A/N: Sorry for the very late update, guys. Life, these past 2 years, has really been hard. I was tired mentally after my family and I experienced unpleasant things that I don't want to talk about. I'm glad that it's over now.
Also, I watched Free! Eternal Summer (and rewatched episode 12 many times and giggled like a fool) and the 3rd season of UtaPri first before continuing to update this, so I can still add new things in the story. But, I won't follow the plot of Free Eternal Summer here because it'll ruin my planned story right from the very beginning. So, sorry to RinHaru fans who cried tears of joy after watching episode 12 because they won't have that 'trip in Australia' memory in this fanfic. Anyway, I'm really sorry once again if you're sick of waiting.
As always, thanks for reading, and writing reviews and suggestions, dear readers! Well, I think I'll still go with AllxHaru for fun. I'll still try figuring out the best guy for Haru but if I can't seem to decide, I'll choose the most preferred pairing from your reviews. So far, TokiHaru and MakoHaru are the preferred pairings, but I wonder if you'll change your minds when Haru gets close to other STARISH members . . . and perhaps, Quartet Night and the new improved HEAVENS, too? *chuckles evilly*
Choosing a pairing is so hard because I love them all! Blame me for being one of the crazy fujoshis out there but I'm still happy to be one! (*^_^*)
I hope you'll enjoy this chapter!
Disclaimer: I don't own UtaPri, Free! and the English-translated lyrics of Mamoru Miyano's song, "Moonlight."
Chapter 3: Moonlight
It had already been a minute since Haruka asked a simple question, but his upperclassmen couldn't seem to answer it easily. All of them had a crestfallen look on their faces. Makoto began to worry that their conversation might be a really heavy one. It might be better to change the topic right away. However before he could open his mouth, Otoya suddenly spoke.
"Our composer . . . She . . . She's not here anymore, you see . . ."
"Why?" asked Haruka quickly, causing Otoya to bite his lower lip tensely.
"Don't you get it, brat?" growled Syo with trembling fists. "She . . . Nanami is already-"
Syo's voice trailed off as he tried to fight back his tears. He refused to let the black-haired composer see him cry.
With a painful expression on his face, Masato was the one who continued his fellow idol's sentence. ". . . dead . . . The former composer of STARISH and Ichinose's lover, Nanami Haruka, died in an accident two years ago . . ."
Haruka's eyes widened up and stared at Tokiya (whose hands were shivering a little) in sympathy while Makoto showed a shocked look as he finally understood the whole story why STARISH had stopped showing up together in public.
"So . . . the accident that happened in front of the concert hall in Tokyo . . ."
"Yes . . . She's the victim," replied Ren sadly to Makoto.
". . . We're sorry for your loss . . . ," he apologized sincerely while looking down at his hands. He'd never thought that his upperclassmen lost someone really important. A composer was an indispensable partner for an idol so losing one could seriously cause a heavy depression, affecting an idol's performance whether he/she was a professional or not. He could understand now why they needed a new one. However, there was one thing that bothered him.
"No, we're the ones who should apologize. Sorry for letting you two hear a depressing topic," the blue-haired idol said apologetically. He felt a bit ashamed. Death was an inevitable thing and some people already witnessed it, but they still managed to move forward, unlike him and his fellow idols. He heard that two years was enough to forget the unbearable pain of someone's death but it seemed like two years wasn't enough for them.
"It's fine. We already know now the reason why I'll be your new composer. Thank you for taking care of us, but we need to leave," deadpanned Haruka as he stood up and bowed slightly to them.
Otoya showed a disappointed look. "Eh? You're leaving already?"
Beside him, an irritated Syo elbowed his arm lightly. "Just let him leave before I punch him on the face, Otoya. He's such an insensitive brat . . ."
"But Syo . . ."
"Makoto, let's go," said Haruka as he glanced at his best friend.
His olive green-haired friend looked reluctant. "But I . . . I want to ask something, too, before we leave, Haru . . ."
The black-haired guy frowned. Even if he insisted to leave, Makoto would still get his way because he was more stubborn than he looked. Sighing, he sat down again and grumbled, "Fine, but hurry up."
Otoya mumbled, "Yes! Nice, Makoto," happily while Syo groaned heavily in disappointment.
"Thanks, Haru," replied Makoto with a smile and then faced his upperclassmen seriously.
"Hijirikawa-senpai, is Haru going to be your new composer just because he almost has the same name as your former composer?"
Masato shook his head. "No. It is merely a coincidence. Also, as I said before, our president decided this, not us. If you're worried that he might not be your composer anymore, don't worry. Nanase is still your partner. After all, you still need to debut, right?"
Makoto gaped and blinked in surprise. "H-How did you know?"
"It's simple. After a graduation audition every year, our president will normally be busy arranging a debut concert for the winner."
Otoya added, "He will also inform us to come to our kouhai's debut concert."
Syo nodded and joined the explanation. "But for some reason, we haven't received any information about an upcoming event."
"This only means that you two need to acquire the Shining Emblem first from us, right?" the orange-haired idol concluded and winked at Haruka, who looked away with an irritated look.
As a matter of fact, a year was already enough to graduate in Saotome Academy. Also, the winners of the graduation audition could debut right away. However, those things didn't happen to them. Since they transferred in the middle of the second term, they got left behind in important classes, activities and projects so they needed to repeat a year back then. Still, they did their best to learn and then managed to win the second graduation audition with flying colors. But despite being the winners of the graduation audition, Shining Saotome disagreed to let them debut. He told them that Haruka still didn't have what it took to be a professional composer. In order to debut, they should take the Master Course and acquire the Shining Emblem while working and training under other professionals. They were given four months to prove that they were worthy to be in the Master Course and to debut as professionals. This condition was rare and hard to accomplish. Still, they would continue to do their best. It was a path that they'd already decided a long time ago.
Makoto's eyes gleamed in amazement. "Wow! As expected of our upperclassmen! We're privileged to be under your care next week!"
The gloomy atmosphere disappeared slowly as the idols began to smile because of his words. It had been awhile since they had someone who was grateful to have them as upperclassmen.
Otoya beamed. "We're also glad to have you two as our new kouhai. Let's get along and sing lots of happy songs next week, okay?"
"Yes! It's a pleasure!"
When Makoto glanced at Haruka, he swore that he saw a disturbing aura around his partner. Maybe he wouldn't get a fried mackerel, let alone a meal later for making Haruka wait too long. Well, he enjoyed meeting their new upperclassmen and they would never get lost again once they started living here, so missing a supper tonight was all right . . . no, he would try convincing Haruka to eat with him at a family restaurant tonight. Having an empty stomach was unbearable for someone like him who grew up eating three meals a day.
Standing up, he bowed to his upperclassmen. "Then I think it's already time for us to leave. Thank you for everything and it is nice meeting you all."
"Eh~? Don't leave just yet, guys!" begged Otoya like a kid.
"But it's almost evening and we're planning to eat at a family restaurant . . ."
Haruka gave him a questioning glare after he mentioned that.
"Then dine with us. It's my turn to cook supper tonight. It'll be a waste if you two don't stay and have a taste of my fine dishes," informed Ren confidently.
The red-haired idol gave him a big thumbs-up. "That's a nice idea, Ren!"
"Sorry, but I don't eat a stranger's food, so we'll take our leave," the black-haired composer refused flatly before standing up and grabbing Makoto's wrist.
Scratching his head, Syo couldn't finally shut his mouth. He wanted to teach this ungrateful brat a lesson.
"Arghh! You and your arrogant attitude! I can't believe that you're going to be our new composer next week. You sure act high and mighty even if you haven't debuted yet, brat."
Haruka felt ridiculed. "What?"
Syo smirked smugly when he managed to annoy and stop Haruka from leaving. "Also, you just said that you don't eat food made by strangers, right? Don't make me laugh! If people are all like you, I bet they're dead hungry right now. Don't tell me that you still wait for your mama to cook you food-"
"Excuse me, but do you have frozen mackerels?" interrupted Haruka with a question calmly.
"Huh? Yes, we have . . . ," answered Masato with a puzzled look.
"Good. Then, can I lend your kitchen for awhile?"
Otoya was confused. "Eh? Why?"
"I'll cook, too."
"!"
All of them were taken aback.
"I can't believe that he's volunteering to cook for us after I said those things . . . I really can't understand him!" exclaimed Syo out of bewilderment and scratched his head. Otoya, Makoto and he were the only ones who stayed in the living room while Masato and Tokiya were helping Ren and Haruka in cooking and arranging the table. Makoto wanted to help but Haruka told him strictly to stay because knowing Makoto, he might burn the mackerel or might get flustered around new people and destroy the dishes and glasses while arranging the table. Even though Makoto felt a little sad for not being able to help, he was enjoying his upperclassmen's company.
"Yeah. Haruka is so unpredictable! But, I'm super excited to eat his homemade food!" giggled Otoya in excitement while imagining various tasty dishes that Haruka might cook.
Makoto shared Otoya's anticipation. "Me, too, Ittoki-senpai. Haru is good in cooking…" Then his voice dropped a bit. "…even though it always involves grilling mackerels."
"Always? Then his dishes have grilled mackerels… always?" the red-eyed idol repeated the last word questioningly as if he heard something unbelievable.
Makoto sighed. "Yes..., sadly."
"Still, I'm worried . . . He might poison me later," the short idol groaned and shivered in fear as he imagined Haruka giving him a green boiling mackerel soup.
Makoto chuckled. "Haru won't do such a thing, Kurusu-senpai. He might act cold right now, but when he gets to know you all better, he will eventually show his good side."
Syo looked at him with doubtful eyes. "Really? That brat?"
"Yes. I'm his childhood friend and partner, after all, so I know him well. But I'm surprised, too, that he suddenly decided to cook."
"Ohh~! Childhood friends, huh? Kinda reminds me of Syo and Natsuki . . ." the red-eyed idol trailed off when he unintentionally mentioned Natsuki's name. He covered his mouth quickly.
"Oops . . ."
"Oi!" hissed Syo softly at him. They decided that they wouldn't mention their other fellow idol to their kouhai yet. Unfortunately, Makoto was already curious about it.
"Natsuki . . . ? Umm . . . Did this person also study music with you guys?"
"Ahh . . . Well, Natsuki and I studied . . . playing violin and competed in concours abroad when we're still young! That's all! It's not like he also studied at Saotome Academy and became an idol like us!"
Syo was sweating while he was trying to tell a partial truth about his childhood friend. He didn't like trying to make things up, after all.
"Syo, it's so obvious that you're lying in that last part!" whispered Otoya anxiously beside him.
"Well, what should I tell him then?! You know very well that I suck at lying!" he whispered back angrily. Luckily, Makoto seemed convinced about what he had told him earlier.
"I see. I thought childhood friends would always go to the same school but I guess I'm wrong."
Syo raised an eyebrow. "Then did you decide to study in Saotome Academy because Nanase wanted to study there?"
Makoto blushed a bit. "Yes . . . I even defied my parents. Is it weird?"
The short idol whistled. "No. You've got guts."
Otoya was impressed. "Wow . . . You went that far for Haruka? You have a strong bond with him then. When did you two become friends?"
Then Makoto began to recall his memories of his best friend with a gentle smile on his face. "Haru and I are always together for as long as I can remember so I can't seem to remember how and when we became friends, but we became really close when we started swimming together."
"Swimming, huh? That's nice . . . ," mumbled Otoya as he closed his eyes and began to visualize a young Haruka and a small Makoto swimming happily in the pool, but the recent incident where Haruka swam like a dolphin to save a drowning Tokiya abruptly popped into his mind. His eyes flew open.
"Ah! Which reminds me, Haruka did swim like a dolphin earlier when he saved Tokiya from drowning . . ."
After Otoya mentioned that, Syo recalled it, too and told his opinion about that. "Oh, now that you mention it . . . Nanase's way of swimming is very graceful. It's like he's a pro swimming athlete that I often see in sports shows. Judging by his stroke and body structure, I think he went through a lot of training for many years. There's no way he's just playing in the water for fun."
Makoto was almost speechless. He couldn't believe that Syo was so observant. These idols earned his respect more.
"You're correct, Kurusu-senpai. Back in our hometown, we didn't only swim for fun; we also swam competitively against other swimmers. You could say that swimming is our passion."
Otoya gaped. "Swimming? Really?"
Makoto nodded. "Yes."
"If swimming is your passion, then why on earth did you two become an idol and a composer?" questioned Syo with a puzzled look.
"Umm . . . Actually . . ."
"I won't tell you," refused Haruka as he deboned the mackerel skillfully inside the kitchen.
Beside him, Ren chuckled and shook his head amusingly while he put wine into the pan. Instantly, the meat in the pan was engulfed in fire and Ren expertly flipped it several times by swaying the pan with force.
"So cold. I thought my hot, dazzling charm finally thawed the ice in your heart, Iruka-kun."
Haruka rolled his eyes and thought, "As if."
"Jinguuji, stop troubling Nanase. You two are in the middle of cooking so just concentrate on your work," nagged Masato as he picked the porcelain dishes carefully from the dish rack.
"Come on, Hijirikawa. You'll eventually have a wrinkle or two on your forehead if you're always serious. Also, aren't you curious why Iruka-kun became a composer?"
"Well, I'm more curious why you suddenly changed back into your old self."
Ren smirked. "That's a secret. However . . ."
He glanced at Haruka and gave him a wink. ". . . if Iruka-kun is interested to know me more, I'm willing to answer any question."
It was Masato's turn to roll his eyes. Carrying the porcelain dishes with both hands, he murmured, "Same old flirt Jinguuji," before heading to the dinner hall.
When the two of them were the only ones inside the kitchen, the black-haired composer halted from cooking and began to ask Ren coldly. "Why are you so interested to know my reason for being a composer?"
Surprised, Ren teased, "What? Are you ready to open up your heart to me now?"
Haruka shot him an irritated glare silently.
Finding his reaction adorable, Ren couldn't stop himself from chuckling. Happily, he ruffled Haruka's black hair after closing the stove.
"What's funny?"
"Nothing. You just look adorable when you're angry."
"Stop treating me like a kid and answer my question already," scowled Haruka as he removed Ren's hand from his head. Despite his cold actions and words, Ren never got angry. He was actually more amused than before.
"Acting like a tough adult, huh? I like that," he grinned, resting his hand on his own waist, "You're really intriguing, Iruka-kun. That's why I want to know you. Is that answer acceptable?"
"No."
Ren laughed softly. This was going to be fun to him. It was like he was playing darts right now. He must hit a bull's eye.
"Since you're going to be our official composer next week, we need to get along with one another. So, knowing more about you is essential to avoid any conflict that might endanger our careers. Is that more acceptable, Iruka-kun?"
Haruka didn't sway. "No."
Since that didn't work, Ren chose another tactic which he learned just awhile ago.
"Ahh . . . That's a shame," he sighed dramatically, "I'm about to offer my help in filling up the indoor pool with water if you just tell me about yourself . . . What should I do now?"
Haruka sensed the great temptation. He almost gave in with glittering eyes, but he mustn't let Ren win.
"Then how about you? Why did you choose to be an idol in the first place, sempai?"
"I didn't choose to. My eldest brother ordered me to," answered Ren casually, causing him to blink in astonishment.
"You're ordered to be an idol?"
"Yeah. To be more precise, I'm ordered to become a poster boy for our family since I'm the third son who can rest easy and do nothing while my older siblings run our family's business. Well, my eldest brother and I are on good terms now after he told me that he did it for my own sake and also admitted that he loves my songs. Do you think that I'm the type of person who wanted to be an idol for fame and money even if I already have them from the start?"
"Yes."
Ren smirked. "Ouch. Well, I can't blame you for thinking that, Iruka-kun. Even though some people are already rich and famous, they will still dig for more gold and attention. I'm always amused to witness those people fighting for those worthless things every day like cats and dogs."
After he heard that, Haruka gritted his teeth and balled his fists angrily. He felt like his sight was getting dim.
"Worthless…? What? Is it wrong to fight for those…?"
Ren continued nonchalantly, "I hope they will realize that they're fools sooner -"
"But those worthless things are what I need the most right now! If I stop fighting, I'll not be able to find them! You don't know what it feels like to be helpless, you rich bastard!" the black-haired composer snapped suddenly with a dark expression on his face, cutting off Ren's statement.
"Iruka-kun . . . ," the orange-haired idol mumbled in surprise while Haruka tried to calm himself down after that sudden outburst. However, those words still made the composer upset.
Even though he wanted to shout again, Haruka reminded himself that he shouldn't make Makoto worry any further if this talk would lead to a big issue. Taking a deep breath, he said slowly yet unrelentingly, "I became a composer for those. Are you amused now?"
Ren was speechless. It wasn't his intention to hit Haruka's nerve. Maybe Haruka was poor . . . ? Or maybe he was an outcast back in his hometown? No . . . He did hear 'them' from him. Who could they be? Anyway, he must apologize right away. But before he could speak, Haruka ran away from the kitchen.
"Iruka-kun -!"
Abruptly, he felt someone putting the wine glasses on his hands. When he turned his head to the right, he saw Tokiya making an apologetic gesture to him before following Haruka swiftly.
"Icchi . . . ! Hey!"
With a puzzled look, Ren just stood still. He didn't notice Tokiya at all when he and Haruka were having a serious conversation. Although he also wanted to run after their new composer and to apologize, Haruka might not listen to him since he was still cold to him. If it was Tokiya who would apologize in his stead, then maybe he would listen.
"Worthless things, huh . . . ? Why did I say that in the first place?"
While recalling what he'd said a few moments ago to Haruka, he clicked his tongue in annoyance. He wished that he'd never said something like that. Maybe, after all, he was really a rich bastard who didn't experience being penniless. However, he knew what it felt like to be ignored at home. The loneliness he felt as a child when he only stayed in his room, watching and listening to his deceased mother's live concerts and albums, was so unbearable . . . If only his mother was still alive after he was born in this corrupted world, then maybe he had a different life.
"Being rich is a pain, really . . . ," he murmured to himself pitifully while also recalling his father, snatching his mother's possessions away from him. He began to wonder again why the old man didn't ever mention her to him. Was his father ashamed to tell him that their marriage was just all about money and status? Or, did his father really love or care about her and losing her was too much for him to handle-?
"Ichinose, where are the rest of the wine glasses?" the blue-haired idol suddenly showed up in the kitchen, breaking him off from his thoughts.
"Hijirikawa . . ."
"Oh, Jinguuji, have you seen . . . ," he trailed off when he saw the wine glasses in Ren's grasps.
"Why do you have these? And, where's Nanase and Ichinose?" he asked, getting the glasses from Ren carefully.
"Well . . . , I think I offended Iruka-kun earlier from our conversation. Then Icchi ran after him," he explained with a half-hearted smile. "I feel like I'm a bad guy now."
After hearing his last sentence, the blue-haired idol raised an eyebrow incredulously.
"That's old news to me."
"Aw. You're putting more salt to my open wound, you know," he laughed sadly, feigning a pain in his chest as he watched Masato shrugging his shoulders indifferently.
"Then stop being such a flirt. I assure you that you'll be less hated that way. That's my advice," said Masato sternly before going towards the dining hall.
"Yeah, yeah. I'll work on that," he replied and turned around to see the deboned mackerels, lying neatly on the plate. It looked like he was the only remaining cook right now. A mackerel pizza would be nice . . .
He sighed heavily.
"Easier said than done . . . I'm born to be flirty . . . and filthy rich," he mumbled the last words in disgust as he continued to finish preparing the dishes.
"Eh?! Nanase's parents are missing for two years?! And, the police stopped helping him?!" exclaimed Syo in shock.
Makoto nodded. "Yes. That's why Haru is so determined to become a composer after the Headmaster offered him a full scholarship. He thought that it's the most effective solution to find them without worrying about finances."
"Poor Haruka . . . I never thought that he's going through so much hardship. I hope his parents are safe somewhere . . . ," the red-haired idol said sympathetically.
Syo agreed softly, "I hope so, too. I kinda understand why Nanase think that working as a composer in Shining Agency is a good idea and all . . . However, being a professional swimming athlete is also a good option for him! Why didn't he do that instead?"
"That's what I also suggest to Haru when he decided to go to Saotome Academy two years ago. But . . . he said that he don't want to," answered Makoto gloomily, causing Syo to stand up in bewilderment.
"What?! Why?"
"I don't know . . . He didn't tell me his reason . . . , but ever since Haru heard that his parents are missing, I noticed that he doesn't have any motivation to swim competitively. Although he doesn't tell me or show it, I know that Haru really loves his parents and is seriously worried about them than himself."
As Makoto said those words, he remembered a young Haruka smiling brightly while holding his parents' hands after they went to the ocean. It was very rare to see Haruka smile, so he always treasured those moments when his best friend smiled genuinely . . . , even if he wasn't the only one who made that happen.
Syo slumped back onto the sofa, looking slightly tired while recalling how he treated Haruka. "Ohh . . . I'm surprised to hear that that brat is super sensitive. I kinda feel bad now for scorning him earlier. I must apologize to him later."
"Umm . . . About what I told you just now, please pretend that you don't know anything about Haru's reason for becoming a composer," suggested Makoto.
"Eh? Why?" asked Otoya.
"Actually, Haru doesn't like to talk about himself to strangers. He prefers to tell this to someone he trusts. I believe that he will surely tell you about this sooner or later if you give him time to open up. I only want to clear up any misunderstandings early, so there won't be any big disputes among us."
"Okay, we understand. We'll pretend that we don't know a thing about it," the red-haired idol said earnestly.
Syo nodded in understanding. "It's a secret, then. Can we tell this to others?"
"Yes, just to be safe."
Haruka felt tired from running as he found himself near the lake again. However, this time, he spotted a white gazebo nearby. Catching his breath, he approached the gazebo and sat on one of its steps slowly. As soon as he put his back against the pillar and glanced up at the darkening evening sky full of clouds, tears began to form on the corners of his eyes. He was glad that no one was around to see him crying like this… He always calmed down if he cried alone in a quiet place… but it felt better when he used to cry on his grandma's lap whenever he felt sad and frustrated back then. Reminiscing his time with his parents and grandmother while viewing the quiet lake, glistening in gold, as it reflected the remaining sun rays of the setting sun, he began to wonder again why his loved ones kept on disappearing… Was it really inevitable that he would lose his family?
"Grandma… Mom… Dad... I missed you all…," he murmured and bit his lower lip in despair as tears blurred his vision, making the dark evening sky look like a black hole to him. If only this predicament of his was just a long bad dream… However, this was the cruel reality that he must face when he felt pain in his bitten lower lip, reminding him that he wasn't having a nightmare.
"Mom, dad, where are you now…? How long will it take me to find you two…?!" he cried out desperately. He almost wanted to give up and to accept they were dead somewhere… but the bond they shared as a family gave him a sliver of hope somehow. If he could find a single solid clue that they were alive, he would be forever grateful to any god… no, to everything, even the rules that forbade him to swim freely during his time in Saotome Academy.
"Please… Just one solid clue was enough…," he thought helplessly, wishing someone – a god, a genie or maybe an alien – to hear his plea. He noticed himself getting crazier as he wondered what he would do next if he couldn't find them this year…
He felt like swimming already to ease his anxiety.
Suddenly, a big hand patted his head softly, stopping him from thinking too much and from undressing himself. Glancing up instinctively, he saw a blurry view of Tokiya, looking at him with a concerned face. How did he find him here?
"Sempai…?" he sobbed in surprise while watching Tokiya sitting beside him. Slowly, the dark-haired idol lifted a hand and wiped a tear below his left eye with his long finger gently before moving to his other cheek to wipe the remaining tears with his thumb. He stopped crying immediately and almost forgot how to breathe as he stared at the handsome idol closely with a clear sight and a fast beating heart. To be blunt, he couldn't recall saying beautiful to anyone or to anything other than water, but at this moment, he couldn't believe that he considered this man more beautiful than water. Were his eyes playing tricks on him since he cried?
Tokiya smiled and removed his hand from Haruka's cheek, causing the black-haired composer to blush upon realizing that he was gaping too much. Then the idol opened his sketch pad (which was squeezed between his right arm and the side of his upper body earlier) on his lap, grabbed a pen from his pocket and wrote a message before showing it to Haruka.
I'm glad that you stopped crying now. Is it okay if we have a talk?
Haruka read it and nodded in agreement. He didn't know why he agreed right away without thinking first…, but maybe he couldn't carry his heavy burden anymore and was thankful that there was someone he could talk to… or maybe he just needed a distraction to his problem for now. Either way, he was relieved that Tokiya was here and the idol seemed like a trustworthy person.
Tokiya was writing another message after he agreed and thus their conversation began when he showed it to the ocean blue-eyed composer.
First, I'm here to apologize in Ren's behalf. He didn't mean to insult you.
Haruka was shocked when he read it. "Were you listening back then…?"
Tokiya nodded his head guiltily and wrote a reply.
I'm sorry for eavesdropping. Your conversation with Ren was becoming intense every second, so I was worried.
"Oh…" Haruka became speechless when he remembered his conversation with Ren. It made him uncomfortable, but he felt bad, too, for shouting at his upperclassman earlier. He must control his feelings carefully from now on. He was a professional, even though he hadn't debuted yet, and must act like one regardless of circumstances, insults and other unpleasant things that he might encounter in the near future. It would be hard on his part, but he would try… one step at a time.
"Thank you for worrying, sempai, but I also did something wrong and unprofessional. I'll apologize to Jinguuji-sempai later for shouting at him. I'm sorry for troubling you," he said honestly with a guilty look and bowed his head to Tokiya.
Tokiya blinked for a second. He didn't expect Haruka to act like this. As a matter of fact, he expected him to say something awful. He started to understand why Ren was so interested to know this new composer and why Shining told them to treat the composer well after mentioning that Haruka was a 'waterdere'. Still, for him, Haruka was… mysterious and hard to read. He was like an ocean… His true self was lying somewhere in the deep.
When Haruka raised his head, he blushed unconsciously again as he saw a mirthful smirk on Tokiya's handsome face. He couldn't understand why he felt like diving into the water right away and hid like a turtle just to be away from the idol's torturous smile. Luckily, Tokiya began to write something on his sketch pad, causing him to sigh deeply in relief. Even if the smile was gone from Tokiya's face, it became unbearable for him to look at him. He did recall during his grade school days that he always looked away from Rin whenever the burgundy-haired boy gave him a toothy grin or said something cheesy. He also did the same to Makoto whenever his best friend won an argument and flashed his warm yet teasing smile… Wait. Was he really that weak with smiles? Abruptly, Tokiya showed him his next message.
And lastly, I'm here to thank you for saving me from drowning awhile ago. I wouldn't be alive right now if it wasn't for you, Nanase-san.
Haruka wasn't ready mentally to receive his gratitude, so he looked away again and stuttered with an embarrassed look. "I-I just did the right thing…"
He also recalled the mysterious feminine voice who told him to save Tokiya. He wanted to mention it to others but maybe he was just hearing things… Also, they would likely laugh at him even if he told them that. So, he would just keep quiet about it. After several seconds, Tokiya showed another message with a grateful yet troubled expression on his face.
Even so, I'm grateful for your help. You saved my life. I can't remember why I went into the lake back then in the first place, but maybe I unconsciously remembered her dying in front of me for not being able to save her from the accident. I couldn't bear seeing her dying alone, so out of guilt, I wanted to go to where she was to share her pain… It already happened to me many times. If I did die awhile ago, I bet she will be sad to see me early there…
She? Her? Haruka was dumbfounded when he read the message, but his eyes grew slightly big as he remembered that Tokiya lost his girlfriend, the former composer, in an accident. Her name was Nanami Haruka… It was almost identical to his name. When he glanced at Tokiya, who didn't budge for three minutes after he brought down his sketch pad, he felt very sad. He knew that Tokiya was about to cry… He didn't know what the dark-haired idol was thinking or was recalling exactly about that tragic accident… but at that moment, he wanted to ease his pain just for a bit. Even though he might be a stranger to Tokiya and didn't know him well, he hugged the idol tightly without hesitation just like what other people did to him when he lost his grandmother.
Tokiya gasped when warm arms enveloped his body. He was too surprised to notice that he began to cry in response to the warmth he was longing to feel for a long time. Haruka's tight hug felt exactly like what he used to receive from Nanami. Thus, the hidden loneliness in his heart just flowed out unexpectedly. Desperately, he wrapped his arms around Haruka's waist and buried his face on the composer's right shoulder as he cried silently.
While Haruka was patting Tokiya's shivering back sympathetically, he realized that it was his first time to hug somebody. He always got hugged by someone first before he could, so taking the initiative was a baffling experience to him. However, it felt nice. Taking someone's burden willingly even if you were also carrying some was difficult… yet rewarding somehow. He'd never thought that a hug was so helpful in times like this.
"Sempai, it's okay now... You're safe," he whispered comfortingly to the dark-haired idol as the sun finally set and the cloudy night sky greeted them.
Tokiya tightened his hug around his waist, making the composer's heart to beat faster. His head was beginning to become fuzzy as seconds went by in the idol's warm embrace. Also, he started to feel numb and weak… Was it because of the chilly night breeze? No…, he didn't feel cold at all… Actually, it felt too warm. He wondered why his heart wouldn't calm down.
Eventually, Tokiya stopped crying and pulled back from the embrace slowly. He felt bad and a bit ashamed when he noticed that the upper right of the red t-shirt Haruka was wearing was wet because of his tears. He noted himself mentally to lend the composer a new t-shirt later. Also, after all that crying, he felt better and more grateful to the composer. He wrote a message first before facing Haruka, who looked a bit dazed for some reason.
To be honest, I followed you here to console you; instead, I got consoled. Ironic, isn't it? I'm also sorry for wetting your t-shirt with my tears. I'll lend you a new one later. I'm such an unreliable upperclassman, but thanks to you, I feel better.
"I…"
It took a half minute before Haruka could think of a response to Tokiya's message. It looked like he got splashed awake with cold water. "N-No problem…"
An amused Tokiya chuckled quietly, causing Haruka to fluster and to look away automatically in embarrassment. The black-haired composer was seriously considering at that moment to dive into the lake and hide like a turtle.
Wanting to repay Haruka's kindness, the dark-haired idol pulled out a small purple oval-shaped MP3 player, which was also a USB flash drive, with white earphones from his pocket. Before giving it to Haruka, he wrote a short message.
I want you to have this, Nanase-san.
Haruka showed a surprised look after reading his message and stared at the MP3 player, which looked like an old model but was well taken care of, resting on his hands.
"But this looks important to you, sempai…" He sounded hesitant.
Tokiya shook his head and wrote a reply.
I bought that for myself two years ago. I'm just careful in using it, so it still looks somewhat brand new. But don't worry. It's not given to me as a present and doesn't hold much importance.
"Why do you want me to have this, then…?"
With a smile, Tokiya wrote his reason.
Think of it as a thank-you gift from me. Also, I want you to hear my voice and our songs. I hope our songs will cheer you up.
"Your voice and songs…"
Haruka felt a bit excited to hear Tokiya's voice and the songs of STARISH. He wondered what his voice sounded like and what kinds of songs they sang.
"Thank you. I'll take care of it. C-Can I hear one song now…?"
Tokiya nodded his head in a way that said, 'Go ahead.'
When Haruka put the earphones in his ears, turned the MP3 player on and chose the first song which had Tokiya's name on it, his eyes widened up and sparkled as the entrance of the song already lured him into an enchanting world where he could float in a starry sky while there was a big silver moon, glowing and watching him as it drifted in a very slow motion. He heard someone humming serenely, and then he saw Tokiya, wearing a black tuxedo with specks of glittering diamonds all over his coat. The handsome idol came closer to him, held his hand and sang gently with a smile.
"The season is like turning over a page
And going around a travel path.
Today you cry, but if you smile tomorrow,
A new sunshine will light upon you."
Tokiya put his hands around Haruka's waist and threw him upwards aimlessly. Haruka shut his eyes in worry when the singing idol suddenly did that to him but he slowly opened his eyes again when he felt himself gliding down leisurely with shooting stars falling around him. He glanced down and saw Tokiya, looking up with wide open arms that were ready to catch him any moment, in a dark part of the night sky.
"If you're tired, put down your burden.
Only now will I say, "Good night."
Moonlight will tear up the darkness
Because the guiding light will illuminate me."
The dark-haired idol caught him safely and cradled him in his arms as the idol put his forehead to his under the moonlight before humming again. When he started to sing again, he brought him down with a reassuring smile, making Haruka feel at ease.
"You don't have to be afraid of the usual, different day and what was missing today.
Even if you are not concerned about finding a powerful thing,
Life must go on and still."
Tokiya offered a hand and Haruka took it in reflex. Then the idol pulled him close, held his other hand and intertwined their fingers together under the moon.
"Reach this hand so that our feelings will be intertwined.
Only now will I say, "Good night."
Moonlight will tear up the darkness
Because the emitted light will enfold you."
Tokiya put a little distance between them and put one of Haruka's hands in his shoulder before placing his free hand on the composer's waist. With a swift movement of Tokiya's foot, they began to waltz, leaving a trail of moondust in every step they made.
"Before I sleep,
Let me listen to your song, even just a little bit.
I'm sure that if it reaches to the moon,
The sun will reflect it
And the next morning it will only reach to you.
Now continue singing
Your only lullaby."
After twirling Haruka in their dance, Tokiya carried him like a princess and put their foreheads together as a meteor shower appeared above them. The idol was happily turning around as Haruka watched the meteor shower like an amazed kid in his arms.
"If you're tired, put down your burden.
Only now will I say, "Good night."
Moonlight will tear up the darkness
Because the guiding light will illuminate me."
Then they started to levitate. Haruka reached Tokiya's outstretched hands and they span in the middle of the meteor shower. The moonlight shone only to them as Tokiya continued to sing, his voice going higher.
"Reach this hand so that our feelings will be intertwined.
Only now will I say, "Good night."
Moonlight will tear up the darkness.
Everything is enfolded in the light and will continue to illuminate you…"
As the idol finished singing the last line, the moon became too bright while the meteor shower faded. The stars broke into mirror-like shards that danced around them and reflected the moonlight in every direction, creating a beautiful constellation in the end. After humming, Tokiya closed Haruka's eyes with his hand and gave him a sweet good night kiss on the forehead as he whispered softly, "Good night and sweet dreams."
When the song finally ended with the low tone of a piano key, the black-haired composer came back to reality with a content look.
"Beautiful…," he mumbled unconsciously, feeling refreshed and light. Also, his head couldn't forget how heavenly Tokiya's voice was. It was a shame that he lost his voice. But more importantly, he couldn't believe that he got entranced easily by the song with its magical arrangement. It even made him motivated to compose… Who on earth wrote this song? Suddenly, his attention was caught by Tokiya's sketch pad.
What song did you listen to?
"Moonlight," he answered after reading the name on the display screen of the MP3 player.
After hearing the title, the dark-haired idol wore a nostalgic look as he remembered singing that song when he was still HAYATO. However, many people didn't get to hear it because the agency, where he worked back then, didn't approve of releasing it as a single. He felt bitter about the decision, but the composer of that song didn't look defeated at all and just accepted the decision. The kind old man would always pat his back and say, "There's always another time so don't lose your cool," whenever he saw the composer and felt bad about the song. Then, after a month, they collaborated again and made the hit song 'Nanairo no Compass' (Seven-colored Compass). He was really glad that it got approved… He began to wonder what happened to that adventurous composer after that. It might be nice to talk with him again, but enough of his reminiscing. He wrote a question and showed it to Haruka, who looked like he was deep in thought a second ago.
How is it?
Haruka answered excitedly. "The song is beautiful…! No, it was beyond that! This is the best song I've heard so far-!"
He halted abruptly and blushed in embarrassment when he realized that he was overreacting.
Tokiya gave him an amused smirk silently.
Haruka cleared his throat and frowned as he tried to change the topic. "Umm… Can I ask the name of the composer?"
Tokiya wrote the name of the composer.
AO.
Haruka raised an eyebrow. "AO…? Is that all? Why is it short?"
The idol wrote an explanation.
It's an alias or maybe a stage name. If you're working in a talent agency, it's safer not to give your real name to the public, but if you're confident enough, you can use your real name.
"I see…"
The dark-haired idol chuckled silently when he saw that Haruka was looking better and had a focused expression on his face after hearing his song. Was he the type of person who was easy to motivate? But, when he noticed that Haruka became absorbed with his own thoughts, Tokiya began to worry again.
Haruka caught him staring intently at him, so he asked with a confused look, "Is there something wrong, sempai?"
Tokiya shook his head and wrote an answer.
You look deep in thought. Are you thinking something complicated?
Haruka gave Tokiya a conflicted look before he replied hesitantly, "…I'm thinking about my missing parents again… You heard me shouting about them awhile ago, right?"
The idol nodded sadly.
Haruka laughed in self-pity while hugging his knees. "I'm such a kid… Searching for my parents even though two years has already passed and I'm already an adult…, I'm so pathetic."
Tokiya patted his shoulder and shook his head. He wrote his honest opinion, hoping that it would give him enough courage to not give up.
Searching for your parents for two years is an indication that you have a heart. You're a strong person. You're not pathetic at all. I admire you for that, Nanase-san.
After reading the message from someone he just met a few hours ago, Haruka felt some of his lost confidence coming back. "Thank you… I thought people like you will find it really pathetic."
Tokiya shook his head again and gave him a reassuring smile like what Haruka had seen on his mind when he was listening to his song. After writing something on his sketch pad, he stood up and offered a hand to Haruka while showing what he wrote on his sketch pad with a determined expression on his face.
I'm the pathetic one. I lost all hope when Haruka died. For two years, I wept for her death and did nothing. However, I'm already tired of weeping after seeing how desperate you are to find your parents and also, I know that Haruka doesn't want me and other STARISH members to stay depressed like this forever. I believe that you might be really our new hope to change our miserable lives after confirming how strong your heart is. Nanase-san, this might be a selfish request on my part, but please, help us rebuild what we've lost. Help us, STARISH, shine once more on the stage! We'll also help you find your missing parents and help you and Tachibana-san debut.
"Sempai…," murmured Haruka in astonishment as he read Tokiya's strong resolution. He wasn't sure if he could really help them since STARISH was already a legendary idol group while he was just a newbie who hadn't debuted yet. However, he wanted to repay Tokiya in any way he could after he gave him the needed confidence when he was about to give up. Well, he heard from others that Shining Saotome already planned to assign him as their composer, so there was no way that he would get the chance to refuse now, right?
With a decisive look, Haruka reached Tokiya's hand and held it firmly as he stood up. "I don't know if I can really meet your expectations, sempai, but I'll try my best to get STARISH back in the spotlight."
Tokiya showed a grateful smile and shook Haruka's hand gladly.
"You guys…! Are you fools?! Who on their right minds will go to the same place where a recent incident just happened awhile ago, huh?! What if something terrible happened to you two again?!" shouted Masato angrily after Haruka and Tokiya went back to the dorm.
Apparently, the blue-haired idol was about to go outside to search for them after he noticed that they were gone for an hour. When they arrived a moment ago, there was relief in Masato's face at first but then, he became a nagging mother. The two guys hung their heads in shame as if they were kids, getting caught in some mischievous act. Hearing Masato's shout echoing in the entrance hallway of the dorm, Ren went there and felt pity when he viewed that kind of scene, so he patted Masato's shoulder to stop him.
"Hijirikawa, try to calm down, will you? Both Icchi and Iruka-kun are okay, so no need to get so worked up."
"But if we don't give them a proper-"
Ren interrupted, "Aw, come on. We can talk about that later after we eat supper with everybody, okay? Plus, Iruka-kun is one of our guests. We must treat him well to show our great hospitality."
Hijirikawa sighed in defeat when he felt his stomach agonizing in hunger. "Okay, but I'll continue this later so be prepared, you two."
Haruka and Tokiya shivered in fear after seeing the demonic eyes of an angry Masato before he turned around and ordered them to go to the dining room immediately. Swiftly, they followed Masato's order. Tokiya made a silent gesture of 'thank you' to Ren, who just winked in return, before they began to walk.
While following his upperclassmen towards their destination, Haruka felt a tap on his right shoulder. Turning his head to the right, he saw Ren with a serious look. When their eyes met, the orange-haired idol was the first one to look away. Awkwardly, he apologized to the composer, putting his hands inside the pockets of his white pants.
"I'm sorry about what I said in our last conversation, Iruka-kun… I spoke offending words to you without delicacy…"
Haruka shook his head and looked down at his moving feet. "No…, it's not only your fault, sempai. I'm sorry if I didn't control my feelings well… and for leaving you alone in the kitchen without doing my part."
After hearing the last part, Ren gave him a reassuring look. "Oh, the cooking? Don't worry about that. I enjoyed cooking the mackerels that you deboned. By the way, I made mackerel pizza and mackerel pasta."
Haruka smiled when he heard the tasty mackerel menu, but then his face became apologetic again. "Even so, I'm really sorry for all those rude actions, sempai."
"Iruka-kun…" Ren stared at Haruka with wide eyes. Was this really the same person he'd talked to earlier? Ren was too dumbfounded as he observed Haruka's sudden change. Was this what Shining had warned them about Haruka being a 'waterdere'? He understood the 'water' part but the 'dere' part was unimaginable when they had a talk awhile ago… However, he was witnessing it right at this moment.
With a determined look, Haruka looked at Ren straight in the eyes. "I admit that I'm a fool for wanting money and fame, but I'm like this because I must find my parents who are missing for two years now."
Ren already knew about it from his other fellow idols and promised to pretend that he knew nothing about it earlier. However, hearing it from Haruka himself was more shocking than he'd expected. "Your parents are missing? That's horrible! Why didn't you tell me right away? Maybe I can help and-"
"I apologize for not telling you. I thought that you'll just laugh at me or call me pathetic since we're still strangers to each other."
Ren felt dejected and a bit annoyed after hearing that. "Why will I do that to you? I may look like a heartless playboy, but I-"
Haruka interrupted with a frown, "Actually, I encountered many people who did that to me back in Saotome Academy. They're strangers yet I told them my reason for studying music there. After they heard it, they laughed, called me 'pathetic', treated me like a kid who got lost, and… It really hurts… My mistrust for strangers intensified greatly… I was on the brink of giving up my search and accepting that they are really gone in this world…"
Ren remained speechless as he listened. He wanted to hug the poor guy, but he knew that would only add insult to his injuries so he refrained from doing it.
"However I realized that there are other people who are willing to listen, sympathize, give advice or help someone like me. I almost forgot that there are still other strangers that I can trust, like Ichinose-sempai, you and maybe the other upperclassmen once I open up to them. I feel thankful that you're the strangers that I met today," said Haruka with a small smile.
Ren's eyes widened up and blushed furiously after hearing something touching from the black-haired composer. It seemed like he was dreaming.
Haruka added earnestly, "That's why from next week onwards, I'll do my best in composing the best songs that I can offer for STARISH's comeback. I hope you'll also help me and Makoto debut."
As Ren continued to stare at those straightforward ocean blue eyes of his, he remembered Nanami's eyes when she was determined to do something.
"Lady is really watching over us," he thought happily.
He was also starting to consider dating a man at that moment. If he ever got the chance to choose his date, it would be definitely Haruka alone.
With a new exciting person to flirt with seriously, he ruffled Haruka's hair affectionately and smirked suavely. "Of course, I'm a reliable sempai so I'll help you debut. I'm looking forward to working with you and listening to your future love songs, Iruka-kun."
Haruka removed Ren's hand quickly from his head and frowned when he noticed that Ren was still calling him with that ridiculous pet name (although Ren already used it many times a few minutes ago). "Don't call me that."
Ren teased in mirth. "Ahh… The grumpy Iruka-kun is back. Is a warm kiss sufficient enough to melt away the ice in your heart again? I can give you one for free."
"I don't need one." Haruka declined, causing the flirty idol to laugh in amusement, as they finally reached the dining room. As soon as he approached the dining table full of Italian dishes and tropical drinks, a worried Makoto showed up beside him. Haruka knew what would happen next, so he sighed a bit.
"Where did you go, Haru? I – we're worried about you-"
Knowing how to calm his partner down quickly, Haruka interrupted by squeezing Makoto's hand softly with his, "Makoto, I'm already here. I just had a long talk with Ichinose-sempai outside. Sorry for worrying you."
After hearing that while holding Haruka's hand, Makoto sighed in relief and muttered, "Thank goodness…," before sitting on a chair beside his best friend, who also sat on a nearby one and removed his hand from Makoto to avoid getting teased by a certain orange-haired idol.
Much to his surprise, Ren was about to sit next to him, but Syo was faster since he had a purpose for sitting there, so the disappointed ladies' man just sat across the composer for it was the second best seat option whenever he wanted to wink or blow kisses to someone.
Ignoring angry glances from Ren, Syo coughed loudly to catch Haruka's attention. He felt a little nervous when the ocean blue-eyed composer glanced at him immediately. Honestly, he didn't expect Haruka to turn to him quickly with his small cough. But he didn't fail to notice that Haruka seemed harmless now… Was the composer like this when he was hungry? If he was, he must apologize right away.
"Um… About earlier…, I'm sorry for treating you badly, Nanase. I barely know you yet I said many awful things to you… I'm really sorry!"
Syo bowed his head apologetically to Haruka, who blinked in surprise.
"Midget, why are you apologizing?"
Okay. The blonde-haired idol was completely fooled by Haruka's harmless aura. The composer was still a brat!
"How dare you-!"
"I like your violent reactions, so there's no need to apologize, sempai," the black-haired guy cut off his supposed loud angry response, causing Syo to blush in bewilderment.
"W-What are you-"
"Itadakimasu," interrupted Haruka as he joined his hands together in praying position before serving himself with various Italian dishes on the table.
"Hey! Let me finish what I'm saying first, you brat!" the short idol stood up from his seat and screamed madly. His voice got too high in the end of his speech, so it sounded more like a girl throwing tantrums.
Silence prevailed in the dining room as they stared at him for a few seconds with surprised looks, except Ren who whistled teasingly at him.
Syo flustered. "C-Come on! Stop staring at me like I just did something bloody embarrassi-!"
"Pfft… Ha-ha-ha!"
Suddenly, Haruka laughed casually like an innocent kid and all the idols turned their attention to him with wide eyes.
It was endearing… Haruka's laughter almost seemed surreal to them after showing how cautious he was around them awhile ago, but it was one of the most natural laughs that they'd heard in their lives. Before they knew it, they also began to laugh one by one, even Syo. Makoto couldn't believe that his best friend was openly laughing in front of their upperclassmen who were still strangers to them. However, he felt very happy when he noticed that Haruka was enjoying himself and was starting to trust others a bit. For the droopy-eyed guy, Haruka's happiness was the most important thing to him in the world.
"I'm happy for you, Haru."
After eating the delicious feast and getting changed with their dried clothes (and Haruka managing to get a dolphin-printed t-shirt from Tokiya and getting a long lecture from Masato), Makoto and Haruka were accompanied by the idols to the exit of the dorm.
"It's finally time to say goodbye, huh?" said Ren gloomily before Tokiya wrote something on his sketch pad and showed it to others.
It can't be helped. They still need to arrange other things first before they live with us.
Masato agreed with a nod. "Ichinose is right. They also might have other businesses to attend to this week, so it's better to let them finish first their agendas. Leave no regrets before living here, Tachibana, Nanase."
The two lowerclassmen answered in unison, "Yes."
"Be careful on your way back home, you two," warned Syo with crossed arms.
"Thanks, Kurusu-senpai," replied Makoto with a smile.
"We know, midget," answered Haruka, causing Syo to glare viciously at him.
With sad eyes, Otoya said, "We'll miss you guys."
Makoto chuckled. "Ittoki-senpai, we'll still come back here next week since we'll start living here for the Master Course, so there's no need to miss us."
"Yeah…, you're right. Come back quickly, okay?" the red-haired idol smiled and reached out a hand to them.
Eagerly, Makoto shook it with his. "Yes."
"We'll come back," replied Haruka as he shook Otoya's hand, too, after Makoto.
Despite getting lost in the forest and experiencing some hard times with their upperclassmen (who were no longer strangers to them), they never regretted their decision in paying a visit to their new home. Even though they were a bit reluctant to leave, they still bade farewell to the idols and left the Master Course dorm with content smiles on their faces as the moonlight, which managed to get through the clouds, illuminated their path.
But they would definitely come back next week.
Their new spring had yet to begin.
In a faraway castle in the middle of a desert, a tanned prince, wearing a long green coat with golden viny pattern and a pair of dark brown pants, was playing a wooden flute while sitting beside the open window. His dark brown hair was swaying gently with the wind as faint green fireflies danced around him. The melody was so slow and sorrowful that it almost could make anyone cry, and for Aijima Cecil, it was what he was feeling exactly right now.
After losing Nanami, his contract in delaying his future responsibilities as a soon-to-be king of Agnapolis[1] was finally nullified. Although he became an idol, he was still a prince – the heir to the throne of the land of music, so it was his responsibility to follow his father's footsteps and become a king that everyone would be proud of. It was what he was born to be and nothing could change that. Even if he wanted to escape, he didn't want the Muses to get angry and cause havoc to his people and friends. So, he must not run away. It was his only choice.
After finishing his musical piece, the fireflies vanished in the dark sky as he walked to his huge bed with a canopy and slumped onto it.
"Only three days left until I become a king, huh . . . ?"
With a helpless look, he held the dim blue stone of his necklace around his neck and brought it near to his face. His emerald green eyes scanned it carefully as if they were trying to make sure of something. Unfortunately, his face showed a defeated expression when nothing unusual happened in the smooth blue gem.
He heard from his mother back then that it was given to him as a present from the Muses when he was still a baby. It was believed that it would only have a clear blue green color and a glittering core when a chosen one, who was blessed by the Muses with their power and would bring a new miracle to the realm of music, was present in their world. He would never forget how beautiful it was when Nanami, the bringer of Happy Pulse, was still with them two years ago.
"Haruka . . . I miss you . . . ," he mumbled in tears when he held it near to his cheek, trying to remember the warmth of her love for STARISH and those who enjoyed their songs. If only she was still alive, then maybe . . .
Suddenly, the necklace glowed faintly.
"Ah!" he exclaimed in surprise. "What's happening . . . ? Could this be . . . ?"
With a hopeful expression on his face, he stood up quickly and looked at the night sky outside his window where there was a trail of green fireflies flying towards southeast.
"A new chosen one has shown up . . . ," he murmured in excitement as he thought of a perfect excuse and chance to go outside his country. Since he was still a prince, he had a responsibility to help a chosen one to understand his or her role in enriching the art of music.
Swiftly, he left his room to talk with his father.
A/N:
[1] Agna Palace is actually the correct name of Cecil's homeland (or maybe the name of the castle). I wanted to share this (if you ever want UtaPri facts) after seeing a post of a translator about the UtaPri game. I'm starting to wonder now what country is Cecil from after I found Agna Palace and Silk Palace similar because of the 'Palace' word, and their only difference is that Silk Palace is in a country named Permafrost. But I'll still use Agnapolis since it is short and sounds like a legit name for a kingdom, in my opinion.
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed reading chapter 3! After writing this long chapter, it feels like we're going to Ren's, Syo's and Tokiya's routes (like in the visual novel games, ha-ha), but actually, these routes (or rather interactions) are most likely to happen after I checked their zodiacal compatibilities. I got disappointed when I learned that Haruka isn't compatible with Otoya and Masato. Still, it doesn't mean that they won't talk or interact with each other. For me, their compatibilities are just a guide on how I write the characters' actions and feelings towards others, so there's still a chance that maybe Haruka might like Otoya and Masato, and vice versa if I write an appropriate event for them to sort out their differences.
Also, I wanted to know if I went overboard in writing the 'Moonlight' song part. I'm still thinking that I was crazy for writing that part (since UtaPri already ruined my life with its Disney Princess-like scenes when the idols sing for Nanami)... Well, let me know if you dislike that part, so I'll avoid doing that to other future chapters before my hands start to type some ridiculous scenes again.
And lastly, I'll add three OCs (two boys and one girl) later in the story. They will play a vital part as rivals to the idols other than HEAVENS, so if some of you hate something about OCs, please tell me by reviewing and maybe I can make acceptable OCs. But if you really hate OCs, then it's your choice if you'll still continue reading this fanfic or not.
Thanks for reading again and see you next time~! (^_^)v