sunshine-overload

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Hello! Not a translation but just wanted to let yall know that we're holding another collaboration project for Blackstar's 6th anniversary!

The theme this year is 'Masquerade Ball' so if you're an artist or a fic writer and would like to participate, please fill out the form below~

(Please note that a discord account is necessary to participate as we have a dedicated collab server)

Application deadline is the 22nd of June

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Blackstar x Dynamic Chord Collab Info

Blackstar will be collabing with the otome game series Dynamic Chord and holding an in-game event which will start on the 20th of May 3pm JST!

You can watch the trailer here -

“DYNAMIC CHORD and Starless have decided to hold a miraculous collaboration! Don’t miss this exciting performance where concert and stage show professionals go up against one another and give it their all!”

Team B + [rêve parfait]

Team C + Liar-S

Team W and Team K + KYOHSO

Team P + apple-polisher

You can obtain these newly illustrated 4* cards by YSK from the collab gacha!

And these four songs from Dynamic Chord will be playable in-game

You will also be able to obtain special EX cards of the Dynamic Chord boys by playing the collab event!

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[BSTS] Menou & Taiga 4* Card Story

Chapter 1 -starless kitchen-

menou: Huh? Kongou isn’t here? There aren’t any staff meals ready either. I’m so hungry though…

taiga: Kongou is on break. Do you want me to call him over for you?

menou: Is that so? Well that’s fine then. Are you here for the same reason as me, Taiga?

taiga: I’m brewing myself some coffee while I work.

menou: You’re brewing it yourself? Oh right, you’re a coffee enthusiast aren’t you?

taiga: I’m in the process of seeking out my own favourite blend.

menou: Really? In that case, brew some for me too. I’m curious to see what your coffee tastes like.

taiga: Didn’t you say you were hungry? Well whatever, it’s easy to make an extra cups worth. It’ll take a while to brew, so please wait a moment.

-time pass, taiga’s making the coffees-

menou: Wow, you’ve got that down to a science.

taiga: Well I do drink it everyday.

menou: Isn’t it kind of rare to brew it yourself? I see just about everyone else here drink the canned stuff.

taiga: The guys here aren’t exactly a good reference point. 

menou: I drink coffee milk sometimes when I’m at the bathhouse.

taiga: Ah, I get you, drinking some coffee milk right out of the bath hits different. Especially if it’s the bottled kind.

But doesn’t making it from scratch yourself intrigue you? You start with grinding up the beans. The aroma is way stronger that way, but you gotta roast the beans correctly if you’re particular about the flavour. If you can’t be bothered with all of that though, even just improving your brewing technique will change the boldness of the flavour dramatically.

If you use a drip you can make all the adjustments yourself and even set a specific temperature, it’s a completely different level of coffee making. Once you get particular about the flavour there’s no end to the amount of modifications you can make.

-cg

menou: Wow, it’s really swirling around as you pour the hot water in. Why are you pouring it in a circular motion like that?

taiga: It’s to make sure all of the flavour is extracted evenly. Otherwise it’ll ruin the balance. Also, don’t watch me so intently, you’re making me uncomfortable.

menou: Don’t mind me. I feel like I could incorporate this into my acting one day.

taiga: So this is all for the sake of your acting after all? Well, I’m not sure what I expected, that’s just how you are.

-cg gone

taiga: Alrighty, it’s done. Here, please enjoy. I wanna hear you admit that it’s the best coffee you’ve ever tasted~

-

Chapter 2 -starless kitchen-

menou: Thanks. Oo, it smells really nice.

taiga: Feel free to add some milk and sugar if you’d like.

menou: Hmm, should I? What would you recommend?

taiga: I’d like for you to try at least one sip black.

menou: Ok, I’ll do that then. Here goes.

-he takes a sip-

menou: (surprised) …It’s delicious. Whatever this is, it tastes amazing. Maybe it’s because I got to see you brew it for me.

taiga: Thanks. I’m glad you like it.

menou: It goes down really easy and it’s a flavour that suits you, Taiga. Rather than being particular it’s more like you've devoted yourself to your craft. This is a flavour that was created by somebody who's obsessed with coffee.

taiga: I guess. I can’t help but be particular about things that I like.

menou: You have a lot of different hobbies, don’t you? Messing around with computers, playing video games, et cetera. There’s a lot that you’re passionate about and you're skilled at them all too.

taiga: Yeah, I suppose. That’s just how it is when you’re an otaku.

menou: I wouldn’t be considered an otaku, would I? Oh wait, maybe I’m an onsen otaku?

taiga: Isn’t acting your main fixation?

menou: I don’t consider acting to be a mere hobby.

taiga: True, ‘otaku’ doesn’t really feel like the right label for you. It goes beyond that. You’re more like an acting junky… Or maybe an acting freak would be more accurate?

menou: Ahaha, maybe. But you look just as freaky when you’re tinkering around on your computer. So we’re the same in that regard.

Welp I better get going, the coffee was delicious, thank you.

—end

otaku- used to describe someone with an intense interest in something, usually for hobbies such as anime, manga, video games and computers

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I am confused in a new plot🥲. Too a lot of information, I kind of read everything that was in the discord, but I did not understand anything. Rindow really hit Saki?! And what happened there?

Rindou didn’t hit Saki don’t worry!! 😭

He only pushed her back a little to make it look as though he stole her black card, but it was just an act so that the thugs would target him instead of Saki.

Rindou ran down the alleyway and was saved by Aogiri and Gui’s Master before running back to Starless to perform P’s show. Except he was so exhausted after everything that Rindou almost fainted on the stage, his team quickly brought him to the office to rest though, so he should be ok!

[sunshine-overload]

Hi, thank you for your translations, they cheer me up.🐸 What are your most beloved cards visually and in content?

Hi! my favourite card set is P halloween !! the theme and the cat ears are just too cute agh the card stories were also very 😳😳!?

As for favourite card content wise I’ve never actually thought about it but I’m a fan of any cards with fluffy/silly stories, like onsen Heath where he tried out that massage chair hahah

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[BSTS] Sinju Golden Week 4* Card Story

guys, I think I went to heaven

Chapter 1 -outdoor stage wings, day-

sinju: Sorry for the wait, Saki-chan! Thanks for coming to watch our show.

saki: You were great! The show was a blast.

sinju: Yeah, those who saw our performance for the first time seemed to like it as well. It was a good show. 

So, where should we go now? I’m free for the rest of the day so let's go have some fun.

-amusement park, day-

sinju: Let's grab something to eat first.

saki: What do you feel like eating?

sinju: The churros caught my attention. I saw the stall banner before the show. Oh, it looks like they come in two different flavours. Cinnamon or salt.

Hmm, which flavour should I get? Cinnamon would be the more traditional option, right?

saki: Since it's lunchtime the salt flavour is hard to pass on though.

sinju: Right? Hmmmm. Oh, I know! How about we buy one flavour each and split them?

saki: Sounds good. That way we can enjoy both flavours!

-time pass-

sinju: Looks like I’ve got the salt flavoured one, so yours must be cinnamon. Here, you can try the salt one first. Say ahh.

saki: Oh, um…

sinju: Ah, sorry! I just thought it would be nicer to have the sweeter flavour after the salty one.

saki: T-thank you. Is it ok if I borrow the salt churros then?

sinju: Of course, here you go.

saki: …Mm, it's delicious! It kind of tastes like a savoury snack.

-sinju takes a bite-

sinju: It really does! I wonder if it would pair well with ketchup? It’s a flavour that makes you want to alternate it with the sweet one.

saki: Would you like to try the cinnamon flavour then?

sinju: Can I? Oh but, my hands are full at the moment, could you feed it to me?

saki: O-ok. Here you go.

-he smiles and takes a bite-

sinju: …Yep! It's delicious! You can't go wrong with cinnamon.

saki: Fufu, I’m glad to hear it. Sharing food like this is a little embarrassing though.

sinju: So it wasn't just me? To be honest my heart was racing just now. It really feels like we're on an actual date.

I’d like to spend more time together with you like this though. Just a day is fine, right? I hope you enjoy this date with me, Saki-chan.

-

Chapter 2 -amusement park, night-

sinju: Uwah, it's already gotten dark. I was having so much fun that I lost track of the time. It’s been so long since I last visited an amusement park.

saki: Same. I didn't notice the time either.

sinju: Last time I was here was for the summer hero show, so it's been around two years huh? We didn't get to hang out for the whole day back then. So thanks, I’ve had a seriously fun time with you today.

saki: Thank you as well. Today has felt like I stepped into a dream.

sinju: A dream… Say, Saki-chan, could it be that you're thinking the same thing as me?

saki: Hm?

sinju: I was thinking that I don’t want today to end. I wish we could just keep hanging out and having fun together. How about you?

saki: I was thinking the same, yes.

sinju: Fufu, I figured. Come this way, Saki-chan.

-he takes her hand-

saki: Huh? Ah… Your hand… Where are we going now?

sinju: You’ll find out when we get there.

sinju: Check out the ferris wheel! Isn't the way it lights up really pretty?

saki: Woah, you're right! It’s really romantic.

sinju: I wanted to ride the ferris wheel at night so that's why I left it until last. I want to see the nighttime scenery with you there beside me.

saki: Sinju-san…

sinju: I said it already, didn't I? We’re on a date. So I want you to enjoy every moment. The day isn't over just yet, so let's keep having fun at the amusement park together!

–end 

[sunshine-overload]

Hello! Do you think whose personal growth in these 5 years is visible brighter and whose more impresses you? And who has changed the attitude to Saki most in your opinion?

Good question!

Personally I think Lico has by far had the most noticeable character development, he went from being rude and uncaring, to caring deeply about Team B, even going as far as bowing his head to Haseyama in order to protect them… Despite his confident facade I love that we’ve gotten to see behind it, and see that deep down he’s just a lonely guy looking for some reassurance, someone give this man a hug please 😭

Gui has also changed a lot, he used to just protect Saki cause its what Kei ordered him to do, but now he protects her because it’s what he wants to do. She’s important to him and he wants to keep her safe,, seeing him slowly come to realise just how much Saki means to him has been so cute

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[BSTS] Hinata Hanami 2025 4* Card Story

(note: B’s show is based on the fairy tale Thumbelina)

Chapter 1 -botanical garden, day-

hinata: A date with Miss ♪ It’s a date ♪

Thanks for coming here with me! Let’s study heaps of flowers together. I think my performance will be better if I know more about all of the flowers that appear in it.

saki: You sure are a hard worker.

hinata: Of course! That’s cause during this show there’s a period where the cast members switch in and out, so I get to perform! Plus seeing the flowers in person is better than just looking them up on the internet.

-time pass-

hinata: Ah, Miss, look! There’s a water lily!

saki: Woah, they’re so large and beautiful.

hinata: Um, let’s see… (he googles them) It’s a flower in the Nymphaeaceae family with the genus Nymphaea. They bloom in ponds or lakes and look as if they’re floating above the water. They’re a perennial and water-based plant. They may look like a lotus but they’re a different classification of plant. That’s what it says. 

I had no idea~ Do you have any flowers you’re curious about, Miss?

saki: Hm, violets I suppose.

hinata: The violets are in the area up ahead, let’s go check them out!

-time pass-

hinata: —Ah, here they are.

saki: I didn’t know violets could be this colour too.

hinata: I wonder if they’re different depending on the colour. Let me look it up.

Oh I see, they mean something in flower language too. Uhhh, they mean ‘humble’ and ‘a small happiness’. That makes sense, they’re so small and cute.

Oh wait~ The meaning is different depending on the colour! It says yellow mean ‘love’ and white mean ‘an innocent love’.

saki: That’s interesting. It’s fun just taking our time to enjoy the flowers like this.

hinata: Yeah… Flowers probably have the power to make people happy.

-time pass, street, sunset-

hinata: Thanks for hanging out with me until this late, Miss.

saki: Thanks, I had fun today.

hinata: Heheh, it was the best date ever. ♪

saki: —Oh look, the dandelions are blooming.

hinata: You’re right. They’re growing through the gaps in the concrete. Dandelions can even bloom in places like this huh? They’re not in a flower bed, even though a more noticeable place would be better for them.

saki: I think that’s what makes them strong-willed though.

hinata: You think so?

saki: Sometimes they’ll catch my eye and bring a smile to my face. I think it’s wonderful that they’re able to bloom even in such harsh places. 

hinata: A smile… I see. So that’s how you see it? (he smiles)

-

Chapter 2 -starless lobby-

hinata: Good morning, Miss! I was just out here looking at the flower stands. I love that there’s so many of them, I always thought they were so pretty. Because we went and studied some flowers together, I feel as though I can recognise even the feelings that the guests who are supporting me wanted to express with them too.

See look, this flower stand addressed to me has some dandelions in it. It’s the flower that my role, the butterfly, delivers to Thumbelina.

saki: Aw, how cute. It’s not everyday that you see a flower stand with dandelions in it.

hinata: Right? In flower language dandelions mean ‘sincere love’. I looked it up after our date the other day. So today I’ll express my sincere love to you, Miss!

-cg

hinata: “Don’t look so down, Thumbelina. Everything will be just fine, I’m right here beside you. I’ll always be ready to fly right over to you whenever you need my help!”

-cg gone

hinata: Did you enjoy my impromptu performance?

saki: Yes. Just watching you filled me with feelings as warm as Spring.

hinata: Yay, I’m glad my feelings reached you! Y’know, when I was told that the flowers the butterfly gives the princess were dandelions, I was like, why would he give her such a plain flower? 

They’re small and bloom on the side of footpaths. They’re not really flowers that many people notice, right? There’s no way giving a flower like that to the princess would make her look his way. 

But… now I know that there’s people like you, Miss, who take the time to notice that they’re blooming. It made me happy, I guess it’s cause I could relate to the dandelions.

saki: Fufu, both you and the dandelions make me smile. Because watching your performances always cheer me up.

hinata: Heheh, thanks. In that case, I’ll have to keep doing my best! I’ll keep giving you lots and lots of pretty flowers, so make sure you watch me forever, ok?

—end

[sunshine-overload]

[BSTS] Sinju Birthday 2025 4* Card Story

Chapter 1 -starless restaurant area-

sinju: Welcome home, my lady. I’ll prepare some black tea for you. Here you go, please help yourself. It is hot though, so do be careful.

saki: Thank you. You’re just like a real butler, Sinju-san.

sinju: Really? This is my first time acting as a butler so I practiced a whole bunch. A month goes by so quickly, so I want to enjoy this event with the guests while I can.

saki: Fufu, sounds great.

sinju: Sotetsu and I are the last ones to be doing the butler service too, so I hope everyone has fun right up until it's over.

saki: Of course.

sinju: Hm…? What’s going on at that table over there? Are they having trouble? Sorry, excuse me for a moment, Saki-chan.

-sinju walks over to a different table-

sinju: Is there a problem, my lady? You received the wrong order? Please accept my deepest apologies. I’ll bring the correct dish out for you right away.

In the meantime, I’ll treat you to whichever dessert you’d like… But keep it a secret from the other guests, ok? Otherwise I’ll get In trouble.

-sinju comes back over to saki’s table-

sinju: Sorry I had to leave so suddenly, Saki-chan. 

saki: That’s ok, it’s no big deal. You looked like such a wonderful butler.

sinju: Is that so? Heheh, I’m glad. It’s surprisingly hard for me to tell how the guests see me. Being praised by you is a massive boost of motivation. I’d love to hear more of what you think of my butler act later.

saki: Sure. I’d like to celebrate your birthday later too.

sinju: Thanks. I’ll be waiting then, my lady.

-

Chapter 2 -starless kitchen, table area-

sinju: Sorry for the wait, Saki-chan. Thank you for coming today, here, this is for you.

saki: Woah, what a cute cupcake. But why?

sinju: I tried decorating it myself. It’s my birthday so I wanted to celebrate by eating some cake with you.

saki: It’s so cute that I almost feel bad eating it though. And shouldn’t I be the one giving you a gift?

sinju: It’s fine, it’s fine. Getting to spend this precious time with you is a gift in itself. Let’s eat then, shall we?

saki: Yes. Happy birthday, Sinju-san.

sinju: Thanks!

-time pass-

sinju: Oh right, by the way, I wanted to thank you for earlier.

saki: For earlier? I don’t remember doing anything though?

sinju: Remember? You praised me after I sorted out that other guest's problem. It made me really happy.

-cg

sinju: I said that it’s surprisingly hard for me to tell how the guests see me. I think that in the past I wouldn’t have been able to psyche myself up to solve that issue on the fly like that. But, now I’m able to. I handled it so naturally that I barely even had to think about it. Then I thought that I really have grown in ways that I haven’t realised yet.

saki: I see.

sinju: When I first came to Starless, I was still a teenager. And now I’m already 25! Time sure does fly.

saki: Fufu, it really does.

sinju: The years have gone by so quickly, but… so much has happened this past year, and I feel as though I’ve matured from it. And not just myself either, but so much has happened with Team P as a whole too. I want to try my very best this year too, so that I can hear you say that you think I’ve grown.

saki: I’ll be here to support you.

sinju: Thanks. Keep watching me, Saki-chan. Cause I’ll make sure I become a man that you’ll fall even harder for.

—end

[sunshine-overload]

[BSTS] Hinata Initial 5* Card Story

Chapter 1

-starless hallway-

hinata: Siiiigh~…

saki: Hinata-san, have you been doing independent practice until this late?

hinata: Oh, Miss, it’s you.

saki: Are you ok? You seem down…

hinata: Mm~… Will you hear me out? Today just hasn’t been my day at all. I was doing terribly during practice and Mizuki scolded me, that’s why I stayed back to continue practicing on my own. But even that didn’t go well, I haven’t managed to improve at all. And now I’m the last one leaving, it’s so embarrassing~

saki: It’s embarrassing? Even though it’s only you practicing?

hinata: Rather than having the whole room to myself I prefer practicing while other people are with me.

saki: (Hmm, he seems to be in a pretty negative mood at the moment.)

hinata: Despite finally getting to stand on stage for ‘Kill ‘Em ALL’, at this rate I won’t get to perform in our next show as a standard member~

saki: We all have our off days, it doesn’t mean tomorrow will be the same—

hinata: But! That wasn’t the only thing that went wrong today! The gyūdon discount coupon that I decided to use for lunch today had expired.

-he steps closer-

hinata: The automatic door at the convenience store didn’t open and I walked right into it.

-he steps closer-

hinata: And the water bottle I bought just a minute ago wasn’t cold at all! It was lukewarm!

saki: Hinata-san, you’re too close…!

hinata: Ah, sorry.

-he steps back-

hinata: Sigh~… My horoscope must have had the worst possible luck today.

saki: It sounds like you’ve had an awful day, good work getting through it.

hinata: Yeah. I suppose I’ll head home now… Oh, but one good thing did happen to me. I got to see you!

saki: Me… That’s a good thing?

hinata: Duh. Just being with you puts me in a better mood. Say, how about we walk to the station together? Could you console my unlucky self?

-

Chapter 2

-street, night-

hinata: Do you come to this side of town often, Miss? If not then this would be a walk with sights you’re not used to seeing.

saki: Are you familiar with these streets, Hinata-san?

hinata: More or less. A lot of my favourite stores are along here, there’s a lot of places I’d recommend too.

saki: A favourite store huh, sounds nice.

hinata: Yeah, let’s see… Ah, that cafe over there is good! Their pancakes are super photogenic and delicious too. I’ll take you there sometime. Also off the main street there’s some quieter streets with interesting shops along them. Like general stores and second hand clothing stores.

I love browsing second hand clothing stores~ I especially like checking them along with shoe stores, sometimes you can stumble across rare sneakers. I feel super lucky whenever I pick up something really good. It’s like hunting for treasure, it’s fun.

saki: Is that so? It does sound like it’d be fun.

hinata: They have a ladies section too, I could try and coordinate an outfit for you from the second hand store and the shoe store~ C’mon, we should totally do it sometime. First browse the second hand stores and then eat those pancakes afterwards!

saki: Fufu, sounds good. I’ll be looking forward to it.

hinata: Yay! I can’t wait~!

saki: (That’s good, Hinata-san seems to have cheered up.)

-outside station, night-

saki: Thank you for escorting me.

hinata: Since we were busy chatting we got here before I knew it. Sorry for taking you on a little detour. It’s cause I wanted to talk with you… It’s lonely once you’re gone.

saki: Let’s talk again at Starless tomorrow.

hinata: Yeah… That’s right, we will but…

saki: …?

hinata: Sorry, it’s nothing! Then, I’ll head home after walking around a bit more, see you tomorrow.

saki: Huh? You’re going for another walk? It’s pretty late, it’s dangerous to walk around on your own.

hinata: It’s fine. No one pays any attention to me. Plus I haven’t been able to get in contact with my brother today, so I want to try calling him again. Make sure you head straight home, ok, Miss? See you~

saki: Ah, yes. See you.

saki: (I hope Hinata-san is ok…)

-

Chapter 3

-street, night-

saki: (What should I do? I was worried about Hinata-san so I ended up chasing after him but…)

saki: Where did he… Ah.

hinata: …Huh? Miss? What are you doing here? Weren’t you going home?

saki: I was, but you looked down, so…

hinata: So you followed me? You shouldn’t be doing that, you said it yourself that it’s dangerous to walk around alone at night. Wait no, sorry. I shouldn’t say that. I made you worry, right?

Thank you for checking on me, I’m happy to see you again. I’ll indulge you then, we can hang out for a little longer tonight. Let’s walk.

-time pass-

hinata: I’d just been doing laps around this area, but I guess it’s boring to keep walking around the same place, huh?

saki: It’s fine. Do you like this area?

hinata: It’s not like it’s my favourite or anything, it’s too loud. The cars are noisy, there’s drunks everywhere and all of the storefronts are really bright.

saki: It does have a pretty chaotic vibe to it…

hinata: Yeah, yeah. That’s why I like it.

saki: …Because it’s chaotic?

hinata: You don’t feel the same? When I’m feeling lonely it feels as though I’m the only person in the world. If I were in a place that’s quiet it would only make me feel even more alone.

But, this place is anything but quiet. No one pays me any mind, but I can still see that there’s other people around. Existing and doing their own thing. So whenever I’m feeling particularly lonely, this is probably where you’ll find me.

saki: Hinata-san…

hinata: It’s different today though.

saki: How so? Do you mean the atmosphere is different than usual?

hinata: It’s different cause you came and found me. Even though I had my earphones in, I still noticed and heard your voice clearly. I wonder why?

-

Chapter 4

-backstage-

hinata: Thanks for coming today, Miss!

saki: You look like you’re looking forward to tonight’s show, Hinata-san.

hinata: Yep, I’ll do my best! Thanks to you I’m feeling way better. It’s cause we walked around together. Ever since then my luck has been on the rise!

saki: Really? Surely you’re exaggerating.

hinata: Nope. The convenience store’s automatic door opened properly and my water bottle was cold. And after I practiced like my life depended on it, I feel as though I can do the performance now without making all those mistakes like I was before!

saki: That’s good to hear. It’s all because you worked hard.

hinata: Eheheh, you think so? Because of all that I’m in a great mood right now~ In the past, whenever I was feeling lonely I’d be hung up on it for days. That hasn’t happened as often since I joined Starless though. I think that it must be because you and the rest of the guys in Team B are here… That has to be it, right?

saki: Yes. I’m sure that’s why.

hinata: Eheheh, yeah! I really do love B’s stage. I’d always loved hip hop, but B’s shows were so amazing it was like love at first sight. 

saki: You look as though you’re really enjoying yourself when you’re up on the stage too.

hinata: Yeah. I’m super duper happy to have been able to join the Team B that I had always looked up to! That’s why I’ll give my all at everything that I’m capable of. I’ll make sure my performance is at an even higher level today, so make sure you watch me!

saki: Understood. I’ll be supporting you!

hinata: No take backs ok? It’s a promise~!

-bloomed cg (hinata on the stage)

hinata: I want to perform my heart out on this stage, both today and from now on! Because Starless is where I belong.

If I can do well enough to get Miss and the rest of B to praise my performance, it would be the best day ever!

—end

[sunshine-overload]

[BSTS] Deep dive into the different Zakuros

After S6Ch6 dropped I went a bit mad and looked back through most of zakus old chapters to see if there were any noticeable differences between their personalities, and to my surprise, there actually were

So here’s some ramblings and excerpts relating to the zakus we know

Zakuro Number 1:

4th Dec 2019 ~ 20th Oct 2020

From when he first joined Starless till the end of Showdown

Notes: 

Escaped the Institution’s laboratory thanks to Master’s organisation raiding it

Is acquainted with Master

Is acquainted with Kei

Sin also knows who he is somehow

Is implied to have been sent to Starless by Iwami (Sin could tell who sent him when Zakuro completed a Paracelsus quote. Then later in S6CH5, Iwami quotes something similar.)

Knows a lot about Starless

Is looking for his black card and refers to it as a BLACKCARD

Has no smell

Says he has no memories but seems to be a bit more put together and know more compared to later Zakuro’s

Made Saki first listen to BLACKSTAR along with Sin

Is apparently not the original Zakuro

Zakuro Number 2:

20th Oct 2020 ~ 14th Nov 2022

From the end of Showdown till S4CH8 when he fell down the stairs

Notes

Retrieves a BLACKSTAR disc from the collapsed number 1 in an alleyway

Seems to remember even less than number 1

Is more forceful in wanting Saki to remember her memories

Is the most unhinged phase of Zakuro

Somehow oya’s more than the other Zakuro’s

Was in contact with somebody over the phone

Aogiri is particularly interested in this Zakuro

Laughing appears to be a tell that it’s no.2 

He laughed when taking the disc from collapsed No.1

He laughed after falling down the stairs

He laughed when No.3 listened to the disc that Aogiri led him to btw

Zakuro Number 3:

14th Nov 2022 ~

From the stairs incident till now

Notes

The most desperate to retrieve his memories 

Does not have much time left

Does not know where he came from

Was seemingly becoming less and less of an ‘empty shell’

Eventually merged memories with the previous Zakuro’s

Other things to note:

Zakuro’s weight is unknown, even after the medical check up event

Zakuro’s left forearm is always covered in some way in every one of his outfits, some examples:

The only time we have seen his forearm is in the medical check up events preview mv, which was most likely an error as his arm was still properly covered in the game

Also his Into Me outfit shows the most skin by far      

Also this guy from Sin’s borderline reward card kinda resembles Zakuro. (we still have no idea who tf this guy is btw)

- S2 Finale End Cutscene

(No.1 is replaced by No.2)

The cutscene starts with someone blinking, their vision is blurry and they appear to be stumbling along the streets. They turn into an alleyway and see a collapsed figure along with a standing one.

It is still unclear whose pov we see this cutscene from. The only guesses I have are Saki or Zakuro no.3.

Saki because in the final Showdown chapter she is seen leaving Starless, and her seeing baby Kei when she sees the disc would make sense. What doesn’t make sense is why she would never bring this up again ever.

Zaku no.3 doesn’t have much evidence apart from the other two people in this cutscene being Zakuro’s, so why not one more? It might also be a case of us jumping between point of views, who knows.

-

S4CH8 Chapter 1

(No.2 is replaced by No.3)

Zakuro isn’t himself and is really sluggish during practice, Mokuren puts an end to the day's rehearsal. Zakuro goes out onto the balcony for some fresh air and Kasumi follows him to make sure he's ok.

kasumi: Zakuro, where are you~?

zakuro: …Dizziness… emptiness… (lyrics from Hakuchuumu)

kasumi: There you are, I think it's best you head hime today and rest~

zakuro: … ‘Am I me?’

kasumi: Zakuro! Stop, you're at the stairs!

zakuro: (slowly stumbles forwards and falls down the stairs)

kasumi: ZAKURO!!

zakuro: Ugh…

kasumi: Can you hear me!? Zakuro!

zakuro: Yeah… I can…

kasumi: Get it together! I’ll call an ambulance right away!

zakuro: …No need, I can get up myself… Guh…

kasumi: What are you saying? There's no way you can stand with injuries like this! I’m going to call someone else over, don't move, ok!?

-kasumi leaves-

zakuro: Uu… Ha… Fufu… Kuku… Kukuku… Haha, hahahahaa…

-time pass-

sotetsu: Was it really that bad of a fall?

kasumi: He didn't even try to shield himself on the way down. Anyways, we need to get him treated quickly…

sotetsu: Sounds pretty serious. And so, where is he?

kasumi: Huh?

-kasumi looks around-

kasumi: Zakuro!? Where are you, Zakuro!

sotetsu: C’mon this is a pretty tasteless prank.

kasumi: As if this would be a joke! Zakuro seriously fell down this staircase not a moment ago!

sotetsu: …Actually, there are signs that someone has had a dramatic fall here. There's blood stains, I doubt he’d be able to walk on his own.

kasumi: Exactly… He was in no condition to stand let alone walk anywhere.

-

chapter 2

Zakuro returns uninjured and says the fall wasn't as bad as it looked. (This is No.3)

-

SideB chapter 3

Sotetsu meets with Kasumi in an alleyway and reveals he has obtained video footage of Zakuro’s fall from the nearby buildings security camera. They live react to the footage together.

sotetsu: Alright, the camera is a bit far away but we can still see the balcony. Around what time did it happen again?

kasumi: It should be around here… There, Zakuro’s coming out onto the balcony.

sotetsu: He's stumbling… Oop. (shocked)

kasumi: (gasps) …!

sotetsu: …You're kidding, he stood up after that?

kasumi: Looks like he really did walk off into that nearby alley.

sotetsu: And that's where it ends, huh.

kasumi: …….

sotetsu: What to do. I’m not into fantasy.

kasumi: Honestly this is more like a horror.

sotetsu: It's true that there's no way you’d be able to stand on the stage right away after suffering injuries like that. And so, what on earth is that Zakuro who's singing like everything's fine?

kasumi: That's what I want to know too.

-

sideB chapter 4

Sotetsu sees Sin treating a small cut he got from a knife and asks Sin what he thinks the best way to quickly heal an injury is. Sin says with time.

Sotetsu then asks, what about a more serious injury? If an athlete were to injure themselves right before the big day, would any cutting edge treatment be able to help them heal in time to play?

Sin says that treatment as early as possible would help and that a person’s will plays a big part in whether it would be possible, but even if you were to replace limbs with prosthetics the human body still takes time to heal.

Sin then asks Sotetsu if he’s heard of Theseus's Paradox.

sin: Let’s say that we have a ship here. The sail is torn so it’s replaced with a new one and the mast is bent so it is also replaced. Every time part of the ship breaks, it is replaced with a new part. And once every part has been replaced, can you still really say that it is the same ship as it originally was anymore?

-

sideB chapter 5

Iwami warns Sotetsu to not bother looking into Zakuro and that nothing good will come from it. Iwami also gives Sotetsu his contact information and asks him to send him the video footage of Zakuro’s fall.

-

Zakuro Alt Stage 

This card story is crazy looking back on it, the first chapter is number 2 struggling with the song and looking visibly worn out. While the second is number 3 because it takes place during the closing show.

Zakuro 3 repeats himself without knowing it because it wasn’t even him who originally said it the first time.

read here: https://www.tumblr.com/sunshine-overload/701174463474040832/bsts-zakuro-alt-stage-4-card-story

-

S5CH6 Chapter 3 sideA

kongou: That's fine. That's C's... Zakuro's stage costume right? I wouldn't even be able to tell it had frayed, you're pretty diligent.

aogiri: Once I see an imperfection in a piece of clothing I can't stop thinking about it. Furthermore this is an important stage outfit.

kongu: Something the matter?

aogiri: On the inside of the belt there's... Could this be a note? It looks like it's some kind of poem?

kongou: I wonder what's up with that. You can leave it with me if you'd like, I'll bring it to Zakuro. Since you're busy with performing and training.

aogiri: Is that ok? In that case, please do.

-

Chapter 5 sideB extra

kongou: Good work out there, Zakuro. Looking at that note again are you?

zakuro: Indeed. I am still yet to work out what it is.

kongou: Aogiri found that when he was repairing your costume didn't he? It seemed like it had been hidden away there on purpose. I thought it must've been something of importance to you…

zakuro: Hm... I have no idea either.

kongou: At first glance it looked like a lyric from a song.

zakuro: This arrangement of words does not exist in my repertoire. Even so, this definitely looks to be my handwriting.

kongou: Is that so? That's curious then. It's as if it's some kind of code.

zakuro: Hm, a code you say?

-zakuro suddenly looks serious-

kongou: Zakuro...?

zakuro: It looks as though a pebble has risen from the riverbank... This is my...

zakuro: ...!

zakuro: —I see, I see. In the end it appears this was a little love letter to myself.

kongou: What?

zakuro: Please excuse me, I will be heading out to continue this discussion on my own.

-time pass, old starless stage-

zakuro: Let's see here. Will a demon or a serpent appear? Or perhaps...

-looks at note-

zakuro: The answer that I'm searching for might very well be here.

-zakuro searches around the stage-

zakuro: Well well, this is…

-finds CD-

zakuro: There's no mistaking it, this is the jewel that I've been seeking.

-plays CD, blackstar bgm-

zakuro: —Aah yes this is undoubtedly it. This is what I had been lacking for so long. With this, my answer is finally...

-screen flashes-

zakuro: Ugh! ...Ugh...Tch…

-more flashes, zakuro falls to the ground-

zakuro: Ugh... Ah... Haha.... Hahhaha...

-black screen-

zakuro: ....Fufu.

-time pass, break room-

kongou: Oh Zakuro, you're back.

zakuro: Thanks to you I have taken back something very important.

kongou: You understood what the note meant then?

zakuro: Certainly, certainly. Why singing? Well that is once again because it is something that needs to be done. Moreover, simply asking 'why' was just a bubble on the surface. Therefore it is greatly different to that which is well known to most— It feels as though I've finally woken back up.

kongou: Zakuro...?

zakuro: Be as it may I too desire to carry out what it is that I must do.

kongou: I'm not really following what you're saying, but if you've found your own resolution then I'm glad.

zakuro: Yes yes, undoubtedly. From now on, I will leave it to him.

—end

(note: I believe this disc incident is when Zakuro regained memories of No.2 and merged with him. Possibly merging with No.1’s memories as well.)

-

further reading: https://www.tumblr.com/sunshine-overload/778173571249979392/bsts-recent-zakuro-related-chapters?source=share

[sunshine-overload]

[BSTS] Recent Zakuro Related Chapters

This is just a collection of recent chapters relating to Zakuro and Hinata’s situations as well as what the black cards and the ‘institution’ are doing.

basically just a bunch of wack ass lore, enjoy !

-

S6CH5 - Common Chapter 6 Extra

-shipping container yard, night-

iwami: This place will be scrapped soon too, though I hope I can make it in time.

master: You're still using this place?

iwami: Uwah– Don't conceal your presence around me, I’m just a regular old person y’know.

master: You don't intend to answer?

iwami: The situation seems to have changed quite a bit on your end. Have you stopped pretending to be a moderate faction? Wasn't the 'organisations’ goal to neutralise them?

master: Yes, that has not changed. But the situation has started to move very quickly, so I intervened.

iwami: Haven't you got your cause and effect mixed up there? It's cause you intervened that things started moving.

master: If that's what it looks like to you, then that's fine. Whichever path you take, nothing can be stopped anymore.

iwami: You and Kei really are like teacher like student. You don't care what other people think and you don't explain anything either. You only devote yourselves to your goal.

master: Kei is already walking down a different path to me. He is not opposed to going against the organisation.

iwami: His goal hasn't changed from when he was safeguarded by the organisation until now. It's always been the same.

Sigh, alas there's always a flipside to a nice conversation. I was told by youngsters all the time. “The research laboratories vary greatly, you should do proper research into them first.” “You should question cutting edge laboratories even more than the scouts.”

master: That's because a regular person can't sniff out whether or not it's a laboratory under the institution's influence. Back then and now still, you're a regular person. The Miki couple are the same.

iwami: True but still. We were just lucky to have been saved by your organisation.

master: You should be grateful that coincidence occured. At the time you had no idea that your research was being used for illegal experiments.

iwami: Whether my research was used with or without my consent makes no difference. Either way, I wasn't able to destroy and discard everything.

A dosage of medication that's too strong will become poison. There was always a chance the research would be started up again, and that's exactly what happened.

master: Was the reason you also continued your research after escaping the institution really because you wanted to put an end to it all?

iwami: I wanted to fix things before the institution found me. Except I wasn't able to hide myself completely, even with your organisation's help. And ultimately, they found me.

I never should've become an IT engineer, I should've just become a farmer in the countryside or something…

master: But there's no way you would've done that. Throwing everything away is difficult.

iwami: I should've at least been a lower rank engineer. Then I could've just ignored it if any of the systems went up in flames.

master: It's too late for that now, but back then what would've been your best option yes. Including when the institution invited you to the project.

iwami: Is the institution the source of that too?

master: It's possible. You should know already that the institution will stop at nothing to achieve their goals, what they want is complete control over BLACKCARD. 

iwami: Even though we implemented the two bracket system to confuse them, we're out of time. They seemed to be pretty fooled by the camouflaged dark net though.

master: You didn't truly believe that you could hide the primary control system there forever, did you?

iwami: That's why the institution sent an agent of theirs to Starless.

master: If you have somebody with inside knowledge, it's easy to obtain information and respond if the worst were to occur.

iwami: I managed to buy enough time though.

master: For how long will they be saved this time?

iwami: I’m not sure, I want to say for as long as possible but… My issue wasn't realised. Also, the institution warped my research, it'll be tough to deal with the damage that's been done.

master: Is it already too late for Hinata then? is he aware of this?

iwami: …One of the two is aware.

master: It's the beginning of the end, huh?

iwami: I’m not the one who'll start the end. I told you, I’m already out of time.

master: Then, who will?

iwami: It's the prince's role to wake the sleeping princess, isn't it? Though all of them are just thugs, not princes.

–end

-

S6CH5 - SideB Chapter 5

Iwami hands Saki a note to hand over to Zakuro because Iwami ‘has no way of contacting him’. Upon reading the note, Zakuro appears bothered.

-

S6CH5 - SideB Chapter 6

-street, night-

zakuro: Good work today. Your stage was great once again.

hinata: Woah you really showed up.

zakuro: Oh my, that face. You look as though you weren't expecting me to meet with you.

hinata: My brother trusted you would come but I wasn't so sure.

zakuro: Now then, here is the item that you requested. The disc that was mentioned in Iwami-san’s note.

zakuro: However before I hand it over to you, let's discuss. This is an important matter after all.

hinata: Are you trying to ask how Iwa-san knew that you had that disc?

zakuro: No, what I want to ask is why you need this disc. The one who created this disc and left it behind at the old Starless building was likely Iwami-san.

Another thing I don't understand is why Iwami-san himself wants it. Can he not just create another?

hinata: Iwa-san said he can't make them anymore. He said it's a problem of environment and lack of materials.

zakuro: Environment and lack of materials. I see, there must be some reason for that. Indeed, indeed. Circumstances have changed and quite some time has passed, it's true.

hinata: Iwa-san is only familiar with the first research stage. That's something that only happened at the first research lab.

zakuro: Hm, if you're going to talk about that I’d be careful. Is this why you chose a crowded place to speak with me?

hinata: Yeah. Not a single person passing by is interested in us, right? It's as if you and I can't afford to be paying attention to anything else…

My brother told me that we don't have much time left. You don't have any time left either, do you? We're the same.

zakuro: The same? You and I? Iwami-san said something similar to me. That we do not have much time left.

hinata: Iwa-san is different from us though. You should know that. I mean, we're of the same class, aren't we? You’re an early development line from the second stage of research.

zakuro: ……

hinata: Everyone at the lab said that it was a successful line that had been started up twice.

-hinata snatches the disc from zakuro-

hinata: I’ll be taking this disc. Iwa-san and my brother both told me that if I have this I might last longer.

zakuro: When you said that we're of the same class, does that mean that you also escaped from the research laboratory?

hinata: Yeah. The final development line of stage two, that was us twins. We were both failures, apparently the research hit a dead end. So, that's why we ran away before we died. You did the same, right?

zakuro: …Very well, I will let you have that disc. I’ll see you again at Starless tomorrow. Good night, Hinata.

hinata: See ya, Zakuro.

-hinata leaves-

zakuro: At the very least, I hope that tomorrow comes… As there is not much else I can do besides wish for that.

–end

(note: It was confirmed in a different recent chapter that Hinata and his brother do indeed share the same body.)

-

S6 C Medley - Chapter 6

-backstage rooms-

kasumi: ……. (sad)

saki: Kasumi-san, everyone else has already headed back to Starless.

kasumi: Ah, yeah.

saki: Are you ok? You look pale.

kasumi: No, it's just… I handed the documents over to the police.

saki: What happened?

kasumi: There was definitive proof regarding the incident that killed my parents but… There was still no indication of where my sister is. Those documents definitely should have contained her whereabouts. All I know is that she was brought to Tokyo, but I need more information than that.

saki: No way…

kasumi: ……. (sad)

-aogiri appears-

aogiri: That's because she signed a contract in order to escape.

saki: Aogiri-san…

aogiri: I’m sorry for interrupting your conversation, however I thought it would be best to inform you of this. I prepared a copy of her contract for you, here.

kasumi: This contract holder's name… This date… Why on earth do you have access to my sister’s contract? This is dated the day after she went missing.

saki: What!? What does that mean?

aogiri: That is a basic contract for a certain clinical trial. Your sister signed it and participated in the trial. That contract doesn't contain all of the details, however that clinical trial also involves plastic surgery. I don't know what happened after she signed it, but once the trial was completed, she likely started going by a different name.

kasumi: But why would she… No, it was in order to escape, right? It's like how I’ve been living without drawing any attention to myself.

aogiri: That is all the information that I can give you.

-

(note: Aogiri has been confirmed to be the spy that was sent by the institution.)

-

S6CH6 - SideB Chapter 2-2

-starless outside balcony-

aogiri: …….

aogiri: ‘Dizziness, emptiness, am I me?’ … I don't get it.

zakuro: Those were my final words. You should know them well.

aogiri: You're No.2? Have you finally decided to stop avoiding me then?

zakuro: Me avoiding you? Or was it you avoiding me?

aogiri: True, I suppose I was the one avoiding you. You know the reason why, don't you? No, you wouldn't. Because you're not No.2.

zakuro: Hm hm, it appears you figured something out. Though now that you mentioned it, No.2 was different, nothing but an illogical jester.

Then allow me to ask you instead. Do you know what is necessary in order for ‘Zakuro’ to become me?

aogiri: Hmm, that's almost like a philosophical question. What is needed for someone to be themselves?

zakuro: In any case, No.2 is already No.3, and that is who is standing before you now.

The No.2 that you are oh so obsessed with is already swaying between the waves of the past. The second ‘Zakuro’... Hm.

Shall we proceed with our exchange of information then? I’d like to know about No.2 please.

aogiri: So you want the information that I have on No.2? What will you give me in exchange? I’m not going to agree to say anything if it is of no benefit to me.

zakuro: I may decide to remember the memories of No.2 that you are after. You’re wavering and may just need them, am I right, Aogiri?

aogiri: Me? Wavering? Do I really appear to be lost? I see, how intriguing. You cannot guarantee that you even have the memories either. 

Let's make the value of the information equal then. Just the chance of knowing No.2’s past is too weak of a bargain.

Why did No.1 run from the institution? Does No.3 even remember where he came from? If you can answer this set of questions, then I will tell you the information that I have on No.2.

zakuro: My, what a firm way of negotiating. Now I’m even more concerned about just how different No.2 is.

I would like to agree to your terms, however, just how well acquainted are you with ‘Zakuro’?

aogiri: Shh.

-lico steps out onto the balcony-

lico: —Uwah, Aogiri!?

zakuro: Oh my, Lico. Are you here to smoke? That was quite an overblown reaction.

lico: I didn't think anybody was out here. You don't mind if I smoke, right?

aogiri: Go ahead. Apologies for spooking you.

lico: We ran into each other here the other day as well remember? That's why I was so surprised, my bad. If you two were in the middle of something I can go elsewhere.

zakuro: Thank you for your concern but we just finished up our conversation.

aogiri: Yes, indeed. Then, I will speak with you again soon, Zakuro.

-zaku and aog leave-

lico: …Maybe I should stop coming out here to smoke.

–end

-

S6CH6 - SideA Chapter 5

-shrine entrance, night-

zakuro: …Do you have business with me?

master: Yes, it has turned out as such. What are you doing here?

zakuro: Let's say I’m here to pray, to this subordinate shrine of performing arts.

master: Requesting help from the Gods are you? Interesting.

zakuro: Hm, you look skeptical. What are you unsatisfied with?

master: Let me ask you a question then. Who on earth are you?

zakuro: Who am I? I thought you were already aware?

master: The one that I know, to be specific, is only the first one of you.

zakuro: Hm hm, so you want specifics? Then allow me to express my gratitude to you as the third. I’m thankful for when you raided the institution’s research laboratory back then. It's thanks to your organisation’s interference that I was able to escape.

master: ……..

zakuro: You should have already heard from Kei, no? That I am No.3.

master: You're self aware of the fact that you're No.3?

zakuro: What are you trying to say? How about we recap for fun, shall we? 

The me who first came to Starless, the one that you know, is No.1.

And then, after Showdown, he switched out with No.2.

The switch to No.3 was set up like an accident. No.2 tumbled down the stairs and then I took his place.

master: ……..

zakuro: My, you still don't look satisfied with that explanation. You’re aware of it too, aren't you? That ‘Zakuro No.1’ wasn't the original either.

master: That's not the part I’m concerned about.

zakuro: Oh? Then do tell, what is it?

master: …Where did No.2 and No.3 come from?

zakuro: Ngh….

master: No.1 escaped from the research laboratory. ‘Zakuro’, those with the same face and no memories– Where did they come from, and why did you trade places?

You don't have the memories to answer that question either, do you? When and where did you inherit your memories from?

-master leaves-

zakuro: …Where did we come from? Who are we— And where are we going?

–end

[sunshine-overload]

hewwo, just an update that I am still working on tling the main story buT I’M SO BEHIND CAUSE THEY KEEP RELEASING THE CHAPTERS SO QUICKLY I CANT CATCH UP AGH— I’ll have some tls up soon about the recent zakuro developments tho 🔥

[sunshine-overload]

Hi, I have been following your translation for a very long time and I want to tell you many thanks for your work !!! Can you tell us how much do you study Japanese and what games do you still like to play?

Hiii thank you! 💕

I've been studying Japanese since around 2016, it was a lot of work at first and I studied almost everyday but nowadays I'm at the point where my study is just enjoying jp media that I like and looking up any words I don't recognise hahah

Other than blackstar I also play enstars and project sekai!

[sunshine-overload]

[BSTS] Heath Birthday 2025 4* Card Story

Chapter 1 -behind starless, day-

heath: You’re here pretty early today, Saki.

saki: Oh, Heath-san— Woah, what’s the occasion? You have so many bouquets with you.

heath: They’re for decorating the lobby. I was tasked with going to buy them. I couldn’t carry them all so the store lent me a cart, it would’ve been better if someone else came with me. Sorry for the trouble, but could you open the door for me?

saki: Of course. Do you want me to carry some of the bouquets too?

heath: No, it’s fine. I’m only going to be pushing it to the office.

saki: Right. It’s probably best not to disturb the pile either. They might all fall out.

heath: Ah, actually, could you hold onto this for me? It’s a plum tree branch.

saki: Oh, sure. Will this be displayed in the lobby as well?

heath: No, it’s just something that I picked up myself at the nearby shrine. It caught my eye, I thought it was pretty.

saki: Woah, you’re right, the flowers are in bloom. It is the season for it after all.

heath: On the top of calendars February is marked as Spring, but it doesn’t really feel like it when it’s still this cold.

saki: Risshun, right? The fourth of February is the beginning of Spring according to the traditional Japanese calendar.

heath: Yeah. It falls near my birthday, so I remember it well. Risshun is always printed on the calendar, so whenever I see that it’s coming up I remember my own birthday is coming up as well.

saki: Isn’t that lovely? It’s as if your birthday is bringing Spring to us.

heath: As if I’m… bringing Spring? That’s a nice thought. I can announce the coming of Spring to you.

-time pass, office-

heath: Thank you for helping me out. Um, I actually have one other thing I’d like you to help me with, is that alright?

saki: Sure, what is it?

heath: I have another duty that I need to fulfill. For the rest of the month I’m going to be your butler, so I want to create a nice and relaxing atmosphere that ‘my lady’ will enjoy.

-

Chapter 2 -office-

saki: (Heath-san is taking a while to come back to the floor, I hope everything is ok.)

-cg

heath: Sorry for making you wait, I couldn’t find the pruning shears anywhere, so getting things ready has taken me longer than expected. I wanted to cut the plum tree branch down so I can display it in a vase.

saki: Wow, what a good idea.

heath: I’ve never done this sort of thing before though, so I’d like for you to check everything looks nice for me. The branch is so thin, so I need to be careful with where I cut it… Like this, I think?

saki: That looks good, if you cut the other side down a little bit more too everything will be balanced.

heath: Got it. Next I need to pick a vase that compliments its height… How about this one?

saki: Ah, that one’s perfect!

heath: Alright, it’s complete. Thanks, Saki. I’ll display this vase.

saki: Fufu, I’m glad it turned out nicely.

heath: Having you watching was a big help. This sort of thing is surprisingly fun. I was a little nervous while making the cuts though.

saki: You must be even more pleased that it turned out well then.

heath: Not being able to redo it once it’s been cut. It was a similar type of nervousness to that before getting on the stage. I want to make sure I entertain you with both my shows and my hospitality.

saki: Heath-san…

heath: Call out to me once the store is open. I’ll escort you to your table that’ll be decorated with these plum blossoms.

-starless restaurant area-

heath: Welcome home, my lady. Please come right this way. I prepared this vase in order to bring Spring to you. Is it to your liking?

saki: Thank you for such a lovely arrangement of blossoms. It really feels as though Spring has bloomed.

heath: I’m glad. I’m not very good at this butler service thing, but I’m glad I tried to do something for it in my own way. Your smile just now was the best present I could have received. This has become an unforgettable birthday.

saki: Same here. Happy birthday, Heath-san.

heath: Thank you. As thanks I will grant you anything that you’d like, your wish is my command.

-heath steps closer-

heath: Say, my lady. Did I sound like a proper butler just now?

—end

[sunshine-overload]

[BSTS] Menou Birthday 2025 4* Card Story

Chapter 1 -starless restaurant area-

-menou bows-

menou: Welcome home, my lady. I am most glad to see you have returned. After all, you are my one and only master. Ah, wait, if I speak to you like this I’ll be scolded again.

saki: Scolded? By who?

menou: The head butler. He’s always been especially strict with me. Nevermind that though, would you like to have something to eat?

saki: Yes, let’s see… I’m not sure which dessert to order.

menou: In that case how about I guess what it is that you can’t decide between? Hmm… You’re wavering between ordering the roll cake or the mousse, correct?

choice: that’s right / that’s wrong

>that’s right

saki: Wow! You guessed right!

menou: I thought so. I’ve been serving you for as long as I can remember, so I can tell what you’re thinking, my lady.

saki: As long as you can remember…?

menou: Fufu, please take your time to decide which dessert you’d like to order. That way I can stay by your side longer. Ah, the head butler is glaring at me. He hates it when I cling to you.

saki: Who is the head butler?

menou: Say, my lady, that guy must be convinced that I’m just ignoring my work, right?

saki: Huh? Um, I suppose so…?

menou: Speaking of, have you decided which dessert you’d like?

saki: Yes, I have. I’d like to order this please.

menou: Understood. I shall bring it out to you, so please wait a moment.

-menou bows-

menou: —My lady. We’ll be celebrating my birthday together today, won’t we? Just the two of us. You suggested we do so the other day, remember?

saki: Of course I’ll celebrate with you. But, I’m not sure I recall we had a conversation like that…?

menou: We did. On that beautiful night with the full moon illuminating us. I was so happy that I couldn’t get a wink of sleep that night. I’ll be waiting for you at the place we agreed on. I trust that you’ll come.

-menou leaves-

saki: N-night with the full moon…?

saki: (There isn’t a head butler and we never made any plans…)

saki: …Could it be that Menou-san has been acting this entire time?

-

Chapter 2 -break room-

-menou bows-

menou: I’m sorry for the wait, my lady. Were you able to slip out without the head butler noticing you?

saki: Um… Yes, I think we should be fine.

menou: That’s good. If he knew that I’d taken you away from the house he’d scold me again. So, now that we’re finally all alone, you’ll wish me a happy birthday, yes?

saki: Of course. Happy birthday, Menou-san.

menou: Thank you. Fufu, I’m so happy. I really wanted to hear you say that. Ever since I was a child I haven’t had anyone but you, my lady.

saki: Um, Menou-san…

menou: Yes, what is it?

saki: This is all an act, right?

-menou looks surprised for a moment-

menou: Ahaha, so you already noticed? I wanted to become your butler, so that’s what I’ve been acting as. The setting is that I’ve been your butler ever since I was young, serving you as we grew up alongside each other.

saki: I knew it! I didn’t remember making plans and no one here is a head butler, I wasn’t following at all so I was surprised.

menou: And yet, you still played along, didn’t you? It made me happy. It’s been fun in a refreshing way. I’ve played butler roles in our shows before, but I’ve never been able to act alongside you directly before.

-cg

menou: Sigh, I wish my break would end sooner.

saki: Huh? But didn’t your break just start?

menou: Every second spent on my break is a waste. Since I only get to be a butler for the duration of this month, right? My butler and you as his master only get to meet for this one month. 

saki: It’s because you want to keep acting then? That’s just like you, Menou-san. However, the store has been busy, hasn’t it? Please rest properly while you can.

menou: Oka~y.

-cg gone

menou: Well, it’s not like I mind being on break whilst you’re with me. I’ve had fun acting with you, it’s the best birthday present I could’ve received. Have you enjoyed it too?

saki: Well, it’s not like I’ve had any acting experience outside of this.

menou: You’ll keep up the present then, right? Once we’re back in the hall I’d like for you to be my master who is also my childhood friend. That’s ok with you, isn’t it? My cute lady. My one and only.

—end

-

other choice:

>that’s wrong 

saki: Oh, uh, no. I was looking at the pudding or the chocolate cake.

menou: That’s strange. It’s rare that I get something wrong when it comes to you, my lady. I must not have trained diligently enough. I’ll make sure to observe you more intently from now on.

saki: Huh? More intently…!?

menou: Fufu, please take your time to decide which dessert you’d like to order. That way I can stay by your side longer.

[sunshine-overload]

[BSTS] Sinju S6CH1 5* Reward Card Story

Chapter 1

-rehearsal room-

rindou: We’ll stop here for today. Good work.

-rindou leaves-

menou: Sinju, are you ok?

sinju: (panting) I’m— I’m fine… I just need to lay down for a bit.

menou: Yeah, you do that. I’m at my physical limit too…

nekome: Maica, could you pass me my water bottle pwease~?

maica: Could you not say that in such a cutesy tone? It’s annoying. Here, take it.

-throws water bottle at him-

nekome: What, was I too direct?

menou: Only cats are allowed to think that they’re cute enough to get anything they want~

nekome: How come I’m getting dissed now!?

sinju: Heheheh…

maica: Here, Sinju. Make sure you drink some water too.

sinju: Thanks. Sorry for making you bring me the bottle.

maica: Don’t forget to pace yourself. If your body is exhausted then you won’t be able to concentrate properly either.

sinju: Yeah… Just trying to give it my all is making me go in circles. I’m aware of that myself.

menou: You were aware of it? I thought you just hadn’t noticed.

maica: Menou.

sinju: I’m aware of it but I got impatient that I wasn’t improving. I really haven’t grown at all. I’m sorry to all of you as well, you always have to help me out.

menou: I don’t mind acting the same part over and over, it’s fun. But are you really ok with things continuing like this, Sinju?

sinju: No, it’s not good. I need to pull myself together…

maica: That’s not the problem here. You’re worried about something right? You can talk to us, you know.

sinju: You guys…

nekome: Yeah, how would you two overcome Sinju’s problem? You should try telling him. You two would try and adapt to how Rindou is doing things right now, wouldn’t you?

maica: Well yeah, but I can understand being worried about him. You can never fully understand what another person is thinking. I would just keep singing as I always have though.

menou: I’m not hard on myself so I don’t know. There’s not really anything I’d need to overcome. However, acting with Rindou the way he is at the moment is really fun.

nekome: Someone who only cares about singing and someone who only cares about acting huh…

sinju: You guys are both amazing, you’re so dedicated.

nekome: Of course that’s the part you’d admire, Sinju.

sinju: What, it’s cause it really is amazing. Alright, looks like I can move again. I’m gonna go shower, see ya.

-sinju leaves-

menou: How come you didn’t give your own input, Nekome? About how you’d overcome something.

nekome: Cause I never take things too seriously anyways.

maica: Are you sure it’s not cause you’re scared? You know that you’re not someone dependable, right?

nekome: Hey now~ No need to stab me where it hurts!

-

Chapter 2

-starless backrooms-

nekome: Hey, Saki-chan. Could you come with me for a bit?

saki: Where to?

sinju: To where Sinju is. Something seems to be on his mind recently.

saki: Ok, sure thing.

nekome: Thanks, you’re a huge help~ I’m not confident the conversation will go well if it's just me talking to him.

-behind starless, evening-

nekome: Sorry to call you out to a place like this~

sinju: Ah, you can sit beside me on the curb here, Saki-chan. I’ll put my handkerchief down for you.

saki: Oh, you didn’t have to do that. Thank you.

sinju: Still, I didn’t think you two would want to talk to me together.

nekome: I asked Saki-chan to come along. I wanted to talk a bit about the state of Team P at the moment.

sinju: I’m always letting everyone see my weaknesses, so that’s why I figured I’d give it my all this time…

nekome: You are definitely trying your hardest, but I think it’s ok to reach out to those around you for help when you need it.

sinju: But I hadn’t memorised the choreography and you guys all saw that.

nekome: Oh come now, that’s no big deal. Back in the old Starless era I performed a show without knowing the choreography at all.

saki: Huh? You mean you just got onto the stage without knowing anything about the show?

sinju: Heh, I remember that. It was a performance of ‘The Light is Here’ wasn’t it?

nekome: Yeah! Sotetsu who played the role of the monster had ditched and back then Kasumi wasn’t around to save our asses.

sinju: And you had been skipping out on your lessons as the understudy, hadn’t you?

nekome: I just kept putting off learning it all until later that’s all.

saki: Oh no…! So then what happened after that?

nekome: It was a complete mess of a show so I don’t even remember it fully myself.

sinju: Mizuki ignored the script entirely and had one big fight scene with Nekome.

nekome: I thought it turned out fine, but I do feel bad for Ginsei. He was looking like he was at his wits end.

sinju: But still, in the end Rindou managed to pull everything together and make it a coherent show.

nekome: Yeah, he effortlessly broke up the fight like it was supposed to be part of the performance.

sinju: It was nothing short of magic. He really made it all seem like it was part of the stage direction. As expected of Team P’s leader, I— Oh, right… Right after that was when…

saki: Sinju-san?

sinju: Ah, oh, no it’s nothing. A lot happened at the previous Starless, that’s all.

nekome: In comparison the current Starless is way more earnest.

saki: I think that Sinju-san is working earnestly as well.

sinju: You two…

nekome: It’s already been five years since the reopening here. Anything that happened at old Starless was a long time ago.

sinju: You came back too, Nekome.

nekome: Yeah, I really am sorry about disappearing like that. I caused everybody all sorts of trouble. I didn’t even explain where I’d been yet you all accepted me back with open arms. I’m thankful for that. A lot happened between us too huh, Sinju? Like how we were double casted during ‘A Drop of a Secret’.

sinju: Back then I wasn’t feeling well and I caused a lot of trouble. I’m sorry about that.

nekome: Nah, that was nothing. I was the one that caused the most trouble for you all.

sinju: Huh? No that’s not true, I was way more…

saki: Fufu, it’s like you two are having an apology battle.

sinju: Now that you mention it, all we’re ever doing is apologising to each other. Thank you, you two, I ended up venting a bit but… I really was happy to hear that you think I’m earnestly working on myself. 

nekome: I’m glad I brought you along, Saki-chan. I don’t think we would’ve been able to come to a conclusion on our own.

sinju: That may be true. Thanks so much, Saki-chan.

-

(note: Team P’s show is based on the opera ‘Andrea Chénier’. Maddalena is the name of the heroine and Menou plays the role of a spy.)

-

Chapter 3

-alleyway, day-

menou: Hey, over here, Saki-chan~

saki: Ah, Men—

menou: Shh. Don’t say my name, you never know who could be listening.

saki: W-what do you mean?

menou: I’m a spy for the republican government remember? I can’t do my job anymore if my true identity is revealed.

saki: A spy for the… republican government…?

menou: Now that I’ve confirmed my target's crime we’re going to go and arrest him.

saki: Huh? What do you mean we? Wait a minute—

menou: Shh. Be quiet or they’ll spot us. Ok, let’s go, make sure you don’t let go of my hand. Come with me.

saki: (W-where are we going? I wonder if everything is ok… Hm?)

menou: Stop right there. Raise your hands above your head and don’t speak. That’s it, now turn around slowly.

-a shocked sinju turns around-

menou: Ta-daa. I caught the criminal.

sinju: Menou…! Don’t ‘ta-daa’ me!

menou: What? I’m a republican spy, I must seize those who are on my target list. Look, I already caught Maddalena as well.

sinju: You’re taking the act too far, Menou! I’m sorry he dragged you along, Saki-chan.

saki: Ahaha, I missed my chance to get away and ended up coming along.

sinju: It’s ok to refuse, you know. You’re always way too nice, Saki-chan.

menou: Hm? Sinju? You’re looking a little more fired up. Have you stopped worrying about whatever was on your mind? Usually you’re all depressed if P’s mood is bad.

sinju: You really don’t mince your words do you, Menou? I am still a bit conflicted but I think I'll keep trying my best even more than before. Right, Saki-chan?

saki: Yes. You’re earnestly doing your best.

sinju: I’m going to aim to make sure I do everything properly. So, let’s switch. Here, Saki-chan, let go of Menou’s hand and take mine instead. Let’s go, I’ll help you escape from the spy’s grasp!

-they run off together-

menou: Ah, they got away! I was tricked~

-

(note: Sinju plays the role of Roucher, who is a good friend of Chénier (played by Maica) while Nekome plays the role of Bersi, originally a woman but genderbent for the Starless version, he is Maddalena's servant/butler.)

-

Chapter 4 

-rehearsal room-

sinju: Thanks for coming early to practice with me, Nekome.

nekome: No worries, this is nothing. Is it ok if the spy Menou isn’t here for our scene though?

sinju: It’s fine. I want to focus on my own role anyways.

sinju: (takes deep breath)

sinju: "—Bersi, why are you still at Maddalena’s side?"

nekome: (That isn’t one of his lines… Is he doing a character study? I see.)

-bloomed cg

sinju: "That woman is no longer a noble, so you should also have no need to remain a noble’s servant."

nekome: "Because she is the one that I must serve. Whether she is a noble or not does not matter."

-scene change-

sinju: "Chénier is not the kind of man who would lay down his life in a struggle with the revolutionary army!"

nekome: "All I wish is for my lady to be happy. That is the only way I can repay her for her kindness, and is my only wish."

-scene change-

sinju: "Is there really a path that leads to your master and my best friend’s happiness?"

nekome: "There was, if that damn traitor Gérard did not interfere."

sinju: "Traitor?"

nekome: "The man who threw himself into the revolution and set spies loose all over Paris in order to take my lady for himself. If that doesn’t make him a traitor, then what else am I supposed to call him!?"

-cg gone-

nekome: …Sorry, I went a bit overboard.

sinju: Right, I don’t get the feeling that Gérard is a traitor.

nekome: I said it without thinking… I’m gonna take a short break.

sinju: It happens, we were going through all the scenes continuously after all. Here, water.

nekome: Thanks.

sinju: Thank you too. I feel as though I’ve finally found my own version of Roucher.

nekome: Wouldn’t practicing with Rindou have been better?

sinju: Nah, if I were practicing with Rindou I’d probably try to act above my abilities and push myself too hard. Not to mention Rindou has already perfected his Gérard.

nekome: You really do trust Rindou, don’t you? Or rather, you really respect him.

sinju: I’ve always admired Rindou. I want to catch up to him, so I need to work on myself.

nekome: So you’re saying it’s not just simply respect?

sinju: I don’t know, I just—

-flashback, rehearsal room-

rindou: I want to create a new Team P.

-present, rehearsal room-

sinju: I also want to aim for creating a new Team P. No matter where that goal ends up taking us.

—end