shionstear | IDOLiSH7 PART 4 CHAPTER 13

IDOLiSH7 PART 4

Chapter 13 – Filled with love

13.1. Held in tears

At Okazaki’s Agency.

Momo:

Hee, I see! Must’ve been hard in Noth Meir, huh!?

Door opens.

Yuki:

Morning. Momo, what were you talking about with Bob?

Momo:

About the time he worked in Noth Meir! He says he was the prince’s bodyguard.

Yuki:

Hee, amazing. I kinda want to see the prince once.

Momo:

He was apparently very pretty! Though I’m sure Yuki is more of an ikemen! The concert the other day was awesome too!

Yuki:

Thanks. I’m glad the fans were happy too.

Ring tone .

Yuki:

Ah, a rabichat message.

Momo:

A beautiful princely Yuki is nice too! Riding a camel on the moon’s desert! …I mean, sorry. What did the message say?

Yuki:

… …yeah. What kind of prince?

Momo:

The one Bob guarded? Apparently very pretty, but a moody person.

When new people got in, they argued with the prince and walked away later.

Yuki:

Hee… Like me, huh?

Momo:

Wh-what are you saying all of a sudden…? Our concert the other day was a success! The fans were with us.

Yuki:

On that part, yes. The Happy Hour is on the rocks.

Momo:

Happy Hour? You mean the Anti-TSUKUMO Alliance? Did something happen…

Yuki:

The message I got said they won’t take part in it because they can’t trust me…

Momo:

…should I go and convince them?

Yuki:

Everyone trusts you. I’m the only one no one trusts. …I have to solve this on my own.

Momo:

But…

Yuki:

It’s okay. We’ll do our best, make it succeed and then we’ll be able to say “Let Japan daybreak!”

[TL note: Check back with Chapter 6 for more details on that phrase.]

Momo:

Yeah… Don’t overwork yourself. If you’re troubled with anything, you can tell me anything okay?

Yuki:

Thanks. Well then, I’ll go to work.

Cut to a TV show studio.

Music Show Producer:

OK! ‘Kay, then change the set and---

Yuki:

Hey.

Music Show Producer:

Wha!? Yuki-kun… You’re not supposed to appear today, right?

Yuki:

I came after seeing your message. What was that?

Music Show Producer:

Don’t talk about that here… Someone! Accompany Yuki-kun outside of the studio…

Yuki:

Then where can we talk? Weren’t you angry too, saying that you couldn’t make your show if this continued…?

Music Show Producer:

Please stop!

Yuki:

…

Music Show Producer:

…I am angry. And I still want to change this weird situation, even now.

But, that… I can’t do it with you. Telling someone to fight until the end is something I can’t do with a person that I can’t trust.

Yuki:

…you mean to say I’d leave mid-way?

Music Show Producer:

… I don’t want to say it, but yes.

Yuki:

Because I’m the man that threw away his partner and then debuted?

Music Show Producer:

…yes. Or what, is that a lie? If it is, then if you would just say so…

Yuki:

It’s not a lie. It’s the truth.

Music Show Producer:

…you normally wouldn’t be able to trust such a partner, right? We don’t know when you’d throw us away too. If it’d be just me, okay. But it’d cause trouble for the TV station.

Yuki:

…

Music Show Producer:

What are you thinking about? If you have any excuses, then tell me. If not, then that message was my answer.

Yuki:

… I won’t betray you.

Music Show Producer:

As I said---

Yuki:

I need your power. Please. What else should I say?

Music Show Producer:

…I’m not working with a guy that throws away his comrades. What else should I say?

Yuki:

… But Momo has been working with me. I didn’t throw him away, did I?

Music Show Producer:

Because he succeeded, right? If something happened to Momo-kun, you’d surely do the same.

Everyone thinks like that! If we’re wrong, then explain! That you didn’t throw your partner away, that it was their fault!

Yuki:

…

I won’t, even if it kills me. As if I’d take your help.

Music Show Producer:

…ah, I see. I understand very well! Someone! Take Yuki-kun out of the studio! Next time he comes don’t let him enter!

Yuki:

As if I’d appear on this show ever again! Idiot!

Music Show Producer:

As if I’d let you appear again! …ah, shit, why…

Cut to hallway.

TV Station Employee:

That producer and Re:vale’s Yuki-san were arguing earlier…

TV Station Employee:

Ehh? Even though they were so close… I wonder if that scandal is true? Even though I liked Re:vale.

TV Station Employee:

So are we finally entering TSUKUMO’s era…? The pre-ordering of ŹOOĻ’s new song entered the ranking I heard?

TV Station Employee:

Probably the RedFes influence? So in the end, TSUKUMO is the sole winner, huh…?

TV Station Employee:

The support of Re:vale’s fans is firmly rooted, but there was the thing with TRIGGER too.

TV Station Employee:

Supporting idols of which you know that they have been crushed, TSUKUMO will end up scowling at you and you won’t be in a good position to work anymore.

TV Station Employee:

TRIGGER huh…? I wonder what they’re doing right now. They’re not appearing in mass media anymore, I want them to do things at their own pace.

TV Station Employee:

The nail that sticks out gets hammered down after all… I don’t want to see earnest and sincere people like them get hurt anymo---

Gaku:

Good morning.

Tenn:

Good morning.

Ryūnosuke:

Good morning. Pleased to be working with you.

TV Station Employee:

Ah… good morning…

TV Station Employee:

Did you see that just now!? That was TRIGGER, right!?

TV Station Employee:

I did! They’re coming back to TV!? Even after what happened to them… Their concerts have been successful then, right?

TV Station Employee:

Haha… Didn’t you feel like they’d return at some point? Like, I mean…

They’re TRIGGER after all.

Short fade out and back in.

Gaku:

The gazes are amazing. As if we’re some dead people that came back to life.

Ryūnosuke:

It’s been a while since we were here. I’m happy to see so many familiar faces again.

Tenn:

Who would’ve thought the place where they’d announce the work would be in an annex of the TV station, huh? Though I heard the theatre supports them.

This feeling of tension isn’t bad.

Gaku:

Yeah. Rather than an interview, getting into the enemy camp is more like us.

Ryūnosuke:

Though it was our home ground before. Let’s take the chance, one more time, and get back our home.

Gaku:

Of course.

Tenn:

Let’s make today the first step.

If we let our reincarnated selves be seen, then being hit by TSUKUMO’s bullet isn’t scary anymore.

Ryūnosuke:

Yeah. I’m a coward, waver, worry and often lose sight of myself, but when I’m with you two I have nothing to be scared of.

Let’s do this without fear.

Gaku:

We’ve walked through hell. As if something would scare us now.

Tenn:

And we even acquired countless of treasures that could only be found at the bottom of that hell.

Ryūnosuke:

You’re right. Ah… Speaking of which, I saw Yuki-san’s dressing room before.

Gaku:

Oh. Should we go say hello after such a long time? We should go pay him our respects and receive a blessing.

Ryūnosuke:

I’m also worried about the recent gossip… Let’s go meet him.

Cut to Yuki’s dressing room.

Door opens.

Gaku:

Good morning.

Yuki:

…morning. What are you doing here?

Ryūnosuke:

It’s been a while! Is Momo-san doing alright?

Yuki:

He is. …and you? A job with the TV station?

Tenn:

Yes, but we cannot talk about it just yet.

Gaku:

We came to see how you were doing and show you how we were doing.

Ryūnosuke:

Haha, exactly. It’s too bad Momo-san isn’t here, but I’m glad I got to see you, Yuki-san.

Yuki:

I see… Congrats.

Gaku:

Don’t celebrate just yet. It’s only about to start. …are you okay, Yuki-san…?

Yuki:

… Is the door closed properly?

Ryūnosuke:

Uhm, yes. It is.

Yuki:

What is about to happen, can you keep it a secret from Momo and Okarin?

Tenn:

Secret…? What is about to happen?

Yuki:

I will cry.

Gaku:

There you go with your jokes agai---

Yuki:

Starts sobbing.

Gaku:

Seriously!?

Tenn:

No way!?

Ryūnosuke:

A-are you okay!?

Yuki:

Sobbing.

Knocking on the door.

Staff:

Yuki-san, are you there…?

Tenn:

…excuse us! He’s busy right now…

Gaku:

Come again later please!

Ryūnosuke:

Thank you very much!

Staff:

Uhm, okay…

…was that TRIGGER right now…? As if…

Gaku:

… Yuki-san…

Yuki:

Sobbing.

…confirming and denying the thing between Ban and me…

Confirming and denying the thing between Momo and me…

I’m the only one allowed to!

13.2. Voice echoing with the crescent moon

Yuki:

…confirming and denying the thing between Ban and me…

Confirming and denying the thing between Momo and me…

I’m the only one allowed to!

TRIGGER:

…

Yuki:

And I’m not doing it, so everyone can shut up! …even though they know nothing… How much I… how much we…

…how much… I didn’t want to let go of anything…

Gaku:

…Yuki-san…

Yuki:

Don’t touch anything you don’t know about! …even though… we tried to handle it with care… silently, secretly… so no one would get hurt…

…and they all went and touched it… don’t just freely judge me, nor Momo… nor Ban! …ugh…

Ryūnosuke:

…Yuki-san…

Tenn:

…

Yuki:

Sobbing.

… Hah… Sorry… Do you have a tissue…?

Tenn:

I do.

Ryūnosuke:

I have a handkerchief too.

Gaku:

I have a towel too. Please use everything.

Yuki:

Haha… I don’t need this much.

Sorry. When I saw your faces, I felt relaxed…

Gaku:

Is this because of the gossip!? Why do you have to be crying in a place like this!?

Yuki:

He got angry even though I cried…

Gaku:

I’m not angry! That’s not it… …

…it’s supposed to be a secret, but I will tell you. We’re doing a remake of Mikazuki Ookami.

Yuki:

Mikazuki Ookami?

Gaku:

A musical. Chiba Shizuo-san’s Mikazuki Ookami. We did our best and participated in the auditions.

That’s why, you too, Yuki-san…

Tenn:

Please do your best. Don’t lose.

Yuki:

Tenn-kun…

Tenn:

Our way of doing things isn’t the same as your way of doing things, but the feelings are the same.

We’re supporting you. We respect you from the bottom of our hearts. Please win with your methods.

Ryūnosuke:

Yuki-san, this may be weird to say, but… I’m glad that you cried in front of us.

Yuki:

Ryūnosuke-kun…

Ryūnosuke:

I’m motivated. It’s not the time to be scared and ask myself what to do…

I’ll make it succeed. I won’t lose. I’ll go back on TV and I’ll definitely become strong enough to help Re:vale, IDOLiSH7 and everyone who’s here.

Gaku:

Exactly. We’ll take revenge for you.

Yuki:

Haha, revenge. I didn’t die though. So you’ll defeat TSUKUMO?

Gaku:

Not only TSUKUMO. I kinda don’t get it, but…

It’s something like a dark cloud, which always stands in our way, sullying things that we hold dear, hiding them, tricking us.

I will definitely eliminate it with my own hands, so that the things we hold dear can reach far, far away, without going astray.

Yuki:

As expected of Mikazuki Ookami. Very cool.

Tenn:

The cool ones had always been you.

Yuki:

…

Tenn:

Please laugh and raise your head, together with Momo-san.

Ryūnosuke:

I loved the world in which Re:vale laughed and was always cool.

That world is definitely not over. I won’t let it end.

Yuki:

…thank you…

You do your best as well. Momo and I will support you.

TRIGGER:

Yes!

Cut to hallway.

Gaku:

…

Tenn:

…

Ryūnosuke:

…

Gaku:

Let’s do it.

Ryūnosuke:

Yeah.

Tenn:

We’ll connect this feeling.

No matter how different people may be, no matter how far apart they may be, this feeling is sure to connect.

That is a miracle. Let’s create a miracle, with our own hands.

TRIGGER:

Yeah!

TV Station Employee:

…!? TRIGGER!?

TV Station Employee:

What’s with this raid-like atmosphere…?

Cut to a press conference.

Tanigawa:

…that is all about the outline of the musical “Crescent Wolf”.

Reporter:

…a musical of “Mikazuki Ookami”… Depending on how it’s done, it seems like it could leave behind its name in Japan’s musical history.

The competent producer Tanigawa Hiro-sensei and TRIGGER... “Last Dimension”’s golden combination that won an award. Success is out of question.

…if it weren’t for TRIGGER’s scandal…

Reporter:

Very well, if there are questions now…

Reporter:

Actor of Mikazuki Ookami Yaotome Gaku-san. Do you feel any pressure acting in Chiba Shizuo-san’s masterpiece?

Gaku:

Yes, of course. But I want to do my utmost while acting.

Reporter:

Is using this play as a stepping stone for TRIGGER to bloom once more in the showbiz world one of your goals as well?

Gaku:

It is.

Reporter:

…I wasn’t done yet…

Using a masterpiece for self-advertisement is…

Gaku:

But I wouldn’t call it bloom once more. It’s not like we have disappeared. And we also never stopped blooming.

We just were worthy of ourselves. That is all.

No matter where, we accepted the feelings of the people with all our might and continued to perform with all we had.

We’ll just be doing the same this time with the musical “Crescent Wolf”.

We’ll shoulder the feelings of all the fans of this work as well of Chiba Shizuo-san, the stage director and the producer.

Reporter:

As TRIGGER?

Gaku:

As Yaotome Gaku, as Tsukidate Shinpachi, as TRIGGER’s leader. And also, as just one man.

It’s the same, whatever name you use. We were on our way, met with difficulties and encountered a place where we just had to keep fighting.

This moment, right now, is the same.

Reporter:

…

Gaku:

So that I can like who I am, I will not run away nor avert my eyes from this battlefield, as to not embarrass the people who believed in me.

And so will Kujou Tenn and Tsunashi Ryūnosuke; everyone here feels the same.

Tenn:

Yes.

Ryūnosuke:

Exactly.

Reporter:

Are there other questions?

Reporter:

Tsunashi-san, when it was decided that you would be part of “Crescent Wolf”, did you contact Hanamaki-san about it?

Tanigawa:

Please refrain from questions that have nothing to do with the play. As for my part… yes. Talking about the play had been a secret until today.

And from tomorrow onwards, all of Japan will talk about this. ---the announcement of the song!

Tenn:

I’m looking forward to be working with you.

Ryūnosuke:

I’m looking forward to be working with you. I’ll sing with all my might. Please listen.

Tanigawa:

“Crescent Wolf”’s main theme song, “Crescent rise”, sung by Yaotome Gaku. Kujou Tenn, Tsunashi Ryūnosuke.

Together as one at last. I don’t want to be friends with anyone who’s heart isn’t moved by this song.

Well then, if you please.

Gaku:

…

Tenn:

…

Ryūnosuke:

…

Cut to street.

Woman:

Look, look! It’s TRIGGER!

Woman:

TRIGGER? Isn’t that an old recording?

Woman:

A musical called “Crescent Wolf”… wait, Chiba Shizuo’s “Mikazuki Ookami”!?

Woman:

…TRIGGER’s song…

Cut back to press conference, Crescent rise instrumental starts playing.

Ryūnosuke, thinking:

Hey, can you see it? This is the continuation of the view feared back then.

Gaku, thinking:

We were ready to lose everything. Just moving forward in the darkness, with no stars and no rainbows.

Tenn, thinking:

But now, there are so many people that believe in us. We’re standing in a place with this much pride.

I want to reach the fans, the entire world.

This is our answer.

Gaku, thinking:

Reach.

Ryūnosuke, thinking:

Connect.

Tenn, thinking:

We’re not afraid of anything.

Ryūnosuke, thinking:

I just believe in myself, in my friends.

Gaku, thinking:

Reach! To the ends of the earth!

Cut back to street.

Woman:

How cool…! I wanna watch this…!

Woman:

Ehh? But wasn’t TRIGGER…

Woman:

Who cares! I want to watch this! I’m sure it’ll be interesting…!

Cut to another street.

Man:

“Crescent Wolf”!? Chiba Shizuo’s!? That has been made into a musical?

How unfair! If Yaotome Gaku plays as Mikazuki Ookami then there’s no doubt that it’ll be cool!

Man:

Hee… I thought they hadn’t appeared much on TV lately, so they were working on a musical, huh?

Hmm, interesting.

Cut to another street.

TRIGGER fan:

…TRIGGER and Mikazuki Ookami…! “Crescent Wolf”…!

…a-amazing… that’s amazing, TRIGGER… You’re always, always so cool…

…you’re doing it again and again, making me glad that I am your fan…

No matter if you sing on TV, sing in a back alley, sing on top of a musical stage; for me, TRIGGER is the number one star.

It was hard, but you didn’t give up… Thank you for not letting it end…

Thank you, I love you…!

Cut to Yaotome Production entrance hall.

Yaotome Sousuke:

…

Otoharu:

You should’ve gone to the conference instead of watching it on TV.

Sousuke:

Shut up! Why are you even here?

Otoharu:

I just happened to pass by.

How cool, right? Both your son and TRIGGER.

Sousuke:

…to be honest, I wanted to create the best stage for them with my own hands.

Otoharu:

…

Sousuke:

Though with only being given things, they may not have come to grow this much.

Otoharu:

Time flies by fast. The ones to grab onto a new era is always the younger generation.

But the past isn’t meaningless either. Just as “Mikazuki Ookami”’s name has given TRIGGER an irreplaceable strength.

Feelings will always be connected. Even the era that you and I went through is not meaningless.

Sousuke:

Hmph…

Do your best, TRIGGER.

13.3. Worthy of oneself

On a street.

Momo:

…TRIGGER…

Haha… Ahaha! Awesome! Just the best!

…they’re singing like they’re opposing something, as if they’re fighting against something; they’re honest…

Thanks. I received your energy. I’ll have to get going soon too.

Ryo-san. You don’t know, do you? Both the time where I ran on the field until I broke down and the time where I lowered my head in front of Yuki…

I did it to win.

As if my desire, my selfishness would lose to the fox that’s sulking about not reaching the grapes.

I’ll let you know who you tried to obstruct.

Car door opens.

Man:

…please excuse me for being late. The streets were packed…

Momo:

I don’t mind.

I’m glad we could meet, Tsukumo-san.

[TL note: The character labelled “man” has only a silhouette sprite and no voice.]

Man:

…

Momo:

Can I get on? Being in a high-class car with a top idol would draw too much attention.

Cut to a fountain in front of the Noth Meir palace.

Tsumugi:

This concludes the meeting about the MV’s shooting. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.

Riku:

While ŹOOĻ distract Seth-san we’ll persuade Nagi and shoot the MV, right? I’m counting on you, Touma-san.

Touma:

We’ll do it somehow. Riku, are you feeling okay?

Riku:

Yes!

Banri:

Kenneth-san has given us some sandwiches on the way. Let’s take a break and have a light meal.

Tamaki:

Yay! Let’s eat!

Short fade out and in.

Yamato:

Can I sit next to you?

Minami:

Nikaidou-san… I don’t mind, but why, did something happen?

Yamato:

I wanted to ask you about Sakura Haruki. What kinda guy was he?

Mitsuki:

Ah, I wanna know too! Nagi said he was a kind person, but how did you see it?

Minami:

…it’s difficult to put it into one word alone. He was a kind person, but he was a free person, like a child.

Yamato:

How unexpected. I just thought he’d be calm and kinda mature.

Minami:

He had that part as well. He loved music, loved Zero, was hard to figure out and honeymouthed.

Mitsuki:

So he was good at flattery? Or good at arguments?

[TL note: The expression Minami uses literally translates as “he was good with his mouth”, so Mitsuki asks what he did well with it? Flirting or arguing.]

Minami:

He would always apologize immediately. Even for things that he didn’t need to apologize for. I was always at a loss for words…

Even now I still didn’t have the chance to apologize.

Mitsuki:

Then I hope you can meet and apologize to him… And while you’re at it, to Nagi too, yes?

Minami:

…

Mitsuki:

One can tell by watching you that you’re feeling sorry. But the longer that words aren’t said, the heavier they become.

They turn into lead in your mouth and before you notice it, they become poison for your body. This old man here is a good example.

Yamato:

I knew you’d say that.

Mitsuki:

So before that happens, let them out. I’ll act as a go-between for you. Apologize properly and make your body feel lighter.

So then I too can say it clearly and loudly, without having to mumble, “thank you for your help”.

I want to say it. I want to be thankful, I want to like you.

Minami:

Izumi-san…

Yamato:

You better say it. He may be talking now, but before long the iron fist will come out.

Mitsuki:

You really are persistent huh?

Yamato:

That’ll make it easier. Well, at least that was my example.

Minami:

…

…yes. I promise.

Short fade out and in.

Sougo:

How was the RedFes? I saw the article, but it was well received, right?

Torao:

It was good. Though I can’t say that well.

Sougo:

I knew it! Did you meet other artists? How was it on top of the stage!?

I also want to hear ŹOOĻ’s new song that isn’t sung by just two of you. If you happen to have it with you then later…

Torao:

…

Sougo:

Ah… I’m sorry, did I ask too much?

Torao:

Ah, no. I just thought I never saw that expression on you.

Sougo:

…

Torao:

You love music, huh?

Sougo:

Yes… Do you not?

Torao:

I don’t really know. The more I think about something, the more I don’t understand it; that’s how I’ve lived my life so far.

Sougo:

…I understand you.

Torao:

You’re different, aren’t you? I envy you for getting absorbed in something and talking about it like that.

Sougo:

Then you should just get absorbed in something too, Midou-san. I had lost sight of myself once too. While I was trying to fit other people, I forgot about myself…

Torao:

…

Sougo:

But I found it again. But to dive deep and find your true self takes a lot of time…

You have to close off your ears from what others say, forget about everything and just become yourself. Like you’re immersed in it, almost drowning.

Before you get used to the water after jumping in, you feel scared, insecure and can’t bear it. But afterwards, there’s nothing but a great feeling.

When I first got absorbed in music, my heart started racing due to other things than just anxiety and being scared. I got to learn a new feeling.

Torao:

…I felt excited too. During RedFes.

Sougo:

Yes?

Torao:

Well, might’ve been due to stress. I felt like puking. But don’t tell the others.

Sougo:

Ahaha. You could just tell them.

Torao:

I don’t wanna.

Tamaki:

Sou-chan! You’re hanging out with that guy again!

Sougo:

Well he’s an old acquaintance…

Tamaki:

I know! …I don’t want Sou-chan to be together with Toracchi.

Torao:

Toracchi?

Tamaki:

He feels kinda scary.

Torao:

Osaka Sougo is scary without me too.

Sougo:

Right now I’m not being scary, right? It’s okay, Tamaki-kun. We were talking about music.

Tamaki:

Music?

Sougo:

Yes. About our music.

Short fade out and in.

Touma:

Were you okay after MOP? Ryo-san didn’t do anything weird to you, right?

Riku:

I didn’t meet him.

Iori:

What do you mean weird…? What does your president say about Nanase-san?

Touma:

Even if you ask me… When Riku talks on TV he answers him.

Riku:

That’s a bit scary… But if he’s my fan, maybe it’s okay to do that…?

Iori:

This and that are two different things though?

Haruka:

Can I sit next to you?

Touma:

Oh, Haru! Sure, you can... Huh?

Riku:

…next to me?

Haruka:

I wanna ask you something.

Riku:

Something embarrassing about Iori?

Iori:

Why!?

Haruka:

I’ll ask that later.

Iori:

Don’t do that! Nanase-san, you can’t.

Riku:

What’s the problem, get closer to your classmate.

Haruka:

…what is Kujou Tenn like?

Riku:

…

Haruka:

How did he become like that? Does he never complain?

Riku:

Do you want to know about Te… Kujou Tenn’s weakness?

Haruka:

No.

I wanna know why he’s strong.

Riku:

That’s something I wanna know too. I… Ha… Ah!

Haruka:

What!?

Riku:

I was wavering if I should call you Isumi-kun or Haruka-kun and then I noticed it’s the first time I’m talking to someone younger from another group.

Haruka:

Who cares!

Touma:

Haru! You don’t have to say it like…

Iori:

Does it matter? You’re always like that, even during talk shows you go on a tangent all the time.

Touma:

H-he’s stricter than Haru…

Riku:

Oh shut it. You’re the same age as Iori and Tamaki, so maybe Haruka? Or should I add kun so it’s cooler, like Sougo-san does?

Haruka:

I really don’t care…

Riku:

Why do you want to know the reason why he’s strong?

Haruka:

… Because I was told that by him. To not stand on stage with this little resolution.

I was wondering what kind of resolution was good then…

Touma:

Haru…

Riku:

I… was told that as well!

Haruka:

To you too? Even though you’re his little brother?

Riku:

Yeah.

Haruka:

But… you’re still singing?

Riku:

I am. I mean, even I want to sing.

Haruka:

…

Riku:

I think what Tenn-nii said is probably right. I think I can’t catch up to him yet.

But I just want to sing. Even if I’m not perfect, or if I’m told I shouldn’t, even if I keep messing up…

I just want to sing worthy of myself. That’s what I think now.

Haruka:

…worthy of yourself…

Riku:

Yes. That’s why I told Touma-san too, that it’s weird not to sing earnestly.

I think singing earnestly is more like Touma-san.

Touma:

…you’re right, it’s what you just said. I think so too.

And singing earnestly feels good too.

Riku:

Yes! See Iori? He said I was right!

Iori:

I’m glad for you.

Haruka:

…

…worthy of myself and feeling good, huh…

Iori:

…I feel like you people have changed a bit. But because I’m a cautious person, I don’t feel like trusting you.

Riku:

Iori…

Touma:

…

Haruka:

…

Iori:

If you want to be trusted, then see this role you accepted through to the end. And then…

Win JIMA without using TSUKUMO’s dirty tactics and challenge us at the Black or White.

And then we can talk.

13.4. Place where one belongs

Riku:

It’s almost time!

Mitsuki:

Let’s go, Yamato-san!

Yamato:

Yeah. Well then, we’re counting on you. Make sure he doesn’t find out.

Minami:

My. Who are you telling that too?

Yamato:

I’m not worried about you, Mister Child Actor Genius. I mean those guys over there.

Minami:

Ah… I am a bit worried, but…

Touma:

Mina is the interpreter, Tora is the one introducing us, but why am I Haru’s assistant?

Torao:

We have no choice. The minor Haruka doesn’t look like a manager. So he’s the singer we’re trying to promote.

Haruka:

I’m counting on you. Assistant Touma, carry my bag.

Touma:

I’m not your gofer!

Haruka:

I’m getting into my role! Come on!

Torao:

I wanted to have a role with more disguise. This way I’m just someone from Hotel Midou. Should we change my role?

Haruka:

What do you wanna be?

Torao:

A man that ran away from a laboratory. Or something like that.

Haruka:

An imperfect fugitive? You think the prince will like that?

Torao:

I’m sure he will.

Minami:

…

…okay not a bit worried, I’m worried a lot.

Iori:

P-please do your best.

Tamaki:

Alright, let’s go! We can finally meet Nagicchi! And then I’ll give him a piggyback ride and we’ll dash around!

Sougo:

H-he’s still a prince. Maybe it’d be best to just shake hands or hug him in front of other people.

Mitsuki:

Wait for us, Nagi!

Cut to a ballroom.

Nagi:

Woman:

<My, Your Highness Nagi as well, You are like Noth Meir’s beautiful moon itself. I am honoured to have met You.>

Nagi:

Seth:

<Haha. You seem to be enjoying yourself, Nagi.>

Nagi:

Seth:

Nagi:

Seth:

<You’re not getting her.>

Woman:

Woman:

<Well… Being fought over by these beautiful brothers must be wonderful…>

Servant:

Seth:

Servant:

<Yes. A boy from Japan that wants to be a singer. By an introduction from the heir to Hotel Midou.>

Seth:

Servant:

<They’ll surely be pleased by Your kindness. I shall lead the way.>

Seth:

<Nagi. Stay put here.>

Nagi:

<Yes…>

Seth:

Nagi:

<I’ll make sure to steal her back.>

>… Hah…>

Butler:

Nagi:

<You’re Thorvald’s friend…>

Butler:

Nagi:

<…? It’s not?>

Butler:

<Yes. You look like You might collapse any time soon.>

Nagi:

Butler:

Nagi:

<Jog? Even though I’m pale?>

Butler:

Nagi:

Butler:

Cut to courtyard.

Nagi:

<Ha… ha… Why did you make me run…? Is there something in the chapel’s courtyard--->

Mitsuki:

Nagi!

Nagi:

…

Tamaki:

He came! Nagicchi, hurry!

Iori:

Rokuya-san. You remember our new song, yes?

Yamato:

Right now Riku is shooting his part! I’ll teach you the steps, so remember them fast!

Nagi:

…wh…

What are you doing here…?

Tsumugi:

Shooting the MV of our new song!

Nagi:

…MV…

Sougo:

What amazing clothes you’re wearing. But you should change into this. There’s a place you can change over there.

Nagi:

…I… I don’t know if I can return…

I don’t know if I can return to IDOLiSH7, return to be by your side…

Mitsuki:

You can.

Nagi:

Mitsuki…

Mitsuki:

Nagi, you said it, right? When I was feeling down, you said you were my fan.

But I’m greedy. I can’t do with just being your fan. I want you to be my partner.

I can’t say I’d be glad if you were happy somewhere else. Let’s do it together. Let’s overcome this together.

Nagi:

…

Mitsuki:

Why aren’t you saying anything, idiot! Do you get what I mean!?

I love you, dear friend! Your answer!?

Nagi:

…yes…

Mitsuki:

Are you happy?

Nagi:

Yes…!

Tamaki:

Yaaay! I’m glad, Nagicchi!

Tsumugi:

…I’m glad… I’m really glad for you…

Iori:

…I’m glad…

Nagi:

…sorry… I… all the time…

Yamato:

It’s okay, it’s okay. How stupid. If you cry, then we can’t---

…I’m glad…

Mitsuki:

Yamato-san… …ugh…

Yamato:

I’m glad. Making us worry like that… …you bastard…

Nagi:

Yamato… …ugh…

Mitsuki:

…ahaha! Idiot! Don’t cry! …ah damn it, we still have the shooting…

Tamaki:

…Mikki you’re crying… Iorin and Sou-chan too!

Iori:

I… I’m not…

Sougo:

I’m glad, Nagi-kun… Let’s do our best together, okay…?

Riku:

Nagi! Nagi…!

Nagi:

Riku…!

Riku:

Come on guys! That was mean! I was being filmed, but if you all cry like that I almost couldn’t hold it in…

Iori:

Haha… Well it’s a song about crying and laughing.

Riku:

A song of miracle!

Sougo:

A song of reunion… The song we didn’t give up on.

Mitsuki:

Did you listen to it?

Nagi:

…I did…

Mitsuki:

How was it?

Nagi:

I love it…

Yamato:

Can you sing it?

Nagi:

…I will sing it… Filled with love from my heart…

Because I am IDOLiSH7.

13.5. The Crown Prince’s Order

Back in the ballroom.

Torao:

{Nice to meet you, Prince Seth. My name is Torao Midou.}

[TL note: As shown by the {} it’s written in English in-game too, but they spelled his name “Seto”. I’ll leave it at Seth so it’s consistent.]

Minami:

Seth:

Torao:

I am the direct descent of the Midou Group, but that is just my temporary guise. I’m running away from a certain laboratory facility after having gone through experiments of a new medicine…

Minami:

Seth:

<Yes. Hotel Midou is a very pleasant hotel. Well then, what are the conditions?>

Torao:

I acquired classified information from a certain organisation.

Minami:

<I, Midou Torao, have been thinking about starting a new project.>

Seth:

<Oh?>

Minami:

<It’s show business. Firstly…>

Torao:

Let’s talk after meeting with the Italian spy, Luisa.

Minami:

…Midou-san. Please take this seriously. I was about to start laughing like 8 times.

Torao:

Amazing setting, right?

Minami:

Who is Luisa?

Torao:

An old girlfriend.

Seth:

Minami:

<Nothing, please accept my apologies.>

Haruo, introduce yourself to His Highness Seth.

Haruka:

{Nice to meet you, Prince Seth.}

Seth:

Minami:

<Eh… yes. While being a young person he carries incredible talent. His singing will fascinate the world.>

Seth:

Haruka:

Th-thank you … Why is he petting my head?

Minami:

Touma:

N… Naisu tuu miito yuu. Purinsu Seto.

[TL note: He talks in very accented English and I will show it this way and you can’t stop me.]

Minami:

Inumaru-san, don’t strain yourself.

Touma:

Well he’s a prince, I’m nervous…

Seth:

Minami:

Shake his hand, Inumaru-san.

Touma:

Se-senkyuu! Aimu fain! Ken hazu a pen! Ai duu notto habu a pen!

Seth:

<…?>

Minami:

…what are you saying!?

Touma:

Th-the English lines I learned in middle school just popped up in my head!

Minami:

Calm down! Talk Japanese to me that’s all you need to do!

Touma:

S-sorry.

Minami:

Clear throat . <Please excuse us.>

Seth:

Minami:

>Please pay him no mind. Well then, if You don’t mind continuing on the subject…>

Seth:

<…hmm…>

Torao:

Hey, the prince seemed to get bored. Shouldn’t we go back to the mutant hero and spy?

Minami:

I can’t just suddenly start talking about that!

Seth:

<Hm…>

Haruka:

He’s playing with his nails! This is bad! He’ll leave at this pace!

Seth:

<…oh, there’s light in the chapel’s courtyard. Are they filming something?>

Touma:

Oh now! He got curious about the courtyard!

Seth:

Minami:

<P-please wait! We’ll start the main business now and--->

Seth:

Haruka:

Saa, DARK NIGHT mi ni matotte / shikkoku no yoru o asobe

Seth:

…

Haruka:

Saa BRAVE ACT odoresawage / Yokubou no mama ni YES, HERE WE GO!

[TL note: He sang the first two lines of ZONE OF OVERLAP acapella.]

…sh-should I sing more?

Seth:

<…haha! How wonderful! Let me hear the rest in my room.>

Minami:

Hah…

Touma:

Thank goodness…

Torao:

In the nick of time…

Touma:

Now do your best too, IDOLiSH7…

Cut to courtyard.

Tamaki:

1, 2, 3, 4… 5, 6, 7, 8, yes yes!

Nagi:

OH! Did I match it?

Mitsuki:

You did!

Yamato:

‘Kay! Sou’s part is almost done. Your turn, Nagi!

Nagi:

OK!

Haha… I’m happy I can answer like this.

Mitsuki:

You’re grinning all the time! I was shocked when you ignored us last time, okay?

Nagi:

Mitsuki, there is something I need to tell you. If someone says don’t move, then---

Iori:

Done! Rokuya-san, it’s your turn!

Riku:

Once Nagi’s part is done, it’s time for all of us together! Get ready!

Tamaki:

Aye!

Sougo:

Do your best, Nagi-kun!

Nagi:

Yes!

Short fade out and in.

Tsumugi:

Well then, let’s begin filming the dance scene with everyone!

Riku:

Understood!

Nagi:

Alright!

Tamaki:

Lining up together like this is kinda…

The fans would be around here, going wah!

Mitsuki:

Yes, you’re right! I wanna sing in front of them soon again!

Yamato:

The sticks are glowing… We can see everyone’s smiles…

Sougo:

While being illuminated by the light on stage…

Iori:

It’s almost as if we can see that view, right?

Cut to a live stage.

Riku:

Good evening! We are IDOLiSH7…!

Audience:

*scream*

Riku:

Everyone, enjoy our stage!

I’m really happy that we can show you wat we can do as seven…!

Audience:

*scream*

Cut back to the courtyard.

Riku:

…

Let’s do our best… And go back to Japan all together.

Our fans are waiting for us!

Everyone:

Yeah!

Cut to Seth’s room.

Seth:

<Haha… I see. So he was scouted from a church’s choir. What is Haruo’s dream?>

Minami:

What is Haruo’s dream?

Haruka:

Dream!? Uhm… I… want to succeed with singing and get to like myself more, I guess?

Minami:

Seth:

<…why? He has wonderful talent, yet he doesn’t like himself?>

Minami:

Yet he doesn’t like himself, he asked.

Haruka:

Ah, well, yeah… It’s not like I have a good personality either, and bad things were done to me, and I did bad things to others.

But, like… I feel like I can like myself if I accomplish something with my own power.

Minami:

Seth:

<…>

Touma:

Mina.

Minami:

What is it?

Touma:

He seems to be in a good mood now, so why not ask him? About Sakura Haruki…

Minami:

But…

Torao:

Just try it. If it gets weird, just change subjects. The shooting should be over by now too.

Minami:

<…Your Highness Seth.>

Seth:

<What?>

Minami:

Seth:

<Haruki? Was there a change to his condition?>

Minami:

Eh…?

Seth:

<…I’ve been thinking it for a while, but have I not seen you before somewhere already?>

Minami:

Seth:

<No, that’s not it. …I remembered. The Japanese actor that came here to study aboard. Someone talked about it before.>

Minami:

<…>

Haruka:

D-didn’t the mood just worsen?

Torao:

Were we found out?

Seth:

Minami:

Seth:

Minami:

…

Touma:

Mina! Stop it, prince! If you wanna hit someone, then I… Uhm…

Tacchi mii!!

Seth:

…!?

Touma:

Puriizu! Tacchi mii! Hei yuu! Kamon! Tacchi! Berii haado tachi mii…!

Seth:

Noo noo noo noo!!

Touma:

…noo? So he doesn’t need to hit me? Mina, I did it somehow!

Seth:

Minami:

He’s telling us to go home.

Touma:

Why, prince?

Torao:

This is getting bad… Haruka, check the window. Did they finish?

Haruka:

Wait… No! They’re not done yet!

Seth:

<What? Is there something outside of the window?>

Minami:

<Nothing! There is nothing!>

Seth:

<…! That is IDOLiSH7… Nagi…!>

Haruka & Torao:

He found out…!

Seth:

<…how dare you behind my back… …>

Minami:

<P-please wait! Where are You going, Your Highness!?>

Seth:

Minami:

Seth:

To be continued…

Shion

IDOLiSH7 PART 4 CHAPTER 13