translation: Horitsuba drama CD 1
I wasn't really intending to translate the Horitsuba drama CD (at least not anytime soon), but... Well, I really didn't want to do my homework. Amazing what a motivating factor that is, isn't it?
For the record, my listening comprehension is dreadful; luckily, someone decided to include the script in the booklet, so this translation was done from that. The sound effects and vocal inflections were also taken from the script. As always, my Japanese is far from perfect, so feel free to take it with a few grains of salt.
There were also character blurbs in the booklet, but since those were composed of such vital tidbits as "Sakura likes the exchange student Syaoran," I didn't bother with them. The only things that weren't specifically mentioned in the drama were that Syaoran is in the soccer club, Sakura and Himawari are both in the figure-skating club, White Mokona is "girlish," and Black Mokona is "boyish."
The title of the CD is clearly given in English (mostly) as "Private High School Horitsuba Gakuen," but since the "high school" part isn't entirely accurate, as this is essentially CLAMP Campus 2.0, in the script I chose to translate the kanji directly instead. Also, I normally use "Fai" instead of "Fay," but since this is a script and not a fic, I adopted the official spelling.
As a side note, this is the first time I've paid much attention to the kanji in Himawari's last name, and I was amused to see that the "ku" of Kunogi is the kanji for "nine," which is an unlucky number in Japan. CLAMP has too much fun sometimes.
Horitsuba Private Academy - Look Forward to Valentine's Day!
Opening
White Mokona:
Horitsuba Private Academy. Early Childhood Division, Elementary School Division, Junior High School Division, High School Division, University, Graduate School. On this enormous campus, these individuals make up one huge, complete city built entirely on private property.
Black Mokona:
Dormitories, laboratories , movie theatres, hospitals, banks, and so on; every possible institution is available in this campus-city, running in perfect order. Over ten thousand people attend school and live here, including students, staff members, authorized persons, other family members, and the like.
White Mokona:
Exactly. Since Horitsuba Academy is somewhat well-known all over, there are also lots of exchange students from foreign countries. Right now, we're going to tell you the story of a single exchange student in the high school division, Syaoran.
Morning
On the way to school
(Students walking along the path to school)
(Syaoran, walking)
Syaoran:
The weather's sure nice today, huh? Even though it's only February, it feels like spring.
(Sound of Sakura running up)
Sakura:
Syaoran-kun!
Syaoran:
(waving) Sakura-san...
Sakura:
(happily) Morning!
Syaoran:
(a little shyly) Good morning.
Sakura:
You're being too polite again.
Syaoran:
Ah...
Sakura:
Our classes are next to each other, but we're in the same grade, so don't use polite language, okay?
Syaoran:
Yes. Ah... Yeah.
Sakura:
It's been a month since you first came here to study abroad, but how are things going? Are you getting used to it?
Syaoran:
Yes. Ah, yeah. Everyone's helped me a lot.
Sakura:
I'm so glad! You've gotten to be good friends with Watanuki-kun and Doumeki-kun from Class B too, right? But if you're ever in trouble and there's anything I can do to help out, let me know, okay?
Syaoran:
(happily) ...yeah.
Sakura:
By the way, tomorrow is February 14th, right?
Syaoran:
Yeah, it is.
Sakura:
(a little hesitant) Um, you know what? I was thinking that I'd make some chocolate too.
Syaoran:
Huh?
Sakura:
(shyly) Because tomorrow is... Valentine's Day.
Syaoran:
...Huh?
Class B Classroom
(The bell to end class)
(The sound of students rattling their chairs)
Watanuki:
Phew. It's finally lunchtime, huh, Syaoran?
Syaoran:
Watanuki-kun.
Watanuki:
Do you want to eat lunch together?
Syaoran:
Sure...
Watanuki:
...Somehow, you've been looking depressed ever since this morning. Is something wrong?
Syaoran:
It's not that anything happened, but there's something on my mind...
Watanuki:
What's that?
Syaoran:
Tomorrow is February 14th, right?
Watanuki:
Yeah.
Syaoran:
So, that day is...
(Sound of the classroom door opening)
Doumeki:
Watanuki, it's time for the meeting for graduation exercises. Hurry up.
Watanuki:
I was already planning to go! I just have to talk to Syaoran for a minute!
Doumeki:
Oh? In that case, I'm going on ahead.
Syaoran:
It's okay. It's not a big deal. Please go with Doumeki-kun.
Watanuki:
Well...
Syaoran:
It's really okay, so go ahead.
Watanuki:
Well, then I'll listen to you after I get back, okay?
Syaoran:
Thank you.
(Watanuki stands up from his seat)
Watanuki:
Then I'll see you afterward!
Doumeki:
See ya.
Syaoran:
Yeah.
(Watanuki and Doumeki leave the classroom)
Syaoran:
(sighs)
(Sound of Mokona coming in. Both of them)
White Mokona:
Syaaaoran!
Black Mokona:
Syaoran!
White Mokona:
What's wrong?
Black Mokona:
Something wrong?
Syaoran:
Mokona.
White Mokona:
You were sighing, weren't you?
Black Mokona:
He sighed. Did something bad happen?
Syaoran:
Nothing like that.
White Mokona:
Mokona will give you advice!
Black Mokona:
Sure, we'll give you advice! After all, we're in the same class, right?
White Mokona:
We're friends!
Syaoran:
(moved) Mokona... The truth is...
Both Mokona:
The truth is?
Syaoran:
What's the connection between Valentine's Day and chocolate?
Title Call:
Horitsuba Private Academy - Look Forward to Valentine's Day!
Outside
(On campus)
(Sound of the students' voices around campus during the lunch hour can be heard)
Syaoran:
I'm sorry for bringing up such a strange subject when you came to have lunch with me.
Black Mokona:
Don't worry about it. (while eating) Your lunch is great!
Syaoran:
(a little happy) It's because my father is really good at cooking.
White Mokona:
(while eating) But still, I'm surprised. Syaoran, you don't know what Valentine's Day is?
Black Mokona:
Since your father is an archaeologist and you've traveled with him to a bunch of different countries, we thought you'd know.
Syaoran:
Well, I have heard of it, but I have a feeling that the Valentine's Day I know and the Valentine's Day in Japan are different.
White Mokona:
In what way?
Syaoran:
The Valentine's Day I know is a holiday commemorating a saint, but today, Sakura-san said that she was going to make chocolate because tomorrow is Valentine's Day... Also, the girls in class were all talking about chocolate too. There's no chocolate involved in the Valentine's Day I know.
Black Mokona:
I get it.
White Mokona:
Well, you know, that's-
(Sound of the chemistry class preparation room window opening)
Fay:
Ah! That lunch you're eating looks great!
Syaoran:
Fay-sensei!
Fay:
I want some too. Some of that egg roll!
Syaoran:
Ah, yes, please have some.
Fay:
Yaaaa~y!
(Fay climbs through the window and lands outside)
White Mokona:
You shouldn't do that~! A chemistry teacher shouldn't go out through the window.
Black Mokona:
You came out from the chemistry class preparation room!
Fay:
It's fine! As long as Syaoran-kun and the Mokona can keep a secret...
Syaoran:
Yes. I won't tell anyone.
Fay:
Ahaha. Syaoran-kun, you're really earnest, aren't you? Well, I'll have some of the egg~!
(Fay, eating)
Fay:
This is great~
Syaoran:
Thank you very much.
Fay:
So, how do you like Horitsuba Academy?
Syaoran:
I really enjoy it.
Fay:
It looks like you've been able to make some friends, too. You're with Watanuki-kun and Doumeki-kun from your class a lot.
Syaoran:
Yes.
Fay:
Also, Himawari-chan and Sakura-chan from Class C.
Syaoran:
(heart pounding) !
Fay:
Both of them share names with flowers~! That's so cute, isn't it?
Syaoran:
(shyly) Ye-yes...
Fay:
(while eating) So, you were saying something about Valentine's Day. What's the matter?
Syaoran:
(shyly) Ah...
Fay:
Sorry. I couldn't help overhearing.
White Mokona:
You know, Syaoran said he doesn't understand the Japanese Valentine's Day!
Fay:
Ohhh. Syaoran-kun, it really hasn't been very long since you came to Japan, has it?
Syaoran:
That's right. Valentine's Day in Japan is February 14th, right?
Fay:
That's right.
Syaoran:
What is the connection between that day and chocolate?
Fay:
Ahaha. That's right. Hmmm. In other countries, there's no connection, is there? All right! This is a question for that guy! Kurotan-sensei~!
Syaoran:
Huh!?
(Sound of footsteps coming to a halt)
Kurogane:
What?
White Mokona:
Kurotan-sensei!!
Fay:
Come here, come here~
Kurogane:
Don't call people like they were dogs! I'm busy!
Fay:
It's lunchtime!
Kurogane:
I've got preparations to make. The next class is physical education!
Fay:
You've still got time though, right? You need to explain something to Syaoran-kun!
Kurogane:
What is it?
Fay:
Syaoran-kun said he doesn't understand anything about the Japanese Valentine's Day.
Black Mokona:
That's right, isn't it, Syaoran?
Syaoran:
Ye-yes.
Kurogane:
Is that all? It's a conspiracy by the candy-makers.
Syaoran:
Huh?
Kurogane:
I'm outta here. I've got things to do.
Syaoran:
Th-thank very much, Kurogane-sensei.
Fay:
Thanks~! Kuro-sama!
Kurogane:
It's Kurogane!!
(Kurogane walks away)
Syaoran:
A conspiracy... So it was something that awful, huh?
White Mokona:
Um, that's...
Black Mokona:
That's no- (Fay covers their mouths)
Fay:
Ahahaha
(The bell rings to signal the end of lunch)
Fay:
Oh, my. Lunchtime is already over, huh? That was the first bell.
Syaoran:
I need to go back to the classroom. Fay-sensei, thank you very much.
White Mokona:
(mumble mumble)
Black Mokona:
(mumble mumble)
Fay:
Oh, it was nothing. Glad to be of help.
Syaoran:
I'll be going on ahead to the classroom. I'm on day duty today.
Fay:
Sure. The Mokona and I will clean up the lunch boxes for you.
Syaoran:
I'll leave it to you, then. Goodbye!
Fay:
See you later!
(Syaoran walks away)
White Mokona:
(Fay finally removes his hand) Phew!
Black Mokona:
(Fay finally removes his hand) Phew!
Both Mokona:
I couldn't breathe!
Fay:
Ahaha, sorry about that.
White Mokona:
I'm sure Syaoran misunderstood about Valentine's Day!
Black Mokona:
About the conspiracy stuff.
Fay:
Buuut, this looked like it would be more interesting!
White Mokona:
......
Black Mokona:
......
White Mokona:
That's right, isn't it?
Black Mokona:
That's right, huh?
Both Mokona:
It's better if it's interesting!
Fay and both Mokona:
Right!
The hallway leading to the classroom
(Sounds of walking along the corridor and other students' voices)
Himawari:
Syaoran-kun!
Syaoran:
Kunogi-san.
Himawari:
So you're on day duty today, huh? Here, the teacher from Class B left this with me. He said to stick it on the blackboard before homeroom.
Syaoran:
Thank you.
(Syaoran takes the paper from Himawari)
Himawari:
What's wrong? You're not very cheerful.
Syaoran:
Really? I guess.
Himawari:
Or rather, you look unhappy about something?
Syaoran:
Was I making a face like that?
Himawari:
Yup. You were.
Syaoran:
I-I see...
(While walking)
Himawari:
Would you like to tell me about it?
Syaoran:
...Earlier, I heard about Valentine's Day from Kurogane-sensei.
Himawari:
Ah, that's tomorrow, huh.
Syaoran:
Somehow, it just seems really awful...
Himawari:
For girls, it really can be pretty awful.
Syaoran:
Th-that's just what I thought!
Himawari:
After all, there are some who stake their lives on that day.
Syaoran:
Th-their lives!?
Himawari:
Some girls do, yeah.
Syaoran:
(confused) Uh...
Himawari:
Syaoran-kun, you're sure to receive a lot too.
Syaoran:
Huh!?
Himawari:
Chocolate.
(The bell to signal the start of class)
Himawari:
Ah, I'm late. See you later!
Syaoran:
Y-yeah.
(Himawari rushes to her classroom)
Syaoran:
Conspiracies and chocolate you stake your life on...
Classroom
(Classroom commotion)
(Syaoran takes his seat)
Doumeki:
Sorry about dragging Watanuki off earlier.
Syaoran:
No, I was able to ask about the thing that was bothering me.
Doumeki:
...If that's the case, why do you look worse than you did earlier?
Syaoran:
...Earlier, I was wondering about February 14th, and I asked Fay-sensei and Kurogane-sensei and Kunogi-san, but...
Yuuko:
You were talking about Valentine's Day, right?
Syaoran:
Ack!!
(Syaoran is surprised by hearing Yuuko's voice from out of nowhere)
Syaoran:
Yuuko-sensei!
Doumeki:
Isn't your classics lesson starting now in the next class?
Yuuko:
It's fine; they can wait. Right, here goes!
(Yuuko comes into Syaoran and Doumeki's classroom through the window to the corridor)
Doumeki:
Why did you come in through the window?
Yuuko:
Because it was closer!
Syaoran:
Is it a rule that teachers in this school have to come in and out through the windows?
Yuuko:
Not at all. But if there's an emergency situation and it can't be helped, we can go through them. Besides, I'm the classics teacher and the chairman of the board.
Doumeki:
This is an emergency situation?
Yuuko:
Certainly. It's the day before Valentine's Day and the exchange student is looking puzzled about it for some reason. It's a huge state of emergency.
Doumeki:
I see.
Yuuko:
So? What's wrong, Syaoran-kun?
Syaoran:
Um, class is...
Yuuko:
This is this and that is that.
Syaoran:
B-but...
Yuuko:
(forcefully) Just say it.
Syaoran:
(the air pressure changes) Yes, ma'am. I didn't understand the Japanese Valentine's Day at all. At first I asked the Mokona, but halfway through Fay-sensei showed up.
Doumeki:
(realizing that this was probably a bad way to go about it) Aaah.
Syaoran:
After that, Fay-sensei called Kurogane-sensei over. Kurogane-sensei said that Valentine's Day is a conspiracy. Then later on, Kunogi-san told me that girls stake their lives on it.
Doumeki:
(realizing that he was right and this was definitely a bad way to go about it) Aaah.
Syaoran:
...The Japanese Valentine's Day is an awful day, isn't it?
Yuuko:
...That's right.
(Yuuko claps Syaoran on the shoulder)
Yuuko:
The Japanese Valentine's Day is an awful day.
Syaoran:
I-it is?
Yuuko:
It's a day of swirling conspiracies and battles with girls staking their lives on the outcome!
Syaoran:
(shuddering) Battles... But what connection does chocolate have with battles?
Yuuko:
Chocolate is the weapon. Using that, they aim and strike.
Syaoran:
Strike!?
Yuuko:
Sometimes explosions occur too, you know. It's a handmade assault.
Syaoran:
Explosions!?
Doumeki:
......
Yuuko:
Syaoran-kun, you may be dragged into the chocolate-bearing girls' battle tomorrow too.
Syaoran:
...Y-yes. U-um...
Yuuko:
What?
Syaoran:
Do all the girls get involved?
Yuuko:
Of course, there are some girls who don't participate, but the vast majority of them go to war.
Syaoran:
(so worried he can't help himself) Then, Saku...
(sound of the door opening)
Fay:
Okay, it's time for chemistry!
White Mokona:
It's time!
Black Mokona:
It's time!
Yuuko:
If the teacher says so... Well, do your best~
(Yuuko leaves through the window)
Doumeki:
She went through the window again...
(Watanuki hurries into the classroom)
Watanuki:
I'm sorry I'm late!
Fay:
Just in time!
Black Mokona:
Great!
(Watanuki takes his seat)
Doumeki:
You're late.
Watanuki:
You shut up! The people in charge of our meeting couldn't get anything settled, and we finally decided that we'd have to get together again after school... Anyway. Syaoran?
Syaoran:
...Yes?
Watanuki:
Somehow, you're looking worse and worse. Is it because of February 14th?
Syaoran:
No, I understand that now. People explained it to me.
Doumeki:
...was that an explanation or completely distorting the situation?
Watanuki:
Huh? What?
Fay:
Okay, that's enough. Talking is great, but we're supposed to be studying. If you're having trouble afterward...
Watanuki:
Ah! (to Fay) Ye-yes, teacher!
Syaoran:
(softly) I'm sorry.
Watanuki:
(softly) Don't worry about it, but are you really okay?
Syaoran:
(softly) Yeah. (To himself) But... The Japanese Valentine's Day is really awful, isn't it? I wonder if Sakura-san will be okay...?
The Next Day
(Commotion on the way to school)
(Sound of the two Mokona approaching)
White Mokona:
Good morning, Syaoran!
Black Mokona:
Good morning!
Syaoran:
...Good morning.
White Mokona:
You're not very cheerful.
Syaoran:
...Because today is February 14th. Today is the day that all the Japanese girls are wrapped up in conspiracies and battling, right?
(Syaoran and the two Mokona walking)
White Mokona:
(softly) He believed it.
Black Mokona:
(softly) He really believed it.
Syaoran:
That's why...
(Sound of running)
White Mokona:
Ah! It's the girls!
Black Mokona:
They're carrying something.
White Mokona:
They're coming this way!
Black Mokona:
They're coming from that direction too!
White Mokona:
The other way too!
(More and more footsteps. It feels like the whole group is headed toward Syaoran en mass)
Syaoran:
Agh-!
Class B - Classroom
(sound of the classroom door opening)
Watanuki:
Ah, Syaoran, good morning!
Doumeki:
Yo.
Watanuki:
Gah! What happened to you!? Did you trip and fall in some spectacular way!?
Syaoran:
(out of breath) On the way to class, a bunch of girls...
White Mokona:
A whole lot of them came!
Black Mokona:
They were carrying chocolate!
Watanuki:
(amused) Well, it is Valentine's Day.
Doumeki:
Have you gotten any?
Watanuki:
Shut up!
Syaoran:
(still out of breath) Somehow, they all came charging at me at once. There were girls from other schools, too. I tried to hold them off with all my strength, but... I really did get the feeling they were staking their lives.
Watanuki:
Huh? Why were you trying to hold them off?
Doumeki:
So he really did believe it...
Syaoran:
(breathing hard) If that chocolate is a weapon, there must be some sort of trick to it. Maybe if you eat it, something terrible happens...
Watanuki:
(not understanding what's going on) Syaoran...?
Syaoran:
(still out of breath) Japanese girls are... something else, huh?
(sound of the door opening)
Himawari:
Good morning!
Watanuki:
(rejoicing) Himawari-chaaan!
Doumeki:
Yo.
White Mokona:
Good morning!
Black Mokona:
Good morning!
Himawari:
Syaoran-kun, you're here already?
Syaoran:
(taking in a breath) Y-yes.
Himawari:
Sakura-chan!
(Sakura, called by Himawari, takes a step in)
Sakura:
(shyly) Uh, um... I wonder if it's okay...
Syaoran:
(doesn't understand) Yeah, we still have time before class starts.
Sakura:
We- well then. Could I talk to you for a minute?
Syaoran:
Sure.
Black Mokona:
Syaoran, you can leave your bag with us.
Syaoran:
Thank you.
White Mokona:
See you!
(The two walking)
White Mokona:
Sakura, we'll hand him over to you!
Black Mokona:
Yup!
Himawari:
That's right. Watanuki-kun!
Watanuki:
(hopeful) Y-yes!!
Himawari:
Here, would you accept this?
Watanuki:
Th-th-th-th-this is, cho-cho...!
Himawari:
Yup. It's chocolate.
Watanuki:
(moved) I'll accept it! Or rather, please give it to me!!
Himawari:
Here. Doumeki-kun too.
Doumeki:
Thanks.
(Watanuki collapses)
Himawari:
Mokona, both of you too. Here you go!
White Mokona:
Yaaay!
Black Mokona:
Yaaay!
Watanuki:
(still flat on the ground) A, ahahahaha. Himawari-chan is so nice...
(The far-off commotion of the other students)
Sakura:
(shyly) Sorry for pulling you away before class.
Syaoran:
Not at all. But what is it?
Sakura:
Um. You know? Today is Valentine's Day, right?
Syaoran:
(nervous) Y-yeah...
Sakura:
I made chocolate. My big brother Touya was a pest, but his friend Yukito-san helped me out...
Syaoran:
(increasingly nervous) ...
(Sakura turns toward Syaoran and offers the chocolate)
Sakura:
Syaoran-kun... would you... accept this?
Syaoran:
(inhales sharply) !
Sakura:
......
Syaoran:
......
(Students' commotion can be heard)
Sakura:
(looking like she might cry when she doesn't get an answer) Uh, um... If it bothers you...
Syaoran:
It's not a bother.
(Syaoran accepts the chocolate)
Syaoran:
Thank you.
Sakura:
(happily) ...Syaoran-kun!
Syaoran:
(gazing at Sakura) ......
Sakura:
(gazing at Syaoran) ......
Syaoran:
That's why...
(Syaoran puts a hand on Sakura's shoulder)
Syaoran:
I'll fight too.
Sakura:
...Huh?
Syaoran:
I can't let you risk your life in this battle by yourself. I'll go with you in the Valentine's Day battle.
Sakura:
...Wait, what?
Syaoran:
While I was traveling from country to country, I learned martial arts. The martial arts I learned from someone called Seishirou-san are the most practical of all. If the fight is limited just to February 14th, they might be of use somehow.
Sakura:
......Syaoran-kun...???
The Chairman of the Board's Office
(Holding a telescope and spying on Syaoran and Sakura)
Yuuko:
Ufufu, how sweet.
Kurogane:
Don't spy on them through a telescope. That's disgusting.
Yuuko:
I'm not spying on them, I'm watching over them!
Fay:
It really is cute, isn't it? But it looks like Syaoran-kun really did get the wrong idea.
Kurogane:
You quit spying too.
Fay:
Ahaha, do you want to see too, Kurorin~?
Kurogane:
Why would I look!? Sheesh, deceiving a serious kid like that...
Yuuko:
Really! If we let him struggle to find the correct answer on his own, he'll understand it better.
Fay:
And if the person he learns from is Sakura-chan, there will be one or two very happy people.
Yuuko and Fay:
Don't you think?
Kurogane:
A demon and a witch...
Yuuko:
Did you say something?
Fay:
He said, "A demon and a witch!"
Kurogane:
Ah!
Yuuko:
Really!
Fay:
Oops, I tattled~ Ahaha!
Yuuko:
I'll decide on Kurogane-sensei's punishment later.
Kurogane:
Wait a minute!
Yuuko
Just another peaceful day at Horitsuba Academy, huh?
End
For the record, my listening comprehension is dreadful; luckily, someone decided to include the script in the booklet, so this translation was done from that. The sound effects and vocal inflections were also taken from the script. As always, my Japanese is far from perfect, so feel free to take it with a few grains of salt.
There were also character blurbs in the booklet, but since those were composed of such vital tidbits as "Sakura likes the exchange student Syaoran," I didn't bother with them. The only things that weren't specifically mentioned in the drama were that Syaoran is in the soccer club, Sakura and Himawari are both in the figure-skating club, White Mokona is "girlish," and Black Mokona is "boyish."
The title of the CD is clearly given in English (mostly) as "Private High School Horitsuba Gakuen," but since the "high school" part isn't entirely accurate, as this is essentially CLAMP Campus 2.0, in the script I chose to translate the kanji directly instead. Also, I normally use "Fai" instead of "Fay," but since this is a script and not a fic, I adopted the official spelling.
As a side note, this is the first time I've paid much attention to the kanji in Himawari's last name, and I was amused to see that the "ku" of Kunogi is the kanji for "nine," which is an unlucky number in Japan. CLAMP has too much fun sometimes.
Horitsuba Private Academy - Look Forward to Valentine's Day!
Opening
White Mokona:
Horitsuba Private Academy. Early Childhood Division, Elementary School Division, Junior High School Division, High School Division, University, Graduate School. On this enormous campus, these individuals make up one huge, complete city built entirely on private property.
Black Mokona:
Dormitories, laboratories , movie theatres, hospitals, banks, and so on; every possible institution is available in this campus-city, running in perfect order. Over ten thousand people attend school and live here, including students, staff members, authorized persons, other family members, and the like.
White Mokona:
Exactly. Since Horitsuba Academy is somewhat well-known all over, there are also lots of exchange students from foreign countries. Right now, we're going to tell you the story of a single exchange student in the high school division, Syaoran.
Morning
On the way to school
(Students walking along the path to school)
(Syaoran, walking)
Syaoran:
The weather's sure nice today, huh? Even though it's only February, it feels like spring.
(Sound of Sakura running up)
Sakura:
Syaoran-kun!
Syaoran:
(waving) Sakura-san...
Sakura:
(happily) Morning!
Syaoran:
(a little shyly) Good morning.
Sakura:
You're being too polite again.
Syaoran:
Ah...
Sakura:
Our classes are next to each other, but we're in the same grade, so don't use polite language, okay?
Syaoran:
Yes. Ah... Yeah.
Sakura:
It's been a month since you first came here to study abroad, but how are things going? Are you getting used to it?
Syaoran:
Yes. Ah, yeah. Everyone's helped me a lot.
Sakura:
I'm so glad! You've gotten to be good friends with Watanuki-kun and Doumeki-kun from Class B too, right? But if you're ever in trouble and there's anything I can do to help out, let me know, okay?
Syaoran:
(happily) ...yeah.
Sakura:
By the way, tomorrow is February 14th, right?
Syaoran:
Yeah, it is.
Sakura:
(a little hesitant) Um, you know what? I was thinking that I'd make some chocolate too.
Syaoran:
Huh?
Sakura:
(shyly) Because tomorrow is... Valentine's Day.
Syaoran:
...Huh?
Class B Classroom
(The bell to end class)
(The sound of students rattling their chairs)
Watanuki:
Phew. It's finally lunchtime, huh, Syaoran?
Syaoran:
Watanuki-kun.
Watanuki:
Do you want to eat lunch together?
Syaoran:
Sure...
Watanuki:
...Somehow, you've been looking depressed ever since this morning. Is something wrong?
Syaoran:
It's not that anything happened, but there's something on my mind...
Watanuki:
What's that?
Syaoran:
Tomorrow is February 14th, right?
Watanuki:
Yeah.
Syaoran:
So, that day is...
(Sound of the classroom door opening)
Doumeki:
Watanuki, it's time for the meeting for graduation exercises. Hurry up.
Watanuki:
I was already planning to go! I just have to talk to Syaoran for a minute!
Doumeki:
Oh? In that case, I'm going on ahead.
Syaoran:
It's okay. It's not a big deal. Please go with Doumeki-kun.
Watanuki:
Well...
Syaoran:
It's really okay, so go ahead.
Watanuki:
Well, then I'll listen to you after I get back, okay?
Syaoran:
Thank you.
(Watanuki stands up from his seat)
Watanuki:
Then I'll see you afterward!
Doumeki:
See ya.
Syaoran:
Yeah.
(Watanuki and Doumeki leave the classroom)
Syaoran:
(sighs)
(Sound of Mokona coming in. Both of them)
White Mokona:
Syaaaoran!
Black Mokona:
Syaoran!
White Mokona:
What's wrong?
Black Mokona:
Something wrong?
Syaoran:
Mokona.
White Mokona:
You were sighing, weren't you?
Black Mokona:
He sighed. Did something bad happen?
Syaoran:
Nothing like that.
White Mokona:
Mokona will give you advice!
Black Mokona:
Sure, we'll give you advice! After all, we're in the same class, right?
White Mokona:
We're friends!
Syaoran:
(moved) Mokona... The truth is...
Both Mokona:
The truth is?
Syaoran:
What's the connection between Valentine's Day and chocolate?
Title Call:
Horitsuba Private Academy - Look Forward to Valentine's Day!
Outside
(On campus)
(Sound of the students' voices around campus during the lunch hour can be heard)
Syaoran:
I'm sorry for bringing up such a strange subject when you came to have lunch with me.
Black Mokona:
Don't worry about it. (while eating) Your lunch is great!
Syaoran:
(a little happy) It's because my father is really good at cooking.
White Mokona:
(while eating) But still, I'm surprised. Syaoran, you don't know what Valentine's Day is?
Black Mokona:
Since your father is an archaeologist and you've traveled with him to a bunch of different countries, we thought you'd know.
Syaoran:
Well, I have heard of it, but I have a feeling that the Valentine's Day I know and the Valentine's Day in Japan are different.
White Mokona:
In what way?
Syaoran:
The Valentine's Day I know is a holiday commemorating a saint, but today, Sakura-san said that she was going to make chocolate because tomorrow is Valentine's Day... Also, the girls in class were all talking about chocolate too. There's no chocolate involved in the Valentine's Day I know.
Black Mokona:
I get it.
White Mokona:
Well, you know, that's-
(Sound of the chemistry class preparation room window opening)
Fay:
Ah! That lunch you're eating looks great!
Syaoran:
Fay-sensei!
Fay:
I want some too. Some of that egg roll!
Syaoran:
Ah, yes, please have some.
Fay:
Yaaaa~y!
(Fay climbs through the window and lands outside)
White Mokona:
You shouldn't do that~! A chemistry teacher shouldn't go out through the window.
Black Mokona:
You came out from the chemistry class preparation room!
Fay:
It's fine! As long as Syaoran-kun and the Mokona can keep a secret...
Syaoran:
Yes. I won't tell anyone.
Fay:
Ahaha. Syaoran-kun, you're really earnest, aren't you? Well, I'll have some of the egg~!
(Fay, eating)
Fay:
This is great~
Syaoran:
Thank you very much.
Fay:
So, how do you like Horitsuba Academy?
Syaoran:
I really enjoy it.
Fay:
It looks like you've been able to make some friends, too. You're with Watanuki-kun and Doumeki-kun from your class a lot.
Syaoran:
Yes.
Fay:
Also, Himawari-chan and Sakura-chan from Class C.
Syaoran:
(heart pounding) !
Fay:
Both of them share names with flowers~! That's so cute, isn't it?
Syaoran:
(shyly) Ye-yes...
Fay:
(while eating) So, you were saying something about Valentine's Day. What's the matter?
Syaoran:
(shyly) Ah...
Fay:
Sorry. I couldn't help overhearing.
White Mokona:
You know, Syaoran said he doesn't understand the Japanese Valentine's Day!
Fay:
Ohhh. Syaoran-kun, it really hasn't been very long since you came to Japan, has it?
Syaoran:
That's right. Valentine's Day in Japan is February 14th, right?
Fay:
That's right.
Syaoran:
What is the connection between that day and chocolate?
Fay:
Ahaha. That's right. Hmmm. In other countries, there's no connection, is there? All right! This is a question for that guy! Kurotan-sensei~!
Syaoran:
Huh!?
(Sound of footsteps coming to a halt)
Kurogane:
What?
White Mokona:
Kurotan-sensei!!
Fay:
Come here, come here~
Kurogane:
Don't call people like they were dogs! I'm busy!
Fay:
It's lunchtime!
Kurogane:
I've got preparations to make. The next class is physical education!
Fay:
You've still got time though, right? You need to explain something to Syaoran-kun!
Kurogane:
What is it?
Fay:
Syaoran-kun said he doesn't understand anything about the Japanese Valentine's Day.
Black Mokona:
That's right, isn't it, Syaoran?
Syaoran:
Ye-yes.
Kurogane:
Is that all? It's a conspiracy by the candy-makers.
Syaoran:
Huh?
Kurogane:
I'm outta here. I've got things to do.
Syaoran:
Th-thank very much, Kurogane-sensei.
Fay:
Thanks~! Kuro-sama!
Kurogane:
It's Kurogane!!
(Kurogane walks away)
Syaoran:
A conspiracy... So it was something that awful, huh?
White Mokona:
Um, that's...
Black Mokona:
That's no- (Fay covers their mouths)
Fay:
Ahahaha
(The bell rings to signal the end of lunch)
Fay:
Oh, my. Lunchtime is already over, huh? That was the first bell.
Syaoran:
I need to go back to the classroom. Fay-sensei, thank you very much.
White Mokona:
(mumble mumble)
Black Mokona:
(mumble mumble)
Fay:
Oh, it was nothing. Glad to be of help.
Syaoran:
I'll be going on ahead to the classroom. I'm on day duty today.
Fay:
Sure. The Mokona and I will clean up the lunch boxes for you.
Syaoran:
I'll leave it to you, then. Goodbye!
Fay:
See you later!
(Syaoran walks away)
White Mokona:
(Fay finally removes his hand) Phew!
Black Mokona:
(Fay finally removes his hand) Phew!
Both Mokona:
I couldn't breathe!
Fay:
Ahaha, sorry about that.
White Mokona:
I'm sure Syaoran misunderstood about Valentine's Day!
Black Mokona:
About the conspiracy stuff.
Fay:
Buuut, this looked like it would be more interesting!
White Mokona:
......
Black Mokona:
......
White Mokona:
That's right, isn't it?
Black Mokona:
That's right, huh?
Both Mokona:
It's better if it's interesting!
Fay and both Mokona:
Right!
The hallway leading to the classroom
(Sounds of walking along the corridor and other students' voices)
Himawari:
Syaoran-kun!
Syaoran:
Kunogi-san.
Himawari:
So you're on day duty today, huh? Here, the teacher from Class B left this with me. He said to stick it on the blackboard before homeroom.
Syaoran:
Thank you.
(Syaoran takes the paper from Himawari)
Himawari:
What's wrong? You're not very cheerful.
Syaoran:
Really? I guess.
Himawari:
Or rather, you look unhappy about something?
Syaoran:
Was I making a face like that?
Himawari:
Yup. You were.
Syaoran:
I-I see...
(While walking)
Himawari:
Would you like to tell me about it?
Syaoran:
...Earlier, I heard about Valentine's Day from Kurogane-sensei.
Himawari:
Ah, that's tomorrow, huh.
Syaoran:
Somehow, it just seems really awful...
Himawari:
For girls, it really can be pretty awful.
Syaoran:
Th-that's just what I thought!
Himawari:
After all, there are some who stake their lives on that day.
Syaoran:
Th-their lives!?
Himawari:
Some girls do, yeah.
Syaoran:
(confused) Uh...
Himawari:
Syaoran-kun, you're sure to receive a lot too.
Syaoran:
Huh!?
Himawari:
Chocolate.
(The bell to signal the start of class)
Himawari:
Ah, I'm late. See you later!
Syaoran:
Y-yeah.
(Himawari rushes to her classroom)
Syaoran:
Conspiracies and chocolate you stake your life on...
Classroom
(Classroom commotion)
(Syaoran takes his seat)
Doumeki:
Sorry about dragging Watanuki off earlier.
Syaoran:
No, I was able to ask about the thing that was bothering me.
Doumeki:
...If that's the case, why do you look worse than you did earlier?
Syaoran:
...Earlier, I was wondering about February 14th, and I asked Fay-sensei and Kurogane-sensei and Kunogi-san, but...
Yuuko:
You were talking about Valentine's Day, right?
Syaoran:
Ack!!
(Syaoran is surprised by hearing Yuuko's voice from out of nowhere)
Syaoran:
Yuuko-sensei!
Doumeki:
Isn't your classics lesson starting now in the next class?
Yuuko:
It's fine; they can wait. Right, here goes!
(Yuuko comes into Syaoran and Doumeki's classroom through the window to the corridor)
Doumeki:
Why did you come in through the window?
Yuuko:
Because it was closer!
Syaoran:
Is it a rule that teachers in this school have to come in and out through the windows?
Yuuko:
Not at all. But if there's an emergency situation and it can't be helped, we can go through them. Besides, I'm the classics teacher and the chairman of the board.
Doumeki:
This is an emergency situation?
Yuuko:
Certainly. It's the day before Valentine's Day and the exchange student is looking puzzled about it for some reason. It's a huge state of emergency.
Doumeki:
I see.
Yuuko:
So? What's wrong, Syaoran-kun?
Syaoran:
Um, class is...
Yuuko:
This is this and that is that.
Syaoran:
B-but...
Yuuko:
(forcefully) Just say it.
Syaoran:
(the air pressure changes) Yes, ma'am. I didn't understand the Japanese Valentine's Day at all. At first I asked the Mokona, but halfway through Fay-sensei showed up.
Doumeki:
(realizing that this was probably a bad way to go about it) Aaah.
Syaoran:
After that, Fay-sensei called Kurogane-sensei over. Kurogane-sensei said that Valentine's Day is a conspiracy. Then later on, Kunogi-san told me that girls stake their lives on it.
Doumeki:
(realizing that he was right and this was definitely a bad way to go about it) Aaah.
Syaoran:
...The Japanese Valentine's Day is an awful day, isn't it?
Yuuko:
...That's right.
(Yuuko claps Syaoran on the shoulder)
Yuuko:
The Japanese Valentine's Day is an awful day.
Syaoran:
I-it is?
Yuuko:
It's a day of swirling conspiracies and battles with girls staking their lives on the outcome!
Syaoran:
(shuddering) Battles... But what connection does chocolate have with battles?
Yuuko:
Chocolate is the weapon. Using that, they aim and strike.
Syaoran:
Strike!?
Yuuko:
Sometimes explosions occur too, you know. It's a handmade assault.
Syaoran:
Explosions!?
Doumeki:
......
Yuuko:
Syaoran-kun, you may be dragged into the chocolate-bearing girls' battle tomorrow too.
Syaoran:
...Y-yes. U-um...
Yuuko:
What?
Syaoran:
Do all the girls get involved?
Yuuko:
Of course, there are some girls who don't participate, but the vast majority of them go to war.
Syaoran:
(so worried he can't help himself) Then, Saku...
(sound of the door opening)
Fay:
Okay, it's time for chemistry!
White Mokona:
It's time!
Black Mokona:
It's time!
Yuuko:
If the teacher says so... Well, do your best~
(Yuuko leaves through the window)
Doumeki:
She went through the window again...
(Watanuki hurries into the classroom)
Watanuki:
I'm sorry I'm late!
Fay:
Just in time!
Black Mokona:
Great!
(Watanuki takes his seat)
Doumeki:
You're late.
Watanuki:
You shut up! The people in charge of our meeting couldn't get anything settled, and we finally decided that we'd have to get together again after school... Anyway. Syaoran?
Syaoran:
...Yes?
Watanuki:
Somehow, you're looking worse and worse. Is it because of February 14th?
Syaoran:
No, I understand that now. People explained it to me.
Doumeki:
...was that an explanation or completely distorting the situation?
Watanuki:
Huh? What?
Fay:
Okay, that's enough. Talking is great, but we're supposed to be studying. If you're having trouble afterward...
Watanuki:
Ah! (to Fay) Ye-yes, teacher!
Syaoran:
(softly) I'm sorry.
Watanuki:
(softly) Don't worry about it, but are you really okay?
Syaoran:
(softly) Yeah. (To himself) But... The Japanese Valentine's Day is really awful, isn't it? I wonder if Sakura-san will be okay...?
The Next Day
(Commotion on the way to school)
(Sound of the two Mokona approaching)
White Mokona:
Good morning, Syaoran!
Black Mokona:
Good morning!
Syaoran:
...Good morning.
White Mokona:
You're not very cheerful.
Syaoran:
...Because today is February 14th. Today is the day that all the Japanese girls are wrapped up in conspiracies and battling, right?
(Syaoran and the two Mokona walking)
White Mokona:
(softly) He believed it.
Black Mokona:
(softly) He really believed it.
Syaoran:
That's why...
(Sound of running)
White Mokona:
Ah! It's the girls!
Black Mokona:
They're carrying something.
White Mokona:
They're coming this way!
Black Mokona:
They're coming from that direction too!
White Mokona:
The other way too!
(More and more footsteps. It feels like the whole group is headed toward Syaoran en mass)
Syaoran:
Agh-!
Class B - Classroom
(sound of the classroom door opening)
Watanuki:
Ah, Syaoran, good morning!
Doumeki:
Yo.
Watanuki:
Gah! What happened to you!? Did you trip and fall in some spectacular way!?
Syaoran:
(out of breath) On the way to class, a bunch of girls...
White Mokona:
A whole lot of them came!
Black Mokona:
They were carrying chocolate!
Watanuki:
(amused) Well, it is Valentine's Day.
Doumeki:
Have you gotten any?
Watanuki:
Shut up!
Syaoran:
(still out of breath) Somehow, they all came charging at me at once. There were girls from other schools, too. I tried to hold them off with all my strength, but... I really did get the feeling they were staking their lives.
Watanuki:
Huh? Why were you trying to hold them off?
Doumeki:
So he really did believe it...
Syaoran:
(breathing hard) If that chocolate is a weapon, there must be some sort of trick to it. Maybe if you eat it, something terrible happens...
Watanuki:
(not understanding what's going on) Syaoran...?
Syaoran:
(still out of breath) Japanese girls are... something else, huh?
(sound of the door opening)
Himawari:
Good morning!
Watanuki:
(rejoicing) Himawari-chaaan!
Doumeki:
Yo.
White Mokona:
Good morning!
Black Mokona:
Good morning!
Himawari:
Syaoran-kun, you're here already?
Syaoran:
(taking in a breath) Y-yes.
Himawari:
Sakura-chan!
(Sakura, called by Himawari, takes a step in)
Sakura:
(shyly) Uh, um... I wonder if it's okay...
Syaoran:
(doesn't understand) Yeah, we still have time before class starts.
Sakura:
We- well then. Could I talk to you for a minute?
Syaoran:
Sure.
Black Mokona:
Syaoran, you can leave your bag with us.
Syaoran:
Thank you.
White Mokona:
See you!
(The two walking)
White Mokona:
Sakura, we'll hand him over to you!
Black Mokona:
Yup!
Himawari:
That's right. Watanuki-kun!
Watanuki:
(hopeful) Y-yes!!
Himawari:
Here, would you accept this?
Watanuki:
Th-th-th-th-this is, cho-cho...!
Himawari:
Yup. It's chocolate.
Watanuki:
(moved) I'll accept it! Or rather, please give it to me!!
Himawari:
Here. Doumeki-kun too.
Doumeki:
Thanks.
(Watanuki collapses)
Himawari:
Mokona, both of you too. Here you go!
White Mokona:
Yaaay!
Black Mokona:
Yaaay!
Watanuki:
(still flat on the ground) A, ahahahaha. Himawari-chan is so nice...
(The far-off commotion of the other students)
Sakura:
(shyly) Sorry for pulling you away before class.
Syaoran:
Not at all. But what is it?
Sakura:
Um. You know? Today is Valentine's Day, right?
Syaoran:
(nervous) Y-yeah...
Sakura:
I made chocolate. My big brother Touya was a pest, but his friend Yukito-san helped me out...
Syaoran:
(increasingly nervous) ...
(Sakura turns toward Syaoran and offers the chocolate)
Sakura:
Syaoran-kun... would you... accept this?
Syaoran:
(inhales sharply) !
Sakura:
......
Syaoran:
......
(Students' commotion can be heard)
Sakura:
(looking like she might cry when she doesn't get an answer) Uh, um... If it bothers you...
Syaoran:
It's not a bother.
(Syaoran accepts the chocolate)
Syaoran:
Thank you.
Sakura:
(happily) ...Syaoran-kun!
Syaoran:
(gazing at Sakura) ......
Sakura:
(gazing at Syaoran) ......
Syaoran:
That's why...
(Syaoran puts a hand on Sakura's shoulder)
Syaoran:
I'll fight too.
Sakura:
...Huh?
Syaoran:
I can't let you risk your life in this battle by yourself. I'll go with you in the Valentine's Day battle.
Sakura:
...Wait, what?
Syaoran:
While I was traveling from country to country, I learned martial arts. The martial arts I learned from someone called Seishirou-san are the most practical of all. If the fight is limited just to February 14th, they might be of use somehow.
Sakura:
......Syaoran-kun...???
The Chairman of the Board's Office
(Holding a telescope and spying on Syaoran and Sakura)
Yuuko:
Ufufu, how sweet.
Kurogane:
Don't spy on them through a telescope. That's disgusting.
Yuuko:
I'm not spying on them, I'm watching over them!
Fay:
It really is cute, isn't it? But it looks like Syaoran-kun really did get the wrong idea.
Kurogane:
You quit spying too.
Fay:
Ahaha, do you want to see too, Kurorin~?
Kurogane:
Why would I look!? Sheesh, deceiving a serious kid like that...
Yuuko:
Really! If we let him struggle to find the correct answer on his own, he'll understand it better.
Fay:
And if the person he learns from is Sakura-chan, there will be one or two very happy people.
Yuuko and Fay:
Don't you think?
Kurogane:
A demon and a witch...
Yuuko:
Did you say something?
Fay:
He said, "A demon and a witch!"
Kurogane:
Ah!
Yuuko:
Really!
Fay:
Oops, I tattled~ Ahaha!
Yuuko:
I'll decide on Kurogane-sensei's punishment later.
Kurogane:
Wait a minute!
Yuuko
Just another peaceful day at Horitsuba Academy, huh?
End