Chapter Text
Starlight Academy. Being able to see inside that legendary building would be like peering into heaven for an idol fan like me. But if I want to get there I’m going to have to become an idol myself. Of course I’ll never lose when it comes to idol knowledge but it takes more than that to become one. I’ve got to find a way to improve on what I’m lacking. I sure wish I could take the exam with Ichigo. It was only until I met her that my eyes opened to the possibility of becoming an idol. I’m sure I’d feel more confident if she was there alongside me.
“Mornin’, Aoi.” Ichigo says happily but she follows with a yawn.
“Good morning, Ichigo. Were you up early again?”
“Yeah. I was making lunch with mama. You really get to appreciate food when you see all the hard work and love that goes into it. We made a bunch so you can have as much as you want.” She unzips her bag allowing her bulky bento box to poke out.
“Thanks. I always love your cooking. Not to mention if I didn’t have some you’d just eat that mountain of food all by yourself.”
I say this teasingly but it’s all too true.
“What’s wrong with that?”
“If you overeat it will come back to haunt you. You’ll be too full to move.”
“I’ll be fine. I always make sure to burn away what I eat. That way I can eat even more rice.”
“Your motivation aside, that isn’t a bad attitude. Even still I think this bento is impossible for one person alone.”
“Yeah. Eating this by myself might be too big a challenge. I’m glad I can eat with you.”
Ichigo has an adorable smile yet again today. She always looks so carefree and unburdened. I usually feel inspired by her attitude but today I can’t help feeling a little envious of it.
She still hasn’t moved her bag off of her desk yet. She’s still thinking about the bento isn’t she?
“Before we can have lunch you have to make it through half of the school day.” I remind her.
She yawns once more.
“If you fall asleep in class you’ll get into trouble.”
“I can’t help it. I’m just so sleepy. Nighty night...”
Ichigo nestles into her desk and pretends to sleep. Well I think she’s pretending anyway. I’ll have to keep an eye on her when class starts.
“Finally lunchtime.” Ichigo says triumphantly.
“Good job making it this far.”
She readies her bento so I push my desk up to her in order to make one big desk. I never have to pack much myself since I can always count on Ichigo carrying too much food. She pulls out the bento box big enough to tower over everyone else's. It’s wrapped in a pink furoshiki that is somehow neatly tied despite the bulky box. She excitedly opens it and slides it along until it’s positioned in the middle of us. There is a large amount of rice decorated with cute bears made out of roasted nori. I see a bear cub sleeping in the center surrounded by a ring of different bear faces. Aside from rice the bento has steamed vegetables, tamagoyaki, and chicken croquettes.
“What an adorable lunch.”
Ichigo takes a moment to look over the bento. “I know right? I made the faces and mama made the center bear.”
She seems proud of it. I’m sure it’s because she got to make it with her mother.
“Itadakimasu!”
She picks up her chopsticks and acutely takes some of the rice without disrupting the bear.
“Playing a game of don’t wake the bear?”
“But Berald looks so cozy. We’ll have to leave the middle for last.”
“Fine but if you name them you’ll feel guilty about eating them.”
“Yeah. Sorry Berald but you’re just too delicious.”
I can always determine how good food is by looking at Ichigo’s face as she eats it. Her expression speaks volumes for how delicious the rice is.
“If you were an idol you’d be great at gourmet reports. I’m sure anyone would want to taste food for themself once they’ve seen how much you like it.”
“Fu-fu. You think about idols more than I think about rice.”
“Well I am the idol professor. It would be strange if I weren’t thinking about idols. Still that’s not to say this bento hasn’t got my attention. It’s definitely odayaka ja nai! Your mother always makes the most intricate nori designs.”
“I know. Sometimes the customers say it’s too beautiful to eat. But mama says that it tastes just as good as it looks so it really must be eaten.”
“There really is an art to presenting food.”
“The ones you made were really endearing.” I say coyly.
Lately it’s been harder talking to Ichigo as openly as I normally would. Which seems silly since she can be so oblivious at times. I don’t fully understand the hesitation myself but I think it’s no coincidence that the Starlight Academy entrance exam is drawing near.
“Thanks, Aoi. Have this tamagoyaki I made.”
She leans across to me with the tamagoyaki in her chopsticks. I zoned out a bit and now this piece of omelet is staring me down. A confused expression starts to form on Ichigo’s face.
“Come on, Aoi. Say Ahhhh...”
“Alright then. Ahhh-um!”
My haze is cleared away by fluffy deliciousness.
“It’s great! You have some too.”
I repay the favour by feeding her some of the tamagoyaki. I can’t help but smile whenever I see her enjoying herself.
“You really are so much like an idol, Ichigo.”
“But I’m not an idol. I’m going to run the bento store just like mama.”
“Yes. I know how passionate you are about that and I respect how much energy and enthusiasm you have for the bento shop. I wasn’t saying you shouldn’t pursue that dream I just meant...”
“Hm? What is it?”
“Never mind. We still have a lot of food to eat before lunch break is over.”
“Okay but you have to tell me later.”
“Sure.” I casually say. Not that I’m feeling confident about continuing where I left off.
She’ll probably just forget about it anyway. I shift my focus onto finishing the bento. Once we’ve finished every last grain of rice and eaten poor Bearald we spend the rest of our break feeling lethargic and content.
Class resumes but I’m finding it hard to focus today. It’s not that I dislike this school. Ichigo is here and I’m lucky enough to be in the same class as her. It’s a friendly class but people only come over to talk to me when they want to know something about a popular idol (not that I’m surprised by that.) Ichigo’s the only one who talks to me in great detail about all the different things that catch her attention. While I’m happy here it's hard to devote myself when there is another school I long to be at. I guess that’s what it comes down to.
School ends and I walk home with Ichigo. We always walk to her place and then I go home from there.
“This is the month right? You’ll be taking the Starlight Academy entrance exam.”
She brought up what never seems to leave my mind. I slump with a sudden heavy feeling. Not a very idol like thing to do at all.
“Being an idol and an idol fan are very different and even if I do get accepted I’ll be joining the class after it’s already started. Won’t I always be trailing behind?”
I’ve been thinking about Starlight Academy restlessly these past weeks but I still can’t find the words to express what I’m feeling. I do have a strong desire to become an idol but I can’t help focusing on what I’m lacking and... what I would be leaving behind if I went there.
“That’s not true at all! I’m sure you’ll get through and you’ll catch up in no time. You’ve been studying and training for this so much. You’re already inspiring to watch. Isn’t that what’s important for an idol?”
I have to raise my head when I hear Ichigo’s passionate reply. Despite my doubts and fears I want to live up to her faith in me.
“Alright. I’ll show them what it means to be the idol professor!”
I walk with my head held high. Ichigo happily hops along causing her ribbon to bounce back and forth through the air.
“Do you want to help me with my Aikatsu?”
“Totally. You can count on me.”
“Than let's sing together. It’ll help if I have another voice to compare myself too.”
True as that is, I’d be lying if I said I didn't also just love hearing Ichigo sing. I still wonder how she’s never noticed how lovely her voice is.
“I can’t sing as well as you but okay.”
“You’ll be fine. We’ll each do a verse and then after that we’ll try and harmonize. I’ll start ‘Come on, let's go to the shining future♪...’
Ichigo isn’t at all bothered as we sing our way home. She never is lacking in confidence. Or perhaps she’s just too much of a free spirit to care what others may think. I can’t help but imagine how nice it would be to sing like this on a stage alongside idols.
“Whew. My throat is sore now.” She says hoarsely.
“You were really getting into it. Maybe ease up a bit next time.”
“He,he. The excitement got to me.”
With our singing over we both enjoy a much needed breather. I feel refreshed after singing but more importantly, I’m reminded just how important confidence is. I shouldn’t leave things unspoken. Especially at a time like this.
“Ichigo, do you remember that thing I was trying to say?”
“Oh yeah! What is it?”
“I know it’s not your dream to become an idol. You want to run the bento shop and get as good as your mother but that doesn’t change anything. Whatever you’re doing, you are always an idol in my eyes.”
I can feel the passionate beat of my heart as I convey myself to Ichigo. She responds by giving me a warm hug and I can feel her heartbeat too. She must still be tired from singing.
Her voice is muffled and a little hard to make out.
“That means a lot, Aoi. Thank you.”
“Ichigo.”
I realise I have no reason to be hesitant around her. Even if I’m spending my days at Starlight Academy I’ll find time to come back and see her. Without a doubt.
“You said you had to pick up bentos for your family, right?”
“Yes. That’s right.”
I’m a little taken aback by her sudden energy.
“Then let's hurry inside.”
“Hm? Oh. We’re already here.”
I was so caught up in our conversation that I’m just now noticing we’ve reached her home. She takes me by the hand and leads me through the pastel pink door of Nandemo Bento. Just like the name implies I feel like anything is possible here.
“Welcome home, Ichigo.”
“Hi, Mama.”
I’ve always felt her Mother has a soothing aura about her. Whenever Ichigo returns home she is greeted by her Mother's gentle smile. The two of them really get on well together. It’s no wonder Ichigo is set on working here.
“It’s good to see you, Aoi-chan.”
“Thank you for having me.”
Before I can sit at one of the café tables Ichigo leads me across and into the living room.
“Wait here, Aoi. I’m gonna help with the bento.”
She hurries back into the kitchen, leaving me alone in the living room. Which is strange since I’d normally wait in the café with them. I wonder what she’s up to? Though it is nice to be in the house again. It’s so different to mine. It has a cozy, somewhat disorganised feel to it. There are various ornaments of animals around the house. Some of them I can’t even identify. Ichigo tells me they’re souvenirs from her dad’s adventures. On the sofa there is a cute cushion shaped like a pink rabbit. Somehow I get the feeling that Ichigo picked it out. What a quirky living room. I wonder if this is what it’s like to have two kids and one parent in the house? I look around some more and notice a bookshelf with various cookbooks and mangas. I recall that her brother owns the collection of a sports manga. Ichigo on the other hand just picks out whatever catches her eye at the time. It may be fun shopping that way but I could never resist adding to a collection or starting anew.
The door opens but instead of Ichigo appearing it’s her little brother Raichi-kun.
“Ah!”
He tensed up a bit when he noticed me. I can’t blame him. Stepping into his house only to find someone unfamiliar sitting around his living room.
“Sorry to startle you. Ichigo told me to wait here while she helps make the bento.”
I’ve occasionally seen Raichi-kun but we’ve never really talked. I thought he normally gets home before Ichigo. What could have held him back?
“I see. I have... homework to do so I’ll be going upstairs now.”
“All right. Do your best.”
“Thanks.”
He is clutching a shopping bag and I happened to notice an image of someone with purple hair. I Just caught a glimpse of it but wasn’t that Mizuki-san? Perhaps it was an advertisement with her on it? Well it might not have been Mizuki-san at all. It wouldn’t be the first time I’ve spotted an idol only for it to turn out to be someone who resembles them. Well he’s already gone upstairs and I’m not about to chase after him to ask about it. Even if I am a bit curious. Raichi-kun seems a lot different than his sister. I find it hard to picture Ichigo doing her homework as soon as she gets through the door.
I shouldn’t have too long to wait now but I’ll read some manga to kill time. I start reading something Ichigo picked up the last time we went shopping together. Just looking at it makes me smile as I recall the fun we had that day.
“Ichigo... We’ll still meet up a lot if I get into Starlight Academy, right?” I whisper to myself.
The door opens and I hear Ichigo call my name. Did she hear me? No. Of course not. It was just coincidental timing.
“It’s finished!”
“So I’m finally going to uncover this mysterious bento.”
“Nope.”
“Eh?”
“You can’t open it until you get home.”
“I see. I’ll just have to be patient.”
She hands me the bentos and waves goodbye. I open the door but before I can leave she calls out to me once more.
“No peeking!”
“Yes, Yes. See you tomorrow, Ichigo.”
I close the door behind me and walk the rest of the way home. To think, soon I may no longer be walking this path home each day. I have mixed feelings about that. I take a firm hold of the bento boxes in my arms. What little surprise have you got in store for me, Ichigo?
Once I’ve sat down with my parents I proceed to open the first mysterious bento. Goodness they really outdid themselves. The rice forms a small version of myself in a dress. I seem to be performing to an excited crowd of curry. The other bentos contain a message when placed together. It reads ‘You can do it, Aoi! Become an Idol!’ Ichigo can never share enough kindness. With a dinner like this I’ll have the power to do anything.
However it is just a little embarrassing opening it with my parents.
“Isn’t that sweet, Aoi.” My dad says.
“You’re lucky to be close friends with such a thoughtful girl.” My mom says.
“Yeah. I really am.”
“Well then. It tastes as good as it looks so let’s dig in. Itadakimasu!”
After eating dinner I go to my room to study idols as much as I can. There’s just so much to consider. The past that lead to the Aikatsu we know now and the actions that will shape the future for idols to follow. I wonder if I’ll be able to reach a shining future too.
It’s been 2 weeks but I still don’t feel ready to face Starlight Academy. One way or the other I’ll know if I have what it takes to be an idol at the end of this month. It’s not long to go but I still have time to prepare. Class has just ended for today so I can focus on my important idol studies.
“Oh yeah. Aoi, my little brother was saying he wants to see an idol's concert.”
“It’s unusual for you to be the one to bring up idols.”
“Rather than me it’s my brother.”
“Let’s go!”
The excitement got to me and I didn’t quite address Ichigo’s concerns. She looks pretty bewildered.
“You’ll want to accompany him right? He’s a bit young to be going to a concert all by himself. Idol concerts can be a bit overwhelming and you have to know the best place to buy tickets. So I’ll help you out.”
“That’s very considerate, Aoi. You’re not just saying that because you want to go too?”
“Of course not.”
“Really?”
“Well, maybe just a little. Who is this Idol anyway?”
“Her name is Mizuki-chan. Do you know her?”
“Odayaka ja nai! I certainly know her. She’s currently the top idol of Starlight Academy. Even the other idols idolize her. Just talking about Mizuki-chan is enough to get me excited.”
“Her name did sound familiar. You must have told me about her before. So she’s someone that special huh? Do you think we’ll be able to see her? It is short notice after all and I know how busy you must be.”
“It would be near impossible to get tickets to a Mizuki-chan concert this late but my connections always come through for me when I need them to.”
“Great. I’ll leave it to you then.”
“I should have thought of going to see this concert myself. Studying the top idol has to be a great way to prepare for an idol exam.”
“That makes sense. I hope you learn a lot.”
With my mind now set on this live concert I call contact after contact until I succeed in getting the tickets. Now I just have to tell Ichigo and her little brother the good news.
“This is my best friend, Aoi. She’s an idol expert.”
“Hi.” Raichi says.
I’m in Ichigo and Raichi’s shared room. He should know me well enough to not feel awkward but he is acting pretty reserved. Is it because I’m his Onee-chan’s friend. Maybe he’s worried about what Ichigo might have told me about him. On that note I hope Ichigo hasn’t told him any weird things about me. Well I’m better of not speculating at that. I should just get to the point at hand.
“So you’re a fan of Mizuki-chan?”
“Yeah.”
He seems a little hesitant but once I bring out some of my Mizuki-san collection I can already see him perk up.
“You can have these if you like.”
“Is that really okay?!”
“Of course. I always hoard way more idol articles than I can handle.”
“Thank you so much! I can find out more about Mizuki-chan now.”
“I’m glad to see you two are getting along well.”
“Onee-chan...” Raichi complains.
“But you are.”
I have to be careful not to show any amusement at Ichigo obliviously embarrassing her brother.
I’d better get us back on track.
“I think it’s time I shared the exciting news.”
“Did you manage to get the tickets?”
They both look at me with hope in their eyes.
“I talked to everyone who might know how to get a hold of some tickets to see Mizuki-chan’s live. It felt like a wild goose chase but I was motivated enough to keep going. Finally I managed to find someone who could get me three tickets.”
“Way to go, Aoi!” Ichigo cheered.
“So we can really go to Mizuki-chan’s concert!?”
“Yep. Tomorrow we’ll get to see the top idol’s live performance. I can hardly wait.”
“You’re amazing Aoi-nee-san. Thank you so much.”
Seems like I completely won him over with that.
“We really appreciate the effort you went through. I’m sure it will be fun to go together.”
I can tell Ichigo’s feeling happy for her brother. She suddenly seems more Onee-san like. To be honest I feel grateful to Raichi-kun. Going to see a concert with Ichigo, it will be just like when we first met.
I stand in awe as Mizuki-chan begins to sing. I thought I had already learned everything about what made her special but now that I watch her performance I realise she’s so much more spectacular than I thought. As she dances her grace and beauty is truly that of a moon goddess yet she is just a human girl only a year older than Ichigo and I. I haven’t felt this level of admiration and wonder since I was a little kid. Mizuki-chan continues to amaze me as she performs a special appeal. She blows a kiss that turns into a suit of spades and bursts to life dazzlingly. I lose my sense of time as the performance continues but Mizuki-chan announces the final song and sings a heartwarming finale before leaving the stage.
“Wasn’t that amazing, Ichigo? Ichigo...?”
It looks like she is in a deeper trance than I was. Her eyes are still fixed on the stage where Mizuki-chan stood. I gently place a hand on her shoulder to try and bring her back to reality.
Ichigo’s face rises into a big smile.
“Idols really are great aren’t they?”
“Yep. They’re odayaka ja nai!”
Once I get home, I feel so tired that I don’t have the energy to properly document Mizuki-chan’s concert. I’ll have to do that in the morning. I go to bed a bit early and as I drift off flashes of today’s concert return to me.
I call out to Ichigo but she doesn’t notice me. I step closer to her and notice how stiff she looks. It’s like she’s been frozen in place. “Ichigo, what’s wrong?”
I tug at her arm but she won’t move an inch. I hear the echoing sound of footsteps and turn to see Mizuki-chan dancing on stage. I get lost in her hypnotic movements. I find it hard to turn away and I can’t remember why I’m trying to. Mizuki-chan’s so beautiful but I can’t get lost admiring her. Then what could it be..? What is this distant voice in my head trying to say?
Of course! Ichigo! I pry my gaze away from Mizuki-san and turn towards Ichigo. She’s not there!
“Ichigo! Ichigo!”
There’s no response. I look all around me but there’s no one to be seen. I feel so alone and afraid.
“Aoi.”
I turn to the direction of her voice. She’s taken Mizuki-chan’s place on stage and is wearing a stunning white dress.
“Ichigo! What are you doing up there?!”
She simply laughs innocently and smile’s without end.
I wake up with a strange heavy feeling. I recall the dream I had and the image of Ichigo standing on stage lingers in my mind. I summon the energy to get out of bed and head down for breakfast. After I eat, my focus is restored and I can finally write in great detail about Mizuki-chan’s concert in on my idol journal. Many fans had already done the same thing last night. It looks like Mizuki-chan has caught everyone’s heart once again. I’m so glad I went to see her live. This really did turn out to be the best way for me to prepare for the Starlight Academy entrance exam. I feel so invigorated and inspired.
Since I can’t stop thinking about Mizuki-chan I think I’ll do a little research about her.
My phone chimes; bringing me back to reality. I pick it up and first take notice of the time; it’s already three in the evening. I never notice how much time passes when I’m watching idol videos. I feel compelled to learn as much about Mizuki-chan as I can but there’s just no end to the content featuring her. Moving on to the text, I see it’s from Ichigo.
‘Subject; Mizuki-chan’s concert!!!
_________________________
I’m still thinking about how
amazing it was. I’m totally a
Fan of Mizuki-chan now! \(^v^)/
I baked some cookies to
Thank you for the tickets.
I’ll bring them over if you
like. (◕‿◕✿) ’
“Sorry that some of them are a little crispy. I haven’t made cookies in a long time.”
“No. They’re delicious, really.”
Ichigo’s nervous expression softens.
“I imagine it’s not something customers often request.”
“That’s true but sometimes a customer will call in advance and order some.”
As I watch Ichigo munch away at a cookie, images from that dream I had come back to me. I was back at yesterday’s concert and I was just as enthralled as I was before. Only this time it wasn’t Mizuki-chan who was standing on that stage. How is it that I can picture you on that stage so vividly?
In one of the Mizuki-chan interviews I watched she said, ‘you should never let an opportunity go by. If the moment feels right to you than go forth without hesitation’.
“You really do like those cookies.”
I suddenly realise I’m already on my third one. I’m eating faster than Ichigo!
“Ah. Sorry, my mind was elsewhere I’ve eaten too many already.”
“That’s not true. I baked them for you after all.”
“That is very sweet of you but I had such a great experience yesterday that I feel like I’m the one who should be giving out thanks.”
“I’m sure the entire audience had a great time. I understand now that it’s not enough just to see an idol on T.V.”
“Exactly. It’s something so special you have to see it with your own eyes.”
Now’s the time. I can’t put this off. I give Ichigo a serious look as I convey my determination.
“I’m going to take the exam.”
“Aoi...”
She looks at me in a proud yet melancholy way but I don’t think she will hold that expression for long.
“We’ll be going to different schools then.”
“Not so fast. You’re going to take it with me.”
“Eh?! Me?!”
She looks bewildered. Pointing at her own face for clarification.
“It must be hard to consider when you already have a dream you’re following but even just going through the experience of taking the Starlight Academy exam would be worthwhile. I’ve known you for a long time, you’re not someone to get caught up in speculation you’d rather just act. So that’s why you should give being an idol a try. If you can’t leave your home behind then you won’t have to.”
She still looks bewildered but I can tell she’s interested.
“Even if I did want to become an idol the exam is in a few days and I haven’t prepared at all. I don’t have a lot of idol knowledge like you.”
“It’s okay. You learn all that stuff once you enroll. Fortunately you’ve been helping me practice Aikatsu this whole time so you know the basics. More importantly you have the scent of an idol.”
“Really? What does an idol smell like, Noriben?”
“It’s just an expression. You don’t literally smell like an idol. It just means you have the makings of one.”
“I still don’t really get it. How I can smell like an idol or why you’re so certain I can take the exam all of a sudden but... on the day of the exam, I’ll go there with you. I can promise that much.”
“Thank you, Ichigo. I know I’m sorta thrusting this upon you but it’s only because I believe in you so much.”
I leave her to think things through. I’ve put her in a tough position but my gut tells me I did the right thing. It’s not like she’ll be forced to become an idol. If someone doesn’t wish to become one than it can’t be possible. I just hope this experience will show her how much potential she has.
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I tightly hold a rice scoop in my hand. I want to run this place just as strongly as I did before. Even still, since I watched Mizuki-chan on stage I’ve been thinking about what it’d be like. My curiosity often gets the best of me and now I’m stuck imaging myself up on that stage. Is what Aoi said really true? Do I smell like an idol? I’d like to believe there’s a way to do both but I already know that’s not true. Aoi puts all of her effort into being an idol and it’s just the same for mama and the bento store. It’s not fair. In all of my life I’ve never been faced with such a hard decision.
“Ichigo?”
I was so lost in thought that I didn’t even notice the door opening.
“Hm? Mama?”
She sits next to me on the side of the bed.
“You were quiet at dinner today. Is everything okay?”
Not knowing what to say I just stare at the rice scoop in my hand.
“It’s not good to bottle things up. If something's on your mind you should talk about it. At least talk to Raichi or Aoi-chan, okay?”
“It’s fine. I’ll tell you. You know how my dream is to run Nandemo Bento with you? Well, what if I there was another dream I wanted to explore but at the same time I wouldn’t want to leave my current dream behind?”
“It sounds like you’ve found a wonderful dream. Why don’t you tell me about it?”
“It might sound a little strange but... I want to become an idol.”
Mama has an unusual look on her face. She looks surprised but there’s something else. I can’t really explain it.
“It’s not silly at all. I think you’d make a wonderful idol.”
“But if I did become one I wouldn’t be able to stay here with you and Raichi. I don’t know if I can handle that.”
Speaking that thought out loud hit me with a wave of loneliness. I take a hold of mama’s arm to try and stop the feeling.
“Leaving the comfort of home is never easy. It would be a little lonely without you around but you can’t let that stop you. If you’re serious about becoming an idol then you should go for it.”
Mama envelopes my hand and the rice scoop I so dearly hold onto.
“Let’s turn that rice scoop into a mic.”
We didn’t say anything after that. She just stayed with me as my thoughts continued to wander.
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The day has finally arrived. I made my way to Ichigo’s house first thing in the morning. I want to make sure we’re both as prepared as we can be for this idol exam. I’m doing my best to act confident but beneath the surface I’m struggling to hide my nerves.
“We have to leave soon. Are you okay?”
“It’s hard to see myself as an idol since this is so new to me. I don’t have a lot of idol knowledge like you do and it sounds like this exam is going to be different to the kind I’m used too. I guess I’ll just have to do my best and hope my passion can get me through.”
“That’s right. The important thing is to not be tense. Be as relaxed as you normally are.”
“Okay. I can do that much just fine.”
“Good. Then it’s finally time. Let’s go.”
I follow behind Ichigo. She walks without hesitation yet she suddenly stops before the door.
“Mama, Raichi. We’re off now.”
Starlight Academy and her home here.
Knowing she can’t be at both places is undoubtedly the hardest part of this for her yet her voice is calm. I can’t help but be proud of her.
“Good luck to both of you. Have fun.”
Her mother is just as composed as she sends us off. I’m sure it must mean a lot to Ichigo. The one person who isn’t looking so confident is Raichi-kun.
“Onee-chan, do you really think you can become an Idol?”
“Don’t worry. It’ll be hard but I believe I can make it with everyone's support.”
Ichigo must have given this a lot of consideration throughout the small amount of time she had.
“Okay. Good luck. Just don’t cause trouble for Aoi-nee-san.”
“Hey, she was the one who asked me to go with her you know?”
Ichigo seems a bit insulted by his lack of confidence in her.
“I have no doubt that Ichigo will do great at this audition. She has the scent of an idol.” I say assuredly.
“If you say so.”
Raichi-kun still seems perplexed. It must be hard to envision the sister you see everyday becoming an idol.
“We’d better get going. Thanks for the bentos.”
We leave for real this time. It’s a short walk to the bus stop and I’m so eager that my legs feel like they want to keep walking all the way to Starlight Academy. I manage to cool myself so we can wait for the bus.
“I’m so excited I can’t wait. Hurry up, bus!”
Ichigo cheers on the yet to appear bus. Has she already cleared away her indecisiveness?
“We just sat down. The bus isn’t gonna turn up that soon.”
“But don’t you want to get there as soon as possible?” She asks enticingly.
“Well you’re right about that. Alright then, me too. Hurry up bus!”
“Never give up, bus! Oh! look it worked!”
“Your right! Here comes the bus now.”
We get on board. Fortunately there’s not too many passengers in the morning so we have no problem sitting together.
“I don’t normally get on the bus. I prefer walking.”
Ichigo seems like her usual self as she inspects the unfamiliar bus interior.
“I’m the same way. Plus, my dad has a car so we don’t need the bus.”
“Your parents are always so fancy.”
“That’s not true. They’re just normal parents really. Besides, you're the one of the amazing parents.”
“You think so?”
“Your dad is an adventurer and you live in a café with your mum who can cook anything.”
“Yep. That is pretty special when you say it like that.”
“You only now just realised?”
“But It’s the kind of thing you don’t notice until it’s pointed out.”
“Hmm In that case maybe my parents are a little fancy.”
Somehow we started talking about our parents. Is this our subconscious coming to the surface?
“Aoi, I really love my parents, Raichi too.” Ichigo says wistfully.
“I know. I love my parents too but we can’t look back. Not today at least.”
“Of course. We’re in this together so I won’t get distracted.”
“Thanks, Ichigo. Having someone to rely on is a great feeling.”
“It really is.”
That bus journey felt short. Are we really here?
“Aoi, look!”
Just then Starlight Academy came into view. I couldn’t mistake that building for any other in the world.
“As you can guess, this is our stop.”
We stepped out of the bus and into the captivating air. It’s ridiculous to think that even the air here sparkles with radiance yet I can’t help but think so.
“Wow, it looks so impressive in person.”
“We haven’t even approached the gates yet.”
“Then let's get moving. Da-”
I swiftly reach out and grab her arm before she can take off.
“Ichigo, what are you doing? If you dash about now you’ll bite into the energy you need for your performance. We have to conserve our energy.”
“Whoops. I was just too excited about getting a closer look.”
“It’s just around the corner. We’ll be there in no time.”
“Yeah. Lets walk.”
We approach the gates and stare in awe at the expansive space. It must be double the size of our current school.
She takes my hand and we stand side by side.
“Aoi, let’s become idols together.”
“Ichigo... You’re right. Let's do this together.”
Together we confidently walk into the star adorned building.
I have no doubt that I was able to succeed at the written exam. If anything I welcomed the questions that needed some thought. Unfortunately I’m far from safe. The real test has yet to begin.
“I just have to do great at the performance exam, right, Aoi?”
Ichigo seems greatly concerned. It’s unusual to see her acting like this but anyone would be feeling that way in this situation.
“Relax, Ichigo. It’s just as you say. The stage is where you really find out if you’re worthy or not of becoming an idol. Besides I wouldn’t worry too much if you struggled with idol knowledge. So long as your personality came across you’ll be fine.”
“Okay! I won’t lose here!”
“That’s the spirit. Now let’s go to the waiting area.”
“Right. They wouldn’t be happy if we were late to our audition.”
While we wait I diligently check through my notes but I’m just getting more nervous. This is my first time performing on stage after all. I can’t go a minute without looking through my notes in hope for some overlooked sure fire way to succeed.
“Aoi, are you okay? You’ve been murmuring a lot.”
“Really? I guess I got a bit lost in thought. I’m fine though, I’ve been preparing for a long time so there’s no need to worry.”
It’s a lie but I want to seem cool to Ichigo. I want her to know she can depend on me.
“Take a look at the idol in this magazine. Isn’t she cute?”
It must have worked if she’s acting so calm.
“Yeah, she is. This is a feature on new idols. If we’re accepted we might even be in the same class as this girl.”
“It’s strange to think that we might be appearing in magazines too.”
“Getting into the academy is only the first step. It all depends on the results of our Aikatsu.”
She moves her chair closer to mine so I have a better view of the magazine. Since everyone else is too focused on the moment the pile of magazines lies largely untouched. So it’s not like Ichigo had to share. Still, reading together doesn’t give us a chance to get lost in thought so that’s nice.
“So Su-pyon’s favourite way to relax is sitting under a tree and reading a good book. What a great tidbit.” I say with intrigue.
“Fu-Fu.”
It feels out of place to hear Ichigo’s carefree laugh now of all times. Wait what’s she giggling at?
“Kiriya Aoi-san.”
My heart skips a beat when I hear my name. The adrenaline makes me stand up sharply. I quickly compose myself and smile casually.
“I’m ready.”
“You’ve got this, Aoi.”
“Right. Leave it to me.”
Ichigo goes to the audience area while I follow the woman who called my name. I believe she is one of the teachers here. She has a serious look that reminds me of how important this moment is.
“Once you’ve chosen the outfit you’re going to wear take the Aikatsu cards and place them on the Aikatsu dresser.”
“Okay.”
There are a lot of different styles and possibilities for a good coord but it’s too soon to try something flashy. Best to keep it simple and stylish. The blue stage coord really catches my eye. The deep blue ribbon stands out against the cream top. It’s a simple outfit with a lot of style. I’ve decided. This is the best choice.
I approach the mesmerizing Aikatsu dresser. It’s a curious machine that looks as if it’s been sent from the future. I don’t have the time nor patience to examine it further so I place the Aikatsu cards into the corresponding slots. The dresser opens and a gleaming light escapes the box. It feels like I’m taking a step into another world. I enter the dresser and that feeling becomes intense. This runway is the entrance to the Aikatsu world. There are no signs of the room I stood in a moment ago. Only calming colours surround me. Spanning across in every direction with the only exception being the giant card in front of me. This illusion system really is amazing, if it weren’t for the unnatural scenery I wouldn’t be able to tell this apart from reality.
This isn’t a place where you can stand around and get lost in thought. Keep it together, Aoi! Now’s not the time to be overwhelmed. The card ahead of me is the cream top I chose. I lightly jog towards it and as I gently glide through it the top attaches to me. I step through the remaining cards and reach the end of the runway. Just one more step forward and I’m standing on the illusion stage.
The stage is fairly standard but looking at it from the perspective of the person on it is odayaka ja nai! The teachers and students of Starlight Academy make up the live audience along with some of my fellow auditionees. Can’t forget about the people watching over the net either. My parents will be watching me that way, maybe some of my fellow idol fanatics will be too. All those people...I sure hope I don’t mess up. No, that’s not going to happen. I have to be strong, for myself and for Ichigo. I find myself scanning the audience for a red ribbon resting on a head of blonde hair. She’s not hard to find amongst the audience. She stands at the front and instantly notices me looking at her. Of course she would, all eyes are on the person on stage.
Music starts and it’s like a switch has been flipped in my body. I move through the motions I’ve ingrained in my mind these past few weeks. I was always practicing dances like this, even if it was just something that was a fantasy rather than a dream. My dancing and singing aren’t perfect but I have the right rhythm. If I can just hold onto that I’ll be able to pass. Normally I would have enough stamina to make it through a dance like this no problem but when the stakes are so high and there are so many people watching me it’s exhausting. Even still I’m happy. This is what it’s like to be an idol. I can keep going! I won’t fail!
Once the song ends, I'm so exhausted that I just want to find the nearest chair and collapse. However once I’m met with the audience cheers I feel one last burst of energy come to me. I wave to everyone and thank them all for their support. With that done I can leave the stage and collect my thoughts.
“Aoi!!!”
“Ichi-gah!”
Ichigo throws herself at me before I could sit down.
“Ichiga? What’s with that?”
“no energy.” I say weakly.
“Ah! Sorry. I shouldn’t have given you such a lively hug so soon. Here, sit down.”
I sit down and feel the world return to me.
“You were amazing, Aoi! You’ll get in for sure.”
“Even if I don’t, now that I’ve had this experience I’ll never stop trying to become an Idol. One way or the other I can’t be Kiriya Aoi without Aikatsu.”
“That must have been some experience. I can’t wait for my turn.”
“Hoshimiya Ichigo-san.”
“Lucky. It’s just like the bus.” She says.
Even at a time like this she’s acting whimsical.
“It makes sense, we queued up together after all.”
“Oh, yeah.”
She really does seem carefree. I don’t know if I should relax or let that worry me.
“hey, Ichigo, the stage can get a little overwhelming but you can handle it right?”
“Relax, Aoi. You said you believe in me, right?”
“Yes. Of course I do.”
“Even mama said I’d make a wonderful idol. Maybe she’s just being kind but I really love the idea that I can become one. I still don’t understand what you meant when you said I have the scent of an idol but I trust you and I trust mama.”
“Ichigo...”
“Watch me, Aoi. I’ll shine on stage.”
Ichigo dashes towards her goal, enthusiastic as always.
Suddenly I don’t feel so tired as I make my way to the viewing area.
This is hardly my first time standing amongst an idol’s audience but I’ve never felt this tense in one before. Ichigo, You’re clumsy and a bit of an airhead but deep down you possess the most important quality of an idol. Show them what you’ve got!
She hops out of the runway with a bewildered expression. Most of us were the same. it is a lot to take in straight away. Wasting no time she steps towards the center stage waving her arms and smiling at the audience. She looks over to me with gentle eyes as if to soothe my racing heart.
The music starts but Ichigo is a second off. She manages to make up for it with fast movement at the start of her dance. Now that she’s found her rhythm she’s doing great. Her performance is even greater than what I saw from her in yesterday's practice session. It proves that she was meant for the stage.
The song’s just reached its final verse but Ichigo’s already caught the audience’s hearts. Just as I feel I can completely relax and enjoy Ichigo’s first performance as an idol I see her right foot colliding into the left and her face forming a perfect picture of shock. She begins to fall and I want to leap on stage to support her but even if I could reach her in time I’d only be a hindrance to her performance. Tragically her balance is lost and she falls to the ground. I feel my heart sink. At least Ichigo landed on her arms rather than her face. She must have hurt herself but it doesn't look too painful to bare. Ending the performance like this will make her stand out in the worst possible way. Yet amazingly she pushes herself up and gives a sheepish smile. She takes a second to sync up with the song and continues to sing and dance. Her voice is a little quieter and her movements less dynamic. It’s clear she lost some of her energy from her fall but you couldn’t call it a weak performance. The audience are all excited to see her quick recovery and despite her tumble Ichigo still looks like she’s having the time of her life.
The song ends and Ichigo waves to the audience just as she did in the start.
They took Ichigo to the nurse's room to make sure she’s okay. I explain that I’m her friend and after hearing the desperation in my voice they let me in.
“Ichigo! Are you ok!?”
“Aoiiii, I messed up.” She sobs.
“Don’t say that. You did great.”
I lightly brush her hair away from her face.
“Are you hurt?”
“Just a little.”
“You poor thing.”
“I tried my best but still something like this happened. It’s just not fair.”
I desperately want to reassure her but I’m at a loss for what to say.
“How can I become an idol now that everyone's seen that.”
I hate seeing her like this. Her head down and tears running down her cheeks. There’s barely a trace of the beautiful voice I heard just a moment ago.
“No! You can’t give up that easily. Everyone loved you Ichigo so wait until we hear the results okay?”
I feel my own voice getting a little shaky. Ichigo, what can I say to lift your spirits?
She wipes away her tears. She looks up and smiles but her expression is still timid.
“Okay. I’ll stay positive. We don’t know if either of us will be an idol ‘till results day after all.”
“That’s true. It’s not a slim hope either. After all you recovered straight away even though you were in pain. It was really inspiring.”
“It was really tough but I just couldn’t let myself stop before it was over. I couldn’t let my performance end with the audience looking sad.”
We hear the next auditionee being called. Ichigo gathers her energy and stands up.
“We should get going to the audience.”
“There’s still a lot of auditions. It’s okay if you need to go home now.”
“No. I’ll be fine. We have to stay and cheer them on.”
“But are you really fit to do that?”
“Don’t look so worried, Aoi. This little bit off pain is my least concern right now.”
“You’re resilient in many ways. If that’s what you want then we’ll stay until the end.”
After everyone performed we made our way onto the bus. It’s been a long day and I just want to be home in bed. It looks like Ichigo fell asleep as soon as she sat down. She leans against me in her slumber. Despite being in a moving bus she looks so comfy somehow.
More than anything I hope you make it through, Ichigo.
I spent the past few days thinking of all the possibilities the future may hold. Naturally all of those possibilities revolve around Aikatsu.
“Aoi, once we enter this building our destiny will be foretold.”
“This door will lead us to our future.”
We enter Starlight Academy; surely not for the last time.
The room is packed but only a few of the girls here will be accepted.
“Aoi, come here.”
Ichigo edges closer so we can have a private conversation.
“If I can’t become an idol...”
“Ichigo.” I grumbled.
“Don’t worry. I’m not giving up but if I can’t make it then you have to become the greatest idol and idol professor there ever was.”
“The greatest at both?” I say in disbelief.
“Exactly.”
“Well, what if I don’t get in and you do?”
“Don’t be silly, Aoi.”
She takes a step back before I can tell her she’s the one being silly. We had agreed to only assume the best but this must have been on her mind. Now that she’s said her part she can face this with nothing holding her back.
“Thank you all for auditioning. We appreciate the vast amount of effort every one of you put in. To those of you who make it in and to those of you who don’t; be sure to live you life with vigour and passion!”
It’s Headmistress Orihime herself! The presence she commands is exactly what you’d expect from a legendary idol. My hand reaches for Ichigo as I desperately wish to stay connected to her. She tightly holds onto it with both her hands.
“The girls who will become students of Starlight Academy are: Nakayama Yuna, Kiriya Aoi & Hoshimiya Ichigo.”
We can’t help but hug each other to let out the sudden burst of joy. I’ll never forget this moment. The day Ichigo and I became idols. This really is odayaka ja nai!