Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road created by LEVEL-5 Inc.; Steam port published by Valve Corporation (Hino et al., 2024).
To keep things neat, the side quests and field battle dialogue are contained in separate appendices; these can be found in the navigation bar.
Translations for non-English dialogue can be viewed by mousing over the text. Some additional tooltips containing extra information (e.g. item descriptions, optional event triggers and clarifications) have been appended as well, indicated via an asterisk [*] where appropriate.
This transcript contains two types of optional dialogue, indicated by colour - green for lines accessed by interacting with an NPC, and olive for lines which periodically appear in speech bubbles - on the text.
Oh! An unexpected steal by Sharps! Showing off his famous athleticism. —An opportunity! He passes the ball long! Lewis receives and—takes the shot! ...Harper Evans—! Ahem! Sorry! You're being too loud! Yeah, well, so are you! Raimon is so strong! Harper Evans is amazing! The winner for the Football Frontier this year is gonna be Raimon again! Excuse me...! Can you pass the ball? Hey, wait! You meanie... I wish...football would just disappear...from the world.
Maybe I'll take a little walk around the school to get a feel for the place.
This school's committee is too harsh... I wanna do my nails. I'm aiming to be first among my grade! I'm gonna succeed no matter what!
Is this... a football? This thing...!
There are a few delinquent gangs hanging around the school. Our students get targeted sometimes, so you should watch out. It's my job to protect the future of the youth, so I'm patrolling the campus for any suspicious activity. Extraterrestrial communication—a feat full of mystery in itself! It appears that you too, have been drawn in by its appeal. Yo, that hairstyle of yours... The school committee won't like that. If you aren't particular about that hairstyle, it'd be safer to change it. Pop quizzes are the actual worst... Ew. No kidding. The dance club is my dream, but... Why don't you just go for it? I'm no good. Don't say that! I wanna join the dance club and be just like you, Raika... But they'll refuse a loser like me. Jeez... Think you can give her some words of encouragement? I'm sure she just needs a little push. I forgot my textbook... Eh. I'll borrow someone else's. I perfected my muscles to get people to join the club! Surely you can tell even under my uniform—the beauty of the body! Comment allez-vous? I'm a little worried because you don't look too happy. You're so cool! Thierry, you're the best! Thierry!!! I'm cheering for you! Can I get you anything? Water? A towel? I poured my heart into this letter! Please read it all! He'd stand out anywhere, especially with that height of his. He comes from a prestigious family as well, so it just feels like the world is his oyster. Thierry's ears look absolutely stunning today, as usual! Someday, I'll gather enough courage to see the front of his face, too... That member from the cleanup committee was super strict. Yeah, they're all pretty intense. But that's the charming part, isn't it? They just really care! The sight of that crowd tending to the flowerbeds feels so OOC...! There's something about their big frames bending down and all... It's everything, I swear. Argh! I'm so freakin' jealous! Come on, don't be like that. The baseball team is so lucky! If wishes were fishes... It's not fair that it's only the baseball club that's popular! Surely you think so too, don't you? Look... Us normal folk can't compete with the likes of Thierry. He's just on a different level. Gotta manage your expectations, y'know? Friends, students, peers! Lend us your opinions! Oh boy, here we go... I humbly beseech you! I'm busy, so... We're doing a survey about new features you might want added to SCJH, our school's official social media platform! Let us know if you have suggestions! Oh, sorry, I don't use that at all. Don't think I can help you. Ah, there she is! She's beautiful today as well... Lilac, the student council president, is our school's reigning beauty! A single glance at her elegance and you'll be head over heels! Man, I've wasted so much time. Same here... Time just flies right on by. It really does, doesn't it? Taking breaks in between study is important. That being said—I definitely gamed too hard before my exams. Hey, you're new here, aren't you? I hope you enjoy your new school life here at South Cirrus! Huh? You're going to lend me a helping hand? You came at just the right time! Gal culture totally speaks to me... Like, in my heart. I know, right? I need all the tips! What makes a gal... a gal... y'know? It's all attitude, if you ask me! Which cram school should I pick...? One close to home would be great.
Huh? Hey, you, first day today? You heard of our school's track record and enrolled [last minute], didn't you? An opportunistic fellow, aren't ya?
South Cirrus Junior High is known for its baseball team above all else! Recently, they're swamped with registration forms from rookies aspiring to the leagues.
Yeah, so there's no longer a football club here at South Cirrus. Stop asking, if you already know so much. Football may be popular across the country, but I personally don't really care.
It is imperative that South Cirrus Junior High's excellent reputation doesn't get muddied. We don't want people like Bloomhurst about.
It's a good school, but definitely not perfect. You heard about that Briar Bloomhurst, right...?
South Cirrus Junior High, Kyushu's leading preparatory school... The campus is fairly new. It gives off a nice, clean impression, and the students are orderly. The atmosphere here is exactly as my data predicted. There's a heavy emphasis on both academics and sports, but lately, it's the baseball club's success that has been most notable. A flawless school, perhaps even ideal, possessing both the pen and the sword... Or perhaps not... Briar Bloomhurst, the infamous delinquent of the 8th grade*... He's an old-school rebel—even gets ragged on via social media. In every school, there's bound to be a bad apple or two... Even so, this is a great place for me. Because here... There is no football club...
Once I get to school, I'm supposed to meet the teacher first.
Nobody [shines than] the baseball team! Our pride and joy! I'm glad I chose South Cirrus! Hear! Hear! You heard of our school's track record and enrolled [last minute], didn't you? An opportunistic fellow, aren't ya? Which club will you join? You don't have to join if you don't want to. Football may be popular across the country, but I personally don't really care. He's a real troublemaker... Why'd he have to come here?
I perfected my muscles to get people to join the club! Surely you can tell even under my uniform—the beauty of the body!
Muscles are everything! Right? Let's master the flex together! If you're recruiting, no thanks. Please make way, as I'm busy.
Why can't you see the beauty? What's a life without muscles?!
Why not train your brain? I still require more training! What muscles does the brain have!
Extraterrestrial communication—a feat full of mystery in itself! It appears that you too, have been drawn in by its appeal. I perfected my muscles to get people to join the club! Surely you can tell even under my uniform—the beauty of the body! Huh? You're going to lend me a helping hand? You came at just the right time! Hey, you there! The one who looks easy to throw around! Why don't you join us? You'll be in good hands! Literally! I'm busy watching a concert of my fave idol. Could it be that you're also interested in finding and supporting your own fave? Focus intently on your center of gravity...and stomp down hard! The leg stomp ceremony is profound. Why don't you give it a try? Hey! Hey! Hey!!! At last, I joined the cheerleading squad. I've always wanted to try on the jersey. The dance club's video was hype! It looks like a really cool club! Did you hear the shopping district's getting torn down? It's just a rumor, isn't it? It's way too old-fashioned, anyway. I mean, there are plenty of good places there, but...
A healthy student life begins from one's appearance! We'll be checking for if you're up to standard! I'd love to get my hands on someone who'll pose as a nice, fresh model for the club... Hew, haa... Whew... Aww, man... I didn't think I'd miss the bus... Phew, another close call... Tardiness is reflected in our grades, so I would be careful if I were you. The dance club is on point today! Yep! I so wanna be like Raika! She's absolutely brilliant! Ah, you're a freshman? This spot's noise level helps with focusing on reading. I have to take the test again... I dodged that, thankfully. Good luck, hey. I hate this... You better pass! Why don't you spend more time studying? Hey, why are you looking so glum? Did you fail, like I did? If only I could get a recommendation... I second that. I wonder if the teachers' evaluation of me is high enough... You still have a chance to turn it around. Class yesterday was super interesting! Indeed, it was. I wonder what we'll learn today! Can't wait! Hm? That's a fresh face... Not looking too happy... I wonder if they're okay...? I guess a new environment's daunting, after all. Have you seen some of the schools our graduate class went on to? We have to study hard so we don't lose to them!
We won't turn a blind eye just because you're new! Now, let's see... Since newcomers aren't familiar with the school, it's precisely people like yourself who might find the next big scoop! I wonder which club would make me most popular... It's definitely the baseball club, right? How about the basketball club? Hmm... I'm not interested in the others. I think it could work. Good food is the best! Wait up, I said! We're going to try all the best food South Cirrus has to offer! Yeesh. Calm down... I hear that the Historical Research club pays for the restaurant bills of their members! We can go on a gourmet tour of South Cirrus! Hey, can you help me talk some sense into him? He'll regret joining a club out of pure gluttony. Gagh-hagh...! Hmm...? You're looking worse for wear... Hit me up when you come to the infirmary. I'm here quite often, you see. You totally ghosted me! I didn't, I swear! Check your messages! Uh... Which one were you...? Books are the mind's best friend! I'll finish reading all of them before graduation! You look like a culture club type... It has a lot going for it, so I'm sure you'll have a great time. Whatcha actin' all timid for? Huh?! You owe us an apology! Damn, you're a pain. You've been slacking off rather a lot lately. Well, I've been busy... You have to participate in club activities. I don't have the time. Destin...! Destin Billows! Don't be shy!
Sorry. I was looking around the school until I realized I was late. Ah, you've made it. Let me introduce you to the class. Don't worry if you're nervous. I think you'll get along with everyone just fine.
Let me introduce you to the class.
Destin here is joining us a few days late due to family circumstances. My name is Destin Billows. I'll be joining the class as of today. A destined encounter with Destin Billows—the winds of fate are blowing. Destin, your seat is over there. Hi, I'm Cedric Freud, but everyone calls me Ced. Nice to meet you! That pun was cringeworthy. Oof. Wow...
You're no fun at all. Hey, wanna hit the arcade? You know that's prohibited. Where should we go, then? You've only just moved here, haven't ya? I'll show you around. I'm likely more knowledgeable concerning this town's data. Thus, there's no particular place that I would like to go. Did you...really just say..."data"? Aha! You're one of those—quote, unquote—introverts! Now I really want to show you around!
Wa... Wait a minute, listen to what I have to say! I can be your first friend here, right? Right? Let's talk more. So persistent...
Come on, let's be friends! Phew... I gotta shake him off.
Ignoring me?! That's cold! But I won't let you get away!
You snooper! Huh? Was I too pushy? I didn't mean to be...
Just one more and I can complete the entire collection! I won't be able to sleep at night otherwise! What do I do? I mean, I am interested, but... I'm too nervous to enter the shop... And yet! I want to try out their Castella Parfait so badly! It bugs me that there are no insects around... Where could they be? I can't find any... I really hope to catch some. Your hair color is very vibrant... Is that what's in fashion with the young folk these days? I really can't decide. I think it's fine to go for what you like. Will it look good on me? You're worrying too much. Just one last time! Didn't you say that yesterday? But I almost have it! What will I do with you...? Dear me. I had a habit of collecting things when I was younger, too. I wonder if you take after me...? I have to buy beef today. Carrots, too. And maybe some potatoes. Oh! Don't forget the onions!
Whew... I finally lost him. I'm not good with that kind of overbearing kindness... Maybe I'll just take a look around the school and head home.
Oh, you go to South Cirrus Junior High, don't you? I hope you're enjoying your classes! I'm planning on sending my kids there. I was thinking I should get a haircut, so I asked my boyfriend, "Do you think a short cut or a bob is better?" He said, "Either's fine." Can you believe it?! Now I can't decide! The difference of a hairstyle is a minor issue. After all, he's crazy in love with her. I can't find that new sports drink... Hey, you, do you know where it's being sold? If you pass the entrance exams, the rest is easy. South Cirrus is a very promising school. I want to try on the uniform!
I can't find them! This is so weird... I don't get it. I had my wireless earbuds on up until a moment ago... Then, I just lost them. I'm not sure which one I'm supposed to take to get home. Do you know? Oh no, I'll be late for the movie if the bus doesn't come soon... So I think we'll have hotpot today. The kids want steak, you know. Oh... In that case, I guess we could fork out a little... I prefer steak, too. So boring! Are they done yet? Nutritional boost for a tired brain! You're just hungry, aren't you? Maybe I should eat some more. Our cram school is about to start. I'm going to reward myself for my hard work, just for today! Hmm, what to get me? I couldn't save a single thing... Whoa, whoa. Relax, okay? I couldn't save anyone at all... It's not the end of the world. You'll do it next time! I couldn't protect her, the town...or anything. It was all my fault. I'm a useless good-for-nothing. Sheesh, you just got the bad ending in a game. You're taking it far too seriously.
Is someone fighting? Briar Bloomhurst...? He stirs up trouble wherever he goes. Wh-What a kick! Wait... A kick? Come on, I'm just getting started. Grr... Don't get arrogant! Not good...! Show some respect, punk! That kick... The speed of the stride, the strength of the pivot, the spring in the step... That looks like...! It is! That technique is—! What's wrong? Winded? Well, I ain't even close to being through with you! Don't let me down, will ya? Let's turn this into a real bloodbath... that no one can turn a blind eye to! Who... the heck are you? Ha! Bystanders come running to your rescue, eh, Bloomhurst? This can't go on! Nothing good ever comes of violence! So what? I got nothin' to lose! I'm serious! Yo, I wouldn't waste my breath on this one if I were you, square. This piece of trash'll pick a fight with anyone and everyone. He's a real dead end. We're just the trash collectors. Yeah, we're doin' this town a service all right. He is not trash! Ooh, clever comeback. Real convincing. All right, that's enough. Head on home to mommy, pip-squeak. Take back what you said about him. Damn it...! What's the matter? Where'd all your fight go? Cat got your tongue? You won't be kickin' for long, Bloomhurst... When we're done, you won't be able to kick a balloon. Give him hell, boys! Damn! This wasn't the plan...! He's, uh...still breathin', right? You numbskulls... You guys went too far! Hey! You alive?! Say somethin'!
Are you awake...? Slowly now... The doctor said there was no damage to your heart. Dear me... I was worried sick! Ugh... How did I get here? Your friend carried you here, you know. I didn't even get to thank him. Hey! You alive?! Say somethin'! Answer me! Hey! Bloomhurst... Be sure to stay in bed! Now, if you'll excuse me... Mom! Thanks, mom. You can go home now. I'll be there soon. What are you saying? You collapsed, you know that? Come on home and get some rest. Please, mom... There are a lot of reasons... I need some time alone. I promise to be home for dinner.
Bloomhurst carried me here. He might still be around.
Oh my, what a handsome boy! I can't help but be worried for your sake. Good evening. Recently, there have been reports of a "Fake Cop" prowling around this area... Could you let me know if you see anyone suspicious? Ah, what a great time to go for a stroll. Mew... Mmmeow... Purr... (It's nippy winter weather.) Meow. Purrmeow... (Purrhaps someone will prove worthy of having me sleep on their lap...) Keys... keys... where are they... It's too dark to see... That health check has me freaking out... I don't want to know the results. It's going to be okay. Ah... You're worrying too much.
Oh! This is the key I was looking for! I can't believe you found it in the dark! Thank you!*
Whoa whoa! Why's everything shaking?! Raimon's plays are far beyond school level! If you call yourself a football fan, you have to see their jaw-dropping skills in action! Are you saying we should break up? So... well... What? Say it clearly? No... um... We should go home. Just a little longer! Your mom will be worried. Oh, right, it's almost dinnertime. We can't find it at all. Let's look a little longer. I want to go home. Bug hunting is romantic, isn't it? Another day of work ahead tomorrow... I have to get up early, too. I think I'm already sleepy. You should sleep earlier. Come on... I know you're here, ghost...! I'mma get so many views outta this! There's apparently been a sighting of a dark, fluffy ghost around here. We're here today to get a shot of it on tape! Be sure to like and subscribe! Oh no, I'm running out of time! I need content for the local news... Hey, can you tell me about any local hot topics? Sorry about asking you out of nowhere. I'm just dying for a scoop, you see... It's so relaxing to gaze upon the ocean... It's as if the tide washes away all bad memories. I want to be at a Raimon game, cheering from the stands! Tokyo is far, though... Their reign over the competition is utterly dominant! Agreed! Please don't appear, please don't appear... Let's go home now. Stay at bay... Ugh, that topic again? I suggest that you stay away from the sea at nighttime. You don't know when the Kraken will seek its prey.
How was school, son? I heard from the principal himself that you're outstanding. Keep up the good work, son. The arrangements for you to go on to high school in the States are all set. The road ahead of you is a promising one, I can tell.
Hey, that's... What do you think you're doing? You didn't kill those guys, did you? 'Scuse you...? Hey... Why'd you do it? I don't know... I acted instinctively. Even a model student has those moments, huh? I just...thought it would be a shame if you... See... I can tell... Your legs are special! Those muscles are one in a thousand—no, one in a million! They're legs that would part the heavens and breathe new life...into the world of football! What is this, Shakespeare? Anyway, you're telling me you took a blow from a steel pipe to save my legs? Are you for real? I suppose...I am. You're nuts, you know that? Let me give you a piece of advice... Stay out of my sight.
See, you just need to put the X and the constant variables together, and then divide both sides by the coefficient of X. Simple, right?
Why am I so curious about Bloomhurst?
We have a swimming club and a water polo club. It's easy to get them mixed up, so take care. Ah... It's hard to make friends...* The way I see it, a way with words is of the utmost importance! No way, mathematics is doubly important! A second language is plus alpha. You think? I'd rather learn something I can use. You'll find life difficult if you suck at math. A global mindset is the real key in this day and age! O, love of my heart! Let us avow our devotion to one another! Not this again... Surely you jest! Why dost thou deny me so? That drivel's all you've been spouting lately. How dare thee intrude upon a moment betwixt fated lovers?! Thou art a barbarian most uncouth! You'll have to forgive the poetic tendencies of my boyfriend... Still, he's a genius when it comes to guessing what the next test will cover. What about club activities? I'd prefer something easy. I get that. It's hard to decide. Should we try some trials first? Yeah, let's go! I'm ready for inspection anytime. My grooming is perfect! I believe that our uniforms—when properly buttoned up and tucked in—are the most fashionable around. The way you're wearing it...is perfect! You look stunning! I forgot something again! I'm such a klutz... I can't wait to grow up! It's much easier being a student. Nah, I'm tired of being treated like a kid. For real? Look at our principal. Such an air of dignity and still so kind to us students. That's my role model, right there. We're still in junior high and you're aiming to run the school? You're too serious. Just take it easy.
Oh! Great timing! You there! The newcomer who looks very tight-lipped! Yeah, you! Listen, I've got a favor to ask... Just between you and me, I lost my secret keepsakes of Lilac! You know, Lilac, the student council president? Anyway, can you look for them with me? If anyone found out I had them, I'd get ostracised! I can't even imagine living that kind of school life! It's an earnest request. You'll accept, right? Tch! Get lost if you're not going to help. Scram! Thank you! I knew I could put my trust in you! My three keepsakes are scattered across the school grounds. They're about the size of a postcard, so they might've gotten stuck somewhere... Please find them quickly, before anyone else does! Hey, there. Isn't our campus just beautiful? If I didn't have a stomachache, I'd offer to show you around. Where is my umbrella, ella, ella...? Let's go home, quickly. I thought I left it here... Maybe it's at home? All right, see you tomorrow! Get home safely! Make sure you finish up any study or review before the bell rings. Have you been listening? I'm so sleepy... You're trying too hard. Yeah... I know. The secret to living out a healthy life is "everything in moderation," or so I believe. I'm sleep-deprived from all the studying. But if I fall asleep in class, I won't be able to keep up with the material anymore... Ow, ow, ouch... How about you just take it easy at home today? But for my junior's sake... Like I said, just take it easy. You look like a culture club type... It has a lot going for it, so I'm sure you'll have a great time.* Oh no, what do I do? I lost my secret treasure...
Oh, it's you... If you help me out, you'll be doing me a great favor. I'm swallowing my pride here, so please! My father is a Three-diamond Elite. Heh... I wonder what your family does, hm? I'm sooo sleepy today. I'm outta here. Hurry! Don't be late! We agreed to meet here, but... I wonder where she is? My job begins after everyone else is gone. You should hurry up and go on home, too. I feel fancy. I think I'll take the train home. Maybe I'll take the bus today so I can read. I'll have less time to study... Like I said, it'll be okay! I'm not as skilled as you are. That's not true! It's difficult to balance school and club activities... I'm just not sure I can handle it. Hey, who knows? Maybe it'll all work out. Isn't it worth the effort? My prowess far outstrips yours! How dare you say that to my face! Why, I'd shame you in a battle of mental fortitude! I challenge that claim! Did you know about the club captain...? No way! Seriously?! Ugh, I wanna go home already. Wait, there's more to the story! Oh my god, this is so wild! Somebody save me. Hey, did you hear the rumour about the idol-lovers club? I hear their relationship charts are a complicated mess. It must be difficult getting together within so small a community. Yeah, school love should be cherished. Come to think of it, you're also new. What do you think? Any chance you'll find the one for you? Hey! Don't ignore me right after our eyes met! I'm no good at this sort of conversation... Please, you have to help me get through this. I found this the other day. Wow, that's amazing! Apparently, it's a real lucky find. Nice one! You can't go against the student council... Their power is absolute, after all. Feels like a monarchy. Yeah, they're incredibly intimidating. Hey, eyes over here.|I don't like your look...* Don't get arrogant!|You tick me off.* Is it almost time? I can't wait for school to finish! Just a few more minutes! I'm so excited! We're waiting for the baseball team to show up any second now! I'm so worked up, I think I'm gonna pass out! Thankfully, it's only Thierry I'm into. If I was crushing on the whole club, I'd be broke! I had such high hopes... What for? I'm just so disappointed... Yeah, at a guess, I'd say your standards are too high. I heard there was a late transfer student coming to our class, so I was hoping they'd be a girl. I can't believe Elaine lied to me! You're the late transfer joining Class [A], right? You're so lucky to have Elaine as your homeroom teacher! I joined because I heard that our club was full of those from the upper class. But I really can't keep up with the tense atmosphere. Hey there! If you have any interest in our matches, feel free to come watch! Tennis is, of course, the greatest sport ever! Where will you go after you graduate? Let's go to the same high school! I'm still figuring it out. Hey, I'm always free if you want to talk it through. Huff... huff... I... I can't do it anymore... Wow, that's awesome! It's just my parents who are impressive. I admire someone working for a big company. Yeah, my father is someone I really respect. Whew. I need a breather. Move those bodies! All eyes are on the 100 meters and the marathon, but we'll prove that hurdles are the best, then secure club funding that way!
He's fast at running away!|Haa... Haa...* I won't let you get away!|Why you little—*
The school's eyesore... Yikes...! Things like that nowadays... Nothing but trash. I don't want to get involved...! It's shocking.
You want to know more about that eyesore, Briar? You're biting off more than you can chew. He even butts heads with thugs in the street, or so they say. Man, there's no remedy for that.
Expect the unexpected, as they say. Not that I know much about it.
Briar? He might not look it, but he used to be very sporty. What kinda sport? Beats me.
Ooh... Do I sense some doubt?
Hey, Destin. Hmm? Briar? Well... I think he played football. Before junior high, he was top of the class and excellent at sports. Nowadays, he just uses that athletic ability to fight with other kids. I want to believe that he's a good kid at heart, but... Yeah. The other 8th grade* teachers are also baffled by him.
Oh, Destin! Perfect! Could you perhaps do me a favor? I left something in the storage room of the old gym equipment storage... It'd be a little embarrassing if I were to be seen with something like that around school, so, uh... If you can, do you think you could discreetly go and fetch it for me? Oh, you have plans of your own right now? Sorry about the short notice. I guess I'll just have to go for it later, in secret... Thank you! That would be incredibly helpful. So, what you're looking for... It's white and has, um...two round, squishy parts on it... Oh, gosh, this is so embarrassing! Anyway, you'll know it when you see it! Thank you in advance! I can't stop thinking about it... But if I were to go now... I'm terrified of him! Same here. I don't know what he's thinking. I don't like him. If you look up "delinquent" in the dictionary, you'll find a picture of Briar.
Briar...? Bloomhurst?! Uh... Look, I won't say anything bad about him, but keep your distance! You know what they say... Let sleeping dogs lie.
Man... I'm not convinced. Right? Must be nice being rich. It's just because of his impressive parents, isn't it? It's demotivating.
Briar, huh...? Coming from a family like that, he gets away with anything, you know? He'd have already been expelled if it weren't for the backing of his family. Life isn't fair, isn't it?
A so-called lone wolf... He's always alone, isn't he? I wonder why. Well, could be worse, I guess. Yeah... He's still scary though.
Briar, you say? He's a scary one all right. Thankfully, he's a lone wolf who keeps to himself. In that sense, he's a bit better than the kinds of punks you might see loitering in front of convenience stores.
He's... a rare one. Such a shame...
Briar? Ah, the rowdy type you often see at school... Though, I can tell there's more to him than meets the eye. He's blessed with talented legs, you know. It's a real pity that he only uses them to fight.
Yo, that guy's dangerous! No way, that's impossible. He's off his rocker! Let's just keep it cool, okay? He was all set to make a scene in middle school and turn into a delinquent. Briar Bloomhurst... Truly formidable.
Who, Briar? Ugh, don't mess with him. Eat a kick of his, it's lights out, bro.
I thought, "What a waste..."* You again! You...were once top of your class and an incredible athlete... Especially in football, in which you were held in very high regard. But now, only a year on, you're considered a blight on this school! What's that got to do with you? I told you to butt out of my life! I want to know what happened and why. Can't you tell me? As thanks for breaking up the fight? What do you mean?! You came and interfered on your own! You'll never understand. In my household, the patriarch's word is absolute. I have no say in anything. Whether that's the school I go to, the lessons I take, who I can date; nothing! My path has already been planned and laid out before me, but not by my own hands. That's what my life has been like... So that's why you're trying to get yourself expelled by treading the thorny path... But a school can't possibly kick out the son of their most generous contributor. So...why did you quit playing football? I didn't. The club was forced to disband. Football was...my only haven. But my old man disapproved of such a barbaric sport, criticising that the physical nature of it was bad for building character. He even proposed tennis, the so-called gentleman's game... But I can no longer feel passionate about any other sport. After all, if he deems my next sport worthless as well, then that club will have to disband, too. I see... So that's how it happened. And so, with that, you abandoned football? Yeah... Nobody talks back to my parents. Even if I tell you all this, it's not like that'll change anything... Anyway, now that you know, you can stay out of my way... Probably for the best... Football is just a meaningless pursuit, anyway... Well, I'll see you tomorrow. I'm glad that I could hear your side of the story.
Why am I so irritated? Anyway, I guess I'll head home...*
People often tell me I'm good-looking. Not that I can help it. Haha.
Hey, are you interested in the Kraken? You have good eyes, newcomer! This is a statue of the Kraken, a local legend here at South Cirrus. What's the Kraken, you say? That brings me to the point— Our marine biology club has devoted many years of study to it, yet we still don't know its true nature. One theory proposes that it's a new form of human evolution from the depths... Another suggests that it's simply the common octopus, misidentified. One scholar even put out a bounty for its capture. Kraaa? ... Kraaa? Whoa! I-it's appeared! The Kraken! The real thing! This will shake the academic world to its core! Oh, ow...! My back! Not now! Oh! This isn't good! I beg of you! Go after it and take a photo or something! Go forth, and unveil the secrets behind the magnificent wonder residing beneath the waves of South Cirrus!
People are looking this way... I hope my friend comes soon...
Uh, what's up? Nothing. It's just...my house is this way, too. Is that so...? Are we going in the same direction? I'd prefer if we walked a bit farther away from each other.
I don't know if I should confess to the girl I like, or... Argh! Well, I guess it doesn't have to be today. I'll confess tomorrow. You can do it! I can't... Come with me, just for today! But I went yesterday! You're interested in gourmet as well? Have you tried the Hungry Krak burger? It's super good! I tried it yesterday! A juicy, succulent patty layered between tasty, soft buns... But...I'm on a diet. I can't have any more than three! It's hilly here, and jogging can be a good way to lose weight, but... I'm sweating just from a stroll. I wish I could join. Yeah, they're so cool. They're privileged, that's for sure. I'm so jealous. The Kings are a group of guys everyone on campus looks up to. I only wish I could be like them... I'd die to join the Kings. What would it take? I'm going to cram school after this. It's such a hassle, though... Maybe I'll just play hooky.
Please wait a moment. This path is my territory, you know. You will listen to my request. Uh... What is it?
My dear Josephine has escaped. Therefore, I would like you to catch her for me. Do you have any objections? I don't really think that's any of my business. If that's the case, then you cannot pass here. What a pity. Oh-ho-ho-ho... Can't be helped...
We pooled our money and bought a ball so we could play football together... But that nasty Dark Society came and hid it. Hey, the Society hasn't laid their eyes on you yet, have they? Can you go and look for our ball? You gotta be sneaky, though. You're heartless...! Wait, don't tell me... You're one of them!
We're going to need your help to stand up to them. Help us find the ball they hid! Awesome! Thanks a lot! You're saving our legs! Thank you...very much. This guy here, his foot got injured by the Dark Society! At this rate, none of us will have legs fit for football. Our ball should be somewhere in South Cirrus. We'll leave it to you! Seeing children grow up in good health makes me so very happy. Josephine's escape... Even though there are fancier toys at home than that cheap park, I wonder why... It's really tough, managing the household finances. It's the same at my place. No way! It's the same everywhere. We have a problem! I'm scared... It's all their fault. What will we do? I want to keep on living... It's the Dark Society, I tell you. We're in a rough spot right now. ... Ahaha! Yay! I think it's just about time to get going... No! Let's keep playing! There's still time! The sun's going down.
Meow meow! (You can't sway meow that easily!) Let's get you home to your owner. Hmm... I wonder if it hates me.
Meow meow, meow! (I'll let you escort meow!)
Who's a good kitty? Meow meow, meooow! (What a meowthwatering smell!)
My Josephine has returned. I'm worried she might have been negatively influenced by the outside world. Ah, that's right. You may pass now. What was that cat all about? I felt like I could understand what it was saying, but maybe I'm just tired.
Meow. (It is most charming for a lady to be on the carefree side.) It's so beautiful. What a pretty flower. What a nice, floral aroma! It's true!
The moment the train intersects a railway crossing is just awesome! I wanna be a train conductor when I grow up! My brain isn't working at all. I've been sleepy all day... Even though I have to be at my best today. I slept late yesterday, after all.
Wah! They found me!
Here comes the Kraken! I'm back in kraktion! The Kraken? That smells fishy... What could it be?
Kraaa! Let me swim freely!
Stay put in your cage! Kraaa! I'm in deep water now! I'm going home!
You couldn't get a photo? Gah, that's unfortunate. If only my back wasn't so weak! In any case, I can't believe that it can speak...! This finding will astound everyone at the next seminar! I must make my way back to the club and prepare my presentation! Thank you for trying! See you around. I see now. That's no Kraken. That has to be... Either way, I'm not entertaining this Kraken farce anymore. Maybe I'll take a walk through the shopping district to clear my head before heading home.
I swear I'm the smartest here! Otherwise...she wouldn't even notice me. I'll study so hard he won't even recognise me! I'll make him eat his words on the next exam! Mommy, I really, really, really, want to know... Mommy doesn't know, okay, honey? But I'm so, so, so, so curious! And I'm so, so, so, so clueless. But I just have to find out about everything! Like, why does the sky turn orange in the evening? Does the sun change colors? Or is it because the earth turns? Kids at this age come up with so many difficult questions... Their curiosity is astounding, let me tell you. It's, like, almost too much. That's so much! For real! Sooo hype. I'm so into it! I'm so into it, I'm one with it! Girrrrl, we knew from the start we'd be the best of BFFs, you feel me? No more gloomy Gus! Be a glad gal! One of us! Joined at the hip, knee and ankle! Don't you want a piece of this? We'll give you the Gal For a Day treatment! Makeover madness! I'm way faster than you! Don't be ridiculous! I'm like the wind! Hmph, I came in first last time. No, I was first last time!
Sorry to bother you, dear...
Oh, you're too kind, deary. You see, I lost my way while playing a mobile game. It's called... Erm... "Mekkemon GO." Yes, that's it!* The Mekkemon I'm looking for seems to be in the direction of the shopping district. Could I ask you to take me there? Better things to do, eh? A crying shame. Thank you, deary. So very sweet, you are.
You live over that way, right? Yeah, well, I wanted to come here for some noodles. He's just following me... What's he up to?
You gotta help me! I really can't take this anymore! Hey, you there, the [gloomy looking] one! Wait up! You know what they say! You can't fight on an empty stomach! I'd eat at the diner, but the lady standing outside is wigging me out... Maybe I'll come back another day. The trams have recently been retrofitted with a new design. I can't wait to see what they look like! Maybe I should go... Nah, maybe I shouldn't. There's a throbbing pain in my molar, but... I'm scared of the dentist. This month's manga digest was crazy good! There were a lot of serious plotlines, but I really enjoyed them! Noodles, noodles, noodle shop... Where was it again...? Hey, do you know where the noodle shop is? Hmm... Is she coming? Maybe I should go on ahead and wait for her at home. Decisions, decisions... Pick one quickly. We need to be frugal... They're not that different, anyway. Today, at school, we learned how to add! Kids tickets are half the price of adult tickets, so for both my sister and me... Um... Huh? Oh, silly you, you don't have to pay to ride the train yet! You're still in elementary school. Then, the tickets for me and daddy will be around...this much... Both my kids show a keen interest in numbers. I'm so proud! I'd like for them to attend South Cirrus Junior High, then go on to top-notch higher education! I wanna go to the park! Your clothes will get dirty. But I wanna play! We have to go home, dear. You can't fool me! You—are an udon-lover without equal! So late... How much longer are you gonna make me wait? We promised to hang out, but I have no time for a no-show... I think I'm better off just going home. Come on, just one date. Like that'd be the end of it. What can I say? I fell in love at first sight. Oh, now that's an original line... Yeesh. Too much effort. Dude, just skip. I don't want the trouble. It's just a part-time job. What are you looking at, ya South Cirrus runt? Picking a fight with us? Exciting, isn't it? I'm so happy for him... To think he's become such a hit... Every week will be something to look forward to! DonSum! On the morning sports show! I'll have to be sure to record it weekly! He's already been on the show a few times... But I just can't believe he's going to be making regular appearances! Wait, you don't know who DonSum is? Hello? Commentator Donnie Summerfield! Urk... I drank too much last night... Sigh. Time to open up shop. Hey, you, don't go thinking holding your liquor makes you hot stuff, y'hear me? Get that in your head and you'll come to regret it when you grow up!
You can't fool me! You—are an udon-lover without equal!
You look hungry for some noodles! Come on, eat up! No, I'm not. What makes you think that?
Well, if you insist... I guess it can't be helped.
What I want is chanpon! What do you mean?! I lost to another noodle...?
You can't fool me! You—are an udon-lover without equal!
Lucky us. Ready for round two? We're ready for you this time. It's on, Bloomhurst. Not you again. I'm not interested in a repeat today. Just lay off, will you? Hey, now. Don't be such a drag. ... Too thick to take a hint, huh? So, we make like a tree...? And what, fall on them...? If we run, they'll just keep coming for us. We'll have to crush them for good. For real?! But we don't have to fight. We can use your muscles in other ways to get the better of them. What're muscles for...if not...for fighting? For our own kind of battle, of course!
You don't have to hold back, got it? Sure... You're the boss.
Don't get cocky, pre-teen punks! This is payback for yesterday! These guys are society's trash. And today's garbage day. Remember, you asked for this. We're not gonna hold back.
Damn! They're just some punk kids! Right, we're calling it for today!
People still dress like that these days? Grgh! These punks are taking us for a ride!
A good old-fashioned lecture! Hey! What kind of lecture was that?!
Tch! We'll get you back, you hear? The next time we meet will be your last! They've run off... We haven't even shown them who's boss yet. I sure as heck ain't ending up like them... I'd say that you're getting there. Huh? Say that again to my face. Freakin' Destin needs to coat his words...
When I'm with Briar, thoughts of football well up inside me. Maybe he'd be different if football wasn't prohibited here...
Whoa! What're they going to do! I can't help but watch the baseball club's show at the school grounds. That's awesome! That's our star club! Incredible, right? Heeey! Oh, they're at it again! Popular as always! That's amazing! Yeah, agreed!
What? Is something going on outside? Meh, whatever it is, I'm not interested in the slightest.
Seeing a football makes me want to kick one around. —Ah right, oops. Forget what I said. Thierry! I'm your biggest fan! OMG! Did he just look in my direction?! I'm gonna faint! Let's try to get his attention again! What'll they do today?! I can't wait! What a show! Just like always, right?! They're incredible! I know, right?!
Why isn't there a football club? This conversation is off-limits, ya know... You see there was an incident five years ago. If only the football club didn't get into that mess... Because of that, it's not just the football club that got prohibited, but football entirely. I'm so excited! It was worth the wait. You wanna come over? Yeah, let's play! He's sooo cute! Kendrick! He sure knows how to set the mood! Lemme get a photo! It's starting! I've been waiting for this! I wanna see something exciting! Lookin' good on camera! There they go! Let's go, baseball club! They're so tall. And they're athletic. They're out of our league. Like, actually. Zayn's sooo hot! I prefer Flynn! Maximus looks perfect as always! Look this way, Eamon! Come on! Yeahhh!
Uh... Is that a football? It shouldn't be... There's...no football here... Ugh, ew. This ball's falling apart. How long has this ball been rotting here? All right, let's get started. Good afternoon, my loyal fans! It's showtiiime. Friends, play ball. Come on, give me a home run! My fans are watching. I've always thought it strange, but why do we use football for fanservice if we're the baseball club? Meh, who cares. Football has no place here at our school. What else would a football get used for? Heavenly Thunder!* Ow! They're eating it up! This'll be great publicity for our club! What is going on here? That's the baseball club. They enjoy putting on these theatrics in the afternoon to please their hangers-on. But as far as this school's concerned, football is— Do you know why there's no football club at this school? I know there was an incident five years ago...which ended with the club's forced dissolution. Yeah. Ever since the incident, football has lost all dignity here. Those baseball guys see football as a laughingstock, and they exploit it to advertise their superiority. That, there...? That's not football... Er... Isn't that—? Yo, Briar, do me a solid and kick the ball over here, will ya? I only came here because there was no football... I'm afraid that your child has a rare congenital heart disease. It will be in his best interest to refrain from intense physical activity, such as running. This is nothing! I can keep playing football! Going by the data we have at hand, I would advise against it. But please rest assured. His condition won't affect his daily interactions... Going by the data we have at hand, that is. What's this "data" they're talking about? If it's going to take football away from me... That day, football was ruthlessly torn away from me. I enrolled here to forget about football, but it turns out...this is simply unforgivable. Well, Briar? Are you going to just stand idly by and watch?! I know you love football. You practiced so hard every single day! Yet, you're going to let them ridicule football like this?! Can you stand it?! It doesn't matter to me anymore. I already decided. I'll have nothing more to do with football. Either way... Football is prohibited here. ...[y]ou can't be serious. What? You'll have nothing to do with football? Because it's 'prohibited'? Because your parents said so? That's all that keeps you from doing what you love?! Haven't you ever even tried...to face your problems head-on? I did... I kept searching for a way to continue playing. I studied all about my condition! I cried, lamented, and struggled! But...it was all pointless... No matter how hard I tried, nothing could change the fact that I will never—never get to play football again! That's why I wanted to forget... Just...forget all about football... But you—you still have football...! You can run like the wind and shoot with such force...! You...still have football. You can still play perfectly fine, can't you?! So, please... If you don't want all that useless ability, give it to me... Give me the chance to play football again! If you're never having anything to do with football again, then let me play instead! What's the holdup, Briar? Just kick that beat-up ball over. Football... Football is... It's not something for the likes of you to trample on! Let me handle this. For my entire life, I've never talked back to my old man. It wasn't because I was outmatched... It was because I never chose to stand up for myself. So now... I have to choose...my own path!
The opening match for the U-15 Spring Cup: Raimon Junior High versus Northbright Middle School!* While it's considered little more than a preliminary tournament to the prestigious Football Frontier... Everyone's excited to see if defending champions Raimon, dubbed the Immovable Kings, can hold on to the title. Indeed. Northbright is a formidable contender from Kyushu, and [have] been showing remarkable growth lately. The players are coming onto the pitch! How's Raimon looking, Nikas? I mean, I'm really pumped, knowing they're considered the strongest team. So you should be. Let's go out there and make history, eh? That's the plan! Oh, wow. I'm so excited my eyes are leaking! I'm looking forward to this. What's the game plan against them? As always, we'll leave that to Darian. As for the rookie whose name is on everybody's lips... Let's see what he's got! Kickoff! How much of a fight can Northbright, Kyushu's aspiring challengers, put up against the invincible Raimon? Last year, they rebuilt their team around Nikas Himmelstein, a player already showing much promise as a 7th grader*. As a result, their play looks a lot sharper compared to last year! Tactic: Three-Pronged Attack!* Look at that perfect football out of Northbright! Thanks to a robust school curriculum, their players possess profound tactical acumen. Not only that— They boast an incredibly high standard of physical prowess, amidst which Nikas easily tops. Is that so...?
Man, that felt great... Destin Billows! I hear you, loud and clear! Briarrr! My bad, looks like I kicked it a [lil'] too hard! Destin, thanks to you, I know what I gotta do. ...Same here. All I did was run and blame my destiny... In the end, I was only afraid of facing reality. I will never abandon football again!
...Hmm. Hmm?!
How about a football competition between you guys against the two of us? The hell? The school grounds are a shared space. It doesn't make sense for the baseball club to hog it all. If we compete and the two of us win, then you'll have to stop using the school grounds for this. Hmph. It can't be...is that Destin? I knew you'd turn out to be an interesting fellow! Intriguing. So there's someone in this school who doesn't know their place. Huh? Who the hell are you? Destin. Destin Billows. Dustin, was it? Do ya even know who you're trying to pick a fight with? I do. But I can't forgive anyone who looks down on football!
...?
What were you thinking, picking a fight with the baseball club? They're the top of the social food chain. You've made yourself the school's public enemy number one, y'know? What's done is done. We just have to beat them at football. Even if ya say that, we can't compete with just the two of us... ... Then we'll just have to make a football club! What?! Sup, you two! You wanna let me in on this juicy conversation? And who the heck are you? I'm Cedric Freud, Destin's classmate. Scram. Oh c'mon, I heard you guys saying ya needed some buddies. You won't find many who're willing to play football, since it's banned here. Yeah? Well, peeps who can't play football should keep their nose outta this. Here's a little secret of mine—I might have dabbled a teeny tiny bit in football before... What? We'll take anyone we can get. Welcome to the club, Cedric. Yesss! You sure about this? Accepting someone you barely know just 'cause they know a thing or two about football? Well, I barely knew you up until a few days ago, right? I...guess so. All right. The plan to get the football club on its feet starts tomorrow. I'll need the both of you to help. Gotcha! Got it. This is getting exciting!
Did you want to see me about something?
I have been notified that some of our students are fighting over the rights to use the school grounds. Is this true? I'm afraid so... Not only that, they're reportedly...deciding it with football. Oh no. Football is no good at all. Ms. Sereno, you are aware of what happened five years ago, correct? Yes, I've heard. The incident where students from our football club got into a fight with a group of students from another school. Consequently, our students were placed under protective custody and the football club was dissolved, if I remember correctly. Indeed, the one blemish on our school's esteemed name... South Cirrus Junior High came under much scrutiny as a result, and the subject of football has been taboo ever since. Just when things had finally simmered down, if another football incident were to happen again... We'd be in trouble, vice-principal... Undoubtedly... As it'd be best to allow students to resolve their own matters, let us leave this to our trustworthy student council.
You're late, Destin. Sorry, there was something I wanted to look up. And? How do we start creating the football club? By recruiting more members, right? No, we have to find a clubroom first. This school is known for its liberal atmosphere, meaning it's easy to apply to start new clubs. However, many of these applications are still on the waiting list due to a lack of available rooms. So you're saying, if we can secure a clubroom, we'll be approved before all the other clubs on the waiting list? Yeah. Still, as long as football is prohibited, we can't actually do anything. We'll deal with that issue at the same time. Deal with it? How? The key to the football club prohibition degree—lies in the student council... The student council? That's what you've been looking into? But it was the school that got football prohibited, right? Even if we get the student council on our side... I have a plan for that. But first, let's look for a space we can use as a clubroom. Most of the available spaces of note are already being used by other clubs. Speaking of spaces that aren't in use, though...*
I'm low-key tired. Ugh, my head hurts... Haaa, haaa... I forgot to go to my club! What an uprising for the books. State of emergency! Even in a commotion like this, once the bell rings, students go quietly back to class. That's South Cirrus for you. What's the commotion? I wonder... What a mess... Tell me about it. It was so sudden. Nobody could've expected this to happen. I'm shocked at what you did at the school grounds... You don't look like it, but you're surprisingly feisty... Looks like you can say goodbye to a nice student life. But don't give up! Can you believe it?! And right at the start of the school year, too! ... Even the teachers won't stop talking about it! I can't wait to see what happens! Haaa... Whoa! The guy behind you—how are you restraining him?! Mind control? A love interest of yours has also gone off and joined the fan club, right? And that's gotta be why you challenged Thierry! I can't believe you would just show up and try to play football. Do you not know the definition of fear? You freakin' dolt! And you're stubborn! Spoiled brat! Shut up, slacker! The schoolyard video, did you see it? It's gone viral! It's the talk of the school! You can tell who'll win, though. Heh heh... Looks like things are getting interesting... What a mess this is. Maybe the student council will have their eyes on you now. Who cares about the baseball club?! What football competition?! Focus on our own matters! Y-you didn't hear this from me! Huh? What happened to you? Forget what I said... Are you scared of him? You weren't like this just a moment ago. Gah, it's you! You're getting along awfully well with B-Briar, don't you think? Reliable-lookin' guy, eh? Wh-what's that look supposed to mean?! Cut it out! I can't believe it... How dare he! Unforgivable... Guilty as charged... Why you... How dare you speak to Thierry in person! We're still waiting for our turns! Picking a fight with the baseball club? You're nuts. They said vice president Alix saw it, too. No talking their way out of this, I guess. The purging is about to begin... I wonder what's going to happen... I wanna be popular too. Cheer up, man. Is it his looks? Family? Beats me... I was the laughing stock when I ate a ball to the face, but Thierry has girls worrying about him over a small scratch! Look... For the average Thierry fan, the life and death of us commonfolk don't compare to that of Lord Thierry's. Our tennis club could take them on in tennis, and it'd still be difficult to win. They're just that physically gifted. You're a foolhardy fellow. We're competing soon, but all our members are uneasy from the gossip. Darn it, it's all your fault! I'm ready to run a lap. Just gonna stretch first. We gotta sign up for mock exams. Oh, you're right. We're gonna be so busy. Don't forget about the summer classes. Argh, I feel so... Restless... That doesn't sound good. I'm staying the heck out of this. Hey, is it true that Briar coerced you into becoming his lackey? If there's trouble, go to the cops. The school won't lift a finger. You weren't there? No, what happened? I don't know if I should say... Please, tell me! I heard someone's picked a fight with the baseball club over football. Do you know anything about it?
Hmmm... ...You can do this, Elaine! Hi, Destin! Listen, uh... Dear me... How should I say this... All is well. What nice, bright smiles everyone has! You're a hot topic even amongst the teachers. "The newbie making waves," they're calling you. Hahaha. Ow, ow, ow... How long will this keep hurting... W-wait a minute... Haaa... Hey. I saw your hijinks, so now I can't stop shaking and my stomach [from] hurting. Good job not cowering in front of Thierry, of all people! You're brave, that's for sure. Why isn't there a football club? This conversation is off-limits, ya know... You see, there was an incident five years ago... If only the football club didn't get into that mess... Because of that, it's not just the football club that got prohibited, but football entirely. He's a strange one. A new student, right? Completely different from us... I can't imagine what goes on in his head... Agreed. It's best not to get involved. From our perspective, unconventional people like Destin are just a different beast altogether. I don't know what he's thinking. I know right? He scares me... Let's not make eye contact... Don't say I didn't warn you. Your notoriety might go down in history, huh... This is a problem. Really? You have to remind them! Do I have to? You know that football is prohibited here! I'm telling you this on behalf of the teachers, but you have to follow the rules! I wonder if anyone knows more about the incident that got football banned...
Briar and Thierry... I wonder who holds more influence... The delinquent versus the star player? I have to support Thierry, y'know? Same. I get that. Wh-what do you want? Don't come near me! I have nothing to say to you! Hmm... My efforts were for naught, huh... So it seems that the committee are eagle-eyed when it comes to poor attire, but they won't commend you for dressing tidily. Agh, dangit! Where'd I put it?! But that's not efficient... Yeah... I know... Think this over. Yawn... You are such a sleepyhead... Sleep more, you're still growing! I was napping, so I missed it... Well, I could care less... It seems your phone has your undivided attention. Well, duh. Alas, it wrenches my heart so... Oh, cut it out! There are but a wee six years left in our junior high school and high school lives together. My love, why dost thou shun mine own self? Considering the time we have left, we have to start preparing for the entrance exams. Haaa... What's going on? What do you think? I dunno. If they're up against the baseball club... That's tough... What if the underdogs win? Nah, no way! The competition between you and Thierry is on everyone's lips. What were you thinking, taking on such a reckless challenge? Cursed football... The teachers were seething. Of all things... Do they have a death wish? Who knows... Ridiculous... Momma... You're freaking out too much. I can't do this anymore! Settle down, man... Oh my god! You're Briar's lackey! Please, let me go! Sorry about him, he saw Briar's kick and it apparently brought back some bad memories...
Meow. (It is most charming for a lady to be on the carefree side.) Hey! I heard you're the one who disrespected Thierry, correct? That's rather bold! I knew you had it in you! People are looking this way again... I really hope my friend comes soon... I want to confess to her today, but my hair's kinda lopsided... Maybe tomorrow, then... Let's go for some! But... Quick, before they're sold out! Hmm... This is a problem... Have you tried the Hungry Krak burger? Just a taste of it, and you'll want more! I had some yesterday, and the day before... I think five's the limit for today... I'm exhausted just walking up this hill... I can't believe you ran all the way up here... It's bonkers... We're not responsible, are we? I can't believe it... Talking back against Thierry of all people... There seems to be a new kid who rebelled against Thierry. We gotta tell him to apologize! My greatest wish is to become one of the Kings, so your disobedience towards the baseball club is unthinkable... I like this pink flower! It's very vibrant. It's as pretty as momma! You're so sweet, honey. My husband never helps out around the house... Same, same... Doesn't do chores, nor take care of the kids... Unbelievable, right? Waiiit! You can't tag me! My, you two are fast! Slow down a bit! Catch me if you can! Haha, be careful not to trip! Oh my, such energetic children. Back in my day, I ran like that too... Cram school again? This sucks. It's fine if I fail once, surely...
There are a lot less railroad crossing enthusiasts compared to train enthusiasts. I want more people to understand the beauty behind railroad crossings, upon which both people and trains traverse! That felt kinda good! We kept up a nice pace. We broke our record, too! Let's go for another run at the same place. Wait, you're that guy—! The one who confronted Thierry! I'd show more respect for those in power, if I were you! Should I buy a reference book from the shopping district? Hmm, but I also don't want to waste a single second of my studying time... I wonder why... Um, well... I wanna know! Let me think... What keeps the clouds from dropping? Does Newton's law of universal gravitation not have any effect? My boy's questions are beyond me... I don't know the answer to them... Maybe I'll have to search online. You look fabulous, bestie. OMG, you too! We're slayin' it! Just built different, yas? Rockin' it, for real. Like, totes! So us fams went to take photos, and we're like, just out of this world level of pretty, know what I'm sayin'? Y'know what? Your hairdo's lit, so ya wanna try this? Aww what? Ya don't wanna? That's kinda cringe... Photo editing apps are K too, but photo booths like this let ya doodle with your girlfriends. You're too slow! Oh yeah? Try harder! I'll show you!
What do I do? This has to be a bad idea... The Castella Parfait here is so divine. I'm back for more! At this rate, the waiters and waitresses are gonna remember me! I saw this on TV, the name of that posh dessert. What was it again? Milly...Philly? Something like that? The grass is shaking! Are there bugs?! Do I use the bug jelly? Yeah, use it! A toss-up between two choices... He'll be fine with either. But what if he gets disappointed... You're overthinking it. We went on a picnic the other day, and I asked if he'd like rice balls or sandwiches. Guess what? He said, "Whatever you'd like!" Was that a trick question? In the first place, I asked because I couldn't decide. If you can't decide, how about udon?—Huh? I'm wrong? I'm sure he'll love anything you cook for him. But it's a new one! Maybe another time, dear... Puh-lease! Momma has to go home to make dinner... I wanna roll for the new one, but my momma keeps saying that I'll get hooked. I don't get it. It's always like this—once you complete a collection, the next one's already released. I have to make sure my daughter understands this, so she doesn't spend frivolously like I once did! I want to try that one recipe. Let's make it together. We need tomato paste... As well as heavy cream. This vending machine always eats up your coins... But it spat out an extra coin when I smacked it. Lucky me! You attended a cram school? I should enroll my kids into one if I want them to take the admission test for South Cirrus Junior High... I got an A on my mock exam the other day. This'll be a piece of cake. But I like my tutor... Hmm, I guess I'm okay with going to cram school for summer, though!
I lost it again... Where is it... Have you seen my wireless earbuds? Just when I thought I'd finally found it, then the other ear's gone! It's so vexing! I want it, but... I can't carry any more... Lately, I'm really liking manga with antiheroes! Y'know, the kind of protagonist who joins the dark side, and uses any means at their disposal... The bus isn't coming at all... Did I misread the timetable? I want to play in the sand! Only after you change your clothes. Look, I made a mud ball! I hope this comes off in the wash... Let's have a meat and potato stew today... Oh, but kids love sushi. Sushi it is, then. Let's buy some hand rolls. Can we go yet? How about now? It tastes so good! Class is starting soon, y'know. Do you want half? N-no thanks... I don't wanna... I really don't wanna go... M-my molars don't hurt at all, I swear! I think I'll be fine without going to the dentist... I'm good at adding and subtracting! If three people ride the train, and two get off, that equals one! That means, um... That means there's one extra person on the train now! Addition's a cinch from all the math problems I did at school! My kids are so smart! If they enroll into South Cirrus Junior High, they'll surely be at the top of their classes! In the future, if they can get a job at the Mitsuboshi Group, then our family would be Three-diamond Elites! I heard that the mapo tofu here is delicious, but for some reason, I feel like I'll get burnt if I get close... I want to have a castella, but I can't remember where I can buy some... Hey, do you know? She's rather late... I suppose the cats will keep me company... Maybe I'll have soda... Sure, why not? Or should I choose coffee? Make up your mind... My grandson told me to swipe on this thing... But what does that mean? There is a certain quaintness to trams like these. Know what I mean? Hmm, what should I treat myself to? Maybe a Hungry Krak burger? Hmm... I'm tired of waiting... It's way past the time we agreed on! Did I just get stood up again?! Weren't they way too weak? Yeah, they were heckin' weak sauce. Even we'd beat those guys. How pathetic. Well, if it ain't a South Cirrus brat. Hey. Ya heard of someone named Briar? Apparently this guy beat up some peeps I know. Pathetic lot they are, losin' to some middle schooler. Do you play football? 'Cause you're a keeper. Wow, what an original pickup line... Please, give me a chance! Yeah yeah, hit on someone else. DonSum to start off my day... I can't ask for anything more! That was the best! I couldn't tear my eyes away... DonSum made his first appearance on today's "Morning Eleven" show. Ah, I feel so content listening to his voice! Looks like he'll be making further appearances as a recurring guest! I'm so proud of you, DonSum! ...DonSum's short for Donnie Summerfield, the announcer who's making a name for himself! He's bound for greater things, though! Hic... Oops, I did it again... I drank too much since I got my hands on an expensive bottle... Hey, promise me that once you're older, you'll never get dead drunk, okay?
The baseball club equipment storage... Doesn't look very usable...
The gym equipment storage... I'll jot it down as a potential football clubroom for now.
The old gym equipment storage... Looks like it can work as a football clubroom.
The second club building... I doubt there are available rooms...
The multipurpose building... Prospects aren't looking good...
Is this the place? The old gym equipment storage, huh... This space is currently not in use. It fits the bill. Looks like it's locked though. I believe Ms. Sereno has the key. Oh... She left just a moment ago. Tch, just when it looked like we hit the jackpot, too. ...I'll have to talk to her tomorrow then. Haaa... Guess that's it for today. Yeah, let's just go home. You can say that again. With Briar and Cedric on board, the endeavor to start up our very own football club is on track. The journey ahead is still long, though.
Hey, how about we go for some Hungry Krak burgers on the way? Huh? I'd rather have noodles... Cedric, you said you dabbled in football once, right? Well, yeah... Show me what you got. Are you doubting me? Heh, that's fine by me. ...? Briar, let's have Destin pass a ball in our direction and we'll see who can get possession. Hmph, you're on.
It's a battle over ball control. Who will dominate the midfield...? Who do you think I am?
Huh? This can't be happening! You're all talk after all.
Do you get it now? What just happened...?
What a joke. He thinks he's welcome here. Little does he know, he stands out like a sore thumb. He's way too serious about football. Somebody PLEASE tell him that nobody likes him. He's such a suck-up, even on the pitch.
You were hiding this up your sleeve? So, you see... Cedric used to play football, and was known on the pitch as "Team Player Ced." What, really?! Whoa...how did you find out? You tailing me was getting annoying, so I looked into your background to see what kind of person you were. —Cedric Freud. You moved often as a kid because of your parents, so it was hard for you to make friends. Even so, you were always a supportive presence to your teammates. Presence? Me? Destin, this side of you creeps me out. Tell me that from the beginning. Hehe... Guess you'll do as a practice partner. Heh, I'll practice with you... If you can get the ball from me, that is! It's on! All right, settle down. Now that you two are on friendly terms, let's call it a day here. Fine by me. Sure. Another step closer to forming our own football club... On the way home, I suddenly think of trying something with Briar and Cedric...*
! It's a—!
...Phew. Destin, what's wrong? Did you just kick something? He does that sometimes. You'll get used to it too. Are you all right? There—uh, never mind, it's nothing. Footballs only I can see...must be hallucinations born from my feelings for football. Still, we finally have players for the club... I'll have to play my part if I want to play football with Briar and Cedric.
Just a moment, guys. Huh? What's up? We'll need you two to do intensive training, and also regain your football game sense. But our school doesn't have a dedicated facility for anything like that. What're you tryin' to say? After an exhausting climb up a steep hill, students are then faced with this daunting stairway of a hundred arduous steps, unknowingly building their physical endurance through this daily challenge. You can't be serious... I want to see if we can use it as our training grounds. Huh?!
Special Training! The Hecaton Stairway!
What do we have here? A few runts up for the challenge? Hecaton Stairway training, here we come! It looks like an entirely different beast compared to normal. Let's get it over with...
Come on, it's not over yet. Oof... Gimme a breather... You can't, not yet.
Haaa, haaa... I'm beat. This isn't something you do on the way home. I've been wanting to try it. I think we can quickly improve if we train during school hours.
Did you really have to work us to the bone, even though we just started... This flight of stairs is the perfect machine for building your physical ability and kick strength. But why aren't you joining us, Destin? It's better if we all train together. That's... Just drop it. We can let Destin be our trainer and manage our condition. That was his idea in the first place, anyway. Guess that's fine. Yeah, this is what I gotta do. Even if I can't play, I can still support you two in football... There might still be places to train in South Cirrus. I'll keep note of any I find. The hell?! This isn't enough training already? Kraaa?
That's enough for today. Let's head home.
—Ah! ! What is that?! Who, me? The Kraken? Go after it, quickly! Huh? Why? I don't bother with that sort of stuff. The Kraken is the key to the football club's revival. Huh? Why's that? I think I know what the Kraken actually is. And if I'm correct, they'll greatly benefit the club.
Ugh...my throat feels raspy for some reason... Now I can't show off my beautiful singing voice... You needn't worry so much... No, you have to get your body checked up. —Oof, ouch... I told you so. Purr... (It's too warm...time for a catnap[]) Meow. Purrmeow... (Purrhaps someone will let me sleep on their lap...) I hope you get well soon, mom... Let's say it out loud for her, okay? Get well soon! Haha, she'll appreciate that. I'm helping out with the chores until mom gets better, 'cause I'm her son, after all! Hehe. My wife's going to be undergoing treatment here for some time. I brought our son here, thinking that she'd get encouragement from seeing him... Do you want to come along with me? Attaboy. Walking around like this makes me feel healthier. But it's getting slightly hot... I still feel lethargic... You'll be up and kicking in no time! Is that so... Of course! Even the doctor said so.
Is your ex-girlfriend that important to you? No, she's the one who's— Forget it. I'm breaking up with you. W-wait! Don't leave me! I want snacks! You did have lunch today, didn't you? She's still growing. I'm hungry! I suppose a snack wouldn't hurt. Do you want some candy, dear? We agreed to meet at the Doll and Finn statues... Did she get it mixed up with the Kraken statue? Yo, are you attending enough classes? Dunno. Who cares, dude. You'll need a good record to go to uni. I'll think about it... I messed up big-time at work... You're probably just tired. Maybe... Don't forget to take care of yourself. How aren't you bored of this yet? I can sense a rare insect around here... Yo, can I go now? C'mon, wait just a little longer. Huh? It's not here... No...my dream to get a million views... Hey, you! Have you seen the rumored floating black spirit? I want to get it on video, but it's not appearing at all... That sounds like a scoop! This might raise our viewership! Hi! Is it true that the South Cirrus Junior High baseball club is a really strong team? We thought we might cover it for a local TV show. ...Um, are you okay? I hope I didn't say something that offended you... I-I come here pretty often... Wow, what a nice view. ...I wanted to see it with...with you! Sorry? Did you say something? Oh, c'mon! Don't talk to me right now... I'm in the middle of something important! Wait...you look familiar... Are you the one who challenged Thierry? Seems like you have more courage than this spineless guy here. There are rumors the sea around here might be reclaimed. As a man of the sea, this idea brings me great pain... The park is perfect for a nice stroll, don't you think? It's therapeutic to listen to the sound the waves make as you walk. Exceptional speed! Beautiful dribbling! Unbreakable defence! And breathtaking scoring! Have you seen Raimon play? They're still middle schoolers, but their skills are the real deal! I can feel it...it's coming! ...No, it's not. It awakens from its slumber... ...I don't see any difference. Listen, lad. Have you seen the great Kraken?! Why, I have! And it was absolutely gigantic!
Th-there it is! What's it doing there? Catch it, hurry!
What the hell?! Kraaar... No way! It's gotten ginormous! It's gonna drag us into the sea! Relax, that's no Kraken. Wha? Well, what is it then?
Since it's come to this, I'll finish you myself! Initiating transformation to my final form! We're gonna uncover its secret! Let's go, guys! You sure about this? We won't get cursed, will we? The Kraken, for real? I'd rather not deal with it...
Argh, you got me! —Huh, a malfunction?
I'll report this to the student council! Uh, is it broken?
I ain't holding back, got it? Uh, is it broken?
Scram! Back to the sea! Uh, is it broken?
What the hell? Is it...dead? ... This is—?! No heckin' way! ... We discovered the Kraken's true identity. We didn't know at the time, but this was a discovery that would greatly impact the football club.
Okay, let's go in. It's not haunted...is it? Gonna run home cryin' to momma? Football awaits...beyond this door... —Our path to football! Well look who's bein' a drama queen.
Now then... Let's discuss our plan to recruit more members. I, Alix La Fontaine, hereby order the immediate dissolution of this so-called football club. ...So, what does Mr. Reckless want from me? Us starting from nothing means that the only way left to go—is up! Just watch this later. I promise you won't be disappointed! I'm waiting, Destin Billows...for you to reach me...
"Have you ever truly tried to confront your circumstances head-on?"*