Chapter 1

Did you require my presence, President, Chief? What is it you need of me today?

Recently, we’ve been holding birthday events in mahorova during each Ward Mayors birth months, and—

We’ve decided to have you Conductors do some celebratory birthday hospitality as well.

Certainly. I shall put forward a proposal within the next few days.

(N-no hesitation…!)

That’s Sakujiro-san for you… Not even a ridiculous request that Kafka only decided on yesterday phases you.

Of course. To answer desires promptly and without question is the duty of a butler. Should my master request it, I’d venture to the centre of a fire, the depths of the ocean, the middle of a tuna fishing boat.

Having said that. Why is it that you want us Conductors—originally intended to work behind the scenes—to take centre stage? For the sake of clarity, I’d like to hear it from your own mouth, if you don’t mind?

Of course.

To cut to the chase, you’ve all started being acknowledged by both fans and external parties.

There’s been a bit of a buzz online, with people saying things like “It’s not just the Ward Mayors who are cool!”

Oh me oh my.

I’ve also been getting more questions from clients about who you guys are recently…

So I think it will make things easier in future if we use these events as a way to introduce staff as well.

Understood. I believe I comprehend your thoughts even deeper now.

I’m unworthy, truly. I swear that I shall do all I can for the sake of both yourself, and the further growth of Hama Tours.

Yup, I’ve got high expectations of you♪

…Hm? Is someone outside?

Crap!

That voice was…

…Haha. I’m sure the event will be enjoyable for Sakujiro as well. Call it a hunch.

I heard it… I heard it all!

I mean, I’d bet anyone passing by would’ve. Pretty careless of them to hold a meeting with the door half open, don’t they know anything about risk management?

Indeed. Though, when it comes to them in particular, I can’t imagine they’d simply forget to close it. Surely there’s a reason as to why the door was open then.

We should notify someone about the state of the door later.

So Sakuchan-sensei’s having a mahorova BD Event too, huh.

Would, this… be… the time… to do, that…?

“Happy BDay Kari-sen! Special Celebration Project Jam-Packed with Thanks for All You Do”!! We’ve gotta hop on this NOW~~!

Right, the time to act is upon us. To begin, let us assist in preparations for his event.

Alright, let’s get to it! Day2 repayment plan~~~~…

HERE! WE… GOOOOO!!

…Heeeeey, Kari-sen. You sure there’s nothin’? Nothin’ for real?

Not even just one singular thing we can help with!?

I’m sure. My proposal has already been submitted and approved. Preparations for furnishing the area have been completed as well.

All that remains is to select photos for display, but that’s the one thing I can’t delegate to anyone else… and as you can see, even that task will soon be complete.

To think, things have progressed so much in merely half a day. You work much too quickly…!

Why, thank you.

Your desire to assist me, along with the coffee and homemade snacks you’ve provided, are accepted with much gratitude.

*sigh*… our plan failed right at the first hurdle.

Ggnnn… are we seriously no match for someone this capable?

Th-then… um… Is… there, anything… that, you’ve, been, wanting… recently…?

Let us know if you’ve seen anything on TV or social media that stuck out to you.

C'mon, can’t you just let it out? How about I give your shoulders a good rub?

Aa~h, don’t touch those pressure points! You’ll send me to sleep from how pleasant it feels!

Regarding that, there's—mmm—nothing in particular. Simply basking in the passion you all show each day is enough to satisfy me, so—aah, that hit the spot…

…So what now. Our plan’s a complete bust.

We, could… all… think up, a… present, later… huh?

Snork.

Oh my. Isotake-kun fell asleep instead of me.

Even though he was the one giving the massage…

Wake up, Isotake. Your massage is our last bastion of hope.

It’s quite alright, Kaguya-kun. Sleep brings up a child well, as they say—let’s leave him be.

I’ll get to putting him on the sofa and covering his stomach with a blanket so he doesn’t get cold… there.

Mimimi… let’s get it… special project… mimimi…

Goodnight, Isotake-kun. Sweet dreams.