Dragons and New Year Visits While Flowers Bloom/Story

*-There's only a few days left until the year's end. Saffron plans to make her first visit of the New Year at Etu Shrine, but along the way, she fell ill...*
**Makino:** How are you feeling? Does it hurt anywhere else?
**Saffron:** No, I'm fine. You really saved me. Thanks, Makino-san.
**Makino:** Good. You need to keep yourself safe.
Um... I have plans at Etu Shrine too, so if you don't mind, Saffron-san, then can I go with you?
**Saffron:** Of course. It feels like fate that I was saved by you, so I'd love it if you came with me.
**Makino:** By the way, Saffron-san. That's a pretty big case, are you really going to be taking that with you?
**Saffron:** Ara, of course! When it comes to your first shrine visit, then you think of wearing a gorgeous kimono and praying for happiness for the coming year.
That's why I've got this case!
**Makino:** I see... Well, whatever.
**Saffron:** I'm really sorry to say that I don't have anything for you though, Makino-san. I'll make sure you have only the very best to wear the next time we meet.
**Makino:** I think I'll pass. I'm a pharmacist, so I often go into the mountains. Wearing heavy clothes in the mountains would cause trouble for me.
**Saffron:** That would certainly be a problem...
I know. I'll make a “working best” design for you.
No matter how bad your footing is, whether you're in the mountains, or in snow, then you can still wear an outfit that will make everyone think you're gorgeous!
**Makino:** ... Saffron-san, you really are dazzling.
It's like... I feel like I could wear wonderful clothes some day.
**Saffron:** !!
Hey, Makino-san, let's go back into town for now! I'll prepare an outfit for you!
**Makino:** No, it's fine! That was just a feeling I had now!
More importantly, look, the road is getting rougher. Please keep close to me.
**Saffron:** Leave it to me. I'm a Flower Knight of Winter Rose, after all. This level of snow is nothing to me!
**Makino:** Ah, there's a hut in a place like this.
... Perfect timing, let's take a break here. Although you're a Flower Knight too, so I doubt you're tired at all, Saffron-san.
**Saffron:** No, it's about time for a little break.
It's not a particularly urgent journey, so I'd like to spend more time talking to you, Makino-san.
**Makino:** .........
Well, whatever. Please go in the hut first, Saffron-san. There's something I want to do.
**Saffron:** Ara, is it something I can help with? Please tell me if there is♪
**Makino:** Hmmm... Thank you for the offer... Are you familiar with wild herbs, Saffron-san?
**Saffron:** Wild herbs?
.........
**Makino:** ... So you're not that familiar?
**Saffron:** Not... Really. I've not had much chance to handle wild herbs...
But that's fine! I'll try and not touch and flowers or herbs that look dangerous!
**Makino:** Yeah... Well, whatever. Well, let's put our luggage in the hut and take a look.
**Saffron:** Yes, got it.
...? Sorry, but what are you looking for?
**Makino:** Ah, sorry. I never said.
I'm going to pick some medicinal herbs.
There's a lot of herbs that you can only pick in Winter Rose around here.
It has a lot of uses, but it needs a specific environment to grow, so it's hard to get hold of.
I usually have to import it, so I thought I'd pick some while I was here.
**Saffron:** I see. You're from Bergamot Valley, aren't you, Makino-san?
But what will you do after you pick them? It would be difficult to keep them as they are.
**Makino:** You usually dry them to preserve them. I think I'll roast them.
**Saffron:** So you're going to need a fire. There were cooking utensils in the hut, so that shouldn't be a problem. I'll give you a hand.
**Makino:** Thanks for the help.
The veins of this herb have an unusual pattern, like this. Brush off the snow and check the leaf like this...
!!
**Saffron:** ? What's up, Makino-san...?
**Makino:** I sense something other than us around here.
**Saffron:** ...!
Don't tell me, pests...
**Makino:** It's possible. Even if it's just a wild animal, we shouldn't let our guards down...
.........
**Saffron:** .........
**???:** He-ey. Umm, is someone over there? Hello?
**Elder Flower:** I'm not a beast or pest, so don't worry!
**Makino:** Huh. Elder Flower-san?
**Elder Flower:** Aah! It's Makino-chan!! It's been a while!
**Makino:** Yeah, a while. Ever since you got lost in the sea of trees at the border, maybe?
**Elder Flower:** That was a tough time, wasn't it... But thanks to that, I learned a lot about edible roots.
**Saffron:** Ummm... Do you know each other?
**Elder Flower:** Aah, Saffron-san too! Yeah, that's right. She's like a fellow botanist?
**Saffron:** I see, so you're professional acquaintances. So that means you're here to pick herbs?
**Elder Flower:** That's right, but that's for later. I'm here to help with preparing the medicinal dishes at Etu Shrine.
**Makino:** Ah. You too, Elder Flower-san?
**Elder Flower:** Fufuu, so you too, Makino-san. Do you mind if I join you?
Of course, after you procure some herbs around here!
**Makino:** Yeah, of course. They say that travelling with company makes the world a brighter place. How about you, Saffron-san?
**Saffron:** Yes. A lively journey is always better.
**Makino:** We were planning on gathering these herbs, roasting them, then taking them to Etu Shrine. Since you're here, then we can roast your share of them too, Elder Flower-san.
**Elder Flower:** Are you sure? Thanks, that helps a lot!
**Saffron:** It's decided then. Well, let's get back to picking herbs! Hey, hey , ho!
**Elder Flower:** Hey, hey, ho!
**Makino:** Ho...

### Saffron and Makino (2)

**Saffron:** We made it...!
Etu Shrine... Every time I come here, it has an atmosphere that relaxes me.
**Makino:** It's so quiet and solemn now, but when New Year comes, there'll be so many visitors that you won't be able to see the path.
**Elder Flower:** Serving medicinal meals to so many people means that they need lots of doctors and pharmacists to gather here.
**Makino:** Yeah. So we can't be hanging around either. We should get out preparations started.
What will you do Saffron-san?
**Saffron:** Hmm... It's still a little early for my first visit, so I'll help you two out.
You let me help you pick the herbs, and I heard so many interesting stories while we were doing that. Also, I'm travelling with you!
**Elder Flower:** I see, I see! It's going to get really busy, so having more people helping out would be great! Please help us out!
**Makino:** Why don't you put your luggage away for now? There's good clothes in there, right?
**Saffron:** Yes, that's right. I'll put away my luggage and get changed. I'll catch up to you two in a bit!
**Elder Flower:** Even with such a big trunk, she's still moving easily. Maybe she has some talent as a pharmacist.
**Makino:** I feel that's different from a medicine chest...

–Etu Shrine, Guest House–
**Makino:** So, I'll add this herb to this soup, then...
**Saffron:** Thanks for waiting~~!
**Makino:** Aah, Saffron-san. Your clothes...
**Saffron:** Ehehe... I couldn't resist, so I got changed already♪
**Elder Flower:** I thought some kind of princess had come to see us! Haee, you really are beautiful!
**Makino:** ... Really pretty. Just as Elder Flower-san says, like a princess from a picture book.
**Saffron:** Th-thanks... I get a little nervous when I'm complimented so directly...
But I didn't come here to pretend that I'm a princess. Please don't hold back and tell me what to do to help!
I've worn this kimono many times, and it's never been difficult to move or work in!
**Makino:** Fufuu, a commoner's princess.
Well, can I ask you to do something now? I'd like you to sort the herbs in this package by type.
If you can't recognise anything, please ask myself or Elder Flower-san. They're dried, so it's sometimes difficult to tell at a glance.
**Saffron:** Got it. Leave it to me!
Fu... OK, that's all of them separated.
Could you please check them, Elder Flower-san?
**Elder Flower:** Good work! Let's take a look.
Oooh! Perfect! You're good with your hands and can do delicate work with ease, amazing Saffron-san!
**Saffron:** Ehehe, is that so...? I do a lot of sewing, so I'm good at delicate work.
**Elder Flower:** You have a pharmacist's talent!
Makino-san is making tea for us right now, so let's take a break, Saffron-san!
**Makino:** Thanks for waiting. I made enough for three people.
I made a special blend to help warm the body. Don't let the cold get you.
**Elder Flower:** Thanks Makino-san!
**Saffron:** Thanks!
Aah, my body's warming up. Also, this has a completely different aroma from black tea or coffee...
What herbs did you use to make this blend?
**Makino:** Herbs that help increase metabolism and blood flow, as well as give off a special aroma. A good aroma soothes the soul.
**Elder Flower:** We're thinking of handing out tea like this as well as medicinal meals on New Year's Day!
But we can't prepare too much of this, but we want people to try making it at home, so we plan to hand out dried leaves to everyone.
**Saffron:** What a great idea! It's great to keep warm by drinking sweet sake and tea on a cold New Year's Day... What a wonderful start to the year.
**Makino:** Both children and the elderly come to visit too. It's easy for them to get sick if their bodies cool down. So it's best to get properly warmed up as soon as they get home.
**Saffron:** ......
... Makino-san, Elder Flower-san.
Would it be possible for me to help with preparing and handing out the tea and medicinal meals too?
**Makino:** We would really appreciate that, but... There's going to be a lot of people on the day, so it's going to be tough? Is that alright?
**Elder Flower:** Also, it's going to be really busy, so you're pretty kimono could get dirty...
**Saffron:** Ara, if that's the case, the please leave it to me! I'm confident in my abilities to run a store and serve customers.
Even though we're hard at work, I feel we have a connection with each other, so please let me help you till the end. If I can't do that, then I won't be able to properly welcome in the New Year.
So, if you two don't mind, I would like to help.
**Elder Flower:** If you're going to make that much of a fuss, then we have no choice but to let you! What do you think, Makino-chan?
**Makino:** I'm with you, Elder Flower-san. It's probably going to be tough, but you have so much you want to do, so please do.
Well... First things first, could you help me process all the herbs that you sorted? Once we've drunk our tea and had a break, then we'll get back to work.
**Elder Flower:** Yeah yeah, good luck!
**Saffron:** O-K! I'll put my all into this and do my best!

### Pinkladies and Dwarf Lilyturf (1)

**Pinkladies:** A first visit date with Danchou at Etu Shrine. What a wonderful idea. Hum Hum
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Isn't your mission to carry out security at the New Year's event, Pinkladies-san?
**Pinkladies:** No. I made Danchou promise to take me on a first visit date after I finished my mission. My real mission is the first visit date.
By the way, does Etu Shrine serve wine? This is an extremely important point for Pinkladies.
After all, it is a New Year's celebration. I want to make sure the mood is right. I want to toast the rising sun, go on a date, and exterminate pests. Hum hum, boing boing, smash smash.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** I heard that they serve sweet sake to the worshippers. But I doubt there will be any wine like you're imagining.
**Pinkladies:** Sob sob... Then I have no idea why we're going to a New Year's event in the first place. Especially in such a hard to move outfit.
When I'm not on a mission, I'm lazing about in my room gulping wine.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Don't say that. As long as there's skilled Flower Knights like you doing security, then the worshippers' safety is guaranteed.
Additionally, who else will be walking the same road as you to this shrine... You'll need to thank Danchou for all his hard work.
He's counting on you, you know.
**Pinkladies:** ............ It's not so bad. You can compliment me more. Pinkladies's the type to get better through compliments.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Oh, is that so? Then I'll actively compliment you.
Anyway... Seeing as we're nearly there, have this.
**Pinkladies:** Is this alcohol?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** It's candy.
**Pinkladies:** Candy...
But there's actually alcohol inside.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** There's not. It's for children.
**Pinkladies:** ......
Sob sob... Does this mean that you're treating Pinkladies like a child? No matter how big and bouncy you are Dwarf Lilyturf, this kind of treatment is...
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** ...? What are you saying?
**Pinkladies:** No, it's nothing.
It's fine. Pinkladies is a capable child. I'll complete my mission at Etu Shrine alongside my tall and bouncy Onee-sama.
And I'll also ask for sake when we get to the shrine. Warm sake.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Ara, you can't have warm sake. There's no problem in moderation, but you'll let your emotions take over and drink it all without holding back.
**Pinkladies:** ......
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Do you understand, Pinkladies-san?
**Pinkladies:** ... I'm too pure and innocent. Pinkladies is unlikely to handle it.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** I'm sorry if I offended you. As I'm a doctor, I can't help but worry.
Also...
**Pinkladies:** Also?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** No. It's just talking with you reminds me of my disciple, Pinkladies-san. A Flower Knight called Makino...
**Pinkladies:** Is that disciple a mercenary/Flower Knight/drinker too, just like Pinkladies? Gulping it down? With a ready mouth?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** She's a Flower Knight, but not a mercenary nor a drinker.
**Pinkladies:** So there's nothing in common. Shocking.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** How do I put it...? It's more the atmosphere. I can't really say it well, but I feel like I want to take care of you like a teacher would.
**Pinkladies:** ... Speaking bluntly, Pinkladies's teacher was her mercenary boss. Someone who isn't at all like you, Dwarf Lilyturf-san.
I've never met anyone apart from that boss who wants Pinkladies as their disciple or wants to take care of her...
You're the second person, Dwarf Lilyturf-san. To commemorate this, let's toast with this mini bottle.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** ......... How, pocket wine?
**Pinkladies:** What do you mean, isn't it obvious? Mercenaries always have a glass before a mission.
There's a huge difference between having this and not.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** ... But didn't you say earlier that you were going to request some sake from the shrine once we got there?
**Pinkladies:** This wine is for everyday duties.
But the shrine's New Year's event security mission is special, so I want to drink something special for it.
It's hard to pass by local wines, and as we're at a shrine, then they're going to have some high quality stuff. So that's why I want to drink it.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** I see... I understand. Even so, warm sake is still not allowed.
**Pinkladies:** Stop being a serious doctor... Sob sob... Sob sob...
There have been swarms of pests spotted around here recently. There have been reports that they secrete venom from their claws and stingers. So please be aware of any noises or signs.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Is that so? It's the first I've heard of it.
Pest appearance reports... Especially swarms of them, it wouldn't be strange that I knew about them.
**Pinkladies:** I heard it from a mercenary I know a few days ago. The information might not yet have reached the Knight Company.
Mercenary information is free and inexhaustible. Even the information that isn't taken on by the Knight Company spreads through the mercenaries like wildfire.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** The mercenaries are certainly quick about obtaining and spreading information.
... But it would be better if they told the citizens about it sooner too.
**Pinkladies:** Have you ever been involved with mercenaries, Dwarf Lilyturf-san?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Yes. I went from place to place as a battlefield medic.
**Pinkladies:** Really? There are a lot of mercenaries that fight with wild ways, so treating them must have been tough.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** It's true that there were times where my work was tougher because of the wild fighting ways of mercenaries. But thanks to them, then the citizens who had no choice but to flee were able to escape the pests and the flames of war.
As a doctor, it's only natural that I use every ounce of my power to help treat people like that.
**Pinkladies:** ... Dwarf Lilyturf-san.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** What's the matter?
**Pinkladies:** As a mercenary, Pinkladies is grateful. As thanks, please have this wine.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** No, I'll be fine. I don't drink alcohol. So please don't mind me.
**Pinkladies:** You're a really boring doctor.
–!!
Pests.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** ... Is it the swarm you were talking about?
**Pinkladies:** It probably is. Pinkladies will take them down, so please keep quiet, Dwarf Lilyturf-san.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** There's no way I can do that. I'm a Flower Knight too.
**Pinkladies:** Then stand up and face them without getting in Pinkladies's way.

### Pinkladies and Dwarf Lilyturf (2)

**Pinkladies:** That's all of them. They weren't such a big deal.
They were all in a swarm, but they were pretty mid-level. Just as expected from pests.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** You said it was hard to move before... That was amazing.
**Pinkladies:** You too, Dwarf Lilyturf-san, it was pretty good of you to stand up against them without getting in Pinkladies's way. You're not hurt?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** No, thanks to you...
But, Pinkladies-san. Can I look at your arm?
**Pinkladies:** ... It's fine. Don't worry about it. It's not a problem.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Not at all. A pest must have grazed you with it's claws in that last battle.
No matter how good a mercenary or a Flower Knight you may be, you still can't overlook any injury.
It'll be over quickly, so let me look.
**Pinkladies:** ......... Just for a moment then.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Thank you. Excuse me.
That's a relief... It's just a scratch.
**Pinkladies:** Just like I said, right? Pinkladies's fine. Tough as nails.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** You said there were pests around here that secreted venom from their claws and stingers. Let's just put some medicine on that just to be safe.
... Ok, all done. Thanks for waiting.
**Pinkladies:** Sniff sniff... What a weird smell. Is this medicine alright?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** It's a herb that's used in medicinal meals, but don't worry. When applied directly, it also draws toxins out of the body.
I'll give you some to hold on to, Pinkladies-san.
**Pinkladies:** ... I'll take it for now. Pinkladies rarely gets hurt, so it might not be of much use.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Also, take this.
**Pinkladies:** ......... Another candy?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Yes. It's a little modest... But you took the lead in that last fight, and you fought splendidly... So it's a thank you.
**Pinkladies:** ......
... Well, alright. I'll take this too. Pinkladies's the type to get better when complimented.
We're finally here. It looked close, but it's a far away shrine. I never thought we'd ever make it.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Yes... But now is when our job starts. Good luck, Pinkladies-san.
Oya, that person is...
**Glory of the Sun:** Oya. Is that who I think it is... To meet two familiar faces here.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** It's been a while, Glory-san. I thought I might find you here.
**Glory of the Sun:** You too. Ever since we exchanged information on medicinal herbs.
Pinkladies-san, you're in a wonderful outfit once again today. Could you be doing your first visit?
**Pinkladies:** I've come for a first visit date with Danchou. At the same time, I'll be taking care of the New Year's security and drinking the shrine's best sake.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Pinkladies-san came with me from Lilywood. It was a pleasant journey.
**Glory of the Sun:** That's wonderful.
Saying that, Makino and the others arrived a little earlier. Apparently with Elder Flower. They came in and started preparing the herbs for the medicinal meals. I was thinking of going to see them, but do you want to go together?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** So, that girl already made it here. Well, I'll go together with you, Glory-san. What will you do, Pinkladies-san?
**Pinkladies:** Pinkladies will check the outline of the security with the shrine people. After that...
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** After that?
**Pinkladies:** Pinkladies wants to meet this disciple that's so much like me, so Pinkladies will come over.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Fufuu... I see. Please become good friends with Makino.
**Pinkladies:** ... Pinkladies will decide that after meeting her. See you.
**Glory of the Sun:** Dwarf Lilyturf... Have you gotten a little bigger?
**Makino:** Ara... So you noticed?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Fufu... Compared to everyone here, I'm still the biggest...
Well, let's go. We must all work hard to ensure everyone has a safe and Happy New Year.

## Year Start

### New Year! A Gourmet's First Shrine Visit of the Year

**King Protea & Tarragon:** Happy New Year!
**King Protea:** Fufu, I feel a little embarrassed saying it again.
**Tarragon:** Y-yeah...
**King Protea:** I look forward to working with you again this year, Vice Chairman.
**Tarragon:** Me too, please take care of me.
More importantly... People, people, people.... Also, stalls, stalls, stalls...
**King Protea:** It's amazing! There's stalls everywhere!
Hurry up, hurry up, Vice Chairman!
**Tarragon:** Waa! K-K-King Protea-donyo!?
**King Protea:** Ah, I'm sorry...! No, um, I just thought that if we hold hands, then we won't get split up in this crowd of people...
I'm so sorry for being rude... Vice Chairman. I just...
**Tarragon:** No! I-It's fine, King Protea-sama!
It would certainly be a problem if we got split up in this crowd. Also...
**King Protea:** Also...?
**Tarragon:** I'm happy that I can be so friendly with you, King Protea-sama. So, if you don't mind King Protea-sama...
**King Protea:** Vice Chairman...!
Yes, of course! Well well, let's go!
**Tarragon:** Y-yeah!
**King Protea:** Waa! Vice Chairman, look over there!
**Tarragon:** Mu...?
Oooh...! What splendid candy...!
**King Protea:** Yes, it's some wonderful dragon candy...♪ They're also really tasty! Or so it says on the sign!
Waah! There are so many flavours to choose from too! Vice Chairman, should we each pick some different flavours to try?
**Tarragon:** Yeah! I see... Well, I should probably pick the green candy, as it's the same colour as Stra.
**King Protea:** Then, I'll take the pink one.
**Staff:** Here you are. You two get along so well! Take this as a special gift!
**King Protea:** Wow! Is this alright? Thank you!
**Tarragon:** This is... A flower made from candy?
**King Protea:** Even though it's small, it's very elaborate and fascinating.
**Tarragon:** Y-yeah. I kind of feel like it's a waste to eat it...
**King Protea:** I know. We need to be careful eating it!
Vice Chairman, there's takoyaki! It'll warm us up, so why don't we eat a lot?
**Tarragon:** Going half with King Protea-shama...!
(I want to eat them... But I can't stand hot food...!)
(But if I don't eat it now, then I won't have another chance to eat takoyaki with King Protea-sama again...!)
**King Protea:** V-vice Chairman...? Are you alright...?
Do you not like takoyaki?
**Tarragon:** No, it's not that!
But, um, I... I have a cat's tongue, so it's hard for me to eat food that's too hot.
So, it's a little hard for me to go half with you, King Protea-sama...
**King Protea:** Wow! I'm sorry, I didn't even think.
If that's so, then I'll blow on them!
**Tarragon:** B-b-blow on them!?
**King Protea:** Yes! Ah, but it that's no good...
**Tarragon:** To have my food blown on by King Protea-sama might be asking for too much... But I want to go half on the takoyaki...!
It's very hard for me to make such a strange request... B-but please let me try it...!!
**King Protea:** Of course! I'll go and buy some!
Fuu, fuu...
OK, here you are!
**Tarragon:** I can't hold back. H-here I go. Chomp
Mmmm...! Tashty!
**King Protea:** Chomp! Yes, so tasty!
It makes it more tasty when we eat it together♪
That's right! Vice Chairman, once we finish eating this, do you want to go and look at the stalls set up by the shrine?
**Tarragon:** Yeah. Saying that, the shrine is handing out sweet sake and herbal tea. It's a bit different from the other stalls, so I'm a little curious.
**King Protea:** In addition to the sweet sake and herbal tea, they're holding meal times where you can have a simple medicinal dish.
Praying at the shrine and eating a medicinal meal will make you healthy from the inside out... Don't you think that will be a good start to the New Year?
**Tarragon:** What a deeply interesting event. OK, so let's eat the remaining takoyaki and head over there.
**King Protea:** Ah, vice chairman, let me blow on it!
Fuu, fuu...♪
**Tarragon:** Uuu, I really am happy about this, but it's kind of embarrassing...!
There's a huge queue for the sweet sake and herbal tea. The medicinal meals seem really popular too.
**King Protea:** Young and old, boys and girls, there are so many people here. I guess everyone has the same wish to be healthy.
**Tarragon:** Maybe so. Also, it's our job to protect this world where people can live in good health.
This means that so many people can visit shrines for New Year and pray for their good health. As members of the senate – as well as Flower Knights, we need to keep this in mind.
**King Protea:** Yes. This year too... No, moreso than last year! We need to work hard together, vice chairman. Once again, I look forward to working with you.
**Tarragon:** Yes, me too. Let's work together.
**King Protea:** Well... Shall we go and get a medicinal meal too?
**Tarragon:** Yeah. Let's go!

### Urgent! My Only Wish

**Makino:** A pained voice...
Who? Are you hurt?
Where could they be? If they're hurt, I need to treat them fast...
**???:** H... Here... I'm here...
**Makino:** !! Footsteps...?
Huh, eh?
**???:** ... Ung... Ouch-ch-ch...
**Makino:** A pest...?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** It appears it has sore shoulders and back. Let's apply this compress for now.
**Makino:** Master!
(Shoulders and back...? What...?)
Anyway Master, should we be treating pests? They're... Pests after all?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** ... That's......... However...
**Busybug:** Ungggg ouch-ch-ch! That hurts!! Oro oron!
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** ......... W-we really can't overlook this as doctors! We'll treat it first, then figure out how to deal with it.
**Makino:** (That should be fine...)
... W-well... If you say so, Master.
Ummm... Are you alright? Can you sit up? If it's too tough, then don't push yourself. For now, could you tell us your name? I'll write up the medical files.
**Busybug:** Eh... Ummm... Busybug...
**Makino:** Bu, sy, bu, g...
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** How long have you had this pain for?
**Busybug:** For a few months... No, it's been a lot longer as that... Recently, because of my age, I can't seem to get rid of my fatigue, I haven't been getting better at all and feel sluggish...
**Makino:** You should take some time to rest and warm your body up. Do you get enough sleep? It's very important for your health.
**Busybug:** Haa... I've been so busy that I never have any energy, and I can't take time off to sleep or warm my body...
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** That's not good. I understand that the end of the year is a busy period, but it's important to take some time off and rest.
**Busybug:** B-but doctor! If I take a day off, then that day's work will pile up and I'll have even more to do.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** That's...
**Makino:** Someone to cover your job... No a pest to cover for you?
**Busybug:** Fufu... All the younger pests have moved on to better work, found better conditions and haven't settled down... So now it's a one man band...
**???:** Goodness, so annoying.
**Busybug:** Kya---!?
**Makino & Dwarf Lilyturf:** Pinkladies-san!?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Are you alright, Busybug-san? That's not good, Pinkladies. Don't treat my patient so roughly...
**Busybug:** I... Fell better!
**Makino:** Eh? Don't tell me... Just now?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** It's almost like a dream...
**Busybug:** No way, my pain's disappeared... Yahoo!!
**Pinkladies:** Pinkladies has this kind of talent? I might be able to make some money with this kind of shock therapy.
**Chloranthus:** Ah, busybug! Are your shoulders and back doing better?
**Busybug:** A famous shock doctor came and cured me with one hit! Now I can work hard again this year!
**Chloranthus:** That's great! Thank you so much, doctors!
**Busybug:** Thank you!
**Pinkladies:** Well, Pinkladies will go now too. Busy busy.
**Makino & Dwarf Lilyturf:** .........
**Makino:** What was that...?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** I don't really know myself... No matter what world it is, there are always people with those kinds of trouble... No, it's even pests too.
We must, as doctors and pharmacists, think about how we should best face it.
**Makino:** Yeah. That's right Master...
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Well, shall we go back Makino? We still have some work left to do.
**Makino:** Eh? Wh-where are...
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** This is obviously...
**Dwarf Lilyturf's Voice:** Etu Shrine...

### Assemble! New Year Maidens

**Pinkladies:** This is a huge and bustling success.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Ara, Pinkladies-san. Thank you for the security work.
**Makino:** Master, there's not enough medicinal herbs for that meal. Do you have any in stock?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Aah, Makino. I have some spare medicinal herbs with me, so let's go and get them.
**Makino:** Thanks, Master... Who is this?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** This is Pinkladies-san, she's in charge of the New Year's security. She's a Flower Knight who travelled with me all the way to Etu Shrine.
**Pinkladies:** Hello, I'm Pinkladies. You might have heard stories about me.
... But, I don't see any likeness to Pinkladies, despite what Dwarf Lilyturf-san said.
**Makino:** Eh, you were talking about likenesses...?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** You don't think so? When I look at you both, how should I put this... I get a similar tsun tsun feeling? (*TL note: As in tsundere)*
**Pinkladies & Makino:** Tsun tsun.........?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Well, this kind of thing might be difficult to understand for the person themself. Please forget my nonsensical words.
**Makino:** E-even if I wanted to, I don't think I could forget them...
**Pinkladies:** So disturbing.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Anyway, let's go and get the medicinal herbs. It's for that meal there, right?
**Pinkladies:** Pinkladies will come with you. I'm free.
**Makino:** Eh? You don't have your security job to go back to?
**Pinkladies:** I'm on break right now. I've been working non stop since last night.
**Makino:** Is that so... Well, whatever.
**Pinkladies:** Are you taking that box too? That's a pretty big trunk.
**Makino:** Yeah. You might call it a trunk, but it's a medicine chest. There are other prepared medicinal herbs inside, so I thought I'd take it.
**Pinkladies:** Carrying that medicine chest with such a stable posture... You've got a strong core. Not bad.
You look like you'd make a pretty good Flower Knight.
**Makino:** I wonder. I don't really like fighting though.
**Pinkladies:** ... Is that so? As I thought, you're nothing like Pinkladies.

–Etu Shrine, Guest House–
**Makino:** Thanks for waiting. I brought some extra medicinal herbs.
**Elder Flower:** Thanks! That really saves us.
**Glory of the Sun:** Oya, Pinkladies-san. Are you done with your security work?
**Pinkladies:** I'm on break. Pinkladies will take her rest here.
**Elder Flower:** Good work on your security job! Here, have some herbal tea. It'll warm you up♪
**Pinkladies:** Mm, thank you.
**Saffron:** Ara, there's even more people in the guest house.
My, even Pinkladies-san has even come. What a cute outfit! It's wonderful, it really suits you.
**Pinkladies:** Thank you. Putting how hard it is to move aside, Pinkladies also likes the look of it.
Your one looks tough to move in too, Saffron-san, but you're moving around like you're gliding.
**Saffron:** Yes, The herbal tea that I'm handing out to customers is about to run out, so I'm here for a refill.
**Elder Flower:** That means this is a perfect time to have the extra herbal medicine ready! Please take this pot!
**Saffron:** Thanks. The herbal tea is super popular. Children, adults, even the elderly, they're all saying it's really warming them up.
**Glory of the Sun:** That's great to hear. We still have a lot of herbs and medicines, so if you start to run out, then please call on us.
**Saffron:** Yes, thanks!
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Everyone, is this a good time?
**Makino:** Master. Did something happen outside?
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** No. Actually...
**King Protea:** Happy New Year!
**Tarragon:** I look forward to working with all of you this year.
**Elder Flower:** King Protea-san, Tarragon-san! Happy New Year!
**King Protea:** We saw everyone helping out while we were waiting for our medicinal meals...
If you don't mind, please allow us to help too!
**Elder Flower:** That would be great... But are you sure? Looking at that outfit, you're here for your first shrine visit, right?
**Tarragon:** Yes. But looking at how successful this is, we thought everyone must be really busy.
So we thought that we might be able to lend our strength.
**Glory of the Sun:** If that's the case, then please help us. The more the merrier.
Elder Flower, do you still have that package that you opened just now? I want to ask one of those two to sort and prepare these, what do you think?
**Elder Flower:** That sounds good! Also, who should we ask?
And the other will...
**Saffron:** I'd like for someone to help me with serving the herbal tea and medicinal meals outside. There's still more and more customers coming.
**King Protea:** Well, I'll go and help with that.
**Saffron:** Thanks! So, come to the stall outside with me.
That kimono is absolutely beautiful! Where did you get it from?
**King Protea:** Ummm, this is Lilywood's...
**Tarragon:** I'll do the sorting. I usually cook, so I'm sure that I can make myself useful with the preparations.
**Makino:** How reliable. I'll help with the sorting too, so let's do it together.
**Tarragon:** Yeah! Please do. Ummm...
**Makino:** Makino. I'm a little late with my introduction, but pleased to meet you.
**Pinkladies:** ... Pinkladies will help too.
**Makino:** Wah, you scared me. I thought you were asleep, Pinkladies-san?
**Pinkladies:** I'm not sleeping. I was listening to your conversation all this time and watching. My body starts to fidget when I sit still for too long, so I thought I'd speak up.
Pinkladies is also good at handling knives. Leave it to me.
**Tarragon:** Are you good at cooking too?
**Pinkladies:** No. I'm good at eating though. But I'm good at handling weapons. So I should be able to do it.
**Makino:** ... I'm a little worried, but whatever. Please help us.
**Elder Flower:** I'll take charge of the finishing touches and bringing out the dishes!
**Glory of the Sun:** I'll help too. It really helps us that you're here too, Dwarf Lilyturf.
**Dwarf Lilyturf:** Yes, of course. It's just one last step... Let's put our all into this and do our best for all the people that have come to see us.
*- The highly successful New Year continues on. We hope that everyone continues to keep themselves busy and in good health for this year too...*