rubestie

Season: Summer

Location: Rooftop

Characters: Chiaki, Jin, Tori

Chiaki: …Precisely because that dark age is still ongoing, Sagami-sensei’s existence must’ve felt like a miracle. You were able to become an afterglow and light up the idol industry again, even if just for a moment.

jin+chiaki

Jin: Yeah. It feels weird to say this about myself, but that might really have been a miracle. But miracles don’t happen twice.

I worked my ass off and was able to prolong its life, but the idol industry has been fatally injured already.

There’s nothing to be done about it. As soon as I retired, things reverted to the way they used to be.

I’m making myself cringe by saying this, but I was the last super idol.

After that, there was no one left to inherit the title of super idol. So the industry became rampant with mobs of people without enough talent to achieve the necessary results.

As Himemiya mentioned earlier, this has become like an era of populist politics.

And that original super idol has passed away. The throne is empty, and the big names of the industry who used to support us are all gone.

With no one left to rule over the chaotic ruins of the industry, everyone is just scavenging around for relics and treasures left from the past. That’s the kind of tragic era we’re living in.

You could say we’re living in the post-apocalypse.

I once went to see a movie with that kind of setting, and found myself thinking “Ah, this reminds me of the idol industry nowadays”, y’know.

Chiaki: A world where everything has ended… is the current situation really bad enough to be called post-apocalyptic? Personally, I don’t really want to see it that way.

Jin: Well, I probably did exaggerate quite a bit just now. Think of it more as a rough summary of the current era.

Let’s take our conversation back to the beginning. Kunugi-sensei was born into that dark age…

Plus, he entered the industry a while after the super idol Sagami-jin had appeared to light up the industry.

When you compare our situations, it just wasn’t fair.

He was very passionate, and I’m sure he was just as talented as I was. But because the times were bad, his flower didn’t sprout.

The industry was like a wasteland where every living thing had died out, the earth was too dry for flowers to bloom.

Some people tried to utilize the temporary economic boost I created for the industry to work hard and revitalize the industry.

But their efforts fell through and the systems and atmosphere of the industry ended up worsening.

In an environment like that, it’s impossible for anyone to make use of their true potential. Furthermore, Kunugi-sensei looked up to me and tried to do everything by following the old rules.

He was unable to keep up with the ever-changing industry of the time, and was only ever able to achieve mediocre results before he retired.

And now here we are. He is a hard worker, much more so than I ever was.

Plus, he’s a diligent student, so he knows a lot about the golden age of idols.

He’s a living witness who has experienced that gloomy era where the industry was like a witch’s pot being stirred endlessly…

He knows about both the good things and the bad. And he’s a person who put in a tremendous amount of hard work without ever producing any results. He’s experienced an unusual amount of setbacks and unfairness.

That’s exactly why he’s so well-suited to being a teacher.

I’m sure no one wants to hear me bragging about myself, and none of my experiences hold any value in today’s era.

But Kunugi-sensei’s failures and hardships are still normal tragedies that can inflict anyone even in modern times.

He wants to help you children avoid making the same mistakes he did.

Or at least I think so. So when he tells you to stop what you’re doing, you really should heed his advice.

There are things only Kunugi-sensei can teach you, as someone who wasn’t able to become a super idol.

So, all of you should try to pay more attention to Kunugi-sensei when he talks from now on. Well, both me and Kunugi-sensei are merely relics of the past at this point, we’re almost like ghosts.

When all is said and done, you guys who are actually living today should think for yourselves and choose the path you want to take on your own.

Chiaki: Hm. I’ll keep that advice with me deep inside my heart. However, haven’t we gone somewhat off-topic?

We asked about Kunugi-sensei’s abilities, and before I knew it, I was listening to some grand history lecture.

Jin: Ahaha. I thought it would be best to explain his position in idol history, or rather, what the industry was like in his era.

His achievements are kinda mediocre, and I often tease him about that, but…

I wanted you all to understand that the reason why he didn’t achieve results was because of the industry at that time, and definitely not because he is lacking in ability.

Rather, because he is a person from a time when the idol industry was desperately struggling to survive…

He’s lived through all kinds of experiences, way more than I have.

And unlike me, he’s also formed an idol unit before, and he also tried doing comedic jobs and stuff like that.

He achieved decent results in every field, except for in modeling and singing, where he really made a name for himself.

Meaning he is able to do almost everything with some level of quality.

He’s a true all-rounder. If you underestimate him and think that he’s only good at singing, you’ll be in for a world of hurt.

Chiaki: Does that mean there’s nothing we can do to counter him? Then what was the reason for all that explaining up until now…

Well, there were a lot of things I had never heard about before, so I learned a lot.

Jin: Yup. That’s why I told you all at the beginning that I was going to hold a lecture. If you learned anything then all is good.

I’m sure it’s annoying to hear old men talk about the past like this, but someone has to pass on this history.

Though it’s not a pretty tale, nor is it one I’m proud of enough to call it a heroic legend.

But it’s still the history of the world I dedicated my youth to, the world you’re all trying to live in today.

There’s no loss to knowing about it. And I have to mention, everything I told you just now was the true story, though I did exaggerate a little… I’m a teacher, I would never tell you lies.

Tori: …

jin+tori

Jin: N? What's wrong Himemiya, you look displeased. I guess all this talk must be boring for children, after all.

Tori: N~n… I had no idea about any of this before hearing you talk about it just now. I mean, I never had any interest in idols in the past. So I feel like I’ve gained something from listening.

(...I see. So that’s the kind of era we’re in right now. That’s why Eichi-sama is called “Emperor” and “top idol”...)

(Does that mean his goal is to someday become an even more powerful “super idol”, so he can reign over the entire industry and bring back that bright golden age?)

(Or am I overthinking things? It doesn’t seem as if Eichi-sama likes being called “Emperor” very much, after all…?)

(That’s right. We’re going to close the curtain on the old era and create a brand new world… that’s why we’re “fine”.)

(Eichi-sama is sure to be able to reach even greater heights than the super idols of the past.)

(He will grow to become as great, or even greater, than the “original super idol”, who was said to be a godlike being.)

(No. He’s probably working hard even now to accomplish that, I’m sure…)

(Sagami-sensei only explained the big changes in idol history, so I still don’t really understand the current circumstances.)

(It’s as if I sat in on a lecture concerning ancient history, but modern history is still vague to me. But, Eichi-sama is spearheading that history, and even now he’s fighting on the front lines.)

(I’m still inexperienced, but I want to keep growing more and more and support him.)

(That’s why I went against my parents’ wishes to enter Yumenosaki academy.)

(Well… Right now I’ve been forced into this unnecessary detour and have been given the name “Rain-bows”, though.)

Chiaki: Hm? What’s wrong Himemiya, you look tired!

Your head must’ve started hurting after being told so many difficult things in one go. To tell you the truth, I’m the same way! That means we’re together in this, that makes me happy ♪

Tori: You’re so loud… Rather than all that, the bell will ring any moment now.

Shouldn’t we clean up after ourselves and begin heading back already? Being late for class would create scars for my resume.

Chiaki: What, don’t worry about that! Scars are like honor badges for men! Hahahaha!

…Or I guess I shouldn’t say that. Since we can only meet up once a week during lunch break, we never have enough time together.

There’s no end to the things I want to talk about, and we’ve had nowhere near enough lessons together, it’s making me feel frustrated.

Aah, if only there were 48 hours in a day! If only the days lasted as long as we wanted them to!

But I’m not a god, so I can’t change the speed of the sun rising and setting!

Tori: …Stop saying weird things like that, and let’s get going to class already, okay~?

Really. I want to return to Eichi-sama’s side right this second and support him, so why should I have to waste my time on something like this…♪

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Season: Summer

Location: Rooftop

Characters: Jin, Tori, Hokuto, Chiaki

Hokuto: …Did that person really exist? I find it hard to believe, it just sounds like an urban legend.

jin+hokuto

Jin: Well, that’s probably a good word for it. Most of what we know about that person comes from exaggerations and rumors, no doubt.

Only the people who lived through that period of change would know how it actually went down.

In summary, it’s become somewhat of a myth, I don’t know how much of it is historical fact and how much is made-up.

But it seems that person really did exist, and his influence was large enough that it can still be felt even know.

He spent a long time as an active idol, and even after retiring, he controlled the idol industry from behind the scenes through that powerful influence. Well, this is all something like an idol legend.

Back when I was still active, he was apparently just barely still alive…

His tentacles extended to control both the overworld and the underworld, not only in the idol industry but also various other fields, from behind the scenes.

You could say he was like the Godfather of the idol industry. …Or maybe young people nowadays wouldn’t know about such an old movie?

Tori: …I might have heard about that person before. People would often mention him at the social gatherings I attended with my family. It seems he had a strong influence in the financial world as well.

Yeah. I think the timeline matches up, somehow. If this was back when Sagami-sensei was active, that means it was around 10 years ago, right?

Jin: Yeah. I retired when I was 20-something years old, so that would be right. Huh, I was pretty sceptical of these rumors even back then, but…

Thinking about it now, that otherworldly person might really have existed after all.

Either way, that was the dawn of the idol world. That was where the current idol industry took roots.

It’s like the Genesis in the Bible, when God proclaimed “Let there be light”.

“Let there be idol”, I guess. That person held a love for idols which bordered upon paranoia.

He wanted to raise idols’ social status as much as possible, so the profession would gain influence.

Apparently, he worked hard until the very end to become an existence which was acknowledged and sought-after by the public.

jin+tori

Tori: …That sounds kind of like Eichi-sama.

Jin: N? Did you say something just now, Himemiya?

Tori: Ah, no… that person you’re talking about passed away, right? So it's not like he has anything to do with us active idols nowadays.

Jin: That’s kinda true, but also not really. That person’s influence and assets were apparently divvied up and passed down all over the place… and that’s the foundation today’s industry is built upon.

There were lots of successors who inherited that person’s status as a powerful idol.

There were even rumors going around saying that the true goal behind SS was to find people who could inherit those positions.

It seems he had been looking for someone who could truly inherit his place in the industry ever since he was still active himself.

Well, by now SS has been reduced to some flashy festival that’s only held once a year, though.

Hokuto: Hey. Don’t go saying stuff that’ll dampen my motivation for participating in SS.

Jin: Ahaha. Well, SS is just as much the biggest festival in the idol industry today as it was back then…

Some of the meaning behind it has been lost, but the value of that festival hasn’t gone down at all.

Plus, the amount of fans excited for it has definitely gone way up from when that person was still active. And making our fans happy is what justice is for an idol.

Hokuto: Hm. Well, I guess that’s true.

Jin: Yup. Either way, that person… the original super idol retired and disappeared from official business.

Of course, he stayed in control behind the scenes, exerting way more power than necessary to keep everything under his thumb.

And naturally, there then came a need to find someone who could take the center stage publically in place of that person.

Someone who could become the face of the industry, the first person to come to mind for anyone when they heard the word “idol”.

In other words, they needed someone to become the next super idol.

Which is why, after that person retired from center stage, he kept establishing new super idols throughout the eras, each one replacing the last.

And thanks in part to that person supporting them from behind the scenes, those super idols have shone brightly as the sun of the idol industry through the generations.

This is how idols have been able to keep pleasing the everchanging fanbase all this time.

And those peaceful days kept going for a long time.

Days of a singular super idol rising high above the horizon before setting again kept repeating over and over.

It definitely wasn’t always smooth sailing. Of course, each and every super idol was an extremely talented person, worthy of carrying that title.

However. That original super idol was such an amazing existence, that it seems like no one was able to act as his replacement for very long.

Apparently there were several dangerous periods of time where they would end up changing his replacements several times within the same year.

jin+chiaki

Chiaki: I feel like I’m listening to a history lecture about the Roman Empire or some other ancient dynasty.

Jin: Ah, that comparison is pretty fitting, I think.

A god-like person founds an empire, and his God-given status is then passed down from generation to generation to a new ruler for each era.

Hokuto: The idea of a divine right to rule was created during the late middle ages, however… Well, I understand what you’re trying to say.

Tori: Hmm. If the idol industry is like the Roman Empire, then it’s doomed to crumble one day under the weight of its own bad policies, right?

Jin: Yup. I’d argue that’s actually happening right now, but let’s put a rain check on that discussion for now.

Either way, that’s the history behind today’s idol industry. There were both good times and bad times.

The best example of a good time for the industry would be back during Hidaka’s old man’s era.

Hokuto: …My dad’s?

Jin: Why do you make that disgusted expression every time someone mentions your parents? He’s a pretty awesome person you know, that dad of yours… you should try respecting him some more.

Hokuto: …I do respect him. At least the bare minimum amount.

Jin: Haha. Hidaka-san must really be going through it now that his only son is in his rebellious stage.

Anyways, it’s a known fact that your dad was the top idol in his age.

Hokuto: Yeah. It’s rather troublesome, actually. Even today that shine of his casts a large shadow that I have to try and escape from.

Jin: Ya know, lately you keep saying these weirdly deep things.

Well, whatever. Back during Hidaka’s father’s reign, there were no huge problems in the idol industry.

The industry was developing smoothly, the masses were happy, and everything was shining brightly.

For a while, successive generations of super idols were able to do some pretty impressive things, both big and small. Until a certain person came along.

At the very least, nothing major enough to flip the entire industry on its head went down.

The system that allowed this is something that was created by that original super idol.

But that person kept controlling the industry from behind the scenes, and the eras kept changing too quickly for the new super idols to keep up, no matter how skillful they were.

The world keeps changing from day to day, and even just media technology is developing at a break-neck pace…

Swallowed up by the turbulent waves of the changing eras, even the system created by that genius started showing cracks. The whole thing was standing on its last legs.

And that’s when the incident concerning “that Akehoshi” occurred.

Hokuto: Ah… As I thought, the “certain person” you were referring to was…

Chiaki: “That Akehoshi”, huh.

Tori: Eh, eh? “That Akehoshi”? Who’s that? Akehoshi is that useslessly noisy, annoying guy from Trickstar, right?

Chiaki: …Not that Akehoshi, no, though he is related to this as well. Well, don’t go looking into this too much. It's a thing of the past.

Tori: …?

Jin: Right. Well, at the same time as when that person met his tragic fate, the idol industry was plunged into a dark age.

It was a dark and cold time when nothing worked out okay no matter what you tried. It was as if the world was spitting at the industry and turning away from it. No one in the industry today would want to remember those days.

That’s when the curtains closed for a while on that glorious era inherited by those super idols who shone like supernovas.

The golden age of idols at this point is merely a ghost, something you can only find written about in holy tomes and history books.

And even today, the dark period still isn’t over. It’s been a long while since that incident occurred, and the torch is being passed on from one generation to the next, so people are starting to forget, but…

That system that once supported the entire idol industry has completely crumbled away.

jin

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Mika, Tori, Ritsu, Arashi, Mao, Hajime, Yuzuru

Mika: Hey, Ritsu-kun. Ya hafta come quick. The program’s startin’ soon!

mika+tori

Tori: That’s right! Hurry up! Or rather. I know it’s Sunday and all, but it’s noon already. You should have woken up long ago.

Ritsu: …Fwaah, fu. I think Sundays are usually the days where you’re allowed to sleep past noon, though.

Arashi: The person who’s most excited of all of us to watch this show is Ritsu-chan, though, isn’t it? C’mere, you can sit next to me.

Mao: Ahaha. This side of you never changes~

Hajime: Everyone, I’ve prepared some tea~♪

Yuzuru: Sakuma-sama. Some warm tea should help you wake up. Here you go.

Ritsu: Yeah. Thank you~

Mao: Oh. It’s starting… “Top 100 Most Recommended Inns in Japan”!

Mika: Ta think that an inn that was on the brink of economic ruin would bounce back and become the number 1 most recommended inn. The world really works in mysterious ways…

Yuzuru: Well, the inn did have lots of potential from the beginning.

Hajime: They’re showing many different rooms, aren’t they? Ah, this is the room we stayed in. It’s as beautiful as ever.

Tori: Ah. Is this a room from the new building? Huh~, it looks really nice. It’s almost like some noble’s mansion!

Arashi: Oh my! It’s true. How lovely.

The building we stayed in was rebranded into the old building, and then they built an entirely new Western-style building to match.

Yuzuru: The new building appears to be popular with younger people. Thanks to that, the number of guests staying at the inn increased exponentially.

Arashi: Ritsu-chan, you ended up giving them advice on things outside of the rooms as well, right? What kinds of advice did you give out?

Ritsu: N~? Well, lots.

For example. That inn is located on the top of a mountain, so getting to and from it was pretty inconvenient, right? There was a shuttle bus going from the foot of the mountain, but that alone wasn’t quite enough.

Which is why we increased the number of shuttle buses going back and forth, and extended the routes so they could pick people up and drop them off at the train station and the neighboring towns.

Mao: I see~. That would probably make it a lot easier to get to and from the inn.

Hajime: Amazing. As expected of Ritsu-onii-chan…♪

Ritsu: Not really. While it feels great to be praised by Ha~kun like that, I can’t claim to have been the one in charge of rebuilding the inn. I don’t have enough knowledge of management or economics for that.

So I had Anija introduce me to some of his connections. And those people were able to help me out with a lot of advice.

I just went over the info they gave me, put it all together and used it as a basis for creating a new management plan.

Mao: You “just created the new plan” you say… That’s still more than impressive enough, you know?

Mika: Ah. They’re showin’ the old and the young master! They’re bein’ interviewed. They both look like they’re doin’ good ♪ And their faces have more color in ‘em!

Ritsu: …♪

Mao: N? What’s up, Ritsu? You look kinda happy.

Ritsu: I guess. I’m sure that inn isn’t in danger of shutting down anymore. The people supporting it are finally able to face in the same direction, after all…♪

ritsu+mao

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Ritsu, Arashi, Yuzuru, Mika, Hajime, Tori, Anzu

Ritsu: Anzu, good morning~

N? What’s wrong? You look so surprised… It’s rare for me to not look sleepy this early in the morning, you say?

Well, I did take some precautions. I can’t afford to participate in this match absentmindedly.

N~? It makes me happy when you praise me, but I dunno how to feel about being praised like a child like that.

Ah, we’re about to start filming so I better go get ready? I got it.

--That reminds me. Let me apologize to you ahead of time, Anzu. Sorry~. Well then, I’ll go gather my team.

(Fufu. She’s totally panicking now. That makes us even. She’s making a worried face now that she doesn’t know what to expect~)

(Well, it’s true that I have to apologize to her.)

--I’ve let everyone know about our plan, so now all that’s left is for the cameras to start rolling. Is everyone ready?

Arashi: Yup. I have to show everyone that the me of today is way different from the me of yesterday.

Yuzuru: Me too. I can’t keep showing only pathetic sides of myself.

Ritsu: --Alright~. Well then, let’s go. We’re getting revenge.

<Match starts.>

Mika: Naru-chan, wait up~

Arashi: As if hearing that would make me wait. Me and Mika-chan are enemies right now.

(This is exactly as Ritsu-chan predicted… They’re going with the same one-on-one strategy as they did during the practice match. And Mika-chan is tagging me again.)

(Of course, now that I know Mika-chan will be coming for me, there’s no way I’ll make the same mistake as last time.)

(For now, I have to make sure I separate Mika-chan from the others…!)

Mika: Ngah!? There’s no way? Naru-chan, did ya just get even faster!?

This won’t do. At this rate, I’ll lose sight of her. I need ta get faster as well…!

Arashi: Haa…haaa…!

(Mika-chan, you’re amazing! He’s actually keeping up with me so as not to let me get away!)

(As expected, it’s really tough to keep running at this speed… Hopefully I’ll be able to find the area I’m looking for soon.)

(--Ah. That place seems like it’ll do. I’m running out of stamina too, so it’s time for a gamble.)

Mika: Haa, haaa…. Ah. Naru-chan went in behind that pillar! I need ta chase after her!

…Wait, what!? Naru-chan ain’t here!?

Wh, where did she go!? I’m sure I saw her come in here…

Arashi: Mika-chan, I’m over here!

Mika: Eh!? Behind me!?

! Aah~! My ornament~!

Arashi: Haa….Hah. I’m glad. Everything went according to plan…

Mika: Naru-chan. How’d’ya get behind me? Did ya master teleportation?

Arashi: Fufu. As soon as I got behind the pillar, I hid myself in Mika-chan’s blind spot.

Mika: My blind spot? Since when did I have somethin’ like that?

Arashi: Above you, that is. There’s a metal decoration over there, right? I jumped up and grabbed ahold of that before kicking to get on top of it. After that, all I had to do was wait for Mika-chan to pass me by.

Mika: Woah~... So that’s how ya did it… I’m amazed ya were able ta reach such a high place.

Arashi: I probably wouldn’t have reached it under normal circumstances, but I had a top-speed running start, you see ♪

<Meanwhile…>

Hajime + Tori: --Hiiiiiiii!

Yuzuru: Ha!

Hajime: Ah! Tori-kun, look out!

Tori: Uwawa!?

Yuzuru: Oh my. Shino-sama managed to change Bocchama’s trajectory in a split second, allowing him to dodge my attack. How proficient of you.

Hajime: T, Tori-kun! Let’s escape this way!

Tori: Haa, ha…! Y, yeah!

Yuzuru: (Hm. I’m almost using my full power here, and yet… They keep dodging my attacks within a hair’s breadth.)

However, you still have a ways to go. You won’t be able to defeat me at this level.

Hajime: Haa…Ha. To, Tori-kun, are you okay…!?

Tori: Uuuu. I'm all outta breath…!

Hajime: Me, me too…! Fushimi-senpai isn’t out of breath in the slightest, how amazing…!

Tori: This isn’t the time to be admiring your enemy!

Uwaaaaa!? Yuzuru caught up to meeeeee! I’m scared, I’m scared!

Hajime: Hiiiiiiiiin!

Yuzuru: My, my. When you desperately try to escape me with those scared-to-death expressions, it makes me feel as if I’m torturing baby rabbits. It makes my conscience hurt, you know?

Tori: That’s definitely a lie~! You look like you’re having the time of your life, you demon~!

Wa, waa!? This is dangerous! He’s catching up!

Yuzuru: Now, Bocchama. Pick a god and pray.

Tori: Uwawawawa!? I can’t go on~...

--Now, Hajime!

Hajime: Yes! Fushimi-senpai, I’m so sorry!

Yuzuru: (! Shino-sama just jumped at me from my blind spot--)

Tori: Fufu. It’s obvious to me what Yuzuru is thinking ♪ Just how long do you think we’ve been together?

Yuzuru: It is as you say, Bocchama. This ends now.

Hajime: Eh!? I was completely in his blind spot before attacking, and yet…! He twisted his body to dodge my attack..:!

Tori: Ah. And he swiped your ornament!

Hajime: Aah!? You’re right… All of a sudden, my ornament is gone.

Yuzuru: Fufu. You pretended to be scared as you ran away, before gathering my attention to Bocchama. Meanwhile, Shino-sama would hide away and attack me from a blind spot… That was your strategy, was it not?

Tori: Uu…

Yuzuru: The fact that Bocchama can tell what I am thinking means that I can also tell what Bocchama is thinking.

Just how long do you think we’ve been together?

--However. The fact that you were able to drive me this far is worthy of praise. You are both very strong. This was a hard fought battle…♪

-

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Mika, Arashi, Hajime, Tori, Yuzuru, Ritsu, Mao

<The practice match begins.>

mika

Mika: (Uuuhm. First of all I gotta look fer Naru-chan, who’s my target.)

(This area’s pretty large. Apparently it’s smaller than the one we’ll be usin’ fer the real match, though. Which means it’ll be even harder ta find anyone durin’ the real match, huh.)

(--N? That person over there is… Naru-chan, I found ya!)

Naru-chan! Sorry ta bother ya, but I'll have ya be my opponent.

Arashi: Eh!? Mika-chan!? Kya…!?

Mika: I had intended to take ya completely by surprise. Ta think ya would be able ta twist yer body in an instant ta keep me from gettin’ yer ornament. As expected of Naru-chan ♪

But don’t go thinkin’ ya can keep protectin’ the ornament from such a weak position!

Arashi: Kuu… I guess it really would be disadvantageous for me to fight back in this position. I suppose I would be better off trying to run away for now.

Mika: Ah! Shit. She got away from me. Naru-chan’s leg strength has been honed from her time in the track and field club. Once she starts runnin’ it’s impossible fer me ta catch up with her.

(However. Naru-chan seemed like she was really stressed. Seems like things’re goin’ according ta our plan.)

I might be able ta win if I pretend ta lose sight of her before gettin’ close and finishin’ her off…!

<Meanwhile...>

Hajime: E~i!

Tori: Urya~!

Yuzuru: … (Casually steps aside to avoid the attack.)

Hajime: Haa….haa… Ugh, we’ve been attacking nonstop for some time now, but he keeps avoiding us…!

Tori: Let’s keep it up! Don’t give up, Hajime!

Hajime: You’re right. As long as we work together, we should have a chance…!

Yuzuru: (What kind of mental fortitude do these do have going on? To think they would be this tenacious…)

(I have been avoiding all of their attacks for now, but. Whether intentional or not, these two have been timing their attacks and coming at me from both left and right, which has made it difficult for me to find an opening to retaliate…)

Hajime: Ei, eiei! We can’t afford to lose this match…!

Yuzuru: (It seems this isn’t just an act, but that they really don’t want to lose.)

(Since this is a competition, it is not surprising that they don’t want to lose. But more than that, it seems like they are approaching this fight surprisingly seriously. I wonder what could have brought this on…)

(-Oh? While I was distracted I lost sight of Bocchama… Where did he go?)

Tori: Yuzuru! You’re wide open, take this~!

Yuzuru: (! He hid himself nearby and went for my blind spot!)

<Also meanwhile...>

Ritsu: (How strange. I’ve lost sight of everyone. Even though up until just now we made sure to stay close enough that we could see each other.)

Could it be… Did the other team separate us out of nowhere…?

ritsu+mao

Mao: Ooh. To think you would notice so quickly, as expected of Ritsu~

Ritsu: Wow. I see. So this is your team’s strategy, Ma~kun. The fact you made sure to separate us means you’re using a man-to-man offense to defeat us individually.

Mao: Yup, yup ♪ Hasn’t it been a while since we last had a one-on-one battle, Ritsu~? I don’t think we’ve gone head to head like this since when we played board games as children.

Ritsu: Ma~kun is so cheeky. Do you really think you can defeat me?

Mao: If this was a battle of wits then it would be one thing, but in this kind of physical battle I think I have a good enough chance of winning.

In other words. Here I come~, Ritsu.

Ritsu: !

(As Ma~kun says, at this rate I’ll be in trouble. Ma~kun has really good stamina, after all.)

Mao: Are you sure you're okay with staying on the defensive~? If you won’t fight back then I’ll overwhelm you in no time you know?

Ritsu: Kkh…!

(He’s good. That’s kinda annoying… Who does Ma~kun think he is?)

<After the match.>

Tori: Vi… Victoryyyy! Hajime! We did it! We really won!

Hajime: We really did it! Tori-kun!

Mika: Ngah~, our strategy worked well, it feels like a weight’s been lifted off my shoulders.

Mao: Ahaha. You were pretty nervous after all, Kagehira. I’m glad we were able to win, but this was just a rehearsal match. Let’s keep this up so we can do our best at the real thing as well.

Arashi: Ah, really! How frustrating! Mika-chan got me good. Even then, I never expected even Yuzuru-chan would lose.

Yuzuru: I have no excuses. It appears I underestimated my opponents a little.

Ritsu: I don’t think you need to apologize. If anything, this is my fault for not noticing the other team’s strategy sooner.

Since we are a team, the responsibility belongs to all of us. We win and lose as a team, right?

Arashi: That’s right. Plus, trying to pin the blame on any of us won’t do us any good.

Even then, what is going on with the other team? It didn’t seem like they were this desperate to win yesterday.

Yuzuru: I wonder. I was blown away by Bocchama and Shino-sama’s enthusiasm. I think I would have emerged victorious if not for that.

Ritsu: What on earth could have gotten into them?

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Mao, Hajime, Tori, Mika, Ritsu, Yuzuru, Arashi

Mao: I guess it might be best if each of us picked one target to go after? Even in basketball, this kind of man-to-man defense is often the easiest defense strategy.

It’ll become a one-on-one fight. But once one of us wins, that person can go cover for whoever is in danger of losing, so we can gain the advantage.

mao+hajime

Hajime: Well, our team already has the numerical advantage though.

Tori: But the other team has Yuzuru. I’m pretty sure Yuzuru on his own counts as three people at least.

Mika: Yukkun’s athletic skills are impressive, after all.

Mao: That’s true. It appears the program staff tried to make the teams balanced in terms of power rather than numbers.

Which is why we have to use that to our advantage…!

Hajime: I understand. Let’s go with Isara-senpai’s strategy!

Mika: Then ya can leave Naru-chan to me. It’ll definitely be tougher ta target her since I know her so well, but I should be able ta use that to my advantage as well.

Tori: Uuuhm. If we should be targeting the person we know the best then that means…

Does that mean I have to go up against Yuzuru!? Nowaynowaynoway! I would lose in a second!

Hajime: It’ll be fine! I’ll do my best to help Tori-kun out. Even if the two of us aren’t enough to defeat Fushimi-senpai, we should be able to keep him occupied until someone can come help us…!

Tori: Hajime…

Hajime: Ah. Someone like me might not be worth that much in a fight, but I’ll do my best to help, okay?

Tori: Oh come on, what are you saying! There’s no way you’re worthless. You’re plenty helpful.

…Al~right, if me and Hajime team up we can definitely take down Yuzuru together!

Hajime: Yes! Let’s do our best!

Mao: Then that leaves Ritsu for me.

I’m well acquainted with Ritsu’s personality and habits, but now that I think about it, I can’t remember ever having a serious showdown against him~.

Ah. When we were kids we used to play board games and TV games together, though.

Hajime: Which of you used to win back then?

Mao: Ahaha. There’s no way I could ever hope to beat Ritsu in a battle of wits, is there~?

Tori: I don’t know if that’s something to be so proud of.

Mao: Well, I’m pretty good at physical games. I should be able to put up a good fight.

-N? Ah, the staff are calling for me, so I’ll go check what they want.

ritsu

Ritsu: Fwa, yaawn… Good morning~...

Yuzuru: Ah, Sakuma-sama. Good morning to you as well.

Arashi: You’re as drowsy in the morning as ever, huh. Though just the fact you’re able to get out of bed is a huge improvement. I need you to work hard as the leader of our team, okay?

Ritsu: I have a much longer life span compared to you humans. Which means I improve myself at a proportionately slow pace.

Yuzuru: …Oh? Sakuma-sama, the staff are calling for you. It appears they want to go over the rules for the practice match.

Ritsu: Ah. Well, then I’ll get over there.

Mao: -Yes, okay. Then I take it we’ll be starting 30 minutes from now. I understand. I've got the schedule memorized.

Ritsu: Ye~s. I got it too. So now we just need to pass this info on to our team members, right?

N? Ah. The young and old masters have come to watch us. They’re standing over there with Anzu.

Mao: Oh, they are. If the young master is watching, then we really can’t afford to lose~

Ritsu: Eh?

Mao: Well then. Our little meeting is over, so in just half an hour we’ll be starting the showdown between our teams~. It’s just a rehearsal, but I hope we can both do our best to make it as realistic as possible!

Ritsu: …Ma~kun, what’s up?

Mao: Eh, what do you mean?

Ritsu: Aren’t you weirdly motivated? Where did all this come from?

Mao: Oh, that’s what you were thinking about. Well, a lot of things happened, and I suddenly got a huge boost in motivation.

Plus, this is my first time going up against you in a serious match like this, so I’m actually really looking forward to it.

Well then, let’s both do our best!

Ritsu: …Huh? That Ma~kun, what on earth is going on with him?

<30 minutes later.>

Mao: Looks like our practice match is starting any minute now.

Since we’re using a temporary stadium for our practice match, this area is much smaller than the place we’ll be using for the real deal. That means there won’t be as many props to hide behind, so be careful, okay~

They said that for the real match there will be lots of obstacles and shields for us to use.

Mika: U~n, seems like positionin’ ourselves is gonna be real important fer both attackin’ and defendin’.

Hajime: So it should be easier to hide during the real match. We might be better off if we focused on hiding and taking our opponents unawares.

Mao: Alright. This is just a practice match, but let’s keep our spirits high and prepare ourselves for the real deal!

Hajime: Yes!

Tori + Mika: Right~!

Mao: Let’s win this~!

mao

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Mao, Tori, Mika, Hajime

Mao: We’re home~

mao+tori

Tori: Ah. You’re finally back.

Mika: Ya sure took longer than expected. We were startin’ ta worry that the two of ya might’ve passed out in the bath.

Tori: We were about to go check on you in a bit.

Mao: Sorry about that. We finished our bath, but then we happened to run into the young master on our way back. So we ended up talking for a bit.

Mika: With the young master?

Hajime: Yup. Before we knew it we had been talking for quite a while. But we got to hear some important information, so it was for the best.

Mao: Yeah. So I want to tell the two of you about what we just learned. I think it would be best if all of us knew about this.

Tori: Hn? I don’t mind. What did you talk about?

Hajime: So, you see-

Tori: Hm. Now it makes perfect sense why he would feel so strongly about this inn.

Mika: Yeah. Explorin’ this inn made me feel the same way as the artworks displayed at the museum I went to with Oshi-san did.

That made me think that this inn probably also has a lot of thought put into it. I guess that means my hunch was right.

Tori: So he thinks of this inn as a home… Hearing that makes me want to help him out somehow.

If my home was in danger of disappearing, I would definitely want to protect it, after all.

Mao: I agree. And even if we aren't talking about an actual home, there are places we belong to that can be just as important as our actual homes. Like the school, or our units, or our offices.

Thinking about even one of those disappearing makes me sad.

Hajime: Yes. So I really understand the young master’s feelings when he says he would feel lonely if this inn was to disappear.

Mao: Ahaha. When I first heard the details for this job I didn’t feel enthusiastic at all.

But hearing the young master’s feelings just now made me want to do my best, so I’m glad we were able to hear his story.

Mika: I agree. Now I feel like I’ll be able ta represent his side with all my might.

…Oh? Wait a sec. Doesn’t this mean that the fate of this inn is restin’ in our hands!?

Uwaa~. I started thinkin’ how we can’t afford ta lose now, and that made me really nervous…!?

Hajime: Now that you put it that way I started feeling really nervous too…

Mao: O~i, calm down~. We still have some time left before the contest starts, so let’s try to relax.

If we start worrying about every little thing we won’t be able to achieve results. Being too nervous will just end up weakening your abilities.

Tori: Plus, this is a team contest. It’s the same as in tennis, fighting on your own is much scarier than fighting with your teammates.

It feels reassuring when you have an ally nearby. Your nervousness disappears a little, too.

Hajime: That’s true. Thinking about how everyone will be there with me does somehow make me feel calmer.

Mao: Yup. Let’s not think too much about the details, and just focus on doing our best! By doing that, we’ll naturally be able to do whatever we put our minds to!

Hajime: Yes…!

<The day after>

Mao: Good morning~

Hajime: Ah, Isara-senpai, good morning ♪ Today is a pleasant autumn day. It’s a perfect day for a competition.

Mao: Yeah, I agree. Today is just a rehearsal match, but I hope the weather stays this nice for the real deal as well~. They say the weather changes quickly during autumn after all.

Tori: Fufun. I’m loved by the sun and bring clear skies with me wherever I go ✰ I’m sure it’ll be sunny for the real match too.

Mika: Hey, what do ya wanna do about our strategy for the contest? We want ta win, but our opponents aren’t the kinda team we could beat while holdin’ anythin’ back. If we’re goin’ ta win we’re goin’ ta need a plan.

Our team leader is Ikkun, so I thought it would be smart if we all discussed it with him.

Mao: Ah, that’s right. A strategy, huh. H~m…

The rules for this match are that each player is given an ornament to wear on their person, and if they lose it or it ends up stolen by an opponent, you’ve lost the game.

Hajime: Yes, that’s right. It’s like a cavalry battle except we’ll all be on the ground. It’ll be similar to trying to steal the other team’s headbands.

Tori: If that’s the case, why don’t we try to decide on a formation or something? What if we pick one target at a time, and then we all attack that person simultaneously?

Mika: If we did that, then there’s a chance the people we aren’t goin’ fer will attack us from behind while we’re aimin’ for our target.

Mao: H~m… That’s true~...

mao+mika

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Ritsu, Arashi, Yuzuru, Tori, Mika, Mao, Hajime

Ritsu: Haa~... I’m beat~... I’m not gonna move anymore.

Arashi: Oh, Ritsu-chan. You know it’s bad manners to throw away your luggage and sprawl out on the floor the second you enter a room?

Ritsu: It’s okay. I’ve already closed up shop for today.

This is the one time I’ll agree with Tori-kun about something. I will rue the fact that we didn’t take the bus here until the end of my days.

Arashi: I guess walking here on your own took more energy than I’d thought…

Yuzuru: Well, I also feel doubtful about that so-called consideration of the program staff in having us walk here.

Ritsu: Yup, yup. There’s nothing logical about that at all.

…N? There's this grating annoying sound. Is it coming from the neighboring room? Ma~kun and the others are staying there, right?

Yuzuru: This voice… That sounds like Bocchama.

Tori: Woah~! Amazing! Hey, look over here! The view from this window is amazing~!

Mika: It really is~. This looks really nice. As expected from a mountain top like this.

Tori: I’m gonna take a photo of this view too ✰ I wanna brag about it to everyone back home.

Mao: And this room is also really big and clean~. I almost feel bad about being given such a big room when we’re only four people.

Tori: I dunno what it’s called, but I really like this part of the room. It reminds me of a sunroom. I want a room like this in my home too.

Hajime: It’s called a “Hiroen”.

I have an idea. The view from this room is nice, but the view from the hallway and the lobby was absolutely gorgeous. Why don’t we go together and check it out?

Tori: Eh. Really? I’m in. Let’s go explore this place right away!

Hajime: Yes. And there were many koi fish swimming in the pond outside in the courtyard, I want to go see them as well.

Mika: I want ta check out the store while we’re at it.

…Wait, what? Is somethin’ wrong? Don’t ya want ta come along, Ikkun?

Mao: I’m tired so I’ll stay here and relax. It’s okay that you want to explore, but make sure not to cause trouble for the people here by making too much noise, okay~?

Tori: We know. Well then, lets goo~

Ritsu: The little ones sure are energetic. To think they were so tired out just a second ago.

Yuzuru: They’re probably so excited about arriving at the inn that they completely forgot about being tired.

Arashi: Fufu. But I definitely get why Momo-chan and the others would feel excited.

I did look up this inn online before coming here, but everything is so much better in real life compared to the photos I could find.

I’ll admit the hike here from the station was harsh, but this experience really makes it worth the effort.

Ritsu: Normally you wouldn’t have to go through that harsh hike in the first place, though.

Arashi: Oh, don’t be so cynical. It’s okay to expend a little effort now and then. And in the end, it let us come to this wonderful inn.

I have to say, this inn really is old-fashioned.

It’s been well cleaned and everything feels pristine, and the furnishings have more of an antique feel to them rather than feeling aged. It’s all so lovely.

It’s not just that everything looks beautiful, but it feels like every little detail is filled with love.

Yuzuru: Everyone. I’ve prepared some tea, so feel free to enjoy a cup.

Arashi: Oh my. Thank you, Yuzuru-chan. I’ll have one right away ♪

Yuzuru: The teapot and cups that were in the room have also been beautifully polished. I have to agree with Narukami-sama’s assesment about this inn.

I have experience in house-keeping and cleaning from looking after Bocchama.

From what I can tell, the people working at this inn have paid careful attention to every little detail in their room making, which is wonderful.

They’re not just keeping the place clean, but like Narukami-sama said, every part of this place exudes a deep feeling of love.

Ritsu: Love…

(I wasn’t really paying attention to any of that since I was so tired, but… N~?)

(...Yeah. It’s as they’re saying.)

(It’s old. But it doesn’t feel stale and boring. And somehow it also doesn’t feel overly formal and hard to relate to, like when you see an old masterpiece at an art museum.)

(I wonder what you would call this feeling.)

(...Ah, that’s it. It’s nostalgic. It almost makes me feel like crying.)

(Strange as it is, that’s the feeling I get from this inn. How weird. Even though this is supposed to be my first time visiting here.)

Arashi: -Well then.

Ritsu: N? What are you getting up for, Nacchan? Are you going somewhere?

Arashi: Listening to Momo-chan and the others made me want to go explore a bit as well. So I thought I would go join up with everyone.

Yuzuru: Sounds exquisite. Please allow me to join you as well.

Arashi: Oh but of course ♪ What about you, Ritsu-chan?

Ritsu: No thank you, I still need to recharge. The two of you should go together.

Arashi: Okie. Well then, we’re off.

arashi+ritsu

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Tori, Yuzuru, Hajime, Ritsu, Mao, Mika, Arashi, Anzu, Young inn owner and old inn owner

Tori: Hah, hah. We finally arrived. We've been walking for so long that my legs feel like jelly~. Ugh. My legs are so stiff… I can’t take another step.

Yuzuru: Fufu. You did do well to make it this far. Allow me to carry your luggage the rest of the way to the room.

Tori: Eh, is that okay? Thank you, Yuzuru.

Yuzuru: Would you like me to carry your luggage while I’m at it, Anzu-san?

Oh? I don’t mind. Please don’t hold back on my part. I will be carrying Bocchama’s luggage over there anyhow.

Ritsu: N? Is something wrong, Ha~kun? You’re zoning out.

Hajime: Ah, no. I was just admiring this courtyard.

I like the garden terrace in Yumenosaki as well, but this kind of Japanese-style garden has an entirely different flavor from that type of Western-style garden. It’s somehow refreshing.

I bet it would be fun to hold a tea party in this gorgeous courtyard ♪

Ritsu: I agree. We haven’t been able to hold our regular activitiesin FLAVOR lately, either…

It would probably be impossible for us to hold a tea party in the middle of this courtyard, but…

Once we’ve gotten settled in our rooms and things have calmed down, why don’t we go to the veranda and have a cup of tea together while admiring the view? Ha~kun?

Hajime: Uwaa, how lovely ♪ I would love that, Ritsu-senpai. I actually brought some tea leaves as well.

mika+hajime

Mika: Nn? I can see two men wearin’ Japanese clothing over there comin’ towards us… Could it be the people workin’ at this inn?

Mao: N~? Aah, that seems to be the case. We should say hi.

(One is a smiling middle-aged guy, and the other is an older man… So these people must be the young and old master who're the main characters of this argument.)

Hello, good morning. We will be in your care starting today. Uuhm, we are-

Young master: You must be the idols who were sent here from ES. We have received your messages.

Everyone, allow me to welcome you here. I am in charge of this inn, and my name is Kiriyama Masato. And this is my father, Kiriyama Tadao.

Mao: Oh, thank you. Nice to meet you.

Old master: …Indeed.

Mao: (Woah, how intense. The old master seems like he’s kinda strict.)

(Actually. Why would this kind of person even agree to participate in a project like this? He doesn’t seem like the type to watch variety shows at all. And even the inn feels like it takes itself very seriously somehow.)

(I feel kinda nervous all of a sudden… Did they really understand the point of this program when they consented…?)

Young master: ? Oh? Is something the matter?

Mao: Eh, ah, no, uhm~… It might be impolite for us to ask this of you, but. Are you really okay with making your decision in this manner?

Did they really explain the purpose of this project to you properly…?

Young master: Ah, so that’s what you were thinking about.

We were told that the idols gathered here now would “compete over the fate of the inn, and the winner will get the right to decide”. Is that not it?

Arashi: It seems like you’ve been properly informed then. But I can’t help but wonder what made you agree to this plan? We would all like to know…

Young master: It is as I've told the TV station staff.

Me and my father couldn’t agree on what direction to take this inn. No matter how many times we discussed it, we could never come to a conclusion.

At this rate, we will never be able to see eye to eye.

As embarrassing as it is, I doubt we would ever be able to decide anything unless we went with something like this. I expected this was the push we needed to be able to accept whatever outcome.

Mao: Huh…

Young master: Which means that we are asking this of you in full understanding of what it entails, please do not worry.

Rather, I would like to extend our apologies for any inconvenience we might have caused you because of our situation. And thank you very much for your cooperation.

Mao: Ah… No, the pleasure is all on our side, thank you very much!

Young master: Well then, everyone. There’s no point in standing around and talking in this place, so please allow me to show you all to your rooms.

mao+arashi

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Tori, Yuzuru, Hajime, Arashi, Mika, Ritsu, Mao, Anzu

Tori: You're kidding…?

Is there really an inn located at the top of this steep mountain!?

Yuzuru: Indeed, it seems like there is. Apparently this location used to be one of its selling points.

This place provides a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Many guests would praise it and say coming here feels like taking a trip into a different world.

Tori: Ah, that sounds like something that would’ve been trendy a while ago. But recently, convenient and fast travel has become more popular.

Nowadays you often see ads about travelling overseas in just a few hours.

Hajime: You have to take time off from work in order to go somewhere on vacation, after all. I can definitely see why people would prefer shorter travelling times.

Arashi: I wonder if those changes in trends are part of the reason behind this inn’s decline in popularity.

Tori: Even then, the sheer inconvenience of travelling to this place is just strange. Of course people would stop coming here. Anzu, you think so too, right?

Mika: N~. Well, this place really is a ways off, but there’s supposedly a bus ya could take from the station.

Tori: Th…there’s a bus!?

Mika: Yup, sure is. I looked at the inn’s website before comin’ here, and there were loads of different services listed there.

Tori: Then why do we have to walk up this huge mountain on our own feet!? What’s the meaning of this, Anzu!?

Yuzuru: Hm, I see. To summarize Anzu-san’s explanation, this is what the program staff decided?

It seems they want us to completely understand what the current situation is like at this inn.

They must’ve thought that this experience would make us more excited for our competition.

Uuuhm… Is this them being considerate?

Tori: There’s no way this is their way of showing consideration! Those staff members~! They’re definitely just making fun of us!

I hate this~! The only ones who would like it this high up in the mountains are tengu~! I can’t take another step! I’ve contracted a fatal case of don’t-want-to-mountain-climb disease!

Ritsu: How pathetic.

Tori: N?

Ritsu: To think a small hill like this would be enough to make you give up. How childish.

Mao: Oi~. How can you say such arrogant things when you’re the one riding comfortably on top of my suitcase. Or rather, get off~! This hike is harsh enough without having to carry you all the way.

Ritsu: Comfortably? Ma~kun sure is underestimating the art of suitcase riding. It’s hard work to maintain balance while on top of this thing, you know?

This feat is only possible thanks to my extraordinary core strength. You should be praising me for it, if I do say so myself.

Mao: Instead of working hard on top of my suitcase, I wish you’d apply that energy to walking instead~

Tori: How convenient of you to tell me I’m being childish when you’re the one hitchhiking on someone else’s suitcase!

Arashi: Now, now. Standing around arguing won’t get us any closer to the inn. With this pace, we’ll arrive even later than scheduled.

Don’t you want to get to the inn as quickly as possible so we can soak in the hot spring? ♪

Hajime: Ah! The hot spring! This inn apparently has free-flowing hot spring water~. I’m really looking forward to it.

Tori: A hot spring… W, well, I guess I’m also kind of looking forward to that.

Mao: Then, let’s set those hot springs as a reward for ourselves and keep working hard a little longer.

hajime

Hajime: Ah. Tori-kun, Anzu-san, look over there. That’s a wild flying squirrel! Waa…. The way it’s eating that acorn is so cute…♪

Tori: Where? Lemme see.

! Incredible~! It’s real! I’ve only ever seen them in zoos or in picture books, to think I’d be able to see a real one!

Hey, Yuzuru! Quick, get your camera! Take a picture of that flying squirrel. I want to show it off to papa, mama, and my little sister.

Yuzuru: Of course, Bocchama. I’ll make sure to get it from different angles just in case.

Arashi: Mika-chan, what have you been looking at since earlier?

Mika: Look. There’re so many different colors out in nature like this.

Even though these colors normally wouldn’t go well together, these surroundings makes everythin’ mesh really beautifully.

Ya’d never think the color of this leaf would go well with somethin’ blue, right? But then, if ya hold it up against the sky… Look, it somehow works out.

Arashi: Now that you mention it, it sure does. Even though I would never want to match those colors when I’m coordinating my outfits.

Mika: Right? But when we’re out in nature, it somehow comes together real nice. It’s so strange.

It might be interesting ta try and use these kinds of natural colors for makin’ art with sometime.

Arashi: I’ll be coming to visit your next art exhibition as well. Looking at Mika-chan’s art always makes me feel happy, after all.

Mika: Really? Hearin’ Naru-chan say that sure makes me feel confident. Thank ya…♪

Mao: Haa….Fuuu…. This is getting exhausting~

Ritsu: Ma~kun you weakling~

Mao: You do understand the biggest reason why I’m so tired is because I dragged you up half the mountain, right.

Ritsu: I’m walking properly on my own now, though. Don’t get so stuck in the past. What’s most important is to keep looking forward.

Mao: Guuu…! That sounds so nice, but I don’t wanna hear it from Ritsu~

Honestly though, we’ve been walking for a long while, how far is this inn? I can’t help but understand why there are few customers coming when it’s this much of a walk.

Ritsu: That’s true. We should be getting close enough to see it any time now-

Aah, as soon as I said it, our destination finally entered our line of sight.

mao+ritsu

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Mao, Ritsu, Mika, Arashi, Tori, Hajime, Yuzuru, Anzu

Mao: -Huh.

In other words, “Chanbara Night” is a variety show where the participants are divided into two teams that compete against each other.

mao+ritsu

Ritsu: Those kinds of competitive variety shows have been popping up all over lately, haven't they? They're definitely really trendy nowadays.

At this point, there are so many shows with that setting that they've started melting together in my head and I can't tell them apart.

Arashi: Well, it’s all about supply and demand, so it makes sense that they all tend to stay within the most popular genre.

This is my first time hearing about “Chanbara Night” as well.

Despite that, I’m surprised Mika-chan knew about it. Have you watched it before?

Mika: Yea~h. I’ve watched it before, but I can’t exactly say it’s surprisin’ that Naru-chan and ya others haven’t heart ‘bout it before.

“Chanbara Night” is a popular show produced back in my hometown, ya see. So it’s super famous around that area, but I don’t think it’s very well-known outside of there.

Each episode has its own theme for the teams who compete. The people who’re watchin’ pick which team they want ta cheer on, which gets ya weirdly invested and creates a sense of unity with that team.

Among the episodes I’ve seen, the most excitin’ one was about a showdown between those mushroom-shaped chocolates and the bamboo shoot-shaped chocolates.*

There was also a really excitin’ episode where the teams fought about whether fries or nuggets are the best side dish ta have with hamburgers.

Mao: Ah. So that’s how the team system works. I’ll admit it sounds kinda fun, like a festival. And both teams’ opinions are easy to understand or relate to… I feel like it would be difficult to pick a side.

Tori: Oh, O~h! I’m picking the bamboo shoot ones! I’d definitely side with the bamboo shoot ones. I love that chocolate and cookie combo~

Hajime: Eh. The bamboo shoot ones definitely taste good, but I have to give it to the mushroom ones. Those crackers are so crunchy and delicious ♪

Tori: Eeh~! I thought Hajime would be on my side! You traitor…!

What about you, Yuzuru? Of course, you’re on the bamboo shoot-faction with me, right?

Yuzuru: Uuuhm. I have to admit all this talk about mushrooms and bamboo is a tad confusing… Are these types of sweets you’re referring to?

And the fact that Bocchama knows about something which I do not… Well then, Bocchama. I’ll take it you have been eating sweets in secrecy again?

Tori: Ggh!? I, I have not!?

Come on, I was obviously just speaking in hypotheticals. My, my, Yuzuru~. Ahahaha………

Hajime: I understand how this “Chanbara Night” show works now. Then what kind of theme will we be competing about for this episode?

Ritsu: N~? Anzu is making a complicated expression, isn’t she?

…Hmm. So this episode’s theme will be different from any previous ones. And? What theme is that, exactly?

hajime

Hajime: Eeh!? We will be competing over the survival of an old inn!?

Ritsu: Ah, so that’s what it was. The number of customers coming to the inn has been decreasing, so the owners are falling into financial trouble.

So, the old owner and his successor and son, the young owner, are quarreling about whether they should close down the inn, or renovate it to be more modern.

And the winner of the showdown gets to decide the inn’s fate… huh.

Hajime: Doesn’t that mean that the fate of the inn is in our hands…?

Mao: Isn’t this theme way too heavy? Or more like, the burden put on us is way too heavy.

Yuzuru: I’m surprised that the two parties agreed to compete in this fashion in the first place… Could it be that the outcome has already been decided on, and this competition is simply a farce?

Hm. So the showdown is not rigged, the owners simply wish for a serious showdown to determine the inn’s fate.

Arashi: It sounds as if the show production heard about the owners fighting and decided to exploit the situation…

Aah, it’s true that projects are sometimes started because of things like this. I’ve heard people talking about it down at the TV station.

But normally the inn wouldn’t sign off on a project like this, no? Especially when the project seems so bad-spirited.

Mika: Huh~... So the other staff members thought the same at first, Anzu? But when they went ta ask the inn owners, they somehow gave their consent… I guess stranger things’ve happened.

Tori: I mean, it’s kinda strange that they’re moving ahead with this show when absolutely everyone involved thinks it sounds like a weird project.

Ritsu: In the end, the project was approved, and the request was sent to us.

…Honestly speaking, I don’t really feel like doing it. It feels like we’re invading a domestic dispute. I would prefer if we didn’t have to get involved in something like this, you know?

Hajime: Then, are you going to decline?

Ritsu: Well~, I’m not really in a position to pick and choose which jobs I accept right now. Even if it’s a local show, my popularity would plummet if I started refusing to appear on popular shows.

So even though I don’t feel particularly enthusiastic about this, I’ll pretend like I am and complete the job.

Mao: Yup, you’re right. It feels like a heavy burden, but the affected parties have all given their consent. We should just focus on getting the job done.

By the way, if we’re going to be competing in teams, then that means all of us here will be divided into two teams right? How are we gonna be divided?

Ritsu: Of course, me and Ma~kun are in the same team. I wouldn’t accept anything else.

…Hey, Anzu. Did you just avert your eyes? Don’t go around thinking you can fool me.

You know. You’re gonna have to explain yourself sooner or later anyways, so it might be safer for you if you tell us now.

Arashi: Now, Ritsu-chan. Stop trying to intimidate Anzu-chan.

Judging from how Anzu-chan is acting, the teams have been decided already, right? Would you tell us, please?

Hajime: …Uhm. So it’s me, Isara-senpai, Tori-kun and Kagehira-senpai on one team.

Yuzuru: Which means Sakuma-sama, Narukami-sama and myself will be on the other team.

Ritsu: Okay, I object. I super object. I just went on strike. There’s no way I’ll accept this. Why would you divide us like that?

Tori: Me too. I’m happy to be on the same team as Hajime, but why can’t I be with Yuzuru? How did you decide on these teams? It’s almost as if you made sure that the people who get along well are on different teams.

Eh? That’s exactly the point!?

Mao: -Ah, I see. Since the theme for the episode is centered around a parent-child showdown, they wanted to create teams where the opposing idols would be in a similar situation.

Ritsu: I don't care if the reasoning is sound or if it will get fans excited.

Mao: Hey now. Weren’t you just saying how you would pretend like you’re enthusiastic so you can complete the job?

Ritsu: That’s a completely different matter than this.

mao+ritsu

TL-notes:
* - Mika is referring to a popular type of chocolate/sweets sold in Japan named Takenoko no Sato and Kinoko no Yama. People are often very opinionated in preferring one over the other. Also the bamboo ones are apparently extremely sweet so. Makes sense that Tori would go with that one.

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Arashi, Mika, Hajime, Tori, Yuzuru, Ritsu, Mao, Anzu

Arashi: Good morning ♪

Mika: Good mornin’

Hajime: Ah. Narukami-senpai, Kagehira-senpai, good morning.

-Wow, that’s a lot of bags you’ve got there~?

Arashi: Yup. We’d been talking about wanting to go shopping recently, you see. So me and Mika-chan went on a shopping spree before coming here today.

Mika: Thanks to ya I was able ta buy some nice winter clothing. Thanks fer the advice, Naru-chan.

Tori: And now we’re just waiting for Ritsu-senpai, Isara-senpai and Anzu to arrive?

There’s still a while left until the agreed-upon meeting time, so it’s not like they’re late yet. But I feel like I’ve been waiting for a while now~

I’m starting to get sleepy. Maybe I should’ve stopped by the dorm before coming here.

Hajime: Tori-kun and Fushimi-senpai arrived even before I did, after all. And you came straight from a job, didn't you?

Yuzuru: I thought we would have to go straight from the job here, but it appears I overestimated how much time we would need...

Aah, feel free to come sit over here, Narukami-sama, Kagehira-sama. There is open space here for your bags.

Arashi: Oh my, thank you. Well then, I’ll sit over here next to Mika-chan.

Mika: Heave-ho…

Yuzuru + Hajime: …(Gets up from their chairs.)

Mika: ? What’re ya doin’ standin’ up all of a sudden, Yukkun, Hajime-kun? Was it wrong fer me ta sit down?

Hajime: Ah…!

Yuzuru: …Now that I think about it, this meeting room is inside a cafe.

Hajime: Ehehe. I usually serve tea for everyone when I attend these types of meetings. I couldn’t help getting up to prepare tea out of habit.

Yuzuru: I’m in the same situation as Shino-sama. My body was moving unconsciously.

Arashi: Fufu. That’s a habit for you. But today we’re having our meeting inside a cafe. Both Yuzuru-chan and Hajime-chan are on the side being served today.

Everyone is probably feeling thirsty, so why don’t we go ahead and order some drinks for those of us who are here already?

Ritsu: Nacchan, please order a cream soda for me too.

Arashi: Oh my, Ritsu-chan came at just the right moment. Now, now, Ritsu-chan. What are you making Mao-chan carry you around for?

Yuzuru: My, did the two of you come all this way like that?

Mao: Ugh. You’re heavy… It’s not like I wanted to walk all the way here like this. But if I had kept arguing with Ritsu about it, we would’ve been late for the meeting. So I had no choice. Probably.

Arashi, please scold Ritsu for me. Ever since I ran into him on my way here, he’s refused to get off my back~

Oi, Ritsu~. You’ve been doing great lately with living on your own, right? To think I was so proud of you for that.

mao+ritsu

Ritsu: That’s right. I’m working so hard every day that I’m completely burnt out.

Which is why it wouldn’t be worth the effort unless I can have Maa~kun comfort me and spoil me every now and then like this. Right, Maa~kun…♪

Mao: Ggeeh…! Throat! That’s my throat you’re squeezing! Don’t use so much force when you hug me~!

Aah, I just remembered! This is how things used to be around spring last year!?

Arashi: My goodness. I wonder if you had repressed those memories…?

It’s been a while since the two of you have had work together, so I think Ritsu-chan is probably just really excited.

Mao: N? …Oops. Ah, sorry, Anzu. We were blocking the entrance, weren’t we?

Ahaha… That’s right. Ritsu has been like this all along.

C’mon, Ritsu. The meeting is about to start so get down from my back.

Ritsu: I guess I have no choice. Well, I guess it’s okay since we can walk back home together as well ♪

Mao: You’re planning on hitching a hike on my back on the way home too!?

Hajime: Everyone~. Please choose what you would like to order from this menu. I’ll order for everyone.

Yuzuru: Well then, it seems we’ve all calmed down. Could you please explain why you have gathered us here today, Anzu-san?

Tori: Well, I’d think it’s for work.

Hajime: Ah, that’s what I thought as well. Then, what kind of job is it?

Mao: N~? Are you writing the name of a show on the whiteboard, Anzu? What a weird title.

“Chance”... Nn? “Batsuori”...?

Ritsu: That’s read “Basara”. It refers to one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals who protect Bhaisajyaguru in Buddhism. So the title should be read as “Chance Basara Night”.

Mika: “Chance X Basara X Night”...

Aah, I see. I didn’t know the full name since people always just use the short version, but this is about “Chanbara Night”, ain’t it?

Mao: “Chanbara Night”?

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Season: Autumn

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)

Characters: Hajime, Tori, Ritsu

Hajime: Uhm… There are so many books to choose from that it’s making my head spin~

Ah, this book looks good ♪ Let’s give it to Tori-kun right away.

Tori: U~n…

Hajime: Tori-kun. I brought you another book~. This one is super easy to understand, so I think it should be nice to use as a reference.

Tori: Ah. Thank you, Hajime! And I’m sorry for making you help me with my assignment like this. You’re a real godsend~

Hajime: Fufu. I don’t mind. I had some free time anyways.

Plus, my class will be getting the same assignment soon as well. So I thought I’d see what it was like.

It’s a Japanese history assignment where you pick a research topic, round up some info and present it to the class, right?

Tori: Yup. And so I chose "the Battle of Sekigahara” as my topic! So right now I’m doing research for my presentation.

Hajime: It was a decisive battle that is historically significant enough to be labelled as the end of the Sengoku period, after all.

There were lots of materials written about it, so I had trouble deciding which one to pick out for Tori-kun.

That reminds me, you seemed like you were worrying about something earlier, is there anything you’re having trouble understanding?

If so, then I’ll go look for some more materials about those parts next…

Tori: Ah, no. I wasn’t exactly worried, it’s more like I was confused.

Look. The Western army had vastly superior military strength, but they still ended up losing. And in just six hours. Isn’t that weird?

We’re talking about a mere six hours, you know? That’s the amount of time you’d spend recording a show for TV. Isn't it strange that such a huge battle between samurai would be decided in such a short time?

Hajime: Now that you mention it, that’s true… The textbook just mentions that the battle took place, and doesn’t explain anymore. I wonder how that could be.

Ritsu: You see, that’s because Kobayakawa Hideaki took the large number of troops he commanded and betrayed the Western army.

Hajime: Hyan!? Ri, Ritsu-onii-chan!? Don’t suddenly hug me from behind like that, you just scared me~

tori+ritsu

Ritsu: Fufufu~. Ha~kun is so comfy to cuddle, it makes me feel at peace… ♪

Tori: Don’t jumpscare us like that!? And get away from Hajime~!

Ritsu: Treating someone like an annoyance is rude, you know. Besides, I was napping here first.

Hajime: Eh. Were you? I didn’t notice you at all. I’m so sorry we interrupted you…

Ritsu: Yup. But don’t beat yourself up about it. I shall grant you forgiveness and all will be well.

Tori: Hajime. Don’t let this guy fool you. He shouldn’t have been napping in the book room in the first place.

Ritsu: Oh. To think you’d notice the flaw in my reasoning, how diligent~

Tori: By the way. You were saying that the Western army lost because Kobayakawa Hideaki betrayed them, right?

But even if that guy was a traitor, would that really affect the strength of the armies that much?

Ritsu: Of course that wasn’t the only reason. There is more than just one side to this story, and all the events that occurred were interconnected.

Tori: ?

Ritsu: Well. To put things simply, once Kobayakawa betrayed the West, other factions started turning their coats one after the other.

Plus, Tokugawa Ieyasu had been sending letters to the different factions a month in advance to make them more likely to switch sides.

So the victory at Sekigahara came as a result of such small and steady efforts. There is also the claim that Mitsunari Ishida, the leader of the Western Army, had been losing favor amongst his people, so that might also have been one of the attributing factors.

Tori: Huh. So that’s how it was. Wait a bit, I wanna write this down.

Hajime: Wow… History really does get complicated when you factor in all the variables like that.

If Ritsu-onii-chan had been the strategist for the Western army, what would you have done?

Ritsu: Me? Lemme think… I would want to keep an eye on Ieyasu’s moves, but that era didn’t have the same communication methods and technology as we do now.

Tori: I mean, if Ritsu-senpai was the strategist, then he would probably have ended up sleeping through the entire war.

Ritsu: N~? Do you want me to shut up that rude mouth of yours?

Tori: I, it was just a little joke.

Ritsu: Well, I’ll look the other way this time. There won’t be any second chances, though.

Back on topic, but honestly I don’t know what I would’ve done.

I’m sure I would have done anything in my power to achieve victory. But it’s such a difficult situation… You couldn't be sure you would win even if you had the stronger force.

Hajime: It sure sounds like it would have been difficult.

Ritsu: A battle, huh…

I wonder what it would be like to fight a battle you couldn't afford to lose, one where your ideals are on the line.

Hajime: Eh….?

Tori: You guys in Knights have fought in lots of battles up until now, haven’t you? Have you still not had enough?

Ritsu: …N~. I guess that’s true.

Tori+Hajime: ?

-

Navigation:

Serious Showdown * Chanbara Night

event

"Mao and Ritsu are set to participate in the showdown variety show "CHANCE X BASARA X NIGHT", where they will compete about the fate of an old, traditional Japanese inn. The two are fighting for opposing teams, as they are confronted with the conflicting feelings of the inn's owner and his son..."

Writer: Nishioka (feat. Akira)
Season: Autumn
Characters: Ritsu, Mao, Hajime, Tori, Yuzuru, Arashi, Mika, Anzu

Chapters:

Prologue

The Sudden Job Request 1

The Sudden Job Request 2

The Burden on that Back 1

The Burden on that Back 2

Epilogue

Season: Summer

Location: Rooftop

Characters: Hokuto, Jin, Chiaki, Tori

Hokuto: Moving on. Who are the other members of that temporary unit we will be competing against?

Jin: Uuuhm, I’ll just go in order. The third-year participant is Mikejima from MaM and the second-year is Kagehira from Valkyrie.

The first-year is that one from Switch… Harukawa, was it? Since he’s still a new student I can’t remember his face just from reading his name.

Tori: Ah, he’s in my class. He seems like he is somewhat of a problem child, he’s always getting scolded by the teachers.

Well, pretty much everyone in my class is like that though~, I’m the only normal person there.

Hokuto: Fufu. Aside from Valkyrie, I haven’t heard much about the other two units mentioned, though.

Switch, was it? Wasn’t that unit created by Sakasaku in my class?

Chiaki: Hm. I know MaM, or rather, Mikejima-san, personally, so I’m very familiar with him.

He’s a fiercely talented person, probably comparable to the likes of the Five Eccentrics or Tenshouin.

Tori: Huh? The president is far and beyond the most talented top idol though!?

…Wait, what? What are the “Five Eccentrics”? Isn’t it the “Three Eccentrics”?

Hokuto: Ah… In the past, there were five of them, and they were called the “Five Eccentrics”.

Tori: Is that so? I feel like I’ve heard that somewhere before~?

So there were two more people who acted like that long-hair in my unit, woah…?

Hokuto: Yes. Sakasaki, whom I just mentioned, was one of them.

If that kid named Harukawa is in the same unit as him, then Harukawa might be something of a disciple of the Five Eccentrics.

And needless to say, Kagehira is still active in the unit that used to stand at the very top of Yumenosaki Academy, Valkyrie. He’s been under the care of the last of the Five Eccentrics, Itsuki Shu.

Chiaki: Hm. Itsuki rarely shows up to school, so I’m actually rather worried about him… But I know he values his friends more than anything, and he’s an outstanding leader.

I don’t know much about Kagehira’s abilities, or more like, even though I’ve seen Valkyrie onstage many times, he never left a huge impression on me…

But he’s probably Itsuki’s favorite, and will have been taught well. We should be careful.

Hokuto: I see. Their lineup seems random at first, but each one of them is surrounded by this mysterious and powerful aura.

What could Kunugi-sensei be planning to do with such a group of people?

Jin: You tell me… Nowadays that guy acts like he’s some smartass megane character, but back in the day he was the type to let his emotions get the best of him, and often let himself get swept by the atmosphere of the situation.

This might actually just be him acting on a whim.

Tori: Hmph. Well, no matter what our enemies are plotting, we just need to defeat them through sheer strength.

Chiaki: Oh, how reliable, Himemiya! You’re so cool to be able to stay completely calm even when faced with a strong enemy.

tori+chiaki

Tori: Fu, fufun… Well, we probably shouldn’t let our guard down, though.

I never want to lose to someone after underestimating them again, so maybe we should try and find out as much as possible about these people.

Hokuto: …Ah, I nearly forgot to ask, but what did those guys name their unit?

I don’t want to keep referring to them as “those guys”, so I’d like to know their name.

Jin: Right. Uhm… Thing is, I don’t actually know how to read this. I wrote it down just in case, but this is written in English, right? What does it say?

Hokuto: Let me see. Uuhm, so it’s written as “Ba-Barrier”. That really is difficult to read, wouldn’t it be ba…baria?

Tori: Bavarois? What an unexpectedly cute name.

Hokuto: … ♪ (Looking at Tori and nodding with satisfaction.)

Chiaki: Hm. I don’t think it’s bavarois, it should be barbari… barbarian?

Hokuto: As in savages? What a scary name, there’s nothing even slightly idol-like about it.

Chiaki: Ah, the transfer student is saying it should be read as “Ba-barrier~”!

Tori: What kind of word is that? Did they make it up…? We’ve said it out loud so many times I feel like it’s lost all its meaning.

Compared to the simplicity of “Rain-bows”, this name might be more fashionable, though.

Hokuto: For now, let’s go with the transfer student’s reading of the word… So “Ba-Barrier” is the name of our enemies.

Chiaki: Fufu. You look happy, Hidaka. Having enemies around makes things more exciting! I get how you feel, how boyish ♪

Hokuto: Right. People have been telling me this often, so I’ve come to realize I might be more aggressive than I would’ve thought.

Tori: I’d say you’re something like a mad dog who bites at anyone who comes close.

…More importantly, I don’t know anything at all about Kunugi-sensei. What was he like when he was active as an idol?

Since he’s the leader, he will probably be the one to decide on things like the contents of their performance. We might be able to think of counter-measures if we consider Kunugi-sensei’s preferences and skills.

Jin: Yup. To explain that, I’ll need to go over a quick idol history lesson with you.

Hokuto: Why. Lunch break is almost over, we don’t have the time to stay here and listen to you talk forever.

Jin: Now, now, just listen up. It’s kinda hard to explain what kind of idol Kunugi-sensei was.

His career was kinda mediocre, and thanks to that students often end up underestimating him, which is honestly a shame.

Since this is what Project-Saga is all about, it wouldn’t be bad for you guys to learn a bit about idol history while we’re at it.

We old folks love to tell tales of the past, so please hear me out… I’ll begin a classic Sagami-sensei lecure ♪

Chiaki: Thank you for letting me attend! Wow, I’m so happy! To think we’re able to hear the testimony of a living witness of history…✰

Hokuto: No thank you, I’m not interested. The past should stay in the past, and we should care more about the present.

Tori: Yup, the most important thing is the future after all.

Jin: Both the present and the future are built upon that past, though. And if there really are someone conspiring behind the scenes this time…

The motivations behind those schemes could be found in the past. If not, then there would be no reason to create a conspiracy around a project bringing back past idols.

I’m old and my eyes have gotten cloudy, so I don’t really understand what we’ve gotten ourselves mixed up in.

You guys have no biases or prior knowledge, your perspectives are much more fresh than mine. If I teach you what I know, you might be able to notice something I can’t.

Within the entertainment industry, any dark parts of the past tend to be erased, so with time they fade away and are forgotten…

Thinking about that makes me feel bad for my own seniors, so I want to let their stories live on as much as possible.

Chiaki: I get it! Kamen Rider also regularly brings back the past to remember its history!

Jin: Why do you keep making every conversation about tokusatsu shows… Well, then, allow me to briefly explain some idol industry history to you all.

In the beginning, there was a single idol. He was something like a God, who created everything upon which the current idol industry was built.

For example, he took the year-end festival which up until then had centered around normal celebrities and musicians, where idols were simply treated as an afterthought…

He miraculously transformed it into an event completely by idols and for idols.

That is how the event we know as “SS” started, and it is still being held even now.

That person similarly caused countless other small and large revolutions.

At first he was seen as a regular musician, but then he went on to make a name for idols, a field which up until then had been fragile.

Even before that, there existed people who named themselves idols and were called idols by others….

But that person was the one who made idols into something unique, into an existence different from anything else.

Once that person appeared and started doing activities, the very meaning of the word “idol” changed drastically.

Really, absolutely everything changed. History was changed, and the world was turned upside down at the hands of a single person.

Compared to the legacy left behind by that person, my own accomplishments are mere garbage.

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Season: Summer

Location: Rooftop

Characters: Jin, Hokuto, Chiaki, Tori, Anzu

TW: mention of weight/calories.

Jin: Anyways. The outfits you’re looking at are just prototypes, so if you find any problems with them, we can have them fixed. The transfer student is also saying she’ll make us a few more outfits if we want.

jin+chiaki

Chiaki: It should be enough with just this one. It’s still just our first live as Rain-bows, after all…

If we keep doing costume changes before cementing a clear image of ourselves as a unit, we will just be making it harder for our audience to recognize us.

Hokuto: I agree. It would be hard on the transfer student as well. She has a lot of other jobs to attend to besides making our outfits, after all.

This outfit is really well-made, so there should be no problem at all to make this our official outfit.

Tori: Agreed~. I feel like these need some fine-tuning, though. To be honest, I’ve lost a bit of weight since entering school…

If this was made based on the measurements taken back then, then it might be a bit big.

Chiaki: Hm? Is that true, Himemiya? You’re already pretty slim… do you really have any weight to lose?

Tori: It’s true. Not only am I burning lots of calories with all these lessons, but I stopped eating sweets because I don’t want to risk getting pimples.

It’s no wonder I’ve lost some weight.

Chiaki: That’s not good, Himemiya, more meat equals more power! You need to eat lots and build up your strength! Here, I’ll give you the rest of my bento ♪

This one has eggplant in it so I could never eat it…!

Tori: Don’t push your leftovers onto me! I-I’m okay! I usually gain weight easily, so I’ll probably go back to my original weight in no time!

Jin: Hahaha. Uuuhm, summing up… Everyone’s happy with these outfits, right?

The transfer student ended up finishing them before I could run the design through you guys, so I was a bit worried actually.

Hokuto: Don’t say that as if the transfer student did something wrong. You should be praising her for how effective her work is.

Jin: Yup. You’re a good kid. Honestly, this applies to all of you, but… the transfer student is really evolving at a surprising speed. Youth really is an amazing thing.

Moving on. For our songs and choreography, we had Hidaka ask his father’s connections, or rather, friends, to help us out.

From what I could gather from today’s lesson, we’ll have memorized them all in time for the live.

And since the outfits are looking to be fine as well, we should be able to perform live without any problems. Of course, we’ll still have to advertise ourselves beforehand, as well as practice our fan-service in preparation.

Ah, that reminds me. Apparently, the magazine serializing Project-Saga will also be advertising for us, so we might be getting audience members even from outside of the school…

It seems like Project-Saga has been picking up popularity lately, so we can expect there to be quite a lot of people coming to see us.

Hokuto: I see. Since there will be guests coming from outside of the school, does that mean our live will be ranked as an “S1” dreamfes?

Jin: No, it won’t be anything that grandiose. This live is being treated as if it was an official dreamfes, but in reality, it’s more like a special event that has nothing to do with that system.

I feel like this kind of thing will become the norm moving forward. Call it a hunch.

Yumenosaki has become somewhat out of touch with the current trends, so I think the dreamfes system itself is due to be reformed.

jin+tori

Tori: Ah, the president also said something like that.

He rarely shows himself in the student council room, but each time he comes over, he will end up bickering with the vice president about those kinds of topics.

They always look like they’re having fun together… I’m still not at a place where I can join their discussions.

Well, whatever. Then, uhm, does that mean things are going well for now? Is all we need to focus on for now to do our best to improve the level of our performance, even just by a bit?

Jin: That’s the most important thing, yeah. But there is a slight problem. That’s what I wanted to ask you guys’ advice about.

You see~, I don’t really get what’s going on, but… It seems there’s another unit that wants to participate in that live alongside us.

Hokuto: Right. What’s the problem with that?

It’s not like we really need it to be a solo live, and I feel like having more units participating would raise the overall quality of the live and make it more exciting, no?

Chiaki: Yup! More people will come to see that unit as well, so it’s a win-win situation for everyone! We should always accept all challengers… ✰

Jin: How are both of you this confident already, we haven’t even achieved any results with Rain-bows yet… And also, there’s something even weirder to this.

Apparently, the unit in question was formed by Kunugi-sensei.

It’s like he’s imitating us, he’s got himself a first-year, second-year and a third-year to create a unit with him as their mentor.

Hokuto: Kunugi-sensei? I wonder why?

Jin: You tell me… I tried asking him directly, but he refused to give me an answer. I don’t really get it.

Based on the unit, maybe he also wanted to participate in Project-Saga?

Chiaki: Fufu. Maybe he didn’t want Sagami-sensei to be the only one in the spotlight.

Jin: He’s not really that type of person, though. Anyways, I don’t really know why he created that unit…

It somehow creeps me out, so let’s keep our guards up.

This isn’t like Kunugi-sensei, after all. This might be due to someone meddling unnecessarily.

Chiaki: Someone, huh…But who would that be? Don’t tell me there is a mysterious organization behind Project-Saga scheming to conquer the world!?

Jin: Yeah, no. That’s such an overused plot that even if some drama TV show tried to use it they would just be cancelled for being unrealistic.

But then again, I can’t help but have this bad feeling… I’ll try bothering Kunugi-sensei again to find out more.

Well, leaving that aside. Since we’ll be performing together at the live, we’ll need to tweak our performance to match up with theirs.

It seems like they want to do a live battle, so if things go down that route we’ll have to be proactive and come up with countermeasures.

In a live battle, the winners stand alone on top, while the losers gain almost nothing at all, after all.

We’re supposed to be the main characters of Project-Saga, so it would just be shameful if we lost.

If that happened, we could end up being kicked out of the project, with Kunugi-sensei and his unit replacing us and taking over the center position for Project-Saga.

Tori: H, hmph… Well, I wouldn’t want to be involved in this stupid project forever, so I wouldn’t really mind though.

But it would feel a little frustrating, I guess. I hate losing, after all.

Hokuto: Yeah. I agree. Of course, we’ll be going in with the intention of winning.

Chiaki: Fufu. If we can resolve the conflict through the power of friendship and words, then that would be best, though.

If it comes down to it, then it can’t be helped… It would be pathetic if we showed up to a fight without preparing ourselves and got our asses kicked.

We should do whatever we can to prepare ourselves in case we end up fighting. What exactly is Kunugi-sensei’s unit like?

Jin: N~, I still don’t have a lot of info on them. They’re another temporary unit, formed later than us - the day before yesterday, I think.

As of now, I don’t think they’ve done any activities at all.

I used my authority as a teacher to look over their application form, for what it’s worth. But the only thing on there was their unit name, as well as the names of the members.

Chiaki: Even that is important information. If we’re familiar with any of the members, we might be able to estimate their abilities somewhat.

Jin: Right. Well, let’s start by going over the members. The leader is, obviously, Kunugi-sensei.

Unlike me, Kunugi-sensei didn’t stop his training regimen even after retiring, so I think he’s a pretty formidable enemy.

Tori: If only Sagami-sensei had kept training on his own, then we would have had less trouble as well… Well, I guess continuing to do lessons after retiring is weirder than stopping them.

Jin: N~. It hasn’t been that long since Kunugi-sensei retired, after all, I guess he hasn’t lost all of his old habits yet.

As for me, it’s been long enough that I sometimes forget that I used to be an idol at all.

Hokuto: Don’t forget that. Even if you were to forget, the world will keep remembering.

Navigation:
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Season: Summer

Location: Rooftop

Characters: Hokuto, Tori, Chiaki, Jin, Anzu

Hokuto: Fufu. This feels somewhat strange, being able to sit down and enjoy a meal with Morisawa-senpai and Himemiya like this… Life can be hard to understand sometimes.

hokuto+tori

Tori: Yup. I really don’t understand this at all.

Chiaki: Fuhaha! This is why life is so wonderful! You guys think so too, don’t you!?

Tori: How annoying… Why are you always this energetic? Well, it’s the same with that long hair in my unit, though.

Your energy must be overflowing~, I almost wish you could share some of it with me.

I’m still lacking in stamina, so I can’t keep up with fine’s lessons yet… If I’m causing my friends to stagnate then that would be the worst.

I didn’t work hard to get all this way just to become a hindrance like that.

Chiaki: …

Hokuto: …

Tori: Uhm. Senpais. Why are you moving your jelly cups over to my bento box all of a sudden?

I’ll admit I was thinking about how this bento wasn’t sweet enough for my taste, but I’m not a beggar!

Hokuto: No, sweets help with stress relief.

Chiaki: They do! Eating lots will help you become stronger, I promise ✰

Tori: …I was in the wrong for expecting these guys to be delicate or considerate. Yup, I already knew this much.

It’s not like I was really expecting much from you two, but what kind of reaction is this to someone venting about their own weaknesses to you?

jin

Jin: O~i, I’m home~, sorry for leaving outta nowhere… I’m happy to see the three of you getting along so well.

Chiaki: Sagami-sensei! Welcome home!

Oh, the transfer student came along as well, how amazing! I was worried that you wouldn’t show your face here today, come here, come here, come here ♪

Hokuto: Don’t pspsps her like a cat. Treat her with respect like a proper human being.

Tori: Sigh, Morisawa-senpai sometimes shows this side of himself, doesn’t he?

Chiaki: I don’t want to hear that from you guys… I’m not very used to interacting with girls either, so I’m still trying to figure out how to treat her.

Up until middle school, there were usually girls around. But I didn’t really mingle with them…

I preferred playing baseball and stuff with my guy friends rather than playing with the girls.

Tori: Huh. Isn’t that fine…? From my perspective, being able to have such a normal life sounds like a blessing.

Chiaki: Fufu. Everyone wants what they can’t have, after all.

Jin: Haha. You really have gotten close all of a sudden. You’re able to forget all about your troubles and have fun together, I feel like I used to be like that when I was a kid, too.

Anyways. Transfer student, please hand “that” out to everyone.

Hokuto: “That”? What are you talking about?

Chiaki: Ah, I’m sorry, Sagami-sensei. I got so absorbed in talking with the others that I completely forgot about explaining.

Jin: Huh. Well, isn’t that for the best? Right now, your top priority should be to become closer.

Then, allow me to explain from the top. We’ve finished working out the fine details for our upcoming live, and our plan has been approved and we’ve been given a generous budget.

Tori: Wow, that’s good news. I was worried because we hadn’t finalized the plan yet.

In the worst-case scenario, I thought I would have to ask the student council president for help or provide the money myself.

Hokuto: Hm. Himemiya is helping us out in good faith, so I feel bad for burdening you with that.

Tori: What are you talking about after all this time? I’ll have you know that just showing up each week and missing out on my precious lunch break is already a huge burden.

Besides, you seem to have forgotten this, but it’s not like I’m helping you guys just from the kindness of my heart, either.

Hokuto: Aah… That’s right, you’re also here as a spy sent by the student council president.

Is that going alright for you? Are your reports living up to the president’s expectations?

Tori: Why are you acting so worried about the person actively spying on you… Honestly, this is such a weird situation.

I don’t know whether or not the president is satisfied with my reports, but I have been summarizing our activities and reporting them back to him on the days after our meetings.

In addition to that, it seems the president is looking into various things on his own as well. It seems he was looking into the magazine that will be publicizing Project-Saga.

He said it seemed like we were having fun and that he was jealous.

chiaki

Chiaki: Right. This has been unexpectedly fun.

Unlike in Ryuseitai, I’m not the leader here, so I’m able to lower my shoulders, relax, and work freely.

Hokuto: That’s the same for me. Being a leader, huh… I still don’t feel like I’m suited to that position.

Tori: ? Sagami-sensei is the leader of Rain-bows, right?

Hokuto: Oh, I was talking about my position as leader of Trickstar. Though it’s just a formality for the sake of paperwork, since we treat each other as equals.

Being the leader means your responsibilities and your workload increases, so it’s a position you can’t ignore.

Tori: Phew. Being weak and understaffed sure sounds tough, huh. You even have to take on roles you aren’t suited to do?

Jin: Now, now, don’t go off chatting at every opportunity. Though I’ll admit I’m used to it, since you guys are pretty much like this during class as well.

Actually, I’ve always felt like bouncing your opinions off of each other and discussing stuff leads to better learning than just shutting up and listening to some lecture.

Hokuto: Ah, right. I apologize, we were acting rude.

Jin: Okay. Transfer student, did you finish handing out “that”? Everyone, go ahead and take a look.

Hokuto: Hm… Oh, what’s this?

Chiaki: Ooh! I was wondering what it could be, but it’s our costumes! You’ve finished them already!

Tori: Eh, ah… Is this Rain-bows’ outfits? The ones we’ll be wearing for our live?

Hokuto: I’m amazed, transfer student. When we spoke last week you still hadn’t finished the design, and now you’re all finished sewing them?

Now that I think about it, you were really quick when you made the outfits for Trickstar as well…

Kiryu-senpai helped you out back then, but this time you were on your own, no?

Amazing. You really have a talent for making outfits.

Tori: Yup. I was wondering what kind of cheap thing you would pull out, but these are pretty high quality.

They seem really durable, but also easy to move around in. You must’ve used a really high-quality fabric, right?

Chiaki: …

Hokuto: Hm? What’s wrong, Morisawa-senpai? Is there something you don’t like?

Chiaki: Aah, no… The outfits are perfect. But did you make these before our budget came in?

You need to make sure you’re getting compensated for this, transfer student, you shouldn’t have to spend your own money on this.

And, I couldn’t help but wonder, did you use Sagami-sensei’s old outfits as inspiration when making these?

I felt as if I had seen this design somewhere before, and zoned out while trying to remember where exactly.

Jin: Oh, you noticed that? It would have been a pain to design new outfits from scratch, and the magazine company funding this plan asked it of us as well…

They wanted us to add in some easter eggs inspired by my looks from way back then, so we changed the design to reflect that.

Of course, if we had used the exact same designs as my old costumes they would’ve looked outdated and uncool, so I had the transfer student redesign them for me.

I’m sure it would’ve looked fine on you guys, but I’m in my 30s already… I couldn’t bear to put on any more sparkling and glittering clothes with bright colors, it would be too embarrassing.

Hokuto: Fufu. That reminds me, back when he was active, Sagami-sensei used to always wear really flashy outfits screaming of nouveau riche, didn’t he? Like covering your entire body in glittering gold and stuff.

Jin: Yup. I needed to stand out on my own, after all. That’s how it was back then.

The entertainment industry was on the verge of decline, but there were still a lot of people within the higher-ups who liked to pretend as if the economy was going smoothly.

jin+hokuto

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Season: Summer of ES! timeline

Location: Rooftop

Characters: Tori, Hokuto, Chiaki

<Roughly one week later, Rain-bows activity day.>

Tori: Thanks for the food~✰

Munch, munch, munch ♪ This bento was prepared by Slave No. 2, right?

I can definitely feel her skills improving~, maybe I could hire her as a cook for my family in the future?

Hokuto: …Slave number 2?

tori+hokuto

Tori: Ah, the transfer student. Since Yuzuru is Slave No.1, she can be No.2.

Hokuto: I’m not the right person to tell you this, but you should be more respectful towards your elders. Also, don’t talk with food in your mouth, it’s bad manners.

Tori: How noisy~ You sound too much like Yuzuru, stop it.

Hokuto: Fufu. Fushimi tasked me with looking after you, so those words are the highest praise I could ask for.

Tori: Geh, don’t get close to my slave without my permission like that… That Yuzuru, this is an act of betrayal against fine!

Well, I guess I’ll allow it. Hidaka-senpai isn't as naggy as Yuzuru, after all.

It seems like you’re holding something back. You don't meddle as much as he does, which means you’re also less annoying.

Hokuto: …If you want, I can step up my nagging game even further. I still don’t really understand how to treat my juniors, so I end up acting somewhat distant.

I could even start following you around 24/7 and taking care of you if you'd like… “Himegimi”?

Tori: Eeeh? What’s gotten into you, don’t go around calling me weird things like that, okay?

Hokuto: ? That’s your nickname, right? The club president told me so.

Tori: Club president? Aah, that Long Hair?

Hokuto: Right. When I spoke to him about “Rain-bows” during our club activities, he told me to “make sure to properly escort Himegimi, dear prince ♪”.

It seems the club president is also cheering us on.

Tori: Is he really~? It sounds to me like he was just making fun of us, I still can’t wrap my head around what that Long Hair is thinking.

Hokuto: I have no idea either… Well, either way, you may call be by a nickname as well.

We’ve become allies, for some reason or the other, so it would just be tiresome for you to keep acting all tense around me and referring to me as your enemy or as a traitor.

Plus. As I was watching Akehoshi, the thought hit me that we would seem closer if we started calling each other by nicknames.

Tori: It’s not like we have to become close though… Small fries like Trickstar might need to huddle together to stay warm, but it’s not like that for everyone.

Us in fine are expected to be almighty and invincible rulers even when we’re alone ♪

Hokuto: Is that so? Just last year, fine was the unit that acted like weaklings huddling together to stay warm though… the times sure have changed.

Tori: …? What are you even saying, fine was always the champion of absolute justice, right?

Hokuto: Is that what it looked like from an outsider’s perspective? So this is the result of their propaganda, how annoying.

Tori: …?

chiaki

Chiaki: O~i. You youngsters should stop mingling only amongst yourself and let your senior join in too.

Tori: Don’t lump us together in such a weird way. It seemed like you were having a serious conversation with Sagami-sensei, so I left the two of you alone.

Chiaki: Yes. He asked me to explain that matter for you two, so I’d like you to hear me out.

Hokuto: Morisawa-senpai, where did Sagami-sensei go? He disappeared all of a sudden, is that bum of a teacher really leaving even the explanations up to other people…?

Chiaki: Don’t say that, our teachers are a lot busier than we’d think.

It’s not like he can spend every minute looking after us either. If an emergency or something happened he might have to rush to the infirmary.

He mentioned he would bring us something nice once he comes back, so let’s look forward to that. It seems this matter has something to do with the transfer student, who isn’t here today.

Hokuto: The transfer student? Now that you mention it, she isn’t with us today, I figured she was busy producing some other unit or something.

Recently, the transfer student has been busy enough that she’s started working on small jobs even while in class, so it’s gotten a bit difficult to reach out to her.

Chiaki: Hmmm, that girl sure is a hard worker.

The Producer Department is still in its experimental stage, so there’s only one student enrolled, and yet the amount of work that needs a producer just keeps increasing.

At this rate, she’ll end up overworked. Since the two of you are close, you need to watch over her, Hidaka.

Hokuto: Right. That is a given. But it’s not like the transfer student is being forced into taking on this work, it seems like this is simply what she wants to do.

I keep worrying that she might be working too hard.

That aside, what is it you wanted to explain… Morisawa-senpai?

Chiaki: Right. Well, let’s have a chat about it while we eat.

Sagami-sensei is bound to come back sooner or later, and the transfer student might show up as well. It would be best if everyone in “Rain-bows” could be here when we talk about this.

Two is better than one, three is better than two, and “everyone” is the best option.

Tori: Hmph. Are all of you so dependent on your friends in order to do anything at all?

Not like I mind, though. “Rain-bows” activities are usually annoying, but these meal times are pretty fun.

Even though the lessons are harder than I expected, and I end up completely exhausted, this time after our lessons is soothing~ ♪

It helps me relax. Plus, Slave No.2 puts my favorite foods into my bento for me.

And like this, I don’t have to participate in Yuzuru’s “Table Etiquette Seminar” that he holds every lunch break.

Chiaki: Himemiya, do you usually always eat with that… Fushimi, is it? You must get along well ✰

Tori: We don’t get along that well… It’s just that he’s been employed as a servant to my family for ages, we’re just stuck together at this point.

Chiaki: Is that so? From what I can tell it seems like you really love him though, you keep mentioning him even when no one asks about him ♪

Tori: Sh, shut up… I only just enrolled here, and I don’t know anyone else yet, so I have no choice.

Even though we are in different grades, Yuzuru keeps coming to see me every time something happens.

And thanks to that, it’s gotten weirdly difficult to get to know my classmates… Well, the throne up at the top must be a lonely seat, huh?

Chiaki: Fuhaha, Don’t worry, Himemiya! We will become your friends, your allies!

No, we’ve already formed a bond named “Rain-bows”! You don’t have to be lonely, let me pet you…♪

Tori: Stop that, don’t treat me as if I was your pet~? You’re getting in the way of my meal, how impertinent!

chiaki+tori

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Season: Summer

Location: Rooftop

Characters: Hokuto, Chiaki, Tori, Jin, Akiomi

Hokuto: Either way. The things we’ll need for the live are songs, choreographies, and outfits as well?

Chiaki: Yes. We should decide on a setlist first, and then adjust it to balance things afterwards. We should design our outfits as well as the stage based on the overall vibe of the setlist.

Hokuto: Oh, the transfer student’s eyes are sparkling. Do you want to make our outfits?

Your abilities are trustworthy, and leaving it to you would be cheaper than hiring someone from outside the school…

Chiaki: Yeah. I was planning to ask my good friend Kiryu for help with the outfits as I usually do, but if the transfer student is up for it, I’ll leave it to her.

Kiryu did mention he’s gotten an influx of requests lately and is feeling overwhelmed, after all.

Tori: Uuuhm, you guys are moving the conversation along too quickly so I can’t get a word in… Wait a sec.

Since it sounds like we’ve solved the issue of creating outfits, I take it our next problem is how to make ourselves a new song?

Hokuto: When it comes to songwriting, I could ask some of my dad’s acquaintances for help.

Though since they also helped me out during the revolution, I feel a little bit bad about letting them spoil me like that again.

Chiaki: I see. Well, worst case we could always rent a song for a low price.

Tori: Rental songs? That’s a thing?

Chiaki: Doesn’t fine use those? It’s a rental service where you can borrow songs to use for lessons and lives for a fee, it was set up sometime last year…

It’s not like everyone is able to create a brand-new song for every live show. This system was set up to help out with that kind of thing.

Tori: Huh… I had no idea, this must be commoner culture.

Hokuto: I was thinking. Seeing as how we’re able to perform alongside Sagami-sensei…

What if we used some of Sagami-sensei’s old hit songs, either as they are or rearranging them?

Chiaki: Ah, that would also fit with Project-Saga’s theme of reviving old idols.

Using old songs for nostalgia might be a good plan, and it would also fit well with the purpose of Project-Saga.

Plus, singing Sagami-sensei’s old songs at karaoke is my specialty, so I already know them by heart.

Tori: Ah… Morisawa-senpai, are you into karaoke?

Chiaki: Hm? Are you also a fan, Himemiya? No, I guess there’s no way you would be, you are a young lordling after all.

Tori: No, I also… N, never mind.

jin

Jin: N~. That might fit well with Project-Saga, but whenever I listen to my songs nowadays I can’t help but think that they feel outdated… will that be okay?

Wouldn’t it just sound annoying and lame for today’s young people?

Chiaki: It will be fine, Sagami-sensei, those are timeless masterpieces… ✰

Jin: H~m. I don’t really want to drag you youngsters into an old man’s nostalgia like that but…

Let’s keep it in our minds for now, I guess it’s a common thing within the music industry to take old masterpieces and remake them.

However, even if those are my old songs, it’s not like I own the copyright to them.

Depending on which songs you want to use, it might be difficult to gain permission to use them, or we might be required to pay a stupidly high fee for them.

If that ends up being the case, then making a new song that actually fits in with modern trends would be better.

As I keep saying, Project-Saga is a low-budget plan and we really don’t have any money at all right now.

Tori: Yup, that’s the heart of the issue right there. So this is how it feels to be poor… This is exactly why we need to hype up our live so we can earn lots of money.

I feel a little motivated now. I guess being an idol really is all about performing lives.

Jin: Idol activities is more than just that though.

There’s marketing for our lives and fanservice, as well as responding to “Mr. Bossman”’s interviews and holding photoshoots… I guess we’ll be doing all kinds of typical idol activities.

I’m praying that these experiences will be useful for all of you on your original paths as well.

Tori: Fufu. Actually, when I’m with fine it’s pretty much all I can do just to keep up with my seniors…

Being able to plan everything by ourselves from the beginning like this actually feels a little refreshing, which is nice.

Chiaki: Right. I’m having fun as well. I have no complaints whatsoever about Ryuseitai, but thanks to yours truly all our activities are pretty hero-like.

Being able to act like an ordinary idol like this makes me feel like I’ve started over from the beginning, which makes me happy.

On the other hand, I’m almost worried that I won’t be able to stop acting like a hero as usual and that I won’t be able to do normal idol activities at this point.

Hokuto: We’ve been doing fundamental lessons up until now in order to avoid that, haven’t we?

…I also think it’s delightful to be able to be a normal idol without worrying about revolutions and grudges anymore.

Idols should be focused on singing and dancing to make our fans happy, not on defeating our enemies and changing the world.

I feel like I’m relearning all these obvious things.

Jin: Why did you ever unlearn them? Those things are important.

Actually, as long as you don’t forget those things, you guys can keep being idols forever.

As long as you are wanted, you can keep standing on stage.

I threw that right away by my own hands, but I feel like you guys won’t make the same mistakes I did.

…Wait, what? I just noticed, but where did Kunugi-sensei disappear to?

Tori: Huh? You’re right… Well, lunch break is about to end, so he probably went back?

Jin: N~, honestly, what did that guy even come here for… Was he really just watching over us?

Well, whatever. Lunch break is pretty much over… Should we clean up and call it a day?

Make sure you’re not late for class now, okay? I don’t wanna get scolded by the other teachers.

Hokuto: Huh… Honestly, just when I thought you said something nice for once, this happens.

Jin: Ahaha. Being just a little pathetic makes me seem more like a regular human, which makes me more lovable. Don’t you feel it?

<Second floor hallway>

akiomi

Akiomi: …Yes, right.

Indeed. I’m sorry to call you over the phone like this. If I had used the school broadcast to call out to you then Sagami-sensei would have noticed.

If necessary, I can meet you in person and explain more thoroughly.

That won’t be necessary, you say? That’s good. It would be a pain to have to find you to talk to you after all.

Yes. As I briefly mentioned earlier, I plan to join Project-Saga myself as well.

Things seem to be going almost too smoothly for everyone so far, or rather, they’ve gotten too relaxed and have lost any sense of danger.

They might be in need of some outside encouragement. Yes, that is how living beings come to grow.

Yes. Come see me in the staff room once school ends. And bring with you a couple more “allies”.

Yes. If you don’t mind, please bring those children I recommended to you.

Fufu. I’m counting on you then, Mikejima-kun… Yes, as expected, the main character really does need his fated rival.

-

Navigation:
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Season: Summer of ES! timeline

Location: Rooftop

Characters: Tori, Hokuto, Chiaki, Jin

Chiaki: Alright, break ends there! There’s no point in us students getting ahead all on our own, so please do your job properly and work hard with us, sensei!

jin+chiaki

Jin: Uu~... I’m supposed to be the “master” here, but I feel like I’m really being taken advantage of by my “disciples”.

Hokuto: If you want to be respected as a master, then please work hard to earn that respect.

Jin: Guess I’ve no choice… Well then, I guess I’ll try hard a bit longer.

Aaalright. Everyone, c’mere. Let’s go over our plans from here on out one more time.

We’ve been repeating these basic lessons each week over and over again, and at this point we’ve reached a point where we’ve started to come together pretty well. I think. Probably.

Hokuto: You should be more confident in that declaration, for our sakes as well.

Jin: It's just one demand after the other with you… Anyhow, there’s no point in just continuing these basic lessons forever.

If we kept going like that, then the articles for Project-Saga would just be repeating the same stuff forever, which would be troublesome for Mr. Bossman, and we would end up getting rusty.

Which means. I’d like for us to hold a little live next month.

Chiaki: Ooh, a live! It’s finally time to reveal Rain-bows to the world… ✰

Tori: Uu. I don’t wanna reveal anything. I want to hide my past involvement with you guys away in the dark.

Jin: Well, I bet you all have your own opinions about this. Lives are the most effective and most idol-like work we could do, though.

Right now, we only have the basic funds we were given when we formed our unit, but if we were to produce results in an official DreamFes, then we’d be given additional funds.

Well, in our case, even if we had tons of money, it's not as if we have anything to spend it on.

But if we have money, we’d at least be able to rent a proper lesson room instead of having to use the rooftop like this.

The quality of our lessons would go up, and we’d be able to achieve better results in a shorter amount of time.

Chiaki: Hm. That’s true, they do say that you achieve better results when you use better equipment, both for muscle training and for other training.

Hokuto: That reminds me. Why are we doing lessons on the roof anyhow? Isn’t this place supposed to be off limits… Will we get in trouble?

Jin: It is. But I am a teacher, y’know?

They made a special exception for me, under the condition that I supervise our lessons… And thus, they allowed us to use the rooftop as our official lesson room.

Actually, the fact that this place is normally off-limits means that no one else needs to use it.

We won’t get in the way of any other units, so this was the most convenient place for us to use.

jin+tori

Tori: Nn~, I like this place because the view is really nice.

Right now it’s nice because the weather’s been sunny for a while, but wouldn’t this place be pretty awful if it rained?

Jin: Yeah. We’re still a ways off, but the rainy season is approaching, after all.

I want to save up at least enough funds so that we’ll be able to move indoors right away when the weather turns bad.

We could rent an empty classroom for free as well.

But since those aren’t soundproof, we’d be annoying to our surroundings, and it might be difficult to have a satisfying lesson in that kind of environment.

Chiaki: Right. So that’s another reason why we should hold lives to earn money?

So this is an investment into our future, as expected of Sagami-sensei… You’re even keeping an eye on possible future developments ♪

Jin: Yeah. If you hold a live, you’ll get customers, which will increase our number of fans.

There isn’t much meaning to increasing fans of Rain-bows by itself, but it’s not bad to increase you guys’ reputations and popularity as individuals.

It will be profitable for your original units as well.

It seems that Himemiya isn’t feeling too enthusiastic about all of this yet, but I’d like you to work hard for Rain-bows with that thought in mind.

Tori: …

Jin: Project-Saga is being serialized in a country-wide magazine.

If we do well, you’ll be able to have your name known to a far wider audience compared to doing work only within Yumenosaki.

This might come especially in handy for Hidaka, who will be participating in this year’s SS.

SS attracts audiences from all over the country, so the more people recognize your name the better.

And since the magazine which is publicizing Project-Saga isn’t specifically an idol magazine, that means you’ll be able to appeal even to people who usually wouldn’t care about idols.

That’s a target audience you’d normally have no way of reaching, after all…

If you’re able to attract that crowd, you could get one or two steps ahead of the other idols.

Hokuto: Hm. I’ll admit, I was thinking that I would have to do such preliminary preparations for SS.

Chiaki: Right! Necessity births success! Once you have a clear goal set in your mind, it suddenly becomes easier to work hard to achieve it!

Jin: Well, we’re just a temporary unit showing up outta nowhere.

We have basically no money, so throwing a flashy live and attracting lots of guests is just a pipe dream.

So you shouldn’t get your hopes too high up. I was just fantasizing about what could happen if all goes well.

Tori: Hmph. Obviously things will go well, I’m going to be helping you out after all.

hokuto+tori

Hokuto: That’s some confidence you’ve got there. Well, it’s not like I’m planning on failing either.

Chiaki: Right! I got a burst of motivation~! Our first goal is a live! What should we be doing now in order to reach that goal… Sagami-sensei!?

Jin: You all are almost too dependable, good job.

Thanks to that, I’m able to take it easier. As far as preparing for live performances goes, I’d say you guys are more knowledgeable than me.

Can you think of anything specific we should be focusing on from here on out?

Hokuto: How unreliable of you, “master”. This is the part where you should act the part and relentlessly order us around.

Jin: That kinda thing doesn’t suit me though… You might’ve forgotten, but I’m just a retired relic of the past.

The way I see it, letting you guys who are still active in the entertainment world be in charge of this is the safer course of action.

Tori: I guess you have a point… Uhm, so, the most important thing for the live is that we get a lot of guests!

It seems like the president is willing to cooperate with Project-Saga for some reason, so if I personally request it of him, he might be willing to help us out with publicity?

Hokuto: No, first of all we should decide on a program for our live. Just attracting lots of guests won’t do us any good if we don’t have a show prepared for them, after all.

Chiaki: Right. If we decide on the contents of the live first, that will make advertising easier as well.

That being said, we’re just a temporary unit put together recently, so we don’t have a single original song to our name.

Hokuto: Hm. It would feel weird for us to use songs from our original units, like Trickstar or Ryuseitai, as well.

Those songs all have lyrics and choreographies created to suit the atmosphere of that original unit, after all.

Tori: Eh~? But I wanna sing fine’s songs!

More importantly, I still haven’t even completely mastered fine’s songs, so even if we were to make lots of new songs right now there’s no way I would be able to learn them all!

Hokuto: Hm. I guess that’s true, fine’s songs all seem like they require lots of practice to master, after all.

Chiaki: I have a proposal. What about taking songs from our original units, and then arranging them to fit with Rain-bows’ atmosphere and using them like that?

Of course, we would need to acquire permission from each of our original units before we could use those songs, though.

Fundamentally speaking, it would be more effective and easy for us to use the weapons each of us is most acquainted with.

Hokuto: Huh. So would our best course of action be to focus mostly on re-arranging existing songs and then supplying that with some new original songs then?

chiaki+hokuto

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