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MTBB vs. Motsugen - Oshi no Ko EP01
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#
MTBB
#
Motsugen
What you're about to watch is a work of fiction.
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.
Actually, it's more accurate to say that it's a world of fiction.
It's fabricated.
It's fabricated.
Exaggerated.
Exaggerated.
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Any inconvenient secrets are
neatly
covered up.
Anything that doesn't
neatly
fit the narrative gets
covered up.
That being
the
case, an
idol fan is
someone
who
wants to be skillfully lied to
.
And so,
the
idol fan is
one
who
relishes this deception
.
In this world, lies are weapons.
In this world, lies are weapons.
Ai!
Ai!
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I wish I could've witnessed
her
cuteness in person!
I wish I could've witnessed
this
cuteness in person!
The
undisputed ace
idol
of B
Komachi
...
The
idol
group B-
Komachi
's shining star
...
Their unshakable center...
Their unshakable center...
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The
supremely
pretty 16-year-old girl...
The
astonishingly
pretty 16-year-old girl...
Ai!
Ai!
It's been four years since they started!
It's been four years since they started!
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They
gradually gained popularity, their media exposure increased,
They
've
gradually gained popularity, their media exposure increased,
and it feels like the
public has
finally
discovered them
!
and it feels like the
y've
finally
hit the mainstream
!
This is where she really takes off! Her stardom is close at—
This is where she really takes off! Her stardom is close at—
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Why are you
playing a
DVD in a patient's room?
Why are you
watching an idol
DVD in a patient's room?
No one in their right mind would do that.
No one in their right mind would do that.
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Observing something
beaut
iful
is good for one's health.
Witnessing
beaut
y
is good for one's health.
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 part of our treatment plan.
This is part of our treatment plan.
It's proselytizing, plain and simple.
It's proselytizing, plain and simple.
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Please don't make
it
our hospital's official position.
Please don't make
this
our hospital's official position.
Oh, that reminds me, doctor.
Oh, that reminds me, doctor.
I saw something trending on Twitter just now.
I saw something trending on Twitter just now.
What?!
What?!
Ai is going on hiatus?!
Ai is going on hiatus?!
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You really
are a fanatic.
You really
worship this girl, huh?
She's 16, isn't she? I guess you like them young.
She's 16, isn't she? I guess you like them young.
Please don't say that.
Please don't say that.
I've got my reasons, okay?
I've got my reasons, okay?
I did my residency at this same hospital, you see.
I did my residency at this same hospital, you see.
In those days, I often slacked off in patients' rooms, same as now.
In those days, I often slacked off in patients' rooms, same as now.
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Shape up
.
Do some work
.
One of the patients I met back then
changed
my destiny.
One of the patients I met back then
shaped
my destiny.
And this
girl
is Mei-Mei!
And this
is Mei-Mei!
Her dancing is great!
Her dancing is great!
Ari and Kyun are good singers,
Ari and Kyun are good singers,
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but my fave is
...
but my fave is
definitely
...
Ai
, without a doubt
!
Ai
!
She's
about
my age, but she
's
so
grown-up
looking
and
great at singing and dancing!
She's
my age, but she
looks
so
much more
grown-up
and
is
great at singing and dancing!
And
what a
pretty
face
she
has
...
And
don't get me started on how
pretty
she
is
...
In my next life, I want
a face
like
that
.
In my next life, I want
to look
like
her
.
What do you mean, your next life? Don't be silly.
What do you mean, your next life? Don't be silly.
Not much of a dreamer, are you?
Not much of a dreamer, are you?
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Haven't you
thought
about what it'd be like
if you were
the child of a celebrity?
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.
Like, if you had looks and connections right from birth.
Nope.
Nope.
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So you really don't
have any
dream
s
...
So you really don't
dream
...
You're
cute already, 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,
become an idol
yourself if you want
.
After you're discharged,
just
become an idol
.
I'll be your fan if you do.
I'll be your fan if you do.
Really?
Really?
I love you, doc! Marry me!
I love you, doc! Marry me!
I'd rather not die by social suicide, thanks.
I'd rather not die by social suicide, thanks.
Okay, Mr. Moralist...
Okay, Mr. Moralist...
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Yep, what a shame.
But I'll give it some serious thought once you're 16.
Yep, what a shame.
But I'll give it some serious thought once you're 16.
Sixteen, huh?
Sixteen, huh?
You're a big meanie.
You're a big meanie.
Hey, it's a realistic plan.
Hey, it's a realistic plan.
An anaplastic astrocytoma...
An anaplastic astrocytoma...
She was just 12 years old.
She was just 12 years old.
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If she were still alive today, she'd be 16
just like Ai.
If she were still alive today, she'd be 16
,
just like Ai.
I suppose I followed Sarina's favorite idol,
superimposing
the two of them
in my mind
.
I suppose I followed Sarina's favorite idol,
melding my memories of
the two of them
.
She's walking
the path
toward
her dreams
.
She's walking
toward
s
her dreams
,
A
nd I
just
want to
see
it. T
hat
's all
.
a
nd I
want to
be there to
see
t
hat
.
I see.
I see.
So you really like them young.
So you really like them young.
Were you even listening?!
Were you even listening?!
That was quite the touching story, in my humble opinion!
That was quite the touching story, in my humble opinion!
There's something a little... vivid about the way you're obsessed with her.
There's something a little... vivid about the way you're obsessed with her.
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Are
n't
you
just
using Sarina as an excuse
to release
your
own
desires?
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!
Ridiculous! I swear on Sarina's name that I'm supporting her with the purest of hearts!
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But, if
that
Ai
girl
appeared
and asked you
to
date
her
, wouldn't you say yes?
But, if
this
Ai
appeared
before you
and asked you
on a
date
, wouldn't you say yes?
Well, lunch
break
is over.
Well, lunch
is over.
Let's get back to work.
Let's get back to work.
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How about it, doctor?
Swearing
in the name of
Sarina, what's your answer?
How about it, doctor?
Still, I'm worried about Ai...
I hope she gets
healthy
and makes a comeback
.
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.
Hello, thank you for waiting.
Let's see...
Let's see...
So this is your first visit, Ms. Hoshino?
So this is your first visit, Ms. Hoshino?
Yes.
Yes.
Judging by her belly, she's about 20 weeks along now.
Judging by her belly, she's about 20 weeks along now.
That's rather late for an initial examination.
That's rather late for an initial examination.
Sixteen years of age...
Sixteen years of age...
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I
see, she
must
be dealing with some things.
I
guess this
must
have been difficult for her.
Must be one
of
those girls who
gets this far along without being able to consult anyone.
The kind
of
situation where she
gets this far along without being able to consult anyone.
Are you her father?
Are you her father?
On paper, yeah...
On paper, yeah...
She grew up in an orphanage, and I'm her de facto guardian, or her guarantor, I guess.
She grew up in an orphanage, and I'm her de facto guardian, or her guarantor, I guess.
Oh, I see.
Oh, I see.
Sixteen, raised in a orphanage. 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...
It's just like...
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Doc
tor
, how's it looking?
Any chance she just has a
terrible case
of constipation?
Doc
, how's it looking?
In
that
case, she'd be
dead already.
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!
I'm doin' fine on that front!
It went real smoothly today!
It went real smoothly today!
First off, you'll need an examination.
First off, you'll need an examination.
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I
need to
get everything ready
, so please wait here.
I
'll
need to
make some preparations
, so please wait here.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!
Man, is that really her?!
Man, is that really her?!
Could she just be a dead ringer?
Could she just be a dead ringer?
Nah, no way a years-long fan like myself would be mistaken!
Nah, no way a years-long fan like myself would be mistaken!
Ai is super cute in person!
Ai is super cute in person!
Get a grip!
Get a grip!
My favorite idol is pregnant!
My favorite idol is pregnant!
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It's such a shock, I
feel like I'm gonna vomit
.
It's such a shock, I
think I might hurl
.
Ai.
Ai.
How in the world did this happen?
How in the world did this happen?
Yeah, seriously!
Yeah, seriously!
As your agency's president, why didn't you tell me?
As your agency's president, why didn't you tell me?
Who's the father, anyway?
Who's the father, anyway?
Well...
Well...
That's a secret!
That's a secret!
A secret?! Welp, guess that's settled, then!
A secret?! Welp, guess that's settled, then!
The results of the examination are as follows: 20 weeks pregnant, twins.
The results of the examination are as follows: 20 weeks pregnant, twins.
Twins?
Twins?
Twins?
Twins?
Twins...
Twins...
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Ai, you serious about
carrying
them
to term
?
Ai, you serious about
having
them
?
If it gets out that you
've
got
ten
pregnant at 16 and
given birth
,
If it gets out that you
got
pregnant at 16 and
and went through with it
,
your career and my agency
your career and my agency
will be finished.
will be finished.
What are your thoughts, doctor?
What are your thoughts, doctor?
The final decision rests with you.
The final decision rests with you.
Really think it through before deciding.
Really think it through before deciding.
As a doctor, that is all I'm able to say.
As a doctor, that is all I'm able to say.
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As a doctor
...
anyway.
As a doctor
,
anyway.
And now, on
to our next story.
And now, on
to our next story.
Ugh, for real?
Ugh, for real?
Today, popular entertainer Ponta and idol MIU held a joint press conference announcing their marriage.
Today, popular entertainer Ponta and idol MIU held a joint press conference announcing their marriage.
Man, I really liked MIU...
Man, I really liked MIU...
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Well, that's rather timely
...
Talk about timing
...
Wait!
Wait!
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If I die now, there's a chance I'll be reborn as an idol's kid
...
right?
If I die now, there's a chance I'll be reborn as an idol's kid
,
right?
MIU is currently five months pregnant.
MIU is currently five months pregnant.
That's pretty messed up, dude.
That's pretty messed up, dude.
Still, can you really stan an idol who's got a husband and kids?
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.
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.
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.
Fans are pretty self-centered.
Aren't we, Sarina?
Aren't we, Sarina?
Oh, doctor.
Oh, doctor.
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Ms. Hoshino.
Hello,
Ms. Hoshino.
It's not good for you to be out on a windy night.
It's not good for you to be out on a windy night.
I'm bundled up, so I'll be fine.
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!
I just went with this place 'cause of the president's recommendation, but it sure is lovely!
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There are so many stars
even at
dusk.
There are so many stars
out and it's barely
dusk.
You'd never see something like this back in Tokyo.
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?
Did you come all the way out here to the countryside because you'd be recognized in Tokyo?
Oh?
Oh?
Did I mention my work?
Did I mention my work?
A while back, one of my patients was a big fan of yours.
A while back, one of my patients was a big fan of yours.
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Aw
w
...
Aw
, man
...
I thought the doctors here would be old men and nobody would find me out.
I thought the doctors here would be old men and nobody would find me out.
Guess there's no hiding all this charisma.
Guess there's no hiding all this charisma.
Woe is me, y'know?
Woe is me, y'know?
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Her self-confidence is
cute
.
Her self-confidence is
adorable
.
So, are you gonna give up
being an idol?
So, are you gonna give up
on
being an idol?
Why
? No way.
Why
would I
? No way.
But that means...
But that means...
I don't have a family, you see.
I don't have a family, you see.
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I
always longed for one.
But I've
always longed for one.
I'm carrying twins, right?
I'm carrying twins, right?
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I'm sure our family will be a
cheerful
and fun
one!
I'm sure our family will be a
fun and
cheerful
one!
You're gonna give birth
You're gonna give birth
and also continue being an idol
?
and also continue being an idol
.
So, that must mean...
So, that must mean...
Yep, I won't make it public.
Yep, I won't make it public.
Idols are objects of worship, you know?
Idols are objects of worship, you know?
They sparkle through the magic of lies.
They sparkle through the magic of lies.
Lies are the most exquisite love!
Lies are the most exquisite love!
Being able to conceal a kid or two just means someone's a top-class idol.
Being able to conceal a kid or two just means someone's a top-class idol.
Piling on lie after lie,
Piling on lie after lie,
we look happy as we sing on stage no matter what struggles we might face.
we look happy as we sing on stage no matter what struggles we might face.
What a fun job!
What a fun job!
Still... The happiness part's something that I wanna experience for real.
Still... The happiness part's something that I wanna experience for real.
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No one
realizes
it, but we've got our own feelings and lives, too.
No one
considers
it, but we've got our own feelings and lives, too.
Happiness as a mother, and happiness as an idol...
Happiness as a mother, and happiness as an idol...
It might be normal to have only one,
It might be normal to have only one,
but I want both!
but I want both!
Hoshino Ai's a greedy girl, you know!
Hoshino Ai's a greedy girl, you know!
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The idol I knew as Ai
was
far
more
bold,
cunning, and strong
than I ever imagined.
The idol I knew as Ai
is
far
bolder,
more
cunning, and strong
er
than I ever imagined.
She
shone
as bright as the
first star of
evening
.
She
's
as bright as the
evening
star
.
I've reached a
consensus
.
I've reached a
decision
.
Huh?
Huh?
My views as a doctor and as a fan have now aligned.
My views as a doctor and as a fan have now aligned.
Hoshino Ai,
Hoshino Ai,
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I will perform the delivery, ensuring you safely give birth to
healthy children.
I will perform the delivery, ensuring you safely give birth to
two
healthy children.
If that's what will make you happy, I'll
go along with it
.
If that's what will make you happy, I'll
gladly support you
.
After all,
After all,
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you
're hopelessly
an idol,
you
live and breathe to be
an idol,
and
I am hopelessly
you
r fan
.
just as I live
and
breathe for
you
.
All right, let's get down to business.
All right, let's get down to business.
For starters, you should use a fake name here at the hospital.
For starters, you should use a fake name here at the hospital.
Okay.
Okay.
In cases like yours, a cesarean section is usually necessary.
In cases like yours, a cesarean section is usually necessary.
For someone with your build,
For someone with your build,
it's common for the pelvis to not open enough if one of the baby's skulls is large.
it's common for the pelvis to not open enough if one of the baby's skulls is large.
Oh, really?
Oh, really?
A scar on her belly will spell trouble for her job.
A scar on her belly will spell trouble for her job.
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Doctor, aren't there
other options?
Doctor, aren't there
any
other options?
Painless delivery, Sophrology...
Painless delivery, Sophrology...
Well...
Well...
Whatever's fine. I feel super healthy.
Whatever's fine. I feel super healthy.
Ai...
Ai...
It'll be fine. I can handle a natural delivery.
It'll be fine. I can handle a natural delivery.
I mean, they're my kids, right?
I mean, they're my kids, right?
They're sure to have small, beautiful faces!
They're sure to have small, beautiful faces!
Why are you always like this?!
Why are you always like this?!
Perhaps I became a doctor for this very moment.
Perhaps I became a doctor for this very moment.
I'll see that they're delivered as safely and surely as possible.
I'll see that they're delivered as safely and surely as possible.
I vow to protect your family.
I vow to protect your family.
If I'm being honest, I do have mixed feelings.
If I'm being honest, I do have mixed feelings.
But I've done everything I can to hide that.
But I've done everything I can to hide that.
Lies are love.
Lies are love.
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I've come to see that phrase in a good light.
Stars truly are amazing.
I've come to see that phrase in a good light.
Stars truly are amazing.
Thanks for today, doctor.
Thanks for today, doctor.
But come back as soon as I call, okay?
But come back as soon as I call, okay?
Sure thing. Besides, I live really close by.
Sure thing. Besides, I live really close by.
Well, if I don't make it, another doctor will attend to you anyway.
Well, if I don't make it, another doctor will attend to you anyway.
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No,
I want
you.
No,
it has to be
you.
I'm just joking.
I'm just joking.
See you later.
See you later.
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Okay
.
Okay
!
Once this is over, I'll lose my connection to Ai,
Once this is over, I'll lose my connection to Ai,
and we'll go back to just being an idol and her fan.
and we'll go back to just being an idol and her fan.
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I got a glimpse of her
hidden side
,
I got a glimpse of her
true self
,
but I
feel that I actually ca
me to like her straightforward personality.
but I
think I've co
me to like her straightforward personality.
I feel I can root for her happiness from the bottom of my—
I feel I can root for her happiness from the bottom of my—
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Hey,
buddy
. Are you Hoshino Ai's doctor?
Hey,
pal
. Are you Hoshino Ai's doctor?
She's using a fake name.
She's using a fake name.
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Even if you spotted her at the hospital, why do you know her family name?
It's not as if it's public.
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?
Are you affiliated with her?
Can I get your name?
Can I get your name?
Hey!
Hey!
Could this guy be a stalker?
Could this guy be a stalker?
And Ai's just about to give birth, too...
And Ai's just about to give birth, too...
Dammit! Making me rush down a mountain trail like this...
Dammit! Making me rush down a mountain trail like this...
Where'd he go?!
Where'd he go?!
Ah, he really startled me.
Ah, he really startled me.
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My mind
just
went
bla
nk
all of a sudden.
I
just
bla
cked out
all of a sudden.
Oh, my phone.
Oh, my phone.
Has Ai gone into labor?
Has Ai gone into labor?
Where is my phone, anyway?
Where is my phone, anyway?
Too dark, can't tell.
Too dark, can't tell.
Can't move a muscle, either.
Can't move a muscle, either.
I gotta get there ASAP.
I gotta get there ASAP.
After all, I promised her.
After all, I promised her.
I told her I'd make sure her babies were born healthy.
I told her I'd make sure her babies were born healthy.
I need to get up...
I need to get up...
and make sure her children are...
and make sure her children are...
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Haven't you
thought
about what it'd be like
if you were
the child of a celebrity?
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.
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 die now, there's a chance I'll be reborn as an idol's kid.
In my next life...
In my next life...
I'd never given it serious thought before.
I'd never given it serious thought before.
I mean, why would I?
I mean, why would I?
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After all, I didn't think it
had anything
to
do with
me.
After all, I didn't think it
would actually happen
to
me.
I thought people like me went to hell when they died.
I thought people like me went to hell when they died.
And yet.
And yet.
When I awoke, I was in heaven.
When I awoke, I was in heaven.
This is how I am now.
This is how I am now.
You're such a good boy, Aquamarine.
You're such a good boy, Aquamarine.
In any case, I've been given quite a name.
In any case, I've been given quite a name.
Now, I'm living as the son of idol Hoshino Ai.
Now, I'm living as the son of idol Hoshino Ai.
I'm at a loss as for why, though.
I'm at a loss as for why, though.
I mean, it took me quite some time to accept the reality of the situation.
I mean, it took me quite some time to accept the reality of the situation.
Was I reborn?
Was I reborn?
Well, maybe "reincarnated" is the more modern way of putting it?
Well, maybe "reincarnated" is the more modern way of putting it?
Why do I still have memories from my previous life?
Why do I still have memories from my previous life?
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What
principle
could be at work?
What
machinations
could be at work?
Though I may not look it, I'm still something of a doctor.
Though I may not look it, I'm still something of a doctor.
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I intend to eventually uncover
the mechanism behind
this
.
I intend to eventually uncover
how
this
came to be
.
But...
But...
For now, I want to enjoy this life as a baby to the fullest.
For now, I want to enjoy this life as a baby to the fullest.
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This
environment
where my favorite idol is doing her darnedest to pamper me
This
life
where my favorite idol is doing her darnedest to pamper me
deeply touches the heart of the tired working adult inside me.
deeply touches the heart of the tired working adult inside me.
Coming!
Coming!
Oh, right, there's one more person who lives with us.
Oh, right, there's one more person who lives with us.
Now what's the matter, Ruby?
Now what's the matter, Ruby?
Hoshino Ruby: the girl who was born as my twin.
Hoshino Ruby: the girl who was born as my twin.
Her name is somewhat less psychologically damaging than mine.
Her name is somewhat less psychologically damaging than mine.
So much so that even now I wish she'd swap with me.
So much so that even now I wish she'd swap with me.
What's wrong, Aqua?
What's wrong, Aqua?
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That's Ruby, y
a
know.
That's Ruby, y
'
know.
And you call yourself a mother?
And you call yourself a mother?
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I've always been bad
at remembering names
and
faces
, so I can't help it.
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.
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!
Don't get all international on me when you don't even have a passport!
Hell, you even refuse to do overseas shoots!
Hell, you even refuse to do overseas shoots!
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But, you know, I'm able to
the
remember the names of people I think are talented, President Satou.
But, you know, I'm able to
remember the names of people I think are talented, President Satou.
Close, but no.
Close, but no.
My name is Saitou, you sad excuse for an idol.
My name is Saitou, you sad excuse for an idol.
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Anyway
... as
of today, Ai returns to being an idol!
Anyway
! As
of today, Ai returns to being an idol!
We're gonna discuss your activities going forward.
We're gonna discuss your activities going forward.
The first step of your comeback is a music program tonight.
The first step of your comeback is a music program tonight.
It'll be broadcast live, but you're up for it, right?
It'll be broadcast live, but you're up for it, right?
Of course.
Of course.
While you're working, my wife will look after your children.
While you're working, my wife will look after your children.
I see...
I see...
Your wife is pretty young, huh?
Your wife is pretty young, huh?
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The other members are
super turned off
by the way you favor young
girls.
The other members are
kinda creeped out
by the way you favor young
er
girls.
That's news to me. I'll be more careful.
That's news to me. I'll be more careful.
Is it a problem if I bring my kids to the studio?
Is it a problem if I bring my kids to the studio?
Of course it's a problem!
Of course it's a problem!
Now listen here!
Now listen here!
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If word gets out that a
idol like you became a mother of two at 16,
If word gets out that a
n
idol like you became a mother of two at 16,
you can kiss your
idol
career goodbye.
you can kiss your
career goodbye.
I'll come under fire as the one responsible for supervising you, and my agency will be finished.
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!
The whole lot of us will be headed straight to hell!
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And
when you
go shopping or do
paperwork
at city hall
or
whatever, leave the kids at home
!
And
no bringing the kids along for the ride
when you
need to file
paperwork
or
go shopping
!
If
you have a truly pressing emergency
,
If
circumstances absolutely call for it
,
you're to
head out
under the guise
that you are
watching our kids for us.
you're to
operate
under the guise
of
watching our kids for us.
Aw, come on!
Aw, come on!
What a pain, huh, Ruby?
What a pain, huh, Ruby?
That's Aqua.
That's Aqua.
As a mother, I suppose Ai could be considered rather hopeless.
As a mother, I suppose Ai could be considered rather hopeless.
But the president and his wife considerately cover for her.
But the president and his wife considerately cover for her.
So things may work out, after all.
So things may work out, after all.
The rehearsal starts soon. Let's move out.
The rehearsal starts soon. Let's move out.
Okay!
Okay!
Whoops!
Whoops!
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That was a close
call
! I almost flashed
my boobs at
you, President.
That was a close
one
! I almost flashed
you, President.
Well, keep 'em covered when you're outside.
Well, keep 'em covered when you're outside.
Nope, it's hopeless!
Nope, it's hopeless!
This girl's gonna wreck everything!
This girl's gonna wreck everything!
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B
Komachi is coming on!
B
-
Komachi is coming on!
We're B
Komachi! Thanks for having us.
We're B
-
Komachi! Thanks for having us.
Yeah, glad to have you.
Yeah, glad to have you.
I don't have any experience babysitting in the first place.
I don't have any experience babysitting in the first place.
Why'm I the one who has to...
Why'm I the one who has to...
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Here's Ai,
who has
resum
ed
her idol activities
as of
today!
Here's Ai,
resum
ing
her idol activities
today!
Doing all right? Are you eating properly?
Doing all right? Are you eating properly?
Yes! I'm eating plenty!
Yes! I'm eating plenty!
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That's a relief. She's
doing a good job
.
That's a relief. She's
handling it well
.
Oh, right! Speaking of food, the other day my baby...
Oh, right! Speaking of food, the other day my baby...
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"My
baby
"
?
Your
baby
?
Er, I mean my baby kitten!
Er, I mean my baby kitten!
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I got a pet
while I was out
, you see!
I got a pet
during my break
, you see!
Oh...
Oh...
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M
aybe she really is hopeless.
Or m
aybe she really is hopeless.
Oh, I'm always blurting out
such
strange
things...
Oh, I'm always blurting out
the
strange
st
things...
In
30 seconds
, the camera will be switching over
.
We'll be going live in
30 seconds
.
Please give
us a nice performance!
Please give
it your all!
Sure
!
Okay
!
Thanks for your help!
Thanks for your help!
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Do you know B
Komachi?
Do you know B
-
Komachi?
Nope.
And
I'm
not
interested.
Nope.
Can't say
I'm
interested.
I've listened to their recordings, and they're
neither good nor bad, just average
.
I've listened to their recordings, and they're
honestly pretty mid
.
Well, this is the kind of stuff that sells.
Well, this is the kind of stuff that sells.
True.
True.
Mass-produced idols...
Mass-produced idols...
We've gotta find something nice to say about 'em—what we gonna do?
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.
That center girl's face is about the only thing worthy of praise.
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I do recognize the
ir
name, but there's been no talk of them these past six months.
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?
So who's trying to push them on people?
Probably started underground.
Probably started underground.
They're with Strawberry Productions? Never heard of 'em.
They're with Strawberry Productions? Never heard of 'em.
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That
one with the
big boobs is nice
. We should get her
to do
pinup work.
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.
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.
In this industry, the smiles cover up all the lies and selfish motives underneath.
You can't jeopardize the broadcast.
You can't jeopardize the broadcast.
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To get the very best performance out of every single performer, even the staff will lie
if
need
be
.
To get the very best performance out of every single performer, even the staff will lie
as
need
ed
.
That goes for
big shots, too.
That goes for
the
big shots, too.
They act like they're making art, but they only look at the bottom line.
They act like they're making art, but they only look at the bottom line.
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On
in ten
seconds.
Eight.
..
Live
in ten
.
s
even, six...
On
in five
seconds.
Eight.
Well, bring it on
!
S
even, six...
Live
in five
.
And that's fine by me
!
Four! Three!
Four! Three!
Because our Ai lies with all her heart!
Because our Ai lies with all her heart!
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The president sure is a crazy guy.
If Ai's secret is exposed, he risks losing everything.
The president sure is a crazy guy.
If Ai's secret is exposed, he risks losing everything.
Still, I get it...
Still, I get it...
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There
's
no way
to not go crazy around her.
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?
In front of a light this intense, what else is there to do but get burned?
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Like moths drawn to the flame.
Even upon realizing their wings will be singed off, they cannot stop.
Like moths drawn to the flame.
Even upon realizing their wings will be singed off, they cannot stop.
And I'm no exception.
And I'm no exception.
I'm glad I'm able to watch over Ai from so close.
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.
So much so that I'm grateful to the guy who murdered me.
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Should this rebirth
happen to
be
a miracle worked
by
all the
obsession
toward
her, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised.
Should this rebirth
have
be
en 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.
Truth is, I wanted to help her give birth to normal children.
But it's an act of God.
But it's an act of God.
You can't compete against supernatural phenomena.
You can't compete against supernatural phenomena.
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So I
'm going to
enjoy myself.
So I
may as well
enjoy myself.
Wait!
Wait!
N Station already started!
N Station already started!
Why didn't you wake me up?!
Why didn't you wake me up?!
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Oh
my god, Mama
's just too cute!
Oh
gawds, Mommy
's just too cute!
All the viewers should have to pay a billion yen for this!
All the viewers should have to pay a billion yen for this!
Her expressiveness when she turns is outta this world!
Her expressiveness when she turns is outta this world!
Like, is she even human?
Like, is she even human?
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Daaamn
!
Gosh
!
I just had a diaper change, but I feel like I'm
gonna
wet myself!
I just had a diaper change, but I feel like I'm
about to
wet myself!
She has
a
great
face,
great figure, and her singing is
excellent
too!
She has
great
looks, a
great figure, and her singing is
amazing
too!
Our mom is seriously way too gifted!
Our mom is seriously way too gifted!
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I've gotta
go back and watch
the recording ASAP!
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?!
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!
These bodies always get so damn sleepy, so let's help each other out!
I did wake you up. More than once.
I did wake you up. More than once.
Oh, you did?
Oh, you did?
This dummy here is also someone who's been reborn, same as me.
This dummy here is also someone who's been reborn, same as me.
I ended up realizing that quite early on.
I ended up realizing that quite early on.
What?! Drop dead!
What?! Drop dead!
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You ape-men just can't comprehend
Mama
's talent and beauty!
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!
From the quality of her performances, it's clear she's in a different league!
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It's
inevitable
that management would favor her!
It's
a given
that management would favor her!
I bet you're
just an
ugly old hag!
I bet you're
some
ugly old hag!
Take a look in the mirror and say that again,
uggo
!
Take a look in the mirror and say that again,
fugly
!
Jeez, I can't believe this!
Jeez, I can't believe this!
Think you can hold a candle to Ai?!
Think you can hold a candle to Ai?!
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She was searching for "B
Komachi Ai" and engaging in nuclear flame wars with haters.
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
face
and figure?!
Can you really beat Ai, a genius idol with the perfect
looks
and figure?!
Hey...
Hey...
Are you the same as me?
Are you the same as me?
Huh?
Huh?
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That
baby just talked!
The
baby just talked!
Gro
ss!
Gro
oo
ss!
Right back at ya.
Right back at ya.
I'll say it again.
I'll say it again.
I wanted to help her give birth to normal children.
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!
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.
Not a freaky set of twins like us.
Ai... Ai...
Ai... Ai...
You damn liar.
You damn liar.
How dare you go and make babies!
How dare you go and make babies!
Why?
Why?
Why?!
Why?!
You tricked me!
You tricked me!
Aqua.
Aqua.
You hungry? Wanna nurse?
You hungry? Wanna nurse?
Huh? You'd rather not?
Huh? You'd rather not?
You sure like your bottle, don't you?
You sure like your bottle, don't you?
Just look at you go!
Just look at you go!
I feel like, as an adult, being breastfed by an idol would indeed be crossing the line.
I feel like, as an adult, being breastfed by an idol would indeed be crossing the line.
Coming!
Coming!
Wanna nurse again?
Wanna nurse again?
Now you like breastfeeding, don't you, Ruby?
Now you like breastfeeding, don't you, Ruby?
That little...
That little...
Time for work.
Time for work.
Okay!
Okay!
I'll be back later.
I'll be back later.
See you later!
See you later!
See you!
See you!
Hey, could you show a bit of restraint?
Hey, could you show a bit of restraint?
Why?
Why?
It's simply the law of nature for a daughter like me to suck her mother's breast.
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.
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?
Well, let me at least ask... Were you a girl in your previous life too?
Yep.
Yep.
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Well, I suppose I can let it slide
then.
Well, I suppose I can let it slide
,
then.
The jealousy of
otaku
is
gross!
The jealousy of
idol fanatics
is
so
gross!
Well, ethically speaking, a grown man breastfeeding is
just
messed up!
Well, ethically speaking, a grown man breastfeeding is
beyond
messed up!
Lucky me! I'm a girl, so sucking away is a-okay!
Lucky me! I'm a girl, so sucking away is a-okay!
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From my ethical
viewpoint
, that's still a no-go.
From my ethical
standpoint
, that's still a no-go.
Poor
Mama
...
Poor
Mommy
...
It's
super creepy
that her own
kid
is
an otaku
obsessed with her.
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.
Aw, that poor thing. I'll protect her for as long as I live.
You're the creepier one, no doubt.
You're the creepier one, no doubt.
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I want a diaper change, so go
over there
!
I want a diaper change, so go
away
!
Yeah, yeah.
Yeah, yeah.
How'd this become my job?
How'd this become my job?
I mean, aren't I a company president's wife?
I mean, aren't I a company president's wife?
I married him 'cause I thought I'd get to work with pretty boys.
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?!
But my job turns out to be taking care of a 16-year-old idol's kids?!
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Plus
she's a single mom
—
the
dad's not even in
the
picture
!
Plus
,
she's a single mom
. Where
the
hell is
the
father?
!
This shit's
too
dark!
This shit's
so
dark!
I didn't get married to be a damn babysitter!
I didn't get married to be a damn babysitter!
What?
What?
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The privilege of serving
Mama
should bring nothing but happiness.
The privilege of serving
Mommy
should bring nothing but happiness.
She's not right in the head, is she?
She's not right in the head, is she?
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No,
I can
actually
see
the validity in what
she's
saying
.
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?
You know, there's a real scandal underneath all of this, isn't there?
That's it!
That's it!
If I sold the story to a tabloid, I could be swimming in cash.
If I sold the story to a tabloid, I could be swimming in cash.
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I don't give a crap what happens anymore!
I'm gonna do it!
I don't give a crap what happens anymore!
Uh-oh, not good. What
's the call
? Do we kill her?
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.
Not happening. She's got too much of a size advantage.
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I was
just
kidding, but were you
actually
serious
about
it?
I was
obviously
kidding, but were you
serious
ly considering
it?
There's no question that this could be trouble if we just let it
be
...
There's no question that this could be trouble if we just let it
happen
...
Even so...
Even so...
What're we gonna do?!
What're we gonna do?!
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She's snapping tons of pics of the maternity health
-
record
book
!
She's snapping tons of pics of the maternity health
record
!
Actually, I think this presents an opportunity.
Actually, I think this presents an opportunity.
I have an idea.
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.
With the proceeds I get from selling this, I'll boost my fave host to the top of the monthly rankings.
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O wretched
girl
...
O wretched
mortal
...
Thy heart's thirst cannot be quenched by champagne.
Thy heart's thirst cannot be quenched by champagne.
Who's there?!
Who's there?!
I-I am a divine messenger.
I-I am a divine messenger.
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Thy
excesses
can no longer be overlooked.
Thy
transgressions
can no longer be overlooked.
A...
"
divine messenger
"
?
A...
divine messenger
?
Wait a minute,
that
baby just talked...
Wait a minute,
the
baby just talked...
No way!
No way!
In thy experience, are mere babes capable of speech?
In thy experience, are mere babes capable of speech?
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Believe in me
.
Heed my words
.
Well, it's just
when you talk about the divine...
Well, it's just
,
when you talk about the divine...
I don't believe in that kind of stuff...
I don't believe in that kind of stuff...
Oh, I get it!
Oh, I get it!
This must be a candid-camera thing!
This must be a candid-camera thing!
Like, some TV show Ai is in where they prank the managers!
Like, some TV show Ai is in where they prank the managers!
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Those are
totally
a thing!
Those are
a thing!
They sure went to a lot of trouble.
They sure went to a lot of trouble.
There's a camera somewhere around here, right?
There's a camera somewhere around here, right?
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Tch... I guess
this was too
much of a stretch
.
I knew
this was too
far-fetched
.
Now, now, Ruby, it's dangerous up there on the tab—
Now, now, Ruby, it's dangerous up there on the tab—
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Behave
thyself! I am
an incarnation of Amaterasu
.
Know
thyself! I am
Amaterasu incarnate
.
I am what ye
call
a
god.
I am what ye
know as
a
Goddess.
"God"
...
Goddess
...
Manipulated
by prospects of immediate profit,
Tempted
by prospects of immediate profit,
thou art on the verge of abandoning thy destiny.
thou art on the verge of abandoning thy destiny.
Destiny?
Destiny?
Hoshino Ai was chosen by the God of Entertainment.
Hoshino Ai was chosen by the God of Entertainment.
Furthermore, these children are twins who bear a monumental destiny.
Furthermore, these children are twins who bear a monumental destiny.
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It is thy destiny to
keep guard
over them.
It is thy destiny to
watch
over them.
Thy deeds run contrary to the will of the gods.
Thy deeds run contrary to the will of the gods.
Be prepared for divine punishment should you persist.
Be prepared for divine punishment should you persist.
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"
Divine punishment
"
?!
Divine punishment
?!
What do you mean?! Like, specifically!
What do you mean?! Like, specifically!
Specifically? Specifically...
Specifically? Specifically...
You'll die.
You'll die.
Yeah, you'll die!
Yeah, you'll die!
No!
No!
That's super specific!
That's super specific!
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W
-What... should I do?
W
h
-What... should I do?
It is but a simple task.
It is but a simple task.
Guard our family's secrets.
Guard our family's secrets.
Moreover, dote on these children and do everything they ask of thee.
Moreover, dote on these children and do everything they ask of thee.
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"
Everything
"
...
Everything
...
Do
thusly
, and a second marriage to a handsome actor is not out of the question.
Do
so
, and a second marriage to a handsome actor is not out of the question.
Seriously?!
Seriously?!
I'll do it! I'll do whatever is asked of me!
I'll do it! I'll do whatever is asked of me!
I'll even lick their insoles if need be!
I'll even lick their insoles if need be!
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Thou needn't go
that
far.
Thou needn't go
so
far.
A second marriage to a handsome guy!
A second marriage to a handsome guy!
Do you think that was the right call?
Do you think that was the right call?
At any rate, there's a limit to what an infant can accomplish.
At any rate, there's a limit to what an infant can accomplish.
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And now we'll
able to go outside.
And now we'll
be
able to go outside.
Yay!
Yay!
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You know
...
that was quite
a
convincing performance.
You know
,
that was quite
the
convincing performance.
Did
you do
theater before?
Have
you do
ne
theater before?
Nope,
this
was a first for me.
Nope,
that
was a first for me.
A first? You never put on any plays at school?
A first? You never put on any plays at school?
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Well, I
was raised
in a bit of an unusual place.
Well, I
grew up
in a bit of an unusual place.
I guess it's just talent, then.
I guess it's just talent, then.
Maybe acting's in your future.
Maybe acting's in your future.
My future...
My future...
I've never given it any thought.
I've never given it any thought.
I found myself with a little sister.
I found myself with a little sister.
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A strange gal who is a
n
idol
otaku
.
A strange gal who is a
hopeless
idol
fanatic
.
That said...
That said...
Ai dances so nimbly! And her charisma is off the charts!
Ai dances so nimbly! And her charisma is off the charts!
Hmm...
Hmm...
I like Ai the best of anyone in the whole world,
I like Ai the best of anyone in the whole world,
but I like you just about as much, doctor!
but I like you just about as much, doctor!
The passion this girl has when she talks about Ai
The passion this girl has when she talks about Ai
is just like yours,
is just like yours,
Sarina.
Sarina.
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What? Did you
call for
me?
What? Did you
say my na
me?
My bad, did I wake you up?
My bad, did I wake you up?
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I
wasn't
calling out to you
.
I
t
wasn't
your name that I said
.
If you're gonna sleep, do it in
bed.
If you're gonna sleep, do it in
your
bed.
Well, yeah.
Well, yeah.
There's no way he was...
There's no way he was...
After all, Sarina's not my name anymore.
After all, Sarina's not my name anymore.
It's been a few months since Ai returned to being an idol.
It's been a few months since Ai returned to being an idol.
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And B
Komachi's bec
o
me completely unstoppable...
And B
-
Komachi's bec
a
me completely unstoppable...
...in our dreams.
...in our dreams.
My pay this month is 200,000 yen...
My pay this month is 200,000 yen...
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Hey
, this agency's so stingy with pay.
Seriously
, this agency's so stingy with pay.
The single we just put out reached #3 on Oricon, didn't it?
The single we just put out reached #3 on Oricon, didn't it?
Aren't the middlemen taking too big a cut?
Aren't the middlemen taking too big a cut?
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C
omplaining
only just
no
w
?
Bit late to be c
omplaining
,
no
?
Unlike the big players who do everything from production to distribution, we're a puny talent agency.
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?
You came into this knowing our profits are slim, right?
I've finally realized the world is all about money.
I've finally realized the world is all about money.
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That's quite
a
depressing epiphany.
That's quite
the
depressing epiphany.
Being an idol is fun,
Being an idol is fun,
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so I wouldn't mind g
o
ing
on
like this if
it
were
just me
.
so I wouldn't mind g
ett
ing
by
like this if
I
were
on my own
.
But I want to send these
kids
to good schools
and have
them take
lessons
and so on.
But I want to send these
little ones
to good schools
, let
them take
extra
lessons
,
and so on.
To give them lots of
options
, I've gotta sell better and earn as much as possible, don't I?
To give them lots of
opportunities
, I've gotta sell better and earn as much as possible, don't I?
As things stand now,
As things stand now,
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I won't be able to make the
se kids
happy.
I won't be able to make the
m
happy.
Aww
, I sure wish I'd get some job offers for commercials or films.
Ahh
, I sure wish I'd get some job offers for commercials or films.
Guess we're too small for that too.
Guess we're too small for that too.
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Well,
lay off that pricey ice cream for a start.
Maybe
lay off that pricey ice cream for a start.
I'm heading off for my lesson.
I'm heading off for my lesson.
Be good while Mommy's gone, okay?
Be good while Mommy's gone, okay?
Hey, don't idols usually make like a million yen a month?
Hey, don't idols usually make like a million yen a month?
Far from it.
Far from it.
Wait, they don't?!
Wait, they don't?!
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Song royalties and TV appearance
fees
are split between
the
members.
Song royalties and TV appearance
earnings
are split between
all
members.
Concerts come out in the red if the merch doesn't sell well.
Concerts come out in the red if the merch doesn't sell well.
And their uniforms are deducted from their pay.
And their uniforms are deducted from their pay.
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Only a select
handful
pull in one million a month.
Only a select
few can
pull in one million a month.
What the hell?!
What the hell?!
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T
he world's
beyond saving
when money doesn't reach the people giving it their all!
You know t
he world's
messed up
when money doesn't reach the people giving it their all!
Oh, I know!
Oh, I know!
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All the
otaku
could
take turns
offering
up
their livers to Ai, which we'll turn around and sell.
All the
idol creeps
could
start
offering
their livers to Ai, which we'll turn around and sell.
T
hat
idea of
your
s is beyond saving.
W
hat
's actually messed up is
your
thinking.
Cut it out with that
post-
nuclear-holocaust view of
religion.
Stop thinking like the leader of some
post-
apocalyptic
religion.
She sings and dances, and her
face is
out of this world.
She sings and dances, and her
looks are
out of this world.
She does lessons and vocal training.
She does lessons and vocal training.
And she's a hard worker who practices choreography at home at night.
And she's a hard worker who practices choreography at home at night.
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B
Komachi is one of the better-selling groups, and yet...
B
-
Komachi is one of the better-selling groups, and yet...
Hey, manager!
Hey, manager!
Why isn't our Ai getting any job offers?!
Why isn't our Ai getting any job offers?!
What crap management! Put more effort into sales and marketing!
What crap management! Put more effort into sales and marketing!
Easier said than done...
Easier said than done...
Fundamentally, with idol groups,
Fundamentally, with idol groups,
you have a business situation where people band together in order to compete against solo entertainers for jobs.
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,
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.
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
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
who end up working at high-end food and drink establishments in Roppongi
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or become Minato girls getting paid to go out drinki
or become Minato girls getting paid to go out drinki
ng because they can't find work on their own.
I actually didn't know...
Tokyo's a s
Diferencias guardadas
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# MTBB 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. Any inconvenient secrets are neatly covered up. That being the case, an idol fan is someone who wants to be skillfully lied to. In this world, lies are weapons. Ai! I wish I could've witnessed her cuteness in person! The undisputed ace idol of B Komachi... Their unshakable center... The supremely pretty 16-year-old girl... Ai! It's been four years since they started! They gradually gained popularity, their media exposure increased, and it feels like the public has finally discovered them! This is where she really takes off! Her stardom is close at— Why are you playing a DVD in a patient's room? No one in their right mind would do that. Observing something beautiful 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 it 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 are a fanatic. 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. Shape up. One of the patients I met back then changed my destiny. And this girl is Mei-Mei! Her dancing is great! Ari and Kyun are good singers, but my fave is... Ai, without a doubt! She's about my age, but she's so grown-up looking and great at singing and dancing! And what a pretty face she has... In my next life, I want a face like that. What do you mean, your next life? Don't be silly. Not much of a dreamer, are you? Haven't you thought about what it'd be like if you were the child of a celebrity? Like, if you had looks and connections right from birth. Nope. So you really don't have any dreams... You're cute already, Sarina. There's no need for you to be reborn. After you're discharged, become an idol yourself if you want. 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, superimposing the two of them in my mind. She's walking the path toward her dreams. And I just want to see it. That's all. 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. Aren't you just using Sarina as an excuse to release your own desires? Ridiculous! I swear on Sarina's name that I'm supporting her with the purest of hearts! But, if that Ai girl appeared and asked you to date her, wouldn't you say yes? Well, lunch break is over. Let's get back to work. How about it, doctor? Swearing in the name of Sarina, what's your answer? Still, I'm worried about Ai... I hope she gets healthy and makes a comeback. 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 see, she must be dealing with some things. Must be one of those girls who 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... Doctor, how's it looking? Any chance she just has a terrible case of constipation? In that case, she'd be dead already. I'm doin' fine on that front! It went real smoothly today! First off, you'll need an examination. I need to get everything ready, 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 feel like I'm gonna vomit. 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 carrying them to term? If it gets out that you've gotten pregnant at 16 and given birth, 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, on to 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... Well, that's rather timely... 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. 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 even at 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. Aww... 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 cute. So, are you gonna give up being an idol? Why? No way. But that means... I don't have a family, you see. I always longed for one. I'm carrying twins, right? I'm sure our family will be a cheerful and fun 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 realizes 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 was far more bold, cunning, and strong than I ever imagined. She shone as bright as the first star of evening. I've reached a consensus. 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 healthy children. If that's what will make you happy, I'll go along with it. After all, you're hopelessly an idol, and I am hopelessly your fan. 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 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, I want 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 hidden side, but I feel that I actually came to like her straightforward personality. I feel I can root for her happiness from the bottom of my— Hey, buddy. 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. My mind just went blank 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 thought about what it'd be like if you were 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 had anything to do with 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 principle could be at work? Though I may not look it, I'm still something of a doctor. I intend to eventually uncover the mechanism behind this. But... For now, I want to enjoy this life as a baby to the fullest. This environment 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, ya know. And you call yourself a mother? I've always been bad at remembering names and faces, 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 the 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 super turned off by the way you favor young 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 a idol like you became a mother of two at 16, you can kiss your idol 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 when you go shopping or do paperwork at city hall or whatever, leave the kids at home! If you have a truly pressing emergency, you're to head out under the guise that you are 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 call! I almost flashed my boobs at 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, who has resumed her idol activities as of today! Doing all right? Are you eating properly? Yes! I'm eating plenty! That's a relief. She's doing a good job. Oh, right! Speaking of food, the other day my baby... "My baby"? Er, I mean my baby kitten! I got a pet while I was out, you see! Oh... Maybe she really is hopeless. Oh, I'm always blurting out such strange things... In 30 seconds, the camera will be switching over. Please give us a nice performance! Sure! Thanks for your help! Do you know B Komachi? Nope. And I'm not interested. I've listened to their recordings, and they're neither good nor bad, just average. 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 their 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. That one with the big boobs is nice. We should get her to do 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 if need be. That goes for big shots, too. They act like they're making art, but they only look at the bottom line. On in ten seconds. Eight... seven, six... On in five seconds. Well, bring it on! 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... There's no way 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 happen to be a miracle worked by all the obsession toward 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'm going to enjoy myself. Wait! N Station already started! Why didn't you wake me up?! Oh my god, Mama'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? Daaamn! I just had a diaper change, but I feel like I'm gonna wet myself! She has a great face, great figure, and her singing is excellent too! Our mom is seriously way too gifted! I've gotta go back and watch 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 Mama's talent and beauty! From the quality of her performances, it's clear she's in a different league! It's inevitable that management would favor her! I bet you're just an ugly old hag! Take a look in the mirror and say that again, uggo! 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 face and figure?! Hey... Are you the same as me? Huh? That baby just talked! Gross! 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 otaku is gross! Well, ethically speaking, a grown man breastfeeding is just messed up! Lucky me! I'm a girl, so sucking away is a-okay! From my ethical viewpoint, that's still a no-go. Poor Mama... It's super creepy that her own kid is an otaku 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 over there! 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— the dad's not even in the picture! This shit's too dark! I didn't get married to be a damn babysitter! What? The privilege of serving Mama should bring nothing but happiness. She's not right in the head, is she? No, I can actually see the validity in what she's saying. 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's the call? Do we kill her? Not happening. She's got too much of a size advantage. I was just kidding, but were you actually serious about it? There's no question that this could be trouble if we just let it be... Even so... What're we gonna do?! She's snapping tons of pics of the maternity health-record book! 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 girl... Thy heart's thirst cannot be quenched by champagne. Who's there?! I-I am a divine messenger. Thy excesses can no longer be overlooked. A... "divine messenger"? Wait a minute, that baby just talked... No way! In thy experience, are mere babes capable of speech? Believe in me. 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 totally a thing! They sure went to a lot of trouble. There's a camera somewhere around here, right? Tch... I guess this was too much of a stretch. Now, now, Ruby, it's dangerous up there on the tab— Behave thyself! I am an incarnation of Amaterasu. I am what ye call a god. "God"... Manipulated 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 keep guard 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! W-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 thusly, 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 that 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 able to go outside. Yay! You know... that was quite a convincing performance. Did you do theater before? Nope, this was a first for me. A first? You never put on any plays at school? Well, I was raised 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 an idol otaku. 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 call for me? My bad, did I wake you up? I wasn't calling out to you. If you're gonna sleep, do it in 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 become completely unstoppable... ...in our dreams. My pay this month is 200,000 yen... Hey, 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? Complaining only just now? 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 a depressing epiphany. Being an idol is fun, so I wouldn't mind going on like this if it were just me. But I want to send these kids to good schools and have them take lessons and so on. To give them lots of options, 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 these kids happy. Aww, I sure wish I'd get some job offers for commercials or films. Guess we're too small for that too. Well, 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 fees are split between the 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 handful pull in one million a month. What the hell?! The world's beyond saving when money doesn't reach the people giving it their all! Oh, I know! All the otaku could take turns offering up their livers to Ai, which we'll turn around and sell. That idea of yours is beyond saving. Cut it out with that post-nuclear-holocaust view of religion. She sings and dances, and her face is 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 didn't know... Tokyo's a scary place. I do admit that Ai is amazing. But that only extends to 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 first-class as an idol isn't enough on its own. 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 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, got it? No cheering, running, or speaking! Put in your pacifiers and behave yourselves, okay? That's right, Ruby. We absolutely can't do anything that makes us stand out. Anything that gives a whiff 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. 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 an idol-fan dance! And with such skill I can't believe they're infants! 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! Two hundred ten thousand 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... Mama! Mama! Hm? Gimme pats! Pat, pat! She's superbly embodied a zealous fan who clings to their idol and brands them "Mama." 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 are 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 crystallization of all that work. It's your first TV drama, Mama! 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 "Mama" on the 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? 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 labor 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? 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 an young performer who's called "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's giving out. 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 may be babies, 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. No, if you're going to hand out work, then give it to Ai rather than me. Oh, that idol... She has an exceptional face. This looks delicious! With some luck, she'll survive in the industry. She needs luck despite having an exceptional face? 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 also act as poster children, 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 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 sense of freshness 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, their places will be taken 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, even being a first-class idol won't cut it. Director! We're all ready for the set test. 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 attracts 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 it's only a single person. 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 look! 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? Oh, this is the scene! I said no! 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! You... Why're you here? And that's why we weren't supposed to see each other. 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's it look when a girl with an even prettier face is sharing the screen? It'd be a problem for their PR strategy, right? Ai simply appeared too cute up 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. But that said, I understand your point, and I 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 one condition. You've gotta act in it, too. Listen up, Precocious Baby. In Japan, casting is for the most part decided upon by the higher-ups. The bigger the budget for a project, 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. The directors with casting authority are the very select few super heavyweights or those working on low-budget small-scale films. So, which do I look like to you? Uh... A super-heavyweight direct— Swing and a miss. We're on the set of a low-budget film here. Director, thank you for taking care of Aqua today. No, not at all. And we're on the same page about that matter, right? Er, yes... Aqua has joined Strawberry Productions as of this month. The thing is, 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 one of the fundamentals, 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 all that special. When young people just act casual around old guys, it seems to make them happy for some reason, so I just avoid being too respectful, is all. You're one dreadful 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 wanna be held to Mama's breast and pampered! Isn't she embarrassed to be acting like that at her age? Not that I know how old she really is inside... This is a professional worksite, you know! If you came to play, head home right now! 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 lick baking soda like that. The genius child actor who can cry 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 fake, and something about her just grates on me. There are some people who are unusually 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. Mama said the director forced it through. That's simply not acceptable, okay?! Well, that's not really... I watched the drama 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 one 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 reception party? That's a genius child actor for you—she's great. Do you have an issue with us being children? If I do the same thing, the obvious skill difference will ruin the scene. Even a rank amateur like me understands that much. So, what should I do? Well, the standard answer 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 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 the director met me, he 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. Well then, if you will follow me. Cut! That'll do! That's good stuff. He was just being himself, huh? You're amazing! You sent a chill down my spine. Really? That's good to hear. Nothing good about it. Clear out anything in that camera's frame! We're gonna shoot the start of the next scene. Yes, sir! Director, reshoot the scene. Hm? But there aren't any problems with it. There's a huge problem! Just now I... wasn't nearly 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 is the most essential element for an actor? 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 big shot. Were you trying to teach her a lesson? I wasn't thinking anything patronizing like that. But 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 reasonably well received, and he was nominated for Best Director at some awards ceremony. Looking back on it, I think my acting was quite skilled. However... in the end it was Ai was who carried the entire film. I don't know if that was the catalyst, but she landed a lot more work. To sum up Ai now, she's a major up-and-coming idol/media personality... I would venture to say. Ai will soon be turning 20. Thus far, we've been able to go about our daily lives without being uncovered by the public. And also... my corpse has not yet been found. Yep, you're looking cute again today! Super cute! Well, you're cuter overall, Mama. What's with this rivalry? We enrolled in a preschool. That reminds me, what were you doing before you were reborn? And how old are you really, anyway? Let's see... 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'm an adult 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 feel depressed 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's really something how seriously that girl is able to play... Huh? A preschooler is reading one of Kyogoku Natsuhiko's tomes... Okay, everyone, it's time for your dance routine. It won't be long before your families come watch your dance, so let's practice hard today! Yes, ma'am! No! I won't do it! Ruby?! Why'd you run away? Because I'm bad at dancing. I've never even done it before. Did you always stay cooped up in your room and play there? Kids these days, I tell ya... I guess I was similar to 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 what 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 together with you? We'll be performing an old song at our next concert, so I've gotta practice. Mama, your choreography is a bit off! Huh? 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 choreography, 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 mama, okay? My life came to an end with the majority of it spent in hospital rooms. My body was disabled, and it mostly didn't do 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. All of that light is burned into my retinas. O my 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 this girl... isn't only good at acting, huh? She has a sense for dance and good looks she got from our mother. I've just had a scary thought. On a whim, I decided to contact the guy I'd broken up with. 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? She obviously had 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 bit longer. Ah, you got me there! The widely-popular TV drama starring B Komachi's Ai-san 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 Dome! He's certainly in a good mood. Well, it was always the president's dream to have an idol he nurtured do a dome concert. Well, all us staff share that dream, too. Are domes really that special? They carry a different connotation 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 big 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. Domes 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 liar. Before even thinking, I say whatever fits the situation. Even I can't distinguish my real feelings from the lies. Mama, 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? What a laugh! My agency is just now putting together a unit featuring middle-school models, you see. I think you'd have a good 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 hit. I have no memory of ever loving someone or being loved. Someone 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! That'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 just never find 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 said the lie of "I love you" all over the place. 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 dome 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 that 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 let you go, 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 from you as a present. I've still got it displayed in my living room. What the hell? I... That's not what... 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 dome 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 out there? Stay back, Ruby. Tell me! Ruby? Your dance at your preschool event... was wonderful. 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... Oh yeah, 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. Those words definitely weren't a lie. Ai? Ai? Ai from the idol group B Komachi has been murdered. Before dawn this morning, a call came in from her Tokyo condo reporting that a woman was 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 then 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 dome concert has been canceled, and in front of the venue, numerous fans have given themselves over to grief. The sensational 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 some who treated the deceased like a plaything 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's 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 bunch of crap! You go and fall totally in love with 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... So if 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 lines aren't things you people can use, okay?! Hurt people use those phrases to cope with their pain. Don't use them as an excuse to hurt others! Once three days had passed, they'd said all there was to say about Ai's death. And after the news turned to a slightly early snow paralyzing the transport network, the topic wasn't brought up again. It was as if the snow was covering up Ai's death. As for us, it seems the president and his wife had transferred us to their family register, so we never became front-and-center news. 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 becoming my children for real? 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 said that maybe I would 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, and the fans are always selfish, and you'll face a barrage of criticism if you get a boyfriend. Yeah. Even so... Mama sparkled. Ruby will probably bounce back. In my several years living with her, I came 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 pin down the hospital Ai had been admitted to? Why'd he show up at the residence she'd only just moved to? The culprit was a student without special skills of any kind. I simply can't believe he'd be capable of such detective work. 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 that is someone in the entertainment industry. I can't die yet. Not until I find him and kill him by my own hand! 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. You're 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. And now, I begin my revenge play. Is it recording now? I thought it would be nice to have this on video. Once you're grown up, it would 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 is my one and only wish.
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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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