anakidd

[A few hours later]

Hokuto: .......... ♪

Aira: (Hidaka-senpai is so cool ♪)

(Trickstar is an idol unit in the classic sense, so the image of them wearing japanese clothing is unusual and fresh ~ ☆ )

(I’m so happy for the chance of seeing it from up close! All thanks to Mayo-san and Producer-san fashion sense ♪)

(And they made clothes for me too, so I’m beyond ecstatic….! If I’m in a dream, don’t wake me up ~!)

Tomoya: Shiratori, do you have a moment?

Aira: (Waaahhh, such an amazing aura! I can see the bright sparkles ~)

(.......Huh, snow!?)

(No way, Hidaka-senpai is so extremely cool that he can even make snow fall!?)

(Someone that can even change the weather, that’s the amazing Trickstar’s Hidaka Hokuto-kun for you!)

Tomoya: Shi-ra-to-ri..? Heeeeey?

Aira: …….. Waaah? Ah, Mashiro-senpai?

Tomoya: You finally noticed me. I was calling you for a while now, you know?

Aira: Aah, I’m sorry! I was distracted by watching Hidaka-senpai.

Tomoya: Hey. Well, I get the feeling, though.

But now it started to snow, what do we do? You are responsible for the PV composition, right?

I was thinking about your course of action in this case. Should we take a break?

Aira: Yep, since only you have been photographed so far, Mashiro-senpai….

There was snow yesterday too, but we did the work anyway. Actually, maybe we could try to make use of it now?

I’m gonna check it with Mayo-san real fast. Thank you very much, Mashiro-senpai ♪

Tomoya: Sure, see you later ~

Like Shiratori said, maybe we can make good use of the snow falling now.)

(But in this case I would need to redo my part, right? It wasn’t snowing in my turn)

(........ well, I’ll let those two decide what to do)

Aaah, Hokuto-senpai! Good work with the filming.

It was cold, right? Please, warm yourself up by the heater here!

Hokuto: Ahh, yes.

Tomoya: Here a blanket, a pocket heater and a warm scarf too!

Hokuto: Don’t worry too much, I’m fine like this...

Tomoya: No way, it would be troublesome if you catch a cold. I’ll make a tea!

Mayoi: 一I talked to Aira-san. We are considering continuing working as it is.

Yuuki-san, can you please take care of the preparations?

Makoto: Yeap, leave it to me.

(........I’m glad I went for a walk in the morning. I feel I’m relaxed and able to deal with the filming.)

Makoto: (Taking photos with Shino-kun was a lot of fun)

(After that, I also met Hidaka-kun and Producer-chan, and we made a quick photoshoot)

(After the PV recording ends, I want to take photos with the complete team)

(In order to register this memory….. ♪)

Adonis: (.......the cherry blossoms in this garden are beautiful too)

(When the spring comes around, I’ll invite everyone from UNDEAD to watch them together)

(Then I definitely want to do a mountain trail. I heard the mountain path is beautiful and has many unique flowers)

(I wonder if everyone has stamina for that. If possible, I would like to climb all the way up)

(...........)

(.......No problem. I can even carry them in my back if necessary)

Mayoi: (Not long ago I had already given up, believing I would not be able to avoid repeating a year. But thanks to everyone, I could assemble a temporary unit)

(I did everything at my reach, so I think I can accept the result, no matter what it may be)

(Thanks to the temporary unit…… no, through the “Baikasekka” activities, I could realize that so many people support me greatly)

(........It’s like that time during the test of courage at Seisoukan. I’m not alone anymore)

Mayoi: (If I ask for help, someone will lend me a hand. I just need courage to say the words) 

(It’s hard for a coward like me… but still, I’ll keep moving forward step by step.)

(Together with everyone from ALKALOID, the ones who pulled me out of darkness….)

Hajime: (Ayase-senpai looks happy……… Ehehe, I also ended up opening a big smile ♪)

(Nii-chan guided me. Tomoya-kun encouraged me. And Mitsuru-kun cheered me up一)

(I’m someone who always has been getting help, but I’m very happy for being able to support Ayase-senpai this way)

Hajime: (I’ve learned a lot through this work…….. communicating with the client, finding a job, etc) 

(For sure we’ll make good use of his experience from now on)

(I’m also going to become stronger in order to support my dearest Ra*bits..…. ♪)

Mayoi: (....... Chief said “Open it when you feel discouraged”)

(Is this the time for it…..?)

(..........)

(........No, not yet. I’m not discouraged)

(After all, I didn’t even do anything to tackle the problem)

(I’m not simply running away. I must be able to do something)

(I’m not alone now. I have everyone who joined the temporary unit一)

(And the friends rooting for me from far away)

(I can surpass the hardships with them. I’ll keep this scroll for an occasion when I feel truly lost)

(Thanks for opening my eyes, Chefe……)

(What we can do in these circumstances is…..)

[A few hours later. Hotel garden]

Tomoya: ……. Oh? Who’s coming, could be一

Producer-san and Hokuto-senpai! Hiiiii!

Adonis: You two arrived faster than I expected.

Hokuto: The road was free and we didn’t do any pit stops.

Tomoya: The schedule is really tight, thanks for your support.

Hokuto: That’s my line. I heard you guys didn't wait for the cable railway inspection to end and climbed the mountain by yourselves?

Tomoya: We just walked up to the midway station, though. Rarely we get a chance like this, so it was fun ♪

Hokuto: Really? …… Anyway, why are you not dressed for work?

Today’s filming already wrapped up?

Hajime: No, we are still in the middle of it.

The video contents went through major changes, so today we are wearing our casual outfits on the filming.

I can explain in detail while we do the makeup. Please follow me to the waiting room, Hidaka-senpai.

Hokuto: I understand. See you later, Producer.

Mayoi: Please take a seat here, Producer-san.

Take this blanket. If you stay still, your body will grow cold.

….. Yes, exactly. The original plan assumed the scenario wouldn’t have snow, so we changed the contents last minute.

As expected, it wouldn’t be realistic to hold a flower viewing in a set damped by melted snow.

The hotel advisor said the snow piles up often in the winter……

So while we are making the best of this snowy scenario, we opted for casual photos. 

Aira-san was very excited saying “Trust me to capture the best of the idol's charm for the PV!” …..

And I asked Yuuki-san to help with the photos.

Makoto: Hm? Ayase-kun, did you call me?

Ah, Producer-chan, are you already here? I haven’t noticed yet ~

……. Did you just arrive with Hidaka-kun?

So he is in the waiting room. I’ll greet him ♪

……Why do I have rolled up sleeves? And why am I helping with the photos, you ask?

It would be good to have plenty of material because of the last minute changes. Since these are casual photos, we can use a phone for that.

Aira: Ah, it’s Producer-san. Good to see you. ♪

Yuuki-senpai, it’s almost your turn to get ready, please!

Makoto: Ok! See you later, Producer-chan ♪

Mayoi: ……. What happened, Producer-san? “There is a very harmonious atmosphere surrounding everyone”, you say?

Yes, that’s true. Everyone is very honest and hard-working. I also feel very good together with them.

I really didn’t do anything but learn with everyone… I’m embarrassed with my own inexperience.

“It’s the leader who creates the unit atmosphere”...?

“When a leader trusts his teammates, everyone is comfortable to do their very best.” …. No way, you’re overestimating me.

If I was really reliable, I wouldn't be on the edge of repeating a year.

But I can only do so much. However, I feel that I end up relying on them a lot in one way or another.

“That’s the right attitude for a leader”, you say?

…….Oh. This reminds me that Tatsumi-san also said that a unit is formed by teammates who trust and support one another.

Your words are too dazzling for me, but………..

It would be rude of my part to keep refusing them, so I need to accept it earnestly.

Thank you very much, Producer-san…….. ♪

About the unit name? Since it’s a temporary unit, I didn’t think of a name.

For sure calling it just a “temporary unit” is a little lonely……

…. what do you think of “Baikasekka” (梅花雪花*) ? It’s a new word that just came to my mind, but…

The sight of the plum blossoms covered in snow was impressive.

Fufu. I’m happy you’re saying it’s a beautiful name.

……..the plums endure the harsh winter and beautiful flowers blossom as the snow melts.

I want to surpass the hardships too, working hard like the blossoming flowers.

“Baikasekka”   一 So our future selves can turn into hope for someone else, like flowers blooming in the snow.

*literally another reading of “plum blossoms and snowflakes” (梅花雪花) that Mayoi made up like he said

[A few days later, first day of filming]

Makoto: …….ah. Producer-san is messaging us in the group chat.

Hidaka-kun is going to be able to join us in the early evening.

Mayoi: Early evening? Depending on the time, he can join the filming today too if we are lucky.

Aira: We are almost there, right? Actually, it’s the first time I ride a cable car.

I wonder how it feels. It’s different from trains for sure, I’m excited ~ 

Hajime: Tomoya-kun, the curry bread we ate at the previous rest stop was tasty, right?

I wanted to bring some to Mitsuru-kun too.

Tomoya: We’ll stop there again tomorrow so you can buy in the way back, what do you think? But it looks popular so I’m not sure if it’s gonna be available.

Hajime: Ah, sounds good ♪ In that case, I’ll take the chance to buy a souvenir for Nii-chan too.

Fufu. These rest stops have many unique souvenirs, so I’m excited.

Tomoya: Just take care to not spend too much? Ah, but Hajime is a thrifty person, so it should be alright.

Hajime: Rather than thrifty, it’s more like spending money makes me anxious….  hm?

Tomoya: Hajime, your phone is ringing.

Hajime: Yes, it seems it’s our client… hello, it’s Shino.

… yes. ….yes, is that so?

No problem, thanks for letting me know. Yes, see you later.

Adonis: …. What happened, Shino? Is there a problem?

Hajime: Yes….. Ayase-senpai, do you have a minute?

It was a call from the hotel. It seems the cable railway has been going through an extraordinary inspection since this morning.

Mayoi: Ah? Is it out of service?

Hajime: Yes. It seems it won’t be available for the next three hours.

The inspection is happening from the foot of the mountain upon the station halfway, so the cable car is operating from there to the hotel…

It seems this station is an hour away from here. What do we do?

Mayoi: (A three hour wait or one hour walk……)

(I would like to avoid physical activity before the filming, but our time to finish the job is limited)

...............

….. so, let’s walk there.

Even if we wait for three hours, the cable car might still be unavailable. So I would like to choose the fastest option to reach our destination.

B-but of course I respect everyone’s opinions. A-ah, what do you say….?

Aira: Aaaah. You were acting like a proper leader, but had to slip up just at the end ♪

I have no objections, though. I don’t want the crew to waste time at the hotel.

Makoto: Totally OK for me too! It’s better to do what we can than stay put.

Adonis: Yes. A walk in the mountain sounds like good exercise.

Hajime: Yes. And it seems this mountain is known for having stoats around. We might meet one ♪

Tomoya: Those are uncommon animals, so I don’t think it’s so easy to find? 

Anyway… I agree too, Ayase-senpai.

Mayoi: Thank you very much. Your endorsement reassures me.

Let’s focus on reaching that station and be careful to not get hurt.

[Half hour later]

Adonis: ........... ♪

Makoto: Otogari-kun, you look happy.

Adonis: Yes. The sight of Mashro tagging along with a stoat makes me smile.

Mayoi: I understand. It’s lovely, right….. ♪

Aira: Yessss. If you post on social media, it would go viral.

Tomoya: I’m not tagging along, it’s following me on its own!

It’s running around my feet ~ If I’m not careful, I risk stepping on it.

Hajime: Fufu. Tomoya-kun is amazing, loved by animals as usual.

Tomoya: The stoat is cute, so it’s alright. I just worry if scarier animals wouldn’t be attracted too.

Shinobu: Shi-Shino-dono…..

Have you seen through my camouflage technique… since when did you notice my presence de gozaru?

Hajime: Hmhm, since I left the restaurant, I think?

I suspected because the tree was moving weirdly. 

Shinobu: That’s it de gozaru? Uh, I was careless de gozaru.

Hajime: Why were you hidden in a place like this—

Ah, are you concerned about Ayase-senpai?

Shinobu: Ahaha… is it so easy to notice de gozaru?

I heard from Aira-kun that Mayoi-dono accepted the challenge concerning repeating a year. 

Hajime: Hm? You didn’t hear directly from him, but second-hand?

Shinobu: Yes. That’s why I decided to watch him from the shadows in secret de gozaru.

Hajime: Is that so…? Watching him over from a distance is kind from your part, but…

It wouldn’t be better to encourage him directly, telling him “I’m cheering you on!”...? 

Shinobu: Hm… I understand what you mean, Shino-dono de gozaru.

However, I didn’t hear about the matter directly, so I don’t think I have an opening for that. But……

.............

………. Shino-dono. I want you to give this to Mayoi-dono de gozaru.

Hajime: A scroll?

Shinobu: Yes. It’s a handmade scroll for Mayoi-dono, since I can’t follow him to the job location de gozaru.

When you give it to him, I would like you to pass the message: “open when you feel discouraged” de gozaru. 

Hajime: I think it would be better for him to receive this scroll directly from your hands, Sengoku-kun, but……

I understand. I’ll give it to him later.

Shinobu: Yes. Mayoi-dono is my precious companion de gozaru.

Thanks for the support de gozaru, Shino-dono.

[Late night of the same day, Ensemble Square emergency staircase]

Mayoi: (... we’ve managed to prepare everything we needed in detail during the meeting)

(The PV song is ready too, so there shouldn’t be any issue from now on)

(.............)

(......Uuugh. So why am I still riddled with anxiety?)

(Since we are traveling, if I forget something I can’t just com back一)

……… hya!?

Producer-san? I thought my heart was going to jump out my chest…

Why am I here at the emergency stairs? That’s where I come to calm myself down.

It's dark and no one comes here, so it’s the best place to be lost in thoughts.

………. “I remember our first meeting here”, you say?

Ah….. fufu, that’s nostalgic. It was the opposite at the time, when it was me who approached you.

I was terrified of strangers, but I couldn’t look away when you were in need….

“Today is the opposite”, you say? What do you mean?

…. I see. I looked worried, so you approached me.

Ah, don’t worry. Shino-san told me you two had a conversation about the temporary unit.

It’s reassuring to have you taking care of me.

Hm… there’s nothing bad happening, but I’m terribly anxious.

It’s the first time I lead a unit and I’m worried if I didn’t overlook something…..

…… You are asking if you can see the proposal? Yes, of course.

I would be relieved if a skilled producer like you could check it ♪

…..? Producer-san, what happened?

…. outfits? In general, the plan is wearing the standard idol uniform provided by the school, but…?

A w-waste? Even if it’s a temporary unit, you say…?

……… “If we create outfits, the client will be more pleased and the fans will be more drawn to the PV too”, you say? I understand what you mean, but...

That’s impossible. We have no time and most likely we wouldn’t be able to find a suitable contractor….

What happened? You raised your hands suddenly…

….. what. Are you going to make the outfits?

You aren’t officially involved as a Producer, but want to support us just like Aira-san?

No, absolutely not. I can’t impose yet another burden when you are busy enough as it is.

It wouldn’t bring you any merit on record or proportional compensation…

……. “The glorious moment of an idol is the best reward”? If it’s for idols, I can do my very best no matter what, you say…

………..

……… I don’t see myself as someone worth such a herculean effort like this.

That being said. Many people extended me a helping hand and I would like them to feel that participating was worth itー

I want to give the news about the project to ALKALOID with all my heart. So…

Please lend me your strength, Producer-san.

T-thank you very much! I’m an unreliable person, but I’ll work my hardest, so I’m looking forward to working with you…! 

……. That’s true. It’s about time for curfew, so let’s continue talking on HoldHands.

This time, I’ll guide you through the secret passage. After you, please…. ♪ 

Got it. If you’ll have me, I’m happy to help.

Mayoi: Really? Thank you very much.

(In addition to Hidaka-san and Otogari-san, I was able to get Mashiro-san and Yuuki-san to join as well)

(I fulfilled Aira-san’s quota of “more two or three people” and everything is going smoothly for now, but……..)

……… I wonder why everyone has accepted such a thing so easily?

No no, obviously I feel blessed and couldn’t be more thankful buuuuuut……

To be honest, joining a temporary unit at this time of the year is a bother, isn’t it…..?

Makoto: Absolutely not. All the kindness we offer returns to us someday, and it’s also a great opportunity to create good memories from this soon-to-end school life.

Besides, I can’t deny a referral from Hokuto-kun. Maybe he just did it because he knew my schedule was open, but—

Still, he entrusted me with this matter. I’ll do my best to deliver.

I’m counting on you, Leader ~ ♪

Mayoi: Le…. Leeeeeeeaderrrrrrrrr!? M-Me?!

Makoto: Sure. You are the temporary unit representative, right?

Mayoi: Aaaah, that’s true… But I don’t have what it takes to be a leader.

Please, just call me by my name as usual…….!

Makoto: Ahaha, got it. So I’ll stick with “Ayase-kun”.

All I know is that we are going to record a PV at a garden. Have the details been decided already?

Mayoi: Not yet. I was thinking about discussing things with everyone first.

Makoto: I see. Then let's coordinate our schedules and have a dinner party for a meeting!

Mayoi: No… I’m not used to eating out with other people, so….

Makoto: That’s exactly the reason to do that. Don't they say that eating together helps to strengthen bonds with people?

You get to know your companions better and get closer to them just from spending time together.

Since it’s a temporary unit, it’s better to get along so the work can flow smoothly too. That’s also kind of fate, don’t you think?

Mayoi: Uuuu…… I understand where you're coming from, but…

That’s true, I’ve been able to go out to eat since I’ve started activities with ALKALOID.

Usually, I’m always tagging along… So I don’t know a good restaurant to host this dinner party.

Makoto: A restaurant, hm…….

Ah, so what if we go to the COCHI meeting room?

It’s exclusively for ES Building personnel and it’s safe to come and go to work since it’s easy to access.

Do you want me to contact everyone?

Mayoi: No, I can do that. If it’s not in person, I have no issues…

First of all, I’m going to create a group chat on HoldHands and invite everyone.

Makoto: Oh? Is Ayase-kun familiar with smartphones?

In our school, the amount of people who are bad with devices is surprisingly high, so I assumed Ayase-kun was the same.

Mayoi: Fufu. I’m fairly skilled with my fingers and I enjoy playing around with different devices.

Makoto: Really? I like devices too. I feel we have something in common ~

Thinking about it… we are in the same school year, but we haven't had many chances to talk so far.

I thought you were a bit of an odd person, but you’re surprisingly easy to talk to, Ayase-kun.

I hope we can talk a lot at the dinner party ♪

[A few days later. COCHI Cafe Meeting Room - Ensemble Square]

Hajime: …….. Then, let’s review the group so far.

The members of the temporary unit that are going to perform in the PV are Ayase-senpai, Otogari-senpai, Yuuki-senpai, Tomoya-kun—

And myself, Hajime Shino.

Mayoi: Thanks everyone for doing it for me.

I’m going to do my best to the end without running away. I’m looking forward to work with you.

Adonis: Yes. Since I’m part of it, I’ll do my very best.

Makoto: That’s right. Let’s deliver a fun PV that shows we are worth the trust!

Tomoya: Hokuto-senpai, you still don’t know if you are going to make it, right?

Hokuto: Not yet. I asked my work schedule to be adjusted in order to be able to join you all on the second day.

If possible, I would like to meet the group on the first day, but…

Anyway, what is Shiratori-kun doing here?

Since he is an ALKALOID member, I thought he wasn’t allowed to appear on the PV.

Aira: EH??? M-me??

Ehhh…… mumble mumble.......

Hokuto: What? I can’t hear you whispering.

Aira: Thing is, this and that…..

Mayoi: Aira-san is the AiraP, right?

Aira: Hey, Mayo-san!?

Hokuto: AiraP…….?

Mayoi: Yes. Aira-san is collaborating as advisor.

So “AiraA” would be accurate, but he already self-proclaimed himself as AiraP.

Naturally, we got Akiomi-sensei permission for that.

It was Aira-san who brought me the contenders for the temporary unit.

He’s going to be my emotional support at the set too. It’s reassuring….. ♪

Aira: That’s embarrassing, stop talking! It’s just an inside joke, a joke!

E-enough about me. C’mon, let’s decide the PV details instead!

[At same time, ES Building Staff Cafeteria]

Aira: Y-you’re not repeating a year anymore!?

Mayoi: Yes. Since I was granted a relief measure, I reconsidered and decided it would not be good to run away without even trying.

Hiiro: Hm. Repeating a year is something easy to reconsider, then?

Tatsumi: Usually it’s not like that, but nothing was set in stone yet in this specific case.

In any case, it’s wonderful to witness you refusing to surrender to fate and trying to overcome such tribulations.

I’m rooting for you, Mayoi-san.

Mayoi: T-thank you very much. I’ll do my best….!

Aira: Easier said than done.

You need to form a temporary unit, right? On top of that, without us.

Tatsumi: Hum…. This point worries me a little.

In my case, I’m not a Yumenosaki student, so it’s out of my reach.

I said I would help, but I can’t do anything. I’m sorry.

Mayoi: No, it’s not like that. Just rooting for me is more than enough.

I’ll keep Tatsumi-san’s words close to my heart and do my very best! [deep breathing]

Aira: You’re brimming with motivation, but is it gonna be alright, really?

I think assembling people is something hella difficult for someone with social phobia like Mayoi-san.

……… Ah, I know!

You see…. I can’t join the unit, but I wonder if is it ok to indirectly help?

Mayoi: Indirectly help?

Aira: Yea. I have a vast knowledge about idols, so I can list people Mayo-san could have more affinity with.

Mayoi: That’s true…

Let’s check with Akiomi-sensei just in case, but I feel that should be allowed within the limits.

Aira: Really? Yay! AiraP is born ~ ♪

Hiiro: What’s an “airapea”? The evolved form of “airabu”?

Aira: It’s short for “Aira-Producer”! Scouting idols isn’t a Producer job?

Assembling idols to create a unique unit feels like a dream ♪

Tatsumi: Ahaha….. isn’t that a little bit of an ulterior motive?

Hiiro: Since that’s an assignment for Mayoi-senpai, interfering too much is no good, right Aira?

Aira: I know that. I’ll take care to not meddle too much!

Ufufu, I won’t sleep tonight ♪

Mayoi: Please sleep properly, Aira-san……?

[Next night. Mayoi and Tomoya dorm room]

Mayoi: (Hm? Meu phone screen just flickered….?)

(It’s Aira-san. It seems he decided the candidates for the temporary unit)

(“For now, I chose these two”)

(“It would be good to have more two or three people in total. Tell me if there is someone you want to bring on board, Mayo-san!” , he says)

…… Hidaka-san and Otogari-san?

(They perfectly fit the criteria of “people you usually don't interact with”, but… )

(Since our connection is so weak, I feel they might refuse…)

Ahh… that’s so difficult….

Tomoya: 一What’s up with Hokuto-senpai?

Mayoi: Kyaaaaa!?

Ma-Mashiro-san…

Tomoya: I’m sorry for startling you. Since I heard Hokuto-senpai’s name, I got interested.

But you were talking about something being difficult, what’s happening?

Mayoi: Ah, about that….

(.......The message said “I want more two or three people” )

(My roommate Mashiro-san is easy to talk to)

(He might refuse, but I think it’s worth trying一)

[Few minutes later]

Tomoya: ………. Eh, so that’s the case.

You can count on me, I’ll be happy to help.

Mayoi: Thank you very much. …… fufu, Mashiro-san is just like Shino-san has said.

Tomoya: Eh? What did Hajime say about me?

Mayoi: He told me you are someone who always lends a hand to people in moments of need.

And how your kindness saved him plenty of times.

Tomoya: Ahaha, that’s something embarrassing to say.

I just did the obvious thing to do. It goes both ways, right?

Mayoi: I think it’s amazing you can do “the obvious” just like this, when a coward like me would hesitate.

Tomoya: Ahaha… Ayase-senpai is also amazing.

Even if you are at risk of repeating a year, you’re assembling a temporary unit.

Mayoi: No no, I feel I still totally depend on others. I’m counting with Shino-san to find a job一

Tomoya: Hm, who’s knocking at the door? Hey, you can come in.

Hajime: Good night, excuse me… ♪

Tomoya: Ah, Hajime. We were talking about you just now.

You’re helping Ayase-senpai with the temporary unit?

You also joined it, right? I’ll participate as well, so let’s work together ♪

Hajime: For real? Waah, that’s reassuring…. ♪

Tomoya: Ouch! You don’t need to shake my hand so hard!

Anyways! Didn’t you come here to talk to Ayase-senpai?

Hajime: Ah, yes, yes!

Ayase-senpai, I found a job that looks good. The thing is….

Mayoi: …… A hotel in the Chubu* mountains?

Hajime: Yes ~ you get to the hotel through a cable car at the foot of the mountain.

The hotel has a huge garden and it seems they want to use its charm to record a PV.

But they need to carefully plan in advance to be able to pull off a PV like that.

There won't be many people involved to interact with and you don't have to improvise either, so Ayase-senpai should be able to work calmly and safely.

Mayoi: I get it, so is it a PV production?

Thank you very much for finding a job that suits me.

I must work hard to find companions too.

In order to not waste Shino-san’s consideration, I’ll do my utmost best!







*Note: The Chūbu region, Central region, or Central Japan is a region in the middle of Honshū, Japan's main island. It is located directly between the Kantō region and the Kansai region and includes the major city of Nagoya as well as Pacific Ocean and Sea of Japan coastlines, extensive mountain resorts, and Mount Fuji.

[End of flashback, present time]

Hajime: Angel? No, it’s me, Shino ~

Mayoi: Shino-san…?

Hajime: Yes, Hajime Shino. What are you doing lying down in a place like this?

You… you aren’t playing in the snow, right?

It would be a problem if you catch a cold. Please hold my hand so you can stand up.

Mayoi: …… no. I don’t care about staying like this.

That’s a deserving end for a miserable bug like me.

Hajime: ...................... 

I understand. Then I’ll pull you out!

Mayoi: Eeeeh???

Please, stop that. Shino-san will get dirty if you touch me.

Hajime: I don’t mind getting dirty. I love to do farmwork.

I also love to do laundry and cleaning, so it doesn’t matter how dirty I get, it’s alright ♪

But above that, I’m worried about Ayase-senpai. At this rate, you’re really going to get sick.

Please, would you take my hand?

Mayoi: (It’s not this kind of “dirt” I’m talking about…)

................

…. I understand. Then I’ll be in your hands….

Hajime: Ehehe, that makes me happy…… ~ ♪

Waah, your hand is very cold… since when are you there?

You need to warm up quickly… Let's go to the school infirmary together.

Mayoi: N-no way. Helping me to stand up is more than enough, please don’t worry…

Hajime: That won’t do. Please excuse me… yay!

Mayoi: Waaah??? Aaaaaahhh, princess-carry style!?

Hajime: I considered piggyback, but… your legs would end up dragging on the ground because of my height.

But please rest assured. I may not look like it, but I’m quite strong ♪

So let’s go, Ayase-senpai ♪

[Few minutes later, Yumenosaki infirmary]

Hajime: I’ll bring you a towel and a blanket, so please sit here.

Mayoi: Y-yes, sorry for the trouble.

(....... Shino-san is really kind. I feel a little better thanks to him)

(But the weight of my sin remains. To be honest, I feel it’s even heavier now for bothering Shino-san.)

Hajime: Thanks for waiting. Here is the blanket ~

Ah, please don’t move yet. Your uniform and hair need to dry.

Mayoi: No, that’s一

Hajime: It’s ok, please leave it to me. Taking care of others is one of my strong points.

The life at the dorms disconnected me from the habit so it’s been a long time since then, but I used to dry my younger siblings’ hair after the bath.

Fufu, it’s nostalgic…….. ♪

But that aside… Why were you laying down at a place like that?

Mayoi: Ah…. to be honest一

[A bit later]

Hajime: … I see. So that’s what happened.

Mayoi: Yes. It seems my actions caused trouble to Chief……

It’s so embarrassing, I’m filled with guilt.

Hajime: You didn’t have bad intentions, so please don’t beat yourself up like this.

The important thing is to think about what to do from now on.

Mayoi: That’s…

………………..

Hm, what Shino-san would do…?

Hajime: Me?

Mayoi: I’m sorry, I’m sorry. I know I need to think for myself.

But, huh... I did think for myself and that was the result, so if you could please give me a direction…

Hajime: Y-yea, I see…

Then let’s graduate, Ayase-senpai.

Mayoi: Eh… graduation…?

Hajime: Yes. If repeating a year isn’t set in stone yet, I would like you to find a way to graduate.

Last year, when Niichan graduated, I tried to mentally prepare but I still felt lonely for sure.

But above that, I was happy and sent him out properly, as a junior and unit mate.

Besides… Nii-chan’s majestic figure receiving the diploma was really splendid and cool… 

I was filled with pride. “That’s our Nii-chan”, I thought, eager to boast about him to everyone around us.

That’s why I want Ayase-senpai to also graduate. I think it can be troublesome, but don’t you want to work hard and overcome this challenge?

So that Sengoku-kun can send Ayase-senpai out with a smile.

Mayoi: Send me out with a smile…

(... Ah, thinking back about it一)

(I gave up the temporary unit using the Ninja Association as an excuse to not graduate… and imposed my choice on Chief)

(I didn’t want to leave Chief all by himself so I decided it was ok to repeat a year, sure he would feel the same)

((But the truth was the complete opposite of it)

(Tatsumi-san also said... Usually, it’s something a lot more complicated)

(But I found a way out and ended up accepting the situation easily…)

(As a result, I hurt Chief’s feelings)

(Everyone in ALKALOID accepted my decision, but probably they were actually worried)

(Uuuuu... I don’t want to disappoint the people important to me any further)

Shino-san, I一

[A few days later, after school]

Shinobu: Ninja Association starting today’s activities, de gozaru! 

Mayoi: Yes! I’m looking forward to working together, Chief! ♪

Shinobu: Today, we’ll practice the [stealth steps] de gozaru. It’s a basic ninja ability, taught on the spot at the club admission de gozaru…….

But if you don’t practice, you’ll become rusty. Reviews are essential from time to time in order to not lose your senses de gozaru.

First of all, let’s go for a warm up. I’d like you to cross this hallway from one end to another de gozaru!

Mayoi: Going all the way and returning, I understand!

Suisusuisui ~ ♪ [ninja sounds]

Shinobu: Ohooo, your movements are very smooth de gozaru!

I’m listening carefully, but I can’t hear any step de gozaru. If I close my eyes, for sure I won’t perceive you de gozaru.

Mayoi: Fufufu. That’s all thanks to Chief for teaching me with such dedication and patience ~ ♪

Shinobu: Mayoi-dono, that’s humble of you de gozaru ~

The willingness to learn is a precious attribute for a ninja! As the Chief of the Ninja Association, I’m proud of you de gozaru.

So, I have a new mission for you de gozaru.

Let’s get serious. I want you to find the treasure hidden in the empty classroom de gozaru!

Mayoi: Treasure hunt? Even though this is a [stealth steps] training?

Shinobu: Yep. But it’s not a simple treasure hunt de gozaru. You must follow the directions from this map de gozaru.

Like a ninja, I want you to arrive at the empty classroom without being noticed by anyone de gozaru.

If you achieve this goal, Mayoi-dono wins! And you will be gifted with the treasure at the finish line de gozaru! 

Mayoi: I see. A hide-and-seek element mixed with a play tag raises the difficulty bar, and the reward is there to boost my motivation.

Amazing, Chief! I’ll fulfill the goal very fast while feeling your sincerity!

Shinobu: Yes. When the minute hand on that clock points 12, you can start de gozaru.

By the way Mayoi-dono… you seem to be in a good mood today de gozaru ~ Did something nice happen de gozaru?

Mayoi: Ufufu. I’m very, very happy because my days with Chief will continue on… ♪

Shinobu: Hm, what are you talking about de gozaru?

Mayoi: In truth, there is a chance I might repeat a year if I don’t have enough credit score.

But if I graduate, Chief will be lonely again, and I don’t want you to feel like this.

That’s why I decided to repeat a year for the sake of the Ninja Association.

Shinobu: Repeating a year? Don’t tell me we’ll be in the same school year de gozaru?

Mayoi: Yes, that’s right. In the same school year as Chief… we can even become classmates if we are lucky.

During class, I’ll be able to watch Chief in a law-abiding way... Fufu… fufufu ~ ♪

From now on, let’s master the path of Shinobi together…. ~ ♪

Ah, the minute hand is pointing 12. Then, I’ll take my leave ~ ♪

Shinobu: ...............

… Wah!? That was so sudden that my jaw dropped de gozaru.

Repeating a year for my sake…

I don’t want this to happen de gozaru, Mayoi-dono…

[Few hours later. Broadcasting Room]

Hiiro: [Now, let’s showcase the last message. Aira, can you read?]

Aira: [Okay. It’s a message signed by “ALKALOID Addicted”-san!]

[Good morning to everyone from ALKALOID! I’m a third-year getting ready for graduation]

[My student life is very fun and the time I spent with my friends is an irreplaceable treasure.]

[But everyone is going to graduate and follow different paths. Since we are together everyday, it still doesn’t feel real and I’m a bit afraid.]

[I’m looking forward to a change of scenario, but I feel lonely for parting ways with my current friends.]

[If possible, I would like advice to deal with graduation. Please!]

[Advice to deal with graduation, hm…]

Hiiro: [Speaking of which, Mayoi-senpai and Tatsumi-senpai graduate this year, right? Congrats on graduation!]

Mayoi: [A-ah… t-thank you very much.]

Hiiro: [Hm, why the long face?]

Aira: [They still didn’t graduate, so they are embarrassed, right guys?]

Mayoi: [T-that’s right. We are still students…]

Tatsumi: [Yes. Just like “ALKALOID Addicted”-san, reality still didn’t sink in. But—]

Mayoi: (Saved by a hair. Tatsumi-san can properly guide a conversation)

(As expected, he’s very reliable to give life advice on the radio show… ♪)

(Anyway. I inadvertently forgot to let them know I’m repeating a year)

(But it’s not appropriate to talk about it now. I can’t postpone the conversation any further after this.)

(I’ll tell about my situation after the recording)

Tatsumi: [... with no regrets, let’s treasure each day after another]

[It’s almost time to wrap up. Mayoi-san, can you please announce the ending song?]

Mayoi: [S-sure. Everyone, our sincere thanks for being with us once again today.]

[ We offer today's fan mailer, “ALKALOID Addicted”-san, and to everyone who is going to start a new cycle this spring… Tsubasa Moratorium by ALKALOID]

You took so long to show up that I was asking myself if you had already left.

Mayoi: I’m sorry, I’m sorry!! I’m sorry for being late! I’m sorry for being a suspicious person that never shows uuuuuuuuuuuuuup!

Akiomi: … suspicious? Indeed, raising your voice like this is suspicious behavior.

I called you abruptly, so don’t worry about the lateness. Rather the opposite, I’m glad you came here.

It’s good to have this kind of conversation as early as possible.

Mayoi: As early as possible… uuuuu… What’s about me…? 

Akiomi: First of all, let’s go to the teacher' s room. It’s not appropriate to have a talk like this in the hallways.

Mayoi: Y-yes…

[Teacher’s room. Akiomi’s desk]

Akiomi: It’s a case of grade repetition.

Mayoi: Hm…? Who’s?

Akiomi: Ayase-kun.

Mayoi: I see. “Ayase-kun”-san is…

..............

eeeeehhhhhhhh!? That’s me!

Akiomi: Yes.  However, it’s not set in stone yet.

But at this rate, you’ll repeat a year for sure.

Mayoi: Ah, for sure…

Ah… certainly I was hidden for a long time. The homeschool credit score isn't enough…?

I've been able to advance so far…

Akiomi: Indeed, the amount of credit score isn’t the problem. But we have another evaluation criteria according to the new system.

Ayase-kun, your “attendance on campus events” is awfully low.

Mayoi: School events….

Akiomi: Moreover, specifically in-campus events. Recently, “Chocofes” and “Repayment Fes” are applicable examples.

According to the new system, idol jobs are equal to schoolwork, so it would be possible to compensate for credits if you found a job…

In an extreme case, you could graduate just by working.

So, in order to save the school life from being neglected, in-campus events participation was added as an evaluation criteria starting this year.

However, the conditions aren’t strict. If you participate in regular school events, you won't get behind. But…

Mayoi: I wasn’t coming to school until summer, so the participation wasn't enough…

Akiomi: Precisely.

Mayoi: I-I understand…

Ah, I don’t even know what to say…

I’m going to work hard to graduate next time…

Akiomi: Next time? You already accepted you are going to repeat a year?

Mayoi: Yes. It’s impossible to participate in in-campus events for what is left of the year.

Just the ALKALOID participation at “Chocofes” isn’t enough to make up for it.

It’s impossible no matter what I do, so next year I gotta work hard…

Akiomi: (Honestly. I knew he was half-hearted, but to the point of accepting everything so easily…)

(The entertainment industry is a cruel world. It’s not a place where you can be spoiled.)

(But… he is a student and I am a teacher. In my position as educator, it’s my duty to at least be a guide.)

(And if he can’t figure it out, it’s possible that he’ll just give up.)

It’s not impossible. There are relief measures for students in a situation like yours.

It would be unfortunate if you weren't able to graduate because of the new system.

Mayoi: A relief measure…

Akiomi: Yes. In order to achieve the graduation requirements, you must tackle the assignment by yourself.

Mayoi: By myself? No ALKALOID?

Akiomi: Yes. ALKALOID activities are splendid and the bonds are strong too. There is no doubt about it.

But you often play a supporting role to ALKALOID, right, Ayase-kun?

It’s the right choice when you are part of a “unit”. In truth, your support allows your companions to flourish and this way ALKALOID’s true strength also grows.

However.. is it really ok to devote yourself fully to a supporting role?

The day you may need to go on stage as a solo idol, wouldn’t you struggle?

Mayoi: .................

Akiomi: The school is a place to provide education to students and to broaden your potential. So the relief measure must be associated with your development.

Therefore, Ayase-kun shall gather companions to assemble a temporary unit.

Mayoi: Temporary unit….

Akiomi: Yes. Anyone except for ALKALOID members and preferably people you don't usually interact with, if possible.

I ask you to find a job to do with this temporary unit. However, there is a possibility you might not find a proper job at this time of the year.

In this case, please host a DreamFes S3.

Mayoi: Assembling a temporary unit and finding a job…

I “just” need to search for companions, but that's the hardest part. Taking part in a S3 still would be more realistic.

But about people I don’t usually interact with—

Mayoi: Hggfn…. I’m sorry, I’m sorry…

I’m sorry for being alive, Chief—

WAAAH!?

Aaah…. my feet got stuck in the snow and I ended up falling down…

(Uuuuuugh…. I have no strength to get up now)

(I’m sorry, Chief. I didn’t consider your feelings and made a wrong choice)

(It’s just obvious to hate someone like me. I’m a worthless bug that doesn’t deserve to live…!)

(Ah, so cold. If I end up sleeping buried in the snow like this, maybe my ugliness would be purified at least a little bit?)

(Sobsobsobsob……)

(???): — Ah…. are you alright?

Mayoi: What…? Am I hallucinating, I wonder? I can hear a lovely voice.

Fufufu… perhaps an angel came to take me away.

(???): Angel…? No, it’s me—

[ Reminiscence - back to few days ago]

[ After classes, at the Garden Terrace of Yumenosaki Academy]

Hajime: ♪ ♪ ♪ 

Ritsu: You’re in a good mood, Haa-kun ~

Hajime: Ehe. That’s because it' s been a while since the last Tea Club meeting. I got really excited and baked cookies for us ♪

Ritsu: It’s an ordinary day, but we’re going fancy. May I get one?

Hajime: Of course, as many as you want ~ ♪

An ordinary day, you say… speaking of which, last year we played make-believe of Alice in Wonderland here.

Ritsu: Yeah… If I’m not mistaken, Ecchan asked us to tag along with his improv game.

I was assigned the Chesire cat that time, but the Dormouse suits me more for sure.

Just spending time eating and sleeping is the best… zzz… zzz…. ♪

Hajime: Fufu. Then I’ll be the March Hare.

The Mad Hatter is not here, but let’s have fun in this Mad Tea Party.

Arashi: …. ara? That’s Ritsu-chan and Hajime-chan, right? Are you in the middle of a club meeting, by any chance?

Ritsu: Nacchan and Mayomayo, what are you doing?

Arashi: Just strolling, talking about nothing in particular and enjoying this ordinary day.

After graduation, we won’t be able to waste time like this. So, now it 's the time to enjoy everything without regrets and make many memories. Right, Mayoi-chan? ♪

Mayoi: Ah, yes. I’m bad at communicating, so I end up taking the role of listener…

But thanks to Narukami-san being able to match my pace, it’s fun.

Ritsu: Hmhm… Making memories, huh…

So, can you stay a little bit?

Mayoi: Stay… for the tea?

Ritsu: Yeah, we are enjoying this ordinary day too. What do you say, Haa-kun? 

Hajime: Yes, you have my warmest welcome! Somehow, this is really like Alice in Wonderland.

Please, take a seat. I’ll prepare everything right now for Alice and the White Rabbit ~ ♪

Arashi: Oho, how lovely of you to compare me to Alice  ♪

It’s okay if I am Alice, Mayoi-chan?

She is cute and my name “Arashi” has a similar ring to it ♪ At least once, I’d like to experience being her.

Mayoi: Of course. But…

It’s presumptuous to choose me as White Rabbit. The Caterpillar would be more appropriate to someone like me.

A bug should act like a bug and eat the grass around here…

Hajime: Grass? Ayase-senpai, do you eat grass too?

Mayoi: “Too”? Shino-san, have you eaten something like this?

Hajime: Yes. My family used to be very poor, so I often ate grass as a child.

Mayoi: A-ah, I understand. I’m sorry for making you talk about a sensitive topic…

Hajime: You don’t need to apologize ~ It was me who brought it up.

It’s a good memory for me.

Going out to gather wild plants with my family was exciting like a treasure hunt, and I also had fun learning which ones we could eat.

But today we won’t eat grass, but cookies.

I baked a lot, so please eat without holding back ~ ♪

Mayoi: Thank you very much. Shino-san, you are very kind.

Ritsu: Seducing a senior again… Haa-kun is really naughty, hm? 

Hajime: B-but I’m not seducing anyone? Awaaa…

Narukami-senpai, thanks for waiting. Here is your Nacchan Tea.

Arashi: Thanks, Hajime-chan ~ 

Mayoi: What is “Nacchan Tea”?

Hajime: It's a herbal mix I created according to Narukami-senpai’s wishes. Its characteristics are the floral flavor and the refreshing mint.

How about you, Ayase-senpai? Would you like a common black tea?

Mayoi: Ah, no. Since we are here, Nacchan Tea…

Arashi: Good choice, Mayoi-chan.

The Nacchan Tea has beauty properties. Let us become beautiful together ~ ♪