Chapter Text
A song that remains unnamed, simply called "Untitled,"—with no melody or lyrics—has begun circulating among the youth of Japan.
This mysterious tune opens the gateway to a realm called "SEKAI”—Here, songs are born not from mere words and music,
but from the deepest parts of the heart.
SEKAI is a place for only a select few—however, for those part of it, It is the beginning of something greater.
Many have joined forces, creating their own unit, some, if not most in the pursuit of escape and self-discovery.
And for one boy,
His song is about to begin.
.....Among the countless idols who’ve graced the stage, there was no one quite like Tenshouin Eichi.
His pale blonde hair gleamed under the stage lights,
His striking light blue eyes drawing in the gaze of all who watched him.
As a member of the prominent unit finé, his performances were nothing short of mesmerizing.
Every note, every movement, every breath of his, was full of grace.
Not only grace, but there were more—more that one cannot merely describe with words.
But….
To his mere audience, he was nothing more than just a star beyond their reach,
However….
To Himemiya Tori, he is and was everything.
One Evening, he sat cross-legged on the plush carpet of his family’s estate, eyes glued—completely entranced to what was live on the television screen.
At that moment, the grand living room faded away—the world on screen seemed so much bigger.
The stage glowed with a golden light, you could even see a sea of fans waving their penlights!
—But at the time, Tori barely noticed any of it—his gaze was fixed solely on one person
Eichi.
—His presence felt unreal. There was something about the way he moved—graceful, yet commanding. His voice carried a melodious beauty, every note woven seamlessly into the melody. But beyond that, there was a weight to his performance. As if he had already given everything to the stage.
And I felt it.
—It hit me all at once—this tight, aching feeling in my chest—not in a painful way, but in a way that made my breath catch.
My hands curled into the fabric of my sleeves as I stared, unable to look away. It was like something inside me had been shaken awake—something I hadn’t even known was there—
—It was admiration.
I wanted to be like him.
I wanted to stand alongside him.
”…They’re incredible…"
The words slipped out before I even realized. My breath was a little unsteady, my heart pounding in my ears.
I turned quickly to my slave—‘Fushimi Yuzuru, who stood beside me, calm as ever, watching the performance with mild interest.
"Hey, Yuzuru! Look at them! Especially the blonde one—Eichi, right? Aren't they amazing? I want to be an Idol just like them!"
Yuzuru glanced down at me, (was it just because i was small?.) his expression unreadable—as usual—but I could tell there was a slightest hint of amusement in his eyes.
"Ah, finé. A remarkable unit indeed,” he mused.
Then, after a pause, he added, “But, Young Master, admiring an idol and becoming one are two very different things.”
Something in my chest twisted.
I knew that. Of course I knew that.
My stomach tightened—But I tried to push the feeling down, crossing my arms instead.
"….Are you trying to make fun of me, Yuzuru?”
Yuzuru let out a soft laugh, shaking his head.
”No, no, not at all,” he said smoothly. “I simply find it quite fascinating to see you so determined to pursue a path in the entertainment industry.”
Once again, I tried to study his face, carefully. He always spoke so fluidly that it was difficult to discern what he was really thinking.
—But this time, there was no teasing in his voice—just something calm and certain.
………………………
‘….So he really did believe in me. Even if just a little.’
I huffed, but before i could stop myself, a small smile tugged at my lips.
—
"Hmph! You're lucky you're my slave!”
Yuzuru only laughed again, and I quickly turned my gaze back to the screen.
Eichi stood at the center of the stage, bathing in the golden light—smiling,
And I felt like that specific smile was directed at me.
…..
Wait…
Now that I really see it, even with all that light around him—
Why did it feel like he was somewhere far away?
…..
That smile….
Sure, it was soft and elegant—exactly like the ones in every other performance.
But this time, something about it….
For a split second, it looked more practiced than real—like there was a goal meant to be fufilled.
‘Maybe I imagined it?
A strange unease settled in my stomach.
I didn’t know what it was.
But I knew I’d find out.
I wasn’t going to just watch from a distance.
One day, I’d stand beside him.
One day, I’d reach that stage too.
( ⚠︎ aaand. . . this is where it all goes down-hill in terms of my writing, folks ! ! ! see you all once I publish the 2025 or,, uhh,, 2026 version. . . hopefully,, 𖦹 ´ ᯅ ` 𖦹 )
Since then, Tori had been practicing every single day, devoting himself to dancing and vocal lessons to build his skills.
He aspires to be an incredible singer and dancer, like the idols he watched on TV.
Though the extra effort sometimes wore him down, he refused to give up.
His determination was fueled by the vision of him on stage, shining like, and or with his idol, Eichi.
"Ugh.....I have to keep practicing!” He muttered to himself during a late-night practice.
“Eichi-sama must’ve trained way harder to be so amazing!"
His dedication was so fierce that he couldn’t just keep it to himself, Yuzuru, or even anyone else who had noticed.
One day, he eagerly shared his aspirations with his ‘friend Tsukasa Suou.
————————————————————
It’s daytime, Tsukasa is currently sitting under a tree, reading a book while Tori chats to him about ‘idols and ‘Eichi.
—Tori-kun, you’ve been talking non-stop about this,” Tsukasa sighed, looking up from his book with a raised eyebrow.
Tori clasped his hands together, eyes shining. "I know, but, Tsukasa! I've truly decided on what I want my future work to be!"
Tsukasa’s expression turned sarcastically skeptical, and a hint of some irritation in his gaze. "Oh really? And what's that?"
Tori grinned, ignoring his rival’s dry tone.
"An idol, of course! I want to sing and dance on stage, and have everyone look at me and adore me—just Like Eichi!"
He drifted into a daydream, picturing himself performing in front of a roaring crowd, the center of attention—…Becoming an idol? Honestly, It's just a waste of time and energy."
Tori’s cheerful expression faltered, surprised by Tsukasa’s dismissive words.
……………..
"Huh!?…What!? Why is it a waste of time? I think being an idol would be amazing!"
He crossed his arms, feeling an unexpected bit of hurt.
He couldn’t understand why he didn’t see how wonderful being an idol would be, and why he didn’t share his enthusiasm.
Tsukasa let out a sigh, "It's just a ridiculous dream, plain and simple.
The idol world is all flashing lights and shallow people. It not worth it."
Tsukasa's words stung, but his hurt quickly turned into defiance. He straightened up, his face set with resolve.
"Hmph! It's not silly at all! Being an idol isn’t just about ‘flashy lights’ and ‘shallow people’!
It's about performing, entertaining, and making people happy! I know I can make others smile with my singing and dancing!"
Tsukasa turns surprised by Tori’s unexpected determination. Tori wasn’t going to let his friend’s doubt ruin his dream.
———————————————————————————————————————————————
Over-Time, Tsukasa grew and experienced more of the world,
coming to realize how much dedication idols poured into their craft—and how admirable that truly was.
But for Tori, his dream remained unchanged
Determined to follow Eichi’s footsteps, he pleaded with his parents to let him attend Yumenosaki.
Eventually, they agreed, allowing him to take the first actual step towards his dream.
When Tori arrived for his tour around the school.
Tsukasa wrote it off as him also accompanying Tori, but really it was actually just Yuzuru.
The campus was now at the time alive with energy and excitement, filled with hopeful students like him.
Standing in the academy’s hall, Tori’s heart raced as he imagined the future waiting for him there.
In the end, He, Tsukasa, and Yuzuru enrolled into Yumenosaki. Yuzuru following to support and protect his Young Master’s dream.
This is where Tori would begin his journey, where he would learn to shine on stage and make people smile.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------———-
TORI'S FIRST DAY AT YUMENOSAKI
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Early on his first day at Yumenosaki Academy, Tori stirred in bed, yawning and rubbing his eyes.
He could already hear Yuzuru moving about, as always,
awake before him and preparing everything for the day ahead.
Sitting up, Tori blinked away his sleepiness, reminding himself not to risk making a bad impression on his first day.
He’d waited so long for this moment.
—
As he got ready, Yuzuru laid out his uniform, books, and packed lunch efficiently.
—
After a quick but balanced breakfast,
Yuzuru adjusted Tori’s tie before leading him to the car, where he took the driver’s seat.
Tori kept his phone tucked in his pocket to practice on the way, mentally rehearsing steps and lyrics of finé songs.
—
They arrived at Yumenosaki’s gates at six in the morning—two and a half hours before class.
Stepping onto the campus, Tori’s heart raced with excitement,
he couldn’t help but hold a proud grin as he looked around the school grounds
"I can't wait to see which idols I'll meet here~⭐️!" He exclaimed, already imagining the encounters that lie ahead.
Then, a thought struck him suddenly, and he glanced at Yuzuru, his face turning quite serious.
"Wait a minute—Eichi is the student council president here, isn’t he?"
Yuzuru nodded. "Yes, Eichi is indeed the student council president of this school."
Tori’s mind buzzed with possibilities. "If Eichi’s the president…maybe I could try to join the student council to meet him!
I might even get to learn more about him and finé that way!"
Yuzuru gave him a wry smile. "Joining the student council would indeed be a logical way to cross paths with Eichi.
However, you should be cautious. Serving on the student council can be quite demanding—balancing it with your studies will be no small feat."
Tori nodded thoughtfully, though a small spark begins to form in his eyes.
"I understand, Yuzuru. It’ll be hard work, but....
If it gives me a chance to meet Eichi, it’ll be worth it!"
With a sigh, Yuzuru shook his head.
"Very well, but please do remember that if you ever need help or feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to me."
Tori smiled in a way which seems he’s somewhat grateful for his ‘slave’s’ (butler’s) concern.
"Don't worry, I know my limits. I won't let it get the best of me!"
With a nod, Yuzuru signaled their agreement and followed Tori as they made their way toward the student council room.
Tori’s strides were full of excitement, so much so that quite practically jogged ahead.
Turning back, he called out, “Hurry up, slowpoke! Pick up the pace a little!”
Yuzuru gave him a small, amused smile, though having a “please walk, don’t run” look in his eyes.
"Patience, Young Master. We’ll get there soon enough. And please, don’t run. You’re applying to the student council,
so you have to be well-behaved. Not like your usual deportment."
Tori rolled his eyes, sighing with mock annoyance.
"But…come on! we'd get there even faster if you moved a little quicker!"
Yuzuru only slightly laughed, his voice turning more soft and calm.
"Alright, alright, I’ll move a little faster. But you're as eager as a child, Young Master. Take your time."
Tori stops whining when he realizes they've finally reached the student council room.
He paused at the door, heart pounding in anticipation. "We're here...the student council room..."
Looking at Yuzuru, He takes a deep breath, steeling himself.
"Alright…let's go inside. I'm going to apply to join the student council—and hopefully, just hopefully I'll get to see Eichi up close again this way."
Yuzuru nods, "Very well. Shall I accompany you inside, or would you prefer to go in alone?"
Tori thought for a moment before answering. “Well, I guess you could come in with me. It wouldn’t hurt to have a bit of moral support”
Yuzuru gives a small nod of approval. "As you wish, Young master."
With his butler by his side, Tori took another breath before reaching for the doorknob.
As they entered, they saw a rather thin man with short, moss-colored hair,
light yellow-green eyes, and thin glasses, sitting up straight over a desk as he seems to be reviewing some documents.
the man looked up as the door opened, his brows lifting slightly.
"Yes? What brings you two here?"
Tori straightened, trying his best to appear as confident as possible.
"Apologies for the intrusion. We’re here to apply for the student council. Is Eichi here, by any chance?"
His eyes scanned the room, but quickly hid his disappointment upon realizing that Eichi was nowhere in sight.
The man sat down his pen with a sigh.
"Eichi is currently occupied;
He has prior engagement he needs to attend to." He eyed them both “Though…You two must be Fushimi and Himemiya, I assume?
What makes you think you’re qualified for the student council?”
Tori held his head high, trying his best to project confidence, "Yes, Sir, that’s us. I believe I have the necessary qualifications for this role. I'm hardworking-
Tori sweats and pauses a little before continuing,
-organized, and dependable. I also have Yuzuru here who can vouch for me."
Yuzuru nods, his tone calm yet supportive.
"Indeed, the Young Master possesses the skills and discipline to be an effective member of the Student Council.
I can attest to his reliability."
The man crosses his arms, turning his gaze towards Yuzuru.
"And you, Fushimi—what would you have to offer to the Council?"
Yuzuru stands firmly and speaks calmly and confidently:
"I have the necessary talents to assist the student council,
including great organizational skills, a high level of responsibility, and excellent interpersonal skills.
I can effectively support the Young Master if he is accepted into the student council"
The man listens to Yuzuru's statement with a neutral expression,
He leans back in his chair, fingers interlocked as he spoke.
"Hmph, I see...So you claim to have excellent interpersonal skills and organizational abilities, don't you? Hmm..."
His expression becomes more serious as he speaks again.
"And you are both well aware of the duties and responsibilities that a member of the student council has, correct?
This is more than just a position of honor; it carries significant weight and accountability. As a group,
the student council is responsible for managing the student body and handling the school's affairs.
Are you two truly prepared to take on these roles?"
Yuzuru responds quickly, and without hesitation.
"Yes, we are fully aware of the obligations and responsibilities of being members of the student council, and we are both ready to take on the tasks. We recognize the importance and accountability of this position.
And we are prepared to shoulder the responsibility of this job with utmost seriousness and dedication."
The man raises an eyebrow, perhaps astonished by Yuzuru's prompt and emphatic response.
"I see...Your quickness in responding shows that you certainly aren't lacking in determination."
He then moved his gaze to Tori, crossing his arms as he spoke.
"What about you, Himemiya? Are you completely aware and prepared for the responsibilities that comes with this position?"
Tori then takes a while to respond, but finally straightens his back and stares at the man with determination.
"Ah- Yes, I am fully aware of the responsibilities that come with being a member of the student council. I understand that this position holds great importance and requires a high level of dedication and seriousness. And I am prepared to shoulder those responsibilities with great earnestness and diligence."
The man contemplates their responses for a minutes, his countenance staying neutral.
After a few moments, he speaks again:
"Hmm, very well then."
He leans forward and rests his forearms on his desk.
"However, It is not my decision to accept you both into the student council.
As a collective, we must carefully examine both of your qualifications and perform a proper interview. Are you both ready for that?"
Yuzuru nods firmly, determined to put Tori and himself in the best light as possible.
"Yes, we are prepared for that.
We are willing to go through the appropriate assessment and interview to prove ourselves as qualified members of the student council."
His gaze shifts between the two. Sensing their determination and anticipation.
"Very well, then.
I'll set up a meeting with the other council members so that you may both be appraised and Interviewed.
Be ready to explain and present your talents and qualifications."
He leans back in his chair again, a faint smirk emerging on the corner of his lips.
"And I hope you two are as good as you claim . . . —
The man glances at his wristwatch, before looking back at the two.
— That's it for now. I'll notify you both when the meeting with the council members is set."
" Thank you, Sir.; We’ll await your communication regarding the meeting.
Before we take our leave. I apologize for not asking before, Sir, May we inquire about your name?"
The man glances at them "Ah, I suppose I haven't introduced myself. I apologize for that."
He bows gently and maintains a polite manner.
"I'm Hasumi Keito, the Vice President of the Student council. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Tori and Yuzuru exchange small smiles with Keito, "It’s nice to meet you as well, Vice President"
"Indeed, it is a pleasure to meet you Vice President-Sama" they both remark together.
Tori looks at Keito politely and clears his throat slightly.
" We’ll take our leave now, Vice President ! We don't want to keep you from your duties any longer."
Keito acknowleges with a nod.
They both respectfully bow and turn to leave the room.
Tori is filled with the feeling of eagerness and determination about the upcoming evaluation.
He lets out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. And looks at Yuzuru, seeing his controlled attitude.
….
"Well, that went better than I’d expected."
Yuzuru agrees, his voice steady as usual.
"Indeed. The Vice President appeared receptive and seemed to take our application seriously.
We just need to make sure we're thoroughly prepared for the impending interview—
Tori suddenly interrupts him.
—Yuzuru, you didn’t tell me that you’d actually like to join the Student Council.”
Yuzuru slightly raises both of his hands, signifying something along the lines of “You’ve got it wrong” or “No, no”
”Ah, about that. I only answered to raise your chance of joining.”
—————————————
The time is now 8:00 AM
-
Tori lets out a yawn,
"Well I guess we just gotta go to our class and wait for the Vice President to notify us, huh?"
He gives Yuzuru a tiny smirk when he realizes their classes are different.
"1-B and 2-B, eh? Looks like we're in separate classes. I guess we'll have to split ways for now!"
Yuzuru shakes his head in agreement.
Tori gives Yuzuru a joyful wave, still remaining cheery.
"Well, I guess I'll see ya later Yuzuru! Good luck in class."
Yuzuru responds with a small bow, "Thank you, Young Master. I shall see you later."
They bid eachother farewell and proceed to their respective classes.
Tori can't help but feel excited and nervous about the meeting as he goes through the corridors.
He shakes his head slightly, trying to focus on the impending class.
—
As he approaches his classroom, he takes a breath as he enters the room.
Looking around and greeting his classmates with a happy smile.
Until he sees a familiar face among his classmates.
….
It's Tsukasa’!
Well, Their relationship had always been rather…strained ever since they were younger.
As they resumed eye contact, he couldn't help but feel a little annoyed and or even frustrated about having a now potential rival.
Nevertheless, the world kept spinning as he took his allotted seat and prepares for the class to begin.
—-
However, on Yuzuru's side. He entered his class with his usual calm and collected demeanor.
He takes his seat, and calmly observes his classmates.
Back on Tori's side, time passes and their homeroom class begins. As the Teacher enters and starts the class,
They start by going through the typical procedure of taking attendance and discussing the daily schedule and announcements.
As then after going over the names and introductions of each student,
"I'm Aoi Yuta, I love music and fashion, I hope we can get along~🎵"
—————————————————————-
"I'm Sengoku Shinobu, I hope to get along with all of you. I will do my best for your support! ⭐️"
—————————————————————-
And so on, until it's Tsukasa's turn.
He stands up confidently, a determined expression on his face.
Almost like Tori’s own when they were younger
"I am Suou Tsukasa. My hobbies include: Playing chess, card games, and reading.
Nice to meet you all, I hope for your continued support. 🎵"
He says, speaking clearly and confidently, his voice ringing throughout the classroom before bowing respectfully and taking his seat.
The students murmur in approval at his introduction.
As Tsukasa sat down, Tori notices his eyes periodically shifting towards his direction.
And before he could even realize it, it was already his turn to introduce himself.
He feels a pang of nervousness as all the students turn their attention to him,
The teacher gestures for him to stand in front of the class.
He takes a deep breath, plastering on his usual charming smile. He's used to being in the spotlight,
but it's still a little daunting having all those eyes on him.
He clears his throat slightly, gathering his thoughts as he begins to speak.
Making sure to sprinkle a bit of charm and charisma in his introduction.
"Hello everyone! I'm Tori Himemiya. It's nice to meet you all! Please support me as I grow~⭐️"
As he speaks, he can feel a few gazes lingering on him longer than others. Especially Tsukasa's,
Nevertheless, He felt a little satisfied at the attention, knowing that he tends to stand out wherever he goes.
he takes his seat once he was done introducing himself,
glancing around the class. he notices some of the students whispering.
As their first class period begins, He fights the temptation to roll his eyes, trying to focus on the lesson instead.
He looks over to Tsukasa. Noticing that he appears to be paying attention to the teacher's instructions.
Regardless of their complex past, Tsukasa's always has been a conscientious student,
which sometimes rubs him in the wrong way.
Meanwhile, Yuzuru dutifully takes notes and listens to the teacher's every word,
He cautiously peeks at his classmates from time to time. But his primary emphasis was on the teacher and the lesson.
He avoided superfluous conversations. Opting to retain his composure and absorb the knowledge being taught.
The classes appear to progress quickly, and before long—DING DOONGGG!!!
it's lunchtime. The bell ringing throughout the school,
Marking the conclusion of the current period, and the beginning of the lunch break.
Tori stretches his limbs, trying to release the tension from the previous classes.
His stomach grumbling, reminding him that it is time to eat.
He grabs his packed lunch and other belongings before rising from his seat.
As he steps out of the classroom, he finds Yuzuru standing infront of the door.
They walk together finding a place to eat.
———————————————————————————————
They decide to head to the courtyard.
Sitting in a somewhat quiet area. Tori unpacks his lunch,
showing the nutritious cuisine that Yuzuru had cooked him earlier before they came to school.
Tori doesn't particularly enjoy eating the food Yuzuru makes for him as they are quite "tasteless".
So he lets out a small sigh of dissatisfaction,
Despite that, he still eats the food as it will help with his own growth.
They sat quietly for a few moments, eating their food.
Tori takes little bites of the food, Before taking looks at Yuzuru's stoic expression.
Despite his demeanor, he can't help but feel comfortable in his company.
As they continue to eat, Tori's mind wanders.
He imagines himself on stage, preforming beside Eichi as an idol.
He can almost hear the audience's applause,
Feel the energy and excitement in the air, imagining the sparkling stage.
Before he knew it, He and Yuzuru finished their lunch.
Suddenly Tori is snapped out of his daydream by the sound of his phone flashing. He pauses and reaches for his device,
wondering as to why it's flashing. He looks at his phone to find a song, with a confused expression,
He raises an eyebrow when he reads the piece's title..."Untitled"
"Untitled? What the.....I don't remember downloading this song?"
Yuzuru stares at Tori, slightly concerned by his confusion.
As he presses the play button, his screen flashes once again, and it is out of control.
Suddenly, the world around him blurs,
he experiences a peculiar, disorienting sensation. Everything goes dark for a second.
———————————————————————————————————
STAGE SEKAI
———————————————————————————————————
Then he finds himself and Yuzuru in an unfamiliar location. Looking around, confused.
"What the..? What's going on??"
They take in their surroundings, realizing they're in a concert hall.
The predominantly ivory design creates a sleek and elegant appearance.
They can tell that a concert is about to begin.
"Wow...this place looks incredible...But how did we get here...?
He glances over at Yuzuru, his puzzled expression reflecting on his own face.
They exchange glances, silently wondering what's going on.
Tori's eyes widen when they suddenly hear a voice reverberating through the hall,
he turns to gaze in the direction where the voice appears to be coming from.
They both see Hatsune Miku,
clad in a lovely ivory outfit that seems to be on par with fine's customary elegance, walking towards them.
"What the...? Wait, is that...Hatsune Miku!?"
Miku responds, "Hello, Tori and Yuzuru."
He blinks in surprise as Miku calls them by their names.
He looks at Yuzuru for a bit, then back to Miku, completely perplexed.
He struggles to find the words to respond, but Yuzuru speaks out for him instead.
"May I ask, how do you know our names? And where are we right now?....."
Their attention was cut short when they notice that Kagamine Rin was also standing next to Miku.
Tori rubs his eyes, Attempting to understand what's going on.
"Oh, Welcome! this is your guys's SEKAI!"
The remark saying that this is their "SEKAI" just adds more to their perplexity.
Tori and Yuzuru stare at Rin, equally as surprised to see her.
Tori's eyes become even wider with the sight of the both of them. However, still baffled
"Woah...There's two of them...And they're both wearing what it seems like fine-themed outfits...! But....SEKAI...? What do you mean by that?”
Rin responds "This is a world born from all your feelings! we want you to reach your dreams and aspirations to find what you truly feel!"
He stares down briefly to processes Rin's words, his mind attempting to make sense of the situation.
"So, you're saying this place is a manifestation of my feelings....? And you want us to discover our true desires?"
He looks back at Yuzuru, wondering if he's as bewildered as he is.
Yuzuru returns Tori's look, showing that he is as confused as he is. They both look back at Rin and Miku.
Rin replies once more: "Yes! Correct, Because when you do, those feelings give birth to songs."
His eyebrows furrow slightly as he tries to understand the concept.
"You're telling me....Our feelings create songs?! So...if you help me find my genuine feelings, they will become songs?"
Curiosity begins to mix with the perplexity in his head,
And he can't help but wonder what type of songs might be born from his feelings.
Miku responds this time "Yes, but well...it seems that you already know your true feelings."
He raises an eyebrow, slightly surprised by Miku's words.
"Wait, what do you mean? I already know my true feelings? My...true feelings...? What ARE..my true feelings?"
He pauses for a bit, thinking about Miku's remarks. It's true that he knows what he wants to do,
his dreams and aspirations....He looks at Rin and Miku, not as perplexed as before.
"Are you saying that my true feelings are linked to my dream of becoming an idol?"
"Well, perhaps it is? Whatever the case, you should hold on to those feelings and never let them go.
Because...the others are about to forget theirs."
The mention of the others forgetting their feelings piques his attention, a flicker of anxiety crosses his face.
"What do you mean by "others" are forgetting their feelings?
You mean...there are others who are unaware of their genuine feelings? Who are these others?"
Tori becomes nervous as the thoughts appear in his head.
Before they could conclude their conversation, they hear sounds of what seems like the concertgoers cheering
"Well....Oh! it's almost time to start the concert, We are sorry, but we have to cut this conversation short. We'll see the both of you around,
As long as you and the others share the same feelings, we'll all meet in this SEKAI one day." Miku adds.
Miku's words about the concert starting soon, jolt Tori out of his thoughts.
Yuzuru listens to what they say, still a little perplexed about the situation they're in.
"Oh uh....huh..!? Wait!!" Tori says, surprised,
Questions continue to fly into his mind, but the beginning of the concert creates a sense of urgency.
"What she said! We're all rooting for you!" Rin shouts.
He looks at them both with a shocked expression, still trying to process what they've just said.
"Wait! You're leaving already?! And wait a second, you still haven't answered my questions- hold on!"
————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
REAL WORLD (OUTDOOR EATING AREA)
————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
Tori gasps as he and Yuzuru are teleported back to the real world;
he stumbles as the unexpected translocation leaves him bewildered.
He blinks a few times, attempting to reorient himself with the real world.
The abrupt transition from the concert hall to the surroundings of the school is jarring.
"Ugh...what just happened...?"
He rubs his eyes and shakes his head, still trying to understand their strange encounter with Miku and Rin.
He turns around and notices a few students giving him strange looks.
Probably wondering what the hell just happened to him.
He straightens himself up and looks at Yuzuru,
"Yuzuru...did you also experience that? Tell me I'm not hallucinating or anything."
Yuzuru, pauses to gather his thoughts before responding.
"No, I assure that you're not hallucinating, Young Master. I experienced it too. We both did."
Tori stares at Yuzuru with relief, before changing the topic.
He looks at Yuzuru, his interest piqued. He pauses for a bit before deciding to ask a personal question.
"I don’t know if this is the wrong timing, but Yuzuru....can I ask you something?"
Yuzuru glances at him, his expression serious. He doesn't say anything but nods, signaling for him to ask his question.
Tori takes a deep breath, unsure on how to word his question. But he gathers the guts to ask, hoping for a genuine response.
"Do you....ever dream of being an idol or anything like that?—I mean…for what other reason would you be transported into that world with me..? Considering the goal..”
Yuzuru's demeanor remains neutral, but his eyes convey a touch of surprise at his question.
He doesn't respond right away, instead taking a moment to think over his response.
Tori fidgets anxiously, wondering whether he might've asked something too personal.
Tori observes as Yuzuru collects his thoughts, his countenance revealing nothing of his real feelings,
As time passes, being 10 minutes before their next period. The silence between them stretches.
The only sound being the faint chatter of other students from afar.
Finally, Yuzuru speaks, his tone of voice calm and deliberate.
"Well, I can't say that I've ever actively dreamed of being an idol."
Tori is taken aback by Yuzuru's blunt response, and he pays close attention to his next words.
"However, I do admire the dedication and passion that idols put into their work."
He pauses for a moment, gazing at Tori.
"It must take a lot of resilience and hard work to shine on stage and captivate an audience."
Yuzuru turns his gaze towards the other students.
"And while I don't necessarily envy the aspects of being an idol, I can appreciate the drive and determination it takes to pursue that path."
Yuzuru turns his look back at Tori.
Tori listens, shocked and slightly impressed by his candid response. But then, does he have a dream? A goal? His response still doesn’t give an answer to his question. Why else would he be transported alongside him?
his thoughtful and heartfelt response catching surprising him.
Tori can't help but wonder whether there's more to his calm and gentle demeanor.
Is there a part of him that secretly desires the spotlight or the thrill of performing on stage?
Even if it's unrelated to idol work?
He groans internally, aware that deciphering Yuzuru's thoughts is like attempting to solve a complex jigsaw puzzle.
But, He decides to press further, and find an answer to his questions.
"Yuzuru...I have another question for you."
Yuzuru raises an eyebrow at him. He waits for him to continue.
"So—but...then, do you have any dreams or aspirations for yourself? Like, any big goals that you want to achieve?"
Yuzuru carefully chooses his words before responding.
He waits anxiously for him to speak, his heart thudding slightly in anticipation of his answer.
"Dreams and aspirations, huh?"
He pauses again, to contemplate. Tori holding his own breath
When he finally speaks, his tone of voice is calm.
"To be honest, I've never given it much thought."
His words surprise Tori a bit, but he remains silent, listening intently for him to elucidate further.
"I've always been more focused on supporting others and fulfilling their dreams, rather than pursuing my own."
His eyes focus on Tori. "I suppose my dream would be to help others achieve their goals and find success."
His statements are strikingly honest. His response conveys a feeling of care for others.
Tori can't help but admire him.
He finds himself quite charmed by his unrelenting commitment to assisting others in their quest to success.
”Ah, wait, so is that the answer? His dream—no, his goal…is to assist. So thence—“
—
Despite his stoicism sometimes,
Yuzuru is clearly a person who demonstrates true empathy and selfless behavior.
Tori smiles briefly,
"You really are something else, Yuzuru. Always thinking about others first and foremost. It's commendable, really."
Yuzuru responds with a small smile, His eyes soften slightly, indicating a sense of gratitude.
"Well, someone has to keep an eye on your impulsive and carefree nature, don't they?"
He grins slightly at Yuzuru's remark, realizing he's not exactly wrong.
He tends to act before thinking,
So it's good to have someone like Yuzuru to keep him in check.
Suddenly, they realize that their next period is approaching.
Tori had been so concentrated on their conversation and Yuzuru's words,
that he had nearly forgotten about their classes.
He spoke with a hint of annoyance in his voice in reaction to the bell.
"Ugh, another period...That really ruined the mood…." Tori gathers his other belongings, preparing to head to his next class.
While Yuzuru, has already packed up and is ready to go, waiting patiently for him to finish up.
After he packs his stuff, he takes a moment to comment on the situation, looking at Yuzuru while smiling.
"Honestly, I just wanna thank you for having a conversation with me.
It was....pretty enlightening, considering how we rarely ever have these kinds of talks—And, I thank you since I’ve also got the answer to the question I’ve asked previously.”
Yuzuru looks back and smiles at him, nodding.
Tori puts his bag over his shoulder and walks beside Yuzuru as they head towards their next class.
They had to separate once again as they head back into their classes.
—————————————————————————————————
More time passes, and eventually, after what feels like such a long day. It’s about time to go home.
Thinking about their talk, and the upcoming interview.
—————————————————————————————————————————-
The scene shifts,
A sound of a knock can be heard from the outside of the Principal's office.
—————————————————————————————————————————-
PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE
—————————————————————————————————————————-
Inside the office, it appears that Eichi and the Principal are sitting and discussing about an important topic.
......
"You've always been so dedicated, Eichi. Are you sure that this is your final decision?"
The Principal lets out a small sigh, eyes narrowing in concern.
Eichi, remains resolute, his light blue eyes fixed on the Principal.
"It isn't just my illness,..."
He coughs,
"You see, I've tried to reignite that flame, to find that spark again, but...it's gone.
I no longer feel the same sense of purpose on stage. The thrill, the love, that once drove me has faded."
He pauses, his hands resting on his lap.
"I do not want to continue fine's legacy without the same passion, it's the reason why I drove this far."
The principal leans back in his chair, gaze softening as he processes Eichi's words.
"I understand...it's difficult being an idol, it's difficult when you've achieved so much at such a young age."
He sighs, adjusting his glasses.
"But what about the other members of fine? What will this mean for them?"
"Their contracts are already close to termination, the concert a few days ago was our last,
I already had plans beforehand. It's up to them on what they'll do afterwards."
Eichi says, voice quieter than usual.
"I do have to say though, I owe them much. And really, this is no haste decision"
The principal nods solemnly. "Yumenosaki will always be proud of what you've achieved."
Eichi stands up slowly, his posture still somewhat graceful despite his frailty.
"Thank you, sir, for your understanding. If I may, I shall take my leave."
The Principal nods, acknowledging.
As Eichi walks towards the door, he hesitates for a moment, his hand resting on the doorknob.
He looks at the back of the room, eyes drifting to the window, where long shadows cast across the campus.
"Perhaps," he murmurs to himself,
"I will find a new purpose. Something....worth living for,”
“….Something beyond the stage."