Ep 21: Welcome to Class 3-1
Ichika hasn't noticed herself but she was starting to sweat uncomfortably in her seat, let alone become oblivious of the fact that everyone has diverted their concerned gazes towards her. No... if what I think is true then... UH- NO! GET AHOLD OF YOURSELF! She rapidly shakes her head to no avail. There's no way that this stupid decision of yours will show up right? Uh I mean... i-i-if that's so then you should probably relax, Ichika! Eheheh. I think... I'm not too sure on this part, but still!
"Hey Ichika! You still here? Don't tell me you've fallen out of the planet!" Nino yells as she snaps her fingers in front of her big sister's utterly stunned face.
"Hello? Earth to Ichika? Again?" Itsuki says as Miku rapidly shakes her eldest sis. "Episode 9 is about to begin!"
"Huh? It is?" Ichika suddenly speaks up as she snaps back to reality with a dazed look on her pretty face. "Oh ok. Thanks... thanks uh... for notifying me um... I guess?"
"This feels like Déjà vu from the last season..." Yotsuba says as she easily recalls Fuutarou being stuck in a similar trance beforehand.
*The episode begins with Ichika telling her sisters to go find their own jobs*
Miku: We'll be third years starting next week!
Itsuki: It's weird that no one will be above us!
Nino: I'm just relieved that we didn't flunk out!
Yotsuba: Let's keep up the good work right guys?
Ichika: Mhm! Speaking of next week... (The other four: Hm?) *Bonk sfx* That's when we're gonna be splitting the rents and bills! If you can't cover your portion (The other four with cringy looks: Uh...) You'll have to move back in with dad. I suggest we work hard so we can stay together! *She clasps her hands as she gets enveloped by a yellow background* Ball's in your court! You can handle it!
"I was expecting this sort of development from all of you at some point ever since you told me about this when you were Tamako-chan. Good work on getting them up to date, Ichika. Guess you really are the Onee-san that everyone knows to this day huh?" Fuutarou smirks as he reassures her with a headpat; She responds with an instant blush.
"Uh... t-t-teach...? P-please don't..." Ichika stutters as her words evaporate into thin air whilst she shyly looks away and everyone else giggles.
*Over to the Revival cake shop where Nino and Miku are looking for a job there; The former suspiciously glances at the latter. There's a poster saying 'Help Wanted, Work: Service, sales, kitchen assistance, Wage: 950 to 1100 yen (trial period), Hours: At least 4 hours'*
Revival's manager: Ohhh. So you saw the help wanted ad, huh? I appreciate you girls coming in for an interview.
Fuutarou: Why did you choose to apply here of all places?!
Nino: To be honest I'm surprised to see Miku apply here too!
Revival Manager: Believe me in a perfect world I'd be glad to hire both of you. But there's just one opening… unless you're to quit, Uesugi.
Fuutarou: Oh boss you're such a jokester! AHAHAHA- Uh?
*Miku instantly stands up*
Miku: I enjoy making sweets!
*Instant shock from both Nino and Fuutarou*
"That was the fastest decision I've ever seen from Miku all this time! Why can't she act like this during the sports festivals?" Yotsuba hastily exclaims.
"This is much different! Out on the sports track I've got zero reaction time even to this day!" Miku pouts.
Revival Manager: Yeah? Avid baker? Well then-
Nino: *Instant sweating* Hold on I-I'm better at it than her!
*Nino follows suit as she stands up too*
Miku: I've already made multiple batches of chocolate this year-
Nino: Seriously?! You wouldn't have made squat without my help!
Miku: I made the last one alone!
"I love how despite being in a serious environment you two still manage to stir up a useless, petty argument between yourselves somehow." Ichika sarcastically jokes as she winces from earlier.
Revival Manager: Sigh... Both of these ladies are friends of yours isn't that right?
Fuutarou: Uh... Kind of?
*Instant zoom up on the manager as he gives off a serious stare*
Revival Manager: You deal with it.
Fuutarou: WHAT?!
Miku: Which of us do you want (Fuutarou: AH?!) Fuutarou?
Nino: Obviously you'll pick me (Fuutarou: UH?!) since I'm better!
Miku: But I'll do anything you'll ask me to.
Both: You have to choose me!
A sweating Fuutarou: Ugh...
"To be honest with that camera angle of you two walking forwards it seems like you both want to choose him to go out on your first date." Ichika pouts with jealousy.
"Admit it, Ichika: You, Yotsuba and Itsuki would have the same idea as us if you ended up choosing to apply there don't you?" Nino points out with a smirk as she and Miku also direct their competitive smirks to the youngest two; The former of the youngest two blushes unnoticeably in her seat whilst the latter mimics her eldest sister's pout.
"Why is it that that whenever this pointless stuff about dating comes up I have to get lumped in with you four?!" Itsuki scowls.
"Because you and Fuutarou have the same, stubborn mindset duh! I'd say you two would also make a cute-" Miku teases before Itsuki furiously hurls a pillow into her face before she could finish. "Ow! Itsuki! You don't have be so harsh over some light joke!"
"Alright enough! Let's just keep watching!" Fuutarou scoffs with irritation over this pointless scuffle whilst he crosses his arms.
*As the two of them exit the café, it's no surprise that Miku lost, judging by her defeated slouch*
Revival Manager: Alright, we'll have you start next week.
Miku: I lost...
Nino: This is what you get for suggesting a bake-off! You really thought you would win?!
*Shows two cakes baked separately by the two quints where the Revival Manager picks Nino as the winner; Cue Miku's cute pout yet again*
"Seriously? You actually tried to replicate Season 1's cooking results for real this time?" Itsuki says baffled.
"Oh shut up! It wasn't even the real thing anyways!" Miku grimaces.
Nino: I do feel kind of bad though. Hm?
*Sees Miku taking an interest at the bakery nearby*
Miku: The bakery across the street's hiring! I'll apply there too!
Nino: *Instant shock #2* UGH?! Wow you sure got over that one quickly! I'd figure you'd apply for that job so you be around him more!
Miku: It's fine. Working with Fuutarou isn't the main goal for me.
Nino: Uh?
*Flashbacks to another cake she made recently during the interview and Fuutarou eats it*
Miku: When I made that cake today, I realized...
Fuutarou (Flashback): Mmm! Ah! It doesn't taste that bad after all!
*Miku's face glows as she blushes; Back to the present*
At this point Nino whips out her phone as she snaps a picture of Miku's cute blush whilst everyone else except Fuutarou swoons, much to the former's own amusement; Miku instantly takes notices alongside him as they both hear the camera shutter go off.
"What are you doing, Nino?" Miku asks her suspiciously, though she got no reply. Meanwhile the TV still continues to play as the latter furiously locks on to the former...
Miku: ...I actually enjoy creating things! And besides... *She flashbacks to Episode 6, where Fuutarou reveals his top 3 qualities in a girl, mainly good at cooking and always cheerful* ...I want to become a version of me that Fuutarou would fall for!
Nino: I still don't feel like I've won this battle... *She clenches her fists* But now that we've worked together... I'm going to make him fall in love with me for sure!
"You don't mind if photoshop my blushing face onto yours just for my amusement?" Nino snickers as she-
"Seriously?! What benefit is that going to do you?!" Miku pouts as she snatches Nino's phone... only to realise she actually deleted it way ahead of schedule. "WHA-?! Didn't you-?!"
"GAHAHA! You thought I'd really save that precious scene of your in my photo album?! Gosh you should have seen your own face when I had your heart racing!" Nino laughs as Miku's mood worsens upon being deceived.
"You...! ARGH! How dare you-" Miku scowls before Fuutarou raises a hand to silence them both.
"Wait a second... one question!" Fuutarou speaks up.
"What is it?" Nino and Miku speak up simultaneously as the direct their teasy and furious stares at-
"What's does the word 'photoshop' mean again?" Fuutarou asks, prompting the former two to comically turn to stone as their eyes bulged with shock. It was also at this point that everyone stopped swooning just to witness this hilarious reaction unfold much to their disbelief.
"GAH- UESU- T-THEY... THEY TURNED TO STONE?!" Yotsuba gawks as she and Ichika and whip their baffled expressions at Fuutarou too.
"You don't know what photoshop means?! I thought your would have caught up on those things though now that your finances have improved sort of?" Ichika puzzledly replies.
"Seriously?! Why are you all acting so baffled? Of course he doesn't know stop being so ridiculous. How can someone so poor expect to know everything that we have even as of now?" Itsuki nonchalantly grumbles as she shakes both Nino and Miku out of their trances.
"Huh? Wha? Itsuki? What happened?" Nino and Miku say dazed as they revert.
"Just to be clear I was never out of the woods, Ichika. And... Itsuki... was that a uh, was that a defence or an insult? I can't tell." Fuutarou asks her confused.
"Good. Cause I'd rather you not know." Itsuki sourly bites as she folds her arms after waking up Nino and Miku again.
"Uh..."
*Skips to the first day of Third Year, where Fuutarou chats to Ichika about the job-seeking drama*
Ichika: ...Yeah. I think I scared them by bringing down the hammer.
Fuutarou: I guess you weren't making enough cash on your own, huh?
Ichika: It's enough, but we're barely scraping by. I've had to focus on the more surefire gigs and pass on the others that aren't as stable. *She turns around* And if it wasn't for the money issue then I could move on to more fulfilling work.
Fuutarou: Yeah that make's sense.
*Shows Yotsuba working as a cleaner*
Ichika: Yotsuba got a custodial job. She's been cleaning my room a lot so she's really suited to that I think.
"So is her room finally shining bright like herself than when I first saw it, now that you're the one helping her?" Fuutarou chuckles.
"Uh... yes and... no. The latter is because she somehow managed to undo all of my hard work this entire morning! And the past fifteen days too! TWICE A DAY!" Yotsuba pouts, which give the others including her big sis a good laugh.
*Itsuki's next but she hasn't found anything... at least for now*
Ichika: Itsuki-chan hasn't found anything yet. But she's doing her best. She'll be okay!
Nino didn't hesitate to puff her cheeks now that she knew what Itsuki's job was... because she and Fuutarou were there to witness it before their very eyes!
"What?!" Itsuki grumbles again upon noticing her sister's puff.
"Nothing." Nino replies as she reverts swiftly like the wind.
Fuutarou: Yeah I don't care what you idiots do as long as you don't screw it up...
Ichika: Eheheh! It would suck to fail after all this! *She seductively whips around on her heels and bends towards Fuutarou before the camera zooms up to her precious lips* I'm counting on you... Seeeensei~!
"Aaaaaaahhhh?!" The four other quints gasp jealously as Ichika's stunning beauty shines upon them onscreen. Just like when they all saw the special ad she starred in specifically.
"And that, girls, is how you make an entrance on TV!" Ichika smirks with such confidence as she does a sassy pose with her left hand on her hip now that the spotlight has been passed on to her. Even Fuutarou can agree that... um...
"Wait a minute..." Fuutarou suddenly mutters; his heart suddenly thumps faster than it normally should, seeing that he might have perhaps found a theory of his own of the culprit who kissed him...
Nakano Grandfather: Ever since I lost Rena that's how I felt. They should stay true to themselves. Make sure to tell them that.
*Over to Rena again*
Rena: You're the kind of person people need!
Fuutarou: That's funny... Itsuki said the same thing.
Nino: You should have never barged into our lives!
No wait... it might not even be her in the first place... What am I thinking? Fuutarou then contemplates as his brain cells scramble all over the place.
"Uh... Fuutarou?" Miku gulps as she witnesses him going through another trance.
*Fuutarou suddenly flashbacks to the kiss at the bell of vows though...*
Ichika: Something wrong?
Fuutarou: UGH?! *He bashfully turns away* I'm good!
I'm not good actually, now that everyone has sort of found out... Fuutarou thinks as he arches down with desperation filling his sore eyes.
"Hey! Uesugi-kun?" Itsuki speaks as she lightly shakes him.
"Huh? What? What is it?" Fuutarou asks as he looks back up... and notices the quints staring at him with unease. "Did I... zone out again?"
"If it helps to relieve you, I definitely wasn't the one who kissed you at the Bell of Vows, teach. I'm speaking the truth." Ichika grimaces as Fuutarou stares at her for a brief second before deciding to let that slide as he gazes back to the TV again.
Ichika: Mhm! You know... Even though it was my idea, I can't help but feel a little sad. We'll all be busy with our jobs. So we probably won't see each other as often. I wonder if taking this big step in adulthood is what finally makes us grow apart.
Fuutarou: Don't know. But either way, I'm sure it's not a bad thing.
Ichika: You're right!
*Cuts to school*
Fuutarou: Long story short... this concerned what prove to be unfounded. In fact, the bond between these five turned out to be stronger than I possibly could've imagined. *Shows that Fuutarou is seating at the very front of the new classroom, which is also where the five quints are too as it cuts to all of them laughing towards each other... Fuutarou isn't amused as he sits in a corner and pouts* They're quintuplets! Are you kidding?! Hah. *In fact, all five quints are grouped in the same classroom too, in alphabetical order* It's enough that you all look alike...
Everyone lets out the deepest sigh they possibly could produce whilst they witness the newly blossomed Sakura petals fall gracefully onscreen and sends them back into a wave of loneliness; Now that the third and final year of their school period is almost at its conclusion, the thought of being separated from each other plus their tutor felt equivalent to . Coupled with the fact that Fuutarou finally acknowledged how powerful the bond between the five of them is, the overwhelming sensation of having to let this go within a few months time isn't exactly the most pleasant thing they'd all want to deal with, even thought they know that it is inevitable.
"I... I don't want our friendship... I don't want this to end..." Yotsuba whimpers as her ribbons once again wilt.
"I'm pretty sure you're not the only one who thinks the same thing, Yotsuba." Ichika responds as she lets off a warm smile. "But... hearing Fuutarou-kun acknowledging our super strong bond, it melts my heart. And... just like what I said to Miku..." She wipes a loose tear from her left eye as she finishes her sentence with a sigh. "...These days aren't going to last forever right?"
"I agree... I don't want to leave each other after so long... just please... a few more months at most?" Itsuki begs as she clasps her hands.
"Me neither..." Miku agrees too as she wraps onto Fuutarou's right arm... and aggravates Nino in the process.
"Miku...!" Nino grumbles as she clings onto Fuutarou's left.
"Um... girls?" Fuutarou nervously shudders as the two of them tightly constrict his arms like a massive python.
*Cuts to another scene of Class 3-1 where the students are surrounding all five quints*
Female student: Wow! So the Nakanos are identical!
Male student: So interesting to see them in person!
*A female student approaches Ichika*
Female student: Can we use your first so it won't be as confusing?
Ichika: Sure! We'd actually prefer if you do it that way too!
*Another female student approaches Nino this time*
Another female student: Can you like... predict each other's thoughts and read minds?
Nino: Uh... no we're not telepathic.
"And I'm glad you girls aren't otherwise you would have read mind too for sure. Maybe you would have copied what I've written down on the exams too." Fuutarou smirks which lets out a bundle of loose laughs from all of them.
"You're funny, Uesugi-san!" Yotsuba giggles.
*Another female student with a side tail (Tsubaki) talks to Miku*
Tsubaki: You guys have such a cute face (Miku: Uh?) why do you hide yours?
Miku: Mmm...
*Two male students close in on the youngest two*
Itsuki and Yotsuba: UH?!
Itsuki: CAN YOU GIVE US SOME SPACE PLEASE?!
"Now that, Uesugi-san is what I call 'quintuplet harassment' or 'quintassment'!" Yotsuba declares as Fuutarou scoffs.
"Why do I feel like this 'quintassment' word Yotsuba made up sounds absolutely wrong?" Nino cringes out of the blue as she thinks of something really condescending, especially about the second syllable (minus the 't')...
"Oh my... Thanks for ruining the image Nino..." Itsuki facepalms as she too, gets what her sister is talking about. Miku and Ichika didn't really get why Nino and Itsuki were acting so pained.
*And then Fuutarou appears from behind as he...*
Fuutarou: Move it would you?
Everyone else: Huh?
Female student 1: What's up? Are you curious about the Nakano sisters too, Uesugi?
Fuutarou: Course not. I just need to use the bathroom.
*...abruptly leaves and shuts the door behind them*
Female Student: Does he have to be a jerk about it?!
"Alright now that it's just us five in this entire space, what's your petty excuse for this unnecessarily rude attitude?!" Nino presses him as she and her sisters shoot five suspicious glares at his deadpanned face.
"Look I didn't want to be the centre of attention with everyone asking me about you five ok? Plus I was worried that they'd ask me who I would have been dating with which is absolutely irrelevant to my whole trope of studying!" Fuutarou scowls in embarrassment as he also crosses his arms.
"Heh? Doesn't everyone know your motives with us already, hm?" Ichika teases.
"Well if it wasn't for Yotsuba being so forward..." Fuutarou mutters as he shoots a short glance at her. Unbeknownst to him though, that glare sets off a precious moment five years ago that laid dormant deep within her brain as she jumps slightly...
Ichika: Eheheh. He walked right past us!
Itsuki: Well that's unbranded for him... He was like that as a Second Year too. It's like he goes out of his way to keep his classmates at arm's length.
Yotsuba: Oh yeah like at camp when tried to do everything by himself!
Itsuki: That's just how he is...
Ichika: I wish people could see that he's really a good guy at heart...
*Yotsuba puts a hand up to her chin*
Yotsuba: Hm...
*Cuts to the very first class the six of them have...*
Teacher: Starting today you're third years. Since you're the most senior class in school, you now have a responsibility to behave in a manner that's exemplary for all the underclass man- Huh? *...As Yotsuba instantly volunteers to be the female class representative, garnering a truckload of surprise* What's wrong?
Yotsuba: I'd like to announce that I'm running for class representative!
Teacher: But... I haven't had a chance to ask yet!
*Yotsuba claps her hands as if she's praying; Fuutarou meanwhile is studying as usual, sigh*
Yotsuba: Please consider me, sir!
"Wow. Rude." Miku scoffs as she takes note of Fuutarou studying in the middle of all of this.
Teacher: I didn't say you couldn't! W-w-well... If no one else wants to then... sure.
*Yotsuba beams with delight*
"Just curious though: Did anyone else minus Yotsuba and Itsuki volunteer for class rep back in Second year?" Fuutarou asks them.
"I did." Ichika speaks first as she apprehensively scratches her head. "Well I mean... they unanimously chose me since I'm so popular. I wasn't comfortable with it during the first months or so since everyone was looking up on me like some kind of super model eheheh!"
"But you are one, Ichika!" Yotsuba pesters her.
"Not back then, remember? I only just started." Ichika reminds her as she blushes.
"I was also the representative in my class. And unlike Ichika I actually enjoyed my role since I was mainly stomping out the most pointless questions my class had to suggest such as an extra study lesson or even ice cream during the middle of class! I just love it when I see their desperate face when they realise no one was able to challenge my points of view! Even my male counterpart was so terrified of my assertive behaviour so I ended up having to take charge myself!" Nino huffs with a haughty smile.
"Yeah those are some stupid suggestions indeed, though. Me and Uesugi-kun would have shunned them too if we were in charge." Itsuki agrees since she didn't volunteer be the class rep alongside Fuutarou in second year.
"Sheesh. I never got to be the class rep in second year, let alone have the confidence to be one. I wish I was just as bold as Yotsuba..." Miku jealously remarks as she curls up into a ball.
"I wish she didn't have to drag me into this too..." Fuutarou also responds.
"Well after you heard about us once you left on TV Uesugi-san, now you know why!" Yotsuba gleefully chuckles.
Yotsuba: Alright! If you need my help with anything, please just let me know!
Teacher: Let's select our male rep as well, shall we? Is there anybody up for it?
Yotsuba: Don't be shy!
Teacher: Any nominations?
*Ichika embarrassingly fans herself with her hand in her seat as her face flushes*
Yotsuba: Who wants it!
Ichika: Oh man she's embarrassing us all!
"Aww why were you so shy, Ichika?" Yotsuba coos as she notices the same expression made by her and the other sisters. "I thought you were fine on us being the centre of attention back then!"
"Yeah but not that much such that everyone would start swarming us again! I may be socially outgoing around our classmates but now that I'm an actress and all that, I would still love some privacy at times unlike naughty Fuutarou-kun!" Ichika defends herself as she takes a moment to wipe her forehead.
"What was that?!" Fuutarou grumbles as he locks a glare on her.
"You must remember that not everyone is as bold as you are, Yotsuba. Even I have my own limits too you know." Nino reminds her.
Male Student 1: Well it's a pretty obvious choice don't you think?
Male Student 2: It's gotta be Takeda-kun without a doubt! He scored highest on the finals too!
*Takeda continues to be enveloped by those sparkles on TV as he smirks*
Takeda: Honestly you guys are too kind!
"Ladies and Gentlemen, introducing our newest character who is considerably more handsome and smarter than poor little Fuutarou-kun: Takeda-kun!" Ichika comically announces like she's on some reality show as her sisters blew raspberries in response.
"Pfft! What was that all about?!" Yotsuba wheezes.
"I'd still take the insensitive and stupid jerk that Fuu-kun is by a damn mile over some overconfident and sparkling animated fellow like him; and he's still a jerk! And a loser like Fuu-kun too though!" Nino scoffs disdainfully.
"What kind of difference does that make then?!" Fuutarou complains as he scratches his head.
"Uh... I guess you uh... entertain us with your stupidity in more than one way? Yeah that's right. Plus those random blackened faces of yours especially in Episode two of this season!" Nino says, which sends everyone else into hysterics once they realise what face she's talking about.
"SERIOUSLY?!" Fuutarou fumes as a flame flickers over his overworked head. "Speaking of which though, I wonder what Takeda-kun would think of this movie if he were to see it?" Fuutarou asks, prompting everyone else to let off dirty looks at his question. "What? I'm just saying!"
Yotsuba: Sensei! I know someone who's perfectly suited for the role!
Teacher: Who?
*As Takeda continues to shine on screen, Yotsuba raises her right hand before she prepares to pick him as the-*
Yotsuba: Uesugi Fuutarou-san!
*And here's Fuutarou blackened face of horror before he abruptly stands up*
Fuutarou: WHAT?!
"OH MY-!" All five quintuplets instantly drown in their pools of laughter AGAIN at the sight of Fuutarou's blackened face whilst the latter cringes profusely. It really couldn't be helped.
AGAIN SERIOUSLY?! WHY ME?! Fuutarou yells in his thoughts as more steam can be seen evaporating from Fuutarou's poor head, specifically from the tiny tips that stick up like sore thumbs.
Female Classmate: Uh... I don't think that's a very good idea...
Tsubaki: Did she not say Takeda-kun or something?!
Fuutarou: Seriously, Yotsuba?!
*Takeda remains unfazed though as his face still sparkles*
Teacher: Right. Let's move onto the next role.
Fuutarou: Wait a second I never said I would do it!
Takeda: Hmm...
"Is it just me or do those animated sparkles around his face make him look a thousand times more ridiculous than usual though?" Nino huffs.
"I'm pretty sure it's not just you..." Miku mumbles with disregard. "Though... Fuutarou-san..."
"What about it?" Fuutarou nonchalantly asks, thinking that Miku was calling him.
"Uh- I mean, Yotsuba calling you Fuutarou-san is... pretty unusual for me to hear. T-that's all. I didn't really call you for, um... for something o-o-or anything." Miku instantly stammers.
"Uh... why are you... so embarrassed?" Fuutarou awkwardly responds as he turns towards her, though she didn't respond or gaze at him back.
"That honestly sounds like a Mutsumi thing though. That Fuutarou-san honorific..." Ichika mutters as she brushes her hair slightly.
"You know what's funny? Mutsumi did call me that in my nightmares." Fuutarou says out loud.
"Wait, really?! She called you that?!" Itsuki and Yotsuba gasp. "Ok... now we're curious!"
*Over outside of the men's bathroom, where Fuutarou just exits...*
Fuutarou: Typical Yotsuba... butting into things...
*...Miku bumps into him*
Miku: Fuutarou... (Fuutarou: Huh?) You busy? I have a quick question... *She holds out her palms* I'm holding a magic lamp...
Fuutarou: Or not-
Miku: ...Am too.
Fuutarou: This isn't a question.
*Miku raises her right hand*
Miku: If I told you I could grant you five wishes, what would you wish for?
"Even to this day I still don't know what this is about..." Fuutarou ponders as he raises a hand to his chin. And then Miku points to herself and her sisters, signifying the five wishes that she was pointing out. "What? Wait... what are you... getting onto?"
"Your five wishes. One from each of us to be exact. I didn't reveal it because I wanted it to be a surprise on your special day." Miku responds.
Fuutarou: Uh... Is this like a personality test or something? *Miku goes back to holding her palms out* Hmm... I-I'd wish to be ludicrously rich. Wouldn't anybody?
Miku: Money then?
Fuutarou: Are we done?
Miku: Nope four left.
Fuutarou: This is too many!
Miku: Just answer. You can have anything.
Fuutarou: Mmm... *Enters Chibi mode where he imagines...* Sometimes I'd like to have greater stamina... uh then I'd overwork myself even more. So faster recovery? I don't sleep well either. A-and I could use better luck...
Miku: Got it.
Fuutarou: Got what, exactly? *Silence* What are you done talking now?
"Yeah uh... I still don't get it. What do you mean by my... special day?" Fuutarou asks.
"Your five birthday presents of course. Did you not remember?" Miku reveals.
"Wait what? So you asked me those five wishes because...?" Fuutarou again asks with an even more shocked expression growing on his face. The quints meanwhile didn't know whether to facepalm or not for his ever-growing cluelessness as their stares remain blank.
*Just then, Tsubaki and her classmate run up to the duo*
Tsubaki: Oh there you are! Yotsuba! The teacher is asking for you! *Insert cute Miku annoyed face as Tsubaki gets her name wrong; And then they grab her by the shoulders* Come with us! Ahahaha!
Miku: Um... But I-
Fuutarou: You know that's Miku right? Not Yotsuba?
The two of them: Uh?
Tsubaki's Classmate: Really?
*Miku instantly nods in response*
"Imagine if they got ahold of this show and still cannot tell us apart by our different hair colours." Nino remarks out of the blue.
"I would have gone insane on my behalf if they still couldn't get it, let alone found out what our embarrassing moments are." Fuutarou sarcastically replies.
Tsubaki: Sorry we're still learning how to tell you guys apart!
Miku: It's ok. I'm used to it...
Tsubaki's classmate: Oh! *Notices Itsuki walking by* Yotsuba! The teacher wants you!
Fuutarou: AGAIN ALREADY?!
"Geez! What was that panic reaction for?" Ichika says as she puffs her cheeks in an attempt not to laugh.
"Also what were you doing out in the hallway, Itsuki?" Yotsuba curiously asks her.
"I was just wondering where Uesugi-kun and Miku were that's all. I mean they were taking a suspiciously long time to regroup with me, Nino and Ichika." Itsuki replies.
Fuutarou: Pro tip: The best way is to memorize their accessories! *Zoom up on Itsuki's star pin as Fuutarou points* This tacky star has five points! And Itsuki's the fifth born!
Itsuki: Was the tacky part necessary?!
"Yes it was." Nino smirks as Itsuki smashes a pillow into her face.
"You don't get to talk!" Itsuki pouts as Nino scowls back.
"Enough!" Yotsuba and Miku groan in unison.
*Shows Yotsuba's ribbons twitching*
Fuutarou: That ribbon makes a 'Y' for Yotsuba! If you know these tricks you'll never go wrong! I mean... not that I... have a perfect track record...
"You've forgotten about one thing, teach!" Ichika teases as she puts a finger to her soft lips.
"Yeah, yeah I get it, Ichika. I deliberately didn't include it to avoid embarrassing myself ok?" Fuutarou scoffs.
"Aww come on! Love is always the key!" The other quints (Minus Itsuki for an obvious reason) pout.
Tsubaki: Wow! That's amazing, Uesugi!
Tsubaki's classmate: You're so smart it's no wonder why you're the class rep! *She holds Fuutarou's right arm to her chest* Teach us more (Fuutarou: Uh... UGH?!) about them!
Tsubaki: *Follows suit with his left arm* Look! There's one (Fuutarou: HEY!) over there!
"Can I... can I like... *pant pant* you know... to them... *Pant pant* when we...?" Nino furiously grits as she aggressively pants over this one totally innocent scene.
"Nino! No!" The quints on the ends of the age spectrum (Ichika and Itsuki) furiously snarl as they lock their angry eyes onto her.
"You didn't even notice it back then so no. Don't." Fuutarou sternly tells her as her sisters ready themselves to stop her in case she does anyway.
"Funny enough, I had the same train of thought back then..." Miku pouts.
*And then they drag Fuutarou over to Nino leaving behind...*
Tsubaki's Classmate: Over here Yotsuba!
Fuutarou: No! That's Nino!
Jealous Pouty Miku: *A blazing background envelopes her and Itsuki as she pouts* Those two girls... they're being too clingy with Fuutarou!
Ichika and Yotsuba had to snicker over Miku's jealous reaction whilst the rest remain indifferent... at least... until Itsuki cringes internally.
Itsuki: Eheheh. It's not a bad thing though! It's looks like he's starting to change too... But still... I can understand why you'd be jealous.
*Insert One-Winged Angel as Miku gives Itsuki her 'don't-want-to-talk face' whilst the latter panics*
Yandere Miku: MMMM!
Itsuki: A-as a friend, I mean!
And then Nino couldn't help but join the former two as the three of them laugh their hearts out whilst Fuutarou and Itsuki suffer from an uncalled for heart attack over Miku's cute, but menacing death glare.
"What are these funny random animations on all of us these days?" Yotsuba guffaws. "Seriously it's like we've all become actual actresses just like our dear Ichika!"
"You're the one to talk..." Itsuki gasps hoarsely after being forced to stomach what was supposed to be a living nightmare for her.
"Geez. Has Miku always been that scary? Maybe she should've done the test of courage with me and Yotsuba then if that's the case." Fuutarou comically jokes.
Itsuki: Though there's one thing I don't get: How could anyone fall for a guy like him?
*That night... at the Nakano residence...*
Miku: I asked Fuutarou what his five wishes were.
*Fuutarou's Wishes: Money, Stamina, Better Sleep, Faster Recovery, Better Luck*
Nino: Yeah... uh... none of these are gonna work...
Yotsuba: What should we do?
Ichika: I don't know. But we better think of something fast.
Miku: You're right. There's not much time... *Shows their faces looking down as if a camera was on the table* until Fuutarou's birthday.
"Oooooohhhh. Was that what those random gift for me that day are for?" Fuutarou finally deduces though his expression doesn't really move an inch.
"Did you seriously think we'd forget?" Nino speaks up as she gestures. "If Miku never liked you... no... actually... if neither of us five took a liking to you we wouldn't have thought about this in the first place!"
"Wait really? So you girls actually decided to get me the five things I wished for? Was that why I saw those things from you girls after the mock exam?" Fuutarou finally recognizes as they all blush in unison.
"Why did you think I poured my heart and soul into giving you those scented candles?" Nino tells him with a confident smirk.
"Why would I go out of my way to give you that special gift card? Though I'll admit I could have gotten you something better than something disposable like that eheheh." Ichika embarrassingly chuckles as she adjusts her hair in the process.
"Those two gym tickets were from Miku. She wanted you to see you in better shape after all this time. Just like how I gave you my crafty paper crane for good luck and fortune!" Yotsuba giggles.
"And the day before the mock exams when you passed out in cold sleep? That drink I bought without you knowing who it was is mine." Itsuki tells him.
"So that's why you guys made such a big deal huh. And yes. I did remember about that day too. Dad and Raiha didn't see me that day so I figured you would up to something too. Heh. Thanks. And sorry, for..." Fuutarou warmly addresses before Miku elbows him. "What?!"
"Stop being such a forgetful, pessimistic jerk, Fuutarou! Geez!" Miku pouts as the others laugh their hearts out.
"Geez. You have to get on my nerves like that you know?" Fuutarou sighs as he smiles warmly.
But still... someone outside of my family does care about my birthday after all... That's actually a first. Thanks girls. You guys, whilst still five identical meatheads, are sure that special... Just like what your grandfather said. Fuutarou thinks whilst Miku stops pouting and her stare becomes dreamy.
*The next day at school, where Fuutarou is being pestered...*
Female Classmate: Hey class rep!
Fuutarou and Miku: Hm?
Female Classmate: Do you mind if I talk to Miku?
*Skips to another pestering moment*
Male Classmate: Class Rep! (Fuutarou: Hm?) Could you give this to Ichika for me?
Fuutarou: ...
*Pestering moment x3*
Female Classmate: For Nino!
*Pestering x4*
Tsubaki: For Itsuki!
*x5*
Another female classmate: For Yotsuba!
*Boom*
Triggered Fuutarou: ARGH DO IT YOURSELF!
"You never got a break as class rep huh? Ah the good old days..." Ichika teases with a smirk.
"Aw! At least give Uesugi-san some merit ok? Hehe!" Yotsuba giggles whilst Fuutarou just gives her a tired look.
*Skips all the way to the end of class, which is just past 2:30pm*
Fuutarou: So... the fact is now that we've become third year students-
Takeda: Excuse me. (The class reps: Uh?) Sorry, class rep. *Cue his sparkles around his head* But I'm having trouble hearing all the way from back here. Why don't you try projecting better? *Flashy pose as he points* Kay?
Takeda was already an annoying jerk to deal with, despite the fact that his attitude towards Fuutarou has drastically improved since their pre-mock exam meeting. But to actually have his flashy cool-boy personality emphasised even more by the most detailed sparkles, it honestly looked a thousand times worse to their own eyes by the looks of it. It's as if to them, it's to further emphasise his flair which neither of them require at the moment.
"Wow they actually went into great detail on him for once?" Fuutarou cringes whilst the five girls either made forced snickers or just puffed their cheeks over how ridiculous he looks on TV... or both, for Yotsuba at least.
"Note to selves: Do not show this to Takeda-kun at all costs." Itsuki remarks. "I can already hear all of the countless rants he makes after seeing how 'perfect' he looks in this show compared to Uesugi-kun."
*Fuutarou winces a little but still presses on with a louder voice*
Fuutarou: What I like would like to discuss with you... is arguably the highlight of the first term!
Yotsuba: We've gotta get ready!
*Dramatic zoom up as Fuutarou and Yotsuba announce-*
Fuutarou: It's the national mock exa-
Yotsuba: It's the school field trip! Step 1 is making sure (Fuutarou: HM?!) it's fun!
Everyone else: YEAAHHHH!
Fuutarou: Ugh... Idiot...
Everyone minus the rejected class rep had to let their laughter run loose after witnessing this silly moment unfold.
"My god that dramatic zoom up on Fuu-kun and Yotsuba when they announced at the same time just made this moment a thousand times better than usual!" Nino wheezes.
"Can't argue with that!" Miku snickers.
*After that, the scene shows Nino leaving for her first day at work*
Miku: Are you off to work, Nino?
Nino: Yeah. Today's my first day.
Miku: Then... can I ask you a favour?
*Nino recoils a little*
Nino: What do you want now?! I'm not switching jobs with you!
Miku: If you can talk to Fuutarou, try to find out what things he likes.
Nino: Huh? You want that? You sure?
Miku: Yeah. *She stands up as well* I start today (Nino: Huh?) too. I have to work really hard to make sure he has a great birthday!
*Nino stands there speechless*
The others minus Nino meanwhile felt a pang of guilt overlapping their pinkish heads over this.
"What Miku said... I would have said so too..." Yotsuba guiltily whines as her ribbons droop.
"I mean if it wasn't for you helping so many people in our cohort then yeah; I would have also joined you too alongside Ichika." Itsuki bluntly reminds her.
"I couldn't help it though! As the class rep I have to make sure that everyone's needs were accounted for! I can't just leave someone hanging!" Yotsuba tries to deflect back.
"Uh... your near disaster with the track team where you bit off way more than you could chew?" Ichika bluntly reminds her; The former instantly jolts after that reminder.
*Nino then walks to the Revival café. On the way there her head is brimming with thoughts*
Nino: She's confident if she's letting me ask him. Sure a lot happened during break... but I'm still in the lead! At... least I think. But if that's the case then why do I feel so anxious?
*Flashbacks to her conversation with Ichika at the hot springs*
Ichika (Flashback): It's never gone that way for me...
*Back to the present as Nino's doubt surface even more*
Nino: I confessed to him... that had to have changed something right?
"Sigh well I guess my thoughts aged horribly... now that I've seen everything unfold behind my back." Nino quietly remarks as she takes a moment to adjust her right ribbon that has suddenly come loose. Since neither of her sisters were present during her first workday too, the four of them paid closer attention to what happened... and if she flirted with him at all. Each and every single one of them minus Nino herself impatiently rubbed their knuckles until they became superhot from the intense friction; Fuutarou meanwhile, sweats slightly after seeing the bubbly expressions of the quints.
*Inside the Revival Café...*
Fuutarou: You're starting today?
Nino: Yeah I am. They're actually letting me into the kitchen already. By the way, what do you think about my new hairstyle?
Fuutarou: Well it's practical for food service. *He leaves* Try to keep up!
Tsundere Nino: AH! Did you forget who you're talking to?! This job won't be a problem for me!
*Fuutarou stops and laughs evilly as a menacing, blue-flamed background envelopes the two; Nino also sweats*
Fuutarou: Heheheh... Sure you're a good cook... but you're still a spoiled little rich girl. Get ready. Cause you're about to see what the real world is like!
"Yeah you show her who's the boss of the real world, Uesugi-san! Haha!" Yotsuba cheers after witnessing her sister get a taste of his own medicine on TV.
"Just so you know, you weren't any better than Nino, ok?" Itsuki again reminds her before her own stomach suddenly lurches at a particular thought.
"If it wasn't for work though... I would have loved to see your hair tied up like that more..." Fuutarou whispers, causing Nino's face to brighten with joy... and vice-versa for someone else...
"Fuutarou!" Miku pouts as she jealousy stares at him.
*Later during the shift where Nino expertly bakes a cake...*
Revival Manager: It's absolute perfection! You must be some kind of genius to create this masterpiece on your first day!
Nino: Oh it's nothing really! I couldn't have done it if you weren't such a great teacher! *Fuutarou pouts behind the scenes only to retreat as Nino glances back* He's more distant than ever now. Maybe confessing wasn't the right move...
What Nino said sounded really hollow to me for some reason... Miku thinks as she somehow isn't convinced. Nino instantly becomes sceptical as she notices her sister's wry expression.
"Yeah what?" Nino growls at her, already assuming she's devising of something condescending.
"Nothing." Miku stoically replies back.
Revival Manager: Wow. Don't think I could have hired you at a better time, Nakano. We've got a big reservation coming in later.
Revival Chef: Oh yeah that's right all the part-timers are here today. Is it supposed to be a large party or something?
Revival Manager: Actually it's only one (Nino: Huh?) person... A reviewer's who infamous in our circles. And her name is... M.A.Y! *M.A.Y in glowing text followed by a silhouette... wait...* They say her assessments are so astute that a restaurant's clientele will be multiplied by the numbers of stars she gives online. It turns out she want to try our new spring dessert. Let's go for five stars!
Both Nino and the other chef: Right!
At this point the quint whose identity is 'M.A.Y' widens her eyes in shock whilst the rest immediately covered their mouths to suppress the massive balls of laughter from escaping. I didn't know they would hint it this early! She gasps in her thoughts.
"Is that who I think it is?!" Yotsuba muffles as she chest pumps from her stifled laughter.
"That ahoge...!" Miku follows suit as she suffers the same thing as Yotsuba.
"And her acronym... how appropriate!" Ichika concludes and ditto like Miku and Yotsuba. Fuutarou and Nino meanwhile... smirk.
Nino: I can't fail! I need to prove myself as part of the team and become closer to Fuutarou!
Miku suddenly gasps and widens her eyes as Nino calls Fuutarou by his real name for the second time, just like the time at the bell of vows. The others meanwhile did eye her sceptically but chose to do nothing for the time being.
*Later... the chefs notices that Nino made a blunder in her batter*
Revival chef: Um, boss? Think you could check this batter? Something's not right...
Nino: Uh?
Revival manager: Yeah it's off...
Nino: I-I'm sorry that one's mine!
Revival manager: Hurry and remake it please.
Nino: Yes sir!
*The scene fades to black*
"Well that's a first. I haven't seen Nino screw up whilst she was baking in a while." Itsuki remarks a little surprised as the former winces a little.
"Itsuki! Don't be so rude!" Yotsuba scolds her. "Nino does make mistakes from time to time despite being the best chef out of all of us! Especially considering that she sometimes works herself too hard!"
"Yotsuba's right, Itsuki. I overworked myself that day because I was too focused on Fuu-kun as much as you guys are now that Miku knows..." Nino admits as Miku still glares at her.
"Heh. So you've always been the stubborn one at heart even when at work. You never change do you, Nino?" Fuutarou remarks as he pats her head just to lighten her up a little. Though... as she turns beet red...
"F-F-Fuu-kun..." Nino blushes as she widens her eyes and stares at him with a shocked face; This didn't really garner the approval of someone else though...
"Fuutarou!" Miku growls again as she keeps her distance from everyone else for the time being and pouts. I hate it when my spotlight gets stolen just because of a measly video... come on, Fuutarou! All because of a confession?! I don't mind Ichika, Yotsuba or Itsuki being in the spotlight but this moment felt so much different from before... It's as if Nino's the one who pushed a wall into me. I hope I get shown at some point so that Fuutarou can praise me again... They've both changed a lot since we all met Fuutarou... She jealously thinks as a cinema reels in her brain...
Ichika: These days aren't going to last forever right?
Nino: But if I had to step over them...
Miku: I like Fuutarou! And I'm going to whatever I want!
Miku: Right now we're teacher and student. And if our relationship stays that way forever, then nothing will change.
Nino: If you have something to say then spit it out... Fuutarou!
Ichika: I should warn you: I'm not planning on slacking off either!
"Huh? What's with her?" Fuutarou asks the others as they shrug in confusion.
*A while later in the day...*
Fuutarou: I'm going on break now.
Revival Manager: Gotcha. *Nino's still working on remaking her batter* You take a break too while you can, ok?
Nino: It's fine I don't need to. I'll fix it!
Revival Manager: You have to take breaks, Nakano. I shouldn't have given that job to a newcomer. I'm sorry.
Nino: Alright... I'll stop then...
"I mean Fuutarou-kun did warn you didn't he?" Ichika smirks at her sister. "The way we live is nothing compared to-"
"Ok, ok I get it, Ichika, shut up! I was nothing but a spoiled brat back then but now I've changed!" Nino panics as she flails her arms needlessly. Miku meanwhile, smirks and relaxes a little, now that she got to see a meeker side of her usually tough sister. She's glad that someone's finally putting their soles into her shoes for the time being again.
"Ah, so you finally admit it then. You heeded my words after all this time huh? I never thought my advice would make you fall weak at your knees then as much as studying made you too!" Fuutarou smirks victoriously. "That aside... I just wanted to add-"
"Just to be clear I didn't embarrass myself in front of my sisters for you ok?! Now stay silent and forget about this!" Nino interrupts as she points her shaking finger at her evilly smirking tutor.
"What- hey!" Fuutarou recoils in shock as Nino slouches back in her seat. "I was gonna add that I'd give you credit for trying to amend your mistakes! It wasn't something that I see from you especially now! So much for that!" He then gives off an irritated groan before gazing back to the TV, furious that Nino interrupted him when he wanted to make her shine with the good news of her. The others, especially Miku, were uncertain as to what they should say, let alone do, to appease the mild tension between the two of them, now that this easily resolvable moment was making them feel angsty...
But, deep inside, Nino did feel guilty that she shut down Fuutarou in a way; As she stares down at her feet, she lets off a small sigh. Teasing aside... thank you... Fuu-kun. I only snapped back because I was hurt by what you and Ichika said, that's all. And you're right it's not like me to try and fix something at the cost of hurting myself. That isn't something I wouldn't have done if it weren't for you... She voices in her thoughts.
*She stops and enters backstage with Fuutarou with a guilty look*
Nino: This sucks... because of me everyone has to work harder! I-I should go back in...
Fuutarou: The boss just said it wasn't your fault. He was completely in the wrong for trusting you with that on your first day here.
Nino: I can usually handle those things of no trouble at all! Why did it have to happen in front of Fuutarou?!
"Don't answer that..." Miku mumbles almost inaudibly if it wasn't for one sister...
"Huh? Did you say something, Miku?" Yotsuba asks as her ribbons perk up out of curiosity.
"Ah! No! Um... nothing. Never mind." Miku jolts back, completely caught off guard by Yotsuba's sharp hearing.
"She seems a bit off. Is she okay?" Fuutarou asks again.
"I don't know. M-maybe she reverted because of TV Nino?" Yotsuba questions back; Miku chose not to react to that.
Fuutarou: Take a look at this...
Nino: Huh?
*Fuutarou places a box on the table and opens it up to reveal Santa Claus decorations*
Fuutarou: Bud don't judge me too hard, alright? One time, I accidentally bought a thousand Santa Claus decorations for Christmas instead of a hundred.
Nino: Uh-huh?
"YOU BOUGHT A THOUSAND- MFF!" Yotsuba exclaims if it wasn't for Ichika swiftly and reflexively cuffing her mouth.
"Sheesh! I thought Fuutarou-kun said not to judge?!" Ichika scolds her loudmouth sister as Itsuki, Nino and Fuutarou snicker. Again Miku stays silent for the time being.
Fuutarou: And this rack is dented. Because I fell and hit it.
Nino: What are you saying?
Fuutarou: I can't count the number of times I broke a plate or took an order to the wrong table. I've messed up way more than you.
Nino: You're trying to cheer me up, aren't you?
Fuutarou: Of course I'm not! I'm just teaching you how brutal work can be! Because... you're training.
"I owe Fuu-kun my entire heart for this, for helping me open up to the real world and learning how much I needed to change to fit in with everyone else." Nino beams.
"Speaking of which though, you also got a taste of the real world too haven't you, Ichika? How many times did you mess up your lines?" Fuutarou curiously asks the fully fledged actress.
"Honestly I've given up counting how many times I messed up, whether it is on stage or rehearsing or even trying to cooperate with my crew. And even then I've always had things go wrong when I least expected them." Ichika replies as she prepares to give out her Onee-san wisdom. "If there's anything I've learnt as the eldest sis, it's that you'll have to grow out of your old habits, grow to meet the challenges of the real world, and adapt to the situations, to overcome them. Out there, life will almost never give you the easy way out. And if it does, it would only be one in a blue moon. So... I'm very happy, actually, that my four, little sisters have managed to overcome the obstacles I've pointed out." That was enough to make her sisters plus Fuutarou beam too; Even the grouchy Miku smiles a little, before she reverts back within three seconds.
"As expected of our big sister celebrity!" Yotsuba giggles as she gives off a cheeky smile.
Nino: Then why...? *Reminiscences Fuutarou's avoidances* Why have you be avoiding me? *But then she corrects her mistake, sort of* Uh... sorry to make things awkward for you. I know I really must be difficult to work with!
Fuutarou: I've worked a ton of jobs and everytime things go wrong. It makes me remember the truth about myself. All I'm really good at is studying. (Nino: Uh?) *Awkward background* I'm only a genius. A top student. And an expertly qualified student to a set of idiotic quintuplets.
Nino: Are you just complimenting yourself or...?
"Certified Uesugi-kun moment! That dry statement about himself made it funnier than I thought!" Itsuki snickers alongside Ichika after staying silent for a while.
Fuutarou: I've never dealt with this... *Zooms out on him as he shines* The whole... confession thing. *Nino sparkles on TV* So I didn't know how to talk to you... But I'll answer now. My feeling are-
Nino: Wait! I know you don't like back ok? How could you after the way I've treated you? But don't answer me yet! We're finally working together so I'll have more time with you. And you can get to know me for who I am *She approaches Fuutarou* starting now! I want to prove how in love with you I am! You'll see before too long!
I knew it... Miku grumbles in her thoughts as she curls up into a tight ball and sulks. The other three quints that weren't involve became jittery, wondering if Fuutarou actually confessed back or not...
*The two of them stare into each other's eyes... before Fuutarou finally decides to end it...*
Fuutarou: Is that so?
Nino: *Blushes* MMM!
Oh phew... Ichika, Yotsuba and Itsuki relax as they witness Fuutarou dismiss Nino's monologue like it's no big deal.
I was actually expecting him to confess back anyways so... ah never mind. It's over already. Nino grins.
Miku meanwhile is still puzzling pretty much everyone with her sullen mood. Just because she couldn't get over the fact that Nino actually beat her and Ichika into confessing to Fuutarou, plus the added irony about her not competing for that title in the first place. And now she had to watch this too; Rubbing salt on her wound. This feeling also feels like the one she had the day before she left Kyoto, when Ichika sabotaged her.
"Is uh... everything ok, Miku? What's wrong?" Fuutarou again asks. No reply this time. Not even a single gaze of concern. "Miku?"
"She's not gonna respond I think." Yotsuba mutters.
*Outside in the main hall*
Revival Manager: Oh hey perfect timing you two! Looks like M.A.Y just showed up!
Fuutarou: Ok boss I'll be right over.
Revival Manager: Heh. What's wrong Uesugi? (Nino: Huh?) *Nino notices his red ear* Your face is bright red.
Fuutarou: UH- UGH?! NOTHING!
Ichika, Yotsuba and Itsuki began to snicker as Fuutarou instantly blushes over his reddened ear being on full display. So Nino's charming words did get to him after all. The latter just couldn't help but imitate her smirk on TV as she stares at a beet red Fuutarou.
"Ara ara, Fuu-kun! Something the matter right now? Did I actually get to you after all?" Nino teases as she immediately pulls Fuutarou's reigns upon noticing his panic reaction.
"What?! No! What are you getting onto now, Nino?! What's so special about that?!" Fuutarou exclaims.
I'm not gonna comment about this anymore. So much for asking her to ask Fuutarou... Miku sulks again.
*Nino confidently walks up to him as she smirks...*
Nino: Best be ready... *She goes up to his ear and whispers* ...Fuu-kun!
Miku instantly grits her teeth over Nino's seductive mentioning of 'Fuu-kun', though now she is somehow snickering just like Ichika and Yotsuba. The latter meanwhile, couldn't help but enjoy the slow, writhing agony forming deep inside her sister as she grins; Itsuki though, she was the only one who stopped snickering as she finally realises...
Revival Manager: That's M.A.Y right there!
*Fuutarou and Nino instantly peek over to find M.A.Y; Almost everything about her is flawlessly concealed behind those black shades and white, flimsy mask of hers. At least... until the camera zooms up on her red head... and zoom in even closer on her two star pins... and then on the loose ahoge sticking on top...*
"PFFFFT!" Ichika, Miku and Yotsuba finally couldn't hold back their laughter when they noticed that the one dead giveaway that 'M.A.Y' has left exposed is now being displayed at full view; The food critic meanwhile, felt her face flushing with terror as she furiously glances at Nino and Fuutarou who couldn't help but let their smug faces get the better of them.
"So you're the one who made that five star review about the delicious dessert me and my friends tried a few days back?! AHAHAHA!" Ichika laughs as her soul exits her body again.
"Hey Itsuki... no... M.A.Y! Can you go to Miku's bakery tomorrow after school and give her the five start review too? She would appreciate your appraisal! GAHAHA!" Yotsuba screams as she nearly chokes from laughing; Miku meanwhile lost her breath to speak for herself once she cooled down before the other two did.
"SHUT UP! SHUT UP! ALL OF YOU! AND WHAT'S SO FUNNY ABOUT THAT, YOU TWO?!" Itsuki fumes especially towards Nino and Fuutarou who began to snicker.
*Nino and Fuutarou instantly giggle before the former heads out*
Nino: I'll go take her order!
*She then stops for a moment...*
Fuutarou: ...Huh?
*...and give him an air kiss in the middle of work*
Nino: Mwah~!
*Fuutarou blushes*
At the sight of that beautiful air kiss, the only quintuplet that continued to laugh is Yotsuba; She remains completely oblivious to the fact that Nino blew an indirect kiss at Fuutarou. For the rest though, their eyes bulged to no end as they sat rigidly in their seats speechless.
Fuutarou: Come on we're at work! *Immediately thinks about her pretty lips and glances back at Nino as she deals with...* (Nino: Itsuki? What's wrong with you?) Sigh... seriously... (Eatsuki: How'd you recognise me?!)
*Scene fades to black as Nino confronts 'M.A.Y' who is now Eatsuki*
"Nino?! What the hell was that all about?!" Miku suddenly growls as her blue aura returns to frighten the second sister. "I thought I told you to just ask him and that's that?!"
"Heh. Yeah I did ask him as you asked me to. I kept my promise didn't I?" Nino passive-aggressively smiles as she deliberately averts the real reason why her sister is so pissed off.
"Then why did you give that air kiss, confront him about your feelings and on top of all that... you... you call him 'Fuu-kun' behind our backs?!" Miku raises her voice such that it startles everyone else.
"Miku! Stop!" Ichika, Itsuki, Yotsuba and Fuutarou yell out as the former two pause the TV whilst the latter two immediately position themselves between the heated sisters; No one has ever seen Miku this angry before, and they're all super worried about her.
"Geez. And you guys call me the hot-headed one of the bunch. I wasn't even trying to pick a fight this time, relax. That's what you call character development by the way. Much like yourself back in uh... Season 1 of our own creepy TV show! Besides what can you do to change the past without time travel, huh?" Nino nonchalantly breathes.
"We get that you're jealous of what Nino is doing but don't take too far! We're sisters and despite that you're all gunning for Uesugi-kun, we should love each other as much you four love him!" Itsuki pleads with a stern tone; Almost as if she was trying to remake her mother's image.
"Just include yourself with us already, Itsuki-chan!" Ichika groans.
"What the- no and never!" Itsuki snaps as she throws a pillow at Fuutarou to distract him.
"Be honest though: You wanted to give him that air kiss too don't you?" Yotsuba asks her as she pouts.
"What the-?! Why do you five always assume the wrongs things about me?!" Itsuki yells back as her ahoge becomes jagged. "I really hope you don't spill it out to everyone else ok?! I don't want to be that that much of an idol unlike Ichika! A-anyways we should stop stalling and finish this stupid episode don't you think?!" She presses the play button again.
"But you already are one, Itsuki! When one become famous you all-" Fuutarou reminds her before she furiously hurls another pillow at his face at double the strength to silence him.
"Alright I think we should stop teasing each other now." Nino says as she holds up her hands and smiles one last time now that her time on TV has come to and end. Everyone couldn't agree less with her.
*The next day, Fuutarou is studying in the middle of his walk when he bumps into Ichika... who's wearing glasses*
Ichika: Morning!
Fuutarou: Huh? Oh. Ichika. It's kinds weird how much I run into on the way to school.
Ichika: Huh? Is it?
"Nerdy Ichika? You trying to behave like Itsuki now?" Yotsuba cluelessly ponders as Itsuki once again... fumes. Ichika meanwhile, felt an uneasy feeling growing inside of her stomach as she sceptically eyes herself...
Fuutarou: Are the other girls around here somewhere?
*Ichika sweats*
Ichika: Oh no I just came to get coffee I wasn't expecting to see you! Hahaha! Here! I grabbed one for you two if you want it!
Fuutarou: But I thought you said you weren't expecting to see me here?
*Ichika looks away and sweats even more*
Ichika: Uh...?
*Awkward background moment*
Fuutarou: And I don't drink coffee. It's gross.
Ichika: That's okay I'll drink myself! Mmm yummy!
Fuutarou: Come on, we're running late.
"You were afraid that Ichika might have drugged it weren't you?" Itsuki points out.
"Why would I even drug my own coffee?! I would never do that unlike Nino I swear!" Ichika yelps out as she flails her arms. Miku, meanwhile, growls as she suspiciously eyes her sister's panic responses on TV. There just something not right with the way she's acting right now, both on screen and in the present moment. And she has her suspicions bubbling in her head every precious second, since she had to stomach seeing Nino shine...
*As Ichika walks alongside Fuutarou, she recaps her doubts about the previous nights*
Ichika: Argh he blew it... I can't do the casual approach... *Flashbacks to the confession* But I could never come out with it like Nino either. I mean... I don't want to ruin the relationship we have now.
*Fuutarou stops and notices something though*
Fuutarou: Hm? Wait have you always worn glasses?
Ichika: Yeah duh! You never noticed that? So, Fuutarou-kun, do you think they make me look like I'm smarter? They're kind of a disguise actually.
Fuutarou: Disguise?
Ichika: You see there was a screening yesterday for the movie I did a while ago. And it seemed like it got a decent amount of attention. You remember when I was filming for that one, right?
*Ichika glances at Fuutarou... only to notice his snickering as she blushes*
Fuutarou: So you're wearing glasses to avoid the paparazzi? Ok Miss Hollywood!
Ichika: *Covers her eyes* Don't say it like that you're embarrassing me!
"Wait why didn't you just use your quintuplet wig?" Yotsuba asks Ichika... But she got no reply. Unbeknownst to the fourth sister, she just foreshadowed her sister's intent.
Why am I somehow foreshadowing something stupid like this later on in the future, particularly towards myself? Nino thinks puzzled as she puts her hand to a chin.
Fuutarou: Well after all disguises are a necessity in your family.
Ichika: Yeah we're used to them. And we each carry a bag full of essentials at all times. *Shows her disguises in her bag* I could do Miku or Yotsuba right now. Oh. Or Nino. Eheheh then again maybe I shouldn't do that since you'd probably wouldn't know it was me.
Ichika suddenly jolts back and trembles slightly in her seat when the camera zooms in on her handbag full of disguises, specifically, when her Miku accessories are on full display. She didn't think the episode would hinder her awful intents at this point in time. But as Fuutarou once said to her during a study group: Sometimes the impossible is possible. Or maybe it's just a paradox. She cannot tell right now...
No... No... not this again... please don't remind me! She quivers. As she does so, Miku instantly catches whiff of it faster than the others could.
That's not the Ichika I once knew... that's so not like her! Miku gasps in her thoughts as her eyes widen slightly. Now what does she want to hide from everyone else especially her? First her act of giving Fuutarou some coffee only to react negatively to his rejection, and now she saw her panic just because her bag of disguises was in full view. What else is going to trigger her, she wonders?
"Uh... Ichika?" Nino gulps. "Y-y-you ok?"
"Huh? Yeah I'm fine. Just had uh... just uh... just remembred something important about... work! Yeah that's it! That's why I jumped eheheh." Ichika bluffs as she scratches her head.
"Didn't look like it from my viewpoint..." Fuutarou mutters. The others nod in agreement.
Fuutarou: Hah. Don't underestimate me. Why just the other day I saw through Miku's disguise without a single hint!
Ichika: Huh? You did what?
"You did not, dummy!" Yotsuba pouts.
*Fuutarou then notices the other sisters walking to school and advances; Ichika follows suit*
Fuutarou: Huh? Hey look. It's all of your sisters. Heheh. This is the perfect chance to demonstrate my skills! Once of them's chowing down, that's Itsuki. And Yotsuba's the loud one.
Ichika: Please don't...
How did we not notice them on top? Itsuki and Nino think. Unbeknownst to the quints minus Miku though, Ichika was starting to become very uneasy as she writhes in her seat.
Fuutarou: I was surprised when Nino got a job where I worked. But then Miku got hired by the bakery across the street. That's even stranger.
Ichika: Stop it...
Don't talk about my store struggling back either! I'm not responsible! Miku pouts as her anxieties rise after hearing Ichika's pleads for Fuutarou to stop. This feels like it might go out of hand soon... now that she's getting a motif of why Ichika's currently like this...
"Was that why you wanted to skip school with me that day? Just because I kept mentioning your sisters when you're trying to-" Fuutarou talks before Ichika swiftly cuffs his mouth in desperation.
"Didn't I already told you to stop like on TV?!" Ichika gasps as her face suddenly flushes, much to the confusion of everyone else.
Fuutarou: Because of Miku they started losing business. And that made the boss pretty happy.
Ichika: Don't talk about the others!
*Ichika grasps Fuutarou's hand*
"AUGH?!" Everyone except Miku gawk as Ichika instantly tells Fuutarou to lock his gaze onto her AND also hold his hand without thinking twice. It was this one moment that had to ignited the sparks of jealousies in them as they either kept their jaws wide open for Yotsuba or just stared at either one of the two for Nino and Itsuki.
Ichika meanwhile, felt a massive glare looming onto her and shudders as the quint with the blue headphones began rousing her suspicions once again...
So... Ichika's been thinking of Fuutarou too... but why panic over this? Miku again rants in her overworked brain. Why is she so desperate all of a sudden? I still don't get it... are these tiny things pushing her every whim so that she could actually make her move on Fuutarou? If she's getting so worked up over these minor things then what else did she do that she doesn't want us to see? Did... is she targeting me? Or anyone else... so that she can have Fuutarou all to herself and win his heart? Has she even confessed yet? I mean it's a war after all but...
The last one of Miku's thoughts would not age well later in the episode.
Ichika: Hold on! Forget them... Just keep your eyes on me! Do you wanna skip class together?
*Ichika stares at Fuutarou as he awaits his response*
Fuutarou: No way.
*Ichika makes a stunned face which is further emphasised the sky since the original angle doesn't make it clear*
Ichika: Heh?! WHY NOT JUST A LITTLE!
Fuutarou: That's truancy!
And once again Ichika's heart violently throbs as she winces in fear over the one recurring nightmare that might return to haunt her. The show... it's just building it up, from my conversations to my interactions and now this; After showing everything that I have thought of to win Fuutarou-kun's heart... its going to display my ultimate, awful decision isn't it? That's why I told you to stop, Fuutarou-kun! You're embarrassing me as usual! Ichika yells in her head; With every sentence she speaks the volume increases tenfold.
"You actually thought you could have Fuu-kun to yourself by skipping out on class?! Unbelievable!" Nino exclaims.
"You were like this too back in Kurobara remember?" Yotsuba reminds her.
"What? Was I?" Nino puzzledly asks.
"I'm amazed though. This is the first time I've heard someone refusing to skip out on school. Every boy I came across said they would do so at least once! Uesugi-kun either has some guts or is just too addicted to studying I must admit." Itsuki huffs in both amazement and disgust.
"Was that compliment or an insult? Again?" Fuutarou once again asks her.
"You already know the answer to that don't you?" Itsuki bluntly replies back.
"No I obviously don't!" Fuutarou backlashes as he raises his fists a little. Miku meanwhile...
She wanted to skip class with Fuutarou... but she didn't. No surprise why but... why would she, other than to get away from me and my sisters and have Fuutarou to herself? What is her real reason for suggesting this? Miku thinks as she notices Ichika becoming more unstable by the minute.
*As such the duo become late for class as they run for class*
Fuutarou: Thanks to your temperate tantrum we're about to be late!
Ichika: Ugh! You're no fun, Fuutarou-kun!
Fuutarou: You already skip tutoring sessions enough as it is! *Pant* Get your act together!
*Ichika 'urgh' pout*
Ichika: Skip?! I've been working you know?!
Fuutarou: Sigh... phew! We made it.
*Fuutarou opens the door...*
Ichika: Man... I just can't win...
Why do I feel like that 'I just can't win' line is a big red flag for me...? Miku ponders as Ichika somehow stops breathing much to her and everyone else's relief. Until this happened...
*...And the entire classroom swarms the duo as Ichika's big role is revealed*
The entire classroom: I saw the news this morning! You're an actress?! That's so cool! Who knew we had a celebrity in our class!
Fuutarou: I didn't think it was that big of a movie!
Ichika: Yeah kinda...!
"Yikes was this why our class was making such a ruckus around us that day?!" Itsuki yelps as her ahoge twists.
*The crowd seemingly appears to advance to Ichika in slow motion thanks to its graphics whilst Fuutarou advances*
Fuutarou: Not that I care... well congrats on landing the role. Now you're a professional liar.
*Ichika's heart beats wildly as the camera emphasises it*
As soon as the TV dramatizes Ichika's heartbeat, the actress felt herself recoiling in time with the thumps as she suddenly goes wide eyed in horror and clutches her beating chest.
Ichika: You paid attention and remembered! *Flashbacks to the fireworks festival* Is it bad if that's all it takes to make my heart race like this? That simple thing means more to me than all this praise from our classmates put together. *Cue Ichika's pretty smile on TV again* Just because it's coming from you.
Contrary to TV depiction, the beautiful smile that the actress made on TV had been long gone as her mood worsens.
Ichika: Ichika... is in love with you. I'm rooting for you two.
Fuutarou: Are you kidding?
Ichika: Nope! Not one bit!
They're going to show it aren't they? My horrid act... what I did against Miku... they really are going to haunt me again aren't they?! No... no... please! Ichika painfully yelps in her head as the colour drains from both her beautiful face and her hair whilst her breaths become drier and louder for everyone to hear. What she feared after all of this potential build-ups to show what she really wants from Fuutarou... it's all becoming clear on TV for her sisters. And soon enough, the bomb will explode, much like she predicted at the start.
"Wow whoever made the crowd look nothing more than a blur is a super genius!" Yotsuba exclaims in awe... only to hear Ichika's exasperated pants filling up her lungs. "Uh... Ichika? You good? Hello?" She yells out as she shakes her sister back to reality; It didn't work.
"Ichika must be really hiding something bigger from us if she's suddenly making all of these weird expressions and noises..." Itsuki assumes.
"She is. I can tell because I've never seen her act like this before. And after what I just watched... I have a bad feeling too." Miku finally speaks in a monotonous volume after staying so silent, though her face appears to be writhe in nervousness and doubt just from gathering up all the clues she had scavenged from Ichika's weird behaviour on TV.
"Miku? Even you?" Fuutarou gasps as he finally hears her speak after so long. And as the TV continues to play...
*After school, Yotsuba wants to invite Ichika to study when...*
Yotsuba: Hey Ichika! I'm heading to the library!
Ichika: Right behind you!
"I just loved how it cuts all the way to the end of school. Just goes to show how uneventful the day was." Fuutarou remarks, though he keeps his eyes glued to the heavily panting Ichika.
"Yeah I agree. Especially because all you were so focused on was studying!" Yotsuba pouts.
Tsubaki's classmate out of nowhere: Aww! But I wanted to talk to you more!
Tsubaki: Can't you stay a while?
Ichika: Aha... Uh... I have a study group!
*She leaves the classroom but...*
The two girls: UH?!
*They end up trying to follow her*
Tsubaki: Let's figure out which way she went and track her down!
*Unbeknownst to them, they just zoomed past her, though she was disguised as Miku...*
"Ichika...? Why were you disguised as me?!" Miku gasps as her eyes widen in shock. She was kind of expecting that just so she could avoid attention and that would have been it, but after seeing her big sister's utterly panicking face again, her anxieties about her sister's suspicious act have worsened.
Ichi-Miku: Sorry guys.
*Fuutarou shows up however*
Fuutarou: Why are you still at school?
Ichi-Miku: Huh?
Fuutarou: Hurry up, Miku. Let's go.
Ichi-Miku: Oh sure but it's me...
"Ichika? Hello?" Miku suspiciously asks her again as she shudders over what is about to come.
"Wait how did you not recognise Ichika by her yellow jacket, Fuu-kun?!" Nino exclaims as Fuutarou cringes. How did he not deduce that the girl who said that Ichika like him... was the one who said so herself? How did he not recognise it?!
Fuutarou: Hard to believe it's almost release day...
Ichi-Miku: Uh? Release day?
Fuutarou: You know... Ichika's movie!
Ichi-Miku: Huh?
Fuutarou: You told me about it yesterday.
Ichi-Miku: Oh. Miku did. A lot happens in one day...*Imagines her sisters walking alongside Fuutarou*Since he talks to all of us and not just me... I guess I was never going to be special to him...
*She flashbacks to the statements her sisters made that pushed her over the line...*
Miku (Flashback): You do what you want. But I'll still win!
Nino (Flashback): But if I had to step over her...
Yotsuba (Flashback): Anyways stop holding back. Just do what you want to!
"No… no no no no no no, wait wait wait wait!" Ichika panics as she whips her head in all directions to find the TV remote. Her sister meanwhile instantly take notice as they sweat bullets.
"What is it?! What's going on?!" Yotsuba gasps. Miku meanwhile could only look on stunned...
"Wait... Ichika... what exactly were you intending to do behind my back that your sisters, especially Miku, didn't know about?!" Fuutarou nervously asks her as his voice slightly raises. Unfortunately, that only seemed to send Ichika scampering around the couch for the remote as her breaths become more exasperated as if she was struggling to breathe. I knew it... whatever her sisters said, their actions to win my heart, that's what pushed her to do something horrible didn't she?!
Wait why wasn't I featured in her flashbacks? Didn't I also say something about this too? Itsuki thinks puzzled.
Ichi-Miku: F... Fuutarou!
Fuutarou: Hm? What's up?
*She slowly walks up to Fuutarou before she passes him*
Ichi-Miku: I wanted... to say something.
"No... No! NO! NO! STOP THE TV! PASS ME THE REMOTE PLEASE!" Ichika screams as she locks both eyes onto the remote and lunges for it before anyone else could; it was directly adjacent to her this time and no one moved a muscle to stop her, but even so she wasn't fast enough to pause it as the start of her downfall begins…
Ichi-Miku: Ichika… is in love with you.
Fuutarou: Uh?!
Everyone's jaws, especially Fuutarou and Miku's, dropped in absolute dismay. That's it. That's all they could do as they were forced to absorb that one horror that their big sister chose to push through...
How did I not notice that one, single earring on her right ear?! Fuutarou also gasps as he notices Miku's face growing increasingly sour.
Ichi-Miku: I think you'd be a cute couple. *She turns around and poses* I'm rooting for you two.
Fuutarou: Are you... kidding?!
*Cue Ichika's most crazed yandere stare ever as the episode concludes*
Ichi-Miku: Nope, not a bit!
Ichika at this point, couldn't stomach what was displayed at the end whilst everyone hurled a wave of death stares at her, including the quint she shot down herself.
"W... what... w-w-what did I just stomach...?!" Yotsuba stammers now that she finally knows why Ichika didn't come to the study group that afternoon.
"I... Ichika...!" Nino gasps and completely caught off guard by what her sister invoked on herself. Did whatever I boasted at the hot springs actually caused my big sister to step out of her boundaries a little too far? I guess that also explains her behaviour in Kyoto... Couldn't she have just remove her disguise and confessed?! I would have unironically let that slide then if she did! She thinks as she recaps what she said in Ichika's flashbacks.
No wonder... was this why... Ichika was so scared during the previous episode?! That she never wanted us to see the atrocious act she committed behind our backs?! Itsuki shudders as she finally gets why Ichika's mood never improved since the start of Episode 20.
As for the current situation...
"Miku... I-I-I-I'm..." Ichika rasps as her defences were completely destroyed for this duration. This final scene however was the last straw for the third quint as she begins to weep...
'Instead of equal... we should be fair. So what's the fair thing to do?'
'You do what you want. But I'll still win!'
"What the… I... Ichi... Ichika…! WHAT THE HELL!" Miku once again breaks character as tears started flowing out of her navy eyes before she grabs onto her sister's shoulders so hard that the latter yells in pain.
"MIKU! NO!" Everyone else screams as they did their best to shield the eldest from her, but they were all too slow. And now they're instead trying to pry Miku off in order to prevent another major fight within the family; Yet another out-of-character horror since Fuutarou's...
"I... That wasn't what I meant by you doing what you want!" Miku screams and weeps at the same time whilst her grip stays strong, never mind the fact that Nino and Itsuki are latching onto her arms and shoulders respectively too. "And... *Sniff* didn't I... say that...*Sniff* didn't I... No wonder why you sabotaged me on the Kyoto trip! What the hell was that for?!"
A/N: This was by far the hardest episode to write since Episodes 4 and 7 of this season; My brain cells have all died off as of this point. Rubbing salt on my own wound is that, unlike the final two episodes where I have something planned in mind, I'm actually out of ideas of what reactions to write for the next one. So as such, I'm giving you guys one last chance to suggest your best ideas as I work through the episode of the mock exams plus something extra for Fuutarou and Yotsuba. I've heard a lot of amazing examples last time and I enjoyed adapting and putting them into this fanfic. Once again, if you have anything else you'd hope to see me write in this, this is your final chance to suggest them to me before Episode 22 is finished. Cause once it is written up, I won't be taking anymore ideas throughout the closing of this entire story. I look forward to hearing them later if you do!
Also, thanks for the 47 favs and 45 followers as of writing this. I never thought this would be so popular after working on this for a while now. You guys are awesome as always! And thank you... again.
