[Image] =============================================================================== Hime-chan's Ribbon, Volume 1, Part 1 English translation by Robert DeLoura (deloura@noaapmel.gov) Assistance on the tough lines by Hitoshi Doi :-) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- {NOTE: I use curly-braces around any editorial comments I make. } {This manga uses a lot of small text, written outside of speech bubbles. } {I do my best to guess whether they're just saying it quietly, or thinking } {it to themselves, and mark it [quietly] or [thinking], accordingly. } {'(Author):' indicates a comment the author made along the outer edges of } { a frame in the manga. } (Page 3) As the schoolbell rings, a girl with long hair and a red ribbon watches the students from atop a tall tree. Her eyes focus on a tomboyish girl, who looks quite a bit like her, except for the short hair and lack of a ribbon. Erika: [smiling] I've found her. (Page 7) The girl with the short hair is playing baseball with a bunch of boys during lunch break. The crack of a bat is heard, and a male voice rings out. Boy: Himeko! It's yours! Himeko: OK!! Himeko leaps into the air to catch the ball -- but does a face-plant into the backstop... Himeko: Oof!! ...and then falls into a huge mud puddle. Boy: Oops.... The other outfielders come over to check on Himeko. Boy: Hey, you OK? What about the ball? Himeko: .... Himeko sits up with a big grin on her face, and the ball nestled in her glove. Her other hand covers her cheek where she slammed into the backstop. Looks like she's going to need a change of clothes, too. Himeko: I've got it, of course! See? Boy: Oh! Great! Back at the top of the tree, Erika is still watching. Erika: She's such a tomboy.... [thinking] I'm a little uncertain about this.... (Page 8) After school, Himeko drops in on class 1-A so she can walk home with her friend, Manami. She's changed into her gym clothes, and has a bandage on her face. Himeko: Manami, are you here? There's no club meeting today, is there? Let's go home! Manami's putting the last of her books into her backpack. Manami: Hime-chan!! Himeko, Manami, and Icchan walk down the stairs on their way home from school. Students are yelling goodbyes to each other in the background. Student: Bye, teacher! Teacher: Take care. Manami: Why're you dressed like that...? Himeko: [grinning] Heh heh, well, it was like this... I was playing baseball at lunch, and managed to catch a ball that should've been a home run, but I fell into a puddle and got my school uniform all muddy. I got a battle-scar, too, see? Manami's apparently pretty ignorant about sports. Manami: Oh! That's so cool!! I don't quite understand it, but.... You had to go through afternoon classes like that? Icchan is unimpressed {probably just jealous}. Icchan: Just like a boy, hm? Manami: [shocked] Hey! That's mean, Icchan! [quietly] Talking about my Hime-chan that way.... Manami: Just say that she's *masculine*. Himeko: [thinking, irritated] What's the difference? A teacher {Gori-sensei} can be heard yelling. Gori: Hey! Hold it right there, Kobayashi!! (Page 9) Someone goes zooming past the three girls. Himeko: Wah! A boy {Kobayashi Daichi} on roller skates is zipping down the hall, with Gori-sensei in hot pursuit, while some girls cheer him on. Gori: Hey! Wait! Stop it! Girls: Good luck, Daichi! Run away! Himeko, Manami, and Icchan look on with interest. (Page 10) Daichi turns around, and Gori-sensei spreads his arms to stop him. Gori: Roller skates are not allowed at school! Hey, are you listening to me, Kobayashi Daichi?! You will stop right this moment so I can confiscate them. Daichi: [yelling] Tetsu! Daichi tosses his backpack to Tetsu, who catches it. Daichi continues heading straight for Gori, who suddenly has a very bad feeling about this. Gori: Eeeek! As Gori bends at the waist and covers his head, Daichi leaps over him, turning a full somersault in the air, and landing back on his feet. (Page 11) The students cheer for Daichi. Students: Oh!! Yay! As Daichi skates past, Tetsu throws him his backpack. Daichi: Thank you!! Daichi waves to Gori-sensei on his way out the door. Daichi: Catch ya later, teach! Gori's still crouched down, covering his head. Gori: Grrrr. He stands up and exerts his 'authority'. Gori: [yelling] Kobayashi, you will report to the principal's office first thing tomorrow morning!! You hear me?! Daichi sticks out his tongue as he skates away. Daichi: No way. Himeko, Manami, and Icchan watch him leave. Himeko: ...He's done it again. Kobayashi Daichi, the most rebellious student here. Manami: He's so *cool*! Icchan: [unimpressed] You think everything is cool, don't you. (Page 12) Manami: Isn't that OK? I only say it when I think it's true.... Himeko: I can understand why he's so popular. Manami: [excited] Really? Is that so, Hime-chan? Himeko: He's a sportman, he's flashy, and he's not bad-looking. Himeko: But he's not my type. He seems too flighty, since he fills in for various clubs, rather than joining one particular club and staying with it. A boy should be calm and firmly-rooted. Manami: ...Sounds like you're describing Hasekura-sempai. Himeko is surprised {probably at how obvious her description was}, and goes on the defensive. Himeko: EH? Manami and Icchan gossip with each other. Icchan: "Hasekura"? Manami: An upper-classman from Hime-chan's drama club. You don't suppose Hime-chan is *interested* in him...? Himeko: Wh...what're you talking about, Manami? Why would I be interested in Hasekura-sempai.... A boy behind Himeko overhears this, and decides to comment. Hasekura: What about me? (Page 13) Himeko turns around, shocked. Himeko: SEMPAI!! Hasekura: [smiling] You look so flustered that you must've been saying something bad about me, hm? Himeko: Not at all! We were just talking about the rumor that you're cool! Hasekura: Are you saying nice things about me again? Anyway.... Hasekura notices that Himeko is wearing gym clothes instead of her school uniform. Hasekura: As usual, you've done something again, hm? Those clothes.... Himeko: [embarrassed] Uh, yeah.... Himeko changes the subject. Himeko: Sempai, do you study on your way home, too? Hasekura holds up a ring of vocabulary cards. Hasekura: Oh, this. There's an exam tomorrow. Hasekura: It's easy to study vocabulary while I'm walking! Himeko: Preparing for exams is tough, isn't it? Good luck! Hasekura: Thanks. See you. Hasekura starts to walk away. Himeko waves her arms wildly and shouts.... Himeko: [yelling] Sempai! Good luck! Do your best, sempai!! Hasekura, embarrassed, waves goodbye and leaves. (Page 14) Himeko watches Hasekura leave, as her friends continue to gossip. Manami: [disappointed?] Well, it looks like I was wrong. Icchan: She couldn't say something like "You're cool!" if she liked him. Manami clasps her hands under her face, and stares off into space, dreamily. Manami: He's so cool, isn't he? Hasekura-sempai.... Icchan: How many people do you feel that way about, anyway? The three of them start to walk home again. Manami rushes over to Himeko. Manami: But of course *Hime-chan* is the *most* cool! Right? Himeko: Is that so? Icchan: Don't get carried away. Finally, Himeko makes it home. Himeko: I'm home! I'm hungry... is there anything to snack on, sis? (Page 15) Himeko's older sister Aiko is drying some dishes. She looks at Himeko with concern. Aiko: Oh, my. What've you done this time? Himeko sits at the table with her younger sister (about 5 yrs old), Yumeko. Himeko: Nothing! I just fell in a mud puddle. Aiko puts a plate of goodies on the table. Himeko: Ah, cream puffs! [thinking] The ones from Kokeshiya are great! Aiko responds to Himeko's explanation. Aiko: Really? Yumeko: [excited] Hey... Hime-oneechan!! Himeko responds with her mouth full of cream puff. Himeko: What, Yumeko? Yumeko: [excited] A letter came from Dad!! Himeko: Already!? He's only been gone 3 days, hasn't he? In Okinawa.... Aiko brings the letter to the table for Himeko to read. Aiko: That's right. Here it is.... Yumeko: [excited] I already wrote an answer for it! (Page 16) Himeko continues to munch on cream puffs while reading the letter. Himeko: It's alright, if he just gives me a letter. [thinking] All this...? But he cries if I don't write back. Mom: Hey... Himeko's mother walks in, looking very tired. Mom: I need some coffee. Mom: Very very STRONG coffee, OK? Just fill a big bowl with it. Himeko and Aiko talk to each other while their mother walks away. Himeko: Is it tomorrow? The deadline for her story.... Aiko: Yes... do you think she'll be OK? Later that night, Himeko is looking at a small 'studying' charm she has. She sits at her desk, thinking about something, then pokes at a stuffed lion that's sitting on top of the desk. Himeko: What'll I do? Hm, Pokota? She gets no response, of course. (Page 17) She collapses on her bed, face-first into her pillow. Himeko: What should I do....? Himeko: [thinking] Tomorrow is Hasekura-sempai's birthday. Three months ago, I bought a test-studying-charm to give to him. My heart's already made up, but.... She buries her head under the pillow. Himeko: I can't do it! Argh! Now that the time's come, I'm too nervous to do it! She remembers what Manami said earlier today.... Manami: [flashback] You don't suppose that Hime-chan is... *interested* in him...? Himeko: [thinking] Yes, you're right. Ever since 6th grade, when I saw the cultural festival put on in the park by the middle school's drama club.... (Page 18) Himeko thinks back to the play that day.... Himeko: [thinking] He wasn't in a major role, but I'll never forget the way he stood out from the rest. Himeko: [thinking] But in his eyes, I'm just a tomboyish underclassman.... Himeko: [thinking] I could never tell him that I love him.... There's a knock at her bedroom door, shaking her out of her reverie. She sits up. Aiko: [from outside] I'm coming in, Himeko. Aiko enters, carrying Himeko's school uniform. It's been cleaned and ironed. Aiko: I ironed this for you. I'll just leave it here, OK? Himeko: Uh... thanks. Himeko stares at Aiko for a moment. Aiko: Yes? Himeko: You're such an ideal woman, sis. Aiko: Eh!? Aiko: [embarrassed] Why do you say that, all of a sudden? Himeko: You're a good cook, you do all the housework, you're feminine, pretty.... Himeko: If I were a boy, I'd sure want to marry you. This is all a bit much for Aiko. Aiko: Wh... what're you talking about....? (Page 19) She leaves. Himeko starts to contemplate things again. Himeko: [thinking] If I was like Aiko-oneechan, I'd be much more self-confident... It's hard to believe that we're only two years apart. She hangs the studying charm around the neck of Pokota (the stuffed lion), and sighs. Suddenly, she sits up, with a determined look on her face. Himeko: Hmph!! I'm my own person!! Why am I getting discouraged like this!! She raises her right fist into the air with each of the following words. Himeko: Ike!! Ike!! Go!! Go!! {'Ike' means 'Go', but I think it looks better like this.} She leaps into the air, with Pokota in her left hand. Himeko: JUMP!! [thinking] I'll definitely try to give it to him!! Aiko: [thinking] She's jumping around again.... Mom: I wish she'd be quiet.... (Page 20) The next day, Himeko is nervously standing outside Hasekura's house. She has Pokota and the studying charm with her. Himeko: Well, I came here.... She reaches for the doorbell... Himeko: [thinking] Here I go! ...but... Himeko: [thinking] Uh.... Himeko: [thinking] Er.... ...can't quite bring herself to push it. She crouches on the ground and tries to calm herself down, then gets an idea. Himeko: That's it, I'll have Pokota push it for me. Comment: [about Pokota] Brought along for just such an occasion. Himeko: [thinking] OK, go, Pokota! She raises Pokota towards the doorbell, and tries to bring herself to push the button with his paw. Himeko: [thinking] Rrrrr... But she can't quite force herself to do that, either. She crouches and tries to relax again. Himeko: I can't do it... I'll take a short break. I'll feel up for it if I just walk around a bit. (Page 21) Himeko starts wandering around. A breeze blows by. Himeko: Ahhh... that feels good. She walks around a little, looking at everything. Himeko: [thinking] It's the first time I've been in this neighborhood. Unfamiliar streets are always exciting. Himeko: [thinking] I wonder how many times sempai has walked through here.... She sniffs at the air, and draws in a deep breath. Himeko: [thinking] I'll breathe in a lot of the air. Sempai's smell might still be around. (Author): What're you doing? (Page 22) She spots a run-down house, with a tall metal-grille fence and overgrown hedges. Himeko: Oh, an old house.... Himeko: [thinking] Seems like it's abandoned, too.... Then, she sees a sign. Himeko: [thinking] Hm? Sign: Danger!! Keep out! With a big smile, she works her way through the fence. Himeko: [thinking] When it says "Keep out", it's human nature to find it intriguing and exciting! Let's see.... (Author): Good kids should not imitate this. She peeks at the house from beneath a section of hedge she's crawled underneath. (Page 23) She sees Daichi stretching his arms towards the sky, as he stands by the door. (Page 24) Himeko: [thinking] Isn't that Kobayashi Daichi? What's he up to? Suddenly, a cat comes by and bounces off Himeko's back as it runs past, giving away her hiding place beneath the bushes. Himeko: OOF! Daichi hears her, and turns to look. He has no problem spotting her. Himeko: [embarrassed] Oops... Daichi: What's with you? (Page 25) Daichi walks over and crouches down in front of her. Daichi: What're you doing here? Himeko: Uh...um...er.... Himeko: The crawl-stroke!! {swimming} Ha ha, just kidding!! Daichi: It's not that funny. Himeko: Ha ha ha ha ha.... [thinking] You little.... After her failed attempt at humor, she tries to be apologetic. Himeko: I'm sorry, is this your house? Daichi: What makes you think anyone lives here? Hm? He shows her the way out, pushing her along. Daichi: Come on, hurry up and get out. Didn't you see the "Keep out" sign? Himeko: But you were in there too, weren't you, Kobayashi-kun? Daichi looks a bit surprised. Daichi: Why do you know my name? Himeko: I'm** in the same middle school as you. 1-B, the class right next to yours. Daichi: [puzzled] I?** (Page 26) Daichi puts two and two together, and surprisingly enough, comes up with four. {** Himeko is using the female form of 'I', which confused Daichi at first, because he didn't realize she was a girl.} Daichi: Oh! You're a girl.... Himeko, offended that it took him this long to notice, whacks him with a jump-kick. Himeko: [angry] How insulting!! No matter how you look at it, I'm a girl! Daichi: [thinking] You look like an obnoxious little grade-school boy, to me. (Page 27) Hasekura just happened to be wandering by, and saw the whole thing. Daichi: [quietly] Ow, that hurts.... Himeko: [nervous] Sempai!! Oh no!! Did he see that, just now!? Himeko goes into "embarrassed and very friendly" mode. Himeko: Um... er... good afternoon! Hasekura: Good afternoon. Strange running into you *here*.... Himeko: Yes, I was just out for a short walk.... Are you on your way to cram school? Himeko: Do your best, OK? Hasekura: Thanks, Hime-chan. Hasekura winks at Himeko as he walks off. Hasekura: Don't be TOO much of a tomboy. Himeko puts a hand behind her head and laughs nervously {sort of like Kyousuke from Kimagure Orange Road}. Himeko: Ha ha ha ha ha... I suppose that's true.... (Page 28) Himeko goes back home. Sign: The worst possible outcome. Mom, Yumeko, and Aiko are downstairs eating. Himeko is upstairs in her room. Yumeko: Where's Hime-oneechan? Aiko: She said she wasn't hungry, and that she had a headache. Do you think she's OK...? Mom: I'm sure she's fine. Mom: She'll have forgotten all about it by tomorrow, and will probably eat enough to make up for today. Well, I'll take one of Himeko's croquettes. Yumeko: Oh! Me too!! Himeko can hear the ongoing conversation from her room. Mom: You can take half of one. Hey, Yume, that's the melon one!! That one is your mother's. Himeko: That's just too much. [thinking] What kind of family is this, anyway? She sits with her head in her hands, depressed, thinking about her ill-fated jump-kick. Himeko: [thinking] Sempai... he definitely seems to have given up on me. He's already decided, after seeing something like that.... (Page 29) She goes over and leans on the windowsill, looking down at the ground, with Pokota at her side. Himeko: On top of that, I dropped the charm somewhere and lost it. This has been absolutely the WORST day. She closes her eyes and daydreams. Himeko: [thinking] I wish I could become a cute, graceful girl. Maybe if I close my eyes like this, and then open them slowly.... She opens her eyes and looks out at the tree by her window... Himeko: [thinking] I wish I could turn into a wonderful girl like that... Hah. That sort of thing... ...and notices there seems to be another one of her sitting in the tree outside. Odd. Himeko: [thinking] would never happ.... It's Erika, the girl who was spying on her at school today. This is the first time Himeko has noticed her, though. Himeko: [puzzled] What's this? Why is there another "me" here? There's no mirror in a place like that... and why do you suppose she has long hair? And wears a ribbon, too.... (Page 30) Erika smiles at Himeko and introduces herself. Erika: Pleased to meet you. I am called "Erika". May I come in? Himeko takes a moment to evaluate this smiling girl in a tree, and then reacts in a perfectly rational fashion. Himeko: EEEEEEEEEK! Himeko grabs a baseball bat, and brandishes it at Erika, who has come into Himeko's bedroom. Himeko: [yelling] Thief! Thief! Erika waves her hands at Himeko, and nervously tries to calm her down. Erika: No, no, no! I'm not a thief! Himeko remains unconvinced. Himeko: Do honest people waltz into a person's house THROUGH THE WINDOW at this hour!! Erika: I'm very sorry. But I'm here for an important reason. (Page 31) Himeko keeps a firm grip on her baseball bat. Himeko: Important reason? Erika: Yes! Please believe me, I have something very important to tell you. We look alike, isn't that proof enough? Himeko: Hmmm. [thinking] Why is she so persuasive? Suddenly, Himeko's mom comes barging in, with a helmet on her head and a clipboard to use as a shield. Mom: Where are you, thief!! Himeko: Oops! I'm sorry, I'm just practicing for drama club. Her mom leaves. Himeko and Erika sit down and talk to each other, though Himeko still looks a bit skeptical about the whole thing. Himeko: So, won't you let me hear your "important reason"? Erika: OK! Where should I start... anyway... I would like you to let me observe you for a year. Himeko: "Observe"? [thinking] What does she think I am, a lab animal? Erika: [happily] Yes! You see, actually I'm a princess of the Land of Magic. Himeko gives her a "yeah, right" look, and then picks up the phone. Himeko: Hello? Is this the police? I've got some weirdo here.... Erika: Will you please listen to my WHOLE story!! (Page 32) Erika launches headfirst into her story. Erika: For many generations, the successor to the royal family of the Land of Magic has had to train in many different things. One of these things is to observe a human for one year, and keep a diary about it. Himeko: [thinking] Yep, just like a lab animal. Erika: Oh, but I should tell you a little more about this "observation". I am not to do it in person -- I must watch you through a crystal ball from the Land of Magic. Every person in the Land of Magic has a person in the human world that looks exactly like them. When you find that person, you must observe them. Himeko: So, then, you've been looking for me? Erika: Yes! It took me 3 months, too. Isn't that horrible? [thinking] If I don't get back soon, the King will be angry with me. Himeko: Well hey, there's just one thing. I haven't agreed to this yet. (Page 33) Himeko: I don't know about that rule or this "Land of Magic", but if you're going to be able to watch everything I do from this unknown place, that's a major invasion of privacy. Erika: Of course, I don't expect you to do this for free! In trade for this.... Erika removes her ribbon, and fastens it to Himeko's hair. Himeko gives her a surprised look. Erika: I will loan this ribbon to you. Erika: If you wear this, it will enable you to transform into any person in the human world. (Page 34) Himeko looks shocked, as she considers the possibilities. She and Erika have gotten to their feet. Himeko: ...That's impossible.... Erika: Well, why don't you try it? Who would be good? An idol singer? An actress from a foreign film would be OK too. Himeko: This... this sort of thing.... [thinking] It can't be.... Understandably, Himeko is having some trouble accepting this. Suddenly, she hears a new voice speaking to her. Voice: Try it, Hime-chan! Himeko turns around to look at the source of the voice... and it's Pokota! Pokota: Hi. Himeko: **POKOTA**!!?? Erika decides this would be a good time to explain a little more. Erika: Oh, that's right. The ribbon creates a friend for you from something. Pokota: [quietly] Nice to meet you. Erika: In your case, it was this stuffed animal. (Page 35) Himeko picks up Pokota, nervously. He's... alive? Himeko: [shocked] ...Then...this is all real.... Himeko: I don't suppose... that I could turn into my older sister...? Erika: [puzzled] Eh? Himeko: I... I've always wanted to be like my older sister... can I really turn into her? Erika winks and smiles at her. Erika: Of course! Stand in front of the mirror. Himeko stands in front of the mirror, after putting Pokota down. Erika: It doesn't have to be a mirror, as long as you can see yourself in it, anything is fine. Put both hands over your face. Himeko crosses her hands over her face, covering it. Erika: Yes, like that. Now say, "Parallel, Parallel, become my older sister". {Actually, it's PARARERU, but it means 'parallel'.} Erika: Then pull your hands apart suddenly. Ok? (Page 36) Himeko: ...Parallel, Parallel ...become my older sister Aiko!! She pulls her hands apart, and in a flash of special effects... she suddenly looks like her sister! She stares at herself in the mirror for a moment, unbelieving. She looks exactly like her sister, down to the last bit of clothing. Except for a small ribbon-shaped pendant around her neck, that is. (Page 37) *Aiko* is incredibly impressed. Erika smiles, knowingly. {Asterisks around a name indicate that it's really Himeko, transformed into someone else.} *Aiko*: [actually Himeko] WOW!! *Aiko* touches her reflection in the mirror. *Aiko*: I look just like my sister! It's strange, but great!! Erika: Look at your chest for a moment. *Aiko* is so excited that she ignores Erika completely. She looks down at the ground. *Aiko*: The floor is so far away! I have two feet, too. {What an odd comment.} I can't believe this! *Aiko* looks in the mirror again, and jokes with herself. *Aiko*: Big sister Aiko! Yes? Just kidding! Erika tries to get her attention again, a little annoyed at being ignored. Erika: I said, take a look at your chest! *Aiko*: Chest? *Aiko* feels around a bit, and looks down. *Aiko*: Oh...this? A pendant. [thinking] Shaped like a ribbon... Erika: Yes. When you are transformed, the ribbon turns into that. *Aiko* digs around through her drawers, looking for some shoes, since Aiko was only wearing socks when the transformation took place. *Aiko*: Oh, wow! This is great! I'm going to go out for a bit! I'll leave through the window. I don't have my shoes, but I'm sure there are some new ones in my room somewhere.... Erika: [worried] Wa...wait a minute! There's still more that I need to tell you! (Page 38) *Aiko* is so excited that she doesn't care. Out the window she goes, swinging her way downstairs via a tree branch. *Aiko*: I'm off! Erika: You *must* turn back within an hour, or else! Say the same magic words in reverse, OK? When three minutes remain, the pendant will remind you!! *Aiko* starts walking off down the street, only half-listening. Erika: And while you're transformed, the other person still exists, so be careful!! And *Aiko* is gone. Erika collapses to the ground and pats at her head with a handkerchief. Erika: [quietly] Whew. Pokota: [quietly] Thank you for putting up with her. Erika gestures, and her broom appears, to take her back to the Land of Magic. Erika: Looks like my business here is finished. [thinking] I'm still a little uneasy, though. Erika: I'd better hurry and get back to the Land of Magic! Downstairs, Himeko's mom and sisters are having a snack, and have heard some of what's gone on upstairs. Fortunately, Erika sounds exactly like Himeko, so they're not suspicious. Mom: What a strange play. [thinking] And such a loud voice. Aiko: True. (Page 39) *Aiko* walks down the street, humming to herself and soaking up the compliments. {Aiko is very attractive.} Boy: [quietly] Gee, she's pretty. *Aiko*: [thinking] This feels great.... Girl: [quietly] That person just now was beautiful, wasn't she? *Aiko*: [thinking] I didn't know sis was having it so good. [thinking] It's hard to forgive her for it. *Aiko* looks through a shop window at a dress. *Aiko*: [thinking] Oh, what nice clothes. Saleswoman: Why not come in and try them on? *Aiko* does. *Aiko*: Wow, it looks good on me! Saleswoman: Yes, it really does become you. It's very nice. *Aiko*: [thinking] This is great... I'm so jealous of Aiko... the benefits of being attractive.... *Aiko*: Oh, this is nice, too! She tries on several other outfits as well. *Aiko*: [thinking] This is pretty good, too. Feminine stuff is great... It seems that everything looks good on me like this. *Aiko* walks out of the shop without buying anything. *Aiko*: [thinking] Just try them on. Just try them on. You can't afford them. Saleswoman: ...Please come again.... (Page 40) *Aiko* walks to the park, and sits down on the edge of a fountain to relax. *Aiko*: I'll rest for a bit. Boy: Hey there, miss. A boy walks up to her. Boy: Are you all alone at this hour? Won't you have some tea with me? *Aiko*: [thinking] Ack!! He's trying to come on to me!! *Aiko* turns her head away. *Aiko*: Not interested. The boy sits down and slides over next to her. Boy: Hey, don't say that... I knkow a really good tea shop. *Aiko*: [annoyed] I said, I'm not interested!! The boy takes her left hand, and puts his right hand on her shoulder, moving in close. Boy: Aww, c'mon...! *Aiko* pulls away from him, angrily. *Aiko*: What in the hel.... A familiar voice interrupts her. Voice: I'm sorry! Have you been waiting long!? (Page 41) *Aiko* gets a sinking feeling as she recognizes the voice. *Aiko*: That voice is.... She turns to face it, and it turns out to be.... *Aiko*: [thinking] Hasekura-sempai! Hasekura: I was just talking with a friend. Shall we go? Hasekura leads her away, as the boy walks off, disappointed. Hasekura: [quietly] Hurry, come with me. Boy: Oh, she was with a guy.... *Aiko*'s heart is beating wildly, from being in such close contact with Hasekura. *Aiko*: [thinking] Wha... what will I do? I wasn't prepared for this.... *Aiko*: Um.... (Page 42) She stops in the middle of the sidewalk for a moment. Hasekura stops as well. *Aiko*: Thank you very much. Hasekura: That's OK. *I* really hate guys like that, too. *Aiko* throws a punch at the air, angrily. *Aiko*: I really thought I was going to have to trash him! Hasekura: [surprised] Huh? [quietly] Trash him? *Aiko* realizes her error. Feminine girls don't talk like that. Her sister would never say such a thing. *Aiko*: Uh, no, I was just joking. It's a joke!! [quietly] Ho ho ho ho. *Aiko*: [thinking] I'm my sister. My sister! *Aiko*: [thinking] But I can't believe it, meeting with sempai like this... I'm glad I turned into my sister. Oh, hey, I'm blushing! Hasekura: Anyway.... Hasekura: I didn't expect to meet you like this. *Aiko*: [thinking] EH? Hasekura: As I walk around, I've been thinking about you a lot. And now, I've actually met you... It'll probably surprise you, coming so suddenly like this, but.... (Page 43) Pause for dramatic effect, as the two of them look at each other. *Aiko* seems to have an idea what's coming. Hasekura: I'm in love with you. *Aiko*: Oh no...!! THE END... OF PART ONE =============================================================================== Here's the rather belated translation for the 2nd part of "Hime-Chan's Ribbon" (or "Hime-Chan no RIBON", if you're a stickler for correct titles). If you take the time to read this posting, even if you don't use it to understand the manga, could you please send me an email message? Part of the reason this second section took so long is because I only got 2 or 3 responses to the first part. Maybe this is because nobody reads "Hime-Chan's Ribbon". Maybe not. But if I can just count email messages to see if people are reading the translations, that'll at least give me an idea whether it's worth continuing or not. A big, big, "THANK YOU!" to Hitoshi Doi, who pointed out several spots where I was completely wrong in my translation attempts in this part. As always, without his help, I'd be in big trouble trying to translate things. So, without further ado.... (and if you read past this point, send me email!!) ---- Robert DeLoura deloura@noaapmel.gov =============================================================================== Hime-chan's Ribbon, Volume 1, Part 2 English translation by Robert DeLoura (deloura@noaapmel.gov) Assistance on the tough lines by Hitoshi Doi :-) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- {NOTE: I use curly-braces around any editorial comments I make. } {This manga uses a lot of small text, written outside of speech bubbles. } {I do my best to guess whether they're just saying it quietly, or thinking } {it to themselves, and mark it [quietly] or [thinking], accordingly. } {'(Author):' indicates a comment the author made along the outer edges of } {a frame in the manga. Remember that asterisks around a person's name } {means that it's really Himeko transformed into that person. } (Page 45) *Aiko* is standing in the park with Hasekura-sempai, shocked at what she's just heard. Hasekura: [flashback] I'm in love with you. *Aiko* continues to stand there, stunned. Suddenly, a beeping noise starts. *Aiko*: [thinking] Eh!? *Aiko* realizes it's the pendant, warning her that only three minutes remain before she must return to her normal form. *Aiko*: Aaah!! The pendant!! (Page 47) *Aiko*: [thinking] Thi... this is the warning that I need to hurry up and turn back, isn't it! *Aiko*: Um...!! *Aiko* starts running off, as her pendant makes small 'piko piko' sounds. *Aiko*: I'm sorry, but there's something very important I need to do. Off I go!! Hasekura: But... Hasekura, depressed at *Aiko*'s rejection, watches sadly as she runs off. (Page 48) Meanwhile, *Aiko* is looking around, desperately, as the pendant continues to make quiet 'piko piko' sounds. *Aiko*: [thinking] A mirror!! A mirror!! Where can I find a mirror where nobody will see me!? Suddenly, the pendant gets louder, making 'Pikkon Pikkon' sounds. *Aiko*: Ack! It's getting louder!! *Aiko*: [thinking] I wonder what will happen if I don't turn back in time? Fortunately, she spots a women's bathroom just ahead. *Aiko*: Ah!! *Aiko* rushes into the bathroom, which just happens to be empty. *Aiko*: [thinking] Saved!! Panting, she stands in front of the mirror and tries to compose herself. *Aiko*: Uh... um... It was... the magic words in reverse... wasn't it? *Aiko*: PARARERU... in reverse, is, um... RU... RERA.... RERURAPA!! That decided, she crosses her hands in front of her face and recites the magic words.... *Aiko*: RERURAPA RERURAPA, return to my normal form!! (Page 49) Then she pulls her hands away from her face, to discover that... she's still transformed into Aiko. *Aiko*: No way!! I didn't turn back!! Why!? Panic sets in as the pendant gets even louder, making 'BIKKON BIKKON' noises which indicate that only one minute remains. *Aiko*: Aaaah! It's gotten louder again!! *Aiko*: One more time!! RERURAPA RERURAPA, return to my normal form!! But it still doesn't work. *Aiko* starts to cry, and worries that she may have been tricked by Erika. *Aiko*: [whining] I didn't turn back! Why?! Waaaah! You liar, Erika! (Page 50) Suddenly, a voice calls out from behind her, interrupting her crying session. Voice: PARARERU backwards is *RU*RE*RAPA! *Aiko* turns around, and sees Pokota (out of breath) standing at the entrance to the bathroom. *Aiko*: Pokota.... Pokota snaps her out of it before it's too late. Pokota: Come on!! Hurry up and say the magic words!! Now!! *Aiko*: Oh, right! Ok!! *Aiko* faces the mirror again, and crosses her hands in front of her face. *Aiko*: RURERAPA RURERAPA, return to my normal form!! (Page 51) A little later, Himeko and Pokota are back in Hime-chan's room. Pokota: [irritated] Hmph. Pokota: What's with you? Are you out of your mind?! Himeko: Sorry.... Pokota remembers running down the street to find Hime-chan. Pokota: It's a good thing I got worried and came looking for you! Woman: [sees Pokota running by] Oh, is that a cat? Pokota: If I hadn't been there, what would have happened?! Pokota unfurls a scroll and shows it to Hime-chan. Pokota: Erika put some rules on here. Read them until you have them memorized! Scroll: * You can only transform while wearing the ribbon. * You can only transform into people from the human world. * You can only transform for an hour at a time. * When you're transformed, the real person {that you're imitating} still exists. * When you're transformed, you cannot remove the pendant. Pokota: Read them aloud! (Page 52) Pokota: Furthermore, if you fail to return to your normal form within an hour, you will stay in that person's form FOREVER, so be careful! Himeko: [shocked] Is that so...!? [thinking] That was a pretty dangerous situation I was in.... Pokota rolls the scroll back up and gives it to Hime-chan. Pokota: Here, put this in your desk, where you can keep an eye on it. Himeko: Ok, but aren't you being a little patronizing? I didn't know you were like this, since I couldn't talk to you before. Pokota: Well, you see.... Pokota leaps up onto the desk in front of Hime-chan and continues to lecture her. Pokota: Hime-chan, you're wild, blundering, and careless. So I'll have to be firm with you. Himeko: [thinking] How rude! Pokota: Anyway, I.... Pokota: ...have been by your side ever since you were born. I know everything about you! Pokota: I remember when you got in a big fight with a boy, and came home with cuts all over... I know about that math test you scored 18% on and hid in your desk so nobody would see it... I know about the errand you were sent on, when you secretly bought ice-cream with the change and ate it... and I remember when you stayed up really late one night reading manga and ended up being late for school the next day. Himeko: AAAAAAAHHH!!!! (Page 53) Himeko has heard enough. Himeko: [thinking] Erika...! Why did you pick this... *THING*!? Pokota remembers one more thing. Pokota: Oh, that's right!! I remember that you were so excited the first day you talked to Hasekura-sempai that you couldn't fall asleep. Himeko: [surprised] Eh...? Pokota: You always acted overly-feminine when you talked about Hasekura-sempai. How disgusting. Himeko lets herself collapse back against the edge of her bed. Pokota: [confused] Hime-chan...? Himeko stares at the ceiling as she explains. Himeko: About sempai... there's someone he likes. My older sister Aiko.... (Page 54) Hime-chan remembers Hasekura-sempai's confession in the park.... Hasekura: [flashback] I'm in love with you. Himeko: ...It's obvious. Hime-chan lets a few tears slip out. Himeko: Boys... they only like feminine girls, right....? Himeko: They're not...interested in girls like me... the kind of girls that jump-kick guys... Himeko: I wish there was a ribbon that could transform my *heart*.... (Page 55) Pokota gets up on the bed and looks at the top of Hime-chan's head. (She's still leaning against the side of the bed.) Pokota: Hime-chan... I.... Pokota: I've seen a lot of things about you. The day you took your first step, The first time you laughed at me.... Pokota: But I've always known that you're really a very feminine girl. Pokota: When Erika chose me, a stuffed animal, it must have been because she felt that I could become your best friend. (Page 56) Pokota: It's been so hard, not being able to talk to you for the last 13 years. I really wanted to. Hime-chan looks at Pokota, and starts to smile. Himeko: .... Yeah.... (Page 57) Himeko: Me too!! Hime-chan and Pokota touch their 'fingers' together. Himeko: [thinking] We could become really good friends.... Himeko: Let's do the cheer once!! Hime-chan stands up and raises an arm in the air. Pokota does likewise. Himeko: There's no reason to be depressed! Hime & Poko: Ike Ike Go Go!! Hime & Poko: JUMP!! They jump in the air and fall to the ground with a loud *thump* a couple of times, irritating Himeko's parents downstairs. Voice: Hey! What time do you think it is, anyway!! Himeko! The next day, at school, Himeko is ready for her turn in gym class. Himeko: Number 45, Nonohara Himeko. Here I go!! (Page 58) Himeko leaps, and pushes herself over a 7-high gymnastics 'horse'. The class applauds. Student: Yay! Himeko and Manami are changing clothes after gym class. Manami: Wow, Hime-Chan! You cleared the 7th height with no problem! I can only do level 4. Himeko flashes the 'peace' sign. Himeko: Peace, peace. {Whatever that has to do with anything...} Himeko: "No matter what, full power, energy charged up, sales prospering, the strong prey upon the weak." {Hitoshi says she's quoting sayings. It's meaningless to me.} Manami: Anyway, what's with your sudden change in attitude? {It sounds more like something Icchan would say, but is drawn next to Manami. So it might actually be Icchan.} Manami: [pointing] Like that big ribbon. Himeko: Oh, this. Don't you think it looks good on me? Himeko: I was thinking I should try to be more feminine. Manami: Really...? Himeko grabs her Chibi Maruko-chan bag and kicks the door open on her way out. {Rather unfeminine behavior.} Himeko: Well, let's go off to our club meetings.... "Safety in the home, a happy husband and wife." {More confusing sayings.} Manami: .... Icchan: [quietly] WHERE is she feminine? Hm? (Page 59) Himeko slides open the door to the Drama Club and walks in. Himeko: 'ello! She sees Hasekura-sempai, and suddenly remembers his earlier confession. Boy: Hi. Huh? What's with that ribbon? Boy: Are you going to work at a gay bar? Himeko: [angrily] Who, me?! Hasekura-sempai defuses the situation. Hasekura: It's nice, isn't it? It looks good on you. Himeko: Sempai's so kind! Himeko basks in his compliment for a moment. Boy: Hey, don't overdo it, Hasekura. Hasekura calls the meeting to order. Hasekura: We're going to do the play "Yuuzuru" at the cultural festival. I thought we'd take care of casting today. Some students whisper to each other while Hasekura goes on. Student1: [quietly] Hm, does Hasekura-sempai seem a little 'down' to you? Student2: [quietly] Yeah, you're right. I thought so too. Hasekura: First, there are two lead roles. Does anyone have any recommendations for them? (Page 60) Suddenly, Himeko realizes that she's not the only one who might be upset.... Himeko: [thinking] That's right!! I've only been seeing my own problems, but sempai thinks he's confessed his love to my sister!! Himeko: [thinking] He must have been shocked when I ran away from him like that!! Meanwhile, the casting is going on. Student: Yohyou should be Hasekura-kun! {The name 'Yohyou' is a best-guess. Neither of us know the play or the character.} The other students applaud the suggestion. Himeko: [thinking] I have to DO something!! Hasekura: Ok, next.... Back at home in her bedroom, Himeko tries to come up with a plan. Himeko: [thinking] I wonder where sis could know sempai from....? They go to different schools.... Comment: Aiko goes to the famous Seiran Girls School. Himeko goes to Aiko's room, to talk with her. Himeko: Sis, do you have a moment? (Page 61) Aiko is sitting at her desk working on something. Aiko: What's up? Himeko: Um... do you know a person named Hasekura? Aiko thinks for a moment. Aiko: Hasekura? Aiko: Hmm... no, I don't think so.... Aiko: What about this "Hasekura" person? Himeko: Um, er.... [thinking] Oh, she must just know his face. That's a problem. Himeko: [thinking] I don't have any pictures of Hasekura, or anything. Himeko holds up a sketch of Hasekura-sempai's face {looks nothing like him}, and looks embarrassed. Himeko: Um, I'm talking about a person like this. Aiko: I don't know him. Himeko takes a careful look at the drawing. Himeko: ...*I* don't know this person, either. Himeko: [thinking] *Now* what should I do....? The next day, Himeko is at school, sweeping the walkway outside. Himeko: [thinking] I can't bring up the subject again. If I say anything else about him, it'll look suspicious. (Page 62) Himeko: [thinking] Oh, why did something like this have to happen? Himeko hits herself in the head a few times. Himeko: [thinking] How stupid. A few floors above, Daichi and a classmate are doing some clean-up work. Daichi: Since it's so much trouble, let's just toss it out. Daichi: Nobody will find out. He throws a bucket of water out the window.... Student: Daichi! Look down!! ....dousing Himeko quite thoroughly. He looks down, and realizes what he's done. Daichi: Aaaah! Oh, no! The other student wants no part of this and turns around to walk off. Student: I didn't see a thing. Himeko, soaking wet, whirls about angrily and glares at the offending window. Just in time to see Daichi's back, as he quickly retreats. Himeko: [yelling] Kobayashi Daichi!! That was you, wasn't it!! You threw that water!! Daichi: [thinking, nervously] It's that boy from the other day. This is bad.... But why is he dressing up like a girl, with that ribbon? Student: Daichi! Move that desk! (Page 63) Himeko gets an idea. Himeko: Ah! [thinking] That's it!! Suddenly, the door to classroom 1-A slams open. Himeko has arrived. Himeko: [loudly] Kobayashi-kun!! Daichi turns around, and sees Himeko standing there, with an angry look on her face. Daichi: [thinking] He came. Daichi goes to the door to confront Himeko. Daichi: I don't have the money to get it {her uniform} cleaned. I make a point of not carrying spare cash around. Himeko: I'll overlook what has happened today, but in return.... (Page 64) Himeko: I have a favor to ask of you. Daichi: [confused] A favor? Himeko: Yes. Um.... The students see the two of them together, and start teasing. Student: Oooh! Hot stuff! Boy: What're the two of you doing together?! Girl: No! Daichi belongs to everyone! {So you can't have him.} Daichi: [to Himeko] ....Could we go somewhere else? Himeko: Yeah.... Daichi looks around nervously, as he tries to think of a quieter place to go. He heads over to the stairwell, which is partially blocked by a large sign. Daichi: [climbing the stairs] Come on. Sign: There is sometimes a monster beyond here. All you good kids should stay away. Himeko: Eh? But we're not supposed to be on the roof.... Daichi: Then who's going to see us? [quietly] Come on, I said! Himeko: Oh, that's true. They sit down at the top of the stairs and talk. Daichi: So... what's this "favor" you want? (Page 65) Daichi: Depending on what it is, I might listen to you. Himeko: [sarcasm] Oh, that's big of you. Himeko: Gimme your ear for a second. Daichi leans over to listen. Daichi: Hmm? Himeko: [whispering] Well, you see.... Himeko: [whispering] I want you to be a pervert. {'Chikan'. Person who fondles women on trains, etc.} Daichi: Really? You're surprisingly forward about this. Himeko, suddenly realizes she's used the wrong word, and gets quite embarrassed. Himeko: No!! I want you to be a flirt!! A FLIRT!! {'Nanpa'. The type of guy who'd walk up to an attractive (but unfamiliar) woman who seems to be alone, and say something like 'Hey, baby, let's go have some tea together. I know this great place...Aw, c'mon!'} Daichi: Don't get so close to me, you smell like a wet rag. Himeko: Whose fault is that!? (Page 66) Later, Daichi is dressed up in flashy clothes, waiting for Himeko in the park. Himeko runs up to him. Himeko: Sorry!! Daichi: You're 15 minutes late!! Himeko: Sorry, I had to wait until Pokota took his nap.... Daichi: Pokota took his nap? {Fortunately, Daichi doesn't know who Pokota is, yet.} Himeko realizes she's goofed. Himeko: Uh, yeah, anyway, let's get on with what we discussed. They hide behind some bushes, and spy on Aiko. Aiko is sitting on the same stone bench that Himeko was sitting on earlier (when she met Hasekura in the park, transformed into Aiko). Himeko: That person with long hair is my sister. Daichi: Oh? Daichi: She's beautiful! Doesn't look a bit like you. Himeko: I thought you'd say something like that.... Daichi: But why is it so important that I 'come on' to your sister? Himeko certainly can't tell him the truth.... Himeko: Well, you promised not to ask. Daichi: [quietly] But I already agreed to do it.... Himeko slaps Daichi on the back to wish him good luck. Himeko: So, start in 10 minutes, OK? Keep going until someone tries to stop you. I'll be hiding over there. Good luck! (Page 67) Himeko heads for the nearest mirror. Himeko: [thinking] Ok... I'd better hurry up and transform. Himeko: [thinking] I've got to let sis know about sempai's feelings! I'll use this opportunity to set up the same situation. Himeko: [thinking] Pokota... I hope HE doesn't find out.... Himeko imagines what Pokota would say if he knew what she was planning.... Pokota: [imagined] Eh?! Pokota: [imagined] You're going to do THAT!? No way!! Pokota: [imagined] You'll just make things more complicated again! Don't do it! I forbid it!! Himeko: [thinking] But I can't think of any other way. And Daichi already promised to help.... Himeko: [thinking] Actually, I wanted to do this once. {Turning into Hasekura.} That might be my real reason. Sign: Bathroom. {Women's} Himeko goes into the bathroom, in search of a mirror. Fortunately, there's nobody else there. Himeko looks around quickly. Himeko: [thinking] Ok!! There's nobody else here!! (Page 68) Himeko stands nervously in front of the mirror, and starts to recite the magic words. Himeko: Parallel, Parallel... uh... Hasekura-sempai.... Embarrassed at the idea of turning into Hasekura-sempai, she whirls away from the mirror and hides her face in her hands. Himeko: Aaaah!! It's no use!! I can't do it!! (I'm too embarrassed.) Himeko: What'm I doing? I've got to hurry! Before someone else comes in!! Himeko steels herself and tries again, turning back to the mirror. She puts her hands in front of her face, and recites.... Himeko: Parallel, Parallel... Transform into Hasekura-sempai!! And in a flash of special effects... she turns into Hasekura-sempai. She looks in the mirror to make sure it really worked. {Remember that '*Hasekura*' means it's really Himeko, not Hasekura.} *Hasekura*: Oh.... (Page 69) *Hasekura*: What've I done? I'm really sempai! What kind of horrible thing.... {Just embarrassed.} My legs are trembling.... *Hasekura*: ...I can't help myself. *Hasekura*: I've got to do this! *Hasekura* hugs himself. *Hasekura*: Oh, I'm being so *silly*! (What a lech....) Some girls have come into the bathroom while *Hasekura* was otherwise occupied, however. They're quite disturbed to find a boy in there. Girls: Eeeeeek!! *Hasekura* quickly runs out of the bathroom. Girls: THAT person! That's the pervert! *Hasekura*: [thinking] Oops! I was still in the girls' bathroom! Meanwhile, back at the park, Aiko is impatiently waiting for Himeko to show up. {Himeko got Aiko to agree to meet her there at a certain time.} Aiko looks at her watch. Aiko: [thinking] My, Himeko seems to be late. Voice: Hey there, girl. Daichi has arrived on the scene, in his 'nanpa' roll. {To flirt with Aiko.} Daichi: Why don't we have a good time together? (Page 70) Aiko looks a little embarrassed. Aiko: Well, right now I'm waiting for my sister. Daichi: Oh!! Not THAT line again. That's so cold of you, baby. *Hasekura* is watching this from behind some bushes. *Hasekura*: [thinking] Hmmm, it's about time for me to come out. Daichi's pretty good at this. {flirting} *Hasekura*: [imagining] I'm in love with you. [thinking] I wonder how sis will react.... Aiko: [imagined] I'm very sorry. I don't feel that way. *Hasekura*: [thinking] That'd be pretty lucky for me if it happened. *Hasekura*: [thinking] Aaaah, why can't I give up on him more easily! Sempai prefers girls like my sister.... Aiko: [imagined] I'm so happy! I'm interested in you, too!! *Hasekura* imagines Hasekura-sempai and Aiko together, with wedding bells ringing in the background. *Hasekura*: [quietly] Ugh. *Hasekura*: [thinking] Oh, whatever happens, happens. *Hasekura* climbs out of the bushes and approaches Aiko and Daichi. *Hasekura*: [loudly, to Daichi] Hey, you! (Page 71) Daichi and Aiko watch *Hasekura* approach. *Hasekura*: [to Daichi] You're bothering her. Leave her alone! [thinking] Oh, sempai's voice! It's so cool.... Daichi remains unimpressed. Daichi: What's *your* problem? Daichi: After I've gone through all the trouble of trying to be nice to her, *you* aren't going to take her away from me. *Hasekura*: [thinking] Eh?? *Hasekura*: [thinking] What're you doing, Daichi!? Hurry up and leave! [aloud] Ta... take her away from you... I.... *Hasekura* uses the feminine form of 'I' here, and Daichi notices. Daichi: [surprised] *I*?! *Hasekura* makes up a hasty excuse, from the fact that 'I' and 'warm day' sound a little alike in Japanese if you slur both the words. *Hasekura*: Uh, no... um... it's a very warm day, isn't it... today!! (Page 72) They all stand there in stunned silence for a moment. Daichi: [thinking] What a weirdo. Maybe he's homosexual...? *Hasekura* realizes he's blown it. *Hasekura*: [thinking] Th... this is bad. I'll just have to do it like this. *Hasekura*: [thinking] I'm desperate!! [loudly, to Aiko] I love you!! Daichi stands there looking awkward, while Aiko blushes and covers her mouth in surprise. *Hasekura*: [to Aiko] Um... you, I mean... *I* do.... [thinking] It feels weird saying this to my own sister. (Page 73) Suddenly, an unfamiliar voice calls out. Girl: Oniichan!! {'Brother'} Girl: What're you doing here? It's Hasekura-sempai's younger sister, come at a rather awkward time. *Hasekura*: [quietly] Eh? She grabs *Hasekura*'s arm. Sister: Let's walk back home together! It's my birthday today! *Hasekura*: [thinking] Se... sempai's little sister!? *Hasekura*: Uh, no... can't do that... your brother needs to go to the bookstore for a bit. Sister: Then Emi will come with you! *Hasekura*: [loudly and angrily] NO!!! Go home before me!! (Page 74) Emi starts crying loudly. Emi: That's mean! You're normally much nicer than that. You're really weird today! *Hasekura*: Ah, uh, er, hey.... *Hasekura*: I'm sorry. Let's go home, okay? Emi: Really!? *Hasekura* and Emi leave, heading for 'home'. Emi: Yay! Yay! *Hasekura*: [thinking] *Now* what...? Daichi decides that continued flirting would be a bad idea. Daichi: ...Well, I'm off. Aiko: Oh, okay. Daichi starts walking down the street, on his way home. He happens to live in the same direction that Hasekura and Emi do. Daichi: [thinking] I don't get it. Why was it so important for me to do that? Daichi: [thinking] And what happened to her {Himeko}, anyway? (Page 75) Emi and *Hasekura* are standing in front of the bookstore. Emi: Hey, will you promise to buy me a copy of "Ribbon" as a present? *Hasekura*: ...Another time, okay? Let's hurry home. Daichi sees the two of them. Daichi: [thinking] It's that weird guy from before. What a cheapskate. {'Ribbon' costs around 390 yen, just under $4. It's the magazine that Hime-Chan runs in, of course.} Daichi brushes past someone as he walks. Someone who looks familiar. He turns around to look. Daichi: [thinking] Eh!? It's Hasekura! {The real one.} Daichi sees both of them standing just a few feet apart from each other. Emi: Please buy it for me later. Promise! Daichi: [thinking] The same person... two of them!? (Page 76) Daichi looks back and forth between the two male Hasekuras. Daichi: [thinking] Just *what* is going on here!? Meanwhile, back in the Land of Magic, Erika has seen all of this. Erika: Oh, Himeko, what do you think you're doing? Erika: Hurry up and get away! What if you're discovered! The whole world will be in uproar! Hurry up and *do* something!! Erika can't take any more of it, and gets up to head to the Human World. Erika: I can't just *watch* this!! Voice: Miss Erika!! It's Erika's butler, Ren. Erika: Ren... Ren: Of course, you were not intending to go to the Human World, were you? (Page 77) Ren: During the year that you are undergoing diary training, you cannot go down to the Human World. Surely you haven't forgotten that rule. Erika: Uh, right! Of course I haven't, Ren.... Erika flops back down in her chair, with a sigh. Erika: The Land of Magic is certainly strict about things. Erika: It hasn't even been a week yet, and I'm already having second thought about this. {Lending the ribbon to Himeko.} Back in the Human World, Emi and *Hasekura* have made it home. Sign: Hasekura Emi: I'm home! They go inside, and meet Mrs. Hasekura. Mrs.Hasekura: [to Emi] Welcome home! Oh, Kouichi is with you, too? *Hasekura*: Um, yeah... I'm home. (Page 78) Mrs.Hasekura: There's some snacks for you. Emi: Yay! *Hasekura*: Um, I'm fine. Maybe later. [thinking] Maybe I can sneak out through the window in his room. *Hasekura* goes upstairs to Hasekura-sempai's room. He goes inside, and sighs. *Hasekura*: [quietly] I'm tired.... He looks around the room. *Hasekura*: [thinking] Wow, so this is sempai's room.... (Page 79) *Hasekura* looks around a bit more. *Hasekura*: [thinking] It was my dream to come here... I had no idea it would happen THIS way. *Hasekura*: [thinking] I didn't get to hear my sister's response, earlier... that's probably just as well.... *Hasekura* sits down in a corner of the room. *Hasekura*: [thinking] Why am I not the person sempai is in love with? Suddenly, a quiet 'piko piko' sound starts coming from the pendant. *Hasekura* leaps to his feet. *Hasekura*: [thinking] Ack! This is no time to think about that! *Hasekura* opens the door to Hasekura-sempai's closet, and finds a mirror attached to the inside of the door. He stands in front of it, and crosses his hands over his face. *Hasekura*: Rurerapa, Rurerapa, Return to my normal form! Himeko pulls her hands away from her face, and she's back to normal. (Page 80) Himeko slides the window open. Himeko: [thinking] I'd better get out of here!! Outside the window (and one floor down), three women are chatting. Himeko crouches down, peeking over the windowsill. Woman1: Aya likes Chi-chan's bath. Woman2: Then please come again! Woman3: That reminds me. The other day, my Kou-kun... Himeko: [thinking] Neighbor women... *Now* what...? I can't sneak out past them.... A voice calls out from downstairs. Voice: I'm home! A very FAMILIAR voice. Himeko: [nervously] Th... that voice is.... More voices are heard downstairs. Mrs.Hasekura: Oh, Kouichi? Did you leave again? Hasekura: Hm? "Again"...? Mrs.Hasekura: But you just got home a moment ago.... Hasekura: What? But I've been out until just now. (Page 81) Mrs.Hasekura: That can't be. You came home with Emi. Hasekura: What are you talking about? How strange. I'm going to go drop my bag off in my room. This is bad. Very bad. Himeko listens helplessly as Hasekura's feet come up the stairwell to his room.... Himeko: [terrified] Oh no!! There's nothing I can do!! THE END... OF PART TWO =============================================================================== Hime-chan's Ribbon, Volume 1, Part 3 English translation by Robert DeLoura (deloura@pmel.noaa.gov) Assistance on the tough lines by Hitoshi Doi :-) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- {NOTE: I use curly-braces around any editorial comments I make. } {This manga uses a lot of small text, written outside of speech bubbles. } {I do my best to guess whether they're just saying it quietly, or thinking } {it to themselves, and mark it [quietly] or [thinking], accordingly. } {'(Author):' indicates a comment the author made along the outer edges of } {a frame in the manga. Remember that asterisks around a person's name } {means that it's really Himeko transformed into that person. } =============================================================================== (Page 82) Hasekura opens the door and walks into his room. Hasekura: ... Huh? *Emi* is standing in front of the mirror in Hasekura's closet. There's no sign of Hime-chan. *Emi*: Um... heh heh heh heh.... [thinking] Whew, just in time. Hime-chan transformed into Emi just before Hasekura walked in. (Page 83) Hasekura: What're you doing, Emi? Why are you in my room? *Emi* closes the closet doors. *Emi*: I'm sorry. I'll leave right now. *Emi*: See ya! Sorry for being in the way. *Emi* waves and starts to leave. Hasekura: Hold on. You seem strange today. Your face is all red, too. Hasekura walks over to *Emi* and puts his hand on top of her head, leaning his forehead against hers. Hasekura: Maybe you've got a fever? Hasekura: [thinking] Hmm, you do seem pretty warm. *Emi* is embarrassed... and a little excited to be so close to Hasekura. (Page 85) *Emi* closes her eyes (probably to try and get better control of herself). Hasekura moves his hand, and steps away. *Emi* opens her eyes again. Hasekura: Go talk to Mom and she'll give you some medicine. *Emi*: Um... yeah... I'll do that.... (Page 86) *Emi* heads out the door and hurries down the stairs. Hasekura calls out after her.... Hasekura: Make sure you *really* take it [the medicine], now! *Emi* reaches the bottom of the stairs and rushes out the door... and narrowly misses colliding with the real Emi. Emi's a bit surprised, but just watches *Emi* go out the door. Then she goes upstairs to talk to her brother. Emi: Oniichan, who was just here? Hasekura: [puzzled] What're you talking about? We were talking just a moment ago, weren't we? Hasekura: So, did you take that medicine? Emi's confused. Emi: ... Aren't you the one who needs it? [thinking] He's sure weird today. Hime-chan's back home. Sign: Nonohara {Himeko's last name.} (Page 87) Pokota looks up from the {Hime-chan's Ribbon} manga he's reading, as Hime-chan walks into her room. Pokota: Ah! Hime-chan stumbles across the room to her bed. Pokota: Hime-chan!! Where've you been? That's not fair, leaving while I'm asleep. Hime-chan!! Hime-chan plops herself down on the bed, without answering. Pokota: Hmph. Aiko suddenly pokes her head in the door. Aiko: You're back, Himeko? What happened today? You wanted me to meet you, but you never showed up. Himeko: ...I'm sorry.... Aiko: Hmm. Pokota: [thinking] ...Something's fishy here.... Hime-chan rests face-up on the bed, staring at the ceiling. (Page 88) Hime-chan excitedly thinks back to when Hasekura had his hand on her head. (Author): In her own mind, it was really her. {Not Emi.} At school the next day.... Manami: Aaaah! Hime-chan!! Hime-chan walks face-first into a wall. Icchan: What's wrong? You're completely out of it today. Himeko: Eh... you think so? Nah, I'm fine, really. Icchan: Were you thinking about Kobayashi-kun? {Daichi} Hime-chan walks into another wall. Himeko: [defensive] Why!? Why would I!? About Daichi!? Icchan: There are rumors around... The two of you were together after school. Nobody knows where you disappeared to afterwards, they say. [thinking] You're the only ones who know for sure. (Page 89) Himeko: Oh, that!! [thinking] That's not funny! No! There were special circumstances, I couldn't help it.... Icchan: What sort of circumstances? Himeko: They were... um.... Manami: She's definitely hiding something. Manami and Icchan follow Himeko out the door into the schoolyard. Manami: You don't need to hide it from us! We're on your side!! Himeko: It's not like that, I said! This rumor's getting embarrassing. I've had enough of it. Himeko sees Hasekura sitting under a tree in the yard, and suddenly stops walking. Manami and Icchan don't stop in time, and slam face-first into each other. Hasekura: Hi, Hime-chan. Himeko: Reading the script during lunch break, too? (Page 90) Hasekura: Yes... it's my first lead role, after all. Hasekura: This will be my last public performance in junior high. I want to do my best so I'll have no regrets about it. Hasekura: You do your best too, okay? Himeko: Sure! [thinking] All I have to do is throw snowflakes, though. Himeko: [thinking] He's so great... So cool.... Daichi comes out a nearby door and spots the two of them. Daichi: [thinking] Her... and.... (Page 91) Daichi: [thinking] ...that weird guy from yesterday.... [thinking] He's from this junior high school? Hasekura: [to Himeko] Well, see you after school, then. {Drama Club} Suddenly, Daichi remembers something. Daichi: [thinking] Ah! Daichi: [thinking] That's right, I knew I'd seen him somewhere before... he's the guy from back then.... {The time when Himeko jump-kicked Daichi in part 1.} Daichi: [to Himeko] Hey! Himeko turns around and sees Daichi. Himeko: Uh oh.... [thinking] Kobayashi-kun.... Daichi: Where *were* you yesterday? Manami: [excitedly] Ohhh! "Yesterday", he said! They were on a date! That's it for sure! Himeko: [embarrassed] But I said there were special circumstances...!! (Page 92) Hime-chan tries to apologize. Himeko: I'm sorry! You *really* helped me out in a *big* way yesterday! Thank you, Kobayashi Daichi-sama-sama!! {Grovel, grovel, grovel. :-) Two -samas, even.} Daichi: "I'm not the kind of guy you can fool with words like those"... is what I want to say, but I guess I'll forgive you this time. Daichi: That guy you were just talking to... is he a twin? Himeko: You mean Hasekura-sempai? No, why do you ask? Daichi: Is that so.... [thinking] Hmmmmm. Manami's still listening in. Manami: [to Icchan] Ohh! Do you think he's *jealous*? Hmm, hmm? Icchan is unimpressed. A male student spots Daichi and comes running outside. Boy: Ahh! Daichi!! Daichi: [worried] Ack! He starts chasing Daichi around. Boy: You jerk! How dare you put mayonnaise in my custard at lunch.... [thinking] I was really looking forward to that custard. Daichi runs for it. Daichi: [thinking] Uh oh, he found out? Himeko: [thinking] I don't want to be in any rumors with someone like that. (Page 93) After lunch.... Sign: Music Room Daichi: ...Hey, Tetsu. Tetsu: What? Daichi: A person isn't a twin, but someone on the street looks just like him. How can that be? Tetsu: First, you might just be seeing things. Second, maybe someone just happens to look like him. Third, maybe someone transformed into him. [thinking] Fourth, maybe he's really a triplet! Daichi: Hmmmm. Daichi: [thinking] Transform...? (Page 94) Daichi thinks the following diagram: Hasekura-1 <--- (transforms) --- Himeko (disappears) | | (both exist at the same time) | Hasekura-2 (real one) Daichi: [thinking] It would explain things.... Of course, he realizes how silly this train of thought is. Daichi: [aloud, pounding on his desk] That can't be, how ridiculous! It'd be like Akko-chan! {Akko-chan is another "magical girl" character who can transform into other people. She's from a show called "Himitsu no Akko-chan", I think.} Teacher: ...What about Akko-chan, Kobayashi? Daichi: Oops.... After school, the drama club is rehearsing the play they'll perform at the cultural festival. Looks like they're just dealing with scenery at the moment. Student1: Oh, move that more to the right. Student2: Ok, ok. Student3: Hey, about the lines in this scene.... (Page 95) Girl: Only 5 days til showtime.... Himeko: Yeah, I'm really excited about it! A student is on a ladder behind Hasekura, holding up a large bit of scenery. (A sliding wooden door.) Student: Sempai, is this a good place to put... He loses his balance on the ladder for a moment. Student: Whoa.... He regains his balance, but loses control of the piece of scenery. Student: UWAAAA! (Page 96) It falls, knocking Hasekura to the ground. It lands on his left foot. Everyone rushes over to see if he's okay. Student1: You okay?! Student2: Move that thing, NOW!! Student3: Se...sempai! Student4: Hasekura-kun, your leg!! Hasekura: ...I...I'm fine.... No, he's not. He tries to get up, but his leg hurts. Hasekura: Ow.... Himeko: Sempai!! Student1: Hey, call an ambulance!! Student2: Hurry and get a doctor, first!! Student3: Sempaaai! Student4: You'll be okay, Hasekura!! Later that day, Hime-chan is back home in her room. Pokota: Ehh? That's terrible!! Pokota: So how did he end up? Himeko: They said he sprained his ankle, and it'll take 10 days to heal.... (Page 97) Pokota: But... the performance at the cultural festival is in.... Himeko: Yeah.... Student1: [flashback] "10 days to heal"!? But the play's in only 5 days! Student2: [flashback] We've got no choice, then... we'd better pick a replacement. Himeko remembers how happy Hasekura looked when he was talking about the play. Himeko: [thinking] Sempai.... Hasekura: [flashback] It's my first lead role, so I want to do my best. Himeko: [thinking] He was really excited about it, too... It's so sad.... Back at school the next morning, the students are waiting outside for the daily speech. Announcer: Uh, for this morning's meeting.... (Page 98) Himeko: [thinking] If there was just something I could do... *anything*.... Announcer: The principal is out sick today with a cold, so I'll be filling in for him this morning.... Students: [whispering] The vice principal's speech is always so long. [whispering] I hate it. Himeko: [thinking] That's it!! After the meeting, Himeko sneaks into the faculty locker room. Sign: Faculty dressing room She finds a mirror, and.... Himeko: Parallel, Parallel, turn into the school principal! {I'm going to starting using the word 'Kouchou' instead of 'Principal' when it sounds better in the sentence. 'Kouchou-sensei' is Japanese for a school's principal.} *Kouchou* walks into the school office, and coughs. (Page 99) Everyone is surprised to see him. Man: Kouchou!? You said that you would be taking the day off sick today.... *Kouchou*: Well, I ended up feeling better, so I came in. Man: Oh, really? *Kouchou*: Also, I need to talk to you about something.... Sign: Staff Office *Kouchou* goes on, but we only hear the response.... Man: Postpone the cultural festival for a week!? Man: It's so sudden.... The posters have already been put up, parents have already been contacted.... *Kouchou*: The head of the P.T.A. wants to come watch, and he can't come unless we hold it next week. Man: But... that's so unreasonable.... *Kouchou*: Regardless.... *Kouchou*: I said it will be postponed, and it will! Principal's orders!! Back home, later in the day.... Pokota: NO WAY!! (Page 100) Pokota: How could you do something so STUPID!? Himeko: ...But.... Himeko: I felt so sorry for sempai.... Pokota: [yelling] Does that give you the right to boss a bunch of people around?! How self-centered! And if the principal had come in, there would have been a huge panic!! Do you realize how many people you may have caused trouble for!? Pokota: [calmer] Besides that, I don't think sempai would be happy if he knew what you've done. Himeko: Aah... Himeko: Oh...that's probably true, isn't it.... Pokota: .... Hime-chan. Anyway, why don't you just try *talking* to him? {the Principal} (Page 101) Pokota: If it doesn't work, you haven't lost anything. Himeko: Ok. Hime-chan transforms back into the school principal, and calls up a faculty member via a pay phone. *Kouchou*: ...Hello? It's me. The principal. *Kouchou*: The P.T.A. head's visit fell through. Please forget about what I said this afternoon. Pokota: You always have to make things difficult. *Kouchou*: Yes. Please inform the other teachers.... At school the next day.... Sign: Principal's Office Girl1: Shhhh! Girl1: What's going on? What's everyone doing here? Girl2: Sempai!! It's terrible! Hime-chan is.... Inside the principal's office, Hime-chan is trying to get the principal to help her. Himeko: [bowing very deeply] I beg of you!! Man: Nonohara... we just can't *do* that. You understand, don't you? You should hurry back to class. (Page 102) The students outside are eavesdropping. Students: [whispering] That's ridiculous! How can she expect.... Kouchou: Nonohara-san. This "sempai" would be able to perform in the play if it were one week later? Himeko: Eh? Um, yes.... Kouchou: Well then, let's make it a week later. Man: Ehhh? Kouchou-sensei!? [thinking] Again...? Kouchou: Of course, we can't delay the entire festival. But if we move the Drama Club's play to another day, there's no problem, right? Kouchou: 6th hour on Wednesdays is homeroom, right? Man: Er... yes. Kouchou: Then shall we make it that time next week? (Page 103) Hime-chan looks on in surprise, not really expecting to have accomplished anything by talking to the principal. Hasekura suddenly bursts into the room, on crutches. Hasekura: Really!? Himeko: Sempai!! Kouchou: You're the Drama Club's lead? {for the play} Hasekura: Yes. Kouchou: Homeroom next week will probably be okay. Kouchou: [smiling] I hope your foot heals soon. Do your best, okay? Hasekura and Hime-chan bow to the principal. Hasekura: I will! Thank you very much!! (Page 104) They leave the principal's office. The students outside have heard the whole thing. Hasekura: Hime-chan! Students: Yay! That's great for sempai!! Hasekura: [to Hime-chan] Thank you. Himeko: [thinking, in a romantic haze] "Thank you".... Later that day, Hime-chan and Pokota are celebrating. (She's spinning him in circles around the room.) Pokota: Yay!! Himeko: Yay, we did it!! Pokota: Yay!! (Page 105) Himeko: [thinking] Sempai... Narration: So.... Sign: Kazetachi Cultural Festival Narration: ...the cultural festival came and went.... Narration: ...and a week later, the play was a big hit. (Page 106) After the play, the actors/actresses are backstage talking about it. Students: Good job, everyone. It was a big hit! A student hands Hime-chan some money. Student: Oh, Hime-chan, would you go buy something to drink for everyone with this? Himeko: Okay. {Apparently, this is the task of a lower-classmen.} On her way to a pop machine, she runs into Pokota. Pokota: Hime-chan!! Himeko: Pokota!! Himeko: Hey, you came to see it!? Pokota: Congrats, it was great! Suddenly, Aiko shows up. Aiko: Himeko!! Himeko quickly stops talking to Pokota. Himeko: Oh, oneechan! Aiko: Congratulations! It went over very well, didn't it? The snow was very good too. Himeko: What's up? Why aren't you at school? Aiko: We're preparing for our own cultural festival today. I snuck off for a bit. Aiko: I suppose I'd better be getting back.... (Page 107) As Aiko turns around to leave, she runs into Hasekura. He quickly does an about-face, and tries to run away from her. Aiko: Wait!! Aiko is embarrassed that she yelled out like that. Aiko: ...um.... (Page 108) Hasekura stops, but is still facing away from her. Aiko: ...Wh...why? Why are you avoiding me...? Aiko: You even changed your bus schedule. Himeko and Pokota watch this develop. Aiko: When you said you were...in love with me, it made me so happy.... Aiko: Why won't you even let me answer you? (Page 109) Hasekura turns around to face Aiko. Himeko continues to watch. Hasekura: But... you were the one who ran away.... {See part 2 of the translation, if this makes no sense to you.} Aiko: [confused] Eh...? Hasekura: Well, then.... Hasekura: Let's try it over again right now. Hasekura: Would you...please go out with me? (Page 110) Aiko stands there for a moment before answering. Aiko: ...Yes. Himeko and Pokota look on in shock. (Page 111) A little later, Himeko is sitting atop the staircase where Daichi hides out from the other students. She looks sad... obviously because Hasekura is no longer 'available' to her. Pokota: Don't be silly, Hime-chan. Pokota: After all, you saw that you were helping to set it up, didn't you? Hime-chan doesn't answer him. Music floats in from downstairs. Music: The morning air is fresh today.... Himeko: [thinking] The Choir Club.... Music: The bus that I jump into is crowded, as always.... Music: Our eyes met, and from just that, Music: Our story begins.... The lyrics seem to be talking about Hasekura and Aiko. Hime-chan imagines the two of them meeting each other on the bus. (Page 112) Himeko: [thinking] Of course.... Himeko: [thinking] Oneechan and sempai were always on the bus together.... [thinking] They were surely looking at each other, even if they didn't know each other's name.... Himeko: [thinking] Even if they hardly said anything to each other. Himeko: ...It's okay. Himeko: After all, I already knew it was going to end up like this.... Himeko pats Pokota on the back a little harder (and more often) than necessary, nearly knocking him down the stairs. Himeko: We've been able to make all sorts of good memories via transformation. Isn't that great? Himeko: Yay.... Himeko remembers what Hasekura looks like when he smiles.... (Page 113) Then she remembers the time when she (as Hasekura) came to 'save' Aiko from Daichi's flirting... and the time when Hasekura put his hand on her head and leaned close to her (as Emi)... and the time he thanked her for getting the principal to delay the play.... and she starts to cry. Pokota: ...Hi...Hime-chan.... Pokota: ...Don't cry! Hey, look! Let's do the "Ike Ike Go Go "!! Ike Ike Go Go!! (Page 114) Pokota: Go Go!! Go!! Hime-chan is so depressed that she's not even listening to him. She continues to cry, quietly. Pokota: Go... uh.... Finally, Pokota gives up and joins her. Pokota: WAAAAAAAAAAH! They cry together for a while, and fall asleep at the top of the stairs. A little later, Daichi comes upstairs and sees her. Daichi: Hm? Daichi: Darn, it's her. [thinking] I shouldn't have told her about this place. (Page 115) He reaches the top of the stairs, and looks at her. He notices Pokota (who is asleep, fortunately.) Daichi: Wow, she's sound asleep. [thinking] She's carrying a stuffed animal around. How childish. He looks at her carefully, and notices (to his surprise) that she's been crying. (Page 116) He backs slowly down the stairs... and loses his balance for a moment. Daichi: Uwaah.... He quickly covers his mouth, and manages to grab the railing to keep his balance. Daichi: [quietly] Whew... safe. Unfortunately, Gori-sensei was passing by at the time, and comes part-way up the stairs to see what made the noise. Gori: Kobayashi!? Gori: Hey, what're you doing!? You're not allowed to go up on the roof!! Daichi: [thinking] Uh oh. Gori notices what Daichi is carrying. Gori: Hm, a manga!? It's forbidden to have these at school I wonder what else you've got hidden up there!? Daichi: Aaah! Gori: Let's go take a look. Gori continues up the stairs, as Daichi tries to hold him back by pulling on his suit. Daichi: I apologize! I'm sorry, teach!! It's completely my fault. Why don't you just do whatever you'd like to me right here? Gori: [suspicious] Why are you acting so nice about this? There must be something really bad up there, hm? Hey, leggo, Kobayashi. Daichi whacks him over the head with his manga. Daichi: 'scuse me. (Page 117) That got his attention. Gori: Ko...ba...ya...shi.... Atop the stairs, Himeko has woken up. Gori's voice: Is that any way to treat a teacher?! Himeko: Nnnnn.... Himeko stands up and heads down the stairs. Himeko: [thinking] I fell asleep.... [thinking] I wonder what all this noise is about.... She rounds the corner of the stairs, and Gori (and Daichi) spot her. Himeko: Aaaah...! Gori: Nonohara!? Daichi: [thinking] You fool. They rush past Gori, and keep going. Gori: Hey!! You too?! {Probably surprised she's running away.} Daichi: Run away!! (Page 118) They make it out into the schoolyard, and keep going. Himeko: [quietly, to Pokota] You okay, Pokota? Pokota: [quietly, holding onto her shoulder] Yeah... somehow.... They finally reach the fence. Daichi: Okay, let's go over it here. Himeko: OK!! Hime-chan leaps up the fence so fast that she beats Daichi. He looks rather surprised. Himeko: No problem!! I'm great at this sort of thing! Daichi: [thinking] That isn't something to brag about! Hime-chan throws a leg over the fence. Her ribbon gets caught in a tree branch, but she doesn't notice it. Himeko: Here I go!! She leaps off the fence... but the ribbon is still caught in the tree. A big piece of it gets ripped away, and hangs off the tree branch. (Page 119) Suddenly, she realizes what has happened.... Himeko: [thinking] THE RIBBON!! THE END... OF PART THREE