#thinkofmemono

Project Archive: L 3-5

Interviewer A: In regards to the impromptu live show recently, I actually got a chance to see it personally. It was truly amazing!

Ageha: Thank you very much. I’m glad we got to spend some of your precious time together.

Interviewer B: With this, Loulou*di’s had their full comeback, right?

Ageha: Yes. We were able to welcome another day together without a hitch. It’s just that, right now, I’m overwhelmed by feelings of pride and gratitude.

Interviewer C: On the topic of the addition of a new member to the current lineup, have there been any instances of opposition or–

Ageha: None at all.

Interviewer C: Eh? But…

Ageha: We deeply apologize for keeping you all waiting as well as for the concern caused. I cannot deny that there were obstacles. However, let me make myself clear: the original members are also the new Loulou*di.

Interviewer D: There are high expectations for the continuously improving Loulou*di. During the tour after this, will there be a chance to hear from Rui-san and Toki-san?

Ageha: Of course, there will be an opportunity for them to give their comments. However, we will still continue to put on live shows for a while, so in order to adjust to conditions, we will have to end here for today. 

(Screen switches off)

Girl A: What an amazing interview… as expected of Ageha-sama!

Girl B: Right? I’m so glad I got to see them have a full comeback! The recent live show somehow felt just like a dream.

Girl A: I feel you.

Girl B: But now that I think about it, I feel like maybe Ageha-sama’s not really back to form yet…

Girl A: Aren’t you just imagining it? You probably think so ‘cause it’s been a long time.

Girl B: But, during that interview, Ageha-sama spoke as if Kaito-san wasn’t even a member at all… It’s kinda sad.

Girl A: It’s because that guy betrayed Ageha-sama’s expectations and backed out by himself. Can’t help it if he feels like he didn’t suit Loulou*di.

Girl B: Yeah, sure, but…

Girl A: Could it be that… you don’t like Toki-san?

Girl B: N-no, I think it’s great that he joined.

Girl A: Then are you saying that Ageha-sama was wrong?

Girl B: That’s not what I meant…

Girl A: Then I think it’s better if you stop saying things like that.

Girl B: … Yeah, you’re right. Sorry. Loulou*di’s finally back and I’m saying all these uncalled-for things…

Girl A: No, I’m sorry too. I might have come off too strongly.

Girl B: Not at all, don’t worry about it!

Girl A: Thanks. I get that it feels strange with a new member joining, but let’s make this conversation just between us. I won’t tell anyone, so relax. … Ah, look at the time! I’ve got to go.

Girl B: Okay, see you!

(Girl A leaves, starts talking on the phone)

Girl A: Hello? Yep, I’m just leaving the karaoke box. Yeah, we watched the interview together. Everyone’s meeting in 30 minutes, right? … Mm, yeah, that’s what it felt like. I think she better be more careful with what she says. I get that she’s still worked up about Kaito-san leaving, but I don’t think it’s a good idea to say stuff that might sound like you doubt Ageha-sama. If she talks like that at a venue where there’s other Loumiels, who knows what they might say? Let’s persuade her again the next time we all meet up. … Mm, see you later then. 

Girl A: (hangs up) Seriously, that girl is just way too honest. Like she can say what she thinks when it comes to stuff like that! Even way before they went on hiatus, she keeps saying that Ageha-sama and Rui-san aren’t charismatic at all…

Ageha: (grunting as he exercises)

Rui: So you’re still here.

Ageha: Is there something you need?

Rui: It’s about time for Toki-bou to return from the medical facility.

Ageha: I see. No matter what, he has to come back.

Rui: It seems like you’re being soft on Toki-bou.

Ageha: I can drag him over the coals and he will still happily follow me. Even if it’s to hell. How can I not use him?

Rui: I see. By the way, it seems that you’ve been into training up your body lately.

Ageha: Allow me to enlighten you, since you don’t know. Since I was young, it was drilled into me that a healthy body will lead to a healthy mind.

Rui: But, I don’t think you should push yourself too hard.

Ageha: (sighs)

Rui: … It looks quite difficult. You don’t seem to be struggling, meaning…

Ageha: Quit nitpicking and get used to it. That’s an order.

Rui: Could it be that you want to bulk up?

Ageha: No.

Rui: If you force yourself and end up ruining your body, you won’t be able to fulfill your wish.

Ageha: I won’t force myself.

Rui: Your weight has been decreasing.

Ageha: Don’t go around looking at the medical check results as you please.

Rui: Taking everything into both your mind and body may be your strength, but it backfires on you sometimes when you surpass Toki’s level.

Ageha: That’s none of your business.

Rui: Besides… (grabs Ageha)

Ageha: !! You bastard–what are you doing?! Let go of me!

Rui: A lean body and fine bones… No matter how much you hope, you won’t be able to outdo me. You should focus your attention on other areas.

Ageha: Enough with your shameless charade! I didn’t do this to challenge you!

Rui: Then why?

Ageha: It’s obvious. It’s to maintain a top condition at all times!

Rui: I don’t think putting your body through all this torture will lead to results.

Ageha: Shut up and get out of the way!

Rui: Not to mention, you won’t be able to resist the flower’s effects, no matter how much physical strength you have.

Ageha: Something like that can’t be corrected or criticized at this stage!

Rui: For all you know, everything you’re doing now may be all for naught.

Ageha: So what?!

Rui: (scoffs) Good grief.

Ageha: Shit, this is stupid!

Rui: It’s my loss, as expected.

Ageha: Rui, I have something to ask of you.

Rui: Hmm? What is it?

Ageha: Face this way and bend.

Rui: Like this?

Ageha: Yes. Maintain that position and grit your teeth.

(Ageha hits Rui)

Rui: (groans in pain)

Ageha: You’re a hundred years too early to consider yourself inferior to me.

Rui: That was… rather effective.

Ageha: It might just be thanks to my training. In return for letting me round it off by punching you in the gut, let me express my gratitude.

Rui: Then what do you intend to do to me when hitting me is not enough?

Ageha: After the live show, I’ll leave your face alone and kill you halfway.

(Ageha leaves)

Rui: … (laughs to himself) By that, you mean that no matter how many times I tick you off, you still can’t bear to kill me. I see.

Ageha: … Toki!

Toki: Ageha-san…

Ageha: You came back safely, Toki.

Toki: Came back…?

Ageha: To Loulou*di’s dorm. It’s the one and only place for you where I will be and where you can call your home. Isn’t that right?

Toki: This is… my… home?

Ageha: That’s right. You are a part of Loulou*di, both in name and reality. Every single person who watched our live show that day bore witness to that.

Toki: A part of Loulou*di…? I’m… Loulou*di’s Toki.

Ageha: Exactly.

Toki: I’m perfect. I’m perfect, right, Ageha-san?

Ageha: Yes, you’re perfect. Listen, and remember this: You’re Loulou*di’s Toki. That’s a fact no one can deny. And, from now on, if anyone dares to hurt you, no matter what, I will absolutely not let them off.

Toki: Ageha-san…

Rui: (walks in) Toki-bou.

Toki: Rui-san.

Rui: Welcome back. It seems you’ve returned safely.

Toki: I did. I’m back home.

(Audience cheering)

Ageha: (panting and starts to stumble)

Rui: Ageha.

Ageha: Don’t take it the wrong way. I’m not the one you need to bother yourself with.

Toki: (laughing)

Rui: Toki-bou.

Toki: Ageha-san, Rui-san, I did good, right?

Rui: Yes, of course.

Ageha: These never-ending cheers are proof of that.

Rui: In any case, it doesn’t seem like this enthusiasm is going to die down anytime soon. What do you say?

Ageha: We’ll reciprocate, of course. It’s the last day of the live shows, after all.

Rui: But, what about Toki-bou?

Toki: Excuse me, I’ve got something to ask of both of you.

Ageha: What is it?

Toki: It’s okay if it’s just for a little while, but could you… could you hold hands with me?

Ageha: I was wondering what you were asking for so formally. (takes his hand)

Rui: If you’re alright with this, then anytime. (takes Toki’s other hand)

Ageha: Ladies and gentlemen, please prepare yourselves, for the night is not yet ever. Bear witness to the curtain of the creeping night being shredded apart by these hands, and the screeching nightingales being torn from limb to limb.

(Audience cheers louder)

Ageha: We will never fear sin and death. We will watch the pitiful last breaths of the wretched in its full glory. There is a duty for you to fulfill, until the very end. This is a breathtakingly beautiful story of destruction.

Project Archive: L 3-1

Ageha: Stories are, without exception, tragedies. In the shadows of happiness, there is calamity.

Rui: In the shadows of glory, there is despair.

Toki: In the shadows of salvation, there is sacrifice.

Ageha: And there, affixed to a stage tailor-made just for them, stands three. Each one born talented and gifted, but there was nary a single soul that would give them the time of day. Hence, from the sliver of opportunity they created and bestowed themselves with, they found deliverance and hope.

Rui: What lies in these hands of mine is nothing more than a singular husk of a vessel. Then, a peerless strength manifested before my very eyes, unveiling the glory and ruin that lined the journey ahead, enrapturing my soul.

Toki: Fearing the brand seared onto the weak from birth, I lived only to worship the false god named envy, until, finally, the hand promising deliverance appeared.

Ageha: There was no mistake. I was chosen.

Rui: My continued existence was granted by that entity.

Toki: This time, it will not slip past my grasp.

Ageha: Even if it meant I would be devoured by my own hubris.

Rui: No matter how fragile, or how foolish it was.

Toki: I would not waver, even if the lambs that were slaughtered could fill the oceans.[1]

Ageha: That’s right. I will not be daunted, for our utmost goal is the pedestal in the clouds.

Rui: Surely that brilliance will never disappear and remain undying.

Toki: There would be no regrets…

Ageha: …no matter how much I would suffer…

Rui: …no matter how unsightly, how cravenly I would become…

Toki: …even if I would lose something important to me…

Ageha: … I have to climb higher, aim farther.

Rui: Raise my head higher.

Toki: Become stronger.

Ageha: I will see nothing, hear nothing.

Rui: I will become one with the prowling darkness.

Toki: All for the sake of happiness.

Ageha: Carrying what little pride I have left, I–we–will surpass a horizon nobody has reached. 

Rui: All I wish is for that journey to be well until the very end.

Toki: Holding that one little wish to my heart, I stepped forth onto the boundless earth.

(Audience claps and cheers)

Ageha: The curtains have risen. Come, let us begin. This is a story of a legend.

Rui: This is a story of ruin.

Toki: This is a story of deliverance.

(Glass breaks)

Narrator: Hana-Doll Project: a marriage of entertainment and medical science. A special seed will be sowed into the human body, and subsequently the seed will resonate with the human’s growth, allowing the latent abilities of the human to bloom forth. It is a project that can artificially produce highly-talented idols, idols that are close to ‘perfection’.

Translator’s Notes:

This drama track reads like a story/legend/fairy tale/folk tale. A lot of liberties were taken for the translation and not all the words were one-to-one translated. e.g. Toki does not actually mention any lambs at all in this line. A literal translation pertaining to the sacrifices mentioned would simply be ‘a lot of sacrifices’, but a problem would be discerning how the word ‘sacrifice’ is used here as Toki is referring to the ritualistic act rather than the more common usage in the context of giving up time or commitment, hence my choice for translation. This is applied in other instances in this track as well.

Project Archive: L 3-4

Musumi's Colleague: Did you find him?

Musumi: Not at all.

Musumi's Colleague: Let’s search at the far end of the facility.

(Medical staff members run off)

Kaoru: Just why am I…? When did I arrive here?

(Kaoru walks down and opens a door)

Kaoru: There’s a garden all the way here? (hears some rustling noises, walks over to investigate) A teddy bear?

Toki: It’s my friend.

Kaoru: Is someone there?

Toki: Hmm? No, there’s nobody. No–body at all. It’s always been like that. I’m alone.

Kaoru: …Then, is it alright for me to be here today?

Toki: Eh? But…

Kaoru: If you’re not opposed to it, that is.

Toki: …But, but, it’ll be bad if someone finds me.

Kaoru: I won’t come any closer. In any case, I’ll sit down with my back towards you. That way, even if anyone comes through the door, they won’t be able to see you.

Toki: … I see. Mm, then it’s okay. I’ll let you.

Kaoru: Thank you very much.

Toki: …Say.

Kaoru: Yes?

Toki: Why are you here?

Kaoru: … I wonder why.

Toki: You don’t know?

Kaoru: I’m not very clear myself.

Toki: Hmm.

Kaoru: How about you? Why are you here?

Toki: … I don’t know either. When I woke up, I was in the car and I couldn’t move. It hurt, so I ran away.

Kaoru: Why?

Toki: I don’t want them to see me. They can’t ever know.

Kaoru: They can’t know?

Toki: If I’m in pain, they’ll be happy.

Kaoru: Happy? Just who do you mean? That’s…

Toki: My family.

Kaoru: Your family will be happy if you aren’t well?

Toki: Yeah.

Kaoru: No way…

Toki: That’s why… they can’t ever know. Nobody can know… the truth…

(Leaves rustle)

Kaoru: Are you alright?

Toki: Don’t come near me. I’m okay, I’m okay. That’s why, please, please, don’t throw me away…!

Kaoru: …….

Toki: Please, please! Don’t leave me…!

Kaoru: I’m right here.

Toki: … Your hand’s… warm.

Kaoru: Yes. I’m holding your hand. But, that’s all I’m going to do. You don’t want to be seen, right? Don’t worry.

Toki: … Mm.

Kaoru: I’m here. I’m not going anywhere.

Toki: (whimpers)

Kaoru: Besides, I won’t tell anybody. I’ll keep it a secret.

Toki: … Hey.

Kaoru: Yes?

Toki: Thank you.

Kaoru: Don’t mention it. I was just doing an imitation.

Toki: An imitation? Of what?

Kaoru: A long time ago, when I was struggling, some kind people held my hand. I really liked that.

Toki: Hmm.

Kaoru: They held my hand gently, told me it was going to be okay, and gave me sweet things to eat.

Toki: Sweet things? What kind?

Kaoru: All kinds. Pudding, cake, and macarons too.

Toki: Sounds tasty. I love sweet things.

Kaoru: Me too.

(Both of them giggle)

Toki: That sounds nice. If only I could have that too.

Kaoru: But…

Toki: Hmm?

Kaoru: That might have been a dream.

Toki: A dream?

Kaoru: Lately, I can’t tell just what are dreams and what is reality.

Toki: … Isn’t it okay for it to be either?

Kaoru: Either?

Toki: Mm. You get to feel sweet and nice either way.

Kaoru: (chuckles) You’re right.

Toki: Aren’t I?

Kaoru: Yes. Your hand’s all warm now.

Toki: Mm. The hurt’s gone.

Kaoru: That’s great.

Toki: I want to stay like this forever.

Kaoru: Yes, me too.

Toki: I wonder if this nice, warm feeling is all just a dream too.

Kaoru: Maybe it is.

Toki: Oh, that’s right. I remembered something. Wanna hear about it?

Kaoru: Of course.

Toki: I’ve always had amazing dreams.

Kaoru: What kind of dreams were they?

Toki: I was standing in the middle of sparkling light, being watched by a crowd of happy people. And, best of all, I wasn’t all. I was with the people I loved, and we were walking in that light together.

Kaoru: That sounds like a dazzling dream.

Toki: Yep. And then, I thought of something. That I could do anything. That’s when I realized that that pretty world was all just a dream.

Kaoru: What do you mean?

Toki: I’m a weak and pathetic human, so there hasn’t been a single thing I’ve been able to do right. I don’t even have the hope to wish for it.

Kaoru: Just because you couldn’t do it in the past, doesn’t mean you won’t be able to in the future. If you could do it in your dreams, then you can do it in reality.

Toki: Do you think so?

Kaoru: Yes. If you were really incapable of anything, then you wouldn’t even be able to dream in the first place. Dreams are proof that you know it in your heart. It’s precisely why you know that the possibility isn’t 0–you’ve seen that it could be done.

Toki: I see. It’ll be nice if it’s really like that.

(Sound of footsteps)

Musumi's Colleague: Over here!

Toki: (gasps) Someone’s here!

Kaoru: It’s okay. Stay calm.

Toki: What should I do? I don’t want to be caught, I don’t want to take that medicine anymore…!

Kaoru: Medicine?

Toki: It makes me feel all soft inside and I feel really good… I’m so scared of it! It makes me feel like I’ll lose myself!

Kaoru: Please leave this to me. Just stay and hide here.

(Kaoru walks over)

Kaoru: Um, excuse me.

Musumi's Colleague: You are…

Kaoru: I’m sorry for entering without permission. I got lost.

Musumi's Colleague: Shouldn’t you be in the Observation Room?

Kaoru: I’m done with the post-observation hearing, so I was heading back to the dorm. But I forgot how to go back while I was trying to leave.

Musumi's Colleague: Is that why you’re here?

Kaoru: Yes. It was dark and I couldn’t tell where I was going. I got scared, so I hid in the bushes.

Musumi's Colleague: So that’s how it is. You must have been terrified.

Kaoru: I’m really sorry for the trouble.

Musumi's Colleague: No, we apologize as well. We should have done a proper follow-up. Come, let’s head back.

Kaoru: Yes.

Musumi's Colleague: The car will drop you off near your dorm.

Kaoru: Thank you very much. By the way, well, about the–

Musumi's Colleague: If you’re referring to him, then rest assured.

Kaoru: Did you already find out?

Musumi's Colleague: There are many cameras in this place. There’s probably much more of those kinds of things around that you can imagine.

Kaoru: I see…

Musumi's Colleague: You had contact with him, didn’t you? Did you two talk?

Kaoru: … Just a little.

Musumi's Colleague: What do you think?

Kaoru: He seemed terribly lonely and it seemed like something awful happened to him. It’s like he didn’t want anyone to find out what really happened to him.

Musumi's Colleague: Do you think the both of you could get along?

Kaoru: I can’t tell. It was dark so I couldn’t see his face, and I didn’t manage to ask for his name. Anyway, even if we were able to meet again, I can’t say that I will recognize that it’s him.

Musumi's Colleague: Anything else strange you noticed? Did he say anything?

Kaoru: He said he didn’t want to take the medicine. He said it made him feel like he would lose himself. Um, I don’t know what exactly this medicine is, but, please, do you think you could hold back from administering it to him?

Musumi's Colleague: That’s–

Kaoru: I know fully well that I’m not in a place to ask something like that. But I think he was genuinely afraid. It wasn’t for show.

Musumi's Colleague: (sighs) I understand. We will take proper action.

Kaoru: Thank you very much.

Musumi's Colleague: Leave the rest to us. You should head back to the dorm. The security guard over there will see you to your vehicle.

Kaoru: Alright. Then, I’ll take my leave.

(Kaoru leaves. The medical staff makes a call)

Musumi's Colleague: Please send the Anthos* Doll back to the dorm. As for the remaining Doll, immediately secure him and send him to the treatment room.

Musumi: I apologize. I put too much trust in Kaoru-kun and ended up taking my eyes off him.

Musumi's Colleague: You’re lucky that it was him. He’s a Doll that’s normally honest and obedient. He’s not the type to lie.

Musumi: That’s right… at least, he gave off the vibe that you could trust him unconditionally.

Musumi's Colleague: It’s because within Anthos*, he’s the one that’s the closest to full bloom.

Musumi: Oh, so that’s what it is! The flower’s ability truly is amazing. I heard that he’s suffering from severe memory loss, but what does that have to do with the water?

Musumi's Colleague: Nothing at all. We haven’t administered water to Anthos*. That’s a special case from Dr Toudou.

Musumi: I see. I had no idea.

Musumi's Colleague: It truly is our blessing in disguise this time. In that state, it’s only a matter of time before he forgets everything that happened today.

(The staff head back inside)

Musumi's Colleague: More importantly, we have the one from Loulou*di to worry about. If we don’t start regulating his condition before the next live show…

Musumi: The next live show… is another lavish one, isn’t it?

Musumi's Colleague: That’s right. It’s next week.

Musumi: Can we make it?

Musumi's Colleague: We’ve got no other choice. Right now we’ve only got the water to fall back on, but there’s still cause for concern. Live shows have a great impact when it comes to emotional state.

Musumi: But live shows are also a source for a lot of positive emotions, right? In any case both the mind and body will stabilize, so there’s the possibility that the need for water can be weaned off.

Musumi's Colleague: That’s all just a facade.

Musumi: What do you mean?

Musumi's Colleague: Just who gets to decide whether emotions are positive or negative?

Musumi: ‘Who’...?

Musumi's Colleague: Is the seed capable of judgment and thought?

Musumi: But… That’s what it says on the written material.

Musumi's Colleague: Emotions that leave an impact will influence the flower’s development. That much is true. But, that’s all it does. Do you think that the emotions experienced by a 20-something-year-old being cheered on by a large crowd of people is something that it can imitate?

Musumi: That’s…

Musumi's Colleague: By administering the water, we can complete the flower’s development and give it flesh and blood that can be controlled. However, in exchange, whatever human emotion that’s there dies. An eternal beauty is preserved, but can we really say that what remains is living? I’m no expert in philosophy, so unfortunately I can’t open myself to that discussion.

Musumi: Then, what if we just leave the seed in for a short period of time and just remove it after? How about transferring the same seed between different people? We can lessen the strain across individuals. A singular cycle may become shorter, but the seed will be able to accumulate the progress across clinical trials while in an idol, right?

Musumi's Colleague: Yes, it’ll be a little better if we could do it that way.

Musumi: So we can’t?

Musumi's Colleague: We don’t have a perfect successful example to draw from. Both the body and the inserted seed are tightly bound to their host.

Musumi: No way…

Musumi's Colleague: Have you heard of this idol that was in Loulou*di, Amemiya Kaito?

Musumi: Yes, from the written material.

Musumi's Colleague: Currently, we know that whether the flower withers or the host dies, the seed will start to rot from within the body. Where we managed to retrieve this evidence was from none other than Kaito.

Musumi: E-Eh? Hang on, Amemiya Kaito should have withdrawn from Loulou*di…

Musumi's Colleague: We are researching unexplored territory at the forefront of medical research. It’s as you said. The mindset of pioneers is a weight too much to bear for the average Joe. (starts to walk away) Ah, that’s right. As your senior, let me offer you a word of advice: It’s better if you don’t refer to the Dolls by their names. If you let your feelings get a hold of you, you’ll regret it later.

Translator’s Notes:

Project Archive: L 3-3

(Crowd cheering, Loulou*di catching their breath)

Fan A: Ageha-sama!

Fan B: Welcome back, Ageha-sama!

Fan C: I’ve always believed in Loulou*di!

Ageha: (to himself) Ah… I can hear them; the cheers of the fans who admire Loulou*di–Loumiels… I see. I’ve finally beaten death as imposed by a nightmare and arrived here…! I’ve finally returned to the stage filled with light!

Rui: Ageha. Ageha!

Ageha: !! Rui.

Rui: Toki is acting strange.

Toki: Ah… (shakily giggling to himself)

Ageha: That expression…!

Rui: We should step back and let him rest.

Ageha: (addresses the crowd) Ladies and gentlemen, please kindly forgive me[1], the one who will lower the curtain of darkness. And please listen closely to the song of the nightingale that will appear in your dreams tonight. You should already know, but be it darkness or dreams, there’s nothing that can tear us both apart.

(The lights go out)

Rui: Toki-bou. Toki-bou! Pull yourself together, Toki-bou.

Toki: (groans) …Huh? Rui-san?

Rui: You finally regained consciousness. How are you feeling?

Toki: Why am I–What happened to the performance?

Ageha: The performance has been long over.

Toki: Huh? But, the encore–

Rui: The transport team will arrive shortly. You’ll head to the medical facility to rest.

Toki: Hmm? But I’m fine. After all, it’s the first time I got to be on Loulou*di’s solo show and I gave a perfect performance. My body felt so light that it’s like it’s not even mine, moving even better than I expected. It’s the first time I ever felt that way–it’s the best I’ve ever felt. If only I could stay on that stage forever. But… since when did we get back from the stage?

Ageha: … Toki.

(Doors open, staff comes in with equipment)

Rui: Over here, please. We’ll leave it to you.

Medical Staff A: Understood. Hey, over here.

Medical Staff B: Got it.

(The staff walks over, starts strapping something onto Toki)

Toki: Huh? What?

Rui: A mattress[2]? Why would you need something like that?

Medical Staff A: Prepare the ampoule.

Rui: That ampoule…

Medical Staff A: Orders from above. We’ve got clearance to inject the water if it comes down to it.

Rui: Regardless of the circumstances, don’t you think the intervals between doses are too short? During the administration of the medicine a few days ago–

Medical Staff A: The dosages are being monitored to ensure they don’t lose their efficacy. There’s no need for you to worry.

Rui: But–

Medical Staff A: Only things that will pose a hindrance to Loulou*di’s activities must be avoided. Those were the orders from the president himself.

Ageha: … I see. Then we’ll let you handle it.

Rui: Ageha!

Toki: (gasps)

Medical Staff A: The dose has been administered successfully. Everything after is up to you.

Ageha: Understood. However, if anything happens to Toki, I will never forgive you.

Medical Staff A: …

Ageha: Go ahead and try. My intentions are clear.

Medical Staff A: …Please excuse me.

(The staff leave)

Rui: Ageha, there’s no doubt about it. Toki-bou was showing signs of assimilating the preserve.

Ageha: So it seems. Unconsciously performing on stage, and that trance-like expression. However, if we just let it be and allow the effects of the medicine to wear off, it will only cause confusion to the mind. It’s exactly like what happened to Amemiya.

Rui: But between then and now, the frequency of administration is too high.

Ageha: The progression of preserve assimilation is also too fast. After that many incidents under those circumstances, I would have failed to advance long ago.

Rui: I don’t feel the need for that comparison. At any rate, the progression of your fortitude only appears to travel downhill.

Ageha: Are you saying that you see my futile resistance as unmatched?

Rui: No. You’re unmatched in every way.

Ageha: …Dammit, you’re pissing me off.

Rui: Toki-bou’s flower bloomed faster than any others’ we’ve ever seen. To suppress the possibility of betrayal from his growth and loyalty, do you think they could have purposefully accelerated the water administration cycle?

Ageha: Don’t joke around like that.

Rui: It’s simply a guess. But regardless, the answer should be in the medicine.

(Door knocks, a staff member enters)

Staff C: Please excuse me. The reporters are waiting outside.

Ageha: Ah… I’ll speak to them. Rui, you stay here.

Rui: I’ll come with you. I can’t have you work–

Ageha: If both of us were to go, then it would look like we ourselves are suspicious of Toki’s absence.

Rui: …

Ageha: If I were to go as our representative, then we could get those irritating reporters off our backs. Just listen to me and wait here.

Rui: Alright.

(Ageha leaves)

Ageha: (sighs) I’ve had enough of that demon… Whether what I’m up against is God or fate, I won’t let it get in my way again. Ever.

(Sound of equipment)

Medical Staff C: Oh, this antibody…. The numbers aren’t stabilizing. Let’s see, the Doll in Observation Room 1 is…

Medical Staff D: (on the phone) President, you don’t mean…! You’re kidding, right? Administering water to Loulou*di at this pace… You do understand what will happen regardless of what results we obtain, don’t you? …That’s–well, but… Understood. As long as it’s what the president wants, we won’t object. Then, please excuse me. (hangs up)

Medical Staff C: Um, that call earlier…

Medical Staff D: I must have been pretty loud if you could hear that, Musumi.

Medical Staff C (Musumi): Sorry.

Medical Staff D (Musumi's Colleague): No, I apologize as well for raising my voice.

Musumi: Not at all. Well… is there a problem with the administration of the water?

Musumi's Colleague: Ah, you haven’t been assigned to it since you came here.

Musumi: That’s right. I went through all the materials thoroughly during my training, but there was nothing much written in detail about the water.

Musumi's Colleague: How much do you know about the water?

Musumi: It works like a photosensitive personal assistant that helps the Dolls continue to thrive even with growth abnormalities, and by extension the withering. In short, if Dolls are flowers, then the absence of the water would be significant. Am I wrong?

Musumi's Colleague: You’re right. But it’s not as good as it sounds. Instead of achieving a state of pleasurable high, other emotions are heavily suppressed.

Musumi: The materials did say that the sense of euphoria is heightened.

Musumi's Colleague: (scoffs) You said it well.

Musumi: Emotions change and vary during the peak period, and I heard that the answers collected from the research show that the physical state has an influence on the results. If the priority is to alleviate as much suffering as possible while stabilizing the condition, then I think it’s fine.

Musumi's Colleague: But the efficacy of the medicine isn’t permanent. If we don’t keep a close eye on the administration schedule, then it’s a one-way express to drug reliance. 

Musumi's Colleague: …Mind if I ask you something?

Musumi: What is it?

Musumi's Colleague: Why did you come to work here?

Musumi: I wanted to have a hand in the forefront of medical research. Well, even though this isn’t what the public recognizes as ‘medical’.

Musumi's Colleague: I don’t blame them. The one calling the shots is a production company and the results are in the form of idols. Both are inextricably linked. A weekly publication mentioned it sometime back too, that research that involves putting something nobody can fully grasp into a human and making them sing and dance like dolls doesn’t fall in the same category as finding out cures for diseases.

Musumi: Then we can put a more positive spin on it.

Musumi's Colleague: Positive?

Musumi: It’s not something easy for a layman to understand, is it? If there’s such a strong opposition, it’s proof that there’s potential for it in the future. That’s what I think. …

Musumi's Colleague: That sure is optimistic.

(An alert notification starts sounding off)

Musumi: The Doll scheduled for emergency admission has arrived.

Musumi's Colleague: I see. I’ll go take a look. Discharge the Doll in the Observation Room.

Musumi: Understood.

Kaoru: … This is…?

Musumi: Good morning. Um… your name is…?

Kaoru: Kisaragi Kaoru.

Musumi: Yes, yes. Kaoru-kun.

Kaoru: Excuse me, but could you be a doctor I haven’t met before?

Musumi: That’s right, I was recently assigned here.

Kaoru: I thought so.

Musumi: ?

Kaoru: Doctors here rarely call me by name.

Musumi: I-I see. I’ll keep that in mind. (clears his throat) Right, during the examination, did you experience any dreams?

Kaoru: Yes, I did.

Musumi: What kind of dreams?

Kaoru: I wonder…

Musumi: Do you not remember?

Kaoru: More importantly, Doctor, have you ever wondered, between what you see in dreams and what you see in reality, which one is the real one? Or rather, perhaps the view you thought was a dream is reality, and what you are experiencing right now in the present is all a dream. Have you ever thought about that?

Musumi: That’s…

(An alert notification starts sounding off. Musumi picks up the phone in the room.)

Musumi: This is Observation Room One. I heard the alarm, what’s happening?

Musumi's Colleague: The Doll that just came in for emergency admission has disappeared in the presence of staff.

Musumi: Eh?

Musumi's Colleague: Instructions now are that nobody is allowed to leave the premises. Hurry and start searching the medical facility.

Musumi: U-Understood. (hangs up)

Kaoru: Emergency admission?

Musumi: A-Ah, that’s right. Your hearing is not done yet.

Kaoru: It’s okay. I’m going to head back to the dormitory.

Musumi: Huh, b-but…

Kaoru: I felt like I did dream, but I forgot everything. So I can’t tell you anything more. I’m sorry. Besides, someone went missing, right? 

Musumi: Ah, yes, but…

Kaoru: Please quickly find them. I’ll be okay. I’ll change my clothes and go back like usual.

Musumi: … Then, it’ll be of great help if you do that. Thank you.

(Musumi leaves)

Kaoru: Like usual… How is it like ‘usually’?

Translator’s Notes:

Ageha uses ‘boku (僕)’ instead of his usual ‘ore (俺)’ to refer to himself when addressing his audience, or in the presence of others aside from Loulou*di.

Project Archive: L 3-2

Ageha: That will be all for now, but that is more or less the full picture of this project. Please distribute the materials I’ve given earlier to all parties involved as soon as possible.

Staff: But, Ageha-san, headquarters aren’t going to listen to reason now–

Ageha: Either way, they will come back with a strongly-worded reply. Furthermore, if we were to let this drag any longer, it would be detrimental to our schedule.

Staff: Of course, we understand where you’re coming from, but–

Ageha: There’s no need to worry. If it comes down to it, I will take responsibility.

Staff: …Understood.

Ageha: Thank you. I have some business to attend to, so I’ll take my leave.

(Ageha leaves)

Ageha: (sighs) Hey, you. Why are you here?

Rui: I arrived earlier than the meeting time, so I dropped by.

Ageha: A stalker as always. Stop looking into the schedules of other people as you please.

Rui: It seems that you have time blocked out for training later.

Ageha: And?

Rui: You should be exhausted from all your other appointments. How about canceling it?

Ageha: Instructions from above are absolute.

Rui: Your condition seems to be stable at the moment, that’s why I’m asking–

Ageha: You’re annoying. Rui, are you my manager or something?

Rui: I’m not. I’m your fellow unit member.

Ageha: Again with your excuses. You should be sick of your own creepy behavior by now.

Rui: I’m telling you the truth. There’s nothing unnatural about it, just as how a loyal dog looks out for its owner.

Ageha: (scoffs) Says the one who’s enjoying themselves when they see me at my worst.

Rui: … You’re right for one half, but totally off for the other. I want to witness every facet of Ageha, but I also want to grant your desires. I bear the same commitment to both. How weak and vulnerable you are, down to the parts of yourself that you don’t accept, is something I’m more than familiar with.

Ageha: The gall to dare say that out loud… You’re seeing through someone and toying with them.

Rui: Hmm… I don’t remember doing something like that.

Ageha: Then hurry up and get rid of that oh-so-important ampoule.

Rui: Did you forget? It’s already been used up. You were begging for it to be used–

Ageha: Stop it. It was all your fault anyway, zeroing in on every single little thing–

(Notification sound rings.)

Ageha: (sighs before accepting the call) Speaking. Yes, understood. Then please proceed as discussed earlier. (ends the call) Rui, what is Toki up to today?

Rui: He should be in the dorm.

Ageha: Then, let’s make some changes to the schedule. Head back to the dorm for now. We’ll have a meeting.

Rui: A solo live performance.

Toki: Showing nationwide next month, to boot!

Ageha: It’s just been officialized. PLANTs.

PLANTs: (beeps and moves over)

Ageha: Display the latest documents for the solo live performance project.

PLANTs: (beeps and pulls up a display)

Rui: This is… an image of the venue?

Toki: Seems like we’ll be using the boundary.

Ageha: It will be an appropriate stage for Loulou*di’s complete comeback. For the guests seating at more disadvantageous seats, we will prepare the materials to elevate the premium experience for them. It’s an efficient three-stage area that keeps the equipment usage to the minimum while utilizing the environment to its full extent.

Toki: It’s so pretty… It has so many flowers too.

Rui: It’s a stage that’s fully decked with flowers, huh…

Ageha: That’s right. Now, decide on a theme for the venue. Each choice should best portray the beauty of our performance.

Toki: But doesn’t that mean that the experience will be totally different for those watching from the seats?

Ageha: Exactly. We should take into consideration the intensity of the light coming through the windows and the possible weather conditions for that day to produce an experience that cannot be replicated. As far as the venue and the audience are concerned, we should be aiming for a uniquely grand performance.

Toki: Wow… That sounds amazing!

Rui: But to kick off a plan like this is quite sudden.

Ageha: … Do you have any problems with that?

Toki: None at all!

Ageha: That’s good. Rui, do you have something to say? If there’s something you’re not satisfied with, just come out and say it.

Rui: No, there’s nothing. If it’s decided by you, then I would do anything.

Ageha: Then how about at least acting more compliantly?

Rui: I just would like to know the reason. If this live performance was to go according to plan–

Ageha: And it will. Without a doubt.

Rui: … This performance seems special, matching the extravagance of the previous one. It is possible to come out with a venue design that utilizes the location and resources on hand to create a premium experience that’s only limited to the on-site staff and a select number of people. Even taking into account the safety measures to be put in place, it’s important to put out a quality to the standard of serendipitous. With this, being called for a grand hall tour would only be a matter of time.

Ageha: Exactly. All the more that a show like this cannot be brought to life by none other than us. There couldn’t be a more befitting stage.

Rui: But, why now?

Ageha: There are several reasons for it, but the biggest being Toki.

Toki: Me?

Ageha: When we resumed our activities, the spotlight was on you. Though you’ve already made your appearance on video programs, magazines and web media, it’s about time to reach out to Loulou*di’s dedicated fans, Loumiels, and give them a special time, a special space. All to show them the face of the new Louloud*di.

Toki: Ageha-san…!

Ageha: No other idol can pursue the true strength of Loulou*di. Loulou*di’s fortitude is nailed in the numbers and the circumstances. However, it’s all the more we cannot rest on our laurels, and aim for the top. This has always been the way Loulou*di was and is, from conception to the present, without change or hesitation. Don’t you think?

Toki: Yes, I do!

Ageha: Rui, how about you? Is there something you still want to say?

Rui: No, I understand what you mean.

Ageha: Then, that’s all I have for today. Both of you, make sure your individual condition is up to mark.

Toki:Yes!

(Ageha is about to leave)

Toki: A-Ageha-san! Are you heading somewhere else?

Ageha: The training room. It’s nothing to concern yourself with, go and rest for the day.

Toki: Take care!

(Ageha leaves)

Toki: (sighs happily) I’m so excited… A special live show in a special place, being in front of Loumiels… It means my debut is official, right?

Rui: So it seems.

Toki: For Ageha-san to take me so far into consideration… It's like a dream.

Rui: Ageha is always thinking about it.

Toki: (giggles) I’ll have to give it my all if I want to keep being in Loulou*di!

Toki: … Yeah, I have to do my best.

Rui: Toki-bou, are you alright?

Toki: Alright about what?

Rui: Did you visit the medical facility for a check-up?

Toki: Of course I did. I took the medicine like the doctor told me to. I even got a jab.

Rui: A jab?

Toki: (rolls up his clothes) Over here, there’s the mark from the injection. See, I’m not lying.

Rui: (to himself) The water again, huh…

Toki: I’m… perfect. A perfect member of the perfect Loulou*di.

Rui: Ageha.

Ageha: If it’s a complaint, I’m not hearing it. Keep your mouth shut and do as I say.

Rui: Of course I will. But…

Ageha: (sighs) But what what?

Rui: There was the reason with Toki, but what’s the true reason? The reason for you to be in such a rush.

Ageha: Is there a problem with being ahead? To transform the worth of an idol into something special as soon as possible: that is the earnest wish of Chihiro, of the president, and of myself.

Rui: I know.

Ageha: If you know then don’t ask pointless things. How many times do I have to repeat myself? I won’t stand for the fruits of my labor being robbed by an ignorant bunch!

Rui: Anthos*, huh. But they are far from Loulou*di’s standard. There’s no need for you to make an enemy out of–

Ageha: I know that! Then how did it end up like this?! (throws something on the floor)

Rui: This is… a magazine? (picks it up and flips through) “Up-and-coming Newbie Group Anthos*: Preparing for the Ambition of the Music Award”.

Ageha: (sighs) It was the president’s idea.

Rui: The president’s?

Ageha: If it wasn’t then something that tasteless would have been destroyed before it was made into an article.

Rui: In short, this means that Loulou*di and Anthos* are both competing against and improving each other as rivals.

Ageha: Loulou*di doesn’t need this to be at the top.

Rui: Yes, you’re right.

Ageha: Then, why…?! No matter how matter times he recoups, I still want to trust in Loulou*di!

Rui: Ageha, calm down. I’m going to have to touch you if you get that emotional.

Ageha: Don’t touch me! (slaps Rui’s hand away)

Rui: …

Ageha: Rui, listen to me, this is an order. From now on, do not come near me.

Rui: Why?

Ageha: If you’re that considerate, I’d rather have you die instead.

Rui: … Understood. If that’s what you wish, then I won’t do it again.

Ageha: Throw out whatever ampoules you’re still holding onto. I’m not going to choose the easy way out. I won’t rely on that again. I will succeed and overcome the flower’s self-destruction.

Rui: Don’t tell me you suddenly came to train because of that?

Ageha: I’m planning the things I can do with what limited time we have. But, there’s something else that takes first priority. Do you know what that is?

Rui: Holding a surprise live and making a performance worthy of media attention… all to completely quell the Music Awards.