Originally posted 8/12/2013 by Elizabeth Carpenter. No Beta was utilized, thus all mistakes are those of the author. All characters, unless otherwise stated, are owned by the author of Skip Beat! Nakamura Yoshiki-sensei. Wow! I was surprised by the number of reviews last chapter received; thank you! I have had several reviewers ask questions that did not allow PMs, so I will address them here; feel free to skip over this if you prefer. One guest reviewer in particular raised a good point regarding Kyoko/Masuyo's age. I am playing with the timeline just a bit, first because Kyoko never went to Tokyo and we have no idea how long Sho and Kyoko were in Tokyo before the scenes the manga starts with occur. Or at least, I couldn't find record of that time period. If someone else does, let me know and I can do some editing. Regardless, my thoughts were this-they just finished middle school, according to the manga, meaning Kyoko would need to be 14 or 15 when she finished middle school. The manga has her turning 16 at her first birthday after being in Tokyo and show business. Considering the number of events that occur between the scene with Sho and Chapter 120(her 16th birthday), it seemed likely to me that nearly a year passed. So far in my story, Kyoko has spent a month after Sho leaves in America. In this chapter, two more months will pass, during which time she will turn 15. So, by the time she gets to Tokyo to audition, just like in the manga, she will be 15. I hope this clears up any confusion.
In the interest of being fair, I should also mention that a few reviewers asked questions regarding future events and, after confirming they really did want spoilers, I replied in kind. Brief future chapter descriptions are also included on my profile, but if you really do feel as if you just can't get by without having a particular question answered, just post it in your review or PM me and I will respond as soon as possible.
Regarding this chapter-generally speaking, there will be less dialogue and more descriptive action as I try to speed past the parts non-essential to plot. Furthermore, while I had hoped to at least reach the audition if not complete it this chapter, it was simply too massive already. Hopefully, this won't upset many. In any case, sorry for the long author note and enjoy the chapter.
Chapter 8: Venturing Forth
Kyoko collapsed on her bed, silently contemplating the last few weeks since presenting her Masuyo. The president had been suitably impressed, and given her permission to audition when they were held in a couple months. After much discussion between Kyoko, who felt she had intruded enough and intended to return to Japan immediately to arrange for part time work and a place to stay in Tokyo, and the Hizuris, Julie especially, who wished for her to remain in America as long as possible, it was finally decided to split the difference. One month in America, one month in Japan readying for the audition.
Time passed quickly in America. Kyoko grew even closer with the Hizuris, and at their urging had shared very nearly every conversation that occurred between her and Kuon. The memories never failed to make her smile, and they soothed his parents the way only hearing good things of your child from someone else can. What's more, the memories helped reassure them that Kuon would return to them someday. In turn, they told Kyoko a bit more about Kuon growing up. To her inevitable questions regarding his current whereabouts, Kuu simply reiterated what he had said before; numerous circumstances required Kuon to reinvent himself. "Our boy is in Japan now, and unrecognizable. We can't contact him until he decides to be himself again. He is determined not to return until he surpasses me." For once, Kuu was being completely serious, and his sad eyes prevented Kyoko from questioning him further even if the quiet girl had been so inclined.
The Hizuris continued to work with Kyoko on developing Masuyo more, hoping in the process to help Kyoko herself. Still, while Masuyo could handle criticisms and compliments with equal aplomb, Kyoko out of character was as humble and lacking in presence as ever. It seemed as if she simply wanted to fade into the background most of the time.
"Kyoko-chan," questioned Kuu one day, "is this even what you want? Clearly you have the talent for it, but it's no good if you don't have a true passion. Don't let yourself be pushed into acting unnecessarily. We will support you no matter what."
Kyoko smiled gently. "Arigatou, Kuu-san. I appreciate that. But, you aren't pushing. I don't really know what I want out of life yet, but I know I want to make others happy. Acting is a way to do that, and if you say I have talent for it then more's the better. I do want to go to high school at some point, if I can, but unlike Masuyo I am okay with however things work out. I will give this my best shot and if I fail, I will do whatever work needs to be done."
Kuu sighed. 'Kyoko-chan still doesn't get it. If she is going to succeed, she will need to put her whole heart into it, not this half-hearted "If I succeed, great; if not, it wasn't meant to be." Still, at least she does have a genuine interest in it. And, wanting to please others is a good trait to have towards your potential audience.'
Kyoko celebrated her birthday with the Hizuris, though fortunately for Kyoko they did not discover her birthday until December 25th was nearly upon them. Accordingly, there was little time for preparation and everything was kept relatively low-key. The Hizuris took care that she had a few presents and cake, and Kuu insisted on cooking for her despite Kyoko's many blushes and apologies. Julie used Kyoko's birthday as an excellent excuse for a whole new wardrobe to follow her to Japan.
Shaking herself out of her reminisces, Kyoko stood to leave. She quickly grabbed her suitcase and stepped into the car with the Hizuris. A subdued Kyoko, upset Julie, and consoling Kuu made the trip to the airport. Upon arrival, many tears and promises to stay in touch were exchanged; finally, Kyoko stepped onto the plane bound for Tokyo. She sighed a bit as she looked at the place where, for two months, she had felt truly at home and, what's more, felt loved. Kyoko did not recognize the feeling for love, exactly, but she knew the Hizuris had truly cared for her. 'More than I deserve, to be sure, but I owe them a lot. I wonder where I would be if Kuu-san hadn't found me? They are giving me this chance, so I can't let them down!'
"She still doesn't get it!" cried one angel to another. "They love her because she is loveable; she can't let them down because they will always support her!"
"I know that and you know that, but Kyoko-chan still thinks as love as something to be earned, something she isn't worthy of or else her mother, the Fuwas, and Sho would have loved her. She doesn't recognize it as something to hold and give freely, and she won't until she realizes she has it within herself," answered another.
"She's sooo slow! So sweet, but so slow! We've got to get her to value herself…if for no other reason than the fact that I hate that stupid chest taking up space when what's in it should be flowing all around us," complained a third.
The first angel sadly nodded. "Yes, but all we can do is give her time. Maybe this audition will give her a chance to prove herself. Neither Kyoko nor Masuyo value love overly much, but at least Masuyo understands self-worth. No danger of someone crushing Kyoko while Masuyo is in charge, so for now we just observe."
As she hailed a taxi to transport her to a nearby inn, where she would stay at Lory's expense until a job and housing could be secured, Kyoko remembered the conversation that had taken place in private with Lory after revealing herself to him.
"Kyoko-kun, I am quite impressed at your performance. I did not really believe you would be able to fool me, certainly not so completely as you did. Nonetheless, you still have much growth to make, both as an individual and as an actress. Do you understand?"
Kyoko looked blankly for a moment before slowly nodding. "Hai, Takarada-san. I do. Masuyo might be equipped for show business, but I am not. You said before that I would act as Masuyo at all times, but doing so could complicate my own growth if I become too accustomed to hiding behind her. What do you suggest?"
Lory smiled. 'Bright girl, indeed. She is quite correct. In fact, I wish the Hizuris other child would be as quick to recognize that fact. Still, there is one other issue to address.'
"You are correct, Kyoko-kun. As to addressing it, I think that can be put aside for the moment. I suspect you will identify for yourself when it is appropriate to be Masuyo and when Kyoko is fine. Morikawa Masuyo will certainly suffice for a stage name, regardless, and you did a wonderful job blending your own and her background in such a way we can use most of it in any biographical information that needs to be provided. Ne, the main concern you should be focused on now is your audition. I told you before if you could fool me I would accept you as an actress for LME, but if for nothing other than appearance's sake you still need to audition."
Lory had carefully watched Kyoko for her reaction to all the news he was imparting to her, and was pleasantly surprised by her reactions. First slight worry at determining when to be Masuyo and when to be Kyoko, next humble satisfaction at a job well done, and finally determination to do well at this next task; each in turn were clearly revealed across her expressive face. 'She will do well if she keeps this attitude. She seems understandably nervous, but that will fade somewhat with experience, I expect. More importantly, she has the right outlook for the industry in an honest desire to entertain others.'
"Hai, of course. I would never dream of trying to sneak past such a step, Takarada-san. In turn, promise me that your agreement to accept me as an LME actress be considered pending my performance." Kyoko's golden eyes glinted with resolve as she proposed altering the situation a bit. 'I will not be accused of favoritism, not even by myself! If I am to be an actress, it will be on my own merit, not the pity of others. What I have not earned, I will not take. I cannot embarrass those willing to take a chance on me in such a way.'
Lory blinked in astonishment. 'Pending her performance...? The performance she put on earlier tonight is far more demanding than that which will be demanded at the audition…yet, if she is so determined that is fine.'
"Very well, Kyoko-kun. That is acceptable. Now, to arrange for your housing once you arr-"
"No, Takarada-san! Pardon my interruption, but do you arrange housing for every hopeful actor or actress who plans to audition? I think not. Do not favor me along." Kyoko knew she had to get this point across very early.
Lory sweat dropped. 'Really? She would refuse even this much? It's true, though, I wouldn't normally arrange for housing. But, she is so young and a…ward, of sorts, of the Hizuris as well. Eh, well, nothing to be done.'
"Well, then, perhaps I should ask you your intended plans, Kyoko-kun. The audition is in two months. What will you do?"
The two had continued to discuss plans until it was eventually decided the exact dates would be worked out with the Hizuris, but that Kyoko would arrive in Tokyo, take a taxi to an inn, find work and housing, and prepare for the audition.
"After the audition, Kyoko-kun, there is something else we will need to have arranged before you officially sign with LME. I understand your situation has left you without a true guardian at the moment, but we need parental permission for you to debut. Despite what Sho and Akatoki have managed, that is not easy and not strictly above-board when it is arranged. I want something less likely to cause a scandal if revealed for you." Lory was quite serious on this point. He understood Kyoko did not have a father-or at this point, a mother-in the picture. He knew well enough it made his blood boil what the Fuwas reaction to Sho's departure had been. He also had a plan in mind.
"Do not fret over it at this time, but I do have an option in mind. We can request temporary guardianship be turned over to a different party in light of your abandonment by both biological parents and temporary custodians. Normally, I would approach the Hizuris; in this case, though, that would place you very much in the spotlight and, from young Kuon's example, I doubt this would be the best situation for you. Instead, would it be acceptable to you if I were to take over this position?" Lory found himself unusually nervous at Kyoko's reaction; it really was the best solution he could come up with, but she really did not know him that well. If she refused, however, there was little else he could do. His hands were tied.
'Takarada-san? My guardian? So strange; not that long ago I was without anyone wanting to claim me, and now the Hizuris have apparently volunteered only to be unacceptable due to circumstance, but Takarada-san in willing to fill in. All of this, just to help me. Why? They must be truly great people to go so far for someone worth so little…' Kyoko was understandably confused, but not averse to the idea. She had already trusted Lory so far, based solely on Kuu's recommendation. What's more, over the previous month Kyoko had heard Kuu talk about Lory, or "Boss" as he called the man, quite a bit. While eccentric, he was loyal to his talents and took care of those he cared for. Kyoko's decision was made quickly.
Lory's nerves were increasing at the girl's continued silence, but at last she seemed to come to a decision and looked up at him.
"Hai, Takarada-san. That would be acceptable. It should cover all our bases with the media should they inquire, ne? It shouldn't be that unusual for a young talent without a guardian to have temporary guardianship granted to the trusted head of the agency her future lies with, correct?"
Lory smiled gently at the uncertain young girl. 'Kuu and Julie have done wonders for the girl, both in knowledge of the industry and increasing her confidence a bit,' he though with satisfaction.
"Hai, Kyoko-kun," was all he said.
Kyoko returned his smile with a dazzling one of her own. "Then, Takarada-san, please take care of me! I will see you in Japan at the audition. Or rather, Masuyo will." She turned and left, thinking of all that needed to be discussed with the Hizuris while still marveling at having someone to discuss things with.
The taxi arrived at the inn the driver had recommended and Kyoko grabbed her things. A quick conversation granted her a room for the night, and further inquiry granted a list of local inns they thought needed assistance. "This one-" here the receptionist indicated a name on the list, "-sometimes has rooms available as well. You might check there first." Politely thanking the woman, Kyoko went to her room for the night. 'It seems so quiet,' she thought, 'without Kuu-san's exuberant laughter when he goofs off. I almost expect to hear Julie-san banging about in the kitchen, burning something, at any moment. I hope they are doing well.' Suddenly remembering she had promised to let them know when she arrived, Kyoko went back to the lobby to borrow the phone. The Hizuris had offered her a cell, but upon her vehement refusal had eventually backed off. 'I really didn't like the look they exchanged, though-why do I feel as if I will find myself with a cell phone one way or the other soon?'
Kyoko soon found herself laughing at the fight between the Hizuris for the phone, Julie's reminder that she was welcome back, "-anytime! Anytime at all! Just let us know and I will come get you from that kidnapper myself!" and Kuu's antics while reminding Julie that "our beautiful girl is going to take Tokyo by storm! We can't keep her from that, my beloved." The young girl didn't even notice the tears rolling down her face, but that was fine. They weren't tears of sadness anyway, but in relief that she had not been forgotten, at joy from the proof they cared, and at knowing she would always have someone to rely on. The sensations were strange, but they warmed her heart.
'I still don't understand what they see in me. But-they are both so attractive and talented, if they truly do see something in me maybe I do have value after all.'
Deep within her heart, a chest glowed and shook for a brief moment. The angels eyed it hopefully; the lock had been redesigned so that it would unlock automatically once Kyoko recognized her own worth. But, after a moment the glow died and the chest resettled, dust having been scattered off the cloth covering it.
"Give it up, angel-sans. Kyoko-chan isn't going to change that quickly," advised a somewhat bored Masuyo, who was more than ready to return to being in charge once more. Kyoko was so slow at making headway; Masuyo was ready to take the world by storm when Kyoko would settle for pleasing one person.
Nodding sadly, the angels settled back down to await the next development.
Kyoko's wonderings continued, as she quickly shot down the little hope that had developed. 'Or maybe, it is just that their generosity matches their talent and beauty.' Sigh. 'Eh, well, either way tomorrow begins Masuyo's preparations.' Kyoko went to bed that night tired but pleased with the way things had gone thus far.
The next morning…
Masuyo opened golden eyes and set up. 'Ugh, something needs to be done…' she eyed her black tresses contemplatively for a moment before nodding decisively. 'Un, job and housing first, then arrange for this hair to be fixed. Kyoko's going to the backburner for a while, after all.'
Masuyo went about her daily tasks getting ready, then retrieved the list provided to her by the receptionist the night before. A few questions later, she was en route to the inn. Looking about her, Masuyo nodded approvingly. Modest, but clean and well-cared for. It almost reminded her of where she had grown up, really.
"Okami-san? Taisho-san?" Masuyo politely inquired upon entering the building. The kindly looking woman and vaguely intimidating man looked up at her inquiry. A few minutes later, Masuyo had arranged for housing, meals, and a slight salary in exchange for work, pending proof of ability. Masuyo started work immediately, and with the telling glances only those in a close marriage can effectively pull off the taisho and okami spoke.
'I like her, dear,' intimated the okami with a life of her brow and sidelong glance.'
'Ano, she is at least capable in the kitchen. And seems to have the proper attitude towards the guests,' responded the taisho with a small nod of approval.
'But, she spoke of show business, ne? I hope she doesn't become flighty…'
'She doesn't strike me as the sort. Provided she sticks to her values, I see little room for trouble. She should go for what she is passionate about.' The normally somewhat taciturn taisho seemed quite set on this point, and the okami smiled fondly.
'Just as you did, eh?' but this was thought only to herself.
Meanwhile, Masuyo was easily falling into the habits built over a lifetime spent working in the kitchen and on the floor. Moving where she was needed, she adopted the professional calm and thankfulness of an okami herself. The customers were charmed by her, more so when she relaxed a bit and interacted with more informality and friendliness. 'So lucky! To find such a place immediately, that is. I can see myself being happy here,' Masuyo inwardly exclaimed.
"So lucky indeed! Great work, Masuyo-chan!" Kyoko was ecstatic, and the angels smiled at her antics as she danced in circles congratulating…well, if not herself, a facet of herself, anyway.
Time passed quickly, and a week later Kyoko had successfully completed her transformation into Masuyo. Kyoko's hair was dyed, her wardrobe remade, and Masuyo's personality was second-nature at this point. 'Really, if only I had more than just the basic makeup Masuyo would be perfect. But, I can't spend the Hizuris money so frivolously. With luck, soon enough I will be able to afford some myself. Makeup really is magic,' Kyoko thought with a grin as she applied the last brushes of mascara to her eyelashes.
Masuyo had reclaimed control before the girl left her room, intent on her goal for the day. If she was really to earn her way into LME, then she needed to obtain an audition form first of all. Striding through the front doors of LME, the girl confidently approached the front desk.
"Eh? What can I help you with today?" inquired the smiling receptionist.
"I need to obtain an audition form, please," Masuyo gave a brief, professional smile of her own.
The receptionist eyed the girl. 'She seems aboveboard, I suppose. Doesn't come across as desperate or obsessive, which is a step above most of the young girls that show up here. Very well, then…'
"Certainly! Just a moment, then. Do you know which section you will be applying for?"
Masuyo considered for a moment. Acting was the obvious choice, but perhaps that was being a bit forward of her. In any case, the section with the most flexibility was undoubtedly-
"Talent. Of course, that makes little difference in the audition itself, correct?"
The receptionist blinked at the girl's knowledge. 'That's unusual…most have no clue until the audition itself occurs. Ano, maybe she has auditioned before? Eh, no matter.'
"Well, that's true. Here's the paperwork. I assume you know the date?"
Masuyo simply nodded as she accepted the papers. Scanning briefly to ensure she had no questions, she turned to leave-
Only to bump into one very tall man. Accustomed to heels she might be by now, but not when put under duress. Down Masuyo went, landing distinctly ungracefully at the still-unseen individual's feet. "Eh? Gomenasai, gomenasai," she began apologizing, standing up once more. Masuyo began looking up…and up…and up at the man. Long legs, narrow torso, gently smiling face, dark hair. 'That face seems very familiar,' she thought, 'but where from? Shame I never watched much television in Kyoto…'
Kyoko looked at the man's face with a small frown marring her face. "Very familiar, very familiar indeed…" Suddenly her face lit up. "Ah! I know! Shou-chan was not very fond of him. Shou-chan would say he didn't understand what was so good about this guy, this-"
"Tsuruga Ren-san? I certainly do have all the luck, running into such a big name so soon upon entering this place. Again, my apologies, Tsuruga-san." Masuyo finally placed the man, recalling he was a very popular actor. After a quick bow, she bent to reclaim the scattered paperwork.
'Eh? Who is this?' wondered Ren as he quickly followed his gentleman guise and started to assist her. 'A newcomer, I suppose. Ah, audition forms! A would-be newcomer, then.' Smiling gently, he finally spoke.
"It is no trouble. Are you to audition, then?"
"Hai." Gathering the last of the forms, Masuyo bowed once more before making as if to depart. "Arigatou, Tsuruga-san."
Waving off the thanks, Ren looked at the girl once more. Long hair, golden eyes…something about those eyes looked familiar, but he couldn't imagine where from. Still, as the girl started to leave, he stopped her.
"Are you not going to introduce yourself? You should know, in this industry it is important to meet everyone you can."
A tic appeared briefly on Masuyo's forehead at the mild rebuke, but professionalism demanded a response. 'Normally, of course I'd introduce myself! But, I need to get back to my job and get started preparing for the audition!'
"Gomenasai once more, Tsuruga-san. It seems I do little but apologize to you. Hajimemashite. Morikawa Masuyo desu. I am an aspiring actress, here today to obtain the requisite paperwork. Of course, you are Tsuruga Ren-san, but come to think of it why did I bump into you at the front desk? Shouldn't top acts such as yourself have a back entrance to enter and exit from?" Masuyo knew it wasn't strictly polite to ask, but she was genuinely curious.
Ren observed the girl, amused. Few newcomers, far less female newcomers, would dare challenge his actions in any way. This-Masuyo-though, seemed unaffected. 'Well, this could be fun,' a rare sense of mischief taking over, he unleashed his widest smile.
"Very astute of you, Morikawa-san. One of the producers needed some paperwork and since I had a brief moment with nothing else to do, I volunteered to retrieve it for him. Acting, hm? What inspired your decision?"
Ren's smile did not have quite the effect he was expecting. Both Masuyo and the inner Kyoko flinched. It certainly looked pretty enough, as the nearby swooning receptionist could attest. Somehow, though, there was a lack of sincerity present that made Masuyo suspicious and evoked in Kyoko remembrances of plastered on smiles for guests. Either way,
"What an interesting fake smile. Impressive, actually," mused Masuyo, almost not aware she was speaking aloud. Recalling herself, she answered his question. "I have some amount of talent for it, or so I've been told, and I enjoy pleasing others. What better industry to enter, then?"
Just as Masuyo had sensed Ren's smile was not honest, something in her words was not ringing true to Ren. "True, true…tell me, Morikawa-san, have you always been interested in acting? If you could have anything in the world, what would it be?"
Masuyo was startled at the further questioning of her by now stock answer. Despite herself, Masuyo's straightforwardness took control before her professionalism could. An honest answer emerged. "Stability. I've much to learn before that is accomplished, however, and acting should be a good way to learn what is needed to achieve it."
Ren's eyes narrowed dangerously for a moment. 'A good way to reach-? She is using acting as a means to an end, then? In pursuit of something she sees as better? If that is the case, then she is no better than someone entering the industry just to get close to an idol! Planning to steal an audience's support and love only to walk out as soon as her goal is met. How despicable. Especially considering all of us who put our entire hearts into everything we do, such half-efforts are not to be accepted.'
His face returned to its relaxed state, but Masuyo detected a dangerous glint still present in his eyes and was not entirely surprised by his next words. Truthfully, she had already started berating herself for her blunt answer. Even Kyoko could have likely put together a less…insulting response, she was sure.
"Oh? So stability ranks so much higher than acting? A stepping stone, so to speak? Congratulations, then, Morikawa-san. You will one day reach higher than me, I suppose."
Masuyo trembled at the words. Though taken just as spoken, there was nothing dangerous about them, the undercurrents of the speech were clear to her. What's worse, there was no good response to be made. Agree, and seem conceited. Or disagree, and really, how does one disagree with such a prevalent figure in show business? 'Great going, Masuyo, you've really done it now!'
Thinking quickly, Masuyo found a way to temper her response somewhat. "Ano, Tsuruga-san, you misunderstand. It is not that acting is a means to an end, so much as I understand what a difficult industry it can be. I want to learn as much as I can and go as far as I can in it, but I am realistic enough to know I may never reach as far as one such as you. So, I will learn what I can so that knowledge might be reapplied to a less…changeable industry when appropriate."
Ren eyed Masuyo speculatively. 'I think the previous answer was more truthful. And that makes three answers she has provided to one question now. Still, there is little to be gained from further discussion here. If determination to meet a goal is all she has, she will likely fail the audition anyway.'
"Is that so? My mistake, then. Good luck at the audition, Morikawa-san. Just calmly pursuing a goal will not allow you to pass it." With that final warning, Ren finally obtained the asked for paperwork from the receptionist and went back up the stairs to the producer's office.
