vsaenglish

Crimson Abyss - Part 2

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 23:58:51 GMT

Lion: Stop.

Monet: Ha… Haa…

Lion: From the top. Do it again.

Hiromi: Y-Yes. We'll do our best.

Kazu: Stop. Cate, I want you to do that part more gradually.

Cate: I see!

Kazu: Kyouya, you can have more confidence. You’re not doing a bad job at all.

Kyouya: Y-Yes…

Lion: Stop. One more time.

Riam: … Haa, haa… We’re not getting anywhere.

Akashi: Please let us try one more time…!

Kazu: Stop. Can I have you guys check that part in the footage?

Meguru: Hm. Should Ainosuke and myself be in a more symmetrical position?

Ainosuke: Yeah, that seems like it’ll work better.

Lion: Stop. Nothing is changing.

Riam: Hah, haa… Seriously…?

Lion: Don’t make me repeat myself. This is nowhere near where you need to be. Are you listening, Shimba?

Shimba: …?

Kazu: Stop. Good work. We’ve gone over everything once now.

Cate: Thank you very much!

Kazu: Mhm. I don’t think this is bad for the first day. Now, as for the fundamental problem… We’ll get by as long as we do something about Mikera, is how things are looking.

Mikera: …?

Lion: We’re not getting anywhere with practice because you’re holding things back.

Kazu: Oh, you couldn’t tell? You’re the only one out of place.

Shimba / Mikera: Haa…?

——

Shimba: What do you mean by that?

Lion: Your acting is too large. Don’t act in this like you’re the lead. This play doesn’t need the behavior you have right now. From the beginning. Start!

Shimba: …

Lion: Stop! Shimba, it’s you.

Shimba: …!

Lion: Stop. Shimba! How many times are you going to make me repeat myself? Do it again from the beginning.

Shimba: Ngh…!

Lion: Stop! Shimba! All you did was make your movements docile. I’m not telling you to cut corners.

Shimba: … What am I doing wrong?

Lion: I’m telling you to play your role as a minor character. Don’t stand out. Don’t draw attention to yourself. Back up the lead.

Shimba: How am I supposed to do that—?

Lion: I’m telling you the answer right now. You’re not an amateur, so think about your approach on your own.

Shimba: …

——

Kazu: I don’t want acting that looks like it’s just for show. I’m not interested in a play that’s only good on the surface. I want you to make sure there are no lies in your own feelings.

Cate: But, but, a play has lines prepared for them, right? What do you mean?

Kazu: I want you to search for something you have in common with your role. Use that as a hint, and I want you to start feeling the same way your role does. That way, the lines you say aren’t a lie. They’ll be your true feelings.

Meguru: Hm, quite interesting.

Kazu: Meguru and Ainosuke were on the right track. Did you two have some kind of opportunity to confront your real feelings?

Ainosuke: Mm, yeah, I guess so.

Meguru: Something of that sort does come to mind.

Kazu: So, that means you’re the one least capable of doing that, Mikera.

Mikera: …

Cate: Eh? But, Mikera is really skilled!

Kazu: You’re right, he has great technique. He can pull off action scenes, and his projection is clear… But, Mikera is the most different.

Mikera: Haah. With all due respect—

——

Shimba: Then, why do I have this role?

Lion: Hah?

Shimba: The body I was born with won’t get smaller. If this role is one meant to erase its presence, then haven’t you miscasted me?

Lion: Do you have any problems with my direction plans?

Shimba: Yeah, I sure do!

Lion: … Ha, you’ve got guts.

Hiromi: U-Um, excuse me for butting in.

Lion: What is it?

Hiromi: Um, Lion-san, I understand your point itself, but… Shimba-kun may be a special case.

Monet: It’s true that his body is large, but he has an aura coming from him too.

Akashi: Yes, Shimba-san is someone whose existence alone is enough to draw attention.

Riam: Honestly, we’re all not sure what your intentions were with this cast.

Lion: So, what? Are you all only going to do jobs suitable for you?

Riam: That’s not what I mean.

Lion: Hiromi, do you plan on giving up the lead role you worked for just because you think Shimba suits it better?

Hiromi: … I believe if it will improve the performance, then—

Shimba: No, it’s fine.

Hiromi: !

Shimba: That’s not right.

Hiromi: Shimba-kun…

Lion: So? Is that all you have to say?

——

Mikera: You’re talking about method acting, correct?

Kazu: That’s right.

Cate: Method?

Ainosuke: What is that?

Mikera: An acting technique where you feel your role’s feelings vicariously. You draw something close to the role’s feelings from your own or ones you’ve felt in the past… It’s a famous acting technique, so I understand the logic behind it.

Kyouya: I didn’t know that…

Cate: Don’t worry! Cate didn’t either!

Mikera: However. There’s nothing I have in common with this role. He’s weak, cowardly, and can’t seize an opportunity. In the end, he ends up addicted to drugs. I don’t understand any bit of this person’s feelings.

Kazu: Are you saying you’re different?

Mikera: No matter what happens, I don’t give in. I keep fighting in order to win in the end.

Kazu: …

Mikera: It’s inefficient to try method acting with a role you have nothing in common with, isn’t it?

Kazu: You know, Mikera, as an actor… No, I guess this goes for being an idol too. It’s overwhelmingly clear that you’re missing something.

Mikera: … Haa? What am I—

Kazu: Time’s up. We’ll stop here for today.

Mikera: …

——

Everyone: …

Kyouya: Haa…

Ainosuke: Eh, doesn’t the vibe feel, like, terrible right now? Did something happen with you guys too?

Akashi: Yes, well…

Cate: But we should at least enjoy eating our dinner!

Riam: Yeah, that’s right. Practice will continue tomorrow.

Monet: Should we talk about something?

Meguru: Yes, good idea. Conversation makes the food taste better. Allow me to kick things off. I couldn’t have possibly assumed that Shimba and Mikera would be suffering any setbacks. What are your thoughts, everyone?

Akashi: Meguru-san?!

Ainosuke: Okay, I thought we were trying to avoid that on purpose, weren’t we?

Shimba / Mikera: …

Ainosuke: Look, now those two are all stiff!

Meguru: Are they now? I reckoned this was a topic you all were interested in.

Akashi: I thought it was quite a delicate problem…

Meguru: Hm, there is no need to treat it so cautiously, is there? The musical is a challenge we are all taking on, as a team.

Shimba: Meguru’s right.

Mikera: I agree.

Shimba: … M’sorry. I’m causing issues for everyone on my team.

Hiromi: You haven’t done anything like that.

Akashi: That’s right, and you are normally the one leading us forward, Shimba-san.

Monet: Yeah… Whatever will be, will be.

Shimba: No, I shouldn’t be holding you all back.

Hiromi: …?

Mikera: Me neither. I’ll get it together by tomorrow morning.

Meguru: Indeed, I am certain you can. We have no worries.

Kazu: Excuse us. Sorry to interrupt you all while you’re eating.

Everyone: !

Kazu: Kind of brings back memories seeing everyone eat together, doesn’t it, Lion?

Lion: We’re not here for any idle talk. This is communication for work. Practice will start one hour earlier tomorrow. There isn’t as much progress being made as we thought there would be.

Ainosuke: Seriously?

Shimba: … And I’m the reason, aren’t I?

Lion: Yeah. You and Mikera. Show us something different tomorrow.

Mikera: …

Kazu: If the two of you don’t step up, neither of you will be at the level you need to be to represent Scarlet.

Mikera: Haa?

Lion: Yeah, if it were up to me, I’d choose neither of you.

Shimba: … You’ve really said it now.

Hiromi: W-Wait a moment, Shimba-kun! You can’t pick a fight with your senior! Restrain yourself!

Shimba: …

Hiromi: Aah, no! His eyes are full of anger! Riam-kun, help!

Riam: Oi! Stop right there, Shimba!

Shimba: Damn it…

Mikera: Tch, you didn’t have to stop him.

Akashi: Mikera-san??

Kazu: Haha, you guys are so full of energy.

Lion: If you’ve got that much excess in power, you wanna make practice start another hour earlier?

Hiromi: Please stop instigating!

Kyouya: This is a mess…

——

Kamuy: Mm, things are going great.

Shimba: What are you seeing that makes you say that?

Kamuy: You went out of your way to talk to me directly. Does their direction bother you that much?

Shimba: Yeah, completely.

Mikera: It’s objectively clear that both Shimba and I have been miscasted. If things keep going like this, the stage will fall apart thanks to the directors’ egos.

Kamuy: I understand how you feel now. But, there won’t be any changes. The directors are those two.

Mikera: … With all due respect, it only looks like you’ve given them such a high position because of your personal bias towards them.

Kamuy: I won’t deny that. There is a special place in my heart for them. I have faith in them as well.

Shimba: Hate to say this, but they’re cowards who tried to run away during the previous audition. I can’t trust them as much as you can.

Mikera: Yes, it only looks like they’re obsessed with getting their own personal redo and resorting to wild direction tactics.

Kamuy: You’re right, they did try to run away. That’s exactly why there’s lots you can learn from them.

Mikera: I don’t understand—

Kamuy: You two have never run away from something, have you?

Shimba: Nope.

Mikera: I have not.

Kamuy: Haha. Let me say this, even if I were directing, the cast would be the same. I’d like you to also trust those two.

Shimba / Mikera: …

——

Lion: Stop.

Shimba: Ngh…

Lion: Oi, Hiromi.

Hiromi: Y-Yes.

Lion: Try playing Shimba’s role.

Hiromi: Eh? Alright, then…

Lion: I’ll play Hiromi’s role. Shimba, watch carefully.

——

Lion: Alright, that should be enough. Shimba, what did you think after watching from the outside?

Shimba: … I know what you’re trying to say now.

Lion: Oh?

Shimba: My eyes naturally went towards someone else. Hiromi was actively working to make sure he backed up his surroundings. He also fine-tuned his positioning to guide the audience’s viewpoint. By making himself disappear, the main focus was able to shine. There’s no mistake that the overall quality of the performance increased.

Hiromi: !

Lion: … You’ve got a good eye on you.

Shimba: Is this what you want me to do?

Lion: Yeah, that’s right.

Shimba: … I can’t.

Lion: !

Shimba: … I… We are competing in this audition so we can shine as idols, aren’t we?

——

Kazu: Okay. What did you notice while watching the performance footage?

Ainosuke: I’m literally eating it up.

Kazu: Okay, what else?

Meguru: It seems better than yesterday.

Kazu: Right, I think so too. What else?

Mikera: I look out of place.

Kazu: Correct.

Mikera: …

Kazu: You can tell now?

Mikera: … Yes.

Kyouya: That’s…

Mikera: Everyone’s beginning to grasp the principles of performing that you’re showing us. That’s why I can tell. I’m the only one who looks like they’re acting in another world… I look strange.

Kazu: So, what should you do, Mikera?

Mikera: … I’d like to think about it on my own.

Kazu: Sure. You seem like you have all of the lines and their flow down perfectly, so, I’ll give you a day.

Mikera: Thank you very much.

Meguru: … Acting is quite the profound art. I believed Mikera’s technique to be rather high.

Ainosuke: Then how come things turned out like this?

Kazu: Mikera’s unable to identify with the role… No, maybe it’s that he doesn’t want to. That’s why the lines he says become lies.

Cate: … Hmmm.

Kyouya: Cate-san?

——

Shimba: I… I want to stay as I am. I can’t waste the talent I’ve been blessed with. That’s… That’s what I was born to do.

Hiromi: Shimba-kun, calm down.

Shimba: Hiromi, why do you never advocate for yourself? If you keep doing that, there may be no one in the audience who’ll even look at you!

Hiromi: …!

Shimba: Only ever trying to make sure someone else shines… That… just makes you a stepping stone, doesn’t it?!

Hiromi: Shimba-kun, that’s not it.

Shimba: What the hell is fun about that?!

Riam: Shimba, get it together!

Shimba: …! … Sorry. I went too far…

Hiromi: No, it’s alright. You’re fine.

Akashi: … Excuse me, Lion-san. May we take a break?

Monet: A long one.

Lion: Yeah, we’ll meet again in an hour.

Hiromi: Let’s rest up, Shimba-kun.

Shimba: … What do I do…? This is the first time this has happened…!

Mikera: Haa… It’s alright. It’s okay. I’ve overcome everything up until now. It’s alright. I’ll be alright…

Cate: Hey, Mikera!

Mikera: Cate?

Cate: Mikera, let Cate think together with you, okay?

Mikera: … No, I’ll be fine on my own.

Cate: Two heads are better than one! If we’re thinking together, we might figure something out!

Mikera: You don’t need to worry. I’ve made it through everything up until now. This time isn’t an exception. It’s not a big deal.

Cate: But, but! I’m sure if everyone puts their heads together, then—

Mikera: I’m telling you, I’m FINE! Ah…

Cate: Ah… Sorry.

Mikera: Um… I just think that… acting is something you have to face on your own, so…

Cate: Yeah, gotcha.

Mikera: You’re the lead, aren’t you? Don’t mind me and do your best. I’ll get through this on my own somehow.

Cate: Mikera…

——

Kamuy: Good work, you two.

Lion: … I’m exhausted.

Kazu: Yeah, seriously. It was so much easier when I was the actor.

Kamuy: So? How were the candidates this time?

Lion / Kazu: …

Lion: They’re all at a high level.

Kazu: Yeah, it feels like they’ve got it much more put together than we did at the time.

Lion: That’s not true.

Kazu: Come on, give our juniors a little support.

Kamuy: Haha! What about Shimba and Mikera? You seem quite stuck on them.

Kazu: Don’t you act like too much of a spartan with them, Lion?

Lion: If I thought he was someone who couldn’t take a hit, I wouldn’t have said anything in the first place.

Kazu: It’s hard. There’s no point in teaching them everything from one to ten.

Lion: Yeah, you tell them too much.

Kazu: And you don’t tell them enough.

Kamuy: … It’s always going to be difficult between a director and their actors.

——

Shimba / Mikera: …

Shimba: You’re doing solo practice too, huh?

Mikera: Something like that. I won’t get in your way, so don’t mind me.

Shimba: Sure feels awkward being alone together!

Mikera: You know, you don’t normally say that kind of thing out loud.

Shimba / Mikera: …

Mikera: You… kind of look like you’re going through it.

Shimba: Yeah, so do you.

Mikera: … And here you were going on about how you don’t know how to lose.

Shimba: You’re not as calm as you pretend to be at all. Didn’t think you were the kind of person to take your anger out on someone, but…

Mikera: Hah? What are you trying to say?

Shimba: … Unfortunately, I’m not so composed either. For once, I feel like I wouldn’t mind picking a fight.

——

Kazu: Is someone using the dance studio? At a time like this?

Lion: I can hear voices… It’s Shimba and Mikera.

Kazu: Oh, maybe they’re getting some practice in. Let’s see…

Mikera: I’ve been telling you! I hate that attitude of yours!

Lion / Kazu: !

Mikera: Your huge body, and your loud voice… You’re just lucky enough to have been blessed with the things you were born with! I don’t wanna hear someone like that talking so big! I’ve been giving it my all to bridge that gap!

Shimba: Yeah, that’s right. I was made special the moment I was born.

Mikera: Haah? What, are you bragging?!

Shimba: Because I was born that way, I have to make sure I remain something special! That’s what the audience will pay to see! Who wants to see someone grovelling pathetically?!

Mikera: That’s only something a deluded king who’s relying on his talents alone would say! You don’t understand how peasants feel or something?! Don’t talk about the audience’s feelings like that!

Shimba: … You’re awfully stuck on talent this, talent that. You’ve got the nerve to feign innocence… Don’t project your complexes onto others!

Mikera: ! It’s not a complex!!

Shimba: Ha, you really can’t see how you look.

Mikera: … You piss me off. All you’ve done is win using cheats. You have no room to talk.

Shimba: You…!

Mikera: If you’ve got a problem, then go ahead and take it up with me! I won’t lose!

Shimba: That’s my line!!

comments

Crimson Abyss - Part 1

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 08:32:09 GMT

(See bottom for notes)

紅蓮 - bright red / crimson lotus flower

abgrund - abyss

——

Cut-kun: I’ll keep cutting out every bit of sensitive footage! I’m Cut-kun! The footage will sometimes be distorted! Thanks for understanding!

——

Kamuy: …

Riam: Ha… Whew…

Ainosuke: … Hah…

Kamuy: Okay, thank you! I understand your abilities quite well now.

Riam: Thank you!

Ainosuke: Thank you…!

Kamuy: Riam-kun? It’s great that your movements are very large and nimble, but they are still messy.

Riam: … Yeah.

Kamuy: I do think that this is a dance that those with larger physiques struggle with, but that’s exactly why being aware of your expressions all the way down to your fingertips will be a big help.

Riam: Thank you.

Kamuy: On the other hand, you know how to show yourself off, Ainosuke-kun.

Ainosuke: Right? I sure do.

Kamuy: Though, we should focus on when you stop. Pops aren’t your strong suit, are they? If you only rely on your intuition, you’ll eventually run into a wall. The physical strength you need to dance can only be developed by basic training.

Ainosuke: … Got it.

Kamuy: Also, there’s another thing that both of you need to work on.

Akashi: This sense of nervousness is very strong…

Meguru: Yes, because this is what decides the cast for the musical. Feeling nervous is not unthinkable.

Akashi: That’s true. We’ll be appearing in a musical directed by Kamuy-san, a world-famous director… We must put lots of effort towards it.

Hiromi: The critique is also as severe as expected.

Cate: He critiqued us a whole bunch too!

Hiromi: Yeah. Everything he points out is true, which makes it frustrating.

Kyouya: I wonder what he’ll say….. Aah, I-I can’t stop trembling…

Shimba: Bam!

Kyouya: Ngh…

Shimba: Haha! No need to be nervous. You’re only nervous because you wanna show off something better than your abilities are capable of. Have him look at you just as you are.

Kyouya: Um… I’m thankful for the advice, but that hit was really strong…

Shimba: Haha, your worries flew far away, didn’t they?

Kyouya: … No, and now my back hurts too…

Mikera: …

Kamuy: That's all I’ve got to say. Thank you, you two.

Riam / Ainosuke: Thank you very much.

Kamuy: Next up is… Scarlet. Shimba, Mikera, come forward.

Shimba: Got it!!

Mikera: Yes!

Kamuy: Now, let me see your abilities… No, show me your life.

——

Kamuy: Okay, stop there! Thank you.

Mikera: Whew… Thank you very much.

Shimba: Thank you very much!

Kamuy: … Mm, I have nothing to say to you two. That was wonderful.

Everyone: …!

Ainosuke: Eh, that’s crazy.

Monet: Those two are amazing…

Kamuy: Your performances were ones that overflowed with the feeling of, “look at me.” That confidence serves as your weapon. That’s all, you can go back.

Shimba / Mikera: Yes!

——

Kamuy: Alright, we’ll be holding a meeting to decide the musical’s cast now, so take a break. Don't forget to stretch as well.

Everyone: Yes! Thank you very much!

Kyouya: Ha… I’m tired…

Monet: We were criticized a lot.

Riam: Damn, I was planning on doing better than that too.

Ainosuke: Don’t worry about it~ Mikera and Shimba were the only ones who had nothing said to them anyway.

Cate: Right! Cate was so surprised! …Hm? Wait, where are those two?

Hiromi: They both left right away.

Akashi: Perhaps they went to the bathroom?

Cate: Man, I wonder who the leads for the musical will be!

Meguru: Thinking about it reasonably, the leads will be Shimba and Mikera. They shine when on stage.

Ainosuke: I mean, we saw how Kamuy-san reacted to them. But, like, don’t you wonder which one of them will win the color Scarlet?

Kyouya: That’s… kind of a touchy subject… I don’t know if we should talk about that…

Ainosuke: No, but that’s the real thrill of an audition, isn’t it?!

Hiromi: Honestly though, I’ve been curious too. After all, their entire beings are complete opposites, aren’t they?

Ainosuke: Yup, exactly. Scarlet is the candidate meant to be the center, right? So won’t the group’s color really depend on who’s in the middle?

Akashi: That’s true… The atmosphere would change immensely.

Cate: Hold on! Let me imagine it! … If it were Shimba… he’d be so tall, so maybe no one would be able to see us!

Monet: That wouldn’t be good.

Akashi: Indeed… Ah, let’s wear boots that make us appear taller when we debut! I’ll make them!

Cate: But then, wouldn’t Shimba look even taller too?

Monet: That wouldn’t be good either~

Akashi: That’s right…

Hiromi: This sure is a weird thing to worry about.

Meguru: Mm, this is quite the deep topic, but both of them possess remarkable abilities. There is no mistaking that working with them will prove to be a great strength.

Ainosuke: Well, both of them are well-known in our generation, so someone who sees whoever remains in the end would think, “Yeah, that makes sense.”

Meguru: Is that so?

Akashi: I see, so you didn’t know, Meguru-san.

Meguru: That is right. However, I was surprised the first time I saw Mikera. His dance has a feeling of floating to it. It is pleasant to watch, as if you are seeing him swim through the sky.

Monet: He’s really good at singing too…

Cate: Mikera’s a practicing demon! He’s Mr. Stoic!

Meguru: Aah, I understand what you mean. That is the result of repeated practice.

Akashi: No matter how difficult the task, he never voices a complaint nor allows his facial expression to change… He is an amazing person.

Kyouya: He’s superhuman…!

Riam: For Shimba, it’s, what… his presence?

Monet: He’s like a king…

Ainosuke: Exactly. And like, I think I’ve heard things about him actually being born into a pretty good family. He’s a real life king.

Monet: A real king…

Riam: And how come that guy who’s larger than me can dance like that? It’s like, he has his form down pat even if he’s huge.

Hiromi: Dancing is harder for people with larger bodies. You’re still growing taller, aren’t you, Riam-kun?

Riam: Hm? Yeah, probably.

Ainosuke: Shimba was already around 180 centimeters tall when he was in grade school, apparently. He’s used to it, even while working with a big body.

Riam: I get it, so he’s what people call a physical elite.

Hiromi: You’ll also improve once you get a hang of how you need to treat your body, Riam-kun.

Ainosuke: One of them is a stoic, perfect, superhuman. The other is a natural-born king. It’s the ultimate showdown between two different people in our generation… When you look at it objectively from the audience’s point of view, there’s no way it’s not a heated battle!

Meguru: I see, that is a perspective fitting of you.

Akashi: Rather than expecting one of them to lose, they are a pair who make it hard to believe either of them would.

Monet: … Do you wanna bet on them?

Hiromi: Hey, we’re not doing that.

Riam: Do we even got the time to be worrying about that?

Ainosuke: You idiot, this is why I can’t do it with non-otaku. If we’re near them, then our screen time opportunities will go up!

Cate: Really?! Then, Cate’s always gonna stay beside the two of them!

Monet: … There’s something i’m curious about though.

Akashi: ? What is it, Monet-san?

Monet: I’ve never really seen those two talk to each other.

Akashi: … That’s true…

Cate: Now that you mention it!

Hiromi: I guess you could be right. They speak just fine when we’re all together, but I don’t think you really see them on their own with each other.

Ainosuke: Eh, wait, you’re right! You think they’re actually on bad terms?! Oh my god, this is so gonna heat up the audition!

Meguru: Ho, things have gotten interesting…

Akashi: Meguru-san’s eyes are sparkling…

Mikera: Well, you guys look like you’re having a fun chat.

Akashi: Uwaaaah!!

Mikera: Jeez, isn’t it rude to gossip behind someone’s back?

Ainosuke: Yeah, yeah, I’ll reflect on it.

Hiromi: Sorry, we just got carried away and couldn’t help it…

Shimba: Haha! I don’t mind. Gathering attention is fated for people with influence.

Mikera: …

Shimba: So? Not really sure what happened, but what were you guys talking about?

Kyouya: Ah, um, that’s…

Mikera: It’s fine. You don’t need to force yourselves to say anything—

Monet: Are the two of you on bad terms?

Kyouya: COUGH—

Shimba: ? What makes you think so?

Monet: Because, you two are good people, and you’re friendly when you talk to us. But, we’ve never seen you two talk one-on-one.

Mikera: Hah… You really don’t mince your words, do you, Monet?

Monet: Mints my words…? [1]

Mikera: Could you not use your heritage when it’s convenient for you? Anyway… Haa, that’s what you were worried about? Are you guys bored or something?

Meguru: We are quite curious.

Ainosuke: Come on, we don’t have much entertainment here.

Mikera: Argh! Okay! Don’t look so expectant! I get it! We’re not on bad terms or anything. Right?

Shimba: Yeah, that’s right.

Mikera: But, we don’t get along like you guys do either. After all, I have to defeat this giant eventually. There’s no way I’d end up in the same group as him. That’s why I don’t get along with him any more than I have to.

Akashi: …!

Mikera: There’s no point in wasting your time on someone who’s bound to fail. That’s just inefficient… I’m going to win anyway.

Cate: Wow!

Riam: Sure, maybe, but…

Ainosuke: That was so blunt it made me cringe…

Monet: You don’t mince your words, Mikera.

Mikera: Don’t act like that when you guys were the ones insisting.

Hiromi: It’s just kind of shocking that you said that right in front of Shimba-kun…

Shimba: Nah, not really? I feel the exact same. We see eye to eye.

Hiromi: Ehh?

Shimba: You guys are my future companions. I want to get to know you all deeply, and treasure you. I’ll give my everything to protect you.

Cate: Is this a love confession?

Akashi: … I-I’m somehow a bit embarrassed.

Meguru: Mm, what a refreshing king you are.

Shimba: But, Mikera is the only one who’s different. There’s no future where we become companions. That’s because I’ll be the one representing Scarlet.

Mikera: … You’re provoking me, aren’t you?

Shimba: Well, were you provoked? I’m just saying the truth.

Ainosuke: Okay, hold on, you guys are being way too scary.

Cate: Uwah, things are real messy!

Meguru: Wonderful, truly…

Riam: No, but… That’s too detached, ain’t it?

Mikera: That’s the kind of relationship we have as Scarlet. That should be fine long as it doesn’t bother you guys, right?

Riam: Mm…

Shimba: Let me say this to clear things up. I don’t hate Mikera. I understand how highly skilled he is, and of course, I respect him.

Mikera: Thanks for that.

Shimba: It’s a shame that you’re going to lose here. If only you could change your color right now.

Mikera: Yeah, you are trying to provoke me.

Shimba: What? This is how I really feel.

Mikera: You say that thinking you’re going to win against me?

Shimba: That’s right, because I don’t know how to lose.

Ainosuke: Ugh, fine, okay! You guys don't have to talk to each other.

Kamuy: Thanks for waiting, candidates.

Everyone: !

Kamuy: I’d like you to gather in the center hall. I'm going to announce the results of the role audition.

——

Akashi: ? There seems to be no one here.

Monet: Did we get the place wrong…?

Ainosuke: Shh, be quiet! Kyaa! The ceiling’s coming down?!

Cate: What?!

Meguru: ? We have seen this before.

Riam: Yeah, since the beginning.

Ainosuke: Shut up, non-otakus! You’re killing the vibe!

Kamuy: Hello! Thanks for waiting. I’m sure I don’t need to introduce these two, right?

Lion: …

Kazu: Are you all working hard, juniors?

Everyone: …!

Kamuy: They will be your mentors for this assignment since they both have experience with the musical. Reliable, aren’t they?

Lion: Hmph.

Kazu: Nice to be here.

Kamuy: Additionally, they will also serve as your directors for the musicals!

Everyone: …!

Kamuy: The musicals will have you split into two teams doing different programmes. Lion and Kazu will be the director for each.

Mikera: Excuse me.

Kamuy: Go ahead, Mikera-kun.

Mikera: Will you not be involved, Kamuy-san? I thought we would be performing under the direction of the world famous director.

Kamuy: I’ll be the general producer. Don’t worry, I’ll be here to guarantee high quality.

Mikera: … I see.

Shimba: …

Kamuy: Alright, they’ll be explaining the programmes and casting to you now.

Lion: The musical I’m directing is a historical piece themed around the end of the Edo period and the Shinsengumi. Dynamic sword fight scenes will be necessary.

Shimba: … Sword fight scenes, huh? Those are my specialty.

Kazu: The musical I’m directing is a success story about a boy born in the slums who rises up through singing and dancing. You’ll be using the stage to its fullest to dance.

Mikera: … Alright.

Lion: My team is… First, Hiromi. Oi, respond.

Hiromi: Y-Yes!

Lion: Riam.

Riam: Yes.

Lion: Akashi.

Akashi: Yes!

Lion: Monet.

Monet: Yes…

Lion: Lastly, Shimba.

Shimba: Yes!

Kazu: My team is… Ah, you don’t need to respond or anything, I’m saying everyone all at once. Cate, Kyouya, Meguru, Ainosuke, and then Mikera.

Mikera: …

Lion: Rankings are in the order we named.

Kazu: Ah, do you understand what the rankings mean? Basically, the first person we named is the lead, and the last person is… Well, I just have to give it to you straight. You’ll have a minor role.

Hiromi: Eh…?

Cate: Cate’s the lead? For real?

Akashi: N-No, well… That is also the case, but…

Kyouya: Shimba-san and Mikera are…

Meguru: Minor characters…?

Shimba / Mikera: Haah?

——

(After credits)

Kazu: At this rate, neither of them are at the right level to represent Scarlet.

Lion: If it were up to me, I’d choose neither of them.

Mikera: Haa… It’s alright. It’s okay. I’ve overcome everything up until now.

Shimba: What do I do…? This is the first time this has happened…!

——

notes:

1 - 歯に衣を着せない (ha ni kinu wo kisenai - literally, not putting garments/clothes on your teeth) is an expression with the same meaning of the english expression: “not mincing your words.” this is supposed to have the intent of expressing speaking your mind clearly and frankly! monet pretends to not know what the expression means as he uses it towards mikera shortly after this LOL

comments

A Multicolored Gourmet - VS AMBIVALENZ 2nd Episode 8

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:02:50 GMT

多彩 - multicolored / varied

schlemmer - gourmet

——

Ainosuke: Aah! I knew it! I was just thinking something smelled super good~!

Cate: A sweet, sweet, great scent~! I'm hungry!

Hiromi: I figured you’d all want a snack, so I started making some.

Ainosuke: We’ve been blessed~ Eh, wait, you’re good at making pancakes, huh? They're not burnt!

Riam: Yeah, they’re better off that way.

Ainosuke: You don’t get it at all. Burning pancakes is a must! If we don’t cause any seven great incidents like they did in the 1st season, we won’t have any footage to use!

Cate: So they’re supposed to be burnt~? We have a burner here!

Ainosuke: Now that’s a suggestion!

Riam: No, it ain’t!

Hiromi: You’re right about the pancake incident being a sure winner though.

Akashi: That's right. Pancakes are cooked more evenly on an iron plate than on a frying pan because it has better heat conductivity.

Mikera: I don’t think that’s what he meant? [1]

Monet: Fluffy… pancakes…

Kyouya: Uwah, that scared me!

Ainosuke: Woah, you appeared so suddenly, I thought you were Inamoto-san or something~!

Shimba: We were smelling something that set off our hunger, so we took it as a sign to all gather in the kitchen!

Meguru: With such a sweet smell wafting through the air, it is not impossible to lose against temptation.

Hiromi: Which means we’re all here. I’ll make a lot of them, so let’s all enjoy a little snack together.

Inamoto: Before that, may I have a moment?

Everyone: Uwah!

Kyouya: My stomach dropped…

Ainosuke: I was thinking, “Appearing so suddenly? What are you, Inamoto-san~?!” and it actually turned out to be him…

Inamoto: Yes, I am Inamoto. I have come to inform you about information regarding the mentors.

Ainosuke: Regarding the mentors, meaning… Did something happen to Taiyou?!

Riam: Calm down.

Inamoto: So far, XlamV, fun4re, and illuvista have all participated as mentors. However, as XlamV have been preparing for their live, we will have an interval period.

Meguru: I see. So, in order to parallel our mentors, we will also be taking an interval.

Akashi: I understand why, but having a sudden interval has me restless.

Ainosuke: But, an interval doesn't really mean we'll just have a bunch of extra time on our hands, right?

Cate: We could take naps? Snooze our hearts away?

Monet: Zzz…

Inamoto: Of course. We will have you all utilize this interval… to interact with each other and build your connections.

Kyouya: I-Interact…?

Mikera: Build our connections? W-What are you talking about…?

Shimba: Bwahaha! You’re sayin’ something real funny looking completely serious!

Hiromi: I’m guessing this is a team building event to have us get to know each other better, on top of living together. We did this a lot at my company too.

Ainosuke: There you go, that’s something only a salaryman would know!

Riam: If you want us to get to know each other better, what exactly are we doin’? Are we playing games?

Inamoto: Your first group activity will be one that easily nourishes friendship and affection. You will pair up with your rival and participate in a cooking battle.

Hiromi: A cooking battle?

Ainosuke: Yay~! It’s an Internat staple, having us cook! We can get so much footage from this~!

Meguru: I have heard wind of couple events where they cook together and nurture their love. Where is the harm in having a cooking battle with all of us as well?

Akashi: I see! So this is an event to build love between us!

Cate: A cooking battle! Whoever loses will have to play a dreadful punishment game!

Kyouya: That’s a death game…

Ainosuke: Actually, our next assignment is a reaction battle, right~? A cooking battle would be some legit rehearsal for us, wouldn’t it?

Riam: We’ll have to have reactions when we eat some super spicy food and stuff like that!

Cate: That’s true!

Shimba: So we can use this as prep for our assignment too. But, this is a battle, so we’re gonna have some kind of rule, right?

Inamoto: Yes, let’s see… Then…

Mikera: ??? Why did you suddenly pull out a bell pepper and take a bite out of it?

Riam: Did you get hungry?

Inamoto: If my memory serves me correctly, today’s theme will be… eggs!

Meguru: Why did you bite into a bell pepper?

Shimba: So anything’s fine as long as we’ve got eggs in it!

Inamoto: That’s right. As long as you use eggs, there will be no problems. The eggs you will be using come from “Hearty Chick Land,” a poultry farm that fun4re have assisted for work.

Ainosuke: Oh yeah, that! Watching their farming experience was awesome~

Mikera: We’ve just been getting a whole lot of info.

Shimba: Understood! Let’s each do our best to make the most supreme egg dish!

Cate: And we can have all the food we make for dinner~!

Akashi: Yes, that would work with the timing. You can say this is both an efficient and practical battle.

Inamoto: All of the ingredients prepared for you can be found in the kitchen and the corridor. Please, use whatever you would like. You may also use what is inside the fridge. As this is a team competition, you have also been given different cooking areas.

Akashi: That makes it easier to create a strategy without letting the other teams know what you will be making.

Inamoto: You will have 60 minutes! Without further ado… Begin!

——

Shimba: We’re Team Scarlet! It’s time to figure out what we’re making! We HAVE to make sure that the other teams don’t hear us!

Mikera: Then don’t be so loud…

Shimba: Egg dishes are the basics of cooking!

Mikera: Really? Then, it won’t be that hard to mess up, so we can go with fried eggs—

Shimba: We’re making omurice!

Mikera: Huh?

Shimba: Look! The ketchup fell!

Mikera: Huhhh…?

Shimba: When you think of ketchup, you’ve gotta have omurice with fluffy eggs! We’re gonna make omurice!

Mikera: What kind of logic is that? Actually, is ketchup even something that falls…? No, well, whatever. As long as we decide which one of us is working with the eggs and the chicken rice, we can make progress without having to work together anyway.

Shimba: Anything can be a challenge! Now, let’s make our way to the kitchen!

——

Akashi: We are Team Navy. There were no specifications saying we must make an egg dish. If we proceed with something simple, we are likely to win against the other teams.

Meguru: Being too cautious will cause our cooking to appear poor compared to the other teams if they serve more elaborate dishes. Should we not take a risk and make sure our dish has a proper cooking process?

Akashi: … That is true, you have a point. However, what kind of dish would suit this situation?

Meguru: Hmm… Taking things into consideration, the other teams are likely to make an entrée, no? Which means we must make…

Akashi: I see…! We have to make dessert! Right now, when the possibility of our opponents making an entrée is high, if we make a dessert meant to be eaten after that, then…

Meguru: Our team will be given high ratings.

Akashi: We are the only ones making a dessert for this match! You can hardly call it competition anymore! However, what desserts use eggs in their recipe…?

Meguru: No need to fret. I found this earlier.

Akashi: T-That’s…!

——

Ainosuke: Let’s make pancakes!

Riam: Don’t say that so loudly!

Ainosuke: The other teams can’t hear us anyway, so it’s fine! We can make anything as long as we use eggs, right? We’re gonna use eggs to make pancakes.

Riam: We had ‘em during the day already.

Ainosuke: And we can have them again! Plus, the other teams are probably making entrées, but nobody except us is gonna make a dessert!

Riam: Aah, I guess you’ve got a point there. You're pretty clever.

Ainosuke: Yeah, aren’t I? Let’s do our best to make some pancakes!

Riam: Even if we ate some earlier.

Ainosuke: What we had earlier were supreme pancakes. Please come back here after that. I’ll show you what real ultimate pancakes are.

Riam: And what do ya mean by that?

Ainosuke: I found this hand mixer earlier, so we can make them. And to make these ultimate pancakes, I’ll need this hand mixer and you, Riam. I wanted you to make them with me no matter what.

Riam: Ainosuke… You…

——

Kyouya: We’re Team Black. My partner is asleep. Please help me.

Monet: Zzz…

Kyouya: I’m practically alone here.

Monet: I’m really gonna help, promise~...

Kyouya: Woah! That startled me… Can you make something with eggs?

Monet: Eggs… Eggs… Did the egg come first, or the chicken…? Mmm… Zzz…

Kyouya: Don’t fall asleep! Wait, what are you using as a pillow…?

Monet: Mm… A wok…

Kyouya: That sounds like it hurts… Where did you even get that…?

Monet: Before I knew it… It was just there…

Kyouya: Before you knew it…? No, wait, don’t go to sleep…! He’s asleep… A wok… Hmmm… Ah, that’s it!

——

Cate: Team! Emerald! Dishes that use eggs~! What are we making? I wonder what’d be good~

Hiromi: Hmm, it’s hard to decide. There are a lot of foods that use eggs, so…

Cate: Cate loves eggs~! It’d be nice if we could make something that features eggs as the main part.

Hiromi: Eggs as the main part… Wait, huh?

Cate: What’s wrong?

Hiromi: There’s kamaboko just laying here.

Cate: Wild kamaboko~? Hello there!

Hiromi: Did Inamoto-san drop it while he was transporting the ingredients?

Cate: I feel bad for the lost kamaboko! Should we release them back into the wild?

Hiromi: We can use it since it’s been wrapped, so I don’t think we need to do that… Hold on, wait. If we have kamaboko, then I think we could make that…!

Cate: Hm~? Whatcha thinking?

——

Ainosuke: Riam, how you doing over there?

Riam: Ngh… Haa, haa… Ainosuke… You…! This is what you meant when you said you needed me, huh…?!

Ainosuke: You’re the only one who could make buttercream with sheer human strength anyway~ Smooth and velvety buttercream is a necessity to make the ultimate pancake! Keep at it, tough guy~!

Riam: Nrgh… Ughh! This is seriously gettin’ to my arms, y’know?!

Ainosuke: Your biceps are straight up shining! They’re just like Mount Everest~!

Riam: Stop teasing me and swap with me! Why are you the only one using a mixer?!

Ainosuke: Nope! Making fluffy meringue is a delicate task! Riam’s strength! Ainosuke’s technique! Let’s split up the work based on our good parts, okay?

Riam: Damn it…! You say all those pretty-sounding words so easily!

——

Shimba: Shoot! I burnt the eggs again!

Mikera: Eh, again?

Shimba: Hahahaha! Who would’ve thought that omurice would be this profound?!

Mikera: It’s alright if they’re a little hard, so why don’t you give up on the fluffy omurice and go with normal eggs?

Shimba: Dandelion omurice has gotta be fluffy! If I make any compromises here, I’ll make a habit of giving up, and I’ll develop a mindset of choosing another option because I felt like the first one was impossible!

Mikera: That so… I finished the chicken rice over here, so. Good luck with those eggs.

Shimba: Failure births success! I can redo things however many times I need!

——

Akashi: Not again! I’ve made a mistake again…

Meguru: What is the matter? What mistake do you speak of?

Akashi: You even found this recipe for us… But we’re in this predicament thanks to me!

Meguru: What could have been so drastic for you to say so?

Akashi: Please take a look at this pudding… It’s far from being smooth and shiny, and there are so many holes in it…!

Meguru: Hm… It seems su is in the pudding.

Akashi: Su? As in vinegar? No, I don’t believe I added vinegar…

Meguru: Aah, not that. I am referring to the air bubbles you see showing up on the surface of the pudding. [2] For foods that require you to steam eggs, like pudding and egg custard, it is easy for them to appear. Naturally, this does not make them very pleasant to eat.

Akashi: No…! Ending up in this situation despite the simple ingredients and instructions was beyond my expectations… How in the world will we fix this…?

Meguru: Hmm. The steamer has been properly set up, so what else could have caused this…?

Akashi: Could it be that I really did add vinegar?

Meguru: I think not… There is something I have just recalled. A secret method to ensure there are no air bubbles in the pudding.

Akashi: A secret method?

Meguru: Seeing this plastic wrap jogged one’s memory. It is said that using plastic wrap helps even out the heat and prevents air bubbles from appearing.

Akashi: Is that so… Though, why is there plastic wrap here…?

Meguru: Were you not the one who brought it?

Akashi: No… I didn’t…

Meguru: Plastic wrap that has suddenly appeared… How strange…

——

Monet: The Seven Wonders of the Internat… There’s another person here…!

Kyouya: Woah! Don’t just surprise me so suddenly!

Monet: Sorry… Yaaawn…

Kyouya: What do you mean there’s another person here…?

Monet: It just feels like it?

Kyouya: D-Don’t say scary stuff like that.

Monet: Sorr… Zzz…

Kyouya: D-Don’t fall asleep either… Thanks to the wok Monet-san has, it feels like we can make some proper egg fried rice.

Monet: That’s great…

Kyouya: We just need a heat source and a pan to make it. I wouldn’t have thought to make fried rice if we didn’t have this pan, so thanks, really.

Monet: Cooking’s a form of love. We can have green peas in our fried rice.

Kyouya: Green peas? Not meat dumplings…?

Monet: It’ll look good~

Kyouya: Look…? Oh, I get it…! The yellow of the egg fried rice and the green from the peas will go well together…!

Monet: Pretty~

Kyouya: Thanks, Monet-san. I hadn’t thought of using green peas, so that was a big help!

Monet: Zzz… Green peas…

——

Cate: Hiromi, what are we gonna do with the kamaboko we gathered?

Hiromi: We’re going to use the kamaboko and shrimp and make egg custard.

Cate: Egg custard! It’s all smooth and super yummy! Thinking of egg custard from kamaboko is a genius idea!

Hiromi: I’m glad I checked Sakuya-san’s cooking show! There was an episode about an easy way to make egg custard.

Cate: That’s amazing! You’re so diligent, Hiromi!

Hiromi: That’s not all; we’re using a time-saving recipe! We can make it using the microwave, so we’ll finish before the time limit.

Cate: Yo, Mr. Resourceful~!

Hiromi: Is that the right way to put it…? It’d be perfect if we could use ginkgo nuts in our egg custard, but of course we don’t have any~

Cate: ? We do have ginkgo nuts!

Hiromi: Eh?

Cate: They’re rolling around on the work table! Aren’t these ginkgo nuts?

Hiromi: There’s no way they’d just be conveniently lying around… They are ginkgo nuts…

Cate: Wow! You summoned ginkgo nuts, Hiromi! Are you a wizard?

Hiromi: No, that’s not…W-Why did these suddenly appear here…?

Mikera: T-THERE’S NYA GHOOOST!

Hiromi: Was that scream…?!

Cate: It’s Mikera’s voice…!

Ainosuke: What’s wrong?!

Riam: Did something happen?!

Hiromi: That was a really loud scream…!

Shimba: Oh! You guys all came? Man, just when I was about to take on the challenge of making fluffy eggs…

Mikera: I-I saw it…! While Shimba was cooking the eggs, a pale arm stuck out of nowhere… This is terrifying, this sucks… Just as I was thinking that, that pale white hand…

Akashi: A pale white hand…?

Mikera: IT HANDED OUT THE COOKING CHOPSTICKS!

Ainosuke: Kyaa! Don’t shout like that!

Riam: Cooking chopsticks…?

Shimba: I couldn’t figure out how to make the eggs like I wanted to using the spatula, but then the pale hand silently handed them to me.

Ainosuke: W-What the heck…? No way, is it the rumored Internat ghost?!

Kyouya: Eh?! T-There’s a ghost here…?

Cate: Begone, evil spirits! Begone!

Riam: Nah… I don’t feel any spirits, let alone evil ones…

Ainosuke: Eh? You can tell?

Riam: I don’t feel anythin’ bad.

Mikera: Whatever it is, I just want someone to do something about it! You use salt in times like these, right? We have to scatter it around, don’t we?

Meguru: Serving it would be the proper way to send them away.

Riam: You don’t gotta worry so much, but… If you’re that anxious, we can just have it exorcised, can’t we?

Hiromi: Is it that simple?

Ainosuke: Like, we can call one for free?

Riam: We could just do it ourselves too.

Ainosuke: Yeah, right! What are you even talking about?

Riam: ? If an evil spirit comes out, we can just exorcise it. That’s part of a temple’s basics, ain’t it?

Ainosuke: What do you mean, “a temple’s basics?” Wait, you were born at a temple?

Cate: Wow, wow~! Riam was born and raised in a temple! All the bad-seeming guys are basically our friends!

Ainosuke: No, wait, then… If the spirit in the Internat can be Nguyen from that godly episode, wouldn’t exorcising him mean…?!

Akashi: No, I highly doubt he would be here.

Ainosuke: Nguyen-sama! Please give me your autograph!

Meguru: Let us calm down, shall we?

Riam: Oi, what exactly am I supposed to…

Monet: I’m awake.

Kyouya: That scared me…!

Inamoto: Please forgive me for startling you. This is your notice that your time has run out.

Hiromi: Looks like everyone finished their dishes just in time.

Inamoto: Now, let us gather at the dining table and give our general comments over the meals.

——

Cate: Uwahaha! There are so many egg dishes!

Hiromi: Team Scarlet made omurice, Team Black made egg fried rice, Team Orange made pancakes, Team Navy made pudding, and finally, we made egg custard.

Mikera: This sucks. Fried rice and omurice both have rice in them…

Akashi: We have overlapping desserts as well…!

Riam: Oi! Pudding and pancakes as dessert is basically the same thing!

Ainosuke: Ahaha! Don’t worry about it!

Hiromi: Pudding and egg custard are pretty similar too…

Cate: They taste different, so it’s okay! I love, looove ‘em both!

Shimba: All of this looks delish! Hands together, everyone! Ready!

Everyone: Thanks for the meal!

Akashi: I am glad our pudding turned out to have no air pockets in them, thanks to Meguru-san’s secret trick. Next time will not be a failure!

Meguru: Our thanks go to the recipe and the plastic wrap.

???: It just melts in your mouth and tastes really good!

Cate: The green peas on the fried rice looks so pretty too! Yummy!

Kyouya: The egg custard is very delicious too. I love the ginkgo nuts in it.

Hiromi: I’m glad. I’m not sure if it was a kitchen fairy or one of the Seven Wonders of the Internat, but thanks to some mysterious power, we were able to find them.

???: Ginkgo nuts in egg custard are a must after all!

Ainosuke: Isn’t this crazy?! Every single dish tastes amazing; we’ve seriously got that magic touch~! Our cooking episodes and weird episodes are literally peak~

Riam: That supposed to mean they’re the best? Also, all of our dishes overlapped, so how did the results turn out?

Inamoto: About that…

Kyouya: That scared me…

Ainosuke: Ugh, that’s frustrating! I didn’t have a reaction for Inamoto-san suddenly appearing again!

Inamoto: We will have Kamuy-san decide the results for this cooking battle.

Kamuy: Eeh? That’s a load of responsibility there!

Mikera: Yeah. We worked hard to make our dish, so I’d like to know the results… Wait!

Everyone: EEHHH?!

Mikera: I-IT’S HERE?!

Monet: The Internat ghost…

Riam: No, that’s not it!

Shimba: Who is it?!

Kyouya: Shh!

Akashi: Y-You are…! What… are you doing here…?

Ainosuke: H-He’s here~~~! Benjamin Kamuy~~~!

Kamuy: Hello!

Meguru: Now I see. So, this is why it felt like someone other than us was here…

Hiromi: The one silently helping us with the ingredients turned out to be Kamuy-san.

Monet: There are 11 of us! Zzz…

Mikera: So, that pale white hand was also Kamuy-san?

Kamuy: Sorry for startling you~!

Ainosuke: Getting to see the real-life Kamuy-san is just too much for my heart! I’m so happy! So, what about the match? Which team won?

Kamuy: Right, right! The winner of this cooking battle is~ all of you! I mean, you all cooked up everything I wanted to eat when I arrived in Japan!

Ainosuke: That’s how badly you wanted to eat egg dishes, huh? That’s hilarious.

Cate: Did you come to Japan to eat egg dishes, Kamuy-san?

Kamuy: Nope! I’m here for work, I promise. Here for your next assignment, that is.

Everyone: Eh?

Akashi: Forgive me, but I heard that our next assignment was a reaction battle…

Kamuy: It was, but because of some adult matters, we’ve had a sudden change to a musical assignment.

Ainosuke: KYAAA! This is gonna be godly! I loved the musical episodes so much!

Mikera: A musical, huh… Which means we’re deciding on a cast. … I’m definitely gonna be the lead.

Shimba: I see! A musical is a fitting assignment for me!

Kamuy: Haha, you can’t stop once you’ve started for a musical! Now, the show must go on!

——

notes:

1 - 鉄板 (teppan) can both mean the iron/steel plate used to cook food or a “for sure thing”

2 - す (su) can be both 酢 (vinegar) or 鬆 (hole/pore in foods); the latter is usually written in kana instead of using kanji

comments

VS Ambivalenz 2nd Season Interview - The Last One

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:16:49 GMT

It is a pleasure to be here today. I would like to start out with a self-introduction from each of you.

Shimba: I’m one of the candidates representing Scarlet, Shimba!

Riam: I’m Riam. I’m competing in this audition for Orange with Ainosuke, who’s sitting here next to me.

Ainosuke: Hello, I’m Ainosuke~ Riam, don’t you feel like beatboxing today? You always do that when you introduce yourself.

Riam: There’s no point if I do that durin’ an interview.

Ainosuke: Ehh… But you wanna hear it, don’t you?

I would love to.

Ainosuke: See? Come on!

Riam: (Riam beatboxes)

Ainosuke: I wonder if they’ll write, like, “Riam beatboxes” for this. Hilarious.

Riam: Don’t laugh! Let’s move on! Kyouya, go!

Kyouya: I’m one of the candidates representing Black, Kyouya. The person sleeping next to me is my rival, Monet-san. I’m sorry, I tried my best to wake him up before the interview, but… He’s been asleep since Shimba-san’s introduction.

Riam: So since the beginning.

Shimba: Hahaha! He’s got some real guts to be asleep right now!

Monet: Merci.

Kyouya: He woke up!

Now, I will proceed to ask you a few questions. Please tell me how you felt while recording “The Last One.”

Shimba: The concept for “The Last One” is rock! And I’m rock too! So, there was nothing for me to worry about.

Ainosuke: Could you explain a little more, Shimba?

Shimba: Yeah! This song uses powerful lyrics to express our determination to win and make our debut. So, I felt like we could express our true feelings.

Kyouya: Shimba-san really suits this song, and he helped lead us through it.

Ainosuke: You did too, y’know. You were amazingly expressive, and you were basically done recording immediately, right?

Kyouya: Ah, yeah… I was also… really happy to be able to sing this song, and I had a lot of fun.

Riam: The way you sang “Nobody Knows” was real impressive. Makes sense coming from the guy who placed the highest in the re-evaluation.

Kyouya: T-Thanks…

Riam: You awake, Monet?

Monet: Barely…

Shimba: You should say how you felt while you’re still awake!

Monet: Mm… Riam seemed like he was struggling a bit with the more difficult part from “Even on this road of hardship” to “That is Bivalen.”

Riam: Urgh…

Monet: Out of these members, Ainosuke struggled the most with the tastes of rock in this song.

Ainosuke: Ngh!

Kyouya: And here I was thinking he’s awake for once, but he just started hitting where it hurts…

Ainosuke: Monet! You don’t say that kind of thing during an interview!

Riam: There’s still a bunch that we don’t have a lotta experience in. Of course we’re gonna struggle with some stuff!

Monet: But, that was only in the beginning.

Ainosuke / Riam: Eh?

Monet: Given his rap skills, Riam finished up with something really high quality, and Ainosuke sounded better with every single take he did. I thought the two of you were amazing.

Riam: Oh…

Ainosuke: Ouh…

Shimba: Glad you guys got your kudos!

Ainosuke: What is this supposed to be, a carrot on a stick? Monet, you were directed to sing like a little devil and did just that, no sweat… No surprises there.

Kyouya: It’s amazing that you were awake just to record and fell asleep immediately after.

Finally, if you could please give a message to GLANZ.

Ainosuke: I’m super happy I got to show off a cool, rock side of me to GLANZ. Get drunk on my duality, got it? ♡

Riam: I'm thankful we got a song that included strong rap parts in it. I feel like I was able to take advantage of the opportunity I was given. Listen to it a bunch for us.

Kyouya: The music video is cool too. Please watch us move forward from a place of nothingness.

Monet: Thank you for listening. Keep cheering us on, okay? If I get to talk to GLANZ, I’ll be awake.

Shimba: I got curious and listened to the other group’s song, “Hello Future!!!”. The lyrics “No GLANZ, No life” and the melody in the second half of the chorus are the same as ours. I was surprised at how much the different instrumentals change the impression of the songs.

Ainosuke: Eh? Seriously?

Riam: Lemme see the lyrics… Damn, you're right.

Kyouya: … I just realized.

Monet: Zzz, zzz…

Shimba: Mikera and I noticed it. We were the only ones who were split up after all. I wonder if GLANZ noticed it too. If that doesn’t ring a bell, that's your sign to turn the music on!

(Posted to @vsa_members on Twitter, 4/25/25 JST)

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VS Ambivalenz 2nd Season Interview - Hello Future!!!

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:09:49 GMT

It is a pleasure to be here today. I would like to start out with a self-introduction from each of you.

Everyone: …

Um…

Hiromi: Ah, my apologies! We haven’t decided which one of us is going first. (Looks at the members) What do you all want to do?

Mikera: Well, now that we’re here, you can start, Hiromi.

Akashi: Please do, Hiromi-san.

Hiromi: I’m not the type to go first, but… Now’s not really the time to say that, is it? I’m one of the candidates representing Emerald, Hiromi. I’m the oldest, in case you needed to know. As you can see, I’m not quite used to interviews yet, and I apologize for showing you something unflattering. I’m pleased to be here.

Mikera: Guess that means I’m next. I’m one of the candidates representing Scarlet, Mikera. I’m the youngest, but I have the most room for growth. It’s nyai… (Ahem) It’s nice to be here.

Akashi: I am one of the candidates representing Navy, Akashi! It is an honor to have such a wonderful space prepared for us today! I believe we will be able to introduce this song’s brilliance!

Meguru: I am also one of the candidates representing Navy, Meguru. Let us take great care today.

Cate: I’m one of the candidates representing Emerald, Cate! Let’s chat it up today!

Thank you very much. Now, please tell me how you felt while recording “Hello Future!!!”

Meguru: Right. When I first heard this song… There was a vitalic, warm, and charming energy to it. It is a role that the other members suit, but I felt a slight apprehension during recording.

Cate: Really?

Mikera: I couldn’t tell at all.

Akashi: I believe you were able to widen our variation, Meguru-san. You provide something like an adult’s depth… Additionally, hearing you sing faster than usual felt fresh!

Meguru: I see. I am fortunate if I was able to show a new side of oneself.

Cate: Your high notes were amazing too, Akashi!

Hiromi: Yeah. You held them longer than I figured you could.

Akashi: Thank you very much!

Hiromi: Also… It was difficult to decide where we should breathe during the chorus too, right?

Mikera: We had to keep the rhythm correct, so it was kind of a struggle.

Cate: You got an okay on all of your parts right away though, Mikera! You did super great!

Mikera: Well, of course I did. Though, I think you were the one who best expressed this song, Cate.

Cate: Eh, little ol’ me?

Mikera: When you sang the part that goes “To make the dreams we see come true someday,” you really made the part yours. It felt exciting.

Cate: Uwaah… Thank you!

Mikera: Don’t think too hard about it. I’m just telling the truth.

Meguru: Hiromi was hurriedly practicing the bass part.

Hiromi: I really was. It was sudden enough to surprise me.

Mikera: It was supposed to be me, Akashi, and Cate at the start of the song, but then the staff suggested that we add a low tone.

Meguru: Yet, he was able to make it his own after only a few practice sessions, which was an impressive show of his adaptability.

Hiromi: Ahaha. Thank you. It’s sort of embarrassing to be praised by Meguru-san while being face to face with him…

Meguru: Is that so? Shall I fluster you even more, then?

Hiromi: Eh?!

Akashi: You should leave that for later. We are in the middle of an interview right now.

Meguru: Aah, you are right, I shall look forward to it later.

Hiromi: Eeh…?

Finally, if you could please give a message to GLANZ.

Hiromi: Thank you very much for listening to the album. We took on an electro pop song this time, and it became a very good experience for this group. Wearing a style of clothes I’ve never worn before for this photo shoot was fun as well.

Akashi: Yes, our outfits felt futuristic. I felt that the sleeves were short.

Mikera: Don’t you think your impressions of them are too straightforward?

Meguru: Mikera usually gets angry when you say he looks like a cat, so I was impressed that he responded immediately when asked to do so during the photo shoot. GLANZ, burn the sight of Mikera’s adorable pose into your retinas.

Mikera: Okay, could you not try to embarrass me this time?

Cate: I have to keep putting in a whole buncha effort so I can show off all kinds of different Cates! Thanks as always, GLANZ~~ I love you!

Mikera: We’re gonna keep fighting our way through this audition, so please keep giving us your support.

(Posted to @vsa_members on Twitter, 4/24/25 JST)

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Nexus Drama - VS AMBIVALENZ 2nd Episode 7.5

Sat, 12 Apr 2025 22:41:04 GMT

(See bottom for notes)

Taiyou: (EHH?! The documentary drama showed that much?!)

Auguri: (It felt like we were seeing something separate that wasn’t meant to be shown. I call those parts “InnerDrama.”)

Jintarou: (It was made to cut things out, but it’s not even doing its job!)

Sakuya: (Then, when I looked into it, the other VS Audition announced an assignment that was completely the same as ours.)

Nagomu: (The fact that the staff knew means that it might’ve already been spread through the industry.)

Futaba: (Who in the world leaked the information…?)

Shinonome: (There’s only one person it could be. That bastard…!)

Atarashi: (Hehehe… Now, what will you do? Reisen Productions…!)

——

Nagomu: We’re back.

Cuc: Cuc’s back!

Rey: Rejoice, for I have returned as well.

Cion: Welcome back!

Taiyou: Good job mentoring, you guys!

Sakuya: Yup, yuuup~ I brought the paper plates and cups you guys asked for.

Taiyou: Thanks!

Cion: Sorry to make you go shopping right after you left the Internat.

Nagomu: We were able to do it on our way back, so don’t worry about it. But, why did you guys suddenly ask for them…?

Jintarou: Alright, welcome in!

Auguri: Welcome~!

Rey: Welcome…?

Cuc: Jintarou and Auguri have cloth on their heads!

Cion: Yeah, the towel headbands.

Jintarou: That’s ‘cuz there’s gonna be a festival today!

Cuc: A festival?! Cuc loves those!

Sakuya: Uh… Onii-san’s not following at all here.

Auguri: So, we saw you guys doing your best at mentoring, and Jintarou and I talked about throwing you guys a well-done party.

Rey: Ho, how considerate.

Nagomu: You didn’t have to pay so much mind to us even though you guys must be tired from work too…

Cion: Ah, you don’t have to feel so thankful for it. I think they just wanted a reason to raise the roof.

Sakuya: So, what kind of party is this gonna be?

Taiyou: That’s…

Futaba: Sorry for the wait!

Subaru: We brought the meat, wheat, eggs…

Mio: Chocolate, bananas, strawberries…

Issei: Octopus, tuna, garlic chives…

Kazu: Juice, and all of the other drinks.

Lion: We bought everything.

Sakuya: Eh? Seriously, what are you guys planning to make?!

——

Taiyou: Alright… The teppanyaki well-done party for the mentors starts now! [1]

Everyone: Cheers!

Cuc: Teppanyaki! What are we making?

Kazu: You can make lots of things. Crepes, okonomiyaki, gyoza, or yakisoba…

Taiyou: Also, pancakes!

Jintarou: Make a bunch of whatever ya like!

Cuc: Teppanyaki makes possibilities endless!!

Cion: Technically speaking, we’re using hot plates too.

Sakuya: But man, I’m surprised you guys managed to gather all of these hot plates and pans.

Futaba: Everyone brought one from their home.

Cuc: Cuc wants to eat okonomiyaki!

Sakuya: Okay~ Look forward to Sakuya-kun’s deluxe ultra-round okonomiyaki!

Rey: What is that? There are quite a lot of holes on it.

Kazu: It’s a takoyaki pan.

Jintarou: Leave the takoyaki up to Issei! We’re counting on ya!

Issei: I figured ya were gonna say that. Thinkin’ ya can just have the guy from Kansai make the takoyaki is a mindless assumption, ain’t it? Well, not that I was gonna let anyone else make it.

Mio: (So you are making them!)

Issei: Mio-kun, can ya get that bottle for me?

Mio: Ah, here you go… Wait, is this fiery hot sauce?!

Issei: There’s gotta be a Russian roulette when ya eat takoyaki, right?

Mio: I’ve never heard of that!

Sakuya: This noisy vibe kinda calms my nerves~

Subaru: Good work, really. A lot of trouble came up this time too.

Cion: I didn’t think Meguru would be found to have falsified his records… I was relieved to hear that it was a mistake on the management’s part though.

Lion: They’re a bunch of troublemakers who’re always starting things.

Taiyou: Cut-kun didn’t cut anything out this time either. Here, the pancakes are ready.

Auguri: Yippee! Thanks for the food!

Nagomu: You all knew what was going on in the audition, so I was surprised. I thought, “Ah, so it really didn’t cut any of it out…”

Rey: I am glad that my magnificent mentoring skills were shown.

Jintarou: Yeah! You guys really did your best! Great job!

Issei: The takoyaki’s done.

Jintarou: Ooh, looks delish! Aah… Fhats hoh?!

Taiyou: Are you okay?!

Mio: He put the freshly made takoyaki in his mouth without cooling it down for even a second…

Nagomu: Here, water.

Jintarou: Whew! The water’s yummy too!

Kazu: You know, when the video becomes distorted, don’t you get the feeling that something’s about to start?

Nagomu: About to start?

Kazu: Yeah. Like we get to hear the things that we weren’t supposed to be able to hear originally, or something…

Futaba: I know what you mean! I feel sorry to the candidates for saying this, but I was also happy that we got to see their true selves. It felt like we got to hear how they truly feel instead of any carefully crafted words.

Cion: The ten candidates for the 2nd audition speak freely since they’ve been assured that Cut-kun is functioning, right?

Subaru: Most likely.

Lion: Cut out or not, your true nature will just end up revealing itself later if you bother trying to hide it.

Sakuya: I wish you’d keep your thoughts to yourself just a little more, Lion.

Taiyou: That’s true!

Lion: Hah?

Shinonome: So, this is going to be sudden, but…

Everyone: Agh!

Shinonome: This is for the mentors who went this time. How were things at the Internat?

Taiyou: Shinonome-san!

Mio: When did he get here… is what I’d usually say, but I’ll leave that aside this time!

Issei: Ooh, ya’ve matured, Mio-kun.

Taiyou: What do you want to eat, Shinonome-san?

Shinonome: Since you offered, I’d like some takoyaki.

Auguri: One serving of takoyaki~!

Issei: Comin’ right up~

Nagomu: Shinonome-san, we watched the candidates carefully, and there was no one who was acting suspiciously.

Cuc: Yeah! Everyone was doing their best!

Sakuya: We suspected Megurun for a little bit though.

Rey: Our worry turned out to be unfounded.

Shinonome: Is that so…

Auguri: So, that means we were just overthinking when we thought that one of the candidates could be a spy for Atarashi?

Mio: Then, the VS AMBIVALENZ assignments are the same as the other audition’s because…

Shinonome: Atarashi himself simply gave them the information beforehand, I suppose.

Cion: That’s good…

Subaru: Yeah. We didn’t want to think there was a spy among them either.

Shinonome: Actually, Atarashi does not know what the next assignment is.

Subaru: Eh?

Shinonome: President Inamoto quickly changed the assignment and purposefully did not tell Atarashi. It seems Atarashi complained, “I manage this as well!” though.

Jintarou: I get it! Basically… What does that mean, Round Glasses?

Cion: Basically, if the assignment still gets leaked, there’s a higher chance that there’s a spy among the candidates.

Sakuya: But y’know, there was surprisingly nobody who went off and did their own thing~

Rey: Indeed. If they were acting suspiciously, we would have noticed immediately, but that was not the case.

Shinonome: I see… Thank you very much. For now, that is a relief. As expected of you, Issei-san; you’ve cooked this wonderfully.

Issei: Thanks a lot~

Sakuya: Hey, wait, won’t you eat the okonomiyaki I made too?

Shinonome: Ah, that perfectly round okonomiyaki is the one you made on Huffing Cooking, correct?

Jintarou: Sakuya! Gimme some too!

Sakuya: Yup, there’s enough to go around~

Auguri: Haa~ I’m more relieved now too! Oh, but, if there’s someone there who’s like Lion, they’d get accused of being a spy right away~

Lion: Ha?

Issei: Ya got that right. Ya basically stuck to yerself, after all.

Futaba: But, if a spy acted like a spy would, wouldn’t they get caught right away?

Taiyou: That’s true.

Lion: If we’re talking suspicious, then you’re more suspicious than I am, Issei.

Issei: Eh? Why? Yer sayin’ that to someone who doesn’t put up a front whatsoever?

Mio: (Uwaah, Issei’s totally like a spy! I can see it so well!)

Futaba: I think Cion-san could be a spy.

Cion: Eh, me?

Auguri: I can see it! He seems like he could do stuff in secret!

Cion: I feel like it could be Subaru or Nagomu instead of me, couldn’t it?

Sakuya: No way, no way. Subarun’s too honest for that. He wouldn’t be able to lie.

Kazu: It’s true that Nagomu-nii-san’s overflowing with a mysterious charm, but him being a spy…? ! Wait, the idea of Nagomu-nii-san secretly being a spy is good too…

Rey: Am I not overflowing with a mysterious charm?

Sakuya: You’re definitely not mysterious, Bocchan.

Rey: And why is that?!

Cuc: Could Cuc be a spy too?

Issei: That sure would be a long shot.

Taiyou: If Cuc was a spy… Eh… I think I’d be super shocked.

Subaru: A spy could be someone you’d least expect.

Cion: Then, maybe Jintarou.

Jintarou: Fow hum?!

Rey: Eh? Hm? What was that?

Jintarou: How come?! I can be mysterious too!

Futaba: If we think about who’s good at gaining your trust and getting information, then Taiyou-san, Auguri-san, or Sakuya-san could be a spy too.

Auguri: Wouldn’t that be true for you too, Futaba?

Nagomu: What about Kazu?

Kazu: I would never betray you, Nagomu-nii-san!

Nagomu: I know you wouldn’t. But you’re good at conducting yourself and you’re clever, so I think you’d be an amazing spy.

Issei: Mio-kun’s… too easy to read, so he wouldn’t work.

Mio: I haven’t even said anything yet!!

Shinonome: Everyone, may we return to the original conversation?

Auguri: Ah, right.

Taiyou: We get off topic so quickly.

Shinonome: We’ll be able to proceed with the assignment’s current changes.

Cuc: They’re doing reactions next!

Shinonome: That is right. After a short interval, a reaction competition will be held to determine their ability to respond during variety shows.

Jintarou: So that means…! Is it finally gonna be my turn to mentor?!

Auguri: I wanna go be a mentor too!

Lion: What are you talking about? We’re not gonna be going.

Jintarou / Auguri: Eh?

Sakuya: We’re gonna be training extra hard for our upcoming live. It’s about time for us to start focusing on ourselves, don’t you think?

Auguri: Ah, that’s right.

Jintarou: Ooh, yeah! I’m starting to shiver again!

Cion: You mean you’re trembling with excitement.

Subaru: Which means we won’t be going to the Internat for now.

Shinonome: Yes, the schedule is built around that.

Issei: That’s too bad. And here I was gonna punish the candidates if they weren’t behavin’ well.

Mio: You’re so scary!

Issei: Mio-kun?

Mio: Shoot! I said that out loud!

Issei: The Russian Roulette takoyaki is all done, ya know.

Mio: Eek!

Cuc: Kyouya said he gets along with his brother.

Kazu: He sounds easy to talk to…

Sakuya: Don’t you guys wanna see Ainosuke and Auguri-chan in a photo together too?

Nagomu: Shimba-kun’s muscles were really impressive.

Jintarou: Sure, maybe, but I’m not gonna lose to him!

Auguri: Futaba.

Futaba: Yes?

Auguri: You know, there was a whole bunch of trouble you all had to go through, but I’m really glad that things finally seem like they’re moving forward.

Futaba: You’re right. I really… hope we can continue like this without any problems…

——

Taiyou: Ah~, that was yummy~

Futaba: Mio-san, you lost in the Russian Roulette; are you alright?

Mio: Uugh… I’ll never forgive you, Issei…

Rey: The okonomiyaki my rival made was quite exceptional.

Cuc: Cuc had fun making a bunch of different dishes! Cuc wants to make dishes from Cuc’s country next time.

Kazu: I’d really like to try those out.

Cion: …

Taiyou: ? What are you looking at, Cion?

Cion: The light in the lesson room.

Everyone: …

Kazu: It’s amazing. We were all fooling around together like idiots, but they decided to stay in the practice room as soon as we finished eating since they have to prepare for their live.

Futaba: It seems like they’re also running practice sessions together in the morning. Auguri-san said that it’s rough to have to get up.

Sakuya: Playboy also said something similar. He was making a troubled face, but… In truth, he was happy.

Cuc: Cuc gets that. It feels hard, but fun!

Cion: XlamV are all facing the same way and moving forward. They’re steadily gaining experience.

Mio: Their 2nd live is finally coming up…

Futaba: It does make me jealous, thinking about it.

Cuc: Nagomu and everyone’s backs are getting farther and farther away from us…

Futaba: We’ve made our debut and we’re getting lots of work, but…

Cion: Even then… The idea of us performing at the Fort Arena is too unrealistic for me to even imagine it.

Mio: Uugh… I wonder if we’ll ever catch up to them…

Taiyou: … We have to.

Everyone: Eh?

Taiyou: When Ainosuke told me he was sorry that he couldn’t help me debut, I was shocked. I… realized that I hurt the fans more than I thought I did…

Futaba: Taiyou-san…

Taiyou: But, we can’t change reality. Seeing XlamV, I sort of feel that we can’t do anything except look forward.

Futaba: … You’re right. I know what you mean.

Rey: We are not the same as we were when we started. No matter how desperately we run, our rivals will be far ahead of us. If we want to catch up to them, we do not have the luxury of standing still. Not for one moment.

Mio: Even if our legs are exhausted and we might collapse…

Cion: We can’t stand still.

Cuc: More and more!

Kazu: As daringly as we can.

Taiyou: Surely, someday… we’ll catch up to them.

——

notes:

1 - teppanyaki is a japanese cuisine where dishes are cooked on flat rectangular iron pans that are usually placed in the middle of the table when it’s done at gatherings!

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A Blue Sky's Raindrops - Part 3

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 03:55:02 GMT

(See bottom for notes)

Akashi: (Where exactly is Meguru-san going?)

Monet: (Where Inamoto-san is.)

Kyouya: (I just happened to be holding the smartphone, so I just happened to see it, but…)

Monet: (It’s record falsification.)

Akashi: (Eh…? Of whose?)

Monet: (Meguru. They said all of it was a lie.)

——

Ainosuke: Hold on, I said not to push me!

Mikera: That’s my line!

Shimba: Are they really in the interview room?

Kyouya: I saw where the mentors took him, so they should be in here, but… I can’t hear their voices at all.

Hiromi: I figured, this is a training camp that Reisen Productions and Tailwind Office have built with the best of technology. Their soundproofing is perfect.

Riam: Ow! Oi, who just stepped on my foot?!

Cate: Sorry! It wasn’t on purpose!

Monet: Zzz…

Riam: Aren’t ya worried, Akashi? It’s your rival who was taken inside that interview room.

Akashi: …

Hiromi: Akashi-kun, what do you think about the… falsified records?

Cate: We still don’t know if that’s what it is for sure, right?

Akashi: …

Kyouya: It’s just, the way the gossip site wrote it is…

Monet: 99% noir.

Shimba: Just how much of it is telling a lie?

Akashi: …

Mikera: Hey, Akashi! Are you even listening?

Ainosuke: … I get that you’d be angry that something like this is suddenly happening with the person you were fighting with up until yesterday, but… In times like these, you’re his rival, so you should be like… Y’know—

Akashi: It’s finished!

Everyone: !

Ainosuke: Eh? What is?

Akashi: The “Walls With Ears and a Mic in the Keyhole first edition prototype version 1.5!”

Riam: Walls with ears and a keyhole thing… What?

Hiromi: Is it the first edition? A prototype? Or version 1.5?

Mikera: That doesn’t matter. What matters is why you made something like that right now.

Akashi: This was the perfect moment to make it! Let me explain. Sound is created when air vibrations reach our ears. No matter how sealed a place is, as long as there is air, there is no escaping sound vibrations!

Kyouya: W-Which means…?

Akashi: Which means, I can stick this microphone into a keyhole and it will pick up the faint vibrations from within. Originally, I would have liked to add one more useful feature, but we don’t have much time on our hands right now, so— Huh?

Monet: … What happened?

Akashi: THERE IS NO KEYHOLE! I can’t believe I made such a simple mistake…!

Shimba: Huh? You go and make something, and then you go and get all down about it; you sure are a hectic guy.

Riam: Also, if the whole point was that you can hear sound from the keyhole, was the explanation of sound vibrations even needed?

Mikera: So you really were worried about Meguru.

Akashi: Eh? Yes, of course. I was surprised to hear about the falsified records, but… Meguru-san may have a reason for that. Also… The idea of someone who chose his words so carefully for me falsifying his records without a second thought is unthinkable to me…

Hiromi: You believe in him… You believe in Meguru-san.

Ainosuke: Woo-hoo-hoo~! So you do get it, Akashi~!

Akashi: Eh? Get what?

Hiromi: What was that? Why is there something that looks like a w-whip attached to that machine?

Akashi: It’s the microphone. I planned on sticking it into the keyhole, so I extended it.

Hiromi: I don’t think you needed to make it that long to put it into the keyhole…

Riam: Where did you even get the materials from?!

Akashi: I borrowed some of the unused items in the playroom.

Kyouya: That’s amazing… You’re surprisingly bold.

Akashi: But, in the end, I can’t…

Shimba: In that case, what about trying over there?

Akashi: That’s… the air vent.

Shimba: No matter how sealed a place is, as long as there’s air, there’s no escapin’ sound vibrations. In that case, sound is free to travel wherever air does, right?

Monet: You made it sound all cool, but isn’t this just a wireta—

Kyouya: How about we stop talking for a little while.

——

Shimba: How’s it going?

Akashi: Please wait a moment. The microphone hasn’t reached the interview room yet—

Inamoto: Meguru-san.

Everyone: !

Inamoto: Don’t you think it is about time you told us the truth? We would like you to tell us the real reason as to why you falsified your records.

Meguru: The real reason, you say… So? How do you all see it?

Sakuya: Putting it bluntly, we think you could’ve purposefully made it obvious that you falsified your records in order to stir things up and make a mess of this audition.

Rey: Of course, this would be an extreme case.

Meguru: Purposefully trying to stir things up… You mean to say that you think I thought of doing something like that?

Rey: Well, did you?

Meguru: …

Rey: Your silence can be taken as affirmation as well.

Meguru: Haha! How frightful. Let us see… This is simply a mistake.

Inamoto: A mistake?

Nagomu: Do you mean that you made a mistake on the documents when you applied for the audition?

Meguru: I do not mind if you take it that way.

Sakuya: Don’t mind? In that case, I could take it that you messed that up on purpose too, you know.

Cuc: But… Meguru was always on Akashi’s side. Him causing an accident also looked like it was so Akashi could grow. If he wanted to mess up the audition, Cuc thinks it’s strange that he helped Akashi…!

Nagomu: That’s true. I was curious about that too.

Sakuya: Don’t get us wrong, we don’t wanna just make you look bad either, Megurun.

Rey: We, too, at least have the ability to judge one’s character.

Cuc: … Meguru, why did you take on this audition?

Meguru: What do you mean?

Cuc: Meguru’s not a bad person. Cuc’s sure there has to be a reason for everything.

Inamoto: May I ask as well? Meguru-san, I would like to hear the reason you entered this audition.

Meguru: … Someone invited me to. A brazen youth.

Cuc: A brouth? A bracken? [1]

Sakuya: Ah, not the plant, okay?

Nagomu: A youth means someone who’s young. It’s an old way of saying it.

Meguru: He was an assistant in a theater, and how do I put it… He had a strangely arrogant side to him. He said to me, “You belong on stage. You have the talent for it.” Haha. Now that I think about it, he has been strange from the moment I met him. After all, he asked me, whom he had never met before, to become a stand-in because the actor had suddenly fallen ill.

Inamoto: … Meguru-san, who exactly are you talking about?

Meguru: Right— Who do you think I am talking about, administrator?

Shimba: What? What is Meguru talking about?

Hiromi: Who knows…?

Akashi: …

Cate: Akashi, is something wrong?

Akashi: Ah, no. It’s just… I feel like I’ve heard this somewhere…

Sakuya: … Y’know, Megurun. Please, just be honest and tell us what’s going on. If you keep this up, you won’t just lose the audition. You’ll be kicked out of it. Are you really okay with that?

Meguru: … If I were gone, one’s rival would automatically be able to debut as an idol and represent Navy, yes? Haha! That would not be so bad either.

Everyone: !

Ainosuke: What does he mean…?

Hiromi: Does Meguru-san plan to give up winning the audition…?

Akashi: That’s…!

Nagomu: You can’t do that. You absolutely can’t.

Rey: That is right. You are meant to compete in the audition with all of your strength. Withdrawing yourself and holding back is an insult to your rival.

Sakuya: Ngh. He’s not saying that to me, but my chest still stings…

Cuc: Cuc’s chest went “squeeze” too!

Inamoto: Meguru-san. I will ask you once more. Why did you enter this audition with a falsified record? Please tell us the truth.

Meguru: … The truth… Right. I was simply mistaken. There is no other reason. Truly, that is all.

Sakuya: Ugh, come on… Interviewing Megurun takes so much out of me~ It feels like I don’t have enough bones for this! [2]

Rey: Inamoto-shi. What if we left things here for today?

Nagomu: The article on the gossip site has already been released anyway.

Cuc: No rush, no rush! Time for a break!

Inamoto: You’re right. We shall call it a day here. That being said, I implore all of you listening over there to return to your respective rooms.

Everyone: !

Sakuya: Oh, this…! You’re gonna fully pay the price for eavesdropping once it’s time for lessons, got it?!

Riam: Oi, we’ve been caught!

Ainosuke: I don’t know anything! I’ve got nothing to do with this! Akashi just went and did this by himself!

Mikera: That switch-up was fast.

Sakuya: … Jeez, where’d something like this even come from…?!

Ainosuke: Anyways, let’s scatter for now!

Inamoto: As for you, Meguru-san—

Meguru: I know. I shall decide what to do from here.

Akashi: …

Cate: Let’s go, Akashi! Once they open the door, they’ll find out that you were eavesdropping.

Akashi: … Right.

——

Mikera: Alright! That’s all for today!

Hiromi, Cate, Akashi: Good work today!

Mikera: Akashi.

Akashi: Yes?

Mikera: … Um, are you alright?

Akashi: … What do you mean?

Mikera: I’m talking about the whole Meguru thing. He didn’t come to lessons today, and all of the mentors get all panicky if you ask about him…

Cate: So that’s why you were sneaking glances at Akashi all day today! You’re so kind!

Mikera: I-It’s nyat like tha— No, I mean… Anyway, I wasn’t worried or anything!

Hiromi: You don’t have to deny it so strongly… That aside, where did Meguru-san go? He didn’t come back to his room yesterday either.

Mikera: Maybe he… already left the Internat…?

Cate / Hiromi: Eh…?!

Akashi: …

——

Akashi / Meguru: Ah.

Akashi: W-What are you doing he— No, I mean— S-So this is where you were— No, wait— Erm, um, u-uh…

Meguru: O-Oh, goodness, what is the matter? What are you trying to say? Take a deep breath for now. Deep, deep breaths.

Akashi: Hss… Hooo… Hss… Hooo…

Meguru: Alright, how do you feel now?

Akashi: Thank you very much… Um… There’s something I’ve wanted to tell you since yesterday.

Meguru: Ho?

Akashi: … I suppose there are things that even you have been mistaken about.

Meguru: …! Pft— Hahaha! Haa… This is exactly why one’s rival is so amusing.

Akashi: What are you doing here?

Meguru: Right, I wanted to watch something nostalgic for the last time.

Akashi: This is…! I’ve seen this too! Why is it here?

Meguru: It seems that it was a performance affiliated with Reisen Productions.

Akashi: Wow! I aim to become an idol now all because I watched this— If you wanted to watch this for the last time, then that means… Meguru-san, you’re giving up this audition…?

Meguru: … That is right. I have yet to officially tell the administrator though.

Akashi: Are you fine with that…?

Meguru: … What an odd thing to ask. If I quit, that means you can become an idol.

Akashi: …! That’s… But… In any case, that would make things difficult! The dance assignment also wouldn’t be complete if you were missing.

Meguru: I thought this while watching the 1st documentary drama. Even though they would become an idol if their rival dropped out, not a single one of those young ones could accept that. They would decide that they wanted to compete until the very end.

Akashi: … Even if it is correct to not make a mistake, doing what is correct is not always the right answer… You were the one who said that, Meguru-san.

Meguru: … Ahaha. … May I talk about the past, just for a moment?

Akashi: Eh…?

Meguru: This happened very, very long ago. In a narrow valley, surrounded by mountains on all sides, there was once a small village. The people there all lived by assisting each other, giving each other support. It was truly… A wonderful village. One year, during the usually foggy and misty rainy season, not a single drop of rain graced the village. The rivers dried up and the fields withered away; a horrible, unbearable famine occurred. Several people lost their lives, and the unspeakable tragedy continued. … And so, the rainy season arrived again. However, that is all it did, as the rain never fell. One day, an enchanter appeared in the village. That enchanter said, “I have the means to save this village from its famine,” and the enchanter held out a small piece of flesh. “This is mermaid’s flesh. Whoever eats this shall corrupt their soul and never know peace again. However, in exchange, they will gain the power to manipulate the rain.” The village could no longer afford to dismiss the enchanter’s suspicious claims. “If you eat this, you can make rain fall on the village. However, your soul would become corrupt and you would never know peace again.” Nobody knew what that entailed, but no one volunteered themselves to eat the flesh. Everyone was simply too frightened. Far too many days passed before they could decide who would eat the flesh… But, one day, the rain suddenly fell. The people were astonished, overjoyed, and above all, they were relieved. Nobody had to eat the mermaid’s flesh, nobody had to corrupt their soul, and they could continue to live on. However… The small shrine that the mermaid’s flesh was left in had silently been emptied. As the night began to fall, a man quietly left the village. The man had no family to call his own. He was abandoned in the mountains when he was just an infant; the villagers took him in, and they took turns raising him. The man who felt a deep gratitude towards the village ate the mermaid’s flesh in secret, manipulated the rain, and saved them from the famine.

Akashi: … Is that the end?

Meguru: That it is.

Akashi: But…

Meguru: What is the matter? You seem quite irked.

Akashi: … The village was saved. But what happened to the person who ate the mermaid’s flesh?

Meguru: The man was not originally born in the village. The village would be the same with or without him.

Akashi: …! That’s not right.

Meguru: How so?

Akashi: Someone whose presence doesn’t matter? That’s just… There’s no such thing…!

Meguru: Will you… shed your tears for me again?

Akashi: Again…?

Meguru: Just like you, I remember someone who would feel sad for him.

Kaname: (Wait! Where are you going?! Don’t tell me… Did you eat the mermaid’s flesh…?! Why…?! Why would you do that..?!)

???: (Now, nobody else in the village has to sacrifice themself. Nobody has to live in sadness.)

Kaname: (Why does it have to come to this…?! What about you? What about your sacrifice…?!)

???: (My sacrifice…?)

Kaname: (I’m frustrated… I’m so frustrated…! Why… Why are you always mistaken? You never try to properly understand yourself… And that’s why…!)

???: (Why are you crying? I made the correct decision. I wasn’t mistaken about anything.)

Kaname: (Even if it’s correct to not make a mistake, doing what’s correct isn’t always the right answer…! I… I’m frustrated that I couldn’t make sure you knew how much I need you…!)

Meguru: He has always wondered, “What exactly wasn’t right? Where did I go wrong?” An overwhelming amount of time passed, and no matter how many days and nights he spent trying, he couldn’t find an answer. Perhaps… he was mistaken from the moment he was born. That is how he began to feel.

Akashi: Are you talking about… the man in the story from the past? Or…

Meguru: It was only when it seemed like he’d lose the opportunity he gained to face his loved ones again did he realize the mistake he made. It is a fool’s story. I understand the words you said to me back then so well now that it hurts.

Akashi: …? I’m not completely following, but… Essentially, is there something you regret, Meguru-san?

Meguru: You would be right. I now regret it more than anything.

Akashi: In that case… You shouldn’t give up. I am sure that you can still make up for your failure. If you make a mistake, then you can reflect on yourself and try again! You were the one who taught me that, Meguru-san.

Meguru: No… It was you yourself who reached that answer with my words.

Akashi: Either way would be fine. What’s most important is that you make a decision that you will never regret again.

Meguru: A decision I will not regret…?

Akashi: Now, let us go!

Meguru: Where?

Akashi: To Inamoto-san! Let us go give him your correct records and apologize!

Meguru: …!

Akashi: It's alright. I will come with you. If you are scared, I will apologize to him together with you.

Meguru: If I apologize, will I be forgiven?

Akashi: We’ll apologize together until you are forgiven! That’s why everything will be alright.

Meguru: Even if it is… something I cannot make up for…?

Akashi: I don’t think a mistake on your records can be made up with just an apology, but… If you insist, I will make up for it with you!

Meguru: How?

Akashi: You want to know how…? Hmmm… That’s right! A time machine! I am a mechanic! I can make anything, even a time machine, and I’ll stop you before you make a mistake! Someday, I swear I will!

Meguru: …!

Akashi: Ah, but, I obviously wouldn’t let you make up for losing the audition.

Meguru: Ahahahahaha!

Akashi: ?

Meguru: I see, a time machine, huh…? Of course. Then, I will work as best I can until you build a time machine and I can make amends for one’s failure. Kaname… I will do so with the singing and dancing you taught me. I will be counting on you until then, one’s rival.

Akashi: …! Alright!

——

Sakuya: So, in the end, everything’s been wrapped up with the written apology that states Megurun's allegedly falsified records were because of a mistake in the documents. Megurun decided to compete in the audition all the way to the end.

Rey: Mm… There are a great deal of things left unclear, but…

Nagomu: Inamoto-san gave the okay.

Cuc: Cuc won’t contrast! [3]

Nagomu: I think you mean “complain.”

Sakuya: Well, the dance for the assignment went well too. We can consider this case closed for now.

Rey: Seeing the faces of those involved convinces me of that the most.

Akashi: Ah, there our mentors are!

Meguru: We candidates have prepared a final luncheon. I have caused a great deal of worry for everyone, after all.

Rey: You could not be more correct.

Sakuya: Okay, okay, let’s not complain.

Nagomu: I’m looking forward to it. [4]

Sakuya: Ah, did you cook the rice properly?

Akashi: Actually, I had a good idea for that.

Cuc: Cuc wants to hear it!

Rey: Ho, how intriguing.

Inamoto: Meguru-san.

Meguru: Ooh, hello there, administrator. Let me apologize once again for the situation. I have caused you deep trouble.

Inamoto: No, it is our mistake for not noticing during the document review stage.

Meguru: … I was asked to be of help, but I only ended up causing trouble.

Inamoto: …? Who exactly requested your help?

Meguru: It’s just as he said. “Like myself, I’m sure he’ll be clumsy in some ways.” But, “like myself… he is an excellent judge of character.”

Inamoto: … Could you be…? That’s…

Meguru: Haha. He was right. You certainly are like him.

——

notes:

1 - cuc mishears 童 (warabe, child) as 蕨 (warabi, bracken), and bracken is a kind of fern. i also decided to not translate 童 directly to “child,” since i think it’s unlikely that meguru was talking about a literal child, but just someone who was younger than him

2 - the expression for “tiring (yourself) out” is 骨折れる (hone oreru) which literally means your bones are breaking down LOL

3 - あべこべ (abekobe) means contrary/opposite/reverse while つべこべ (tsubekobe) means complaining or nitpicking

4 - the dialogue that starts with nagomu and ends with rey is written solely by ear! apologies if i misheard anything

comments

A Blue Sky's Raindrops - Part 2

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 11:57:42 GMT

(See bottom for notes)

Akashi: (I understand. If you would go so far as to do that… Meguru-san! Please withdraw from the audition right this instant!)

Sakuya: (Hold on, that’s a little much!)

Meguru: (Fufu… Things have gotten interesting.)

——

Mikera: I win!

Riam, Ainosuke, Cate: Ughhh!

Riam: Damn it!

Cate: I lost again!

Mikera: That makes it five wins and zero losses for me.

Ainosuke: Something’s not right! You aren’t using any cheats, are you?

Mikera: Hehe! I’ve always been great at this board game.

Riam: Now that I think about it, I didn’t know this room has board games too. This room never showed up in the first documentary drama, right?

Ainosuke: This room used to be the library. They remodeled it for our audition, and now it’s the playroom. Seriously, they should’ve just kept it the same. Why’d they go and renovate it?

Cate: Cate’s glad it changed! We can all play together!

Mikera: They left the Blu-rays and DVDs as they were too. There’s even a disk without any packaging that looks like some data.

Ainosuke: Apparently, it’s footage of REISEN Pro’s old work and stuff like that.

Mikera: Wow.

Akashi: W-What is it?! Why are you pushing me?!

Shimba: Come on, don’t worry about it!

Meguru: Ahaha! Wherever are you leading us?

Shimba: Alright, get in!

Cate: What’s up with the three of you guys?

Akashi: What was that for?!

Cate: !

Akashi: Why did you bother to bring us here?

Cate: Akashi, are you angry…?

Riam: Is he mad?

Ainosuke: Look, we haven’t been around each other for long, so I dunno.

Meguru: Hm. So you truly are angry, are you not?

Mikera: Do you not have anything to do with it, Meguru?

Shimba: They both do. Akashi and Meguru have gotten into a fight for once. Now I’m makin’ a space for them to make up.

Meguru: Ho, were we fighting?

Akashi: We were not.

Mikera: Eh? Which is it?

Akashi: We really weren’t!

Riam: He’s sayin’ they didn’t.

Ainosuke: Lick~ This is the reaction someone has after a fight.

Cate: Eh? What did you just lick?

Ainosuke: Eh? The vibes, y’know?

Shimba: The bystanders are being all noisy, but now you guys are gonna shake hands! And then in the dawn of your reconciliation, you guys will cheer right up by playing here! Whaddya think? It’s the greatest plan ever, right?!

Mikera: Uwah… That’s the worst plan ever… No matter how intense the fight was, this doesn’t—

Akashi: Like I said, we did not have a fight! A-All that happened was that I told Meguru-san I wanted him to quit the audition.

Ainosuke: Eh? You said that to him?!

Riam: Quiet down already, Ainosuke! Also, you said somethin’ similar to that too!

Cate: Akashi, why did you say that…?

Akashi: That’s…

Meguru: I… was influenced by the documentary drama and deliberately caused trouble with Akashi in order to come together with him.

Everyone: Eh?!

Meguru: Akashi must have felt that doing so was a disservice to this audition.

Ainosuke: Of course he did! What exactly did you want out of—

Akashi: You’re wrong!

Ainosuke: Eh…?

Akashi: That’s not it. I do not think it was a disservice. That is not what I meant when I told you to quit. That’s not it at all…!

Meguru: Ho? Do you mean to say that I was mistaken to do that?

Akashi: No. You are not mistaken. You only ever do what is correct. In fact, you and I… are in the middle of a conflict right now. Things have gone exactly as you planned. You weren’t mistaken. And, I was just… so frustrated. That is because you are always correct…

Everyone: …

Meguru: I see… One’s rival believes it is correct to not make mistakes.

Akashi: Mistakes in mechanics can also lead to defects in the machine. It is best if there are none.

Meguru: No. I do not believe that is correct. A person’s life is short. Making mistakes is a trivial matter. There is something much more important than that.

Akashi: … Those are words you can only say because you always do what is correct.

Meguru: … Even if it is correct to not make a mistake, doing what is correct is not always the right answer.

???: Even if it’s correct to not make a mistake, doing what’s correct isn’t always the right answer… I… To me, you’re—

Akashi: Meguru-san?

Meguru: …!

Akashi: …?

Meguru: If you truly wish to not make a mistake, you must first look at why you are making those mistakes.

Akashi: Why I am making a mistake…?

Meguru: That is the first step towards truly knowing yourself.

——

Akashi: One, two, three. One, two… …! Damn it…!

Meguru: (Even if it is correct to not make a mistake, doing what is correct is not always the right a—)

Akashi: It is obvious that making no mistakes is correct, and yet… No, that’s right! Of course it is! For that reason, I must keep practicing—

Cuc: Good morning, Akashi!

Nagomu: Good morning.

Akashi: Cuc-san, Nagomu-san, good morning!

Nagomu: Were you practicing by yourself? Doing that so early in the morning is admirable of you.

Akashi: No, not at all. I must practice right now so I don’t make any more mistakes while dancing.

Nagomu / Cuc: …

Cuc: Akashi, do you like dancing?

Akashi: Yes, I like it. I like singing and dancing just as much as I like mechanics.

Cuc: Cuc likes dancing too! So does Nagomu! Everyone’s the same!

Nagomu: Yup, we feel the same way.

Cuc: Akashi, liking mechanics and liking to sing and dance. Which came first?

Akashi: If you’d like to know which one… I think I came to like mechanics first. My parents said that by the time I was six months old, I was already a child who would often take toys apart and reassemble them even though no one taught me how.

Nagomu: That’s amazing. It’s been a long time.

Cuc: Is it the muscle carving thing? [1]

Nagomu: I think you mean metal reinforcement. “Muscle carving” gives off the idea of getting a tattoo. Ah, if you ever want to get a tattoo, make sure to check in with me first— Ah, sorry for interrupting you, Akashi-kun.

Akashi: Ah, no, not at all…

Cuc: Akashi, continue, continue!

Akashi: Let’s see… I started to like singing and dancing during summer break in my second year of elementary school. There was no school, and I had finished my homework, so I was on my way to the local library to spend some of my free time. But, I didn’t go to the library that day.

Nagomu: Why not?

Akashi: On my way there, I found an old, broken, 8 millimeter film projector in front of an antique store. There was a tag attached to it that said, “Feel free to use as you wish.” I bought the projector, went straight home, and spent the rest of my summer vacation repairing it. That projector was left with the 8 millimeter film still attached. I played the film as soon as I fixed the projector. The video appeared to be a performance by a theater company. The film was in poor condition and worn out, so I couldn't make out the actors' expressions. But, for whatever reason, I was drawn to it. … They looked like they were enjoying themselves so much. That person on stage was having fun, singing and dancing from the bottom of their heart. That’s how it felt to me… And then… I wanted to try it myself.

Cuc: So that’s how Akashi started to like dance…! Cuc wants to see that video too! Cuc’s curious about the video that made Akashi want to start dancing!

Nagomu: Yeah. I wonder what kind of performance could’ve moved your heart so much.

Akashi: I believe it was a traditional arts performance. It looked like a lion dance at a festival. Though, it was in bad condition, so I wasn’t really able to tell. But that wasn’t all that piqued my interest…

Cuc: Hanya?

Akashi: It was written on the film case. It said that there was just one person from the ensemble who participated in the performance last-minute.

Cuc: Cuc’s heard of that! That’s when they suddenly decide they’ll do it together.

Akashi: That’s right! Apparently, one of the performers had to rest for a day, and someone stood in as a replacement on short notice. Perhaps that person was happy with their situation.

Nagomu: Happy?

Akashi: … When you tinker with a machine, it's very rare that you have one part left over.

Nagomu: Ah, I think I know what you mean. Sometimes you're left with one screw if you don't know where you need it.

Akashi: That’s right… But, even if it’s left over, the machine will still continue to work. It’s as if the extra screw was never needed in the first place…

Cuc: Akashi…?

Akashi: Truthfully, I’ve been pretending not to realize this whole time. But, now I understand. I know that no matter where I go, I am somehow different from those around me… like an extra part that should be necessary, but isn’t. !

Nagomu: Sorry for grabbing your hand so suddenly.

Akashi: … Aha, you do not have to apologize.

Cuc: Cuc will grab too! Squeeze~~~!

Akashi: … When I watched that film, I felt happy like I do right now. Someone else filled in for someone who had to suddenly leave. If it was just singing and dancing that they needed to fill in, then the show could’ve gone on without them… But it’s like they were saying that no one is unnecessary…

Nagomu: …

Cuc: Akashi, why do you think that?

Akashi: That’s because… Without fail, I am always mistaken… But, the truth is…

Meguru: (Even if it is correct to not make a mistake, doing what is correct is not always the right answer.)

Akashi: Even I would like to believe that…

Nagomu / Cuc: …?

Akashi: Ah, my apologies! I was just talking to myself.

Cuc: Akashi! If there’s something you wanna believe, then you can believe it!

Akashi: Eh…?

Cuc: If there’s something you wanna do, then you can do it! Let’s try together!

Nagomu: That’s right. If there’s some part inside of you that desires to do something, it’s alright for you to be honest about it.

Cuc: Akashi, what’s most important is what you think.

Akashi: …! That is what Nagomu-san said at 14:30 in the ninth episode of the 1st documentary drama.

Nagomu: Eh, me? I said that?

Cuc: Cuc loves these words.

Nagomu: Eh~? Now I’m embarrassed.

Akashi: What I think…?

Meguru: (If you truly wish to not make a mistake, you must first look at why you are making those mistakes.)

Akashi: Why is it that I make mistakes…?

Nagomu: Do you mean while you’re dancing?

Akashi: Is there a reason why I make mistakes…?

Cuc: A reason Akashi makes mistakes?

Meguru: (That is the first step towards truly knowing yourself.)

Akashi: That’s how I will get to know myself…?

——

Mikera: Eh? You want to change the choreography?!

Hiromi: You mean right now?

Akashi: Yes! There is something I’d like to do by any means.

Meguru: Ho. Something you would like to do?

Cate: What does Akashi wanna do?

Akashi: I thought of it while Nagomu-san and Cuc-san helped me figure out why I was making mistakes with the choreography. I realized I had ideas for different choreography in mind while dancing.

Hiromi: Ideas for different choreography?

Akashi: That’s right. For example… One, two, three, four. We can make this part more like this. This part too… If we make it more—

Mikera: Wait, wait! Are you saying that if we go with your ideas, you won’t make any mistakes anymore? But isn’t that rude to us who can actually do the dance properly?

Akashi: That’s…

Hiromi: Akashi-kun. When you become an idol, it’s a given that you’ll dance a certain choreography in a certain way. Yet, pushing your ideas onto others so that you won’t make a mistake is… This may be a harsh way of puting it, but I feel that it’s rude.

Cate: …!

Meguru: …

Akashi: It’s exactly as you say… However, I do not want to change the choreography in order to avoid my mistakes. I fully understand the good qualities of the original choreography. That is why I want to combine this choreography with everyone’s strong points. I am confident that we will appear even greater! That is why my ideas won’t stop…! I want to share them!

Everyone: …!

Mikera: … We’ll look even greater?

——

Akashi: Meguru-san!

Meguru: Ooh, one’s rival. Your ideas for the new choreography were brilliant. You kept the original choreography, but incorporated our own personal touches. Mikera and Hiromi were originally against it, but they came to fully embrace the new dance in the end.

Akashi: …! Thank you very much!

Meguru: Ahaha! Now, what is this? The ones you should be saying your thanks to are Cuc and Nagomu, no?

Akashi: Of course, I have thanked the two of them as well! But, there is something I just had to tell you…

Meguru: You have something you would like to say to me?

Akashi: It was exactly as you said. I was so trapped in my mistakes and didn’t think about why I was making them.

Meguru: …

Akashi: I was able to realize that all because of the words you said to me! Truly! Thank you so much! I am honored that you are my rival! I am sorry for saying I wanted you to quit the audition! I would like to compete with you head-on until the very end and—

Meguru: You were the first to help me realize.

Akashi: Eh…?

Meguru: It was you, Kaname.

Akashi: Kaname…?

Monet: Ah, there he is.

Kyouya: Sakuya-san, Rey-san! He’s over here!

Akashi / Meguru: ?

Sakuya: You’re right! Hey, Megurun! Thank goodness we found you.

Rey: Now, we must go. Right away.

Meguru: Ooh, what is it? I have been pulled along quite a bit since yesterday.

Sakuya: Just come on.

Akashi: Um, what happened? Where exactly is Meguru-san going?

Monet: Where Inamoto-san is.

Kyouya: It seems like they had to do something in a hurry.

Akashi: Do something?

Kyouya: Well, I just happened to be holding the smartphone, so I just happened to see it, but…

Monet: It’s record falsification.

Akashi: Eh…? Of whose?

Monet: Meguru. They said all of it was a lie.

Akashi: A lie…?!

Kyouya: A gossip magazine online reported that “a Bivalen candidate was auditioning with a false background…” Meguru-san might have to…

Monet: He might have to forfeit the audition.

Akashi: …!

——

notes:

1 - cuc says スジボリ入り (sujibori iri), and 筋 (suji) is the character for muscle while 彫り(hori) means to carve/engrave. putting them together creates 筋彫り (sujibori) so roughly “carving [into] muscles,” which is why nagomu mentions tattoos! what cuc meant to say was 筋金売り (sujigane iri), and the original meaning of the phrase is to insert a metal bar into an object to make it stronger

comments

A Blue Sky's Raindrops - Part 1

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 12:12:50 GMT

碧落 - blue sky

regentropfen - raindrops

——

Cut-kun: I’ll keep cutting out every bit of sensitive footage! I’m Cut-kun! The footage will sometimes be distorted! Thanks for understanding!

——

Akashi: I’ve gotten it wrong again…

Meguru: Why did I do something like that…?

Akashi: This is wrong too…

Meguru: If I hadn’t done that back then…

Akashi: I’ve made a mistake again. Again, again, again. Again…

Meguru: Why, why, why? Why…?

——

Kyouya: Um… The shirts have to be delicately washed, so I need to use this detergent.

Mikera: And the jerseys can be washed normally, so…

Akashi: You have it mixed up.

Mikera / Kyouya: Eh?

Akashi: This is the detergent for delicate washes, and that right there is the fabric softener.

Mikera: Ah, this is fabric softener?

Kyouya: That was close… Thanks, Akashi-kun.

Akashi: Of course. After all, it is no exaggeration to say laundry is an essential matter for the final audition in VS AMBIVALENZ.

Kyouya: Really?

Ainosuke: Really! The Laundry Room Bubble Flood is one of the Seven Grand Incidents in Bivalen’s 1st season of the documentary drama!

Kyouya: The Seven Grand Incidents… What is that…?

Akashi: The 1st season is, so to speak, like a textbook for us candidates of the 2nd season. We must thoroughly learn from it so as to not make the same mistakes— Hm?

Ainosuke: What’s wrong?

Kyouya: ? There’s…

Ainosuke: Something burning?

Hiromi: Wah!

Ainosuke: Was that voice Hiromi’s?

Akashi: It came from the kitchen!

——

Ainosuke: Are you okay, Hiromi?!

Kyouya: What happ— Uwah, it smells so burnt!

Mikera: What exactly is that smell?

Hiromi: It’s from the rice cooker.

Akashi: !

Mikera: The rice cooker?

Hiromi: It seems like someone pushed the button to start cooking the rice without adding any water.

Ainosuke: Ahaha! That’s crazy, this is on the same level as the Laundry Room Bubble Flood! Come on, who was it? I bet it was someone who didn’t watch the documentary drama carefully~!

Akashi: It was me.

Ainosuke: Hey~ If you had actually watched it, this wouldn’t have— Hah? Akashi?!

Akashi: Yes, I did it incorrectly.

Kyouya: But, Akashi-kun, you watched the documentary drama as preparation, didn’t you…?

Akashi: There wasn’t a scene where anyone put water into the rice cooker, so…

Mikera: And that’s why you made a simple mistake like that?

Akashi: I apologize…

Ainosuke: Alright, alright. Neither of us can cook at all, right, Mikera? Let’s all learn together.

Kyouya: But… What about today’s dinner…?

Hiromi: I’ll cook it again. Everyone would have to wait a little—

Meguru: I have brought it.

Everyone: Eh?

Kyouya: Brought it…? The stuff you’re holding in your hand is…

Akashi: Is that alcohol?

Hiromi: Wait, that’s not good! We have kids who can’t drink here, and you’re thinking of having a drinking party?

Meguru: Aah, that too sounds like a fun time.

Hiromi: Eh?

Meguru: You are going to cook the rice again, no? Try adding this sake to the water.

——

Everyone: Thanks for the meal!

Shimba: Aah, I’m stuffed! I feel like the rice tasted sweeter than usual today.

Cate: It was all glossy and thick~

Riam: It tasted great. Thanks, Akashi.

Akashi: Well, no… It wasn’t me.

Riam: ?

Mikera: Meguru taught us that adding sake would make the rice taste better.

Riam: Oh yeah, now that you mention it, my grandpa said somethin’ like that in the past too… Meguru sure does know a lot.

Akashi: I am very sorry about today! I will be preparing for tomorrow and reviewing today’s lesson, so please excuse me!

Cate: Why did Akashi apologize?

Mikera: He cooked the rice without putting water in.

Shimba: Hahaha! I like how hearty he is, don’t you?

Riam: Akashi always makes at least one mistake when you have him do somethin’.

Mikera: And then you have Meguru, who never messes up, no matter what he does.

Monet: Yawn~ The two of them really are polar opposites.

Riam: Monet, don’t fall asleep right after you eat! It’s not good for your body.

Monet: I didn’t do that. I didn’t fall asleep after eating, I just ate while sleeping.

Riam: Ha?

Inamoto: To all idol candidates…

Everyone: ?

Cate: It’s Inamoto-san!

Mikera: I wonder what he wants to say.

Inamoto: I have an announcement regarding the next assignment. Please gather in the center hall right away.

——

Inamoto: Now, I would like to announce the next assignment.

Kyouya: Aah… The assignments just keep coming…

Shimba: What’s up, Kyouya? Aren’t ya having fun?

Ainosuke: We don’t all have super strong hearts like you do, Shinba.

Hiromi: Yeah, I’m getting nervous.

Cate: Cate’s heart is racing too!

Inamoto: This assignment will be… a group competition. The 10 of you will be split into two groups and will compete based on your overall singing and dancing abilities.

Shimba: Now this is an assignment meant for an idol!

Hiromi: I wonder how we’ll be split up.

Meguru: Whoever we end up with, what we must do is the same.

Akashi: I have done preparations and reviewed. I know I’ll be alright.

Inamoto: And this time, your mentors will be…!

Rey: Rejoice, for I have arrived!

Sakuya: Hey there~ Everyone’s idol Sakuya-kun is here~!

Cuc: Mentor Cuc! Panyanyan!

Nagomu: I’m Nagomu. I’ll do my very best here!

Ainosuke: Everyone’s so insanely cool!

Hiromi: It’s the destructive power of a real life panyanyan!

Kyouya: An idol’s aura is so dazzling…

Rey: Mm, exactly the reaction I expected.

Sakuya: Bocchan, get on with the explanation.

Rey: Oh, yes, that’s right. Ahem! We will now proceed to split the candidates into two groups.

Nagomu: The mentors will also split up and watch each group while giving guidance to improve the quality of performance.

Sakuya: If you’ve got any worries or questions you wanna ask, we’ll be there!

Cuc: We look forward to your guidance and encouragement!

Sakuya: I don’t think that’s something we’re supposed to say~

Nagomu: We’re looking forward to working with you, everyone.

Everyone: We look forward to working with you too!

——

Cuc: Make bigger movements with your body! As big as an elephant!

Riam / Ainosuke / Kyouya / Shimba / Monet: Alright!

Sakuya: Don’t force yourself to use your voice! You don’t need to be perfect from the get-go. It’s pointless if your throat hurts.

Riam / Ainosuke / Kyouya / Shimba / Monet: Alright!

Nagomu: Alright, let’s stop here! Be sure to stay hydrated, everyone.

Akashi / Meguru / Cate / Mikera / Hiromi: Yes!

Rey: It seems there are still plenty of minor mistakes being made.

Nagomu: I agree. Let’s figure out where you’re likely to make a mistake, and then repeatedly practice those weak spots.

Rey: You seem to have the entire choreography already memorized, Meguru.

Meguru: This much is no problem.

Rey: You don’t say? I trust that you will be supporting the other members. Now, Akashi.

Akashi: Yes!

Rey: I applaud your effort to sing carefully so you don't miss a note, but it loses its meaning if it distracts from your dancing.

Akashi: … I apologize.

Nagomu: It’s difficult to sing and dance at the same time, isn’t it? But, it’ll work out once you get used to it.

Akashi: … Yes. I apologize.

Nagomu: Akashi-kun, if there’s anything that’s bothering you, then…

Akashi: No, I am alright! I apologize for taking up our time! Please let me try again!

Nagomu: …

——

Riam: Worries?

Nagomu: Yeah. It’ll be easier for us to support you all if we know what’s on your mind.

Cuc: So, we’re doing individual interviews! Nagomu suggested it! Let’s have a good talk!

Riam: … Got it.

Rey: Now, Riam. Is there anything bothering you? Do you perhaps have something you would like to ask about? I will hear you out.

Riam: Nothin’ really.

Sakuya: Uwah~, I can feel that huge wall that’s put up.

Nagomu: The interview’s going to end…

Riam: Nah, I mean… How do I put it… I’m satisfied with the lessons we get.

Rey: So you simply have no complaints or worries.

Riam: … This audition is something I’ve finally come to be a part of. I know I was bein’ a real pain at first, but now I'm ready to do what I have to do.

Rey: I see. That is a good thing.

Sakuya: In that case, do you have any requests?

Riam: Requests…

Sakuya: Like, maybe you wanna see more variety in the seasonings.

Rey: Or maybe you believe that they ought to change the brand of shampoo and conditioner.

Nagomu: Aren’t these… things that you guys want…?

Cuc: You can ask about someone else too!

Riam: … In that case, I’ve got one thing.

Sakuya: Ooh, what’s up?

Riam: It’s kinda about Akashi…

Kyouya: I know I don’t really have the time to be worrying about others, but…

Mikera: We can’t see the voting results, so I don’t know what the difference in their votes is, but… The difference in their abilities is clear to anyone.

Cate: So I’m a little worried… Akashi’s expression keeps getting gloomier and gloomier.

Yellow / Purple: Hmmm…

Cuc: Everyone was worried for Akashi…

Nagomu: Akashi-kun said, “I have no worries. I will just do my best.” But…

Rey: Perhaps it was bad luck for Akashi to have landed with Meguru as his opponent.

Sakuya: Megurun’s one of those perfect superhumans after all. There are others whose singing and dancing are top notch too, but no one beats him at putting it all together.

Cuc: Meguru is super stable mentally! His performances aren’t jiggly!

Sakuya: Jiggly?

Rey: As in they’re not lacking.

Sakuya: Well, that’s the kind of person he is. Even if we tell Akashi not to worry, he wouldn’t be able to help it.

Nagomu: …

Cuc: Nagomu? What’s wrong?

Nagomu: I’m sorry.

Sakuya: Eh?

Nagomu: Every time he made a mistake, Akashi-kun would apologize countless of times.

Everyone: …

Nagomu: I used to be the same way. I thought I was pathetic and all I’d do was apologize…

Cuc: Nagomu?

Nagomu: I’m not saying that Akashi-kun and I are the same, but… I’m still worried…

Cuc: Nagomu, are you okay? Do you want pats?

Nagomu: Hehe. Thank you, Cuc.

Sakuya / Rey: …

Cuc: Oh yeah, there’s another thing Cuc’s wondering about.

Sakuya: Something you’re wondering about?

Cuc: Everyone worried for Akashi. But Meguru looked most worried.

Rey: What do you mean by that?

Cuc: Meguru’s always worried for Akashi. During and not during lessons, all the time. Cuc saw him casually support Akashi.

Nagomu: They’re rivals, so I’d imagine he’d feel more than a little concerned, don’t you think?

Sakuya: Yup. And then from there, all sorts of things happen, and then they become good rivals in the end…

Cuc: Hmm… Is that really all…?

——

Meguru: Hm…

Kyouya: Meguru-san, do you have a moment?

Meguru: ? Is there something you need from me, Kyouya?

Kyouya: I’m about to go watch the first documentary drama in the playroom. Would you mind joining me?

Meguru: …

Kyouya: It’s a bit late for it now, but I figured I should actually watch it. You haven’t seen it either yet, right?

Meguru: That’s right… What a good suggestion you have.

——

Nagomu: One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight. One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight. One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight… ! Stop! Let’s pause here.

Nagomu / Rey: …

Nagomu: Meguru-kun…

Rey: What was that performance just now?

Everyone: …

Meguru: What do you mean? I was performing as I always do.

Akashi: Meguru-san, if you are feeling ill, it’s better to not push yourself.

Meguru: Nothing has changed about me. If you believe that one’s performance has gotten worse, that simply goes to show one’s ability.

Akashi: …

Nagomu / Rey: …

——

Rey: …

Sakuya: Nice work, Bocchan.

Rey: Playboy.

Sakuya: What’s causing the long face?

Rey: Whatever do you mean, “long face?” My face has never been anything but beautiful.

Sakuya: Yeah, yeah. Well, I already know what you’re thinking about anyway.

Rey: So you heard from Nagomu.

Sakuya: I thought Megurun was a perfect superhuman, but he doesn’t know when you’re not supposed to cut corners, huh?

Rey: Indeed… He’s just like you were.

Sakuya: …

Rey: You have an idea, do you not?

Sakuya: Well, I’d rather not remember all that, but yeah, I think I do…

Rey: We must speak to Meguru.

——

Rey: Do you know why we have called you here?

Meguru: Not at all.

Sakuya: That was such a fast reply! This feels like it’s gonna be rough.

Rey: I shall cut to the chase. Meguru, are you cutting corners for Akashi’s sake?

Meguru: …

Sakuya: It might be a little tough to say, but could you be honest with us? We’re sure you have a reason, so we’ll hear you out.

Meguru: … I—

Akashi: Is that—! Is what you said just now true?

Rey: Akashi…

Sakuya: Wait, don’t just come running in here!

Akashi: I apologize. I heard that Sakuya-san and Rey-san asked to talk to Meguru-san and I became sort of restless… Meguru-san, is that really true?

Meguru: It is.

Akashi: !

Meguru: What are you so surprised about? You also realized I was cutting corners, did you not?

Akashi: … Why do you seem so calm?

Meguru: This is how I wanted things to unfold.

Akashi: Eh?

Rey: You were expecting this?

Sakuya: Umm… What do you mean?

Meguru: I watched the 1st documentary. I felt that two people who knew nothing about each other clashing and becoming true rivals was beautiful.

Akashi: … Huh?

Meguru: If something were to happen like it did during Purple’s episodes, we would become true rivals as well, would we not?

Sakuya: No, okay, hold on. What kind of logic is that?! You went out of your way to cause trouble because you wanted a conflict with him…?!

Rey: Even I am astonished.

Akashi: …!

Sakuya: Look, Akashi-kun’s all dumbfounded too…

Akashi: I understand!

Sakuya: ! You do?

Rey: ? Exactly what part did you understand?!

Akashi: If you would go so far as to do that… Meguru-san!

Meguru: Yes?

Akashi: Please withdraw from the audition right this instant!

Rey: !

Sakuya: Hold on, that’s a little much!

Meguru: Fufu… Things have gotten interesting.

comments

Nexus Drama - VS AMBIVALENZ 2nd Episode 4.5

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 03:35:23 GMT

Futaba: (Umm… By any chance, are the six people who withdrew…)

Shinonome: (It has just been announced that they are participating in a different audition.)

Futaba: (Ever since VS AMBIVALENZ was held, the number of auditions held in the same way where two people compete for one spot has immensely increased.)

Shinonome: (President Inamoto has suspicions about that person… About whether Atarashi planned all of this.)

Inamoto: (I have a favor to ask of you all. I ask you all to take control of VS AMBIVALENZ 2nd’s future. I’d like you to participate in the audition as mentors.)

——

Taiyou: We’re back~

Subaru: We’re back.

Futaba: Welcome back, you two~

Auguri: Welcome back!

Cion: Good work~

Jintarou: Welcome back!

Taiyou: Thanks~ Huh? Why are some of us not here?

Futaba: Issei-san and Lion-san are out recording in town together; Sakuya-san and Nagomu-san are being interviewed; Kazu-san, Mio-san, Rey-san, and Cuc-san are helping sell at a school festival!

Auguri: That’s Futaba for you. You have everyone’s schedules in your head?

Futaba: I can remember them since I can see them on the shared office calendar!

Jintarou: W-Wow! When they give me my schedule, all I can remember is that it looks like a colorful building when you look at it from far away.

Auguri: You have to break that habit of rushing to prepare the day before, y’know.

Cion: Subaru, Taiyou. How did your first time mentoring go?

Taiyou: Umm~… Well, there was a bit of a problem, but…

Subaru: Generally, there weren’t any issues.

Auguri: There were problems, but there weren’t?

Jintarou: Is this a riddle?

Taiyou: No, no.

Subaru: We were able to teach them as mentors eventually, but it was a bit of a struggle to get to that point…

Jintarou: Tell us the deets!

Cion: Sounds like you didn’t watch this documentary drama either, Jintarou.

Taiyou: Actually… The two Orange candidates… We kinda got into something with Riam and Ainosuke.

Subaru: Ainosuke and Riam seemed to have prior feelings about Taiyou and I respectively, so they weren’t pleased to have us as their mentors.

Taiyou: Ah, we said this earlier, but we were able to get along with them in the end, and the assignment went by fine too!

Subaru: It made me realize again that there are things we must consider on top of participating as mentors.

Auguri: I see~ So those two were the problem.

Cion: They talked back to you two a lot, after all.

Futaba: The two of them did seem like they had a lot on their mind, so…

Taiyou: H-Hold on!

Subaru: Aren’t you all processing this too quickly? It feels like you’ve already known about Riam and Ainosuke…

Everyone: Aah…

Cion: Um, so here’s the thing…

——

Taiyou: EHH?! The documentary drama showed that much?!

Auguri: All the stuff that seemed like it’d be pretty sensitive… It was shown completely.

Jintarou: Ough… Just hearing that gives me the chills!

Subaru: That’s strange… Cut-kun was supposed to cut things like that out.

Cion: The footage wasn’t left completely as is, but… It’s still true that the considerably sensitive parts were shown.

Auguri: It felt like we were seeing something separate that wasn’t meant to be shown. I call those parts “InnerDrama.”

Taiyou: “InnerDrama” from the inner, hidden parts of the drama… I get it.

Jintarou: But it’s more or less being edited, right?

Subaru: What criteria does Cut-kun use to determine which parts of the documentary drama to include…?

Inamoto: Regarding that…

Auguri: Inamoto-san…! Wait, no…

Subaru: Shinonome-san…?!

Jintarou: Shinonome?! Don’t just show up out of nowhere… Also, hold on… Wasn’t that just Inamoto’s voice?

Shinonome: Ah, yes, it was. Inamoto-san will give an explanation about those “InnerDramas.”

Futaba: We heard him, but we can’t see him… Where is Inamoto-san…?

Inamoto: I am here.

Jintarou / Futaba: !

Inamoto: I cannot come above ground for a year during the audition period, so I asked Shinonome-san to contact me remotely.

Jintarou: You pop up out of nowhere, even remotely…

Inamoto: Just as you all have realized, I am aware of the decrease in Cut-kun’s accuracy, who is supposed to cut out any sensitive footage.

Futaba: I thought so! Which means it’s not cutting things out!

Jintarou: It was made to cut things out, but it’s not even doing its job!

Inamoto: In the first place, Cut-kun was… a program that Atarashi forcefully included, so that I specifically would not be able to edit the recordings from the audition.

Everyone: …!

Cion: … That definitely sounds like something that person would do.

Inamoto: Therefore, I have no control over the footage that is taken, and there is still nothing I can do.

Subaru: The two Orange candidates, Ainosuke and Riam, were able to sort things out, so they may not receive major backlash from the viewers, but…

Taiyou: If things keep getting streamed like this, then…

Inamoto: That’s right. I fear that the other candidates may face some sort of harm.

Shinonome: That is what that person is aiming for… To begin with, we speculate that Atarashi may have introduced Cut-kun to edit and portray the candidates he favored in a positive light.

Everyone: Eh?!

Jintarou: Seriously…?

Taiyou: Is he really going that far?

Inamoto: We cannot let the futures of these promising candidates be destroyed. I am going to continue the investigation from the inside.

Auguri: You’re so cool, Inamoto-san…! When we head over there as mentors, we’ll help out a bunch too!

Cion: The fact that this happened goes to show that Inamoto-san's decision to send us to the Internat turned out to be the right one.

——

Inamoto: (I’d like you to participate in the audition as mentors.)

Everyone: (Eh…?!)

Cuc: (Mentors?)

Sakuya: (It’s where seniors give advice to their juniors and be someone they can go to for help, right?)

Rey: (Indeed. The Kisumi family also incorporates it into our corporate in-service training.)

Subaru: (Essentially, you want us to participate in the audition and be advisors for the new candidates?)

Inamoto: (Correct. Originally, VS AMBIVALENZ’s final audition is meant to showcase the candidates’ growth and development through friendly competition along with the challenges they overcome to GLANZ. However…)

Futaba: (Um, I’d just like to say… Won’t those looking forward to VS AMBIVALENZ feel unhappy that people other than the candidates will appear?)

Jintarou: (Whaddya mean?)

Futaba: (There may be people who feel that “the candidates’ screentime was stolen” if people other than the candidates appear on screen.)

Auguri: (That’s so…)

Inamoto: (That is a fear we have. There may be heartless words thrown your way.)

Shinonome: (But, if Atarashi continues to intervene in our determination that he does not wish for…)

Subaru: (The precious moment for the candidates participating in the audition will go to waste.)

——

Auguri: Back then, I wondered how things were gonna turn out, but…

Futaba: Right. We must protect the new candidates no matter what happens, right?

Inamoto: Thank you very much. We greatly appreciate your continued assistance.

(Phone rings)

Auguri: Woah, ah! Sorry! I forgot to put my phone on silent… Oh, Sakuya’s calling.

Shinonome: You can pick up.

Auguri: Sorry again! Sakuya? What’s up?

Sakuya: Y’ello~? Where are you right now, Auguri-chan?

Auguri: In the office! Everyone’s here too, including Inamoto-san and Shinonome-san. What about you?

Sakuya: I just finished work with Nagomun~ Actually, since everyone’s there, just put me on speaker, okie?

Auguri: Mm, okie, okie.

Sakuya: Hello, this is Sakuya.

Nagomu: This is Nagomu.

Inamoto: Good work.

Everyone: Good work~

Jintarou: So, did somethin’ happen, or what?

Sakuya: Mmm… I just heard something here that caught my attention, so I wanted to share it…

Subaru: Something that caught your attention?

Nagomu: There’s a chance that Inamoto-san might have already heard this, but…

Sakuya: So, just now, the staff who always takes care of us came to talk to us after our interview.

Futaba: Wah~ It’s the number one line you want to be able to say! “The staff who always takes care of us…” It feels like you’re really in the industry…!

Sakuya: You’re so funny, Futabacchi. Anyway, well, those staff members really were just having small talk, but... “The next VS Audition assignment is a dance competition, isn’t it? I’m excited to see it!” is what they said…

Taiyou: Eh…?! That’s…!

Subaru: That is the next assignment, but…

Shinonome: The next assignment has not been announced yet.

Nagomu: I thought so. For some reason, the staff knew what it was… Ah, but there’s a chance they could’ve based it on how the 1st season went.

Sakuya: Well, we’re not sure what’s true. Then, when I looked into it, the other VS Audition announced an assignment that was completely the same as ours.

Everyone: …!

Auguri: So that means, they’re not just basing their audition off of “VS,” they’re making their assignments the same as ours too?

Sakuya: Well, that’s what it looks like… But, like Nagomun said, they may have just said that based on the flow of the 1st season… But we were worried about whether that was actually the case and decided to call.

Futaba: ! W-Wait! I just saw this online… Look!

Everyone: !

Shinonome: The other VS Audition’s assignment announcement… It looks like a schedule for the year… These assignments…! Everything is the same as we’ve planned!

Everyone: Eh?!

Inamoto: We do not have plans to announce the audition’s assignments beforehand. This is information that has never been released.

Sakuya: Damn… So, it’s true…

Nagomu: The fact that the staff knew means that it might’ve already been spread through the industry.

Jintarou: So we’re gonna end up announcing the same stuff they announced before us?! If that happens, then…

Subaru: People may start saying we copied an existing audition…!

Cion: Yeah… It's one thing if it's slander against the audition management itself, but if it spills over to the candidates participating in the audition…

Futaba: Who in the world leaked the information…?

Shinonome: There’s only one person it could be. That bastard…!

——

Atarashi: ♪~ ♪~~ ♪~~~ Hehehe… Now, what will you do? Reisen Productions…!

comments

A Light’s Scratch Marks - Part 3

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 02:42:37 GMT

Cut-kun: I’ll keep cutting out every bit of sensitive footage! I’m Cut-kun! The footage will sometimes be distorted! Thanks for understanding!

——

Ainosuke: (Hey hey, look at my number one! Isn’t he seriously so cool? Isn’t it crazy? It’s not just about his face, he’s more athletic than anyone else, and he’s amazing at singing and dancing even though he’s supposed to be an amateur! I love them all, but there’s just something special about him! Hmm, there’s obviously a ton of great things about him, but the part I love about him the most is… He’s the kindest person in the world!)

Stan Friend: (Auditions run by public votes are just too much. Even if you start loving someone, there’s a chance they could fail to win the vote… I wanna support someone because it’s fun. I don’t wanna feel sad because of it. I think I’ll just stop supporting them.)

Ainosuke: (You can’t get discouraged! If we as fans don’t try our hardest, who will? We’re the only ones who can help our oshi become an idol!)

——

Candidate: (Dude, look.)

Candidate: (You’re kidding, he’s participating too?)

Candidate: (We’re done for, then.)

Candidate: (My audition ends here…)

Riam: (… You’re Takaya Subaru, right?)

Subaru: (And you are…?)

Riam: (I’m Takarae Riam. Let’s get along.)

Subaru: (… Why?)

Riam: (…?)

Subaru: (Why must I get along with you?)

Riam: (… That’s ‘cause we might end up in the same group someday. I wanna compete with you while understanding you, not kickin’ you down. Kinda like… A rival.)

Subaru: (You’re naive.)

Riam: (!)

Subaru: (I won’t lose to anybody. You should stop worrying about others and focus on your performance.)

Riam: (…)

——

Riam: Alright! Time for all of you to get up!

Kyouya: Good morning…

Meguru: Mmm. Something smells quite nice.

AInosuke: Yup, that’s ‘cause the two of us made breakfast. You better eat up, alright?

Akashi: Thank you very much. However, I still believe we should split up the chores…

Mikera: He’s right. I’d just end up feeling bad if you guys did everything for us.

Riam: Indulgin’ us is making things inconvenient for you guys. This is the least we can do. We’ll take on the chores, so it’s up to you guys to practice enough to make up for it.

Ainosuke: Ah! Monet’s not here. I’m gonna go wake him up.

Riam: Kyouya, eat your meat too! You won’t last if you don’t got the strength!

Hiromi: Just when I had the impression of them talking back to their seniors, they become strangely good at taking care of others.

Mikera: Now I can’t even be mad… They’re so weird.

——

Riam: We’re gonna start with building our muscles! Cate, Kyouya, Monet, and Mikera. You guys will all be doin’ it with me. Everyone else are practicing independently.

Mikera: … You didn’t split us up by height, right?

Riam: ‘Course not. Come on, Kyouya’s here. I just gathered the guys I figured should be taught this separately.

Mikera: … Then it’s fine.

Kyouya: I don’t think I can do it at all. Sorry.

Riam: Don’t apologize. Everyone’s got different things they’re cut out for. We’ll find you a training method that works for you.

Kyouya: … You’re right.

Riam: Cate! We’re gonna exercise, so take that thing off of your head!

Cate: ! Anything but that… I can do anything but that… I’m sorry…

Riam: O-Okay, I get it. I get it, so don’t cry! Also, Kyouya! Wake Monet up!

Kyouya: Me?

Monet: Yawn…

Kyouya: Ah, he’s awake.

Monet: Good morning. This is sudden, but I just remembered I have something to do. See you later.

Riam: Oi! You’re always snoozing, you don’t just get to sprint away now! Go after him, Kyouya!

Kyouya: Me again?!

——

Ainosuke: Alright~! Our team is gonna start with vocal training! Let’s do this thing.

Meguru, Shimba, Akashi, Hiromi: Yeah!

——

Ainosuke: Akashi, the way you sound is right on point, but I’m not feeling any emotion from you!

Akashi: Emotion…?

Ainosuke: Why’re you saying that like you’re a heartless robot feeling something for the first time?! I’m telling you to put emotion into your singing!

Akashi: Ah! I see now. Just having perfect pitch isn’t enough…

Ainosuke: So? What are you doing, Meguru?

Meguru: It is in one’s nature to want to break the rules as soon as they are made. Forgive me, but I will be doing things in one’s own way.

Ainosuke: And where are you going, Shimba?

Shimba: I’m all set! I don’t have to do any more than this. I’m going to go eat some snacks!

Ainosuke: Oh, I see. Then I guess we’ve got no choice but to end our vocal training here. Did you seriously think I was gonna say that?! The two of you are way too lax! We’re not done with lessons whatsoever, got it?!

Hiromi: Ainosuke-kun, calm down! Take a deep breath! In… and out… Great job!

Taiyou: Everyone’s doing their best. Looks like they really are fine without us.

Subaru: … It’d be great if that were true, but…

Taiyou: ? Are you worried about something?

Subaru: No… They said themselves that they don’t need a mentor, so all we can do is stand aside and watch.

Taiyou: …

Subaru: Whatever happens, tomorrow is the day of their audition.

——

Taiyou: Great job on finishing the audition!

Subaru: We’re going to announce the results of everyone’s votes.

Hiromi: Ah~... I’m getting nervous. How did it go for you all?

Kyouya: I think Riam-kun’s lessons helped. I feel like I projected my voice better than usual.

Mikera: And, well… I guess I’m thankful you taught us how to effectively train our muscles.

Riam: …

Akashi: Thank you as well, Ainosuke-san.

Meguru: It is a blessing to have been taught the training methods various idols have used.

Ainosuke: …

Shimba: Looks like we’re all satisfied with how we did!

Monet: So, does that mean we really don’t need mentors?

Shimba: I guess so, huh?

Subaru: No… That’s not it.

Shimba: ?

Subaru: This audition didn’t go well.

Candidates: !

Taiyou: I feel the same way that Subaru does. We can’t just announce the results like this.

Akashi: Please excuse me. I don’t think I’m understanding properly. What do you mean it didn’t go well…?

Taiyou: Riam, Ainosuke… The two of you understand best, don’t you?

Riam / Ainosuke: !

Subaru: Are you really fine with this?

Shimba: Hm? With what?

Mikera: I dunno.

Riam / Ainosuke: …

Hiromi: Riam-kun? Ainosuke-kun?

Riam: Haa… The plan… was a failure.

Candidates: Eh?

Mikera: What do you mean?

Riam: My condition was horrible. I couldn’t even give half of my best effort… The same probably goes for Ainosuke.

Ainosuke: …

Kyouya: Really?

Akashi: I did not notice at all.

Cate: Neither did Cate…

Meguru: We have yet to understand each other’s strength after all.

Hiromi: Um… Did the two of you not do well because you spent all of your time… looking after us…?

Riam: …

Mikera: No, but… You guys were the ones who said you wanted to do that, so… I’d be upset to hear you say that’s the reason why you didn’t have any time.

Riam: Yeah, Mikera’s completely right. It’s not your guys’ fault.

Subaru: Riam, I feel like you are someone who naturally pays close attention to his surroundings.

Riam: …

Subaru: You were able to change your teaching style to fit everyone’s characteristics, and you never mindlessly criticized anyone when they couldn’t do something. Why is it that you were unable to be objective about your own behavior this time?

Riam: That’s because… I was being stubborn.

Subaru: Stubborn?

Riam: I was just using you as a target for my anger. You had rejected having a rival, and here you are now, talking about how your rival is precious to you… I couldn’t stomach it. I’ve felt like a complete idiot for believing that I had to kick down everyone around me to make it to the top, ever since I lost to you… So… Takaya Subaru, I wanted you gone.

Subaru: …

Ainosuke: Me too… I felt the same. I wanted the person who lost gone.

Taiyou: … Ainosuke.

Ainosuke: I was happy that you became an idol in fun4re. But I… I wanted to see you debut in XlamV… If I couldn’t see that, then… I didn’t want to see you at all…

Taiyou: …

Ainosuke: Taiyou… I couldn’t help you debut… I’m so sor—

Taiyou: I’m sorry.

Ainosuke: Eh?

Taiyou: I’m sorry for not winning… I’m sorry.

Ainosuke: … That’s not what I want you to say.

Taiyou: Yeah, you’re right. Sorry.

Ainosuke: I just said—

Riam: Don’t apologize.

Taiyou: …

Riam: You were serious back then. You were serious about aiming to become an idol, and you did your very best. So, don’t apologize…

Taiyou: Riam…

Ainosuke: I understand that too, okay?! … But… In the end, the results are everything, aren’t they? Just because you were able to debut doesn’t mean everyone will forget what happened. From now on, people will always, always call you the loser from back then! Of course I don’t want to see my beloved idol be treated that way! That’s just impossible!

Taiyou: … Yeah, that’s true. But even then… I’ve already made up my mind.

Ainosuke: … Eh?

Taiyou: I can’t change the fact that I lost… So, I have no choice but to have them recognize me for my future, not my past. For the things I’m going to do instead of the things I’ve done.

Ainosuke: …

Taiyou: So, Ainosuke. Keep on being my fan. I swear I’ll never make you sad again.

Ainosuke: ! You’re so cool…

Taiyou: Eh? Ah, thanks!

Ainosuke: Ah…! D-Did I say that out loud?!

Taiyou: Umm…

Ainosuke: D-Don’t just give me fanservice out of nowhere! I thought my heart was gonna stop!

Riam: … There might be at least one person who’d get sad for my sake too.

Ainosuke: Eh?

Riam: If there’s someone who’d always remember me even if I lose, the same way you did for him, then I’d be really happy.

Ainosuke: …

Subaru: Ainosuke, Riam.

Riam / Ainosuke: …

Subaru: You two still chose the VS AMBIVALENZ audition, even while carrying various feelings for Taiyou and I.

Ainosuke: …!

Subaru: You’ve chosen to try and understand the irreplaceable experience we had, haven’t you?

Ainosuke: That’s…

——

Ainosuke: (I’m gonna be an idol too! I’ll become someone who shines a bright light on everyone, just like Taiyou!)

——

Riam: (I won’t lose this time. I can’t give up on my dream of becoming an idol… I want to become an idol… just like Takaya Subaru…!)

——

Taiyou: Thank you.

Ainosuke: …!

Taiyou: For finding us and supporting us.

Subaru: For understanding what we hold dear.

Ainosuke: … You shouldn’t be thanking us.

Riam: I’m sorry.

Subaru / Taiyou: …

Riam: This goes for everyone. I wanna apologize, even if it’s a little late for that. To Ainosuke, and all of you… I made you go along with my own personal grudge.

Ainosuke: Don’t act like it’s all your fault... I also couldn't sort out my own feelings and forced everyone to get involved... Even though this is an important audition for us… I’m sorry.

Everyone: …

Akashi: I was thankful that the two of you taught us so much.

Hiromi: That’s right.

Riam: You guys… I know this is selfish, but… Would you let me do the audition one more time? Please!

Ainosuke: Me too… Please let us! Please give us another chance!

Everyone: …

Shimba: I don’t mind! I mean, I wanna face you guys at each of our full strength!

Kyouya: We were originally supposed to have a week anyway.

Akashi: Redoing the audition is how things went during the 1st season as well.

Cate: Cate approves!

Monet: That’s fine~

Meguru: Do as you wish. Everything that happens in this world is inevitable.

Mikera: It’d be weird for us to say no at a time like this…

Hiromi: Taiyou-san, Subaru-san, what do you think?

Subaru / Taiyou: …

Subaru: Yeah.

Taiyou: We also think you should!

Ainosuke: Thank you, everyone.

Riam: Thanks.

Ainosuke: Riam… I won’t lose. I swear I won’t make GLANZ sad!

Riam: Neither will I… I’m not gonna lose ever again. I’ve got no choice but to do it. Come at me, Ainosuke.

Subaru: Alright, does that mean we can give our inputs this time? Riam.

Riam: ! O-Of course… I’m countin’ on you.

Shimba: I don’t care whether this is the 2nd try or what. I’m gonna win. Come at me, all of you!

Cate: Cate won’t lose either! Bam bam!

Monet: Yawn… I’m getting sleepy now that we’ve reached this point…

Kyouya: Aren’t you always tired?

Akashi: Anyways, I am glad a big fight did not occur.

Meguru: What does not kill you truly does make you stronger.

Hiromi: But having all this happen during our first assignment makes me worry about what could happen later on.

Mikera: They’re such troublemakers.

——

(Post credits)

Taiyou: Alright, we’re announcing the results this time! And they are~ right here!

Kyouya: Ngh… I’m scared to look.

Mikera: I’m surprised you can say that after showing off how good your singing is.

Cate: Wow! Kyouya, you’re first!

Kyouya: Eh?! Ah… You’re right.

Subaru: Riam, I think it’d be good for you to loosen up a little more when you hit the high notes.

Riam: Yup, I hear ya. I’ll keep that in mind.

Taiyou: How did it go, Ainosuke?

Ainosuke: Well, I feel like I did the best I could. I don’t have any regrets.

Taiyou: Really? Then, that’s great!

Ainosuke: ! You’re smiling like that just for me… Are you an angel…?!

Taiyou: Hm?

Meguru: I placed second… I would say that is a good start.

Akashi: …! I placed last… Where did I go wrong this time…? Where…?

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A Light's Scratch Marks - Part 2

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 06:14:12 GMT

Cut-kun: I’ll keep cutting out every bit of sensitive footage! I’m Cut-kun! The footage will sometimes be distorted! Thanks for understanding!

——

Taiyou: Man, we got a great photo! That’s all! You’re dismissed!

Everyone: …

Taiyou: Just silence?!

Subaru: Eh?

Taiyou: Someone was supposed to go, “There’s no way we came here just to take a photo!”

Subaru: Ah, I see. I’m still bad at this kind of thing, even after all this time… I’m very sorry.

Hiromi: Please forgive us. We haven’t figured out who gives the comebacks out of us either yet… And now we’ve caused our senior embarrassment…

Taiyou: No, no, getting an apology is also rough in its own way, so no need!! Also, you’re fine just the way you are, Subaru!

Kyouya: Comebacks, huh… I don’t think I can retort well enough…

Meguru: If so, shall I lend a hand?

Shimba: Nah, this is where I shine! I’ve got you in good hands!

Mikera: Sorry for saying this even though we haven’t talked much, but I really don’t think you two are the right people for this!

Cate: Cate is—

Hiromi: Also definitely not the right person, so don’t worry.

Cate: Aw, man!

Akashi: Um! May we return to what we were talking about? Our time is limited.

Cate: Ba-ba-baaam! Akashi-kun! What a great guy you are, all well put together!

Akashi: That is simply what is appropriate.

Subaru: We really did get off track. We’re here as your mentors to help you all complete the first assignment.

Taiyou: Today is just for seeing everyone for the first time and introducing ourselves. We’ll tell you guys what the assignment is tomorrow. It’ll probably be nerve wracking to work with people you’ve only just met, but we’ll try our hardest to support you guys, so let’s do our best together starting tomorrow!

Everyone: Yeah…

Taiyou: Huh?

Subaru: It looks like everyone’s still confused.

Taiyou: Ahaha… Yeah, that makes sense.

Subaru: Let’s make some time after this. If there’s anyone who has any worries about living in the Internat, we want you to come ask us without hesitation.

——

Akashi: Subaru-san, do you have a moment?

Mikera: I have a question too.

Cate: Cate does too!

Subaru: Alright, I’ll answer your questions in order.

Akashi: Thank you very much. I’m extremely honored to be listening to what XlamV’s Subaru-san has to say. According to my calculations, Subaru-san’s speed of learning dances and memorizing music scores are 3.6% and 4.7% faster than the average respectively. You truly are a legendary trainee.

Hiromi: It’s gotten pretty rough over there… Shimba-kun, do you have a minute?

Shimba: What’s up, Boss-Man?

Hiromi: … My name’s Hiromi. I want you to come with me to ask Taiyou-san a question.

Shimba: Why?

Hiromi: Everyone’s only asking Subaru-san their questions. It’s rude that no one’s going over to Taiyou-san.

Shimba: Is it? The guy himself doesn’t seem worried about that at all.

Hiromi: Right now, I guess he looks happy eating snacks, but he isn’t actually feeling that way. Believe in my workplace experience for this. Come on, let’s go. Um, Taiyou-san.

Taiyou: Hm? Ah, do you two want some cookies?

Hiromi: No, I’m alright. We also have something we’d like to ask you.

Taiyou: Me?! Uwaah, I’m so happy! I kinda feel like a senior! I might not have a super great answer, but ask me anything!

Hiromi: S-So bright…

Shimba: It’s like he’s the sun personified.

Taiyou: What’s your question?

Hiromi: Eh? Umm… What was it again, Shimba-kun?

Shimba: Me?

Hiromi: Sorry… I didn’t think of anything.

Shimba: Let me think… Taiyou, I wanna ask you this since you lost in the audition…

Hiromi: Aaaahh! Um, I think we’d like to change our question!

Shimba: Hm?

Taiyou: It’s alright. It’s true that I didn’t make it. I think there are things that I can answer because of that.

Shimba: You’re a straightforward guy, huh? I like it! Looking forward to working with you!

Taiyou: Yeah, me too!

Hiromi: I’m just… so very sorry!

Kyouya: Aah… What do I do…

Meguru: What is the matter, timid child?

Kyouya: My name is Kyouya… Um… I feel like I have to go ask a question now… Are you not going to, Meguru-san?

Meguru: Everything that happens in this world is a trivial matter.

Kyouya: … Huh?

Meguru: If you have time to spend wavering, you should simply go ahead.

Kyouya: But, I also can’t just leave the person rivaling me here…

Monet: It’s a bit strange, don’t you think…

Kyouya: Ah, you’re awake…

Meguru: What do you think is strange?

Monet: The two Orange candidates.

Riam / Ainosuke: …

Meguru: Hm. That truly is peculiar.

Kyouya: Eh? What is?

Meguru: Ainosuke is much too quiet for someone who calls himself a fan of those two. Riam has also spoken much less after the mentors arrived.

Monet: Right? Isn’t it strange?

Kyouya: You guys are right… Actually, you understood the conversation perfectly even though you were asleep.

Monet: Maybe those two are… Zzz, zzz…

Kyouya: Eh?! D-Don’t fall asleep at the important part!

Riam / Ainosuke: …

Riam: Are you not gonna go ask a question?

Ainosuke: I could ask you the same thing.

Riam: I’m…

Subaru: Hello.

Taiyou: You guys are Ainosuke and Riam, right?

Riam / Ainosuke: …

Subaru: Riam, I heard that this is your second time participating in the VS AMVIBALENZ audition. I think you know how things will go after watching the documentary drama, but is there anything you’re worried about?

Taiyou: You too, Ainosuke. If there’s anything you wanna ask or anything you’re worried about, then…

Ainosuke: Thank you very much for the concern. But I’m alright.

Riam: You don’t gotta mind me. I don’t have any questions or worries.

Subaru / Taiyou: …

Taiyou: Okay, then that’s good.

Subaru: Yeah.

——

Shimba: Alright, so all I gotta do is cut this! Leave it to me!

Hiromi: Stop! Wait, wait! Curl your fingers like a cat’s paw! You’re going to cut them off!

Akashi: Two tablespoons plus one-fourth teaspoon of sugar… Okay! My measurements are perfect!

Hiromi: Stop!! That’s salt, not sugar!

Monet: I’ll break the eggs. Make a crack in it, and then… Put it in the bowl… Zzz, zzz…

Hiromi: Stop!!! Don’t fall asleep! The eggs are going to spill! Uuu… How did things turn out like this…

Shimba: The miso soup you made looks delicious, Hiromi!

Akashi: I believe we can say the only thing that looks good is the miso soup.

Monet: Zzz, zzz…

———

Everyone: Haa…

Taiyou: Hey guys!

Subaru: We’re coming in.

Taiyou: Did everyone finish eating… Eeh?! You guys all look terrible! Are you okay?!

Mikera: I’m so hungry…

Shimba: Miso soup… doesn’t give me enough strength…

Taiyou: Subaru, can you get me a plate?

Subaru: Got it. The salad is done.

Taiyou: Thanks!

Everyone: Waah~~

Cate: It looks delicious!

Kyouya: Uuu~... Finally, a proper meal…

Taiyou: Eat as much as you want.

Everyone: Thanks for the food!!

Mikera: It’s so good!

Akashi: Thank you very much, our seniors!

Meguru: It has quite a good flavor.

Monet: Nom nom… Zzz, zzz… Nom nom…

Kyouya: He’s sleeping and eating at the same time?

Subaru: Riam.

Riam: !

Subaru: How does it taste?

Riam: Not bad.

Subaru: Do you mind if I talk to you for a moment?

Riam: … What do you want?

Subaru: Is there a chance we met during the 1st audition’s preliminaries?

Riam: !

Subaru: If I had done something to offend you back then, I apologize.

Riam: You’re apologizing even though you don’t remember anything?

Subaru: …

Riam: Don’t worry. I’ve completely forgotten about you too.

Taiyou: Do you not like pancakes?

Ainosuke: !

Taiyou: Ah, sorry. They were the only things you wouldn’t eat, so I figured you don’t like them.

Ainosuke: …

Taiyou: I used to be completely useless at cooking. But I’ve gotten pretty good at it now, so I’m sure it’ll taste…

Ainosuke: I know that.

Taiyou: Eh?

Ainosuke: I know how you used to char your pancakes, and how you’ve gotten better little by little… I know that you like to eat bread in the morning, that you love fried chicken, that you think Wednesday is the day for ice cream, all of it. I think it’s funny of you to try telling me things about the 1st audition’s members.

Taiyou: …

Mikera: Hold on, Ainosuke!

Ainosuke: Just kidding~!

Mikera: Eh?

Ainosuke: I was only joking. Don’t get so worked up.

Taiyou: Thank you.

Ainosuke: Hah?

Taiyou: I mean, you’ve been watching me so carefully, so it made me happy. Maybe there’s a chance that you’re my fan, y’know? Or something…

Ainosuke: …! You’re right…

Taiyou: Eh?

Ainosuke: I… was your fan.

——

Ainosuke: Aaaghh! This is the worst! What was I saying?! I’ve seriously messed up now! What do I do, what do I do… If that scene gets released, I… I won’t survive. I don’t wanna lose, no matter what, and yet… Haa, haa… Calm down… It’ll be alright… Cut-kun is here… so I don’t need to be scared!

Riam: What’re you making all those weird faces for?

Ainosuke: ! Riam! Why are you here?

Riam: I couldn’t sleep, so I was just walkin’ around wherever. And what about you, huh?

Ainosuke: Nothing much… I’m just doing my own personal tour of this sacred ground.

Riam / Ainosuke: …

Ainosuke: Hey, Riam. Why did you act all upset at XlamV’s Subaru?

Riam: Right back at you. Why’d you get so crabby towards fun4re’s Taiyou?

Ainosuke: That’s…

Riam: … Heh. Yeah! Bf-ipk-bf-r-vrtt-rt-virkft! Let’s lay one on ‘em, the two of us will turn our feelings into actions!

Ainosuke: What’s with you all of a sudden?

Riam: Work together with me.

Ainosuke: Haa?

Riam: We’re gonna drive them out. The both of ‘em.

——

Taiyou: Your first assignment will have all ten of you sing an original song.

Subaru: We’ll have you decide the part distribution by yourselves.

Shimba: Part distribution means…!

Monet: An intra-member audition…

Subaru: That’s right. We’re thinking of holding it a week from now.

Cate: Just like the 1st audition!

Mikera: Yeah, it’s just like I expected.

Akashi: Excuse me! I have a question!

Taiyou: Go ahead, Akashi-kun!

Akashi: I remember the audition during the 1st season started right away, so I’d like to ask, why is there a week-long leniency period this time?

Taiyou: That’s a very good question!

Akashi: Thank you very much!

Subaru: For this audition, the process of formatting and providing support for the assignments is left entirely up to the mentors who present them. So, the two of us decided that there should be a little bit of time before the audition begins.

Akashi: I see…

Taiyou: The format of the assignments will continue to change depending on each mentor. But don’t worry. We’re also putting a lot of thought into…

Riam: Wait.

Subaru / Taiyou: ?

Riam: I object.

Ainosuke: So do I.

Taiyou: Eh?

Kyouya: Object…? How come?

Subaru: Can we hear why?

Ainosuke: There’s something we’d like to ask you too. Why does it seem like you’re opposed to doing things like the 1st season?

Taiyou: Oh, that’s not what we’re trying to do. After we reflected on how things went last time, we agreed that it’d be better to hold the audition after everyone had gotten used to living together.

Ainosuke: You went ahead and did a second run of the audition because you were just so worried about everyone else’s condition, which placed you in dead last. And you’re telling me that you wanna do the same thing?

Taiyou: …

Ainosuke: Your naive way of thinking is why you lost in the end!

Taiyou: !

Hiromi: Ainosuke-kun. Now you’re just being disrespectful.

Cate: Calm down…! Cate will listen to whatever you have to say, so… Okay?

Taiyou: I…

Subaru: Apologize to him.

Taiyou: Subaru…

Subaru: Ainosuke. You have hurt my precious rival. I won’t allow any insults towards Taiyou. Apologize.

Taiyou: Subaru… I’m alright, don’t worry.

Riam: Ha… And that’s what you call a winner’s composure. You’re constantly acting worried about others. Ain’t that just so kind of you?

Subaru: … What are you trying to say?

Riam: Exactly what it sounds like.

Mikera: We’re stuck in this terrible atmosphere again… Why do the two Orange candidates keep talking back to our seniors like this? I don’t get it at all.

Shimba: Haha! Here’s that fight they talked about!

Meguru: It is immaturity stemmed from youth. How candid.

Monet: I’m done here… Zzz…

Hiromi: This isn’t the time to say something so carefree…

Riam: Ainosuke and I don’t need mentors.

Subaru / Taiyou: !

Ainosuke: Exactly! Just like the 1st audition, we’ll do things all on our own. Right, you guys~?

Akashi: No, I’d like to receive advice from our seniors!

Cate: Cate does too!

Hiromi: So do I.

Riam: Don’t worry. You guys are gonna follow our lead.

Everyone: Hah?

Riam: Three days. In three days, not a week, all of us will be in perfect condition to prove that we don’t need you guys.

Ainosuke: That way, our fellow candidates won’t have any complaints either, right?

Subaru / Taiyou: …

comments

A Light's Scratch Marks - Part 1

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 05:12:52 GMT

燈 - light, lamp

kratzspuren - scratch marks

——

In order to ensure the fairness of the 2nd VS AMBIVALENZ audition, we will deliver these videos with automatic editing using state-of-the-art AI. Please note that in rare cases, the video may be distorted.

Ainosuke: It’s the lesson room! And the bedrooms!

Meguru: Hm. The shower room is quite spacious.

Ainosuke: The laundry room is here too! And now we’re in the dining hall…

Riam: They’ve seriously got this huge facility all undergrou—

Ainosuke: I can’t believe it! It’s the Internat from the documentary dramas!

Hiromi: So that’s the part you’re surprised about.

Ainosuke: I mean, this is the Internat, you know? We’re walking on sacred ground right now!

Akashi: Sacred? Is this place affiliated with a specific religion?

Shimba: Hahaha! Should we take that as a joke?

Mikera: They really renovated the interior.

Ainosuke: Right? They didn’t even need to. I wanted to take selfies with the scratches in the walls and stains on the floor the previous candidates left…

Kyouya: I’m happier that it’s been fixed up…

Ainosuke: Hah?

Kyouya: ?!

Ainosuke: I’m just kidding ♡ Come on, we’ve gotta do that soon.

Riam: “That?”

Ainosuke: The thing we have to do when we get to the dining hall!

Cate: Waah~! Kitchen, big, big!

Ainosuke: Yup! That’s it! I wanna see over there too!

Riam: What was with that skit?

Akashi: Those were Cuc-senpai and Taiyou-senpai’s lines from the first episode of the VS AMBIVALENZ documentary drama at 1:23.

Meguru: You know quite a lot.

Akashi: You must cover every bit of information related to the audition you’re going to be in. Doing that much is common sense.

Riam: Hah?

Mikera: …! Okay, you’re being too blunt.

Akashi: Eh?

Kyouya: There are times where it’s better to not say the truth. That’s what my brother said.

Mikera: If you watched the 1st documentary drama, then you should already know this. Both the red and white candidates got into arguments over just one word, even if they had no ill intent, so you have to be careful.

Meguru: Ho… Is that what this so-called documentary entails? How interesting.

Riam: Hah… Common sense… Common sense, huh?

Everyone: !

Riam: Well, I guess you’ve got a point there. Coming here without doing my research means there’s gotta be somethin’ up with me…

Everyone: …

Riam: ? What is it?

Mikera: No, it’s just… I didn’t expect you to take that so well.

Riam: Hah? Why?

Akashi: You’re someone that does hip hop, and yet you’re more frank than I expected.

Mikera: Hey, didn’t I tell you? You haven’t been choosing your words carefully enough! And your idea of hip hop is too biased!

Riam: Okay, seriously. What’s with you guys? You’ve just been going off.

Ainosuke: Yeah, and it’s your fault. You made up all of those lyrics in your self introduction video, so of course you’re gonna be seen as annoying and weird.

Riam: Weird?! I could say the same about you!

Ainosuke: Ha? Who’re you calling— ! No, this isn’t right.

Riam: ?

Ainosuke: Hehe. The kind and generous Ainosuke-kyun will explain it for you. Bivalen’s final audition is streamed on the internet through the documentary dramas. That was kept secret during the 1st season, but it’s different for us.

Riam: How?

Ainosuke: You’re too slow to catch on. We already know that they release the documentary dramas, got it?

Riam: Eh?! This is being streamed?!

Meguru: Ooh! So, we are being streamed right now?

Ainosuke: Okay, so it looks like there’s some of us who didn’t know, but… Anyways! This means they can’t put us in the same situation as the 1st season!

Riam: Like I said, why—

Shimba: Since the candidates during the 1st season weren’t informed that they were being streamed, GLANZ voted based on seeing the candidates’ most honest selves without any fronts. But…

Mikera: For the 2nd season, it’s already been revealed that we’re being streamed, so we can continue to show the parts of us that we want to show.

Kyouya: Um, so, basically…

Hiromi: We can keep hiding. Hiding our inner selves that will inconvenience us during this audition.

Riam: Inner selves…

Ainosuke: Well, that’s the gist of it ♡

Cate: It’s alright ★ We just have to talk about the fun thinGS! Cate can do thAT!

Meguru: By the way, what will they and will they not stream?

Akashi: What they will and won’t… By that, you mean?

Kyouya: What about when we’re taking a bath?! Or using the toilet…?!

Akashi: The toilet is one thing, but as for getting in the bath… It will depend on the time and occasion.

Ainosuke: I don’t mind it during baths at all ★ It’s all about the fanservice ★

Inamoto: Please rest assured.

Cate: Eek…!

Kyouya: When did he…

Ainosuke: Wow! It’s Bivalen’s specialty, Inamoto-san suddenly appearing! I’m so happy I got to see it for myself~!

Mikera: Eh? So this makes you happy…

Inamoto: I am grateful to hear that. Incidentally, everyone…

Shimba: ? Why are you pointing at our feet?

Hiromi: ?! Hold on, are you alright?

Monet: Zzz… Zzz…

Hiromi: He’s asleep…?

Mikera: Eh?! Since when? He was awake when we came here, wasn’t he?

Cate: Pokey-poke. Hey, wake up, wake up!

Monet: ! I watched! All of the documentary dramas… Zzz… Zzz…

Mikera: Come on. You just woke up, so don’t fall asleep again! Hey, you over there. Kyouya.

Kyouya: ! Me…?!

Mikera: This one here is your rival for Black, isn’t he? Do something about him.

Kyouya: Do something…?

Shimba: Alright now! Stand up! And now, you carry him.

Kyouya: Walk by yourself…!

Hiromi: The Scarlet pair are pretty good at handling a situation.

Cate: Right? Cate’s good at speakING!

Hiromi: Hahaha…

Meguru: Hiromi and Cate are Emerald, correct? You two also seem quite like-minded.

Hiromi: Um, what do you mean by that?

Meguru: I mean just that. Is there something wrong with that?

Cate: Nope! Cate and Hiromi will get along for sure! The same goes for you two Navy candidates!

Akashi: Get along?

Hiromi: Is it… okay for us to get along?

Cate: Do you not want to?

Hiromi: It’s not quite that, but…

Akashi: In the first place, it’s alright if we are not like-minded, and there is no need for us to get along. Ultimately, we are rivals.

Cate: Ah…

Meguru: Hmm, I see. So that is the stance one’s rival is assuming.

Inamoto: Please excuse me. May we return to the topic at hand?

Hiromi: Ah, we’re sorry. Please, go ahead.

Inamoto: Thank you very much. You all seemed concerned about how much would be streamed on the documentary drama. There is no need to worry. Your every move will not be streamed. Please have a look at this. This is Cut-kun, a state-of-the-art editing AI developed by REISEN Productions and Tailwind Office.

Cut-kun: I’ll keep cutting out every bit of sensitive footage! I’m Cut-kun! The footage will sometimes get distorted! Nice to meet ya!

Inamoto: The candidates who have seen the 1st season documentary drama beforehand understand its nature and are more reserved in their actions and words. The solution to that is—

Cate: Cut-kun…?

Inamoto: Correct. This state-of-the-art editing AI, Cut-kun, has learned every bit of information from the 1st documentary drama and social media. So to speak, Cut-kun is an editing AI specific to the VS AMBIVALENZ documentary drama, and can cut out even the most sensitive situations completely. The only parts of the drama GLANZ will see are ones that are important to voting.

Mikera: So, basically, that means we don’t have to put on an act and just be ourselves like normal?

Inamoto: Yes, exactly.

Everyone: Hah…

Ainosuke: Wow, we were worried for nothing.

Hiromi: Yup.

Akashi: Worried? Does that imply that Ainosuke-san and Hiromi-san have a part of yourselves that you don’t want others to see?

Hiromi: Eh, no! That’s not…

Ainosuke: That’s a mean way of asking. It’s not like I have a separate side of myself.

Akashi: Ah, that’s not what I intended to… Forgive me. It seems I have worded myself incorrectly.

Shimba: Well, there’s always gonna be something that you don’t wanna show, so of course you’re not gonna.

Mikera: I think it might be best to not worry about it. Like Inamoto-san said, we’ll just have the sensitive parts cut out for us.

Riam: Well… Yeah, I guess that’s right.

Inamoto: Now, please take this.

Meguru: ?

Riam: A phone?

Ainosuke: This is…

Inamoto: Your activities as idol candidates will mostly be posted on social media. That is what this is for.

Meguru: You are only giving us one?

Inamoto: Yes, you will all be sharing one.

Riam: What about my phone that I had to leave at the entrance when I got here? Am I still not getting that back?

Ainosuke: Whew! No wonder you’re like this, you know nothing~!

Riam: Aah?

Ainosuke: Ah, sorry. Continue, continue.

Inamoto: Allow me to explain. While you are here, any outside contact aside from your posts on social media is completely prohibited.

Kyouya: Eh…?! Does that include calls and messages…?!

Riam: STAMPS TOO?!

Inamoto: That is correct.

Meguru: Hahaha! Is this not practically imprisonment?

Kyouya: Eh? Was this how the final audition was? We can’t contact anyone outside…

Ainosuke: Haaa~~~ This is the best ♡ The people are different, but getting to hear that historical exchange in real life… I’m so glad I entered Bivalen~!

Riam: Dude, what’s with you? You don’t know when to stop talking!

Ainosuke: My B, my B ♡ This is just the kind of situation otaku end up reacting to no matter what~ Okay, so after this, we can all gather together and decide what chores we’re gonna do, and then make pancakes because we’re hungry, but then get our foot caught on a cord and get covered in flour, and then get into an argument, right?

Inamoto: How nostalgic. That sort of thing did happen.

Riam: Deciding on chores? Covered in flour?

Meguru: Is getting into an argument also guaranteed?

Mikera: What do you call this kind of thing again?

Hiromi: Aah, that feeling of abandoning someone you’ve just met. Um, I think it was…?

Monet: Kill at first sight…! Zz… Zzz… Zzz…

Mikera: That’s it…!

Hiromi: I think that’s a little off.

Ainosuke: Ah! What are we doing for the commemoration photo? Y’know! Everyone took one together, right? “AMBIVALEN-Z!” That o—

Inamoto: Before that…

Shimba / Mikera: ?

Inamoto: May I ask you all to gather in the center hall once again?

——

Riam: ? What?

Ainosuke: I really didn’t think someone like you would be my rival.

Riam: Whaddya mean by that?

Ainosuke: Oh, nothing. I’m glad though~. If my opponent is some loser, then I’ll have an overwhelming advantage.

Riam: You…! Are you fine with speaking like that? This conversation is being streamed too, isn’t it?

Ainosuke: It’s alright! Cut-kun will do something about it anyway. A~Aah, now that I know there’s gonna be editing, and my rival’s a non-otaku, it’s basically my win already~ I’ll be taking Orange as my representative color ♡

Riam: …!

Inamoto: Thank you very much for gathering here again. I will now tell you all about a special event, exclusive to the 2nd VS AMBIVALENZ audition.

Ainosuke: Event? Is there something else other than Cut-kun?

Inamoto: There are some people I’d very much like to introduce to you all.

Shimba: The ceiling’s…

Hiromi: Being lowered…

Cate: Is there someone there…?

Ainosuke: ! The people you want us to meet are…!

Riam: No way…!

Subaru: It’s nice to meet you. I am Subaru, a member of XlamV and a candidate from the 1st VS AMBIVALENZ audition.

Taiyou: Hello! I’m Taiyou, a member of fun4re and a candidate with Subaru.

Shimba: The former candidates?

Mikera: Why are they here?

Subaru: We have come here for you, the new candidates, as your mentors.

Monet: Mentors…?

Inamoto: A mentor is a role model who provides advice and guidance to younger people and newcomers to support their personal growth and emotional support. For the 2nd VS AMBIVALENZ audition, we have decided to call for the former candidates to guide you on your way.

Riam: You “have decided?!” What are you just—

Ainosuke: Why would you just decide to— Ah, no… I mean… Why did you just surprise us like that? Ehehe…

Subaru: We apologize for surprising you. We look forward to working with you for a while.

Taiyou: We’re looking forward to it! Ah, right! Futaba told me to take a picture of the ten of you.

Subaru: You’re taking it?

Taiyou: Ah, can I?

Inamoto: I’ll leave it up to you. Now, here we go. VS AMBIVALEN…

Everyone: Z!

Ainosuke: Why… Why is that person here…?

Riam: Why… Why is that guy here…?

Ainosuke: That person is…

Riam: He’s…

Riam / Ainosuke: The only one I never wanted to see…

comments

Nexus Drama - VS AMBIVALENZ 2nd Episode 1.5

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 09:12:39 GMT

(See bottom for notes)

One month before the VS AMBIVALENZ 2nd final audition

MC: Our next guest is the currently highly demanded idol group, XlamV!

Everyone: We’re happy to be here!

MC: I’ve gotta say, your new song is great~ It was well received, wasn’t it?

Subaru: Thank you very much. We received lots of praise through social media and fan letters because of it.

MC: Yes, yes. When you first debuted, you were quite stiff while answering, yet here you are completely used to it now!

Subaru: Eh… Ah… No… Even now, when I receive a question I wasn’t expecting, there are times when I’m not able to give a good answer…

MC: That part of you is so cute that I end up wanting to ask you pointless questions~

Issei: I get ya~ The face Subaru-kun makes while he’s choosin’ his next words is just adorable, isn’t it? Looks like we’re on the same page.

MC: Eh~? I’m sure you like to tease more than I do, Issei-kun.

Issei: Ya make me sound so evil~

MC: It’s not a bad thing at all. Let’s see, you and Subaru-kun are regulars on the monitoring TV show “MoniLive!” which airs every Thursday at 7 PM. Hold on, I ended up promoting it!

Subaru: Thank you very much. Please tune into it.

Issei: My good side makes an appearance there, so I hope ya watch.

Sakuya: He’s lying~ It’s still Issei’s bad side, yet somehow he’s so strangely cool that it’s just frustrating. Onii-san here is always telling you this, aren’t I? You can’t just treat people like they’re your toys.

MC: As for you, Sakuya-kun, the cooking program you appear in also seems pretty well-liked too~ It’s broadcasted on a different channel though, so I won’t be saying its name.

Sakuya: Thank you for bringing it up anyway. Auguri-chan and Jintarou-kun recently became semi-regulars, so it’s getting even more popular. On a different channel though.

MC: Wow! Do the two of you also cook together?

Jintarou: We’ve got a segment where we go outside and interview the people in town about whatever cooking problems they have!

Auguri: Jintarou’s amazing! He ended up getting really friendly with that stubborn seeming old man after talking to him with no hesitation.

Nagomu: The women in the shopping district kept surrounding you and calling you adorable too, Auguri.

MC: And you, Nagomu-kun! You’ve recently been invited to sports variety programs for your great soccer abilities pretty often, right? Well, those are shown on a different channel too.

Nagomu: That’s right. A video of me hitting all of the targets in a soccer-style game on another variety program went viral on social media… [1]

Jintarou: Yeah, the one that called you the Fantasista of the idol world! [2]

Nagomu: I couldn’t possibly be called that. I’m no match for actual professional soccer players…

Lion: There’s no limit if you keep aiming higher. Plus, the thing we’re giving our all to mastering is performing on stage.

Auguri: You’re putting it so harshly again, Lion~ I hear how you support Nagomu all casually when you two appear together.

Issei: It’s become a huge thing for our XlariS too. They’re sayin’ that the Muscle King and the Fantasista of the idol world are gettin’ along great.

Lion: Haa?

Nagomu: That’s right. Lion appears in sport variety programs a lot more than I do, so he helps me with a lot of the things I’m not familiar with.

Issei: Wow, sounds nice. We’re childhood friends, but Lion’s never treated me so kindly. I’m so jealous~

Lion: Don’t say things you don’t actually mean…

MC: It’s fine, it’s fine! You’re doing great individually too, not just as a group. XlamV’s popularity is really getting up there!

Subaru: We’re honored to hear that. We’d like to continue doing our best to be idols worthy of XlariS’ support.

MC: Now, moving on, XlamV was formed through “VS AMBIVALENZ,” the famous idol audition~ It seems like the next moves are being made, yes?

——

Taiyou: They finally announced it!

Cion: Taiyou, that’s the first thing you say after getting here?

Taiyou: Sorry. Wait, everyone from illuvista’s here too!

Cuc: Yeah! We finished today’s work.

Rey: That we did. We had work at a lottery venue, and we received an abundance of vegetables from the ladies passing by.

Futaba: Eh? So you received these vegetables as gifts! There are so many of them, so I thought you had stopped at an all-you-can-get vegetable store on the way here…

Mio: (Okay, come on. There’s no way they’d go to an all-you-can-get vegetable store before coming to the office~)

Kazu: Mio. You were just thinking that they wouldn’t go to an all-you-can-get vegetable store before coming to the office, weren’t you? It’s written all over your face.

Mio: Hey! Don’t just read people’s minds whenever you want! Kidding… Yesterday, we were given a ton of souvenirs on the way home from the sweet potato digging festival.

Cion: Aah, so all of those sweet potatoes in the office kitchenette’s fridge were given to you by your client.

Taiyou: Yup, yup. Let’s all eat them together with XlamV sometime~ Wait, no! That’s not what I wanted to talk about!

Rey: Whatever is the matter? We planned to divide the vegetables amongst everyone, so do not fret.

Futaba: Thank you very much! I wonder what would be good to make during this season.

Taiyou: No, that’s not it! Yeah, Sakuya did say that curry’s the best thing to make using the vegetables that are in season right now, but that’s not the point! I’m talking about the audition! You guys also saw the new candidates who remained in the 2nd final audition on the official website, didn’t you?

Futaba: I’m sorry, you were just so excited that I wanted to keep you in suspense.

Cuc: Cuc saw them too! Cuc remembered the audition and felt nostalgic.

Kazu: Right? I was shaken by how beautiful Nagomu-nii-san’s profile picture on the official site was.

Rey: What a coincidence. I was also shaken by the beauty of my profile picture.

Mio: Ahaha… I was… I couldn’t believe that I lasted until the final audition, so I couldn’t bring myself to open the official site.

Cion: Neither could I. I only ever did after I received that letter from Reisen Productions.

Futaba: It really takes you back… I still look at the official site sometimes. I made up my mind back then… It makes me remember what I set out to do.

Taiyou: Me too. Part of the reason I can be confident now is because I made it to the final audition back then.

Everyone: Yeah.

Futaba: Ah, that’s right. There was something that caught my attention when I opened the current site.

Taiyou: Yeah, that! That’s what I wanted to ask you guys about!

——

Shinonome: President Inamoto, what is the meaning of this? Ten participants are in the final audition… There were originally sixteen of them, correct?

Inamoto: Tailwind Office’s President Atarashi just contacted me and informed me that six of the candidates have withdrawn.

——

Subaru: They withdrew? Right before the announcement on the official website?

Shinonome: That’s right. Because of that, the participants who were originally eliminated could not move up in their place.

Taiyou: So that’s why there were people missing from the candidates who were announced.

Jintarou: We were just talkin’ about that too.

Futaba: Umm… By any chance, are the six people who withdrew…

Shinonome: Yes. It has just been announced that they are participating in a different audition.

Everyone: Eh?!

Mio: A different audition…?!

Futaba: It’s this one, right?

Rey: Whatever is this website? “The curtains rise on the bringer of a new era for idol auditions, VS Audition…?” Pardon me?! However, this is… not VS AMBIVALENZ!

Auguri: What does this mean? It’d be one thing if all they did was withdraw, but they’re participating in some other VS Audition?!

Subaru: A different VS Audition…

Lion: That just reeks of shadiness.

Futaba: Ever since Reisen Productions held VS AMBIVALENZ, the number of auditions held in the same way where two people compete for one spot has immensely increased.

Issei: Well, people are always gonna ride the bandwagon on things that went well, no matter what world ya enter.

Rey: Be that as it may, what usually follows is small businesses following in the footsteps of larger businesses. However, in this case…

Kazu: This company organizing this audition is… the former Reisen Productions. It’s Tailwind Office now, but doesn’t that mean this other production is large enough to rival us?

Cuc: A big company copied us?

Futaba: Yes. It’s become a big topic on social media too. There are even people who mistakenly think that this production is holding the new VS AMBIVALENZ audition…

Sakuya: Well, of course they would. Especially since they’ve got the people who were in our audition’s preliminaries until a little while ago.

Nagomu: How did this happen in the first place? Normally, you wouldn’t be able to participate in another audition after withdrawing from one so last minute, right?

Subaru: Normally, that’s— Wait… No. The VS AMBIVALENZ audition didn’t place restrictions on what someone could do after withdrawing.

Taiyou: Eh, they didn’t?

Subaru: Yeah. At the time, the majority of Reisen Productions’ business was focused on managing the training school. I believe they didn’t want to tie down the young people with a future ahead of them, and created their contracts based on that… I was also drawn in by that sincerity, and attended a training school under an affiliate company.

Taiyou: So that’s what happened.

Jintarou: B-Basically, what does that mean?

Sakuya: If they weren’t bound by contract, then it doesn’t matter what the candidates who withdrew are doing, but…

Cion: The people who suddenly transferred will have a pretty bad impression left on them.

Futaba: Truthfully, the candidates who withdrew and were announced to be participating in the VS Audition have been receiving a lot of hate comments on social media.

Nagomu: That’s horrible…

Cion: This couldn’t have happened unless someone pressured the candidates to do so.

Taiyou: Which means…

Shinonome: President Inamoto has suspicions about that person… About whether Atarashi planned all of this.

Cion: There’s no doubt he did.

Jintarou: What the hell is wrong with that guy?! What exactly does he think other people’s lives are worth?!

Lion: The problem here isn’t that he made them withdraw.

Mio: That’s right… It isn’t our audition. The actual VS Audition is about to begin…

Issei: We’re workin’ together with a guy who’d go and mess everythin’ up right before it begins. We don’t got the time to worry about what could happen.

Inamoto: About that…

Jintarou: AARGHH!

Inamoto: I have a favor to ask of you all.

Jintarou: That doesn’t matter! We’ve told you to stop appearing outta nowhere! I mean, it does matter, but still!

Taiyou: Inamoto-san, what do you mean by a favor…?

Inamoto: I ask you all to take control of VS AMBIVALENZ 2nd’s future.

——

notes:

1 - nagomu did this in episode 10 of fragments

2 - “fantasista” is an italian soccer term used like a title to praise soccer players with creative and effective ways of handling the ball on the field! there is also a soccer manga named fantasista that ran from 1999 to 2004

comments

The Returning Fortress - VS AMBIVALENZ 2nd Episode 1

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 04:01:22 GMT

(See bottom for notes)

Inamoto: Welcome, welcome! I am your guide, Inamoto. I hope we get to know each other well. And…

Atarashi: I am Atarashi, and I will be joining you as your advisor for this audition. Now, the curtain on the final evaluation for the 2nd VS AMBIVALENZ audition will finally rise!

Inamoto: The ten of you have made it to the final audition after making it past the fierce preliminaries.

Atarashi: You will each be assigned a rival and compete for the representative color given to you. The two-choice audition, created by VS AMBIVALENZ, starts now…!

Shimba: I’m Shimba! A candidate for Scarlet, Shimba! [1]

Mikera: Nice to meet you. I’m a candidate for Scarlet, Mikera.

Shimba: It has to be fate that you’ve gotten to know me like this. At least, that’s what I believe. My impression of my rival? [2] Ah~ ! I’d say he’s a cat!

Mikera: My hair isn’t meant to look like a cat, and it isn't my bedhead either. It’s because I have these two tufts on my head. My impression of my rival is… He’s full of force.

Shimba: In this idol industry where you either give or gain support, why don’t you climb on my back and see the sunrise together with me?! How about it, GLANZ?

Mikera: I may be petite, but I have confidence in my jumping ability and expressive power. I swear I’ll take the win and show you that I will become a worthy idol. GLANZ, please give meow your support! Wait, no… Please give me your support!

Hiromi: I’m a candidate for Emerald, Hiromi. And, um… Introducing yourself is hard, isn’t it?

Cate: Hey there! I’m Cate! I’m a candidate for Emerald! Looking forward to being here!

Hiromi: I’m often told that I’m dexterous. While I was in the workforce, my superiors told me I was the ideal subordinate. Was that a good thing?

Cate: I love to sing, and I love to dance! Everyone, let’s have tons and tons of fun with Cate! Eh? My impression of my rival? Umm… He seems like a nice person!

Hiromi: My impression of my rival is… In a good way, he's unique. I don’t really have anything about me that stands out, so I’m jealous. That’s why I’ll do all that I can with who I am now and try my best to appeal to you. I’m looking forward to it, GLANZ.

Cate: I’ll become an amazing idol and make every single one of you happy! GLANZ, cheer Cate on!

Akashi: I am Akashi, a candidate for Navy. I am aiming to become a singing and dancing mechanic idol.

Meguru: I am a candidate for Navy, Meguru. Navy is… basically, dark blue.

Akashi: What I love most is tinkering with machines. Essentially, mechanics, but I love to sing and dance just as much. If possible, I would like to combine these into one and make them both true. I believe that is the rational decision.

Meguru: A self introduction? A vote gained from this will change the course of our destiny… Hahaha! But, well, I won’t get too worked up. Rival? Aah, that strong-willed seeming child.

Akashi: My rival… I have the impression that calculations alone will not be enough to beat him. He seems formidable. However, there is no mistake in the answer I have arrived at. I will show GLANZ the proof of my existence.

Meguru: Ultimately, life is about tracing over the ink on the plot of destiny. As long as we move forward, it will end one day. Why don’t you witness that day together with me, GLANZ?

Ainosuke: Gather around, you fans hopelessly in love! [3] I’m a candidate for Orange, Ainosuke, written as LUVNOSUKE~.

Riam: A candidate for Orange, the name’s Riam. This is my second time doing the Vibalen audition.

Ainosuke: It’s my first time doing an idol audition, so I didn’t think I’d make it to the final evaluation. Plus, my rival actually failed once before, so doing an audition instead of just watching must be completely different.

Riam: I couldn’t make it to the final selection last time. That’s why I’m betting on this. Rival…? Who cares? I won’t be a loser a second time. I’m just gonna follow my own path.

Ainosuke: As someone who remained here, I’ll put my heart and soul into both the audition and spreading the word about the 14 original members, so be sure to cheer me on! GLANZ, luv!

Riam: There’s a candidate here who won’t lose no matter what. GLANZ, bet everything on me! I won’t make you regret it! Right here, right now, you’ll decide!

Monet: Yawn… Bonjour… I’m a candidate for Noir… That’s not it. I’m a candidate for Black, Monet. Nice to meet you.

Kyouya: I’m Kyouya. a candidate for Black. I listen to music because my brother is in a band, but I… don’t know much about idols…

Monet: Black is a really nice color, isn’t it? It’s the color you see when you close your eyes, and the color of the night sky when everyone else is fast asleep. My rival has really pretty black hair too.

Kyouya: Black is the color of death metal, so I’m happy. My brother is in a death metal band, so I love it too. I’ve even been practicing my death metal voice since I was little. Does my rival like black too? I wonder if he listens to death metal.

Monet: I love sleeping. I’ll become an idol, and then I want to have a nap party on a large field with GLANZ… Mm… Zzz, zzz, zzz… When I imagined everyone sleeping, I fell asleep too. Hehehe.

Kyouya: I don’t know much about idols, but… I’ll believe in both my brother who told me to make the best of my talent, and the GLANZ who have been voting for me up until now…

Inamoto: Now… The ten of you will go through the final selection of this idol audition.

Atarashi: The selection method will be “between two choices.”

Inamoto: Here, you will be active as idol candidates via social media while completing the tasks assigned to you.

Atarashi: And, you will be competing against the person you share a color with to see who will remain as the five members to debut, decided by the GLANZ’ votes. In the fortress arena, that is.

Riam: Hah? Here? So does that mean we’re gonna be judged right now?

Meguru: Ho… I hadn’t heard of this.

Kyouya: E-Eh? That’s how this is gonna go?

Mikera: Shh! We need to be quiet!

Akashi: They are still explaining.

Atarashi: Fufu. Alright then, Inamoto-kun. I’ll leave the rest to you.

Inamoto: Understood. Now, let us make our way to where the ten of you go through the final audition, the Internat.

Everyone: !

Riam: Oi, what’s goin’ on?

Meguru: The stage is being lowered…

Ainosuke: Hold on. Do you all seriously not know anything? Are you saying you didn’t watch the docudramas for the previous audition?

Riam / Meguru: I didn’t.

Kyouya: Ah, I only watched a little bit…

Akashi: You didn’t do any research on the previous audition?

Hiromi: You sure made it far without any prior knowledge.

Cate: Cate watched all of it!

Mikera: I don’t think you needed to point that out.

Riam: Where are we…?

Kyouya: Eh, wait…! The hole connecting the stage to the ceiling… closed…!

Meguru: Does this mean we are being kept captive here…?

Inamoto: This is the Internat, created by Reisen Productions with the best technology on hand in order to train idols. You, the idol candidates, will be living here during the audition. This will last for about a year.

Kyouya: A-A year?!

Riam: How come it’s that long?!

Meguru: Oh, that’s all?

Riam / Kyouya: Eh?

Meguru: Hm?

Inamoto: Please rest assured. The Internat has everything needed for idol activities. Of course, clothing, food, and housing is provided. It also includes a gym, a dance room, a sound studio, and more. However, there is only one thing it does not have.

Everyone: …!

Inamoto: A stage. There is no stage where idols can connect with their fans here. Those who win the audition, the ones chosen to debut… Only they will be allowed to stand on the fortress’ stage… The idol’s sacred place above ground. That is Reisen Productions’ idol audition, “VS AMBIVALENZ!”

Riam: This is… VS AMBIVALENZ…!

Monet: Zzz… Zzz…

——

notes:

1 - everyone’s profiles that appear on the screen are posted on my twitter! https://x.com/vsa_engtrans/status/1860672594086646245?s=46&t=AfpSDG7Tz_M_zkoahJUmoQ

2 - from here on out, crossed out sections represent the distortions

3 - the word ainosuke uses here is ガチ恋 (がちこい, gachikoi), which is a term to describe fans who are actually in love with a celebrity! can also apply to being in love with characters

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Training School Info Magazine "Hagukumi" July Issue (Final Issue)

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 05:32:44 GMT

This will be the last issue of Hagukumi. We would like to thank all of you who have been with us up to this point.

Taiyou: This is the last issue of Hagukumi, so let's take a look back at everything.

Cion: This’ll be the final issue because our debut is set and we'll no longer be trainees.

Mio: This isn’t a negative ending at all, so please don’t worry.

Kazu: … And yet, there’s someone who looks like he’s in hell.

Cuc: Futaba, are you okay? Feeling sick?

Rey: Don’t overdo yourself. Taking care of your body is also part of being a professional.

Futaba: Are you all alright with Hagukumi ending?! We’ll… We’ll lose such a fun and freeing place… I can’t stand it!

Taiyou: That’s true, we were able to write freely about a lot of things with Hagukumi.

Mio: We’ll be running the official account, so you’ll have a place to go wild… I mean, freely talk.

Futaba: That’s true, but still! I’m sad because Hagukumi was where I could use long sentences!

Cuc: Futaba, there, there.

Rey: With how strongly you feel about it, you’ll have many things to talk about during our review of everything.

Kazu: We might hit the character limit with Futaba alone.

Futaba: I’ll try to watch out for that, but… Please let me talk a lot!

Cion: Our debut feels like it came really fast though.

Taiyou: Right! It may not feel that way for everyone who was waiting for us, but… We were desperately trying to do what was right in front of us…

Mio: Every day was seriously chaotic… It was a long road, but everyone’s support made it easier.

Rey: That too is a given… Additionally, it was because all seven of us were together.

Cuc: Cuc too! Cuc thinks so too! It’s fun with everyone! So, panyanyan! Everyone panyanyan-ed together!

Kazu: Yeah. It meant a lot to be able to have friendly competition with everyone even after the audition ended.

Taiyou: We trained together for a year after living together for a year. It’s not often you get to spend that much time with someone else (laugh)

Cion: That’s why we were able to motivate each other and work even harder.

Rey: Our rivals debuting before us was a big factor as well.

Mio: I get that. I really, really wanted to catch up to him.

Kazu: Nagomu-nii-san was far away… But every time I thought that and got impatient, I was able to keep calm thanks to seeing everyone… I’m glad I was a trainee here.

Futaba: Also, I’m glad the lessons focused on our weak points! There were some steps that were difficult for me to land, but I was very happy when I was able to do them since we always had our teachers to help us…

Cuc: They also taught Cuc a lot of difficult Japanese! I remembered “Men and women of all ages!”

Mio: Why’d you choose that of all things…?

Cion: Now that we’re looking back, we really did a lot. We held seasonal events, ate seasonal foods… The things we did outside of our lessons were fulfilling too (laugh)

Futaba: The teachers were all wonderful people as well… Now we’ll be leaving the nest and making our debut… Uu… I can’t stop my tears…!

Mio: Hey, don’t cry. We’re making our debut, remember? I’m sure our teachers are… super proud of us… Uuuu…

Cuc: If it’s that sad, then do we repeat a year?

Rey: I see. There is also the option of training for another year…

Futaba: No. We will leave here and become great idols.

Kazu: You sure changed your mind quickly.

Cion: What we’ve learned here over the past year can only do us good. Let’s make the most of it and become the idols we each aspire to be.

Taiyou: We may have made our fans wait, but we’ll become the best idols so that they’ll feel glad we trained for a year and that we’re here because we did… There’s no doubt we will!

Futaba: Me too! I’ll become the idol I aspire to be and repay everyone who has supported me!

Cuc: I’ll give everyone a bunch of smiles so that everyone feels fun and happy!

Rey: I bear the sin of not displaying my beauty for a year. From now on, I will be generous and bring love and sparkle to everyone as a preacher of beauty.

Kazu: I will become as great as Nii-san! And then, someday…!

Mio: I think I’m starting to understand what kind of idol I want to be, little by little. I’ll keep doing my best so I can convey that to everyone!

Taiyou: Hagukumi may be over, but this is just the start for us! Please continue to support us!

(Posted to @rp_official_jp on Twitter, 8/6/24 JST)

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Training School Info Magazine "Hagukumi" June Issue

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 05:25:22 GMT

This month’s issue of Hagukumi will make the DJ event being held in July be much more enjoyable. For those planning to attend, this is a must-read.

Taiyou: The listening party is coming up.

Kazu: Why is it a DJ event?

Cion: The music producer planned it so that more people could enjoy the songs.

Cuc: Thank you! Producer!

Mio: A-A DJ event… Aren’t they for those super positive people?! T-That’s so scary!

Rey: Rest your heart. I am shining at all times. I will guide you with my radiance.

Mio: Thanks… No, wait, that’s not what I mean!

Futaba: Mio-san! I will get rid of that scary impression of DJ events for you today!

Kazu: You’re more excited than usual…!

Cuc: Cuc knows DJs! Spinning lots of plates! Sushi-go-round!

Futaba: So close!

Taiyou: Was it?

Mio: No, but honestly, DJs are for clubs and stuff like that, right? Dancing around with loud music blasting from a booth in the basement surrounded by total darkness…

Cion: That’s a little too biased, don’t you think?

Futaba: That’s not what it’s like at all! It’s true that the name “DJ event” may give that impression, but lately idols are organizing their own DJ events so they can spread their music to a wider audience!

Taiyou: Woah, really?! Are they the ones DJing?

Futaba: Of course, there are idols who DJ themselves! Seeing what kind of DJ arrangements they make out of existing songs is part of the fun! With an variety of DJ events for things like idols to anime flourishing, there’s nothing to be afraid of!

Cuc: Then they don’t do it in the dark?

Futaba: These events are civil! Don’t worry, there are lights on!

Mio: And there aren’t any scary people?

Futaba: I understand why you’re frightened, Mio-san. I used to be as well. But, once I went to a DJ event for my fave idols… It truly opened my eyes, and I had a lot of fun! So please, think that you were fooled at first and come to the event!

Cion: Since you’re insisting so much, it’ll definitely be a fun event.

Kazu: Yeah. Can I go as if I’m going to an idol’s live?

Futaba: Of course. There are lockers at the venue, so if you have traveled a long way or have a lot of luggage, feel free to bring it with you and leave it there! Bright items are also an OK!

Rey: Hoo… So it’s match between them and I to see who shines brighter!

Taiyou: You existing is enough to make things brighter, so it’s really fun having you around.

Futaba: There is also a VJ who improvises to play videos in the background that match with the music to make things even more exciting!

Mio: Now I get it. You get to enjoy music in a different way than at a typical live.

Taiyou: I thought there would be some kind of etiquette involved, but they’re events where you can genuinely enjoy yourself with everyone there!

Cuc: What kind of clothes does everyone wear? Leaves?

Futaba: You can wear whatever you like! Depending on the venue, it’s possible that the air conditioning may be too strong, so it may be a good idea to bring a coat!

Rey: The cold is your worst enemy! You should enjoy yourself while being careful of the dryness from the air conditioner.

Cion: An event to enjoy music in the same space with people who share the same interests… That’s what DJ events are about.

Kazu: It's no different from a regular live event. It’d be nice if everyone could enjoy themselves.

Futaba: Exactly! Ah, this is normal for otaku who are used to going to live shows, but you need to pay for drinks separately, so please make sure to check the price!

Mio: Drinks! The ones you usually see in live houses!

Futaba: If you aim for the end of the performance, it will get crowded, so it is better to get them early!

Rey: … You truly are a pro at enjoying yourself at these events.

Mio: How should we sum it up? First, you can leave your large luggage in good hands.

Kazu: Get your drinks early.

Cuc: Wear whatever you want!

Rey: Bright items are fine to bring.

Cion: Let’s have fun with everyone.

Taiyou: Thanks to Futaba, I’m even more excited. Can we ask you to give us ways to have fun next time we have an event?

Cion: You make him sound like a brochure (laugh)

Futaba: Everyone, please have lots of fun at the DJ event!

Taiyou: Alright, we’ll see you in the next issue~!

(Posted to @rp_official_jp on Twitter, 6/30/24 JST)

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Training School Info Magazine “Hagukumi” May Issue

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 10:11:53 GMT

1. Thoughts on the concept and outfits

Taiyou: I remember how excited Futaba was when we saw the outlines for the outfits.

Mio: It was amazing. I wanted to record it.

Kazu: It’s gonna go down in history.

Futaba: Really?! I mean, just look at the outfits! Look… Look at this!

Mio: Vocabulary, come back.

Taiyou: The outfits look like school uniforms.

Mio: Yeah, yeah! The jackets look like drum and fife uniforms, and the outfit has a silly and energetic vibe to it overall.

Futaba: The ribbon rosette on the chest adds a touch of cuteness, and the chain accessories filled with individuality that extend from the rosette are just too much! There are also badges that say 4 on them! The initials on the patches also give a mischievous feel, and it’s all very “fun4re!”

Kazu: Calm down a bit… Also, the things on our chests are called rosettes? I didn’t know that.

Taiyou: We, fun4re, want to be a lively, festive, and supportive presence for our fans! That’s the kind of group we are, so our outfits reflect that kind of energy!

Kazu: Our silhouettes while we dance also look very lively and fun, so we’d be happy if you checked that out during the debut unveil.

2. Things you’ve changed and are striving to do since forming fun4re

Taiyou: Just like our group name says, we believe that liveliness is important, so we always try to be energetic.

Mio: After all, if we don’t have the energy, we can’t support our fans.

Kazu: That’s right. That being said, our natural energy is more important than any energy that we have to force out of us.

Futaba: Our natural energy. I see. It’s not that we force ourselves to smile, but it comes to us naturally when we feel the joy in our daily lives.

Mio: So, we have fun being fun4re so that our fans can have fun supporting us too; that kind of thing~?

3. About the future and your enthusiasm

Taiyou: I don’t know if we actually got this across, but even though we’ve announced our debut, we’re still trainees until August 7th! So, for now, I’m still Taiyou the trainee!

Mio: Either way, we ask for your continued support!

Futaba: And as we said before, we believe that fun4re is a group that can get together with our fans and have fun together, so if you are feeling a little down, come laugh and make some noise with us! We also gain energy from our fans, so in the spirit of helping each other out… please do!

Kazu: Something at the end there sounded kinda off, don’t you think? (laugh)

Mio: But giving each other support is something we can pull off because it’s us.

Taiyou: Please continue to support us while we’re still trainees and when we become fun4re!

——

1. Thoughts on the concept and outfits

Rey: Behold this delicate and beautiful design!

Cuc: And just in the outfits.

Rey: Is this not a perfect concept for our group name, “illuvista?”

Cion: The name “illuvista” is based on our desire to show our fans the “sparkle” and “dreamy scenery” that only the three of us can create.

Cuc: The outfits are super sparkly and fluffy and flowy, like in a dream! Fits the image so well!

Rey: Yet, they look as graceful as if they belong to the rulers of a nation. The decoration on the collar and sleeves speak of elegance.

Cion: Each outfit has a different motif and design, but each decoration is so carefully applied that when I put on the sleeves, I feel a sense of pride and a desire to be worthy of these genuinely wonderful outfits.

Cuc: Cuc likes the flowy parts the best! Mysterious!

Cion: The outfit design fits the concept of our group’s name, so I hope everyone looks closely.

2. Things you’ve changed and are striving to do since forming illuvista

Cion: I haven’t changed anything in particular, but… Like I said before, I think I’ll end up being conscious about trying to match the outfits.

Rey: As in?

Cion: If an elegant and beautiful outfit is being worn by someone who isn’t, it’ll only feel as if they’re wearing a costume, so I’ve learned to live my life while being aware of being illuvista’s Cion at all times. We haven’t debuted yet, so I’m still a trainee though. But I think it’s important to have that awareness.

Rey: A splendid mindset! Beauty does not reside in appearances. True beauty is what overflows from the heart and one's actions. Just as Cion says, being beautiful at your core is the very first step towards beauty. If we proceed slowly, step by step, we will naturally learn how to behave in a beautiful manner.

Cuc: Cuc will work hard too so that people think, “Cuc of illuvista is great!”

Cion: That being said, I don't think Rey would be any different before or after our debut was decided.

Rey: What do you mean?! I have increased my daily skin care time by ten minutes, added ten minutes of stretching, and acquired a new bath oil to enhance my relaxation time in the bath. It softens the skin and helps with swelling and cold!

Cion: As expected of you, Rey…!

3. About the future and your enthusiasm

Cuc: Cuc and everyone are still trainees until August 7th! We’re trainees but we’ll do everything like pros! Of course!

Rey: That’s right. I believe that it is because of the daily lessons I had as a trainee that I am where I am today, and while I believe I have been spoiled in many ways by my title as a trainee, after August 7th, I will be living with the name "illuvista" on my shoulders. This will require determination, conviction, and professionalism, and it will be a completely different landscape from what we have seen up to now.

Cion: We will do our best to be idols that you will not be ashamed to support, so please continue to do so in the future.

(Posted to @rp_official_jp on Twitter, 5/25/24 JST)

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Training School Info Magazine “Hagukumi” April Issue

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 22:28:02 GMT

This month's issue of Hagukumi will focus on the trainees’ impressions of "XlamV 1st LIVE -To You-,” XlamV’s first live that was held on the 12th.

Taiyou: I’m glad we can talk about what we thought about the live!

Cion: Since we had decided to speak at Hagukumi, everyone had kept their opinions to themselves until today.

Futaba: Fufufu… That’s right.

Mio: Shoot! We know we’re able to talk today, so Futaba’s self control will…!

Kazu: It’ll shut down…?!

Futaba: That day, that night, that place! Do you know how much I have wanted to share my thoughts?! Do you understand how it felt to still be in agony from the excitement after leaving the fort arena and having to decide whether or not to grab a fan from the audience and ask them if you can have a moment of their time?!

Cuc: Futaba, calm down and make some mochi. There, there.

Futaba: Bam, bam… How will making mochi like that help?!

Rey: An excellent retort despite your excitement. Wonderful as always, Futaba!

Taiyou: Okay, okay! Everyone has a bunch of things they want to talk about, so let’s get started~.

Futaba: Firstly, the time after the venue opens is my favorite time in the world!

Kazu: You’re starting from there?!

Mio: Wait, you're talking about the part before the live starts, and not the actual live?

Futaba: Eh, is that not what we’re supposed to do? I was going to talk about how I got on the train after lessons and headed to the venue…

Mio: That’ll take so long! We’re going to talk about the live!

Rey: Aren’t you a bit curious about Futaba’s preparations for the concert battlefield?

Mio: Sure I am, but!

Cion: For the sake of the page, we’d like to start at the beginning of the live. We’ll talk about Futaba’s preparations another time…

Futaba: Is that so? I understand.

Taiyou: The excitement of the opening was amazing!

Mio: I know~~~! I got goosebumps…

Cuc: Futaba was crying at that point…

Rey: Isn’t that a bit too swift?

Futaba: I’m sorry… The tears just burst out.

Taiyou: I know. Starting out with Said that was so cool.

Cuc: Nagomu was super good at dancing!

Mio: Ah, right? I was surprised to see Issei dancing so well too…

Cion: So all of us were looking at our rivals, huh? (laugh)

Kazu: I was only ever looking at Nagomu-nii-san, though.

Rey: Were you? Lion’s solo part impressed you, did it not?

Kazu: … Shut up.

Futaba: I understand. I really understand how everyone feels. We just don’t have enough eyes! I’ve never wanted sixteen eyeballs more; one pair to see everything in full view and seven pairs to watch everyone individually.

Kazu: Don’t bring a monster into the venue.

Futaba: By the way, we were graciously invited to the second showing of the live, and this was the set list.

1. Said that

2. A.S.A.P

3. what about love

4. Our Sora

5. Mikan

6. You&Me

7. This is my way

8. Groovy Night

9. Go My Own Way

10. From Me

Cion: From the strength and passionate messages from each member shown in “Said that” to the heavy rhythm of “A.S.A.P,” the excitement in the venue was through the roof.

Mio: It’s a really intense song, but Auguri’s pretty high notes really hook you in with how pleasing they are to your ears.

Futaba: Exactly! Auguri-san’s high harmonies are just the best… Now that I’ve heard them live, my hearing and eyesight have tremendously improved!

Cuc: No doctor needed with Auguri!

Futaba: Precisely!

Taiyou: Then they sang “what about love” after the MC segment. I wanna talk about that part too~.

Cion: Jintarou really was making a lot of noise the entire time (laugh)

Kazu: I’m glad Jintarou didn’t act any different from his usual.

Mio: The cheers when Lion and Issei’s picture showed up were crazy (laugh)

Rey: The yells coming from all sides could rightfully be described as yellow.

Taiyou: I was really surprised! I thought something came to get us (laugh)

Cuc: Yellow voices… Issei and Lion, blue and white… Ha! Nagomu’s voice?

Mio: Sorry, that’s not what that means.

Futaba: The audience’s excitement knew no bounds as we transitioned from the heart wrenching love song to Our Sora and then Mikan. I thought I was going to tear my arm off while waving my penlight.

Kazu: Good thing you didn’t.

Rey: It became even more exciting when they performed their new song “You&Me” for the first time at the venue.

Cuc: Futaba couldn’t stop his tears.

Futaba: Uu… I’m sorry. Please excuse me for crying the whole time. I want to be a creature without feelings.

Cion: Please stay as you are!

Kazu: This is completely unrelated, but I liked hearing the cheers during the MC segments. They were going, “You’re doing great!” and they sounded like a mom praising her son.

Futaba: I understand. I am Auguri-san's mother and father too. (?)

Taiyou: The call and response was also perfect. Every time everyone spoke, the audience would listen to what they had to say, and it was great to feel like the whole audience was creating the live with their own hands.

Rey: It was a bit saddening when “Groovy Night” came after “This is my way.” Then, just as I felt like such a fun time was coming to an end, the encore came.

Futaba: Going from “Go My Own Way” to “From Me” was just so, sooo perfect!!

Kazu: It was great that the setlist made a complete story, or rather, felt whole from the beginning to the end. The person who thought of it is a genius.

Cion: Kazu, you sounded a bit like Futaba there, no?

Futaba: No, wait! Cuc-san was crying a bit during Go My Own Way too, right?

Cuc: Cuc was sweating a bit from the eyes too… Chest tightened… Cuc wanted to stand on that stage too!

Taiyou: I get that. It's super fun to watch and cheer, but we want to be on that stage too.

Rey: That is a given. This live served as a painful reminder that standing on that glittering stage is a way of giving back to the fans who have supported us.

Cion: Let's work even harder so that we can be on the same stage someday.

Mio: Yeah! Next time, they’ll be waving their penlights for us!

Futaba: I will be on stage with you while also wanting to support you all, so I will learn the art of alter egos!

Taiyou: (Laugh) You’ve set the bar high for yourself! Alright, we’ll see you in the next issue!

——

notes: 黄色い声 (kiiroi koe) does directly translate to “yellow voices,” which is why cuc gets mixed up, but it’s an expression meant to convey loud, high-pitched, and happy voices, since yellow is usually associated with joy 💛

(Posted to @rp_official_jp on X / Twitter, 4/27/24 JST)

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Training School Info Magazine “Hagukumi” March Issue

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 02:01:51 GMT

This month's issue of Hagukumi looks back on the year since entering the training school. Many things have happened. What were the things that impressed the trainees?

Taiyou: It's already been a year since we entered the training school! Time’s flown by!

Futaba: At first it was just the three of us, but now it’s such a lively place… It’s very emotional.

Kazu: And we’re going to look back on that year. What do you guys have to say?

Cion: It technically hasn’t been a year for us since we enrolled late, but is that okay?

Futaba: Since it has been a year since the training school was established, let's talk about each of our memories since we enrolled~!

Cuc: Oka~y! Cuc just joined the training school recently, but there’s been a lot!

Mio: I know. It's a different kind of crowdedness than at the Internat.

Rey: We don't see each other every day like we did then, but I can sense that our relationship has grown stronger because of it.

Taiyou: Right? It's like we respect each other more because of the time we don't see each other.

Futaba: We can inspire each other and have friendly competition!

Rey: Every moment has become irreplaceable. When I close my eyes like this... joyful days come rushing back to me.

Cuc: Rey, flashing before your eyes?

Futaba: You’re dying?! Rey-san, come back!

Rey: I am not dying! It is just simply how rich our time together is!

Taiyou: Ahaha. Everyone cherishes what’s happened at the training school.

Kazu: I like that the lesson curriculum is rich, so I can practice my weak points without leaving them as they are. I’m grateful to be able to join a training school and do something like this.

Mio: And since we celebrate seasonal events, it's a great way to take a break from practice and get a little more energy out of it. Osechi, chocolate, or cake…

Cion: Looking back, we pretty much ate all the time.

Cuc: Cuc ate a lot of New Year's mochi. Kinako, butter mochi, nori, soy sauce… were all delicious, but anko is the best!

Rey: You stuffed your mouth so much that your cheeks were puffy like mochi.

Kazu: It was also delicious to eat sanma grilled on a shichirin. I didn’t know it’d be so good.

Taiyou: Right! It was my first time using a shichirin too, and I learned the power of charcoal fire!

Rey: That's right! It is the basic method of cooking fish, but it makes the fish taste even better! Fish truly is an essence you can eat that does wonders for your beauty.

Futaba: Wow! A fish dish extremist!

Cion: We really do seem like we ate a lot (laugh)

Futaba: That’s true. Osechi, ehomaki, mochi… We also had tsukimi dango, didn't we?

Mio: I think this is the training school that gives the best seasonal food in Japan (laugh)

Futaba: Why don’t you join us, everyone?!

Taiyou: This turned into a recruitment! (laugh)

Mio: But it’s your responsibility to stay in shape, so please be careful… Hahaha…

Kazu: Yeah… Training schools always have some kind of treat after all.

Mio: Right! When I was baking potatoes with Cuc and Futaba, I wondered what I was going to do… They said they were trying to make me gain weight…

Cuc: It’s okay! If you practice a lot, you can eat a lot!

Mio: That’s true, but still!

Rey: People may mistake this for a training school that's all about eating.

Taiyou: Of course, we’re taking lessons! Now that our debut has been decided, we’re all even more determined to focus!

Cion: We each have a personal menu to overcome our weaknesses, but it's pretty tough.

Cuc: It's fun, but exhausted after lessons~…

Futaba: That's why the sweets to treat yourself with are so delicious!

Rey: If something is used all the time, its reaction time will slow. Sometimes it is necessary to pamper it and give it a rest. This training school knows how to use the carrot and stick well.

Mio: That candy is too good, so I’ll give myself proper warnings and not eat too much~.

Kazu: Wouldn't Shinonome-san be happy if we told him that? He buys snacks for us every time. Oh, and he sometimes orders them for us, too.

Everyone: Eh?!

Taiyou: He even does that for us?!

Kazu: The fruit daifuku that Futaba mentioned being delicious before was an order, wasn’t it?

Futaba: No wonder! I knew that the smooth melt-in-your-mouth texture of the sweet bean paste was something special!

Mio: He’s helping us do our best as trainees… Paying so much attention to our break-time snacks is amazing!

Cuc: Cuc’s impressed! Will do my best!

Taiyou: Looking back on the year, we’re grateful to everyone who supported us, Shinonome-san, and the training school.

Everyone: Thank you very much! We’ll continue to count on you!

(Posted to @rp_official_jp on Twitter, 3/31/24 JST)

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Training School Info Magazine “Hagukumi” February Issue

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:55:00 GMT

This month's issue of Hagukumi brings you how to spend February. How did the trainees spend “Setsubun” and “Valentine's Day?”

Taiyou: So we’re talking about February traditions!

Mio: Even though February is about to end…?

Futaba: The idea is to give a look-back! For us fans, we are curious to know how our oshis spent the seasonal events! Please, go ahead and tell us!

Cion: He’s falling forward…

Rey: Hm. February events include Setsubun and Valentine’s Day, but both of those were spent with you, Futaba.

Futaba: Hold on! Suggestive comments are not allowed!

Cuc: What’s that? Rey smelly?

Rey: How foolish! There is not a bit of scent coming from me!

Mio: It’s always a good and sweet smell, don't worry.

Kazu: Rey’s sweet smell aside, we’re talking about how we spent February, aren’t we?

Taiyou: Yup! What’d you do for Setsubun?

Mio: I ate ehomaki with my younger sister.

Cion: You silently eat while facing the Lucky Direction for that year, right?

Mio: It’s dangerous to bite into the ehomaki, so I cut the ehomaki into pieces and ate them. I didn't pay attention to the direction, so maybe next year I'll pay attention to it.

Kazu: I was also only looking at Nii-san eating the ehomaki and didn't pay attention to the direction…

Cion: That sounds just like you…

Taiyou: Ehomaki is that thing you buy, right?

Kazu: Yeah. Nii-san bought it for us on his way home from work. It was delicious.

Futaba: There are many kinds of ehomaki now, what kind did you have?

Kazu: Ours was really just a regular one. The kind with anago and stuff like that in it.

Mio: Ours was one with a whole big fried shrimp in it.

Taiyou: Oh, fancy! That sounds delicious too~!

Cion: Now I’m curious about Rey’s ehomaki.

Rey: Curious, you say? I do not think I had anything particularly unusual… A seafood roll with tuna and snow crab, roast beef and caviar, and sea urchin and salmon roe… That is normal, no?

Mio, Cion, Kazu: It’s not!

Taiyou: No surprises there (laugh) How’d Setsubun go for you, Cuc?

Cuc: Cuc had fun throwing beans!

Taiyou: Aah! We did throw beans in between lessons, didn’t we? Getting all fired up to avoid the beans was a good workout!

Kazu: Yeah… It was hard to pick up the bags of beans that fell.

Futaba: “Throwing the beans as they are is a waste, so don’t!” is what Sakuya-san… No, a guardian advised, so we scattered individually wrapped packets of beans. It's easy to clean up, so everyone should try it next year!

Cion: Setsubun is great, but what did you all do for Valentine's Day?

Mio: I spent the whole night helping my sister make chocolates for her friends… So my muscles were sore the next day…

Futaba: Friend chocolates? I didn’t know that people still do that! How youthful~!

Mio: They were for her whole grade, so I was making as much as manufacturers do…

Kazu: Sounds rough…

Mio: I got some chocolates as a thank you for helping out, but I thought, "No, but, these are the ones I made.”

Cion: (laugh) We received chocolates at the training school, too, didn't we? Did everyone eat them?

Taiyou: The expensive, individually wrapped chocolates Inamoto-san received from work, right? Those were so good…!

Futaba: I really savored the taste of the expensive chocolate since I almost felt like I couldn’t eat it at all (laugh)

Cion: Mhm, it was really good. Rey made chocolates with Kazu, right?

Kazu: We did. Nii-san was happy with them…

Rey: Indeed. Although every year on Valentine's Day, the Kisumi family holds a chocolate party for the people of the mansion to express their gratitude for their daily support…

Mio: A chocolate party?!

Rey: That’s right. Chocolatiers from around the world are invited to the mansion and serve everyone, but this year, I handed them some of my handmade chocolates that Kazu and I made together, and they were very pleased.

Mio: It’s good that they liked them. But the scale of what we did is too different!

Futaba: Holding a chocolate festival at your home…

Taiyou: Cuc gave us chocolates too, but they were handmade, right?

Cuc: Of course! Cuc’s fussy about chocolate!

Mio: Oh, that’s unexpected... But it’s true that the chocolates we got were delicious.

Cuc: Particular about ingredients!

Cion: Ingredients… Y-You don’t mean…!

Cuc: Made from cacao! Common sense for making chocolate!

Cion: I knew it…! So authentic…!

Taiyou: So that’s how it was! That must’ve been tough, huh? Thanks!

Futaba: We certainly received Cuc-san’s love!

Mio: I’m a little curious about making authentic chocolate now…

Kazu: Let me make them with you next year. I want to give them to Nii-san.

Cuc: The road to chocolate is cruel and tough! Work hard and master!

Kazu, Mio: Yeah!

Taiyou: Ah, we’re gonna hit the character limit soon…! We’ll see you in the next issue~!

——

notes: futaba says 匂わせ発言 (niowase hatsugen, suggestive comments) and 匂わせる (niowaseru) means both “to give off a scent” and “to hint at/suggest”, so cuc thinks futaba is calling rey smelly 😅

(Posted to @rp_official_jp on Twitter, 2/25/24 JST)

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Fragments Episode 14

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 20:13:51 GMT

Shinonome: (Are you planning to do something underhanded again?!)

Atarashi: (You understand, Yakumo. If you do that, the newly debuted XlamV will be suspected to have been rigged too.)

Cion: (I am going back and forth between being under Tailwind and attending REISEN’s training school. Of course the public would think that REISEN and Tailwind are connected.)

Inamoto: (XlamV… has won Rookie of the Year at the Platinum Disk Awards.)

Nagomu: (I wonder if XlamV winning an award right now will increase the number of people auditioning…)

Inamoto: (That is the proof. Atarashi has also allowed XlamV to perform in the fort arena.)

Mio: (At this rate… XlamV’s going to be the face of a corrupt audition…!)

——

Inamoto: What is it you wish for?

Inamoto: What must be done for you to cancel the audition?

Atarashi: Haha, what was that?

Inamoto: What must be done for you to cancel the audition? Could you withdraw from the VS AMBIVALENZ audition?

Atarashi: No no, that’s not what I meant, Inamoto. Do you really think your actions have that much influence on me? Enough to influence the audition?

Inamoto: …

Atarashi: Don’t you think too highly of yourself? Just like those so-called idols who are so proud of themselves because they were chosen in an audition even though they have no talent. You truly are their president.

Inamoto: Talent, you say. What exactly do you mean by talent?

Atarashi: Competence, perfection, every possible performance that can be fully quantified. Oh, I'm not sure I'd give much credit to popularity contests when it comes to quantifying though. That's a purge for people with no talent, whose bottom line is raised by the emotional pornography of hard work.

Inamoto: Despite that, will you hold the audition?

Atarashi: The premise of debuting idols through an audition is the best for publicity, isn't it? So I'm going to use that to select the right and talented idols and clean up the distorted world of entertainment. I will turn it into a place where only those who are truly capable, like Cion-kun and Yakumo, can gather.

Inamoto: You… Why are you so fixated on Cion-san?

Atarashi: It’s obvious, isn’t it? He has talent. That was reflected in the difference between the audition’s votes, wasn't it? That boy who used to be his rival, J-Jin…

Inamoto: Jintarou-san.

Atarashi: Yes, him. His performances are uneven, but energetic and able to deceive the audience. For Cion-kun to have a close match with a person like that, he is without a doubt the real deal.

Inamoto: It is true that Cion-san possesses wonderful talent.

Atarashi: Doesn’t he? So—

Inamoto: However, that is the result of the hard work he has put in.

Atarashi: That’s obvious. I’m not talking about that trivial— Ah… Are you talking about the unfortunate accident he had as a child actor?

Inamoto: Unfortunate accident…

Atarashi: If that hadn’t happened, he would have gathered a lot more attention by now. He could have been the real thing, someone that no one else could ever touch. Aah, how frustrating. If I had come to know Cion-kun earlier… He wouldn’t have entered the audition and I could have brought him to the right place.

Inamoto: Even if… entering the audition was a meaningful decision for Cion-san?

Atarashi: Haa?

Inamoto: Indeed, what he experienced may have been an unfortunate accident. It goes without saying that it shouldn’t have happened at all. That is absolute. However, his choice to audition, the good rival he met there, the days he spent with him, and what he overcame were meaningful to Cion-san… That is why GLANZ felt Cion-san’s brilliance and voted for him. And that is the same for Jintarou-san. There is a wonderful brilliance within him as well.

Atarashi: Something he overcame? Experience he has accumulated? And feeling his brilliance? That's just a thinly veiled attempt at empathy and self-projection, forcing others to feel a sense of accomplishment that they can't get for themselves.

Inamoto: Is there something wrong with seeing yourself in someone else's desperate hard work? Where is the harm in sharing a feeling of accomplishment or frustration and being happy or sad together…?!

——

Shinonome: …

Inamoto: (You have also protected the seven members of XlamV before their debut. You were pushed into a corner where you should have been too afraid to move, and even though you were hurt, you still told me the truth about his wrongdoings.)

Shinonome: Inamoto-san said that, but… The truth is, I don’t know why I felt like I had to protect those fourteen from wrong… Because I respect Inamoto-san? To escape from my feelings of guilt…?

Everyone: ♩ Aah, aah~♩

Shinonome: …?

——

Everyone: ♩ Aah, aaah~♩

Shinonome: Everyone… You’re all here.

Taiyou: Ah, Shinonome-san! Good morning.

Everyone: Good morning!

Shinonome: The trainees have a break today and XlamV are off today too, right?

Futaba: I got worried about the new audition, and I just couldn't stay calm at home. When I came here, it seemed like everyone felt the same way.

Cion: Then Subaru said we may as well all do a lesson together.

Subaru: When you’re worried about something, getting absorbed in lessons is the best solution, isn’t it?

Sakuya: Stoic as always, Subarun~ Just kidding. Well, actually, all we can do right now is practice for the upcoming lives.

Cuc: Debut lesson for Cuc and us!

Nagomu: That’s right. And if I don’t move, I’ll think darker and darker thoughts. But…

Auguri: Yeah. But… That’s not all.

Taiyou: Aah~ So we all feel the same like I thought we did?

Shinonome: ? What does that mean…?

Subaru: We want to believe in why the 14 of us are here.

Shinonome: …!

Rey: We auditioned out of a large number of participants and were selected as finalists. Then, we competed with our rivals over the course of a year. There will be others who will dismiss the process as futile, as Tailwind’s president does.

Mio: But, even then, we know… That the experience we had together wasn’t a waste of time.

Issei: There’s no way it would be. Worryin’ like an idiot, facin’ yerself and yer rival like an idiot… And then…

Lion: GLANZ found us like that.

Taiyou: Yeah. Our experiences became ones that belong to both us and GLANZ.

Auguri: We cried and laughed together with GLANZ, and we tried our hardest together. They’re the best memories ever.

Kazu: No matter how much people deny it or use it for bad things, we want to believe in what that experience and audition gave us. We want to prove it with our own hands.

Futaba: So that they can acknowledge it even a little bit…

Shinonome: You all…

Jintarou: Basically, let's keep doing lessons to keep our tons of whatever color memories alive!!

Cuc: Jintarou, do you mean “irreplaceable?”

Jintarou: Ooh, Cuc! You could say that too!

Mio: I think that’s the only thing you could’ve said.

Nagomu: Jintarou, you’ve finally gotten corrected by Cuc.

Kazu: Of course. Cuc’s been panyanyaning with his studies.

Cuc: Yeah! Cuc is panyanyaning!

Shinonome: Haha…

Issei: Alright, let’s calm down. Shinonome-san is laughin’.

Shinonome: Ah, I apologize, I just…

Sakuya: It’s alright. It’s hard to not laugh at this kind of back and forth.

Shinonome: Yes, that’s true.

Taiyou: He agreed without a thought!

Shinonome: My apologies. But, truly, when I look at all of you... I can't help but feel moved as well… Ever since the audition began…

Futaba: Eh?! Then, you’ve known of us since the beginning of the audition?

Subaru: I thought it was only after you started working here.

Shinonome: I’m sorry for hiding it. All along, I’ve been watching all of you. If you all had worries, I would be worried as well… When you all would work hard, I would also put in effort… When you all laughed, I would feel like laughing too… …! Oh. So that’s why I…

Taiyou: Shinonome-san…?

Shinonome: I think… No, I know I have. I’ve been everyone’s fan since the very beginning…!

Everyone: …!

Taiyou: I’m really glad! Thank you so much!

Futaba: It's a bit embarrassing to hear it said to your face.

Cion: It is.

Shinonome: Um… If I may, can I join your vocal training?

Jintarou: Eh? You can do ‘em?

Shinonome: I attended a music school in the past. Something came up, and I had to quit… For a while… I’ve distanced myself from singing.

Kazu: Do you not sing anymore?

Shinonome: Not altogether. Just, the songs that someone begged for me to sing were only a means to an end for me…

Taiyou: A means to an end…?

Shinonome: But, seeing you all… makes me want to sing… from the bottom of my heart.

Lion: …

——

Inamoto: People are moved by the sight of the person they are supporting. They gain the courage to take a new step forward. And then the person being supported will see that. I won’t allow you to abuse the irreplacable time they have experienced…

Atarashi: …! No matter what you say, you’re too late. You’ve lost, Inamoto. The sponsors have already gathered. The curtain will rise for VS AMBIVALENZ II. No matter how many ideals you preach.

Inamoto: Is withdrawing something so difficult for you to do?

Atarashi: Shut up.

(Phone rings)

Atarashi: What do you want? The sponsors…? Alright, put me on the other line. How long do you plan on staying here, Inamoto? As you can see, I”m in the middle of work. Hurry up and leave— Ah, no. There’s no problems here. How may I help you today? Yes. You have a request regarding the hosting of VS AMBIVALENZ II…? My deepest apologies. What exactly do you mean by request…? No, as long as you sponsor us, we will try our best to— Ha? You want VS AMBIVALENZ II to be a collaboration with REISEN Productions…?

Inamoto: …

Atarashi: What do you mean by that…?! Even if you are a sponsor, I don’t believe you may have a say in the course of management. Yes, you are not the only company participating. If you are dissatisfied, then—

(Knocking)

Staff: Please excuse me!

Atarashi: WHAT?! I don’t remember giving you permission to enter—

Staff: I am deeply sorry! We are currently receiving an abundance of calls from the heads of the sponsor companies…!

Atarashi: ?!

Staff: They want the management of VS AMBIVALENZ II to be a collaboration with REISEN Productions. If we cannot make that happen, they say they will withdraw their sponsorship.

Atarashi: Inamoto…! What did you do…?!

Inamoto: I have done nothing. However, it is possible that most of the companies that offered sponsorship for this audition are affiliated with or are deeply connected to a major agent company overseas that happens to be friendly with REISEN Productions… That is all.

Atarashi: How could a lowly production company have connections with a major agent company overseas… ! It can’t be…

Inamoto: There are only two ways your company can survive in this situation. The first is to replace every single sponsor and eliminate any outside influence. However, the downside is that Tailwind Office's future position in the industry may be in jeopardy because of its unilateral misconduct towards several companies.

Atarashi: …!

Inamoto: Your other option is to accept the sponsors’ requests and manage VS AMBIVALENZ together with REISEN Productions. The downside for us… most likely does not exist. I am not so sure about you, however.

Atarashi: You piece of filth, Inamoto…!

Inamoto: I will not allow you to harm those fourteen’s… No, the young people that will gather from now on. I will not allow you to harm their irreplaceable time and experiences. Under any circumstance.

——

Lion: Huh, that so? Then that means I didn’t have to call. Shut up. Don't try to sound clever. I told you already, I get it. Yeah. I… Thanks for this. I’m hanging up! … ?! You— How long have you been standing there…?!

Shinonome: A little before you hung up. I’m sorry, should I not have heard?

Lion: Nah… For now, let me just tell you. The stuff about the audition’s been taken care of.

Shinonome: Eh, what do you—

Lion: Don’t ask, that’s all I’m saying. There’ll be an official report when Inamoto gets back. Damn it, if Inamoto was gonna contact him, then he should’ve told me before. Now I just asked for something I didn’t need…

Shinonome: Lion-san! Um… Why would you go that far? During the audition, you were the most opposed to the situation out of the fourteen of you, weren’t you…?

Lion: I was a “demon.”

Shinonome: Eh?

Lion: I believed in my own power, but I didn’t believe in myself. That’s the kind of bad I mean.

Shinonome: …

Lion: But those guys would probably say, “That’s not true,” with no evidence, like idiots. In that case… It doesn’t feel bad to be someone who that isn’t true for. That’s all.

Shinonome: …

Inamoto: (I know that you are not a demon.)

Shinonome: I want that too… I want to be someone who that isn’t true for…!

——

Tailwind Office presents: VS AMBIVALENZ II! You wish to become an idol. You wish to test your talent. You wish to meet important companions. You wish to turn your dreams into reality. Collaboration with REISEN Productions has been decided! VS AMBIVALENZ II! Audition applications are now being accepted on the website.

——

Subaru: The new VS AMBIVALENZ is finally starting.

Taiyou: Yeah, Inamoto-san went to Tailwind Office about that today, didn’t he?

Subaru: It seems like a tough time. For now, they said they would be very careful to not let the vote margin be manipulated or the documentary be edited in a biased way.

Taiyou: Well, they’re dealing with that kind of guy as president~ I wish there was a way for us to help somehow.

Subaru: Before that, we have our live and your debut.

Taiyou: Uu, that’s right.

Subaru: Well… That’s what I’d like to say, but I was thinking the same thing as you. REISEN Productions is now collaborating, so we can already be involved in a major way.

Taiyou: Subaru~ I knew you’d say something like that~

Subaru: But, that’s only if we do our jobs and lessons well, got it?

Taiyou: Of course!

Subaru: Have the debut groups already been announced?

Taiyou: Not yet. But they’ll be announced soon, so everyone’s really excited. Mio was so excited that he missed the train and had to walk two stations. Rey also said we were going to be the best we’d ever been by the announcement, and he brought in skin care products for everyone.

Subaru: You’re all in high spirits. Right, Auguri got excited too and said that he would come up with new nail designs before the live.

Taiyou: Ooh, nice~ Oh yeah, lately, Kazu’s been coming up with his own lesson schedules based on Lion’s training. Thanks to that, Futaba says he can move his body more easily than before.

Subaru: Jintarou did something similar. He’s working with Issei to come up with a dance for warm ups. He said he didn’t want to just leave it up to XlamV’s main dancer.

Taiyou: What did Nagomu say?

Subaru: He’s having fun dancing with them. If he heard something like that before, he would’ve felt a lot of pressure.

Taiyou: Cuc used to space out with a sad look on his face in the middle of a lesson sometimes too.

Subaru: I wonder if he was thinking about his best friend who passed away.

Taiyou: Probably. But, now it’s like… Right away, he makes a face that says he’s made up his mind. Cion’s also been saying “thank you” more instead of apologizing lately. That kinda thing makes me really happy…

Subaru: I see… You know, I think I’ve been able to rely on others a little more too. Even if I don't realize it myself, Sakuya will follow up right away. Lion too, sometimes.

Taiyou: Lion too?

Subaru: He used to be more awkward about it, but… Now it comes really naturally to him.

Taiyou: We really have changed.

Subaru: That’s right. We’re changing more and more.

Taiyou: I wonder if we’re gonna keep changing from now on too.

Subaru: I’m sure we will. The reason I think so is because we had the final audition with the fourteen of us.

Taiyou: I hope the same thing’s true for the new idol candidates in the next audition. “No matter what challenges might lie ahead, if it’s us, then we’ll be alright.” I want them to have a time that makes them believe that.

Subaru: They will.

Taiyou: Yup.

Subaru: No matter what challenges lie ahead of them, for sure.

Taiyou: That's where we competed for the stage where the light shines—

Everyone: VS AMBIVALENZ!

——

(After credits)

Atarashi: Ngh… That piece of filth… Inamoto…! Fine. Our match will carry over… The gates of the fortress have reopened. This time, I’ll make sure you understand… You, those fourteen… and those new candidates as well. It is I who will smile at the final fortress.

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Fragments Episode 13

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 04:30:55 GMT

(See bottom for notes)

Taiyou: (That went by in a flash! It’s been a while since all fourteen of us spent time together, so it was super fun!)

Issei: (I’ll pass on all that survival though~)

Auguri: (Uwah! There’s so many notifications!)

Sakuya: (H-Hold on. This is…)

Cion: (Tailwind Office is holding a new VS AMBIVALENZ audition…?)

——

Tailwind Office presents: VS AMBIVALENZ II! You wish to become an idol. You wish to test your talent. You wish to meet important companions. You wish to turn your dreams into reality. VS AMBIVALENZ II! Audition applications are now being accepted on the website.

Atarashi: Why, hello. It’s been a while, Yakumo!

Shinonome: What’s the meaning of this?

Atarashi: That won’t do. Visiting me out of the blue without an appointment is…

Shinonome: Explain the audition… NOW!

Atarashi: Now now, you’ll damage your throat if you suddenly shout like that.

Shinonome: You promised that you would leave us alone.

Atarashi: How upsetting. I’ve upheld my promise, haven’t I? For that time being.

Shinonome: Just using VS AMBIVALENZ’ name as you please…

Atarashi: I thought it would be more sound to get the things I want myself than to be envious of what someone else has. Haha! I can make the greatest group like I’ve imagined. I just can’t wait~ I’m so excited~

Shinonome: VS AMBIVALENZ is an audition that decided on the debuting members by voting.

Atarashi: Well, yes, that’s certainly what it is to the public.

Shinonome: Are you planning to do something underhanded again?!

Atarashi: And if I am?

Shinonome: I won’t let you. Before you can even do anything—

Atarashi: What will you do? Are you going to expose VS AMBIVALENZ for being a rigged audition?

Shinonome: !!

Atarashi: That’s right. You understand, Yakumo. If you do that, the newly debuted XlamV will be suspected to have been rigged too.

Shinonome: That’s…

Atarashi: You’re too late, Yakumo. Now, you will return to me too.

Shinonome: …!

——

Jintarou: I CAN’T TAKE THIS!

Everyone: !!

Taiyou: That scared me…

Cion: I don’t know how many times I have to say it, don’t just scream out of nowhere.

Cuc: Chestnut dumplings are surprised too! [1]

Sakuya: Hm, chestnut dumplings?

Kazu: Amazing! That’s amazing, Cuc!

Nagomu: You can even say puns now… You’ve grown!

Cuc: Yeah!

Sakuya: Aah, it was a pun. You’re super proud of that, Hiryuu Brothers!

Taiyou: Chestnut dumplings are yummy.

Auguri: Right~ ♡

Jintarou: We can talk about chestnut dumplings later!

Sakuya: We don’t need to talk about them later.

Jintarou: I’m not okay with Tailwind just going and making a VS AMBIVALEN-TWO audition!

Issei: It’s not Vibalen-Two, it’s Vibalen-Two Two. “The Second” is correct.

Mio: I-Isn’t this a huge problem…?

Rey: That’s right. VS AMBIVALENZ is an audition that started with REISEN Productions.

Futaba: But… The public has a positive reaction.

Rey: What was that?!

Jintarou: Seriously?!

Kazu: It’s trending online, and it looks like a lot of people are looking forward to it.

Subaru: A couple of people I know said they would enter.

Nagomu: Does that mean people don't care that the company holding the audition changed?

Futaba: Of course there are those who are puzzled, but there are also those who have high expectations…

Mio: Expectations! Why?!

Futaba: Because Tailwind is a high-performance agency. Plus, President Atarashi was originally one of REISEN’s directors.

Cion: And then…

Everyone: …!

Cion: I am going back and forth between being under Tailwind and attending REISEN’s training school. Of course the public would think that REISEN and Tailwind are connected.

Auguri: Cion…

Lion: That bastard… Do you think Atarashi will actually hold the audition properly this time?

Rey: What a joke!

Cuc: No!

Kazu: I don’t.

Nagomu: Neither do I…

Taiyou: Which means…

Lion: He’ll manipulate the votes and debut the members that he wants to.

Mio: (Uwah~ Tailwind really is the worst! Atarashi’s the worst of them all!)

Issei: Everyone here is thinkin’ what yer thinkin’, Mio-kun.

Mio: ! I told you to not read my mind!

Issei: Look at that, there’s no way of stoppin’ it.

Mio: Don’t ignore me!!

Cion: This is difficult. Someone I know has said that the companies sponsoring the auditions are gathering well.

Cuc: Spon-sor?

Nagomu: I’ll explain it to you later, Cuc.

Jintarou: I dunno what that is either!

Cion: I’ll be the one explaining that to you later.

Jintarou: Ooh! Thanks!

Futaba: Let’s get back to the topic.

Subaru: Then does that mean our only option is to do nothing and sit in silence?

Kazu: Even if they pass the audition, they’re all aspiring idols destined to be kicked around by Nagomu-nii-san, right? Does it even matter? That’s something even I can’t bring myself to say.

Futaba: An audition that betrays the feelings of the wonderful idol hatchlings and the fans who vote… That’s unacceptable in any situation!

Inamoto: Everyone.

Everyone: !!

Sakuya: Inamoto-san?!

Subaru: When did you… Wait, I feel like I’m repeating myself.

Inamoto: I apologize for causing you to repeat yourself. Furthermore…

Rey: Is there something else again?

Issei: Give me a break.

Inamoto: I apologize. However, I have good news for you all. It’s just…

Rey: Just?!

Issei: Just?

Lion: Stop acting high and mighty, hurry up and say it.

Inamoto: XlamV…

Everyone: …

Inamoto: Has won Rookie of the Year at the Platinum Disk Awards.

Everyone: !

Futaba: The Platinum Disk Awards… The PDAs?!

Taiyou: The one that’s broadcasted on TV at the end of the year?!

Kazu: The one with a long history?!

Mio: The one that everyone from adults to kids know?

Everyone: That Platinum Disk Awards?!

Issei: Ooh, ya guys are in sync.

Mio: This isn’t the time for such a calm reaction! Something amazing happened!

Kazu: Congratulations, Nagomu-nii-san!

Nagomu: Thank you, Kazu. I’m so happy! But…

Kazu: ?

Nagomu: I wonder if XlamV winning an award right now will increase the number of people auditioning…

Everyone: !

Nagomu: Ah… Sorry. I shouldn’t have said that.

Sakuya: Aah, well… It’s true that I can’t be fully happy. That’s true for you too, Inamoto-san, right?

Inamoto: There is no doubt that I want to congratulate you all. However… This may be what Tailwind Office was aiming for.

Cuc: Aim-ing?

Issei: Basically, it means the timin’ of the audition probably aligned with XlamV winning the award, right?

Inamoto: It’s exactly as Issei-san has put it. That is the proof.

Everyone: …

Inamoto: Atarashi has also allowed XlamV to perform in the fort arena.

Everyone: !

Auguri: A live in the fort arena… UGHHH!

Jintarou: ! Now I’m the shocked one!

Futaba: Auguri-san, please hold back!

Auguri: But, like! If everything was genuine, then I’d be so, so, so happy! I wanna be overjoyed, but! At this rate…

Mio: At this rate… XlamV’s going to be the face of a corrupt audition…!

Subaru: If we take on the role of raising excitement for the audition while knowing that the number of victims will increase…

Issei: That puts us in the wrong too.

Everyone: …

Jintarou: AAGGHHH! Isn’t there a way we can make them cancel the audition somehow?!

Taiyou: What are we supposed to do…

Lion: …

——

Shinonome: …

Inamoto: Shinonome-san.

Shinonome: !

Inamoto: What are you doing here?

Shinonome: I’m sorry. I felt as if I had to apologize to everyone for what is happening with Atarashi, but… I couldn’t face them.

Inamoto: …

Shinonome: I… I have always been running away. Running from facing what he has been doing, always. Not just the audition. When my friend who was learning to sing with me was expelled… Back then, if I had confessed that everything was set up by him, I wouldn’t be causing everyone’s suffering now… And yet, I was so scared of him that I couldn’t make a move… I…

Lion: (At best, you need to be careful that you don’t become a demon yourself. If you don’t teach yourself, it’s over. It could happen at any time.)

Rey: (It is up to you whether to be trapped in the darkness within you or to trust the light.)

Shinonome: I… have been a demon for a long time now. Even if I struggle for the light that will heal me… I cannot return to being human.

Inamoto: … Shinonome-san. I…

Shinonome: …

Inamoto: I know you are not a demon.

Shinonome: President Inamoto…

Inamoto: I do not mind if you run away. If there is something you are afraid of, it is alright to run. Is there anything wrong with protecting yourself?

Shinonome: But, I…!

Inamoto: You have also protected the seven members of XlamV before their debut. You were pushed into a corner where you should have been too afraid to move, and even though you were hurt, you still told me the truth about his wrongdoings. Thank you very much. To me, you are the same as XlamV and the trainees. You are someone I treasure.

Shinonome: —…

Inamoto: That is why… I must take action to prevent any more of the ones I treasure from being devoured by the true demon.

——

Atarashi: Haa. Goodness. Does REISEN Productions teach you that you should enter without an appointment?

Inamoto: You would not have met with me if I did not do this.

Atarashi: Of course I wouldn’t have. Who would possibly want to see you?

Inamoto: President Atarashi.

Atarashi: Hm? What is it? Have you come to thank me for the fort arena?

Inamoto: What is it you wish for?

Atarashi: Ha?

Inamoto: What must be done for you to cancel the audition?

Atarashi: …

——

(Preview for next episode)

Atarashi: Don’t you think too highly of yourself?

Inamoto: What exactly do you mean by ability?

Taiyou: Our experiences became ones that belong to both us and GLANZ.

Auguri: They’re the best memories.

Mio: That experience we had together wasn’t a waste of time.

Kazu: I want to believe in what the audition gave us.

Issei: There’s no way it’d be a waste.

Cuc: Cuc will panyanyan!

Subaru: I want to believe in why the 14 of us are here.

Rey: We competed with our rivals over the course of a year.

Futaba: So that they can acknowledge it even a little bit…

Shinonome: When I look at all of you... I can't help but feel moved.

——

notes:

1 - cuc took the くり (kuri) from ビックリ (bikkuri) and 栗 (kuri) means chestnut 🌰💛

comments

Fragments Episode 12

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 03:50:59 GMT

Inamoto: (I now understand everyone’s feelings. Then, we will proceed with a debut under the two labels.)

Everyone: (Yes!)

Taiyou: (Let’s do this, you guys!)

Everyone: (We’ll do our best!)

Shinonome: (There, I’ve sung for you now, so don’t get in our way anymore.)

Atarashi: (I know, I know! I’ll leave you alone, of course! For now, that is…)

——

Mio: (Dear Noa-sama, are you well? As for the rest of us at Reisen Productions…)

Auguri: Kyaa! Jintarou! Don’t throw up here!

Jintarou: W-Who’s throwing up?! I’m just a little seasick— Hrgh!

Cion: Jintarou, are you alright?

Nagomu: I’m pretty sure Kazu has some stomach medicine, so I think you should take some.

Kazu: I brought it for Nii-san, but I guess I have no choice.

Cuc: Waves amazing! Cuc, swim!

Issei: That's too long of a swim, don't ya think?

Sakuya: Haa~ Traveling on a ship feels super rich~ The sea breeze is washing away my daily fatigue~

Lion: A ship is rich? It’s just something a lot of people have, isn’t it?

Futaba: As expected, Lion-san! Such a large scale!

Rey: I own one! Her name is Going Great Rey, with my motif on her bow… Ha!

Nagomu: Waah, the boat’s shaking a lot.

Mio: Haha… Hahaha… (For some reason, we are headed to a deserted island.)

Taiyou: I didn’t think we’d be able to go to a deserted island to celebrate our debut! Inamoto-san’s so generous!

Subaru: Our time off lined up nicely, so it’s a good opportunity to relax, but Kamuy-san’s villa being located on a deserted island was unexpected.

Issei: The city’s all crowded, so ya’d get tired from that alone, no? Maybe he built it on a deserted island because he wanted to rest his wings in a secluded, inhabited place with no one around. I dunno though.

Mio: (You don’t?!)

Sakuya: But we can’t really get internet on a deserted island~

Futaba: The only bad part is that I can’t check my oshis posts.

Lion: Too late for that now. We stayed in a place like that for a year.

Kazu: Well, true. A night and two days is nothing compared to being underground for a year.

Nagomu: That’s right. Isn’t it nice to have some down time once in a while?

Rey: I have owned a few villas myself, but this is the first time I've ever seen a villa in a secluded area. I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of resort it is.

Shinonome: Now that you mention it…

Rey: !

Cion: Shinonome-san… Please don’t just appear out of nowhere.

Kazu: It’s bad for our hearts.

Shinonome: I’m sorry. By the way, there seems to be long-standing legends that pixies appear on the deserted island we are headed to.

Issei: Ha? Pixies?

Auguri: Like the fairy kind of pixies?

Shinonome: Ah, look, you can see it now. That's the deserted island with legends of pixies.

——

Inamoto: This is the villa that Kamuy-san has kindly lent us.

Everyone: Waahh…!

Kazu: I’m grateful that the villa is this splendid, but…

Jintarou: Isn’t it crazy to build it here?! We’re basically in a jungle!

Cuc: Cuc likes jungles!

Lion: Tch. There’s so many bugs.

Issei: Yer gonna be comfortable once we get inside the villa. Alright, Inamoto-san, please unlock the door.

Inamoto: Of course. Ah.

Everyone: “Ah?”

Inamoto: I have a very important announcement for you all.

Futaba: Eh?! An announcement in a situation like this?! It can’t be… Are you getting married?!

Sakuya: There’s no way he’d be getting married at a time like this.

Inamoto: I have forgotten to receive the key to the villa from Kamuy-san. I can only offer my deepest apologies.

Everyone: Eh…? EHHHH?!

Shinonome: I see. Then, that means we cannot access the food inside of the villa as well.

Subaru: In other words, without entering the villa, we can’t have our meals for today either…?

Inamoto: That’s right.

Sakuya: “That right,” he says…

Taiyou: Ehh, so what do we do?

Nagomu: I’m not sure…

Subaru: Right, for now, we need to get to the ship—

Kazu: Ah! Is that faraway thing the ship we came here on..?

Mio: Ehh?! It left already?!

Jintarou: Ooii! We can’t make calls either, what are we gonna do?! SHIIIPPP!! GET BACK HEEERE!

Inamoto: The plan was for you all to rest in the villa, so the ship is supposed to return and pick everyone up tomorrow…

Everyone: (Seriously…?!)

Issei: Then what’re we supposed to do now…?

Taiyou: Ah, then, if we don’t have ingredients, why don’t we get them ourselves?

Futaba: By ourselves?

Lion: Inside of this jungle? There’s no way—

Subaru: I see. It’s true that we can’t just idle around.

Rey: So we must prepare our own meals.

Sakuya: Well, that’s really our only option in a time like this.

Lion: Hey!

Shinonome: Please do not worry. We prepared insect spray and sunscreen just in case something like this happened.

Rey: Ho, how prepared.

Futaba: Getting a sunburn or being bit by a bug are the biggest No’s for an idol after all.

Issei: With all this preparation, I can't help but feel like this is some sorta set-up.

Inamoto: No, that’s unthinkable.

Lion: Will you all listen—

Cion: Then let’s get started right away before it gets dark.

Subaru: For now, we need a place where we can leave our things.

Mio: Like a tent?

Subaru: Yeah. It doesn’t need to be a full-fledged tent, but I’d like something that can shelter us from the wind and rain just in case… Let me think… Can I leave Futaba, Mio, and… Lion to be in charge of that?

Lion: !

Futaba: I can put the knowledge I gained during outdoors school as a kid to good use!

Mio: I-I’ll try my best to not slow everyone down…!

Lion: …

Subaru: Lion?

Lion: Fine.

Subaru: Thank you. As for the other things…

Cuc: Meee! Cuc’s good at catching fish! Dive into the ocean and grab fish!

Jintarou: You can’t just forget Jintarou-sama either! I’ll get you guys some abalone and sazae!

Kazu: Taking them out of the ocean as you please is illegal.

Taiyou: Then I’ll come catch fish with them too.

Subaru: Since Taiyou, Jintarou, and Cuc are in charge of catching fish, I’ll gather some fruit.

Issei: I’ll do that too then.

Nagomu: I’ll also do my best to make sure everyone gets their dessert.

Auguri: I’ll be in charge of the vegetables~ I’ll protect everyone’s health.

Cion: I remember reading about edible wildflowers before, so I'll look for some too.

Rey: I will look for vegetables that bring beauty as well.

Sakuya: Alright, that means Kazu-kun and I are in charge of preparing the food. We’ll turn the ingredients you all gathered into something yummy. I'll see what I can do about the cooking utensils and stuff.

Kazu: I’ll make a great meal for Nii-san.

Taiyou: Okay, let’s all do our best and make it to tonight!

Everyone: Yeah!

——

Mio: That all said… I have no clue how to make a tent…

Lion: As long as we have the framework, we’ll get by somehow.

Futaba: Wild! But it’s true that as long as we have the pillars, we can manage.

Mio: Then, for now, we can look for some long branches… Hm?

Futaba: What’s wrong?

Mio: AAHH! What was that sound?!

Lion: It was probably just a squirrel or something.

Futaba: Oh, a squirrel! Eh, a squirrel? In a place like this…? No, but I thought it could’ve been the legendary pixies.

Mio: Pixies… Are they really here?

Futaba: I wonder. That’s right, there could be good pixies or bad pixies. What would you do? If there are some pixies on this deserted island that like to cause trouble, then…

Lion: Haa? Anything that causes trouble is just some suspicious person. Just call security or the police.

Mio: T-That’s true, but… (No, it’s just a fairy tale! Have you ever heard of those?!)

Futaba: But, we can’t contact anyone from here…

Lion: Then just tie them up.

Futaba/Mio: Wild!

Mio: (He’s too wild…! Run away, pixies…!)

——

Jintarou: Bwah! I can’t… The fish are so nimble that I can’t catch them at all!

Taiyou: The water is so clear that even the fish can see us, so do you think they’re being on guard?

Jintarou: Damn it! At this rate, we’re not gonna have dinner!

Cuc: Pwah!

Taiyou: Cuc! You were under there for a while, are you okay?

Cuc: Yeah! Good at diving! Look!

Jintarou: Uwah! That’s a crazy huge haul!

Taiyou: That’s amazing, Cuc! You caught so many fish!

Cuc: Catching fish, easy! Pretend to be a bear, then take them. Bears good at catching fish.

Taiyou: That’s true. Bears can catch fish with their bare hands, can’t they?

Jintarou: Uwooohhh! I’m not gonna lose! I’ll mimic a bear and then catch every and any fish out there!

Taiyou: I-I won’t lose either!

Jintarou: Huh? Was there something just swimming?

Taiyou: Eehh? What do you mean, “something?”

Jintarou: I dunno, but… What was that?

——

Auguri: Hmm, vegetables, vegetables… Where could they be growing?

Cion: The only vegetables we can find are probably wild plants.

Rey: What can we gather this time of year?

Cion: The things we can get practically anywhere are taranome, royal fern, and mountain udo.

Auguri: I wish they were growing somewhere. Ah, wait wait. Hey, what’s this?

Cion: Hm? Aah, that’s taranome.

Rey: Hm. Someone is growing here as well.

Cion: I think that’s… kogomi?

Auguri: Can we eat it?

Cion: Yeah. They’re not too bitter, so we’ll be fine eating them.

Auguri: Yay! Then, let’s collect a lot of them and color our dinner with it~! ? Rey? What’s wrong? Why are you staring at the ground? Did something happen?

Rey: Is this…? Is this a kind of wild plant as well…?

——

Issei: What is this?

Nagomu: Those are… Sweets?

Subaru: It’s chocolate candy. What is it doing in a forest?

Issei: Does that mean someone other than us left it on this island…?

Nagomu: Eh? But this is supposed to be a deserted island.

Subaru: There’s no way there would be people other than—

Everyone: Uwah!

——

Mio: Eh, those voices just now—

Futaba: It was Issei-san’s group!

——

Issei: What the…

Nagomu: So, those pixies were just…

Lion: What happened?! —! Is someone suspicious here?!

Subaru: Lion! Um, actually—

Lion: Hgh—!

Everyone: Ah.

Lion: You must be unlucky. I’m gonna catch you and make you our dinner for tonight. Prepare yourself, bastard!

Nagomu: W-Wait, Lion!

Issei: Lion, don’t hold him down for so long!

Lion: Haa? You telling me to let this stalker go?!

Subaru: That’s not what we mean—

???: Ow, ow, ow, ow, ow! That hurts!

Lion: ! That voice…!

Kamuy: Calm down! It’s me, it’s me!

Lion: Wh… You… Kamuy…?!

Kamuy: Haa… Hey there!

——

Taiyou: I did think that the forest was pretty noisy. So that’s what was happening.

Kamuy: Ahaha. I wanted to surprise everyone, and then the boat left the island. While I was swimming back, there was a hole in my luggage and I scattered sweets all over the forest…

Mio: Then, that rustling sound…

Jintarou: That swimming shadow…

Rey: The one who dropped those sweets…

Kamuy: That was me~ But in the end, I was able to shock everyone, so couldn’t I call the surprise a success~?

Mio: A “surprise…!”

Sakuya: You guys~ We’re done prepping for the barbecue~!

Taiyou: Eh, a barbecue?!

Kazu: Kamuy-san had the key to his villa, so we were able to retrieve the pre-prepared ingredients. Today’s a special barbecue with meat and all of the ingredients everyone gathered!

——

Taiyou: Uwaahh! This meat is sparkling and shining…!

Auguri: Amazing! It’s a treasure chest of meat!

Jintarou: There’s the fish we caught too! Let’s grill all of ‘em!

Issei: Ah, Mio-kun. This vegetable is cooked, go ahead and eat it.

Mio: T-Thanks.

Issei: This too.

Mio: Tha…

Issei: And this.

Mio: Hold on, hold on, I can’t eat all of this!

Shinonome: Cuc-san, would you like something to drink?

Cuc: Ah, well well, very grateful.

Sakuya: Alright, everything’s being grilled, so keep on eating~! Hold on. Bocchan, do you not want any?

Rey: I am also beautiful with the setting sun shining down on me… It’s as if Venus has been born when I am on the beach—

Nagomu: This is amazing, Kazu. It’s grilled really well.

Kazu: Thank you, Nii-san! I’m really glad you didn’t get injured today. If… anything happened to you, I…

Subaru: I’m glad everyone’s safe. We’re having such a good meal too.

Cion: The fruits everyone collected are also here.

Inamoto: This was due to my negligence…

Futaba: Now now, Inamoto-san. Everyone was able to have fun in some way!

Taiyou: Let’s eat some tasty food and cheer up!

Cuc: Yeah! Eat!

——

Kamuy: You ate a lot of meat. Are you full?

Lion: Yeah.

Kamuy: That’s good… If you didn’t have enough to eat, I would’ve been turned into a meal myself.

Lion: Hah?

Kamuy: I’m just joking!

Lion: What do you want?

Kamuy: Nothing much. I just thought the stars were pretty.

Lion: I had you look into the agency’s mess before.

Kamuy: You did, what about it?

Lion: My father was actually the one who investigated, wasn’t he?

Kamuy: Oh? You found out?

Lion: He went and did something unnecessary. Why did he have you act like—

Kamuy: I don't know what kind of communication there was between you and your father. But… After you quit the academy, your father was more worried about you than anyone else. Wasn’t he?

Lion: …

Kamuy: If too much time goes by, what could have been repaired will no longer be able to. I know you want to rebel, but it’s about time for you to be honest, don’t you think?

Lion: … Stop meddling.

——

Taiyou: That went by in a flash! It’s been a while since all fourteen of us spent time together, so it was super fun!

Subaru: Yeah. I feel really refreshed now.

Issei: I’ll pass on all that survival though~

Auguri: Oh yeah, those pixies Shinonome-san talked about never came out! All of it was just Kamuy-san, wasn’t it?

Futaba: That’s true.

Rey: Surely those pixies fled in fear of my beauty! Hahahahaha!

Sakuya: Haha, I don’t know if they ran or anything, but those legendary pixies could’ve been part of Kamuy-san’s surprise in the first place.

Auguri: Oh, I see!

Shinonome: Eh? There were pixies there.

Auguri: Eh?

Shinonome: Eh?

Futaba: Um… What do you mean…?

Shinonome: Eh? Were there not? Fluffy, floating, pale pixies. You know, the ones with no legs and dark circles under their eyes.

Sakuya: Eh, that’s…

Auguri: Let's not ask too many questions!

Taiyou: Y-Yeah!

Futaba: Ah, Auguri-san, look at this! I already have a signal!

Auguri: You’re right! I’m back, social media~! Wait, uwah! There’s so many notifications!

Mio: That’s right. Did we get tagged in something?

Cion: … Eh?

Sakuya: H-Hold on. This is…

Cion: Tailwind Office is holding a new Vs Ambivalenz audition…?

comments

Fragments Episode 11

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 03:01:58 GMT

Taiyou: (Our debut…? We can debut…?)

Kazu: (Now I can spend even more time with Nagomu-nii-san…!)

Nagomu: (Hey, you guys have heard already, right…?)

Subaru: (Two labels reached out at the same time, and instead of the 7 of them working together, they will debut as 4 and 3 members in each label…)

Sakuya: (It’s the final decision, isn’t it?)

——

Subaru: A magical magician in training. A magical magician in training. A magical magician… Hello. Are you both on break now too?

Sakuya: Eh? Ah, yeah… We are, but…

Lion: What were you doing?

Subaru: I was practicing.

Sakuya: T-To cast spells?

Lion: You have someone you want to curse?

Subaru: I was practicing tongue twisters. I stuttered a little bit during work today, so…

Sakuya: That startled me~ I was so scared~!

Lion: Tch. That’s misleading.

Subaru: Misleading?

Sakuya: It’s because you kinda seem like you can use magic, Subarun…

Subaru: Eh…?

Sakuya: I think you should ask Mio-kun to teach you another tongue twister. Yeah, definitely.

Subaru: I’m not really following, but… Alright then.

Sakuya: Yup, yup.

Subaru: But, when I stopped by the lesson room today, Mio wasn’t there; neither were the other members.

Sakuya: None of them? That’s rare.

Lion: They’ve all got things they want to think about.

Sakuya: Aah… That’s true. I’m not sure they’d want to practice.

Subaru: Today’s the day they have to give their answer about their debut, after all.

Sakuya: I hope everyone’s collected all of their thoughts, but…

Subaru: …

——

Kazu: Haa~…

Nagomu: Ah, here you are.

Kazu: Nagomu-nii-san!

Nagomu: I was going to ask if you wanted to come shopping for dinner.

Kazu: ! Yeah! I’ll come! Of course! Let’s go right now!

Nagomu: And then I decided not to.

Kazu: Eh?! W-Why…?

Nagomu: You look like you have something you want to talk about.

Kazu: …

Nagomu: Let’s talk here for a little.

Kazu: It’s… about my debut…

Nagomu: Mhm. I know what’s going on.

Kazu: I’m happy. So happy. I know how grateful I should be given another chance to debut.

Nagomu: Yeah.

Kazu: Even then… Even though this is what I’ve wished for from the bottom of my heart…

——

Jintarou: Even though you’re supposed to be happy, you just aren’t! That just means—

Cion: Jintarou, you’re being too loud.

Jintarou: You’re sad that you won’t be with everyone!

Cion: … That’s not it.

Jintarou: You’re not honest at all~

Cion: I don’t believe something that childish.

Jintarou: You are a kid. At least more than I am. That’s ‘cause you’re younger than me.

Cion: I’m not admitting that.

Jintarou: That’s how it is, so just accept it!

Cion: I just think that waiting for the opportunity to debut as seven might be an option.

Jintarou: ! Does that mean you want to turn down debuting as two different groups?

Cion: … That’s…

——

Mio: Aghhh~~~ I can’t decide~~~! What should I do~~?

Issei: Yer clearly distressed, aren’t ya?

Mio: Issei!

Issei: Lately ya’ve been sayin’ things that are better left unsaid, so I’m a little worried.

Mio: What are you doing here?

Issei: I was goin’ home from work when I saw how obviously stressed ya were.

Mio: …!

Issei: I was plannin’ to ignore ya.

Mio: Why?!

Issei: I can’t give advice to soothe someone’s worries. I don’t wanna take responsibility either.

Mio: (There he is, No-Emotion Issei! Tundra Issei!)

Issei: Ya just thought “What an emotionless guy~,” about me.

Mio: Gulp—! I didn’t even say it out loud this time! I wish you wouldn’t read my mind!!

Issei: Ahaha. I won’t give ya advice, but I can at least hear ya out.

Mio: …!

Issei: Are ya worried about yer debut?

Mio: Yeah. I talked to Noa, wondering if turning down the offer was a possibility… And then she said, “You’re a coward. You don’t have enough resolve.”

Issei: Noa-chan’s as harsh as ever.

Mio: I assumed that all seven of us would be together when we debut.

Issei: …

Mio: But wanting to turn down the chance to debut after all this time is… Of course Noa would get mad.

Issei: I don’t think Noa-chan is mad at ya.

Mio: Eh?

——

Auguri: Whatever you decide to do, the others won’t be mad at you.

Futaba: Do you think so?

Auguri: It’s something you thought long and hard about. But…

Futaba: ?

Auguri: There might be people who think “That’s too bad…” instead of being mad.

Futaba: Too bad?

Auguri: You want to see the idols you support shine on stage too, don’t you?

Futaba: Of course I do! My oshis are my light!

Auguri: Exactly!

Futaba: Eh? What do you mean?

Auguri: Ah, the cookies are done~ ♡

Futaba: Auguri-san, please tell me what you’re talking about~!

——

Taiyou: What do you mean?

Chitose: Even if people want to support you, they can't do that unless you’re out there in the public eye.

Taiyou: !

Chitose: Isn’t that the most painful thing for a fan?

Taiyou: …

Chitose: I’m also…

Taiyou: Eh?

Chitose: One of your fans.

Taiyou: Chitose…

Chitose: The fact that you have fans means you’re already an idol. I just want to cheer you on, so I’d be happy if you debuted.

Taiyou: So that’s what you think.

Chitose: I’m just going ahead and saying how I feel.

Taiyou: Yeah.

Chitose: Did it help?

Taiyou: Of course!

Chitose: Actually—

Taiyou: ?

Chitose: You can’t let that information slip to anyone from outside.

Taiyou: !!! You’re right!!

Chitose: Don’t worry. I won’t leak anything.

Taiyou: I’m sorry for doubting you back then!!!

Chitose: Well, I’m not upset you came to me to ask about important stuff.

Taiyou: Thanks, Chitose.

——

Moriya: Then, you will accept?

Rey: That’s right. I cannot make the fans wait any longer. However…

Moriya: Do you fear becoming each other’s rivals?

Rey: !

Moriya: I deeply apologize… for asking something so intrusive.

Rey: I do not mind, I will listen to your thoughts.

Moriya: The trainees who all participated in the same audition at the same time shall make their debut under different labels… You may be compared to each other whether you like it or not.

Rey: I cannot deny that.

Moriya: …

Rey: However, I am not scared. Even if we become each other’s rivals, even if we are compared to each other, that does not matter.

Moriya: …!

Rey: And as for why that is! We know better than anyone else how wonderful it is to have a rival!

Moriya: …

Rey: Rivals are the people we absolutely must compete with in order to rise to great heights together. That is what Playboy was for me.

Moriya: You have become a splendid person.

Rey: From the moment of my birth, I have been splendid.

Moriya: Should you make your debut, I will finally have to teach you.

Rey: Teach me what…?

Moriya: Ways to quickly change your clothes!

Rey: Quickly change my clothes??!!

——

Cuc: Nguyen. Climbed tree to get close to the sky. Nguyen, can you see? Cuc, will debut. Taiyou, Kazu, Mio, Rey, Futaba, Cion. All together, can’t debut. But, can still see them. Not like Nguyen… Can still see them. Cuc! Will sing until voice reaches Nguyen’s place! High up in the sky! Will become an idol! ? A fruit from tree hit…?

Nguyen: Cuc, panyanyan.

——

Inamoto: Before you all give your answers, there is something I wish to tell you.

Everyone: ?

Inamoto: An offer came from Tailwind Office to have you debut as seven.

Everyone: !

Taiyou: Eh?!

Kazu: Tailwind, meaning…

Cion: …

Inamoto: That agency is one of power. It is up to each of you to decide which you prefer…

Kazu: No, no, absolutely not!

Inamoto: !

Futaba: That’s right. I would never go to the agency that treated Cion-san that way.

Everyone: Me neither!

Inamoto: … I’m relieved. The thought of you all being stolen and put in that person’s agency was so repulsive that I felt as if I was regurgitating worms.

Mio: Eh?

Cion: Inamoto-san’s…

Kazu: Yeah. He’s definitely the type of person to be terrifying if you make him angry.

Inamoto: You will all make your debut in the face of headwinds.

Everyone: !

Taiyou: “Headwinds”…?

Inamoto: You all, who lost the Vs Ambivalenz audition, cannot follow the same path as XlamV who won and debuted.

Everyone: …

Inamoto: XlamV has had post-debut outlooks prepared for them in advance as part of the audition. There are still many songs waiting to be recorded and TV appearances for promotion. However, those of you who will be making your debut as idols in a small production company will not receive the same treatment. We won't know whether the next song after your debut song will be released until that time comes. There is a great possibility that you will disband without it being released.

Everyone: …!

Inamoto: Distinguishing the winners from the losers is the only way to show our sincerity to those who have supported and voted for Vs Ambivalenz.

Futaba: I… see.

Mio: There are lots of people who will be happy that we debuted, but…

Kazu: There might be people who have mixed feelings too.

Taiyou: Even then, that’s okay!

Everyone: !

Taiyou: When I failed the audition, I thought that I might not be able to become an idol anymore. I wondered if I had to give up on the dream I finally found.

Inamoto: …

Taiyou: But, thanks to the voices of everyone who gave their support, I made it here without giving up… No matter how hard it is, if I can work together with everyone, that’s enough for me to be happy!

Futaba: …! Taiyou-san’s right!

Kazu: Yeah. Just because I’ve made my debut doesn't mean I’ll be on par with Nagomu-nii-san right away.

Mio: But someday… I want to work hard, and then… be acknowledged…!

Cion: As idols who can stand beside XlamV.

Cuc: Yeah! Cuc’s excited too! Everyone panyanyan!

Rey: Hmph. Worry is unnecessary. It is in adversity that I shine.

Inamoto: … I now understand everyone’s feelings. Then, we will proceed with a debut under the two labels.

Everyone: Yes!

Taiyou: Let’s do this, you guys!

Everyone: We’ll do our best!

Cion: Um, Inamoto-san… About my agency…

Inamoto: Please do not worry. The label has already handled things.

Cion: Thank goodness…

Taiyou: Huh? Now that you mention it…

Inamoto: What is it?

Taiyou: Is Shinonome-san off today?

Futaba: I would’ve liked Shinonome-san to hear our feelings too.

——

Atarashi: Wonderful…! That was just wonderful, Yakumo!

Shinonome: There, I’ve sung for you now, so don’t get in our way anymore.

Atarashi: I know, I know! I’ll leave you alone, of course! For now, that is…

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