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Starsugen vs. Motsugen - Oshi no Ko EP01

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# Starsugen

# Motsugen

This story is a work of fiction.

What you're about to watch is a work of fiction.

Actually, most everything in this world is fiction.

Actually, it's more accurate to say that it's a world of fiction.

They fabricate...

It's fabricated.

exaggerate...

Exaggerated.

and cover up anything that doesn't fit their narrative.

Anything that doesn't neatly fit the narrative gets covered up.

And so, the idol fan is one who relishes this deception.

In this world, lies are weapons.

Ai!

I wish I could've witnessed this cuteness in person!

The idol group B-Komachi's shining star...

Their unshakable center...

The astonishingly pretty 16-year-old girl...

Ai!

It's been four years since their formation!

It's been four years since they started!

They've gradually gained popularity, their media exposure has increased,

They've gradually gained popularity, their media exposure increased,

and it finally feels like they've become mainstream!

and it feels like they've finally hit the mainstream!

This is where she really takes off! Her stardom is just about to—

This is where she really takes off! Her stardom is close at—

Why are you watching an idol DVD in a patient's room?

I shouldn't have to tell you how wrong this is.

No one in their right mind would do that.

Witnessing beauty is good for one's health.

I mean, it's not like there are any idol concerts this far out in the countryside.

It's not like there are any idol concerts this far out in the countryside.

This is a form of medical practice.

This is part of our treatment plan.

It's proselytizing, plain and simple.

Please don't make this our hospital's official position.

Oh, that reminds me, Doctor.

Oh, that reminds me, doctor.

I just saw it trending on Twitter that...

I saw something trending on Twitter just now.

What?!

Ai is going on hiatus?!

You really worship this girl, huh?

She's only 16, isn't she? I guess that makes you a predator.

She's 16, isn't she? I guess you like them young.

Please don't call me that.

Please don't say that.

I've got my reasons, okay?

I did my residency at this same hospital, you see.

In those days, I often slacked off in patients' rooms, just as I do now.

In those days, I often slacked off in patients' rooms, same as now.

Do some work.

One of the patients I met back then shaped my destiny.

And this is Mei-Mei!

Her dancing is great!

Yeah?

Ari and Kyun are good singers,

but my fave is definitely...

Ai!

She's my age, but she looks so much more grown-up and is great at singing and dancing!

And don't get me started on how pretty she is...

If I could be reborn, I'd definitely want to look like her.

In my next life, I want to look like her.

What's this "reborn" nonsense? Don't be silly.

What do you mean, your next life? Don't be silly.

Not much of a dreamer, are you?

Haven't you ever wondered what it'd be like to be a celebrity's child?

Haven't you wondered about what it'd be like to be the child of a celebrity?

Like, if you had looks and connections right from birth.

Nope.

So you really don't dream...

You're plenty cute yourself, Sarina.

You're plenty cute already, Sarina.

There's no need for you to be reborn.

No point in waiting for a next life.

After you're discharged, just become an idol.

I'll be your fan if you do.

Really?

I love you, Doctor! Marry me!

I love you, doc! Marry me!

That'd be social suicide, so maybe not.

I'd rather not die by social suicide, thanks.

Okay, Mr. Moralist...

A shame, isn't it?

Yep, what a shame.

But ask me again once you turn 16.

But I'll give it some serious thought once you're 16.

Sixteen, huh?

You're a big meanie.

I'd say I'm just being realistic.

Hey, it's a realistic plan.

An anaplastic astrocytoma... She was just 12 years old.

An anaplastic astrocytoma...

She was just 12 years old.

If she were still alive today, she'd be 16, just like Ai.

I suppose I followed Sarina's favorite idol, melding my memories of the two of them.

She's walking towards her dreams,

and I want to be there to see that.

Makes sense.

I see.

Definitely a predator.

So you really like them young.

Were you even listening?!

That was quite the touching story I just gave!

That was quite the touching story, in my humble opinion!

There's something visceral about the way you're obsessed with her.

There's something a little... vivid about the way you're obsessed with her.

Are you sure you're not using Sarina as an excuse for your perverse desires?

Ridiculous! I swear on Sarina's name that I'm supporting Ai with the purest of intentions!

Ridiculous! I swear on Sarina's name that I'm supporting her with the purest of hearts!

But, if this Ai appeared before you and asked you to date her, would you?

But, if this Ai appeared before you and asked you on a date, wouldn't you say yes?

Well, lunch is over. Let's get back to work.

Well, lunch is over.

How about it, Doctor?

Let's get back to work.

How about it, doctor?

Swearing on Sarina, what's your answer?

Still, I am worried about Ai... I hope she gets better and makes a comeback soon.

Still, I'm worried about Ai...

I hope she gets better and makes a comeback soon.

Hello, thank you for waiting.

Let's see... So this is your first visit, Ms. Hoshino?

Let's see...

So this is your first visit, Ms. Hoshino?

Yes.

Judging by her belly, she's about 20 weeks along now.

That's rather late for an initial examination.

Sixteen years of age... I guess this must have been difficult for her.

Sixteen years of age...

I guess this must have been difficult for her.

The kind of situation where she gets this far along without being able to consult anyone.

Are you her father?

Well, on paper...

On paper, yeah...

She grew up in a foster home, and I'm her de facto father, or rather her guardian.

She grew up in an orphanage, and I'm her de facto guardian, or her guarantor, I guess.

Oh, I see.

Sixteen, raised in a foster home. I feel like I've heard this story before.

Sixteen, raised in a orphanage. I feel like I've heard this story before.

It's just like...

How's it looking, Doc?

Doc, how's it looking?

Any chance she just has a bad bout of constipation?

If that were the case, she'd be long dead already.

I'm doin' fine on that front!

No problems today either!

It went real smoothly today!

First off, you'll need an examination.

I'll need to make some preparations, so please wait here.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!

Man, is that really her?!

Could she just be a dead ringer for Ai?!

Could she just be a dead ringer?

Nah, no way a years-long fan like myself would be mistaken!

Wow, Ai is super cute in person!

Ai is super cute in person!

No!

Get a grip!

My favorite idol is pregnant!

It's such a shock I think I might hurl.

It's such a shock, I think I might hurl.

Ai...

Ai.

How in the world did this happen?

Yeah, seriously!

As your agency's president, why didn't you consult me?

As your agency's president, why didn't you tell me?

Who's the father anyway?

Who's the father, anyway?

Well...

That's a secret!

A secret?! Well, no point prying, then!

A secret?! Welp, guess that's settled, then!

The results of the examination are as follows: 20 weeks pregnant, twins.

Twins?

Twins...

Ai, you serious about having them?

Saved diffs

Original text

Open file

# Starsugen

This story is a work of fiction.
Actually, most everything in this world is fiction.
They fabricate...
exaggerate...
and cover up anything that doesn't fit their narrative.
And so, the idol fan is one who relishes this deception.
In this world, lies are weapons.
Ai!
I wish I could've witnessed this cuteness in person!
The idol group B-Komachi's shining star...
Their unshakable center...
The astonishingly pretty 16-year-old girl...
Ai!
It's been four years since their formation!
They've gradually gained popularity, their media exposure has increased,
and it finally feels like they've become mainstream!
This is where she really takes off! Her stardom is just about to—
Why are you watching an idol DVD in a patient's room?
I shouldn't have to tell you how wrong this is.
Witnessing beauty is good for one's health.
I mean, it's not like there are any idol concerts this far out in the countryside.
This is a form of medical practice.
It's proselytizing, plain and simple.
Please don't make this our hospital's official position.
Oh, that reminds me, Doctor.
I just saw it trending on Twitter that...
What?!
Ai is going on hiatus?!
You really worship this girl, huh?
She's only 16, isn't she? I guess that makes you a predator.
Please don't call me that.
I've got my reasons, okay?
I did my residency at this same hospital, you see.
In those days, I often slacked off in patients' rooms, just as I do now.
Do some work.
One of the patients I met back then shaped my destiny.
And this is Mei-Mei!
Her dancing is great!
Yeah?
Ari and Kyun are good singers,
but my fave is definitely...
Ai!
She's my age, but she looks so much more grown-up and is great at singing and dancing!
And don't get me started on how pretty she is...
If I could be reborn, I'd definitely want to look like her.
What's this "reborn" nonsense? Don't be silly.
Not much of a dreamer, are you?
Haven't you ever wondered what it'd be like to be a celebrity's child?
Like, if you had looks and connections right from birth.
Nope.
So you really don't dream...
You're plenty cute yourself, Sarina.
There's no need for you to be reborn.
After you're discharged, just become an idol.
I'll be your fan if you do.
Really?
I love you, Doctor! Marry me!
That'd be social suicide, so maybe not.
Okay, Mr. Moralist...
A shame, isn't it?
But ask me again once you turn 16.
Sixteen, huh?
You're a big meanie.
I'd say I'm just being realistic.
An anaplastic astrocytoma... She was just 12 years old.
If she were still alive today, she'd be 16, just like Ai.
I suppose I followed Sarina's favorite idol, melding my memories of the two of them.
She's walking towards her dreams,
and I want to be there to see that.
Makes sense.
Definitely a predator.
Were you even listening?!
That was quite the touching story I just gave!
There's something visceral about the way you're obsessed with her.
Are you sure you're not using Sarina as an excuse for your perverse desires?
Ridiculous! I swear on Sarina's name that I'm supporting Ai with the purest of intentions!
But, if this Ai appeared before you and asked you to date her, would you?
Well, lunch is over. Let's get back to work.
How about it, Doctor?
Swearing on Sarina, what's your answer?
Still, I am worried about Ai... I hope she gets better and makes a comeback soon.
Hello, thank you for waiting.
Let's see... So this is your first visit, Ms. Hoshino?
Yes.
Judging by her belly, she's about 20 weeks along now.
That's rather late for an initial examination.
Sixteen years of age... I guess this must have been difficult for her.
The kind of situation where she gets this far along without being able to consult anyone.
Are you her father?
Well, on paper...
She grew up in a foster home, and I'm her de facto father, or rather her guardian.
Oh, I see.
Sixteen, raised in a foster home. I feel like I've heard this story before.
It's just like...
How's it looking, Doc?
Any chance she just has a bad bout of constipation?
If that were the case, she'd be long dead already.
I'm doin' fine on that front!
No problems today either!
First off, you'll need an examination.
I'll need to make some preparations, so please wait here.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!
Man, is that really her?!
Could she just be a dead ringer for Ai?!
Nah, no way a years-long fan like myself would be mistaken!
Wow, Ai is super cute in person!
No!
My favorite idol is pregnant!
It's such a shock I think I might hurl.
Ai...
How in the world did this happen?
Yeah, seriously!
As your agency's president, why didn't you consult me?
Who's the father anyway?
Well...
That's a secret!
A secret?! Well, no point prying, then!
The results of the examination are as follows: 20 weeks pregnant, twins.
Twins?
Twins...
Ai, you serious about having them?
If it gets out that you got pregnant at 16 and went through with it...
your career and my agency will be finished.
What are your thoughts, Doctor?
The final decision rests with you.
Really think it through before deciding.
As a doctor, that is all I'm able to say.
As a doctor, anyway.
And now, onto our next story.
Ugh, for real?
Today, popular entertainer Ponta and idol MIU held a joint press conference announcing their marriage.
Man, I really liked MIU...
Talk about timing...
Wait, if I die now, there's a chance I'll be reborn as an idol's kid, right?
MIU is currently five months pregnant.
That's pretty messed up, dude.
Still, can you really stan an idol who's got a husband and kids?
Even if you've got a guy you've fallen for, I'll still keep supporting you.
That said, if you give birth to these children, I suspect I won't be able to see you soar to greater heights.
I guess the views of fans are pretty self-centered...
You think so too, don't you, Sarina?
Oh, Doctor.
Hello, Ms. Hoshino.
It's not good for you to be out on a windy night.
I'm bundled up, so I'll be fine.
I chose this place based on the president's recommendation, but it sure is lovely!
There are so many stars out and it's barely dusk.
You could never see this back in Tokyo.
Did you come all the way out here to the countryside because you'd be recognized in Tokyo?
Oh?
Did I mention my work?
Long ago, one of my patients was a big fan of yours.
Aw, man... I thought even the doctors here would be old men and nobody would find me out.
Guess there's no hiding my radiant aura.
It's a real struggle!
Her self-confidence is adorable.
So, are you gonna give up on being an idol?
Why would I? No way.
But that means...
I don't have a family, you see.
But I've always longed for one.
I'm carrying twins, right?
I'm sure our family will be a fun and cheerful one!
You're gonna give birth and continue being an idol?
So, that must mean...
Yep, I won't make it public.
Idols are objects of worship, you know?
They sparkle through the magic of lies.
Lies are the most exquisite love!
Being able to conceal a kid or two just works to show someone's a top-class idol.
Piling on lie after lie, we look happy as we sing on stage no matter what struggles we might face.
What a fun job!
Still... The happiness part's something that I wanna experience for real.
No one considers it, but we've got our own feelings and lives, too.
Happiness as a mother, and happiness as an idol...
It might be normal to have only one,
but I want both!
Hoshino Ai's a greedy girl, you know!
The idol I knew as Ai is far bolder, more cunning, and stronger than I ever imagined.
She shone as bright as the evening star.
I've reached a decision.
Huh?
My views as a doctor and as a fan have now aligned.
Hoshino Ai, I will perform the delivery, ensuring you safely give birth to two healthy children.
If that's what will make you happy, I'll gladly support you.
After all, you're hopelessly an idol,
and I am hopelessly your fan.
All right, let's get down to business.
As a start, you should use an assumed name here at the hospital.
Okay.
In a case like yours, a cesarean section will likely be necessary.
If one of the baby's skulls is large,
it's common for the pelvis to not open enough for someone of your build.
Oh, really?
A scar on her belly will spell trouble for her job...
Doctor, are there any other options?
Painless delivery, sophrology... well...
Whatever's fine. I feel super healthy.
Ai...
It'll be fine. I can handle a natural delivery.
I mean, they're my kids, right?
They're sure to have cute little faces.
There she goes again...
Perhaps I became a doctor for this very moment.
I'll see that they're delivered as safely and surely as possible.
I vow to protect your family.
If I'm being honest, I do have mixed feelings.
But I've done everything I can to hide that.
Lies are love.
I've come to see that phrase in a good light.
Stars truly are amazing.
Thanks for today, Doctor.
But come back as soon as I call, okay?
Sure thing. Besides, I live really close by.
Well, if I don't make it, another doctor will attend to you anyway.
No, it has to be you.
I'm just joking. See you later.
Okay!
Once this is over, I'll lose my connection to Ai, and we'll go back to just being an idol and her fan.
I got a glimpse of her true self,
but I think I've come to like her straightforward personality.
I feel I can root for her happiness from the bottom of my—
Hey, pal.
Are you Hoshino Ai's doctor?
She's using an assumed name.
Even if you spotted her at the hospital,
why do you know her family name, which has never been made public?
Are you affiliated with her?
Can I get your name?
Hey!
Could this guy be a stalker?
And his timing, with Ai just about to give birth...
Dammit! Making me rush down a mountain trail like this...
Where'd he go?!
Ah, he really startled me.
I just blacked out all of a sudden.
Oh, my phone.
Has Ai gone into labor?
Where is my phone anyway?
I can't tell... it's so dark.
Why can't I move?
I've gotta get there ASAP.
After all, I promised her.
I told her I'd make sure her babies were born healthy.
Need to get up...
and ensure her children are...
Haven't you thought about what it'd be like if you'd been born as a celebrity's child?
Like, if you had looks and connections right from birth.
If I die now, there's a chance I'll be reborn as an idol's kid...
If I could be reborn...
I'd never given it serious thought before.
I mean, why would I?
After all, I didn't think it would actually happen to me.
I thought that when a person like me died, they would go to hell...
But...
when I awoke, I was in heaven.
This is how I am now.
You're such a good boy, Aquamarine.
In any case, I'd been given quite an interesting name.
Now, I'm living as the son of idol Hoshino Ai.
I'm at a loss as for why, though.
I mean, it took me quite some time to accept the reality of the situation.
Was I reborn?
Well, maybe "reincarnated" is the more modern way of putting it?
Why do I still have memories from my previous life?
What machinations could be at work?
Though I may not look it, I'm still something of a doctor.
I intend to eventually uncover how this came to be.
But...
for now, I want to enjoy this life as a baby to the fullest.
This life where my favorite idol is doing her darnedest to pamper me
deeply touches the heart of the tired working adult inside me.
Coming!
Oh, right, there's one other who lives with us.
Now what's the matter, Ruby?
Hoshino Ruby: the girl who was born as my twin.
Her name is relatively less psychologically damaging than mine.
So much so that even now I wish she'd swap with me.
What's wrong, Aqua?
That's Ruby, y'know?
And you call yourself a mom?
I've always been bad with faces and names, so I can't help it.
Pretty gross, huh? Japanese men have these illusions about how mothers should be.
Don't get all international on me when you don't even have a passport!
In fact, you agreed to never go on location overseas, right?!
But, you know, I'm able to remember the names of people I think are talented, President Satou.
Close... My name is Saitou, you damn idol.
Anyway! As of today, Ai returns to being an idol!
We're gonna discuss your activities going forward.
The first step of your comeback is a music program tonight.
It'll be broadcast live, but you're up for it, right?
Of course.
While you're working, my wife will look after your children.
I see...
Your wife is pretty young, huh?
The other members are kinda creeped out by the way you favor younger girls.
That's news to me. I'll be more careful.
Is it a problem if I bring the kids to the studio?
Of course it's a problem!
Now listen here!
If word gets out that an idol like you became a mother of two at 16,
you can kiss your career goodbye.
I'll come under fire as the one responsible for supervising you, and my agency will be finished.
The whole lot of us will be going straight to hell!
And no taking the kids shopping or to do paperwork at government offices either!
If circumstances absolutely call for it, you're to operate under the guise of watching our kids for us.
Aw, come on!
What a pain, huh, Ruby?
That's Aqua.
As a mother, I suppose Ai could be considered rather hopeless.
But, the president and his wife considerately cover for her.
So, things may work out, after all.
Rehearsal starts soon. Let's move out.
Okay!
Whoops!
That was a close one! I almost flashed you, President.
Well, keep 'em covered when you're outside.
Nope, she's hopeless, after all!
This girl's so reckless!
B-Komachi is coming on!
We're B-Komachi! Thanks for having us.
Yeah, glad to have you.
God, I don't have any experience babysitting in the first place...
Why was I lumped with this?
Here's Ai, resuming her idol activities today!
Doing all right? Are you eating properly?
Yes! I'm eating plenty!
That's a relief. She's handling it well.
Oh, right! Speaking of food, the other day my baby...
Your baby?
Er, I mean my baby kitty! I got a pet during my break, you see!
Oh...
Or maybe she really is hopeless.
Oh, I'm always blurting out the strangest things...
We'll be going live in 30 seconds.
Please give it your all!
Okay!
Thanks for your help!
Do you know B-Komachi?
Nope. Can't say I'm interested.
I've listened to their recordings, and they're honestly pretty mid.
Well, this is the kind of stuff that sells.
True.
Mass-produced idols...
We've gotta praise them somehow. Like it or not, what we gonna do?
That center girl's face is about the only thing worthy of praise.
I do recognize the name, but there's been no talk of them these past six months.
Who's trying to push them on people?
Were probably underground.
They're with Strawberry Productions... Never heard of 'em.
Digging the one with the honkers. We should get her in some pinup modeling.
Can we ask her to hang out? She seems like the producer's type.
In this industry, lies and self-interest are concealed behind broad smiles.
You can't be causing losses for the broadcast.
To get the very best performance out of every single performer, even the staff will lie as needed.
That goes for big shots, too.
They act like they're making something great, but they only look at the numbers.
Live in ten.
Eight...
seven, six... Live in five.
And that's fine by me!
Four! Three!
My Ai is a bona fide liar!
The president sure is a crazy guy.
If Ai's secret is exposed, he risks losing everything...
Still, I get it...
It's hard to not go crazy around her.
When faced with intense light, people tend to get scorched.
They are like moths to the flame.
Even upon realizing their wings will be burned off, they cannot stop.
And I'm no exception.
I'm glad I'm able to watch over Ai from so close.
So much so that I'm grateful to the guy who murdered me.
Should this rebirth have been brought on by my obsession with her
it would make total sense to me.
Though, the truth is I wanted to help her give birth to normal children.
It's a force majeure.
You can't compete against supernatural phenomena.
So I may as well enjoy myself.
Wait!
N Station already started!
Why didn't you wake me up?!
Oh my god, Mama's so cute!
All the viewers should be paying millions of yen for this!
Her expressiveness when she turns is outta this world!
It's so eerie it's like she's a demon!
Damn!
I just had a diaper change, but I think I'm gonna wet myself!
She has great looks, a great figure, and her singing is amazing too!
Our mom is seriously a tremendous talent!
I've gotta see the start of the recording ASAP!
Live broadcasts are best watched live, so why didn't you wake me up?!
This body of mine always gets so tired, so let's help each other out!
I tried to wake you a number of times.
Oh, you did?
This dummy here is also someone who's been reborn, same as me.
I ended up realizing that quite early on.
What?! Drop dead!
You ape-men just can't comprehend Mama's talent and beauty!
From the quality of her performances, it's clear she's in a different league!
It's a given that management would favor her!
I bet you're some ugly old hag!
Take a look in the mirror and say that again, fugly!
Jeez, I can't believe this!
Think you can hold a candle to Ai?!
She was searching for "B-Komachi Ai" and engaging in fierce flame wars with haters.
Can you really beat Ai, a genius idol with perfect looks and figure?!
Hey...
did you share the same fate as me?
Huh?
The baby just talked!
Gross!
Right back at ya.
It's true...
I had wanted to help Ai give birth to normal children.
Oh my god! You record it once and then can watch it forever.
Talk about value!
Not a bizarre set of twins like us.
Ai... Ai...
You damn liar.
How dare you go and have children!
Why?
Why...
You tricked me!
Aqua.
You hungry? Wanna nurse?
Huh? You'd rather not?
You sure like your bottle, don't you?
Just look at you go!
I feel like, as an adult, being breastfed by an idol would indeed be crossing the line.
Coming!
Wanna nurse again?
Now you like breastfeeding, don't you, Ruby?
That little...
Time for work.
Okay!
I'll be back later.
See you later!
See you!
Hey, could you show a bit of restraint?
Why?
It's simply the law of nature for a daughter like me to drink from her mother's breast.
It's a legitimate right that has been granted to me.
Well, let me at least ask...
Were you a girl in your previous life too?
Yep.
Well, I suppose I can let it slide, then.
The jealousy of idol fanatics is so gross!
Well, ethically speaking, a grown man breastfeeding is beyond messed up!
Lucky me, being able to legitimately savor her boobs, since I was born a girl.
From my ethical standpoint, that's still a no-go.
Poor Mama...
It's terrible that her own child is some creep who's obsessed with her.
I feel so sorry for her. I'll protect her for as long as I live.
You're the creepier one, no doubt.
I want a diaper change, so go away!
Yeah, yeah.
How'd this become my job?
I mean, aren't I a company president's wife?
I married him 'cause I thought I'd get to work with handsome young guys.
But the job I've been given is taking care of some 16-year-old idol's kids?!
Plus, she's a single mom. Where the hell is the father?!
This shit's so dark!
I didn't get married to be a damn babysitter!
What?
Being able to serve Mama should bring nothing but happiness.
She's not right in the head, is she?
No, I think I can see where she's coming from.
Ah, you know, a big scandal is being covered up here, isn't it?
That's it!
If I sold this story to a weekly magazine, I could be swimming in cash...
I don't give a shit what happens anymore.
I'm gonna do it!
Uh-oh, not good. What do we do? Do we kill her?
Not happening. She's got too much of a size advantage.
I was obviously kidding, but were you seriously considering it?
There's no question that this could be trouble if we just let it happen...
Even so...
What're we gonna do?!
She's snapping tons of pics of the maternity health record!
Actually, I think this presents an opportunity.
I have an idea.
With the proceeds I get from selling this, I'll boost my fave host to the top of the monthly rankings.
O wretched mortal...
Thy heart's thirst cannot be quenched by champagne.
Who's there?!
I-I am a divine messenger.
Thy transgressions... can no longer be overlooked.
A... divine messenger?
Wait a minute, the baby just talked...
No way!
In thine experience, art mere babes capable of speech?
Heed my words.
Well, it's just, when you talk about the divine...
I don't believe in that kind of stuff...
Oh, I get it!
This must be a hidden-camera thing! Like, some TV show Ai is in where they prank the managers!
Those are a thing!
They sure went to a lot of trouble. There's a camera somewhere around here, right?
I knew this was too far-fetched.
Now, now, Ruby,
it's dangerous up there on the ta—
Know thyself! I am Amaterasu incarnate.
I am what ye know as a Goddess.
Goddess...
Tempted by prospects of immediate profit,
thou art on the verge of abandoning thy destiny.
My destiny?
Hoshino Ai was chosen by the God of Entertainment.
Furthermore, these children are twins who bear a monumental destiny.
It is thy destiny to watch over them.
Thy deeds run contrary to the will of the gods.
Should thou not desist, divine punishment shall be visited upon thee.
Divine punishment?!
What do you mean by that?! More specifically...
Specifically? In other words...
You die.
Yes, die!
No!
That's super specific!
What... should I do?
It is simple, really.
Guard the secret of their mother and us.
Moreover, dote on these children and do everything they ask of thee.
Everything...
Do so, and a second marriage to a handsome actor is not out of the question.
Seriously?!
I'll do it! I'll do whatever is asked of me!
I'll even lick their insoles if need be!
Thou needn't go so far.
A second marriage to a handsome guy...
Do you think that was the right call?
At any rate, there is a limit to an infant's scope of activities.
And now we'll be able to go outside.
Yay!
You know, that was quite the convincing performance.
Have you done theater before?
Nope, that was a first for me.
A first? You never put on any plays at school?
Well, I grew up in a bit of an unusual place...
Oh?
I guess it's just talent, then.
Maybe you'll be an actress in the future.
My future...
I've never given it any thought.
I found myself with a little sister.
A strange gal who is a hopeless idol fanatic.
That said...
So, Ai... She dances so nimbly!
And her charisma is off the charts!
Yeah?
I like Ai the best of anyone in the whole world,
but I like you just about as much, Doctor!
The passion this girl has when she talks about Ai...
is just like yours...
Sarina.
What? Did you say my name?
My bad, did I wake you up?
It wasn't your name that I said.
If you're gonna sleep, do it in your bed.
Well, yeah.
There's no way.
After all, Sarina was my name in my previous life.
It has been a few months since Ai returned to being an idol.
And, well, the steady rise of B-Komachi...
did not occur.
My pay this month is 200,000 yen...
Seriously, this agency's so stingy with pay.
The single we just put out reached #3 on the Oricon charts, didn't it?
Aren't the middlemen taking too big a cut?
Bit late to be complaining, no?
Unlike the big corporations who do everything from production to distribution,
we're only a small player.
You came into this knowing our profits are slim, right?
I've finally realized the world revolves around money.
That's quite the depressing realization.
Being an idol is fun,
so I wouldn't mind getting by like this if I were on my own.
But I want to send these little ones to good schools, let them take extra lessons, and so on.
To give them lots of opportunities, I've gotta sell better and earn as much as possible, don't I?
As things stand now, I won't be able to make them happy.
Ahh, I sure wish I'd get some job offers for commercials or films...
Now, if I were with a major agency...
Maybe lay off that pricey ice cream for a start.
I'm heading off for my lesson.
Be good while Mommy's gone, okay?
Hey, don't idols usually make like one million yen a month?
Far from it.
Wait, they don't?!
Song royalties and TV appearance earnings are split between all members...
Concerts come out in the red if the merch doesn't sell well.
And costume expenses are deducted from their pay.
Only a select few can pull in one million a month.
What the hell?!
You know the world's messed up when money doesn't reach the people giving it their all!
Oh, I know!
All the idol creeps could start offering their livers to Ai, for us to sell...
What's actually messed up is your thinking...
Stop thinking like the leader of some post-apocalyptic religion.
She sings and dances, and her looks are out of this world...
She does lessons and vocal training...
And she's a hard worker who practices choreography at home at night.
B-Komachi is one of the better-selling groups, and yet...
Hey, manager!
Why isn't our Ai getting any job offers?!
What crap management!
Put more effort into sales and marketing!
Easier said than done...
In the end, with idol groups, you have a business situation where
dozens of people are grouped together to be able to compete for jobs with solo entertainers, you see.
And when they finally manage to secure jobs when sold as a set package,
if one then tries to compete as a solo performer, there's a higher hurdle to clear.
Despite graduating from their idol groups born of a desire to do solo work,
there are plenty of ex-idols who,
unable to secure jobs on their own, work at high-end establishments in Roppongi
or become party girls who scrape by through being paid to go out drinking, you know?
I actually didn't know...
Tokyo's a scary place.
I do admit that Ai is amazing.
But that's contained within the idol sphere.
In the entertainment industry,
you can't make it unless you have something special that allows you to compete all on your own.
A highly profitable job is not one that requests "somebody from B-Komachi"—
it is one that specifically requests Ai.
Being a first-class idol on its own is not enough.
Ai, are you feeling a bit down?
You've only just recovered, so don't push yourself too hard, 'kay?
It's nothing like that. It's just that I missed lunch and I'm starving now!
What?! You some big eater all of a sudden?!
Let's go over that last part again.
Okay!
I'm not feeling up to this today...
Guess I'll do some egosurfing.
Hitting me where it hurts...
A sales promo event! A mini concert!
The kind you need to win a ticket lottery for!
This will be my first time truly seeing Mama perform live.
Now, listen here.
I brought you here since you kept insisting,
but I'm the one who'll take the brunt of it if the president finds out about this, okay?
No cheering, running, or speaking!
Suck on your pacifiers and behave yourselves, okay?
That's right, Ruby.
We absolutely can't do anything that makes us stand out.
Letting on even the slightest hint of us being connected to Ai is—
I get it, okay?
You saw it too, right?
The way Mama was down in the dumps...
I'm here because I'm worried about her.
Please understand I didn't come to have fun.
Today, we have three members of B-Komachi with us!
Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!
B-Komachi! Woo-hoo!
B-Komachi! Woo-hoo!
They can go and say that...
I am a professional, after all.
Besides, I don't really get it.
You're the ones who want something almost inhuman.
I look in the mirror and study it.
I fine tune it to the millimeter.
The way I narrow my eyes, the corners of my mouth...
It's all calculated.
I'm always putting on the smile that will please people the most.
I am... made up of lies, after all.
Goo-goo! Ga-ga! Goo-goo! Ga-ga! Goo-goo! Ga-ga!
What's with those babies?!
They're doing a full-on idol-fan dance!
Not to mention way better than an infant should!
You came 'cause you were worried, huh?!
Looks to me like you're enjoying this more than anyone else!
Instinct took over!
Wow...
What the... Amazing!
My kids are such cuties!
210,000 retweets...
And the reposted video already has two million views.
I get that it's easier for content with babies to go viral, but still...
Let's have a little talk.
Oh, I see...
So this is good, huh?
I'll remember that.
One year has passed since then.
We've grown to the point where it is no longer suspicious for us to walk around or talk,
and my sister...
Mama! Mama!
Hm?
Pat me!
Pat, pat...
has superbly embodied a zealous fan who clings to their idol and brands them "Mama."
Ah, Pure Land of Perfect Bliss.
Where'd you learn a difficult phrase like that?
Wait, could it be that you...
Well, I...
Could it be that Ai finds us suspicious in...
are like some kinda super genius?
no way at all, so we spend peaceful days together.
Must be genetic!
From model to radio assistant...
Ai steadily picked up more gigs,
and today she has a job that could be said to be the culmination of all that work.
Mama, your first TV drama! How fun!
It's only a minor role, though.
Now listen here, you two.
You kept insisting, so I brought you along,
but make absolutely sure not to call Ai "Mama" on set, okay?
Don't forget that the story is that you're my kids.
Yeah, yeah. Mama, Mama, gimme some head pats.
Me too, Mama!
Mama, gimme my allowance.
I'm Ai from Strawberry Productions.
I look forward to working with you today.
Same to you!
Is something the matter, Director?
No, nothing in particular.
Kinda scary, isn't he?
Yeah, he's got that look.
Hm? Whose kids are these?
Oh, they're my kids.
The idea of a manager bringing her kids to the set...
This one of those work-style reform things?
Um?
Sign of the times, huh?
Well, some people even bring their dogs these days.
Yes, that won't be a problem. Huh?
Hey, we've also got some snacks.
So I was found out, huh?
I'm on a diet.
Twins! How cute!
Oh, if I recall, this girl's a pinup model...
And that one's a young performer known for being "an adorable actress with real acting chops."
Goo-goo! Ga-ga!
Knock it off with that cutie-pie act.
It's no use. My body can't handle all this.
Hm?
Oh, you're that manager's kid.
I don't mind you being here, but if you cry and interrupt the filming, I'll kick you out.
Oh, we'd never!
Though we are but babes, we shall strive to not make any such blunders!
I am well aware that not hindering the production process is the basest of requirements.
Please show favor to our agency's Ai going forward.
Whoa, this baby sure is talkative!
Where'd you learn all those words?!
YouTube, I guess...
Man, that YouTube is amazing!
Sign of the times, huh?!
I see a good number of precocious child actors,
but you're really something else.
You do any acting by chance?
No, acting and such isn't something I...
You'd be interesting on screen.
I'd like to put you in something.
Here's my business card.
Give me a call if you sign up with an agency.
Please, if you're going to hand out work, then give it to Ai rather than me.
Oh, that idol...
She certainly has the looks.
This looks delicious!
With some luck, she'll survive in the industry.
She needs luck even with her looks?
Listen here, kid. There are three types of actors.
Look at them over there.
One is the star actor.
Their primary role is to attract an audience.
Given they're typically the poster child, they garner solid performance fees.
Next is those with real talent.
Their role is to ensure the quality of the product on screen.
Maintaining the programming block's brand is also their job.
Lastly, you've got newcomer actors.
Acting ability isn't really expected from them.
They get a passing mark if they can bring a breath of fresh air to the screen.
There's also the goal of giving the next stars some experience.
I suppose it's an investment the entire industry makes.
In other words, all those fresh faces over there are currently being invested in.
Unless they either draw in viewers or become well-liked on set,
they'll be replaced by the next crop of newcomers.
It would be a great achievement if even one of the newcomers here today makes it in the industry.
That's the kind of world this is.
Those who survive are first-class at something or other.
Hmm... Well, she'll be fine, then.
Ai is a first-class idol.
No, just being a first-class idol won't cut it.
Director!
We're all set for the dry run.
Okay, I'll watch from here.
Ready, and...
What're you saying?
Want me to ask Touma for you?
Hey! Don't even think about it!
But aren't you two always together?
Her acting is average...
but she really draws your attention.
Right? She was talking about that earlier.
Up on stage, I need to look cute for everyone no matter what angle they're viewing me from,
but here there's only one angle...
I just need the camera to think I'm cute.
If the same tricks I use for music videos will work, it's right in my wheelhouse.
Way to go!
I'll be cheering you on, okay?
She thinks of it like a music video...
Sign of the times, huh?
What?! They're super well-made, so you should really give them a watch!
I'll even lend you the DVDs!
Keep it down, will ya?
It's still too soon.
It's never too late to take on a challenge.
I can't wait to see your performance, Mama!
Well, they did film me quite a bit.
Here it comes.
It's starting!
You in a bad mood or something?
Not really.
Was it something I did?
I said no!
Oh, this is the scene!
What is this?
Aww, it's Mama!
Good morning.
C'mon, give her a close-up!
Oh, good morning.
Huh? Is something wrong?
Wait! Touma!
Why are you here?
I knew we never should have met!
Um, what do you mean by that?
What?! That's all?!
Just a bit of a single scene?!
They cut way too much!
I wonder if my acting was bad...
No, it definitely wasn't.
Yes?
Hey, Director, what's the big idea?!
Oh, hey, Precocious Baby.
You didn't give Ai any screen time!
Yeah, about that...
Her part came out great, so it's quite a shame.
Well, why then?!
The lead actress's agency promotes her as "an adorable actress with real acting chops."
So how do you think it looks when an even more adorable girl is sharing the screen?
It'd be a problem for their marketing strategy, right?
Ai was simply too cute on screen.
And so, word came down from the top to cut her out as much as possible while editing.
Good grief...
The screen time a performer receives tends to be decided by the power balance between companies,
so just accept it as unexpected misfortune.
I can't accept it.
It's fine to dream of the entertainment industry,
but it's best not to have illusions about the entertainment industry.
This isn't a place for art, but rather one for business.
That being said, I understand your point, and I do feel bad about this.
Mama, I know you did your very best!
I hesitate to say "in exchange,"
but I'd like to offer Ai another job.
I suppose I did.
For a film, that is.
Can't complain about that, right?
Seriously?!
On the condition that...
you also appear in the film.
Listen up, Precocious Baby.
In Japan, casting is mostly decided upon by the higher-ups.
The bigger the budget for a production, the less it can afford to flop.
In order to secure actors who are sure to draw viewers,
the higher-ups have their own battles to fight.
Directors with casting authority are but a select few heavyweights
or those working on low-budget, small-scale films.
So, which do I look like to you?
Uh... a heavyweight direct—
Swing and a miss.
Welcome to the set of a low-budget film.
Director, I hope Aqua won't cause you too much trouble today.
I'm sure he won't.
I trust the matter we discussed has been resolved?
Er, yes... As of this month, Aqua has joined Strawberry Productions.
You see, there'll be hell to pay if I use a kid who's not affiliated with an agency.
In terms of acting, I feel like my sister is probably better than me.
Nope, it's you I want.
In exchange for your performance, I'm giving Ai a part.
In the industry, we call this bartering.
It's a fundamental, so keep it in mind.
Bartering Ai for her own son...
That stern-looking director has taken quite a liking to you, Aqua.
What in the world did you do to make this happen?
Nothing, really.
Older guys seem to enjoy it when young people adopt a casual demeanor with them,
so I don't act pompously toward him is all.
You're one manipulative baby...
My work saw me often interacting with seniors, so I know how to deal with old folks.
I never thought that strange skill would prove useful now...
Mama! Mama! I wanna go back to Mama!
Why isn't Mama here?
Because Ai doesn't film the same days I do.
I wanna go home and snuggle up to her!
I want Mama to hold me to her bosom and pamper me!
Isn't she embarrassed to be acting like this at her age?
Not that I know how old she really is inside...
This is a professional environment, you know!
If you came to play, then go home!
Um...
Arima Kana. I'm an actress in the film.
Oh, isn't she...
Hmm, what was it again?
The genius child actor who can slurp baking soda just like that?
The genius child actor who can start crying in ten seconds flat!
Everybody says the way I cry in dramas is amazing!
Because it is amazing!
You know, I don't really like this girl.
Like, she seems disingenuous, and I instinctively dislike her.
Some people are especially hard on child actors...
Like you, for example.
I know about you! You're that kid who had an in.
Back when we did the script reading, you and that idol weren't even part of the story...
Even Mama said the director forced it through!
That's just not acceptable!
Well, that's not really...
I watched the drama the director shot recently, and that idol barely had any screen time at all.
I bet her acting was so horrible they were forced to cut her parts.
Seems the only thing she's good at is buttering people up!
Hey, AD, carry my bag.
Um, well, hold on just a minute...
Aqua...
I know, but she's just a kid...
We can't kill her.
The rough outline of the film's plot is that
a woman with zero confidence in her appearance
for some reason goes to a sketchy hospital deep in the mountains to get plastic surgery.
Okay, let's shoot it!
Yes, sir!
We play the role of creepy children she encounters at the entrance to that village.
Greetings, visitor.
We welcome you...
Now, please do stay for a while.
Huh? You're the welcome party?
That's a genius child actor for you—she's great.
Does our age bother you?
Even if I attempt the same vibe, the difference in our abilities will make it painful to watch.
That much is clear even to a total amateur like me.
So, what should I do?
Well, the easy solution is that I should act like a creepy kid...
But that's not what he wants from me, is it?
The visual the director is after is surely...
There's but a single lodging in this village.
Once you check in, you might enjoy taking a stroll around the village.
This scene is one that was added in haste.
After we met, the director revised the screenplay with me in mind.
If my aim is to intuit his intent,
it's actually better I don't act at all.
All I have to do is live up to the style he's going for.
He never put it into words,
but what the director wants to say is...
Even without any acting, you're plenty creepy already.
Now then, if you will follow me.
Cut!
That'll do!
That's good stuff.
He was just being himself, huh?
You're amazing! That sent a chill down my spine.
Really? That's good to hear.
Nothing good about it.
Clear out anything in frame!
We're shooting the next scene.
Yes, sir!
Director, reshoot the scene.
Huh? But there weren't any problems with it.
There's a huge problem!
Just now I...
wasn't anywhere near as good as that boy.
I can't take it! One more time!
I'm begging you!
This time I promise I'll do better!
One more time!
Kana!
Please!
Hey, Precocious.
What do you think the most important trait of an actor is?
Hmm... ability or a feel for acting?
Drive and effort?
Well, that stuff is important, too.
But in the end, it's communication skills.
If fellow actors or staff take a disliking to you, your job prospects will soon dry up.
If you get a swollen head while still young and act like a big shot, you have no future.
Were you trying to rake her over the coals?
I didn't have anything patronizing like that in mind.
But this sort of thing is life experience.
Your acting today was exactly how I envisioned it.
That girl was more impressive than me.
I was just being the way I always am.
Even so, I never once instructed you to do that.
Sensing someone's intent is one part of communication skills.
Acting with an understanding of the direction and intention is of course vital for an actor.
But precious is the actor who can even read intent that can't be put into words.
After all, the intended outcome is something we directors possess in our minds.
Rather than one who does amazing acting,
become an actor who can act just as envisioned.
Uh, I'm not going to become an actor...
And thus, I dipped my toes into the industry.
So he has a proper stage name...
Aqua.
I won't forget it.
Next time, you won't get the best of me.
Three years have passed since I was reborn as Ai's child.
The film the director shot was somewhat well-received,
and he was nominated for a director's award at some awards ceremony.
Looking back on it, I think my acting was quite deft.
However...
in the end it was Ai was who carried the entire film.
I don't know if that was the springboard,
but she's been landing a lot more work.
To sum up Ai now, she's a real up-and-coming idol-slash-media personality...
is how I'd put it.
Ai will soon be turning 20.
Thus far, we have been able to go about our daily lives without being discovered by the public.
And also...
my body has not yet been found.
Yep, looking cute again today!
Super cute!
Well, you're cuter overall, Mama.
When did it become a competition?
We enrolled in a preschool.
Come to think of it, what were you doing before you were reborn?
And how old are you really, anyway?
Well...
If I was younger than he was...
What the heck? Should've figured you were just a kid.
From now on you better listen to everything I say, kiddo.
I-I was a grown woman, okay?!
Asking about a woman's age...
What an insensitive brat you are!
Besides, who cares about my previous life?!
Quit prying!
Well, I suppose you're right.
I start to feel down whenever I think about my previous life.
That about sums up how much I've come to enjoy my current life.
Compared to my days at a demanding job,
as a preschooler I just eat, sleep, and read books and such as I please.
It's an easy gig.
That said, it really is impressive how seriously that girl is able to play...
Huh?
A preschooler is reading one of Kyougoku Natsuhiko's tomes...
Okay everyone, it's time for your dance routine.
It won't be long until your families come watch your dance,
so let's practice hard today!
Yes, ma'am!
No! I won't do it!
Ah, Ruby?!
Why'd you run away?
Because I'm bad at dancing.
Or rather, I've never done it before.
Huh?
Were you always cooped up in your room playing?
Kids these days, I swear...
I guess I was something of a shut-in.
I tried several times—but could never do it.
I don't feel like I'm capable of real exercise.
I don't know how things were for you before,
but are you really okay with this?
You've got a long life ahead of you.
Oh? Dance practice?
How about I dance with you?
We'll be performing an old song at our next concert, so I've gotta practice.
Mama, you're a little bit off there!
Really?
At your Budokan performance, your hand was higher.
Oh? So you watched my concert video?
I'm impressed you still remember!
Of course I do.
I've seen videos of Mama's concerts hundreds...
no, thousands of times.
I remember every last bit of the routines, too.
How'd it go again?
At this part, you went high—
You okay?
Yeah.
Ruby, with the way you move...
it's like you're ready to fall at any time.
Well...
I was falling over all the time...
If I didn't brace myself, I'd get hurt.
If you're scared of falling over, you'll just fall even more.
Stand more confidently, with your chest out.
You'll be fine.
Trust your mama, okay?
My life came to an end with the majority of it spent in hospital rooms.
My body was no good, and it rarely did what I told it to.
Lying in bed, I kept longing for it so bad...
Mama's cool moves
are all etched into my brain.
Her brilliance
is burned into my retinas.
My guiding light...
If only I could move like that...
If only I could be so free...
More!
Move more!
My body!
Ah, it's okay for me to dance too!
So she...
isn't only good at acting, huh?
She has a sense for dance...
not to mention the good looks she got from our mother.
That was a scary image.
On a whim, I decided to contact my ex.
You know, our kids have gotten pretty big.
Want to meet them?
No, I'm not trying to get back together or anything like that.
What led to it was overhearing a convo the kids were having.
I try my best not to think about it...
but I do wonder who our father is.
Just thinking about it makes my heart sink.
You dummy.
You let a little thing like that get you down?
It was obviously a virgin conception, right?
There was never any guy in the first place.
She came to this odd conclusion, and I thought, "Uh-oh, not good."
Our kids are super smart.
I'm sure they'll understand our situation.
Sure, so our new address is...
Ah, it's Ai!
Let's grab a pic!
You sure do love Ai, don't you?
My work is going well.
And I have over a million followers now.
The world is watching me.
Man, this is some good booze!
Come on, celebrate your new digs with a drink!
Drink up, drink up!
Wow, that's a Moriizo!
Not so fast.
Ai doesn't turn 20 until next week.
Please wait just a little longer.
Ah, you're right—got me there!
The widely popular TV drama starring B-Komachi's Ai
reached a peak viewership of 14.2% this week.
The TV drama Ai stars in is climbing up in the ratings!
And B-Komachi's work schedule is packed, too!
Next week, we're finally performing at a stadium!
He's certainly in a good mood.
Well, it was always the president's dream to have an idol he nurtured make it to a stadium.
A dream all us staff share.
Are stadiums really that special?
They carry a different weight compared to other venues.
Moreover, you can't even book a slot without going through a specialized company.
The proficiency and track record of staff who're able to manage a huge number of spectators is vital.
Plus, there's a rigorous screening process to see if an artist is suitable.
They're venues that require a large time commitment and lots of staff labor.
Simply having money doesn't mean one can perform there.
They're stages onto which only a chosen few can climb.
Stadium concerts are what everyone dreams of.
I see...
When I sell well, everyone is pleased.
So I'll put on the appearance of being happy, too.
This is an important period!
Be sure to not have any scandals!
Please don't try to meet up with their father, you hear?
Of course.
I'm a compulsive liar.
Before even thinking, I say whatever fits the situation.
Even I can't distinguish my real feelings from the lies.
Mama, pat me.
Pat, pat!
For the longest time, I've been bad at loving something.
You don't need to do anything to try to make me happy.
I'd thought I couldn't possibly be suited to be an idol.
After all, so long as you're here beside me...
You said you were a scout, so I was wondering...
An idol? Me?
That's hilarious!
My agency is putting together a unit featuring middle-school models, you see.
I think you'd have a shot at becoming the center.
Not interested.
Come on, you'd be perfect for it. I guarantee it.
I think you'd better forget all about it.
Besides, I've grown up in a foster home.
I only had a single parent from the start, then my mom got arrested for theft when I was little.
So I was put in a home while she was away.
But my mom never came to pick me up after her release.
I thought if I frightened him a bit, the scout would leave.
Well, it's fine, though.
I mean, the foster home is better than getting beaten.
I have no memory of ever loving or being loved by someone.
A girl like that could never be an idol, right?
My impression of idols was
pure beings who flash smiles and bring smiles to everyone's faces.
The polar opposite of me, a people-hating liar.
I'm sure I wouldn't be able to love the fans.
And they wouldn't love me either.
But isn't that fine?
It's not a job normal folks are suited for in the first place.
Your background gives you individuality.
B-But...
Idols say stuff like "I love all of you."
If I said that, I'd be ly—
Lying is fine.
In fact, pretty lies are what fans want.
Lying is a talent, you know.
It's all good. Go on and lie up a storm!
It's really all right?
Even if it's a lie,
it's okay to say, "I love you"?
Wouldn't you say you truly do want to love people?
It's just that you don't know how.
You've just never found the right object for your love.
If you sing and dance while looking cute,
that on its own is an expression of love to the fans.
If you become an idol, phrases like "I love you" will appear all over your lyrics.
Plus, as you continue saying "I love all of you," the lie might become the truth.
The lie... might become the truth?
Hearing those words, I decided to become an idol.
I wanted to love someone.
I wanted an object for my love.
I thought if I became an idol, I'd be able to love my fans.
I wanted to say "I love you" and have it come from the bottom of my heart,
so I spouted the lie of "I love you" endlessly.
I thought that if I became a mother, I'd be able to love my children.
But I've not once told my children I love them.
If I were to utter those words and realize I was in fact lying...
The thought of it scares me.
That's why today I will once again lie...
believing the lies will become the truth.
Even if I end up paying for it one day.
Could that be the president?
Coming!
Congrats on your stadium concert.
How are your twins?
Does that hurt?!
Ai!
I was hurt worse!
It was incredibly painful!
You went and had kids even though you're an idol!
You fan-betraying slut.
Ai! Ai!
You treated us fans like we didn't exist!
I bet you mocked us behind our backs!
You damn liar!
You lured us in with your constant "I love you! I love you!" crap!
It was all lies!
I've been irresponsible from the start...
I'm not pure, and I'm dishonest and dirty.
I don't have a good grasp of what it means to love someone...
So, instead...
I told pretty lies that would please everyone
always hoping that one day those lies would become the truth.
I tried my best, worked hard, and lied with everything I had.
To me, lies are love.
And in my own way, I thought I was expressing love.
I don't know if I was able to love you and the others,
but I sang all those love songs while thinking that I wanted to.
Hoping that someday it would be the truth.
Even now, I want to love you.
Liar...
You don't even remember me, do you?
You just want me to spare you, ri—
You're Ryousuke, aren't you?
You often came to the handshake events.
Oh? Am I wrong?
Sorry, I was never very good with names.
I was happy when I got that star sand vial from you as a present.
I've still got it displayed in the living room.
What the hell? I...
This isn't how...
Just get over here right now!
Ai!
I've called an ambulance!
Well, I let my guard down there.
So door chains are for times like this, huh?
They never taught us that back at the home.
Don't try to speak!
The bleeding...
It's her abdominal aorta? Shit!
I'm sorry. This is probably
it for me.
Are you all right?
You're not hurt, are you, Aqua?
No, I'm not.
I wonder if today's stadium concert will be canceled...
I feel sorry for everyone.
The movie schedule had been finalized, too.
Apologize to the director for me.
Hey, what's wrong?
What's going on in there?
Don't come in, Ruby.
Tell me!
Ruby?
Your dance at your preschool event was beautiful.
You know, I was thinking that maybe you'll become an idol one day, too.
Mother and daughter performing together...
Sounds fun, doesn't it?
Aqua, will you be an actor?
I wonder... what kind of adults you'll grow up to be...
Aw, I'd like to see you with your school backpacks...
And on parents' day...
I want people to say, "Isn't she a bit young to be Ruby's mother?"
As the two of you grow up... I want to be there to see it.
Not that I was the best mom or anything...
but I'm glad I gave birth to you.
And, also...
Ah, I gotta tell you this.
Ruby...
Aqua...
I love you.
I was finally able to say it.
I'm sorry... it took me so long.
I'm so relieved.
That definitely wasn't a lie.
Ai?
Ai...
Ai from the idol group B-Komachi has been murdered.
Before dawn this morning, a report came in from her Tokyo condo of a woman being stabbed.
After the police rushed to the scene,
they found a woman believed to be Ai, who had been stabbed in her abdomen,
had collapsed and was bleeding profusely.
She was later pronounced dead at the hospital she was transported to.
The man believed to be the culprit was an obsessive fan of Ai.
Several hours after the incident, he attempted suicide and was pronounced dead at a hospital.
According to the Metropolitan Police, Ai had just recently moved,
and they are looking into the possibility that the man worked with an accomplice.
It has been announced that her planned stadium concert has been canceled,
and in front of the venue numerous fans have given themselves over to grief.
The extraordinary news that an idol had been murdered by a fan whom later committed suicide
broke within the hour.
The public's response was largely sympathetic.
However, just as I had feared,
there were those who made light of the deceased and sought to attract attention to themselves.
With so many unfounded speculations and nasty anonymous writings,
there were some that landed close to the truth.
What do you mean "hardly surprising"?
Well?!
If an idol gets a romantic partner, it's hardly surprising if she's murdered?! Huh?!
That's a load of crap!
You fall head over heels for idols! So isn't it selfish to say idols can't fall in love?!
You're just upset because you're going to die alone!
Disgusting! Die!
Why is the internet like this?
Mama is dead, and now there's all this stuff that makes me wanna die too...
So when you're famous, people can say whatever they want about you?
What's this "the price of fame" crap?
You say stuff like "the customer is king," but that doesn't apply to you bastards!
Don't twist what people who are hurting say
into a means of hurting others.
After three days, the content surrounding Ai's death had run its course.
And after the news turned to a slightly early snow crippling the transit network,
the topic wasn't brought up again.
It was as if the snow... was covering up Ai's death.
As for us, it turned out the president and his wife had transferred us to their family register,
so we managed to avoid the spotlight.
Considering my age, and that the culprit was already dead,
the police's questioning of me was limited to simple matters,
but the victim counseling went on for quite some time.
Would you consider joining our family?
Of course, Ai will always be your only mother,
and you don't need to think of me as your mother...
But I do think of you two as my own children.
How about it?
Mama always said I could become an idol.
Do you think I have what it takes to be one?
It's no use becoming one anyway, right?
If you want to make money, a different job would be quicker and easier.
The fans are always selfish, and you'll face a barrage of criticism if you get a boyfriend.
Yeah, even so...
Mama shone so brightly.
Ruby will probably bounce back...
In my several years of living with her, I've come to understand she's pure of heart, for better or worse.
But I...
have died once already anyway.
If Ai's not here, then this world...
That stalker and the man who killed me are one and the same.
How did he discover the hospital Ai had been admitted to?
How did he find her new residence she'd only just moved into?
The culprit was a student without special skills of any kind.
I simply can't believe he'd be capable of such deduction.
Someone was feeding him information.
And it must have been someone quite close to Ai.
As far as I know, it was only the president who knew about her hospital.
But would he do such a thing to the public face of his agency who he cherished so greatly?
One of her co-workers?
No, the B-Komachi girls weren't even that close,
and I never saw anyone who seemed like a good friend of Ai.
It's evident Ai didn't have any relatives who were around,
and it appeared she didn't know their contact details either...
So that only leaves...
our father.
She stubbornly kept him a secret from the president,
but considering how narrow Ai's social circle was,
there's a high probability the guy is in the same industry.
Seeing that he and I are related by blood,
I can infer his identity by DNA testing his hair.
The guy who put Ai through all of this is someone in the entertainment industry.
I can't die yet.
Not until I find him and kill him with my own hands!
Director.
Oh, Precocious...
Well, at a time like this, I'm at a loss for what to say.
You don't need to bother with that.
Instead, I'd like to ask a favor of you.
What is it?
Would you consider raising me?
Come on.
Still not ready, Ruby?
Jeez, just wait a minute, Aqua.
This uniform might be cute, but it's pretty complicated.
But it sure is cute!
Don't be making us late on the first day, okay?
Isn't your skirt a bit too short?
You know, you've always sounded like an old man.
Oh, that's right!
Mama, we're heading out now.
And thus the prologue concludes,
and the curtain rises on a new tale...
So begins my revenge play.
Is it recording?
Okay! I thought it would be nice to have this on video.
Once you're grown up, it'd be great to watch this while enjoying a drink together.
Though, I highly doubt I'll still be an idol at that age.
Oh, you two might be idols yourselves by that point, though!
I mean, you're my kids, so it could totally happen.
In any case, please grow up healthy.
As your mother, that's all I want.

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# Motsugen

What you're about to watch is a work of fiction.
Actually, it's more accurate to say that it's a world of fiction.
It's fabricated.
Exaggerated.
Anything that doesn't neatly fit the narrative gets covered up.
And so, the idol fan is one who relishes this deception.
In this world, lies are weapons.
Ai!
I wish I could've witnessed this cuteness in person!
The idol group B-Komachi's shining star...
Their unshakable center...
The astonishingly pretty 16-year-old girl...
Ai!
It's been four years since they started!
They've gradually gained popularity, their media exposure increased,
and it feels like they've finally hit the mainstream!
This is where she really takes off! Her stardom is close at—
Why are you watching an idol DVD in a patient's room?
No one in their right mind would do that.
Witnessing beauty is good for one's health.
It's not like there are any idol concerts this far out in the countryside.
This is part of our treatment plan.
It's proselytizing, plain and simple.
Please don't make this our hospital's official position.
Oh, that reminds me, doctor.
I saw something trending on Twitter just now.
What?!
Ai is going on hiatus?!
You really worship this girl, huh?
She's 16, isn't she? I guess you like them young.
Please don't say that.
I've got my reasons, okay?
I did my residency at this same hospital, you see.
In those days, I often slacked off in patients' rooms, same as now.
Do some work.
One of the patients I met back then shaped my destiny.
And this is Mei-Mei!
Her dancing is great!
Ari and Kyun are good singers,
but my fave is definitely...
Ai!
She's my age, but she looks so much more grown-up and is great at singing and dancing!
And don't get me started on how pretty she is...
In my next life, I want to look like her.
What do you mean, your next life? Don't be silly.
Not much of a dreamer, are you?
Haven't you wondered about what it'd be like to be the child of a celebrity?
Like, if you had looks and connections right from birth.
Nope.
So you really don't dream...
You're plenty cute already, Sarina.
No point in waiting for a next life.
After you're discharged, just become an idol.
I'll be your fan if you do.
Really?
I love you, doc! Marry me!
I'd rather not die by social suicide, thanks.
Okay, Mr. Moralist...
Yep, what a shame.
But I'll give it some serious thought once you're 16.
Sixteen, huh?
You're a big meanie.
Hey, it's a realistic plan.
An anaplastic astrocytoma...
She was just 12 years old.
If she were still alive today, she'd be 16, just like Ai.
I suppose I followed Sarina's favorite idol, melding my memories of the two of them.
She's walking towards her dreams,
and I want to be there to see that.
I see.
So you really like them young.
Were you even listening?!
That was quite the touching story, in my humble opinion!
There's something a little... vivid about the way you're obsessed with her.
Are you sure you're not using Sarina as an excuse for your perverse desires?
Ridiculous! I swear on Sarina's name that I'm supporting her with the purest of hearts!
But, if this Ai appeared before you and asked you on a date, wouldn't you say yes?
Well, lunch is over.
Let's get back to work.
How about it, doctor?
Swearing on Sarina, what's your answer?
Still, I'm worried about Ai...
I hope she gets better and makes a comeback soon.
Hello, thank you for waiting.
Let's see...
So this is your first visit, Ms. Hoshino?
Yes.
Judging by her belly, she's about 20 weeks along now.
That's rather late for an initial examination.
Sixteen years of age...
I guess this must have been difficult for her.
The kind of situation where she gets this far along without being able to consult anyone.
Are you her father?
On paper, yeah...
She grew up in an orphanage, and I'm her de facto guardian, or her guarantor, I guess.
Oh, I see.
Sixteen, raised in a orphanage. I feel like I've heard this story before.
It's just like...
Doc, how's it looking?
Any chance she just has a bad bout of constipation?
If that were the case, she'd be long dead already.
I'm doin' fine on that front!
It went real smoothly today!
First off, you'll need an examination.
I'll need to make some preparations, so please wait here.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!
Man, is that really her?!
Could she just be a dead ringer?
Nah, no way a years-long fan like myself would be mistaken!
Ai is super cute in person!
Get a grip!
My favorite idol is pregnant!
It's such a shock, I think I might hurl.
Ai.
How in the world did this happen?
Yeah, seriously!
As your agency's president, why didn't you tell me?
Who's the father, anyway?
Well...
That's a secret!
A secret?! Welp, guess that's settled, then!
The results of the examination are as follows: 20 weeks pregnant, twins.
Twins?
Twins?
Twins...
Ai, you serious about having them?
If it gets out that you got pregnant at 16 and and went through with it,
your career and my agency
will be finished.
What are your thoughts, doctor?
The final decision rests with you.
Really think it through before deciding.
As a doctor, that is all I'm able to say.
As a doctor, anyway.
And now, onto our next story.
Ugh, for real?
Today, popular entertainer Ponta and idol MIU held a joint press conference announcing their marriage.
Man, I really liked MIU...
Talk about timing...
Wait!
If I die now, there's a chance I'll be reborn as an idol's kid, right?
MIU is currently five months pregnant.
That's pretty messed up, dude.
Still, can you really stan an idol who's got a husband and kids?
Even if you've got a guy you've fallen for, I'll still keep supporting you.
That said, if you give birth to these children, I worry that I won't be able to see you soar to greater heights.
Fans are pretty self-centered.
Aren't we, Sarina?
Oh, doctor.
Hello, Ms. Hoshino.
It's not good for you to be out on a windy night.
I'm bundled up, so I'll be fine.
I just went with this place 'cause of the president's recommendation, but it sure is lovely!
There are so many stars out and it's barely dusk.
You'd never see something like this back in Tokyo.
Did you come all the way out here to the countryside because you'd be recognized in Tokyo?
Oh?
Did I mention my work?
A while back, one of my patients was a big fan of yours.
Aw, man...
I thought the doctors here would be old men and nobody would find me out.
Guess there's no hiding all this charisma.
Woe is me, y'know?
Her self-confidence is adorable.
So, are you gonna give up on being an idol?
Why would I? No way.
But that means...
I don't have a family, you see.
But I've always longed for one.
I'm carrying twins, right?
I'm sure our family will be a fun and cheerful one!
You're gonna give birth and also continue being an idol?
So, that must mean...
Yep, I won't make it public.
Idols are objects of worship, you know?
They sparkle through the magic of lies.
Lies are the most exquisite love!
Being able to conceal a kid or two just means someone's a top-class idol.
Piling on lie after lie,
we look happy as we sing on stage no matter what struggles we might face.
What a fun job!
Still... The happiness part's something that I wanna experience for real.
No one considers it, but we've got our own feelings and lives, too.
Happiness as a mother, and happiness as an idol...
It might be normal to have only one,
but I want both!
Hoshino Ai's a greedy girl, you know!
The idol I knew as Ai is far bolder, more cunning, and stronger than I ever imagined.
She's as bright as the evening star.
I've reached a decision.
Huh?
My views as a doctor and as a fan have now aligned.
Hoshino Ai,
I will perform the delivery, ensuring you safely give birth to two healthy children.
If that's what will make you happy, I'll gladly support you.
After all,
you live and breathe to be an idol,
just as I live and breathe for you.
All right, let's get down to business.
For starters, you should use a fake name here at the hospital.
Okay.
In cases like yours, a cesarean section is usually necessary.
For someone with your build,
it's common for the pelvis to not open enough if one of the baby's skulls is large.
Oh, really?
A scar on her belly will spell trouble for her job.
Doctor, aren't there any other options?
Painless delivery, Sophrology...
Well...
Whatever's fine. I feel super healthy.
Ai...
It'll be fine. I can handle a natural delivery.
I mean, they're my kids, right?
They're sure to have small, beautiful faces!
Why are you always like this?!
Perhaps I became a doctor for this very moment.
I'll see that they're delivered as safely and surely as possible.
I vow to protect your family.
If I'm being honest, I do have mixed feelings.
But I've done everything I can to hide that.
Lies are love.
I've come to see that phrase in a good light.
Stars truly are amazing.
Thanks for today, doctor.
But come back as soon as I call, okay?
Sure thing. Besides, I live really close by.
Well, if I don't make it, another doctor will attend to you anyway.
No, it has to be you.
I'm just joking.
See you later.
Okay!
Once this is over, I'll lose my connection to Ai,
and we'll go back to just being an idol and her fan.
I got a glimpse of her true self,
but I think I've come to like her straightforward personality.
I feel I can root for her happiness from the bottom of my—
Hey, pal. Are you Hoshino Ai's doctor?
She's using a fake name.
Even if you spotted her at the hospital, why do you know her family name?
It's not as if it's public.
Are you affiliated with her?
Can I get your name?
Hey!
Could this guy be a stalker?
And Ai's just about to give birth, too...
Dammit! Making me rush down a mountain trail like this...
Where'd he go?!
Ah, he really startled me.
I just blacked out all of a sudden.
Oh, my phone.
Has Ai gone into labor?
Where is my phone, anyway?
Too dark, can't tell.
Can't move a muscle, either.
I gotta get there ASAP.
After all, I promised her.
I told her I'd make sure her babies were born healthy.
I need to get up...
and make sure her children are...
Haven't you wondered about what it'd be like to be the child of a celebrity?
Like, if you had looks and connections right from birth.
If I die now, there's a chance I'll be reborn as an idol's kid.
In my next life...
I'd never given it serious thought before.
I mean, why would I?
After all, I didn't think it would actually happen to me.
I thought people like me went to hell when they died.
And yet.
When I awoke, I was in heaven.
This is how I am now.
You're such a good boy, Aquamarine.
In any case, I've been given quite a name.
Now, I'm living as the son of idol Hoshino Ai.
I'm at a loss as for why, though.
I mean, it took me quite some time to accept the reality of the situation.
Was I reborn?
Well, maybe "reincarnated" is the more modern way of putting it?
Why do I still have memories from my previous life?
What machinations could be at work?
Though I may not look it, I'm still something of a doctor.
I intend to eventually uncover how this came to be.
But...
For now, I want to enjoy this life as a baby to the fullest.
This life where my favorite idol is doing her darnedest to pamper me
deeply touches the heart of the tired working adult inside me.
Coming!
Oh, right, there's one more person who lives with us.
Now what's the matter, Ruby?
Hoshino Ruby: the girl who was born as my twin.
Her name is somewhat less psychologically damaging than mine.
So much so that even now I wish she'd swap with me.
What's wrong, Aqua?
That's Ruby, y'know.
And you call yourself a mother?
I've always been bad with faces and names, so I can't help it.
Pretty gross, huh? Japanese men have all these illusions about how mommies should be.
Don't get all international on me when you don't even have a passport!
Hell, you even refuse to do overseas shoots!
But, you know, I'm able to remember the names of people I think are talented, President Satou.
Close, but no.
My name is Saitou, you sad excuse for an idol.
Anyway! As of today, Ai returns to being an idol!
We're gonna discuss your activities going forward.
The first step of your comeback is a music program tonight.
It'll be broadcast live, but you're up for it, right?
Of course.
While you're working, my wife will look after your children.
I see...
Your wife is pretty young, huh?
The other members are kinda creeped out by the way you favor younger girls.
That's news to me. I'll be more careful.
Is it a problem if I bring my kids to the studio?
Of course it's a problem!
Now listen here!
If word gets out that an idol like you became a mother of two at 16,
you can kiss your career goodbye.
I'll come under fire as the one responsible for supervising you, and my agency will be finished.
The whole lot of us will be headed straight to hell!
And no bringing the kids along for the ride when you need to file paperwork or go shopping!
If circumstances absolutely call for it,
you're to operate under the guise of watching our kids for us.
Aw, come on!
What a pain, huh, Ruby?
That's Aqua.
As a mother, I suppose Ai could be considered rather hopeless.
But the president and his wife considerately cover for her.
So things may work out, after all.
The rehearsal starts soon. Let's move out.
Okay!
Whoops!
That was a close one! I almost flashed you, President.
Well, keep 'em covered when you're outside.
Nope, it's hopeless!
This girl's gonna wreck everything!
B-Komachi is coming on!
We're B-Komachi! Thanks for having us.
Yeah, glad to have you.
I don't have any experience babysitting in the first place.
Why'm I the one who has to...
Here's Ai, resuming her idol activities today!
Doing all right? Are you eating properly?
Yes! I'm eating plenty!
That's a relief. She's handling it well.
Oh, right! Speaking of food, the other day my baby...
Your baby?
Er, I mean my baby kitten!
I got a pet during my break, you see!
Oh...
Or maybe she really is hopeless.
Oh, I'm always blurting out the strangest things...
We'll be going live in 30 seconds.
Please give it your all!
Okay!
Thanks for your help!
Do you know B-Komachi?
Nope. Can't say I'm interested.
I've listened to their recordings, and they're honestly pretty mid.
Well, this is the kind of stuff that sells.
True.
Mass-produced idols...
We've gotta find something nice to say about 'em—what we gonna do?
That center girl's face is about the only thing worthy of praise.
I do recognize the name, but there's been no talk of them these past six months.
So who's trying to push them on people?
Probably started underground.
They're with Strawberry Productions? Never heard of 'em.
Digging the one with the honkers. We should get her in some pinup work.
Can we ask her out to eat? She seems like the producer's type.
In this industry, the smiles cover up all the lies and selfish motives underneath.
You can't jeopardize the broadcast.
To get the very best performance out of every single performer, even the staff will lie as needed.
That goes for the big shots, too.
They act like they're making art, but they only look at the bottom line.
Live in ten.
Eight.
Seven, six... Live in five.
And that's fine by me!
Four! Three!
Because our Ai lies with all her heart!
The president sure is a crazy guy.
If Ai's secret is exposed, he risks losing everything.
Still, I get it...
It's hard to not go crazy around her.
In front of a light this intense, what else is there to do but get burned?
Like moths drawn to the flame.
Even upon realizing their wings will be singed off, they cannot stop.
And I'm no exception.
I'm glad I'm able to watch over Ai from so close.
So much so that I'm grateful to the guy who murdered me.
Should this rebirth have been brought on by my obsession with her, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised.
Truth is, I wanted to help her give birth to normal children.
But it's an act of God.
You can't compete against supernatural phenomena.
So I may as well enjoy myself.
Wait!
N Station already started!
Why didn't you wake me up?!
Oh gawds, Mommy's just too cute!
All the viewers should have to pay a billion yen for this!
Her expressiveness when she turns is outta this world!
Like, is she even human?
Gosh!
I just had a diaper change, but I feel like I'm about to wet myself!
She has great looks, a great figure, and her singing is amazing too!
Our mom is seriously way too gifted!
I've gotta see the start of the recording ASAP!
Live broadcasts are meant to be watched live, so why didn't you wake me up?!
These bodies always get so damn sleepy, so let's help each other out!
I did wake you up. More than once.
Oh, you did?
This dummy here is also someone who's been reborn, same as me.
I ended up realizing that quite early on.
What?! Drop dead!
You ape-men just can't comprehend Mommy's talent and beauty!
From the quality of her performances, it's clear she's in a different league!
It's a given that management would favor her!
I bet you're some ugly old hag!
Take a look in the mirror and say that again, fugly!
Jeez, I can't believe this!
Think you can hold a candle to Ai?!
She was searching for "B-Komachi Ai" and engaging in nuclear flame wars with haters.
Can you really beat Ai, a genius idol with the perfect looks and figure?!
Hey...
Are you the same as me?
Huh?
The baby just talked!
Groooss!
Right back at ya.
I'll say it again.
I wanted to help her give birth to normal children.
Aw, oh my god! You just record it once and then can watch it forever! Talk about value!
Not a freaky set of twins like us.
Ai... Ai...
You damn liar.
How dare you go and make babies!
Why?
Why?!
You tricked me!
Aqua.
You hungry? Wanna nurse?
Huh? You'd rather not?
You sure like your bottle, don't you?
Just look at you go!
I feel like, as an adult, being breastfed by an idol would indeed be crossing the line.
Coming!
Wanna nurse again?
Now you like breastfeeding, don't you, Ruby?
That little...
Time for work.
Okay!
I'll be back later.
See you later!
See you!
Hey, could you show a bit of restraint?
Why?
It's simply the law of nature for a daughter like me to suck her mother's breast.
It's a legitimate right that has been granted to me.
Well, let me at least ask... Were you a girl in your previous life too?
Yep.
Well, I suppose I can let it slide, then.
The jealousy of idol fanatics is so gross!
Well, ethically speaking, a grown man breastfeeding is beyond messed up!
Lucky me! I'm a girl, so sucking away is a-okay!
From my ethical standpoint, that's still a no-go.
Poor Mommy...
It's terrible that her own child is some creep who's obsessed with her.
Aw, that poor thing. I'll protect her for as long as I live.
You're the creepier one, no doubt.
I want a diaper change, so go away!
Yeah, yeah.
How'd this become my job?
I mean, aren't I a company president's wife?
I married him 'cause I thought I'd get to work with pretty boys.
But my job turns out to be taking care of a 16-year-old idol's kids?!
Plus, she's a single mom. Where the hell is the father?!
This shit's so dark!
I didn't get married to be a damn babysitter!
What?
The privilege of serving Mommy should bring nothing but happiness.
She's not right in the head, is she?
No, I think I can see where she's coming from.
You know, there's a real scandal underneath all of this, isn't there?
That's it!
If I sold the story to a tabloid, I could be swimming in cash.
I don't give a crap what happens anymore!
I'm gonna do it!
Uh-oh, not good. What do we do? Do we kill her?
Not happening. She's got too much of a size advantage.
I was obviously kidding, but were you seriously considering it?
There's no question that this could be trouble if we just let it happen...
Even so...
What're we gonna do?!
She's snapping tons of pics of the maternity health record!
Actually, I think this presents an opportunity.
I have an idea.
With the proceeds I get from selling this, I'll boost my fave host to the top of the monthly rankings.
O wretched mortal...
Thy heart's thirst cannot be quenched by champagne.
Who's there?!
I-I am a divine messenger.
Thy transgressions can no longer be overlooked.
A... divine messenger?
Wait a minute, the baby just talked...
No way!
In thy experience, are mere babes capable of speech?
Heed my words.
Well, it's just, when you talk about the divine...
I don't believe in that kind of stuff...
Oh, I get it!
This must be a candid-camera thing!
Like, some TV show Ai is in where they prank the managers!
Those are a thing!
They sure went to a lot of trouble.
There's a camera somewhere around here, right?
I knew this was too far-fetched.
Now, now, Ruby, it's dangerous up there on the tab—
Know thyself! I am Amaterasu incarnate.
I am what ye know as a Goddess.
Goddess...
Tempted by prospects of immediate profit,
thou art on the verge of abandoning thy destiny.
Destiny?
Hoshino Ai was chosen by the God of Entertainment.
Furthermore, these children are twins who bear a monumental destiny.
It is thy destiny to watch over them.
Thy deeds run contrary to the will of the gods.
Be prepared for divine punishment should you persist.
Divine punishment?!
What do you mean?! Like, specifically!
Specifically? Specifically...
You'll die.
Yeah, you'll die!
No!
That's super specific!
Wh-What... should I do?
It is but a simple task.
Guard our family's secrets.
Moreover, dote on these children and do everything they ask of thee.
Everything...
Do so, and a second marriage to a handsome actor is not out of the question.
Seriously?!
I'll do it! I'll do whatever is asked of me!
I'll even lick their insoles if need be!
Thou needn't go so far.
A second marriage to a handsome guy!
Do you think that was the right call?
At any rate, there's a limit to what an infant can accomplish.
And now we'll be able to go outside.
Yay!
You know, that was quite the convincing performance.
Have you done theater before?
Nope, that was a first for me.
A first? You never put on any plays at school?
Well, I grew up in a bit of an unusual place.
I guess it's just talent, then.
Maybe acting's in your future.
My future...
I've never given it any thought.
I found myself with a little sister.
A strange gal who is a hopeless idol fanatic.
That said...
Ai dances so nimbly! And her charisma is off the charts!
Hmm...
I like Ai the best of anyone in the whole world,
but I like you just about as much, doctor!
The passion this girl has when she talks about Ai
is just like yours,
Sarina.
What? Did you say my name?
My bad, did I wake you up?
It wasn't your name that I said.
If you're gonna sleep, do it in your bed.
Well, yeah.
There's no way he was...
After all, Sarina's not my name anymore.
It's been a few months since Ai returned to being an idol.
And B-Komachi's became completely unstoppable...
...in our dreams.
My pay this month is 200,000 yen...
Seriously, this agency's so stingy with pay.
The single we just put out reached #3 on Oricon, didn't it?
Aren't the middlemen taking too big a cut?
Bit late to be complaining, no?
Unlike the big players who do everything from production to distribution, we're a puny talent agency.
You came into this knowing our profits are slim, right?
I've finally realized the world is all about money.
That's quite the depressing epiphany.
Being an idol is fun,
so I wouldn't mind getting by like this if I were on my own.
But I want to send these little ones to good schools, let them take extra lessons, and so on.
To give them lots of opportunities, I've gotta sell better and earn as much as possible, don't I?
As things stand now,
I won't be able to make them happy.
Ahh, I sure wish I'd get some job offers for commercials or films.
Guess we're too small for that too.
Maybe lay off that pricey ice cream for a start.
I'm heading off for my lesson.
Be good while Mommy's gone, okay?
Hey, don't idols usually make like a million yen a month?
Far from it.
Wait, they don't?!
Song royalties and TV appearance earnings are split between all members.
Concerts come out in the red if the merch doesn't sell well.
And their uniforms are deducted from their pay.
Only a select few can pull in one million a month.
What the hell?!
You know the world's messed up when money doesn't reach the people giving it their all!
Oh, I know!
All the idol creeps could start offering their livers to Ai, which we'll turn around and sell.
What's actually messed up is your thinking.
Stop thinking like the leader of some post-apocalyptic religion.
She sings and dances, and her looks are out of this world.
She does lessons and vocal training.
And she's a hard worker who practices choreography at home at night.
B-Komachi is one of the better-selling groups, and yet...
Hey, manager!
Why isn't our Ai getting any job offers?!
What crap management! Put more effort into sales and marketing!
Easier said than done...
Fundamentally, with idol groups,
you have a business situation where people band together in order to compete against solo entertainers for jobs.
They can barely secure work when sold as a set package,
so if someone tries to strike out on their own, it's obviously going to be hard.
You'll see plenty of girls graduate from their group trying to go solo
who end up working at high-end food and drink establishments in Roppongi
or become Minato girls getting paid to go out drinking because they can't find work on their own.
I actually didn't know...
Tokyo's a scary place.
I do admit that Ai is amazing.
But that's contained within the idol sphere.
In the entertainment industry,
you can't make it unless you have something special that allows you to compete all on your own.
A highly profitable job is not one that requests "somebody from B-Komachi"—
it is one that specifically requests Ai.
Being a first-class idol on its own is not enough.
Ai, are you feeling a bit down?
You've only just recovered, so don't push yourself too hard, 'kay?
It's nothing like that. I just missed lunch, and now I'm starving!
What? You some big eater all of a sudden?
Let's go over that last part again.
Okay!
I'm not feeling up to this today...
Guess I'll do some egosurfing.
Hitting me where it hurts...
A sales promo event! A mini concert!
The kind you need to win a ticket lottery for!
This will be my first time truly seeing Mommy perform live.
Now, listen here.
I brought you here since you kept insisting,
but I'm the one who'll take the brunt of it if the president finds out about this, okay?
No cheering, running, or speaking!
Suck on your pacifiers and behave yourselves, okay?
That's right, Ruby.
We absolutely can't do anything that makes us stand out.
Letting on even the slightest hint of us being connected to Ai is—
I get it, okay?
You saw it too, right?
The way Mommy was down in the dumps.
I'm here because I'm worried about her.
I didn't come to have fun.
Today, we have three members of B-Komachi with us!
Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!
B-Komachi! Woo-hoo!
B-Komachi! Woo-hoo!
They can go and say that...
After all, I am a pro.
Yeah, I don't really get that.
You're the ones who want us to be inhuman.
I look in the mirror and study it.
I fine-tune it to the millimeter.
The way I narrow my eyes, the corners of my mouth...
It's all calculated.
I'm always putting on the smile that will please people the most.
I'm...
made up of lies, after all.
Goo-goo! Ga-ga! Goo-goo! Ga-ga! Goo-goo! Ga-ga!
What's with those babies?!
They're doing a full-on idol-fan dance!
Not to mention way better than an infant should!
You came 'cause you were worried, huh?!
Looks to me like you're enjoying this more than anyone else!
Instinct took over!
Instinct took over!
Wow...
What the... Amazing!
My kids are so cuuute!
210,000 retweets...
And the reposted video already has two million views.
I get that it's easier for content with babies to go viral, but still...
Let's have a little talk.
Oh, I see...
So this is good, huh?
I'll remember that.
One year has passed since then.
We've grown to the point where it is no longer suspicious for us to walk around or talk,
and my sister, well...
Mommy! Mommy!
Hm?
Gimme pats!
Pat, pat!
She's the kind of parasocial superfan who finds it perfectly natural to call their idol "Mommy."
I'm ascending to heaven!
Where'd you learn big words like that?
Wait, could it be...
Well, I...
Don't tell me... Does Ai suspect...
Are you maybe some kinda super genius?
Nope. And so our days remain peaceful.
Must be genetic!
From model to radio assistant,
Ai steadily picked up more gigs,
and today she has a job that could be said to be the culmination of all that work.
It's your first TV series, Mommy! I can't wait!
It's only a minor role, though.
Now listen here, you two.
You kept insisting, so I brought you along,
but make absolutely sure not to call Ai "Mommy" on set, okay?
Don't forget that the story is that you're my kids.
Yeah, yeah. Mommy, Mommy, gimme some head pats.
Me too, Mommy!
Mommy, gimme my allowance.
I'm Ai from Strawberry Productions.
I look forward to working with you today.
Same to you!
Is something the matter, Director?
No, nothing in particular.
Kinda scary, isn't he?
His face sure is.
Hm? Whose kids are these?
Oh, they're my kids.
A manager bringing her kids to work, huh?
This one of those workplace culture things?
Um?
Sign of the times, huh?
Well, some people even bring their dogs these days.
Yes, that won't be a problem. Huh?
Hey, we've also got some snacks.
So I was found out, huh?
My children are very well behaved, you see.
I'm on a diet.
Twins! How cute!
Oh, if I recall, this girl's a pinup model.
And that one's a young performer known for being "an adorable actress with real acting chops."
Goo-goo! Ga-ga!
Knock it off with that cutie-pie act.
It's no use. My body can't handle all this.
Oh, you're that manager's kid.
I don't mind you being here, but if you cry and interrupt the filming, I'll kick you out.
Oh, we'd never!
Though we are but babes, we shall strive to not make any such blunders!
We understand that not obstructing the shoot is rule number one.
We dearly hope you'll keep working with our agency's Ai going forward.
Whoa, this baby sure is talkative!
Where'd you learn all those words?!
Here and there on YouTube...
Man, that YouTube is amazing!
Sign of the times, huh?!
I see a good number of precocious child actors,
but you're really something else.
You do any acting, by chance?
No, acting isn't really my...
You'd be interesting up on screen.
I'd like to use you in something.
Here's my business card.
Give me a call if you sign up with an agency.
Please, if you're going to hand out work, then give it to Ai rather than me.
Oh, that idol...
She certainly has the looks.
This looks delicious!
With some luck, she'll survive in the industry.
She needs luck even with her looks?
Listen here, kid.
There are three types of actors.
Look at them over there.
One is the star actor.
Their primary role is to attract an audience.
Given they're typically the poster child, they garner solid performance fees.
Next is those with real talent.
Their role is to ensure the quality of the product on screen.
Maintaining the programming block's brand is also their job.
Lastly, you've got newcomer actors.
Acting ability isn't really expected from them.
They get a passing mark if they can bring a breath of fresh air to the screen.
There's also the goal of giving the next stars some experience.
I suppose it's an investment the entire industry makes.
In other words, all those fresh faces over there are currently being invested in.
Unless they either draw in viewers or become well-liked on set,
they'll be replaced by the next crop of newcomers.
It would be a big deal if even one of the newcomers here today makes it in the industry.
That's the kind of world this is.
Those who survive are first-class at something or other.
Hmm...
Well, she'll be fine, then.
Ai is a first-class idol.
No, just being a first-class idol won't cut it.
Director!
We're all set for the dry run.
Okay, I'll watch from here.
Ready, and!
What're you saying?
Want me to ask Touma for you?
Hey! Don't even think about it!
But aren't you two always together?
Her acting is average...
but she really draws your attention.
Right? She was talking about that earlier.
Up on stage, I need to look cute for everyone no matter what angle they view me from,
but here there's only one angle.
I just need the camera to think I'm cute.
If the same tricks I use for music videos will work, it's right in my wheelhouse.
Way to go!
I'll be cheering you on, okay?!
She thinks of it like a music video...
Sign of the times, huh?
What?! They're super well-made, so you should really give them a watch!
I'll even lend you the DVDs!
Keep it down, will ya?
It's still too soon.
It's never too late to take on a challenge.
I can't wait to see your performance, Mommy!
Well, they did film me quite a bit.
Here it comes.
It's starting!
You in a bad mood or something?
Not really.
Was it something I did?
Oh, this is the scene!
I said no!
What is this?
Aww, it's Mommy!
Good morning.
C'mon, give her a close-up!
Oh, good morning.
Huh? Is something wrong?
Wait! Touma!
You... Why're you here?
I knew we never should have met!
Um, what do you mean by that?
What?! That's all?!
Just a bit of a single scene?!
They cut way too much!
I wonder if my acting was bad.
No, it definitely wasn't.
Yes?
Hey, Director, what's the big idea?!
Oh, hey, Lil' Einstein.
You didn't give Ai any screen time!
Yeah, about that...
Her part came out great, so it's quite a shame.
Well, why then?!
The lead actress's agency promotes her as "an adorable actress with real acting chops."
So how do you think it looks when an even more adorable girl is sharing the screen?
It'd be a problem for their PR strategy, right?
Ai was simply too cute on screen.
And so, word came down from the top to cut her out as much as possible during editing.
Are you serious?
The screen time a performer receives tends to be decided by the power balance between companies,
so just take it as bad luck and accept it.
I can't accept it.
It's fine to dream of the entertainment industry,
but you'd best open your eyes to reality once you wake up.
This isn't a place for art, but rather one for business.
That being said, I understand your point, and I do feel bad about this.
Mommy, I know you did your very best!
I hesitate to say "in exchange,"
I suppose I did.
but I'd like to offer Ai another job.
For a film, that is.
Can't complain about that, right?
Seriously?!
On one condition.
You've gotta act in it, too.
Listen up, Lil' Einsten.
In Japan, casting is mostly decided upon by the higher-ups.
The bigger the budget for a production, the less it can afford to flop.
In order to secure actors who are sure to draw viewers,
the higher-ups fight tooth and nail.
Directors with casting authority are but a select few heavyweights
or those working on low-budget, small-scale films.
So, which do I look like to you?
Uh... a heavyweight direct—
Swing and a miss.
Welcome to the set of a low-budget film.
Director, I hope Aqua won't cause you too much trouble today.
I'm sure he won't.
I trust the matter we discussed has been resolved?
Er, yes...
As of this month, Aqua has joined Strawberry Productions.
You see, there'll be hell to pay if I use a kid who's not affiliated with an agency.
In terms of acting, I feel like my sister is probably better than me.
Nope, it's you I want.
It's in exchange for your performance that I'm giving Ai a part.
In the industry, we call this bartering.
It's a fundamental, so keep it in mind.
Bartering Ai for her own son...
That stern-looking director has taken quite a liking to you, Aqua.
What in the world did you do to make this happen?
Nothing, really.
Older guys seem to enjoy it when young people adopt a casual demeanor with them,
so I just avoid being too respectful, is all.
You're one manipulative baby...
My work saw me often interacting with seniors, so I know how to deal with old folks.
I never thought that strange skill would prove useful now.
Mommy! Mommy! I wanna go back to Mommy!
Why isn't Mommy here?
Because Ai doesn't film the same days I do.
I wanna go home and snuggle up to her!
I want Mommy to hold me to her bosom and pamper me!
Isn't she embarrassed to be acting like this at her age?
Not that I know how old she really is inside...
This is a professional environment, you know!
If you came to play, then go home!
Um...
Arima Kana.
I'm an actress in the film.
Oh, isn't she...
Hmm, what was it again?
The genius child actor who can slurp baking soda just like that?
The genius child actor who can start crying in ten seconds flat!
Everybody says the way I cry in shows is amazing!
Because it is amazing!
You know, I don't really like this girl.
Like, she seems disingenuous, and something about her just grates on me.
Some people are especially hard on child actors...
Like you, for example.
I know about you! You're that kid who had an in.
Back when we did the script reading, you and that idol weren't even part of the story.
Mommy said the director forced it through.
That's just not acceptable!
Well, that's not really...
I watched the series the director shot recently,
and that idol hardly had any screen time at all.
I bet her acting was so horrible they were forced to cut her parts.
Seems the only thing she's good at is buttering people up!
Hey, AD, carry my bag.
Um, well, hold on just a minute...
Aqua...
I know, but she's just a kid...
I won't kill her.
The rough outline of the film's plot
is that a woman with zero confidence in her appearance
for some reason goes to a sketchy hospital deep in the mountains to get plastic surgery.
Okay, let's shoot it!
Yes, sir!
We play the role of creepy children she encounters at the entrance to that village.
Greetings, visitor.
We welcome you.
Now, please do stay for a while.
Huh? You're the welcome party?
That's a genius child actor for you—she's great.
Does our age bother you?
If I do the same thing, the obvious skill difference will ruin the scene.
That much is clear even to a total amateur like me.
So, what should I do?
Well, the easy solution is that I should act like a creepy kid.
But that's not what he wants from me, is it?
The performance the director is after is surely...
There's only a single lodging in this village.
Once you check in, you might enjoy taking a stroll around the village.
This scene was added at the last minute.
After we met, the director revised the screenplay with me in mind.
So reading between the lines, it's actually better I don't even act.
I just need to faithfully respond to the director's intentions.
He never put it into words, but what the director wants to say is...
Even without any acting, you're plenty creepy already.
Now then, if you will follow me.
Cut!
That'll do!
That's good stuff.
He was just being himself, huh?
You're amazing! That sent a chill down my spine.
Really? That's good to hear.
Nothing good about it.
Clear out anything in frame! We're shooting the next scene.
Yes, sir!
Director, reshoot the scene.
Huh? But there weren't any problems with it.
There's a huge problem!
Just now I...
wasn't anywhere near as good as that boy.
I can't take it! One more time!
I'm begging you!
This time I promise I'll do better!
One more time!
Kana!
Please!
Hey, Einstein.
What do you think the most important trait of an actor is?
Hmm... ability or a feel for acting?
Drive and effort?
Well, that stuff is important, too.
But in the end, it's people skills.
If you rub fellow actors or staff the wrong way, your job prospects will dry up soon enough.
There's no future for a stuck-up kid who's already pretending to be a huge deal.
Were you trying to teach her a lesson?
I didn't have anything patronizing like that in mind.
Stuff like this will help her grow.
Your acting today was exactly how I envisioned it.
That girl was more impressive than me.
I was just being the way I always am.
Even so, I never once instructed you to do that.
You guessed what I wanted. That's one part of people skills.
Acting with an understanding of the direction and intent is fundamental, obviously.
But precious is the actor who can even read intent that can't be put into words.
After all, the ideal version of the scene is locked up in our head somewhere.
Rather than one who does amazing acting,
become an actor who can act just as envisioned.
Er, I'm not going to become an actor...
And thus, I dipped my toes into the industry.
So he has a proper stage name...
Aqua.
I won't forget it.
Next time, you won't get the best of me.
Three years have passed since I was reborn as Ai's child.
The film the director shot was somewhat well-received,
and he was nominated for Best Director at some awards ceremony.
Looking back on it, I think my acting was quite deft.
However...
in the end it was Ai was who carried the entire film.
I don't know if that was the catalyst, but she's been landing a lot more work.
To sum up Ai now, she's a real up-and-coming idol-slash-media personality...
is how I'd put it.
Ai will soon be turning 20.
Thus far, we've been able to go about our daily lives without being discovered by the public.
And also...
my body has not yet been found.
Yep, looking cute again today!
Super cute!
Well, you're cuter overall, Mommy.
When did it become a competition?
We enrolled in a preschool.
Come to think of it, what were you doing before you were reborn?
And how old are you really, anyway?
Well...
If I was younger than he was...
What the heck? Shoulda figured you were just a kid.
From now on you better listen to everything I say, brat.
I-I was a grown woman, okay?!
What an insensitive jerk you are, asking about a woman's age!
Besides, who cares about my previous life?!
Quit prying!
Well, I suppose you're right.
I start to feel down whenever I think about my previous life.
That's how much I've come to like the way things are now.
Compared to my days at a demanding job,
as a preschooler I just eat, sleep, and read books and such as I please.
It's an easy gig.
That said, it really is impressive how seriously that girl is able to play...
Huh? A preschooler is reading one of Kyougoku Natsuhiko's tomes...
Okay, everyone, it's time for your dance routine.
It won't be long until your families come watch your dance,
so let's practice hard today!
Yes, ma'am!
No! I won't do it!
Ah, Ruby?!
Why'd you run away?
Because I'm bad at dancing.
I've never even done it before.
Were you always cooped up in your room playing?
Kids these days, I tell ya...
I guess I was something of a shut-in.
I tried several times—but could never do it.
I don't think I'm capable of real exercise.
I don't know how things were like for you before,
but are you really okay with this?
You've got a long life ahead of you.
Oh? Dance practice?
How about I dance with you?
We'll be performing an old song at our next concert, so I've gotta practice.
Mommy, you're a little bit off there!
Really?
At your Budokan performance, your hand was higher.
Oh? So you watched my concert video?
I'm impressed you still remember!
Of course I do.
I've seen videos of Mommy's concerts hundreds...
no, thousands of times.
I remember every last bit of the routines, too.
How'd it go again?
At this part, you went high—
You okay?
Yeah.
Ruby, with the way you move...
it's like you're ready to fall at anytime.
Well...
I was falling over all the time.
If I didn't brace myself, I'd get hurt.
If you're scared of falling over, you'll just fall even more.
Stand more confidently, with your chest out.
You'll be fine.
Trust your mom, okay?
My life came to an end with the majority of it spent in hospital rooms.
My body was disabled, and it rarely did what I told it to.
Lying in bed, I kept longing for it so bad.
Mommy's cool moves
are all etched into my brain.
Her brilliance
is burned into my retinas.
My guiding light...
If only I could move like that...
If only I could be so free...
More!
Move more!
My body!
Ah, it's okay for me to dance, too!
So she...
isn't only good at acting, huh?
She has a sense for dance...
not to mention the good looks she got from our mother.
That was a scary image.
On a whim, I decided to contact my ex.
You know, our kids have gotten pretty big.
Wanna try meeting them?
No, I'm not trying to get back together or anything like that.
What led to it was overhearing a convo the kids were having.
I try my best not to think about it,
but I do wonder just who our father is.
Just thinking about it makes my heart sink.
You dummy.
You let a little thing like that get you down?
It was obviously a virgin conception, right?
There was never any guy in the first place.
She came to this odd conclusion, and I figured I should shut that down ASAP.
Our kids are super smart. I'm sure they'll understand our situation.
Sure, so our new address is...
Ah, it's Ai!
Let's grab a pic!
You sure do love Ai, don't you?
My work is going well.
And I have over a million followers now.
The world is watching me.
Man, this is some good booze!
Come on, celebrate your new digs with a drink!
Drink up, drink up!
Wow, that's a Moriizo!
Not so fast.
Ai doesn't turn 20 until next week.
Please wait just a little longer.
Ah, you got me there!
The widely-popular TV series starring B-Komachi's Ai reached a peak viewership of 14.2% this week.
The TV show Ai stars in is climbing up in the ratings!
B-Komachi's work schedule is packed, too!
And next week, we finally hit the stadium!
He's certainly in a good mood.
Well, it was always the president's dream to have an idol he nurtured make it to a stadium.
A dream all us staff share.
Are stadiums really that special?
They carry a different weight compared to other venues.
You can't even book a slot without going through a specialized company.
The staff needs the skill and experience to manage a large audience,
and there's a rigorous screening process to see if an artist is suitable.
They're venues that require a large time commitment and lots of staff labor.
Simply having money doesn't mean one can perform there.
They're stages onto which only a chosen few can climb.
Stadium concerts are what everyone dreams of.
I see...
When I sell well, everyone is pleased.
So I'll put on my happy face, too.
This is an important period!
No scandals allowed!
Don't try to meet up with their father, you hear?
Of course.
I'm a compulsive liar.
Before even thinking, I say whatever fits the situation.
Even I can't distinguish my real feelings from the lies.
Mommy, give me pats.
Pat, pat.
I've never been good at loving anything.
You don't need to do anything to try to make me happy.
I thought I couldn't possibly be suited to be an idol.
After all, so long as you're here beside me...
When you said you were a scout, I wondered what was up.
An idol? Me?
That's hilarious!
My agency is putting together a unit featuring middle-school models, you see.
I think you'd have a shot at becoming the center.
Not interested.
Come on, you'd be perfect for it. I guarantee it.
I think you'd better forget all about it.
I grew up in an orphanage.
I only had a single parent from the start, then my mom got arrested for theft when I was little.
So I was put in a home while she was away.
But when she was released, my mom never came to get me.
I thought if I frightened him a bit, the scout would leave.
Well, it's fine, though.
I mean, the orphanage is better than getting beaten.
I have no memory of ever loving or being loved by anyone.
A girl like that could never be an idol, right?
My impression of idols was
pure beings who flash smiles and bring smiles to everyone's faces.
The polar opposite of me, a people-hating liar.
I'm sure I wouldn't be able to love the fans.
And they wouldn't love me either.
Nothing wrong with that.
It's not a job normal folks are suited for in the first place.
Your background gives you individuality.
B-But...
Idols say stuff like, "I love all of you."
If I said that, I'd be ly—
Lying is fine.
In fact, pretty lies are what fans want.
Lying is a talent, you know.
It's all good. Go on and lie up a storm!
It's really all right?
Even if it's a lie,
it's okay to say, "I love you"?
I bet you do actually want to love people.
It's just that you don't know how.
You've just never found the right object for your love.
If you sing and dance while looking cute, that on its own is an expression of love to the fans.
If you become an idol, phrases like "I love you" will appear all over your lyrics.
Plus, as you continue saying, "I love all of you,"
the lie might become the truth.
The lie... might become the truth?
Hearing those words, I decided to become an idol.
I wanted to love someone.
I wanted an object for my love.
I thought if I became an idol, I'd be able to love my fans.
I wanted to say "I love you" and have it come from the bottom of my heart,
so I spouted the lie of "I love you" endlessly.
I thought that if I became a mother, I'd be able to love my children.
But I have not yet once told my children I love them.
I'm scared to.
What if I utter those words and realize they aren't true?
That's why today I will once again lie,
with the faith that lies will become truth.
Even if I end up paying for it one day...
Could that be the president?
Coming!
Congrats on your stadium concert.
How are your twins?
Does that hurt?!
Ai!
I was hurt worse!
It was incredibly painful!
You went and had kids even though you're an idol!
You fan-betraying slut.
Ai! Ai!
You treated us fans like we didn't exist!
I bet you mocked us behind our backs!
You damn liar!
You lured us in with your constant "I love you! I love you!" crap!
It was all lies!
I've been irresponsible from the start...
I'm not pure, and I'm dishonest and dirty.
I don't have a good grasp of what it means to love someone...
So, instead...
I told pretty lies that would please everyone...
always hoping that one day those lies would become the truth.
I tried my best, worked hard, and lied with everything I had.
To me, lies are love.
And in my own way, I thought I was expressing love.
I don't know if I was able to love you and the others,
but I sang all those love songs while thinking that I wanted to.
Hoping that someday it would be the truth.
Even now, I want to love you.
Liar...
You don't even remember me, do you?
You just want me to spare you, ri—
You're Ryousuke, aren't you?
You often came to the handshake events.
Oh? Am I wrong?
Sorry, I was never very good with names.
I was happy when I got that star sand vial from you as a present.
I've still got it displayed in the living room.
What the hell? I...
This isn't how...
Just get over here right now!
Ai!
I've called an ambulance!
Well, I let my guard down there.
So door chains are for times like this, huh?
They never taught us that back at the orphan—
Don't try to speak!
The bleeding...
It's her abdominal aorta? Shit!
I'm sorry.
This is probably...
it for me.
Are you all right?
You're not hurt, are you?
No, I'm not.
I wonder if today's stadium concert will be canceled...
I feel sorry for everyone.
The movie schedule had been finalized, too.
Apologize to the director for me.
Hey, what's wrong?
What's going on in there?
Don't come in, Ruby.
Tell me!
Ruby?
Your dance at your preschool event... was beautiful.
You know, I was thinking that maybe you could become an idol one day, too.
Mother and daughter performing together...
Sounds fun, doesn't it?
Aqua, will you be an actor?
I wonder...
what kind of adults you'll grow up to be...
Aw, I'd like to see you with your school backpacks...
And on parents' day...
I want people to say, "Isn't she a bit young to be Ruby's mother?"
As the two of you grow up...
I want to be there to see it.
Not that I was the best mom or anything...
but I'm glad I gave birth to you.
And, also...
Ah, I gotta tell you this.
Ruby...
Aqua...
I love you.
Ah, I was finally able to say it.
I'm sorry...
It took me so long.
I'm so relieved.
That definitely wasn't a lie.
Ai?
Ai?
Ai from the idol group B-Komachi has been murdered.
Before dawn this morning, a report came in from her Tokyo condo of a woman being stabbed.
When the police rushed over, they found a woman thought to be Ai
who had been stabbed in her abdomen, had collapsed, and was bleeding.
She was later pronounced dead at the hospital she was transported to.
The main suspect in the case is an enthusiastic fan of Ai.
Several hours after the incident, he was pronounced dead at a hospital after committing suicide.
According to the Metropolitan Police, Ai had just recently moved,
and they are looking into the possibility that the man had an accomplice as they proceed with the investigation.
It has been announced that her planned stadium concert has been canceled,
and in front of the venue, numerous fans have given themselves over to grief.
The extraordinary news that an idol had been murdered by a fan who then committed suicide
didn't even take an hour to make it to the airwaves.
The public's response was largely sympathetic.
However, just as I had feared,
there were those who made light of the deceased and sought to attract attention to themselves.
With so many unfounded speculations and nasty anonymous writings,
there were some that landed close to the truth.
What do you mean "hardly surprising"? Well?!
If an idol gets a romantic partner, it's hardly surprising if she's murdered?! Huh?!
That's a load of crap!
You fall head over heels for idols!
So isn't it selfish to say idols can't fall in love?!
You're just taking out your anger about not having a girlfriend on women!
You're disgusting! Die!
Why is the internet like this?
Mom is dead, and now there's all this stuff that makes me wanna die too...
So when you're famous, people can say whatever they want about you?
What do they mean, "the price of fame"? Talking like "the fans are always right"...
Those phrases aren't meant for people like you!
It's for people trying to cope with their pain!
Don't twist them as an excuse to hurt others...
Once three days had passed, the content surrounding Ai's death had run its course.
And after the news turned to a slightly early snow crippling the transit network,
the topic wasn't brought up again.
It was as if the snow
was covering up Ai's death.
As for us, it turned out the president and his wife had transferred us to their family register,
so we managed to avoid the spotlight.
Considering my age and the fact that the culprit was no longer alive,
the police's questioning of me was limited to simple matters,
but the victim counseling went on for quite some time.
Would you consider joining our family?
Of course, Ai will always be your only mother,
and you don't need to think of me as your mother...
But I do think of you two as my own children.
How about it?
Mommy always said I could become an idol.
Do you think I have what it takes to be one?
It's no use becoming one anyway, right?
If you want to make money, a different job would be quicker and easier.
The fans are always selfish, and you'll face a barrage of criticism if you get a boyfriend.
Yeah.
Even so...
Mommy shone so brightly.
Ruby will probably bounce back.
In my several years of living with her, I've come to understand she's pure of heart, for better or worse.
But me?
I've died once already anyway.
If Ai's not here, then what's the point of...
That stalker and the man who killed me are one and the same.
How did he find out the hospital Ai had been admitted to?
How did he find her new residence she'd only just moved into?
The culprit was a student without special skills of any kind.
I simply can't believe he'd be capable of such deduction.
Someone was feeding him information.
And it must have been someone quite close to Ai.
As far as I know, it was only the president who knew about her hospital.
But would he do such a thing to the public face of the agency he cherished so greatly?
One of her co-workers?
No, the B-Komachi girls weren't even that close, and I never saw anyone who seemed like a good friend of Ai.
It's evident Ai didn't have any relatives who were around,
and it appeared she didn't know their contact details either.
So that only leaves...
our father.
She stubbornly kept him a secret from the president,
but considering how narrow Ai's social circle was,
there's a high probability the guy is in the same industry.
Seeing that he and I are related by blood,
I can get his identity by DNA testing his hair.
The guy who put Ai through all of this is someone in the entertainment industry.
I can't die yet.
Not until I find him
and kill him by my own hands!
Director.
Oh, Lil' Einstein.
Well, at a time like this, I'm at a loss for what to say.
You don't need to bother with that.
Instead, I'd like to ask a favor of you.
What is it?
Would you consider raising me?
Come on.
Still not ready, Ruby?
Jeez, just wait a minute, Aqua.
This uniform might be cute, but it's pretty complicated.
But it sure is cute!
Don't be making us late on the first day, okay?
Isn't your skirt a bit too short?
You know, you've always sounded like an old man.
Oh, that's right!
Mom, we're heading out now.
And thus the prologue concludes, and the curtain rises on a new tale.
So begins my revenge play.
Is it recording now?
I thought it would be nice to have this on video.
Once you're grown up, it'd be great if we're able to watch this together over drinks.
Though, I highly doubt I'll still be an idol at that age.
Oh, you two might be idols yourselves by that point, though!
I mean, you're my kids, so it could totally happen.
In any case,
please grow up healthy.
As your mother, that's all I want.

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Starsugen vs. Motsugen - Oshi no Ko EP01