As the unyielding heat persisted, the calendar hinted that summer was drawing to a close.
Yet, in the realm of our Schenker Scorpions, change began to sprout—fueled by the practice effects of the versatile pitching machine and the recruitment efforts of scouting to bolster our ranks with new players.
「If we win today, where will the Schenker stand?」
「Don’t bother asking. Unless we win six more times, we’ll remain at the bottom.」
「But goodness, it’s so hot today. How can our rivals, the Brownheads Brigade, endure those furry hats they wear?」
Let me say this first, the results have not changed much.
The team has only just started practicing efficiently and the players who have joined the team are the same ones who started playing baseball yesterday so there is no way the win-loss record will improve.
Despite our unimpressive win-loss record, the team’s atmosphere had transformed dramatically. The first notable change?
「This is our chance! Swing, Shida!」
「Hit it, hit it!」
「Go go, Scorpions!」
First, there were more cheers at the games.
Thanks to post-udon-demonstration and a series of diverse events, baseball itself gained wider recognition.
Our Scorpions’ matches now drew packed crowds—far beyond what the humble citizen leagues had ever seen. And as popularity grew, so did the pool of aspiring players. It was a positive trend—one I didn’t want to stop.
「What’s that fourth batter for Schenker wearing on his uniform?」
「A patch, perhaps? It looks like it says ‘Astrobucks,’ but…」
Secondly, we secured sponsors and investors.
Whether on the theatrical stage or the baseball diamond, sustaining any venture required stability.
Even if playing baseball wasn’t our players’ primary occupation, relying solely on their efforts to fund the entire organization wasn’t sustainable.
Of course, the Scorpions already received some financial support from Schenker, and we didn’t want to overly prioritize profitability—it wouldn’t serve the players’ best interests.
However, when it comes to equipment repairs and uniforms, the burden on our players remains unavoidable.
I wondered if there was a way to alleviate that.
So, I approached Sawadi Schenker with the issue…
「How about this, instead of giving you additional budget, I’ll use you as advertisement for Schenker’s business.」 And with that, he had the name of his café embroidered onto the uniform of our cleanup hitter.
I doubt such a move would significantly impact business, but it might reduce any lingering envy within Schenker.
I initially thought of him as merely a shrewd magical researcher, but that man seems to be more than meets the eye.
「Is it really okay for us to be so extravagant?」
「Don’t worry. Master said it’s all part of the publicity.」
「I’ve been craving these pastries.」
「Gramps Kuta, care for one too?」
「No, I’m good.」
And then, as a secondary bonus—more like a runner-up prize—the bench became a showcase for the café’s products.
Players were free to enjoy the confections. It might be just sweets, but it turns out that commoners don’t often get a chance to taste such treats. Our players reveled in this unexpected delight.
As I watched this scene unfold, I hoped that even one aspiring player might be inspired by it…
Under the scorching sun, its rays searing through our hats, I found myself lost in these musings during the game.
-0-
Yet, as the atmosphere around the team shifted, so did the actions of those within it.
As summer neared its end, our win-loss record began a gradual ascent.
「Sammy, send a message to Kwan. That batter from the Sword Stars is a coward. Aim one near his face, and he’ll flinch.」
「Understood, Gramps Kuta!」
「How do you remember all that?」
「In battle, knowing your enemy well is crucial.」
「Master used to say something like that.」
「Does he?」
「Yeah. ‘A hundred battles against both foe and self,’ wasn’t it?」
「Wait, wasn’t it ‘a hundred smacks to the enemy’s rear’?」
He says some pretty aggressive things.
I had heard he was a man who couldn’t fight, but I don’t even remember where I heard that.
While we were discussing such matters, a messenger arrived, and pitcher Kwan turned to nod in our direction.
In the top of the fifth inning, with two outs and runners on second and third, she followed instructions and hurled the ball near the batter.
Good, she didn’t flinch.
Kwan then threw two more pitches inside, using her signature forkball to strike out the batter.
Her pitching remains steady, but signs of fatigue are starting to show…
Should I switch her out for a relief pitcher, as I learned from Sawadi Slayra during our recent conversation?
「Kwan.」
「What is it, Gramps Kuta?」
Returning to the bench, Kwan tilted her head while chewing on gum.
This product, touted as enhancing intelligence and increasing focus, had its promotional patch conveniently affixed to her chest.
「Your performance in the previous inning was splendid. Next inning, rest in favor of Tashiba.」
「Huh? I can still pitch.」
「Remember, shoulders are expendable, as your master once said. Besides, this change is also about keeping the opponent guessing.」
「Fine. If Tashiba gets pummeled, I’ll be back.」
Kwan, a rabbitkin, headed toward the bench, ears and hands in the air.
Starter, middle relief, or closer—considering it, it was a rather sensible approach. That man had quite the knack for ideas.
In the end, the game between the Schenker Scorpions and the Adventurer Guild’s Sword Stars resulted in a 3-1 victory for the Scorpions.
Finally climbing out of last place, the team celebrated heartily at the hidden tavern run by a woman called Wotra.
-0-
And as autumn’s whisper began to touch the outskirts, a messenger arrived from the capital.
To think someone would come all the way here at the guest house of the Snore Family, the lord of this city, just to urge me to return to the royal capital…..
It was Aaron, my scriptwriting protégé.
「So, you’re telling me to abandon the team and return?」
「Team? What team are you referring to? The theater manager was concerned about not finalizing the summer performance repertoire…」
「I left Bankul at the national theater; if he agrees, that should suffice.」
「If it’s just Bankul-san, the patrons won’t be pleased. At the very least, could you return for the meeting day in the capital?」
The Commoners’ League continues until the end of winter; I can’t leave here just yet.
However, once the patrons’ names come up, it becomes harder to refuse.
Patrons are indispensable for the arts, and convincing them to contribute willingly is part of my role as the playwright at the national theater.
Even during the league season, there’s no other choice.
「Very well, then. I’ll return. Meanwhile, you stay here.」
「Huh? What am I supposed to do in this countryside?」
「Keep track of the score. Record everything while I’m away.」
「Score? What kind of score?」
「Baseball.」
「Huh? Baseball?」
Baseball, like war, is a world where having the upper hand in information puts you half a step ahead.
While I can’t directly involve myself with the team during my absence, I refuse to fall behind in the information battle.
And so, leaving my apprentice in charge of gathering information, I returned to the capital.
-0-
Waiting for me there was the same unremarkable group in the same unremarkable meeting.
These meetings—where the same faces repeated the same discussions—hadn’t changed in the past decade.
Yet, meetings were often like that—necessary to confirm established matters, even if they lacked excitement.
However, that day’s meeting was slightly different.
「How dull. The current repertoire lacks progress, doesn’t it?」
One of the dignitaries serving as directors at the national theater spoke up.
Princess Kariya, daughter of the second prince, didn’t look like someone who had recently given birth. She challenged the stale repertoire, ignoring the old foxes who clung to outdated plays.
「Regrettably, Your Highness, there is no theater more progressive than the national one.」
「Indeed, the national theater always stands at the forefront, the pinnacle.」
Ignoring the foxes’ excuses entirely, the princess continued.
「Recently, I watched a play in the countryside—a refreshing experience. It was an all-female troupe, and even the male roles were portrayed by women.」
「An all-female troupe…? Well, Your Highness, the national theater isn’t about frivolous experimentation like those small playhouses.」
「Is the theater better, though? The one I saw in the countryside was so captivating—I’d recommend it to my friends. But with our current national theater productions, even if I invited people, I doubt anyone would come. We’ve been doing the same kind of plays since before I was born.」
Most likely, the princess is referring to the Gemini Theater in Torquiva—a place I’ve visited.
Come to think of it, that theater also had Sawadi Slayra’s influence…
「But surely, the tradition in our National Theater…」
「Tradition is all well and good! But clinging to old armor and spears forever—can we win battles that way? If we continue like this, the national theater might even fall behind countryside ones.」
The young princess may not fully grasp it, but preserving tradition is the main role of the National Theater which has more budget than other theaters.
Still, it’s true that recent productions and casting have become overly conservative and dull.
Perhaps I should support the princess’s cause and inject a bit of urgency into everyone:
「Indeed, Your Highness, I agree. Recently, I attended a theater where magical artifacts enhanced the performances. The audience consisted mostly of vibrant young women.」
「Even Spinner-dono…」
「Exactly! What if Gramps Spinner were to write a new play? 」
「A new play?」
「Yes, he’s currently obsessed with something—why not use that as inspiration? Perhaps it would draw back some of the talented youth who’ve drifted elsewhere. 」
「About…..baseball?」
「Oh, no, no. Frivolous ball games played by clueless country bumpkins has no place in the National Theater!」
Among those with whom I share an old acquaintance, I am sometimes described as 「calmer compared to when I was younger」.
However, when something I am currently passionate about is criticized directly, it does indeed affect my mood.
「…Whether baseball as a theme is fitting or not for our esteemed national theater, that decision is not yours to make, is it?」
「While I understand that such matters may not be worth debating…」
Amidst the sparks flying from the glances exchanged between one of the ancient foxes and me, a resounding clap echoed.
「Why not? To truly ascertain, you should write about it. A tale of baseball would be far more captivating than yet another recounting of ancient battles we’ve heard hundreds of times.」
「But, Your Highness, there are several existing plays that our supporters wish to see revived.」
「Then, just like in the spring performance two years ago, we’ll have a special show—two summer performances. One of them will be Gramps Spinner’s new creation.」
Once Her Highness declared this, there was no one in the room who dared to object.
Well, even though Her Highness wields such authority, it’s not something she can use frequently. Nevertheless, it does have the power to silence the ancient foxes.
Yet, a theatrical piece centered around baseball. It does sound intriguing, but I haven’t yet written the play commissioned by Sawadi Schenker.
I hardly have time for such endeavors…
Wait a moment.
『A Pastime good enough to be played in the royal capital』
If I were to approach the players with those words, perhaps I could entice even more recruits for the Great Scorpions baseball team.
Come to think of it, many of Schenker’s slaves are surprisingly knowledgeable about theater. If I were to speak of the baseball culture celebrated in the southern regions being transformed into a play at our national theater, it might pique their interest.
Maybe, just maybe, this could unexpectedly become the catalyst for strengthening our team.
Lost in these thoughts, I half-listened to the mundane meeting…
And once it concluded, I promptly purchased some local sweets as souvenirs and boarded the train to Torquiva.
As I gazed out the window, I continued to mold the play’s content in my mind, undisturbed.
-0-
Returning to Torquiva, I promptly began my research for the play.
The location: the training grounds of the Schenker Great Scorpions.
As the struggling team sought a revival, I sat on a bench in a quiet corner of the practice field, listening to Tashiba—the goatkin ‘coach’ renowned for her exceptional teaching skills. It was said that last summer, at the behest of her master, she had trained a certain pitcher from the noble league.
「By the way, what kind of magical pitch did Robos-sama throw during that time?」
「Are you referring to knuckle…..?」
The tale of the fateful showdown between the Army-aligned White Beams of Slayra and the Navy-aligned Zarkudo Baseball Club had become a town legend.
I thought it was just a rumor but I found out it was quite interesting after asking about it in detail.
A noble with no knowledge of baseball, transformed from a complete novice into an impressive pitcher under the tutelage of an unlikely mentor.
Truly, this narrative held great potential for a captivating play. With a bit of casting magic, it could become a theatrical masterpiece—one that might even contribute to the popularization of baseball.
From that day onward, I dedicated all my non-coaching hours to further research, diving into interviews with the White Beams and the Zarkudo Style team.
「East-kun, what led you to call for low-and-away pitches during that critical moment?」
「Well, perhaps it was because that spot is less likely to yield a home run. And, truth be told, my partner, Robos-dono, whispered that it was a ‘magic spot’ he’d learned from the coach.」
「A magic spot….I see. Perfect for a high-stakes match.」
With the assistance of an ardent baseball fan who meticulously documented every game since the inception of the noble league, my research materials multiplied.
Unfortunately, the defeated Zarkudo team declined my interview request, but let our imaginations fill in the gaps.
-0-
The problem was that when I asked for permission to use the story as my subject, Alex Slayra, the princess’s husband, put a condition on it.
I didn’t expect him to say that in the story…….the Slayra and the Zarkudo were competing for the league championship…….
That’s kind of nonsense since the Slayra White Beams was only 2nd from the bottom and they only won that one match against all their matches with the Zarkudo.
Well, all of this begins when his wife, the princess, ordered me to write a story so it should be fine.
I have nothing to do with both the Slayra and the Zarkudo.
If this play increases the players of the Schenker, all is well.
With the completed manuscript dispatched to the capital, I now find myself sprinting through the autumn commoner league alongside the Scorpions.
Ah, the Scorpions—the once cellar-dwellers now riding a gust of triumph. Even without their adventurer players, they snatch victories with unwavering resolve.
And there, on the sun-dappled bench, sits Shida, curiosity dancing in her eyes:
「By the way, Gramps Kuta, what became of that baseball play you were writing?」
「Hmm? I’ve already sent it to the client.」
「Ah, I see… So, Gramps Kuta, does that mean you’ll be disappearing soon?」
「Hmm?….what do you mean」
「Eh? But weren’t you managing the team to write this play?」
「…………」
Ah, yes. I did mention something like that when I assumed the mantle of manager.
Now, I must tread carefully—losing my manager role here would be most inconvenient.
「Actually, Shida, since the play has taken shape, I thought I’d focus solely on coaching.」
「Really? Well, that’s great news! But are you sure you’ll manage your other work, Gramps Kuta?」
「Fear not, dear Shida. Whether near or far, the quill dances at my command. No worries.」
「Well, if you ever find yourself in a bind, just ask Sawadi-sama. I’m sure she’d gladly offer you playwriting tasks…..if you can’t tell him yourself, I’ll ask him for you.」
「…Ah, thank you.」
She always takes care of me, and I am endlessly grateful.
However, it’s unlikely that I’ll ever truly need her assistance.
As a playwright at the national theater, I’ve earned enough to live comfortably. Both my son and daughter have already become independent and successful.
Living here in this remote countryside, I have more than enough leisure.
In fact, I could continue treating the theater troupe to victory feasts until the end of my days without worry.
Being a manager brings me joy, and the climate around here is pleasant.
Perhaps I should even consider this place as my final abode and purchase a home.
If that’s the case, I’d prefer a location near the baseball field. A study, a garden, and perhaps even a bullpen for pitching practice would be ideal.
Lost in these thoughts, I was researching real estate prices when Sawadi Slayra arrived. It was late autumn, just as the commoner league was winding down ahead of the noble league.
「Spinner-sama, Princess Kariya requests a preliminary performance in the Gemini Theater by spring.」
「Gemini Theater—the one behind the ballpark, isn’t it? And what about the actors?」
「For now, she wishes to feature our Schenker Opera Troupe, specifically the White Light Troupe.」
「I see.」
Though somewhat vague, I could discern the princess’s intentions.
Most likely, she wanted to infuse new life into the national theater by establishing an all-female opera troupe in the capital.
And as part of that plan, she intended to use the Gemini Theater’s female troupe.
While I could only speculate on the princess’s exact thoughts, this turn of events was fortunate for me.
If a performance were held in Torquiva, I could bring the Schenker girls there…
Rather than merely persuading them through words, I could directly unearth future baseball team members.
「Very well, let us secure the theater for this new production.」
「It would be an honor.」
And so, I found myself juggling two roles: baseball and stage director in Torquiva.
Leading an entirely unfamiliar troupe of actors was a challenge, but one that stirred my bones, reminiscent of my youth.
-0-
Amidst it all, there were occasional individuals among the theater troupe and venue staff who also played baseball—a small comfort, as it meant I didn’t have to build trust from scratch.
As the town grew colder, I circled between the practice field, the ballpark, and the theater from morning till night. Alongside Aaron, whom I’d summoned from the capital, we worked simultaneously on both the baseball team and the theater.
「Your movements are completely different! All the actors playing ballplayers should join actual practice starting tomorrow morning!」
「What? Are we really going to play baseball?」
「I’d prefer an exhibition match, but since we’re in the middle of the league, let’s have a red-and-white scrimmage to get a feel for real-game dynamics.」
Baseball troubles, theatrical dilemmas, the intersection of baseball within the play, and the challenges of real-world baseball—I grappled with them all.
Despite the strain on these old bones, I persevered.
As snowflakes danced, the commoner league approached its final stages.
The Schenker Scorpions, once languishing in eighth place, surged upward. They now fiercely contested a top-four position against the Golden Spikes of the Farmers Union.
And in the Gemini Theater, before the supporters brought by Princess Kariya, stood our fledgling theater troupe—barely prepared for the occasion.
『Slayra and Zarkudo. Their fateful showdown and forbidden love… 』
That succinct introduction was the essence of my new play.
Robos, an amateur in baseball player of the Slayra team, would strive relentlessly to defeat Zarkudo, as a pitcher.
It was a straightforward tale, embellished for the masses—a drama that also served as a vehicle for promoting baseball.
In the discreet owner’s box on the top floor, Schenker’s representatives sat. Other seats were filled with theater enthusiasts, including the princess herself, who had journeyed from the capital.
The stage, charged with a unique tension, was set against the backdrop of our usual baseball practice field.
And there, in front, stood one male actor in military attire and two female actors donning baseball uniforms.
『Baseball…..is it? 』
『Yes, Ensign Robos. Your mission is to play baseball! 』
Laura Slayra, the actress with waist-length golden hair, commands Robos, the protagonist played by Yomanes—the star of this theater troupe—to become a baseball player.
Assigned as his mentor is a character inspired by our team’s own Tashiba: Anima, the baseball coach.
『Anima. 』
『Yes. 』
『Robos, she’s Anima of the Iroiru family. She used to be an excellent pitcher, but in a certain game, she suffered a devastating comeback pitch. Since then, she’s been plagued by the yips—a mental scar that prevents her from pitching properly when facing batters. 』
『However, she can teach baseball to others. Consider her a coach, guiding you, Ensign Robos. 』
『A… coach?」
『Yes, think of her as an instructor. She’ll train you rigorously as a pitcher. 』
Apologies to Tashiba, but I altered the role to a noblewoman for a touch of romance. After all, Anima’s position as a coach within the Schenker family contributes to baseball’s promotion.
『Now, once again, I command Penpen Robos. In the ongoing winter baseball campaign, achieve victory against the Zarkudo style! 』
『Yes! 』
As Laura Slayra’s character retreats, the resounding crack of a bat fills the air. Cheers accompany a grand melody.
Onstage, women clad in uniforms reminiscent of the Slayra White Beams—our baseball team—appear. They swing bats and gloves, dancing to the rhythm.
And in the background, thanks to an enchanting prop created by Sawadi Slayra, letters materialize:
【Love Bound on the Ballfield】
【Theater Troupe: Schenker Opera Company, White Light Troupe】
【Overall Director: Didi Sawa】
【Starring: Yomanes, the Night Fog】
Today, with Schenker’s members in attendance, my name as the playwright remains hidden.
While in Torquiva, I prefer not to be Spinner the playwright; instead, I relish being Gramps Kuta, the baseball manager.
As the bewildered audience grapples with the unconventional all-female theater troupe and Sawadi Schenker’s whimsical stage direction, the story marches forward.
Having learned the basics of baseball during a match observation with Coach Anima, Robos now stands on the practice field, receiving a refresher on pitching.
『Very well, Ensign Robos. Three strikes—that’s the pitcher’s goal. If you can get three strikes against the batter, you win! 』
『Three strikes, understood. 』
Thanks to Sawadi Slayra’s enchanting props, a white Home Base materializes on the stage. From the performers’ hands, glowing white balls soar toward it. These unique magical devices, exclusive to our theater, allow us to authentically depict baseball.
However, in our haste to configure these intricate props, we ended up with a less-than-stellar stage director. But well, it’s a trade-off—one we’ll endure. Besides, we’ve already negotiated to transfer these magical devices to the national theater after this performance.
『Isn’t getting strikes rather simple, Coach? Can’t anyone do this? 』
『If that’s what you believe, Ensign Robos, then so be it. 』
And then, during the crucial match scene that follows, murmurs ripple through the audience. Why? Because the stage background transforms rapidly, mirroring the game’s progress.
Behind Robos, facing the audience, the drawn bases come alive. Players who hit home runs sprint toward them, and the depicted spectators adjust their movements based on unfolding events.
Sawadi Slayra calls this technique ‘animation’ or something…
Indeed, regardless of his directing skills, his intellect—bordering on treasonous brilliance—is no mere façade.
『Whoah…….how many makes that? How many more homerun are they going to give?』
『Pfft, that Slayra pitcher is a dumb*ss! He’s just making the Zarkudo style score and score!! 』
Robos, once dismissive of the pitcher’s role, after being humiliated to death, now vows revenge against the formidable Zarkudo lineup.
And in the midst of their training, he developed love for his coach, Anima.
But time is what stands in the way of them both.
From the moment they met, Anima was already promised in marriage.
And once the league concludes, she’ll journey to another city, while Robos delves into the study of his mystical pitch—the ‘Knuckle’.
『We can only practice until the first snow falls….. 』
『Coach Anima, are you really leaving? The western front line is still in a back and forth struggle and it is a dangerous place for you….a lady to go.』
『I am bound by my family’s decision. Each person must diligently fulfill their duty. For you, it’s defeating the Zarkudo style; for me, it’s supporting a yet-unknown husband. 』
『But still, marrying a stranger… There’s no other coach quite like you! Please stay in Torquiva, continue nurturing future players, and etch your name as a legendary coach in baseball history! 』
『Even so, my family lineage ends with me. Before leaving a legacy, I must leave blood behind. 』
『Very well. As your final student, I’ll ensure your coaching legacy endures! And when your child becomes a baseball player, I’ll pass down this magical pitch! 』
『…..Thank you, Ensign Robos. 』
And now, the scene shifts to the climactic showdown—the championship match between the Slayra White Beams and the Zarkudo Baseball Club.
Robos, entrusted with pitching during Laura Slayra and Raimii Zarkudo’s one-on-one duel, steps up. It’s the ninth inning, tied at one run each. The third batter for Zarkudo is none other than Raimii Zarkudo.
Originally, Laura Slayra should have taken the mound, but circumstances place the ball in Robos’s hands.
『Next at-bat, they’ll surely aim for a homerun. Can you hold off Raimii Zarkudo? 』
『On my honor as your student, Coach Anima! 』
And so it begins—the incandescent pitch.
Robos, who had cut down two opponents with his erratic, twisting magic pitch known as the ‘Knuckle’ now found himself cornered by his delivery to Raimii Zarkudo.
The tension was unbearable; even the music from the cheering stands had faded into silence. But in this dire moment, a lone voice pierced through.
『…best….. Do your best! Robos-sama!」
『Watch closely…. Coach Anima!」
And then, instead of another magical pitch, Robos hurled a full-force fastball.
『Strike! Batter’s out! 』
『Whoa!! 』
Raimii Zarkudo swung and missed, and the game concluded with a solo home run by Laura Slayra.
With that victory, Slayra secured the league championship, and it was time for Robos and Anima to part ways.
Against the backdrop of the crimson Transcontinental Railway, snow conjured by magical artifacts gently fell upon the two figures standing at Torquiva Station.
『……Coach, take care as you head west. 』
『Robos-sama, please stay well. 』
『I won’t be able to write to you because of my husband. Instead, could you send me baseball newspapers? 』
『That’s…..for the best. 』
And so, Anima retrieved a white baseball from her coat pocket and handed it to Robos.
『Coach, what’s this? 』
『My love. I’m leaving it in Torquiva. 』
『………』
『From now on, I’ll love you not as a man but as the player I’ve coached. 』
『And I’ll love you not as a woman but as the coach who taught me baseball. 』
『Our love will always reside on the field… So don’t forget about me. 』
『I’ll surely remember you every time I step onto the mound. 』
With a smile, Robos responded to Anima’s heartfelt words, and without looking back, she boarded the train.
As the snow intensified, the stage curtain quietly descended.
Honestly, there were countless uncertainties ahead.
In this unprecedented venture—new material, novel direction, and an uncharted theater—the theater company faced the possibility of a grand flop.
Yet, the audience’s post-performance reaction swept away those anxieties.
Even before the final curtain fell, thunderous applause echoed from the seats, and magical ribbons of approval danced through the air.
Observing this, a deep sigh escaped me naturally. It seemed that the enchantment of baseball had been effectively conveyed.
Today, due to the peculiar tradition at this theater, there would be no actors’ handshake event. Instead, the actors would extend their gratitude through a generous curtain call.
During this interval, I made my way toward the central first-floor seats where Princess Kariya and the old tanukis awaited.
This is a trial performance to see if it will be performed at the National Theater so I should hear what they think of it while it’s still fresh in their minds.
Well, the band of light was flying from the area where the old tanukis were sitting so it shouldn’t be a problem…..
「Gramps Spinner, over here!」
Princess Kariya waved with a joyful expression. The old tanukis on the other hand have uninterested expressions.
「That was truly remarkable! A stage unlike anything I’ve ever seen.」
「Your kind words are most appreciated.」
Following the princess’s age-appropriate comportment, the tanukis also offered their appreciative critiques.
「Regrettable, but honestly, I never expected something of this caliber.」
「Indeed. When faced with such excellence, we can do naught but tip our hats.」
Absolutely true.
The allure of baseball transcends all, enlightening even the most unlikely souls.
「Who would have thought…..that such innovative stage machinery would be prepared?」
「Stage machinery?」
「Yes. Spinner-sama’s inquisitive spirit commands respect.」
「And to think…..that such devices were developed right here in the countryside.」
「Who’s that Didi Sawa? That director is extraordinary. Could it be that Spinner-sama nurtured such talent?」
「I’ve heard rumors that these innovative contraptions are already slated for introduction at the national level. Let us extend an invitation to Didi Sawa-dono as well.」
「And that moving staircase—what an ingenious creation! We must consider implementing it there too.」
These… guys—what are they even saying?
True, the production boasts intricate craftsmanship, but every prop and set piece serves but one purpose: to express baseball on this stage.
I’m not here to discuss the tools; I seek thoughts on the heart of the matter.
「And now what of the play’s content?」
Their expressions seemed to ask, ‘Why inquire about that?’.
「Ah, the content. Well, occasionally, a departure from the usual fare isn’t unwelcome.」
「Compared to the dreary dramas we’re accustomed to. This feels refreshingly light.」
「And a play where no one dies….that’s not a bad thing.」
The tanukis continued their tepid commentary, circling back to discussions of stage machinery. It appeared that the true magic of baseball hadn’t quite reached them.
I ventured to other guests, seeking their impressions.
Alas, all I received were more discussions of direction.
Perhaps my obsession with staging had inadvertently overshadowed the primary purpose: spreading the gospel of baseball.
It’s akin to winning the battle but losing the war.
Shoulders slumped, I returned to Princess Kariya. There, the official verdict of the judging panel had just been delivered.
「Summer’s new production shall be this play!」
「I agree. But what of the theater company?」
「Didi Sawa won’t do. But let’s take this theater troupe straight to the national stage. We need fresh winds and new faces. Agreed, Gramps Spinner?」
「Princess, this company is tied to this very theater…」
「Fear not. I’ll speak to my brother-in-law; we’ll borrow them.」
「Will Sawadi-shi agree?」
「Well, perhaps we can officially stage this play as a sweetener. Borrow the company for summer, return it in autumn—neat and tidy.」
As long as we secure the owner’s consent…
Princess Kariya and Sawadi Slayra share close kinship; surely, we can bend a few rules.
And if this theater company continues as it is, there’s no need for me to attend rehearsals.
In other words, I’ll be involved right from the start in next season’s league, which begins in summer.
-0-
With that anticipation for the upcoming season in my heart, we raced through the final moments of this season, and finally, the day of the league’s ultimate match arrived.
Moreover, this game is also the fourth-place playoff against the Golden Spike team from the Farmer’s Union.
It’s a match we absolutely cannot afford to lose, but the players’ morale is high.
And the attendance from the audience is the highest we’ve seen this season.
「Something incredible is happening! The spectators can’t even fit inside; they’re lining up outside!」
「Indeed, having so many witnesses is fortunate. We must ensure a fitting finale…」
「Do you think it’s because of that play that started last week?」
「…Perhaps.」
The play 「Love Bound on the Ballfield」 which began its general performance in Gemini last week, was drawing quite a crowd despite my request to keep the playwright’s name hidden.
And after watching the play, the audience immediately flocked to this nearby baseball field, turning it into a bustling hub since the play’s opening.
At times, I wondered if we had gone overboard with the production, losing sight of our original purpose…
But in the end, that play genuinely contributed to the popularization of baseball.
In fact, even our Schenker Scorpions baseball team has seen a surge in prospective players. Alongside the intense league matches, we’re now busy nurturing new talent—a delightful frenzy that shows no signs of stopping.
「Lately, I get approached wherever I go…」
「Tashiba has it tough. Maybe it’s best not to call her coach outside for a while.」
Well, the rumor that the heroine’s character was modeled after our Tashiba spread, leading to an unusually large audience at Scorpions’ games. It was an unexpected turn of events, but if we win amidst all this attention, the reputation of the Schenker Scorpions will undoubtedly soar.
As I calculated these possibilities in my mind, Sammy, who was at bat, hit the ball high into the air… only for it to end up as an out.
「Oh no, even though we loaded the bases, we couldn’t score…」
「Come on, everyone! Whether we laugh or cry, this season’s league has just one more inning. Let’s give it our all in this final defense!」
「Yeah!」
「Hey, Gramps Kuta, can we bring all our friends to the celebration tonight?」
「Certainly! But of course, only if we win the game…」
「We’ll win! We’re going to drink up all the bar’s sake!」
The snow fell sporadically, turning the midwinter baseball field into a magical scene. The passionate fans didn’t mind the cold; their cheers echoed, and the players sprinted across the field with smiles.
Would this end like a dramatic play—with victory—or would we kneel in defeat on the dusty ground? Either way, playing baseball was pure joy.
Perhaps it was that joy that captivated the audience, making them appreciate the players’ brilliance. And if those who gathered here to watch my play could enjoy it just as much, there would be no greater happiness.
Lost in these thoughts, I joined the reserve players to cheer until I could shout no more, as we prepared to take our positions—one last defense of the season.
TN: The longest chapter I’ve ever, and probably will ever, translated.
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