#We are not talking about that ibara

[collectorcookie]

SHOES in the BATHTUB???? Young man that is a crime, what do you want to say to your fans before getting arrested

[unrelatabledude]

sea of enstars

BIG sea of stars spoilers under here

[chameleonwritess]

Okay I accidentally got the flambé insanity out of my system on my enstars spam Instagram but I’m still gonna scream about ibayuzu bc I NEED TO….

Listen, I may say things about how awful they are for each other and like ‘lol ibayuzu is their bad ending’ because I love me some toxic yaoi, but hear me out: nah it’s not actually all that toxic OR bad for them, they just need to SIT DOWN AND COMMUNICATE WITHOUT THE DRAMATICS AND THE CONSTANT TRYING TO ONE UP EACH OTHER which is probably not gonna happen because they both love the dramatics and one upping each other too much

Now here’s why: pretty much the ONLY TIME we see Yuzuru get to be himself is when he’s talking to Ibara. Can you imagine how much of a relief it must be to him that FINALLY he can drop the act and SNAP at this Guy? Knowing that a) he can take it because he’s actively encouraged it and is already well aware of exactly how ruthless Yuzuru is capable of being and b) it’s not going to ruin his reputation or leak his background to any fans or higher ups because Ibara needs to keep their history just as secret at Yuzuru. Ibara is so so important to Yuzuru because as much as he can complain about how much he despises him…. He’s not even ALLOWED to express open distaste for anyone else- this is the one person he can be a bitch towards without fear or without having to cover up the bitchiness with feigned niceties (and Yuzuru is such a bitch at heart xoxo)

And now for Ibara. Yuzuru is one of the only people he can ALWAYS trust. He knows Yuzuru’s past, he knows Yuzuru’s mindset better than anyone else and he KNOWS he’s the only one who’s aware of how Yuzuru really feels and works, which gives him the comfort of knowing that Yuzuru isn’t gonna betray him. Yuzuru has nothing to gain from screwing him over and ruining his life or anything else. Sure he’s a thorn in his side when it comes to his sneaky tricks and schemes, but when it comes to being able to breathe freely and not have to battle every day of his life, afraid that everyone around him is just waiting for the opportunity to tear him down and send him right back into the battlefield, he knows that Yuzuru is safe. And I think he’s aware enough by now that Yuzuru does genuinely care about him- favourite pupil privileges and all that.

So basically, Flambé sent me insane because of the amount of mentions about their joint past and the way they instantly retort back to anything the other says. Yuzuru snarkily saying that Ibara must struggle to give gifts because he doesn’t care about anyone else (I smell resentment from the past. Why are you so convinced of that, Yuzuru? You know Ibara just wanted a safe haven- upset that wasn’t you? Upset he chose Nagisa over you???? Upset that he doesn’t care about you like you care about him??????????). We also have Ibara scheming in his own mind and WATCHING for Yuzuru’s reaction. Because Yuzuru doesn’t say anything. We just get a sprite of him narrowing his eyes. And suddenly Ibara’s like ‘haha he noticed! Just as I expected hehe! Can’t get away with anything with Yuzuru around!’… Ibara why are you watching? Why are you waiting and hoping he thwarts you????? (Lmao Perry and Doofenshmirtz ass dynamic) Ibara you don’t need to pretend to be evil just to get Yuzuru to stop you so you have an excuse to enjoy being an idol….. I mean, Yuzuru sees through it and is gonna enable that for you anyway but THERE WAS NO NEED I PROMISE!!

Ugh they make me insane. Read Flambé, y’all!!! It’s also one of my fave Rinne stories because I love love love when an all out over the top dramatic character gets to show a more subdued side and drop the mask for a bit- especially around a specific person (rinniki nation winning) (wow weird thing for the notorious wataei freak to comment on)

And I’m done byeeee

[acanth3]

The Sound Of The Stars English Translation

EPISODE 9/16

A Few Hours Later In ES Building, COSPRO Office

Mika: —Nnnh~! I don’t know what yer’ talkin’ about! 

Hiyori: It’s okay if you don’t understand it! It’s multiple choice question so just guess!

The worst last thing you would want in a test is to leave blanks, do whatever you want to answer. 

Mika: Well then, the answer is A…

Hiyori: Too bad! It’s C!

Mika: Uuuu….you just helped me with it but you already knew the answer

Ibara: ….I see. This seems to be a tough road. Even though it’s a basic college entrance exam question.  

Jun: No, I didn’t understand it either. So it’s a normal question~?

Above all, it’s rare for Ohii-san and Ibara to teach English. 

Hiyori: Fufu, language is important for aristocrats. If you can’t speak english you can’t talk within high society. 

Well, it was mostly my brothers job to talk with others so I didn’t practice much

Jun: Ohii-san’s world is large…..

Still, do you really have to solve such a difficult question to get into university these days?

Ibara: It’s not that difficult. Like I told you, it’s an average question. 

Even if you don’t study, you show other skills as an idol. Reimei doesn’t teach English. 

Is it the same in Yumenosaki? Listening to it is hard, however writing…

HiMERU: —I don’t expect them to have learned it either. 

I graded his written answers and scored 20%

Ibara: Is that so? It seems we need to focus more on English.

HiMERU: His vocabulary on words is low, so we should focus on making him memorize first.

Mika: Uuu, what a bad score…

Even though I've already graduated, I studied English a lot more then. How am I gonna learn now? 

Ibara: Of course if you want to be an astronaut you must take the English exam. 

Imagine how many people who are supporting Mr.Itsuki’s space trip are from abroad. 

If there was to be a problem with the ship, you must follow their instructions Mr.Kagehira. 

In that time, Mr.Kagehira do you have it in you to do so?

Mika: Uuu, I’d panic cuz I don’t know english….

Ibara: That’s how it is. Do you understand the importance of learning English now?

Mika: I’m not confident in speakin’ it. I haven’t scored good on a English test before…

Is it really bad if I fail the exam…

Ibara: Don’t turn around like that. In order to prevent such a thing happening we are here to fully support you. 

Also, Mr.Itsuki is working behind the scenes so you can head into space. I’m assisting in music production. 

Mr.Itsuki seems to be struggling with the production.

Jun: Nagi-senpai said he would be helping, is it still not enough?

Ibara: Yeah, if you watch this, you can see why they’ve been delayed for a while.

Nagisa: …..”What’s the universe described by Shu-kun?”

Shu: “Hmph. How do I describe the universe?”

“Humans, dwarf beings confined in a small planet, however the universe continues to expand”

“From the moment I define the word universe, it all makes sense. It’s an unknown mass.

Nagisa: …..”Maybe you’re right”

…..”What we know about the universe is only till the range we have discovered.”

….”Which is why people have tried to unravel the meaning of the universe with few clues”

…..”This town is one of them. It’s on top of a meteorite” 

…..”Some of the buildings in this town use materials produced from the meteorite.”

Shu: “Was it a ‘suevite’? Due to the discovery of that rock it was realized this location was built on a meteorite.”

Nagisa: …..”The universe is not something which can be understood by gazing at the sky, there any many messages from the universe engraved into the Earth.”

Shu: “Oo, I was just reminded of the museum you strongly recommended me”

“Changes in the surface caused by meteorites. Continues to pursue the mystery of the universe and geology.”

“I was only focused on the universe, but thanks to you, I was able to realize the most recognizable universe to us…Earth”

“Us humans in the first place haven't satisfactorily understood the Earth yet.”

“How did the planet come to exist, what kind of history has it had, what’s going to happen?”

“Even if you do come to understand this planet, it’s just another star in the universe.”

“Ugh, I don’t understand it. The more I continue to try to understand it and learn, the more I can’t grasp it!”

“It’s so frustrating that I just want to scratch my chest all over. I have something I want to learn but I can’t learn all about it……”

“Ah, it really is the theme for an artist!”

Mika: Nnn~...That’s great Oshi-san, you seem to enjoyin’ this alot ♪ 

Hiyori: Haha, I have no idea what Shu-kun is talking about. But hey, I wonder if he brainwashed by an alien? 

Jun: I said that too and Nagi-senpai agreed and says he says something which dont make sense~?

HiMERU: Why is the story of the universe needed in the first place? The context here is unclear.

Ibara: …..I asked for a report on Mr.Itsuki’s work so far and I had this video sent to me. 

Recently it seems Your Excellency and Mr.Itsuki are in Europe and have a steady report going. 

Mika: Wow, I kept in touch with Oshi-san from some time to time but I didn’t know he was this into it. 

….Okay, Oshi-san is doin’ his best like me.

Ibara: Yes, that’s right. Mr.itsuki is also working hard to produce a song appropriate for Mr.Kagehira’s space travel. 

Mr.Kagehira must repay Mr.Itsuki’s hard work, right?

Mika: …..Yep, Vice President-san is right

Oshi-san didn’t complain once when he couldnt produce music when I’ve been whinin’ here all day. 

Sorry for bein’ pathetic Oshi-san

I’m gonna do my best to study English so I’m not embarrassed to sing for Oshi-san!

those 2 rlly went to germany man

[landofzero-archive]

Eden TRIP Album MC Talk Series

Season: ☆

MC 1

Hiyori: “Thank you for coming to our, Eden’s, independent live today! It sure is a blessing to be able to celebrate the album release together!

We’ve loaded our love into the songs to be delivered to you. Receive them without leaving out a single one, okay……♪”

Jun: “The first song we performed was KEEP OUT.

How was this song that was specifically written for the album?”

Nagisa: “…… I’m glad that you seem to like it. KEEP OUT means ‘no trespassing’.

…… We’re going to break into everyone’s hearts. Into the shining paradise, like a lurking viper.”

Ibara: “And then we will slowly and carefully pour poison into you, and show you sweet dreams.

So that tonight’s stage may become an unforgettable memory……♪”

Jun: “Afterwards, we’ll perform two songs; one after the other~ That first song is—”

Nagisa and Ibara: “…… Melting Rouge Soul.”

MC 2

Ibara: “Melting Rouge Soul from Adam, and Ruby Love from Eve have been performed.

Both of these were songs unveiled at Chocolat Fes— during Valentine’s season.

Nagisa: “…… Yeah. At that time, the fact that both Adam and Eve were releasing new songs at the same time became a hot topic.

…… The cheering during the moment Ibara and I said “Melting Rouge Soul” felt really good.”

Ibara: “Fufu. I’m sure there are a lot of people who did not expect it because it’s called Eden’s independent live.

I told you, didn't I? That I’ll show you sweet dreams……♪”

Hiyori: “Adam’s fans, Eve’s fans, as well as Eden’s fans—

Today we will satisfy every single person who loves us.

You’re prohibited from looking away! Keep your eyes on us till the very end♪

Jun-kun, you can’t blink either!”

Jun: “Eeh, please let me blink~ My eyes will get dry.

Oh, seems like they got everything ready while we were talking. The next song will be a solo song.

Ibara Saegusa’s— Salute Desire.”

MC 3

Ibara: “— That was Salute Desire

Oops. Thank you for the warm applause.

Though I endeavored to give a more perfect performance than usual—

During a solo song, everyone’s gazes are concentrated on me from every possible angle, so my mind could not even be inattentive for even a single moment.

Above all else, I’m glad that you were satisfied♪

Now, let me briefly introduce myself.

I am Eden’s Ibara Saegusa. Salute~☆

As you see, alongside my idol activities, I’m also serving concurrently as the producer of Eden and the vice president of the agency.

I’m very happy to be able to deliver the new song as well as the accompanying event to everyone.

I will continue to work energetically, so I ask you to please continue to treat Eden and Cosmic Production well☆

The next song will be brought to you by the four members of Eden.

Let us show you our way of life— Paradise Banishment -Faith Conquest-”

MC 4

Nagisa: “…… We’ve performed Paradise Banishement -Faith Conquest-.

…… It was first unveiled during Conquest wasn’t it. It’s a song containing Eden’s faith.

…… Hiyori-kun doesn’t really like it, I wonder?”

Hiyori: “No. I like the song itself. It’s a song that’s just like Eden.

But I’ve had enough of Conquest! Even if it’s a farce, I don’t want to act like we’re fighting and hating each other.

We’re aaaalways been the best united, mutually loving, unit—

I’m sure the fans don’t want to see us like that too.”

Nagisa: “…… I agree. The loud cheers that could shake the whole venue is the greatest proof of that.

…… Let’s keep getting along, Hiyori-kun.

…… As an ‘equal friend.’”

Hiyori: “Yes. ‘Equal’……♪

-Now now, next would be something everyone has been waiting for, my solo song!

Accept My Love— accept my love……!”(1)

TL Note:

He translates “Accept My Love” into Japanese here.

MC 5

Hiyori: “Thank you for listening to Accept My Love!

Yes yes. You’re smiling so much, I’m happy too☆

I’ll follow Ibara’s example and introduce myself. I am Eden’s Hiyori Tomoe!

Life isn’t all about fun. There’s times where you feel depressed and like you want to cry.

When that happens, it’s good to look at me. Because I’m the one who shines bright like the sun☆

Listen to my songs, and follow the productions I appear in—

Just imitate me and smile! Since I always have a smile on my face!

If you smile, the people around you will also smile. It’s a happiness chain reaction. What fine weather……☆

Now! Let’s move on to the next song, shall we?

All four of us will perform it, so please give us all of your support.

Eden’s— EXCEED.”

MC 6

Jun: “I’ve just performed EXCEED. This song is—”

Ibara: “Isn’t this a song with a shady history for you, Jun?”

Jun: “Wait a sec. Could you please stop saying misleading things~?

It’s not like it’s got a shady history or anything, umm……

When we released this song, I had lost my confidence and kept makin’ mistakes.

But then, Ibara went out of character and comforted me by saying,’Why do you lose confidence when there are people who view you so favorably?’……”

Ibara: “‘Out of character’ is superfluous.”

Jun: “Haha. I won’t be able to be the same as Ohiisan, Nagi-senpai, or Ibara, but to that extent—

No. That’s why, as Jun Sazanami, I’ll continue to put in the effort as myself.

Eden is where I belong, y’know~

Haha, thank you for all the applause. Sorry if I sounded like I was urging y’all to do something.”

Ibara: (Whispering) …… Honestly, Jun really was an idiot during that time.

There are so many people who love you.

Jun: “Hm? I couldn’t hear it over the applause, but you said something, right?”

Ibara: “No, it’s nothing. Please continue talking about yourself after you finish singing.

Now then, please listen. Jun Sazanami’s— Unlock the Soul.”

MC 7

Jun: “Hello, everyone. It’s Eden’s Jun Sazanami.

How was Unlock the Soul?

The lyrics were good, weren’t they~. When I sing them, I get excited.

Speaking of lyrics, apparently Ibara wrote the lyrics to the song I just sang, EXCEED, for me.

Wha~t? People might think I sound conceited when I say that.

But Nagi-senpai said it was to help me get over my slump or something. There’s no doubting it~

Well. That Ibara, he can be really kind sometimes~♪

Haha. Ibara’s looking at me from the side of the stage with a face like he just swallowed a bitter bug.

I shouldn’t get carried away, or I’ll probably get scolded later~

Now that I’ve told a story just for this special occasion, let’s get to the next song.

Eden’s— Absolute Perfection.”

MC 8

Nagisa: “…… Absolute Perfection. This is the first song we performed at Absolute.

…… I am God♪

…… Ibara, please look. Everyone’s rejoicing.”

Ibara: “It seems so. Unlike Absolute’s stage, this is a country where countless gods rule.”

Nagisa: “…… That’s not the only reason.

…… There are many people here who love us. They weren’t present at Absolute either.”

Ibara: “Indeed. The presence of fans is an idol’s strength—their powerful weapon.

However. It’s not normal for Eden to be completely dependent on our fans.

Let’s be ourselves and make a triumphant return to Absolute with our utmost strength.

Then, we will receive our laurels and make ourselves known. Eden are the best idols in the world.”

Nagisa: “…… Yes. I’m sure our fans want that as well.

…… Because we’re the strongest idols, Eden.

…… Next, I’ll perform my solo song.”

Ibara: “Everyone please listen. Nagisa Ran’s—We’re all alone.”

MC 9

Nagisa: “…… You just listened to We’re all alone.

…… I’m Eden’s Nagisa Ran. Thank you for coming to our live today.

…… Each song has its own memories. I was remembering all that happened while singing.

…… I wonder if you all have had the same experience? Since music and memories are connected to one another and committed to memory.

…… I wonder if everyone has some kind of emotional attachment to Eden’s songs.

…… If possible, I would like to ask each and every one of you individually. But, it would be difficult to do that today.

…… It would make me happy if you could let me know through a letter or handshake event.

…… I hope our songs may touch everyone’s hearts.

…… ‘The eternal paradise that touches the heart’— that’s what Eden is.

…… And now, it’s almost time for the end.

…… We’ll perform two songs in a row at the end. Eden’s— Awakening Myth.”

MC 10

Nagisa: “……  It’s a shame, but let’s close the door to paradise.”

Jun: “It was nice to meet you. Thank you for coming to Eden’s independent live today!

Did you all have fun at our live?”

Hiyori: “You got to see my finest performance, so it must have been fun!

I swear on Ibara’s glasses that it’s true☆”

Ibara: “Could you please not involve me? If you’re going to swear on something, swear on Jun’s life instead.”

Hiyori: “That’s no good! Jun-kun’s life is mine!”

Jun: “My life is my own. Could you not swear on it so casually~?”

Nagisa: “…… Hey, can I close the door to paradise?”

Jun: “C’moon, Nagi-senpai is bothered now, isn’t he?”

Hiyori: “Don’t make it sound like it’s my fault! It’s collective responsibility!”

Jun: “Alright alright. Now then, let’s meet again some time soon.”

MC 11

Ibara: “Everyone! Thank you for the magnificent encore!”

Nagisa: “…… The door to paradise opened right away.”

Hiyori: “No. It didn’t open on its own, we had to open it. With the power of everyone’s love♪

That’s why we also have to respond with love. Let’s share the love with everyone here.”

Jun: “The last song is, of course, this song!— BRAND NEW STARS!!!”

MC 12

Jun: “That was BRAND NEW STARS!!! This is truly the end.

We did our best, though. When I think about how it’s over, I feel lonely after all, huh~”

Hiyori: “Everyone, thank you for singing with us! Thank you for your magnificent smiles!

Please come and see me again! I’ll be waiting♪”

Nagisa: “…… The door to paradise shall close again.

…… But I’m sure we’ll meet again. Without stopping, we’ll continue to grow.”

Ibara: “The latest information about Eden is always posted on the official SNS. Please take make use of it☆

Thank you for coming today! We’ll see you soon, salute~♪”

[twilightmalachite]

Final Ceremony - Chapter 2

Characters: Fuyume, Esu, Hinata, Yuuta, Mitsuru, Tsukasa, Subaru, Ritsu, Mao, Keito, Izumi, Chiaki, Wataru, Nazuna, Leo, Sora, Hiyori, Jun, Ibara, Hiiro, Mayoi, Ibuki, Kanna, Raika, Nice

Translator: Mika Enstars

Proofreader: 310mc

❗️ This chapter was PARTIALLY voice-acted live at the 4piece Final Ceremony Live Event! The scripts for the live event and the in-game story are slightly different.

"Gahhh, I can’t breathe…! Subaru, little less strength, please~!"

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

Season: Spring

Location: 4piece Final Ceremony Stage

Fuyume: Yume has an objection.

Why wasn’t Yume, the number one cutest, chosen? The judges must have no eyes to see. Yume would much rather you withdraw from the seat.

Esu: What are you talking abouUUUUT?! The one who should withdraw is you! Are you stupid?! Do you even know what’s going on?!

Aren’t I always telling you to stop causing trouble to the general publiIIIIC?!

Please excuse him! I’m so sorry! I’ll take responsibility for this guy and drag him elsewhere, please continue!

Fuyume: Ow. Don’t pull Yume like that, Esu. You’re too forceful.

Nazuna: Ahaha, aren’t those quite the newcomers~? Though, better to have one that has a strong backbone than one that’s weak, I suppose.

Keito: How incorrigible. These results are being broadcasted, you know.

This 4piece is considered a major event, attracting attention from leading figures from a variety of industries. Standing out in a bad way won’t do you any good.

Nazuna: That is true, isn’t it? Wow~, they might get chewed out later then, huh. You think they’ll be okay?

Mao: Dance Dream Unit…? And they chose me for it?! For real!?

Subaru: Hooraaay! This is amazing, Sally~! Congraaats!

Mao: Gahhh, I can’t breathe…! Subaru, little less strength, please~!

Subaru: Ahaha, sorry, sorry! I’m just so happy your hard work’s been recognized, Sally~! As if it were my own! ☆

…Hm?

Tsukasa: ……

Subaru: You good, Cathy~? Could you be in a state of shock?

Tsukasa: Huh? Oh, no. I was just thinking a little.

Of course, I personally feel a sense of frustration, but… In order to grow, I must accept these results, so I cannot let myself feel down.

And, I am also the Leader of Knights.

As their Unit Leader, I am overjoyed that Sena-senpai and Leo-san have been selected.

And so I was thinking about our Schedule for the future.

I was wondering if our Schedule might require some revisions now that we have Nice Dream Unit activities to consider.

Ritsu: Ooh~, as expected of Suu~chan. You’re starting to act more and more like a dignified “king”~. I’m so proud. ♪

Tsukasa: If that’s what you believe, then I request you to stop praising me like a child.

Ritsu: Hey, Maa~kun. I gave it everything I got, but it still wasn’t enough. Comfort me~.

I’m just such a poor thing, you know~? I deserve some pity and comfort, don’t I~?

Mao: Umm? You don’t look to actually be all that genuinely upset or anything to me, though?

Ibuki: Oh, huh. So I wasn’t selected, huh~.

Well, there’s no point sticking around, so I’mma get somethin’ to eat~.

Chiaki: …I did it! I DID IIIIT!

I’m so happy~! This feels like a victory I achieved together with RYUSEITAI and everyone else who lent their strength! ♪

Mitsuru: I was selected too~! I’m so happy, yanno! ☆

Raika: Chiaki-oniisan, Mitsuru-oniisan, congratulations on your victory! I too am so happy~!

Kanna: Hm? Is that… Hojo Raika-san? He was here too…?

Jun: …I won. I… won against Ohii-san…!

Hiyori: Congratulations. You did not do all too bad, Jun-kun! Things will end differently next time, though!

Jun: Yeah… Thanks so much.

…You’re acting a little unusually modest, huh, Ohii-san?

Hiyori: Because this is quite the inconvenience for me! It’s supposed to be your important duty to be at my immediate back and call to fulfill any wish I may have, Jun-kun…!

Jun: GODDAMN! There’s not a lick of modesty when it comes to you! You just want to make a slave outta me!

Jun: ……

(I’ve set my mind to it, so… I gotta tell everyone about it properly.)

Izumi: Heh. I can even win an audition if I put my mind to it, you know?

I may not have been able to gain as much recognition as I’d like overseas, but… That doesn’t mean I intend to give way to the next generation in Japan either, you know.

Leo: So I’m in the Dance Dream Unit? It doesn’t really feel real yet. But I don’t exactly dislike dancin’, so it’s fine, I guess?

I wonder if they’ve got a song prepared already?

If I’m dancin’ with a group like this, I think I’d be able to write a new song~. Though, maybe dancin’ to someone else’s song will be inspiring?

Hinata: If you were to dance with the winners of the audition, and have it be a song composed by you on top of that, Tsukinaga-senpai… Now that would be a crazy cheat code, for sure.

Ibara: …Yuuta-kun, you don’t seem all too disappointed, even though you were not selected.

Yuuta: Could say the same about you, Vice Prez.

Ibara: Because I can still achieve my goal, even if I am not selected. And since His Highness and Jun have been selected, this will be a perfect advertising opportunity for Eden.

Yuuta: I’m in a similar boat, then. We just prioritized a win for 2wink.

It’s not like I lost from this. I just didn’t get selected this time around.

And so, this place just didn’t turn out to be for me. That’s why I’ll just leave it to Aniki and get my own elsewhere.

Ibara: I don’t dislike that way of thinking. Although, it is one that’s difficult to have recognized.

Mayoi: Hiiro-san, congratulations on your placement in the Vocal Dream Unit.

Your singing really is so wonderful, Hiiro-san. I just knew you would be able to make the most out of this opportunity.

Hiiro: But I feel like it’s such a shame, Mayoi-senpai. How come it didn’t work out for you?

You’re so incredibly skilled, and all…

Mayoi: Oh, no no. I am very much aware of why it didn’t work out for me.

Besides, the valuable experience I acquired in that field is plenty enough for me.

Wataru: Oya oya, I didn’t expect that I would pass.

Sora: …?

Wataru: Oh? What is it, Sora-kun?

Sora: Sorry if Sora’s mistaken, he can’t see all too well right now, but…

Is Dai-shisho~ not happy about that?

Dai-shisho~’s voice sounds happy, even though his words don’t, and it doesn’t match up~. So Sora found it a bit odd.

Wataru: Amazing, you are quite perceptive as ever, Sora-kun~!

I am rather happy. But having an evaluation of that audition makes me feel embarrassed somehow.

So I inadvertently behaved as if it was of no concern to me, or rather, how to put it… I am finding myself responding half-heartedly.

Sora: Sora doesn’t quite understand. If Dai-shisho~ is happy, then Sora thinks he should just let it show~!

Wataru: Ahaha, now that’s not an easy pill to swallow~. Could you let Eichi know that as well?

Sora: ?

Nice: “I understand there are many mixed emotions of joy and sorrow to be felt, but we’re running out of time. It’s due time for us to bring this results announcement to a close.”

“I too am beyond happy to have met you all through 4piece.”

“The children who have been chosen and those who were not, are all so very nice! The future of the idol industry is a bright one indeed!”

[ ☆ ]

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[whateversawesome]

Hi, thanks for answering my previous question! I love your content 💪💪. Today, I have a new question: I saw this Reddit post, and I’d like to know your thoughts on it. If it’s true, what do you think about the authens?👇

Hi! Sorry for the super late reply! It's been a busy week.

You know? One day, I would like to ask Endo about his use of names in SXF. It's very peculiar.

About that Reddit post in general, well, it's obvious that Endo likes to play with the name of his characters.

A "forger" means a person who produces fake copies or imitations and at the beginning, the Forgers are exactly that: a copy of a family. However, "to forge" means to create or build a relationship and it's exactly what's happening with them. They are building their family day by day and it's turning into a real one.

Something that caught my attention was Thorn Princess/Ibara-hime/Briar Rose name. Briar Rose is a fake name of Princess Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), a lot of people know that already. But looking around I also found out Sweet Briar Rose is also a type of rose that smells like apples after rain or when being crushed. Remember Yor loves apples? And guess what...just like our dear Yor it's also thorny!

When it comes to symbolism, this plant is linked to love and purity (coincidence?). However, because of its thorny nature, it can also symbolize danger, wounded love and rejection. See the duality? Love and purity, but also dangerous.

In this case, I think the name Ibara-hime/Briar Rose is not a coincidence. One of Yor's main topics for her character is romantic love, that's why often, when she appears in a chapter, we also see the topic of love (and kissing!) At the very least, Yor appears to be curious about that😊More on that here.

As for the Authens, I wrote a post about them when they first appeared in the manga. You can read it here.

However, after talking about it with some friends, I'm starting to believe Sigmund Authen could have been involved in Project Apple, at least at the beginning. Why? Well, Endo is an expert of building morally-gray characters; characters that are not 100% good or that are good in our eyes but do questionable things. That's why I'm almost sure Sigmund Authen, despite being a good man, probably did questionable things in the past.

I hope that answered you question. Thank you for asking me this and making me think hehe.

[gothibara]

Hii

I have no idea if you're still into Ibara, BUT if you are I've got a question: In a few of your posts you mentioned Ibara being OCD. This idea is very very interesting to me, and was wondering why you think that? And perhaps if there's any other headcannons you might have?

Looking at Ibara's general personality, there seems to be something up with her. I'm interested to hear your conclusions on this. (Again this is only if you want too! There's no pressure of course! I just think you have great thoughts on Ibara and would like to hear your take. /gen)

i am still very deeply invested in ibara! sorry for the very late response ive been dealing with med issues and my hypersomnia had my ass in a grip

Anyway, onto the ask-- keep in mind I am not a psychiatrist I am just a guy with OCD and none of this information should be used to come to conclusions about real world people. but

OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by compulsive behaviors performed in an attempt to alleviate the distress caused by repeated intrusive obsessions. These obsessions are often irrational, and the compulsion may or may not really be a "solution" to the stressor. (In fact, it usually isn't).

Obsessions are typically classified into "themes"-- the kind that most people are familiar with, mysophobia, is referred to as "Contamination subtype", but most people deal with multiple types and the prominence of these types can change across a person's lifetime or even day to day.

One of the kinds that's lesser known but probably more common than we think is "Scrupulosity" OCD, which is then sorta subdivided into "religious scrupulosity" and "moral scrupulosity"-- for the purposes of talking about Ibara, we're going to consider them the same thing because her morals and spirituality are inherently connected.

(^worlds cutest sweetest little plantimal ever)

now-- let's not get it twisted, being religious, performing religious ritual (as opposed to "ritual" in the ocd sense, which is what compulsions are often referred to), having superstitions, etc are not signs of OCD. Many people with OCD have no spiritual affiliation at all, and there's nothing wrong with believing strongly in things that aren't "rational". Scrupulosity/Religious OCD (which i'm calling ROCD from here on out just for ease) takes up an amount of time that is detrimental to the life of the haver (both mentally and physically), induces extreme distress, impede daily function and personal relationships, and often deviates from actual religious doctrine. Which is a good segue, actually, because

Ibara's religiosity really doesn't track with specific doctrine for....anyone.

Obviously we need to discard some of the more Doyleist explanations for Ibara and her behavior-- for example, Horikoshi probably isn't super familiar with Christianity, because Japan isn't a Christian-majority country-- so please suspend disbelief and let me cook teehee but

Ibara's expressions of spirituality very rarely pierce beyond "nebulously Christian"; I don't think she's ever even explicitly referred to as Christian, simply "spiritual" or "religious". She never refers to Earthly authorities of the church (priests, pastors, the pope, patriarchs) or church itself, doesn't even refer to Jesus by name (although she does mention bread being the body of the Lord), nor does she mention any specific books like the Bible (although she does reference bible stories, such as with her move "Fig Tree"). Furthermore, her values, while Christian-aligned, don't necessarily follow the pattern of zealousness you'd see in real life. "Truth" is the main pillar of her faith, and while it's certainly a Christian principle, it's not really one I'd say the Bible pushes more than ones like "love" or "charity".

I did a lot of research into Christianity in Japan when i first started really exploring Ibara's character, and it does syncretise with Buddhism and Shintoism, especially in the older kakure strain. Truth is a main principle of Buddhism-- and we know Ibara is some kind of animist, because in School Briefs 4 she mentions praying to nature spirits. But even if we take the incredibly niche Kakure angle into account, Ibara's approach to religion still sorta seems like she's just kind of cooking up her own specific soup of values and structure. It has a basis, but it doesn't seem like she's following the beat of anyone else's drum.

anyways. we've established ibara has a very uniquely ibara type of spirituality, we can examine the other big elements; compulsive behavior, frequency & intensity, and functional impairment.

We see Ibara praying a lot. Like, a lot a lot. Obsessive, repetitive prayer is a pretty common ritual for ROCD. And that's not counting any possible internal/mental praying, which still is regarded as compulsive behavior as far as OCD is concerned. More concerningly, we also see Ibara jump very quickly to punishment in both theory and practice (for example, saying that she and Shishida ought to be lashed, or a gag in BNHA smash where she crucifies herself). It's very important to note that Ibara's standards do not just apply to other people-- she's not a zealot enforcer trying to push everyone else to live the way she does. And while she does make judgemental comments about others (saying Kuroiro needs to reexamine himself, calling shoppers fighting over coats in BNHA TUM greedy), none of these compare to the way Ibara acts when it comes to things that would reflect on her own morality.

sheppard-pratt identifies the core of OCD as;

"It can be argued that many forms of OCD come down to a fear that lack of vigilance could lead to a loss of identity. One with Harm OCD may worry that failure to catch that one impulse could lead to spontaneous discovery that he/she is a violent or harmful person. [...] Nowhere is this identity over-protection clearer than in the case of moral scrupulosity."

Lets look at one of Ibara's most well-known moments-- interrupting Present Mic during the Sports Fest to correct the comment he made calling her "Class B's Assassin". Most people understand he was joking, and most people wouldn't consider that sort of thing important enough to interrupt the announcer of an event over, but for Ibara, leaving it unaddressed could mean allowing for other people to view her in that light, which is now an attack on her sense of self.

Apologizing to Gigantomachia, like in the panel I shared above, is an act of self-soothing that "proves" she's a good person, because she cannot not participate in the plan to ambush him, because to not participate would mean people might die and she knows that. And we can reasonably glean this is a source of anxiety for her-- because we see things like her crying and fainting (in the anime) in the JTA after falling for Shinsou's trap, and in the OVA we see her faint when the game escalates into fighting where people get injured, and at the sports fest we see her immediately associate failure with having taken Mineta's headband in a "sneaky" way. Ibara seems pretty placid most of the time, but these spikes in distress caused by these momentary "slips of vigilance" are enough to evoke incredibly strong emotional reactions, even to the point of fainting. It's 0-100, off or on, black/white thinking.

And this impedes things like schoolwork (not wanting to use strategies at the JTA), school life (spending days praying in the woods in order to prepare for the school play), her relationships with others (inflexibility in thought, interrupting present mic, making judgemental comments about others, acting potentially violently towards others), and her own physical well-being (stress, fainting and risk of injury, intentional self injury as atonement). Ergo, you can argue she shows all of the signs of OCD; an obsession (ROCD) with intrusive thoughts (excessive concerns/fixations on sins and wrongdoing) that leads to compulsive repeated behaviors (prayers, reassurance-seeking, enforcement, self injury) that has a marked impact and presence in daily life.

also i think shes autistic. this one i dont really have a ton to pull from but she's very B&W thinking, doesnt emote a ton (even looking unenthusiastic in the christmas art by horikoshi or on the cards for bnha smash tap), fixates on certain topics, and exhibits social behaviors such as odd speech (uses the pronoun "waga", which is incredibly archaic and formal, speaks largely in religious metaphor and doesnt seem to understand that other people dont get it (see: school briefs 5 hotpot of darkness chapter) and does so even in private (jta, "a lost lamb descends from the heavens") ), an unfamiliarity with games like baseball (ova), has miscommunications during the conversation about crushes/love because shes talking about love in terms of compassion (school briefs 2), her favorite food is one thats pretty simple, has a simple texture, and easy to find made consistently (bread), is described as "straightforward and aboveboard" (horikoshi on her sheet), jeanist when talking about her costume in the ultra analysis book says ranks it high in ingenuity because it "tells the world of her upright nature" and he "expects consistency from this one", has meltdowns (fainting when overwhelmed)... im sure i could find more but this is long enough HAHA

[kiriwiwii]

i REALLY need to rant about eichi right now.. cuz im soo tired of people not understanding him at all.

i hate how this fandom acts like he is the ONLY bad person in this game. i mean, he is not a "bad" person but he made a lot of mistakes in his school years and his methods were cruel, i know. but,, most of the enstars characters did bad things. it's just how the game goes.

as the story progresses we can clearly see eichi regretting his actions. and even if he did NOT regret it, we can still like his character since it's fictional and i believe it's okay as long as we don't support his actions.

shu and kaoru also had a bad reputation during the ! era, but they both had good character development afterwards. most people do the same thing to them as well. acting like shu never changed etc. or kaoru even mentions this IN THE GAME how he feels upset when people still care about his past actions.

well- the topic was eichi so let's get back at that... in my opinion, he is one of the best-written characters in the game. his inner thoughts and conflicts within himself are reflected very well. almost all of his motives make sense. people literally have no empathy for him which makes me upset. he grew up in a hospital and tried to live with the stress that he could die at any moment. none of his parents cared about him that much and he was so socially awkward that even if he managed to get out of the hospital he had a hard time making friends. him not understanding people and having a hard time feeling empathy comes from this. he grew up all alone, in a literal hospital room😭

and his intentions were always good. i don't recall a moment when eichi hurt someone just because he wanted to. it was always because he had lots of goals in his mind and since he could die at any moment, he wanted to succeed as soon as possible. that's why he tried to destroy everyone who got in his way. and that totally makes sense, adding that he's also not good with social stuff.

I KNOW he hurt a lot of people. i don't support him. i'm just trying to explain why i think he's well-written. actually, while reading the stories there were soooo many times i hated him and his way of doing things but i believe thats what makes his character so "human". he's very flawed and this makes him interesting, i love that.

also, he did get the consequences of his actions. whenever he did something bad he was aware of it and it led him to depression and hating himself. there are so many quotes of him saying he believes he deserves to die etc... and i remember in ! era, he kept having nightmares about the war and the things he did. so, he did suffer just like the people he made suffer.

we don't see this kind of regret in keito and tsumugi. and another thing- people always bash eichi for the whole "capitalism" thing and the stuff i talked about above, but they never do this to ibara?? I LOVE ibara, but i never saw someone blaming him for some of the bad things he did?? and bro is literally capitalism itself but no one even jokes about it that much😭 im sure there are other characters we can add here. some of them get treated like a baby and no one cares about the mistakes they did, but when it comes to eichi (or shu, kaoru, any other character you might wanna add) they despise him.

sure, everything eichi did was more visible, and it's easier to hate on him. but i believe he deserves recognition and love just like the other characters in this game.

this is it. sorry for yapping can't believe i'm defending this guy out here🙏🏻

[raelyn-dreams]

Any headcanons of your favorite enstars characters? 👀💫

I do indeed nonnie! Though tbh, these are kind of full-cast headcanons lol. Tysm for the ask 😊

Mika is still upset he wasn't included in the Sanrio collab, and angrily sewed plushies the entire day it was announced.

During practice for Artistic Partisan, Hiiro was under the impression that the prop spears were much heavier than they actually were, leading to him accidentally slamming one through the wall (and nearly impaling Shu).

We don't talk enough about how Knights are given swords for their performances. Like who thought this was a good idea. Even if they are dull and fake, do you know how terrifying it is to have Ritsu Sakuma come at you with a sword and a maniacal grin? Kaoru Hakaze does.

Kuro was basically acting as a mediator for the entirety of the Yuukyou Seishunka cover rehearsals (while Mika and Souma prayed their unit leaders wouldn't kill each other). Keito and Shu came to feel kinda bad about this as they were winding down, so they begrudgingly worked together to make him a gi, as a thank you and apology. Keito never wants to hear the words "proper quilter's knot" again, but it was worth it for the smile on Kuro's face.

Hiiro and Hinata both have...shaky histories with high places (Hiiro in !! main story after Rinne disowns him, and Hinata during Setsubun). Niki doesn't know the details, but he notices after a while, so they start having rooftop hang-outs on occasion to help them with it.

I really like the Hiiro-Hinata-Niki dorm as a whole actually (which...Hiiro and Hinata are two of my favs, and Niki's up there, so that's to be expected lol). I see a lot of potential with the three, and I think they'd really get each other.

Ibara visited Kaname once. It was a stupid and sentimental thing to do, really, and he had work that needed to be done, lives to prepare for...but he couldn't help but feel he owed it to him, the near-silent apology that passed his lips that day.

Also, veering into AU territory a bit, but I think if Kaname were to wake up and eventually get back into the industry (after lots of rehab + accommodations), he'd keep the HiMERU name, but drop the "cool" persona he tried to associate with it. Life is too short to care so much about the public's perception of him, and I feel he'd go in the opposite direction of Tatsumi, and become even more outspoken, which would make him a good Crazy:B candidate.

OreMERU (our HiMERU) and Kaname are going to need to talk. A lot. I think Kaname wouldn't quite forgive him and would be upset about the identity theft, but he also can't bring himself to hate him, as he can see why he did it and knows it's for him. There's a lot of guilt and misunderstanding on both sides (ntm Tatsumi, Jun, and everyone else's reactions), but I think they eventually get through it alright, and OreMERU would always be Kaname's "Onii-chan".

OreMERU is also gonna have an identity crisis, and tries to quit Crazy:B, but of course Rinne, Niki, and Kohaku aren't gonna let him just dip like that. There's a lot of panicking, some bad hairstyle decisions, but he comes out alright, and starts going by another stage name that's important to him in some way.

I'm sorry about the excessive Tojo headcanons nonnie, I fully read Obbligato for the first time last week (just knew the basics before) and it wrecked me asdfghjkl.

Anyways. Back to everyone else.

As Mika gets used to Shu's more lenient personality, he tries to see how much gore he can get away with in Valkyrie's art.

Shu tries so hard to respect Mika's artistic vision and encourage him, he really does. But he draws the line at real pigs brains on-stage, even if they are in jars ("But Oshi-san, it represents the breakin' o' the mind after they tried so hard ta conform ta the expectations they put on 'em and ended up slaughtered! It's perfect symbolism, ain't it?")

Adonis makes money on the side for Undead by acting as an interpreter for other units during lives and Q&As. It ends up so popular and profitable that ES actually ends up investing money in professional interpreters for all events, because the ES heads can be kind of good people for once I guess. As a treat.

Rei, Ritsu, Niki, Tatsumi, Eichi, and Kaname (if he rejoins the industry) start having a combined monthly interview to make up for ones they miss due to illness/disability. The college kids/anyone that's been sick or couldn't make their own interviews occasionally join in too (usually Chiaki, Mayoi, Nazuna, Shu, Leo, and Izumi). Rei feels personally attacked sometimes, but its overall fun and way less stressful than trying to make every interview for their own units.

Kuro/Shu/Mao/Izumi dorm have sewing nights. It started because Kuro and Shu already sew, and Izumi wanted to be able to make his own alterations as a model just in case. Mao ended up joining in as a way to de-stress from student council work, and they have a relatively pleasant time together.

Souma is canonically good at embroidery, so I like to think he ends up creating his own sword scabbards for different Akatsuki costumes using the skills he's picked up from it. They're very pretty, and he's very proud of them.

[my-rewrite-academia]

Day 6, 7 & 8

Not much happens in Day 6, apart from the announcement that Bakugou will be prohibited from fighting other students in combat lessons, and students are encouraged to inform teachers should Bakugou hurt them in any way, (emotionally or physically).

Izuku being the secretary of the Student Council is noted and congratulated by other students, while Bakugou silently seethes, but manages to hold himself back.

Day 7

On Day 7, we have the first class bonding session within the student accomodations. While they did hang out after school on Day One, they haven't really interacted much outside of that. As assigned by Momo, Mina takes it upon herself to invite everyone to a game night, including 1-B.

There are multiple different games being played, as well as a movie marathon in the background. Momo invites Itsuka and asks her to invite 1-B.

Bakugou and Shouto decide not to join, with Shouto simply saying, 'no thanks', and Bakugou saying 'no' and, notably, nothing else. Not a curse, just a glare that Momo recognised as being less volatile as before. It's an improvement, certainly, that he didn't yell at her. She's not sure if she should be commending basic human decency, but it's something.

The games being played are as listed:

Odin - basically Uno with a different name

Tsukebumi - basically Love Letter (the board game) with a Japanese name, a game where the goal was to send a princess a love letter through your friends and relatives

Vingt-Un - the card game '21' but with a french name for ✧ personality ✧

Life Game Ver 2 - the Game of Life with a different name, and going from birth to adulthood, as is the case in the Japanese version

Dungeons & Dragons - yep, it's DnD. This doesn't have a different name as Izuku brought it up from his research into pre-quirk culture

Those playing are as listed:

Odin: Group 1 - Momo, Rikidou, Itsuka, Rikidou. Group 2 - Denki, Kouji, Kosei, Reikou.

Tsukebumi: Eijirou, Fumikage, Hanta, Yui, Shihai, Tetsutetsu

Vingt-Un: Mezou, Minoru, Yosetsu, Koujirou, Nirengeki, Manga.

Life Game Ver 2: Tooru, Sen, Togaru, Kinoko

DnD: Izuku, Yuuga, Ochako, Tenya, Neitou

Movie Marathon: Mina, Mashirao, Kyouka, Ibara, Jurota, Juuzou, Hiryu.

-

DnD is proposed by Izuku, and Yuuga is noted to have some knowledge about it. When 1-B joins, Neitou joins them, also recognising DnD, though he's never played it before. Izuku is the Dungeon Master, already having made campaigns in his spare time.

(Tenya makes a character and becomes attached, unfortunately, as his character dies.)

-

They lose track of time, leading to Momo and Itsuka having everyone put the games away. Momo then decides to talk to the DnD-ers, noticing that they haven't moved. As she goes over to tell them, she becomes entranced as Izuku speaks, describing an evironment, and feeling nervous when Yuuga's character nearly dies.

She tells them that it's later after Yuuga saves himself, and Neitou exchanges numbers with the rest of the group. Momo kind of wants to join them next time, but she's a bit too nervous to actually ask.

-

Day 8

The cameras to the entrance of the city has sighted a suspicious individual standing outside at irregular times for long periods of time. It's written off as paparazzi or a teen who failed to get in.

The NEWS notes that All Might sightings have been going down recently and speculate as to why.

-

Summary:

1-A and 1-B have a large bonding session full of games

Yuuga and Neitou are noted to recognise pre-quirk media, such as DnD

Someone suspicious has been staring at the gate to U.A. City

All Might has been noticed to be putting in less hours since school started

[chynandri]

Why Ibara and Hajime Were Destined to be Partners in a Variety Show

This post will be a bit different from my other ones as I think I've let this one sit for far too long and I just want to release it from the prison that is my drafts!!!! So there won't be a lot of citation, this will be more of a very long ramble/rant! I think I'm finally ready to (try to) articulate my thoughts on how Ibara and Hajime share many parallels, similarities, or just how they compare and contrast as characters!!

As you may know I am a big fan of Ibahaji as a relationship so - I can't guarantee an unbiased view on all this. I'd also say I'm more of an Ibara scholar than a Hajime scholar, but I have a PhD in neither.

I'm just very fascinated by the 'why' behind Bogie Time. I think Akira is talented in drawing connections between all 49 idols. And the way Ibara and Hajime become unlikely friends is a particularly strongly written connection to me.

Let's begin with: Hajime and Ibara's similarities as described in Bogie Time

To understand how profound their friendship is, we must look at their relationship development in Bogie Time.

At the start, Hajime and Ibara could not be more dissimilar.

Ibara is aloof but capable, older, and his usual disingenuous self. Hajime is younger and believes himself to be a bumbling little guy who's in the way. He immediately defers to Ibara on all matters but doesn't know what to make of him. Ibara is laughably confused by Hajime too, because he's literally too genuine of a person - a quality Ibara is not used to, sadly. However, as Ibara does something called 'relating to others' he realizes Hajime is not so far removed from his own world.

In a nice bonding moment halfway through the story that makes a point of sharing their similarities, Ibara and Hajime relate on looking up too much to others and feeling below them.

This is an incredibly important conversation as Ibara who usually doesn't open up about his feelings, does miraculously share why he's been so upset about the show to Hajime. Here marks a great turning point... Hajime can deeply relate to Ibara's aversion to humiliation, having experienced something so crushing as having no audience for Ra*bits debut. This was a formative moment for Hajime. I believe here Hajime sees himself in Ibara... and wants to help.

Another major point of similarity that the story pushes is that Hajime has a cunning side, one that is actually supported by how much Hajime pays attentions to people's feelings and personalities to a point where he can be too dependent on their approval - which is the opposite problem of Ibara, interestingly enough, who forgets to consider people as living sources of information rather than just data and tools.

This is the lesson Nagisa wanted him to learn from Bogie Time. Ibara hones Hajime's cunning so they can advance in the show, as his specialty lies in how to use things and people to their fullest. They're very complementary!

To summarize: the two main similarities Bogie Time wants you to focus on is that Ibara and Hajime both struggle with thinking themselves as lesser than others and that they are intelligent and cunning.

But what if there's other similarities to be found between them beyond Bogie Time?

Now I'll talk about: my interpretation of Ibara and Hajime's other similarities.

These are some scattered thoughts and things I noticed.

Ibara and Hajime's experiences with poverty While they do not discuss this as a similarity, Ibara and Hajime do both come from backgrounds of poverty or being impoverished.

Specifically, Ibara literally had nothing to his name during his childhood and was even more deprived comparably speaking. Ibara often describes himself as someone who crawled from the bottom of society. Hajime's family is poor, so Hajime often takes up part time jobs on campus and makes very simple meals. Or even eats just breadcrusts or grass. The one major point of difference is that Ibara inherited Godfather’s legacy - but despite that he still had to rebuild these assets from the ground up and fend for himself.

I think they could relate on the topic of survival. Even though Ibara's survival is sadly a more severe case, they both have the attitude of making do with what they have. Basically, they both did not have it easy.

As was revealed in Private Room, Ibara learned DIY when he was in the orphanage because he had no other form of entertainment. He's used to fixing and making his own things.

I recently read some old stories where Hajime makes up his own game of sliding on the wet floors of the school when it rains, because his family is too poor to afford many toys he's quite good at making up games to entertain his siblings.

Considering this I was like.... ohhhh... I've connected some dots. You could even say if anyone could understand Hajime's desire to have a partner who would have simple meals with him - it'd be Ibara who has a lot of opinions on eating sparingly. Although his is more motivated on survival and not allowing weak points in a moment of vulnerability, which then morphed into efficiency.

This follows into... Ibara and Hajime's social status

They both suffered from bullying and discrimination toward them at a young age.

Hajime was bullied and excluded by his classmates for being too slow and useless to them. Hajime would struggle for a long time with the inferiority complex this experience gave him, which was only expounded by the failure of Ra*bits debut.

Ibara is an orphan who was implied to be considered equivalent to garbage by society. He is especially motivated by dominating people who used to laugh at him and thus is so afraid of being the target of mockery in Bogie Time.

I think Ibara is a special case where he weaponizes the way society has told him ‘he’s nothing’ over and over again by purposefully poking others and making them uncomfortable by his self-deprecating statements. While I recognize he’s not totally self loathing I feel like there’s a grain of truth to his self deprecation, and is almost challenging people like Anzu to affirm what he has always known anyway so he can continue to justify his cynical worldview that keeps him safe - but it’s definitely an obstacle to having a more growth oriented mindset.

Meanwhile Hajime does all he can to be likeable and gain approval as a good child, and is extremely apologetic for his shortcomings in early stories. Interestingly, Ibara also has this behaviour but on a surface level as he only does it to manipulate people to being useful for him. Although Hajime does have influence because of all the genuine good favour he’s gained from acting this way. In recent stories however, he’s grown more assertive…

Such as this exchange Hajime and Ibara have during a Dream Live because Hajime scolds him for being openly self deprecating to the audience. Again I think this is another moment where Hajime sees himself in Ibara, especially by how he tells him he’s his fan too. Hajime’s self esteem has gotten better because he’s motivated by his friends and fans too, so it just seems to echo that.

Ibara and Hajime's roles in their units

(Using this cg as this section's image because in Happy Spring Hajime is so excited about visiting a nearby town for the first time for a job, he makes a notebook full of research about that town... which they're only visiting for a day or so. It really represents Hajime's fastidious nature and love of information.)

Personally I think Ibara and Hajime are quite similar in being the sensible and practical members of their units, especially when it comes to finances and their meticulous nature in preparing things. They also tend to lose sight of what’s in front of them when they’re too in their own heads. One of Ibara’s biggest pitfalls is getting hasty when he thinks everything is going according to his schemes and victory is within reach. While Hajime can take his daydreams and ideals too seriously, for example getting upset at Mitsuru for not bringing flowers to Madara’s sister as he got too obsessed with his own idea of them being in love in Ra*bits climax.

I also believe they both possess a role of drawing people into their respective units - where Ibara utilizes fanservice in a more mature way, Hajime’s charisma is through his expertise in being cute. Both of these are to an extent personas they use on stage to attract attention.

Ibara and Hajime's gender presentation

This point is directly addressed in Bogie Time. I find it interesting that Ibara’s own feminine features were emphasized - it subverts expectations a bit as Hajime is usually put into the ‘girl’ role. But at the end, it’s Ibara who’s essentially experiencing what Hajime experiences all the time… being perceived as a girl.

Previously, Ibara portrayed the Red Queen in Wonder Game - a female character and the outfit itself has what I arguably consider feminine elements such as the silhouette and high heels. And last year, Ibara was in the bride-inspired White Swan outfit - and in a pose that I personally think can be read as typically feminine (a pose you’d see a female gacha character have perhaps.) So Ibara is no stranger to feminine roles.

I didn’t expect Akira to make this a point of similarity between them, but it’s interesting that he played with this concept and made Ibara cross dressing a focal point of the story and artwork.

I believe that Ibara and Hajime both embrace it, along with Ibara learning from Hajime to not be embarrassed in general and that feminine Ibara cards exist in the first place - and Hajime’s own personal journey as he goes from disliking being seen as a girl, to being ok with it and finding ways to use it as an idol.

Other personality traits

I believe Ibara and Hajime were similarly both troublemakers when they were very young. They also both grew out of this behaviour in response to their environment.

Ibara had a wish to make his life have been worth something and needed to pull himself together for his newfound inheritance. The strict and unforgiving military lifestyle he once hated and criticized became very useful in his role as a producer and businessman.

While Hajime became more well behaved for the sake of being a good older brother and not causing more trouble for his parents. However this may be one of the reasons he has a bit of a complex over people perceiving him as too perfect - which he mentions to Ibara in Bogie Time, and seems to want to indulge in being a 'bad kid' sometimes (thinking of his halloween voice line).

From all this I'd like to conclude that the great amount of connections one can make between Ibara and Hajime is why Akira and his team of writers probably conceived of Bogie Time which is about their relationship at its core. There's a lot to work with, and because I consider this story as a major turning point in Ibara's character arc - this is probably one of the big reasons why they chose Hajime to be the character to spur the needed profound change in Ibara. … besides that Hajime and Ibara were both moderately popular at the time and cute I guess! If you made it all the way here - wow, congrats and thank you for reading!

[ohii-san]

UNKNOWN HOLY NIGHT AND NIGHTHEAD - BLACK CAROL 1

Tomoya: (The cuff of my shirt's been grabbed… I’m frozen in place!)

Rinne: Oi oi. I don’t care how bad you don’t wanna see me, don’t just run away the second you see my face!

Tomoya: (Why why why why!? This is definitely wrong. No matter how I think about it, I’m the only one out of place.)

(Anzu-san, maybe this time was also a mistake? I mean, that’s it, right? Please say it was~?!)

Yuzuru: That’s right– Mashiro-sama. Setting aside the others, didn’t we have a bento showdown together?[1]

Ibara: Ah-ha-ha. You could sense the shitty malevolence hidden behind Yuzuru’s smiley mask, couldn’t you?[2]

Yuzuru: Rather, it’s likely because Ibara’s words are hypocritical and hide malice. No matter how hard he tries to blend in with society, it's impossible for him to hide his shady nature.

Yes, that’s it, Mashiro-sama must be scared because of the way Ibara is picking fights with me all the time.

Rinne: Really though, isn’t both you bastards’ fault? If I was stuck with seniors like that I’d be scared as well, you get what I’m saying?

Tomoya: Eek?!

Rinne: What’s the issue. I didn’t do anything!?

Yuzuru: You didn’t “not do anything”, you grabbed him by the shirt and intimidated him. I don’t think it’s strange to be scared.

Subaru: Excuse me~☆ Yahoo, yahoo. Let’s work together today~

—Nn? What's everyone doing?

Tomoya: Ah– Akehoshi-senpaiii! Thank Goddd!

Subaru: Eh, what? What’s wrong? You’re hiding behind me…

Subaru: Ah~. So everyone was bullying Tomoya-kun, is that riiight~? Don’t bully your cute junior, okaaay~?

Rinne: I didn’t do that. Rather, why’re you so scared even though I didn’t do anything?

Tomoya: Ah, s-sorry. The pressure was just so great, it was just a conditioned reflex…

That is... I came in here thinking this would be kinda like a petting zoo, with cute animals. But actually, it’s more like a cage full of wild beasts?

Ibara: What’s with that weird analogy…

Tomoya: Ehehe. It kinda just exceeded my brain’s capacity– It’s okay now. I’m starting to understand the situation.

Ehhh. Everyone here is a member of the same “Shuffle Unit”, right? At least, that seems to be the case.

Yuzuru: Well, I can understand Mashiro-sama’s confusion. Indeed, I have doubts as to why these members are here… and whether we'll be able to achieve synergy with one another.

Subaru: Eh, really? But on the other hand, wouldn’t it be more interesting if we didn’t know what chemical reactions would happen?

Rinne: An overreaction could lead to a big explosion though, right?

Subaru: If that’s the case then I’d like it to be a big, beautiful explosion like a firework~☆

Rinne: Just what kinda big-shot are you trying to be. Well, it’s not like I hate that sorta thing, though…

Ibara: Hm? Let’s allow Anzu-san to explain the rest. iIt seems like she’s just arrived. 

Subaru: Ah, Anzu! Yahoo, yahoo ☆ Nah, all’s good. We were all just talking.

Ibara: Now, could you please give us an overview, Producer-dono?

Tomoya: …?

Rinne: The hell’s this…?

Tomoya: ? Excuse me. No matter how you look at it, all that’s written in the board is “we’ll do something amazing”.

Is it a trick or something I can’t see through? Like a code or something…

Rinne: Don’t worry. That’s what I’m seeing too.

Yuzuru: Is this… supposed to reassure us, perhaps? I feel like this is going to be a big problem…

Ibara: … I have a headache. Anyway, Anzu-san. Could you give us some details?

Yuzuru: Let me think… In other words, you mean that one of the producers of the “P Association” disappeared, and they were the one in charge of the “Shuffle Unit” project?

Rinne: And then? There’s nobody left to take over because there’s not enough staff to go around, huh. Anzu-chan came here to explain, but she doesn’t have the time to be able to take care of us either.

Subaru: Hmm. That’s why Anzu wants this “Shuffle Project” to be led by us idols.

Tomoya: Idol initiative… But isn’t this project a big one? Even though we have ES to back us up, is this really something we can do alone?

Ah. That’s right! Saegusa-senpai also works as a producer for CosPro, right? If that’s the case we could ask for Saegusa-senpai…

Ibara: If I could do it myself, I would… But this is headed by the “P Association”, so that happening would be impossible.

Tomoya: Eh? Why?

Ibara: This project is a cross-office project, so in order to keep it fair, producers who belong to other agencies cannot be involved.

Well. If they were to turn a blind eye to my presence, it would be possible to carry out production operations in secret!

Yuzuru: Ibara. You’re causing trouble for Anzu-san.

Ibara: Right, yes. In other words, this time it is necessary that I devote myself to being an idol.

Subaru: Mhm! Besides, it would help Anzu as well! She’s been apologizing for a while– it’s not like it’s even your fault, though, Anzu!

We will all work together and do our best, so rest easy! ♪

Yuzuru: I agree. If this is considered work, then I’ll do my best too.

Rinne: Yeah, that’s right. Problems like this are inevitable in this industry.

Tomoya: (Eehh!? Wait a minute…! Why is everyone so positive!? It’s impossible for us to do the project alone!)

> [1] referring to science

> [2] tomoya's sprite has been visibly terrified, that's what's being referred to here

[inthedeepeclipse]

On Ibara, Hiyori and the Buisness world of Enstars

Smth smth hiyoiba is a push and pull relationship of who will drop their guard down first. Hiyori is usually first to do so, because of the way Ibara grew up he won’t drop it unless its a completely private space.

I would say that Ibara knows that Hiyori puts up an act. I’m pretty sure its canon that Hiyori was communicating with Eden during Getto Spectacle, and especially towards Eden and upper management. They’re aware of it, but its hard to be vulnerable with these two.

They trust each other. They’re aware of the power they do hold. (Though I’m not sure if the child soldier thing was told to Hiyori in canon) At least in the business world, I’m guessing. Hiyori still has connections, and Ibara has the power to turn his creative ideas into reality.

I really do want an exploration of the buisness side of Enstars. We do have canon corporations, but technically its a competitive monopoly. Eden climax has already brought us a set up, and bringing us to an understanding of how being an idolized person in a competitive market makes you lose yourself and greed talking to make those actions take place.

Their first interactions are about Hiyori’s judge of character and the inner workings of CosPro. (Saga Release 6) Because that is what they know about each other at that moment.

ES is operated mostly by Tenshouin related companies, making their name more widespread. Hiyori comments about this in his Idol Story 2. This is making (his family’s) the Tomoe Foundation’s name lessen. HappyEle, please tell me where the Tomoe’s put their money in. Because its definitely not the entertainment industry.

Anyway, by Hiyori’s actions I suspect that the rest of the Tomoe’s are overworkers~! ⭐️ So while his parent’s respect his decision of going to the entertainment industry, they probably dont understand why he got there in the first place~! ⭐️ That’s why Hiyori is so against Ibara working so much~! ⭐️

[acanth3]

The Sound Of The Stars English Translation

EPISODE 7/8

A Day Later

Jun: Yawn, fuu…..hmm, I should have slept well. I’m still kind of sleepy. 

Nagisa: …..It’s the jet lag. Don’t overdo yourself, Jun.

Shu: It’s best not to sleep again. If you do, the jet lag won’t go away forever. 

And it’s troublesome that you're all settled in my room. 

Jun: I know, I’m gonna force my body to move around 

I’ve encouraged Kagehira-san to travel into space, I’m not going to do anything that will exert me~

Mika: Thank you, Jun-kun! I’ll do my best to bring a beautiful star as a souvenir ♪ 

Shu: …..? I don't think you were this positive about it yesterday, what kind of mood shift did you have overnight, Kagehira? 

Mika: Jun gave me a lot of encouragement last night. 

The two of us talked about our youth and Jun-kun pushed my back…

I wondered if it was okay to throw away the dream I had since I was a kid, I made up my mind when I was told that. 

Jun: Haha. It wasn’t that big a deal, yea? 

Mika: Fuuu, I thought about it all night. 

I told Oshi-san that I wanted to be the star of my orphanage, right? 

If I can be an idol to go to space, I could be a planet for those children. 

Shu: …..I also remember those words from the festival. The story you told me during then was used as a reference for this plan. 

That’s why I permitted Saegusa to be involved in this. The world’s first idol to head into space, and deliver light to the world I think will be helpful. 

Mika: Thank you, Oshi-san! It’s come this far, I’ll do my best~ ♪ 

Nagisa: …..I’m glad Mika-kun seems to be happy. 

…..But, there are still two remaining problems in Mika’s space trip. 

…..It’s not that there's a challenge there’s something that won't be realized

Mika: Ehh!? There’s the possibility that it won’t be realized after bein’’ motivated so much?!

Nagisa: …..Sorry but if you can’t solve this problem, this space travel is ruined. 

…..So, Valkyrie you both have enough determination for this to die, I need you to solve this issue. 

Mika: So what are the two problems?

Nagisa: …..First is, “If the song intedned for this huge project is completed or not”

…..As Ibara stated before this space trip has been sponsored by many agencies

…..The rewards from that is that Valkyrie gains advertising 

……Which is why Itsuki-kun was asked to produce a song for the theme “Space/Universe”

Mika: Nnnhh~, If Oshi-san can do it, it’s okay?

Even if seniors (jun + nagi) have come here, what can you do about his progress? 

Nagisa: …..If there is no focus on completing this, therefore we can help Itsuki-kun with this work. 

Shu: Hmph, how unnecessary. Nothing more annoying than being lumped together with someone who can’t understand art. 

Mika: If you plan on doin’ that, then I’ll help Oshi-san too. If it's goin’ to be sung by Valkyrie I’ll put in some effort than do nothin’.

Nagisa: …..I can’t allow that. Mika-kun is Mika-kun. There are things you have to do.  

Mika: Nnnh~, what are yer’ doin!? Not allowed to help Oshi-san, what am I s’posed to do!

Jun: There’s a second problem. You need to complete an exam to go to space. 

Mika: …Exam? Huh, I have to study?

Jun: Even though it’s a short space trip, due to the physical properties you need to have some knowledge on it. 

Isn’t it well known that the astronaut exam is hard to pass? It can't be that strict, safety wise, knowledge is necessary.

If you fail to pass the exam by the due date of the space trip. It will be cancelled for Kagehira-san and your safety is not ensured. 

Mika: R-really…I’m an idiot. I can’t pass the exam. 

Nagisa: …..For that purpose, COSPRO is going to help Mika-kun so that you can go. 

…..If Mika-kun cannot go to space this project will be ruined. Back in COSPRO, Mika-kun will be in big trouble if he cant pass this exam. 

…..Jun, I leave Mika-kun to you. 

Jun: I know. I’m going to take Kagehira-san back home with me~

Mika: Nnh~! Jun-kun even if were in such a hurry we should help Oshi-san with his music first….

Jun: Nagi-senpai will be helping him with that ♪,   worry about yourself first

When we get back home there’s going to be muscle training and english studying, please get prepared~!

Nagisa: …..Fufu. Mika-kun and Jun get along well. 

…..Let’s follow their example and continue together with the song♪ 

Shu: Non! This is crazy enough to be side by side with you. 

Get out of here now. Like I said before, I will not be cooperating with you. 

Nagisa: …..Hmph. Itsuki-kun you think I’m in your way, right? 

Shu: Didnt I say before that there is solely nothing more annoying than to have someone who cannot understand art by me?

Nagisa: ….Therefore, it’s okay if I just show I understand, 

Shu: What?

Nagisa: …..Maybe Itsuki-kun is stuck because he doesn’t know how to create art to express the universe?

Shu: …..!? Why think that?

Nagisa: …..Itsuki-kun’s uncertainty can be obviously seen from the amount of books obtained. 

…..I have a understanding on geology, how the Earth is related towards the history of planets.

…..Such as how in Germany, the town Nordlingen is built on top of a crater. 

…..If you want to trace back to the history of Earth it could be interesting to visit there

Shu: Hmm, for the theme ‘universe’ I dont just have to focus on outer-space but the planet Earth itself too? 

I see, I didn’t see it from that point of view. 

Nagisa: ….I also know some things about astrology. If Itsuki-kun wishes to we can discuss the Fermi Paradox. 

…..So, Itsuki-kun you’ll let me assist you?

Shu: …..You have a reasonable amount of knowledge. 

Hah….it could be a good idea, as you said before it’s because I didn’t know, I stopped

Regardless of your interference as an uninformed person, I will need your wiseness. 

It’s such a pity to rely on you, isn’t it?

Nagisa: …..Thank you. Since Itsuki-kun gave in and licked his bitterness aside, I’ll do my job correspondingly.

[landofzero-archive]

Perplex - Prank Intersection 1

Season: Spring

(Location: Starmony Dorm (Ibara, Mitsuru, Midori, Tsumugi's Room))

Rinne: “—That’s why you’ve all gotta see it! The top idol, Ibara Saegusa’s, adorable sleeping face will finally be revealed!

Now, let’s get a peek! A happy morning’s come, ‘venomous snake’-kun♪”

Rinne: “…… Wh- huh?”

Yuuta: “Is that a mannequin!? That’s not the Vice Prez at all, Rinne-senpai!”

Rinne: “OI OI OI, what the heck’s going on? You for real confirmed that Vice Prez was snoozin’ in his room, didn’t ya?”

Kuro: “Yeah. Actually, there’s been some strange noises for a while now.”

Yuuta: “Maybe…… The sound we heard was from the mannequin?

Eh, this……!?”

(Location: CosPro Office)

(We return to several days ago)

Ibara: —A variety show’s prank project?

I just looked into the program myself, and it certainly seems to be considerably well known amongst the general public.

If we could secure the right to appear on the show, it would be quite profitable for the agency.

Oh my, I truly am honored that Anzu-san has brought a project as wonderful as this to Cospro! 

“I’ve brought it to other agencies as well, so you don’t need to say all that,” you say?

I understand that. It’s a prank project, so the more participants there are, the more variety there’ll be.

Idols, talents, comedians…… It’s not a niche that can only be occupied by idol agencies.

If CosPro can take some of the few slots available to idols, then there’s no reason not to take them.

If it’s a prank project, 2wink or Crazy:B would be suitable, and looking at their schedules……

Hm? What is it, Anzu-san? “You’re not going to be appearing?”, you say?

Obviously. Or rather, why did you think I would be appearing?

“Because pranks are covert operations” huh? Ahaha, I’m so glad you have that image of it too, Anzu-san♪

…… However, I regrettably dislike variety shows.

Adam is also not marketing itself on the variety path, so it doesn’t align with our branding.

Well, recently His excellency has been doing variety work of his own accord, but……

At the very least, I have no intention of going out of my way to appear on variety shows.

—It seemed like I had fun on Bogie Time? Well, that was a special case.

After all, if you’re going to make use of strategy, then it should be in a place where money and power are exchanged! There’s no need for me to take part in such an absurd farce, don’t you think?

In any case, I will contact you again once the cast has been decided, Anzu-san.

Now then, please excuse me so I may get back to work!

(Location: CosPro Conference area)

(Several hours later)

Yuuta: Thank you for your hard work. I was pretty surprised when the Vice Prez suddenly called me up.

And I was the only one who was called. It seems like there’s been no contact with Aniki……

Ibara: Hinata-kun is unable to make it due to scheduling conflicts, so I thought I would ask you to take on this project.

Yuuta: Project…… So you mean it’s alright to talk about work?

Ibara: Yes. Anzu-san abruptly approached me with a prank project job.

This is currently a very popular variety show. If you appear on it, you’ll certainly attract attention from the public.

It seems like you’ve been focusing on your solo activities lately, so isn’t this a wonderful fit?

Yuuta: Uwah, this show is broadcast during golden time (1) isn’t it!?

Are you really sure I can take this job?

Ibara: If it weren’t, I wouldn’t have called you. If you don’t want to, that’s fine, but……

Yuuta: Nono, in what world would I not take it? Actually, I’d even want to ask you to let me do it!

Anyway, it's a prank project, huh~. As someone who loves pranking, I’m really excited about it♪

So, what kind of prank do they want me to do?

Ibara: According to the project proposal, the performers are free to decide what they’ll do to their heart’s content.

Yuuta: Free to decide? So you mean I can think up everything that’ll happen myself?

Ibara: Of course, there may be instances where it’s difficult to pull off due to budget constraints, but the general idea is that you may choose who to prank.

If you tell them the details, they’ll make all the preparations accordingly.

Yuuta: As expected from a popular golden time show! So generous~♪

If that happens, there’ll be so many things I can do. What should I do? My dreams are getting bigger before I know it……☆

Ibara: Please do your best to put everything together. The budget is theirs, so it’s not my place to stop that dream.

For the time being, I’ll contact the other party since you will also be appearing in the project.

Yuuta: Roger that. Please take care of me~!

TL Notes:

Golden Time; ゴールデンタイム : the Japanese term for television prime time. In the Japanese televesion context, it would be from 7pm to 10pm.

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