Oh, hasn’t it been a while? You haven’t come in quite a while that the ramen has gone all soft!
Rin: Haha, sorry, it’s been so busy lately~
Motomi: Ha, well it can’t be helped if you’re busy~ Hm? It’s the first time I see those few standing behind.
Rin: Yeah, they’re the new part-timers at our shop. Let’s see, the skinny one’s Konoe, the one with the mean-looking eyes is Akira, and the one in a daze is Youji.
Konoe: U-um, good afternoon. I’m Konoe.
Youji: My name is Sakiyama Youji. Nice to meet you.
Akira: The name’s Akira.
Motomi: I’m Motomi, the owner of this ramen shop. Nice to meet you!
Rin: The ramen here is quite tasty~ Even though it’s just a shabby old man’s ramen.
Motomi: Jeez shut up, you always have too many comments. So, what will you order today?
Rin: Hmm, I’ll have wonton noodles! This time I want an egg with it too~ What will you guys order?
Akira: Doesn’t matter. Anything’s fine.
Rin: Then yours will be the same as mine ok? How about Konoe?
Konoe: Hmmm…Uh, well, I’ll have miso butter ramen.
Youji: I’ll have miso ramen too. Without bamboo shoots.
Motomi: Got it, wait a while.
Rin: Ah~ Today was real exhausting~
Konoe: There were many customers too...
Rin: It was such trouble that Akira was dropping the glasses.
Akira: That could not be avoided. I just lost my balance because I had to avoid the plates that Rai was throwing. Besides, you overturned the whole tin of black tea leaves didn’t you?
Rin: Mrr, that was all Tetsuo’s fault! He suddenly appeared there with no indication of his presence!
Konoe: But, when I realized that Tetsuo was there standing right behind, it was quite a shock.
Youji: Yeah…That is true. I also get surprised by him from time to time.
Rin: Even if we told him to stop it because it’s bad for our hearts, all he would say is, “It doesn’t matter.” He’s even more unsociable than Akira!
Akira: Why am I suddenly mentioned there?
Youji: But, although Tetsuo seems that way, he’s actually a good guy.
Rin: Eh~? Youji, don’t you have any dissatisfactions about him?
Youji: N-not really, right Konoe?
Konoe: N-no, no dissatisfactions.
Rin: You paused for a moment there! You actually do have dissatisfactions, don’t you?
Konoe: T-that’s not true…
Motomi: Oioi, Rin, don’t bully your cute kouhais.
Rin: I wasn’t bullying them! Surely everyone has some complaints, that’s what I thought.
Motomi: Well, that’s true…
Rin: Konoe too, you’re always getting scolded by Rai.
Konoe: [Groan] …Although that’s because I’m dumb…But still, there are times when I wish he would treat me a bit nicer, but…
Rin: Bardo is always pushing the troublesome things to me!
Konoe: Ah, that seems to happen a lot.
Rin: Right? Kind of like ‘You, go do it!’
Youji: As for Tetsuo, even if I failed, he wouldn’t say anything…There are times when I think that is too much to take…
Motomi: Sometimes it’s better to just be given a big scolding~ Well, it doesn’t help to be all gloomy. Oof, it’s ready! [Serves noodles]
Rin: Ooh, I’ve been waiting! Thanks for the meal~
Konoe & Youji: Thanks for the meal.
Konoe: [Slurps noodles] Say Akira, isn’t there anything that you don’t like?
Akira: [Swallows] Nothing in particular, but it is troublesome to deal with Shiki.
Motomi & Rin: Ah…
Motomi: …Isn’t that the worst of all?
Akira: Yeah…
Rin: Really, those three from our shop are really troublesome huh~
[Door opens]
Motomi: Welcome!...Eh?
Bardo: Who did call an old man?
Rin: B-Bardo!
Rai: Sorry that I’m not nice, baka neko.
Konoe: E-even Rai…!
Tetsuo: Did I put you into a spot, Youji?
Youji: Tetsuo…
Shiki: Whatever a nobody grumbles, it is still simply the howling of a loser dog.
Akira: Shiki…You’re here too?
Rin: Could it be that, all of you were outside since just now?!
Rai: If so, what would you do?
Konoe: Eh, um, um…
Youji: …I apologize…
Tetsuo: It’s fine. If you have any complaints you can just tell me.
Bardo: Well, to be thought of in such a way by my cute kouhais, it’s quite inexcusable, right Tetsuo?
Tetsuo: Yeah.
Konoe: Eh! Um…Sorry…
Akira: [Sound of resentful agreement]
Shiki: Hmph. Such a pitiful look.
Bardo: As an apology I’ll treat you guys to gyoza~ Motomi, get out the usual thing for everyone.
Motomi: Ah~ Understood~ [Starts cooking]
Youji: I don’t really…
Bardo: Don’t stand on ceremony~ This is after all an apology from us troublesome people~ Right, Rai?
Rai: Yeah, an apology from us senpais who aren’t nice.
Konoe: [Groan]
Tetsuo: But, it’s great to understand your thoughts.
Youji: Eh?
Tetsuo: If we don’t know each others’ true feelings, we can’t convey to each other.
Youji: Tetsuo?
Tetsuo: If you have anything to say you can go ahead and say it.
Bardo: Hmph, well, we are comrades working at the same shop after all.
Konoe: Bardo…thank you…
Motomi: Here you go~ While the atmosphere is good, the gyoza’s here!
Bardo: Go on and eat without worries, since this is a part of our feelings.
Shiki: Eat it.
Youji: Thank you…
Rin: Yosh! Then everyone…
Rin, Youji, Konoe, Akira: We’re going to eat. [Eats]
[Spicyness level rises]
Rin: !! Ahhhhh!!!
Konoe: I-i-it’s spicy!!!
Youji: [Coughs] I-it hurts in my mouth…!
Bardo: That was great!
Motomi: It was a big success!
Rin: [Coughs] Why… [Coughs] S-spicy!!
Motomi: From the secret menu of Ramen Minamoto, special-made ultra-spicy gyoza!
Akira: Old man, you betrayed us!
Motomi: Betray? All I did was cook ‘the usual thing’ that was ordered~
Rin: Damn, why even you, Motomi? It has nothing to do with you!
Motomi: Hmm? Felt like someone said ‘shabby old man’s ramen’ earlier…Right, Rin?
Rin: …!!
Tetsuo: As it goes, to let down your guard is the enemy.
Motomi: Even us old men can put up quite a fight, can’t we?
Bardo: That’s it.
Rin: [Groan] Damn…! You guys, remember this!!!
[Someone slurping noodles]
Keisuke: [Sighs]
Zenya: [Sighs]
Asato: [Sighs]
Motomi: Oioi, what’s wrong? All of you look down.
Keisuke: We failed CHiRAL CAFÉ’s interview…
Motomi: Why, did you guys want to work there?
Asato: Yeah…
Zenya: But seriously, the owner there was disgusting…Extremely disgusting.
Motomi: Ah…You’re must be talking about Arbitro.
Zenya: What is it? You know him?
Motomi: Hm? Hmm…Well, you could say he’s an old acquaintance, or…Uh…[Sigh]
Asato: Motomi, you too, somehow it seems like it’s quite terrible?
Motomi: Well enough about me. So, how come you failed the interview?
Zenya: Kitani will work, while Youchin and I be all lovey-dovey. After I said that I was dropped~
Asato: I said I wanted to be with Konoe, but that cannot work.
Keisuke: I..don’t really remember it, but I have a feeling I caused a scene at the shop…
Motomi: You can’t do that! Seriously, you guys…
Keisuke: What should I do? I can’t go to the shop anymore…How should I face Akira…?
Zenya: It’s fine, Keisuke~ I will go to the shop again. Although we can’t work there, we can go there as customers~
Asato: Me too, they said I could go to the shop again.
Keisuke: If so I want to go too, but…is it really okay?
Motomi: Hahaha, they’re not the kind of people to be bothered by this!
Keisuke: I…I see.
Motomi: Here, have some char siu and eggs as a free extra. Cheer up!
Asato: Thank you…
Zenya: Motomi, you’re so nice~ Alright, tomorrow I’ll go to see Youchin~
Keisuke: I-I shall go to see Akira too..I think…
Asato: I’ll go too. I want Konoe to pick a tea for me again.
Zenya: Well then, let’s all go to CHiRAL CAFÉ shall we?
Keisuke & Asato: Yeah!
Part 1 here
3:The owner that grants wishes, interview rhapsody
Konoe: [stretches] The weather is good~
Youji: But, we're quite free today.
Konoe: That's true. Once lunch time is over there aren't many customers.
Akira: Well, the afternoon is a time when not many customers come.
Youji: In this period of time when there's no customers, let's go handle the miscellaneous work.
Akira: That's a good idea.
[Door opens]
Konoe: Ah, a customer! Welcome!
Youji: Welco- Ah...
Zenya: Yoo-hoo, Youchin~ I came today too~
Youji: [sigh]
Zenya: What? You're so happy to see me?
Youji: No...uh...
Zenya: I am the customer you know? I would prefer you to be smiling~
Youji: We-welcome...
Konoe: Thanks for always coming, uh, erm...
Zenya: It's Zenya~! Okinaga Zenya. It'll be good if you can quickly remember my name~
Konoe: I a-apologize.
Zenya: That's fine. Greet me well from the next time onwards~
Konoe: Y-yes! Um, is it only one person?
Zenya: Today it's three~ Hey, over here~
[Footsteps]
Keisuke: U-umm... Good afternoon.
Akira: Keisuke? What happened?
Keisuke: No, er...umm...
Zenya: There's still one more person~
Asato: ...Go...od...af...ter...noon...
Konoe: Asato?
Youji: Eh? The two of you know each other?
Konoe: Yeah.
Akira: Well...yes.
Zenya: The two of them kept on peeping into the shop either from inside the bushes or the shadow of the telegraph pole, so I called them.
Akira: What were you doing, Keisuke?
Keisuke: I heard Akira was working here so I wanted to come over to take a look...but such a stylish shop doesn't match me at all...and I was thinking or what I should do if I caused you trouble...
Konoe: Asato too, you could just come in normally.
Asato: I wanted to see Konoe...but, I don't know what to do here...besides, I don't have any money...
Zenya: So, I said to them "Let's go in together"~
Akira: So that's what happened...
Keisuke: S-sorry, Akira...
Akira: It's fine. It's not anything bad anyway.
Zenya: By the way, I'll leave it to the three of you~
Konoe: Understood. Then, everyone, to the seat inside...
Zenya: Okay~
Akira: Please come this way...
Akira: What would you like to order?
Zenya: Hmm. I want coconut juice, Keisuke, what will you order?
Keisuke: Eh? Um...Coffee!
Akira: Cold or hot, how do you want it?
Keisuke: H-hot.
Akira: Do you want to add whipped cream or milk foam? Or, would you like neither?
Keisuke: F-fo? S-soy cream? Uh, uh, ummm, I don't know, so just put everything in!
Akira: Keisuke. Calm down.
Keisuke: S-sorry. Somehow I'm very nervous...
Akira: You'll be fine. I'm here aren't I?
Keisuke: T-thank you...
Konoe: Asato, what do you want?
Asato: Hm, this is full of things I haven't seen before, so I don't really know...
Konoe: That's true...Something that Asato would like would be... Oh, how about Japanese tea? We have quite a variety of it.
Asato: I like tea.
Konoe: The most popular are brown rice tea and green tea... Black tea is good too.
Asato: Konoe, you know a lot.
Konoe: Well yeah. The shop's menu has to be memorized. Oh, there is also tea with the smell of flowers that you like.
Asato: Then, I'll order that.
Konoe: Understood~ Please wait a moment.
[Waiters leave]
Zenya: Hey, I have something to ask the two of you~
Asato: What is it?
Zenya: Why do you keep looking from outside? What's the reason?
Asato: Because I feel anxious about Konoe...
Keisuke: I too, towards Akira...
Zenya: Whatwhat? You like him?
Keisuke: Ah! Ah, umm, it's not that...
Asato: I, like Konoe.
Zenya: Fufu~ I'm the same too~
Keisuke: Eh?
Zenya: I like Youchin too~ That's why I come to the shop everday~
Asato: So that's it...
Zenya: But Youchin is a staff member, so he can't really tend to me~
Keisuke: Ah...that's true...
Asato: I hope that they can stay for a while and talk to us customers...but if it's for too long it may cause them trouble...
Zenya: That's why Makocchan and Tecchan are too sly~
Asato: Who's that?
Zenya: They are my friends who are working here together with Youchin. But working together, that's so cunning~
Asato: I also want to work with Konoe...
Zenya: Isn't that so? I too want to work with Youchin~
Asato: How about Keisuke, don't you want to work with Akira?
Keisuke: It's not that. If I was here I'll just be a hinder, but...
Zenya: Alright~ It's decided! [stands] Excuse me~ Youchin! Youchin come here~
Youji: I'm here. What is it?
Zenya: From today onwards we're going to work here. Nice to meet you~
Youji: Eh?!
Zenya: Keisuke and Asato also said that they want to work here. So we're going to work part-time here~
Youji: E-even if you tell me this, I'm at a loss...
Zenya: It doesn't matter does it~
Youji: It's not good! In any case, I'll call the superiors...
Zenya: Eh~? It can't be helped~
Tetsuo: Then? You want to work in our shop?
Bardo: Deciding all of a sudden, what do you want?
Zenya: By the way, why is Tecchan here?
Tetsuo: Because I'm sub-chief of the hall. The chief is on leave today.
Zenya: Hmm? Then, who is this old man?
Bardo: I'm Bardo, the manager and chief of the kitchen here.
Zenya: Then this makes things simple. From today onwards we're going to work here~
Bardo: Oioi, that's impossible.
Keisuke: That's true...
Asato: It's indeed not possible...?
Bardo: It’s not that we’re reluctant over this and that, but we don’t know your reason…
Asato: Reason?
Bardo: The reason why you want to work in my shop, what you want to do, and what you can do.
Tetsuo: We also have the right to choose.
Bardo: That’s right. From our standpoint, there also has to be some merit for us.
Keisuke: I see…
Bardo: Well it’s fine. This is also some kind of fate, so let’s have a simple interview here.
Keisuke: Is that okay?
Bardo: I too want capable people to work here. So, who will I interview first?
Asato: Is it okay to start from me?
Bardo: Okay. Then, in simple words tell me your name, what you’re good at, and what you want to do in this shop.
Asato: Understood. My name is Asato. Although I don’t quite know what I’m good at, I like combat sport.
Bardo: Combat sport huh…Doesn’t sound like it is of much use to our shop…
Asato: Is that so…But, I think I’m good at manual labour.
Bardo: Mmhm, that’s pretty good. Then, what do you want to do in our shop?
Asato: I want to be with Konoe.
Bardo: …What’s that? That isn’t working is it?
Asato: But, because I’m with Konoe, it is fine.
Bardo: What will you do on days when Konoe’s on leave?
Asato: I will take leave too.
Bardo: …There’s no meaning to that.
Asato: It’s not allowed?
Bardo: You want to come here not to work, but because you want to be with Konoe, right? That isn’t working is it? Think carefully about it!
Asato: I see…Understood…After I have carefully thought about everything, can I have an interview again?
Bardo: Sure, I’ll be waiting.
Asato: Thank you.
Zenya: Ah~ Poor Asato.
Tetsuo: Shut up.
Zenya: Tecchan’s scary~
Bardo: Then, who’s next?
Keisuke: Ah…me. Um, my name is Keisuke. I’m Akira’s childhood friend, we have always been together since young, but Akira is always cool and strong, so I looked up to him all along, but I am lousy in whatever I do, so I have always been causing trouble for Akira, but Akira has always treated me very gently…
Bardo: Enough about your past. So anyway, can you tell us about what you’re good at?
Keisuke: S-sorry! E-eh, I don’t know what I’m good at, but I think I’m pretty good at fiddling with machines…
Bardo: Mmhm, It’s good that you’re good with machines. It looks like we can count on you with repairs and such.
Keisuke: Also, about what I want to do in the shop, because I can’t do anything if Akira’s not here…
Bardo: [Sigh] What will you do when you have to work alone?
Keisuke: What should I do…
Bardo: This is something you should think for yourself.
Keisuke: Y-you’re right…
Bardo: If you have to depend on someone else all the time it’s a little…Although it’s regretful, you’ll have to give up this time.
Keisuke: As I thought, without Akira, I’m no good…
Zenya: Oh dear, are you alright Keisuke? You look awful.
Keisuke: I…I…
Zenya: Hm? What happened to Keisuke? Oh well.
Bardo: Oh, so you’re the last?
Zenya: Yes~ My name is Okinaga Zenya, please call me Zenya~ I usually study at Komanami Gakuen~
Bardo: That means, you’re from the same school as Tetsuo, Makoto and Youji?
Tetsuo: Yeah.
Zenya: The things I like are shopping and playing with my iguana Christie~
Bardo: Sounds like they don’t have much to do with work…Well, do you have experience with receiving customers?
Zenya: Nope~ I have never worked before.
Bardo: Then, are you good at cooking? How about things like that?
Zenya: When it comes to things like cooking, Kitani does all of them so there’s no problem.
Bardo: Kitani? Who’s that?
Tetsuo: If you have to say it he’s the servant.
Zenya: Kitani is awesome! Cooking, doing the laundry, driving, receiving the customers, he can do anything difficult~ So, you can leave all the work in the job to Kitani~
Bardo: Hm? Wait, isn’t it strange?
Zenya: What is?
Bardo: From the way you put it, wouldn’t the one working here be the person called Kitani?
Zenya: Yeah, Kitani will work here, while I’ll be lovey-dovey with Youchin. Isn’t it a great idea~?
Bardo: Then when will you work?
Zenya: My job is to be with Youchin~
Bardo: You…Erm…As long as you’re not working on your own you’re rejected. Or should I say, you’re all rejected.
Zenya: Eh~ Why?
Tetsuo: We have no need for a person who cannot do anything on his own.
Zenya: Why are you butting in?
Tetsuo: I’m sub-chief of the hall. We don’t need people who are a hindrance at work.
Zenya: What. Things like not being able to do anything, being a hindrance, what do you mean by that!
Bardo: Hey, calm down, Zenya.
Zenya: Shut up!
Bardo: Keisuke, go talk to Zenya!
Keisuke: [Mumbling, turning into Kurosuke!] …What am I to Akira? What am I? I…I…
Asato: Keisuke? Is something wrong?
Keisuke: Arghhhhh! [Breaks things] Whatever it is, put me together with Akira~ I’m no good without Akira~ If I’m not with Akira, I’ll ruin your whole shop~ Hahahaha~
Zenya: Kitani! Where is Kitani! How about Youji, come out Youji! If you don’t, I won’t know what will happen to this shop! Hahahaha!
Bardo: I don’t quite know what’s happening, but if you’re picking a fight I’ll take you up on it.
Asato: If you do anything to Konoe I won’t forgive you!
Tetsuo: If you cause trouble for the shop I won’t go easy on you.
Zenya: Hahaha, I’m not joking~
Keisuke: Bwahahaha…Who shall I start with first, huh?
[Door opens]
Arbitro: Oh, what’s the commotion? [Walks in] Greetings, gentlemen, how are you? It has been a while.
Zenya: Who are you? You’re noisy.
Bardo: Arbitro, such a rare sight, that you would come here.
Arbitro: What’s wrong with coming to my own shop?
Zenya: Hey you, you’re from this shop?
Arbitro: I am this shop’s owner. Please watch your attitude!
Asato: Owner…what does that mean?
Tetsuo: It means he’s the top of this shop.
Keisuke: So? What did you come here for?
Arbitro: To manage the staff and run the shop is my duty.
Bardo: We do fine even if you’re not around anyway.
Arbitro: What are you saying! Such a commotion happened while I wasn’t around!
Tetsuo: It has nothing to do with it.
Arbitro: So, was a interview going on?
Zenya: This has nothing to do with you.
Keisuke: It’s not the time for a pervert like you to appear.
Arbitro: Hm~ Well then shouldn’t I, as the owner, make sure of you in person~?
Zenya: The likes of you?
Arbitro: Hmm~ First, you with the golden hair and eyepatch, you have quite good looks. Your fashion sense is good too, such a magnificent material. We’ll have you from today onwards.
Zenya: Hmph.
Arbitro: And you over there…Your strength and wildness emitting from the work clothes wrapped around you is good too. And that heat of a hungry beast…You seem to have even more power than our Akira, I’m looking forward to it.
Keisuke: Stronger than Akira?
Arbitro: Both of you are good material. Alright, I’ll employ the two of you.
Bardo: Hey! Stupid owner, what are you thinking?
Zenya: Look, you should have done this from the start.
Keisuke: So it’s settled then? I look forward to working with you.
Arbitro: Well first is the regulation for working in this shop…Firstly…Put this on~!
Zenya: What’s with this eye mask?
Arbitro: For those of you who passed the interview that I, the owner conducted in person, please put on this specially made mask! [Puts mask on Keisuke]
Keisuke: What?! Arghhh! I can’t remove it!
Arbitro: [Puts mask on Zenya]
Zenya: Argh! What’s this, it’s disgusting! Arghh!
Arbitro: This is the special mask that only people approved by me can wear! Plus, it matches mine…Mmm, magnificent!!
Keisuke: [Growls] Damn it…Stop it!
Zenya: No, it’s disgusting…Kitani, save me! Kitani!
[Keisuke and Zenya runs off screaming]
Arbitro: Hey! The two of you! Where’re you going! Stop it right there!
Asato: Oh…The two of them has left…
Tetsuo: Yeah.
Asato: Is it fine for them to keep wearing that mask?
Tetsuo: It’s not a problem.
Bardo: Well, since they’re driven away the result is alright, that’s good isn’t it?
Asato: Is that so...
Bardo: Although he was a useless owner, you could say he was finally of some use today.
Tetsuo: To fight fire with fire, huh.
Arbitro: Seriously, it’s so uncivilized that they do not understand the magnificence of this mask! Such ignorance! Not even a hint of admiration. Don’t you think so, gentlemen?
Bardo: Well, shall we go back to our work?
Tetsuo: You’re right.
Asato: I’m going back too.
Bardo: Ah, I’m sorry about today.
Tetsuo: My deepest apologies for all the trouble caused today. Please come again. All of us will be awaiting you.
Asato: Understood. I’ll come again. [Leaves]
Arbitro: Hey, you guys! Were you listening to what I was saying?
Bardo: Ah…because of those two the room is in a mess…
Tetsuo: [Sigh] The work has increased.
Bardo: Let’s rest after tidying up.
Tetsuo: Yeah.
Bardo: [Carries on talking and ignores Arbitro]
Arbitro: Hey! You guys! Listen to me! Hey!!
Asato: Konoe, thanks for today. It was fun.
Konoe: Eh, you’re going back already, Asato?
Asato: Yeah. It would have been good if I could take my time, but I can’t. I have to get back soon.
Akira: Come to think of it, just now, Keisuke and the guy called Zenya went back very quickly…Did something happen?
Asato: Yeah, the two of them ran off with something weird stuck to their faces. I wonder what that was?
Akira: That Keisuke, what was he doing? Seriously.
Asato: I wonder if Okinaga’s okay?
Konoe: Say, Asato, during the interview there was a big commotion in the longue, did something happen?
Asato: Everyone failed the interview.
Konoe: Ah…I see.
Akira: It’s such a pity, Asato.
Asato: But if I studied hard, I could go for an interview again. Bardo said so.
Konoe: Oh, that’s great!
Asato: So, I have to quickly get home to study. Since I want to work with Konoe.
Konoe: Good luck. It’ll be great to work together.
Asato: Yeah. Wait for me. Bye.
Konoe: Thank you very much.
Akira & Youji: Thank you very much.
4:A frank talk, the ramen is hard-boiled
[Motomi singing while cooking]
[Door opens]
Motomi: Welcome!
Rin: Hi! How are you, old man?
Motomi: Oh, hasn’t it been a while? You haven’t come in quite a while that the ramen has gone all soft!
Rin: Haha, sorry, it’s been so busy lately~
Motomi: Ha, well it can’t be helped if you’re busy~ Hm? It’s the first time I see those few standing behind.
Rin: Yeah, they’re the new part-timers at our shop. Let’s see, the skinny one’s Konoe, the one with the mean-looking eyes is Akira, and the one in a daze is Youji.
Konoe: U-um, good afternoon. I’m Konoe.
Youji: My name is Sakiyama Youji. Nice to meet you.
Akira: The name’s Akira.
Motomi: I’m Motomi, the owner of this ramen shop. Nice to meet you!
Rin: The ramen here is quite tasty~ Even though it’s just a shabby old man’s ramen.
Motomi: Jeez shut up, you always have too many comments. So, what will you order today?
Rin: Hmm, I’ll have wonton noodles! This time I want an egg with it too~ What will you guys order?
Akira: Doesn’t matter. Anything’s fine.
Rin: Then yours will be the same as mine ok? How about Konoe?
Konoe: Hmmm…Uh, well, I’ll have miso butter ramen.
Youji: I’ll have miso ramen too. Without bamboo shoots.
Motomi: Got it, wait a while.
Rin: Ah~ Today was real exhausting~
Konoe: There were many customers too...
Rin: It was such trouble that Akira was dropping the glasses.
Akira: That could not be avoided. I just lost my balance because I had to avoid the plates that Rai was throwing. Besides, you overturned the whole tin of black tea leaves didn’t you?
Rin: Mrr, that was all Tetsuo’s fault! He suddenly appeared there with no indication of his presence!
Konoe: But, when I realized that Tetsuo was there standing right behind, it was quite a shock.
Youji: Yeah…That is true. I also get surprised by him from time to time.
Rin: Even if we told him to stop it because it’s bad for our hearts, all he would say is, “It doesn’t matter.” He’s even more unsociable than Akira!
Akira: Why am I suddenly mentioned there?
Youji: But, although Tetsuo seems that way, he’s actually a good guy.
Rin: Eh~? Youji, don’t you have any dissatisfactions about him?
Youji: N-not really, right Konoe?
Konoe: N-no, no dissatisfactions.
Rin: You paused for a moment there! You actually do have dissatisfactions, don’t you?
Konoe: T-that’s not true…
Motomi: Oioi, Rin, don’t bully your cute kouhais.
Rin: I wasn’t bullying them! Surely everyone has some complaints, that’s what I thought.
Motomi: Well, that’s true…
Rin: Konoe too, you’re always getting scolded by Rai.
Konoe: [Groan] …Although that’s because I’m dumb…But still, there are times when I wish he would treat me a bit nicer, but…
Rin: Bardo is always pushing the troublesome things to me!
Konoe: Ah, that seems to happen a lot.
Rin: Right? Kind of like ‘You, go do it!’
Youji: As for Tetsuo, even if I failed, he wouldn’t say anything…There are times when I think that is too much to take…
Motomi: Sometimes it’s better to just be given a big scolding~ Well, it doesn’t help to be all gloomy. Oof, it’s ready! [Serves noodles]
Rin: Ooh, I’ve been waiting! Thanks for the meal~
Konoe & Youji: Thanks for the meal.
Konoe: [Slurps noodles] Say Akira, isn’t there anything that you don’t like?
Akira: [Swallows] Nothing in particular, but it is troublesome to deal with Shiki.
Motomi & Rin: Ah…
Motomi: …Isn’t that the worst of all?
Akira: Yeah…
Rin: Really, those three from our shop are really troublesome huh~
[Door opens]
Motomi: Welcome!...Eh?
Bardo: Who did call an old man?
Rin: B-Bardo!
Rai: Sorry that I’m not nice, baka neko.
Konoe: E-even Rai…!
Tetsuo: Did I put you into a spot, Youji?
Youji: Tetsuo…
Shiki: Whatever a nobody grumbles, it is still simply the howling of a loser dog.
Akira: Shiki…You’re here too?
Rin: Could it be that, all of you were outside since just now?!
Rai: If so, what would you do?
Konoe: Eh, um, um…
Youji: …I apologize…
Tetsuo: It’s fine. If you have any complaints you can just tell me.
Bardo: Well, to be thought of in such a way by my cute kouhais, it’s quite inexcusable, right Tetsuo?
Tetsuo: Yeah.
Konoe: Eh! Um…Sorry…
Akira: [Sound of resentful agreement]
Shiki: Hmph. Such a pitiful look.
Bardo: As an apology I’ll treat you guys to gyoza~ Motomi, get out the usual thing for everyone.
Motomi: Ah~ Understood~ [Starts cooking]
Youji: I don’t really…
Bardo: Don’t stand on ceremony~ This is after all an apology from us troublesome people~ Right, Rai?
Rai: Yeah, an apology from us senpais who aren’t nice.
Konoe: [Groan]
Tetsuo: But, it’s great to understand your thoughts.
Youji: Eh?
Tetsuo: If we don’t know each others’ true feelings, we can’t convey to each other.
Youji: Tetsuo?
Tetsuo: If you have anything to say you can go ahead and say it.
Bardo: Hmph, well, we are comrades working at the same shop after all.
Konoe: Bardo…thank you…
Motomi: Here you go~ While the atmosphere is good, the gyoza’s here!
Bardo: Go on and eat without worries, since this is a part of our feelings.
Shiki: Eat it.
Youji: Thank you…
Rin: Yosh! Then everyone…
Rin, Youji, Konoe, Akira: We’re going to eat. [Eats]
[Spicyness level rises]
Rin: !! Ahhhhh!!!
Konoe: I-i-it’s spicy!!!
Youji: [Coughs] I-it hurts in my mouth…!
Bardo: That was great!
Motomi: It was a big success!
Rin: [Coughs] Why… [Coughs] S-spicy!!
Motomi: From the secret menu of Ramen Minamoto, special-made ultra-spicy gyoza!
Akira: Old man, you betrayed us!
Motomi: Betray? All I did was cook ‘the usual thing’ that was ordered~
Rin: Damn, why even you, Motomi? It has nothing to do with you!
Motomi: Hmm? Felt like someone said ‘shabby old man’s ramen’ earlier…Right, Rin?
Rin: …!!
Tetsuo: As it goes, to let down your guard is the enemy.
Motomi: Even us old men can put up quite a fight, can’t we?
Bardo: That’s it.
Rin: [Groan] Damn…! You guys, remember this!!!
[Someone slurping noodles]
Keisuke: [Sighs]
Zenya: [Sighs]
Asato: [Sighs]
Motomi: Oioi, what’s wrong? All of you look down.
Keisuke: We failed CHiRAL CAFÉ’s interview…
Motomi: Why, did you guys want to work there?
Asato: Yeah…
Zenya: But seriously, the owner there was disgusting…Extremely disgusting.
Motomi: Ah…You’re must be talking about Arbitro.
Zenya: What is it? You know him?
Motomi: Hm? Hmm…Well, you could say he’s an old acquaintance, or…Uh…[Sigh]
Asato: Motomi, you too, somehow it seems like it’s quite terrible?
Motomi: Well enough about me. So, how come you failed the interview?
Zenya: Kitani will work, while Youchin and I be all lovey-dovey. After I said that I was dropped~
Asato: I said I wanted to be with Konoe, but that cannot work.
Keisuke: I..don’t really remember it, but I have a feeling I caused a scene at the shop…
Motomi: You can’t do that! Seriously, you guys…
Keisuke: What should I do? I can’t go to the shop anymore…How should I face Akira…?
Zenya: It’s fine, Keisuke~ I will go to the shop again. Although we can’t work there, we can go there as customers~
Asato: Me too, they said I could go to the shop again.
Keisuke: If so I want to go too, but…is it really okay?
Motomi: Hahaha, they’re not the kind of people to be bothered by this!
Keisuke: I…I see.
Motomi: Here, have some char siu and eggs as a free extra. Cheer up!
Asato: Thank you…
Zenya: Motomi, you’re so nice~ Alright, tomorrow I’ll go to see Youchin~
Keisuke: I-I shall go to see Akira too..I think…
Asato: I’ll go too. I want Konoe to pick a tea for me again.
Zenya: Well then, let’s all go to CHiRAL CAFÉ shall we?
Keisuke & Asato: Yeah!
Part 1 here