#Comedian Rhapsody

[ingoodtastedenver]

The Second City Comedian Rhapsody

One goes to a Second City show with high expectations. Afterall, this is where comedy greats including John Belushi, Steve Carrell, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey and many others earned their chops over the last 60 years before making it big. The cast of The Second City Comedian Rhapsody, running July 17-Aug. 11, 2024 at Garner Galleria Theatre didn’t disappoint in our expectations of this newest…

[hypmic-obsessed]

HYPMIC RELEASE THE OFF VOCALS FOR ALL YOUR SONGS AND MY LIFE IS YOURS !!!!

[akkivee]

this tweet is iwasaki-san declaring 4/4 dh day because of the dh hand sign and i think that should be respected so happy dotsuitare hompo day everybody lol 🧡🧡🧡

[kuragesoda]

forever going to mourn the fact that i wasnt there yet when the no double dipping!!/the 3 precepts albums were on arb for a limited time

[shrewmingledotcom]

sasara kinnie blogging in my new jammies tonight

[mouna-bat]

Happy 7th anniversary to HypMic!

I celebrated by putting together this mashup. This is the longest mashup I've ever made-- 17 songs altogether! Please enjoy~ 💝

🎵 Songs used, in order:

“Let’s Get It Started” - the Black Eyed Peas

“Division Rap Battle" - Division All Stars

“Hunting Charm” - Mad Trigger Crew

“One and Two and Law” - Hitoya Amaguni

“Summit of Divisions” - Division All Stars"

“Kaigen” - Bad Ass Temple

“Death Respect” - Matenro vs Mad Trigger Crew

“You Are, Therefore, I Am” - Jakurai Jinguji

“drops” - Ramuda Amemura

“What a Osaka!” - Dotsuitare Hompo"

“Survival of the Illest” - Buster Bros / Division All Stars

“Reason to Fight” - Fling Posse vs Mad Trigger Crew

“Comedian Rhapsody” - Sasara Nurude

“Own Stage” - Rosho Tsutsujimori

“Rivals!” Doppo Kannonzaka & Dice Arisugawa

“2DIE4” - Rio Mason Busujima

“Champagne Gold” - Hifumi Izanami

*this is a repost bc I edited the audio some more, and finally put it on Youtube!

[dd-is-my-guiltypleasure]

Jay Duplass Movie 'See You When I See You' To Star Cooper Raiff

New project !🎉💥✨

EXCLUSIVE: More than a decade after his last feature directorial outing with The Do-Deca-Pentathlon, Jay Duplass is back behind the camera for See You When I See You, a comedic family drama to star Cooper Raiff (Cha Cha Real Smooth), David Duchovny (Californication), Hope Davis (Succession), Kaitlyn Dever (Booksmart), Lucy Boynton (Bohemian Rhapsody), and Ariela Barer (How to Blow Up a Pipeline).

An exploration of the intricacies of grief and healing, currently in production in Atlanta, See You When I See You is scripted by actor, comedian and writer Adam Cayton-Holland (Those Who Can’t). The film is inspired by Cayton-Holland’s acclaimed memoir Tragedy Plus Time: A Tragi-Comic Memoir, the winner of the 2019 Colorado Book Award for Creative Non-Fiction, which examines the impact of his younger sister Lydia’s suicide on him and his family.

[freddiemercurylegendabovelegends]

‘Freddie was fun. The only times I saw him really serious were when working on songs. The house would be totally still, but full of a quiet energy.

‘But Freddie’s personality was always there, whatever the mood. It was always moving, influencing the running of the house. It was like the volume button on the radio. There are not a lot of people who can walk into a room and there’s something they bring into it which makes it warm and genial. And then, when they leave, it goes.’

The true Mercury, she believes, was a complicated mixture of self-doubt and self-confidence. ‘I think Bohemian Rhapsody was the turning point. That made him realise that he didn’t need to doubt himself. Even though he was told the radio stations wouldn’t play it because it was too long, there was no way Freddie was going to cut it.’

- Mary Austin

Extract from Interview 2013 Daily Mail - by David Wigg

Pic: Freddie Mercury during Mercury's 38th birthday party at the Xenon nightclub, 1984

📸 Photo by Dave Hogan

👉 Original Photo

Freddie Mercury with comedian Billy Connolly and DJ Kenny Everett (in the foreground), during Mercury's 38th birthday party at the Xenon nightclub, 1984

[slugtranslation-hypmic]

Hey there Slug! I hope you ain't too buys and might have a lil fun with this one! Of each individual character, what are your respective favorite songs of theirs and why?

This is an easy ask to answer, so I'mma clear it from the pile and get to some older ones eventually.

I assume you mean solo songs only, right?

Under a cut for length because there are a bajillion boys in this series

Ichirou: I like his VA's rapping work in just about everything; he's really solid. Stage Ichirou also has a youthful quality I appreciate a lot, but of the main series songs... probably Break the Wall. It's high energy in a fun way. It also ties into a creative project I've been chewing on for years that's near and dear to my heart, although I'm not sure if I'll ever put it to paper and share it anywhere.

Jirou: I think Jirou's VA has a very pretty singing voice, so I like his softer songs. In general, I admire the "softer" aspects of Jirou's character and think that's where he shines best. So probably School of IKB, although I adore his choruses in Re:start.

Saburou: Requiem. I'm very, very, very into things that commit to being over the top and goofy, and I also enjoy combining classical and baroque elements with other genres. What's not to like here?

Samatoki: Gangsta's Paradise. The high speed rap is technically compelling. I generally appreciate v. fast rap since I enjoy learning and singing them. If the stage plays count, I really enjoy the emotion Samatoki's stage actor brings to Come Back to Me.

Juuto: ...There is some interesting text in the Personality section of Juuto's wiki page. (I have it pulled up to quick reference the song lists.) If anyone with wiki edit powers is reading this, you may want to clean that up... Anyway, I feel like they give Juuto great background music in just about every song, but Uncrushable takes the cake for me. I really like the BG music in that.

Riou: Move Your Body Till You Die, hands down. Goofy as fuck. Also, great workout music.

Ramuda: I find his main voice pretty grating, and his usual styles of music aren't my favorite in general. So Ramuda songs don't do a lot for me. I appreciate Pink Colored Love for plot reasons, though.

Gentarou: The slower Hypmic songs rarely do a lot for me, but I found myself enjoying Yume no Kanata a lot. Not sure I know why, necessarily...

Dice: 3$EVEN was one of the first songs I really enjoyed in Hypmic, and I still like its high energy today. In general, I'm impressed by Dice's VA's rapping ability and appreciate his parts in group songs a lot.

Jakurai: Like I said earlier, I'm not usually a fan of slow songs, so none of Jakurai's solos or duets have ever stood out to me. With that being said, I think Jakurai's speech style and slower rhythms makes him more fun and easier to translate w/ full rhyme and rhythm than many other characters. Like I think Labyrinth Wall would be fun to do a full cover of with syllable matching rhymes and line length while simultaneously trying to stick as close to the core meaning and tone as possible.

Hifumi: Both Champagne Gold and Don't Stop the Party are high-energy bops and great for working out. Slight preference for the former. I also really like his singing voice in group songs.

Doppo: Doppo's angrier verses in group songs are fun, but I'm especially fond of BLACK OR WHITE. In particular, I enjoy the DOTAMA cover. I'm a big DOTAMA fan for both his lyrical strength and considerable rapping chops. He's got a lot of songs that are really punchy and angry in this exact vein, and I love throwing on a playlist of his stuff while grinding out tedious work projects. Hahaha. Just rapping along "I don't want to work. I don't want to work. I don't want to work. BUT HERE I AM, WORKING!!!!" furiously under my breath.

Sasara: Comedian Rhapsody is really fun. This is another song I would love, love, love, love to try and do a full translation w/ preservation of rhyme/line length/jokes. Not for sharing--at that point it's just kinda showing off--but it's fun to chew on bits of it when I have moments of free time.

Roshou: Like most of the slow song characters, Roshou's solos aren't my favorite. I guess I prefer Under Sail to Own Stage for its background music.

Rei: All of Rei's songs are wild to the point of me liking them for the goofiness. If you commit to the bit, I'll enjoy it 9 times out of 10. Doesn't matter what the bit is. Shiro to Kuro is probably my favorite. LOVE the "heh heh we are up to no good" NPC villain energy of that song. But also, shout-out to his singing in Enishi, even if it's nigh-on intelligible to me. I love the hell out of Enishi in general.

Kuko: The king of goof himself. Sou Gyaran BAM is probably my favorite, but I am--to some degree--into virtually every song he's in.

Juushi: Wow, I'm listed as a source on this wiki page, lol. Anyway. Juushi's aesthetic as a whole isn't my cup of tea, but I have a soft spot for Moonlight Shadow, because the first two times I heard it were on Spotify shuffle while I just so happened to be scrubbing a toilet. So for a couple months after, I would put Bad Ass Temple on every time I cleaned the bathroom. Hahaha.

Hitoya: One and Two, and Law is so fucking goofy. I adore it. The live version with the airhorn? Chef's kiss.

Otome: Fuck it, let's do the ladies too. Out of all of her musical appearances, I like Just Do It the most. It adds such an interesting strength to her character, and the English portions are done super well.

Ichijiku: Love, love, love her part in Verbal Justice for its strength. This is yet another song I think would be fun to do a hell TL of, and then I remind myself that trying to rhyme "Kadenokouji" in English is a fool's errand.

Nemu: Her singing voice in WINK is nice, but I love her part in Femme Fatale for its energy. "I'm Nemu, and this is my masterpiece" Fuck yeah it is

[twittercomfrnklin2001-blog]

Harmony

HARMONY by Barry Manilow and Bruce Sussman directed by Warren Carlyle: It seems distressingly timely in the current political climate to see a musical about the real-life vocal group The Comedian Harmonists, who were suppressed by the Nazis in the early 1930s because half of them were Jewish (and in this production, two are gay or bi) and they performed Jewish music. It’s not that we don’t need to repeat history’s lessons about bigotry until none exists. It’s that the reflection of the play’s action in the current world can leave one a little shell-shocked. Fortunately, the play and production are worth it. Narrated by the incomparable Chip Zien as “Rabbi” Josef Roman Cycowski, the last of the group to die, the production deals with a great deal of regret as Zien looks back on the mistakes he made in dealing with the growing Nazi threat and, by extension, the guilt of people who stand by and do nothing while evil takes over a country. Zien is both funny (he plays a variety of other characters the group encounters) and intensely moving. As his younger self, Danny Kornfeld deserves particular credit for developing a character that really does look as if he could grow up to become the older actor. And Julie Benko is quite powerful as Ruth Stern, the anti-Fascist agitator who marries one of the group’s non-Jewish members. The dialog has the occasional clinker and there are some simplistic lyrics, but Barry Manilow’s score is a surprise. There’s only one number — the Josephine Baker fantasy “We’re Goin’ Loco!” — that mirrors his pop hits. For the rest, he moves effortlessly through a variety of musical styles, including the operetta “Your Son Is Becoming a Singer, the musical joke “Hungarian Rhapsody #20” (which would be great for a men’s chorus) and the beautiful anthem “Stars in the Night.”

[memesandmusicalss]

listened to hungarian rhapsody 20 and genuinely forgot for a second that. it wasnt an actual comedian harmonists song. uhh

[twstinginthewind]

Hand Me My Shovel, I'm Going In: and Self-: for the ask game for any of your ocs!

Prompt list found here!

Thank you!! I’ll be doing Joker and Hiro for these two!

Joker:

Hand me my shovel: Knowing full well that she’s probably going to fail HARD, Joker will likely challenge Riddle for the housewarden position a couple of times in her second year. She can’t stand looking like a failure in front of people, but she really wants to be able to say that she lived up to the legacy that her father had at NRC, so she’s going to try, even if failure seems imminent.

Self: in-story? Joker was the slightly spoiled Polka Princess of Hatter’s Hill in the Queendom of Roses. She’s the daughter of one of the most notable bikers in the whole county, and somewhat protected in rougher parts of town because of that status. She’s the girl who falls in love at the drop of a hat, and whose mother taught her seven pan sauces and nothing about dating. Now, if we’re talking about who she was before she was fitted into twst, she’s a 20-something stand-up comedian with a day job that barely makes the rent, terrible taste in partners, and a blossoming drinking problem! And she was having a wonderful time, regardless.

Hiro:

Hand me my shovel: Hiro has already convinced his family to move to a whole new place - from Port O’Bliss to the Fairest City, Shaftlands - just so that he can pursue a career in film. Because he’s not exactly traditional leading man material, Hiro knows that he’s gotta work extra hard to get his foot into the door and make an impression so he can move forward with his dream.

Self: in-story, Hiro was the biggest little star in the community theater back in Port O’Bliss! He’s the big dreamer that’s always chasing rainbows, and the fresh new face ready to conquer the entertainment world! And before he was reconfigured for twst, he was an extremely polite little child, the sensible one out of a trio of similarly-aged cousins who loved music, frogs, and his kitten, Rhapsody.

[mouna-bat]

Happy 7 years of HypMic! 🎉 I'm celebrating with the biggest mashup I've ever made. Please enjoy~

🎵 Songs used, in order:

"Let's Get It Started" - the Black Eyed Peas

“Division Rap Battle" - Division All Stars

"Hunting Charm" - Mad Trigger Crew

"One and Two and Law" - Hitoya Amaguni

"Summit of Divisions" - Division All Stars"

"Kaigen" - Bad Ass Temple

"Death Respect" - Matenro vs Mad Trigger Crew

"You Are, Therefore, I Am" - Jakurai Jinguji

"drops" - Ramuda Amemura

"What a Osaka!" - Dotsuitare Hompo"

"Survival of the Illest" - Buster Bros / Division All Stars

"Reason to Fight" - Fling Posse vs Mad Trigger Crew

"Comedian Rhapsody" - Sasara Nurude

"Own Stage" - Rosho Tsutsujimori

"Rivals!" Doppo Kannonzaka & Dice Arisugawa

"2DIE4" - Rio Mason Busujima

"Champagne Gold" - Hifumi Izanami

[shiningwonderland]

Reiji Kotobuki (All Star)

Translator: Belen (Twitter: reiharus)

Proofreader: Raine (Twitter: amagiyas)

Editors: Melanie (Twitter: melabonbon), Mae (Twitter: itoshikimaegirl)

Chapter One — Lunch Box Rhapsody

A week after the press conference, I make a visit to a TV studio.

Since I've requested to partner with Reiji Kotobuki-senpai, I've to greet him.

Today, Kotobuki-senpai is recording a variety show called “Welcome to Idol Las Vegas!”

I open the door to the studio nervously.

Haruka Nanami: Good morning!

The studio is bustling with people working all over.

Kotobuki-senpai…. Has he arrived yet?

As I restlessly study my surroundings, someone taps my shoulder from behind.

Otoya Ittoki: Good morning, Nanami! What are you doing here?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, Ittoki-kun. Ichinose-san. Good morning.

I hurriedly bow my head to the two smiling faces.

Ittoki-kun and Ichinose-san were my classmates at Saotome Academy.

After graduating, they debuted, joined the agency, and are now working as professional idols.

Tokiya Ichinose: Good morning. Are you here for work today?

Haruka Nanami: No, I'm here because I felt like I had to greet Kotobuki-senpai since I chose him as my partner for the Christmas Live and the Song Festival.

Otoya Ittoki: Whoa, I heard at the agency. You’re composing the unit song for the senpai group, right? That’s quite the task, huh, you have my support!

Ittoki-kun’s eyes glitter as he says that.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes…. That’s right…. Although the pressure is a bit….

Tokiya Ichinose: Are you okay? You look a bit pale.

Ichinose-san studies my face, looking worried.

Haruka Nanami: Yes… I’m fine….

Tokiya Ichinose: That said, having chosen Kotobuki-san as a partner…. You went for the high difficulty option.

Ichinose-san sighs.

Haruka Nanami: Ah? You think so?

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes, I had a hard time during the Master Course. He and Otoya would make noise all night, he'd change the room as he pleased….

Otoya Ittoki: What? I had a lot of fun. We would hold jam sessions with guitar and maracas and sing the theme song of Odorokiman.

Depending on who I talk to, I receive totally different opinions. I guess Kotobuki-senpai has a lot of facets to his personality.

Tokiya Ichinose: Well, compatibility depends on the person. Then again, he has a lot of experience in the entertainment industry, so you can learn a lot from him.

Tokiya Ichinose: However, even when we spent time together, I still never could never tell what he was thinking.

Ichinose-san sighs as he says that.

If he was able to elude the sharp perception of Ichinose-san, that means he's a remarkable senpai....

I’m really looking forward to meeting him now, but also nervous....

Haruka Nanami: By the way, what are you two doing here today?

Otoya Ittoki: Oh, we were invited as Rei-chan’s guests. It’s a talk corner about love advice.

According to them, the corner consists of Kotobuki-senpai answering questions from viewers on the topic of love.

As we're talking, I hear a lively voice coming from the studio entrance.

Reiji Kotobuki: G’moooooorning! Let's get crackin'!! Rei-chan is here~~!!

Tokiya Ichinose: He’s arrived....

Before long, Kotobuki-senpai sees us and makes his way over.

Otoya Ittoki: Morning! Rei-chan, we’ve been waiting for you!!

Reiji Kotobuki: The radio show I was at got delayed a bit, sowwy, sowwy~!

Tokiya Ichinose: Good Morning, Kotobuki-san. I look forward to working with you today.

Reiji Kotobuki: Oh~ Tokki! Yahhohho~~ Serious as always. Relax, relax!

Kotobuki-senpai pats Ichinose-san’s back as he says that.

Ah, the veins in Ichinose-san's forehead are….

Haruka Nanami: Um, I’m Haruka Nanami from the Shining Agency. Good morning!

Feeling the growing tension of the atmosphere, I interject.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yep, you are Kouhai-chan! G'mooorning!

Kotobuki-senpai grabs my hand and shakes it.

Reiji Kotobuki: I was informed by the agency that you picked me. Why is that? Choosing the comedian geezer idol, you’re a bit strange too~

Haruka Nanami: Eh?

Reiji Kotobuki: After all, Ranran is the electrifying rocker, so that’s an obvious choice…. And no matter what people say, Ai-Ai is young, isn’t he? He’s also mysterious and his straightforwardness feels fresh. And of course, Myu-chan has extraordinary charisma….

Haruka Nanami: Kotobuki-senpai is very charming as well!

I blurt that out and interrupt him without thinking. It might be a bit rude, but I just can't stay quiet.

Haruka Nanami: I can't explain it well, but…. It was like my heart was shouting: “It has to be him!”

I'm amazed by how unpersuasive my explanation is.

It's so frustrating that there are other things I like about him, but I'm unable to put them into words.

Reiji Kotobuki: Ah. It was accidental, but that made you uncomfortable, didn't it? I’m sorry. For you, big brother will get serious! Let’s do our best together, okay?

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

I have to do my very best so I’m not a burden to Kotobuki-senpai.

Reiji Kotobuki: OK! So, today Otoyan and Tokki are here as guests.

As he's hyping everyone up for work, he scans the room.

Reiji Kotobuki: … Wait, it can’t be~ My right-hand man is… late?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Don't call me that, you idiot. As if I’d be late.

Kurosaki-senpai emerges from the back of the studio lethargically.

Reiji Kotobuki: Oh, oh, you heard what I said? See~ People can talk bad about you, Ranran. So if you're here, you should say so~

As he says that, Kotobuki-senpai pokes Kurosaki-senpai’s head with his forefinger.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Damn you….

The studio goes still.

Reiji Kotobuki: You’ve been in a bad mood all morning—you’re gonna ruin your handsome appearance, come on, smile, smile~!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: YA WANT ME TO BREAK YOUR FINGER, EH?

Haruka Nanami: K-K-Kurosaki-senpai, g-good morning.

I wanted to greet him politely to defuse the situation, but I'm so nervous that I tripped over my words.

I feel awkward, and Kurosaki-senpai scowls at me.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: The amateur composer that hasn’t been able to debut for a year and a half, why are you here?

Haruka Nanami: Ah…. Well….

Reiji Kotobuki: Wait, wait, Ranran. If you give Kouhai-chan such a scary look, she’ll run away. She’s here because she’s my partner, so be kind to her. She came all this way to say hi.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Not my problem. Just be quiet and don’t get in the way.

Kurosaki-senpai sinks into the nearby sofa, muttering.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, at least I can praise you for not choosing me. Sorry for the trouble. Just make do with Reiji.

Reiji Kotobuki: C’mon, don’t say things like that! After all, she has to work on the unit song with all of us. Kouhai-chan, even if he said that, the truth is he wants to help. “I really want to help you”! That’s how he feels, so don't worry about it. Because Ranran is not honest at all.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, okay….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Stop deciding things on your own. You too, woman, don’t be fooled so easily.

Haruka Nanami: S-sorry.

Tokiya Ichinose: Kotobuki-san, Kurosaki-san, everything is ready to start.

Ichinose-san must have been watching the situation and calls out to them at the right moment.

His words move everyone to take their recording positions.

Reiji Kotobuki: I’m sorry, Kouhai-chan. We must've surprised you. But this is normal for us, so don’t worry.

He holds my shoulders gently to soothe me like one would a child.

Haruka Nanami: …!

He’s so close, my heart jumps instinctively.

Reiji Kotobuki: We can go on a field trip if you want? Let’s go to the dressing room after the show and talk about our partnership.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes! Of course!

I wonder if I'm grinning as I answer.

Reiji Kotobuki: Good reply. Thank you for choosing me. You won’t regret it….

He whispers in my ear.

I feel a sudden chill and my mind instinctively comes to a halt when his sweet voice reaches my ears.

Reiji Kotobuki: OK! Thank you very very macchoccho! I’ll show you something good, just for you!

Kotobuki-senpai says that while putting his fist up in a triumphant pose and then he runs towards the set.

Today, Kotobuki-senpai and Kurosaki-senpai will appear in the variety show “Welcome to Idol Las Vegas!”

Kotobuki-senpai and Kurosaki-senpai’s free talks are popular.

Among those, the love advice corner called “Teach us! Love Professor” is the most popular.

The corner, which always features guests, consists of answering problems regarding love which are sent in by the viewers.

Kotobuki-senpai, in the role of the professor, throws a bunch of questions at the guests, who play his students.

Then, Kurosaki-senpai gives a nonchalant answer and Kotobuki-senpai follows up with an absurd answer.

I’m looking forward to seeing the recording today!!

Director: Okay, let’s start.

Senpai, Ittoki-kun, and Ichinose-san all join the set and everything is ready for recording.

Director: Ready, action!!

The pilot lamp flashes and the recording starts.

Reiji Kotobuki: Everyone, let’s go! Teach us!

The other three: Love professor!!

Reiji Kotobuki: Love professor, Rei-chan, Reiji Kotobuki’s corner. Today we have received a lot of mail from girls and boys! Now I’ll ask the love assistant, Ranran, Ranmaru Kurosaki-kun to read the first letter.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Tch, what’s with “assistant”…. Anyway, let’s do this. This is from love name: “Negikko.”

Kurosaki-senpai reads the email aloud.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Let’s see… “I’m a girl preparing for the entrance exams, and I came to like the same person as one of my closest friends. I want to confess, but I’m afraid to lose my friend, so I can’t convey my feelings. What should I do?”

Kurosaki-senpai quietly closes the letter and takes a breath.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: If you're a student, focus on reality and prepare for the entrance exams!

Kurosaki-senpai hits the desk with his fist.

Reiji Kotobuki: Now now, Kurosaki-kun, calm down. So basically, this is a love triangle.

Kotobuki-senpai imitates a professor and does a beard-stroking gesture.

Reiji Kotobuki: Now, Ittoki-kun! If it were you, what would you do?

Otoya Ittoki: Eh? I would… I’d be bold and confess, of course. If it’s a guy we’re talking about, I think it’s the most straightforward way.

Reiji Kotobuki: Hm, hm. Next! Ichinose-kun! What would you do?

Tokiya Ichinose: I think we should consider her friend. To make a move or not….

Reiji Kotobuki: That seems a bit aloof, Tokki.

Tokiya Ichinose: None of your business. We must consider the consequences.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: So, what’s your opinion? Would you say something or not?

Reiji Kotobuki: Well, in this case, the main point is what she desires, right?

Tokiya Ichinose: You suddenly reverted to your usual character….

Reiji Kotobuki: In any case this girl wants to confess, right? But also, she doesn’t want to lose the friendship, right?

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah, that’s it but…. Isn’t that difficult?

Reiji Kotobuki: So, this is what she should do. First, she introduces her best friend to another guy. Then, she asks the guy she likes to give her advice for her friend and then they get along in the process.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What are you, a demon…? How do ya come up with stuff like that?

Reiji Kotobuki: Huhuhu~ Kurosaki-kun. This is just the difference in experience between us.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I’m not impressed, I’m in shock.

Reiji Kotobuki: Trying to act all tough! Don’t you think it's better to just do what works and makes you happiest? Okay, done with the first question!

Having said that, Kotobuki-senpai strikes a pose.

Then the corner proceeds well.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Right, so the last letter is from love name: “I love Ranran.” Thanks.

Kurosaki-senpai sends a sidelong glance to the camera casually.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: “I’m a young woman in my twenties, but I can’t forget my lover from 10 years ago. I can’t fall in love because I’m too afraid to lose it again. My friends insist that time and dating more will cure my broken heart, but it seems to be no good at all. Am I going to be alone forever? Please teach me, love professor.”

After hearing the question, the studio goes dead silent.

I happen to look at senpai, who is staring ahead blankly like he's remembered something.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey Reiji, get on with it.

Kurosaki-senpai whispers to Kotobuki-senpai.

Reiji Kotobuki: Ah? Ah, sorry, sorry. I was just thinking about the sender, that must be hard, huh?

Tokiya Ichinose: What are we going to do if the professor is empathizing with the sender? Only you can solve their problems, right?

Otoya Ittoki: Rei-chan, what’s wrong?

I wonder if there's something bothering him. Kotobuki-senpai has fallen silent.

On the surface, there seems to be the usual light atmosphere, but he looks to be deep in thought.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What the hell, he’s out of it. Oh well, Otoya, answer.

Otoya Ittoki: Wha—me? Aha, so… are you doing your best to forget? Put all your memories in order.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: So basic. She’s already said she can’t. Next, Tokiya!

Tokiya Ichinose: If those memories are impossible to forget, why not just live with them? Someday they may fade away on their own.

Otoya Ittoki: I see~ Then, what do you think, Kurosaki-senpai?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, going with the flow is the best. Being able to forget or not? The more you lie to yourself, the harder it gets.

Reiji Kotobuki: Lie to yourself.... Right, that’s what I wanted to say! Let’s go with that!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: What’s with the sudden comeback? And don’t steal my words.

Reiji Kotobuki: “I love Ranran”-san, even if you haven’t forgotten in 10 years, that doesn’t mean you can’t forget in 11 years. Maybe someone will appear tomorrow to save you. And the next day, you might meet someone who loves you. No one knows what tomorrow may bring, so keep on living believing in your own power and potential to overcome! Good!!

After that, Kotobuki-senpai poses for the camera.

Director: Okay, cut!

And so, the recording ends.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Reiji, what was that forced act, I had to keep up the flow!

Otoya Ittoki: I was totally worried!

Tokiya Ichinose: I’ve told you before, please don’t do things that we haven’t discussed in meetings. How many times do I need to say it for you to understand?

Reiji Kotobuki: Don’t be so angry~ I just got carried away. I wanted to show a new side of me—was it a bit melancholic?

The four of them return from the set after recording.

Reiji Kotobuki: Kouhai-chan, how was it? The ennui version of Rei-chan.

Kotobuki-senpai asks me.

Select the phrase!

I was worried (+ 20 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Well… somehow…. You looked pained…. I was worried….

Reiji Kotobuki: Ooh, did I make you nervous? Huhuhu~ It was just acting, acting. A play. But it makes me happy to hear you were worried about me. I’m an adult, so I can do those sorts of things. Kouhai-chan! You shouldn’t be deceived. I’m a bad man after all….

Haruka Nanami: Oh…. Right, sorry about that. I totally fell for it.

So this is the world of adults…. It seems very complex.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Didn’t I tell you not to be deceived? You're so simple. Stuff like this always happens with this guy.

Reiji Kotobuki: OUCHIE! Stop with the violence, poon, poon!

Kurosaki-senpai hits Kotobuki-senpai in the back of his head mercilessly.

The force was so painful he tears up a bit.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I'm the one who should be angry. How can the host go quiet during a show? You’ll be disqualified as a pro, or get fired from the show.

Reiji Kotobuki: Wowowhoa! That’s…. O-okay, I'll take you to a good restaurant I know another time, alright?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Delicious food…. But hey you, don’t think you can get away just by talking about food.

Reiji Kotobuki: Now, now I didn’t say that. It’s just because I’m always causing trouble for Ranran, my feelings, feelings.

Kotobuki-senpai smiles as he says that.

It looks like things have calmed down, but was the sadness I saw in him really just my imagination?

After finishing the recording check successfully, I follow Kotobuki-senpai to the dressing room.

Haruka Nanami: Thank you for having me.

Kotobuki-senpai’s dressing room is tidy, with a lunch box placed in front of the mirror.

Haruka Nanami: That’s…?

Reiji Kotobuki: Yes? Oh, that? Yeah, it’s Kotobuki Bento’s special, the karaage lunch box. Since there was a catering service at another location, I asked them to bring one to my room. I was thinking of eating it after recording. The lunch boxes from home are good even when they're cold.

Kotobuki-senpai smiles happily.

His family owns and runs a lunch box shop.

It's also a popular catering option for location shoots, and is well known in the entertainment industry.

Especially the karaage lunch box, which is rumored to be so good that it is used by entertainers to get work in the industry.

Reiji Kotobuki: That’s not all! Today I had Kouhai-chan’s portion specially delivered as well.

Senpai points to the paper bag in front of the other mirror.

Haruka Nanami: Really? Thank you so much! I’m so sorry I didn’t bring anything.

Reiji Kotobuki: It’s OK, it’s OK~ We’re partners, right? There’s no need to be so stiff. In addition to meeting you, I wanted to talk about work and give you that tour, so I figured it would take a long time. I can’t fight if I’m hungry! So before work, let’s rest for a bit and eat.

Haruka Nanami: Thank you for your consideration!

He thought of everything and prepared for it in advance. I’m really happy Senpai cares this much.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yep! But first, question corner! First question.

Senpai holds his forefinger in front of my face.

Reiji Kotobuki: What is my favorite instrument ever? If you’re going to be my partner you need to know that much, right?

He looks at me expectantly.

One might expect that I would be the one asking the questions and he would be the one answering, but I guess that’s too generic—as expected of Kotobuki-senpai….

As an entertainer, he’s trying to be surprising and make things enjoyable at all times.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes….

I'm certain Kotobuki-senpai's instrument is….

Select the phrase!

The maracas (+30 Love)

Haruka Nanami: It’s the maracas for sure….

Reiji Kotobuki: PINPON, PINPON, SUPER CORRECT~! You get 100 points! NO, 1000 POINTS!

Kotobuki-senpai produces his maracas from thin air and starts shaking them while giving me the answer.

Haruka Nanami: T-thank you very much.

Reiji Kotobuki: Maracas are so good~! Just shaking them can boost your mood! Even if they look like this, they’re a complicated instrument.

It certainly makes me happy to hear the shaking sound of the maracas.

Ah, but….

Haruka Nanami: It is unusual for people to specialize in maracas. Why did you decide on those, Kotobuki-senpai?

He makes a very serious face after hearing my question.

Reiji Kotobuki: Kouhai-chan…. That’s the eternal se-cret. I’ll tell you when we're closer.

He shakes his index finger side to side.

I have to work hard so that Senpai tells me the secret behind the maracas.

Reiji Kotobuki: Now, next! The second question is!!

Kotobuki-senpai makes a V sign in front of me.

Reiji Kotobuki: What is my favorite collection of superhero stamps?

He smiles like the V sign he made.

Kotobuki-senpai adds that the hint is “____-MAN”.

Haruka Nanami: Wha—? Does this have anything to do with music production?

I expected the meeting to be about music, but I guess I was wrong.

It is true that it’s important to know more about your partner, though.

Haruka Nanami: Hmm….

Select the phrase!

Odorokiman (+30 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Ah… It is… Odorokiman… right?

As soon as I say it, Kotobuki-senpai's face lights up.

Reiji Kotobuki: That’s right, Kouhai-chan, you know it, huh!! Marvelous!

Haruka Nanami: Thank you very much.

Kotobuki-san raises his hands and starts clapping as I bow my head.

Reiji Kotobuki: Of course, my favorite is Yamato Prince. His feet are so quick that he can move ultra-fast! He always does his best too, although he’s a little clumsy, but you just can’t hate him.

Kotobuki-senpai says that while gazing into the distance, his eyes shining bright.

I can see he really loves Odorokiman.

I expected him to have an adult-like hobby, but he hasn’t forgotten that child inside of him. He always manages to surprise me.

Thanks to this quiz, I feel like I know even more about Senpai.

There’s still a lot I don’t know, but I want to get closer.

Reiji Kotobuki: Whew~ Now, this is a question from me. Can I listen to Kouhai-chan’s song?

He might have been trying to ease my nerves by leading the conversation and getting me to chat a bit first.

Haruka Nanami: Yes, of course.

I take my laptop from my bag.

With this, we can listen to the song and I'll get his opinion today, before next week’s meeting.

I start playing the song, feeling nervous.

Reiji Kotobuki: Hmm, I see.

Kotobuki-senpai finishes listening to my song and puts his hand on his chin, thinking.

Haruka Nanami: So… was it…?

Reiji Kotobuki: No, Kouhai-chan, the song isn’t bad~ Did you work on the audition at Saotome Academy all by yourself?

Haruka Nanami: Yes.

Reiji Kotobuki: Then you haven’t been able to debut due to a communication problem, am I right?

I instinctively look down after I hear his words.

He’s right…. I’ve always been shy and withdrawn….

That was why I couldn’t find a partner and debut….

Reiji Kotobuki: You are… the shy and withdrawn type, better at expressing yourself through music rather than words?

Haruka Nanami: Ah… How….

I look at Kotobuki-senpai, surprised.

Reiji Kotobuki: Bullseye, huh? I met someone like you long ago, so I'm familiar.

Haruka Nanami: Is that so….

Reiji Kotobuki: But compared to you, he was even more sensitive and fragile.

Senpai’s expression is unusually clouded.

I have to grow as a person so that I don’t worry him.

Even though I think that, I can’t respond to his words.

Reiji Kotobuki: Well, anyway, sound-wise, the song is passable. The composition could be improved. It sounds a bit monotonous.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, okay.

I hastily note down Kotobuki-senpai’s advice.

Reiji Kotobuki: For example, the motif of the hook is fine, but that portion is too slow so it doesn’t grab the listener’s attention. You have to think, like, when it’s sung by the four of us as a live opening, does it feel like the unit is special?

Haruka Nanami: I see, so if we focus on the impact at the beginning, the climax will come naturally.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yes, and also, I think that if we keep our image in mind for the arrangements, it will sound pretty cool.

Haruka Nanami: The image of the seniors…. Things like cool and mature…. Relying heavily on the synth drum….

Reiji Kotobuki: Yes, yes, it's good, right? Cool, mature, wild and dangerous!!

Kotobuki-senpai poses like a leopard and roars playfully as he says that.

Yes, Kotobuki-senpai is having fun.

I’m also getting fired up.

Reiji Kotobuki: OK!! I worked a lot and I’m happy I could also go over the song with you, but now it’s time to dig in!

Haruka Nanami: Okay!

Then, Kotobuki-senpai reaches for a pot to make some tea.

I pick up the paper bags with the lunch boxes but....

Haruka Nanami: Huh?

Reiji Kotobuki: Hm? What’s up?

Haruka Nanami: Nothing….

For some reason, these lunch boxes feel really light…

Reiji Kotobuki: Alrighty, nooow, enjoooooy your meal!

Haruka Nanami: Ah… Yes. Enjoy… ah?

When Senpai and I remove the lids of the boxes…

Reiji Kotobuki: WHAT? WHAAAAAAAAA-!! OH MY GOOOOOOD!

... Kotobuki-senpai’s scream resounds in the small room.

What should I say…?

I wonder what had been inside the boxes.

They have been eaten immaculately—not a single grain of rice remains.

Reiji Kotobuki: Wai—wha—WHAT’S THIS?!

After seeing the empty lunch boxes, Kotobuki-senpai remains stunned for a while.

Haruka Nanami: Then… this means there's… a lunch box thief… right?

Reiji Kotobuki: Lunch box thief?

Haruka Nanami: Hmm, are any other valuable things still here?

Reiji Kotobuki: Mmm, yeah, it seems fine. The room was locked as well.

Kotobuki-senpai checks inside his bag.

But, could there really be a thief that only steals lunch boxes?

Reiji Kotobuki: And I haven't eaten anything today… Boo hoo.

Kotobuki-senpai mutters while looking at the empty box.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You’re so damn loud, Reiji! I can’t take a nap with all this noise.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, Kurosaki-senpai.

He slams the door open and comes rushing in.

I guess he was trying to rest next door until his next job began? He seems to be in the worst mood I’ve seen him in.

Reiji Kotobuki: Perhaps it was you who ate our lunches, Ranran?! So cruel, eating them behind our backs!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Lunch? The hell are you talking about?

I quickly explain the circumstances to Kurosaki-senpai.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Are you an idiot? Don’t go saying stupid stuff like that.

Reiji Kotobuki: But after all, Ranran does like the lunch boxes from my place, so you have a motive....

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Listen here…. Just before this, we were recording together, so I wouldn’t have had time to eat them!

Reiji Kotobuki: Ah, I see. Ranran has an alibi…?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Cut it out with that alibi thing! Don’t blame me for your mess. You probably forgot to lock the door.

Reiji Kotobuki: No way! I made sure~! I prepared everything so that it would be perfect for Kouhai-chan.

Kotobuki-senpai clenches his fist in frustration.

Reiji Kotobuki: It appears that Otoyan and Tokki are free from suspicion as well….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I told you to knock it off. No one could have taken it.

Kei Otonami: It’s a bit loud in here. What was that noise earlier?

Reiji Kotobuki: Ah? What are you doing here?

Kei Otonami: … Kotobuki-kun….

The man looks at Kotobuki-senpai, surprised.

He doesn’t look like an entertainer, but is he acquainted with Kotobuki-senpai?

Kei Otonami: I was in a meeting next door and I heard a strange scream…. Then I came to check out the situation, and it seems it was you….

He sighs loudly.

Hibiki Katagiri: Hey, what on earth… Eh… Reiji…?

Another man peers out from behind the other.

Reiji Kotobuki: Whaaat, you’re here too? This is such a coincidence….

Kotobuki-senpai says, surprised.

Hibiki Katagiri: So this is your dressing room…. Then that scream too….

Reiji Kotobuki: Yes, someone ate my lunch!

Hibiki Katagiri: Haaa… You were making a fuss about something like that…. You haven’t changed.

Reiji Kotobuki: "Something like that"? Even Hibikin is being this way! The lunch boxes from my place are really delicious. And I’m hungry.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Anyway, I don’t care and I have work to do, so I’m going back.

Reiji Kotobuki: Hnn, Ranran, but the culprit….

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I don’t have time for this farce! Figure it out yourself!

Kurosaki-senpai leaves the room and closes the door violently.

I'm left in the room with the three acquaintances.

Reiji Kotobuki: Well anyway, we should celebrate this long-awaited reunion! Shall we toast?

Kotobuki-senpai smiles.

We take our seats at the table. On top of it sits the pot containing the brewed tea.

Kei Otonami: Seriously, you’re carefree as ever. Stardom doesn't change people, huh. You're still a child that cries over some lunch box.

His hearty laugh feels like an earthquake.

Hibiki Katagiri: Yeah, you made it sound like it was the end of the world.

Reiji Kotobuki: You two are so mean. Is that any way to talk to a friend?

After that, through many twists and turns, we make our introductions and explain the situation.

These two graduated at Saotome Academy as composers.

The tall man, Hibiki Katagiri, is now a freelance producer.

It seems that the other, Kei Otonami, is working as a freelance composer.

Today, they were in a meeting in the room next to Kotobuki-senpai’s.

Hibiki Katagiri: I thought that a robber had assaulted someone or something…. But a lunch box.

Reiji Kotobuki: It’s not just a lunch box! Since Kouhai-chan was coming today, I had it specially prepared.

Hibiki Katagiri: A karaage lunch box from Kotobuki Bento, huh? I remember, that's all we ate during our school days.

Kei Otonami: But a lunch box is a lunch box. A proper adult does not shout in a dressing room. Pull yourself together.

Otonami-san looks at Kotobuki-senpai with cold eyes.

Kei Otonami: It must be difficult for you, having a guy like him as a partner.

Haruka Nanami: No, I…. I requested partnering with him myself.

Otonami-san looks at me in surprise.

Kei Otonami: You…? Do you not know about his past?

Haruka Nanami: What…? His past?

What is he talking about…?

Kei Otonami: As far as you know he’s the kind and fun senpai….

Hibiki Katagiri: Hey, stop.

But Otonami-san ignores him.

Kei Otonami: It might be none of my business, but you should keep an eye on who you choose. Try to uncover the real him. Is the face that he wears his true self?

Reiji Kotobuki: Always saying that. It’s not like I can hate you for it, though.

Ignoring us, Otonami-san heads for the exit.

Something feels off about his words.

Hibiki Katagiri: Hey, Kei, wait!

Katagiri-san goes after him, and at that moment....

The door opens and Mikaze-senpai enters the room.

Ai Mikaze: Keep it down, Reiji. I’m trying to concentrate in my dressing room and I can’t.

Kei Otonami: A… Aine…?

Otonami-san mutters, stunned, when he sees Mikaze-senpai.

Aine…?

Hibiki Katagiri: No, that’s… Ai Mikaze. This is only my first time meeting him too, but... you’re right, it looks exactly like him….

Ai Mikaze: What are you talking about? Who are you?

Mikaze-senpai sneers at the remarks of the other two.

Reiji Kotobuki: Ah… They are my….

Before Kotobuki-senpai can finish, Otonami-san storms out of the room, past Mikaze-senpai.

Hibiki Katagiri: Hey, I said wait! Well then, Reiji, see ya.

Katagiri-san runs after him.

Kotobuki-senpai, Mikaze-senpai, and I are left alone in the room.

Ai Mikaze: What was that, how unpleasant. Both you and your acquaintances were acting strange.

Reiji Kotobuki: Hm, we were, huh….

Ai Mikaze: In any case, keep your voice down, I can’t read like this. And you, watch over your partner.

Haruka Nanami: Yes….

After that, Mikaze-senpai leaves the dressing room and slams the door closed behind him.

Reiji Kotobuki: Haaa.… Today was terrible….

After Mikaze-senpai has left, Kotobuki-senpai sits down on the chair and lays his head down on the table.

Haruka Nanami: Senpai…. Are you all right?

Reiji Kotobuki: Haha, honestly? I don’t think I’m feeling very well. I guess I look really uncool now. I’m sorry, but could we wrap up for today? I really wanted to take you home today, I’m so sorry. I’ll make it up to you next time.

Haruka Nanami: It’s fine, I can go by myself. But, Senpai….

Reiji Kotobuki: I’ll rest here for a while. Don’t worry.

Haruka Nanami: I see.

Reiji Kotobuki: We have a meeting about the unit next week. Let’s talk about the future then.

It’s my first time seeing Senpai so sad.

I wonder what happened between him and his acquaintances.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes… Thank you for today…. I’ll take my leave….

Kotobuki-senpai only waves his right hand, the rest of his body lying flat on the table.

Haruka Nanami: Haaa~ I was so nervous.

I thought I was going to get sucked in by that atmosphere, and now I’m completely exhausted.

I exit Kotobuki-senpai’s dressing room, and when I leave the TV station building through the back door, it's already nighttime.

Haruka Nanami: When that man saw Mikaze-senpai, he said “Aine.”

It seemed like the name of a person, so it must have something to do with what they were talking about.

I wonder what their relationship is? The mystery deepens....

Haruka Nanami: Even so, people in this industry have such strong personalities....

First there’s Kotobuki-senpai, then Ittoki-kun, Ichinose-san, Kurosaki-senpai, Katagiri-san, Otonami-san and finally Mikaze-senpai….

Haruka Nanami: I have to be strong if I want to communicate with these people.

A week later.

The Shining Agency office conference room.

Ryuya Hyuga: Hey you guys, the meeting is starting. Hurry and take a seat!!

Reiji Kotobuki: Yeees~!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Tch, annoying….

Ai Mikaze: I’m already seated.

Camus: Meetings like this are the height of folly.

Ryuya Hyuga: Speak one by one, the heck....

Hyuga-sensei looks over each unit member and sighs.

Today, we’re meeting about the Christmas Live unit.

Hyuga-sensei will determine the direction of the unit and then we’ll listen to the demo I composed.

I’m so nervous.

Reiji Kotobuki: Okay, so, first of all, we have to decide on a leader. Aaaand I present to you my candidacy!!

Ai Mikaze: Reiji, get a better grasp of your attitude. We decide as a group here.

Reiji Kotobuki: GAN! GAN!! Ai-Ai, Even if you feel that way, don’t say it like that!

Ryuya Hyuga: Guys, I’m telling you to listen!!

Hyuga-sensei hits the desk and everybody goes quiet.

Ryuya Hyuga: Anyhow, let’s decide the leader.

Reiji Kotobuki: We’re deciding after all!!

At the words of Hyuga-sensei, Kotobuki-senpai interrupts with his retort.

The other three ignore him.

Ryuya Hyuga: Obviously, you are all disorganized. Without a leader, everything will fall apart.

Ai Mikaze: But how on earth are we going to choose? We’re unlikely to reach a conclusion with the current state of affairs.

Ryuya Hyuga: Well… that’s true. Hey you, objectively, what do you think?

Haruka Nanami: Ah… me?

Ryuya Hyuga: Yes, if you had to choose a leader out of these four, who would it be?

Haruka Nanami: T-that’s….

Select the phrase!

Kotobuki-senpai (+0 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Kotobuki-senpai, wouldn’t he be the most suitable?

Reiji Kotobuki: Great, Kouhai-chan, well said!! Splendid!!

Hyuga-sensei gives me a sympathetic look.

Haruka Nanami: Kotobuki-senpai is always energetic and motivating everybody. Plus, he’s the most experienced.

Ai Mikaze: I see, he's always hyper, at least he's good at that.

Camus: He’s certainly the oldest of us, and as an idol he’s almost there.

Camus-senpai laughs.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Well, when it comes to his career history, he’s certainly number one. He’s the senior. But he’s too much of a pain.

Reiji Kotobuki: Now don’t call other people old~! I’m an eternal 19-year-old, so isn’t that cruel~? Ai-Ai too, what’s with that "at least"! But if you guys say so, it can’t be helped. Now onto the next thing.

Kotobuki-senpai sums it up in an instant.

It seems like he’s suitable as a leader, after all.

Ryuya Hyuga: Even if we talk, we make no progress. You, choose one out of these.

Hyuga-sensei writes the names in a memo pad, folds each one separately, and hands them to me.

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Me? O-okay….

I gingerly take one of them.

Haruka Nanami: Waaa~

Reiji Kotobuki: Who is it, who is it?

Haruka Nanami: Kotobuki-senpai!

Reiji Kotobuki: YESSS!! Good job, Kouhai-chan!

Kotobuki-senpai rises off the chair in a triumphant pose.

Ryuya Hyuga: Well, no complaints. Now Reiji, you decide the next topic.

At Hyuga-sensei’s words, the other three nod reluctantly.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yes, yes-yes! Then, the next topic is… What kind of dance we should do~!!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Dance? You must be joking. I ain't dancin'.

Kurosaki-senpai frowns at Kotobuki-senpai’s words.

Reiji Kotobuki: Tch, tch, tch, Ranran, don’t be like that. We are I-D-O-L-S, after all.

Ai Mikaze: If we don’t dance what do you want us to do? Just stand there and sing?

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I’ll play the bass.

Camus: While the three of us are dancing? Then you will look even more stupid, fool.

Reiji Kotobuki: Waait, if Ranran plays the bass, I can play the maracas.

Ryuya Hyuga: Stop with the nonsense. You’re not a comedy band.

Haruka Nanami: That’s right, if you play instruments, you will look like a band rather than idols….

Reiji Kotobuki: Well, that’s right…. But, then, then, Kouhai-chan, what do you think about the dancing?

Haruka Nanami: About that….

Select the phrase!

I want an intense dance (+20 Love)

Haruka Nanami: Since you’re such a good unit, a flashy dance on the stage would be the best way to please the audience, right?

Reiji Kotobuki: Right, right, I agree! After all, dancing is an idol’s thing! I’ll show you my hustle!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: Hey don’t decide on your own! And you woman, don’t say unnecessary things.

Haruka Nanami: S-sorry!

Ai Mikaze: Honestly, I’m fine with anything. And Reiji will just do as he pleases.

Camus: It’s work, so it can’t be helped. You dance when you’re told to dance.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: You’re both traitors.

Ai Mikaze: Traitors? You'd need an alliance for that.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: …

Kurosaki-senpai goes quiet at Mikaze-senpai’s words.

Reiji Kotobuki: Okay, it’s decided then! LET’S DANCING!

Kotobuki-senpai does a backflip.

… In the conference room…. He’s incredible!!

And thus, Kurosaki-senpai accepts that he will have to dance.

Reiji Kotobuki: I’ll talk to a choreographer that I know well, so even Ranran will be alrighty!!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I said I didn’t want to dance, doesn’t mean I can’t.

Camus: I don’t care as long as it’s not too inconvenient.

Ryuya Hyuga: Understood, then contact them from the office. Damn, we’re running out of time because you guys wouldn’t get along.

After saying that, Hyuga-sensei hands out the schedule to each member.

Ryuya Hyuga: For now, check over the schedule. Current state of public relations, schedule before and after the performance, and for other small details about the choreography, you'll be contacted later. Since there will be a lot of interviews, settle on your opinions properly.

Everyone agrees.

Ryuya Hyuga: Now, the song is crucial, should we listen to it?

Hyuga-sensei smiles at me.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes!!

I nervously connect a speaker to my laptop.

I open the music player and play the song.

SONG: "QUARTET NIGHT" (S RANK)

Reiji Kotobuki: Bravo!! Kouhai-chan, you’re fired up alright~ Isn’t it cool? Good, good~~!

Kotobuki-senpai does a banzai and applauds me.

W-what’s this…? I’m so embarrassed.

Haruka Nanami: Thank… thank you very much.

Reiji Kotobuki: If you keep at it, I’m sure winning the Song Festival will be easy as pie. Do your best!

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

I’m so happy Kotobuki-senpai praised me!

Ranmaru Kurosaki: It’s better than I thought. Compared to what I expected, I mean.

Ai Mikaze: I guess I’ll give you 68 points. If you keep working like your life depends on it, we may make it.

Well, at least it seems it’s not too bad.

Camus: Kotobuki, guide her well so that we don’t have to go through anything unnecessary.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yeah, leave it to me. From now on, I’ll guide her without holding back.

Ryuya Hyuga: Seriously… you’re in good form. It's certainly not a bad song—you’ve done well.

Haruka Nanami: Thank you very much. I wouldn’t have made it without Kotobuki-senpai’s advice.

Ryuya Hyuga: Oh, I see. What’s this, you’re acting like a good senpai?

Reiji Kotobuki: Of course! We’re partners after all!

Kotobuki-senpai puts his hands on his waist and puffs his chest out.

Ranmaru Kurosaki: I guess the meeting is done. I’ll get going.

Camus: Me too, I need to be somewhere, so if you’ll excuse me.

Kurosaki-senpai and Camus head towards the door.

Ryuya Hyuga: Understood. Well, my work is starting to pile up. You do your best too.

Hyuga-sensei collects his things and heads towards the door.

Haruka Nanami: Yes.

Then, Hyuga-sensei, Kurosaki-senpai and Camus-senpai leave the room.

I remain with Kotobuki-senpai and Mikaze-senpai.

Mikaze-senpai….

Somehow, his face seems red….

Haruka Nanami: Mikaze-senpai, are you all right?

Ai Mikaze: What? Why ask that so suddenly?

Mikaze-senpai gives me a strange look while preparing to leave.

Haruka Nanami: No, it’s just… Your face seems red… I wonder if you have a fever….

Reiji Kotobuki: Maybe Ai-Ai has caught a cold~? Big brother will check~

Saying that, Kotobuki-senpai reaches for Mikaze-senpai’s forehead.

But Mikaze-senpai slaps his hand away.

Ai Mikaze: Watch the touching. It’s because you do things like that that people call you annoying. Anyway, I’m leaving too.

Reiji Kotobuki: Ai-Ai, so strict! “Annoying.” There are things you can and cannot say. Wai—Ai-Ai, good job today!

And so, Mikaze-senpai leaves too.

Reiji Kotobuki: Ha…. So cold, seriously.

Kotobuki-senpai sighs, looking after the direction that Mikaze-senpai went.

Haruka Nanami: Um…. Kotobuki-senpai, thank you so much.

Reiji Kotobuki: Eh? What for?

Kotobuki-senpai looks at me, surprised.

Haruka Nanami: For the advice on the song—thanks to your help, the other senpai have accepted it as well.

Reiji Kotobuki: Ah, sure. But it was you who actually made it and fixed it properly....

Haruka Nanami: But it was thanks to you too. I hope you will continue to support me from now on.

I thank him again and lower my head.

Reiji Kotobuki: Yeah….

What… What was that….

When I raise my face, Kotobuki-senpai is staring right at me.

Haruka Nanami: Um….

After a few moments of silence, Kotobuki-senpai opens his mouth.

Reiji Kotobuki: The other day, I asked you why you wanted to partner with me. You said that you heart shouted “It has to be him!”, right?

Kotobuki-senpai tilts his head a bit and looks into my face.

Haruka Nanami: Yes… I’m sorry that explanation is no good.

Once more, it feels like no reason at all and I’m baffled by it.

Haruka Nanami: But now I believe that my intuition was right.

We’ll only be working on the production of the unit song for a short time, but I think he will become a senpai I can really trust.

Besides, I feel that I can learn to be more sociable and energetic from him.

Haruka Nanami: You are obviously talented… but also gentle and kind….

I do my best to gather the missing words. There’s also gratitude and appreciation.

Reiji Kotobuki: “He’s bright, we’ll have fun together, but he also takes work seriously,” right?

Haruka Nanami: ...!!

I nod vigorously at Kotobuki-senpai’s words.

Reiji Kotobuki: Was I right?

It's as if he read my mind. I feel drawn in by those eyes that seem like they've seen everything.

But… what is this…?

Senpai seems different....

Haruka Nanami: How did you know?

Reiji Kotobuki: That’s what I thought, so I just went ahead and said it.

When he says that, Kotobuki-senpai suddenly averts his eyes.

Reiji Kotobuki: But you know, you’re wrong.

Haruka Nanami: What?

The light in his eyes shimmers faintly. It's a cold gaze I haven’t seen before.

Reiji Kotobuki: I’m, you know…. Weak, cold, and a coward. So, Kouhai-chan….

Kotobuki-senpai looks right at me once more.

Reiji Kotobuki: If you want to win at the Song Festival, you shouldn’t partner with me.

He closes his eyes.

With that expression, I can’t begin to guess what he's thinking….

(Chapter End)

[dreamdripdistance]

top 5 hypmic songs :3

JDHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHDHDKSKFHSJ lets FUCKING JOEEEEEEEEE

1. shibuya ghost night (because Obviously its a BANGER AAAAAAAA)

2. comedian rhapsody (its JUST SO FUCKING GOOD AAA)

3. tigridia (AAAAAA DOPPO... KENT ITO .... <33333333333)

4. ohayou ikebukuro (I LOVE THE BROSSSS AUUUUGHGJGHBGGGGHGHHVHHHGHHGG THEYRE SO!!!! AUGH!!! THIS SONG JUST MAKES ME HAPPY FR)

5. closer (I LOVE OLD MAN YAOIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII also hitoyas va, eiji takeuchis voice is SO GOOD AUGH)

[akkivee]

WE ARE!!!!!!!!!

UNITED EMMMMMMMMMCEEZ!!!!!!!!!

i’ve seen streamers using this ranking website as of late and decided to check out if there was hypmic and there was!!!!! and that’s lit!!!!!

the very first matchup they gave me tho was the very song that got me into hypmic vs arguably the best fp song and i sure am about to have a bad time LOL