main story archive

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Auditorium

Rei: The plan is a success. We leave the main part of the plan to our brethren – “2wink”!

Hinata: Alrighty.

Yuta: That was a great performance, Sakuma-senpai.

Hinata: You called for us, so here we are ♪

Yuta: Tadaaa ♪

Keito: (……!? Where did they come from?)

(Their outfits are different – they’re not “UNDEAD”. I’ve never seen them before, but… are they newcomers who have yet to take part in an "A1"?)

(They shouldn’t be performing today, but all the paperwork must have been done behind the scenes.)

(It’s one outlandish scheme after the other!)

(They’re twins… which means they must be the first-year Aoi brothers. If I remember correctly, they should be members of the Light Music Club – Sakuma’s juniors. Are they also part of his plan?)

Hinata: Hey, stop looking so tense like the protagonist of a battle manga and leave already ♪

Yuta: You’re going over your performing time, so you’ll be penalised, you know~? ♪

Keito: Ugh… how imprudent can you two be? “UNDEAD” and “2wink” – just know you two won’t have a place at this school when this dreamfest is over!

Rei: Is now really the time to be talking about our fate? You never know – perhaps the school may undergo a change after this dreamfest.

If a revolution occurs, then the previous king will be taken to the guillotine ♪

But we’d only be a nuisance if we stayed here forever. My fellow unit members, we’re leaving!

We’ve done our job – I’ll be sure to shower my dear unit with praises afterwards ♪

Kaoru: What~? Being praised by you doesn’t make me happy at all, you know.

Anyway, is it true that I’ll get a kiss from the Transfer Student if I did my best for the performance?

That’s the only reason why I gave my everything for the performance, you know~? ♪

Rei: Hm. When did I ever say that…?

Kaoru: Wha!? It’s not time for you to start becoming senile, Sakuma-san.

You’ve got to be kidding me~ I worked so hard!

Koga: Stop yappin’ and get off the stage, you geezers! Outta my way!

Adonis, we’re leaving and taking the equipment we brought on stage with us!

We’ve also gotta set up the stage for “Trickstar”, so we’re hella busy!

Geez, why’re we even doin’ something like this…?

Well, I guess I do owe the Transfer Student. Now, we’re even, dammit!

Adonis: I’m good at doing manual labour. Kanzaki, could you lend a hand?

Souma: Hm? I do not think I am obligated to help you, though? W-What should I do… Hasumi-dono!

Keito: Don’t mind them. It’s not our time to perform anymore. We need to leave the stage, otherwise we’ll receive a penalty.

I’m going to leave the stage and get a grasp on the situation. Afterwards, I’ll summon the members of the Student Council, and then we’ll think about how to deal with all this.

We lost our initiative, but we can turn the tables around. No… the stable order the Student Council built will not crumble due to something of this level!

Hinata: Yeah, yeah. Just hurry up and leave, okay?

Yuta: It’s not fun if the opening act takes forever to leave, right? Especially when the audience is so pumped up already~

Keito: You’re saying… we’re the opening act!?

Hinata: Sorry if we hurt your pride, but that’s just how things naturally came to be~♪

Yuta: At the very least, that’s how the audience sees the three of us – “UNDEAD”, “AKATSUKI” and “2wink”.

Hinata: Attain victory first and put an end to everything…

Looks like the system that allowed you to be invincible was useless~ Normally, the opening act are those who appear on stage first ☆

Yuta: The heroes arrive after.

Hinata: With all that said, it’s time for the main stars to arrive…

“Trickstar”, the up-and-coming idol unit Yumenosaki Academy has been waiting for, will begin their performance shortly~☆

Yuta: Please welcome them with a big round of applause! ♪

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Auditorium

Keito: (The situation is complicated and we’re restless, but…)

(We can make a recovery. Kiryu and Kanzaki wouldn’t lose their composure over something like this – they’re not that weak.)

(Naturally, the same can be said for myself. Since the Student Council President, Eichi, is currently not here… I am the one with the most authority at Yumenosaki Academy!)

(I am the king – I will not allow a revolution to occur!)

(“AKATSUKI” will win. Our invincibility isn’t just for show.)

(I’m not relying on our authority, but it’s highly likely the students will vote for us “as usual”.)

(At official dreamfests, the number of votes the performers receive are recorded.)

(As the students are afraid of being on the Student Council’s blacklist, majority of them will vote for “AKATSUKI”.)

(That’s because that’s normal at Yumenosaki Academy – it’s common knowledge here. No one can bravely rebel against us.)

(Falling in line is this school’s– no, it’s commonplace for humans to do so. Things won’t change that easily.)

(Although the general public is attending today’s “S1”, “UNDEAD” and “AKATSUKI” are equal in strength. Our votes should be more or less the same.)

(Our victory will be set in stone with the added votes from the students.)

(It also seems the audience is familiar with the battle of the bands method.)

(Maybe it was detailed in the pamphlet they all received.)

(“B1s” are held in the same way, so the students should be familiar with them too.)

Keito: (How many points a unit gets is dependent on the colour of the cyalumes.)

(Points range from 1 to 10 in normal dreamfests.)

(But if it’s a battle of the bands, then it’s 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 points… Five different colours for each of the different points.)

(One colour for each unit.)

(During a normal dreamfest, a unit can get a minimum of 1 point. But in a battle of the bands-style performance, you won’t gain a point if you vote for the opposing unit.)

(If the votes are varied, then the overall amount of votes gained will… the score will be lower than usual.)

(Is “that” what they were aiming for!?)

(“UNDEAD” is a decoy! Their true goal is…!?)

Rei: Looks like you’ve realised, but it’s far too late. The curtain has risen – you can hear the first cry of the new era.

No one can stop it now.

Our performance will be finished soon. The “opening act” will come to an end – this is where the real part begins~♪

Keito: Dammit, you tricked us! You sly old fox – so this was your plan all along!?

Rei: It seems it was rather difficult for an overly serious four-eyes like yourself to figure out – you should’ve realised much earlier.

Have you become sluggish after soaking too long in the hot bath?

The “Three Oddballs” is all about doing things in an unorthodox and improper manner. Well, did you enjoy it?

It was rather nostalgic, wasn’t it? I felt as though I was young again as well ♪

But it’s all over. Time is up.

We shall graciously leave the stage and return to being Yumenosaki Academy students… And as the audience, we’ll cheer and clap for the idols who will take to the stage.

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Auditorium

Rei: “AKATSUKI”… A crimson moon that shines brightly in the darkness – how lovely and diabolical it sounds ♪

Keito: Sakuma-san.

I don’t know what you’re plotting, but I’m going to crush you with all my might.

No. I’ll be cleaning up the place. It is my duty to keep Yumenosaki Academy clean and pure.

Rei: Hm. The Student Council has certainly made hefty contributions in returning order to the pandemonium-like Yumenosaki Academy.

As one of the "Five Oddballs", who wreaked havoc in the school, I acknowledge that fact.

But history will repeat itself – over and over. I’m essentially the school’s walking encyclopedia, so I’m certain of it.

Now, it’s time for you to be hunted down – to be disposed of like garbage ♪

Keito: Is this your revenge… Sakuma-san?

Rei: Oh, no. The members of the "Five Oddballs" have been reduced to mere remnants – we’re now the "Three Oddballs".

It’s no longer my era. I cannot stay here and show the ugliness of old age forever.

I simply came to remove the vestiges swirling in the dark night before a new morning sun shines through the clouds.

In any case, although I am older than you, there’s no need to refer to me with honorifics.

We’re enemies right now – Come at me with everything you have… boy ♪

Keito: Hmph. If a battle is what you want, then a battle you shall get.

Rei Sakuma. I thought you were more clever than this.

How incorrigible.

Kiryu, Kanzaki, we’re changing our formation. With both “UNDEAD” and “AKATSUKI” on stage, the audience won’t know where to look.

We’ll divide the stage into two halves with each unit on either side.

All that’s left to do is to give everything we have to dominate the stage – it’s a turf battle.

We’ll destroy the foolish rebels’ reputation. The auditorium will be dyed in the shade of crimson – the colour of “AKATSUKI”.

Souma: Understood. Taking the initiative is the art of swordsmanship. Hasumi-dono, you have a good understanding of tactics.

Rei: Then, how about we divide the stage depending on the number of people per unit? We have four, while you have three – our space would be rather cramped.

Keito: I’m not obligated to make such compromises. Hurry up and get off the stage, intruders.

Rei: (Hmm…)

(He’s unshakeable – he’s already come up with a way to deal with the situation. Though the school may be corrupted, they’re still the unit with the most authority here – they’re invincible.)

(If they bring their "usual performance" to the stage, then we’ll lose our superiority we gained by catching them off guard.)

(Judging by how things have gone in the past, traditional performing arts are the strongest here – outlandish schemes won’t last forever.)

(Even so, we were the ones who forced our way up on stage. We need to make appropriate compromises – If it turns into a quarrel, it will be us who will be at a disadvantage.)

(Right now… the audience thinks this sudden battle is part of the performance.)

(We need to make sure they continue believing that until the very end. If the dreamfest is cancelled, then our plan will also "fall through".)

(Everything will be ruined if the teachers or security guards arrive. We’ll proceed to the next stage of our plan while continuing with the performance.)

(It doesn’t matter if we lose. All we need to do is to agitate the unshakeable “AKATSUKI” as much as we can, and make them equal in strength to us.)

(The more Hasumi-kun is wary because of us, the more he forgets about “Trickstar”. That’s our true motive. Kukuku ♪)

Keito: ("UNDEAD’s" music is far more aggravating than I’d imagined.)

(Rock, huh. How barbaric… It’s the exact opposite of "AKATSUKI’s" traditional style. We’re directly butting heads and trying to devour each other.)

(“AKATSUKI” cannot unleash its true strength this way.)

(We specialise in elegant performances that are full of emotion. But that’s being ruined right now.)

(It’s as if we’re trying to serve tea to our guests in a graceful manner, but there is construction work happening right next door.)

(Nevertheless, we’re both trying to get in the way of each other’s performance. We’re like water and oil – opposing one another. The votes will end up being split at this rate.)

(Is “this” what they were aiming for?)

(Damn it. This happened all so quickly, I don’t have the time to think.)

(Why couldn’t I have sensed this despite knowing something suspicious was happening behind the scenes? Did I lower my guard because of the long period of peace? Me?)

(What are you scheming, Rei Sakuma of the “Three Oddballs”?)

(I checked everything when I was getting changed in the dressing room earlier.)

(What’s happening…? “UNDEAD” wasn’t supposed to take part in the “S1” today, yet here they are.)

Keito: (When did they register for the dreamfest? I don’t remember accepting their application.)

(We’re talking about the problem children, the “Five Oddballs”, and their leader here – using illegal methods to do something like this would certainly be his specialty.)

(We’re now on the same stage against our will – it’s like fate. I need to investigate the details later, but… now isn’t the time for that.)

(“UNDEAD” has been properly registered as a participant in today’s “S1”, and it’s been officially accepted by the school on paper.)

(I can’t use my authority to make “UNDEAD” leave, either. Naturally, I’d also take that into account in the worst-case scenario.)

(But that would make matters worse. We, the Student Council – the embodiment of justice –will end up being the rulebreakers.)

(That’s the sort of picture that’s been set up – we’re shackled by our position and cannot move.)

Keito: (I have no choice but to force them to surrender with my own abilities. That’s what we can do.)

(Don’t underestimate us. I will bring the demons and monsters, who have come out of the darkness, to justice with my own two hands.)

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Auditorium

Rei: Come, everyone. Enjoy tonight’s banquet to your heart’s content!

Tonight is “UNDEAD”s" night of resurrection! Nighttime is our stage, after all. We shall sing and dance - rejoicing tonight!

Kaoru: No, no. You’re the only one who’s gotten day and night mixed up, Sakuma-san~ Well, I guess it’s not like I hate the night.

Only delinquents get to enjoy the nightlife! It makes you feel alive, doesn’t it~? ♪

Koga: Hah! You two should be more energetic!

C’mere, Adonis! Let’s shout and scream so we don’t lose to those two pieces of junk! Say somethin’!

Adonis: If I must speak, then I’ll do my best. But there’s no point competing with members of the same unit.

Adonis: In our case, the sort of distance where we can snap at each other might be "perfect" for us.

But I’ll hang on tightly in order to not be shaken off. Do you understand what I’m trying to say?

Kuro: (Tch…)

(Things aren’t looking good. “AKATSUKI” is feeling restless due to the unexpected situation.)

(We, “AKATSUKI”, specialise in traditional performing arts, but this wasn’t within our expectations.)

(Traditional performing arts is all about demonstrating its true value by doing our usual routines flawlessly.)

(But they spoiled our start. We failed to hit from the first step. It might be next-to impossible for us to reclaim what we lost.)

(They have four people. The two of us have to hold the fort until Hasumi returns.)

(It’s human nature to look in the direction with more people who occupy more space on stage.)

(“UNDEAD” is already very self-assertive as it is. If they act like they own the place, then we’ll just look like backup dancers.)

(The prestigious “AKATSUKI” who currently stands at the top of the school will be reduced to a supporting role? That’s not funny.)

(Well, it doesn’t matter. When Hasumi returns, we should be able to hold out until we’re evenly matched in strength in the worst-case scenario.)

(Besides, it’s not my job to do the thinking. We’ll just do what we always do – perform flawlessly, and then win.)

(That’s “AKATSUKI” – that’s our way of doing things.)

(All I can do is to play my part. I’ll fulfil my duty, but I won’t overdo it.)

(There’s also the issue that ruined the "Dragon King Competition", too. I don’t really feel like fighting.)

(It should be fine as long as I play my part properly by acting carefully and making sure I don’t make any mistakes.)

(But we’re fighting against “UNDEAD” of all units? They’re an antique – Who knew they make an appearance now?)

(I thought the Transfer Student’s unit would come out…)

(Where are they, and what are they doing?)

Koga: Hey, looks like we’ve got a frowner here. Eh, Kiryu-senpai?

Kukaka! The strongest unit in the school is nothing special! Serves ya right!

We never got to finish our battle during the “Dragon King Competition”, after all. I’m gonna make ya grovel at my feet!

It’s too late to cry and apologise~! Beasts are strongest when they’re wounded – I’m gonna tear out your throat!

Kuro: Shut up. Don’t make such a fuss on stage.

Sakuma… Looks like your pet dog needs to be disciplined.

Rei: My apologies, what an embarrassment. Doggy has yet to grow out of his habit of barking at people.

But, well, he does a good job threatening others.

Dogs have had the ability to drive away evil spirits by howling since ancient times. It’s perfect when it comes to driving away the old customs that have spread throughout this school like a curse – don’t you think?

It’s a full moon tonight – We shall drive the audience into a state of frenzy.

Dogs can be heard howling in the distance as the demons and monsters begin their banquet.

Tonight shall be a night full of more madness than you’ll ever find in your nightmares ♪

Kuro: Oh? The demons and monsters will run away when they hear dogs barking? Then that means you should leave the stage, right, “UNDEAD”?

Koga: Hey, I said I’m not a dog! Stop calling me one or I’m seriously gonna get pissed off! I’mma kill ya!

Souma: …Hm.

Your unit appears to be in rather good spirits. Would you not say the same, Adonis-dono?

Adonis: Everyone is talkative, so it makes things easier for me.

Souma: We may be fellow comrades of Class A, but I shan’t go easy on you.

Those who are insolent will atone for their actions with a miserable defeat.

Adonis: Yeah. I’m fully aware what we’re doing is ill-mannered.

But if we’re speaking of comrades, then you shouldn’t be saying those things to me.

Souma: What do you mean?

Adonis: …I’ve said too much. I knew I was never any good at conversing. I’ll focus on the performance.

Souma: Right. The spotlight is not shining down on us youngsters. I shall respect my upperclassmen who have supported Yumenosaki Academy thus far.

The main performer has arrived.

Keito: Sorry to keep you waiting.

This outfit is difficult to put on without Kiryu’s help.

Kuro: Oh, right… Sorry, my hands were tied.

“AKATSUKI” are blessed with members with good physiques and posture, so it makes making outfits a lotta fun, and I end up making complicated outfits.

Keito: I don’t mind. The outfits you make are also one of "AKATSUKI’s" weapons.

I don’t mind if you make outfits for other units. That’s why I’ve allowed you to have this side job.

It’s because you’re so sincere that the students don’t aim their hatred towards “AKATSUKI”. They even support us – We have many achievements to our name.

The victors will be none other than us – “AKATSUKI”.

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Auditorium

Keito: (Who are they? Why are they performing? What are they after?)

(Did they burst up on stage to take exclusive control over it?)

(I suspect the visitors in the auditorium have yet to notice something is wrong. Do they think this is part of today’s performance?)

(The Student Council is understaffed, and it’s difficult to say that the security here is perfect.)

(I should be preparing for my performance in the dressing room, but I was in the Student Council Room doing office work.)

(Did they use that chance to jump up on stage and start performing like it was the most natural thing to do?)

(How incorrigible.)

You scoundrels…! What are you doing!? I’ll consider this an act of rebellion against the Student Council!

Leave the stage immediately! You’re not allowed to be up there right now!

Rei: Now, now, Hasumi-kun.

Don’t put a damper on things.

For idols, a dreamfest is the stage of their dreams – it’s their chance to shine in the spotlight.

But there aren’t that many units participating in this “S1” it seems. So we decided to jump up on stage to add a touch of colour to the place.

We might end up stealing the spotlight from you, but you’ll forgive us, won’t you?

Keito: …Sakuma-san. It’s rare to see you show up.

Rei: Kukuku. I’m just a bag of bones with one foot in the coffin – I won’t have any regrets if I die gallantly on the battlefield. I wanted to fight one last time.

Old soldiers never die; they just fade away. Still… sleeping on your own is quite lonely. I wanted a fellow travelling companion on my way to hell, you see.

Keito: Are these insolent men yours?

Rei: No, they’re my dear comrades.

It’s been a while since we last took to the stage, so I think everyone must have forgotten.

We are “UNDEAD”, a group of demons and monsters, led by yours truly – Rei Sakuma.

Perhaps it’s because there aren’t many units taking part, but I appreciate the dreamfest being held late in the day.

Night has just fallen – The nightly procession of monsters, demons and spirits won’t end until the sky grows light as dawn breaks.

If you have complaints, then lead the unit you’re so proud of and face me. All you have to do is to beat us.

Or do you no longer have the courage to fight an earnest battle on stage because it’s been far too peaceful?

Keito: …………

Fine. The general public doesn’t know what’s going on. I’ll turn a blind eye to you and treat you as "something that’s a part of today’s performance".

If a scuffle involving the public occurs, then there will be trust issues with Yumenosaki Academy.

Today’s performance will proceed without a hitch and will end like usual – the audience won’t doubt a thing.

Now that Eichi isn’t here, I’m the one responsible for maintaining order at school. I won’t let the Student Council’s dignity be destroyed.

Sakuma-san. If an earnest battle as idols is what you want, then I shall accept your invitation.

As per your way of doing things…

Why don’t we fight in the style of a battle of the bands? Where two units perform at the same time on stage – just like the unofficial battle "B1"?

Rei: Hm. Now, that would be what you’d call a fight. What’s the point in being "well-behaved children" who perform in turns?

Well, I suppose that’s the tactic you used to achieve all your victories thus far. You’re just a little boy who cannot take off his own "diaper"… are you afraid of letting go of your sure-fire method?

I don’t mind if you want to take turns performing. But we won’t leave the stage.

We’ll just continue with our performance, ignoring you as you wait your turn ♪

Keito: Hmph. You sound like a thief who threatens violence when detected.

I’ll kick you off. This stage belongs to us.

You’ll witness first-hand our difference in skill – you aren’t invincible and you won’t always win.

You lot won’t be able to stand on stage for much longer – we’ll chase you off stage. “AKATSUKI” is the strongest unit. We’ll overwrite your songs with ours.

The audience won’t look at you. Ghosts of the past will fade away without gaining any attention.

It will only have meaning if we completely beat you in your ring. That way, you’ll learn to never point a sword at us ever again.

We’ll make you directly yield to us, troublemakers.

Kanzaki, our outfits are ready in the dressing room, right?

I’m going to go change. Buy time for me until I return.

Souma: Understood!

…But is it fine to let them do whatever they please?

Hasumi-dono, if you give me the order, then I shall turn this space into a battlefield, drowning them in a sea of blood!

Keito: That will be unnecessary. If there is a commotion and the audience feels something is off, then it’ll be the Student Council who’ll be at a loss.

It would be a major issue if the dreamfest were to be cancelled.

Or perhaps "that’s" what Sakuma-san and his unit are after. Don’t respond to their provocation. You’ll just be walking into their trap.

It should be enough once those fools realise our difference in skill.

“UNDEAD”… Dreamfests aren’t easy battles where units who have been on hiatus can easily win.

We’ve been underestimated as well, it seems.

I’ll make them regret fighting the Student Council and “AKATSUKI”.

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Auditorium

Keito: *Pant, wheeze*

Sorry. Wait a minute, Kanzaki. I’m not very athletic – give me fifteen seconds to breathe. I–I’m going to die.

Souma: Oh? I did not know you were so feeble, Hasumi-dono. You should take up martial arts like myself and Kiryu-dono. It is a young man’s honour to train oneself…

Keito: Ugh, don’t lump me with you two muscle-loving humans. I don’t need more stamina and physical strength than necessary.

But what is going on?

Souma: A picture is worth a thousand words. Take a look yourself, Hasumi-dono!

Keito: Hm…?

W-What is this…?

Why is there music playing? Who is performing?

Keito: (No. I need to keep calm. Take deep breaths.)

(I’m not good at handling unexpected situations, but I can’t complain right now. I need to make quick decisions and come up with the appropriate measures.)

(Something bad is happening. If I don’t handle this right, then I might end up making a big blunder.)

(Majority of the units will not be participating in today’s “S1”…)

So the only ones performing today should only be us, “AKATSUKI”, and that new second-year unit that appeared out of nowhere.

Souma: Indeed. I think they are called "Torrikusutaa". The unit members are my classmates.

But they are not the ones currently on stage.

I do not remember seeing them before, but who are they?

Keito: Hmm…? Wait, I’m not wearing my glasses properly.

And what’s with this crowd? There are far too many people here.

I can’t see in front of me. There’s not enough lighting – it’s basically pitch-black in here. I can’t see a thing…!

Souma: I shall cut open a path. Proceed towards the stage, Hasumi-dono.

Souma: Ayee, make way, make way! Step aside – those who obstruct our path shall be cut down without mercy!

Keito: Don’t cut anyone down, Kanzaki. How many times have I told you not to bring swords into the auditorium?

I’ve only turned a blind eye because you’re a member of “AKATSUKI”, you know?

Souma: But a katana is the soul of a samurai!

Keito: You’re an idol, not a samurai. This is not the time to be bickering… We shouldn’t be doing this, but we’re going to climb up on stage!

Souma: Give me your hand, Hasumi-dono. I shall climb up first and then pull you up! Up you come!

Keito: Woah… You’re too rough – reflect on your actions. I’ll be lecturing you later, Kanzaki.

In any case, you lot! What’s with this commotion? It’s against the school rules to hold unauthorised performances!

I, the vice president of the Student Council, denounce you so! Stop the performance immediately!

Kuro: Yo.

You sure took your sweet time, Hasumi no Danna.

Thanks for coming here in haste. But these guys probably won’t listen even if you yell at them without giving them a chance to explain themselves.

Keito: Kiryu. You knew that non-participants would make an appearance during today’s “S1”, didn’t you?

Kuro: I still ain’t happy about how the “Dragon King Competition” got cancelled, you know. I stick to my ethics – I’m a member of “AKATSUKI”, too.

I’ll fulfil my duty. Anyway, now isn’t the time to be worrying about me, right?

Look, it seems the gate to hell has been opened. Looks like that rowdy bunch are going on a rampage on stage.

Koga: Kuhahaha! Shake to your very core, ignorant fools! Today’s “S1” belongs to us!

We ain’t gonna let’cha go home until your eardrums burst! You’re gonna listen to our songs whether it’s in your dreams or in the afterlife…!

Kaoru: Sorry, Four-Eyes~ You were taking so long, so we decided to start without you.

I’m making every single girl here mine ♪

Kaoru: All the girls who have come a long way to be here!

I kept my skills a secret because it’d be a waste to show it to the male students at school. But today, I’ll show you what I’m like when I’m serious!

You’re welcome to fall in love with me as much as you like, okay~? ☆

Adonis: …………

Koga: Hey, Adonis! You should say somethin’, too!

The audience loves stuff like that. Lemme hear your battle cry! Get the crowd pumped up!

Adonis: …I’m not good at talking. In exchange, I’ll make it up by performing as “UNDEAD”.

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Student Council Room

Tori: “Ahaha, don’t blame me if you pass out from overworking, okay~?”

“Well, if the Vice-President also gets hospitalised like the Student Council President, then authority automatically will fall to me, so I wouldn’t mind that, either ♪”

Keito: You need to learn to hide your ambitions, Himemiya. Although, I suppose it isn’t a bad thing to have them in the first place.

In a dreamfest, the highest ranked unit will perform first. Which means, “AKATSUKI” will be performing first.

Naturally, I won’t know what’s going on outside when I’m performing, so… I’d like you to stay in the Student Council Room and watch over everything.

Tori: “Aye aye, sir ♪”

“Woohoo, it may be temporary, but I get to be the king of Yumenosaki Academy ☆”

Keito: And that means everything rests on your shoulders, Himemiya. I’m going to give you a lecture if a problem crops up. Don’t get too arrogant and make sure to do your best.

Tori: “Yeah, yeah. ’Problems’ aren’t gonna pop up~”

“All the students are docile after getting their fangs and claws removed. There are no signs of a mutiny, either!”

“I’m just afraid of unexpected issues, but that’s not gonna happen as long as the Student Council has perfect control over the dreamfest!”

“This is an easy job – I can just sit back and relax. Yeah, having power is great…☆”

Keito: It’ll be too late when something does happen. Don’t let your guard down.

We, the Student Council, will maintain peace and order at Yumenosaki Academy… We have a responsibility and duty to manage the students sternly.

Tori: “Yup, that we do. I’m gonna take good care of the livestock again today~☆ Good luck for your performance, Vice-President~♪”

Keito: There’s no such need. I’ll just be handling it like I would normally for office work.

See you later, Himemiya. Contact me right away if something happens.

Keep your wits about you, especially when I’m performing.

Those insolent fools will most likely strike then. Strengthen security, and don’t forget to handle the office work as well.

Tori: “Yeah, yeah. Geez, you always ramble on and on even when you’re on the phone…”

Souma: Hasumi-dono!

My apologies! There is an emergency – please forgive my insolence for entering the room without permission!

It is a matter of great importance! Hasumi-dono, let us head to the auditorium at once!

Keito: …Hm? Sorry, Himemiya. I’m hanging up.

Tori: "Huh? What’s wrong? Sounds like something bad!"

Keito: I don’t know. I’ll contact you later. It appears to be an emergency, so I’ll fill you in on the details once I’ve understood what’s going on.

…What’s wrong, Kanzaki?

There should be around an hour or so before our performance.

We need to change into our outfits in the dressing room thirty minutes before performing. I told you I’d be doing office work in the Student Council Room until then, didn’t I?

Souma: I shall explain afterwards! Pardon my impertinence – If it means I must be rough with you, then I shall take you there myself!

Keito: Woah? Hey, Kanzaki, stop pulling me! I can walk on my own two feet!

Sorry, give me fifteen seconds. The classified documents are still laid out on the table. I need to put them away.

Souma: There is no such time! Kiryu-dono is doing his best to handle the situation, but he cannot manage it by himself!

We, “AKATSUKI”, must take care of the matter as a unit…!

This is a life-or-death crisis for Yumenosaki Academy!

Now, to the auditorium! Hasumi-dono, what you have been “fearing” is happening right now at today’s “S1”…!

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Student Council Room

Tori: “Hello? Vice-President?”

“Tori Himemiya here. The ’S1’ dreamfest is finally here~♪”

“It’s the festival where we, the Student Council, can show off our power to the incompetent masses~☆”

“Anyway, that’s all for the periodic report. Nothing is amiss at the Yumenosaki Academy front gates, aka the reception!”

“The visitors are entering the school in an orderly fashion – it’s more or less the same as the previous dreamfest. The official Yumenosaki Academy dreamfests are super popular with the students and the general public~♪”

“As for the auditorium, it’s pretty full with some visitors having to stand. It doesn’t look like we’ll need to start limiting entry just yet~♪”

“But I think there’ll be more visitors coming, so you made the right choice setting up a large screen on the grounds, Vice President.”

“Impressive as always ☆”

“It’s just a student performance, so it’s amazing to see how many people are here to watch them~”

“There are so many TV reporters and journalists here too. I’m giving them the best seats, of course~♪”

“As for the general public, maybe they know they’ll get kicked out if they kick up a fuss, so they’re behaving themselves.”

“There isn’t even a small squabble. It’s pretty peaceful!”

Tori: “All the people here are all squished together – it’s such a magnificent spectacle! Hehe, it’s like massed callisthenics ☆”

“It looks like the students at school are pretty well-behaved too~”

“Visitors are prioritised and seated in the auditorium for dreamfests that are open to the public, while students watch the performances in their own classrooms…”

“It looks like they’re following that rule too~”

“Hmm~ What a let-down. I’ve heard a lot of fishy rumours, but… everything is going swimmingly right now!”

“That’s the end of my report. Do you have any questions?”

Keito: No, it’s fine as long as there aren’t any problems. All is right with the world.

Sorry for making you work on a day off, Himemiya.

I suppose I’m too much of a worrywart. Eichi… the Student Council President is still hospitalised, and it seems Isara will be taking part in the dreamfest today.

Therefore, we’re understaffed. I’m glad you’re a great help, Himemiya.

Tori: “Heheh. You can praise me more ♪”

“I’m just shoving all the annoying work to my servant, so I’m just taking it easy.”

“Besides, our leader, the Student Council President, is hospitalised, so our unit’s on hiatus at the moment~☆”

“Anyway… Vice-President, you’re supposed to be taking part in the dreamfest today as well, so should you be working so hard?”

Keito: "S1s" are completely managed by the Student Council, after all. I can’t cut corners.

I have to deal with office work, venue security for “S1”, keeping in contact with the students and teachers, as well as… various other things, I’m as busy as a bee.

I’d appreciate any help right now. But it’s not the wisest idea to have uncertain variables in one’s plans, so I can’t rely on outside help.

We, the Student Council, must handle "everything" ourselves.

Nevertheless, it appears everything is running smoothly right now. It’s another peaceful day at Yumenosaki Academy.

Everything is in perfect order. As long as I’m here, I won’t let the fools do as they please.

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Soundproof Lesson Room

Hokuto: “S1” is finally tomorrow.

I’m sure you’re all feeling anxious. After all, our forkroad of destiny is going to appear right in front of us. But I want everyone to go home and rest well tonight.

For idols, their body is their capital. This is especially important for Isara, Yuuki and the Transfer Student… since it seems you three have been overdoing it this past week.

I can’t have you guys passing out during the performance tomorrow. You’re going to go home and sleep in your own beds even if it means I’m going to need to kidnap you and send you home.

Mao: I know.

We’ve done everything we could this past week. We’ve practised as much as we could.

If we don’t make it, then it just means that was our "fate".

I’ll accept defeat. No, I’d feel a sense of fulfilment since we did everything we could.

I don’t feel anxious. All that’s left for us to do is to show the fruits of our hard work.

Let’s do our best, guys.

Makoto: Yeah. I’m still kinda nervous, but… there’s no use complaining now, is there?

We’ll fight against the Student Council, and we’ll win. We’ve given our blood, sweat and tears every single day for this purpose. I’ll definitely make sure our efforts weren’t in vain.

We can do this. We’ll be the ones to change Yumenosaki Academy.

Subaru: Don’t get too excited now~ You’ll just get exhausted if you start getting nervous now.

Let’s have Hokke~ put on a comedy act for us to relax. He says he’s learnt the ropes, right? ☆ Alright, Hokke~, go for it! I’m excited ♪

Hokuto: You’re telling me to put on an act right now? I’m not doing that. There’s a high chance it’ll be so funny, it’ll be stuck in your head and you’ll end up not sleeping a wink.

Subaru: Ahaha. What the heck? That’s a good joke, Hokke~☆

Hokuto: That wasn’t a joke. In any case, it might not be a bad idea to do something to prepare for tomorrow and to increase our synergy as a team.

Hokuto: Let’s form a circle, guys.

Akehoshi. Isara. Yuuki. You should come over here too, Transfer Student.

We’ll definitely return as victors tomorrow.

Subaru: ’Course, we will! We’ve been working so hard for that reason~☆

Makoto: Let’s do our best. We’ll make sure to give the Student Council a hard time!

Mao: Now, I’m getting excited~ It’s been a while since I last performed, so I’m just gonna enjoy it ♪

Hokuto: I heard the outfits the Transfer Student is making us by hand will be completed tomorrow.

Let’s sleep peacefully and have pleasant dreams as we look forward to them.

Subaru: Our dream is boundless! We’re definitely gonna win~ Hip, hip, hooray ☆

Rei: Hm. Tonight is the night before the decisive battle and yet, you’re all so lively.

It’s reassuring to see you all laughing before your death. Kukuku ♪

Subaru: Oh, Sakuma-senpai. This soundproof practice room is supposed to be locked, so how’d you get in here?

Rei: I’m a vampire – locks cannot keep me out. I merely jest. I have a master key I made during my "rebellious" days.

In any case, you all seem rather calm and collected before the day of your first proper performance… That being said, I see you’re all full of vitality.

You all seem very promising. I suppose it’s a sign that I can expect good things from you, “Trickstar” ♪

Hokuto: Right. Thank you… for all you’ve done these past two weeks, Sakuma-senpai.

To be frank, I didn’t think you’d help us to this extent. I don’t know how I can truly express my gratitude. We cannot thank you enough.

Rei: There is no such need. I haven’t done anything deserving of your gratitude – I simply gave you all a little push, is all.

I also feel as though I’m coming back to life when I see such energetic youngsters. In fact, I should be the one thanking you all ♪

You all originally had the right qualities – you were a sprout of glimmering hope. It would be unfortunate if you were to be crushed by the Student Council from under my nose.

I’m tired of seeing that happen over and over again.

Youngsters, like yourselves, are being buried without being properly evaluated… It’s vexing to see that happen.

It’s such a great loss for Yumenosaki, for the idol industry– no, for human society.

It’s foolish to dirty treasures, shove it in a rubbish bag and throw it away. Moreover, this is my atonement.

Once, we, who were dubbed “The Five Oddballs”, were like evil incarnate.

We played to our heart’s content and transformed Yumenosaki Academy into a crucible of chaos and corruption.

The ones who subjugated us – the “evil” – was the Student Council, the ones who were guiding Yumenosaki Academy on to a path of peace.

Just like how you are now doing…

But a student council, who was like a messiah, once existed in the past. The students were left in a state of confusion after they oppressed us, the “Five Oddballs”, and that student council were the embodiment of the students’ hopes and prayers.

History will repeat itself – that is the truth. Right now, you’ve stood up to revolt against the arrogant and tyrannical Student Council – that must have been inevitable.

In order to revolutionise the once deteriorating and corrupt Yumenosaki Academy, the Student Council strengthened their strict control and admonished the school with ironclad rules.

As a result, the school was suffocating, but at the same time, it was also clean and peaceful.

Therefore, this situation is something we, the “Five Oddballs”, had been waiting for.

As shining idols, we rested on our laurels as we were supported by popularity and fame, doing whatever we pleased – we were young and foolish.

It pains me to see you innocent youngsters clean up after our mess. Therefore, I did everything I could to help you.

Tomorrow is the long-awaited “S1”… I shall also do everything I can to bring down the Student Council.

But, please believe me when I say this: By no means am I taking part in the battle because I detest the Student Council who oppressed us… and because I wish to reclaim our glory.

In the past, we were the "evil". We are not shameless enough to gloss over that and to repaint ourselves as the "justice", when it’s already too late.

I’m tired of the power struggles. I’m not as hot-blooded and young as I once was to enjoy such battles.

Therefore, I’m "settling" this once and for all. At the same time… I’d also like to see your revolution and how Yumenosaki Academy will be reborn. I suppose you could call it an old man’s curiosity.

I’m counting on you all. Please, move the hand of the clock that has stopped moving for a long time.

Tell me about your dreams in your performance.

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Soundproof Lesson Room

Mao: …Hey, Makoto. Who’s this guy? Someone you know?

Makoto: …So remember when I mentioned earlier that I got tangled up with “someone whose a pain in the neck”?

He’s that someone. He’s a member of one of the strongest units in Yumenosaki Academy… “Knights”, Sena Izumi-san.

He’s been giving me a hard time since forever ago, but I have no idea why~!

Izumi: Hey, can you stop whispering between yourselves? It’s so~ annoying!

It’s really not all that strange. I was just trying to support my cute junior, that’s all. And you just keep running away, Yuu-kun. You’re so cruel, my feelings are so hurt~! ♪

Izumi: I just figured to give you a heads-up, you see. I don’t know what you’re trying to accomplish, but…

You have no talent, Yuu-kun. Stop wasting your time trying to be an idol, okay?

All you have going for you are your looks, Yuu-kun. Why don’t you toss those lame glasses away, alongside these hopes and dreams of yours, and return to the world of gravure?

I mean, you quit without even telling me… Everyone’s sad over it, and inconvenienced by it too. Don’t you feel even a bit bad about it?

Those who just run away from the problems in front of them will never make it anywhere in life. I’ve always been telling you that, haven’t I?

Come on back. Looking beautiful is the only gift that God has ever given you, Yuu-kun.

It’s only a waste of talent and of your life to throw that way and pursue something nobody ever asked for, you know?

A gravure model doesn’t need anything like a heart. They don’t need hopes and dreams, either. And they don’t need friends…

Everything beautiful will be sought after. And you used to be beautiful, didn’t you, Yuu-kun?

Now, I can’t even bear to look at you. I’m disappointed, you know. You let me down.

But, it’s not too late to fix things. Stop playing around, and come back to our world, okay?

Yuu-kun, you’re a “beautiful doll” that shines only when on display. When a doll starts to move on its own, then that’s just creepy, isn’t it?

Makoto: I’m… not playing around.

I’m serious about this.

No–This is the only place I can feel alive.

Trickstar is the first treasure I’ve ever been able to find within this empty life of mine.

I never, ever want to lose them.

I don’t want to live my life anymore by killing off my heart.

Izumi: Excuse me…?

Fine, whatever. You’ll just end up accomplishing nothing, failing, and returning in frustration, anyway. Sooner or later you will, you know?

I’m just trying to warn you that you’re wasting your time, that’s all.

It’s fine, it’s just a detour. It’s not like you can escape from your talent, your destiny, anyways, right?

Mao: Hey, you. What the hell is your problem, just barging in and deciding this involves you?

I don’t know what kind of relationship you have with Makoto, but… Stop acting like you understand what’s going on, okay?

This guy is doing his best. If he’s lacking in something, we’ll make it up for him.

He’s not some “beautiful doll”, he’s living as a human being now! Don’t get in his way!

Makoto: …Isara-kun…

Izumi: Hmph. Such stifling enthusiasm, it’s irritating. The idol industry isn’t something you can overcome with nothing but hard work and passion, you know.

Reality is bitter, numbers are power, and hearts are easily broken.

Realize that already, and come on back already. We’ll always welcome you with open arms, Yuu-kun.

…And I had even thought of you as a little brother to me.

Makoto: Izumi-san… He just said whatever he wanted to say and left, huh…?

What’s with that guy? What’s he trying to accomplish with all this?

Mao: I don’t really understand. Well, “Knights” doesn’t seem to be participating in the “S1”. So he doesn’t seem to be our enemy, but it doesn’t mean he’s our ally either.

But this isn’t the time to be worrying about unnecessary things, is it? We gotta do the very best we can for this.

No matter if we laugh or if we cry, the “S1” will be held in a week. It’ll be a critical moment for us.

On that big stage, lets prove to him that you weren’t mistaken in choosing this life! Got it, Makoto?

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Soundproof Lesson Room

Mao: …Makoto’s late.

He said he’ll be back after a quick run, but it’s been a while since he left. He hasn’t passed out somewhere, has he?

I’m worried. I’m gonna go check up on him.

Makoto: ~♪

Hm? You two are still here? It’s the next day already, you know?

Mao: Oh, Makoto… That’s what I should be saying. You’re not gonna go home yet?

Anyway, where did you go off to? Don’t make me worry so much. I was just about to go look for you.

Makoto: Uhh, I just ran into someone who’s sorta a pain in the neck.

But I managed to shake him off and run away. It was awful – I had my heart in my mouth!

Besides, I was planning on staying the night at school, anyway. I went back home to grab my bedding and some food.

I’m gonna be sleeping over at the soundproof practice room every night until “S1”~♪

Mao: Staying the night…? Well, I guess it’s not exactly against school rules. We’ve got this soundproof practice room to ourselves for the entire week, anyway.

You sure are motivated, Makoto. You’re not gonna last the week at this rate. You’ve gotta make sure you rest up properly.

Well, you probably shouldn’t be hearing that from me, seeing as I’m also here at this time of night.

Makoto: Ahaha. I built up some stamina after my training with Oogami-kun, so it’s fine. I have to do this much, otherwise I’ll get left behind~

Also, don’t you find it fun sleeping over at school? It’s like we’re on a sports training camp. I’ve always wanted to go on one~ Sounds like something teenagers would do, right?

Mao: I see. Maybe I’ll stay the night too, then. It’d be pretty lonely all by yourself, right?

Makoto: I’m okay. I’m not a little kid. Things aren’t that great back at home, so…

I’d just feel like I’m suffocating there. I feel much more comfortable sleeping here.

Mao: Yeah? On second thought, I’m definitely gonna stay the night. Your brakes are kinda broken, so someone needs to keep an eye on you.

Besides, you can practise more parts of the choreography if there’s someone with you, right?

Makoto: You don’t really have to~… Isara-kun, you can be a bit of a busybody, huh. But there’s no bedding for you here. What’re you gonna do?

Mao: I’ll also head home and grab mine.

And it’s late, so… I’ll also take the Transfer Student home while I’m at it. You’re fine with that, right? Alright, then it’s decided!

Makoto: You’re so pushy, Isara-kun.

…Huh? You want to stay the night too, Transfer Student-chan? You can’t – we’re boys and you’re a girl, you know? What’re you gonna do if something happens?

Mao: Yeah, just head on home. I don’t know what Subaru and Hokuto will say when they hear we stayed the night with you.

Your parents will be worried too, right? Come on, let’s get you home~

See you, Makoto. I’ll be right back, so watch the place while I’m gone, okay?

Makoto: Yup. Be careful outside in the dark, you two. …Hmm?

Izumi: Yuu-kun.

How could you run away from me? You broke my heart.

Makoto: Geh!? I–Izumi-san!

Izumi: What’s with that reaction? You look like you’ve seen a ghost or something. Annoying much~♪

Mao: Woah, who’re you? "Trickstar’s" got this practice room booked, so outsiders aren’t allowed inside!

Izumi: Hmm~? I’m not talking to you. Why don’t you beat it?

Also, you need to treat me with more respect – I’m your senior. Cocky kids won’t last long at Yumenosaki Academy, you know?

Or would you rather be crushed under my foot, worthless vermin? ♪

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Soundproof Lesson Room

Mao: ~♪

…Oh, Transfer Student. You didn’t head home yet? It’s already midnight, you know?

I want to practise a little longer since I want to make up for the time I lost last week.

We can’t win the “S1” if we’re not in sync with each other.

If I’m gonna do this, then I’m gonna do it with the intention of winning. Even if…

It means I’m facing off against the Student Council, I don’t think the Vice-President will complain as long as we respect the rules and give a fair fight.

In fact, he even told me to do my best when I said I was going off to practise with my unit.

I guess he doesn’t even see us as enemies right now~

We have a chance at winning, but there’s not a lot of time until the “S1” and our skills aren’t up to scratch, either.

This week, I’ve got to work hard like my life depends on it. Well, I bet I’ll just be destroying my body if I pull all-nighters and push myself too far, though.

I don’t really know how to stop when it comes to things like that.

I always thought I could handle myself pretty well, but I guess that’s not actually the case.

Subaru and Hokuto have already left to rest for tomorrow’s practice session. They made the right choice. There’s no point in working too hard.

But it’s only those with confidence who can leave their hopes and dreams to tomorrow.

A coward like me would only grow more anxious if I didn’t do everything I could today while I’m awake.

I don’t really know how to make use of the twenty-four hours everyone’s been equally given, but it looks like you’re the in same boat, huh, Transfer Student.

Ordinary people have it tough, huh~ Especially when there are people with natural talent around.

Well, I’m good at keepings things consistent, so… I’m sure things will work itself out.

The problem is Makoto. He can try too hard sometimes.

We’ve decided on a tracklist for our “S1” performance after taking your opinion into account.

There’s a total of six songs. Each of us will be the centre of one song.

The first song we’ll be performing is one of “Trickstar’s” existing songs. Each of us will get a turn in the spotlight for that one.

After that, there’ll be another of our existing songs, then the three new tracks from the Light Music Club… Those songs will focus on us individually.

The order goes Subaru, Hokuto, me, then Makoto. Makoto’s skills aren’t up to par yet, so he’ll be using one of our existing songs.

And if he ends up making a blunder, then… we should be able to turn things around by performing our new song together.

It sounds like we’re pampering or being extra nice to Makoto, huh. But he understands and also knows his skills are lacking.

And that’s also why he’s probably thinking he can’t afford to mess up.

He thinks that he’ll just be a burden if he ends up messing up even after we were so considerate to him. He thinks he’s not needed in “Trickstar”, and that he’ll just hold everyone back…

He’s felt that way before, so he’s got low self-esteem.

Makoto’s got a weapon and the qualities needed to be an idol. He’s needed in “Trickstar”, but he himself doesn’t believe that at all.

Mao: He’s a complicated guy. But that’s also precisely why we have to win the “S1”.

Winning will give him confidence. That’s what Makoto needs right now.

The road to victory will be hell, I’m sure – it’ll be one you can’t bear to watch. But we need to support him.

He’s insecure and inexperienced but he’s got talent. He shouldn’t cower away and stay in the shadows. He should be shining brightly on stage – or at least, that’s what I think.

It’d be great if you also felt the same way, Transfer Student.

…Oh, were you working on something? Sorry for making you chat with me. I just end up rambling~

What’s that you’re doing? Sewing?

Ohh. You’re making our outfits. You’re doing so many things for us, huh~

Thanks, but are you gonna make it in time for next week?

You’re working hard late at night to ensure you do, right? Sorry and thanks. I can stop the music if it’s distracting.

I’ve got the songs downloaded onto my device, so I can listen to them with my earphones. Well, it kinda gets in the way when I’m dancing, though.

…You sure? Watching me gives you design ideas?

Mao: Yeah? Then, I’ll keep dancing. Sorry if it’s annoying.

Also, give me a heads up if you’re going home. I’ll walk you. It’s pitch-black outside, so it’d be dangerous for a girl to walk home by herself, right?

We need to take good care of you. After all…

Subaru and Hokuto have been calling you “Trickstar’s” Goddess of Victory, you know?

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Dance Room

Makoto: Alright, I’ll play the music, then~ Is the volume okay?

Hokuto: This practice room is soundproof, so you can increase the volume. It won’t bother anyone. This space belongs to us.

Don’t worry about the dance formations. Just dance – with a smile, if you can.

I’ve finally realised the other day, but if you smile while performing, it makes the performance look so much better.

Makoto: Ahaha. Hidaka-kun, your expressions and way of thinking have gotten softer~♪

Hokuto: I’d like to think it was the fruit of my training with the twins. I can’t quite tell myself.

I’d like to say the same to you, as well, Yuuki – you’re more powerful than before. Although, I do think it would be best if you either took off your glasses or used a pair of sports glasses instead.

Makoto: Oh, now that you mention it, I probably should, huh. Your field of vision’s expanded so much, Hidaka-kun~ You’ve started nagging more and it can be a bit annoying, though ♪

Hokuto: Hmph. If you don’t want me to nag, then grow into an excellent idol that I can’t find fault with.

I can’t lose to you guys, either. Especially to Akehoshi and Isara, who basically ditched training last week.

Subaru: Hey~ I didn’t ditch. Anyway…

I think I’ve learnt what it means to "put myself in other people’s shoes" after I spent the last week with the Transfer Student.

You’re making a big mistake if you think I’m still the same old me, okay?

Come over here, Sally~ Let’s dance together! Hurry up or we’ll leave you behind~☆

Mao: Alright, alright. Geez, must be nice – you guys always look like you’re having fun~

I’ve had a bit of a late start, but I’m gonna work hard so that I can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you guys.

No, I’m not gonna think about the difficult stuff – I’m just gonna enjoy myself ♪

Watch. This is my specialty… break dancing ♪

Subaru: Wow, that’s so cool~! I’m gonna do that too. Spin, spin ☆

Makoto: How’d you do that!? That’s amazing!

Ugh, it’s so frustrating! I’m the only one who’s dancing awkwardly like a robot. I need to practise more!

Hokuto: (…Hmm. I’d expect no less from Isara. You’d think he spent a lot of time with us – he joined the dance circle so naturally.)

(He must pay a lot of attention to his surroundings. His sense of balance is also out of this world.)

(He’s especially amazing when he pairs up with Akehoshi. As expected of fellow members of the Basketball Club – they’re so in sync.)

(They can also be a bit too wild, so I need to make sure I keep them grounded.)

(Thanks to my training with the twins, I think I now know about the breathing and timing needed for these sorts of things.)

(Yuuki is also doing his best to keep up. Everyone is striving to improve by working hard and encouraging each other.)

(Things are heading in the right direction. You wouldn’t believe it’s just been a week.)

(The training Sakuma-senpai assigned to us was fitting for each person.)

(We can grow stronger. I still don’t know whether or not we can beat the Student Council.)

(But the probablity of our victory isn’t zero. That’s what I believe. So, I’ll do my best.)

(Grandma, maybe there’s a chance I can come to love “idols”, as well.)

Subaru: Hey, Transfer Student, you look like you’re itching to do something. Do you wanna dance with us~?

Come over here! Think about the songs and the difficult stuff later – let’s just have some fun ☆

Together, we can rise higher and higher! We’ll reach the top of the dark starry night, and then we’ll become stars!

We’ll become “Trickstar” – the first star of the night that will revolutionise this school!

Ahaha~☆

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Soundproof Lesson Room

Makoto: *Munch munch* ♪

Wow, these are good… whatever they are. These round clumps are pretty hard to describe. I dunno what they are, but they’re delicious!

Hokuto: There are slices of lemon soaked in honey and energy drinks too.

I don’t know what this round clump is, but it does seem to be edible.

*Munch munch* In fact, it’s delicious.

Mao: Shinobu Sengoku from the Ninja Association caught a whiff of the food and stopped by the Garden Terrace.

He taught us how to make these "round clumps" there.

They’re apparently emergency ninja rations called hyorogan or "ration pills[1]". He also said something like "300km per pill[2]", but I dunno what he meant by that.

Hokuto: Sengoku… Oh, I’ve heard of him. He’s that strange first-year, isn’t he?

I’ve seen him wrap a long loincloth around his waist and run off at the speed of light. It looks like he was trying to keep the front flap of the loincloth off the ground.

Mao: Yup, that’s him. The "Ninja Association" is pretty small, so they don’t have a lot of funds.

I wanted to help him out however I could, so I’ve been passing odd jobs from the Student Council to him.

Sengoku apparently feels indebted to me. He even helped us carry all the refreshments the Transfer Student made all the way here, you know~?

Hokuto: I see. I’d like to thank him for his help.

Mao: Sengoku’s pretty shy, so he’s left already. But I think he’s gotten a bit attached to the Transfer Student?

Makoto: Ohh. She didn’t have any issues talking with the scary Kiryu-senpai or Oogami-kun, either, huh.

The Transfer Student’s amazing. You can befriend people so easily~

Hokuto: Hm, that’s a rare trait to have. It would surely be a necessary skill for a producer. You seem like a promising producer, Transfer Student.

I’m happy to see you’ve done your best to research and make us these refreshments. Thank you, Transfer Student. Your very existence is like a pillar of support for us.

Hokuto: Hm? What’s that? A cooler?

Oh? There are "konpeito[3] cream puffs" inside, you say…? What’s that? It sounds intriguing!

You say you made them specifically for me? How did you know I like konpeito candy?

Subaru: Hehehe. She said she wanted to get to know us better, so I’ve been telling her about us for the past week~

It’d be better if she knew all of our preferences, right? ☆

Hokuto: I see. So you wanted to learn about us. That makes me happy.

*Munch munch*

It’s an odd combination, but it’s not bad. "Konpeito cream puffs"… I think it might be a bit too much sugar before a practice session, though.

Therefore, I’ll take them home and… I’ll eat them carefully, little by little.

Subaru: Hey, are you trying to keep them to yourself again, Hokke~!? I wanna eat them, too! That’s not fair – all I’ve been eating are these ration pills!

Mao: Stop arguing, guys. Let’s just get along now, okay~?

Hokuto: Hm. I think my fatigue has worn off thanks to the Transfer Student, but we can’t rest forever. Let’s resume our practice.

I’d like to decide on the songs and then centre our practice on them. “S1” is just around the corner – we have no time to waste.

I have an idea… Let’s briefly dance along to the new songs from the Light Music Club.

The Transfer Student will watch and give us her opinion.

And we’ll use her opinion as a reference when deciding the tracklist for our “S1” performance.

Makoto: Oh, that’s what Sakuma-senpai said. The Transfer Student’s basically an amateur, so we can get the raw truth~

Hokuto: Yeah. We’re performers, so we’d be poisoning ourselves if we just practise based on our own opinions.

It’ll be better for the Transfer Student, who has no prior knowledge, to judge us based on her intuition.

Moreover, it seems she has a good grasp on our preferences and personalities.

Her opinions and decisions should point us on the right path.

We’ll leave it to you to decide our course of direction, "producer".

Subaru: Well, just take it easy and don’t think too hard about it. We’ll be happy if you just tell us honestly what you thought about it~

[ ☆ ]

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Hyorogan (兵糧丸) / ration pills are made with various flours, sugary substances and spices to provide quick energy; usually consumed in emergencies or long missions. Unlike the name suggests, they’re not small like pills, but rather, around the size of an average strawberry.

This phrase typically means eating one pill provides you with enough energy to run 300 kilometres.

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Garden Terrace Kitchen

Rei: Oh, you’re a member of “Trickstar”, are you not?

Mao: Uh, yes. I apologise for not being able to attend last week’s training!

Rei: There’s no use apologising to me. You should be directing your apology to your unit members.

So how is “Trickstar” faring? Are you practising properly?

Mao: Yes, we are. Everyone’s super motivated. I also feel like I’ve gotta work hard so I don’t lose to them ♪

Rei: Is that so? Oh, how I envy the youngsters that are so full of youth. If only you could share some of that enthusiasm with Kaoru-kun.

It seems my laissez-faire approach wasn’t the best idea. “UNDEAD” struggles with a sense of unity~

Well, no matter. We, “UNDEAD”, will take part and work with you during the “S1” next week.

We should hold a strategy meeting at a later date. This battle was an illogical one from the start – we need to use everything we can in order to win.

Though a shadow of my former self, I am still a member of the "Three Oddballs". I should be evenly-matched with “AKATSUKI”, one of the units behind the Student Council.

But being evenly-matched with them is not enough – not if we want to attain victory.

I shall give them an even fight. But whether or not victory can be attained after that… will be up to you.

I’ve got off my backside for this. It would be inexcusable if you said to me, "We did our best but we lost."

I have high expectations of you. Don’t disappoint me now, “Trickstar”.

…Oh, I almost forgot. The Transfer Student should be in that cabinet.

Tell her it’s safe now. I’ll also tell Kaoru-kun not to bother her too much.

Farewell, then.

*Yaaaawn* My body always feels so heavy after waking up~♪

Mao: Uh, thanks. Bye. …Hmm, the cabinet?

Here? Are you in here, Transfer Student? It’s me – Isara!

Mao: Woah, you were really in here. Why’re you hiding in here…?

Ohh. You felt you were in danger after seeing Hakaze-senpai’s behaviour?

He came out of nowhere, tried to seduce you and take you somewhere by force…?

Geez, that’s dangerous. Don’t go around on your own much, okay?

You’re the only girl in a space with heaps of guys around. It’s like a rabbit in a den of lions, you know?

Well, I’m just glad nothing happened to you. Be careful, alright~?

You stand out enough on your own as it is. It’ll be fine if you could defend yourself, but you won’t be able to do anything if a guy used all his strength against you, right?

Our physical strength are different. Be careful you don’t get pushed down, okay?

Come on out. I’ll give you my hand – out you come ♪

Let’s hurry back to the practice room. Everyone’s waiting for you.

Oh, so these are the refreshments? They look great. Could I have one?

Ahaha. I’ve been busy with classes, Student Council work and "Trickstar’s" practice since the morning, so I haven’t eaten much~

I’m starving, you know? I really appreciate you making something for us to eat ♪

We’re both kinda outliers in “Trickstar”, but… that’s also why I think we’ll get along great.

Looking forward to working with you, Transfer Student ♪

[ ☆ ]

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Location: Garden Terrace Kitchen

Mao: Transfer Student~?

I heard you were here at the Garden Terrace, but… it’s been ages since you left, so I decided to come check up on you~

I can give you a hand if whatever you’re doing is taking you a long time.

I wasn’t able to take part in "Trickstar’s" activities much, you know. So I’d like to help out however I can.

And I wanna be good friends with you ♪

Kaoru: Hey.

I’m the only guy who’s allowed inside the Garden Terrace, okay~?

Mao: Oh. You’re Hakaze-senpai from “UNDEAD”, right?

(“UNDEAD”… the unit rumoured to be the most radical and dangerous in Yumenosaki Academy…)

(That’s Sakuma-senpai’s unit. And this Hakaze-senpai is also a member of that unit. What’s he doing here at the Garden Terrace?)

(He just spends all his time hanging out with girls and is pretty much inactive when it comes to idol activities.)

(But he’s definitely got the skills. He’s well-known as a lazy ladies’ man, but this is the first time I’ve actually met him.)

(He’s also one of Sakuma-senpai’s companions…)

(He’s on our side, isn’t he? Our objectives should be the same, so that means he’ll fight alongside us, right?)

(His attitude is giving off the exact opposite vibes, though…)

Kaoru: Hey, could you stop staring at me? It doesn’t make me happy when men stare at me, you know?

In fact, I’m kind of busy right now. Why don’t you see yourself out? Shoo, shoo!

Mao: I can’t exactly leave… Uhh, have you seen the Transfer Student around here?

She’s the girl that just transferred to the new "producer course".

Kaoru: Yup. I’ve heard something like that from Sakuma-san, so that’s why I’m here~♪

Man, she’s cute! I only caught a glimpse of her, but there’s no fooling these eyes~

Geez, I wish Sakuma-san told me about her earlier. I’ve been waiting forever for that sort of good news!

This has to be a gift from the gods ♪

After all, there’s nothing but filthy men in the idol course – it’s hell, quite frankly!

If Yumenosaki Academy was a desert, then the “Transfer Student” would be a single, blossoming flower!

I should harvest it before it gets tainted by someone else~♪

Rei: Kaoru-kun.

I was wondering where you went off to instead of attending practice, but here you are… Chasing after women yet again? Do you not get tired of that? Don’t get carried away now.

Well, I suppose you do perform just fine on stage without rehearsals or practice.

Kaoru: Yeah, yeah. Practice is whatever. Let’s just have fun!

You’re more eager to practise than usual, Sakuma-san. I don’t really want to do anything that makes me feel like I’m suffocating, you know~?

Anyway, why did you give the Transfer Student to the "baby chicks" in the second grade?

You should’ve kept her with us~ All my motivation’s gone down the drain now!

Maybe I’ll quit “UNDEAD” to join their unit~

Rei: No, we cannot have that. Your strength is needed in “UNDEAD”.

The general public will attend the “S1” a week from now. That means there will be women there.

Perhaps you could direct your motivation there and make those girls your fans instead~?

Kaoru: Hmm… That does sound pretty appealing. Geez, I’m no match for you, Sakuma-san~

Whatever. There’ll be plenty of chances for me to talk with the Transfer Student.

I’ll leave for today!

But I’m still not going to practice, okay? I’ve got a date. Bye bye~♪

Rei: …He ran away. Good grief, he truly lives up to his name[*], leaving like the wind.

Hmm. Kaoru-kun’s dislike towards practice is a serious matter. He can do it when he puts his mind to it, though.

[ ☆ ]

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