#ss mao’s story

[buddyfunnyspendtime]

howdo I start this ok mao is kind of like one of those people who as a kid is seen as more mature. Due to neglect from parents who think their child is mature and does not nessacarily need support or praise because he can handle himself

when mao was a kid he didn't like to lose (something that can be seen as childish) but he didn't like to win either so he wouldn't hurt anyone (I Don't think a lot of kids think about aftermath feelings when it's just a game) so he was okay with placing 2nd/3rd if mao doesn't hurt people and doesn't cause a conflict then he can be liked and more approachable and possibly even be praised

I Don't think maos care and love for taking caring of others and handling things on his own is entirely based off of his want and enjoyment of praise but it definitely plays somewhat of a part in it; he just generally loves people. he's willing to push aside his own feelings for them

I think the real question though is does mao love himself?

Fast forward to first year mao and this guy is well Still acting mature but the thing is that he meets trickstar which compared to him seems more childish but that is exactly what mao needs. To be childish

trickstar allows mao to be childish and have a dream. mao is growing up yes and growing up is seen as becoming more mature but for mao to grow up he needs to become more childish. To have and chase after a dream and be more selfish and break away from being kind of empty from what maturity has given him is what being in trickstar gives to mao

mao is already warm to others but trickstar gave him the fuel to be warm to himself

to be warm to yourself isn't really something you can perfectly accomplish over night it's moreso about growing to take yourself into account too A person who gives constantly is someone who also needs to give just as much to themselves. you have to burn to be warm and you have to learn how to control that fire over time. build a row of campfires mao and come back to me when you're done

[collectorcookie]

I AM HOME AGAIN. Ok so part two of trickstar dynamics: anzu edition. I already kinda made one but it was more about anzu's past sooo it doesn't count.

Anzu and subaru: THE BESTIEEESSS I LOVE THEM SO MUCH THEY ARE SO CUTE. When trickstar was still a very new unit subaru was like "man i wish we had our own uniforms. Wouldn't that be cool" (because at yumenosaki academy having your own uniforms instead of the standard ones provided by the academy meant that 1. you're hot shit aka important and popular enough to have a specific image and 2. you're hot shit enough aka rich enough to be able to afford your own costume). And then anzu is just like "My boy? Wants something?? My bestie? Wishes for uniforms??" And then she SINGLEHANDEDLY learns sewing from kuro in like a week and makes the trickstar uniforms. And subaru could cry from joy.

And much later subaru got some job where he has to wear a suit but he's never worn suits so he asks super model sena for help, and sena is like "well what kind of suit do you wanna wear" and after a long time of thinking, the only thing he came up with was a suit made specifically by anzu for him. That's all he wanted agshetekwhdghr. But anzu was pretty busy so he settled for a suit that was approved by her.

And when they ended up in the industry anzu made him the super sparkly outfit and i KNOW everyone hates that card because of the missions BUT that card has a special place in my heart because even after their early high school days, even after subaru won the ss and trickstar became super popular and anzu became a very important producer in ES (going as far as being a part of P. Association), subaru still adores and appreciates outfits made by her specifically asdffkslagdkfjw.

Also Pretty sure that anzu was one of the few characters where subaru dropped his happy-ultra-cheerful persona to open up to her, being all like "You know anzu, sometimes i feel like half of my emotions are straight up missing". Ouch. He doesn't do that often! If at all!! He trusts her enough to do that!!!!

There's more to say but there's already another post that goes into more details about this (i will reblog it after this but how on earth can you link someone else's post on here)

Anzu and mao: you may have seen or noticed how mao is always like "omg no don't touch anzu that's sexual harrassment" to completely normal affection between friends and thought to yourself "The hell is wrong with this dude". And like, i can only speculate why he's like this but it's probably due to anzu's first experiences at yumenosaki. Poor girl got transferred into a school of boys committing crimes against each other, got kicked in the face (with koga's full body weight), fainted, got a concussion, went to the infirmary, got sexually harrassed by one of the teachers (seriuosly what the hell jin), then got followed around and pressured by a playboy (past kaoru was uhhh...something). Rei ended up finding her and just...hiding her in a cupboard. And later on rei finds mao and is like "hey you. I hid your girl in the cupboards" and mao's bewildered at this statement. And rei continues with "yeah you should probs go pick her up or something". Mao then goes and to his surprise, he actually finds her in the cupboards, terrified and exhausted.This is the context to this very lovely mao illustration:

(Mao's first 5* is literally "let's take ibuprofen together, producer" heeelllpp)

Mao ends up always walking her home after this by the way, to the point where he sometimes eats lunch with her family. (Sometimes the other trickstar memebrs walk her too but most often it's Mao) So yeah, that could be the reason why he's so sensitive anytime someone gets close to anzu. He's just really overprotective of her.

(I will entirely ignore all the more fanservicey stuff that occasionally happens between anzu and mao in the early stories because...it just...feels so ooc for mao. And completely unnecessary in general) however anzu is also very fond of mao, as we see in !-era ss, where anzu notices that mao is beating himself up for not being enough for trickstar and so she goes to his room to specifically cheer him up and reassure him when he wakes up

Anzu and hokuto: ooohhh my gooood, the scene where he goes to visit anzu in the infirmary after she got hurt and fainted and he. He just. He just feels so bad for her getting hurt and then starts this whole ass monologue about why he dragged her into this. This huge monologue where he just lets out all his anger at yumenosaki's state and hopes and dreams for the future and how she gave him hope but he burdened and expected too much of her right at the beginning. AND SHE WAS AWAKE THE WHOLE TIME WITHOUT HIM KNOWING. And his speech just motivates her to actually ally herself with trickstar because she wants things to change for the better too.

And then waaay later she faints again from exhausting herself too much and hokuto notices how much she has been doing, not just for trickstar but as a producer in general. And so to lighten her burdens and to prove to her that they have grown as a unit and do not need to rely on her the whole time, he revokes his rights to participate in the SS. Listen to me. I want you to understand that as a unit, trickstar established itself to prove that change is possible. The entire main storyline in ! is about them beating eichi's ass in DDD. And DDD is such a huge deal because it determines which unit is allowed to participate in SS as a representative. And SS is a huuuuge national tournament for idols sorta thing. So when hokuto goes to eichi being all like "hey mr. president, i revoke my rights to participate in the SS", eichi (who has been supporting trickstar ever since they beat him in DDD because SS is far more important than DDD) straight up grabs hokuto and screams at him something along the lines of "HOKUTO ARE YOU /SRS OR /J???? YOUR GIRL FAINTS ONCE AND THIS IS HOW YOU BEHAVE???!!! SHE'S NOT WITH YOU FOR ONE TIME AND YOU STEP DOWN, YOU FREAKING COWARD?? DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA HOW IMPORTANT OF AN EVENT SS IS". And hokuto, still very straight faced and expressionless, simply states "oh i'm not stepping down. I want trickstar to fight more live battles to rewin our rights to represent yumenosaki in SS. Both to prove to everyone that trickstar really is suited for this, and to prove for anzu that she doesn't need to always worry about us anymore." Do you have any idea how much i wanted to howl at the moon after reading that.

By the way this is also the context for this one wataru illustration who was also in the council room at the time:

(When you watch your boyfriend grab your bestie by the neck and your bestie says the most jawdropping shit you've ever heard)

Anzu and Makoto: this is actually a lot more of a relaxed and chill dynamic than i expected. Most of their early interactions are just makoto being "oh my god i'm so afraid of girls i have never talked to a girl in my entire life what even are girls" and then anzu would be like "but i am one?" and makoto's just "HOLY SHIT YOU'RE RIGHT". Anyways after makoto builds a little self esteem it looks like him and anzu just start sharing a braincell sometimes. Like that one moment in finder girl event story where mao is super worried that no one will help him, and the makoto anzu duo don't even talk to each other, they just exchange looks and think to themselves "this guy has no idea that everyone in yumenosaki would help him huh". Fun times.

[dailyhelldorm]

[TL][Eichi Feature Scout] Compass in the Heavenly Sky/Chapter 1

Scenario Writer: Yuumasu Character: Eichi, Wataru, Tori, Yuzuru, Hokuto, Subaru, Makoto, Mao, Tatsumi, Hiyori, Hajime, Ritsu Season: Winter

Summary: Because of the continuous postponements, Eichi's turn to have his Exclusive Outfit comes quite late. While pondering his costume design choice, he goes out for a walk to have a change of pace...

Directory: Chapter 1 | Chapter 2

[Part 1 ♪]

Location: Meeting Room

Eichi: Even though we are busily preparing for the special 'SS' on New Year,

But I am delighted that none of our 'FLAVOR' members failed to attend our activities like this.

Hiyori: When I hear this will be our last meeting for the year, there is no way I will decline this occasion. It will be boring if the main character isn’t here, isn't that right ♪

Ritsu: That's right. Along with all the delicious desserts from your own private patissier too.

Being together with someone who enjoys idle chit-chatting and having a back-and-forth conversation is pleasant~

Hajime: Fufu. The five of us can come together like this, it is truly a nice thing... ♪

Lately, every meeting always has someone who can’t attend. I understand that it can't be helped, but looking at the empty spot makes me feel a little heavyhearted.

Tatsumi: You are right. The five of us make 'FLAVOR'.

Next year will be busy as well, so I would like us to have the time and spend together like this.

Eichi: Of course, that’s my intention. If not, my mind and body will start yearning for it.

Even superman needs a break too.

... As for this year, there were a lot of things that have happened as well. There are idols from different agencies here, so I ought to rephrase my reflecting words nicelyー

But I am happy that one of our procedures has now reached its final stage.

Part of the managing team of ES appeared to have been looking down on Producer-chan, they said things like ‘Is it even possible to make all Exclusive Outfits for every idol?’ or ‘Won't this plan end up falling apart?’

She is not your ordinary everyday girl, and once again they have had to realize that fact... ♪

Hajime: You mentioned the 'Exclusive Outfit', but Eichi-oniichan still hasn't had his yet, right?

Based on your standpoint, will you undoubtedly end up being the last one? Did Producer-san discuss it with you?

Eichi: She asked for my advice long before, when she was still drafting the Exclusive Outfits plan. ‘Public faces of ES like Tenshouin Eichi should be the first on the list’ is quite a probable suggestion.

But starting with me might create some kind of unwanted political schemes. So to deliberately avoid it, I left Producer-chan in charge of everything.

She considered how busy I was, so that girl let me decide my own timing to make the Exclusive Outfit.

I have been postponing it because I want to take into other people’s outfits as references. But I guess it is about time now.

Since all the same in the end, people might begin to suspect me if I am the last on the final performers’ list[1].

Location: STAR PRO Office (Conference Area)

Eichi: … ... ...

… 'Merry Christmas ♪'

Fufu…

(Watching Branco's PV warms my heart. My fatigue melts away just like the white snow.)

(I want to continue watching, but it's time to get back to my work.)

… ... ...

(... Today's tea party was fun. It has been a while since we had an endless chat like that.)

(It’s nice to hear the stories behind everyone’s Exclusive Outfits. Although Ritsu-kun has teased me about it. 'You're really craving for this huh~?' he said.)

(I can't help it, now can I? Other than Ritsu-kun, people won’t come and discuss their outfits with me.)

(Me too, I want people to come and talk to me casually as well. But considering my status, they might find it hard to consult me.)

(I feel a little bit resentful toward my position now.)

(... Ah, right. About my Exclusive Outfitー)

(Like what I said before, it’s about time for me to contemplate it.)

(Producer-chan told me to think about it whenever I have spare time, but if I do what she said, my outfit will never be finished.)

(This job is also one of the approaches to hype ES up, so it is quite a prominent work. I should put in some effort and come up with something.)

(... Yet, I am in a scramble now. Whenever I open the sketchbook, I can’t think of anything.)

(The only thing inside my mind is all the Exclusive Outfits I have seen until now.)

(Some people expressed their ideal individuality, some showed their true earnest selves, some considered their fans’ feelings… Everything was converted through each and every outfitー)

(And created their one and only Exclusive Outfits in this world.)

(The next one will be me. What is the thing that fits the image of the idol ‘Tenshouin Eichi’…?)

… ... ...

(... Keep gazing at the ceiling won’t get me anywhere. I need a walk to expand my mind.)

[End of Part 1 ☆]

Directory: Chapter 1 | Chapter 2

Translator’s note:

[1]: The word being used here is Ootori 大トリ. This is a word for when the performers are divided into groups (such as Kohaku Uta Gassen), the last performer of the later group will be the Ootori of the show. The word can also be meant for the biggest performer, as the big stars often appear late. Like Rei's TS2.

[neptunite-stars]

for @ophanem's shuffle unit game thing! (i am so late) theyre not in order or anything i just kinda. put them there. anyway

natsume - event 5* (center) tsukasa - gacha 5* mama - event 4* ibara - gacha 4* mao - event 4*

thoughts under the cut :')

i didnt really have an idea at first and then i thought of like. magicians. maybe theyre like. doing a promotional video or something for a franchise idk i didnt think this far but the theme of it is magicians and magic!! i was thinking maybe of having like two "schools" of magic, them being school of aura (emotions and other intangible things) and school of illusion (apparations and other tangible things)

mao and mama would be in the "aura" group (because. happiness. does this make sense) and then tsukasa and ibara would be in "illusion" i didnt know what to do for natsume at first but maybe he could fit in both schools of magic? hmm. now that im thinking about it maybe its a promo vid for some video game. yeah. (dont talk to me about ss or whatever happened in the shinsekai tour story thing. i know jack shit okay) BUT ANYWAY i think itd be cool if the shuffle name went something along the lines of aura and illusion.

going on with the thought of game promo video... maybe its like. an rpg? i was thinking maybe a visual novel but then my thought process went a bit too close to what was going on with date plan AtoZ so anyway! the promo vid would probably have them all be dressed in their characters' outfits but itd be more. ykno. cohesive. im trying to think of plot but aksjdhfmxcnbvnxzbcvmnb

hmmm.... while doing the promo video natsume has to act like his character but for some reason the way they want him to act feels stiff and uncomfortable for him. tsukasa would help him a lot with this i think (them also being leaders in new-di helps with the connection part of this) but im. im pulling blanks right now. uh. ibara and mao are there on the sidelines and their roles are pretty much fit for them and mama is having the BEST time there because his character is a paladin-type class and like. he gets to protect people and take care of them. ykno. a mama thing. uh. hmm. maybe the groups are not magic schools and theyre more of. domains (can you tell that im makign thsi up as i go) ranger mao and rogue ibara and fighter tsukasa. WHY AM I HTINKING ABOUT THIS IN DND TERMS. IM FINE> anyway maybe antsume is like. an artificer. thats a tricky class. like a craftsperson. finicky gameplay but satisfying once you get it right? my mind is all over the place. and the character natsume has to act as is very different to how he usually holds himself, like heart on sleeve bubbly character? every other character was a perfect fit for the other idols and natsume feels like although he's the leader that hes not fit for this job and hes like. his usual self about that when stuff happens like that. does that even make sense IT MAKES SENSE IN MY MIND!! its like when hes like all sulky and reserved i promise i know stuff about him but liike i cant think right now so TAKE IT this is all i have

[scotts-takes]

Ended up going to 7.5 million this event to get Tomoya’s SCR outfit. I had to draw this gacha a bunch to max out 3 star Hiiro, and got a bunch of Maos for a bonus that got me to commit to it. Can’t wait to read this story…when I’m caught up with the rest of SS!

[clockworkspider]

soob ☆

favorite thing about them: Subaru really has no reservation when it comes to seeking affection and attention and I gotta admire him for that.

least favorite thing about them: Okay honestly the fact that he derails every topic is quirky and charming but it makes his stories really hard to read.

favorite line: When Trickstar was introduced in ES!! main plot, Makoto was fixing Subaru's makeup. Mao asks why Subaru doesn't do his own makeup. Subaru said "Just because I can do something doesn't mean I want to do it myself. I feel better when soeone else does things for me! I want to feel loved!" My jaw dropped. I just met this kid. He's like... a cat and a dog combined. This level of shameless affection seeking... I wanna spoil him.

brOTP: Trickstar forever. Also I find his friendship with Chiaki very precious. His friendship with Eichi is also really fascinating? I also wanna see him interact more with Nagisa, they're kind of siblings in a sense after all.

OTP: I don't exactly ship them but I think he and Hokke and Anzu are very cute together.

nOTP: Don't have one.

random headcanon: This is probably canon and I just haven't read it. But I'd like to imagine he points out the big dipper to Hokuto every time they see the stars being like "Hokke it's you!"

unpopular opinion: I think... due to being the unofficial protagonist & mascot, Subaru's personal relationships are actually pretty shafted and less developed than other major characters. I mean I know it could have been worse. There are characters with less events. I just feel like he's not as connected as most other characters outside of his own unit. Also. I actually feel like the anime owed Trickstar more spotlight in general. This is me having read SS. I know some people complain that Trickstar got too much spotlight in the anime, but the anime was following the main plot, which is Trickstar's plot. Their story deserves proper attention and development. Instead I think what the anime did was that it just barely gave enough screentime to Trickstar to pull the main plot through, and gave more focus to other characters every chance it could get. I understand the creative decision but it made Trickstar harder to like. Yeah this is the only time where I'm complaining that the protagonist didn't get enough spotlight/relationship developments... I can't believe I'm here either.

song i associate with them: I think, outside of Trickstar songs themselves, I'd actually associate Subaru with Owl City songs? They sparkle. They're also very saccharine and a bit sad, which is very Subaru-core.

favorite picture of them: Your honour he's stupid. No. I'm just... he's such a kid. I love him.

[a-few-wet-blankets]

Watch me never follow through on writing any of these ideas

WAIT WHY R PEOPLE FOLLOWING ME HELP U KNOW THIS IS A PISS ACC RIGHT???

But ty for following uh. hmu if u want to talk abt piss <3 i turned on the asks thing (is that what it's called????? idk how to use tumblr help) ur free to req hehe

I have. A few ideas. Maybe I'll write them when I have time/motivation but for now I'll list them here

Next complete thing coming up would probably be a collective omo hc post for all of Crazy:B! If. I have enough brainpower to finish it.

Sooo first idea.... Kohaku canonically asks HiMERU to take him to the bathroom during the Spider Halloween story, because he's scared of the dark... When they get to the bathroom, Rinne jumpscares Kohaku and Kohaku basically tries to murder Rinne.... but from the translation I saw, it didn't say anything about Kohaku actually taking a piss so.... hehe (And I might make a y/n version where y/n takes Kohaku to the bathroom instead)

Second idea, remember when Makoto got kidnapped and was trapped in one of the rooms for who knows how long? Like I honestly don't know how long he was in there but..... you have to piss eventually.

A few ideas not based on the story, but third idea... Jun having to go, but not being able to for hours because he has a live (the SS live against Trickstar?) and he either barely makes it or is forced to pee in a corner because his muscles give out (the fact that Eden's unit outfit has white pants too... hehe) .... an addon for this as a y/n version (who maybe helped him try to find a bathroom in the first place), he could be in a hotel afterwards with y/n, and sleep in the same bed as they do.... only to find that he wet the bed overnight when he wakes up because his bladder was overstretched from the day before (lots of hurt/comfort for poor Jun I feel bad)

Fourth idea.... something with Niki having to go and using a bottle, but the bottle is nowhere close enough and he has to stop, but he's not even close to finishing even after filling the whole bottle, so he has to pray he can find somewhere else to go (maybe a convenient potted plant...?)

Fifth idea (the second Mao idea), Trickstar is using a bus to travel... and that wouldn't have been a problem if he hadn't fallen asleep and woken up needing to pee, badly. There's no bathroom on the bus either. Y/n is sitting next to him, and has to help him pee into a bottle or towel.....

Sixth idea (ish?), personally, I'd just like to see how an Adonis or Kuro omo fic would go.... Adonis doesn't seem like someone who would vocally or physically show his need, nor does Kuro....

(istg u can tell my taste in omo fics alr... am I really that bland....?)

[shesthespinstersimmer]

Holiday in Sulani (Pt1): Mao & Camille regretfully wrap up their holiday vacation with best friend Virginia. They really have to do this more often.

[spinstersimmer]

Third wheel (Pt 2)?? Sally moves in with her friends Mao & Camille - and learns a little bit more about their home life

(Shout out to @bobur-tsr @obscurus-sims @peachiesims @lynxsimz and more for helping to bring my beings to life 🖤🤘🏾)

[tsukaramachi]

I'm excited to see more arts/story about artist boy! Curious what his name will be (I can kinda see him as an Oliver maybe haha). Also his name is Mao, the guy from Code Geass! It's one of my favorite anime lol ^^ actually, have you or any of your followers heard of Inu x Boku. The guy I would say has some yandere (or at least obsessive) traits. He might be more fleshed out in the manga idk. The characters are half youkai and it's pretty enjoyable (search up the 'switch' scene on youtube lol)

Thanks for letting me know the guy's name from Code Geass! (Now I can rewatch the clip if I can find it lol. But I used to watch it all the time when I was a kid since it played on Adult Swim at night) But I love Inu X boku SS!!! (when I bought the first volume when I was in middle school from a bookstore I was so embarrased by the cover lol and I spooked some of my friends at school since they thought it was super sexual from the cover) the art style and characters are very likable. Tho the Manga was confusing near the end haha. Also I had a small crush on Soushi before since he had pretty white hair and it became worse when he would transform lol. But I loved watching/reading his interactions with ririchiyo! To any of my followers I recommend watching this anime if you'd like to see some cute couples/fun intersctions. When I made Ayako and Haruto, I was more influenced by Kamisama Kiss and kakuriyo no yadomeshi! These two anime are also about yokai characters but mainly a human female protag interacting with the spirit world and yokai. There isn't any yandere characters but some came off as a yandere in kamisama kiss, though only for a bit haha. They're both an anime, but one is originally a Manga series and the other a light novel.

[the-real-xmonster]

reading your blog makes me feel so bad for liking shoma, dai and yuna, seeing as you're the fs expert here and you have influence... do you think people should stop liking these skaters? i feel almost guilty for liking them when i read that you dislike them...

Wait what? Why should my personal opinion have any impact on your personal opinion? They’re, you know, personal opinions. 

When I talk about flaws here or there that I see in someone’s skating I never mean for those discourses to be interpreted as “please stop liking these people because they suck”. Have you ever heard me talk technical about Evgenia Medvedeva? And Mao Asada? I haven’t talked much about Sasha Cohen on this blog because she has retired for a long time now but if you want to hear me criticizing her jump technique you only have to ask and I can do it all day. While we’re at it, I love Shizuka Arakawa and did you know she had one of the most horrible cases of the wrong flip edge? Carolina Kostner, lordy, she and her completely detrimental inability to skate a clean FS. I adore Boyang Jin but dear god doesn’t that kid need to work on his SS and TR. Patrick Chan, why can’t he ever seem to get rid of his helicopter arms? I like Deniss Vasiljevs and Jason Brown but man, those kids don’t seem to be able to land a quad to save their lives. And what’s the deal with Javier Fernandez’s not-really-flip-not-really-Lutz huh? 

And here’s me bitching about Yuzuru Hanyu, it’s long, please read at your leisure.

Basically, I’m very good at finding flaws in people, but if that has a negative impact on your personal opinion then I’m afraid you’re misunderstanding me. I can tell you, for a fact, with absolute confidence, that those flaws are 99% of the time not the reason why I don’t like a certain skater. My reasons for like and dislike are all emotional and subjective, i.e., whether or not I can connect with their programs and relate to the stories they’re trying to tell me through their skates. If a skater is able to move you and make you fall in love more with the sport then they’re, most definitely, the right skater for you to like, regardless of their technical ability.

[momorabu]

28.01.2018

Ensemble Stars! Event Story - Kiseki★Blitzkrieg Autumn Live / Revenge Match (Part 1)

Decided to read this and translate this as I wanted to start reading the “SS” event story after that. (Still currently reading that though~ It’s a lot of chapters to read through~) Maybe there’s already a full translation floating around online but I just want to share my version of it as well as my thoughts about this story overall, since it’s about my favourite unit Trickstar and of course the new rival unit - Adam!

As the event story is really long, I’m splitting it into two parts. Below is Part 1.

Anyway as always, the summary of the story can be found below. Translation may not be 100% accurate due to my poor Japanese skills~

Prologue

Trickstar and “I” had arrived at Shuuetsu Academy, with Subaru stumbling over the pronunciation of the school name. We’ve been to many schools as the time went by, that Subaru found it hard to remember all the school names. He remarked that the school name sounds normal since as their main rival “Adam” studied here, Subaru had expected the school to have a name that sounds more badass, like “Genocide Academy”. (Which school would have such a scary and deadly name like this?! The government might even shut it down just because of the name seriously ^^;) Hokuto sighed and told Subaru that even though Adam is their enemy, it doesn’t mean that they’re evil, and Makoto added on that Adam is the brother unit of “Eve”, another unit which had defeated them badly during the Summer Live event. (You can click here (Part1) and here (Part 2) to read more about it!)

Makoto felt scared going up against Adam this time, which Mao said that he could understand his fear since it would definitely be a tough battle this time as Adam would not be any weaker than Eve for sure. He had thought that though it’s a high possibility that they might lose, they would definitely give in their all in this battle. Mao had wanted to test how much they’ve improved since their last battle with Eve, and if they managed to win this time, it would be a revenge to their defeat during Summer Live. It would also be a test to see how much they could fare in the SS at the end of the year, which they’ve planned on winning.

Hokuto was worried about “me” tagging along with them, telling “me” that it was actually alright for “me” to head back to the hotel and rest as we just had a long journey to come here. As the actual live event was to be held a week from now, Hokuto wished that “I” won’t tired “myself” out early in the week before the event had even started. Subaru started getting excited, exclaiming that this was the first that he gets to stay in a hotel for a long period of time even though Trickstar had been going out of school frequently to participate in battles. He even suggested that we have pillow fights and play trumps at night, which Hokuto dissed him that he’s treating this like a normal school trip ^^;

Hokuto noticed that the school seems to be really quiet on a Sunday, which may be a norm for most school, but for Yumenosaki Gakuen, the school was always lively with people and activities even on a Sunday usually. Their school had even held dreamfes on the weekends, which was the main reason why the school was even lively in those days. 

Makoto remembered that there isn’t any school council in Shuuetsu Academy, and thus there isn’t any need to carry out club activities usually. As the students’ schedules were was mostly managed by the school’s management agency, they won’t be able to carry out live events that were not official due to work, and thus it may be the norm that the school has no activities and is quiet on a weekend. Subaru wondered what the students would do on a Sunday if there are no club activities, thinking that they might just hang out with their friends instead. 

Makoto answered that a group of “elite students” exists in Shuuetsu Academy and its other affiliated academies (such as Reimei Academy too), and were considered the top elites in this school, being treated like an idol already at this point of time. Mao guessed that these students would definitely have all their schedules managed by the agency and thus it was hard for the different schedules to match in order to even have a common time to hold an event together. It was definitely a different “world” from Yumenosaki Gakuen now, where its club activities and other school rules where one had to be forced to participate in events would be considered as “nonsense” by the other schools.

Hearing Mao’s explanation, Makoto started to get even more worried about meeting Adam, thinking that perhaps conversing with them would be like talking to someone from another world. Since “I” had the contacts of Adam, Mao asked “me” to contact them to let them know that we’ve arrived, remarking that it seems that the other school doesn’t seem welcoming since there was nobody at the school gate to welcome them (which he added that he actually felt it was better this way since they could just spark their rivalry straight away... Don’t fight Mao ^^;) 

Another World / 異境: Chapter 1 - 3

We entered the school building, which Makoto remarked that the place seems like an abandoned ruin even though it was newly built due to the absence of people in it, even saying that it seems like something had happened which made everyone disappear... Mao noticed that Adam’s meeting room was right at the end of the corridor, and thus told us that we shall head over there for now. Realising that Adam even had their own meeting room, Hokuto deduced that Adam must be a group in a high position in the school, which Makoto answered that he had checked on it and knew that this was one of their benefits as the “elite students”.  (Well... They’re the top in the idol world for their age group so it’s kind of obvious... ^^;) Other than their own meeting room, the “elite students” also have their own practice rooms as well as their own personal facilities in various parts of the school. Mao was very impressed by such benefits since it was even hard for them to book a practice room usually in their own school ><” Makoto added on that the facilities and rooms were maintained and managed by other students in the school who were not elite students. The rooms were specially catered for the elite students to use for their idol activities, whereas the rest of the students were being treated as slaves, these were what Makoto had got to know from Jun. (Ooh, so the two of them did chat in private after the Summer Live event +W+)

Makoto explained that because of this system, the other students would work hard as they want to be one of the “elite students” too. Even though the Trickstar members might not agree with such a system, Hokuto urged them not to make a fuss about it since technically, they’re not students in Shuuetsu Academy anyway, and it would seem that they’re busybodies if they remarked that the school’s system is weird. However, Hokuto said that they might be able to prove to the world that Shuuetsu Academy’s system is wrong if they win at the SS, which may lead to the school to consider about changing their system later on. Mao remarked that as much as they might feel that Shuuetsu Academy’s system is wrong, he isn’t confident to say that Yumenosaki Gakuen’s system was 100% right either, as their schools operate like how a competitive society did with those dreamfes, which Mao knew that some of the students were still not used to it. What they should do now was to adapt to their new environment~

Suddenly, Tsumugi appeared in front of them, giving Subaru a shock. He was here as part of the support staff to work outside of the school, as the school had sent multiple teachers and students to help out as the support staff. Subaru remembered that it was a must for at least a teacher to tag along with them for any activities/events that were to be held out of school since Akiomi Sensei accompanied them during the Summer Live event. (But... Subaru... If you called Akiomi “Nugi Nugi” sensei, he’s going to be mad... *If I’m not wrong, it sounds like stripping sensei? OAO”*)

The support staff were called as Shuuetsu Academy had called for additional help, saying that if anyone was interested in tagging along was welcome to do so. They required additional staff to help out in the stage area and had also put up notices for part time jobs as well. Tsumugi had come along because he was in a close relationship with Nagisa from Adam in the past. and since Trickstar had lent Tsumugi a hand during the “Night of the Pleiades” (I haven’t read that event story yet though ><”), he decided to return the favour this time. He told us that Fushimi had tagged along too as he was being requested to by Eichi, (I guess it’s just Eichi’s order ^^;) and was helping us in tidying our luggage at the hotel that we’re going to stay in. Mao thought that it was a rare sight that Fushimi was not working under the order of Tori, but guessed that he must be unable to reject the request of Eichi ^^; (So I guess I was right in thinking that it sounds like an order ^^:)

As it seems that it was under Eichi’s order that we moved to a hotel that was under the management of Eichi’s family, Hokuto wondered perhaps this was a plan of Eichi to make such a change suddenly. 

(Hokuto remarked that Eichi must be thinking of an evil plan, to which Tsumugi could only give a weak smile and said that Eichi had totally be treated as an evil character by the others ^^; I guess Tsumugi probably doesn’t feel good that the others were talking about his friend like this ><”)

We started talking about the proposal which “I’ve” made for the Autumn Live event this time. As “I’ve” even titled the proposal as “Revenge Match!”, Tsumugi guessed that “I” must be motivated to give a revenge to Adam and Eve after Summer Live event. Subaru gave a weak smile and replied that it seems that “I” had gone through a hard time during the Summer Live event and thus all pumped up in preparing for the event this time. Hokuto felt that this event was a great chance for them to check how much of a difference in terms of their talents and skills differ from Eden, as by battling with Adam, they would be able to understand what they lack in and prepare even more for the upcoming SS.

Subaru noticed that Hokuto would speak in formal tone to Tsumugi, which Hokuto replied that he would respect those that deserve to be respected, as after all Tsumugi was considered a senior to them. However, he wondered why he was unable to speak in formal tone to Eichi, and guessed that rather than respecting him, Hokuto felt that he was probably looking down at Eichi most of the time OWO” (I like Tsumugi’s comment to himself XD “This child is too honest to the point that it’s brutal.”)

Tsumugi told them that Nagisa was probably someone who doesn’t really care if people talks to him formally or not, since even though he’s on par with Hiyori in terms of talents and skills, he’s someone who’s not really interested in the society, unlike Hiyori. If one were to describe them, Hiyori would be similar to a person from the royal family, whereas Nagisa is more like an animal, as one is hard to grab hold of what he’s thinking about and would rather be left alone for an entire day. Tsumugi had felt than Nagisa seems more alike to the five oddballs rather than a member of Fine, as he had a similar mentality as the five oddballs and doesn’t really care about following the rules of the society. 

Subaru started to get interested in meeting Nagisa after hearing about him being more alike to the five oddballs since he felt more at ease and confident in getting along well with him now. However, there’s a lack of information on Nagisa even when Makoto tried to check up on him, as even though there are interviews about him and social media where he’s active on, it sounds like he was just reading a script for the interview and someone was posting on the social media in his place. 

Mao urged us not to have a biased thinking about Nagisa before we had even met him, as it’s best for us not to comment on other people’s business without control being their guests. He remarked that he realised that the proposal had changed quite a lot from its original intent, as it initially seems to be planned as a battle against Adam. However, it’s something which Trickstar had to face one day since they would have to go against both Adam and Eve as Eden during the SS after all. (Well, since they’ve only interacted with Eve till now, they would have to interact with Adam to understand about Eden’s other half ^^;) Mao remarked that the edited proposal had been changed in a way that rather than them going against Adam, they’ll be working together with them instead, which is quite similar in Summer Live event. 

Anyway, the autumn live event would start after a week, where Trickstar would participate as a guest to the event. Since the autumn live event would involve not just Shuuetsu Academy but other affiliated academies as well, Subaru wondered perhaps Eve from Reimei Academy would participate as well. However, Mao replied that as Eve was really proactive in promoting themselves, they would be very busy as they had a lot of work to do such as appearing more on TV ^^; He added that the autumn live was a large event that’s similar to the scale of an S1 event in Yumenosaki Gakuen, and they would just be participating as one of the units in it, and thus it isn’t a straight-up battle against Adam 1-on-1. Therefore, things were not what to what we’ve planned as a revenge, which Mao sighed and remarked that he guessed that things aren’t going to be that easy and proceed smoothly as what we’ve expected. He had felt that there was something amiss with the current situation but wondered that this was just him over-worrying. Subaru was not worried at all though and was instead excited in knowing what kind of people were in Adam, which Mao cautioned him not to step onto people’s boundaries and sensitive area easily like an idiot ^^; 

(But then again, Mao also mentioned that as long as he’s with Subaru, he won’t get bored knowing that they’re getting involved in one trouble after another... Is this a praise or not Mao? XD)

We entered the meeting room, and Subaru immediately started touching around being all excited and ended up being lectured by Hokuto. Mao was surprised to find that no one was there and asked Tsumugi whether Nagisa had got in contact with him since the two of them knew each other. Tsumugi sighed and answered that he had tried calling Nagisa several times, but wasn’t able to get in contact with him. Just then, we heard a vibration coming from “my” phone, and thus it was advised that “I” answer this call in case it was someone from Shuuetsu Academy wanting to get in contact with us. (Turns out that “I” had already met Adam and talked with them before OWO”)

The call was actually from Ibara who was from Adam. and had requested us to head to the school garden to meet him. Hokuto felt that it’s going to make their walk to the meeting room a wasted trip as we would have to head back where we were again near the school gate. Subaru wondered why we couldn’t just stay in the meeting room and wait for Adam to arrive since in the end we/’re going to have a meeting in this room anyway. 

Another World / 異境: Chapter 4

Thus, the whole group walked back to the front gate again. Thankfully, the school isn’t really big as Mao remarked that the size of Shuuetsu Academy was just 1/3 of Yumesaki no Gakuen. Hokuto commented that there isn’t a need for this school to be very large actually since the facilities and rooms were only catered to the elite students and none of the other students. (I wonder how do the other students practise or learn in school seriously OAO”)

Suddenly, a large vehicle drove towards them. It was a large tank, and out came Ibara, who launched into an enthusiastic introduction upon seeing us. He explained that as the school wanted the students to learn in a quiet environment far away from all the noise, they had decided to build in a place that’s far away from the city. Ibara had decided to go to the train station to pick us up, but we ended up missing each other and he was apologetic about it. 

Ibara was someone who was quite dramatic as he blamed himself for missing to pick us up, even mentioning that he wanted to bury himself in a hole. He was also really honoured to meet us, saying that it's dream to be able to talk face to face with Trickstar, even asking for a handshake as he claimed that he’s a great fan of them. Hokuto felt shocked as Ibara was even more proactive in getting close to them than he had expected. Since Adam and Eve together were the top idol group for their age group, Hokuto had expected them to be cockier in the way they spoke, but Ibara was very different. He was all polite and even addressed and praised every single member. 

Tsumugi approached Ibara, asking him why Nagisa had not get in contact with him as he was worried about him. Ibara was confused for a moment, but he soon recognised that the person who was talking to him was Tsumugi from ex-Fine. He explained that Nagisa was deeply immersed in his interests and probably forgotten about their meeting, and assured us that he’s going to “collect” him along the way later on. (Why does Ibara make Nagisa sounds like some waste object waiting to be collected ^^;) He guessed that since Nagisa was interested in digging for stones, he would be very dirty, and thus told us to wait for him while he gets cleaned up later on. (Ibara would call Nagisa by a term “your lord” or something, which even though he claimed that it’s embarrassing, it’s a term that he used to use since he was very used to the military style ^^;)

Another World / 異境: Chapter 5 - 6

Back in the school building, Subaru changed into their training outfit and wondering whether the outfits were designed by “me” as they were similar to the ones that they used to wear in Yumenosaki Gakuen. Ibara praised Subaru for how perfect he suits in the training outfit and told him that since he’s good-looking, he looks good in anything ^^; Subaru wanted Ibara to get changed too so that they can sing a song together in order to judge each other’s skills, but Ibara changed the topic to referring to Subaru’s nickname for him instead, being interesting in his communication skills with others. Subaru isn’t pleased that Ibara was just praising him regardless of what he said, as it felt even more like Ibara isn’t listening to him at all. Ibara assured him that he does want to get along with them, which is why he had invited them to his school. 

Makoto caught up with them, telling them that if they moved around separately on their own, they might end up being lost as they’re still new to this school and not used to the environment. Hokuto joined them too, agreeing with Makoto had said that told them that they should avoid being alone when we’re on the enemies’ turf. (Should you be saying this right in front of Ibara? ^^;)

Ibara isn’t afraid to admit to them that he had already performed a check on Trickstar’s activities, as he said that Trickstar had gone around and battled with popular idols all around the whole country. He assured them that he wanted to avoid fighting with them as much as possible right now, and wanted all of them to get along well together. (Is it me or it just sounds suspicious coming out from Ibara’s mouth =w=“) Hokuto coolly answered that this sounds very different from what Eve had told them, and from the name “Adam”, Hokuto had thought that they would be a manlier unit which launches ruthless attacks. Ibara answered that the image of their unit was just a strategy to fulfil the desires of the audiences, and thus they would morph themselves to the image of the “males” that was desired when needed. 

Ibara explained to them that Nagisa was actually someone who was reserved and doesn’t socialise well with others and was also someone who isn’t used to fighting against other people as well. This made Makoto interested and also realised that they had not met Nagisa yet until now, which Ibara answered that since Nagisa was all covered with dirt when he found him just now, it would take him awhile to wash off all the dirt from his body. Tsumugi was accompanying Nagisa now to help him clean himself, just in case Nagisa went missing again. He sighed and said that Nagisa was someone who just does what he likes, which Ibara doesn’t really approve but he would close an eye on it since Nagisa was someone who had the talents and skills which he needed.   

Now that they know where Tsumugi was, Hokuto wondered Mao and “my” whereabouts instead. Subaru answered that both of us had taken this time to deliver some paper works to the staff room. Ibara explained that while the “elite students” were free to do what they like outside of their schedules, the other students who made up as the support do not have a break throughout the year. He assured us that even though the support would be operating 24/7, the school still follow the rules of letting the students take a break by operating in shift works and giving off days to them as long as someone takes over their work. 

Ibara decided to give them a tour around the school as it would be a waste if they just stand around in the corridor and talk all day while waiting for the others, telling them that he would try to bring them to as many places as he could enter. Subaru was surprised to know that there are places that Ibara wasn’t able to enter since he had thought that there shouldn’t be any places forbidden to him since he’s part of the strongest unit in this school. Ibara gave a weak smile that as much as he can be considered a powerful figure in school, he can’t exactly enter personal boundaries of other elite students/staff ^^; He also remarked that even though they might be students with a high position in school, they’re still students after all, and can’t go against the orders of their management agency who was in charge of the school.

Hokuto remarked that Hiyori had also mentioned about the agency, and noticed that even someone who doesn’t seem to care about others’ actions, Hiyori had to obey to the instructions of the agency no matter what. Makoto commented that their agency would be similar to how the Trickstar members viewed their own school since they’re also managing them now like how the agencies manage their idols. Ibara shook his head and commented that though Yumenosaki had gotten better ratings in the past few years, he felt that that school was still not used to handling idols in terms of managing them, saying that the school is too late by 10 years in wanting to start a producer course now, and even then, they only have one student... (which is “me” =w=“)

He then started explaining how all the students in his school and the affiliated schools were all managed by the management agency (named “Cosmic Production”). He even welcomes the Trickstar members to switch over to be under his school’s agency if they do not agree with the way Yumenosaki Gakuen manages them. This was actually possible, since even though the student were enrolled under Yumenosaki Gakuen, officially they were not under any production company, and were free to join any agency they were interested in. (For example, Arashi is someone who is enrolled in Yumenosaki Gakuen but belonged to a modelling agency.)

Makoto had decided not to join any production company currently as he felt that he already had his hands full in human relationships with people he had known from his unit, tennis club and broadcasting club, and thus felt that it would get more complicated if he had joined a production company. Anyway, Makoto felt that if he joined a production company, he would feel that what he is doing seems even more like a job as he would have to comply to what the agency wants, and preferred to be more relaxed like how he is now. He clarified that these were just how he feels towards agencies though, and if Subaru and the rest felt that it’s better to join one, Makoto would not stop them from joining as he could understand the merits of being under an agency.

They discussed furthermore on agencies, with the topic talking about Makoto revealing that he was once under one when he was working as a kids model when he was young. He said that it was the norm that idols and models were under the management of agencies, the students in Yumenosaki Gakuen were considered special cases instead. (Though there were also other idols who choose not to be under any agencies as they preferred to manage themselves personally, they were considered the minority and they only participate in small events.) 

Ibara decided to bring the topic back to talking about his agency instead, telling them that for now, Trickstar would be temporary under the care of Cosmo Production and became the “elite students” of the school, since it would be easier for the paperwork to clear for them in order to access the various locations in the school. He assured them that they’re free to leave the agency after Autumn Live event if they do not want to be involved with the agency, and handed them the “proof” that would grant them access to most areas, a tablet which belongs to the agency. These tablets were given to all students who were under the agency, and Ibara cautioned them to take good care of it, as if one loses it, they would have to pay for a replacement OWO” 

(As Makoto was a fan of electronic devices in general, he quickly took a liking to it, even praising that the app was designed like a game and showed them where all the facilities were located in the school on a map ^^)

Ibara explained that though they could use the tablet and tried to check up on the school through it since they’re guests, there are limitations on the information they could get from it. However~ If they choose to be under the management of the agency officially, all the information would be available for them to access (since if that happens, they’re considered a “family” now and thus no need to hide information from them?) 

(Makoto was just too enjoying himself with the various function, apparently, there’s a selfie mode which actually gives you marks on how you fare as an idol based on the selfie OWO”)

Subaru isn’t good with devices and felt that carrying it is a burden, thus wanted Hokuto to carry it for him. But Hokuto told him that if Subaru doesn’t bring it along with him, he won’t be able to access most of the rooms, which Subaru felt it was weird that they were able to enter Adams’ meeting room without one. Ibaru gave a weak smile and answered that since Nagisa doesn’t like to bring his tablet with him, they had no choice but to leave the room open usually so that he could enter it. But since it’s open the public, Ibara would not leave his personal belongings or anything important in there and said that this was considered troublesome to him. (But~ Since Nagisa is his beloved lord, he would just have to put up with it and support him from the darkness, since he had viewed that Nagisa would be his last weapon +W+)

Bad Person / 惡人: Chapter 1

On the other hand, Mao was alone at the corridor, thinking about even though Trickstar had planned that this would be their revenge towards Eden for the Summer Live event, it seems that the other party wasn’t interested in a battle against them. Mao and “me” had headed to the office earlier on, and the staff and students there were really nice and friendly to us, not behaving like they’re our enemies at all. Feeling suspicious about it, Mao had wanted to talk about this with Eichi, but he knew that Eichi was held up with other stuff and was quite busy recently. 

As this time around, Trickstar was the unit who had no idea about the rules and the advantage in winning against Eden for the Autumn Live, they had worked very hard to make themselves better as they did not want to go through yet another time of losing again like how it was in the Summer Live event. This was why it was named as a “revenge” this time in our proposal - to get our revenge against Eden this time, and also to aim to win at SS.

Thinking that maybe he should go snooping around for a short while, Mao had hoped that Shinobu was here, so that he could request him to do all the spying for him XD (Hmm, seems that Mao was quite relying on Shinobu to get information for him? OWO)

In the meantime, “I” had head back to the hotel to help Fushimi in sorting out some trouble that had happened over there, and thus Mao decided to use this opportunity to move around by himself before meeting up with the others. (It’s snooping time! +W+) He had even thought of an excuse which if he had met the others while walking around, he could always explain that he was “lost” and thus wandering around trying to find his way, thinking that Subaru and the others would believe him easily since they’re honest people who don’t get suspicious of others that easily. (Hmm, but whether Ibara would believe him or not... That would be hard to say ^^;)

(Somehow I can relate to Mao very much when he states that his job here was to do such “dirty” tasks. Not that I actually snooped on anyone, but I know the feeling too well about doing something that nobody else wanted to do - the undesirable tasks ^^;)

As Mao started walking around the school, he suddenly heard a weird sound and decided to check it out. (Mao was not scared at all since he was already used to Ritsu, who seems to be someone who always causes/attracts strange happenings ^^:)

The sound came from Adam’s meeting room, and as Mao entered it, he wondered whether the rest of the group had finished touring the school and was now resting in the room taking a break. However, there wasn’t any sound of people chatting in the room at all, but instead, an uncomfortable noise was heard instead. Turns out that it was Ran Nagisa with a weirdly shaped stone OWO Mao had a shock when Nagisa turned to look at him in the eye, making him let out a weird sound before regaining himself and greeting him properly. Nagisa knew that Mao was someone from Trickstar, but could not remember his name. And thus Mao introduced himself, which led to Nagisa wondering perhaps he should introduce himself too. Mao assured him that he already knew him and even gave a short introduction about Nagisa, saying that he was Eden and Adam’s leader, and was transferred from Yumenosaki Gakuen and used to be a part of Fine. Nagisa didn’t like this introduction though, and claimed that he was just simply “Nagisa”. He doesn’t like that people’s names were being tied down to their position, wanting to be even more free from that. 

(Nagisa gave a weird smile in return, thinking to himself that he can’t understand what Nagisa was talking about at all, and felt that rather that Nagisa feeling like he used to be a part of Fine, he seems to be more similar to the five oddballs instead. - I love how Mao dissed Nagisa in his inner thoughts though ^^;)

Bad Person / 惡人: Chapter 2

After that, Mao felt weird as he was being told to change his clothes and to sing and dance by Nagisa suddenly. He doesn’t know what was the meaning to be doing all this but guessed that it might be the other party wanting to see his skills since it seems that this was similar to how it was last time when they were interacting with Eve. (Come to think of it, Hokuto was suddenly requested to sing and dance with Hiyori too last time.... ^^;) Mao wondered whether they would end up being good rivals who respect each other with Adam this time too, as they ended up in a good relationship with Eve the last time. 

However, Mao had a naggy suspicion that everything seems to be too easy on them this time, but thought that he should do a good job to show off his skills as good as possible as he didn’t want to ruin Trickstar’s first attempt of communication with Adam / Nagisa. But, even though Mao was trying to dance as good as he can, Nagisa wasn’t even looking at him at all. He was curious about what Nagisa was doing and decided to ask him about it, wondering perhaps Nagisa had an interest in sculpting stones. Nagisa explained that he doesn’t know why he had this hobby, but felt that it was interesting nevertheless. Mao gave a weak smile at Nagisa and told him that he had wished that he would put his attention on him instead of the stone since they’re going to work together later on and thus Mao had hoped that they would have a good rival relationship who approves of each others’ skills. 

(Nagisa is really not interested at all in idols or anybody I guess... He doesn’t even know that Eden was the top idol unit in their age group =w=“)

Mao continued on declaring that they (Trickstar) had deemed Eden to be their biggest enemy, and thus asked him to better look out for them. He worried that he might be rude later on but Nagisa told him that it’s alright and that he’s not offended, though... he found what Mao had said to be saddening since what Mao had said was exactly like what Eichi would have said to Nagisa. 

He sighed and said that as expected, Mao was definitely someone from Yumenosaki Gakuen. For Nagisa, even though Yumenosaki Gakuen had improved and evolved since then, he felt that the mindset of the students there doesn’t seem to have changed much. He continued on talking about how them being idols would just have to keep fighting and “killing” each other in order to survive in the entertainment industry, and that if they’ve stopped improving, it’s almost equivalent to them dying instead. Nagisa himself wanted to be freed from such a life and fate and wanted to aim for a world that’s more holy and peaceful, where there won’t be any more battles in this world. He thought that them humans are considered the failed creation of the gods, and as humans chased after their desired paradise, they ended up falling into hell, deeming that even living was hard and it was a punishment to be living by the god. He wondered whether it was wrong for him to be wishing that he wanted to be free from such a fate and to finally gain freedom in the end. 

“I... I just wanted to quit being human.”

(Is it me or Nagisa just sounds very depressing and sort of suicidal when he said this? OWO” I tried my best to translate as much as I can, but some of his dialogues were kind of vague that it’s hard to get what he is exactly wanting to convey for me ><”)

Nagisa explained that he felt sad that he was weak, trapped without freedom and had a “crime” on himself. He told Mao that he won’t say that he wished to be understood for what he had said since he had given up on trying to convince the others now. But he doesn’t want Mao to disrupt him either and warned him that if Mao was the one who would be an obstacle to Nagisa to make his way to heaven, Nagisa would just have to make him fall even though he felt sad about having to do that. He knew that others in this world would deem “going to heaven” as the same as “going to die”, and wondered that if dying would lead him to heaven definitely, then he would gladly bite his own tongue to kill himself. 

(Welp, Nagisa definitely sounds suicidal... But he doesn’t sound like those deeply depressing and emotional characters who are suicidal, but instead, he spoke confidently like he’s set on the path he’s going to take... Ran Nagisa is definitely a complex character for me to understand.)

Bad Person / 惡人: Chapter 3 - 4

The rest of the group had finished their dinner in the meantime, with Makoto praising the school food. He was impressed that the menu was specially made for each student based on their required nutritional value and that they all available free of charge. In fact, Makoto likes the canteen so much that he wished that he could still access to the canteen for food even after the autumn live event ended. He had known that cooking could be quite troublesome as his mother and he would take turns in cooking usually. He felt that being able to eat at the school canteen would aid him in terms food expenses for his family and thus he won’t have to worry about food that much in this period of time.

 Ibara smiled and took this opportunity to tell Makoto that if he joined their agency, he would be able to continue enjoying these benefits. He continued advertising his agency by saying that other than the canteen, students under their agency would also get to make use of other facilities in this school. Besides that, the agency would also provide the best clothes and accommodations for him free of charge too if he joined them. 

However, Subaru frowned and remarked that he would rather eat food that his mum had prepared instead. Ibara decided to try attracting Subaru next by informing him that the agency could also provide his family and him a really private place to live to hide from prying eyes, but that backfired as Subaru asked him why his family had to stay hidden from the public. Ibara doesn’t back down at all and suggested to Subaru that he could even help him to erase the things that his dad had did since Ibara was really good at manipulating rumours and news, saying that since idols were still humans anyway, there would be times that they did something “wrong” and would want to erase what they’ve done. (Apparently, it’s already considered an everyday chore for him to erase scandals... =w=“)

Ibara questioned the members of Trickstar what their school - Yumenosaki Gakuen could provide for them. He boasted that their school could remove the filth from within the school, erase the bad ratings from a person, and thus helped him to reborn again as a “beautiful person”. He assured them that they have the rights and strengths to be considered as the “elite students” just like him, and thus hope that they would join his agency - Cosmic Production, which he claimed to be a more suitable place for them to shine. 

He wasn’t afraid to admit to them that he had done up a check on them before their meals and together with results from the short test which they had did earlier on, Ibara realised that they were even more powerful and skilled than what he had initially thought. He said that their skills would rot if they’ve stayed at Yumenosaki Gakuen and though he told them that he would respect their freedom in choosing where they want to go, he ended his proposal saying that he hoped that they would remember that they could always join him and be comrades with him~ (Ibara is seriously hard selling his agency here ^^;)

After listening to what Ibara had said, even Makoto had to agree that there isn’t any reason why he had to stay in Yumenosaki Gakuen. (Ma... Makoto?!!) He said that Subaru and Hokuto might have wanted to enrol into Yumenosaki Gakuen because their dads were once students in this school before, but Hokuto said that though he can’t completely deny that it’s because of his dad that he enrolled in this school, he found that it was hard to just dump everything and go to another school after having so many memories there. Makoto continued by saying that even though they’ve not thought about it, there was now this choice available for them. Makoto had come to Yumenosaki Gakuen because he had thought there was no other place that he could escape to, and thus he told the others that he’s going to look into this. However, Makoto also told the others that he may not have to get transferred from Yumenosaki Gakuen even though he had joined an agency, as there’s a possibility that he could have the best of both worlds if he could be on both sides. (Being under the management of Cosmic Production but also still enrolled in Yumenosaki Gakuen I guess? But I heavily suspect that if one would want to transfer to Shuuetsu Academy since they have better facilities that they would want to take advantage of.)

Subaru was not happy about how the conversation was going towards and told the others that they were just here to battle against Adam and to perform at the Autumn Live to have an enjoyable time with the guests. But Makoto told him instead that in order to have a great live, they would need great skills and support, and what they were discussing now was that if they joined this agency, they might be able to attain that, since there’s a possibility of them unable to get even better and more support even if they’ve continued working hard at Yumenosaki Gakuen. Hokuto agreed with Makoto, saying that there’s more to life other than SS, and he felt that it would be good to make sure that their environment would allow them to grow and improve in the future. He felt that if he had continued on the same path as his father, he would not be able to catch up to him, and told Subaru that he probably has the same feelings like how he did regarding his dad. Subaru just sighed and told Hokuto that he’s different from him since Hokuto’s parents were still living and are stars that Hokuto could always lift up his head and see. But... for Subaru, his “star” was one that he won’t be able to find no matter how much he had tried to search in the night sky, as it had already fallen to the ground, being stepped on, and disappeared after getting dirt all over it... (Subaru TWT)

Subaru sighed and wondered why they were talking about such a topic here and said that usually, Mao would be around to help to change the mood to a lighter tone. However, they’ve heard that Mao was now undergoing special training with Nagisa, who had seemed to have taken an interest in him. Subaru felt that it was unfair that only Mao had special treatment, but guessed that must be because Mao was a “magician” who could do anything (in Subaru’s eyes ^^). 

Ibaru mentioned that the two of them should be over at Adam’s meeting room, and told the others that they could just greet Nagisa today and head back for some rest. He wanted them to head back and think about his proposal, smiling and thinking to himself that after a week of persuading them, he’s sure that the “poison” would be injected and flowing within them after that. 

Bad Person / 惡人: Chapter 4

Subaru rushed into the meeting room happily to meet up with Mao, asking him how is his situation like practising with Nagisa and then Subaru had missed him very much. But to his surprise, he found Mao kneeling on the ground panting tiredly, and was worried whether Mao was feeling uncomfortable or was being mistreated by Nagisa.

Nagisa calmly spoke that he had not done anything at all, and Subaru decided that he should introduce himself and the remaining Trickstar members, though he ended up scolding Nagisa while asking him to take care of them at the same time ^^; (Even Makoto had to remind him that he’s being weird as he was greeting and scolding Nagisa at the same time ^^;)

Hokuto asked Nagisa what he had done to their comrades, referring him as an “ex-fine”. Nagisa could hear that Hokuto was saying it in an unkind voice, and referred to him as “Hokke-Mask kun”. (His old nick when he was undercover performing for them.) He told Hokuto, Subaru and Makoto that even though they have the value worthy to Nagisa to remember their names, Mao... was different. He praised though Mao had the talent above the average person and was really skilful, he felt that people like Mao’s level to be plenty and was someone who could always be discarded away, deeming that his level of skills could be attained by anyone if they put in hard work for it. To Nagisa, Mao’s skills and talents are something that could be attained through time or by money, which in other words, he’s someone that could easily be replaced.  He felt that Mao was worthless in that case since he was just a “normal presence” that could be replaced cheaply. (Wah... Nagisa was definitely being quite mean in saying such things easily in their faces OAO”)

In fact, Nagisa felt weird that Trickstar had readily accepted Mao as one of their members. What he had said had made Hokuto be mad instead, as he confronted Nagisa once again to come clean what he had done to poor Mao. Nagisa did not answer him, and just calmly continued on that Mao would just disappear one day from their side just because he couldn’t catch up to them anyway. He told the Trickstar members not to feel sad about it since there are a lot of many others who could replace Mao in his place. 

However, there was hardly any reaction to what Nagisa had said, as he wondered perhaps he had said something that was too complex for the others to understand. He sighed and remarked that if there’s no one available to translate what he had said to the others, no one could understand what was the feeling that he wanted to convey to them. He doesn’t want others to misunderstand him and said that as much as possible, he doesn’t want to hurt anyone ever again...

Bad Person / 惡人: Chapter 5

It was night time when Tsumugi returned to the hotel, crying out that whether he was completely forgotten by the others. (Until now... I didn’t even realise that Tsumugi was gone honestly... Sorry Tsumugi Orz) He cried out that he was lonely after being abandoned by the others, but thankfully Fushimi who was in the same room as him told him that he was waiting for him to come as he felt that it would be rude if he had head to bed first himself.

Fushimi explained to Tsumugi that the Trickstar members had not forgotten about Tsumugi purposely, but instead, everyone had initially thought that Tsumugi had already returned to the hotel earlier than them, and later got a shock when the realised that Tsumugi wasn’t at the hotel when they returned. (But poor Tsumugi still felt sad as he said that it’s alright that he was being forgotten since Trickstar was the main lead this time anyway ^^;)

Tsumugi explained that he was being abandoned at the shower room by Nagisa after he had helped him to clean up. (That’s mean Nagisa =w=“...) Without the special tablet, Tsumugi wasn’t able to enter or exit the facilities in Shuuetsu Academy and thus trapped in the shower room until he was finally saved by a security guard who was patrolling in the school in the late hours. 

Fushimi suggested to Tsumugi that he could use his smartphone to call for help if he was trapped in the shower room, smiling and remarking that Tsumugi was being clumsy to have forgotten about that. He even mentioned that according to his observations, it seems that Fine in the past doesn’t have criteria on allowing “troublesome” people to join their unit, which shocked Tsumugi as he exclaimed that Fushimi has a mean tongue and wondered perhaps he had become like this under the influence of Eichi. But he sighed as now that he thought back to it, there were many ways that he could have gotten help, such as calling out loudly for the Trickstar members within the school, as they might have passed by and heard about it.

As the topic turned towards Trickstar, Fushimi frowned and mentioned that he noticed that the members seemed to be behaving weird today. Usually, Fushimi would have expected them to be worried about Tsumugi when they’ve not seen his whereabouts and start looking for him, but it seemed that they were deeply bothered about something today that they just went ahead to have their meals and shower before heading to bed straight away. Tsumugi guessed that perhaps they were just tired and wanted to go to bed as soon as possible after a long journey today.

As the Trickstar members had a really good relationship with each other, they all ended up staying in the same room together, though sadly for Fushimi and Tsumugi, they were considered as the support staff and thus separated from Trickstar to stay in another room. (And since “I’m” a girl, “I’ll” have to stay in a separate room from them as well ^^;)

The hotel rooms this time was allocated to us by Eichi, as this hotel was part of his family business, and thus Fushimi mentioned that there was no need to worry about the accommodation fees. He was bothered by Ibara’s presence and thus remarked that he’s going to do a check up on him since they’re enemies of their school anyway. Tsumugi gave a weak smile as he heard the word “enemy” coming from Fushimi’s mouth, thinking that Fushimi was indeed influenced by Eichi after all. Fushimi answered that perhaps he was getting tired of being a perfect butler recently, and have become more honest in showing his true self (does that mean that Fushimi’s usual self is more “evil”? XD) Tsumugi replied that he felt that it was good that Fushimi was showing his true self since he had felt that the usual Fushimi seems to be acting when he was being all polite to others ^^; (Are you praising Fushimi or dissing him Tsumugi XD) He wished that Fushimi would behave more like a teenage male of his age, and suggested him to learn from Trickstar and get along better with other guys of his age group. 

Fushimi sighed and said that he had always angered his classmates and thus felt that it would be a bother to the others if he had suddenly talked to them casually. (I have a feeling it might be Koga getting angry with him...?) 

Anyway, the person that Fushimi wanted to talk more with was Tsumugi, as he wanted to know more about the things that happened in Fine before he had joined. Even though Tsumugi said that there was nothing interesting for Fine in the past, Fushimi still wanted to know about it. He claimed that both his master - Tori and him can’t always be innocent kids forever, and thus felt that they should know about Fine’s past since the name of Fine now sat on their shoulders. However, the seniors of Fine (Eichi and Wataru) didn’t seem to want to talk about the past at all. Fushimi remarked that he’s not an idiot and knew that Fine was a unit who had the image of being perfect on the surface but planning dark plans ever since from the past. He doesn’t have the dreams of making it a perfect unit but wanted to accept the filthy side of Fine nevertheless. He remarked that he would not grow stronger if he was always being shown the perfect side of Fine, and said that he had to grow stronger as he was not his master’s servant, but his butler who was supposed to protect and support him. This was why for the sake of Tori, Fushimi wanted to know everything about Fine and thus wanted Tsumugi to tell him all about it.

 (Fushimi was being all teasing to Tsumugi as he pleaded Tsumugi to teach him all about it, even calling him “senpai~” XD) 

Dangerous Poison / 劇毒: Chapter 1 - 2

The next morning, Mao woke up with an aching body, due to his body being pushed to his limits yesterday while dancing. He felt that it had been a long time ever since the S1 battle they had against Akatsuki that he had such a tough training. He realised that he had been working hard well within his comfort zone recently as he doesn’t want to push himself too hard to the point where he would collapse and cause trouble to the others. But honestly, Mao knew that he was always choosing the easy way out when it comes to important matters like this. He knew that he hasn’t been giving his all because he had this mindset that he found comfort in telling himself that he’s not improving as fast because he hasn’t given his all yet, and told himself that if he started giving his all, he would definitely improve faster than now. (But in the end, he still doesn’t give his all... as he doesn’t want to break his own lie(?) perhaps?)

He knew that the other members were different from him, as they were all considered the “real genius”, and that no matter how crazily hard he practised, he would never catch up to them as they were too shiny for him. In order to prove himself as useful to the group, Mao took up all the other roles which the others are weak in, such communication and helping to do other small minor tasks and chores. In return, he gets praises that he’s “great” and even though he knew that he gets relied on by the others, Mao still felt very uneasy about himself on the inside.

Mao realised that everyone in Trickstar, even “me” had been improving steadily, and worried that one day he would be deemed as unneeded in the group because he knew that whatever he can do, anyone could also do them as long as they work hard at it. He had seen his skills in communicating with others at bowing head down at people, even those who he dislikes, and doing boring paper works, and felt that it was a skill that anyone could have done it as long as they’re obedient and listen to others well. As currently, he’s now within a group of people who were still behaving as kids and were unique in their lives, Mao was considered special to them. (I guess Mao felt that he was actually a very normal guy when compared to the other members?)

Just then, he realised that there was something weird going on... There’s something moving about in his futon where he’s sleeping in?! He got into his usual lecture mode, telling “Ritsu” that he had told him countless times not to hide in his blanket, but sighed as he realised that there’s no way Ritsu could be here since Mao was on a trip far away from home himself. (And there’s no way Ritsu would come all the way even if Mao had seen him as a spoiled kid XD)

He started feeling that this situation was getting strange, but just then, a voice started coming out from within the blanket... and it’s “me”! 

(Mao was so cute when he blushed, wondering why “I” was in his blanket and felt that this situation was like a classic love comedy >////<)

Mao blushed as he asked “me” what “I” was planning to do and told “me” that “this” was not allowed since we had an idol-producer relationship. (What is it that is not allowed, Mao?~ Forbidden love relationship? >////<) He also told “me” that if “I’m” looking for the others, they’ve already set off to Shuuetsu Academy as they had practices in the morning.

Mao laughed as he joked that he must have been thinking too much about stuff until he overslept while apologising as he guessed that “I” must be here to wake him up, or perhaps he himself had accidentally gotten closed to “me” being half asleep. I didn’t show him any reaction initially, which made him panicked as he doesn’t know what he should do now in such a situation. 

“I” told him that he should stop hugging “me” and that made Mao flustered as he realised that he had hugged “me” and making “me” hard to breathe.

(This is so cute where Mao was definitely getting all flustered XDD)

After regaining his composure, Mao started lecture “me” that “I” should be more wary of “my” surroundings, saying that “I’m” too unguarded as even “my” yukata was about to slip off. He demanded “me” to wear it properly and assured “me” that he would close his eyes and not peek at all. As Mao closed his eyes, he felt that the current situation was indeed weird to the point that it would affect his life, and told himself that it was not like he was hoping for such a heart-racing panic moment in this trip actually?! XD

Suddenly, he heard his cell phone rang and thus requested “me” to throw the phone over to him since he can’t open his eyes and go over to where his phone was at now. The phone call turned out to be from Ritsu, who had wanted to hear his voice in the morning. (Ritsu really loves Mao a lot I guess ^^;) The phone call continued until Mao cried out in pain as “I” clutched on his hair, making Ritsu realising that “I” was in the same room as Mao. He started questioning Mao on whether the two of us were sleeping in the same room, making Mao panicked once again as he tried to clarify to Ritsu. 

After the commotion was over, “I” apologised to Mao for causing it. He told “me” that “I” didn’t have to apologise, and knew that “I” was here to wake him up as “I” was worried about him. He mentioned that “I” could have just requested the hotel staff or Tsumugi to take a look at him if “I” was worried, but “I” revealed to him that actually other than waking him up, there was something that “I’ wanted to talk to him about. 

Mao answered that he would listen to “me” if “I” had any request, but wondered why “I” specifically wanted to talk to him. After knowing that there’s something “I” wanted to talk to him alone, he started getting nervous and told “me” that he’s not used to getting confessed like how it is like in a love comedy. (Who said it's going to be a love confession? XD)

(Mao seems to be a bit disappointed when he realised that what “I” was going to discuss with him was regarding work... ^^:)

He admitted that he was indeed affected by the harsh words said by Nagisa yesterday and that it had made him lost his confidence. He felt embarrassed as he thought that he would be able to impress Adam when showing off his skills like how Trickstar did with Eve the last time, but it ended up being a failure. Mao felt that it was his fault that he had even made the rest of Trickstar to be looked down and felt apologetic about it.

He said that perhaps he was not needed in Trickstar and that made “me” agitated immediately as “I” yelled out that that is not true at him. This made Mao blushed as he thanked “me”, while saying that “I” didn’t have to deny about this so furiously ^^; (But we all know that that’s not true!! ><”) The reason why Mao was blushing was that as “I” leaned in too close to him, he could even see a part of “my” chest from the top of “my” yukata. (Mao... you didn’t have to be so honest =////=“)

Mao gave a weak smile as he remarked that perhaps “I” had gotten too used to being in an all male school but reminded “me” that “I” should always be aware that “I’m” still a female among them ^^; After a short chat, Mao said that in order to get back his confidence once again, he’s going to work hard in whatever he could do currently, and thanked “me” for coming at a good timing to encourage him ^^ He asked “me” what is “my” request for “me”, and said that even though he would hate to do troublesome matters, he doesn’t dislike doing them now.

Dangerous Poison / 劇毒: Chapter 2 - 3

Mao and “I” ended up meeting Tsumugi at the school gate of Reimei Academy, who was surprised to see Mao here with “me”. Mao explained that he’s here to recover “mentally” for now, and felt that if he had gone to Shuuetsu Academy, he might get lectured again by Nagisa if he had met him. He also felt a bit frustrated if he had to follow the instructions of what his enemy XD 

Tsumugi replied that he had heard what had happened from Nagisa, and said that it was actually his role this time to get in contact with Nagisa frequently. He told Mao that Nagisa was actually worried about Mao whether he was alright after listening to what he had said, and explained that Nagisa was bad with words ever since from the past. He continued that Nagisa had a unique way of choosing words and always just say whatever that came to his mind, making him be easily misunderstood by the others. But he assured Mao that Nagisa meant no harm in his words, and thus requested Mao to forgive him. 

(Actually what Nagisa said about comparing Mao to the others was very harsh, since he’s referring the other Trickster as stars in the sky, and Mao was just... a torchlight =w=“ I know I definitely won’t feel good if someone said I’m a torchlight D:)

Tsumugi guessed that perhaps Mao was someone that one won’t understand about him until they’ve gotten closer, and deduced that perhaps Nagisa had seen Mao to be similar as many other people who were surrounding him currently. They were mainly students who were not the “elites”, and in order to strive to became part of the “elite group” they would try all sorts of dirty ways to climb up. That may be why Nagisa seems to be talking bad about Mao as he felt that he was the same type as those other students, where some of his ill feelings about those students got relayed out when he commented on Mao. 

Mao replied that as much as he’s glad that Tsumugi was trying to comfort him, he knew that he was exactly the type of person Nagisa was referring to. This was also mainly why Mao was deeply hurt and affected by what Nagisa had said. 

Tsumugi assured that even if Mao was the type of person which Nagisa was referring to, what Nagisa had said may not be the truth since as much as Adam may be powerful, Nagisa is not a god after all. Therefore, what he had said may not be 100% true. He hoped that even though Mao was discouraged by Nagisa had said, he would be able to buck up, get stronger and prove to Nagisa that he was wrong and to take back his words about Mao. He told Mao that he’s someone who would always stand up even when he was stepped on and Trickstar was n unit who had changed the impossible to reality and causing miracles in the end.

Tsumugi felt that it would the same this time since they’ve taken in their last defeat as their strength to grow stronger for their revenge. He encouraged Mao that together with “me” and the others, we would be supporting him to turn the tables around for the current situation. Mao felt comforted by Tsumugi’s words and told him that he felt that refreshing to talk about his troubles with others because he hardly ever gets into failure and being troubled himself, to which Tsumugi replied that he welcome Mao in sharing his troubles with him anytime.

Mao wondered why Subaru had always called him to be a magician but guessed that perhaps Subaru just made up that nickname for fun because it was easy to call it.  But Tsumugi told him that perhaps Mao had always cast a special “magic” over the other members of Trickstar when he was with them unknowingly, a”magic” that would lighten others’ hearts. This “magic” would definitely make a difference when it exists when the others are going through a hard time. Tsumugi recalled about how he was unable to cast such a “magic” in the past, and thus unable to heal Eichi who had accumulated too many scars and injuries, but he felt that Mao would definitely be different from him, and be able to do things that Tsumugi wasn’t able to do back then. 

As they were in front of Reimei Academy school gate, Tsumugi suggested that they moved to the side in case they ended up disrupting other students from heading to the school. Mao still had no idea why we had come to Reimei Academy, as Mao had just tagged along when he was being requested by “me”. Tsumugi explained that we were here to get in contact with Eve since there was something we wanted to investigate about. Even though Tsumugi was friendly and on good terms with Nagisa, they belonged to different schools and thus he felt that it would be faster to learn more about “Adam” through “Eve” since they definitely know Nagisa better now than Tsumugi himself. 

Mao remarked that he felt that the other side (Adam) seems to have done a thorough check on them, to which Tsumugi laughed and said that the other party definitely does not treat them as a newbie since Trickstar has already defeated Fine and was selected as the representative to participate in the SS. Mao sighed, remarking that it seems scary but he felt that this was to be expected. 

Just then, the people we were waiting for had appeared, with Hiyori mentioning to Jun that he had seen that something interesting had “fallen” before him. Jun warned Hiyori not to pick up any more animals from off the road, as it was already difficult for him to hide “Bloody Mary”. Hiyori got angry and scolded Jun for saying in a way that he’s blaming Hiyori. He said that since Jun had seen “Bloody Mary” and picked it up together with him, he’s considered an accomplice too. (I guess “Bloody Mary” is an animal they picked up? A lost cat perhaps?) The two ended up quarrelling, with Jun telling Hiyori that he’s the same too in blaming him when he told their neighbours that it was Jun’s fault for the weird noise coming from their room. 

Jun stopped their quarrel when he realised that we were there, and asked us why we were here. Hiyori laughed as he thought that we were lost, saying that he could understand about that since both Shuuetsu Academy and Reimei Academy had a similar look as they were built by the same company. He revealed that he had sometimes wandered away onto other routes when going to school, and before he knew it school was over. (That’s skipping classes I though... =w=“)  

Jun remarked that if Hiyori keeps this up, he might get detained when he doesn’t have enough days attendance rate to head up to the next level. Jun would hate to be in the same class as Hiyori if that happens, claiming that it would affect his learning efficiency. Hiyori thought that Jun must have really liked him very much that he can’t concentrate in class due to being bothered by his every action, but Jun just dissed back at Hiyori that he’s being too noisy and that even his laughter could be hard from the 2nd year classroom ^^;  (I guess Hiyori is indeed very loud D:) 

In the end, Tsumugi had to interrupt them and asked if they could listen to what we had to say. Realising that we wanted to have a chat with them, Jun mentioned that it wasn’t really a good time now since they had another appointment coming up later on. Eve had gotten busier recently due to Adam having to prepare for the Autumn Live and Eve taking over Eden’s portion of work. Hiyori took this chance to boast that ever since their last meeting with Trickstar, Eve had gotten more active and was in a great condition. (That’s great! ^^ Why am I happy for them even though they’re Trickstar’s rival ^^;)

But after realising that what Tsumugi wanted to talk with them seems to be serious, Hiyori informed Jun to get in contact with their agency and request them to rearrange their schedule. Jun agreed to it reluctantly, and guessed that according to their expectation, it seems that Trickstar was in a difficult situation with Adam at the moment... (I guess this was actually nice of Hiyori to put down his work to come and assist us though ^^)

And that’s all for Part 1~ I’ll work on Part 2 next week onwards, so please look forward to it ^^

[acarnivalofstars]

Ensemble Stars Event Translation: Fleur De Lis Story 2

The moral of this story is that the power of love can motivate anyone to get out of bed and honestly I think that’s beautiful.

Special thanks to Linne for proofreading!

Knights has gathered in order to start practicing for Fleur De Lis and--is that Ritsu actually awake? Is it time to play Where’s Leo Tsukinaga again? And is that an iPhone in your hand Izumi?

[Soundproof Lesson Room]

Arashi: Now then. I’ll do my best in preparation for “Fleur De Lis”......🎵

Ritsu: ~......🎵

Arashi: Oh my, oh my oh my, Ritsu-chan?

Uh, Am I just seeing things, or is that Ritsu-chan carrying out the lesson in high spirits……?

Even though it’s still broad daylight!

Anzu-chan, just what sort of magic did you use, exactly? You said you had a good idea, but to think it would produce such immediate results like this.

Do you think I’d be able to draw out Ritsu-chan’s motivation using that method too?

…...Seriously, I can’t imagine how you managed this sort of magic. Or maybe I’m dreaming right now? Anzu-chan, could you pinch my cheek for me?

Eh? You didn’t actually do anything? You’re just telling him how Mao-chan is doing?

I see. So when you said you had a good idea, you meant giving him information about Mao-chan.

It’s true that Anzu-chan has been frequently working alongside “Trickstar,” who have been busy preparing for the “SS” now, after all.

Ufufu. It’s the power of love, isn’t it…...🎵How wonderful! I totally understand. Just hearing about the person you like fills you with energy, doesn’t it~🎵

Anzu-chan’s strategy was a complete success! I mean, Ritsu-chan is awake even at this time and doing the lesson after all.

Izumi: …...Hm?

So Naru-kun and the others are already here. I thought I was the first person here. It’s oddly vexing.

Hmm? Seeing Kuma-kun wholeheartedly do his dance lessons is such a bizarre sight. What’s going on? Did he contract some weird disease or something?

Arashi: I’m not exactly in the position to find fault with other people, but don’t you think that’s a li~ttle rude?

Remember how we were talking about Anzu-chan giving Ritsu-chan a reward in order to motivate him? Looks like it worked 🎵

Izumi: Hmm. So by reward, what exactly are you giving him?

Arashi: Anzu-chan is telling him about how Mao-chan is doing.

Izumi: What the heck? It’s not like Kuma-kun doesn’t see him. He’s always being woken up and taken to school by that guy every day. Can something like that even be considered a reward?

Arashi: Oh my, are you really saying something like that Izumi-chan?! Just hearing about the person you like makes you happy, doesn’t it?

You’d act the same way if it was about Yuuki-kun, wouldn’t you?

Izumi: That’s…...certainly true.

But anyway, Anzu. You’ve also used this method on me before, haven’t you? Like luring me out using Yuu-kun as bait……

So you used the same trick on Kuma-kun, huh?

You know, don’t you think it’s unfair only giving Kuma-kun a reward?

Don’t you want to give a reward to me as well for trying so hard? To put it specifically, I want information about Yuu-kun…….🎵

Arashi: Even without doing that, Izumi-chan collects information by himself, right? Ufufu. Gathering up information about someone you like on your own is also fun.

I also have times where I look up Kunugi-sensei’s daily activities and chase after him.

But for some strange reason, I end up missing meeting him wherever I go.

I can’t help but think that there’s some being intentionally preventing us from meeting to prevent a romance between Kunugi-sensei and me.

How rude. They say that those who get in the way of a person’s love will get kicked by a horse*, you know. (T/N: This is a saying that’s common in JP compared to EN, but an equivalent would be like being struck by lightning for interfering with someone’s romance)

Izumi: Isn’t he just avoiding you? It’s gross how you wiggle and fidget whenever you’re chasing after him.

Arashi: Oh come on, calling me gross is just hurtful. A maiden’s heart is delicate after all so mind your words, okay?

Izumi: A maiden, you say…...Anyway, if Kunugi-sensei is avoiding you, then you won’t be able to ask him to serve as the supervisor for “Fleur De Lis,” will you?

Arashi: Yes! Yes, exactly!

Even though I’m working so hard in order to get Kunugi-sensei to act as our supervisor, being unable to meet Kunugi-sensei himself makes me a little listless.

Izumi: Should I go talk to him instead? It’s not like I’m offering for your sake or anything, though.

I just don’t want you slacking off during lessons because you got distracted worrying about Kunugi-sensei.

Arashi: Aw, you’re so kind Izumi-chan. My heart just might waver a bit…...🎵

Ju~st kidding. Sorry, Izumi-chan, but I’m devoted to Kunugi-sensei, after all. My eyes don’t go towards any other man.

Izumi: Rather than feeling upset I’m actually quite relieved. Well then, I’ll talk to him about it.

Arashi: Yup. I’m leaving it in your hands, Izumi-chan 🎵

Ritsu: Ah~......My throat’s parched. Since Secchan and the others are just talking without taking part in the lesson, it makes me look stupid for doing this seriously, you know?

Arashi: We were having an important discussion. Don’t sulk, okay Ritsu-chan?

Ritsu: The one who sulks because he’s left out of the group is our youngest one, isn’t it? …….Which reminds me. Isn’t it strange for Su~chan to not show his face right on time?

Arashi: He might be late because he has day duty like Izumi-chan did the other day.

But since this is that honest Tsukasa-chan we’re talking about, I’m sure he would’ve at least sent us a message. I’ll try calling Tsukasa-chan’s cell phone.

Tsukasa: I sincerely apologize for coming here late, everyone!

Arashi: Oh my, speak of the devil. With this everyone…...is not here, it seems.

The “King” hasn’t come, but shall we do the lesson with the four of us? Or should we all split up to look for him?

Tsukasa: Um. If I may? I checked every nook and cranny of the campus, but I could not find Leader anywhere.

After inquiring to Leader’s classmates, it seems he did attend class……

So I do believe he is in this school somewhere, but I cannot get a grasp as to where he may have gone after leaving his classroom.

Arashi: Aah, so the reason why Tsukasa-chan was late was because you were looking for the “King,” I see.

Izumi: I send him a text saying “Don’t forget we’re taking part in ‘Fleur De Lis’” every night, so I doubt he’s forgotten.

But that guy’s whimsical, you see. Won’t he show up once he feels up to it?

Arashi: Oh my, you’re the last person who should be saying something like that, Izumi-chan.

It’s unfortunate that the “King” isn’t here, but let’s just do the lesson with the four of us here today.

Anzu-chan, as our “Producer,” feel free to be as harsh as you want when giving your opinions.

Tsukasa: Fufu. Onee-sama, we’ll be in your care today 🎵

Ritsu: You should be thankful towards me. The reason why Anzu’s here is to make sure I’m properly motivated and taking part in the lesson, see.

Ma~kun’s also doing his best in preparation for the “SS,” after all…….

…….I want to cheer him on, so I’m enduring a lot of things too.

But since I’ll work hard little by little, at least let me pester you for a reward for now, okay?

I’m looking forward to hearing about Ma~kun’s current status tomorrow and the day after tomorrow as well. It’s a promise, Anzu…….🎵

[arminissocute]

Horror Night Halloween

HARLEQUIN – 8

Luogo: Palco di Halloween Party – Knights

Mao: Noi siamo i protagonisti. Ma lo siamo solo della nostra storia. Tutti hanno una loro storia, in cui sono loro i protagonisti.

Lungo la via, ci siamo dimenticati di quelle altre storie.

Perciò oggi quando abbiamo parlato con tante unit e tante persone, ci ha aperto gli occhi. Abbiamo capito che ogni persona sta vivendo il racconto creato dalla propria vita.

Stanno vivendo con tutte le loro forze, come dei protagonisti.

E noi avevamo trattato tutte quelle persone fantastiche come se fossero ruoli di supporto della nostra storia.

Continuavamo a dire cose come, “non possiamo vincere senza il supporto e l'incoraggiamento di tutti quanti”, ma era come se invece stessimo usando tutti come mezzi per realizzare i nostri desideri.

Ma non è quello il motivo per cui abbiamo voluto fare una rivoluzione, no? Lo ha detto pure Subaru durante il DDD- che dovremmo cantare tutti quanti insieme.

Era quello il nostro sogno, e lo abbiamo già realizzato. L'ho capito oggi. Non possiamo continuare a lamentarci per quel magazine- eravamo noi quelli che vivevano nel passato.

E invece, abbiamo dipinto la Yumenosaki del passato come se fosse completamente marcia, rivangando cose che erano state concluse molto tempo fa...

Era come se, a vantarci tanto della nostra grande rivoluzione, stessimo cercando di enfatizzare quel nostro essere “speciali”.

E invece, lo sapete? Eravamo in ansia, e spaventati. Voglio dire, insomma, fino a poco tempo fa non eravamo nessuno, e ora siamo sotto i riflettori.

Non avevamo così tanta sicurezza che ci sarebbe andato tutto bene, e così abbiamo cercato di apparire più grossi di quello che eravamo.

Non ne eravamo neppure consci. Siamo solo dei ragazzini, dopotutto- come dei bambini che vanno in bicicletta con le rotelle.

E una maschera come la nostra può essere tirata via in un istante. Io stesso l'ho provato sulla mia pelle quando ad Autumn Live la mia maschera da ragazzo “calmo e forte” mi è stata strappata via dalla faccia. È per questo che ora ho capito.

Il motivo per cui tutti stanno facendo il tifo per noi, non è perché siamo chissà quali eroi della rivoluzione.

È semplicemente perché gli piacciamo, a ciascuno per un motivo diverso.

Non è perché siamo utili o perché sia conveniente averci attorno o qualcosa del genere.

Certo, potrebbe essere il motivo per il quale siamo iniziati a piacere, ma non è finita lì.

Oggi abbiamo girato per la scuola, e interagito con tanti fan diversi. Tutti quei fan pieni di passione, che ci avevano seguito per tutto questo tempo, erano preoccupati e ci hanno chiesto se stavamo bene.

Erano arrabbiati, erano tristi, erano dolci. Ci hanno chiesto le stesse cose così tante volte- come è potuto succedere? Come farete ora? ...Cose di questo tipo.

Eppure, neanche noi sapevamo le risposte a queste domande. Ma il momento in cui abbiamo provocato ansie nei nostri fan, probabilmente è stato il momento in cui abbiamo fallito come idol.

Abbiamo dipinto quel magazine e quello strano articolo come i cattivi, e abbiamo deviato su di essi la rabbia e il risentimento dei fan.

E così ora ci sono davvero molti fan arrabbiati che odiano quel magazine.

Ma, sapete, dopo aver visto tutti quanti comportarsi in quel modo, abbiamo iniziato ad avere dei dubbi.

Queste persone stanno solo supportando i loro idol, perché mai dovrebbero provare cose come rabbia e odio?

Gli idol non dovrebbero essere un qualcosa di più nobile? Non dovremmo essere quelli che portano gioia e felicità?

Non dovremmo cercare di portare anche solo un po' di luce nelle vite delle persone che ci hanno trovato, che ci hanno supportato, e ci hanno amato...?

Non appena lo abbiamo realizzato ci siamo sentiti in colpa, e abbiamo discusso in modo serio tutti insieme. E poi... anche se ora potrebbe essere troppo tardi, abbiamo deciso che vogliamo essere degli idol come si deve.

Abbiamo deciso che vogliamo diventare il tipo di idol che abbiamo sempre ammirato.

Le ferite e le cicatrici del passato potrebbero accompagnarci per tutta la vita. I nostri tanti fallimenti, e i danni che abbiamo avuto adesso, probabilmente ce li porteremo dietro anche a SS.

Non è facile liberarsene, e non sono cose che scompaiono da sole.

Ma forse, un giorno, potremo guardarci indietro e riderci su. Come a dire, oh sì, era successo quello!

E così, forse le persone che ci supportano potranno pensare: “Tutti gli altri stanno tirando su tanto polverone, ma non ha importanza! Amiamo i Trickstar! È divertente essere loro fan!”

Per realizzare tutte queste cose, faremo del nostro meglio- no, è proprio il tipo di idol che vogliamo diventare.

Izumi: ...Hmph. Molto nobile da parte tua. Forse ora vuoi un applauso?

Mao: Sembri un po' sarcastico. Perché, ho detto qualcosa di inappropriato...?

Izumi: No, in realtà no. Ti stavo facendo un complimento per davvero, per una volta.

Noi non siamo mai riusciti ad arrivare a quella risposta da soli. Lasciando tracciata la linea di separazione tra noi e gli altri, noi due ci siamo incrinati e abbiamo iniziato a scomparire, tutti soli- siamo quasi svaniti del tutto.

L'unico motivo per cui sono riuscito ad aggrapparmi forte al mio posto era perché non potevo lasciare che fosse finita così, perdendo e facendo la figura dello sciocco.

Ma l'altra metà dei vecchi Knights ha deciso che ne aveva avuto abbastanza degli idol, ed è sparito nella disperazione.

Quella sarebbe dovuta essere la fine. Ma grazie a Naru-kun che si è impicciato e agli altri, siamo riusciti a resuscitare come una specie di fantasma.

Un miracolo così non avviene quasi mai. Sai, di solito non ci si riprende mai dalla prima caduta.

Prima ancora di sapere cosa sta succedendo, vieni portato via dalla corrente- sotterrato dalla cattiveria, distrutto in frantumi, e cancellato.

Sinceramente ne ho avuto abbastanza di quella storia, è per quello che ho reagito così all'articolo di quel magazine. Ho proprio pensato, “dio, sta per succedere di nuovo?” ...capisci?

Non potevo pensarci. E così ho deciso che avrei fatto qualunque cosa per superare quel problema...

Che, proprio come tutti hanno protetto i Knights, questa volta io avrei protetto loro.

Anche se poi non ho fatto altro che tormentare me stesso e minacciare voi. Ma adesso, in qualche modo ho l'impressione che questa volta non sarà solo un ripetersi di quello che è successo l'altra volta. Però non lo so ancora per certo, okay? Dopotutto tutto questo sta avvenendo al presente.

In ogni caso, almeno a livello di comprensione e di espiazione, voi siete un po' meglio di come lo eravamo noi. Ma comunque non è sufficiente dire che solo che sapete cosa volete diventare.

Questo mondo è crudele, e sogni e speranze posso svanire in un istante. Un cuore si può spezzare in un istante...

Parlare è facile. Se vuoi blaterare tanto sulla tua preziosa teoria, fallo dopo che hai ottenuto dei risultati, okay?

Non ho dimenticato le regole della nostra piccola sfida, sai. Se vinciamo noi, ognuno di noi potrà ordinare una cosa a tutti voi.

Cosa fareste se uno di noi vi dicesse di lasciare il mondo degli idol?

Voi sareste finiti, così semplicemente. Visto che adesso mi sto comportando come un Onii-chan così iperprotettivo, potrei essere io stesso a fare questa richiesta, sai...

Potrei finire per sbarrare il cammino a Yuu-kun prima che rischi di essere ferito e calpestato, no?

Non importa quali siano i vostri sogni e desideri, o quanto parliate di speranza e ideali, verrebbe tutto spazzato via. Perciò, se volete risponderci, fatelo solo dopo aver vinto.

Izumi: Ed ecco che arriva, il vostro peggiore incubo. Se volete proseguire, dovrete vincere contro di noi, avete capito?

Se ora fallite, sarà tutto finito. Mi prenderò quel vostro sogno... e lo falcerò via.

Capitolo successivo

[mostlytiredoffs]

My favourite programs of the season

Ok, so, just a reminder you asked for this guys XD Someone asked me to post more figure skating content and reviews, so I thought I’d do posts about different things, starting with a list of my favourite programs of the season. I have a (quite) limited amount of free time, so I won’t post that often, but I have some ideas (I’ll probably do some top five posts about my favourite skaters and I think I might do similar posts for juniors/seniors to watch etc) and if you want me to talk about something...you know where to find me. That said, it’s the first time I try to write something like this, so feedback (replies, anons, whatever you want) is much appreciated. Is this too much? Too serious? You tell me. 

Let’s get started now, cause the list is long.

Ladies’ SP:

Wakaba Higuchi - La Califfa 

Laurine Lecavelier - Experience

Gabby Daleman - Herodiade

Anna Pogorilaya - Por Una Cabeza

Others worth mentioning: Elizabet Tursynbaeva, Kaetlyn Osmond.

My n.1 would have to be Wakaba’s program. But then again you can’t expect anything short of perfection from Bourne: the program perfectly highlights how much Wakaba has grown in the last year, especially when it comes to interpretation. I do think this program allowed her to show her fantastic speed and power, but also how mature she is considering her age. The StSq is, for sure, one of my favourites of the season. Now, switching the flip would have been a nice thing, but that’s another story. I’m not sure Wakaba’s talent is in the right place as of now, but at least she got great programs this year. There were a lot of great ladies’ short programs this year, but if I had to mention another one it would be Laurine Lecavelier’s Experience. 

Ladies’ FP:

Satoko Miyahara - The Planets

Mao Asada - Firedance

Polina Tsurskaya - February

Mao’s LP would be my sentimental fave (and that step sequence is pure beauty) *this was written before she retired y.y*, but truthfully it’s impossible not to give first place to Satoko’s The Planets. Tom Dickson and Satoko are a really great combo *terrible pun intended: +3 goe!* imho: he really does know how to highlight her quiet skating, but at the same time I feel like his programs really help Satoko break out of her shell. Firedance was a little masterpiece, but in this case I really liked how they choose an unusual music and how difficult it is to skate to it. I do think this program could have been performed even better and I wouldn’t complain if Satoko kept it for next season, ditch Lori and have both SP and LP choregraphed by Dickson. Tell Yamato to fire Lori Satoko, do it.

Men’s SP:

Yuzuru Hanyu - Let’s go crazy

Jin Boyang - Spiderman (it’s so bad it’s good? XD)

This list is very short. For me LGC just stole the show. I’ve had the privilege to see it live and...as Yuzuru explained, there’s not an empty moment, and if you slip up it’s impossible to get back on track. It’s an incredibly complex program and I love how detailed it is. It’s perfect, from the 4lo sandwitched between two spread eagles and his fantastic 3A from a backcounter to little movements like the way he interacts with the crowd or upper body movements throughout the program. I’m going to receive a beating from a friend because of this but...this might my favourite among his SPs. Yeah, insane. #ChopinIStillLoveYou I remember how worried people were at the start of the season, but I think we’ve all learned two things from this: trust Buttle *all hail Jeff* and trust Yuzuru to be able to bring out the best of the music he’s skating to.

Men’s FP:

Yuzuru Hanyu - Hope and Legacy

Patrick Chan - A Journey

Jun Hwan Cha - Il Postino

I actually love all of them. I’m really attached to Hope and Legacy and how delicate and yet powerful it is, but I have to admit Chiddy’s program is fantastic. I’ve never been a fan of his, in spite of admiring his SS, but I do think he really felt this program and that it highlighted how gorgeous his skating is. (no more Eric music tho please. And choose something less...cute for the SP ‘kay?) In both cases I must note how many people underestimated these programs to be honest and how little they were “understood”. I saw a lot of people compare H&L to Seimei...and I just think not many people got how complex H&L is. The program is full of transitions, there’s not a moment to breathe and every jump is executed after difficult steps and is perfectly incorporated in the choreography. The program flows from start to finish and I’m glad Yuzuru skated to something like this, at least once. It was risky, but wonderful. Cha’s Il Postino is a little masterpiece. But I still don’t trust David Wilson :P

Pairs’ SP:

Sui/Han - Blues for klook

Savchenko/Massot - That man

Peng/Jin - My Drag

James/Cipres - Earned it

Yu/Zhang - Eternal Flame

Yeah, I don’t think I have to say Sui/Han take number 1, right? Every time I say I don’t like Lori I have to admit they make her choreos work. This SP is a masterpiece, no doubt, and they sold it. Their interpretation, their personality and charisma were astounding. They simply have that “something more”, that x factor that does set them apart in an extremely competitive field. They are excellent when it comes to pair elements, but also excellent skaters on their own. Also, synchro hair flip, damn. Shoutout to My Drag, because it is such a funny program, it was a joy to watch, especially considering what happened to chinese couples last season. 

Pairs’ FP: 

Sui/Han - Bridge over troubled water

James/Cipres - Sound of Silence

Savchenko/Massot - Lighthouse

Besides Sui/Han’s masterpiece that made me cry like a baby...can we talk about how much Vanessa and Morgan have improved? Their FP at Euros was the best thing of the entire competition. I also quite liked Aliona and Bruno, but while they’re excellent when it comes to pairs elements (that twist damn) I still feel like there’s not the right balance between them, in terms of performance. 

Ice Dance SD:

Virtue/Moir - Prince Medley

Shibutani/Shibutani - That’s Life

Chock/Bates - Bad to the bone/Uptown Funk

I’m not making surprising choices am I? xD But really, Tessa and Scott’s SD this season was incredible. They owned it, from the first to the last second. Their midline no touch is extremely sharp and perfectly fits the music. I loved the music cuts and the lift...spectacular. I must say that all the US couples made interesting choices in terms of music and that, imo, the results were really great. I’ve never been a Chock/Bates fan, but this year both their programs were A+. When the rhythms for the SD were revealed last season I was afraid we’d see horrible programs, but I’m actually quite satisfied. Many interesting music choices, some really great programs. 

Ice Dance FD:

Shibutani/Shibutani - Evolution

Chock/Bates - Under Pressure

Gilles/Poirier - Con Buena Onda

Many might be surprised not to see Papadakis/Cizeron’s FD on this list. I’m a bit surprised myself to be honest, but...after the last two seasons I had really high expectations and they weren’t exactly fullfilled. It is a good FD, but I still have fresh on my mind their last two FDs and...this isn’t as perfect imo (and I’m also a bit tired of this genre tbh). I’ve seen the Shibs’ Evolution live and, while it’s not as iconic as Fix You, imo it’s a great continuation of what they started last season. They choose a quite difficult music to skate to, because it might make the program seem flat until the very end, but it ended being a great choice and a bit of a breath of fresh air if compared to many similar FDs we’ve seen lately. Can we stop the romantic/heartbreaking FD trend? Please. 

Let’s say, if I had to do a top 10, this would be it:

Yuzuru Hanyu - Let’s Go Crazy

Yuzuru Hanyu - Hope and Legacy

Sui/Han - Blues for klook

Virtue/Moir - Prince medley

Patrick Chan - A Journey

Wakaba Higuchi - La Califfa

Satoko Miyahara - The Planets

Laurine Lecavelier - Experience

Jun Hwan Cha - Il Postino

Mao Asada - Firedance

Edit: I’ll put in here my favourite EX too, since someone asked :)

Notte Stellata is my ultimate fave (it’s too beautiful), followed by Wakaba’s Byakuyako, Satoko’s Hernando’s Hideaway, Caro’s Claire de Lune, the Shibs, Sui/Han and Jun Hwan’s Peanut Butter Jelly xD

If you want to discuss this, my chat is always open and the same goes for my inbox.

[shesthespinstersimmer]

Holiday in Sulani (Pt3): Mao & Camille regretfully wrap up their holiday vacation with best friend Virginia. They really have to do this more often.