KIZUNA by Kazuma Kodaka Book 4 Part 11: pp. 3-50 unofficial translation by Katherine ------------------------------------------------------------------- Conventions: regular text: name of speaker and spoken lines italics: thoughts bold: descriptions bold and italics: translation note (in parentheses): words that are hand-written or not in the talk bubbles The phone rings. Enjouji, still in bed, answers it. Enjouji: Hello... Enjouji: Huh? Oh, hi, we haven't heard from you in awhile... Enjouji: Hmm? Yeah, he's fine. Hang on a second. Still holding the phone, Enjouji leans over and kisses Ranmaru. Ranmaru: ...N...! Ranmaru: Nn... Ranmaru: I told you I need a break... Let me sleep a little... Enjouji: Your grandpa's on the phone. Ranmaru: Alarmed and angry. Why didn't you tell me that right away?! Enjouji: Clutching at his abused head. Owww... (page) (page) (page) Ranmaru: Getting into his robe as Enjouji looks on with interest. Hello? Grandfather: It's almost noon. You're living a pretty lazy lifestyle there, aren't you, Ranmaru? Ranmaru: No sir, this is unusual for me. I was up... ah... a bit late last night... Grandfather: Your college studies keep you that busy, do they? Grandfather: Compared to Yuki who went off to Hokkaido with her husband, you live in the same neighborhood. Yet you never come visit. Ranmaru: As Enjouji watches him, thinking he looks yummy. Ah... I'm sorry. Grandfather: Is there some reason you feel you can't show your face at home? That's not the case, is it? Ranmaru: Well, no... Ranmaru: This isn't good. Ranmaru: As Enjouji wraps his arms around Ranmaru's waist. When he gets like this, his lectures go on and on... Ranmaru: Yeah... Yes. Ranmaru: Being pulled over backwards by Enjouji. Uwaah! (page) Ranmaru: Idiot! What are you thinking?! I'm on the phone... Ranmaru: Um, nothing! I wasn't speaking to you... Ranmaru: Listening to his grandfather lecture while Enjouji licks his shoulder. Uh... Ranmaru: Yes, but, I have things I need to do, too... Ah... Ranmaru holds a hand over his mouth as Enjouji continues his attentions. (page) Ranmaru: As Enjouji does something naughty to his bottom. ...! Ranmaru: ...Ah... Ranmaru: Alright! I'll be there today! Now if you'll excuse me...! He hangs up. Enjouji: 'I'll be there today'---?! Hold on a minute! You're going home?! Ranmaru: Annoyed. ... Enjouji: You said you'd go out with me! You already have a commitment!! (page) Ranmaru: Squeezing Enjouji's head between his fists. Whose fault is it?? Whose?! Enjouji: Ow ow ow ow ow. Ranmaru: It was because you were fooling around that I couldn't get out of it! Enjouji: Worried. You don't think he wants to talk about arranging a marriage for you? Ranmaru: Still miffed. Could be. Enjouji: Hey, hey, hey!! Ranmaru: The Samejima heir has left the dojo in someone else's hands. Ranmaru: Tying his robe. On top of that, he rarely comes to visit. Ranmaru: I can see him blaming me for all these faults. Ranmaru: So I'm going to visit now, before it gets out of hand. That's all. (page) Ranmaru: I'll wrap it up as soon as I can and come back tonight... Ranmaru: As Enjouji snuggles up and hugs him from behind. Hey, stop it. Ranmaru: As Enjouji continues to hold him. ? What? Enjouji: Will you be okay by yourself...? Enjouji: 'Cause I could go with you... Ranmaru: Don't worry. Ranmaru: With his hand on Enjouji's face. I'll be fine. (page) Ranmaru: Walking down a quiet residential street. I'd certainly have felt braver if I'd taken Enjouji up on his suggestion, but I didn't want to depend on him this time. Ranmaru: If it was a question of whether or not we'd be discussing my relationship with Enjouji, going together would be best. Ranmaru: Standing in front of the large front gate. But this time it's an issue that concerns only me. Ranmaru: To tell the truth, it's painful for me to pass through this gate, having decided to put down my kendo sword. (page) Ranmaru: ...But thinking that won't get me anywhere, will it? Ranmaru: Here goes! He pushes the gate open. Kurebayashi: More! More!! Student: Deryaaaaahh!! Ranmaru approaches the dojo. (page) Kurebayashi: Come on! Let me hear you yell!! Kurebayashi: Attack your opponent with your voice and your spirit!! Kurebayashi: Shout from the pit of your stomach!! Students: Deyaaaaahh!! Students: Daaaaaah!! Ranmaru: The furious clashing sound of shinai swords. Ranmaru: The hot air full of spirit. (page) Ranmaru: Closing his eyes. It all brings back memories... Kurebayashi notices him. Kurebayashi: Samejima-san?! Kurebayashi: What brings you here?! When did you arrive? Ranmaru: I... I'm sorry, Kurebayashi-san. I didn't mean to interrupt... Kurebayashi: Of course you're not interrupting! Kurebayashi: I wasn't aware that you'd be visiting today. Please, come inside. Ranmaru: Ah, no, I... (page) Ranmaru: I've put down my kendo sword. Kurebayashi: But it wouldn't hurt to just watch, would it? Kurebayashi: Even those with no training can come and watch, right? Ranmaru: Smiling. That's true. Ranmaru enters as Kurebayashi bows. Student: It's a guy... isn't it? Other student: Who's that...? Yet another student: I have no clue. (page) Kurebayashi: Hey! No chatting! Kurebayashi: This gentleman is the master's grandson! Kurebayashi: Look lively or you'll get written up! Kurebayashi: To Ranmaru. How's that? Presumably referring to the fact that he introduced Ranmaru as a relative and not a kendo expert. Ranmaru: Smiling. Fine. Kurebayashi: Begin!! Ranmaru: Ahh... Yeah... Ranmaru: Being here fills me with a wonderful tension. Ranmaru: This is where I come from. Student: Daaaaahhh! Other student: Uryaaaahh!! (page) Grandfather: Suddenly being there. If you've returned home, can't you come greet me and let me know? Ranmaru: G-grandfather... Grandfather: So you were here, as I suspected. Ranmaru: Stressed and bowing. I'm sorry! Good afternoon, grandfather! Grandfather: Sitting down. Hmph. Ranmaru: Forgive me for not keeping in touch more. Grandfather: Mm. Well it seems you're still alive at least. (page) They watch the kendo practice. Grandfather: Your arm... Ranmaru: Sir? Grandfather: Your arm is itching to lift a sword, isn't it? Grandfather: Your face says just watching isn't enough. Grandfather: Smirking. Of course, I'm the one who raised you to be like that. (page) Grandfather: Standing up. Come. There's some good chagashi. Note: Chagashi is a cake or other snack served with tea. Ranmaru: Smiling. Yes, sir. They walk down the hall and into a room. Ranmaru is surprised to see all the trophies and certificates on display. (page) Grandfather: Sitting down at a table. There are more photographs and such than before, hm? Grandfather: Because I put up Shizuho's. Ranmaru: Really...? (page) Ranmaru: Where...? Grandfather: It's hanging in the very back, see? Grandfather: You remember when that photo was taken, don't you? It was right after the competition. Ranmaru: Yes, I remember... Ranmaru: Gazing at a picture of a beautiful woman in kendo gear. The fencer who dedicated her life to kendo. Ranmaru: The woman who was even called 'The White-Faced Demon.' Ranmaru: But when she touched me, her hands were always gentle and warm. Ranmaru: Mother... (page) Miyo: Bringing in tea. My goodness! It's Ranmaru-botchama! Miyo: I was told there was a visitor, but I had no idea it was you, sir! Ranmaru: Sorry I've been out of touch. I'm glad to see you looking well. Miyo: Getting all teary-eyed. Have you lost some weight since I saw you last, sir? Ranmaru: Sweatdropping. Uh, maybe... I'm sorry I haven't visited in so long... Miyo: Yes, yes, it's been so long! The master has been so lonely since the young miss got married! Grandfather: Blushing and coughing. Miyo-san! We have some of that sweet potato youkan from Funawa, don't we? Note: Youkan is a sweet bean jelly. Miyo: Oh, didn't you have the last piece last night, sir? Miyo: You should let me know ahead of time if Botchama is coming! I'll run to the store now and pick some up, shall I? Ranmaru: Ah, you don't have to- (page) Ranmaru: Miyo-san. Miyo: Going out the door. It's not far. Please relax and enjoy yourself till I get back. Grandfather: As Ranmaru looks after her. Your tea's getting cold. Ranmaru: Ah, yes, sir. Ranmaru: Drinking his tea. ....... Grandfather: How is your physical condition? Ranmaru: I don't have any difficulties to speak of. Grandfather: Putting down his teacup. ......Ranmaru. Ranmaru: Sir? Grandfather: Have you tried swinging a kendo sword? (page) Ranmaru: .....No. Ranmaru: I can't... anymore... Grandfather: Ranmaru. Grandfather: I'm not trying to criticize you. I'm asking what's honestly in your heart. Grandfather: Even if you can't return to the way you were before, if you want to try, you have my support. Grandfather: The position of shihan is being left open... Ranmaru: But that's Kurebayashi-san's! He's been the substitute master...!! Grandfather: Kurebayashi wants you to come back! Ranmaru: Grandfather, you of all people should understand! Once you throw down your sword, you can't pick it up again... Ranmaru: How can I teach others when I can't even hold a sword?! (page) Grandfather: Well, there's no need to get worked up about it. I'm just saying that this path is available to you. ...Only... Grandfather: To be honest with you, I don't want to make you go through what Shizuho did. Grandfather: Choose what is best for you. Ranmaru: The path of living by the sword. Ranmaru: My mother, who lost her husband's love, and sacrificed even her own life. Ranmaru: How did she feel, dealing with all of that? (page) Ranmaru: ...I'd like... Ranmaru: A little time, please. I'll... consider it carefully. Elsewhere, Enjouji and Tamura stand talking on a city street. Tamura: Yo, Enjouji. Enjouji: Huh? Tamura: Just wanna make sure you understand that I'm only hanging out with you today 'cause Rikako had plans. (Going on a date with you isn't my first choice for fun.) Enjouji: Yeah, yeah, I know. Tamura: Well, since you're paying, I guess I don't mind, but... Enjouji: Lighting Tamura's cigarette. Who said I'm paying, dumbass? You're gonna cough up your fair share. (page) Tamura: Shit, that's not fair! You wanted me to come 'cause you'd already bought the tickets!! Enjouji: That's right. I bought 'em ahead of time so they're only 1400 yen. Cheap, huh? Tamura: Uuwaah!! Kai: Arriving on the scene. Well there's a face I didn't want to see. Enjouji: ...That's my line, idiot. (page) Tamura: A friend of yours? Enjouji: My little brother. Tamura: Really? You guys don't look much like each other. Kai: We have different mothers. Tamura: Ah, sorry! Kai: It's fine with me. Kai: I hate thinking about even sharing half my blood with him. Tamura: Sweatdropping. O...kay. Enjouji: You're an obnoxious brat as always, I see. Kai: Your face is what's obnoxious. Enjouji: Keep talking like that and I'll make you stop breathing. Tamura: As Enjouji grabs his hood and prevents his escape. Um, I'll be leaving now. See you around, Enjouji. Enjouji: Still glaring at Kai. 1400 yen. Tamura: Paying up. You get all obsessive when it comes to money, don't you? (page) Kai: Don't do stuff that will hurt Sempai. Enjouji: Huh? Kai: Like cheating on him. Enjouji: Moron. Kai: Not looking at him. Hey... How's Sempai doing? Enjouji: The second thing out of your mouth is that? Kai: I got nothing else to talk to you about. Enjouji: Watching Kai for his reaction. He's great! Full of energy all day and all night! Kai: Oh, okay. (page) Enjouji: Your tension level is awfully low today. Do you have a fever or something? Kai: Low or high, it's none of your business, is it? Enjouji: Um... Oh, oh! It's that, isn't it? Enjouji: You're homesick! Kai: Of all the stupid- Why would I be getting homesick after all this time!? Enjouji: Well in your case I guess it's not home you miss, it's Araki-san. Enjouji: As Kai blushes angrily. Remember that last time you were over at our place? You talked in your sleep. You went "Masaa..." Kai: !! Enjouji: As Kai throws a punch at him and he blocks it. Hey! (page) Enjouji: If you have all this free time to be swinging at me, Enjouji: Patting his shoulder. call him up and tell him you miss him. (There, there.) Kai: Sh... shut up!! Kai: Let go of me! Kai: Just because we have a little blood in common, don't think you can be acting like my big brother! Kai: 'Cause I don't think of you as a big brother at all!! Kai runs off. Enjouji: ...You really are a yowling little brat. Later, at their apartment... Ranmaru: I'm home. Enjouji: Ah, welcome back. Ranmaru: Oh, you had work tonight? Enjouji: Fixing his tie. Yeah, I'm about to leave. Ranmaru: What about dinner? Enjouji: I just made do with a light meal. Ranmaru: Enjouji? Enjouji: Hm? (page) Ranmaru: ...... Enjouji: What? Ranmaru: No, never mind. I'll discuss it with you when you get home. Enjouji: Okay. Enjouji: Kissing him. Don't brood about it too much by yourself. Ranmaru: Alright. Enjouji leaves. Ranmaru: I can't be so weak and indecisive. Ranmaru: Even Kurebayashi-san defers to me because of a title I only hold in the past. (page) Ranmaru: After the accident, when I worked so hard on rehabilitating the right half of my body that they said would never move again, it wasn't for kendo. Ranmaru: Taking off his jacket. I've come this far because I don't want to be a burden on him... On Kei. I hoped we could still be equals. Ranmaru: Sitting down at a table. But even so... now I'm unsure. Ranmaru: Putting his head down on the table. It's not fair for me to hope Enjouji will say "Give it up." (page) Ranmaru: That's just running away, and depending on Kei to look after me. Ranmaru: To pick up a sword again... or not... Ranmaru: I myself am the only one who can answer that question. He closes his eyes with his head on the table. That evening at Kai's apartment... Kai comes home to his messy apartment. He looks in annoyance at the phone. (page) The phone rings at the Sagano estate. Toshi: Hello, this is the Sagano resi... Toshi: Ah, Bon?! What a long time it's been! This is Toshi. Toshi: The boss? Sorry, he's not here right now... Toshi: He and his assistant are in Tokyo. Kai: Kyousuke's with him? Toshi: Ah shit! Bon's in Tokyo too! Yes. Kai: I didn't hear anything about it. Toshi: Well, something came up suddenly and... Toshi: Sweatdropping. Uh, may I take a message for you? (page) Kai: Fuck that!! He cuts the connection. Kai throws the phone down and hugs a pillow unhappily. Kai: If you're in Tokyo, couldn't you at least give me one phone call...? Kai: I haven't seen you in three months now. Kai: And... you haven't talked to me in all that time...have you...Masa? (page) On a city street outside Enjouji's club. Enjouji: When can I see you again? Woman in car: Well, let's see. Sometime before you forget all about me. Enjouji: Leaning in the car. Are you planning to test my endurance? Woman: Touching his face. Just be a good boy and wait. Woman: Bye! Employee: As the car drives away. Thank you very much! (page) Employee: Stretching. Well then! Enjouji sees "Kai" talking with a man. "Kai" whispers something in his ear and the man gives him cash. Enjouji: That idiot... (page) Enjouji: Putting his cigarette in his co-worker's mouth. Sorry, will you go back in without me? Employee: Huh? Employee: Hey, Kei! Where are you going?! Enjouji: Running off. I'll be right back! Enjouji: Seeing "Kai" walking off with the man. Kai! Lady: Will you look where you're going?! Enjouji: Oops, sorry. Enjouji: Kai!! (page) "Kai" turns and sees him. Enjouji: Starting to run across the street. What are you doing here? What are you up to this time... Enjouji: As a car almost hits him. !! Driver: Fucking idiot!! Enjouji: Who's the idiot?! Damn speeder! Enjouji: Looking around. Kai!! (page) Enjouji: In an empty alley. ! Enjouji: Ch! Enjouji: He got away... Enjouji: I bet he's doing something dangerous again... Enjouji: But when you think about it, why should I have to babysit Kai? (It pisses me off!) (page) Masa and Kyousuke are talking in the back seat of a car. Kyousuke: I wonder what Shouhoukai's Odzu-gumi wants with us? Kyousuke: The heads of Kantou's Shouhoukai and Kansai's Shouryuukai just recently had a meeting, right? Kyousuke: Did Odzu say anything then? Masa: No. (page) Kyousuke: Well, Odzu-gumi didn't flat out demand this meeting, so I guess it's nothing too serious. Kyousuke: This guy we're going to meet, Sasadzuka, of all the Odzu-gumi leaders, he's one I just can't like. Kyousuke: It's because you're young that he's always hassling us with little picky things. Kyousuke: He's just called this meeting tonight to inconvenience us. Kyousuke: If all these old men would actually show some leadership, we might have a little peace, you know? Masa: We wouldn't have to fight if it weren't for all the hot-blooded young guys. Kyousuke: Ha ha, yeah, you can say that again. It's always the young ones doing the actual shooting. Kyousuke: ........ Kyousuke: .....Boss? Masa: Hm? Kyousuke: Is it alright (page) Kyousuke: not to give him a call? Kyousuke: He's going to say "How come you were in Tokyo and you didn't tell me?" and he's going to be angry with me. Kyousuke: His cute little mouth is going to pout, and he'll sulk. Make no mistake. Masa: ...You're right. Masa: I'll give him a call after everything is settled. Masa: I haven't heard his voice in three months now... (page) The car pulls up at a curb, and men come to greet them. Man: You're Araki-san, the junior boss of Shouryuukai's Sagano branch, correct? Please, this way. Inside, Sasadzuka is enjoying drinks and female company. Sasadzuka: Oh! You're finally here! (page) Sasadzuka: Hey! Make some room for them! Mama, I'll call you later, okay? The women bow and remove themselves. Kimono woman: Of course. Enjoy yourselves. Girl: Excuse us. Masa: Forgive us for being late. I am Sagano-gumi's junior head, Araki, and this is my assistant, Imagawa.