Chapter Text
IDOLiSH7 is currently the most successful idol group in Japan. They've surpassed other well-known groups like Trigger, Zool, and even Re:Vale. They're a group of seven boys, each unique, known for their friendship and positive energy.
Their center, Riku Nanase, is the main embodiment of the joy and positivity that defines the group. However, something has slowly but surely begun to catch the attention of fans.
"Didn't you notice Riku-kun looking more tired at today's concert?"
"He looked a little pale on Ainana's show today..."
"He must just be tired! IDOLiSH7 are top idols, so it's only natural that they're working harder!"
"You're right, though. I hope he's not overdoing it."
They're really more like casual comments, things that can easily be attributed to the pile of work they've had since the last Black and White, where they defeated Re:Vale. At least that's what one can deduce from the outside…
In the dressing room, after the IDOLiSH7 show, a common sight could be seen lately due to the amount of work and the start of the cold season, a time when the health of the group's center could decline more easily.
–"Nanase-san, please wrap up. You look tired too. Try to warm yourself up and get a good night's sleep as soon as you get back to the dorm," insisted the blue-haired young man as he placed a scarf around the red-haired boy.
- Riku-kun, shall I make you some hot tea before you go?
I'll make you some hot tea before you go out. Riku, please take my limited-edition Kokona coat. It'll protect your spirit and body from the cold.
Guys, guys, I get it! - Riku exclaimed, a little desperate but happy at the same time, as he headed for the door. - You guys worry too much! I haven't had a bad day in a while, and I'm being careful.
Hahaha! - Yamato chuckled at the scene and cleared his throat. - Sorry, but let us worry about you. We haven't been able to see each other much lately, and you've been working a lot, so at least put our minds at ease knowing you're being more careful. Let us know as soon as you get there.
Bye-bye, Rikkun! See you in the dorm later! - Tamaki waved. Finally, the dressing room door closed, leaving the other six members inside.
Mitsuki sighed. - I don’t think we’re being too overprotective, are we? It’s true he hasn’t had that many problems lately, and the company always makes sure he gets plenty of rest, but Riku tends to forget that his body isn’t like everyone else’s.-
Yamato nodded silently. -Actually, it makes me a little nervous that we’re all so busy to begin with. There are so few moments when we’re all together these days. A while ago, I found Riku coughing a little during the night on my way to a job, but I didn’t get a chance to help him.-
Sogo added worriedly - Last time, we were taking turns keeping an eye on him. We need to talk to the agency about this. We can’t let our guard down.-
During the Perfection Gimmick era, Riku had a severe seizure in the dorm. If it hadn’t been for Yamato and Iori being there to help, the situation could have ended much worse. After the several scares his center has given them because of his condition, they always try to support him so he's healthy, happy, and able to continue singing with everyone.
Nagi smiled. - So much worry could have the opposite effect and distress him. We just have to make sure he always feels supported. Between the seven of us, whether it's the icy winter winds or the love of our fans, there's nothing we can't face.-
Rokuya-san is right,- Iori pointed out. -We have to stay focused on solidifying our position as top idols. The other groups are formidable rivals, so any carelessness could cost us our newly acquired spot.-
-We're right in the period when the center change happened. We can still resort to that option if Nanase-san's health shows signs of worsening.-
Although I'd really prefer not to have to do it again, whether something happens or not, I'll continue to make sure you can shine as our superstar.