Dynamic Diamond
Prologue
The day after MELLOW DEAR US arrives in Japan. Their arrival stream on Mega Stream.
Nice: All you who love Japan's idols!
Nice: Behold these world-class idols! Behold their brilliance!
Juis: "♪~♪~♪"
Nozomi: "♪~♪~♪"
Chitose: "Hehe. Is everyone enjoying our MELLOW DEAR US performance?♪"
Mashu: "Don't miss even a second☆ #RecordingRecommended☆
#MashuAndTheOthersAreTheBest!"
Juis: "Come on, let's keep this excitement going right to the end! Listen to our new song, 'Dear
World'!"
Just under an hour later. In the dressing room after the arrival stream.
Juis: Hey, Nice. How was our Transformation?♪
Nice: Of course, you already know my answer. It was supremely Nice!
Mashu: Everyone's sparkly aura was on full blast! That was seriously wild! And the name
'Transformation' is so straightforward it's hilarious☆ #CallUsSparklyDears
#WarningTooDazzling♪
Chitose: It looks like the comments are pouring in too. That was a really fun time.
Nice: I'm delighted you like Transformation, the new feature whose development I spearheaded.
Nice: Your magnificent first stream must have had Japan's idol fans glued to their screens...♪
Nozomi: Never mind that. Nice, why is an outsider in our dressing room?
Nice: Hmm? Oh, you mean Anzu-chan? I thought I'd introduce you to each other.
Nice: Allow me to introduce her. Anzu-chan is a freelance Producer working at ES.♪
Nice: And this is Juis Kojika-kun, MELLOW DEAR US's leader and main vocalist.
Nice: Their main rapper, Nozomi Madoka-kun, and their main dancer, Mashu Kuon-kun.
Mashu: Kyaha, nice to meet you~♪
Nice: And although he may need no introduction, this is Chitose Tsuzura-kun, their all-rounder.
Chitose: Ehehe. We already know each other, though.♪
Nozomi: ...
Nice: In any case, you were watching too, Anzu-chan. They are MELLOW DEAR US, the idol Unit I
produced!
Nice: Hehe. Aren't they wonderful? Above all, your expression during the concert showed how
moved you were.♪
Nice: As we discussed beforehand, their participation in the program will take Mega Stream into
its final phase.
Nice: We've also finished adjusting the Transformation feature so all the idols can use it.
Nice: Mega Stream's finale will feature two live events to bring it to a perfect close.♪
Nice: Let's see. Shall we call it the Japan vs. US Live Showdown?
Mashu: Huh? That's hilarious when we're all Japanese! So Mashu and the others are
representing America?
Juis: Hey, Kuon. Let's keep quiet for now.
Nice: Hehe. Since we have all the program's key players here, I might as well explain it to
MELLOW DEAR US too.
Nice: This weekend, we plan to hold the first event, the preliminary concert, Dynamic Diamond.
Nice: It will feature ES's elite, selected by Anzu-chan, the Producer who planned Mega Stream
together with me.
Nice: We'll have fans around the world witness a live showdown between MELLOW DEAR US and
ES's strongest Unit!
Nice: Then, the week after Dynamic Diamond, the concert held on Mega Stream's final
broadcast day will decide the ultimate winner.
Nice: You could say this live showdown has two stages: a preliminary battle and a decisive
battle.♪
Mashu: Me, me, me! Question for Pii-chan! How do we decide who wins the live showdown?
Nice: A Nice question! The winner will be decided by the number of 'Nice!'s earned during the
stream.♪
Nice: I'd been wondering how to handle it myself, but Anzu-chan told me about DreamFes,
Yumenosaki Academy's own system for live showdowns.
Nice: After discussing it together, we decided that using 'Nice!'s as points would be appropriate
this time!
Nice: Through our projects so far, we've had ES's idols learn how to earn 'Nice!'s...
Nice: But even we can't predict the outcome of the Japan vs. US Live Showdown.
Nice: How will the idols, including MELLOW DEAR US, show their brilliance onstage...?
Nice: Ah, how exciting! As an idol fan myself, I'm getting worked up...☆
Just under an hour later.
Makoto: ...Wow. MELLOW DEAR US's concert stream is getting an unbelievable number of
'Nice!'s.
Mao: So this is what a world-class concert is like. That was a shock...!
Hokuto: MELLOW DEAR US... I have no idea what they're like as people, but I could feel how
tremendous they are as idols.
Hokuto: They're worthy opponents for us Trickstar to defeat.
Mao: You really are something, Hokuto. You can watch that and still talk about beating them as
if it's only natural.
Hokuto: Hmm? Did I say something strange?
Hokuto: According to Nice-P, we're being given a chance to battle MELLOW DEAR US this
weekend, aren't we?
Hokuto: As idols representing Japan, we'll challenge world-class idols... and win.
Hokuto: Compared with all the streaming and collecting 'Nice!'s we've been doing, it's far easier
to understand. It's that 'effort, friendship, victory' you like, Isara.
Mao: No, no, no. That's not what I mean...
Makoto: I understand, Isara-kun.
Makoto: MELLOW DEAR US's concert was more overwhelming than any idol concert I've ever
encountered.
Makoto: That's exactly why I can't help wondering... Can we beat that, the way we are now?
Hokuto: Pull yourself together. Why are you losing your nerve?
Hokuto: Certainly, MELLOW DEAR US is a Unit with world-class ability. But I don't believe they're
unbeatable.
Hokuto: Besides, we Trickstar have overturned every adversity we've faced.
Mao: I know. But after watching that concert footage, everyone in the other Units looks pretty
grim too.
Makoto: Though some of them do seem intent on beating MELLOW DEAR US, just like you,
Hidaka-kun.
Subaru: ...
Makoto: Heeey, Akehoshi-kun. You've been quiet this whole time. Are you okay?
Makoto: Well, I understand being lost for words. MELLOW DEAR US's performance was that
impressive...
Subaru: Yeah. They really were amazing. How do I put it...?
Subaru: They were so beautiful, I was moved!
Subaru: Maybe this is what I sensed when Mega Sphere came to ES.
Subaru: So Nice-P was producing idols who sparkle like that.
Subaru: I want to battle them on the same stage...☆
Makoto: Akehoshi-kun?!
Hokuto: Heh. That's just the sort of impression you'd have.
Mao: Ahaha. You guys really do have great personalities.
Mao: Somehow, I'm starting to feel silly for sitting here worrying...♪
Makoto: Yeah. Maybe being this dejected isn't like us.
Subaru: Uh-huh! Something exciting is happening right in front of us. We don't have time to be
down☆
Subaru: We're going to battle MELLOW DEAR US soon, right? We have to do everything we can
to get ready!
Hokuto: Yes. Let's start practicing right away.
Makoto: Hold on, you two! We don't even know who's representing ES yet, remember?
Subaru: Aww. Was it only the idols selected as representatives who get to battle MELLOW DEAR
US?
Mao: Come to think of it, Nice-P didn't say anything about how they'd be chosen...
Mao: Huh, Anzu?
Subaru: What's up, Anzu? Did you come to see me, by any chance?
Hokuto: Is this the time to say something foolish? You're putting Anzu on the spot too.
Hokuto: What? You have something to discuss with everyone here?
Hyori 1
Makoto: ...I see. You've been told to choose the idols representing ES in Dynamic Diamond, the
preliminary concert, Anzu-chan.
Mao: The event's this weekend, right? If we spend too long thinking, we might run out of time to
practice.
Mao: This tense feeling of not having enough time reminds me of SS in our second year.
Subaru: So you're having trouble deciding who to choose, Anzu.
Subaru: Then leave it to us Trickstar! We'll beat MELLOW DEAR US for sure!
Eichi: Hehe. Just what I'd expect from you, Subaru-kun. Promoting yourself so boldly in front of
everyone.
Subaru: Oh, Eichi-senpai. Do you want to be chosen too?
Eichi: No, I'm not particularly attached to being a representative.
Eichi: Of course, if Anzu-chan chooses me, I'll do everything I can...♪
Eichi: I spoke up because I want you to understand just how important this preliminary concert
is.
Eichi: Both the idols here... and you, Anzu-chan.
Mao: How important it is?
Eichi: Yes. Being chosen as a representative for this event carries more weight than words can
express.
Eichi: You'll stand onstage as idols and face MELLOW DEAR US, one of the world's finest Units.
Eichi: You'll be competing as representatives of Japan's idols, not just ES.
Eichi: Nice-P might dramatically call it 'a historic turning point for the idol industry.'
Eichi: If Japan's representatives were to suffer an embarrassing defeat on a stage that big...
Chiaki: The whole world would learn how good Japan's idols are, in a bad way. Is that what you
mean?
Eichi: Yes. As the person who built ES, that's not an outcome I want.
Keito: Hmm...
Keito: In other words, you want Anzu to consider the representative idols carefully.
Ibara: I agree. I wouldn't be satisfied if our representatives were chosen with the sort of casual
attitude Akehoshi-san displayed just now.
Hokuto: Then how about deciding through live showdowns between Units?
Hokuto: I have no objection to Anzu choosing at her own discretion. But the way you're putting
it seems to place too much responsibility on her as the Producer.
Hokuto: Simply waiting to be chosen would be irresponsible too. If we win our place through
ability, there should be no complaints.
Natsume: That's certainly straightforward, but isn't it risky to wear ourselves out before the real
event?
Hokuto: Hmm? Would ES's strongest idols get worn out by that much? Every strong idol I've
seen has been a monster capable of performing for twenty-four hours straight.
Kaoru: No, no, aren't your standards a little strange?
Yuta: You say the strongest idols, but stamina isn't everything.
Nazuna: Yeah. Each of us should have our own strengths to fight with.
Nagisa: ...That's precisely why Anzu-san is having trouble deciding.
Ritsu: ...Know your enemy and know yourself, and you need not fear a hundred battles.
Choosing our representatives without knowing what kind of idols MELLOW DEAR US are might be
dangerous, don't you think?
Eichi: That's what we mean, Hokuto. Though settling it through a live showdown is certainly an
idea I'd expect from you.
Hokuto: But how do we choose our representatives, then? Is there another method everyone
here would accept?
Ibara: Aren't you rushing to a conclusion? Sakuma-shi just explained what we must do before
choosing our representatives.
Mao: ...'Know your enemy and know yourself, and you need not fear a hundred battles,' huh?
Ritsu: Yeah. We're already on the enemy's home turf. The rules are probably set up to favor
MELLOW DEAR US.
Ritsu: An obvious example would be deciding the winner by the number of 'Nice!'s.
Subaru: Then isn't that all the more reason to choose people who can put on a concert?
Subaru: In that sense, isn't this our time to shine as Trickstar? I'm confident we can sparkle
brighter than anyone here☆
Eichi: Hehe. You really do say things like that without a trace of hesitation. I like that about
you...♪
Eichi: But after all our streams so far, it's hard to say Trickstar has earned the most 'Nice!'s.
Eichi: As Ritsu-kun said, Nice-P has made rules that favor MELLOW DEAR US.
Eichi: That's precisely why we need to select members who can follow those rules while also
using them to their advantage.
Eichi: Subaru-kun, do you know what MELLOW DEAR US has been doing overseas?
Subaru: Nope! But that was one of the sparkliest concerts I've ever seen...☆
Eichi: Their technical skill is certainly high. But that ability isn't their greatest distinguishing
feature.
Subaru: ...?
Hyori 2
Eichi: Makoto-kun has been using his Mega Phone for a while, so I imagine he's researched this.
Shall I leave the explanation to him?
Eichi: Would you tell all the idols here?
Makoto: Ahaha... That's a lot of responsibility. I was only looking into it out of personal interest.
Makoto: But all right. Leave it to me.
Eichi: That helps. If I speak as ES's representative, people might suspect an ulterior motive
because of my interests in the matter.
Eichi: That should be fine with you too, Saegusa-kun, watching over there like a tiger waiting to
pounce?
Ibara: Yes. I'd prefer to leave it to a third party rather than have Your Excellency take control.
Ibara: Of course, I'll add anything necessary. But for this occasion, having the thoroughly
harmless-looking Yuuki-san explain would be best!
Makoto: This feels a little complicated, but I'll borrow a microphone to explain.
Makoto: "Ah, ahem. Could everyone listen?"
Makoto: "To prepare for battling MELLOW DEAR US, and to help Anzu-chan, who's struggling to
choose our representatives, I'll explain what kind of idols we need for Dynamic Diamond."
Koga: Skip the preamble and get on with it, Glasses Bean Sprout!
Izumi: Huh?! Hey, Oogami, could you stop calling Yuu-kun weird names?!
Shinobu: P-Please calm down, both of you!
Arashi: Goodness, what are we going to do with you? Come on, Izumi-chan. Let's listen quietly
over here.♪
Arashi: Adonis-chan, I'll leave Koga-chan to you.
Adonis: Yes, understood. ...Oogami, I'd like you to calm down too.
HiMERU: Please ignore Sena-senpai and the others and begin your explanation.
Makoto: "Right. MELLOW DEAR US is currently the most talked-about idol Unit in the world."
Makoto: "Apparently, they have more fans than all of ES's idols put together."
Subaru: Huh, that many? But nobody was talking about them in Japan!
Makoto: "I think the information didn't reach us because we were separated by cultural
barriers."
Makoto: "In Japan, people tend to equate idols with ES. If you're interested in idols, the
domestic scene has everything you need."
Makoto: "And... even if they were talked about worldwide as idols, we might not have
recognized them as idols ourselves."
Tomoya: What do you mean, we might not have recognized them...?
Makoto: "MELLOW DEAR US is an idol Unit, but they're marketed more along the lines of
musical artists."
Makoto: "So even if you were looking for idol news, there's a good chance MELLOW DEAR US
wouldn't have come up. The information reaching Japan is limited enough already, right?"
Aira: That does make sense...
Hiiro: After all, if they were world-famous idols, there's no way Aira wouldn't know them!
Aira: That's going a bit far, you know? Even what I know is mostly stuff I happened to find
online. I should've taken more of an interest...!
Hinata: But if they're famous worldwide and have more fans than us, that means...
Makoto: "Yes. Under Mega Sphere's rules, MELLOW DEAR US is the strongest."
Koga: The preliminary concert's decided by 'Nice!'s. In other words, more fans simply means
more 'Nice!'s.
Makoto: "Exactly. So I think we need to understand that premise before we go into battle."
Kuro: I see. Until now, all I'd really heard was that we needed to choose representatives who
could gather 'Nice!'s...
Kuro: So we need to choose idols who can compete with MELLOW DEAR US, who'll be getting
loads of 'Nice!'s before the match even begins.
Makoto: "That's right. So choosing idols who can put on an amazing concert and gather 'Nice!'s
isn't wrong, but..."
Tetora: Concerts aren't the only way to earn 'Nice!'s, right? We Ryuseitai actually earned a
pretty good number through streaming.
Jun: Choosing the idols among us who can gather the most 'Nice!'s as representatives...
Jun: Maybe that method would ultimately lead us to the idols who can compete with MELLOW
DEAR US?
Hyori 3
Subaru: Me, me! Professor Ukkii! I have a question!
Subaru: I get that MELLOW DEAR US can gather 'Nice!'s easily. But what kind of people are they
in the first place?
Subaru: Since Nice-P produces them, I thought they'd be a super-flashy, glittery... maybe?...
Unit.
Mao: Oh, I was curious about that too. They seemed surprisingly mature.
Tsukasa: Glittery...? Isn't it a little shallow to assume he Produces a Unit similar to himself just
because he dresses flamboyantly?
Tsumugi: Esupuri, which Nice-P also produces, targets today's young people, after all.
Esu: Ahaha... Now that you mention it, Esupuri and MELLOW DEAR US are totally different!
Yuzuru: He may intend to market them in different directions and distinguish their fan bases.
Ibara: Of course, another approach is to deliberately produce similar Units and turn people into
fans of the brand as a whole.
Niki: I don't really get it. Is it like getting tired of eating the same dish every day?
Kohaku: I don't think so.
Souma: In any case, if knowing the enemy is important, we should next learn about their
members.
Makoto: "Right. Though I've only just been reading fans' comments, so I don't know that much
about them."
Makoto: "...Hmm? What is it, Anzu-chan?"
Mao: You'll explain MELLOW DEAR US's members yourself, Anzu?
Kanata: ...I see~. You hurried to research them after they arrived yesterday?
Hajime: Because you can't leave everything to Yuuki-senpai...?
Mitsuru: Somehow, I'm getting a whole lot of determination from Anzu-neechan!
Makoto: "...Okay. Then I'll hand things over to Anzu-chan from here."
Sora: ...
Hiyori: Why the gloomy face, Sora-kun?
Sora: ...For a moment, it looked like Anzu was pushing herself.
Sora: (Sora can't see 'colors' right now. So there's no way to be sure, but...)
Hiyori: It must be difficult for her. As Nagisa-kun said, she has to choose our representatives
from among us.
Wataru: Choosing someone means not choosing someone else, after all. Though that goes
without saying.
Wataru: Even so, I believe this is a choice Anzu-san must make herself.
Wataru: No matter what conclusion that choice leads to.
A little over ten minutes later.
The Passage Area, where Mega Sphere's commercial facilities are gathered.
Tori: (Disbanding the Four Kings of the Sky... I still can't accept it.)
Tori: (I went to see Nice-P in person and finally got chosen as one of the Four Kings of the Sky...)
Tori: (And now that MELLOW DEAR US has come to Japan, we're being thrown away?)
Tori: (My experience as one of the Four Kings of the Sky meant something to me. I got lots of
attention, and I could use the privileges.)
Tori: (No, that wasn't all. If I'd suddenly been thrown in here like the others, I'm sure I wouldn't
have been able to do anything. I'd have stayed the same as always.)
Tori: (I think I did what I could as one of the Four Kings of the Sky. Of course, I'd be stuck if
someone asked whether I made full use of absolutely everything...)
Tori: (...I worked hard too.)
Tori: (Ever since MELLOW DEAR US appeared, all anyone talks about on Mega Stream is them.
Their overseas fans are just too powerful.)
Tori: (And when I got so curious that I had Yuzuru look into them, he told me their leader, Juis
Kojika, comes from a branch family of the ZK conglomerate.)
Tori: (The Himemiya family is being pushed back by someone of lower standing...!)
Tori: (Quietly) This is so frustrating...!
Tori: (...What would Eichi-sama do at a time like this?)
Rei: Kukuku. How nice it is to be young.♪
Rinne: You're getting wrinkles between your eyebrows, y'know? Take that☆
Tori: Unyah! How dare you flick my forehead!
Madara: Knowing you, Tori-san, I thought MELLOW DEAR US's appearance might have you
worrying about something.
Tori: ...Doesn't any of this bother you?
Tori: I don't want to stay a spectator. Not after everything we've done as the Four Kings of the
Sky.
Rinne: Hey, hey. Uri-chan, you think we're gonna quietly back down now?
Tori: ...!
Rei: Naturally, their arrival has our blood boiling with excitement too.
Rei: It wouldn't hurt to make it clear who the truly formidable opponents are.
Rei: Besides, there's someone in MELLOW DEAR US who has caught my interest.
Tori: Huh? Is there someone you know?
Rei: An acquaintance, though it was a very long time ago...
Rei: Back when Mikejima-kun and I visited Yumenosaki's overseas sister school as exchange
students.
Tori: (If Sakuma-senpai was a student then, it can't have been that long ago, can it?)
Rei: We worked together on various things back then.
Madara: But, Rei-san, he wasn't in the idol course at the time, was he?
Rei: Indeed. It seems he became an idol somewhere along the way. I don't know how it
happened, though.
Madara: It feels a little too convenient to dismiss as a strange coincidence...
Madara: (Him, yes, but I also didn't expect that Juis Kojika to appear. I don't think he knows I'm
here, though...)
Rei: ...From the way you're speaking, it sounds as though something else is on your mind too.
Madara: Haha! I just remembered that Rinne-san knows Nice-P.♪
Madara: When we keep encountering people connected to us one after another, it makes you
want to speculate, doesn't it?
Rinne: It's a small industry, isn't it?
Rinne: More importantly, figuring out how to get revenge on Yoshihide-kun and those guys who
made fools of us Four Kings of the Sky would be a way better use of our time...♪
Rei: Kukuku. Amagi-kun, isn't 'revenge' rather excessive?
Rinne: It's a figure of speech. Still, if we storm in with that kind of energy, we might get a more
entertaining reaction, huh?
Madara: If our aim is to defeat MELLOW DEAR US, the quickest route is to enter this weekend's
Japan vs. US Live Showdown.
Tori: Right. We'll show MELLOW DEAR US a thing or two at that concert!
Rei: But to do that, we must be chosen as the idols representing ES.
Tori: Being chosen... Nice-P said he gave Anzu the authority to choose, didn't he?
Rei: Indeed. At present, being chosen by the young lady is the shortest route.
Rei: But... this will be a difficult problem for her.
Madara: One thing's certain, Tori-san. You should hurry over to Anzu-san.
Tori: Hurry? Why?
Madara: Hahaha☆ Because the other idols want to battle MELLOW DEAR US too, just like you.♪
Rei: Indeed. The young lady may be swarmed by eager contenders even as we speak...♪
Tori: ...!
Tori: I'm going to... go see Anzu and ask her to choose me!
Hyori 4
Several dozen minutes later. In the Producer Room.
Chitose: Ugh...
Chitose: (I didn't mean to deceive her, but that's what I ended up doing. I came all this way
because I wanted to apologize properly to Anzu-san, even if it was only a few words.)
Chitose: Nobody's here...
Chitose: And I even worked up my courage, in my own way. Somehow, the wind's gone out of
my sails.
Chitose: (Actually, what should I do...? Now that the tension's broken, I'm suddenly getting
scared...)
Chitose: (What if Anzu-san gets really angry with me? No, it might not just be anger. She might
hate me...)
Chitose: I'll go back to my room and think it over again.
Chitose: Huh?! Footsteps?!
Chitose: (Could Anzu-san be back?! Wh-Wh-What do I do?! I haven't worked up my courage
yet.)
Chitose: (I need to hide somewhere, anyway...! Um, um...)
Chitose: (Oh. I'll hide here...!)
Chitose: ...
Chitose: (What do I do? I hid under Anzu-san's desk without thinking...)
Chitose: (It looks like Anzu-san sat down and started working without noticing me.)
Chitose: (If I stay hidden here and she finds me... won't I be punished as a suspicious
intruder...?)
Chitose: (Oh, that'd be bad. Nice-san would be really angry, Juis-san and Mashu-san would be
disgusted with me, and Nozomi-san would probably stab me...)
Chitose: (I should apologize myself before that happens, right? I don't know. Probably...?)
Chitose: U-Um... Anzu-san...?
Chitose: Wh-Whoa?! A-Are you okay?!
Chitose: Thank goodness I caught you in time~. You almost toppled over backward.
Chitose: Oh, sorry. Of course you'd be startled if I suddenly came out from a place like this.
Chitose: Um. Hiding here really was an accident. I came for something else, or rather...
Chitose: I came to see you, Anzu-san. How do I put it? Um... I wanted to apologize for deceiving
you.
Chitose: Yeah. Things were hectic with the concert earlier, so I missed my chance to say it. It
ended up feeling like I'd deceived you and gotten away with it.
Chitose: Huh? Um, I don't really understand it myself, but it seems I was called in to act as a
messenger between you and Nice-san.
Chitose: Oh, yes. That's why I interviewed you and had you tell me your thoughts as a Producer.
Chitose: Nice-san said, 'Having her think things through that way is important.' But it's too
complicated for me, and I don't really understand any of what he's thinking.
Chitose: Nice-san told me I'd be fine if I acted like I wasn't there. I just did as he said and served
as a messenger without really understanding what it meant...
Chitose: ...No. Now it sounds like I'm avoiding responsibility. I'm sorry.
Chitose: But I really didn't mean to deceive you. Since I was doing the job, I took it seriously and
worked hard. Nice-san told me to do that too.
Chitose: ...That's another excuse, isn't it?
Chitose: Hmm? You were surprised, but you don't really mind...?
Chitose: Really? Even though I approached you while hiding who I was? You'd have every
reason to criticize me.
Chitose: 'I've been watching you all along, so I know you weren't trying to deceive me'...?
Chitose: ...
Chitose: Um, Anzu-san. I...
Chitose: Oh. Why are you letting go of my hand...?
Chitose: Does that mean you do hate me now after all?
Chitose: No, yeah. You're right. To you, I'm like a con artist. I'm sorry...
Chitose: Huh, that's not it? Since I'm an idol, I shouldn't casually hold people's hands?
Chitose: Oh! R-Right. Sorry!
Chitose: Nice-san and Juis-san warned me about that habit too. I do it with anyone, without
thinking.
Chitose: ...? Which one is the real me?
Chitose: Um, what do you mean by 'real'? I'm the only me, though...
Chitose: Oh, d-do you mean there's a fake me somewhere in this world...?!
Chitose: Wh-What do I do...! Is it a doppelganger? You die if you meet yourself, don't you?!
Chitose: Hmm? That's not what you meant...?
Chitose: ...Oh. You mean the impression I give now is different from the one I give onstage.
Chitose: Um. That's just the concept Nice-san uses when producing us MELLOW DEAR US.
Chitose: So the me onstage and the me talking to you are the same, or rather...
Chitose: Does that explanation make sense? S-Sorry. I'm not very good at explaining things.
Chitose: You more or less understand? Really? Thank goodness.♪
Chitose: Oh, yeah. I'm satisfied now that I could apologize to you, Anzu-san. That's what I came
for.
Chitose: Oh, right. This isn't exactly to make up for it, but...
Chitose: Since we worked together for a while, I brought you footage of MELLOW DEAR US's
past concerts as a friendly gesture.
Chitose: ES probably doesn't have much information about our concerts, so I thought it might
be useful.
Chitose: It feels odd saying this myself, but MELLOW DEAR US is incredibly popular overseas. I
think you'd be better off preparing countermeasures before facing us. I don't really know,
though.
Chitose: ...Um, was I sticking my nose in where it wasn't wanted?
Chitose: Really? Hehe. I'm glad it looks useful...♪
Hyori 5
Chitose: ...You'll watch it later? Not now?
Chitose: Oh, I see. You have to choose the members first, Anzu-san.
Chitose: You're unsure what criteria would be best?
Chitose: Hmm. People who want you to choose them have been coming to see you one after
another.
Chitose: Of course you'd be unsure. In your position, I think I'd be stuck groaning and unable to
decide too.
Chitose: It's painful for you, isn't it, Anzu-san? You want to choose everyone, but you can't.
Chitose: The best choice, huh...
Chitose: Since it's a contest to gather 'Nice!'s, you could include people who are popular with
the viewers.
Chitose: Or, since it's a live showdown, you could include people with strong performance
skills...? I don't know, though.
Chitose: But either way, I think your producing will be essential to gathering 'Nice!'s. Nice-san is
probably putting together a strategy too...
Chitose: Oh. Then how about this?
Chitose: Just like the Six of Song have been chosen until now, why not let the viewers vote for
who'll face us?
Koga: A viewer vote?! You'd better be kidding me!
Chitose: Eek?! I'm not kidding, but I'm sorry...?!
Koga: Like hell I'm letting something this important be decided so carelessly!
Chitose: Um, you're... Oogami-kun, right? From UNDEAD. Why are you here...?
Koga: Isn't it obvious? I came to tell Anzu to choose me.
Koga: And for some reason, I find you here with her, saying ridiculous crap about deciding
through a viewer vote...
Koga: Just what the hell are you?!
Chitose: Oh, um, I'm Chitose Tsuzura from MELLOW DEAR US...?
Koga: That's not what I meant! I already know your name!
Chitose: Oh, right. Sorry.
Chitose: Wait, hmm...?
Koga: Huh? What? Don't you glare at me, you Wimpy Hair bastard!
Chitose: S-S-Sorry! I just had a strange feeling of deja vu.
Chitose: Everyone gets that, right? Feeling like you know this scene already...
Chitose: Hmm? Wimpy Hair? Are you talking about me?
Koga: Who else is there?
Chitose: Wow, I'm happy. Thank you for giving even someone like me a nickname.
Chitose: I am rather wimpy, and my hair is wavy, so you've captured my features...♪
Koga: What's with that stupid grin? Show a little remorse, you traitor!
Chitose: Oh, sorry. I just said what I was thinking without meaning to, or rather...!
Koga: Tch. You're throwing me off...
Koga: Anyway, Wimpy Hair doesn't matter right now.
Koga: Hey, Anzu! Have you chosen the Six of Song members?
Koga: ...
Koga: Thought so. Knowing you, you're still agonizing over it, aren't you?
Koga: I'll solve that problem for you in one shot!
Koga: Choose me! That'll take care of everything!
Koga: If you don't decide soon, these MELLOW DEAR US guys will snatch everything away,
y'know?
Koga: We can't just sit around doing nothing while MELLOW DEAR US prepares for the real
event.
Koga: Ah, damn it. I'm itching to fight already. Like hell I'm letting a big match against top
overseas idols be decided by some viewer vote!
Koga: Well, I can see why looking at that prediction poll would make you hesitate...
Chitose: That prediction poll? Um, what exactly are you talking about...?
Koga: Huh? Anzu and Wimpy Hair, neither of you knew about that, and you've been going on
about all this...?!
Koga: Tch. Guess I've got no choice.
Koga: Apparently, the fans have been discussing who deserves to be selected.
Koga: Here, look. It's a 'Representative Prediction Poll.'
Koga: Looks like they're voting for participants in real time on Mega Stream's official stream.
Chitose: Oh. On the Nice Stream channel, which isn't broadcasting right now, the viewers are
using the poll feature to vote for whoever they like.
Koga: Yeah. I thought the poll feature was for us streamers, but apparently viewers can make
polls too.
Koga: Well, it only just started, so there isn't much of a gap yet, but...
Koga: ...
Koga: Are you kidding me? If you're gonna rely on something like this, you might as well just
pick me!
Chitose: U-Um... I understand you're impatient, Oogami-kun, but I don't think forcing the issue
is good.
Chitose: Anzu-san has her own feelings too. I think pushing her too hard will put her in a difficult
position. I don't know, though...
Koga: Huh? You're in no position to talk, Wimpy Hair.
Chitose: S-Sorry... I know I'm not really in a position to say this.
Chitose: But Anzu-san is probably kind, so... she can't choose some people and throw others
away, can she?
Chitose: But acting that way until now is how you earned ES's idols' trust, isn't it?
Chitose: Then maybe that's the answer.
Chitose: Rather than you choosing someone, maybe your role is to make the strongest Unit out
of whoever gets chosen... I don't know, though.
Koga: ...
Chitose: Yeah. You're still unsure. But time keeps running out, and that's making you anxious.
Chitose: I think it's still okay for now.
Chitose: Surely God will give you at least a little time to be uncertain, Anzu-san. Probably...
Hyori 6
Several hours later. In front of Mega Sphere Tower.
Mika: Sorry, Oshi-san. For makin' you come along to look for what I left behind.
Shu: How long do you intend to keep saying the same thing? I've heard quite enough apologies.
Mika: But until just recently, you were stubbornly refusin' to leave the room, weren't you?
Mika: You didn't want to go outside carelessly and have clips of you taken from the stream
either.
Shu: Hmph. Had it been daytime, I might have waited in our room.
Shu: At this hour, we shouldn't run into anyone, and there's less risk of having strange clips
made of us, isn't there?
Shu: Besides, what you left behind is ultimately just Mega Sphere's equipment, isn't it?
Shu: Even if you couldn't bear to pretend you hadn't seen it, couldn't you have had the staff
collect it instead of making us come all this way?
Shu: I don't think art supplies used to make stage props warrant such a desperate search.
Shu: ...Are you listening, Kagehira?
Mika: ...
Shu: What are you staring at? Where on earth are you looking...?
Shu: Is that... the little girl sitting over there?
Mika: Oshi-san, let's hurry back to our room...
Shu: We can't do that. In fact, you stopped because you were concerned too, didn't you,
Kagehira?
Mika: ...That's...
Shu: Hmph. ...I don't think things can stay this way forever either.
Shu: ...Out for a walk at this hour, little girl?
Shu: Even if Mega Sphere is a prison in the sky cut off from the mundane world, you're far too
careless about danger.
Shu: Well, its rules and values are entirely different from those on the ground. Perhaps it's
inevitable that your judgment would be affected.
Shu: (As I thought, she seems to have accumulated considerable mental strain.)
Shu: Have you looked at yourself in a mirror? You look dreadful. Almost as if you're asking
someone to speak to you.
Shu: ...Knowing you, you've probably been worrying about the Japan vs. US Live Showdown,
haven't you?
Shu: 'You knew?' you ask? Even if we've been keeping to ourselves, predicting this much is no
great feat.
Shu: From what I've heard, you were having a friendly strategy meeting with ES's idols.
Shu: Though we Valkyrie weren't there, so I don't know the details.
Shu: ...You're struggling to choose who should enter this live showdown, where the winner is
decided by 'Nice!'s.
Shu: Hmph. 'Nice!'s again. I'm thoroughly sick of this standard of judgment.
Shu: Are we to relive the nightmare that once sent Valkyrie plunging into the abyss...? How
utterly unpleasant.
Shu: You devised schemes to make the idols earn 'Nice!'s, and now those very 'Nice!'s are
pushing you around. How ironic.
Shu: We've questioned Mega Sphere's system, ruled by 'Nice!'s, all along. You should have
understood that too, little girl.
Shu: Now you finally understand, in the truest sense, how 'Nice!'s distort Mega Sphere.
Shu: Even I didn't expect the overseas audience to increase so dramatically at this point. But
you've fallen right into Nice-P's trap.
Shu: ...Kagehira, how long do you intend to stay so far away?
Mika: ...
Shu: If you have something to say, say it clearly. Expecting someone to understand while you
remain silent is itself arrogant.
Mika: ...That's unfair, Oshi-san. Sayin' that makes me look like the bad guy for keepin' on bein'
stubborn.
Shu: Being stubborn is by no means a bad thing... Having something you won't compromise on
also means having clear convictions.
Shu: That's important to us as artists.
Shu: But sometimes, holding those uncompromising convictions too tightly lets your emotions
run wild, leading you to say or do things you can't take back. That's not what you want, is it?
Shu: I'm not telling you to understand and forgive everything. But you should be able to express
your feelings to each other and find some middle ground.
Shu: ...Little girl. That's what you want too, isn't it?
Mika: ...Haaah. I can finally catch my breath.
Mika: We only went to pick up somethin' I left behind, but I feel awfully tired.
Shu: And yet you look to be in the best mood you've been in recently.
Mika: Do I? ...If you say so, Oshi-san, I suppose I am.
Mika: ...I told Anzu-chan before that I couldn't feel sorry for her, even when she looked worn out.
Mika: I believed in our Producer. I thought that if she was our Producer... So I felt betrayed, and I
lost my temper.
Mika: Those feelings that day weren't a lie. It really hurt.
Mika: But today, when I saw Anzu-chan lookin' much worse than before... all that pain came
back.
Mika: I hated this world ruled by 'Nice!'s. I couldn't believe it was right... And Anzu-chan had
betrayed me too.
Mika: I thought that was why it hurt. ...But...
Shu: That wasn't it.
Shu: You said it earlier, Kagehira. ...You can't stand this world's 'rightness,' ruled by 'Nice!'s,
changing the little girl and the people dear to you.
Shu: Rest assured. Those feelings should have reached her.
Shu: Hearing your words, she seemed to make up her mind about something.
Shu: None of our immediate problems have been resolved, but at least one of the troubles
weighing on her should be gone now.
Shu: The rest is up to her.
Mika: ...Yeah.
Mika: ...Oshi-san, thank you so much for today.
Shu: You've no reason to thank me. Having you sulk forever would be depressing. I merely lent
a small helping hand.
Mika: Nfufu. That's such an Oshi-san response. It's reassurin'.♪
Shu: What are you grinning about? Enough idle chatter. I'm turning out the lights.
Mika: Okaaay. Good night, Oshi-san...♪
Shu: (...As I told Kagehira, none of the problems have been resolved.)
Shu: (Besides, what Valkyrie can do within Mega Sphere is limited.)
Shu: (This is the crucial moment, little girl.)
Hyori 7
At the same time. Star House's living area.
Makoto: Mmm~. I might have gotten a little too absorbed in streaming.
Makoto: (But I stopped at a good point, and the comments were livelier than usual.)
Makoto: (Is it because it's a popular game? I heard it was recently getting a movie adaptation,
so there's definitely a lot of interest in it.)
Makoto: (While I'm at it, maybe I'll stream the same game tomorrow. There seem to be quite a
few hidden features.♪)
Makoto: (Then I'll look up some strategy tips without spoiling too much... Hmm?)
Makoto: A trending article about Mega Sphere...? A 'Representative Prediction Poll'...?
Subaru: Ukkii! Good work~!
Makoto: Whoa, Akehoshi-kun! You startled me!
Subaru: Ahaha. Sorry, sorry!
Subaru: Anyway, Ukkii, wasn't today's stream super lively? The comments seemed to be flying
in!
Makoto: Hehe. You thought so too, Akehoshi-kun? I didn't expect the audience for my gaming
stream to grow that much either.
Makoto: The game's been getting attention on social media, and they recently announced a
movie adaptation. I thought maybe that's why I got so many 'Nice!'s.
Subaru: Hmm? I don't think that's all.
Subaru: Lots of people in the comments were praising your... gameplay? Is that what it's called?
Subaru: You were trying something called a blind playthrough, right? I don't know much about
it, so all I understood was that you beat an amazing boss!
Subaru: Anyway, I'm saying it's nice that you got so many 'Nice!'s!
Makoto: You've been streaming and gathering 'Nice!'s too, haven't you, Akehoshi-kun?
Subaru: Yeah, but I'm not getting as many as I expected.
Subaru: You know how everyone started streaming all at once after we talked with Anzu today?
Subaru: Sarii said maybe we're all fighting over the same fans now.
Makoto: He might have a point.
Makoto: Ultimately, what the idols who face MELLOW DEAR US need is the ability to gather
'Nice!'s.
Makoto: So we all decided to keep streaming individually and collecting 'Nice!'s to get chosen
as representatives.
Makoto: But the fan bases for each Unit are pretty different. I think the overlap is only a small
part of it, though.
Subaru: Aaah. If only there were some secret trick to getting a ton of 'Nice!'s at once.
Subaru: If we could prove Trickstar can gather lots of 'Nice!'s, Anzu wouldn't have to worry
either.
Makoto: I wonder how Anzu-chan will choose Japan's representatives.
Makoto: After we talked about MELLOW DEAR US this afternoon, she said she wanted time to
decide, and we went our separate ways.
Makoto: She seemed a little strange. I'm really worried.
Subaru: ...Huh, Anzu?
Makoto: What? It really is Anzu-chan. Speak of the devil...?
Subaru: Oh, there's something you want to ask us about?
Mao: So the more you think about it, the less you know who to choose as our representatives.
Mao: Haha. Maybe I shouldn't say this, but I'm a little relieved.
Mao: When Subaru told me you were calling for us, I thought, 'Wait, did she choose me as a
representative?!'
Hokuto: I was certain that was it. In fact, I'm rather disappointed it wasn't.
Hokuto: Besides, the way you put that makes it sound as though you don't want to be chosen,
Isara.
Mao: That's not it! Of course I'd be happy if Anzu thought it over carefully and chose us.
Mao: And I'd be fired up to defeat MELLOW DEAR US for her sake too.
Mao: But that's a separate matter. Standing onstage as representatives of ES... no, of Japan's
idols, feels like a lot of pressure.
Subaru: Huh? But it's a chance to sparkle on an incredible stage!
Makoto: Ahaha. I'm more on Isara-kun's side, though...
Makoto: But more than that, I'm happy Anzu-chan chose to talk to us.
Subaru: Uh-huh! We'll solve your problem, Anzu, so relax and leave everything to us☆
Hokuto: And that problem is... being unable to decide who to choose as our representatives.
Hokuto: Since the rules say whoever earns more 'Nice!'s wins, should you choose idols who are
popular with viewers?
Hokuto: Or, since the stream where we'll earn those 'Nice!'s is a live showdown, should you
choose idols with strong performance skills?
Mao: 'Everyone's appealing, so I can't choose our representatives,' huh... That's flattering, but...
Mao: Hmm? Why are you showing us your phone?
Mao: ...A 'Representative Prediction Poll'?
Makoto: ...! That's...
Subaru: Oh. Viewers are voting for the idols they want to see represent ES in the preliminary
concert.
Mao: The viewers' expectations, huh? That seems like information we can't ignore either.
Mao: Idols with lots of votes are getting that much attention, and people think they can win.
Mao: And meeting the fans' wishes could build anticipation for the preliminary concert.
Makoto: Are you planning to choose our representatives according to this poll, Anzu-chan?
Hokuto: I oppose that.
Hyori 8
Makoto: ...Hidaka-kun?
Mao: Hey, hey. What's gotten into you, Hokuto?
Hokuto: What do you mean, what's gotten into me?
Hokuto: Anzu was given the authority to choose our representatives to face MELLOW DEAR US.
Hokuto: And now she's trying to relinquish that authority.
Makoto: Relinquish...? But wouldn't it be better not to ignore this poll?
Hokuto: I believe I understand what you're saying.
Hokuto: Choosing the highest-ranked idols in the poll might improve our chances of beating
MELLOW DEAR US.
Hokuto: But... where is Anzu's own will in that?
Hokuto: Wouldn't we merely be representatives chosen according to the opinions of Mega
Stream's viewers, people who hardly know us?
Hokuto: If that's the alternative, choose me, Anzu.
Hokuto: I want to be chosen by you, not by the viewers' expectations. I'll fight MELLOW DEAR
US and win.
Hokuto: In fact, aren't you reluctant to use this viewer poll yourself, Anzu?
Mao: Koga said something similar to you? That if you're going to rely on something like this, you
should choose him instead.
Makoto: But then you talked with Itsuki-senpai and the others... and came to discuss it with us.
Mao: ...What should we do?
Mao: I get what Hokuto's saying. I'd be happier if Anzu chose me as a representative too.
Makoto: ...But we can't afford to lose to MELLOW DEAR US.
Hokuto: Then the members Anzu chooses simply have to win.
Mao: Sure, that's easy to say.
Subaru: ...
Hokuto: Hey, Akehoshi. Why don't you say something instead of staying quiet?
Subaru: Hey, Anzu. Why don't we just...
Subaru: Choose our representatives with an amidakuji lottery?
Hokuto: ...What?
Makoto: Um, Akehoshi-kun...?
Mao: Subaru... This isn't the time to joke around...
Subaru: I'm not joking.
Subaru: You said it yourself, Anzu. All of ES's idols are appealing, so you're having trouble
deciding.
Subaru: Whether we can gather 'Nice!'s, what each person's strengths are, which idols the
viewers have high hopes for...
Subaru: Even after considering all that complicated stuff together, you still can't find an answer,
right?
Subaru: Then I thought maybe it'd be okay to leave it to luck in the end.
Subaru: If it's really the right choice, the goddess of fate will smile on us. I'm sure of it!
Mao: No, no, I really don't know about that. Isn't it a bit too careless?
Subaru: But... I don't want to see it anymore.
Subaru: The pain on Anzu's face.
Hokuto: ...
Makoto: Akehoshi-kun...
Subaru: We're idols. We're supposed to make our fans smile, right?
Subaru: Anzu's supported us closer than anyone and kept cheering us on all this time. I hate
that we're the ones making her suffer.
Subaru: So I don't mind leaving it to luck or using a viewer vote. If it'll make Anzu smile.
Hokuto: ...What's wrong, Anzu?
Makoto: Huh? 'Sorry for causing you trouble'?
Mao: No, no! You haven't caused us any trouble...! If anything, we're sorry we couldn't be more
help.
Subaru: Hmm? You've decided?
Makoto: I see. You're going to use the Representative Prediction Poll as a reference after all.
Hokuto: But you'll carefully consider whether to choose the highest-ranked idols as our
representatives...?
Subaru: Yeah, I think that's good. Whoever gets chosen should feel reassured if you've thought
it through properly, Anzu.
Subaru: Above all, you're putting so much thought into this for us.
Subaru: I believe in our Producer☆
Subaru: What about you, Hokke? Can't you believe in our Producer?
Hokuto: ...
Hokuto: Heh. What a foolish question.
Hokuto: Of course I believe in her.
Hokuto: I'm sorry about earlier, Anzu. I was a little harsh.
Hokuto: Though I don't think what I said was wrong.
Hokuto: But we're always on your side. Whatever happens, we have to support our friends.
Makoto: Anyway, now we've decided how to approach choosing our representatives!
Mao: Come to think of it, who are the most popular idols in that Representative Prediction Poll,
anyway?
Hokuto: We got so absorbed in the discussion that we never heard the details.
Subaru: It'd be hilarious if all of us Trickstar were at the top!
Mao: Then what was all that discussion for? Well, I'd normally expect the Four Kings of the Sky
or someone like that.
Subaru: Come on, Anzu! Hurry up and tell us who's most popular...!
Makoto: Oh, the screen changed. Let's see...? The number-one idol people want to face
MELLOW DEAR US in a live showdown is...
Subaru: ...Makoto Yuuki-kun?
Makoto: Huh, me...?!
Hyori 9
The next day. A music studio inside Mega Sphere Tower.
Koga: ...
Ibuki: Heeey. Could you let go already, Oogami-san?
Ibuki: I'm not a dog or a cat, you know~? Don't grab me by the scruff of my neck!
Koga: Shut up, you little rat! Barging into my stream and jamming with me without asking!
Ibuki: A little rat?! I've got a name, Ibuki Taki~!
Ibuki: Wait, Oogami-san, you haven't even learned my name? That's not very nice, is it~?
Koga: Little rat's good enough for you! Stop scurrying around and getting in my way!
Ibuki: But I couldn't help it~. I was walking down the hall when I heard some great playing!
Ibuki: Especially that chromatic approach from the pentatonic scale, and the phrasing! They
were excellent~! That wasn't just any ordinary lick.
Ibuki: Hearing that made me want to jam with you. I couldn't help it, right~?
Koga: ...Hmph. What's this? You've got a surprisingly good ear, Taki.♪
Koga: Fine, I'll let you go. Next time, speak to me first instead of just barging in, got it?
Ibuki: Yeah, got it~.
Ibuki: Hey, Oogami-san. That was a cover you were playing, right~?
Koga: Yeah. A loud rock song that was popular a little while ago.
Ibuki: Yeah. I know that song too~. That's why I could jump in and match you perfectly, though.
Ibuki: But why didn't you play an UNDEAD song, or one of your own originals~?
Ibuki: You're collecting 'Nice!'s too, aren't you? Wouldn't it be better not to play a cover, then~?
Koga: You idiot. It's the opposite! I played a cover to collect 'Nice!'s.
Koga: Think about it. If I play my own songs or UNDEAD's, I'll only get 'Nice!'s from my fans or
UNDEAD's fans, right?
Koga: That way, you hit a ceiling fast.
Koga: So I deliberately played a cover to gather 'Nice!'s from people outside our fan base.
Ibuki: Huh. I thought you were just an ingwa, a dog, but you're surprisingly resourceful,
Oogami~?
Koga: Ingwa...?
Ibuki: Anyway. I never thought they'd use a viewer vote to choose the representatives who'll
challenge MELLOW DEAR US~?
Ibuki: Even Hasumi-san's eyes went wide~?
Ibuki: He said, 'Settling this with something like that is incorrigible!'~!
Koga: To be precise, they said they'd use information from the viewer vote too.
Koga: Well, I was surprised and pissed off at first too. Like, they're dumping their responsibility
on other people's votes after all?
Koga: But after a while, once I cooled down, I reconsidered. Maybe Anzu's got her own reasons.
Koga: So I decided to trust her. Anzu's our producer, after all.
Ibuki: Ah! You're trying to be the only one who gets on Anzu-neenee's good side!
Ibuki: No fair~. That's not good~. I trust Neenee too, you know~?
Koga: Why're you trying to compete over that?
Koga: Besides, there's nobody in ES who doesn't trust Anzu, right?
Ibuki: Hm? Who is it~? At a time like this. We're right on the verge of finding out whether we
were chosen. This is a tense moment, you know~?
Koga: Don't give me that when you don't look the least bit tense.
Ibuki: ...Hm? Yoshihide?
Ibuki: Oh, it's him. If it's Yoshihide, I don't need to answer~. Anyway, Oogami-san, back to what
we were saying...
Koga: Hey, hey. You're heartless. Answer it. If he's calling in this situation, it might be urgent.
Ibuki: Hmm. You think so? But Yoshihide's the kind of man who calls me at any hour just to
share some Nice thing that happened to him~?
Ibuki: He's a big shot as a producer, but sometimes he does oddly trivial things.
Ibuki: Well, fine~. I'll hear him out before I decide. If it's something stupid, I'll just lecture him~.
Ibuki: Yes. Hello...?
Koga: Hell yeaaaaah!
Ibuki: Clap, clap, clap, clap...♪
Ibuki: Congratulations on making the Six of Song, Oogami-san~. Looks like your strategy paid
off~.
Ibuki: Well, I was chosen too~. So we're teammates from now on~. Looking forward to it!
Koga: Hell yeah! Now all that's left is to beat those cocky MELLOW DEAR US bastards!
Ibuki: You make it sound easy~? Do you think we'll beat MELLOW DEAR US without any trouble?
Koga: Of course we will. What? Are you getting cold feet before we've even started?
Ibuki: Nyahahahaha! No way! 'Cold feet' isn't in my dictionary~♪
Ibuki: But I think we'll have to work pretty hard to beat MELLOW DEAR US~.
Ibuki: Because you Japanese idols don't really know, do you?
Ibuki: What kind of idols MELLOW DEAR US are.
Koga: ...
Hyori 10
Two hours later. A practice studio inside Mega Sphere Tower.
Makoto: (This is the place, right? The 'press conference waiting room' Nice-P messaged me
about.)
Makoto: (Wait, a press conference!?)
Makoto: (I was chosen as a representative of Japan because I came first in that poll, right?)
Makoto: (Anzu-chan explained it to me, but it still doesn't feel real~!)
Makoto: Ugh, now I understand what Isara-kun meant all too well... I feel like the pressure's
going to crush me...
Koga: Hey. Quit moping, Glasses Bean Sprout. Getting picked's got you scared?
Makoto: O-Oogami-kun? Does you being here mean you were picked too?
Koga: Obviously. I'm fired up! My chance to go wild has finally come around.
Koga: I can't wait to show those MELLOW DEAR US guys exactly who they picked a fight with~♪
Makoto: Ahaha... That's Oogami-kun for you.
Makoto: The other members don't seem to be here yet. Do you know who was picked?
Koga: Yeah, from Akatsuki...
Izumi: Hehe. Sorry to keep you waiting, Yu-u-kun♪
Makoto: Whoa, Izumi-san!?
Makoto: I wasn't waiting at all. Actually, I don't remember arranging to meet you.
Izumi: I never expected you to be chosen as a representative, Yuu-kun, but I'll give you all the
guidance you need, so don't worry♪
Koga: Aren't you two standing weirdly close...?
Makoto: It's not like that! Izumi-san's just clinging to me on his own!
Makoto: Anyway, Oogami-kun. Who were you about to mention?
Koga: Right, Taki from Akatsuki. He was picked as a representative too.
Izumi: Apparently HiMERU and Ayase were chosen as well. Why did we end up with so many
difficult personalities?
HiMERU: Oh? Are you speaking ill of HiMERU, Sena-senpai?
Izumi: I'm not speaking ill of you. I was just stating the facts.
HiMERU: You're the difficult one, aren't you, Sena-senpai? Please don't lump HiMERU in with
you.
HiMERU: In the first place, why should HiMERU...
Ibuki: I'm gonna be laaaaaate...!
HiMERU: Somehow, HiMERU has a bad feeling about this.
Ibuki: Move, move! Look out~! I need you to move out of the way~!
HiMERU: Whoa!?
Makoto: Waaah!? Taki-kun ran HiMERU-kun over!? A-Are you okay!?
Ibuki: That's why I said, 'Look out~.' Sorry~. Are you okay, HiMERU-san?
HiMERU: HiMERU thought he'd been hit by a wild boar... Just how strong are you?
Ibuki: Nyahaha~. Don't praise me so much~. I've fought a wild boar before, you know~. I won~.
Makoto: Uh, I don't think he was praising you.
Makoto: Anyway, Taki-kun, running like that is dangerous. There are lots of other people here
too.
Ibuki: I said I'm sorry. I was panicking because I was going to be late for the press conference~.
Ibuki: Honestly, Hasumi-san's such a handful~. His lectures go on forever~. 'Do this, do that
when you attend the press conference'...
Ibuki: I thought he'd never stop going on about it~. Well, I made it in time, so it's fine~.
Nyahaha~.
HiMERU: That's hardly the issue.
Ibuki: Hm? Did you get hurt somewhere just now?
HiMERU: ...HiMERU isn't hurt, but...
Ibuki: Nyahaha☆ Then there's no problem~! I'm glad you're okay. Right~?
HiMERU: ... (Holding back his anger.)
HiMERU: (Calm down, HiMERU. Stay calm... Stay calm...)
HiMERU: ...Whew.
HiMERU: By the way, has Ayase still not arrived? It's already past the meeting time.
???: ...here.
Koga: Huh? Did you hear something just now?
Mayoi: I-I'm heeere...
Makoto: Ayase-kun!? Why are you in such a dark corner?
Mayoi: Well... I thought if I stayed in the corner, everyone might forget I existed...
Mayoi: By some cruel twist of fate, Anzu-san chose me as a representative. What on earth am I
being punished for?
Izumi: Huh? What's that supposed to mean? If you're that unmotivated, just decline.
Izumi: We already have to face a formidable opponent like MELLOW DEAR US in a live
showdown. I don't need anyone else dragging us down, you know?
Makoto: Wait, Izumi-san!? You can't talk to him like that...!
Mayoi: Ugh. I'm sorry...! I'll erase my existence right away so I won't be a nuisance!
Makoto: You don't have to disappear, Ayase-kun!? Actually, we need you here!
Makoto: Besides, if we're talking about being out of place, I feel like I'm the one who should
withdraw...
Izumi: Whaaat!? Who!? Who said you were out of place, Yuu-kun!?
Izumi: Wait here, Yuu-kun. I'll go bury that guy in darkness right now.
Makoto: ...Calm down, Izumi-san. And don't.
Izumi: You're here because Anzu chose you, Yuu-kun. I can't understand anyone telling you to
decline!?
HiMERU: Shall HiMERU fetch you a mirror, Sena-senpai?
Izumi: What? Do you have a problem?
Koga: Anyway, Glasses Bean Sprout, Shark Teeth, have a little pride.
Koga: Even if she used the viewer vote as a reference, we're the ones who were chosen!
Ibuki: Oogami-san's right~. It's an undeniable fact that she picked us over the Four Kings of the
Sky~.
Ibuki: I don't think you need to put yourselves down like that~. Right~?
Ibuki: Or can't you two trust Anzu-neenee~?
Makoto: ...No. I trust Anzu-chan.
Makoto: Sorry. I guess the weight of the words 'representatives of Japan' made me lose my
nerve a little.
Mayoi: (...I still think there's been some sort of mistake. But this hardly seems like the time to
say that...!)
HiMERU: In any case, the six of us will be fighting MELLOW DEAR US.
HiMERU: Since we've been chosen, let's do our best. HiMERU would prefer not to start arguing
the moment we meet.
Izumi: Could you spare me that halfhearted 'do our best' talk?
Izumi: We, Japan's representatives, will win an absolute victory in our live showdown against
MELLOW DEAR US. That's the only option.
Ibuki: Nyahaha! Then let's give it our all as the Neo Six of Song~♪
Koga: Hold on. What's this 'Neo Six of Song'?
Ibuki: Hm? That's what Yoshihide called us on the phone~?
Izumi: You've got to be kidding...? Even Tenshouin has better naming sense than that.
Makoto: Ahaha... Anyway, I'm looking forward to working with everyone...♪
Koga: Then let's start training right away! Hurry up and get ready, you lot!
HiMERU: No, we can't start training yet.
Koga: Huh? What's that supposed to mean?!
Izumi: Have you already forgotten why we were called here?
Mayoi: ...First, we have to appear at the press conference.
Kenma 1
Just under an hour later. An emergency special stream shortly before the pre-live.
Seiya: "The pre-live is on! Emergency special stream: MELLOW DEAR US vs. the Neo Six of Song
press conference!"
Seiya: "I'm super idol Seiya Hidaka, and I'll be your host today. A pleasure to be here♪"
Koga: "This is supposed to be a special stream for Japanese and American idols, and you're
introducing yourself as a super idol? Trying to steal the spotlight?"
Hokuto: "Sorry about my father. But that's the sort of person he is."
Seiya: "Now, now, the stream has already started. Idle chatter isn't very admirable, Hocchan."
Hokuto: "Sorry, Yuuki. I don't think I'll make it through this stream with my sanity intact. If the
worst happens, stop me yourself."
Makoto: "No way!? More importantly, Hidaka-kun! That's not a face you should be making on
air!"
Seiya: "Makoto-kun is right. You're an idol, so give the fans a smile, Hocchan."
Hokuto: (Gritting his teeth with a fearsome expression.)
Seiya: "In the first place, I think you ought to be more grateful to me, Hocchan."
Seiya: "The reason you're here despite not being chosen for the Six of Song is that I, as host,
approached Nice-kun about it!"
Seiya: "I asked him to let my poor son, who wasn't chosen for the Six of Song, appear on the
stream as an assistant host at least!"
Hokuto: "Sorry, Yuuki. I'm done for. Put me out of my misery right now."
Makoto: "I said no!?"
Seiya: "Now then. Our time is limited, so let's get straight to the questions, shall we?"
Makoto: "He made a complete mess of the atmosphere, then went straight back to the press
conference like nothing happened...!"
Seiya: "First question. Tell us how you're feeling about the pre-live."
Koga: "Hey, hey, hey, MELLOW DEAR US! We're gonna beat you to a pulp, so get ready!"
Hokuto: "Well said, Oogami. That's right. There's no way we'd lose to the likes of you."
Hokuto: "We'll show you my comrades' true power. Prepare yourselves."
Izumi: "Hold on. Don't push your seniors aside and take all the good parts, okay?"
Izumi: "Sorry about these ill-mannered guys. Well, I agree with them, though♪"
Izumi: "If we get serious, we'll beat the likes of MELLOW DEAR US in seconds."
Makoto: "...Huh, that's strange. We're giving off such small-fry vibes. Were we minor villains or
something...?"
Makoto: "And you just casually joined in, Hidaka-kun..."
Nozomi: "Hah! Very well. Do your best to entertain me."
Nozomi: "What the public wants from a stage like this is a grand contest... Without a game that
sets both sides' blood boiling, how can we get excited?"
Makoto: "Ah. Someone's actually going along with this!?"
Juis: "Madoka, we're guests here, after all. There's no need to be so combative, is there?"
Nozomi: "...Hmph." (Steps back.)
Juis: "Sorry, we've got a hot-blooded one ourselves. He's a handful."
Koga: "Grrr... Don't act like you're the good guys!? You're making us look like the villains!"
Makoto: "No, no. Right now we really are the villains. We're the ones picking a fight...!"
Koga: "Shut it, Glasses Bean Sprout! Hey! Shark Teeth, quit shrinking into the corner and say
something!"
Mayoi: "Eek!? M-Me too...?"
Mayoi: "Umm... P-Please go easy on me...?"
Chitose: "Ah, yes. I feel the same. Let's both make this the best pre-live we can."
Mashu: "Hold up! You two are way too calm!"
Mashu: "That's not gonna get anybody hyped. Turn it up!"
Mashu: "It's a whole pre-live, for real!? #GetHyped #DeadSerious #SorryWereTooStrong"
Mayoi: "..."
Mayoi: "Foreign languages are difficult, aren't they? I understood almost none of that..."
Makoto: "No, that was extremely fluent Japanese. Don't give up on understanding him just
because he's got such a strong personality!?"
Juis: "Haha. What an entertaining Unit. You Japanese idols are quite a collection of characters
too."
HiMERU: "...No, HiMERU is perfectly happy to have no distinctive personality."
HiMERU: "Besides, these people aren't his teammates or anything of the sort. Who are they?
HiMERU plans to sing solo."
Makoto: "What!? Did HiMERU-kun erase his memories!? And don't just turn the Six of Song into
the Five of Song on your own!"
Juis: "Hmm...?"
Juis: "Well, you did seem like the type who doesn't like to run with a crowd."
Juis: "If you're singing solo, does that mean you still haven't joined a Unit?"
HiMERU: "...No."
Chitose: "HiMERU-san belongs to a Unit called Crazy:B now."
Chitose: "I've watched their streams a few times. He seems to be having fun, so I was
relieved♪"
Nozomi: "I kept quiet, but you've strayed too far off topic, Juis. Leave him be for now."
Juis: "Oops, you're right."
Juis: "In any case, this will be a wonderful stage with Japan's idols. Let's both give everything
we've got, so we have no regrets, and make this a pre-live overflowing with love."
Juis: "And to all the Dears watching this stream! When the performance comes, accept all our
love to your heart's content!"
Ibuki: "Dears~? What a cheesy way to put it~. Is that how you win your fans over~?"
Ibuki: "Hmph. But I can say something like that too~."
Ibuki: "Everyone watching the stream! I want you to cheer us on at the performance too~!
Denny's!"
Makoto: "That's a family restaurant! You just grabbed a random word that sounded similar,
didn't you!?"
Makoto: "Huh? Could it be that every other representative is the comic fool...?"
Makoto: "Ever since this press conference started, all I've done is play the straight man."
Seiya: "Come to think of it... We haven't heard your answer yet, Makoto-kun."
Makoto: "Huh!?"
Seiya: "How are you feeling about the pre-live?"
Makoto: "...Um. Worried, in all sorts of ways."
Kenma 2
Ten-odd minutes later.
Koga: Glasses Bean Sprout! What was that spineless answer!? Take this more seriously!
Makoto: That's my line... What was that press conference? Actually, did it even qualify as a
press conference?
Makoto: From where I stood, it was completely like the opening sketch of a comedy show!?
Makoto: I mean, never mind the others. Why did even you start playing the fool, HiMERU-kun!? I
thought you were on the straight-man side with me...!
HiMERU: ...Sorry. HiMERU simply couldn't accept the fact that we're teammates.
HiMERU: His true feelings slipped out.
Makoto: No, no. Even if we look like small-time villains, we're still teammates, right!?
Koga: Hey, who're you calling a small-time villain?! You wanna get hurt?
Makoto: That's exactly what I mean, Oogami-kun... Don't start by threatening people.
Izumi: Yuu-kun's right, Oogami. You've lowered the standing of the entire Neo Six of Song, you
know?
Makoto: How can you say that, Izumi-san? You're the one who made us look even more like a
bunch of minor villains.
Ibuki: You don't need to worry about every little detail~? I thought it was a good press
conference~.
Ibuki: And the joke Yuuki-san and I made gave it a proper punch line at the end~♪
Makoto: I'm telling you, press conferences don't need punch lines! That only made it feel even
more like a comedy sketch.
Makoto: Oh, come on. Trickstar should've given me some practice at playing the straight man,
but I can't keep up...!
HiMERU: Well, HiMERU doesn't think there's any need to be quite so pessimistic.
HiMERU: Looking back over the stream, the comments were lively too. We're off to an excellent
start.
HiMERU: Thinking about it another way, couldn't you say that chaotic press conference drew
our opponents into the ES idols' rhythm?
Ibuki: But I thought MELLOW DEAR US adapted pretty well too~?
Makoto: Yeah. Nozomi Madoka-san matched Oogami-kun and Izumi-san's energy.
Izumi: Honestly, Nozomi Madoka really knows how to get on my nerves, doesn't he?
Makoto: Mashu Kuon-san showed off his personality too, with his cheerful energy and distinctive
character.
Makoto: And Juis Kojika-san stood firmly at the center, as if keeping those two under control...
Ibuki: Nyahaha! So MELLOW DEAR US lives up to the rumors~. I'm looking forward to the live
even more now~.
Makoto: I feel like I've gotten some idea of what kind of idols MELLOW DEAR US are.
Makoto: Let's get a fresh start on training to beat them! The six of us who were chosen...!
Makoto: ...
Makoto: Huh. Come to think of it, where's Ayase-kun...?
At the same time. A hallway in Star House.
Mayoi: Haaah...
Mayoi: (Ah, that was nerve-racking...)
Mayoi: (No matter how many times I experience them, I can't get used to glamorous, formal
occasions like press conferences.)
Mayoi: (There were too many people in the dressing room for me to relax either. I came out
because I wanted to find somewhere a little quieter, but...)
Mayoi: (What a predicament... I can't think of anywhere to go.)
Mayoi: (Actually, I simply can't feel at ease in this place called Mega Sphere.)
Mayoi: (It must be because the sun is so close. Whether it's Icarus or a monster living deep
beneath the earth...)
Mayoi: (Since the age of myths, getting too close to the gods has always brought divine
punishment.)
Mayoi: (Ah. Isn't there somewhere quiet, dark, sooty, damp, stagnant, and desolate I could
go...?)
Mayoi: ...
Mayoi: Sigh. It can't be helped...
Mayoi: I can't just go back to my room, so I'll return to Mega Sphere Tower for now.
Mayoi: While I'm at it, perhaps I'll buy some drinks for everyone in the dressing room. There's a
vending machine right over there.
Mayoi: ...There we go.
Nozomi: Wh...! Wh-wh-wha...!
Mayoi: ...Hm?
Mayoi: (Ah. That gentleman belongs to the Madoka family... Nozomi Madoka-san, if I recall.)
Mayoi: (I never imagined a member of the Madoka family would be in MELLOW DEAR US.)
Mayoi: (He doesn't seem to have noticed me... Though we share the same origins, it's only
natural that he wouldn't recognize those of us who were forced underground.)
Mayoi: (Even if he hasn't noticed me now, the thought that he might discover my existence
someday is frightening...! I should leave this place quickly.)
Nozomi: Why did it have to be today...!
Mayoi: ...
Mayoi: (Ugh... I want to leave as quickly as possible, but hearing such a desperate voice makes
me worrieeed.)
Mayoi: (He seems to be in some kind of urgent trouble. What on earth could have happened...?)
Nozomi: Why is every variety of canned coffee sold out?!
Nozomi: Ghh... At this rate, I'll violate Rule Forty-One: 'Drink canned coffee after being in the
company of seven or more people'...!
Mayoi: (Umm...? I don't quite understand, but does Madoka-san need canned coffee...?)
Mayoi: Come to think of it...
Mayoi: (Ah, just as I thought! It's sold out because I bought the last can just now...!)
Nozomi: (Ghh... The rule specifies canned coffee. In that case, I can't make do with the instant
coffee in the dressing room...)
Mayoi: E-Excuse me...
Nozomi: You are... Mayoi Ayase of the Neo Six of Song?
Nozomi: What do you want? Unfortunately, I have no time to spare for you right now. Be on your
way.
Mayoi: Ah, yes. Of course! But...
Mayoi: If you'd like, please take this...?
Nozomi: What is this? I have no need for a commoner's charity... Th-This is canned coffee.
Mayoi: It seems I bought the last can. I-I'm sorry...!
Nozomi: ... (Stares closely at Mayoi.)
Nozomi: Very well. This is a tribute from you, rather than charity, yes? In that case, I'll accept it.
Mayoi: Ah, yes. Then I'll be going...
Nozomi: Hm? You're leaving already? I could permit you to remain here a little longer.
Mayoi: N-No, no! It would be far too presumptuous for a lowly worm like me to stay here any
longer...! P-Please excuse meeee!
Nozomi: ...He fled like a startled hare.
Nozomi: To think he holds me in such awe...
Nozomi: Hehe. I find people who know their place quite agreeable...♪
Kenma 3
Several hours after the press conference ends. Star House's living area.
Makoto: Oh, Anzu-chan. ...No, we're fine. Thanks for all your hard work too♪
Makoto: I was just talking about today's press conference with everyone in the Neo Six of Song.
Makoto: Hm? What were MELLOW DEAR US like?
Makoto: Let's see... I'd heard they were a world-famous Unit, so I wondered what they'd be like,
but they seemed pretty approachable.
Makoto: Still, their presence, I guess you'd call it... Their aura as idols was incredible.
Izumi: Really? Honestly, we completely outclassed them, didn't we?
HiMERU: Isn't that far too optimistic, no matter how you look at it?
Izumi: Huh? Do you have a complaint?
Izumi: Or what? Are you scared of facing MELLOW DEAR US?
HiMERU: Hardly. HiMERU isn't frightened.
HiMERU: It's just that MELLOW DEAR US earned overwhelmingly more 'Nice!'s at the press
conference, so it would be best to stay on our guard.
Koga: Yeah. They're worthy opponents! Let's not get careless.
Ibuki: Mhm. I think that's fine too~. No matter how many fans they have, it's still a live
showdown, right~?
Ibuki: The six of us just have to practice and face them in top form~.
Makoto: Yeah. There's less than three days until the performance, so it doesn't look like we
have time to take it easy.
Makoto: ...By the way, I haven't seen Ayase-kun for a while. Does anyone know where he is?
Koga: Hm? Now that you mention it, you're right. Where's he slacking off...?
Ibuki: Hmm... (Looks all around.)
Ibuki: Ah, found him~! He's hiding in the space for the pipes above the ceiling!
Mayoi: H-H-How did you notice me!? I was hiding so quietly...!
Ibuki: Hiding's pointless, Ayase-san~. I can sense you plain as day. Right~?
Ibuki: You'd better come out quickly~? Or would you rather I dragged you out?
Mayoi: Eek! I'm coming out! I'm coming ooout!
Izumi: Why do you always hide so quickly, Ayase? You perform lives regularly, so shouldn't you
be used to appearing in front of people by now?
Mayoi: Ah, no. Today was, well... a little different from my usual work, and I ended up more
exhausted than I expected...
Mayoi: I was gathering my strength in a familiar attic space. I'm sorry...
Izumi: What kind of creepy vacation is that?
Mayoi: Ugh. I'm gloomy by nature...
Mayoi: Ah, this sort of attitude is the problem, isn't it? I'll be quiet!
Izumi: Well, as long as you give a proper performance onstage, whatever works, I suppose?
Izumi: Anyway, Anzu. You're the producer, so you've decided what we'll do next, right?
Izumi: Hmm. You've already made arrangements for that. So? What are you planning?
Makoto: Huh? You called in some help? Who on earth...?
Makoto: It's a secret?
Makoto: Hmm. Being told it's a secret makes me a little nervous... They aren't strange people,
are they?
Makoto: Well, I do trust you, Anzu-chan.
HiMERU: HiMERU understands that you've called in help, but when exactly will these helpers
arrive?
HiMERU: You're still making arrangements, so you want us to wait a little longer...?
HiMERU: If they aren't here yet, it can't be helped. But frankly, HiMERU doesn't think we have
much time to spare.
Koga: HiMERU's right. Sitting around waiting like this is a waste of time.
Koga: So we'll start with what we can do! Right, Shark Teeth~♪
Mayoi: Wh-What's that frightening smile for? I'm sensing something terribly sinister...?
Koga: It's fine, it's fine♪ I'm just gonna toughen you up a little.
Koga: With a timid personality like that, you'll be nervous during the actual performance too,
right? So I'll help you with some special training.
Mayoi: Oogami-san... I see. You're doing this for someone like me...
Mayoi: And yet I looked at you with suspicion. How foolish of me...
Koga: Don't worry about it. We're teammates in the same Neo Six of Song, aren't we?
Koga: As a matter of fact, Glasses Bean Sprout here got a whole lot tougher thanks to my
training. Leave it to me!
Mayoi: ...Yes! Thank you for your help!
Makoto: Huh? Does that mean... we're doing what you made me do back then, Oogami-kun...?
Makoto: Hmm. Doing it from somewhere even higher than that rooftop sounds pretty scary...
Makoto: Are we really going bungee jumping?
Mayoi: B-Bungee jumpiiiiing...!?
Kenma 4
Ten minutes later. The roof of Mega Sphere Tower.
Koga: Here we go! Grit your teeth!
Mayoi: Eeeeeek! I'll die! I'm going to die!
Mayoi: Waaah, aaaaaaaaaah!
Koga: Kill off your old self and be reborn! If you've got a loser's mindset before the fight even
starts, you won't win even a fight you could've won!
Koga: All right, you're next, Glasses Bean Sprout! Jump!
Makoto: Huh? I was just trying on the safety gear? Nobody said anything about me jumping!
Koga: Quit arguing and jump like the bungee veteran you are!
Makoto: Gyaaaaaaaaaah!?
Makoto: Why me toooooo!?
Koga: Hehe. Brings back memories, huh♪ You went bungee jumping and stopped being a
gloomy, indecisive bastard!
Koga: Get some courage like Glasses Bean Sprout, Shark Teeth! Compared to this, the fear of
the actual performance should feel like a little bird's chirping!
Izumi: Wait!? Why's Yuu-kun being made to bungee jump!? Didn't he just go along because
Ayase was jumping?
HiMERU: Most likely, someone got carried away and pushed him off.
Izumi: Huh? I didn't even understand the point of bungee jumping in the first place.
Izumi: If that Oogami leaves so much as a scratch on Yuu-kun's beautiful face, I'll never forgive
him...!
Makoto: Waaaaaaaaah!?
Izumi: There, there. It's scary, isn't it, Yuu-kun! It's okay! I'll be sure to catch you down here!
Izumi: You can fall without worrying!
HiMERU: Falling down here would be the real disaster.
HiMERU: Still, Sena-senpai's question is perfectly reasonable. HiMERU can't see any point to this
bungee jumping.
Ibuki: But courage matters, right~? Those two don't seem like the confident type~.
HiMERU: Even if the goal is to build courage, surely there are other ways.
Izumi: What? If you're planning to make Yuu-kun suffer any more, I won't allow it.
Ibuki: Actually, it looks fun, so I wanna try too! Neenee, that's okay, right?
HiMERU: Sigh... (Holds his head.)
HiMERU: Anzu-san. HiMERU already has nothing but misgivings about this Six of Song.
Ibuki: It's the Neo Six of Song, HiMERU-san~.
HiMERU: ...HiMERU knows without you pointing it out every time.
Izumi: Well, there certainly is cause for concern.
Izumi: Listen, Anzu. Are we really going to beat MELLOW DEAR US by doing this?
Izumi: I don't think it's as simple as building up our courage and winning.
Ibuki: Nyahaha~♪ Even Sena-san's starting to feel a sense of urgency, huh~♪
Ibuki: Neenee, surely we shouldn't just stand here watching this~? Can you tell us what to do?
HiMERU: Hmm. This isn't the only training, you say.
HiMERU: You're planning a special strategy...?
HiMERU: You want us to wait a little longer until the preparations are complete...?
HiMERU: I see. HiMERU had assumed we'd begin lessons immediately.
Izumi: Hey, are we really going to be okay like this?
Izumi: We don't have time. We can't afford to take things so leisurely, can we?
Ibuki: Well, all we can do is trust Neenee~. I just hope that 'special strategy' really works.
At the same time. MELLOW DEAR US's room in Star House.
Juis: ...Hey, Tsuzura. I've been watching this Six of Song stream for a while now. This isn't a
prank, is it?
Juis: What am I being shown? Are these really Japan's representative idols?
Mashu: While this old man was away from Japan, the world's trends left him behind...!
Chitose: Um, I don't understand either, but...
Chitose: Until now, the ES idols seemed to be taking their practices and streams seriously, you
know?
Chitose: Maybe this lesson has some surprising effect too... Though I'm not really sure.
Nozomi: Chitose. Can't you do something about that habit of giving vague, evasive answers?
Nozomi: You fear silence and try to find answers even in uncertain information. It's a bad habit.
Chitose: I-I'm sorry...?
Mashu: Now, now, Nozomi-kun. That vagueness is one of Chitose-kun's good points. For this old
man's sake, don't blame him.
Nozomi: You dare contradict me? How impertinent, 'newcomer.'
Nozomi: Besides, your face has no value whatsoever.
Mashu: Aww. But Juis-kun is always telling this old man how cute he is?
Nozomi: What an extraordinary misunderstanding. Juis merely pities your face and offers kind
words. Can you not even understand that?
Juis: Could you stop speaking for me? You're not even remotely right.
Juis: Just so we're clear, there's no hidden meaning like Madoka suggested, old man.
Mashu: Ahaha, I know. I know you like this old man's face, Juis-kun...♪
Juis: That sounds like it'll cause a different misunderstanding.
Mashu: But you know, having a soothing presence like Chitose-kun in the Unit is important in
the idol industry, where we're always worrying about one thing or another.
Mashu: Don't you think so too, Juis-kun?
Juis: You're putting me on the spot. I don't mind either way, though?
Nice: Good work, everyone. Pardon the intrusion♪
Nice: Hmm. I was worried you might feel cramped in Mega Sphere's round-the-clock
environment, but it seems my concern was unnecessary.
Juis: Honestly, it feels like we're being watched, and I don't like it. But I've accepted that this is
part of the job too.
Nozomi: I'm being forced to exercise restraint so as not to break the rules.
Nice: Well, you'll only have to endure it a little longer. I trust you'll have no trouble managing.
Mashu: Ahaha. This old man's too thick-skinned to care at all~♪
Mashu: In front of the fans, we play the roles Nice-san assigned us. That way, MELLOW DEAR US
gets the best results...
Mashu: It's what we always do, so I don't feel any strange pressure over it now.
Nice: Yes. There must be no holes in my producing.
Nice: If there are any flaws, I'd like to find them so I can learn from them going forward.
Nice: That's the role I'm hoping Anzu-chan will play. But first, let's see how she produces the
Neo Six of Song♪
Mashu: ...?
Kenma 5
Just under an hour later.
Mayoi: Haaah, huff. I nearly crossed the Sanzu River...
Mayoi: Fortunately, my ancestors turned me back, saying, 'Don't come this way!'
Mayoi: But the shock could have left me unconscious for the rest of my life...
Makoto: I feel like I've screamed enough for a lifetime too...
Makoto: Since we were streaming, I got through it by telling myself, 'Don't throw up, don't
throw up.' But honestly, it was a close call.
Koga: Haha. Your face does look like a zombie's.
Koga: But you look like you've let go of all that unnecessary tension. Like you've shaken off
whatever was haunting you.
Koga: Now for some intense training! We're gonna put on a seriously cool performance that
won't lose to those overseas guys!
Mayoi: Eeeeeek...! Th-There's still more training...?
Koga: What're you talking about? This is where the real work starts, right?
Koga: You can pull through when you need to, can't you? Kazehaya-senpai's always praising
you.
Mayoi: Tatsumi-san is...?
Koga: Yeah. He says you're like iron that gets stronger the more you hammer it.
Koga: I heard Alkaloid relies on you too? I'd thought you were just a goody-two-shoes.
Mayoi: Y-You're overestimating me...!
HiMERU: Oogami-san. HiMERU isn't trying to defend Ayase, but he doesn't think we'll stand a
chance by practicing blindly.
HiMERU: He'd like to hear about Anzu-san's 'special strategy' that's supposed to improve our
skills.
Koga: Strategy? What's that? Hurry up and tell us, Anzu.
Koga: Hm? You brought in helpers who are strong at expanding overseas for this...?
Koga: Who? Sagami-sensei or Kunugi-sensei?
Makoto: No, I've never heard of either of them working overseas...
???: Hahaha! Looks like it's finally our turn! Hup!
Makoto: Th-That voice...!?
???: This love rivals the mother sea! The festival man who races around the world! Madara
Mikejima...☆
???: The melodies I create are infinite! The magician of the musical staff...! Leo Tsukinaga...!
???: Let us sing and dance through the endless night. The monster of the night, Wild Hunt. Rei
Sakuma...♪
Madara: Together, the three of us are the Infinity Mentors!
Makoto: I-Infinity Mentors!?
Leo: Ahh~♪ Getting our introductions in sync feels this good! It was refreshing, totally different
from our usual live performances!
Madara: You both nailed it...☆ Asking Chiaki-san to write those introductions for us was worth it!
Rei: Hehehe. Our splendid entrance seems to have surprised the Neo Six of Song.
Koga: Honestly. If you're here to mess around, do it somewhere else.
Rei: Why would you say something so sad, Koga! We even practiced to get all three of us in
sync!
Koga: I don't care! We don't have time to play along with you, Sakuma-senpai!
Leo: By the way, the name comes from Mama's infinite love, my infinite melodies, and Rei's
endless night...
Leo: Which means an infinite night. We're all infinity, see☆
Izumi: I don't care, and nobody asked, you know?
Izumi: Actually, what is this really about, Leo-kun? We're busy.
HiMERU: Judging from that 'finally our turn' line, the helpers Anzu-san mentioned, the ones with
strengths overseas, are probably...
Madara: Hahaha! That's HiMERU-san for you. Exactly as you guessed!
Leo: We're the helpers who'll make the Neo Six of Song stronger!
Rei: Koga, you've forgotten that I used to work overseas, haven't you?
Koga: No, I remember?
Rei: If we use the experience we've gained overseas to train you, defeating MELLOW DEAR US
won't be a mere dream. That's the little lady's strategy.
Leo: Be grateful, Sena~? I got off my butt for your sake too!
Izumi: Who's looking after whom? I'm usually the one taking care of you.
Leo: Wahaha☆ Don't sweat the details! The more friends you can rely on, the better, right?
Izumi: ...I've got plenty to say, but anyway, I understand what Anzu's thinking.
Izumi: People with extensive experience overseas will teach us how to succeed... Leaving me
aside, that should help the other members, shouldn't it?
HiMERU: And from today, all of ES will be supporting us, you say.
Mayoi: That's very kind, but...
Mayoi: Ah. In that case, I'd like to take Leo-san's lessons!
Leo: Me? But you look at me in such a weird way. Could you stop doing that first?
Mayoi: N-Not at all...! I merely think you have an adorable face. I don't look at you with impure
intentions!
Rei: In any case, we intend to provide intensive lessons tailored to each of you.
Rei: First, Koga and Taki-kun. You'll be receiving my instruction.
Koga: Hehe. Just what I wanted...♪
Ibuki: I've heard about you from Hasumi-san, Sakuma-san~. I'm interested to see what
techniques you'll teach me~♪
Rei: Next, Tsukinaga-kun will train Ayase-kun and Sena-kun. Mikejima-kun will be responsible for
HiMERU-kun and Yuuki-kun.
Mayoi: Ahh, thank you, God...! Amen...♪
Leo: Just so you know, I won't go easy on you, Sena! And save me from Mayoi!
Izumi: Could you stop saying things that make it impossible to tell whether you're reliable? I
don't know how to react.
Izumi: Anyway, seeing how you've divided us up gives me some idea of what you're thinking.
Madara: Hmm. To be honest, I would've liked to put Mayoi-san through some rigorous training
myself, you know?
Mayoi: That's exactly what I didn't waaant...!
Rei: Now, we have little time left. Let's begin practicing at once...♪
Kenma 6
The next day. A music studio in Mega Sphere Tower.
Koga and Ibuki: ♪~♪~♪
Rei: Stop.
Koga: ...Damn it.
Rei: Koga. You're aware of that habit yourself, aren't you? How many times must I tell you
before you understand?
Koga: Yeah, I know.
Koga: (A new way of singing, different from how I've sung until now... That's what I'm training to
master.)
Koga: (But the habits I've built up over years of singing are stuck in me, and I can't shake
them...)
Rei: I didn't interfere with your singing before because, while my voice influenced you, you
made it your own and created your own appeal.
Rei: But that won't do for this match. As you are now, your singing will never resonate with
Mega Stream's viewers.
Koga: (He's right. That's exactly why Sakuma-senpai's training me like this, so I can reach the
world.)
Koga: (...Come to think of it, when was the last time Sakuma-senpai seriously coached me like
this?)
Koga: (This takes me back. He used to teach me like this sometimes...♪)
Rei: Why are you grinning like that when nothing's going well?!
Koga: I-I'm not grinning! Nothing's been going right, and I've been frustrated this whole time!
Koga: Come on, let's get back to it. I'll get the hang of it this time.
Rei: That's the spirit. I'll be even stricter, so prepare yourself.
Ibuki: Hey, Sakuma-san~. Don't give all your attention to Oogami-san. Pay attention to me too?
Rei: Oh, sorry. I haven't been neglecting you, Taki-kun. In fact, I've grasped your abilities over
this past hour.
Rei: Frankly, you've exceeded my expectations. Perhaps because of your experience in America,
you intuitively understand how to sing in a way that reaches the world.
Ibuki: Nyahaha. It doesn't feel bad to get praised~♪
Ibuki: Then does that mean there's nothing you need to teach me, Sakuma-san?
Rei: It's too early to become conceited. As I said, you only understand it intuitively.
Rei: As you are now, you're like a machine with inconsistent output. Your task is to learn to wield
that ability at will, Taki-kun.
Ibuki: Hmm, I see~?
Ibuki: So if I master that, I'll get even stronger~♪
Rei: Indeed. I guarantee it. You have an aptitude for this, and you're quick to learn.
Rei: Perhaps that's another benefit of youth. Koga should take a lesson from you.
Koga: Hey! You saying I'm worse than some rookie!?
Ibuki: Nyahaha! Looks like Sakuma-san's taken a liking to me~♪
Koga: You're the one person I'll never lose to! You'd better remember that, you damn little rat!
At the same time. A practice room.
Leo: All right, break's over! You've got the lyrics and choreography memorized now, right? We'll
do a full run next. Everybody, take your places~.
Mayoi: P-Please wait a little longer...!
Leo: Hm? What is it, Mayoi? Do you still need more time? I think you've rested enough.
Mayoi: Um. It hasn't even been three minutes since we started our break...
Mayoi: Well... Izumi-san's still out of breath too.
Izumi: Hah... Hah... Hold on, Ayase... Are you saying I can't keep up with practice? You've got
some nerve.
Mayoi: Eek, no! Nothing of the sort!
Mayoi: It's just that cramming in more lessons isn't always better... Pushing ourselves too hard
puts strain on our bodies.
Leo: Hmm. Well, Mayoi has a point.
Leo: But while that might be fine for our regular lessons, it won't do this time.
Leo: To be blunt, MELLOW DEAR US's performance skills are outrageous. If you face them the
usual way, they'll crush you flat.
Izumi: Huh. That's awfully timid talk for you, Leo-kun. Are you saying we can't win?
Leo: No. I'm saying you need to understand your opponents' abilities properly. Otherwise, you
won't win even a match you could've won. ...You know that too, don't you, Sena?
Izumi: Well, yes. I'm not that stupid. I understand they aren't opponents we can beat easily.
Izumi: Still, I don't think we'll just get crushed. I think we can win if we give it everything we've
got.
Mayoi: Um, why do you feel so competitive toward MELLOW DEAR US, Izumi-san?
Mayoi: I understand that this is an important battle too.
Mayoi: And I do want to repay the fans who chose me and Anzu-san, who believed in me, but...
Izumi: I've said this before. MELLOW DEAR US, specifically Nozomi Madoka, has taken work from
me several times.
Izumi: It's irritating to keep letting him get away with it, right? I want to knock that smug guy
down a peg.
Izumi: That's my only reason. Do you have a problem with it?
Mayoi: ...
Leo: Wahaha. I think that's great. Very you, Sena...♪
Leo: A simple reason is fine. Carry too much on your shoulders, and you'll have more to think
about, which slows you down.
Leo: Now then. You've definitely rested enough, right? Back to practice~.
Mayoi: (Izumi-san is amazing. He's facing MELLOW DEAR US without flinching at their
strength...)
Mayoi: (But is it really possible? For someone like me to defeat a member of the Madoka
family?)
Madara: All right, let's stop there. You both did well♪
HiMERU: Hah, hah...
Makoto: Hah, hah... M-Mikejima-senpai. Is this our lesson...?
Madara: Yes. It's a special lesson Mama devised just for you two.
Makoto: A special lesson...?
HiMERU: It seems to HiMERU that all we've done is run.
Madara: Hahaha. Well, we were indeed just doing running drills, weren't we?
Madara: I thought stamina was what you two lacked, so I chose this training program!
HiMERU: Even so, is this what we should be doing with the pre-live so close?
Madara: Of course. Besides, the lesson isn't over yet.
Makoto: Huh...?
Madara: You'll both dance now, without taking a break!
Madara: Your positions, awareness right to your fingertips, how you initiate movements, the
sharpness of your choreography. I'll be checking all of it strictly, so get ready...♪
Makoto: Huh? Without a break!?
Madara: Is it hard? I'm sure it is. But that's exactly what makes it worth doing...☆
Madara: In a live showdown against MELLOW DEAR US, it's easy to imagine the tension and
various other factors wearing you out more than usual.
Madara: Your dancing will lose its sharpness, and you'll start to get out of breath... Meanwhile,
MELLOW DEAR US will probably perform just as they always do.
HiMERU: ...And if the audience compares us like that, their opinion of us will drop.
Makoto: I understand this is a lesson in maintaining our usual performance, but there are limits,
aren't there!?
Madara: Hahaha! You still seem full of energy! Now, let's get back to our fun lesson with
Mama...♪
Kenma 7
Several hours later. Just after the Neo Six of Song finishes its lessons.
Makoto: Haaah, I can't take any more. I can barely walk...
Makoto: We've got tomorrow too, so I need to go back to my room and get some proper rest.
Makoto: Ugh, my body feels so heavy...! At this rate, I might collapse on the way back.
Makoto: I wonder if someone could carry me to my room...
Juis: Haha. Shall I carry you?
Makoto: Huh, you heard me talking to myself!?
Makoto: Um. You're...
Juis: Juis Kojika. Though that's not what you meant, is it?
Makoto: R-Right...
Juis: You're Makoto Yuuki, right? One of the idols selected as representatives this time.
Makoto: Yes, but... Do you need something from me? Honestly, I'm at my physical limit. I'd like
to get back to my room soon if possible...
Juis: Nothing that important. You were doing something that looked fun, so I got curious♪
Makoto: Something that looked fun?
Juis: Yeah, I saw it on the stream. You all bungee jumping.
Juis: It surprised me. Japanese idols do that sort of comedian-like stuff too, huh?
Makoto: Comedian-like? There were reasons for that...
Juis: Still, if you can play around like that, you must be feeling pretty comfortable?
Makoto: ...?
Juis: Am I wrong? You'll be fighting us soon. Normally, you'd be putting everything into your
lessons.
Juis: I wouldn't think you'd have time to play. Or was that bungee jumping a way to clear your
heads?
Makoto: No, that was part of our lessons...
Juis: Lessons...?
Juis: I see. Sorry about that. I'd never heard of that kind of training when I was in America.
Makoto: ...No, it's fine.
Juis: But is that...
Juis: Something you need to do to become the best idols?
Makoto: Huh?
Juis: No, never mind. Forget it.
Juis: By the way, Nice told me your Unit, Trickstar, won SS two years ago together with your
producer?
Juis: That means you're Japan's number-one idol Unit, right? It's an honor to fight an opponent
like that♪
Juis: And since you were chosen for this live showdown against us, you must be Trickstar's
central figure?
Makoto: Central figure!? You've got the wrong idea!
Izumi: That's right. Trickstar revolves around this very Makoto Yuuki-kun.
Makoto: Wait, Izumi-san? Where did you spring from!?
Izumi: I was walking along, thinking it was about time to head back, when I spotted you,
Yuu-kun. Leave this guy alone and come back with your big brother...♪
Juis: Hmm, you're brothers? You don't look much alike.
Izumi: Oh, right. Since you're here, I'll say this again.
Izumi: We're going to win this live showdown. Don't think you can keep throwing your weight
around in this country.
Juis: Haha. That's the declaration of war I heard at the press conference too. I like that sort of
thing.
Juis: I don't see many people snapping at us like that these days.
Juis: I hope you're idols who can move my heart.
Izumi: Huh? What's that supposed to...?
Juis: Oh, right. We're planning a full rehearsal for the pre-live after this.
Makoto: (MELLOW DEAR US is already ready to do a full rehearsal...?)
Juis: Come watch our rehearsal if you'd like. Knowing what kind of performance we'll put on
beforehand should make it easier to plan how to face us, right?
Izumi: Hmm. So you're helping your enemy.
Izumi: In that case, we'll take a look at this world-class performance of yours. Right, Yuu-kun?
Makoto: Yeah. We might learn all sorts of things...
Juis: It's settled, then. Shall we go...♪
Ten-odd minutes later. The studio where MELLOW DEAR US is rehearsing.
Chitose: Um, this phrase here...
Juis: Sorry to keep you waiting.
Mashu: No worries, no worries! Chitose-chan and I got to take our time reviewing~♪
Chitose: Yeah. Thanks for helping me, Mashu. I wanted to check one last time.
Juis: Sure. Being cautious is one of your strengths, Tsuzura, but don't overthink it.
Juis: Come to think of it, Madoka... While those two were preparing for the full rehearsal, you
were slacking off, weren't you?
Nozomi: Hmph. I've practiced plenty.
Mashu: Aww, Nozomi-chan, weren't you late for rehearsal too? #MaybeSetAnAlarm
#TreatMashuNextTimeYoureLate♪
Chitose: Wait, the people with Juis... Yuuki-kun and Sena-kun, right? Why are you here?
Juis: I invited them to come watch our full rehearsal.
Izumi: That's right. Anyway, when are you going to start performing? We don't have time to
stand around here forever, you know?
Juis: Yeah, you're right. Shall we get started?
Juis: Madoka, Kuon, Tsuzura. You're ready, right?
Chitose: Of course! Then let's run through it from the beginning.
Juis: Watch from the best seats in the house. We won't hold back just because it's a rehearsal.
We'll make sure you enjoy it♪
Just under an hour later.
Izumi: ...
Makoto: ...That was incredible. You could hardly believe the performance wasn't finished yet.
Makoto: 'MELLOW DEAR US has never known defeat,' Kojika-san said as we were leaving. I can
see why.
Makoto: Right, Izumi-san?
Izumi: ...
Makoto: Hm? Why've you gone quiet? ...You're usually so noisy.
Izumi: ...No, it's nothing.
Izumi: 'What does losing feel like?' There's a limit to how much they can make fools of us.
Makoto: He didn't seem to mean any harm... But, well, it doesn't feel good to hear that.
Makoto: Still, I'm getting a little fired up♪
Izumi: Huh...?
Makoto: Trickstar has faced strong opponents we thought we might not be able to beat so
many times.
Makoto: fine, Eden... and Knights too. That's why I feel like we'll manage this time as well.
Makoto: My Trickstar teammates aren't with me, but I'm with friends I know well...♪
Izumi: Yuu-kun...
Makoto: I was going to rest for the day, but maybe I'll practice just a little longer.
Makoto: You'll join me too, won't you, Izumi-san?
Izumi: ...I suppose I have to. There's no way I could turn down a request from you, Yuu-kun.
Makoto: Hehe, thanks...♪
Izumi: (...Sorry.)
Izumi: (I'm sorry, Yuu-kun.)
Izumi: (I'd never tell you this, but... Honestly, I might've lost a little confidence.)
Izumi: (Working overseas, I've had times when I knew, however much I hated it, that I couldn't
compete with someone. Their performance brought that feeling back...)
Izumi: (Of course, our chances of winning aren't zero. But...)
Izumi: ...
Kenma 8
The next day. A practice room.
HiMERU: ...!
Izumi: Hold on. That's the third time.
HiMERU: ...Sorry. HiMERU will be careful next time.
Izumi: It's the third time since you said that. I can't trust you.
Makoto: W-Wait, Izumi-san. That's too harsh... We've been practicing nonstop, so of course
HiMERU-kun's getting tired too, you know?
Izumi: ...
Izumi: Isn't that exactly why you had lessons with Mikejima, to keep your quality up even when
you're tired?
Izumi: ...Actually, your dancing's been getting less precise too, Yuu-kun.
Izumi: I don't want excuses about being tired. Do it properly, as if it's the real performance,
every time.
Makoto: Huh...?
Izumi: Sweet Yuu-kun. Worrying about others before yourself is one of your good points, but you
can't afford to worry about anyone else right now, can you?
Makoto: S-Sorry...
Ibuki: Now, now. Getting worked up isn't good~. HiMERU-san was in the wrong position, but
little mistakes like that happen all the time~. Right~?
Izumi: And this is the standard we've ended up with by saying 'Well, that's fine' and leaving
them alone because they happen all the time.
Izumi: That might've been fine before, but it isn't this time.
Izumi: We need to aim for perfection even more than usual for this live.
Mayoi: U-Um... Why don't we take a break and calm down for now...? We were saying
HiMERU-san was tired too...
Izumi: A break...? Don't be ridiculous.
Izumi: We're spending most of our practice time improving our fundamentals. Do you
understand how little time that leaves for all six of us to practice together?
Mayoi: I-I'm sorry! I'm not joking, and I'm not trying to be laaazy!
Izumi: HiMERU. Everyone says you're tired, but that isn't it, is it?
HiMERU: ...
Izumi: Because that's not how it looks to me.
Izumi: Besides, you've handled ES's lessons without any trouble until now, haven't you?
Someone as capable as you wouldn't be worn out by this much.
Izumi: You simply aren't concentrating on this practice. Am I wrong?
HiMERU: ...
Izumi: I'll say it again. This time, we need to aim for perfection even more than usual.
Izumi: If you can't concentrate, leave right now. You're in the way.
HiMERU: ...
Mayoi and Makoto: ...
Koga: ...
Izumi: ...!? What is it, Oogami? Don't make a loud noise out of nowhere. You startled me!
Koga: Let's call it a day for lessons.
Izumi: Huh!? I just told you. We don't have even a second to waste!
Koga: Even if we keep going for hours like this, it'll be pointless. Nothing'll sink in.
Koga: Have you lost sight of even that? ...Sena-senpai, the great industry veteran.
Izumi: ...
Koga: Everyone's tired, physically and mentally. So let's get some proper rest today.
Izumi: ...Fine. Good work.
Makoto: Ah, Izumi-san! ...He's gone.
HiMERU: HiMERU will take his leave too.
Mayoi: Ah... HiMERU-san too...
Ibuki: Aww. How did it end up like this~? Oogami-san, was this really okay~?
Koga: It's fine. There's no point in keeping this up. I need some time to think alone too.
Koga: So we're splitting up as well. Do whatever you want today. See you tomorrow.
Mayoi: ...Sigh.
Mayoi: What should we do? The atmosphere turned so hostile...
Mayoi: (Ah... I made a mistake. If I hadn't suggested that everyone take a break then, perhaps
things wouldn't have turned out like this...)
Mayoi: Truly, I'm a foolish person whose mere existence causes trouble...
Mayoi: (Still, what's happened to HiMERU-san and Izumi-san?)
Mayoi: (As Izumi-san said, HiMERU-san did seem distracted during practice... There were
moments when he wasn't concentrating.)
Mayoi: (And however harsh his words, Izumi-san is normally calmer. Today, he seemed to have
no composure at all.)
Mayoi: ...
Mayoi: Hm?
HiMERU: ...
Mayoi: (...Is that HiMERU-san?)
Mayoi: (So he came this way. I'd assumed he'd returned to his room.)
Mayoi: (Where could he be going...?)
Mayoi: (Huh...!?)
HiMERU and Juis: ...
Mayoi: (Is that MELLOW DEAR US...?)
Mayoi: (Then this must be the room where MELLOW DEAR US is practicing?)
Mayoi: (Why has HiMERU-san come to a place like this...?)
Kenma 9
A few minutes after lessons end. A hallway in Mega Sphere Tower.
HiMERU: ...
HiMERU: (Not concentrating, was it?)
HiMERU: (Sena-senpai is right. Otherwise, HiMERU wouldn't have made mistakes like that.)
HiMERU: (It's true that everyone's abilities are improving as we continue our lessons as the Neo
Six of Song.)
HiMERU: (But MELLOW DEAR US's abilities are so far above ours that our growth pales in
comparison... One look at the live they performed when they arrived in Mega Sphere makes that
obvious.)
HiMERU: (...That's precisely why HiMERU keeps thinking.)
HiMERU: (Suppose we continue these lessons and our performance surpasses MELLOW DEAR
US's...)
HiMERU: (Would we be able to win this battle?)
HiMERU: (HiMERU doesn't think so. When the pre-live was announced, we discussed how
important 'Nice!'s would be in this battle.)
HiMERU: (Earning 'Nice!'s, which hold absolute value in Mega Sphere, is the key to victory.)
HiMERU: (In that case, shouldn't what we really need to do be gaining fans as quickly as
possible?)
HiMERU: (...But even if we gain more fans, we won't earn 'Nice!'s if our performance isn't worth
watching.)
HiMERU: (To win this battle, we need to improve our performance and gain fans at the same
time.)
HiMERU: (Is there really a way to do that...?)
HiMERU: (But unless we find one, we'll probably...)
Juis: ...Hm? Fancy meeting you here.
HiMERU: Juis Kojika.
Juis: Just Juis is fine. We're not strangers.
Chitose: Were you having lessons until just now? Or were you taking a break?
Mashu: Actually, you look kinda pale? Are you sleeping properly~? #SleepIsSuperImportant
#DontSkimpOnSleep♪
HiMERU: (To think HiMERU would run into MELLOW DEAR US here. This was unexpected.)
HiMERU: (...HiMERU has no time to spare right now. He should leave this place quickly...)
Nozomi: ...Hmph. Instead of merely skulking around, you've finally shown yourself before us.
Chitose: What do you mean, skulking around?
Nozomi: Exactly what I said. ...You were secretly watching last night's rehearsal too, weren't
you?
HiMERU: ...!
HiMERU: (He noticed.)
Juis: Oh, is that all? You could've just said so.
HiMERU: ...?
Juis: Come on, HiMERU. If you're that interested in us.
Nozomi: ...What?
Juis: All right, you're ready, Tsuzura?
Chitose: Yeah, we can start streaming right away!
HiMERU: Is it really all right for HiMERU to join your lessons?
Juis: Sure. It's not something we're hiding. You're welcome anytime, if you ask...♪
Mashu: Yeah, yeah, yeah! Mashu's interested in HiMERU-chan too~☆
Mashu: Oh, maybe it'd be fun for us to join your practice next time! #JapanUSIdolMeetup
#BetWeWontAllFitInThePracticeRoom
Nozomi: ...
Juis: What's wrong, Madoka? Are you sulking again?
Nozomi: ...Juis. Why show him kindness?
Nozomi: He was lurking around us to gather intelligence on the enemy. What sort of fool invites
a spy into his base?
Juis: Haha, 'spy' is a bit dramatic. Well, actually, I don't care whether HiMERU's a spy, a
detective, or anything else.
Juis: No matter how much he investigates, it won't change the fact that we're the best Unit.
Right?
Nozomi: If we consider only the facts, perhaps. But there are circumstances concerning him
that can't be ignored.
Nozomi: Surely you haven't forgotten? He's a traitor.
HiMERU: ...
Juis: Now, now. Leave it there.
Nozomi: Hmph.
Mashu: Anyway, why don't we get practice started already?
Chitose: Y-Yeah. Our lesson time is limited too...
Chitose: Since HiMERU-kun's here, shall we warm up with some basic exercises first? I'll hit the
stream button, okay?
Juis: Yeah, please do.
Nozomi: ...? (Looks up at the ceiling.)
Mashu: What's up, Nozomi-chan?
Nozomi: No, it's nothing.
HiMERU: ...?
Several hours later. On the way back to Star House.
HiMERU: ...
HiMERU: (To think HiMERU would end up taking lessons with MELLOW DEAR US.)
HiMERU: (Still, this was an unexpected gain.)
HiMERU: (Since the lesson was streamed, MELLOW DEAR US's fans should have learned of
HiMERU's existence...)
HiMERU: (Well, it may be no more than a drop in the bucket. But it's better than doing nothing.)
HiMERU: (So that's MELLOW DEAR US. The strongest idol Unit overseas...)
Rinne: Found ya, Merumeru!
HiMERU: ...Amagi, please stop putting your arm around HiMERU's shoulders.
Rinne: Gyahaha, you look livelier than I expected♪
Rinne: Still, seeing you like this, maybe we didn't need to prepare a feast for our hardworking
Merumeru after all?
Kohaku: Don't make things up. Niki-han just cooked too much.
Kohaku: HiMERU-han, you haven't had dinner yet, have you? We just went to buy drinks. Come
eat with us?
Rinne: I even bought cola for you, Merumeru. Better thank your kind Rinne-kun, yeah?
Kohaku: Hm? I seem to remember you buying it while saying pizza needs cola.
Rinne: Don't sweat the details. Let's hurry back before the food gets cold♪
HiMERU: ...
Kohaku: What's wrong, HiMERU-han? Keep spacing out and we'll leave you behind, you know?
HiMERU: ...No, it's nothing.
HiMERU: He was just thinking that this path wasn't bad at all either.
Kohaku: Hm? This is the only way home. You're a strange one, HiMERU-han.
Kizuna 1
The next day.
Makoto: Sigh...
Makoto: (We split up yesterday with the atmosphere still awful, but I hope we can make a fresh
start with lessons today.)
Makoto: (There's hardly any time before the performance. At this rate, beating MELLOW DEAR
US is still a distant dream...)
Makoto: (No. There's no time to lose my nerve.)
Makoto: (We were chosen to represent all the ES idols, so we have to do everything we can.)
Makoto: All right, let's give it our best today too...!
Makoto: Good morning!
Koga: You've got some nerve, you damn little rat! Get outside!
Ibuki: You wanna fight me~? I won't go easy on you, even if you are Oogami-san~?
Makoto: Whoa! Somehow, a fight's already started!?
Makoto: Both of you, calm down! Absolutely no violence!
Ibuki: Ah, you're late, Yuuki-san~. We were just about to start lessons~?
Koga: Perfect timing. Hey, Glasses Bean Sprout. Get over here and join in.
Makoto: I don't want to join a fight!? One punch from either of you would knock me out.
Koga: Huh? We're not fighting.
Makoto: Huh, really? But you were arguing just now.
Ibuki: Yeah. About the choreography for the chorus...
Ibuki: See, I thought it'd look cooler this way.
Ibuki: But Oogami-san started saying we can't change the choreography now~?
Koga: Of course we can't. The live's almost here. Changing it at this point isn't realistic.
Ibuki: Aww. I think it'd get everyone way more excited than the choreography we decided on
before~?
Ibuki: Sena-san said this way was better too.
Makoto: Huh, Izumi-san did?
Izumi: ...It's nothing. I just thought we should put on a better performance.
Makoto: I-I see.
Makoto: (Thank goodness... Izumi-san seems calmer too.)
Makoto: (Oogami-kun and Taki-kun's argument doesn't seem serious either. Maybe we'll be
okay♪)
Makoto: Um... Sorry, Oogami-kun, but I think I agree with Izumi-san too.
Makoto: Our opponents are MELLOW DEAR US. I think we should do everything we can.
Ibuki: See~? Now you're the only one against it, Oogami-san~. Are you really that unsure you
can dance this choreography~?
Koga: I didn't say that. Besides, we haven't heard what Shark Teeth thinks yet!
Mayoi: ...
Koga: Hey, are you listening? What do you think?!
Mayoi: !? Eek! I'm sorry, I'm sooo sorry! Did something happen!?
Ibuki: Ayase-san, you've seemed miles away all day~.
Ibuki: At this rate, you'll make mistakes like HiMERU-san did yesterday~? If something's
worrying you, wouldn't talking about it help?
Mayoi: W-Worrying me!?
Mayoi: N-N-N-No, no! Nothing's worrying me!? Yes, absolutely nothing at all! Worries? Nothing
like that...!
Makoto: That's suspicious no matter how you look at it.
Izumi: ...Hey, could you stop telling such obvious lies? Anyone can see you're acting strange.
Mayoi: Ugh. That's not... (Mumbles.)
Koga: Hey, Shark Teeth. Is this something you can't tell us about?
Mayoi: Um, it is something that's hard to tell everyone... Though I suppose it isn't unrelated to
you all...
Ibuki: It's something that concerns us too? Then I want you to tell us even more~?
Mayoi: No, well... I don't fully understand the situation myself, so I don't want to confuse
everyone...
Mayoi: (Quietly.) I'm not even sure it's something I should be talking about in the first place...
Koga: Argh! Quit mumbling!
Mayoi: Eek! I-I'm terribly sorry!
Izumi: Just tell us already, will you? Watching you act like that is irritating!
Mayoi: A-All right! I'll tell you! I'll tell you, so please don't press me like thaaat!
Mayoi: W-Well...! Yesterday, I saw it!
Makoto: Saw what?
Mayoi: HiMERU-san taking lessons together with the people from MELLOW DEAR US!
Makoto: ...!
Kizuna 2
Izumi: ...What?
Koga: Why would HiMERU take lessons with them...?!
Mayoi: W-Well... I couldn't hear what they were saying, so I don't know...
Ibuki: So he started taking lessons with MELLOW DEAR US after we split up?
Ibuki: I don't really get it~? Was it really HiMERU-san?
Makoto: It looks like there's no mistake.
Makoto: I checked yesterday's streams. Look... HiMERU-kun's there on MELLOW DEAR US's
lesson stream.
Koga: Hey, hey, seriously...?
Koga: What's HiMERU thinking, practicing together with the people we're about to fight?
Izumi: ...Hah. Maybe he realized we couldn't beat MELLOW DEAR US anyway and went to suck
up to them.
Izumi: Or maybe he went to ask them to go easy on us on the day.
Mayoi: No! HiMERU-san would never do something like that...
Izumi: Maybe he couldn't concentrate on lessons yesterday because he was thinking about how
to curry favor with MELLOW DEAR US.
Izumi: What's with him? He really pisses me off!
Makoto: Calm down, Izumi-san. First, let's hear HiMERU-kun's side...
HiMERU: What about HiMERU?
Mayoi: HiMERU-san...!
HiMERU: So HiMERU was the last to arrive. His apologies for keeping you waiting.
HiMERU: And Sena-senpai. About yesterday...
Izumi: You've got some nerve talking to us with that calm face. And here I'd actually reflected a
little on my behavior.
HiMERU: ...Pardon?
Izumi: Getting friendly with the enemy we're supposed to defeat, right after lessons with us...
What were you thinking?
Izumi: You looked like you were having so much fun. I bet you could concentrate over there
without someone nagging and ruining the mood.
Koga: Hey, Sena-senpai...!
Izumi: You lot, be quiet. I need to make this clear to him.
HiMERU: Ah, I see. HiMERU understands.
Izumi: Hey, haven't we been practicing all this time to defeat MELLOW DEAR US?
Izumi: So why are you getting friendly with them?
Izumi: If you have an excuse, let's hear it. ...Not that I expect it to be anything worthwhile.
HiMERU: HiMERU has no excuse. It's exactly as you saw, Sena-senpai.
Izumi: Huh...? Then you really are...?
HiMERU: Let HiMERU ask you a question in return.
HiMERU: Do you all think we can beat MELLOW DEAR US as we are?
HiMERU: HiMERU doesn't. As things stand, the Neo Six of Song will lose. That's an undeniable
fact.
Izumi: ...So that's why you betrayed us.
HiMERU: Betrayed you? ...Yes, HiMERU supposes it can't be helped if that's what you think.
HiMERU: But HiMERU has his own reasons.
HiMERU: He has no intention of changing this approach...
HiMERU: ...!
Izumi: ...Don't screw with me.
Makoto: ...! Wait, Izumi-san!
Ibuki: Aww. This again, after yesterday? I can't deal with this~.
Mayoi: HiMERU-san, is your cheek all right...!?
HiMERU: ...HiMERU will take his leave too.
Koga: Ah, hey! Where do you think you're going too?!
Koga: Sigh... What am I supposed to do with this mess?
Mayoi: I-It's my fault...! If only I hadn't said anything unnecessary...!
Koga: Shut up! No matter how you look at it, this isn't your fault!
Koga: Damn it. The live's right around the corner. Like hell I'll let things end here...!
Kizuna 3
Just under an hour later.
Mayoi: Sob, sob...
Mayoi: (Ugh. How did things end up like this...?)
Mayoi: (I really shouldn't have told them about HiMERU-san.)
Mayoi: (Oogami-san said it wasn't my fault, but I'm unquestionably the one who ruined the
atmosphere in the Neo Six of Song again...!)
Mayoi: (How am I supposed to take responsibility? What should I do now? I don't know anything
anymore...!)
Mayoi: (Someone like me should never have been chosen to represent Japan!)
Mayoi: (So that I won't cause anyone any more trouble... I'll have to atone with my life.)
Midori: ♪~♪~♪
Midori: (Huh? Wasn't that Ayase-senpai just now...?)
Midori: (Hmm. Am I seeing things? Why's he wandering around over there?)
Midori: (I'm pretty sure Ayase-senpai was chosen to represent Japan against MELLOW DEAR US.
I thought he'd be practicing nonstop.)
Midori: (But from the looks of it, maybe that's not the case...?)
Midori: (...Well, I'm not one of the representatives, so it doesn't really concern me. More
importantly♪)
Midori: (Hehe. I never dreamed they'd stock yuru-chara mascot collaboration merchandise here
in Mega Sphere...♪)
Midori: (The convenience stores and cafés here are surprisingly similar to the ones on the
ground. Their stock changes, and they offer limited-time products.)
Midori: (...Maybe it's been a while since I've had time like this. I've been busy ever since I came
to Mega Sphere.)
Midori: (When we first arrived, I didn't have a clue what was going on, but I streamed nonstop
with everyone...)
Midori: (Just when I thought things had settled down, all the idols had to take part in a sports
festival. ...Then last week, they suddenly told us to put on a musical.)
Midori: (Our schedule was way too packed. Having no time to rest was exhausting.)
Midori: (Since I wasn't chosen to represent Japan, I'm kind of glad I have time to take it easy like
this.)
Midori: (...Though from what Morisawa-senpai told me, the representatives are still having a
rough time.)
Midori: (I'd absolutely hate having to go up against the world's best idol Unit. I couldn't stand
having that streamed all over the world...!)
Midori: (Ayase-senpai and the others working so hard as our representatives are really
something.)
Raika: Excuse me...! Midori-oniisan!
Midori: Whoa!? You're... Raika-kun, right?
Midori: And Anzu-san's with you too. What's wrong?
Raika: Have you seen the Neo Six of Song around here?
Midori: Huh? Well, I saw Ayase-senpai walking toward that tower a little while ago.
Raika: Really!? Did you hear that, Anzu-oneesan?
Midori: ...Um, did something happen?
Raika: Yep. I happened to run into Anzu-oneesan, so I'm helping her out.
Midori: Now that you mention it, Ayase-senpai did look pretty worn out...
Midori: I thought he was just tired from all the hard work practicing as one of Japan's
representatives.
Raika: Ugh. Now I'm even more worried... We can't stand around here! Let's hurry after
Mayomayo-oniisan!
A few minutes later, on the roof of a Mega Sphere tower.
Mayoi: Ah, it really is high up here.
Mayoi: Unlike that day, the sky is bright, and I can see the scenery clearly...
Mayoi: Oogami-san isn't here, nor is Yuuki-san, who came along with him. So why am I not
particularly frightened?
Mayoi: Surely it's because I've accepted my guilt. Now I won't cause anyone any more trouble...
Raika: Aaaah!? Wait, Mayomayo-oniisan!
Mayoi: ...Raika-san!?
Mayoi: Why are you here...? More importantly, it's dangerous to cling to my back like that!
Raika: You can't die! I'm not letting go, no matter what!
Mayoi: N-No! That's not what I mean. You're pushing me forward little by little. Ah, look out...!?
Midori: Hey, Raika-kun? It's dangerous to struggle around there!
Mayoi: I-I'm losing my balance!
Midori: ...! Ayase-senpai!
Raika: Aaaah!?
Raika: ...Wait, huh? We're not falling?
Midori: That was a close one...
Mayoi: ...Hah, hah. Anzu-san and Midori-san pulled us back...
Raika: Y-You saved us. Thank you...♪
Midori: I'm really glad you're okay... Seeing you fall right in front of me would've traumatized
me for life...
Mayoi: I-I'm sorry for causing you trouble... Eek!?
Raika: Anzu-oneesan's making a really scary face...!
Mayoi: I'm sorry, it's all my fault! I'm a hopeless creature who does nothing but cause trouble
for others!
Mayoi: ...Yes? You're asking what happened?
Mayoi: Ugh... Well, this and that happened...
Mayoi: I said something I shouldn't have, and the Neo Six of Song fell apart.
Mayoi: So I thought I'd disappear from this world, to avoid causing any more trouble...
Mayoi: Eep!? Anzu-san's face looks even scarier...!?
Midori: Anzu-san was really worried, you know.
Raika: I thought you were going to disappear, Mayomayo-oniisan! I'm not letting go of you
anymore. Squeeze, squeeze~...☆
Mayoi: Y-Yeep! I'll never do anything like this again!
Mayoi: In any case, I just don't know what to do anymore...
Mayoi: How do I take responsibility for ruining the Neo Six of Song? How can I face everyone...?
Mayoi: You bear responsibility as our producer too? I don't need to feel that I'm the only one
responsible...?
Midori: So you've been feeling disappointed in yourself, Anzu-san.
Raika: You shouldn't! You work hard for us every day!
Midori: Yeah. I don't think you need to be so hard on yourself.
Midori: To me, both Ayase-senpai, who's working hard as one of Japan's representatives, and
you, Anzu-san, producing everyone, are doing plenty to be proud of.
Mayoi: ...Huh? You'd like me to help you again?
Mayoi: Yes, of course! If there's anything I can do, please make full use of me...!
Mayoi: To bring the Neo Six of Song back together, should we start by asking HiMERU-san what
happened?
Mayoi: Unless we establish why he was practicing with MELLOW DEAR US, Izumi-san and the
others won't be satisfied...
Mayoi: Yes, understood. Then let's split up and look for HiMERU-san...♪
Mayoi: Hm? There's something else you'd like to ask me to do...?
Kizuna 4
At the same time, in the producer room.
Ibuki: Oh, there you are, Nassan~♪ Want something to drink?
Nice: ...Hehe.
Ibuki: Hm? Did something good happen?
Nice: Yes. I was thinking how you continue to surprise me, Taki-kun.
Nice: Quite a few idols come to visit me, but it's rare for one to treat me so casually...♪
Nice: It's unfortunate, as far as I'm concerned. I'd like to get to know more idols better.
Nice: But the reason I can't lies with me as well. So I can't be too selfish about it.
Nice: No matter how informally I treat them, people who know my position inevitably feel
intimidated.
Nice: Esu-kun of Esupuri is a good example. Because of our professional hierarchy, he treats me
with such care.
Nice: I don't think that's a bad thing, but sometimes I'd like him to call me out as mercilessly as
he does Yume-kun!
Nice: In that sense, I'm fond of you, Taki-kun. You talk to me as though we were friends...♪
Ibuki: Nyahaha. I don't mind talking to you either, Yoshihide~.
Ibuki: Your eyes always sparkle when you talk about the future, you know~?
Ibuki: Somehow, I can tell you're excited from the bottom of your heart~♪
Nice: ...Hmm. I've no way to check that myself, but that's a lovely thing to say.
Ibuki: But people living in the present sometimes have trouble understanding the way you are,
Yoshihide~.
Ibuki: That's why I want to ask you outright.
Ibuki: What exactly do you want?
Nice: Hmm. I believe I answered that during my conversation with Tenshouin-kun.
Nice: Or is what you really want to ask about this pre-live, Dynamic Diamond?
Ibuki: You said it before, didn't you, Yoshihide~? Mega Sphere is the spark that'll spread the
appeal of Japan's idols around the world.
Nice: Yes. Though Tenshouin-kun pointed out the possibility that idols coming from overseas
might steal your fans instead.
Nice: ...Tenshouin-kun's concerns were justified. After all, I'm sending MELLOW DEAR US up
against you right now.
Ibuki: Creating the problem and offering the solution~? Well, if some unknown overseas idols
came here, that'd be one thing. But I don't see what the world's best idol Unit stands to gain
from coming to Japan~?
Ibuki: Idols who are hugely popular worldwide arrive here and scoop up Japan's fans...
Ibuki: It's a huge blow to us, but is it really that big a deal for MELLOW DEAR US?
Nice: In other words, Taki-kun, you think there's another purpose behind MELLOW DEAR US's
visit?
Nice: And that it's what I truly want.
Ibuki: I wouldn't go that far~. But it caught my attention~.
Nice: Hehe. A Nice deduction...♪
Nice: But rest assured. There's no sinister scheme of the sort you're worried about.
Nice: It's simply that a showdown between Japanese and American idols has been a long-held
dream of mine.
Nice: Taki-kun. Did you know that a diamond's value is determined by its cut?
Ibuki: No. What's this, suddenly talking about gemstones?
Nice: That's right. Specifically, rough diamonds that hold the potential to illuminate the whole
world with their dazzling brilliance.
Nice: Even stones from the same place can shine differently depending on the quality of their
cut. That's how important the person polishing them is.
Nice: And each rough stone has a cut that suits it. No two are exactly alike.
Nice: Some may have flaws that could diminish their brilliance.
Nice: But even a rough stone that appears flawed can shine like a first-rate gem, or even more
brilliantly, if given a meticulously calculated cut.
Nice: That is precisely the producing I've done... No.
Nice: That is my skill as a producer, as Nice Arneb Thunder.
Ibuki: Hmm? If you're emphasizing that...
Ibuki: Are you saying Anzu-neenee's way of producing is different from yours, Yoshihide?
Nice: I'm glad you're quick to understand.
Nice: Exactly. She too is polishing many rough stones. Sometimes she even makes their flaws
part of their appeal.
Nice: Her approach of letting idols do as they please must come from her wholehearted belief in
their brilliance.
Nice: Of course, I have no intention of rejecting that. There are as many right ways to produce
as there are idols.
Nice: That's precisely why I want her to confront the question again: how should she polish
these distinctive rough stones to let their brilliance shine out into the world?
Nice: And once she's done so, I'm interested in seeing what kind of sight emerges when gems
polished by different methods clash.
Nice: ...I've said this before.
Nice: That I want you to build the future alongside this country's promising producers.
Nice: To add to that... I'd like to see the future you and she create together.
Ibuki: ...♪
Ibuki: You really do sound like you're enjoying yourself, Yoshihide~.
Ibuki: I'm sure there's still something you're hiding. But for now, hearing that is enough~.
Ibuki: You won't play dirty to get what you want, Yoshihide. At least, not this time~.
Ibuki: Well, you could say competing over the number of Nice!s is itself so much in your favor
that it's unfair.
Ibuki: But when in Rome, do as the Romans do. We'd already lost the moment we were brought
to Mega Sphere~.
Nice: Oh, are you leaving already?
Nice: (The pre-live is nearly upon us.)
Nice: (Taki-kun should normally be throwing himself into practice. I thought he'd come here
because something had happened to the Neo Six of Song...)
Ibuki: Yeah. I'm not so free that I can chat with you forever, Yoshihide~.
Ibuki: Don't look so lonely. I'll come visit again when I feel like it~♪
Nice: ...Hehe. Then I'll look forward to that day.
Nice: Next time, perhaps we can enjoy a meal together and a good, casual chat...♪
Juis: Hey, Nice. Got a moment...?
Juis: Huh, this is a surprise. Um... Taki, was it?
Ibuki: Ibuki Taki. What an honor that you remember my name~.
Ibuki: I'm looking forward to the pre-live~. See you, Yoshihide.
Juis: ...Honestly, you're a fickle producer.
Juis: Leaving the idol Unit you raised to fend for itself?
Nice: Hehe. Giving you free rein is a sign of my trust♪
Juis: You can put a spin on anything. Well, whatever.
Juis: MELLOW DEAR US has finished preparing for the pre-live.
Juis: As the final step, Nice, I'd like you to check our rehearsal as our producer.
Nice: Of course. Your performances always excite me.
Juis: Naturally. We're the idols you shaped. We'll give you the best performance, just like
always...♪
Kizuna 5
A few minutes after Izumi stormed out of the room.
Makoto: Hmm...?
Makoto: (I instinctively ran after Izumi-san when he left, but...)
Makoto: (Looks like I've lost him. Where did he go? I was sure he came this way.)
Makoto: (Hmm, the path splits here... Which way should I go...?)
Makoto: ...
Makoto: (Maybe this way.)
Makoto: (When we were kids, I kept reaching my limit and collapsing. He'd usually let me rest
somewhere quiet like this, with a pleasant breeze.)
Makoto: If it's Izumi-san, I'm sure he went this way.
Izumi: ...
Makoto: Izumi-san, I finally found you.
Izumi: Yuu-kun...?
Izumi: What are you doing all the way out here? Did you come to complain that I shouldn't ruin
the mood when we've finally got a chance to practice together?
Makoto: I wouldn't say that.
Makoto: Actually, if that's what you're thinking, you must be feeling pretty bad about it,
Izumi-san.
Izumi: ...
Izumi: Then why did you come here? I'm in a bad mood right now.
Makoto: I thought now was the time to give you a little comfort~.
Izumi: Huh? What's that supposed to mean? Are you picking a fight...? Or do you pity me? Either
way, mind your own business.
Makoto: Why do you get mad every time I try to comfort you? You do it to me all the time.
Izumi: It's fine when I do it! I'm your big brother, after all. Though you've grown up so much
lately, you seem to be trying to leave your big brother behind.
Makoto: Right. That's why you're always so indulgent with me. Like I'm your real little brother.
Makoto: But I thought you must be so overwhelmed that you can't even be kind to me right
now.
Makoto: So I didn't come to pick a fight, and I'm not pitying you.
Izumi: ...Sorry. For snapping at you.
Makoto: Don't apologize. You don't think what you said was wrong, do you?
Izumi: ...
Makoto: You were right. Just like you said, I was tired and getting careless with the finer details
of the choreography.
Makoto: Besides, I was happy you were strict with me, Izumi-san.
Izumi: Huh? You're a total masochist, Yuu-kun...? Sorry, I didn't know. I'll be much harder on you
from now on...!
Makoto: No, please don't.
Makoto: That's not what I mean. Ever since I was little, there've been so many things I couldn't
do...
Izumi: That's not true. Who said that to you? I'll teach them a lesson.
Izumi: You've always been perfectly capable, Yuu-kun. Besides, you were a prodigy in the
modeling world.
Makoto: Hmm. You and everyone else tell me that, but I don't really feel it myself. Back then, I
was just desperately doing my best.
Makoto: There's that saying, "A prodigy at ten, talented at fifteen, ordinary past twenty." I
wonder if that's what it'll be like for me too.
Izumi: I'd really like to argue with that, but I'll hear you out first. And?
Makoto: Ah, right. Thanks.
Makoto: Um, well, whenever I can't do something, the people around me are kind and
considerate.
Makoto: They say, "It's okay. Don't worry about making mistakes. There's no need to rush..."
Makoto: They help me out a lot and support me so I won't stumble.
Makoto: That makes me really happy, and I'm grateful. But somehow, it's a little lonely too...
Izumi: Lonely...?
Makoto: Yeah. You got mad at me yesterday, didn't you? You told me to do it properly.
Makoto: That means you believe I can do it properly.
Makoto: I'm grateful when people kindly support me so I won't stumble, or offer a hand to help
me up when I fall.
Makoto: But it's lonely, because it feels like they see me as someone who needs to be helped.
Makoto: But you believe I can stand on my own two feet. That's why you really scold me like
that, isn't it?
Makoto: You always face me head-on.
Izumi: ...Of course. You're no longer the Yuu-kun who followed me around so timidly. The
Yuu-kun you are now can do anything.
Makoto: Yeah. You've always believed in me, Izumi-san. That's why I've gotten a little stronger.
Makoto: Let's go back, Izumi-san.
Makoto: It's cold here. If we stay out here, it'll affect tomorrow's practice too.
Kizuna 6
At the same time.
Koga: Hey! Hold it, HiMERU!
HiMERU: ... (Ignores him.)
Koga: Gaaah! Don't ignore me and run away!
HiMERU: Sigh... HiMERU would have preferred to be left alone right now.
Koga: Like I care. If you hadn't said that unnecessary crap, none of this complicated mess
would've happened!
Koga: You've gotta take responsibility for throwing everything into chaos. Otherwise, it's not
fair.
HiMERU: Responsibility, you say?
HiMERU: In other words, Oogami-san, you're telling HiMERU to step down as one of Japan's
representatives.
Koga: Huh? How the hell did you get that out of what I said?
Koga: I'm saying you need to properly explain why you were getting friendly with the enemy!
Koga: Jeez. You can't even figure out something that simple? Are you more shaken up than you
look?
HiMERU: ...
Koga: Hah. You've got a surprisingly cute side too, don't you~♪
Koga: Still, I never thought Sena-senpai would suddenly slap you across the face. That was
pretty rock of him.
HiMERU: What exactly is your definition of rock?
Koga: Isn't it obvious? A proud roar that shakes your soul is the very essence of rock!
Koga: It's only rock if it shakes the world with a cry from the soul that smashes this worthless
reality!
HiMERU: I see. In that case, perhaps Sena-senpai's slap could be described as rock.
HiMERU: Even HiMERU didn't expect to be slapped, though.
Koga: Well, it's not swollen or cut, is it? Your face is so pretty it's creepy.
Koga: Anyway, sure, Sena-senpai shouldn't have refused to listen to you. But you were partly at
fault too.
Koga: If Sena-senpai hadn't been there, I might've at least grabbed you by the collar myself.
HiMERU: HiMERU wouldn't particularly mind if you did, you know?
Koga: See, why are you picking a fight right there!?
HiMERU: Given the circumstances, it's understandable that you'd think HiMERU betrayed you.
HiMERU: It is, in fact, true that HiMERU practiced with MELLOW DEAR US.
Koga: And I'm asking whether you had a proper reason for that!
HiMERU: ...
Koga: You said it yourself. You had your own reasons.
Koga: Didn't you have some reason for getting in with MELLOW DEAR US?
Koga: Otherwise, you wouldn't have had any reason to come to our practice today.
Koga: If you'd really betrayed us, you could've just stayed buddies with the MELLOW DEAR US
guys.
HiMERU: ...How surprising. You're more perceptive than HiMERU expected.
Koga: You picking a fight!? Sounds like you want another slap across the face! Huh!?
HiMERU: Hehe, it's a joke. HiMERU is honestly impressed.
Koga: Jeez, you throw me off.
Koga: ...So, what was it, then?
HiMERU: HiMERU only intended to scout them out.
Koga: Huh? Scout them?
HiMERU: To be honest, HiMERU doesn't think we can beat MELLOW DEAR US by continuing to
practice as we are.
HiMERU: So HiMERU went to scout MELLOW DEAR US in his spare time.
HiMERU: Hoping to find some way forward, no matter how small.
HiMERU: Well, they spotted HiMERU in the end, so hiding was pointless.
HiMERU: They suggested joining their practice rather than sneaking around. You know what
happened after that.
Koga: What the hell? Then you're not a traitor or anything!
HiMERU: However, HiMERU also calculated that he could benefit from MELLOW DEAR US's
popularity.
HiMERU: He hoped that appearing on their stream might bring some of their fans over to him.
HiMERU: ...In any case, it remains a fact that HiMERU left you all and approached MELLOW
DEAR US.
HiMERU: As that fact is indisputable, it's only natural to suspect betrayal...
Koga: Gaaah! Quit going on and on!
Koga: Who cares about little details like whether you deserve to be misunderstood!?
Koga: The point is, you were doing what you could to beat MELLOW DEAR US, right?
Koga: Then you're not a traitor. Isn't that enough?
Koga: Jeez, wasting all this time... Come on, we're going straight back to the practice room.
HiMERU: Is there any point in going back?
Koga: Huh?
HiMERU: Even if we continue practicing as we are, we have almost no chance of winning.
HiMERU: That's how overwhelmingly skilled MELLOW DEAR US is. Even so, Oogami-san, you're
saying we should keep practicing?
Koga: Of course. If anything, that just fires me up more.
HiMERU: ...Fires you up?
Koga: They're the world's best idol Unit, you know? If we could beat them easily, that title
wouldn't mean as much.
Koga: It's only fitting that even all of us together can't match them.
HiMERU: Then you're saying it doesn't matter if we lose?
Koga: Like hell! I don't have the slightest intention of losing!
HiMERU: HiMERU is getting a headache. Which is it?
Koga: Overthinking things and getting scared before you've even fought is lame.
Koga: Instead of shrinking back like that, it's way cooler to go after them without a shred of
shame.
Koga: And then we beat MELLOW DEAR US at the pre-live. If we can do that, it'll be incredibly...
HiMERU: Rock. That's what you're trying to say, isn't it?
Koga: Heheh. Looks like you're starting to understand rock too♪
HiMERU: Good grief... HiMERU envies your optimism.
Mayoi: Oh, HiMERU-san and Oogami-san! Here you are.
Koga: Hm? Oh, it's Shark Teeth and Anzu. What, were you looking for us?
Mayoi: Um... It seems Anzu-san has something to tell us, the Neo Six of Song.
Mayoi: But before that, she'd like to know why HiMERU-san was with MELLOW DEAR US...
Koga: Aha, so that's why you were looking for us.
Koga: Don't worry. He didn't betray us or anything.
Mayoi: Huh?
Koga: Well, let's talk about that once everyone's together! Come on, let's get back!
HiMERU: (Rock, is it?)
HiMERU: (It's merely an attitude based on willpower, hardly something one could call a
solution...)
HiMERU: (But it doesn't change the fact that our chances of winning were slim to begin with. In
that case, worrying is simply a waste of time.)
HiMERU: (It's not to HiMERU's taste, but accepting that and taking our chances may be one
possible strategy.)
HiMERU: (HiMERU has no intention of imitating Oogami-san, but he'll stop trying to be
unnecessarily clever.)
HiMERU: (It seems... our producer, Anzu-san, has something in mind.)
Kizuna 7
A few hours later, in a practice room in a Mega Sphere tower.
Ibuki: ♪~♪~♪
Ibuki: (Hmm. Maybe I should pay a little more attention to the pitch when I sing this part?)
Ibuki: (It's probably a part where harmonizing with everyone else's voices feels good...)
Ibuki: (But I can't practice with that in mind by myself~.)
Ibuki: (Sigh... When's everyone in the Neo Six of Song coming back~?)
Ibuki: (At this rate, I'll end up facing MELLOW DEAR US all by myself~.)
Mayoi: ...Oh? Ibuki-san, you're here already?
Ibuki: Ah, Ayase-san and Anzu-neenee! You're finally back~! Nobody was coming, so I got tired
of waiting here alone~.
Mayoi: Um. I think it's still quite a while before we're supposed to meet...
Ibuki: Supposed to meet...? What are you talking about?
Mayoi: Huh? Um, after I apologized about the HiMERU-san incident a few hours ago, I sent
everyone the time we were going to gather, didn't I...?
Ibuki: Really? I hadn't noticed any message at all~.
Ibuki: I went for a little walk after that, then came back to practice~.
Ibuki: Hm? "Aren't you worried about the fight?"
Ibuki: Nyahaha. That was a fight between Sena-san and HiMERU-san, right? It'd be tactless of
me to butt in~.
Mayoi: You're very levelheaded, Ibuki-san...
Mayoi: E-Even now, when I think about those two meeting again... Ugh.
Ibuki: You're worrying too much! That's something they have to work out themselves~.
Ibuki: Besides, everyone agreed to meet up again, right?
Ibuki: Then there's no problem~. We can't stay children forever~.
Ibuki: More importantly, Anzu-neenee, what do we do now? Are Sakuma-san and the others
going to train us again?
Ibuki: "There's something I'd like to discuss, so I'll tell you when everyone's here"...?
Ibuki: Hmm. ...You seem a little different, Anzu-neenee~.
Ibuki: You look better than before~. Finally feeling like yourself again?
Ibuki: Okay. I'll practice with Ayase-san until everyone gets here~♪
Koga: Hey, Taki! Don't go starting without us!
Koga: If you're starting practice now, let us join in!
Mayoi: O-Oogami-san!? And why is everyone else here too!? It's still a while before we're
supposed to meet...!?
Makoto: Ahaha. When I thought about the pre-live, I just couldn't sit still.
Makoto: If I had time to rest, I wanted to spend at least a little of it practicing instead.
Izumi: Naturally. We don't have a single second to waste if we're going to beat MELLOW DEAR
US.
HiMERU: Yes. Unless we give everything we have in the time remaining, we can't hope for
victory.
HiMERU and Izumi: ...
Makoto: (Quietly) Come on, Izumi-san. Isn't there something you want to say to HiMERU-kun?
Izumi: (Quietly) ...Shut up. I know without you telling me, Yuu-kun.
Izumi: ...HiMERU. There's something I want to tell you.
HiMERU: What is it...?
Izumi: First, it doesn't look like your face is swollen, so that's a relief. An idol's face is
everything.
HiMERU: ...Hehe.
Izumi: ...Huh? Why are you suddenly laughing?
HiMERU: Nothing. Your meek attitude is more amusing than HiMERU expected, Sena-senpai♪
Izumi: Ghh...! You little...!
Makoto: Easy, Izumi-san! If you do the same thing again, you'll ruin everything!?
HiMERU: There's no need to apologize. HiMERU is equally at fault.
HiMERU: If that still doesn't satisfy you... let's beat MELLOW DEAR US.
Izumi: ...Hmph. Cheeky.
Izumi: You don't need to tell me that. Of course we're going to win.
Ibuki: Nyahaha! You both look refreshed~. Is this what they call having an evil spirit lifted from
you?
Ibuki: All right, let's get back to practice for real this time~!
Makoto: But Sakuma-senpai and the others don't seem to be here yet...
Koga: Hm? What's up, Anzu?
Koga: What do you mean, Sakuma-senpai and the others aren't coming!?
Mayoi: Y-Yes! Um, well... I'll be serving as everyone's trainer from now on...
Izumi: Huh? You're going to train us...? Are you saying you can provide more effective training
than Leo-kun?
Mayoi: I-I'll do my best! I don't know whether I can do better than Leo-san...!
Mayoi: But there are a few things I've noticed from practicing with you all...
Mayoi: For example, HiMERU-san. I believe you usually focus on how the performance looks
onstage and work to maintain its overall balance.
Mayoi: But with this particular group, I thought you could afford to perform more boldly.
HiMERU: ...You're right. Leaving aside Yuuki-san and Ayase, HiMERU might be overshadowed by
the other three if he takes his usual approach.
Mayoi: Yes, something similar applies to Yuuki-san. But in your case, Yuuki-san...
Izumi: (...This guy. We've only practiced together for a few days, but he can accurately identify
HiMERU's and Yuu-kun's habits and suggest better ways for them to move.)
Izumi: (Come to think of it, he seemed to have plenty of energy to spare when Leo-kun was
instructing him too.)
Mayoi: ...Um, Izumi-san. Is something wrong? If you stare at me like that, um...
Izumi: Ayase. If you're this capable, why have you been so timid all this time?
Mayoi: E-Eep! I-I'm sorry, I'm sorry! How presumptuous of someone like me...!
Izumi: No, I'm praising you. Why would you react like that?
Izumi: It's more irritating to see you cowering when you've got that much ability.
Mayoi: Huh...?
Makoto: That's right. You're our trainer, so you need to be more confident!
Mayoi: Y-Yes... You're right. I'm sorry, I'm not used to training people outside Alkaloid.
Mayoi: But I've made up my mind.
Mayoi: I bear responsibility for causing unnecessary confusion over the HiMERU-san incident...
Mayoi: And above all, Anzu-san wanted me to be your trainer... I'll do my best for her, for
believing in me...!
HiMERU: That's fine as far as the trainer situation goes, but HiMERU is curious about what
Anzu-san wishes to discuss.
HiMERU: Surely it doesn't end with putting Ayase in charge of training us?
Koga: "Of course not," you say? Heheh, that's a relief to hear.
Koga: ...Huh? What's this, Anzu? You've even brought streaming equipment.
Ibuki: What's that? You want us to lay everything about ourselves... completely bare?
Kizuna 8
Several dozen minutes later, in the Star House living room.
Hokuto: ...
Rei: Oh? Hidaka-kun, why are you staring so intently at your phone?
Hokuto: Sakuma-senpai. Isn't it obvious? I'm watching the Neo Six of Song's stream.
Hokuto: The pre-live is the day after tomorrow. Of course I'm curious.
Rei: Hehe. You're quite the worrier, Hidaka-kun.
Rei: You needn't be so anxious. The Neo Six of Song will be fine.
Hokuto: I understand that. Yuuki and Anzu are there. They're not a team that'll fall apart so
easily.
Hokuto: More importantly, why are you here, Sakuma-senpai?
Rei: Hmm. Is it so strange for me to lounge about on the sofa?
Hokuto: ...Let me rephrase that. Why did you step down as the Neo Six of Song's trainer?
Rei: Ah, that. The answer is simple.
Madara: This too is part of Anzu-san's secret plan~♪
Hokuto: ...! Mikejima-senpai and Tsukinaga-senpai are here too?
Leo: What's wrong with us being here!? We're heartbroken because the Infinity Mentors got
fired!
Hokuto: Fired...? You went out of your way to volunteer as their trainers.
Madara: Yes. Well, if Mayoi-san is taking over the role, we have no choice but to accept it.
Madara: I know better than anyone just how much potential he has. I faced him head-on before,
and lost~.
Hokuto: Is Ayase that good at teaching...?
Rei: That's one of the reasons, but it isn't the whole story.
Rei: The main reason is Anzu's secret plan.
Hokuto: Anzu's secret plan...?
Rei: Why, you're watching it right now, Hidaka-kun, aren't you?
Madara: The plan is to stream the Neo Six of Song's practice sessions from today right up to the
pre-live~♪
Hokuto: Streaming their practice... That's all?
Rei: Hehe. You say "that's all," Hidaka-kun, but this may be the best move available to them
right now.
Rei: While improving the Neo Six of Song's performance through constant practice...
Rei: They can gain more fans and Nice!s by showing viewers the ES idols' unguarded selves.
Rei: A strategy that truly kills two birds with one stone.
Hokuto: ...I understand the reasoning. But why did that get you fired?
Leo: We're their trainers, not members of the Neo Six of Song.
Leo: If we appeared on the stream, we'd just distract the viewers, right?
Madara: Yes. We want the viewers' attention focused entirely on the Neo Six of Song.
Madara: That's why Mayoi-san took over as their trainer~.
Rei: In fact, the strategy seems to be working as intended.
Rei: Here, Hidaka-kun. Take a look at the stream...♪
Izumi: Hah, hah... Ayase, anything that concerns you?
Mayoi: Let's see. Your singing is almost perfect, Izumi-san!
Mayoi: But there's still room for improvement in your dancing.
Mayoi: In the choreography in the second half, right after you finish your solo, you start moving
a little later than everyone else.
Izumi: ...Right. I was worried about that too. What should I do?
Mayoi: Taking your singing into account, we can't make the movements too demanding. So let's
simplify them a little.
Izumi: ...Understood. If I'm even a tenth of a second late, tell me again. I'll do everything I can to
fix it.
Mayoi: Yes. Next, HiMERU-san.
HiMERU: ...Yes. The highlight before the chorus.
Mayoi: It's good that you're aware of it. But it seems you're still focusing on the balance.
Mayoi: This is the second time I've pointed it out, so please don't make the same mistake next
time, all right?
HiMERU: ...Understood.
Ibuki: Nyahaha! Even you can look that pathetic, HiMERU-san~?
HiMERU: ...
Koga: Don't worry about it. I'm in the same boat.
Koga: We'll just keep doing it as many times as it takes until we get it right~♪
Makoto: That's right. We don't have time to hang our heads right now.
Makoto: Come on, let's get back to practice! We're starting from this step next, right?
Mayoi: Y-Yes. This is an important dance section for Ibuki-san and me.
Mayoi: Ibuki-san, when you get carried away, you have a habit of starting to move ahead of
everyone else. Please be careful about that, all right?
Mayoi: Focus on staying in sync with me... Let's see. There's one beat of breathing room in this
move, so let's make eye contact there.
Ibuki: Hmm. So I should calm down for a moment there~?
Ibuki: Got it. You too, Ayase-san. Don't be shy. Look right into my eyes~♪
Mayoi: Y-Yes! I'll do my best!
Mayoi: Then we'll run this same section five times in a row. Keep your focus and dance it
through to the very end.
Makoto: F-Five times!? It's already such an intense section. Will we be okay...?
Mayoi: You'll be fine. I'm certain you can all do it.
Mayoi: Even if you can't, I'll stay with you until you can. So don't worry♪
Mayoi: Then let's begin. One, two, three...
Madara: Hahaha! That's Mayoi-san for you. The moment he puts on his instructor's face, he
becomes a drill sergeant~♪
Madara: But the others are all practicing desperately to keep up with him.
Madara: I'm sure that sight will reach the people watching this stream too.
Hokuto: ...Yes, it seems so.
Hokuto: Since this stream started, the Nice!s and comments have been increasing rapidly.
Hokuto: Ayase's unusually serious expression, Sena-senpai's disciplined attitude, HiMERU's
struggles...
Hokuto: You might call them the hidden sides they don't normally show. Getting to know a new
side of these idols seems to be bringing in more viewers.
Rei: Indeed. It seems the young lady's plan has worked perfectly.
Rei: Seeing their raw emotions makes viewers feel as though they're sharing their youth with
them... It should have a different appeal from MELLOW DEAR US's flawless practice sessions.
Rei: By continuing this stream until the day of the pre-live, they intend to draw in even a little
more support for the Neo Six of Song.
Leo: I really want to practice with them too! If I were there, the best musical phrases would be
welling up inside me...!
Madara: Now, now, Leo-san. If you want to practice that badly, I'll join you!
Madara: I've been fired too, so I've got just as much time on my hands~.
Rei: Quite right. Watching the Neo Six of Song has made me want to move about a little too♪
Rei: Why don't you join us, Hidaka-kun? Moving your body should take your mind off things.
Hokuto: ...No, I'll pass. I'd like to watch this stream a little longer.
Rei: I see. Then be sure to give them plenty of support.
Rei: I'm sure your cheers will give them strength...♪
Hokuto: Yes. I know.
Hokuto: (...Anzu. Your abilities really are incredible.)
Hokuto: (With just one plan, you changed the mood when everyone was overwhelmed by
MELLOW DEAR US.)
Hokuto: (Of course, it doesn't change the fact that the ES idols are at a disadvantage...)
Hokuto: (But watching this stream makes me think, "Maybe.")
Hokuto: (Maybe they can reach even MELLOW DEAR US, the world's best idol Unit...)
Kizuna 9
The day of Dynamic Diamond.
Nice: "Now! The time has finally come!"
Nice: "Today's main event is Dynamic Diamond, the preliminary bout before the ultimate
showdown in which Japanese and American idols clash onstage!"
Nice: "What will they discover at this pre-live? What will they grasp? I'm looking forward to
finding out myself♪"
Juis and Nozomi: ...
Juis: "The day has finally arrived♪"
Juis: "How did things go? You're ready to shine as the finest idols on this grand stage, aren't
you?"
Makoto: "Of course. MELLOW DEAR US, the Unit they call the strongest..."
Makoto: "We've come to this stage with our heads held high, as idols worthy of being your
opponents."
Nozomi: "Hmph. Bold words."
Nozomi: "I shall make you understand the insurmountable wall between you and me."
Izumi: "Well, talk all you like while you still can."
Izumi: "Once the live starts, you won't have the composure for it anymore♪"
Mayoi: "We've done everything we can for today."
Mayoi: "For the people who believed in us and supported us, too. We'll give everything we have
to defeat you...!"
Nozomi: "A fine declaration. Then I too shall crush you with all my might, Mayoi Ayase...♪"
Izumi: "Hey, Nozomi Madoka! Could you not ignore me!?"
Mashu: "Kyaha! Everyone's shooting sparks, it's hilarious! Well, Mashu's not planning to lose
either, so our victory's a sure thing~☆"
Mashu: "Hearing 'Japan vs. US' sends my motivation through the roof! Let's make this a
seriously epic showdown! #WatchOurMELLOWBrilliance☆ #MashuAndTheGangWillWin"
Ibuki: "Nyahaha. I'm with you on that~♪"
Ibuki: "We'll give the best performance, one that'll be etched into the memories of everyone
watching this stream!"
HiMERU: "Yes. For that very reason, HiMERU can't afford to disgrace himself by falling behind
you."
HiMERU: "Let's create a wonderful stage together, MELLOW DEAR US."
Chitose: "Together, huh."
Chitose: "...Yeah. I think that sounds good too♪"
Chitose: "We're competing, but we're creating something together. I like that way of thinking."
Chitose: "Oh, of course, we're the ones who'll win, though."
Koga: "Hah, keep talking. We'll prove on this stage that the Neo Six of Song is better."
Chitose: "Yeah. I'm looking forward to it."
Chitose: "I only got to spend a short time with you all, less than a month."
Chitose: "But during that time, I got to know everyone at ES a little."
Chitose: "I got to know you all and grew fond of you. That's exactly why I have to enjoy this
showdown to the fullest...♪"
Koga: "Tch. That easygoing attitude of yours has been pissing me off this whole time..."
Koga: "I'll devour even your brilliance and make it ring out in the hearts of everyone watching
this live."
Koga: "Our song... What a live by Japanese idols can be! Get ready, Wimpy Hair!"
Chitose: "Hehe, you called me by a nickname again♪"
Koga: "Gaaah! Why the hell does that make you so happy!?"
Juis: "Haha, you're full of spirit."
Juis: "It's not a bad thrill. Just getting to experience this feeling may have made coming to Japan
worthwhile."
Juis: "Well, no matter how fired up you get, we'll simply send our love to our Dears, as always."
Juis: "As MELLOW DEAR US... and flawlessly♪"
Nice: "Hehe. Both sides seem fully motivated. With the showdown about to begin, the tension is
rising...!"
Nice: "Finally, to everyone watching tonight's grand Dynamic Diamond stage."
Nice: "Don't take your eyes off them as they give you their finest performances."
Nice: "And please send your greatest Nice!s to the Unit that truly captures your heart...♪"
Makoto: ...
Makoto: Oh, Anzu-chan. You came.
Makoto: Am I nervous? ...Hmm, not really, actually.
Makoto: I feel like we've done everything we can. Maybe that's why I'm naturally feeling calm.
Makoto: Even if we lose, somehow I feel like we'll be able to end this on a good note.
Makoto: ...Oops, I went and said something defeatist. Izumi-san and Oogami-kun will scold me
again.
Makoto: Why are you apologizing, Anzu-chan? ...You're sorry you couldn't do enough?
Makoto: If you'd come up with a better plan, we might've gained more fans... That's what you're
thinking, Anzu-chan.
Makoto: Don't be so hard on yourself. Thanks to the round-the-clock stream, the Neo Six of
Song gained a huge number of fans all at once.
Makoto: You've thought about so many things for our sake, Anzu-chan. You did when you were
choosing Japan's representatives too, didn't you?
Makoto: ...That makes me happy. It's because you're like that that I can feel at ease.
Makoto: You don't just take our hands and guide us.
Makoto: You stay beside us and worry along with us. I think that's why everyone trusts you,
Anzu-chan♪
Makoto: ...Just kidding. I got a little carried away trying to sound cool♪
Makoto: Hehe. I'm glad if you feel even a little better.
Koga: Enough chatting, Glasses Bean Sprout.
Koga: The live's about to start. Get your head in the game!
Makoto: Yeah. I'm ready whenever.
Koga: And Anzu. Quit looking so miserable.
Koga: Our opponents are the world's number-one idol Unit, and an overwhelming proportion of
the viewers watching the live are their fans.
Koga: We knew that already, but yeah, looking at the situation, we're definitely playing away
from home.
Koga: ...That's exactly why, if we put on our best performance and turn the whole thing
around...
Koga: It'll feel incredible♪
Koga: Don't take your eyes off us, Anzu. We'll give you the best live, one that'll blow all your
worries away at once.
Makoto: Well then, we're off.
Koga: I'm warning you, Glasses Bean Sprout. If you let your guard down, I'll leave you behind.
Makoto: I could say the same to you.
Koga: Heheh, you've learned to talk back, huh~♪
Makoto: Let's go, Neo Six of Song!
Epilogue 1
Koga: "I'll show you right now! The strongest, greatest performance of the magnificent Koga
Oogami, one the world can be proud of!"
Koga: "Everyone, clean out your ears and listen to my soul scream!"
Koga: "♪~♪~♪"
Juis: ...Hmm. So this is a Japanese idol's performance.
Juis: I'm honestly surprised. His aura really is different onstage. It's a good, bold performance.
Juis: "But MELLOW DEAR US's stage goes beyond that!"
Juis: "Isn't that right, Dears!?"
Juis: "♪~♪~♪"
Koga: (Tch, what a voice. He's completely changed the atmosphere...!)
Koga: (But this isn't even close to what I can really do!)
Koga: "♪~♪~♪"
HiMERU: (Hmm. Even Oogami-san is being overwhelmed. Just what one would expect from Juis
Kojika.)
HiMERU: (And it isn't only him. Every member of MELLOW DEAR US has the ability of a top idol...
No, even more than that.)
HiMERU: (In individual contests, we can't bridge the gap in ability.)
HiMERU: (...But we aren't fighting alone.)
HiMERU: "♪~♪~♪"
Juis: Oh, so you're planning to hold me down two against one?
Juis: I'd like to take you both on, but it seems someone on our side is raring to go too...♪
Mashu: "♪~♪~♪"
Mashu: HiMERU-chan, we're on a stage this big! That sour face is seriously not it! Just smile for
now! Come on, smile, smile~♪
HiMERU: Hehe. HiMERU thought he was singing in a cool manner.
Mashu: I get it, I get it! But for Mashu, that's a no~.
Mashu: If we want to bring smiles to our fans, we've gotta start by having fun ourselves☆
Ibuki: Nyahaha, things are heating up here~.
Ibuki: Let me join in! A live needs some freshness, right~?
Ibuki: "♪~♪~♪"
Mashu: "We're gonna turn it up even more! You can keep up, right?"
Izumi: (Hmm. We're getting more Nice!s than I expected. If this keeps up, we might win.)
Izumi: "Watch me, princesses. I'll make sure you can't see anyone but me...♪"
Izumi: "♪~♪~♪"
Mayoi: (An even better performance than he showed in practice...! To think he still had this up
his sleeve.)
Mayoi: (Izumi-san. Your potential really is frightening.)
Mayoi: (But you're fighting beside me. Right now, that's incredibly reassuring...♪)
Mayoi: (It feels as though the tension lingering somewhere in my chest has completely melted
away...)
Mayoi: Let's sing. As though carefully retracing everything we've built up until now...♪
Mayoi: "♪~♪~♪"
Nozomi: (...Hmph. I thought they were beasts capable only of noisy barking... But it seems they
possess at least the bare minimum of ability needed to bite at me.)
Nozomi: (And Mayoi Ayase.)
Nozomi: (I recognized his high potential from the start, but I never imagined he'd refine it this
far...)
Nozomi: (The others too... It seems they are at least qualified to face us. However...)
Nozomi: (There isn't the remotest possibility that I will lose.)
Nozomi: ...You hold your heads too high. Bow them and make way.
Nozomi: "Dears beyond the screen! Let yourselves be intoxicated by my song!"
Nozomi: "And I shall teach you that we stand at the very pinnacle...♪"
Nozomi: "♪~♪~♪"
Chitose: "♪~♪~♪"
Chitose: You're all giving amazing performances♪
Chitose: You must have felt unsettled by us, but there's not a trace of that in what you've
prepared. I feel like your feelings are reaching me through the live...♪
Chitose: ...It might be strange for me to say this, but let me thank you.
Chitose: Thank you for facing us♪
Makoto: We should be the ones saying that. Standing on the same stage as you, I can feel it all
over again.
Makoto: MELLOW DEAR US is a Unit worthy of being called the world's best.
Makoto: But we didn't come to this stage to lose.
Makoto: We're carrying everyone's hopes at ES, Anzu-chan's hopes... So many people's
feelings.
Makoto: So no matter how formidable you are, we'll never give up.
Makoto: Watch us right to the end!
Makoto: "♪~♪~♪"
Epilogue 2
Nice: "The result of Dynamic Diamond is..."
Juis and Nozomi: ...
Nice: "Victory for MELLOW DEAR US!"
A little over ten minutes after the Dynamic Diamond stream ended.
Makoto: ...We lost.
Chitose: Wow, we did it, everyone! We won!
Chitose: The ES idols' performance was amazing, but there ended up being a big gap in the
number of Nice!s...♪
Chitose: I saw everyone giving it their all, so I thought you might produce an incredible result,
but...
Juis: In the end, you couldn't defeat MELLOW DEAR US.
Juis: Still, I enjoyed it more than I expected.
Juis: To be honest, when we came to Japan, I thought it wouldn't even be a contest.
Juis: You did well to polish yourselves enough to hold your own against us in such a short time♪
Juis: I acknowledge you, Japanese idols... No, Neo Six of Song.
Makoto: Hearing you say that, Kojika-san, makes me feel a little better...
Makoto: But there was still so much we lacked if we wanted to catch up to you.
Makoto: The numbers just released show it too. We lost by a huge margin.
Nozomi: Precisely. No matter how well you fought, defeat remains defeat. To make the victors'
brilliance stand out, you would do better to be visibly overcome with sorrow.
Makoto: ...
Koga: ...It wasn't a complete defeat yet.
Makoto: Oogami-kun...?
Koga: Sure, we lost this time.
Koga: But we still showed that this many fans think we're better than you.
Koga: Just knowing that is enough for me. At the real showdown next time, we'll finally beat
you...!
Makoto: ...
Makoto: Yeah, you're right... We did lose, but... MELLOW DEAR US shouldn't be an opponent we
can never defeat.
Makoto: We definitely won't lose next time...!
Chitose: Ah, yeah. I'll look forward to that day.
Chitose: The live with everyone was so much fun. I'd like to stand onstage with you again...♪
Mashu: Chitose-chan, you've taken that much of a liking to them? #WasOurFriendshipASham
#MightBeALittleJealous
Ibuki: Nyahaha. You can only keep making jokes like that for now~.
Ibuki: This match gave us a good grasp of MELLOW DEAR US's ability~.
Izumi: Be ready for the real thing, okay? Next time, we'll make sure you can't act so flippantly.
Mashu: Aww. I thought we could be friends~?
Mashu: For real, for real! Let's be friends!
Mashu: I know, let's take a picture together to commemorate performing together today♪ Okay,
peace...☆ #PicturePerfectDuo #LookForwardToTheFanserviceShowdown
Izumi: Huh...? Wait, who said you could take that?
Mashu: It's fine, it's fine♪ Gotta update my socials too.
Mashu: (...Oh. I've got a DM.)
Mashu: (Tap, tap, tap... And send♪)
Izumi: What's with this guy? Sooo annoying.
Izumi: I'd rather die than be friends with someone like you!
Mashu: Aww, you're so harsh, Izumi-chan! #MyFirstFriendshipBreakup #MaybeHesJustShy
HiMERU: In fact, our relationship isn't that familiar yet.
HiMERU: Aren't we still at the stage of competing fiercely against each other?
Izumi: Exactly. Next time, we'll definitely beat you and make those faces twist with frustration!
Nozomi: Haha. What amusing things you say. But save your sleeptalking for when you're
asleep.
Nozomi: You're welcome to boast to escape reality, but it's obvious that you'll only compound
your shame.
Nozomi: Wouldn't it be better for your own sake to behave in a manner befitting your station?
Mayoi: T-That's not true...!
Mayoi: It is true that we lost, but...
Mayoi: We can be proud of how wonderful that live was!
Nozomi: Oh? You dare contradict me, Mayoi Ayase?
Nozomi: You suffered a crushing defeat in this live, and you're still proud?
Mayoi: Yes. That live brought out everything we've built up.
Mayoi: So although we're frustrated, there's nothing for us to belittle ourselves over.
Mayoi: I'm proud that everyone here faced you with everything they had...!
Nozomi: ...Hmm, very well. If you insist on going that far, see that you entertain us in our next
match.
Nozomi: Then this triumphant return will have been worthwhile...♪
Juis: There you have it. Our queen apparently desires a tougher fight.
Juis: And I feel the same.
Juis: Nice was so taken with Japan's idols that he even left us behind overseas.
Juis: That means you have something that captivates him.
Juis: You watching over there, Producer... That goes for you too.
Juis: The ES idols managed to put up a fight against us this time...
Juis: But they still weren't brilliant enough to outshine us.
Juis: Put yourself in a fan's shoes. Whose brilliance would you want?
Juis: Even after experiencing our love, could you still choose ES?
Juis: ...
Juis: If that leaves you speechless, you're a disappointment.
Juis: The Neo Six of Song has the fighting spirit to take us on. Doesn't that put them further
ahead than you?
Juis: ...Don't disappoint Nice, ES's producer. Merely meeting his expectations isn't enough.
Juis: You need to surpass his expectations with ease, don't you?
Juis: Your idols are so motivated. You have it too, don't you?
Juis: That love for idols.
Epilogue 3
A little under an hour later.
Nice: ...
Nice: It's open.
Nice: Oh, Anzu-chan. Visiting at this hour?
Nice: I'm sure you've come for a reason, but please wait just a moment.
Nice: Ever since Dynamic Diamond ended, messages have been pouring in from business
associates around the world. I'd like to reply to them before the day is over.
Nice: ...Hm? Oh, that photograph?
Nice: Amusing, isn't it? We took it for a feature asking, "Does MELLOW DEAR US still look cool in
tacky clothes?"
Nice: The response from fans was greater than we'd imagined.
Nice: Since we'd promoted them as artists until then, it must have made quite an impact!
Nice: That job led to more requests for magazine photo shoots and the like... Ah, excuse me. I
got carried away chatting.
Nice: ...There, done. Sorry to keep you waiting. Now, would you tell me why you've come to this
room?
Nice: Though I have a fairly good idea.
Nice: It's about tonight's pre-live, Dynamic Diamond, isn't it?
Nice: ...How did I know? I'm still caught up in the excitement of that Sphere Stage myself.
Nice: Japan's representative idols performing with MELLOW DEAR US. It was a Nice moment
when my dream came true...♪
Nice: ...To be honest, I'm surprised by the result.
Nice: When you chose Japan's representatives, I thought it might turn into a one-sided match.
Nice: MELLOW DEAR US has gained so many fans worldwide that they're the strongest in a
contest judged by Nice!s.
Nice: But the Neo Six of Song put up a tremendous fight. That must be thanks to your producing
and their efforts, Anzu-chan.
Nice: In particular, that round-the-clock practice stream. It increased the number of viewers
interested in the ES idols.
Nice: That idea was inspired by the behind-the-scenes videos Subaru-kun made during Inferno
Influence, wasn't it?
Nice: It was a truly Nice idea. That format of streaming would be difficult for MELLOW DEAR US.
Nice: You could call it an approach to producing that's unmistakably yours, Anzu-chan♪
Nice: You gave your all to producing the idols, and broadcast their abilities to the world at the
pre-live.
Nice: ...And yet, why do you look so pained?
Nice: You didn't want to lose?
Nice: Hehe. You're regretting having let down the idols who believed in you.
Nice: So you've come to ask why your side lost.
Nice: ...
Nice: Anzu-chan. In this match, did you try to realize your ideal: a stage where the idols shine at
their brightest?
Nice: Ah, you seem to remember. ...Yes, this is something I asked you before.
Nice: "A producer has a duty to provide fans and viewers with the finest entertainment."
Nice: Back then, you placed importance on all the idols shining equally.
Nice: The result was a wonderful musical. But if asked whether it was your skill as a producer
that made it possible, you'd have difficulty answering.
Nice: So this time, I prompted you to make a choice that wouldn't allow you to choose equality.
Nice: Selecting a new Six of Song to fight MELLOW DEAR US. It meant choosing particular idols
from among a great many.
Nice: What did you choose there?
Nice: ...That's right. You tried to choose idols who could beat MELLOW DEAR US in Nice!s, based
on the Representative Prediction Poll results.
Nice: ...But that was simply fighting on MELLOW DEAR US's home ground.
Nice: Despite the fact that every idol you've walked alongside had their own strengths that let
them shine.
Nice: The result was tonight's Dynamic Diamond.
Nice: If you'd chosen representatives who could create the finest stage from the beginning...
Nice: If you hadn't been constrained by the value of Nice!s, and had produced in a way more
true to yourself, today's result might have been different.
Nice: If you forget that again at the next performance...
Nice: You'll end up letting down the idols who believe in you once more.
Nice: I'm sorry for being harsh, Anzu-chan. Even so, I have high hopes.
Nice: For your talent as a producer.
Nice: It's different from mine... An ability to love idols and polish them.
Nice: I want to see the budding talent within you blossom.
Nice: The next stage is Mainstream Megasphere, the final showdown that will determine the idol
mainstream.
Nice: You could call the pre-live a rehearsal for that. So you mustn't let tonight's brilliance go to
waste.
Nice: Next time, I want to see producing that's true to you, to the way you've worked in
harmony and walked alongside the many different ES idols.
Hokuto: ...
Hokuto: (Yuuki and the others did everything they could... But they still couldn't reach the
world.)
Hokuto: (Even if the winner of the live showdown hadn't been decided by Nice! votes...)
Hokuto: (I don't know whether they could have beaten MELLOW DEAR US. That's how high the
wall of the world's best idol Unit was.)
Hokuto: (...It's frustrating.)
Hokuto: ...Anzu?
Hokuto: What are you doing here? Even in Mega Sphere, I can't approve of going out at this
hour.
Hokuto: ...You couldn't sleep, so you came out for some night air?
Hokuto: I'm much the same. I haven't been able to settle down after the excitement of the
pre-live.
Hokuto: ...I'm sure you still can't accept it. Yuuki and the rest of the Neo Six of Song's defeat.
Hokuto: ...? Why are you apologizing, Anzu?
Hokuto: You should have done more than enough. Or did you hold back somewhere?
Hokuto: ...No, of course you didn't. You'd never do that. Then hold your head high.
Hokuto: Besides, Nice-P said so too. There are two live events leading to the perfect finale.
Hokuto: We lost the pre-live, the preliminary bout, but we just have to win the final live.
Hokuto: ...That should help us come to terms with these feelings too.
Hokuto: I believe in you, Producer.
Hokuto: "I don't have confidence"...?
Hokuto: Why are you losing heart? That's not like you.
Hokuto: We've overcome adversity like this countless times. Haven't we?
Hokuto: (...Don't cry, Anzu. Even if this defeat has cut deeper than I thought.)
Hokuto: (You can't go anywhere with your head hanging down. The monster called MELLOW
DEAR US will simply devour everything.)
Hokuto: ...Anzu. You're not fighting alone. We're here with you.
Hokuto: If we all combine our strength, we should be able to beat even MELLOW DEAR US.
Hokuto: (..."Should," huh. Words this uncertain couldn't possibly reach Anzu as she is now.)
Hokuto: (Then what I need to say to her right now is...)
Hokuto: If you're still anxious even so...
Hokuto: Choose me this time, Anzu.
Hokuto: I'll lead you to victory.