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Smiles To The World! Hello, Happy Union!
- Chapter 1
- Chapter 2
- Chapter 3
- Chapter 4
- Chapter 5
- Chapter 6
- Chapter 7
- Chapter 8
- Chapter 9
- Chapter 10
- Chapter 11
- Chapter 12
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 14
- Chapter 15
- Chapter 16
- Chapter 17
- Chapter 18
- Chapter 19
- Chapter 20
- Kokoro
Hmm-hm-hmm~♪ What to do~, what to do~♪ What do I do today~?
- Kokoro
Ah! You there! What do you think I should do?
- Student 1
E-excuse me...?
- Kokoro
Not excused! I need ideas for fun stuff to do! I mean what else am I gonna do with my time?
- Student 1
Wh-what... I don't...
- Student 2
Don't worry, Tsurumaki-san's always like this. Quizzing people looking for "fun stuff to do."
- Kokoro
Time's up! No answer, huh? Oh well. I'll just try asking someone else. Thanks anyway!
- Kokoro
... Ah! Of course! I know exactly where to go! Gotta run, gotta run!
- Student 1
She just ran off... Odd girl... I wonder what she's doing this for...
- Student 2
Who knows? I doubt anyone really understands what goes on in her head...
- Kokoro
La~♪ Lalala~♪ Lalalala~♪
- Passerby 1
...?! Is that girl just singing to herself...?
- Kokoro
La~♪ ... Hmm. This isn't fun. Something's missing. I'm not putting smiles on people's faces yet.
- Passerby 2
I'm pretty sure she's not a street performer... Ah! Are you okay?
- ???
I-I'm sorry... I think I'm lost... I-I heard there's a music store near here...
- Passerby 1
Oh, yeah. It's just over—?!
- Kokoro
Fufufu... You are just what I've been looking for!!
- ???
Wh-what?! I... Ah... That uniform... Hanasakigawa...?
- Kokoro
Hanasakigawa Girls' Academy 1st Year, Kokoro Tsurumaki! How about you? Is that an instrument you're carrying? You're looking for a music store, right?
- Kanon
1st year... Ah... I-I'm Kanon Matsubara... Th-this is a musical instrument, yes...
- Kokoro
I knew it! Nice to meet you, Kanon! I'm out here singing today, y'know. Come join me for a jam!
- Kanon
Me...? Ah... P-please, let go... I'm actually... on my way to sell this snare...
- Kokoro
Sell it? Why? If you sell it, you won't be able to jam with me, will you?
- Kanon
Th-that's not... I wasn't... I-I have to go, now...
- Kokoro
Aww, come on! You wanna put smiles on everyone's faces too, don't you?
- Kanon
I-I don't even understand what you mean...!
- Misaki
Strange. I'm sure this is the right time. The job listing did look pretty suspicious... Maybe I should just call it off...?
- Misaki
Huh. It's the manager calling. Hello, Misaki Okusawa speaking.
- Manager
"Hey, you're one of the applicants, right? Look, I'm really sorry but I'm running a little late. Do you think you could wait another 5 minutes?"
- Misaki
Sure, but... Do you think you could tell me more about this job? There weren't any details at all on the site...
- Manager
"Oh, sure! So, it'll be really warm in winter, but you'll probably melt a little in summer. Ah - don't worry, there's nothing suspicious about the job! Honest!"
- Misaki
I'll... melt...? What...?
- Crazed Fan 1
Kya~~!! Kaoru-sama! Please, shake my hand!
- Kaoru
Fufu. Of course, little kitten... I just worry I might harm your beautiful, delicate skin with even my slender touch... Be careful, okay...?
- Crazed Fan 2
... Ahh...
- Crazed Fan 3
Uh-oh, we have another fainter...
- Kaoru
Oh! Curse this wicked beauty of mine! As the great bard himself did ponder, should this be the fate of man? Is our very humanity a blessing, or is it in fact a curse...?
- Misaki
What the hell...? ... And what's going on over there?!
- Kokoro
La~lalalala~♪ Come on Kanon! Go wild on the drums, let's make this a real show!
- Kanon
Ahh~, I can't do this any more~...
- Misaki
Ah... Kokoro Tsurumaki...
- Misaki
(The famed free-spirit of Hanasakigawa. We've been classmates for some time now, but it still blows my mind that she does this kind of thing in public...)
- Misaki
There must be something in the air today...
- Kokoro
What's the matter Kanon? Are you nervous? We're putting on a show out here!
- Kanon
O-of course I'm... I'm nervous... I can't even play that well at home... L-let alone in front of... a-all these people...!
- Kokoro
What...? First of all, of course you can't play that well by yourself.
- Kokoro
You're not the one who decides if you're any good. You've gotta let others hear you! They're the ones who'll decide!
- Kanon
B-but... Th-that's actually... I-I don't have the courage to...
- Kokoro
Courage? I've got plenty! Take some of mine!
- Kanon
...!!
- Kokoro
I'm having so much fun singing out here! But I bet it'll be a million times more fun with your drum performance backing me up!
- Kokoro
And maybe, just maybe, you'll enjoy yourself too! And when you're smiling bright like me, you won't even care if you're playing well or not!
- Kanon
If... If I just smile...
- Kokoro
Exactly! There's no point if it's not fun! And that's why I need you, Kanon! Come on, come on!
- Manager
Hi there, Okusawa-san? Are you here for the job position?
- Misaki
Oh, yes, that's me. Nice to meet you.
- Kanon
Th-this is still... really very embarrassing...
- Kokoro
Okay! Sounds like you need more of my courage! Go go courage! Fly on over to Kanon~!
- Misaki
(Wh-what is that girl doing...?)
- Kokoro
How's that for a blast of courage? Don't worry Kanon, I've got your back! Here we go! Lalala~♪
- Kanon
Ahh...!
- Misaki
(Wow. I could never do that. "Let's jam, let's rock out." It makes me cringe just thinking about it...)
- Passerby
Is this a street band? Just a singer and a drummer? Let's give them a listen.
- Kanon
(Wh-what...? Wh-why are people gathering...?)
- Kokoro
Kanon? You lost the beat there. Once again from the top! And a one, and a two, and...
- Kanon
Ahh... Th-this is... ... Why is this happening to me...?
- Kokoro
Yeah~! That's more like it! Sounding great! Keep it going! Lala~♪ Lala~♪
- Passerby
Woohoo! You go girls!
- Kokoro
Yeah~! Thanks everyone! We're having a great time!
- Manager
Let's head over to where you'll be working, then. What made you sign up for this job, by the way?
- Misaki
Oh, umm... The hours were short, and it didn't seem too difficult. I like to pace myself in life, really.
- Manager
Pace yourself, huh? I guess high school kids are more grown up these days.
- Kokoro
One two, one two! Ready, Kanon! Give it all you've got! And... jump!!
- Kanon
Hya~!
- Misaki
Well... Maybe not all of us.
- Manager
Haha, I guess not. They seem pretty energetic, huh?
- Misaki
(Kokoro Tsurumaki... I always knew she was a character, but this is something else. I should probably try to keep out of her way...)
- Kokoro
That was so much fun! All thanks to your amazing drumming, Kanon!
- Kanon
Ah... I...
- Kanon
(I thought I could never do it, but... ... that actually... might have been fun...)
- Kokoro
It's decided, then! Me and you, we're gonna form a band!
- Kanon
What?!
- Manager
So you'll just walk from that spot there, to this spot around here, handing out tissues to passers by. Simple, right?
- Misaki
Yeah, that sounds easy enough.
- Misaki
(Phew... Not suspicious after all. ... Huh?)
- Hagumi
Grr~! Akari~! Where are you~?! ... Ah! Wah~! I'm sorry! I nearly walked right into you!
- Misaki
Oh, don't worry about it.
- Hagumi
Phew! I won't then. Oh, hey! You see that butcher's on the corner, there? Kitazawa Meats, famed for its croquettes! Just perfect as a souvenir!
- Misaki
Huh? Sorry, I... I'm actually training for a job right now, so...
- Hagumi
Really? Well swing by once you're done, then! Oh by the way, if you see any girls about this tall, wearing a uniform, you come let me know, okay? See ya!
- Manager
You can always count on Hagumi to bring some energy to this street!
- Misaki
That's... the girl from the butcher's there, is it...? Sorry, I don't usually come here often...
- Manager
Well, that's all about to change! Because from tomorrow, you're gonna be the new ray of sunshine in this town!
- Misaki
(... Huh?)
- Manager
That's it, just like that! Just keep walking! You're adorable!
- Michelle
Ahh... Whew...
- Michelle
(What is this thing...? So cramped... So heavy...!)
- Kanon
Me... and Tsurumaki-san... in a band...?
- Kokoro
Call me Kokoro! I've been calling you Kanon all day, right?
- Kanon
K-Kokoro... chan...
- Kokoro
(Sh-she's a year below me... But she seems so much more... Sure of herself...)
- Kanon
Umm... A-are there any other members in this band?
- Kokoro
What if there were?
- Kanon
What if...? I-I'm just... a little shy, and... I'm not very good at... doing things with others... E-especially not... in front of big crowds, so...
- Kokoro
Oh, well then. In that case... No more band members!
- Kanon
...... What?
- Kokoro
We'll go it alone, just the two of us!
- Kanon
Wh-what?! B-but... I'm not sure you can call it a band... i-if it's just a singer and a drummer...
- Kokoro
Really? Well who decided that? Is it against the rules or something?
- Kanon
It... probably is, against... some kind of rule...? I-I mean, a band needs a guitarist, a bassist... Other people to help with the melody and rhythm...!
- Kokoro
Guitar... bass... melody... rhythm... Yeah... You're totally right! We need to add more volume our sound!
- Kokoro
Thanks, Kanon! Wow, you know so much about being in a band! I'm gonna go get more members!
- Kanon
That's probably a good idea. I don't think it's really for me though, so...
- Kokoro
What are you talking about? You're coming with me. You're my drummer, remember?
- Kanon
... What?! But... I keep telling you, I can't... I... I... Ahh~!
- Kokoro
Mmm~! With the two of us, Kanon, we're gonna find the best new band members in town! This is gonna be so much fun!
- Kanon
(I... I think I've been caught up in something... a little bit crazy...)
- Kanon
(What a whirlwind that was yesterday. We didn't manage to find any more members, either...)
- Kanon's Classmate
Kanon~. Let's get lunch. Today's menu's supposed to be amazing~.
- Kanon
Okay... Ah!
- Kokoro
Hey, you there! Do you wanna put smiles on everyone's-
- Student
Ah, s-sorry, Tsurumaki-san. I'm just going to get lunch, so...
- Kanon's Classmate
There she is. Kokoro Tsurumaki. I heard she just barges into the smarter classrooms without shame, but it looks like the rumors were true.
- Kanon
(Put smiles on everyone's faces... She said the same thing to me before...)
- Kanon
Does... everyone know her...?
- Kanon's Classmate 2
Pretty much everyone, yeah. Anyway, are you guys gonna go to that show the drama club's putting on?
- Kanon's Classmate 1
Of course I am~! It's a huge event, I'd never miss it! Especially since you-know-who will be there...
- Kokoro
Ah! Kanon! You're a sophomore, huh!
- Kanon's Classmates
You know her?!
- Kokoro
This is perfect! We're gonna have the best lunch together, Kanon. I want you to tell me all about being in a band.
- Kanon
Ah... B-but... I...
- Kanon
(Oh no... Kokoro-chan just dragged me off to have lunch with her, but... I hope my friends aren't mad I just left them there...)
- Kokoro
The guitarist is like, the main star of the band, right?! At least, that's what I read in this book yesterday. That's why we'll need someone who really stands out!
- Kanon
S-someone who... stands out...?
- Kokoro
Exactly. Someone who really draws all the attention to them. Someone famous. Someone to be the face of the band! Know anyone, Kanon?
- Kanon
U-umm...
- Student
The drama show's finally here~! Did you see Kaoru on this poster, here? She looks so, so cool~. Like an actual, real-life prince!
- Student
They're putting it on at her school's gym, right? I doubt we'll even be able to get in, with all of her fans there... I'm gonna run right over as soon as class is finished!
- Kokoro & Kanon
Kaoru... Seta...
- Kanon
This drama show... My friends were talking about it earlier, too... It's supposed to be a big event, happening after school today...
- Kokoro
Hmm. This is good, this is very good! Kanon, I've made a decision. We're going to get the Kaoru Seta to be our guitarist!
- Kanon
Fue~?! B-but... Have you ever met her before...?
- Kokoro
No, but I will today! You remember how much fun we had playing together, right? I bet Kaoru will wanna join in on that fun, too!
- Kanon
Is... is that enough of a reason?
- Kokoro
What other reason is there? Come on, we're gonna go to this drama show straight after school!
- Kanon
(Ahh~~...)
- Kaoru
Blow, winds, and crack your cheeks! Rage! Blow!
- Kanon
(W-wow... Sh-she really is like a prince up there...)
- Student
Kaoru-sama...! ... Ahh~...
- Kokoro
Did you see that, Kanon?! Kaoru's making all these people faint just through her amazing charisma alone! It's got to be her!
- Kokoro
And here we are! I'm Kokoro Tsurumaki, from Hanasakigawa! Can anyone tell me where the drama club is?
- Student
S-sure...
- Kanon
K-Kokoro-chan, the show only just ended... Maybe we should come back another time...?
- Kokoro
Ah! There she is! I think she's about to leave! Hey~! Stop right there~!!
- Kanon
Ahh...
- Kaoru
... Oh? You delightful little challenger, you. Do you wish to speak with me, perchance?
- Kanon
(Sh-she's even more incredible in person! She... she is a girl, just like me, right...?)
- Kokoro
I watched your show! It was amazing! You're still like a prince off-stage too, huh!
- Kaoru
Fufu. I'm not "like" anything. I am a prince. All the world's a stage, and we are merely-
- Kokoro
Hey, can you play the guitar?
- Kaoru
... I did once play a guitarist on the stage. I'm sure I can still perform somewhat... As the purpose of playing is to hold the mirror up to-
- Kokoro
Perfect! It's decided, then! I want you to come join my new band!
- Kanon
(K-Kokoro-chan isn't listening to a word Kaoru-san is saying...! There's no way she's going to accept...)
- Kaoru
... Fufu. This corridor is no place to stand and talk. Let's all go outside and discuss this matter further. Follow me.
- Kaoru
As the great bard once said, actions speak louder than words... I have been approached by many a scout in my time, but you, my princess... Fufu. You are a strong one.
- Kokoro
Yeah? Being in a band is really fun, you know! You get to play along to all kinds of songs, do all kinds of things. Kinda like acting, right?
- Kokoro
If you join the band, you'll get to play all kinds of different parts! You can decide it all yourself, too! Isn't that so exciting?!
- Kaoru
... I see. This may well be just what I need...
- Kaoru
And you, too, must surely need your very own prince, someone to watch over you and help you bring joy to the world... Yes. I shall join your band.
- Kanon
(Huh? ... What?! Did that really just work?!)
- Kokoro
Thank you! This is just perfect!
- Kaoru
Then if you will, allow me to celebrate our fateful meeting by reading a few verses about this world in which we live.
- Kokoro
I'm gonna start thinking of all the great things we can do in this new band of ours!
- Kanon
(They're not listening to each other, yet somehow Kaoru-san was convinced to join the band...! Wh-what is going on with these two...?)
- Kokoro
What do you wanna do, Kanon? This is the first step of our new band, we need to celebrate with something big.
- Kanon
H-hold on a minute, we haven't finished yet. We still need to find a bassist to join the band~.
- Kaoru & Kokoro
Oh? Really? Huh? We do?
- Kaoru
... This cannot be... How could I have been so blind...?
- Kokoro
So a band needs a bassist too, huh! Thanks, Kanon! I dunno what this band would do without you, you're a lifesaver!
- Kanon
Th-that's not... I-I'm just glad you understand...
- Kanon
(I-I think it's just common knowledge, but still... it is nice to be told that you helped someone out...)
- Kokoro
Okay then, let's get searching for a bassist. I think I have an idea already, but I'm gonna need your guys' help!
- Misaki
Ahh... Whew... So... heavy...! Day one... and already... too much... Now I know... why this pays so well...!
- Manager
Hello, everyone! Our delightful little shopping street now has its very own mascot! Please welcome the lovable pink bear, Michelle!
- Michelle
(... N-no, please don't... Stay away~... Just take the flyers quietly and go...)
- Passing Kids
Yay~! Michelle, Michelle~! I wanna hug Michelle~!
- Misaki
Ugh! Oof! Th-this was not in the job description...! ... Huh? Is that Kokoro Tsurumaki...?
- Kokoro
It took a while to get things together, but it's finally here! Our new band recruitment poster, featuring guitarist Kaoru Seta!
- Kaoru
It was no easy decision, featuring a close up of me like this. Every photo we took was just so exquisite, it took me three days without sleep just to choose one...
- Kokoro
They said we couldn't hand them out at school for some reason, so we'll just have to start here instead!
- Kaoru
I imagine my darling little lambs will be arriving in their droves soon enough...
- Kanon
(A poster with almost nothing but the face of a girl from another school... I'm not surprised we weren't allowed to hand them out at Hanasakigawa...)
- Kokoro
Calling all bassists, calling all bassists~~!! Come and enjoy a new band life with us~!
- Kaoru
Come to me, my little kittens. I love each and every one of you, equally...
- Passing Kid
Mommy, what are they doing?
- Passerby
Shh, don't look at them, darling. Come on, let's go and see the bear!
- Kanon, Kokoro & Kaoru
......
- Kanon
E-everyone is walking straight past us...
- Kokoro
Weird. Are we doing something wrong?
- Kaoru
I was afraid this might happen... I must apologize, my princesses...! It is difficult for these people to approach my radiant beauty...
- Kokoro
Hmm...? So, then... We need someone who can...
- Kanon
... Draw a crowd...?
- Akari
Michelle! Shake my hand please!
- Michelle
......
- Kokoro
......
- Michelle
......!
- Misaki
... Uh-oh. This can't be good. Kokoro Tsurumaki is staring right at me... I... should probably run...
- Kokoro
Michelle!! Can you hand out these posters for us?!
- Manager
Huh? Excuse me, this mascot belong to the stores here, you can't just- ......?!
- The Suits
Hello, there. We're from the advertising regulations department for this shopping district. Will you come with us, please?
- Michelle
(Wait... what...?)
- Kokoro
Here you go! We printed a whole bunch of them! We'll be doing our best over there, too. Good luck!
- Michelle
(I'm supposed to be working here...! ... Wait, where'd the boss go?!)
- Passing Kids
Michelle! What are these posters~? Can I have one? Please~!
- Kokoro
Fufu! A grand success!
- Hagumi
Ahh~! There you are Akari, you little slacker! Go on, get back to practice- A bear!!
- Akari
Ack! Captain Hagumi!
- Michelle
(... The croquette girl from before...?)
- Hagumi
A bear! An actual bear! Woohoo~! Isn't it just adorable, Akari? What's your name?
- Kokoro
She's Michelle! She's helping us find members for our new band!
- Michelle
(Wait wait wait, hold on a minute! I'm not helping anyone do anything. I'm just trying to get my job done...!)
- Hagumi
I've never seen a band with a bear before!
- Michelle
(You still haven't! I'm not in the band!)
- Kokoro
Hmm? She's shaking her head... Are you trying to say you wanna join us? Okay, you're in! You can be our band bear!
- Michelle
(No, no no no~! What is a "band bear", anyway?!)
- Kaoru
Fufufu. How excitable, how adorable. Shall I compare thee to a summer's day...
- Michelle
(They... can't hear me at all, can they...?)
- Hagumi
Hmm? Wait... you're that Kokoro-chan from 1C, right? I'm Hagumi Kitazawa, 1A. We go to the same school.
- Kokoro
Huh...? Oh yeah, now that you mention it, I think I've seen you before! You go to Hanasakigawa, huh. This is perfect! Ever thought about joining a band?
- Hagumi
A band...? Well, my brother's in a band! I have been kinda interested myself, too. But what does a band even do?
- Akari
I guess... they play music? Don't you know anything other than softball and other sports, Hagumi-chan?
- Hagumi
O-of course I do! Uuu~~~... It's just with a band, I don't know the rules, or how to beat other bands or anything like that…
- Kokoro
There's no rules and we don't need to compete! All we need to do is have fun and enjoy ourselves! The rest we can just decide as we go along!
- Hagumi
No rules... no competition... ... Just have fun... and enjoy...?
- Hagumi
... Count me in!! I wanna join the band!!
- Kokoro
Thank you, Hagumi!!!
- Kanon
U-umm... Can you play bass, Hagumi-san...? It's just... we only need a bassist right now...
- Hagumi
Wait, I need to play bass? That's... the one with less strings, right?
- Hagumi
My brother taught me a little guitar before, so I mean, less strings must be easier, right? Nothing a little dedication won't solve!
- Kanon
I-it's not just about string counts...
- Kokoro
Perfect! If you say you wanna join, then that's all I need to hear!
- Kaoru
It appears we have our five members, then... Perhaps I could take these remaining posters for my adoring fans?
- Kanon
W-we really did fill all the positions very quickly, Kokoro-chan...
- Kokoro
Fufu. Of course we did! All I ever wanna do is have fun! It's all anyone really wants, isn't it?
- Kanon
I-I mean... I guess so...?
- Michelle
(Actually, I don't... At least, not with Kokoro Tsurumaki... That's not any kind of fun I need...!)
- Misaki's Classmate
Good morning, Misaki~. How was work yesterday?
- Misaki
Oh, morning~. Yeah, it was... too much, actually. I quit.
- Kokoro
Hmm-hmm~♪ New band, new band~♪
- Misaki
(I just need to forget about that costume... ... Although...)
- Michelle
(Wait wait wait! I'm not in the band!)
- Kokoro
You can be our band bear!
- Misaki
(I guess I'm technically still part of Kokoro Tsurumaki's band... I should just tell her not to involve me in her crazy business.)
- Kokoro
Hmm-hmm♪ Ah! Of course! I know what we can do! Gotta run~~!!
- Misaki
Umm, Tsurumaki-san... ... Huh? She left? W-wait, come back...!
- Hanasakigawa Girls' Academy - School Gate
Kokoro
- Misaki
Ahh... Phew... Jumped down five flights of stairs, skipped across the grounds, and... climbed onto the school gate...?!
- Hanasakigawa Teacher
Oi! Tsurumaki-san! Get down from there~!
- Kokoro
Ah! I almost forgot! I need to go see Kanon! Let's go~!
- Misaki
... Did she just backflip off the gate...? ... Is she even human...? Ah! Wait, stop...!
- Misaki
Whew... I'm beat...
- Misaki
(I spent the whole day chasing her... but I never even got close... She's a ninja, this girl...)
- Kanon
K-Kokoro-chan... I found Hagumi-san...
- Hagumi
Sorry I'm late! I had to stay back for softball practice. I am captain of the team, after all. So? Are we gonna start doing band things now, or what?!
- Kokoro
Not yet. I want us to have a strategy meeting before we start doing band things.
- Hagumi
A strategy meeting? I thought we weren't doing any competing?
- Kokoro
We're not. It just sounds kinda cool, doesn't it? We can talk about all the fun things we're gonna do.
- Misaki
(......! Perfect! It should be easier to explain myself with everyone there...!)
- Kokoro
Come on then you two, follow me!
- Misaki
(I promised myself I'd keep away from her nonsense, but... just for today, I'll have to keep on following the crazy Kokoro Tsurumaki.)
- Misaki
What...? What even is this place? Is it a house...? A mansion...? A palace...?
- Kokoro
Kaoru! You came too! Come on, everyone inside!
- Maids & Butlers
Welcome home, Kokoro-sama. We have prepared a meeting room for you and your friends.
- Kaoru
To think you live in a castle such as this. You truly are a princess, dear Kokoro.
- Hagumi
Whoa~~!! This place is like a theme park or something! Pools, tennis courts... an actual fountain!!
- Kanon
I-it's even bigger than our school...!
- The Suits
Kokoro-sama. I am afraid to inform you that the girl who had been working inside the Michelle costume has quit her job...
- Kokoro
What? You mean you can't find Michelle?!
- Kanon
K-Kokoro-chan... Who are these people, in the black suits...?
- Kokoro
Oh, erm... I dunno, actually. I just know if I need to do something, I can tell it to these people and the very next day it's done.
- Kokoro
Maybe if you guys need something, you should try asking them, too.
- Misaki
(Wh-who has their own team of special agents...?! This whole place reeks of wealth and riches...)
- The Suits
However, Kokoro-sama, we believe the young lady just over there might well be the one inside the costume...
- Misaki
(Ack... I thought I was hidden... They saw me...?!)
- Misaki
Umm... I'm, erm...
- Kokoro
... Oh, really? But... this isn't good. We can't start the meeting without Michelle.
- Misaki
No, no, the suits are right. I am Michelle! It's me inside the Michelle costume. Do you understand...?
- Kokoro
...? Michelle's a bear. You're a girl. ... You don't look anything alike.
- Hagumi
Yeah. Michelle's all pink and fluffy. And she smells really good, too!
- Kaoru
Such a sweet, delicate girl like you shouldn't go around claiming to be so rough and wild as a bear...
- Misaki
(What... is even happening here...? And more importantly... Are they trying to say I smell bad...?)
- Kanon
K-Kokoro-chan! Michelle is just a costume. This is probably the girl inside it...
- Misaki
(......! Phew! At least one of these girls has some sanity!)
- Kokoro
... Costume... girl...? You mean you know Michelle, or something?
- Misaki
No, no no... I don't know her, I am her...
- Kokoro
Okay, now I understand. We can ask Michelle's friend here all about her. Let's get this meeting started!
- Kokoro
Let me start by introducing my big list of things I've thought of! I wanna use it to decide what we'll do with the band!
- Hagumi
Let's see, let's see... "Build a sandcastle"... "Make a crown of flowers"... "Climb a mountain and grab a shooting star"... These are...
- Kaoru
Smell some freshly-washed sheets... "Eat sweets until I burst"... Fufu... This is...
- Hagumi & Kaoru
Incredible!!
- Kanon & Misaki
(... What does this have to do with the band...?!)
- Kokoro
Hehe, isn't it just? With this list, we'll be able to have fun each and every day.
- Kanon
K-Kokoro-chan...! It all sounds very fun, but we'll never make music if we don't play instruments, sing songs and perform...
- Kokoro
Really? Why do we have to make music, anyway?
- Hagumi
Oh, right, yeah! Because that's what bands do, right? They make music... make it, like... make fun out of it, or...? I don't know...
- Kanon
Wh-why do we have to make music...? B-because... because, we're... ... Uuu...
- Misaki
(Ahh... This poor girl. I bet she's always been strung along by these other three... she's not exactly the most courageous...)
- Misaki
Hey. You were out playing the drums outside the station with Kokoro Tsurumaki yesterday, right? How did that turn into all of this?
- Kanon
I... don't actually know, to be honest... I was going to sell my drums to a music shop, but Kokoro-chan stopped me and told me I'm in her band...
- Misaki
Wait, so, you were going to give up drumming altogether, until you were forced into being a drummer for a band? Are you... okay with that?
- Kanon
I... I don't really know that, either... I always wanted to play the drums to make a change within myself, but... I sort of lost my way...
- Kanon
And then Kokoro-chan came and told me she'd share her courage with me, and... told me that she needed me... that I'm her savior in the band...
- Misaki
Sorry, you do make it sound like a nice story, but it sounds to me like she practically abducted you and forced you to join her crazy band.
- Kanon
Y-yeah... I did think that might be the case...!
- Misaki
(Either way, I just have to get out while I can. Maybe I can save this poor girl, too. I bet she'll never be able to leave on her own.)
- Kokoro
Ah! That's it! That's perfect! Our band can make fun out of music! You're a genius, Hagumi!
- Hagumi
Really? I'm like, the band genius? Woohoo~~!
- Kaoru
I see... Then we shall begin a new journey, creating fun with the power of sound...
- Kokoro
Yes~! That's perfect, Kaoru!! Okay, on three we'll all start making music! Ready~? ... Three!!
- All
......
- Kokoro
... Wait, how do we actually do it?
- Misaki
You don't even have any instruments! That's gotta be the first step, surely...
- Kokoro
Well! I just wanted to do something fun with the band. We'll never get anything done if we don't have fun first.
- Misaki
Then shouldn't you start by thinking of what it means to have fun?
- Kokoro
I always am, every day, but it doesn't always come to me that easily. Having fun is harder than people think, you know.
- Misaki
Sigh... I'm not even going to pretend to understand, but if it's so hard, why do you spend all day thinking about it...?
- Misaki
(There has to be better things for a high school girl to be thinking about. Her future, for one... although with a palace like this, maybe it's not important.)
- Kokoro
I'll tell you exactly why! Because I want to put smiles on people's faces all around the world! That's why I'm making this band!
- Kaoru & Hagumi
Put smiles...
- Misaki & Kanon
On people's faces...?
- Kokoro
Yes. I love people's smiles more than anything else in the world! That's why I want the whole world to be filled with happy, smiling people!
- Misaki
Well, that sounds impossible. There are actual wars and famines out there... I mean, even here in Japan...
- Kokoro
Why do you think it's impossible? Why would it be impossible? Who in the world doesn't want to smile?
- Kokoro
The best part of anyone's day is when they have a smile on their face. There's no way anyone out there doesn't want that for themselves.
- Kokoro
So our band will go all around the world putting smiles on all their faces!
- Misaki
... S-sure.
- Misaki
(Sh-she really believes it... She really believes she can fill the world with smiles. ... She's an idiot. An actual, bonafide idiot.)
- Kaoru
That was incredible, Kokoro... I always thought a person could never play a single role... but as your prince - nay, as a prince of the world, I gladly accept.
- Hagumi
Amazing... I think it's amazing, too...
- Hagumi
Playing softball and all these other sports, I've seen a lot of sadness and crying when people lose a game. It always make me wanna cry, too...
- Hagumi
So yeah! I wanna put some smiles out in the world, too! Let's make some music! With total dedication!!
- Kanon
......
- Misaki
Kanon-san... was it? What do you think?
- Kanon
Ah, j-just Kanon is fine... no "san"... I... I think...
- Kokoro
Okay~! Is everyone ready? Let's fill the world...!!
- Kaoru & Hagumi
With smiles~~!!
- Kanon & Misaki
......
- Kanon
It's not very realistic, but... I suppose, if there's even a chance it could work, then... it would be really nice, I think...
- Misaki
... Oh come on! I came here to tell you all I'm quitting, but this is how it's gonna go, is it?!
- Kanon
Huh? D-did you really...? Do you not want to play in the band with us?
- Misaki
Ah...
- Kanon
Hmm...?
- Misaki
(Oh man, she can't ask me like that... If I quit now, I'll feel like I'm leaving her behind...)
- Kokoro
Come on, you two! Join in! Let's fill the world...!!
- Kanon & Misaki
W-with... smiles...?
- Kokoro
Yes~! That's it!! Michelle's friend, you can take the big bear's place! You're in the band!
- Misaki
... What?
- Misaki
(Oh no... I think I've accidentally joined the band...!)
- Hagumi
Our band is going to fill the world with smiles...!
- Kaoru
Creating happiness... with the power of music...!
- Hagumi, Kokoro & Kaoru
Mmm... But... How?
- Misaki
Uhh, guys? You've been stuck in this loop for an hour now.
- Kanon
But... it is a difficult point, though... How do we do it...?
- Kokoro
Do we just need to sing? Do we just play some instruments? I kinda feel like that won't be enough.
- Hagumi
Ah! I've got it! What if I played guitar while pulling a funny face? That would make people smile, wouldn't it?!
- Kanon
Y-you're on bass, Hagumi-san, not guitar...
- Hagumi
Oh. Am I? And hey, just "Hagumi" is fine, you know.
- Kanon
O-okay... Hagumi... chan...?
- Kaoru
A wonderful idea, truly, but... I am unable to comply. It is impossible for me to make a face that isn't entirely beautiful... a terrible fate.
- Kokoro
Really? That is a terrible fate, huh!
- Kaoru
......?! Kokoro...! You... you darling princess, you. Do you truly understand my terrible fate?!
- Kaoru
I thought I would never meet someone able to understand... We are truly two souls bound together by destiny!
- Kokoro
Oh. Thanks!
- Kokoro
We all have our own reasons for being here, though. Which must mean that there's a reason for the five of us to be together, don't you think?
- Misaki
(... Pretty sure I have no reason to be here...)
- Kaoru, Hagumi & Kanon
... A reason...?
- Kanon
I... I've always just done what people tell me to do, but... do I have a reason for being here, too...? I... just hope I can keep up with everyone...
- Misaki
I really wouldn't think about it too much, Kanon-san. You'll only tire yourself out.
- Kanon
A-are you sure...?
- Hagumi
... I've always been about competition, myself... If it's not proving your strength or refusing to lose, I don't really know any other reasons to do anything...
- Kokoro
Well you've got them, I know you do! Because you're all members of this band!
- Hagumi, Kaoru & Kanon
......!
- Misaki
(No, actually. I'm not.)
- Kaoru
As the great bard once said, "the fated sky, gives us free scope, only doth backward pull..." Yes, it all makes sense now! To perform a great comedy means-
- Kanon
H-hold on a second. I think we're losing focus again~!
- Kokoro
Hmm~... Maybe we should just go up to everyone we meet and say, "come and be happy together with us!" That could work, could it?
- Misaki
You try that every day at school and it always fails.
- Kokoro
Are you sure about that? Because I hear "no thank you, hahaha!" in return all day long.
- Misaki
You know that means it's failing, right? You can see that, right?!
- Kokoro
But I guess since we do have this new band, it would be better to try something different. It's no fun doing the same thing over and over.
- Kokoro
And if we want to make others have fun, we've got to start having fun ourselves, first!
- Hagumi
That makes total sense! I just love the way you think, Kokoro-chan! Hey, can I call you Kokoron?
- Kokoro
Of course! ... I'm just having trouble thinking of what exactly our idea of fun should be.
- Hagumi, Kokoro & Kaoru
Hmm... Bands are tough work~...
- Misaki
Wait, no, hold on. I'm telling you, you don't even have instruments yet.
- Hagumi, Kokoro & Kaoru
... Instruments! Of course, performing!
- Misaki
You finally understand, now?
- Kokoro
I do! Let's get us all some instruments, then...
- The Suits
Kokoro-sama. The guitar, bass guitar and drums are all ready and will be brought here momentarily.
- Misaki
(Fast! Too fast! Who are these people?!)
- Kokoro
Okay, we have our instruments. Let's try performing something. I'm sure we can do it if we just try! And we'll make the whole entire world smile with it, too!
- Hagumi
Don't think, just feel! Actions, not words! I totally get it, Kokoron! We need to think up a chant or something!
- Misaki
What even is this meeting any more...?
- Hagumi
Hey, I know! How about we all chant... "Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!"
- Kokoro
It's perfect! Okay, we'll do our chant then start playing! Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!
- Kanon
Huh...? H-hold on, Kokoro-chan...!
- Kaoru & Hagumi
Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!
- All
......
- Kaoru
... Kokoro, I just had a great realization. What exactly is it we're supposed to play?
- Kokoro
Oh yeah. I guess we haven't decided yet!
- Misaki
Really? You surprise me!
- Kanon
I'm sorry... I wanted to say something, but...
- Hagumi
Huh. A message from Mom. Weird, she never usually... ............
- Misaki
I can't take this any more, these imbeciles. Morons, all three! Come on, Kanon-san. You can't keep getting pushed around like this. Let's go!
- Kanon
Ah... B-but, I...
- Kanon
(I'm not sure if I'll be able to keep up with them, but... I feel like I want to keep watching Kokoro-chan create this crazy storm...)
- Misaki
Kanon-san? Oh, come on... Well I can't go if you don't, can I...?
- Misaki
Sigh. How did it come to this...?
- Kanon
Ahh... phew... M-Misaki-san... Sorry I'm... I'm late... I just came from school, but I got-
- Misaki
Just Misaki is fine. I am younger than you, after all. What were you saying? You got lost coming here?
- Kanon
I-I'm sorry... M-Misaki... chan... I-I'll try to remember... A-and you should... just call me-
- Misaki
You're my senpai, Kanon-san. I think it's important to do these things right, as a matter of courtesy.
- Kanon
S-sure, okay. Either way, I'm sorry. I'm such a klutz, I always get lost when we-
- Misaki
It's fine. You're the one helping me out being here. You're the only person in the band I can actually have a conversation with, after all.
- Kanon
R-really...? Well, I'm glad...
- Misaki
(Although really, if it wasn't for her I wouldn't even be caught up in Kokoro Tsurumaki's crazy band in the first place...)
- Misaki
Anyway! Today we'll just have to bear through it until the three dummies either get bored or tire themselves out.
- Kanon
O-okay...
- Kokoro
We don't have any shows booked!
- Misaki
... This is literally our first time in the studio, you know.
- Kaoru
Before coming here, we visited a few of the local live houses, but were rejected by each and every one of them. I daresay my beauty was just-
- Kokoro
They said it's because we don't have any songs yet. I mean, are songs really that important?
- Misaki
(Wow... The three dummies in full force. ... Wait, where is the other one...?)
- Hagumi
I... I'm sorry... sorry I'm late...! Ahh... Whew... Hah... Ahh...
- Kokoro
You're captain of the softball team, right Hagumi? They must really mean a lot to you. Being late for their sake is nothing to apologize for.
- Misaki
A strangely grown-up thing to say.
- Hagumi
Yeah... but recently, I dunno... ... Ah, never mind that! Come on, let's get banding!
- Misaki
(...? Did something happen with her team?)
- Kokoro
Being in a band is all about rehearsing and performing live! At least, that's what it said in that magazine Hagumi gave me. That's why I wanna get us a show, and fast!
- Kaoru & Hagumi
Yeah~~!!
- Kanon
U-umm, guys...? These live houses need to attract customers to come in and spend money. So, they're only going to let bands of a certain quality play…
- Misaki
... Huh. Or you could just try asking the suits?
- Kokoro
No. This is our band. The live shows, the outfits, everything has to be done by us ourselves!
- Kokoro
Getting a leg-up like that drains a band of its originality, affects its status as a team of artists in a way that's, quite frankly, irreversible!
- Misaki
You don't understand a word you just said, do you? Was this all from that magazine, too?
- Hagumi
Yeah! That's how you make your band stand out from the rest!
- Misaki
(The first real conversation they've had and it's all from a magazine... What have you done here, Hagumi...?)
- Kokoro
That's what I want! I want us to stand out! Then we can definitely have lots and lots of fun!
- Hagumi
Yeah! We'll stand out from the crowd all by ourselves!
- Misaki
Hmm. First things first then, we'll all need to practice hard until we can perform at least four or five different songs together.
- Hagumi
Got it! Nothing but dedication!! Remember when the suit people at Kokoro-chan's house brought me that bass guitar?
- Hagumi
It was the first time I'd ever touched a guitar, but it was so much fun. I've been practicing a lot since then, and I've got a lot of the basics down already.
- Misaki
Yawn... Sorry, I must be tired. I'm gonna get some coffee. You guys can just get started without me.
- Misaki
(... Not that it really matters. I don't even have an instrument to perform here, anyway...)
- Kokoro
... Hmm. Maybe the reason we couldn't book a show was because Michelle isn't here. Maybe we don't have enough originality without her.
- Misaki
(I keep telling you, Michelle is here. It's me. I mean, I did quit that job already, though...)
- Misaki
Yawn... So tired. Huh? No coffee...? ... Whoa! What the...?! Why is there a barista making coffee in the lobby...?!
- The Suits
Okusawa-sama. A fresh brew is currently being prepared. Please wait just a short moment.
- The Suits
We have something for you, if you would be so kind as to accept. It is Michelle. Whenever Kokoro-sama should call for Michelle, we will help you change into the costume.
- Misaki
What?! How did you get this? Isn't it the mascot for that shopping district...?
- The Suits
We have purchased the rights. We are also available, should the band require us, to lend our help as much as is needed.
- The Suits
Regarding live shows, we are in talks to schedule a performance at the largest rock festival in Japan. We would like you to tell Kokoro-sama, as Michelle.
- Kokoro
No. This is our band. The live shows, the outfits, everything has to be done by us ourselves!
- Hagumi
Yeah! We'll stand out from the crowd all by ourselves!
- Misaki
Yeah, I... I'm not sure that's a good idea, actually. I'll look into booking us a live performance myself. Just... help me out with Michelle, for now.
- Misaki
(... What? What am I even saying right now...?)
- Hagumi
......!! It's Michelle! Kokoron, look! Michelle is here!
- Kokoro, Kaoru & Kanon
Wah! Michelle~!!
- Michelle
And so, after a whole week of searching… your very own Misaki Okusawa has booked us our first live house gig!
- Michelle
(I'm so glad those suits managed to change the costume so people can actually hear me speak. It's a huge help...)
- Hagumi, Kokoro & Kaoru
Wow! Well done Michelle~!!
- Kanon
H-how did you do it, Misaki-chan?
- Michelle
Oh, erm... I just kinda asked around all my friends, until one of them told me about this event that even new bands can take part in.
- Michelle
(I still don't know why I'm even doing this... but as long as Kokoro is happy, I can finally talk about leaving...)
- Kanon
Thank you! ... Oh, by the way. What will you be doing during the performance, Misaki-chan?
- Michelle
Huh? I'll be... Erm...
- Hagumi
Michelle is a bear, you know. Can you even play an instrument with those hands?
- Kokoro
Ah! I've got it! You can be our DJ! Setting up records and playing out music! I saw it at a party once. I bet even a bear could do that much!
- Michelle
... A DJ?
- Kokoro
That's right! You're gonna be our DJ, Michelle! I think It's cool when bands have their own DJ. Mmm~, this is getting exciting!
- Kanon
Wh-what do you think, Misaki-chan?
- Michelle
Well... I mean, if I'm just playing CDs... It sounds fun enough.
- Kokoro
Then it's decided! Let's head to the studio and get rehearsing!
- Kaoru & Hagumi
Yeah~~!!
- Michelle
(This is all getting weirder and weirder... Although I am the one who went and booked us a gig, so... I guess I could give it one good try.)
- Kokoro
It's been a week since then already! Let's all show just how far we've come in our practice, shall we? Michelle! Music, please!
- Michelle
Erm... How's this?
- Michelle
Huh. That's... actually...
- Kokoro
Ya~y♪
- Hagumi
Hey! Hi-ya~!
- Kaoru
My words fly up, my thoughts remain below... ... So fleeting...
- Kanon
(I... I have to try harder...!)
- Michelle
It's hard to believe, but... We actually do sound like a band right now...
- Misaki
Yeah, I... I'm not sure that's a good idea, actually. I'll look into booking us a live performance myself. Just... help me out with Michelle, for now.
- Michelle
(Hmm. I guess all that hard work paid off after all.)
- Michelle
(It's clear Hagumi has really been practicing a lot. She really was serious about her dedication...)
- Michelle
(Kaoru...san... She can still be a little wild sometimes, but she's definitely playing the part)
- Michelle
(But most of all... Kanon-san is playing so, so well.)
- Kokoro
Wa-hoo~~♪ Are you feeling pumped, Michelle? Let's go! Ya~y!
- Michelle
(... Yeah. Kokoro's just same as always. Backflipping around the studio.)
- Kokoro
This is perfect! We're ready for the show already!
- Hagumi
Amazing! This band is just the best!
- Kaoru
I never knew music could be so beautiful. A grand new world has opened before me...!
- Michelle
... I mean, this is still just our first song.
- Kokoro
If we've done one already, we can do thousands more!
- Michelle
... You really are positive, huh. That was really good though, to be fair.
- Kanon
Do you really think so, Misaki-chan? W-was I playing okay...?
- Michelle
You should really have more confidence, Kanon-san. Everyone was playing really well. I mean, as far as I can tell. I'm no pro, so...
- Michelle
... It's a good thing you didn't give up the drums, huh.
- Kanon
Ah...?! Y-yeah...
- Hagumi
All right! This band's gonna take its energy all the way to that live house and put on a great show! ... Wait, "this band..."
- Kokoro
This band...? What is it, Hagumi?
- Hagumi
Kokoron. What is this band called, anyway? Did we ever actually choose a name?
- Kanon
I-I don't think we did...
- Michelle
Whew. So hot... I'm burning up inside this costume here.
- Michelle
Ah. So you finally realized, huh. Don't worry, I made sure to put in our application to perform with band name "to be confirmed," so...
- Kokoro
Oh, but we have a band name.
- Michelle
Why didn't you tell us already?!
- Kokoro
We are... Hello, Happy World! Because we'll put smiles on everyone's faces!
- Hagumi & Michelle
Hello...
- Kanon & Kaoru
Happy World...
- Kokoro
If you wanna make someone smile, you've got to approach them with a smile yourself. Like, "hello~!" See?
- Hagumi & Kaoru
It works...!
- Kanon
It's very you, Kokoro-chan... I think I like it...
- Michelle
I mean, it's very literal, if nothing else. Ahh... I can't take this heat any more. I need some coffee... Let me just get this off...
- Misaki
... Hmm?
- Kokoro, Kaoru & Hagumi
Ah... Waaaaaahhhhh~~!!!
- Hagumi
M-Michelle's head turned into a girl's head! Did she always have the head of a human and the body of a bear?!
- Kokoro
No, no! There's a girl inside of her! She's been switched out!
- Kaoru
So then, where is the real Michelle? What kind of magic is this?!
- Kokoro
This is terrible! We have to find the real Michelle, or... ... Hmm?
- Misaki
... Ah. I think she's finally noticed...
- Kokoro
Wait a minute... Do I know you? I feel like I've seen you before, but... I can't quite remember.
- Misaki
We had that strategy meeting just the other day. More importantly, I see you literally every day in class!
- Kanon
K-Kokoro-chan, Michelle is Misaki-chan...!
- Misaki
Kanon-san, don't even bother...
- Kokoro
We can't let anything happen to the real Michelle! We have to go out and find her, quick!
- Hagumi & Kaoru
Okay~! Let's go save Michelle!
- Misaki
... There's just no getting through to those three dummies.
- Hagumi
Waahhh~~!! Amazing. I-it's actually happening! We're about to play live~!
- Kaoru
I shall play as a prince to the whole wide world.
- Kokoro
Michelle really helped us out booking this live house! It's the coolest place ever! Don't you think so, miss?
- Misaki
Yeah. I do. Because I am Michelle!
- Kokoro
Ahh~! I just can't wait to get up onto that stage already! I can't believe we have to wait back in the dressing room!
- Misaki
Michelle told me that the Hello, Happy World! girls really should keep themselves in their dressing room when not onstage.
- Hagumi
Really? Well, if Michelle says so, it must be right!
- Misaki
(They actually said we can do what we want after the dress rehearsal, but the last thing we need is Kokoro set loose on the crowds.)
- Kokoro
I suppose so. I'm sorry, who were you again...?
- Misaki
The costume girl. Standing in for Michelle.
- Kokoro
Oh, I see. I didn't know we had one of those! Okay everyone, let's head in!
- Misaki
Now I'm down to just "one of those", huh...
- Performer 1
Hey, this isn't the right set list!
- Performer 2
What do you mean, a guitar string broke?!
- Performer 3
What are you doing?! Just 30 minutes left!
- All
......
- Kanon
I... I hope my drums are... okay...
- Hagumi
And my bass strings... Wait a minute, we're about to go on and Michelle isn't here yet. Where is she? I-is she okay?
- Misaki
She's okay. Because she's me, and I'm here. Plus we still have two hours before the show.
- Hagumi
Hey, Michelle's friend. Michelle is going to be here on time, right?
- Kanon
Th-there are... so many people out there...
- Misaki
(These two are a couple of real worriers, huh. Although... mmm. I guess I'm a little nervous, too...)
- Kaoru
If you are all feeling nervous, how about you join me in my little pre-performance ritual?
- Hagumi & Kanon
R-ritual...?
- Kaoru
Ritual indeed. First, open your nostrils out wide. Then bow your legs, arch yourself backwards, take a deep breath, and...
- Misaki
Stop stop stop stop sto~p! Definitely do not ever do that in public! You've got to be more careful than that, Kaoru-san!
- Misaki
... I know why you're all nervous! It's because Michelle isn't here, right? I was gonna wait until closer to the show, but I guess I'll go and get changed. Excuse me!
- The Suits
... Yes, Okusawa-sama. This way.
- Michelle
H-hey everyone~. Sorry to keep you waiting~. Michelle is here~. Ch-cheer up now, Hagumi-chan~♪
- Hagumi
M-Michelle...!
- Kokoro
You're here! We're all here! Hello, Happy World!
- Michelle
(We always were all here...)
- Performer 1
Is that a bear costume? Hahaha!
- Hagumi
Thanks for coming! We could never get things started without you. Hey, can I give you a hug?
- Michelle
O-of course, Hagumi-chan! Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!
- Hagumi
Ya~y! Hug time, hug time! Fluffy! Fluffy! Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!! Yeah... I feel much better already!
- Performers
What is that? Some kind of comedy skit?
- Michelle
(Everyone's laughing at me, but... I think I feel less nervous inside here, too. All thanks to this costume.)
- Kokoro
Okay everyone, let's go! Hello, Happy World! First live show! Are you ready...?!
- All
Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!
- Michelle
(Playing live already. I never thought I'd ever be performing at a live house...)
- Kokoro
How is everyone today~? We are Hello, Happy World! Are you all ready to smile? Here we go!
- Michelle
Ah! Uh-oh, Kokoro...
- Audience Member
Whoa, did she really just stage dive?! I'm pretty sure that's banned, isn't it?!
- Michelle
Kokoro, you dummy! Get back here! We're not supposed to leave the stage!
- Kokoro
Huh? Is that true, Michelle? Oh well, okay. Back we go!
- Michelle
Waahhh!
- Audience Member
Hahaha, did you see the bear? She just got wiped out by the singer!
- Kokoro
~~~♪
- Kaoru
Come, my little kittens. Enjoy the sound of my guitar.
- Hagumi
Dedication, dedication~!
- Kanon
Ahh...!
- Audience Member
Haha. You know, I think I like these guys. Something about them just makes me smile.
- Michelle
(... What...? It's just like Kokoro said... Everyone really is smiling...)
- Kokoro
That was better than I'd ever imagined! Music really can make the whole world smile! There's no doubt about it!!
- Misaki
Calm down, Kokoro. We're all a little tired after the show.
- Hagumi
It was amazing! it was like some kinda magic! It was just like you always said, Kokoron! They were all smiling out there, each and every one!
- Kaoru
In theatre and in music... though the stage may differ, to feel appreciation from an audience is bliss...
- Kanon
I... I was really nervous... in front of all those people, but... seeing the smiles on their faces made me feel happy. I... I enjoyed it.
- Misaki
(I guess I didn't exactly hate it, but... I'm not exactly sure we'll affect the whole world yet.)
- Kokoro
Our first strategy meeting since the first show! The topic for today is, of course...! ...... Ah?!
- Hagumi
S-sorry I'm late~~!
- Kanon
Hello... captain. Another... busy day, huh... Did you have practice...?
- Hagumi
Y-yeah... The team's doing real well, it's just... with the hospital, and... Anyway, it's all good! Come on, let's get banding!
- Misaki
(The hospital? Did someone injure themselves?)
- Kokoro
Okay. Now that Hagumi's here, we can move on to our topic of the day, which is... Tada! Doing more shows in all kinds of different places!
- Kaoru & Hagumi
Yeah~!
- Misaki
Hold on! Do you have any idea how hard it was for me to find the last show we did?
- Kanon
Th-there aren't many live houses who allow newly-formed bands...! Because they don't bring any fans to the show...
- Kokoro
How do you know we won't bring any fans? We might, you know. And anyway, it was Michelle who found us our first show.
- Hagumi & Kaoru
Yep, yep.
- Misaki
It's almost awe-inspiring just how incredibly dim you three are...
- Kanon
Could we please try to remember that Misaki-chan is Michelle...? For her sake...
- Misaki
Ugh. Here's the truth of it. If bands don't bring customers to the live houses, they'll go out of business.
- Misaki
And if the live houses go out of business, then there'll be no places left for other bands to play. That's why a band needs to get some fans first.
- Hagumi, Kokoro & Kaoru
......
- Misaki
Sigh. Do you understand, now? You three buffoons.
- Kanon
That was a little cold, but... it was the truth...
- Kokoro
Yeah... Yeah! I really, rea~lly understand.
- Misaki
Good, okay. Good. Then I guess this is a good time for me to leav-
- Kokoro
We can't just sit around waiting for fans to come. Let's go out there and find them ourselves!
- Misaki
... What?! H-how did you get to-
- Kokoro
I'm going to start looking for places other than live houses where we can perform. You'll all help me too, yes?
- Misaki
Huh? You mean, we can't play at live houses yet, so we start street performing and stuff...? That kinda route?
- Kanon
I... I see... That is actually a valid option, come to think of it...
- Kaoru
We can make more posters of me, if you like.
- Hagumi
We're all agreed then! Great! Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!
- Misaki
Yeah, actually, I was trying to say that I'll be leav-
- Kokoro, Kaoru & Kanon
Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!
- Kokoro
Okay, guys. Let's get out there and make the whole world smile!
- Misaki
... A-am I going to be stuck here forever...?
- Kokoro
Hello, everyone! We are Hello, Happy World! Come and smile along with us~~!!
- Kids
Ah! Kokoro-chan! It's Kokoro-chan~!! We love you, Kokoro-chan~~!!
- Michelle
How? How do these kids know her already?!
- Hagumi
Hey, all you shoppers out there! I went and joined a band, y'know~!
- Tomoe
Wow. They have their own DJ. Interesting.
- People
Hagumi-chan~~!!
- Kasumi
I hope we get to perform with them some day~!
- Michelle
Seeking new fans on Hagumi's home ground... Amazing...!
- Kaoru
Come, my little kittens. Allow me to introduce my new band. We are... Hello, Happy World!
- Audience Member
Kyaaaa~! Kaoru-sama... playing the guitar...?! Where?! When?! I wanna see every last show! So... so beautiful... Ahh~...
- Michelle
Kaoru-san's power is just incredible...!
- Kokoro
Look at this, Michelle! You should tell that friend of yours not to worry so much. We've almost got the whole world smiling already!
- Michelle
(Wow. I mean... she really might have a point, actually.)
- Kokoro
Okay, everyone! Let's all sing together! ~~~♪
- Michelle
(... Still, though. I don't think the whole world is quite as kind as you think it might be, Kokoro...)
- A Few Days Later
Hazawa Coffee
- Kanon
And however many times I try to explain that Misaki-chan is Michelle, Kokoro-chan and the others just never seem to get it. It's sad, but quite funny, too...
- Kanon
... Ah, I-I'm sorry... I've just been talking and talking! Have you got an appointment to go to, Chisato-chan?!
- Chisato
No, no. I was just thinking how much you've changed, Kanon. You always used to sit and listen to me talk... I've never heard you speak up like this. I love it.
- Kanon
I... I've changed...?
- Chisato
... You have.
- Kanon
Hehehe... Really? It must all be thanks to the band, I suppose...! Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!
- Chisato
... Happy... Lucky...?
- Kanon
It's our band chant. Do you want to try it with me? Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!
- Chisato
... I think I'm fine, actually.
- Kanon
Happy! Lucky! Smile! Hooray!!
- Kokoro
Wonderful, Kanon! You're really getting used to this, aren't you.
- Michelle
(We've played parks, shopping districts, special events for Kaoru's fans only... and now...)
- Michelle
We've finally gotten an offer from a live house.
- Kanon
Ah? Have we really, Misaki-chan?!
- Kokoro
Didn't I tell you?
- Kaoru
You certainly did, Kokoro.
- Michelle
Well every guerilla show we put on drew pretty big crowds. I guess word started to spread.
- Kanon
If the fans won't come to us, we'll go to them... That really was great thinking, Kokoro-chan.
- Michelle
I really don't think much thinking went into it. I'm also not sure it reflects very well on us, honestly...
- Kokoro
Hagumi must be at softball practice, I suppose? Shame. I think this is the first time we've even had Michelle with us ready from the start.
- Michelle
What exactly do you think I am? A bear? You must think I'm an actual, real bear...
- Hagumi
Hey everyone... I'm... sorry I'm late again...
- Michelle
Hmm...?
- Kaoru
Whatever is the matter, Hagumi? This dark aura doesn't suit you at all.
- Kokoro
Maybe we could try turning up the studio lights?
- Hagumi
Umm... Yeah...
- Hagumi
There's this girl on the softball team, you all met her downtown the other day, Akari... She got into a car accident and injured her leg.
- Kanon
Akari-chan...? Sh-shouldn't you be at the hospital...?
- Hagumi
People in the shopping district called an ambulance, they took her right there and she went into surgery... but...
- Hagumi
Huh. A message from Mom. Weird, she never usually... ............
- Hagumi
I... I'm sorry... sorry I'm late...! Ahh... Whew... Hah... Ahh...
- Hagumi
Y-yeah... The team's doing real well, it's just... with the hospital, and... Anyway, it's all good! Come on, let's get banding!
- Michelle
Ah... That text message you got before... Always running late for practice... Was it all to do with this girl...?
- Hagumi
Yeah...
- Michelle
So... then, wait... did the surgery not... I mean, did her injury get... worse, or...?
- Hagumi
No, the surgery went really well! The doctor said she'll heal up with no scars, no nothing, all back to normal.
- Michelle
Oh... right. You really had me scared there. So that means there's no problem, right?
- Hagumi
Actually, there is. No matter how many times I ask her, she just won't get up out of her wheelchair!
- Kanon
S-surgery must have been very scary for her. I bet she's worried it'll still hurt...
- Michelle
It might be best to just leave her be for a while, you know.
- Kokoro
......
- Hagumi
That's not an option!
- Hagumi
Th-the doctor says... if she doesn't start walking again soon, her legs will freeze up and she might not ever walk again!
- Kaoru, Kanon & Misaki
......!!!
- Hagumi
And I just... I don't know what to do...
- Kokoro
Well the answer's obvious.
- Hagumi
Huh...?
- Kokoro
Hagumi, everyone. Practice is over! Pack up your instruments and get ready to go!
- Kaoru
And what about the offer from the live house?
- Kokoro
Hello, Happy World! is all about making the whole world smile, right?
- Kokoro
How can we perform any shows when our own Hagumi isn't smiling herself?
- Kokoro
We are gonna go visit this Akari girl and get Hagumi smiling again!
- Kaoru, Hagumi & Kanon
Kokoro... Kokoron... Kokoro-chan...
- Michelle
Well... It's a shame to turn down a sure gig, but I think you're probably right.
- Kokoro
Okay then! Time for a surprise show at Akari's hospital! Let's go, go, go-
- Michelle
... Ah! Wait wait wait~!
- Kokoro
What is it, Michelle? Oh, right! We'll get someone to take the drums and your DJ decks for us.
- Michelle
Not that!
- Michelle
Playing at schools and in parks is one thing, but a hospital? There's no way that's allowed!
- Kokoro
Really?
- Michelle
Yes, really!
- Kokoro
Hmm. But the thing is, I really wanna do it, so...
- Michelle
Ugh, fine! Okay! I'll go and speak to the hospital people for us. No one's just turning up there with instruments, so all of you just wait right here!
- Kaoru & Hagumi
Understood, Michelle!
- Kokoro
Well, if you insist, I suppose.
- Kanon
Are you sure, Misaki-chan? I-I'm not sure how much help I'd be, but... I can go with you, if you like.
- Michelle
Thanks, Kanon-san. Things might go smoother with the two of us there...
- Michelle
Whew...
- Kanon
Thank you, Misaki-chan. Thanks to you we got permission to perform here.
- Michelle
Hey, leave it to Michelle-sama. She can get anything done. Anything.
- Kokoro
Okay, everyone!! Are you all rea- Mfffmff?!
- Michelle
Kokoro, you dummy. This is a hospital. I already told you to keep your voice down.
- Kokoro
Hmm~? The thing is though, I do have a little trouble sometimes with that kind of... what is it... self-control?
- Michelle
I don't think I've ever seen you use an ounce of it.
- Hagumi
We can do it... We can make them smile... The whole world... and Akari, too...!
- Kanon
Hagumi-chan...
- Nurse
Okay everyone, let's sit down. These lovely girls are going to perform for us, now.
- Kid
Per-form? What does that mean~? One of them's a bear! Look~!
- Kid
Akari said they're gonna play music~. Right, Akari?
- Akari
......
- Michelle
(That must be her... We did meet her, the day Hagumi joined the band... She's not even reacting to Michelle any more.)
- Kokoro & Kaoru
......
- Hagumi
... Akari! Look, it's Michelle. You saw her before, right? I'm gonna do my best today, okay?
- Akari
... Mmm...
- Nurse
Okay then. Take it away, Hello, Happy World!
- Kokoro
Mmm~~!! Here we go~~!!
- Michelle
Ah! Stop shouting into the mic, will you?! ... Watch out!
- Kokoro
Yaaaay~! ~~~♪ ~~~♪
- Michelle
You can't sing and run laps around the lobby at the same time~!
- Kids
Hahaha! These girls are crazy~!
- Kaoru
Ahh, to see your radiant smiles... The true jewel of any performance...!
- Kids
Crazy~! Crazy~!
- Michelle
(You've got to love the honesty of children. I'm just glad they're not talking about me. ... Ah...)
- Kids
Aren't you gonna watch, Akari~?
- Kids
Just leave her. She's always like this.
- Akari
......
- Hagumi
......!! D-dedication...! We can do it...!
- Michelle
......
- Nurse
There we go. That was Hello, Happy World! Let's give them a big round of applause~.
- Hagumi
Hey, so... I've been practicing a lot. Do you think I got better?
- Michelle
......
- Kokoro
Hey, Akari. Why aren't you smiling? Were we too boring, perhaps?
- Akari
... I dunno.
- Hagumi
Akari... I asked the whole band to come out here today to help me cheer you up...
- Akari
That's nice. Playing in a band, playing softball, moving around all the time. I won't be able to move at all without more rehabilitation.
- Hagumi
Y-yeah, but... you're not going to rehabilitation, are you? Y'know, if you don't go, you'll...!
- Kokoro
I've got it, Akari! I accept your challenge!!
- Michelle
What? What the hell are you talking about now...?
- Kokoro
We'll have a staring contest! I'll show you just how good I am! There's no way I'm gonna lose!
- Akari
... Huh?
- Kokoro & Hagumi
Pu-pu-puu~! Bero-bero-bu~~! Take that!
- Kaoru
The most interesting occurrences are those that come topsy-turvy!
- Akari
......
- Nurse
Erm... I'm sorry, everyone. Visiting hours are just about over. Let's wheel you back now, Akari-chan.
- Hagumi
Ah, Akari... She's gone...
- Michelle
Come on. We should probably leave too.
- Kokoro
Strange. I wonder what's wrong.
- Kokoro
Okay. We'll have to try a different approach next time. We just need to get Akari to go to rehabilitation, right? If we can just make her smile, I'm sure it'll happen!
- Kaoru
I shall continue my search for new comical scripts. ... Hagumi. You're making that face again, my dear.
- Hagumi
Oh, yeah... I... didn't think it'd be this difficult... Does she just not have enough confidence, or something?
- Kanon
I... think I might understand how she feels, a little... Akari-chan...
- Hagumi & Kaoru
Huh?
- Kanon
Ah...! Really just a little, though. The feeling like you want to change, you want to do something, but you just can't make the move...
- Hagumi
Huh... I see...
- Misaki
...... Mmm...?
- Misaki
(All the "making the whole world smile" talk is pretty ridiculous, but... I don't like this atmosphere right now, either...)
- Hagumi
Akari, we're back again today!
- Kaoru
We have come to perform not theatre, but comedy. They say heaven never helps those who will not act. So watch, and listen, and study my great form.
- Akari
......
- Kaoru & Kokoro
Hello~, hello hello. We are Hello, Happy World!, Comedy Division!
- Kokoro
Man~, it sure is hot in here, huh Kaoru-san~!
- Kaoru
Oh yes, positively sweltering... Not! Hospitals have air conditioning by requirement, fool! ... Well? How was that?
- Akari & Hagumi
......
- Kanon & Misaki
(... Was that even a joke?)
- Hagumi
Hey, wanna try playing along with me today?
- Akari
No. I'm sleeping.
- Hagumi
But... you've gotta start moving, just a little...
- Kaoru
Well, how about a brand new set from the Hello, Happy World!, Comedy Division?
- Kokoro
This one's a great one! It's sure to put a smile on your face!
- Akari
... Why?
- Kokoro
Huh?
- Akari
Why are you trying to make me smile? I just want you to leave me alone! Go away!!
- Hagumi
... She just wanted to be left alone...
- Kanon
We were going there for... almost a month... Maybe we should give her some space...
- Misaki
Kanon-san's right. It's what she wants, after all. Any more than this, we'd just be bothering her. We'll just have to wait-
- Kokoro
No.
- Misaki
Kokoro. I know you're not used to setbacks like this, I understand it must be tough. But you need to think about Akari...
- Kokoro
A setback would mean we're not making progress. But I think we are. I think Akari just isn't being true to her feelings, and doesn't even know it.
- Kaoru
As the great bard did say, "play out the play!"
- Misaki
... Sigh. Sure. Not willing to call it a setback, huh. I'm pretty sure we should be holding off, but...
- Misaki
(More than anything, I just... I can't take this heavy atmosphere...)
- A Few Days Later
Hanasakigawa Girls' Academy - Class 1C
- Kokoro
... Hmm? Hmm hmm hmm? I wasn't done watching yet...
- Misaki
(It's not like Kokoro to stare glumly out the window. ... She must still be worried about Akari.)
- Misaki
Hmm... We're not even rehearsing any more, it's boring. I guess I could pick up where I left off with this...
- Kokoro
Hey, what's that?
- Misaki
Ah!! Y-you made me jump... You never talk to me in class like this.
- Kokoro
Is that wool? Are you making animals with it?
- Misaki
Oh, yeah. It's sheep-wool felt. You prick it with a needle like this to make shapes. See?
- Kokoro
A dog! That's a dog's tail, right? It's wonderful!
- Misaki
Yeah. I mean, it's a cat, but yeah.
- Misaki
My little sister really likes plushies, you know? I'm not any good at making them, but they seem to make her happy, at least.
- Kokoro
Likes plushies... happy...
- Kokoro
......!! Hey, how do you know she likes them?
- Misaki
How...? I guess, I dunno... I give them to her, and she looks happy. And I know she likes plushies because, I mean, we live together.
- Kokoro
You know... she likes them... I see. That does make sense. I need you to fill me in on all the details, here.
- Misaki
What? What details? There's nothing else to it...
- Misaki
I've known her all her life, I know she likes fluffy animals, so I gave her one and she was pleased. That's all. Understand?
- Kokoro
So you didn't know if she'd like your felt animal until you gave it to her, then?
- Misaki
Yeah, I guess not. That's the most important part of giving a gift, right? Thinking up something the other person might enjoy.
- Misaki
I wonder what she might like, and "What kind of things would she enjoy?" I dunno, maybe it's just me being a big sister.
- Misaki
Telling you like this might be hard to understand, huh.
- Kokoro
No, I completely understand!! Thank you so much!!
- Misaki
R-right, okay. You understand. Well that's... good, then.
- Kokoro
I've realized... that I haven't given any thought to what Akari might like herself.
- Kokoro
Everything we've done so far has been my own ideas making people happy. I just assumed that everyone liked the same things that I did.
- Kokoro
But that's not true, is it. Everyone has their own things that they like, their own reasons to be happy!
- Misaki
You say it like it's a grand revelation, but I'm pretty sure that's just common knowledge...
- Misaki
(... Or maybe it isn't. Knowing it isn't the same as acting on it, and coming to terms with it like this isn't something just anyone could do...)
- Kokoro
Thank you!! I think I've come to terms with something very important today, all thanks to you!
- Misaki
No, thank you. I think this is the first time we've actually had a real conversation together.
- Kokoro
It's a little embarrassing, after this wonderful talk we've had, but do you think you could tell me your name?
- Misaki
You have got to be kidding me!
- Kokoro
Anyway, I've decided! I'm going to find something that Akari likes, and we're all going to gift it to her!!
- Misaki
Ahaha... I give up...
- Kokoro
Okay! It's time to start our new project! Hello, Happy World! Hunt For Akari's Favorite Things!!
- Kaoru & Hagumi
Yeah~!!
- Kanon
Y-you say it's a project... What is it about, exactly...?
- Kokoro
More importantly, where is Michelle?
- Michelle
Hello~. Everyone's favorite Michelle, I'm here~. Can you see me now, Kokoro-san~?
- Hagumi
Michelle's joining our strategy meeting!!
- Kaoru
Our success is all but guaranteed.
- Kokoro
Thank you! Just having you here with us makes me feel that much stronger, Michelle!
- Michelle
I wish you'd said that back in the classroom.
- Kokoro
The plan is as follows! If we want to get anything done, we need to work out some of Akari's favorite things.
- Kaoru, Hagumi & Kanon
Favorite... things...
- Kokoro
I always thought that if I just do what I like to do, Akari will surely enjoy it too.
- Kokoro
But I have what I like, Akari has what she likes, everyone has what they like. We need to figure out what other people like if we want to make them smile.
- Kokoro
So I want you guys to keep me updated on all the things that you enjoy, too!
- Kokoro
Our new goal as Hello, Happy World! is to work out all the things that everyone likes, so that we can make them happy and put smiles on their faces!
- Hagumi
So does that mean... we search for things people enjoy doing, while playing in the band?
- Kokoro
Exactly!
- Hagumi
Ya~y! That sounds really, really fun!
- Kaoru
We journey forth, into a whole new world!
- Kokoro
I really have to thank the wonderful person who gave me the idea for this plan, but... I cannot remember their name... They were almost like a ghost, really...
- Misaki
I'm here. I'm standing literally right here!
- Hagumi
Hmm... Akari's favorite things...
- Kanon
Hagumi-chan...?
- Hagumi
Ah... When Akari told us to leave her alone before, I started to think maybe there's nothing we can do for her...
- Hagumi
But Kokoron... you kept strong, kept smiling. You never gave up on her. It made me think... maybe someone amazing like you really can make the whole world smile!
- Kanon
I think I know what you mean. Kokoro-chan can be a little stubborn and reckless at times, but I really think she is helping people. Myself included...
- Kaoru
I feel as though fate brought me to meet Kokoro. She truly is beloved by all she meets...
- Misaki
Sigh. I'm not really sure that's a good thing.
- Misaki
(... But then, why exactly am I taking part in this crazy group's ridiculous antics...?)
- Kanon
If only Akari-chan would realize that we're just trying to help her...
- Kokoro
I'm sure if we all work together, we can get it done!
- A Few Days Later
Hospital - Lobby
- Akari
... You guys are being weird. Why are you asking me all these questions?
- Hagumi
N-n-no reason...! W-we're not trying to... y'know... g-g-get information out of you or anything!!
- Kanon
Y-yes... S-some great weather we're having today...
- Akari
It's really cloudy.
- Kokoro
We just wanna know what kinda things make you- Mfffmfff!
- Misaki
You're not cut out for this line of work. Quiet.
- Kokoro
Why? I'm being indirect with it, like we discussed.
- Misaki
The very fact you'd bring that up here and now is exactly what I'm talking about.
- Akari
......
- Akari
I told you before. Leave me alone.
- Hagumi, Kaoru & Kanon
......!!
- Hagumi
But... Akari...
- Kaoru
Hmm. I see. Akari. To celebrate our brief but wonderful time together, please allow me to leave you with these few wise words.
- Akari
Wise words...?
- Kaoru
As the great bard once said. "Present fears are less than horrible imaginings."
- Kokoro & Hagumi
Imaginings...?
- Kanon
Fears...?
- Michelle
(So... the fear of what happened to Akari's leg is far worse in her mind than the actual injury itself...?)
- Akari
Umm, what does that mean?
- Michelle
(Yeah, that's not particularly easy to explain to a child.)
- Kaoru
What does it mean...?
- Kaoru
Well... What it means is, of course... that, more or less.
- Akari
That...?
- Kaoru
Yes, that.
- Michelle
(What? ... Does she not understand what it was she said?!)
- Akari
I don't know what that means either.
- Kaoru
Ah... Well, I'm sure... when you're older... Yes, that's it... You'll understand one day...
- Akari
Hmm. I don't think I will.
- Misaki
(You're right, you won't. And neither will Kaoru-san...!)
- Kid & Akari
Anyway... I'm going. Don't ask me any more questions. Excuse me, Miss Nurse~...
- Michelle
Ahh~~... Wait, wait! Just one last thing! What do you do in your hospital room here?
- Nurse
You want to go back to your room? You don't want to talk to your friends any more?
- Kid & Akari
Yes.
- Hagumi
A-Akari!
- Kid & Akari
.... Bye. I am going to watch Happy Rangers.
- Hagumi
Huh. That Sunday morning TV show...
- Nurse
Thank you girls so much for coming to see her. Come on Akari-chan, let's go.
- Michelle
H-hey, this ranger show, do you watch it every day?
- Kid & Akari
... Mm.
- Kanon
She left...
- Michelle
I guess that's it then. Akari's favorite thing. The Happy Rangers.
- Hagumi & Kokoro
Really?!
- Kaoru
How do you know such a thing, Michelle? Do you possess some incredible powers?
- Michelle
It's not a huge leap to make from that conversation. She watches the Happy Rangers every day, right?
- Kid 1
Hey miss, are you talking about the Happy Rangers?
- Kid 2
Akari-chan loves them. She said as soon as she gets out of the hospital, she wants to go see one of their live shows.
- Michelle
Fufufu. Looks like the ol' bear was right.
- Kokoro
So here it is! Tada~~!!
- Kokoro
The Amazing Smiling Sentai! Hello, Happy Rangers!
- Hagumi
That is so cool~~!! How did this happen?!
- Kokoro
I was talking to those guys about sentai heroes yesterday, and when I woke up in the morning, I just found all this here. I wonder where it came from?
- The Suits
... Truly a mystery. But we are glad to see you are pleased.
- Misaki
Yeah. Real big smiles. Obviously you prepared all of this, then.
- The Suits
......
- Misaki
I feel like you're almost trying to make fun of us with these. There's no way anyone would believe we're heroes...
- Hagumi
The pink one's for Kano-chan-senpai, of course, since she's the girliest one here. Now what color do I take...?
- Kaoru
Kokoro... This is...
- Misaki
(Kaoru-san...! Of course... the narcissist of the three dummies. There's no way she'll let herself be part of this craziness!)
- Kaoru
... What is this sensation...? Long has it been since my heart has ached like this. None shall quench the passion that now burns within me...!
- Misaki
Okay, welp. Looks like we're doing this, Kanon-san.
- Kanon
B-b-but I... I-I can't wear a pink mask in public~...
- Nurse
Okay, everyone. Those lovely girls have come back to play another concert for us.
- Kids
They're funny looking! What are they supposed to be?
- Kokoro
Smiling Sentai! Hello, Happy Rangers! I'm the leader, the red ranger!
- Hagumi
I'm next! I'm the yellow ranger! I love croquettes!
- Kaoru
... I am the blue ranger. The blue that embodies the sadness in your hearts...
- Kanon
I-I'm the pink ranger~...
- Misaki
I'm green and I don't want to talk about it.
- Kids
Whaaat~? The Happy Rangers are cooler~!
- Misaki
Guess who saw that coming? Not only was this bright idea shortsighted, our whole getup is just cheap...
- Kid & Akari
......
- Misaki
(Whatever... We're here to make Akari smile today. Let's just focus on her.)
- Kokoro
Okay, everyone! Get ready! Here come the Hello, Happy Rangers! A one, and a two, and a three!!
- Kid & Akari
......
- Kokoro
Akari is still playing the staring game with us! She's a tough one.
- Hagumi
Akari... We're your favorite heroes now! You like these hero shows, right?
- Kid & Akari
I can see heroes on TV. Everyone knows the Happy Rangers and the Ultra Rangers aren't real.
- Kid & Akari
The uniforms and stuff you've got are just toys. I don't want fake heroes!
- Hagumi
... Akari!
- Kid & Akari
... I wanna go back to my room. Excuse me, Miss Nurse!
- Kaoru, Hagumi & Kokoro
Fake heroes...
- Hagumi
If just pretending to be her heroes isn't enough... what else can we do...?
- Misaki & Kanon
...
- Misaki
(Looks like I've managed to find my way into more trouble than I thought...)
- Kanon
It's getting dark...
- Kokoro, Hagumi & Kaoru
......
- Misaki
Guys, are you seriously not going to get changed? I can't decide if I should laugh or cry.
- Kokoro
There must be something missing... We're all heroes, after all.
- Misaki
Okay, okay. Enough with the senseless chatter. I'm going to head home soon.
- Hagumi
Can't we become the real thing? Is that the only thing that'll make Akari smile? I wonder if I even can make her smile again.
- Misaki
Hagumi...
- Nurse
I can't get a smile out of Akari-chan either. She's a difficult case, certainly.
- Misaki
Oh, you're one of the nurses. Where is Akari now...?
- Nurse
She's in her room watching a Happy Rangers DVD.
- All
......
- Nurse
Listen, everyone. I just wanted to thank you for coming to play with Akari. Despite what you might think, she is already talking a lot more than before.
- Misaki
Umm... are you the main nurse that looks after Akari-san?
- Nurse
Yes, that's right. Ever since the day she was hospitalized here after her accident.
- Nurse
I can tell that deep down Akari-chan wants to smile. It's just that something's stopping her.
- Kaoru
I see...
- Kanon
So her injuries themselves are healing properly.
- Hagumi
Hmm... The accident was so scary and painful, but now she just thinks she can never use her legs again...
- Misaki
And because of that, she won't do her rehabilitation because she thinks there's no point. But if she doesn't start doing it, she really will end up unable to walk...
- Kokoro
......
- Kanon
She does want to walk, doesn't she?
- Nurse
Yes, of course.
- Hagumi
But she's too scared of trying and finding she's not able to do it.
- Hagumi
It's just like what Kano-chan-senpai talked about in the past. She wants to, but she can't...
- Kanon
Ah...
- Misaki
It's a downward spiral.
- Kanon
U-um...! I can understand how Akari-chan feels...! It's so hard to be brave when you feel like that!
- Nurse
... That's right. As Kanon-san said, Akari-chan's body is capable of walking, but she doesn't have the courage to take that first step.
- Kokoro
Courage? Now that's something we can give her.
- Misaki
If that was the case, Akari would've been smiling ages ago.
- Kokoro
We're just missing something! I'm sure if we find it, we'll be able to give Akari the courage she needs.
- Misaki
Ugh... Courage isn't something you can click your fingers and make appear, or just give to someone when they need it.
- Kanon
U-um!! Kokoro-chan gave me courage!!
- Misaki
Kanon-san...
- Kokoro
See! Think about it first. Nothing's impossible for anyone, as long as you don't decide that it is!
- Hagumi
S-so, we can do anything as long as we think we can?
- Kokoro
Of course. We can all be heroes if we want to be!
- Kokoro
You can do anything if you put your mind to it! We're all powerful heroes the moment we believe it!
- Misaki
... *sigh* Let's say that everyone has some hidden potential to be an almighty hero. Even if this is true, it just doesn't work that way!
- Misaki
Most people aren't like you. They need an actual reason to be confident before they can do something! I mean, really...
- Misaki
... Huh.
- Kokoro
Huh? Why would someone need a reason to be confident?
- Misaki
That's it. A reason... confidence...! This is the courage Kanon-san was talking about!
- Misaki
We just need to give her a reason to be confident. Let's start by giving her the courage to start her rehabilitation!
- Misaki
And if she can take just one step, she'll realize that she can walk! And that'll give her confidence...!
- Kaoru
Whatever do you mean?
- Kanon
Oh. We're a band, so... Do you mean we should do a performance that will give her courage...?
- Misaki
Exactly! I knew you'd get it, Kanon-san.
- Hagumi
But how do we do that? Won't she just call us fakes again?
- Misaki
Hmm. Well, uh... Okay! You can do anything, can't you Kokoro?
- Kokoro
Not just me, everyone can.
- Misaki
Uh, sure. Anyway, if we can use our performance to show her that anyone can do anything... I-I think she might find the courage she needs!
- Misaki
(... Wh-why am I getting so excited about this? I'm literally just thinking on the spot here.)
- Misaki
I mean, it's just an idea, it's not like we...
- Kokoro
... It'll work!! I'm sure of it! That kind of thing is my specialty! We just have to write a song that'll give her courage!
- Kaoru, Hagumi & Kanon
A song that'll give her courage...
- Kaoru, Hagumi & Kanon
Of course!
- Misaki
I-is this really gonna work...?
- Michelle
Don't you think this is gonna take a while? We've all got school, you know?
- Hagumi
You go to school too, Michelle? Your uniform must be huge!
- Michelle
I go to the same school as you. Man, this suit is so heavy. This is going nowhere fast. I'm gonna get changed!
- Kokoro
Where are you going, Michelle? You're going to ask your friend to help so you can slack off, aren't you?
- Michelle
I'm not slacking off! If anything, I'm working a lot harder than you inside this oven of a suit!
- Hagumi
It's just not right when you're not here, Michelle. Could you stay? Please~!
- Michelle
Argh~~. Gimme a break~~.
- Kanon
M-Misaki-chan, here's some water. I put an extra-long straw in it for you.
- Michelle
So you're actually making progress with the lyrics, then?
- Kokoro
Of course! I've come up with lyrics full of whoosh and shazam!
- Michelle
Oh, really? Let's take a look...
- Kanon
Whoosh and "shazam" are the only words on the page...
- Michelle
... Kanon-san. I'll come up with a song, so could you try and put Kokoro's ideas in actual human words?
- Kanon
Huh... b-but I'm n-not really good at writing...
- Michelle
It's not like you're writing a novel or anything, so it doesn't have to be particularly amazing... And don't forget that Akari is just a child.
- Michelle
...Umm, think of it as a picture book! How about that?
- Kanon
A picture book...! One of my favorite books is a picture book. I think I might be able to do it...
- Kanon
Kokoro-chan, could you tell me more about the "whoosh" and the "shazam"?
- Kokoro
Hm? What do you mean?
- Kanon
Umm... I want to put your ideas into words. I wish there were magic words that could make this easier...
- Kokoro
Magic... words...? ... That's it, Kanon! That's what was missing!!
- Michelle
As long as we can expect some actual lyrics to come of this... I guess all that's left is...
- Kaoru
The orchestra! The echoes of the piano! A great symphony! The choir! Thunderous applause! Ahh... how fleeting... How about this melody?
- Hagumi
Nothing says dedication like enka! My mom is the most dedicated person I know, and she loves enka. So what about something like this?
- Michelle
I'll try putting it all together. ... Yeah, this'll work. It'll definitely work~!
- Nurse
Okay everyone, find somewhere to sit. Akari-chan, your wheelchair can go here.
- Kid & Akari
Did Hagumi-chan and the others come again?
- Nurse
They did. It's been about a month since last time. I'm not sure what's going on, but they've prepared something big for us.
- Hagumi
Akari... I really hope she likes our song...
- Kaoru
Children are whimsical creatures, after all... But as the great bard once said, words without thoughts never to heaven go.
- Kanon
I hope I was able to capture what Kokoro-chan wanted to say in her lyrics...
- Michelle
I think what you came up with... was pretty good. I mean, I felt like I understood a little bit of what's going on inside her head when I read them.
- Michelle
And besides, in the end, it's what you feel that's most important when it comes to this kinda thing, right?
- Michelle
I really feel like I'm not myself... for putting so much effort into this. It almost feels like we're actually a band now...
- Kokoro
Of course it'll be okay! Everyone has some courage in them! Just some people forget how to bring it out!
- Kokoro
And you put that into these lyrics for us, Kanon!
- Hagumi, Kaoru & Kanon
Kokoron... Kokoro... Kokoro-chan...
- Michelle
I guess that's that. Okay, shall we go show them the magical words?
- Kaoru
Ladies and...
- Michelle
Gentlemen.
- Hagumi, Kokoro & Kanon
We poured our hearts into making this, we hope you enjoy it!
- Kokoro
Come on, everybody! Sing along with me! You can do anything, if you just say the magic words!
- Kid 1
... "Happiness! Happy magical♪"? W-wow! Where did that dove come from?!
- Kaoru
(Fufu... Magic is my field of expertise.)
- Kid 2
I wanna try it too! "Happiness! Happy magical♪" ... Ooh! A puff of flower petals!
- Michelle
(That wasn't easy to set up. Great timing, mystery suits!)
- Kid 3
Me too! "Happiness! Happy magical♪" ... Wo~w! The stage is changing colors!
- Kanon
(The strange suit ladies really got all of my special effects ideas to work...!)
- Kokoro
See! There's nothing in the world that's impossible! You just have to realize it to make it happen!
- Kid & Akari
Nothing is... impossible...
- Hagumi
Look...! I think Akari-chan just smiled!
- Michelle
...!! ... Hagumi, we're in the middle of a song. No getting distracted until we're done.
- Hagumi
R-right...!
- Michelle
You've still got a big job to do too, Hagumi.
- Hagumi
Got it...!!
- Hagumi
Th-that's all. We are Hello, Happy World! Thanks for listening!
- Akari
......
- Kids
Wow~~! That was amazing~~! Come back again~~!
- Michelle
... Well. I guess we should start packing up?
- Kokoro
What? Wait, what about Akari... nrgh!
- Kanon
Kokoro-chan, we talked about this. Remember what we decided?
- Kaoru
Forgetful little kitten. How adorable.
- Akari
H-hey... hey! Wait... Hello, Happy World...!
- Nurse
Oh. I'll help you with your wheelchair, Akari-chan...
- Akari
I can do it myself. ... Can I ask you something?
- Hagumi
S-sure. What's up, Akari?
- Akari
That girl, Kokoro... She said we can do anything. Is that true?
- Michelle
(... This is it, Hagumi...!)
- Hagumi
Y-yeah, of course! C'mon, try saying the magic words.
- Akari
... "Happiness! Happy magical♪" W-wow~!!
- Akari
I-it's a Happy Ranger! ... A Happy Ranger figure popped right of Hagumi-chan's pocket!
- Hagumi
You see? Anything is possible for anyone! For you, for all of us! You've just gotta try.
- Hagumi
But if you ever forget that, just repeat the magic words that Kokoron taught you, and you'll remember!
- Akari
... Can I use the words more than once?
- Hagumi
O-of course!
- Akari
Umm... umm... Does it work even if I close my eyes?
- Hagumi
Yeah, it totally works!
- Kanon & Michelle
(Akari... chan...)
- Kokoro & Kaoru
(Go for it...!)
- Hagumi
(You can do it, Akari...!)
- Akari
... "Happiness! Happy magical♪"...
- Akari
...? Ah...
- Hagumi
...! Akari, Akari!! You did it...!! Akari, you're standing...!!
- Akari
I-I'm... I'm standing... I'm really standing...! Oop!
- Hagumi
Are you okay?! Don't fall over.
- Akari
I'm okay. It's just because I haven't stood up for a while. Because I... didn't do my rehabilitation...
- Akari
But don't worry, Hagumi-chan. The doctors and nurses told me every day that I'll be able to walk again if I do my rehabilitation.
- Hagumi
Akari...! Does that mean you're ready to try it?
- Akari
You always say this about your softball team, right? I've just gotta be dedicated!
- Hagumi
Akari...! That's right...!
- Kokoro
Do you see now? You can do anything, as long as you believe it!
- Akari
I do. Thank you. ... But...
- Akari
There's lots of people like me here, not just in the children's ward, but in the whole hospital.
- Michelle
... Now that's a big dose of reality.
- Akari
I'm gonna work hard on my rehabilitation, and once I can walk, I'm gonna use the magic words to make everyone else smile, too!
- Hagumi
Akari... You're amazing! That's a great idea! I'll totally help you do it!
- Kokoro
We received some letters addressed to Hello, Happy World! It seems they're from... Akari and her family, and the nurse.
- Misaki
It's been about a week since we performed at the hospital.
- Hagumi
I wonder how her rehabilitation is going. I wanna visit her~!
- Kaoru
From the nurse, we have a letter of thanks. The beauty of her heart emits from her very words...
- Kanon
This one is... from Akari-chan and her family. It says "thank you for giving our daughter the hope and courage she needed."
- Hagumi
Oh, this one... This is Akari's writing. "I'm thinking about joining your band when I grow up, so I can help people feel better and give them courage."
- Misaki
Huh?! She can't do that. If she joins a circus act like us, she won't have a future to pursue!
- Hagumi
There's more. "But when I tried to use the words to help other kids, the magic didn't work..."
- Hagumi
I asked the nurse about it, and she said that there are lots of different ways to help people.
- Hagumi
And then... "So I decided when I grow up, I'm going to work at a hospital like my nurse, and help people that way. Good luck with your band!"
- Misaki
That's a relief... Now she really going to be okay...
- Hagumi
... Is it because of what we did?
- Misaki
I guess it depends on how you look at it...
- Kokoro
It wasn't us! Have you forgotten? Everyone's already a hero! Akari, the band, and everyone else in the world!
- Misaki & Kanon
......!
- Kaoru & Hagumi
......!
- Misaki
Everyone has the power to help themselves... Akari just had to remember that, huh... It's starting to sound like a fairy tale.
- Kokoro
It's not a fairy tale!
- Hagumi
That's right! Kokoron really helped her!
- Kokoro
I told you, it wasn't me.
- Hagumi
Oh, that's right! We all helped her to remember. Ehehe, this is kinda confusing~.
- Misaki
... Maybe all this isn't so bad after all...
- Kokoro
It's a lot harder being a vocalist than I thought! Remembering lyrics and melodies takes a special kind of skill!
- Misaki
You have no idea how happy I am to hear that you've finally realized the importance of these things...
- Kanon
Kokoro-chan can sing, but she always changes the lyrics and melodies whenever she feels like it.
- Kaoru
Our days of being at the mercy of Kokoro's whims... How fleeting...
- Misaki
Kaoru-san. This is progress, don't encourage her bad habits.
- Kanon
I think making CDs that we can give everyone is a great idea for making more people smile.
- Misaki
It might be the only reasonable suggestion she's ever made.
- Kokoro
Hmm-hm-hmm~♪ I think I remember the song now. I want to go record it! Are we still waiting for Hagumi?
- Kaoru
I imagine the captain is busy. We'll wait a little longer, but if she doesn't appear, we shall have to reschedule our recording.
- Hagumi
S-sorry I'm late! I got caught up visiting Akari at her rehabilitation...!
- Kanon
Hagumi-chan...! So that's where you were. How is Akari doing?
- Hagumi
She's great! Apparently she wants to be a hero as soon as she can, and does her rehabilitation up until the last minute every day.
- Hagumi
And not just Akari, but the nurse looked really happy too! She was smiling!
- Misaki
I see... That's such a relief...
- Kaoru
You too are sporting quite the smile, Hagumi...
- Hagumi
Oh. I guess I am! I guess it wasn't just the hero thing I forgot about, but my smile too.
- Kokoro
... That's it!!
- Misaki
Whoa. I thought you were somewhere else.
- Kokoro
There's something else I've realized, after everything that happened with Akari.
- Kanon & Kaoru
Kokoro? Kokoro-chan?
- Kokoro
I think everyone around the world loves to smile, but maybe there's a lot of people like Hagumi and Akari who've just forgotten how!
- Kokoro
Doesn't that make you feel terrible, to hear them wasting their life?! I mean, smiling is one of the best feelings in the whole world, right?!
- Misaki
Wasting their life? Are you serious...?
- Kanon
Fufu, that's a very Kokoro-chan way of putting it...
- Kaoru
As the great bard once said... ... The miserable have no other medicine, but only hope...
- Misaki
I'm sure you don't know what that means, but I do feel like you make some spot-on references sometimes.
- Kaoru
... To be, or not to be. That is the question.
- Hagumi
I-is that a question, though?
- Misaki
It's not. And that one was definitely not spot-on.
- Kokoro
Anyway, what I want to do is make all those poor, unhappy people remember what it is to smile again.
- Hagumi
Like me and Akari, right? I think... that sounds really important, and special!
- Kokoro
Right? So everyone, if you find someone who has forgotten to smile, let me know immediately! We have to go make them remember!
- Hagumi & Kaoru
Got it!
- Misaki
Okay, hold on a second. Everything happened to work out well this time, but surely that's a bit unrealistic?!
- Misaki
Find places to perform where people want to laugh and smile is one thing, but what you're suggesting isn't always going to work...!
- Kokoro
How can you say it won't work when we haven't even tried it?
- Misaki
That again...? Argh~, I'm so over this!!
- Kanon
M-Misaki-chan? Oh... oh no...
- Kanon
(Misaki-chan has always said she wants to quit the band. Maybe this is the last straw for her...)
- Misaki
Honestly I don't even know why I'm in this circus of a band. Everything you say just makes it sound like you wanna live inside a fairy tale!
- Misaki
But like, performing together, and working hard to make things better for Akari, it's... I dunno. Why am I even saying this...?
- Kokoro
What is it? If you want to say something, why don't you say it?
- Misaki
Ugh. You're so annoying when you're right, you know that?
- Misaki
Look, I just... We might screw up again, like with the whole hero thing. I can't handle seeing everyone getting depressed when things don't work out...!!
- Kanon, Kaoru & Hagumi
Misaki-chan... Misaki... Mii-kun...
- Kokoro
Oh. Well, that won't be a problem!
- Misaki
As if it won't be. It'll hurt to see you moping about. ... Everyone else will get all depressed, too.
- Kokoro
... Hurt? Depressed...? I don't get it.
- Kokoro
But, basically you mean we might forget to smile, right? If that happens, one of the other members of the band just has to help them remember again.
- Misaki
... And what if we all forget at the same time?
- Kokoro
That's simple! Someone else will come along and make us remember!
- Kokoro
Everyone in the world can be a hero, after all!!
- Misaki
... Right. Haha.
- Misaki
Of course, I almost forgot. I don't know why I even bothered to get worked up. It's not like you understand logic or reason anyway!
- Misaki
... Fine, whatever. I'll lose interest sooner or later, but until then I'll help you with your little fairy tale.
- Kanon
Misaki-chan...!
- Kokoro
I'm glad you're going to help! Hello, Happy World! Let's put smiles on everyone's faces!
- Kaoru, Hagumi & Kanon
Yeah~!
- Kokoro
By the way, where's Michelle? It's just not the same without her.
- Kaoru & Hagumi
That's right!
- Misaki
We've got a long, bumpy road ahead of us...
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