Event Quest:2018 Oriental New Year:VN

2018 Oriental New Year Translation

A recreation of this scenario is viewable here: https://vn.housamo.xyz/load/event/newyear2018/evMain_newYear2018-1-1/ (replace 1-1 with the part afterwards).

Part 1-1:
TL by IcyRaynald: https://twitter.com/IcyRaynald/status/949633360351105024


Beings exist that that are two, and yet one. Being that can be called an inseparable pair. Fujin and Raijin, Red Oni and Blue Oni.

And, komainu -- Agyou and Ungyou.

YOUNG KOMAINU: Grandpa... I'm going to do my best.

YOUNG KOMAINU: I'm going to find a new partner, find a place of my own to protect -- and become a splendid komainu just like you.

YOUNG KOMAINU: So... So! Please-- watch over me...?

Tears welled in his eyes as his thoughts drifted back. The one that raised him and loved him -- Ungyou. With the passing of time, he had returned to the land and would now protect everyone as a formless spirit. Filling Agyou's chest, the survivor to the late Ungyou, was respect for his grandfather, and pride in his role as a komainu. And... several worries.

YOUNG KOMAINU: No, no, no! I'm a strong komainu! If I sat around moping like this, Grandpa would scold me.


YOUNG KOMAINU: Right! First things first, I need to find a partner! If two pillars aren't together, you can't call it a proper komainu!


YOUNG KOMAINU: .................


YOUNG KOMAINU: ......Someone to replace Grandpa, huh...?


YOUNG KOMAINU: Eh, what was that? A voice? Is someone there?!


YOUNG KOMAINU: What? Would I go anywhere to find a partner? Aah! Of course I would, isn't that obvious?!


YOUNG KOMAINU: Wait, w-what is this?! This light -- W-wait a moment!


YOUNG KOMAINU: WAAAAAHH!!


YOUNG KOMAINU: Grandpa...! Protect me...!

[Chapter 1: Oriental New Year]

1 option
...It's already the third day of the new year, huh.

Player looked at the clock, and realized it was now past noon. Standing slowly, they headed outside to the corridor. The chill winter air of the New Year's season hit their skin.

1 option
Yesterday was, er...

Gradually, the memories of yesterday came back to them. Going to the shrine with everyone, drawing new year's fortunes-- Eating Chouji's osenshi and ozoni, playing a board game with everyone, exchanging new year's gifts--

2 options <same response>
Then, finally getting back home exhausted, and crashing. That was a rough 2 days...

During this season, many of the academy's students return home, or go out to party. The usual noisy atmosphere of the dorms is replaced with dead silence.

--Sei! Toh! Hah!

But listening carefully, an energetic voice can be heard from outside.

"Oh, if it isn't Player-dono?"

I wish you a happy New Year. I'm counting on you this year, too.

2 options <same response>
Happy New Year. It's a new Moritaka this year.

Haha, it's our first meeting since the start of the year. Anyway, yesterday was really lively.

I received several mails from Ryouta-dono. It seems everyone had a fun and exciting start to the year.

3 options
I wish you could've come too. It was a lot of fun. Well, mostly. There was a bit of a pandemonium at that one part...


Pandemonium...?! W-what in the world happened?

Every year, I go to a purification ceremony on New Year's Day. I leave the New Year greeting for later.

However, I won't lie. I did feel a little lonely not joining everyone for the New Years party...

The whole year's plans should be made on New Year's Day.

Also, to avoid being busy like this, spending time with Player-dono and the others--

And giving New Year greetings. There's a special feeling to that as well.

That's right -- if you have some free time, could you please accompany me for a short time?

Shrine

Oh my, as I thought, there's a lot of people here for their first shrine visit of the New Year. It looks somewhat less crowded than other spots, though--

Player-dono, are you tired?

3 options
Thanks. You're always so thoughtful, Moritaka. This is nothing. What about you? Don't get lost now.

No, if I can't at least do this much, I couldn't call myself a true samurai.

As expected of Player-dono. It wasn't neccessary to be worried.

Hmm...! Do you think me so unreliable...?

Well, waiting in line can be a good time too, with a good friend for company.

3 options
By the way, what are those clothes you're wearing? They look good on you. They look like a children's festival outfit.


Haha... thank you for your kind words. I only wear them occasionally. They are a bit tight, though.

C-c-children's festival?! They look so undignified?!

I received this hakama from my master. Like my uniform -- it was a hand-me-down.

I don't wear finery too often. They can work as substitutes for my school uniform, but...

I'll pray to god -- to one day become a splendid samurai worthy of these clothes.

We're advancing in the line, little by little. Now now, give me your hand so we don't get separated.

The line for the shrine visit moved steadily forward -- and eventually, two komainu statues could be seen at either side.

That shrines have komainu statues doesn't seem to change, whether in Shinjuku or Wa No Kuni.

Although, the shrines in Wa No Kuni typically had a guardian spirit.

The komainu here in Shinjuku seem to be just statues--

Ah, it seems it's our turn at last, Player-dono. Now now, let's go ahead.

After bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once, let's chant our wishes in our hearts.

3 options
I wish for everyone to stay safe. I wish for the guild's protection. I wish to return home someday.
2 options
And, I wish to make new friends this year. And, I wish to meet someone new.

MORITAKA: Wha... i-is this light?! Player-dono! Player-donoo!!

There was a sudden flash of light--

An unusual sound reached the two's ears as they had closed their eyes for the wish.


Boing, boing, boing~

The sound was soft and elastic, like a bouncing ball. Player and Moritaka watched, speechless as the scene unfolded before their eyes.

MYSTERIOUS BALL OF FUR: Owowowow... Damnit, what was that light...?

There were two large, spherical objexts. One of them a ball, which bounced and rolled away, deeper into the shrine. And the other--


MYSTERIOUS BALL OF FUR: Aah! M-my ball! Waaait! Don't roll awaaay!

......

The ball of fluff stood up, revealing itself to be a young beastman covered in fluffy fur. He checked his surroundings, found his ball in mid-escape, and bolted off to chase it.

--While floating in midair.

--Hah!

I was caught off guard and spaced out, but... what was that light?!

Also, that boy just suddenly appeared--!

2 options
Let's follow him! A new fluffy to pet!


Is now really the time?!

The pair hurriedly weaved their way through the crowded shrine, chasing after the boy that appeared from that light. He had finally caught up to his escaped ball, grabbed it, and nimbly climbed up, balancing himself on it with ease.

Pant... pant... Phew. Thank goodness. It would be really bad if I lost my ball.

Finally collecting himself, he turned and noticed Player and Moritaka.

--!

W-who are you?! Staring at me so intently...!

I -- No, I mean, do you have some business with me?! Well?!

1 option
A lost kid? Where did you come from?

A-a-a-are you an idiot?! I'm not some lost kid!

...Hm? Wait, that voice... your voice!

I see! You're the one who brought me here, right?! In other words, abduction! Abduction! I've been abducted!

Return me to my home immediately! Return me, I demand it! Bark, barkbark!

1 option
Even if I knew how to do that...! I don't remember doing anything...!

Riding his ball closer the strange boy glared, now face to face with Player.

No, it's definitely you! My ears are never wrong!

This is bad, Player-dono! He's too worked up and won't listen to us.

--Continuing like this will just worsen the situation. We can't get anywhere until he calms down.

You really insist on playing dumb...! All riiight! In that case, I won't forgive you!

I'll make you surrender by force, and then you'll send me back to my original world! So don't come crying to me!

1 option
Eh, a Hallowed Artifact? He's a summon?! I had a feeling it would come to this!

Stand back, Player-dono! As I thought, he is a summon!

In this case, all we can do is make him calm down and listen to reason! Inuzuka Shino Moritaka, will be your opponent!

Hehee! My power won't lose to some samurai!

Water began to dance elegantly around Agyou, as three balls spiralled in the air surrounding him.

Agyou:(4 star icon face)
Cleansing the evil inside villain's souls -- I'll show you the power of a komainu!

Part 1-2:
TL by IcyRaynald: https://twitter.com/IcyRaynald/status/949633360351105024

Shinjuku Central Park Shrine

--This is the final blow!!

W-what, ganging up on me, cheaters...! Uuu...

I did my best to hold back. Could you please calm down a little, Komainu summon-dono?

Why do you keep calling me Summon? I have a name y'know! It's Agyou!

I'm an honorable, ancient komainu! Agh, just when I determined to find a new partner...!

And yet...*sniff* uuu...!

A-Agyou-dono! Please, just calm down and take a deep breath. Yes, just a calming, deep breath...!

Bark! No no no! Where am I? I want to go home already!

I want to go back to Wa No Kuni! Grandpa Ungyouuu! *Sniffle*

Aah! A cry that won't lose to Cusith-dono! It's no good, he's still not listening to us!

1 option
What should we do, Moritaka?

D-don't look at me... It seems you don't have any ideas either though.

Like this, even if we could help him he's not going to cooperate.

Earlier, he said he came from the same world as I. Wa No Kuni. I can smell its familiar scent on him.

I can't help but want to lend a hand to a fellow dweller of my world, though...

Wa No Kuni...?! What did you say just now?! You came from the same place as me?!

Now that you mention it, yes... this smell, this feeling, is definitely Wa No Kuni...!

That means, you know the way back, right?! Tell me, tell me!

I'm afraid you are the only one who knows the answer to that, Agyou-dono.

Summoning occurs when the wishes of two people match, and a bond is formed. At least, that's what I have been told.

If Agyou-dono is really from Wa No Kuni, you must have some idea, correct?

How should I know... I don't remember answering to any "summon" thing.

Wait, no... Could it be, that "would you go anywhere... to find a partner" ?

U-uhm...

Oh, it seems you have an idea! Did you answer to a summoning after all?

If that's the case, I can't think of anyone who could've summoned me but... *glare*

3 options
I-I'm under suspicion... I'd like you to prove that, please. If you let me cuddle your fluffy fur, it may jog my memory.

No matter how much I think about it, you're the most suspicious one here!

How am I supposed to prove that? I guess it's no good then...

You!! Someone is seriously worried and you make jokes! That's no good!

That is a problem then, if you don't who summoned you...

The remaining way is -- to grant Agyou-dono's wish.

Agyou-dono, do you have any sort of strong wish? The first thing that comes to your mind--

If that's the case, there is only one! I have but one wish!

It's -- Finding a lifelong komainu partner, becoming friends, and protecting a splendid shrine together!

I can think of no other wish but that, it's a stroooong wish!

That makes things much simpler! In that case, a partner for a komainu would be...

A dog, of course! It's gotta be a dog! After all, I'm a lion, as you can see!

A komainu is a set of a dog and a lion. Because of that, my partner has to be a dog!

But not just any dog will do, it's got to be a strong dog than can protect a shrine properly!

Hoh, there's a smile at last, Agyou-dono. It seems you're feeling better now.

What do you think, Player-dono? We're completely immersed in helping him out now, so...

3 options
Of course, we'd be glad to help. We can't abandon him now... What a pain.

As expected of Player-dono! You can understand his yearning.

H-hey, did you just treat me like some kid again?! You did, didn't you?!

Now, now, don't say that. Aren't we in too deep already to back out?

Now, speaking of a suitable dog to be a komainu, your criteria is that they be a strong fighter, right?

Then, where should we start searching...?

Uuhm...

2 option
I know some good candidates. If some of my dog friends are okay.

As always, your personal network of connections is vast. Then, let's get started immediately!

Ah, you're nice people after all. I misjudged you at first, but I have a much better opinion now.

I'll introduce myself once more! I am Agyou, the honorable ancient komainu!

--Although, I am still in training. It's a pleasure to meet you, um...

1 option
Introduce yourself.

Heeeh, Player huh? Nice to meet you! Let's work together to find a fine komainu candidate!

I am Inuzuka Shino Moritaka, a canine beastman attending Shinjuku Academy.

Canine! A Dog?! Big Bro was a dog after all! Komainu! Are you interested in becoming a komainu?!

I-i'm still in training to become a samurai! My apologies, but I can't be Agyou-dono's--

Ooh, you already have a goal of your own. I understand. I don't want to force anyone.

Finding my komainu partner is important, but it would be shameful to do so by stepping on someone else's dreams.

Hah... I appreciate your understanding. You're much more reasonable now that you've regained composure.

All right, let's go meet the komainu candidates!

Yes!

Thus, the small, incident filled journey of Moritaka, Agyou and Player in search of a komainu partner began.

...........

Bwaaaah... Milord, you're so meeeaaan! Not even so much as a "I need your help, Salomon-Kun~"?

I always answer Milord's questions, I was even waiting on standby...

In the first place, all Milord had to do was touch him to determine if they were indeed a bonded summoner and summon!

Salomon-kun:(new year angry face)
Jeez! I absolutely, definitely, positively won't tell you now! Nyeeeh!

This cute little Salomon-kun is going to lounge on the kotatsu, eat tangerines and dress fancily ALL. BY. MYSELF!!

...HMPH!!

Part 2-1:
TL by IcyRaynald: https://twitter.com/IcyRaynald/status/949633360351105024

Ikebukuro Guild

When you think of a komainu, you think shrine guardian, and when you think guardian, Garmr-dono--!

At Moritaka's proposal, they headed for the Ikebukuro Guild first.


2 options
Huh? Garmr's not around. Normally he's the guard dog here.

What? There's no dog here!

Uhm... he said he would be on guard duty today too at the canine beastman assembly though--

However, it's rare for Garmr-dono to leave his position like this.

A guardian leaving his post like this, I'm deducting komainu points!

Komainu... points? Agyou-dono, what are those?

Points that represent the virtue of an honorable komainu! Komainu points!

S-s-such a thing! What kind of standards are--

Just my intuition, of course!

2 options
How capricious. What a tough judge.


Tough? Like a komainu? Either way, it has to be cool!

???: If you're looking for Garmr, he went inside to get something to eat.

Hi there, Happy New Year. What? No return greeting?

Oh, Nomad-dono! It has been a while! I wish you a Happy New Year as well!

3 options
I'm counting on you this year too. Please give me a New Year's gift! Changing jobs to door guard?

Yes, well, I'm counting on you a little too.

What am I doing here? Guarding. Garmr asked me to cover for him.

That's the first thing you say to me?! I won't! If I had that kinda money I'd pay my office rent!


At any rate, today's a special day. The crowds are huge, and people are going in and out constantly.

Do you understand what could happen if his post was abandoned for even a minute?

Garmr rushed over here without even eating first, so I'm here in his place.

A special day, you said?

The New Year's Competition. Usually, we host indiscriminate, no-holds-barred fights, but--

Today's bouts feature special rulesets, like boxing or fencing.

Hoh, fencing, swordsmanship styles from other worlds? I'm a little interested.

By the way, it seems the winner will recieve a New Year's Gift. I don't know if it's money, though.

Hoh! A New Years Gift? Martial Arts competition? How interesting!

Ah, who's this kid? An unfamiliar face.

My name is Agyou, an honorable komainu! Nice to meet you, old-timer!

Old--?! W, well, it doesn't matter... why are you here?

We wished to have an audience with Garmr-dono for a particular reason.

Hoh? Well, he'll be back soon. Do you have time to wait? It's cold out here you know.

Since you're here, why don't you watch a match or two inside? You might even run into Garmr while you wait.

1 option
It's okay for Agyou to come in?

He doesn't look suspicious. Besides, you're not the type that would bring a dangerous person around here.

I'll speak with Snow about it right now. If something happens, just say my name and there'll be no problem.

I can enter? All right, I'm looking forward to seeing the inside!

We're really grateful. Well then, allow us to take up your offer.

Alright, hurry up and let's go! Player, Moritaka!

Ah, Agyou-dono! You're too impatient! Slow down!

Berserker's Arena

The Ikebukuro Underground Arena was filled with raucous, enthusiastic cheering.

The usual, unrestricted battles raged even more fiercely than usual, restricted by newfound rules. The strong fell to their knees in the face of the rules, and the weak managed victory through them.


Watching the strong restricted by these shackles called rules is also entertaining once in a while.

If there's someone suffering because of the rules, there is also someone saved because of them.

Claude:(smile face)
In whose hands will the prize fall...? An unpredictable challenge is worth appreciating as well.

That enthusiasm even roused the ruler of the arena.

Claude's eyes calmly scanned the front row of the audience seats, their eyes were alight with joy.

Snow. You're not a ranked battler, but-- I allow you to show yourself in this battle performance, as a special occasion.

To see that brave figure with my own eyes, I will observe from here. Now, make your emporer -- truly excited!

My, my... Young Master's whims are quite troublesome.

Oh, excuse -- I was too disinterested in fencing and carelessly won just like that.

The burden of rules push the strongest to new heights, and agitate the fighting spirit of those aiming for the top.

Ikutoshi:(adult joy face)
Whew! I though it would be tough without kicks, but the boxing ruleset is quite fun too.

Ikutoshi:(adult surprise face)
My, my... some people are starting to get mad and ignore the rules, and get disqualified.

Ikutoshi:(adult neutral face)
--But, if there're rules, I feel like I might even be able to beat Macan.

Using the selected weapons, attacking select parts only--

A battle in which the fight is decided by who takes the point first. Anyone could be the victor.

--therefore, everyone went all out.

Agyou:(surprise face)
A...Amazing~... What's this?!

It seems the fighters are... even more enthusiastic than usual.

Battles with set rules are quite rare here in Ikebukuro.

If I meet a swordsman, my blood as a samurai would burn.

Hey, um... About that Garmr guy. He protects a frightening place like this?

The guardian of this place where such strong people fight...?

He's not a bloodthirsty bad guy is he?

???: Eh, mochi and caramel here. I also have commemorative photos and souvenirs!

T-that merchant-like voice--!!

Oh, oh, oh! You came too! Are you here to participate in the competition?

1 option
Happy New Year.

Oh, it's you. How about a souvenir? I got lucky bags too! For real!

Ngh...! Andvari-dono, why are you here...?!

Why...? For business of course. Business!

1 option
Have you seen Garmr?

That's no good, Player-dono! I'm afraid this charlatan would demand a great deal of money for such a simple question!

Andvari:(annoyed face)
As always you'te totally on guard. Can't we let bygones be bygones and be friends already? For real.

The humiliations I suffered at your hands...! Just remembering makes me wet my pillow with tears of frustration!

Agyou:(surprised face)
W-w-what? Is he a bad guy?

Hey, hey, hey, calm down a little. You're even putting the new one on edge.

Andvari:(thinking face)
It may be true. I usually do guiding fees and mediate fees, of course I also take consumption taxes and finder's fees...

But this time is a special, limited offer. I can show you for free! For real!

Wha, as if we would toy with a natural disaster... I-it's dangerous to trust this man, Player-dono!

Instead of free, at least say it will be inexpensive or--

Andvari:(annoyed face)
...So distrustful. There, the one you were looking for is right there, you know.

In the direction Andvari pointed was--

Garmr... mochi, stretchy! Can't bite it! Stuck in throat!

There was a dog beastman struggling against his stretching mochi, writhing in agony. Garmr.

Ga--Garmr-donooo! Calm down! Please eat it slowlyyyy!!

1 option
Garmr is fighting the mochi?!

Eh?! Him?! That's Garmr?!

Garmr:(surprised face)
Ngh...nngh...ngh? This voice... *sniff sniff*... this smell...

H-he's looking this way! Isn't he glaring at us? Hey, he's glaring!

You, stranger! Mgh...! Really, passed entrance check?

Weakling, can't enter, here! Garmr, guard dog, so, testing!

Eh? --Eeeeh?!? W-wait a sec, I... hiiee!

Grrrrr.... Woooooof!!!

Don't come here! Stay away! Scary! Scaaaary! Uwaaaaah!

Escaping, no use! Ngh...! Garmr, fast! Definitely catch!

Uwah! No, no, Grandpaaa! Wait, Player, do something!

2 options
Garmr, sit! He's a friend!

Woof! Sit! Garmr, wait!

Uh? Friend? Whose? He can pass?

Ga--Garmr-donooo! First, the mochi! Eat the mochi.

Leaving that in your throat could be a catastrophe...!

Ngh...! Nnngh....! *Munch much*... *gulp* ... Garmr, eat mochi!

Yaay, Masteeeeer! Pet me! Pet me!

--Huh? Master? When you get here?

1 option
Happy New Year, Garmr.

Yeah! Master! Happy New Year!

Ehm... what Snow tell me again...? I'm counting on you this year too! I said it!

By the way... who he?

  • hic* Uuu...! I was scared, I was scared Player!

Are you going to buy some too? Andvari's specially made nori-wrapped fried mochi that even attracted Garmr!

1 for 100 coins, or if you buy 2 I'll throw one more in for free! If you buy both together, the price is only 300 coins!

Hohoh, how economical! Well then, I'd like one for me, Player-dono and Agyou-dono--

2 options
They look delicious! That's just the normal price of three!

They were made by Snow after all. They're delicious! Now, buy them, buy them!

Huh? It's the normal price of three pieces...you noticed huh? Then, I'll give you a bigger one!

Andvari:(annoyed face)
Tch... you noticed huh? Then, I'll give you a bigger one!

Grr, you keep deceiving people using their weak spots as always--!

I didn't say the bundle was a discounted price even once, you know? It was you who misunderstood.

2 options
What a bold assertion. Andvari will do the same with energy juice.

It's about getting motivated, in a big event like this. As a merchant, I can't let this opportunity slip by!

We're full to capacity right now, I just have to earn, earn and earn.

Merchant Andvari will earn coins at full power this year too, for real!

I-I have a feeling I will be deceived by Andvari-dono this year too...!

1 option
Aren't you going to participate in the competition, Garmr?

Bark...! Rules, annoying! Garmr, no like! Complicated things, no like!

Garmr, ate food, come back soon! Because, guard dog! Ehehe, Master, will praise me!

--W-what? Even though he was so savage just a second ago?

Isn't he a serious and cool guardian...? That's a solid 30 komainu points!

Komainu points! All right! ...what is, komainu points?

Garmr, want, guard points! How many, how many?!

2 options
Let's leave that conversation for later. I'll give you 100 points.


Yaay, thank you, Master! Garmr, 100 poooints!!

...By the way, who you?

Uu...! W-what? Are you gonna chase me again?! I was unexpectedly tired before, but now--

2 options
Agyou is a friend. He got a proper authorization.

Master's friend, really?

That is indeed true, he got authorization to enter from Nomad-dono.

Okay! Then, good! Master's friend, is Garmr's friend!

Sorry for chasing before, Agyou! Friend! Garmr friend too!

Eh, ah, it's not like I... you're quite good, as a komainu.

Yaay! By the way, what is komainu?

Someone who protects places for rituals... err, to explain it so Garmr-dono could understand, let's say its something like a guard dog.

...Guard dog? You, Garmr's, rival?

Agyou:(angry face)
--hiie?

Garmr, won't hand over, best guard dog title! Cusith, Agyou, Garmr'r, rivals!!

Remember, Garmr!! Awoooooo!!

2 options
By the way, best guard dog Garmr? Don't you have to get back to your post?

Ah! Nomad! Forgot! Garmr, guard dog! Have to return!

Master, what you do? Go together?

We came to see Garmr-dono in the first place, we wanted to come with you.

Yaay! Master, together! Let's go! Let's go!

Garmr, best guard dog! Show, something good, to Master!

Outside Berserker's Guild

Oh, you came back. It seems you found Garmr.

Nomad! Thanks! Garmr, full stomach! Came back to guard door!

This, reward! It was delicious!

Y-yes, thank you.... Why mochi?

3 options
Andvari was... A lot of stuff happened... Let's eat it together.

...Oh, Andvari. Say no more, I get the circumstances more or less.

Well, it's still New Years-ish after all. I will gladly take it, Garmr.

........

--Oh, already. Garmr's gonna show his guard dog skills.

Agyou:(surprised face)
Eh--?

Bark--! You, stranger! Here, only strong people can pass!

Shark Pirate: W...what's with you---?! Hey, don't bark! Noisy mutt--wait, he's strong?!

Shark Pirate: Damn it! In that case--Let's beat this dog!

Garmr:(4 star icon face)
Garmr, guard dog! Protect here! Absolutely not pass! Grrrrrrr!!

Shark Pirate: Gyaaaaaaaaaaa!!

When it comes to work he gets really serious, honestly. Totally different from his usual doggy persona.

Garmr continued evaluating the various visitors coming for the New Years Martial Arts Competition one by one. Some were rejected, some allowed to pass. Garmr's concentration in the middle of work was terrific.

As Nomad-dono said. Garmr is truly loyal to his duties.

--So, Agyou-dono. How was Garmr's evaluation as a komainu partner?

Agyou:(surprised face)
--Eh? Y-yes...!

Leaving aside whether he's smart or not, I think he's cool for doing his work seriously.

Oh, then...!

But no!

Eh, for what reason?

Because... Uhm... t-this big bro is doing his work properly here...!

I can't force someone like that! It's important they be free to make decisions!

Also--

Agyou briefly looked at Player with wistful eyes.

However, he averted his gaze quickly, nibbling at his mochi to distract himself.


Garmr, beat, the guys that wanted in! Agyou! Watching? Watching?

Y-yes! It was really cool! Definitely a new high score on komainu points!

Yaaay! Komainu points again! Don't get it, but, Garmr, got praised!

Garmr, do his best! Garmr, best guard dog!

Agyou-dono...? What did you say just now--

N-nothing at all! Now, let's go!

After saying that, Agyou quickly left the Ikebukuro Guild. However, that back looked small, and somehow lonely. His fluffy tail drooped, looking depressed.

........

Trusting his friends, Garmr, the guard dog who protects the entrance of the Ikebukuro Guild. That form, made the young komainu think about something--

Part 3-1:
TL by IcyRaynald: https://twitter.com/IcyRaynald/status/949633360351105024

Ueno Guild

Aaah! That was delicious! Thanks for the meal!

This omelette rice was really delicious! This dish doesn't exist in Wa No Kuni!

Wa No Kuni mainly uses white rice. It must've been really strange food for Agyou-dono.

I was also deeply moved when I was first summoned here to Tokyo.

3 options
If it was tasty, then it's alright. There's a lot of other different types of food here too. Eat until your plate's clean.

The food in Wa No Kuni's good too, but a whole different kind of food is refreshing!

Guh! Now I'm a little curious...! Just looking at the menu, I don't recognize any of these dishes.

Agyou:(surprised face)
Grandpa was always strict about that. If I wasted food, he'd smack me. It true.

All right then, let's go to the next komainu candidate! Big Bro Garmr was cool too, though!

Then, let's go meet my friend once the break ends.

I invited him to the shrine earlier.

All riiiight! It seems that we have a bit more time! Then, I want to sample a lot of different foods!

My, my-- should we order a dessert while we wait then?

At that time--

Here in Taito Ward, at the Ueno Beastmen Manor: the student dorm of Ueno Academy, known throughout the 23 wards for teaching medicine, biology and bionics, in addition to its research labs.

And, in one room.

Ueno Dorms

???: ...Aah, my phone's goin' off... what time is it? Past midday--alright, just going back to sleep, back to sleep...

???: Aah... sleeping in is the best. Going out on a cold winter day... so sleepy.

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Gooood morning Leib-senpai! Wake up, I made lunch alreadyyyy!

DOWAAAAH?!

Cusith:(winter angry face)
Aah, Leib-senpai, you slept in your clothes again. That's nooo good! I'll get angry with you!

Leib:(angry face)
I was in the research room just until New Year's Eve, why do you wake up so early even during New Years?

Leib:(sad face)
Also, I told you, I'm sleeping in so I don't need food. I decided that I'll stay home the first three days of New Years.

The bear beastman summon called Leib-senpai said so moodily, like a bear stirred early from its hibernation.

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Hey, don't say such things. Even though I just made really delicious stew.

Cusith peeled away the futon and shook Leib's body.

Leib:(sad face)
....I'm telling you, it's cold Cusith. Give me back the futon... please. It's really cold.

Cusith:(winter angry face)
At this rate New Years will end. If you don't get up and around, your body will rot, you know?

Leib:(angry face)
I'm still hibernating, hibernating, get it? What idiot bear would go out when it's this cold?

Leib:(sad face)
We're not like you dog beastmen that walk around just fine when it's still snowing... achoo!

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Then how about getting up? The dining room has the heater switched on and it's reeeally warm.

I get it, I get it, you win, so get off me. I'll get up, so... *yaaaawn*

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Well then, I'll go serve Senpai's stew.

BEAR IN LAB COAT: Yeeeeees, Aah~, so sleepy...

Cusith:(winter angry face)
Come oooooon!

Dining Room

.......

Hey there Fenrir. You're still in the dorm too, huh?

...Celebrate. This day which illuminates this ruthless world with its primitive light.

...? Ah, you mean, happy new year, right?

Leib:(sad face)
As always, I don't really get what you say. I need a translator.

So, the others who also stayed here on New Year were--

Jambavan:(winter crying face)
Uuuu, it's cooooold... This season's so hard on me, every year, every year...

Hey, Jambavan. Are you bearing with this cold too? No, you have to I guess...

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
Ah, good morning Leib-senpai. Why is Tokyo so cold?

Jambavan:(winter neutral face)
Aah, I want to hibernate, I want to hibernaaaate...! I want to curl up all warm in the kotatsu and nap.

Why don't you do that? ...Ah, right, your part-time job, right?

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
That's right. I'll be spending this evening with Ali... ah, er--

Jambavan:(winter shocked face)
Ant! That's right, like an ant, I have to work with all my might!

Leib:(sad face)
... I see. Well, as long as it's not a hindrance to your research.

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Ah, Senpai, you finally got up! I already made the preparations, so let's eat together!

Leib:(sad face)
Yes, yes. Thanks for the food, thanks for the food. What? There's no osechi?

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
Everyone ate it while Leib-senpai was asleep.

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
I was expecting that-- there, kuri kinton. I saved a piece for you.

Leib:(cheerful face)
Oh, aren't you admirable Cusith? Good boy. I think I'll eat it right away.

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Ah, Senpai! The other half is like this! Put your hands together and-- Thanks for the food!

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
Haaaaah~... so warm. As I thought, stew's the best for the cold, right?

This immoral flavor that melts my ambition and wrath-- a blessing that sinks on the white like, such a delicious thing.

Fenrir:(angry face)
However, did you truly think this degree of charity would apprehend the soul of the Great Wolf Fenrir?!

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Ah, Fenrir-senpai, did you want seconds?

.......Please.

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
By the way, Leib-senpai and Jambavan-san seemed to be reaaally busy lately... what was your research about again?

Leib:(sad face)
Why wouldn't you know, when you're in and out of the research building all day? Don't you overhear our conversations?

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Ehehehe. Senpai's conversations were too complicated for me, so I fell asleep...

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
Put simply-- it's about how the "app" affects us summons.

In particular, medicine and the influence that it has on the body of beastmen. Also, research from the standpoint of bionics.

Cusith:(winter sad face)
See, it's too complicated... Fenrir-senpai, do you understand what they're talking about?

Every one of us is a prisoner in a cage, tied together with chains. Just beasts that lust for flesh and revenge, without wishing for wisdom or reason.

Leib:(angry face)
Don't call our academy some zoo. I don't remember becoming just a guinea pig for experimentation.

How the body changes when one comes from its own world to this world. No one should know that better than us.

Leib:(angry face)
In other words, it's important that we participate in our research ourselves.

Cusith and Fenrir, as the guard dogs tasked with protecting our researchers and results, you were called here, but--

First and foremost, that research is for all our sakes. Engrave that in your heart.

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
...........

...........

Leib:(sad face)
It seems that you didn't understand a word I said. Good grief. Just a sense of ownership isn't enough--

Cusith:(winter angry face)
Anyway, Leib-senpai! About the year end dorm cleaning, Senpai's room is still--

...Thanks for the food. Uh, it's cold... Aah, that's right, there's a report I still have to summarize...

Cusith:(winter shocked face)
Aah! He's trying to escape! There're still clothes from summer lying around Senpai's room even now!

Cusith:(winter angry face)
Seriously, you're really sloppy and useless when it comes to anything besides researching!

I got it, I got it. Don't pull on my labcoat! I'll clean, I'll clean someday...

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
Ah, Leib-senpai. Before that, can we go make a New Year's shrine visit together?

Leib:(sad face)
New Year's shrine visit? Didn't you go already?

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
A friend invited me to go together a while ago. And, we still haven't gone together with Senpai.

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
Hey, Cusith.

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
I still have some free time before evening. Let's go together.

Leib:(sad face)
...*sigh*. That's why you're already dressed for outdoors? Yeah yeah, I'll go with you. What a pain.

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
Well then, Fenrir-senpai, you should also--

Fenrir:(angry face)
...I refuse. In addition to the call from the devilish bag of the abyss, the white chains of commandment bind me.

Jambavan:(winter neutral face)
Aah, now that I think about it, that silver accessories shop you like is having their first sale of the year.

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
And they're selling lucky bags this year.

Hmph...

Jambavan:(winter embarrassed face)
Haah, Fenrir-senpai, you're so cool...

...Is that so? I don't understand the hobbies of you young people...

Shrine

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Hey, hey, Leib-senpai, Jambavan-san. If you don't hurry up, the offering box will close!

Leib:(winter surprised face)
The offering box won't close, so don't run. Walk carefully. Look where you're goiiiing!

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
Hahaha. Cusith-kun was waiting eagerly for Senpai to wake up, after all. Please, let him have his fun.

Leib:(winter sad face)
Uuh, so cold. So, Cusith. Where's that friend of yours?

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Yes, it seems he hasn't arrived yet. Shall we go first?

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Ehm... I wish fot my grades to get better. I wish to get closer to Garmr-kun and the others.

Cusith:(winter smile face)
I wish to become a splendid guard dog this year...!

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Ah! I got a text from Moritaka! He'll arrive here soon!

Jambavan:(winter shocked face)
Oowah! Ah, I also got one from Alic... err, I got a call.

Cusith:(winter surprise face)
Eeh! Let's greet Moritaka together, Jambavan-san.

Jambavan:(winter smile face)
I-I'm sorry, Cusith-kun. Tell him we'll have to meet some other time. See you.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
Then, I'll go ahead from here. Do it properly, Cusith.

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Nooo! Don't go, Senpai! You're going to lay on the futon and hibernate if you return, aren't you?!


Oh, Cusith-dono! I wish you a happy New Year!

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Ehehe. Happy New Year, Moritaka! I'm counting on you this year too! Let's play a lot, alright?


1 option
Happy New Year, Cusith.

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Ah, it's Player! Happy New Year! I'm counting on you this year too!

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Ehehe. I'm glas to meet you this early on New Year.

Oh, this is a mysterious connection. Do you two know eachother?

Cusith:(winter cheerful face)
Yeah. In fact, we're friends! We met in various place, right Player?

Agyou:(surprised face)
...Is he a guard dog too? It feels like he's kinda weak, like he doesn't have any power at all.

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Huh? There's a new kid. I'm Cusith, a dog beastman. Let's be friends!

This is Agyou-dono. Actually, for certain reasons, we're looking for a komainu candidate--

Yeah, this big bro is kinda different. Like, too gentle...

Agyou:(angry face)
Sometimes, it's necessary for a komainu to anticipate suspicious people and get rid of them. Yeah.

Cusith:(winter shocked face)
I don't really understand, I was rejected for something?!


2 options
Agyou... Cusith is a splendid guard dog too.

Agyou:(angry face)
However... he's immature as a guard dog, as a komainu too--

Leib:(winter neutral face)
You really say that, spirit-of-the-right-san?

...Who are you?

Leib:(winter neutral face)
I'm the spirit of Hannoki, Leib-Olmai. A summon, as you can see.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
So what's your name? I heard that you were Moritaka's friend.


1 option
Introduce yourself.

Leib:(winter surprised face)
Heh... you're Player, huh? Cusith has told me a lot about you.

Leib:(winter cheerful face)
Well, I'll entrust him to you. I'm from a race that doesn't move too much, after all.

A... spirit? What do you mean by spirit? What's a pannoki?

Leib:(winter sad face)
...Not pannoki. It's Hannoki.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
A spirit is when a formless light is imprisoned inside a vessel, and establishes a physical form.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
I'm a spirit summon too. It means that I'm a being similar to you.

Agyou:(surprised face)
...???

Leib:(winter sad face)
What? You really don't know about yourself?

Agyou:(angry face)
S-shut up. I'll become a great komainu. That's all!

Leib:(winter neutral face)
.........

Leib:(winter angry face)
....Alright. Cusith, come here for a sec.

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
What is it, Leib-senpai? ...Hyhaha, your breath is tickling my ears.

Cusith:(winter sad face)
Eh, that's, what do you mean...?!

Leib:(winter angry face)
Practice over theory. Cusith and, uhm, Agyou right? Try to have an app battle right now.

BOTH: ..........

BOTH: EH?


Cusith:(winter surprised face)
Wawawah! Agyou-kun, are you okay?

Sob...!

Uwaaaaah! What in the world?! How'd I lose against someone like hiiim!

But first, it's not fair! You did something just before the battle, didn't you?!

Leib:(winter neutral face)
Quit making excuses. I told Cusith just one thing, you know?

Leib:(winter angry face)
"Pretend you're protecting me."

Agyou:(surprised face)
--!

Leib:(winter neutral face)
As you said before, Cusith is very immature. He's meddlesome and noisy. When he cries, it causes serious damage around him.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
Like, an apprentice guard dog. My, my-- I always end up having to look after him.

A-As I thought, isn't he an apprentice guard dog?! Then, as a komainu too--

Leib:(winter angry face)
But-- he knows, even if just a little, what he lacks as a guard dog.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
How about you? How much do you know about yourself? How much do you understand about the path you're taking?

Leib:(winter neutral face)
As a komainu--what do you protect? What are you protecting?

T-that's...

Leib:(winter neutral face)
Well--to put it simply...

Leib stooped down, an irritated look on his face, got at Agyou's eye level and stared at him straight on.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
You don't even know yourself. So I think--you're ten years early to be looking down on Cusith.

Leib:(winter cheerful face)
Well, you and Cusith are still kids. Try to aim for your own role, your own path.

......*sob*...ugh...Uwaaaaan!

Leib:(winter surprised face)
Gah! That's nothing to cry about, right?!

Since old times... Grandpa Ungyou said the same thing... Grandpa, grandpaaa....

Moritaka:(new years angry face)
Agyou-dono. Wipe your tears.

Moritaka:(new years angry face)
Those who are immature must be guided by the words of their elders. If you do that--then just do your best from now on, and it'll be fine.

sob.... Knowing myself, huh...?

H-hey, Cusith. Sorry... I apologize, for making fun of you.

That attitude of protecting something important... It was like a true guard dog. You were cool.

It was a high score of 50 komainu points! You were a really good guard dog!

But... if you already have something to protect, then I can't invite you to become my partner.

Cusith:(winter surprised face)
Eh, me, cool?! I haven't been told something like that in a long time...!

Cusith:(winter cheerful face)
Then--let's become friends, okay? I want to play together next time, Agyou-kun.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
Ah, my shoulders feel stiff. Babysitting kids wears me out, seriously.

1 option
Thanks for your hard work.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
Seriously. Babysitting isn't my style.

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Well then, we did it... so, do you have any plans for later? What are you going to do now?

Agyou:(surprised face)
I... think we'll keep searching for a komainu candidate. I want to know more. Hear from more guard dogs.

If you have the chance, I would like to invite you to our canine beastman assembly. Then, at that time, you could play together with Cusith again.

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Okay. I'll tell you when the day is chosen. Let's go together to the assembly next time, Agyou-kun!

I-if you insist...! By all means, I can go...

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Yeah. It's a promise.

(Hold on, I'm a komainu, not a dog... well, that doesn't matter!)

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Oh yeah. If you're searching for a strong guard dog, Xolotl from the Roppongi guild would be a good option.

Xolotl?

I see! Xolotl-dono's a very different guard dog from Garmr-dono and Cusith-dono.

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Well, we have to be going. Thank you for accompanying us today!

Cusith:(winter neutral face)
Hey, Leib-senpai.

Leib:(winter neutral face)
What? Uugh, it's so cold. When you leave the crowd of people, it gets colder immediately...

Cusith:(winter smile face)
I'll show you how I can become a splendid guard dog. One that'll carefully protect you all!

Leib:(winter cheerful face)
--yeah, yeah. I'm looking forward to it. Well, do your best.

Cusith:(winter smile face)
Yeees!

Part 4-1:
[Translated by Raynald]


Location: Shinjuku ~ Roppongi



Ehm... So, where in the world is that Xolotl guy?

Hmm, Xototl-dono is... from what I heard,
doing his first training on the academy he assist since New Year


1 option
Training?


Indeed, training. If I remember correctly——
something like fighting training and shooting training.

S-Shooting training!?

As expected! You said that he was a strong dog after all!
Certainly, like and angry grandpa.

Haha... he may be misunderstood as clumsy, but he’s very kind; a really nice person.


2 options
Where are we going? I'm tired, so give me a piggyback.

Ooh, me too, me too!
Piggyback, piggyback!

Agyou-dono, and even (Player)-dono! Too heavy! I’ll collapse!

I——I’m sorry. Please, forgive my failure.


Well then, let’s go.

The academy in which Xototl-dono is affiliated,
is a prestigious school in Roppongi——the [Roppongi Academy].


Here, is the Minato Wand. The shooting training place of the [Roppongi Academy].


The Roppongi Academy, a super celebrity school in the 23 wands of Tokyo, where the rulers of political and business circles attend.


Every girl who attend the academy is accompanied by multiple attendants. This place is where those attendants can do various kind of training.


Uhyaaah! That was a big noise. What was that!?

There’s no gun on Wanokuni. Seeing them for the first time is really surprising.


1 option
More importantly, can we enter?


When I asked Xototl-dono, he said the he’d gladly arrange a visit authorization.

It’s seems to be a place more frightening than I was thinking. That Xototl guy is in a place like this?

Uuuuu, I’m getting nervous! Let’s meet him quickly, and leave this place!

He'll stand out due to stature, he’ll soon... Aah, there. I can see his head over there.

.........

Oooh, cool! That’s great, someone like him is good!

Sorry for making you wait. I wish you a happy New Year, Xototl-dono.

Ajabieeeeeeeeee!?!


Xototl escaped so fast, to the point of creating an afterimage, like if he got scared because Moritaka’s calling.


.........

Crying and escaping so powerfully like that, it
feels like it was us who received the shock instead.

Xototl-dono. I'm glad you're well. I’m counting on you this year too.

Eh? Ah! Moritaka-kun!? Y-You arrived earlier than I expected...

U-Uhm, sorry for scaring you. My name is Agyou. A komainu.

Then, here’s (Player)-dono. My classmate.


2 options (Same Response)
Nice to meet you. That was a nice escape.


Let’s leave the greeting for later and move to the coffee room.
Uhm... Because this could bother you.

Hey. Doesn’t it seem that the people around here are looking at us?

Water Maid:( face)

  • Giggle* Poor Xototl, crying again.

Fire Kurohuku:( face)
Aah, That’s the reason why Hakumen-sama——No. That Hakumen get rid of him.

...You. If you make fun of my friend——

N-No, Moritaka. It’s the truth after all...

I-It can’t be helped that they make fun of me... Now, let’s move immediately.

Such strong guy... What’s wrong with him?


Here, is the skyscraper that the Roppongi Academy is proud about. The cafeteria inside the academy.


A cafeteria normally used by the students, and also a place to entertain guests.


Or a place where the students of the Roppongi Academy learn how to brewing different kinds of tea and coffee and entertain their master’s guests.


.........


Still with his hands tottering——Xototl was pouring tea on a teacup.


I-It may be low-grade tea but, h-heree!


While continuing pouring tea for the three, Xototl presented a teacup in front of (Player).


1 option
Thanks for the drink.


(*Gulp*...)


Xototl stared fixedly at (Player) and the others who were putting the teacup into their mouths and drank it.


...Yes, from my point of view, I think it’s delicious. You improved your skill even more, Xototl-dono.

T-Thank you very much! Moritaka-kun! Aah, thank goodness. I finally know the result of my training!


1 option
Thank you for the delicious tea.


Ahaa. I-I’m really happy. Even If I train preparing tea,
I have nobody who could drink it.

Before Hakumen-sama returns,
I have to know how to pour some delicious tea properly——

——because I’m not qualified to be an attendant!

Uuu, bitter... Grandpa was the same though. Why do they like something like this...?

Aah, there's wagashi too. I specifically prepared them when I heard that Moritaka-kun and the others will come-

No, more importantly-

Don't you like sweetness?

I like it, buuuut! More importantly! I want to hear the details of what happened before. What was that?

What do you mean before?

You said that "it couldn't be helped that they make fun of you"!

You are a guardian dog too, right? You're strong too, right? Why didn't you say something back?


2 options (Same Response)
Why didn't you say something back? Agyou, calm down.


Aah, that thing. That’s——because what they say it’s the truth.

Eh?

I see. You said that you were a komainu, right?
In other words, you have the "Role" to protect something.

Agyou-kun. Could you please listen my story a little?

What do you mean by... a story? It’s unfitting as a komainu candidate——

I’m a useless guardian dog that——betrayed the person I had to protect,
the place I had to protect,

Moreover——twice.

Eh?


The other world where Xototl lived before, El Dorado.


On that land, there was an incident that made the stars of that universe lose their shine.


Xototl’s friends sacrificed their own bodies, became new stars, and saved the world.


However, Xototl escaped, blowing like the wind, and——came to this Tokyo.


I’m like this since old times.
I was scared and escaped even from my own home world.

To change myself... I took this job.

To become a [bodyguard] that would protect someone.
To train my body, to become the [role] of protecting the master I’m supposed to protect.


1 option
That was, the first time?


Xototl nodded at (Player)’s words without saying anything.


I think you may not know this but, the home of my master,
Tokyo Casino turn into a fire a few days ago——

Ah, the name of that master is Hakumen-sama though——Hm?

What’s wrong, (Player)-dono? You suddenly slipped down from your chair!


3 options
It's nothing. It was nothing. Something like that really happened...?


Hakumen-sama went missing. I——wasn’t able to protect her.

However, this time! For the time when Hakumen-sama returns——

...Hey, you. Ehm, Xototl, wasn’t it?

Can I ask you something? ...Why are you that person’s——

Not that person! Hakumen-sama!

Ah, yes, sorry. Ehm, why did you choose Hakumen-sama?

...Hakumen-sama it’s a strict person.
I’ve been hit with a whip as a punishment pretty much every day.

But, I know that Hakumen-sama is—— a person who would never abandon a servant.

No matter how useless and pathetic I could be, how many times I’m being
clumsy... she allowed me to be at her side.

One day, I tripped and broke a really big gorgeous vase.

Hakumen-sama is a relaxed person, even with furnishing.
That vase was tens of million coins worth. It couldn’t be repaired.

When I kneeled down, prepared to being fired...Hakumen-sama said this—

——Do you want to quit? Taking responsibility for failing?

Hah, don’t say such stupid things. You said that you were mine, right?

This Hakumen, at least respect those who stand on the top.
Well, please be extra careful next time.

She’s——A good master.

Yees!

I got smacked a lot because she said,
"you’ll receive a harsh punishment anyway" though——

It huuuurt, I wanted to cryy!

Anyway, I——truly wanted to be next to that person.

Next to that person is——the place the where current me belongs to after all.

.........

Ah, it’s this time already?
I have to make the arrangements for the Hakumen-sama’s searching posters!

Aah, we stayed for too much long.
Well then, that will do for today. See you again.

Yes. Thank you, Moritaka-kun. Let’s keep in contact.
I’m counting on you this year too.

Allow me to attend you with those posters next time.
Xototl-dono, it’s great that you told us about your determination.

.........

Agyou-kun. I apologize if it was a boring story.
Let’s go to eat together next time.

But, for a komainu like you.
For a person like me, who have the same "Role" of protecting——I wanted you to hear that story.

I already did my new vows for this New Year!

Y-You don’t have to apologize!
It... would make a great reference for me. Thank you!

A new... place that I have to protect...

Part 5-1:
[Translated by Raynald]


Location: Shinjuku Central Park


Final Chapter: [Something necessary to a komainu]



After visiting the members from Ikebukuro, Ueno and Roppongi——the three returned to the shrine where they began.


On that shrine, that was getting dark, there was a few people. And there was nobody on the woods in the deepest part.


.........

Agyou-dono——I bought something to drink. Here. It’s hot, so be careful.

T-Thanks. Hehe, it’s warm...

However, what do you think, Agyou-dono?
Those were all the people that I could introduce to you.


3 options (Same Response)
How was today? Did you figure out something? Today’s resume, Please!


Yeah... let’s see.
Like, everyone being not bad, they had various types of personalities——

But, like, they didn’t felt like a [komainu].

In the first place——everyone had a "Role" already.
Something to protect, a path to follow.

I can’t selfishly make that kind of people my [komainu] partner.

There’re a lot of guardian dogs but——

I think they’re doing their best fot that [role].
They’re protecting something by their own will.

Compared to them, I... didn’t understand anything.
If you two wouldn’t be here today——

Damn it, at this rate, grandpa will scold me!
I have to take care of myself... more by myself!

(Player) and big bro Moritaka... You can’t just rely on the people around you!

I have to return to my original world,
become stronger and being able to protect a shrine, everyone——

You’re wrong, Agyou-dono.

...Eh?

Nobody's born alone. There’s no need to feel ashamed to rely on others.

...Why?

...What do you mean?

Why you two, who just met me, are doing this much?

I mean, I just suddenly appeared from somewhere, a complete stranger, right?


3 options (Same Response)
Because I wanted to support you. Because I was the same before. Yeah, I wonder why.


.........

If you ask me,
You have respect for your grandfather and you’re devoting yourself, Agyou-dono.

Respect... devotion... eh?

I mean that you cherish your grandfather a lot, Agyou-dono.

I swear to my late parents that I will become and splendid warrior.
Agyou-dono’s devotion is the same as me.

Also, doing this with Agyou-dono
makes me remember when I was young and played with Yoshirou

If you say that I‘m strong——that’s the reason.

.........

You don’t need to be impatient, if we continue patiently,
we eventually will meet that "bond".

We can look for summoned people, but as long as we don’t have a clue,
it would be a matter of patient.

If that would be the case,
we have to decide what should be the place of our current next objective.

Even if you say that. I don’t have any acquaintances...


3 options (Same Response)
Come to our place. How about coming to our guild? We are recruiting a komainu!


Eh......!?

Oh...! Certainly that’s a nice idea but...

Is there no problem if one member decide something like that by their own?
The other members would——


3 options (Same Response)
I’m the leader after all! I have the authority of a guild master! I’ll kneel down on the ground and beg Shirou!


W-What’s this [guild] thing? (Player), do you have a shrine?

Let’s say that it a being with the same intention.
The appearance could be different from a shrine though...

I-I’m a komainu, you know? Protecting a place other than a shrine is...

W-Weird, right? Maybe... I think it’s werid!


1 option
What do you want to do, Agyou?


Eeeh!? M-Me? What I want to do... uhm...

...Honestly, I don’t know. Being asked so suddenly makes my head dizzy.

What I... want to do...

——Agyou-dono. When you feel lost, it’s better stay calm and say what you think.

If you do that... you could see the path you have to follow now naturally.

.........

...I, was thinking when I met them. That I "have to decide for myself" my own path.

A place that I have protect. People that I have to protect. To collect a "Role" by the way I could do it.

Maybe... that a "shrine" for everyone.

So... Ehm... I don’t know how to say it then.

I have ovjective to become someone like grandpa.
I have the intention to protect a shrine.

But, what’s my shrine? ——I didn’t think about that.

I wanted to protect a shrine, but without knowing my own shrine——
that’s weird.


1 option
It’s not weird.


Eh——!?

An objective is an honorable something that the pioneers transmit.
But I think that doubting that sometimes is not a bad thing.

That’s the path to find your own self.
Agyou-dono, you’re searching your own self right now.

Searching... my own self... I see, grandpa...!

"Since ancient times, komainu are beings that repel malice" "Therefore—— we have to find a 'shrine' to protect!"

A-Agyou-dono! Could that be——

I can’t do it all at once...
I want to understand perfectly and protect what I should protect.

Therefore... please show me a proper power! You are the master of that "guild," right? (Player)!

Could you fight against me?
Not how you did when we met for the first time, do it seriously.


3 options
Sure. Why? I-I don't want to...

......... Thank you.

I know that [Player] is a good person, but there's a lot of things that I don't know.

Even if it's temporal, I want to know what I'm going to protect - I want to protect it because I could understand properly.

(Player)-dono, I understand your feelings but...
Agyou-dono is serious.

I understand the feelings of wanting to acknowledge your own master.
How about responding to those feelings?


...All right, here I go. I’m serious this time!


After saying that, water appeared from somewhere and started to dance like responding to Agyou’s movements.


The falling afternoon sun kept growing while warping the fierce of those movements brightly.


Agyou:(4star face)
My name is Agyou! An ancient honorable komainu! Show me I the thing I should protect!

[Battle Starts]



Daaah! I lost, I lost! Damn iiit! Even when I was serious!

As I thought, you’re really strong! (Player)!


After saying that, Agyou smiled brightly, contrary to his words.


3 options
It seems the battle is over. Y-You were surprisingly strong... So, could you see it clearly?

It can't be helped if I lost. Thanks for fighting seriously.

Hehe, I also did it seriously! The real komainu power, I'm beaten!

... Yeah, I think I understand what kind of person you are, [Player].


...So, what are you going to do? Agyou-dono.

Hm? About what?

Don’t tell me you forgot it...
that if you would rely on (Player)-dono’s guild or not.

...I-I didn’t for forget it! Of course!! I didn’t completely forget it! Not at all!!

If you’re not okay with that, we could find another place but...
Anyway, we can’t start if we don’t have a base.

Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Wait a moment big bro Moritaka!
I-I didn’t say anything about not wanting to!

I don’t dislike (Player)...

But... W-Wouldn’t the guys from the guild be surprised if I suddenly intrude?

...What should we do if they say no?

If it’s about (Player)-dono’s guild what are we talking about,
they won’t do something like that, Agyou-dono.

I don’t know all the details, I‘m know everyone very well.

Sometimes they act without restrain, but they’re nice people, don’t worry.

Really? Absolutely? If you lie, Enma-sama will take you tongue, you know!?

This Moritaka swears by my warrior soul.

I-If you say so... until I found my partner and the "shrine" that I should protect——

I can go...! Yeah, if you ask me that much, I can’t be helped!

Then, it’s decided. I’ll show up there from time to time.

If you’re going to do it, the day it’s already getting dark.
Let’s go to (Player)-dono’s guild quickly.

No, like I saaaid! Until I find a partner and a shrine, you know!
Don’t forget it!?


2 options (Same Response)
I know, I know. I'll be counting on you from now on!


What... if you rejoice that much it’ll go wrong, right...?

Preferably, I you could become my partner... Huh. Isn’t that a good idea?

Agyou-dono, did you say something?

I-It’s nothing! I’m just saying that I’m hungry!

Guide me to that guild thing quickly! Because I’m already exhausted!

Now that you mention it, the time for dinner is close.
If I remember correctly, tonight President-dono planned to do a stew.

Stew? That’s great, that’s great! The food of this world is delicious,
so I’m looking forward to it!


The three’s stomachs growled.


...We went around a lot today. It’s not strange that we’ll hungry,
and our stomach growling.

Aaaall right! If it’s decided, then let’s go quickly!

Aah, wait Agyou-dono, it’s dangerous if you start running and jumping ...!


After hearing about the stew, Agyou started to advance like bouncing without even knowing the way ahead.


I know! So, on which direction should we go?

You don’t understand at all! Y, my... keep a watchful eye on you.

However, (Player)-dono. It seem that this year will be also a lively year!


The sinking sun was dyeing red the trees. Agyou’s voice resounded on the perfectly clear winter sky.


(Player)! From now on——I’m counting on you!


——a new year came to this Tokyo.


This year, new encounters and various stories may be waiting.


While the chest pound with excitement for those expectation, they were running fast to the place where their friends were——


Grandpa. I’m sorry. I’ll return a little late.


It may be a [shrine] a bit different from what you were thinking but.


I’ll absolutely protect it, as a splendid komainu. So——please watch me, granpa.


[2018 Oriental New Year] END