Chapter 2

The cake is sooooo good…

Looks like your nosebleed stopped too. That’s good.

Sorrey sorrey. My love and passion just exploded a little too much.

So you’ve finally calmed down. Now I can finally do my part.

Oh…?

Isotake. I’m in charge of your ‘random present’. Here’s your—

I’ve been waiting for this!!

Huh?

There’s something I reaaaally want my random present person to do! Follow me!

Come on, Liguang-san!!!!!

! Oi, don’t pull on me! Can’t you save it for later? Get off me for a second–

……What is that guy doing. And they’re gone.

Well, that’s Isotake for you.

Yeah. When he comes back, he’ll probably be like “I’m starving!” for sure–

We should…refill…the meat…while we can.

Got it!

Alrighty, we’re here! I’ve saved you the first-class seat!

What’s the reason you brought me to a place like this?

Well obviously, you’re gonna watch a movie. It IS a movie theater after all. I actually filmed a brand-new short movie for my birthday!

I want you to watch it and give me your honest thoughts. Think of it as one of your birthday presents to me! So pretty please!

…I’m not well-versed in movies.

Well, versed? You mean movies with a lot of wells?

…Fine, I got it. I’ll play along with your antics. Go get it ready.

! Thanks a bunch!

(It started…)

“In the concrete jungle of the city! Right now, at this moment, an incredible legend is about to unfold!”

…………

Yes yes, and that’s a wrap. So howazit? My new work, “ZAP and LIGHTNING: Salaryman Commuter Edition”!

….Isotake.

Yessire!

What were you exactly trying to express with this film?

Huh?

The concept was interesting. A man bored with everyday life tries to break out of it through outrageous actions. It’s a well-worn theme, but the twist of ‘controlling lightning’ felt fresh.

The visuals weren’t bad either. That long first-person shot in the climax really showed the creator’s passion.

However… the intention behind the work didn’t come through to me. The flashy bits took over, and there were too many contradictions in the setting.

……

...Nyehehe.

Why are you laughing?

Because it means you actually watched it, Liguang-san!

Even though I dragged you here out of nowhere, you pointed out this and that… It meant you really paid attention. ‘Course I’m happy too!

…..Is that so.

Well… Um, so….. What you said was super hard to fully grasp, so I didn’t get you 100%.....

That's fine.

You don’t grow just by being told things. Growth happens when it’s necessary, and you realize it yourself.

Though there’s one thing I’ll say.

Freedom is key at the start of everything. No matter how much you grow, make sure you never lose your freedom.

! Got it! Thanks a ton, Liguang-san!

Is that all? Then I’ll finally give you your ‘random present’.

It’s a traditional talisman for warding off misfortune. Keep it in your bag.

Woahhh! So gold and shiny! Super cool!

And the thing on it… Oh, izzit a lock amulet? There’s a rabbit carved into it!

It’s normally given to infants to wish for their growth–

But you’re basically the same, so it works perfectly.

Ehhh?? I’m a high schooler about to become an adult, y’know?

Well, one day, I’ll become such a big guy that even you’ll have to acknowledge me!

..…I’ll be waiting for it. When the time comes, I might watch one of your films again.

…!!

Come watch anytime! I’ll reserve a front row seat just for you!