DISCLAIMER I DO NOT OWN AIKATSU
Charlotte's POV
It wasn't hard to look at the two sides of myself and see who was the better idol. The rate of how fast we rose in the rankings was only one sign. Between the time of my debut to now, was the same amount of time it took for Char to be within the top 10. I won't lie, the slow rise was somewhat downing. I was used to seeing Char from the back. I saw the life of how people became the top idol. Yet I was not the one to earn that spot.
"Charlotte-senpai?" I felt a chill up my spine at how Momo singingly spoke from behind me. She hopped in front of me with her hand innocently holding her phone close to her chest.
"Okay you have your phone out and are creepily smiling at me. Is there something you want me to do?" I yawned as it was early in the morning.
"Perfect observation, Charlotte-senpai. I wanted to ask if you were doing something within the times of 1400 and 1930 hours on Friday the 21st of the month."
I had to mentally calculate what times she was talking about and picture what my schedule was for the day. If my calculations were correct Momo was asking about 2 in the afternoon until 7:30 at night. On a Friday that would be fine since I wouldn't have to worry about class the next morning. There's nothing in my plans for the day besides classes.
The problem was in Char's schedule. She was allowed to leave school early that day for a promotional shoot for Angley Sugar's new line. As one of the main muses, it wasn't something she could easily get out of since she already confirmed her attendance. This was in plan for over a month now. It did technically end around 1 so I would be able to help Momo with whatever she wanted but if any delays happened, it was too big of a risk. It would be better to have Char's shoot then rest up for the afternoon.
"Sorry I don't think I'm going to be available."
Her shoulders slightly sank. "Is that so? I understand."
"Was it for a job or something else?"
"A job. I'm going to be hosting a game show to see how much idols know about idol trivia. The teams for this first episode are split male versus female but one contestant on the female team suddenly had to drop out. I was hoping that you could take their place."
"Why not you then?"
She gave an awkward chuckle. "That was the original reason why I went to apply but the programmers think that if I were to compete, I would get an automatic win. Being a host is more fitting for me anyways. It sounds more appropriate as well. An idol hosting an idol trivia show. How enjoyable to think about."
"Then what about Fumiko?"
"I believe she's already swamped with promotions with Snapshot. Since the Starlight Royalty Cup is coming up so soon, everyone is scrambling all over the place. As first years with such a great reputation they are all eager to meet those requests and boost ratings while they can."
"Is she going to be alright then?"
"About? Oh the amount of work? She should be fine. One of the first steps to recovery is acknowledgement. She's been doing well in managing herself. If not, Snapshot and Rika are around her to be some immediate support. Have more faith in her." I nodded. Fumiko was strong. Getting a lot of attention may be burdensome but as long as she does things in moderation, it's not for us to comment.
"People aren't requesting for you?"
"I've received my fair share of requests but I'm still not nearly anywhere near their level. That aside, this job is something I sought out myself. To be a competitor but nonetheless. And one I would like to do this with you. Though I suppose I will have to pull back this time as it is an issue with scheduling as opposed to your own personal emotions of self-doubt, I can't fight back." She pouted unconsciously.
"I'm sorry Momo."
"It's alright. I know I can be pushy at times. I just thought that you would have enjoyed this job in particular."
"Why?"
"Because you're a good idol." I hated how easily Momo says it when I didn't believe it myself. "You have a very keen eye and since all the other contestants are fellow idols, we have directed some of the components to be related to such. Replicating dances, filling in the lyrics, naming coords, and a few others if those don't aren't entertaining enough. I know you will exceed it. You can be a black horse for a winning team. Though the others are very passionate as well. Everyone is quite amazing. I would love to see you on the show."
I won't lie, the idea of an idol trivia show sounded like a lot of fun. I knew my fair bit of idol facts. If Momo was the host I would be in good hands. I don't usually go on variety shows because I don't fit the mood for the most part. That's why for this to actually appeal to me is kind of sad to think about. Char was in greater demand and I couldn't mess with that.
"Sorry I have clashing events during that time."
"I repeat that it's fine and I understand. I should be getting to my classes anyways so don't bring yourself down for today. Have a nice day, Charlotte-senpai." She bowed to me before starting to walk away. A few seconds passed and the bell rang. At her pace she would reach her class perfectly on time. How precise her mind works at times is scary.
I headed inside my classroom to settle in before my teacher arrived. I took out the shared agenda that we had. Double checking the 21st that I wasn't misremembering. The Angely Sugar photoshoot was the number one priority for the day. If only the show recording was an hour later, I would be able to fill in the spot. 'I wonder what kind of questions they would ask. The programmers will probably have to filter Momo's questions to make them simpler if she's designing them. Unless there's different levels of difficulty. I want to watch it already.'
Flipping through the pages I tried to distract myself from the show. The entire book was filled to the brim with Char's writing. In addition to the schedules, she wrote down everything she needed to complete the job with flying colours. I will always admire Char because I can see how much effort she puts in. Beyond what any camera shows I know her better than anyone.
I turned over one more page that was supposed to be blank. My eyes widened as I saw that Char had written something on the corner of the page. "What?!"
I quickly covered my mouth as soon as I remembered that I was in class. The entire classroom, including the teacher walking in, froze in their spots. I bowed to them, sitting back down. I re-read the sentence in the agenda to make sure I wasn't missing anything. I didn't.
'Char... why would you ever say that?' In her tiny, neat handwriting she clearly wrote the sentence; I think I should quit Aikatsu soon.
There were times that Char felt distant to me. Not only in Aikatsu but in daily life. She surrounded herself with people at every chance she got. The many times people mistook us for a second reminded me how others look at her. Their glowing presence immediately changed to dull, respectful, and scared. I am used to it now. I had to understand where they were coming from. Didn't mean that it didn't hurt every time it happened.
I never blamed her for it. She always tried to preach to people who I was. That became more frequent when I debuted. Anytime she was asked about her opinion on me or who she looked up to, she would answer with me. Without any hesitation. I know for a fact that if people didn't know me from my debut, it would be because of how much she talks about me. It takes someone at the top to understand which rookies had what it took to beat her. Everyone hung onto her words.
So then why would the current top idol, the Starlight Queen, ideal idol, second Kanzaki Mizuki, in her second year of being an idol, ever say that she wanted to quit? Did something happen that I didn't know about? That I didn't acknowledge despite it being a big deal to her? How serious was she when she wrote it? How many times did she think that and I didn't notice? Why didn't she tell me directly?
I could have asked her all of this if I had the courage to. Again, the distance between us. She was the one meant to be consoling people through their tough times. I didn't know how to do that. If only I was the idol that she saw me. I would be able to say what people needed to hear. Say anything that I wanted to. Be the type of person that people didn't have to think twice to call an idol. A proper one.
When I woke up from Char taking over I was in sitting on a park bench next to some sort of building in the city. Lately I've been giving Char more space that I didn't know where I was. We should have been at the Angely Sugar studio right about this time. I let out a yawn, stretching my arms out. Char must have gone through some crazy session judging by how sore out body felt. I would think that she would know how to handle a photoshoot by now.
"Afternoon Charlotte-senpai."
"AH!" I jumped when I realized that Momo was beside me. I haven't spoken to her since I turned down her offer 2 weeks ago. "Momo? What are you doing here?"
"I'm here to escort you to your next job."
"Next job? Char shouldn't have anything left for today."
"Not for Char-senpai, your next job. Remember? I asked you to come attend today."
"You mean your trivia show? B-but-" I checked the time. Char had finished an hour early. "No way..."
"Char-senpai told me she would complete her job in a timely manner so that you would be able to arrive here on time. I saved a spot on the team just for you. If you would still choose to participate that is. I won't force you if you have changed your mind or if you're too tired-"
"I want to! I absolutely want to but Char..." I knew that nothing was left for today. I was still coming up with excuses to not attend. This explained why our body felt so exhausted. She rushed through it for my sake. What if she made a mistake? Today was a big deal to Angely Sugar. If she ruined the brand's image that reflects back on her. It would be my fault then. I could have brought Char's career down in one day because she wanted to bring me here.
"There's still plenty of time until we need to get ready. Should I leave you to make a decision?" She moved to grab her bag off the bench.
"Wait. Momo I have something I need to tell you." If it's Momo then I can say it. She was an idol that can actually help people. I know from personal experience.
"What's the matter?"
"Char... Char said she might quit Aikatsu. And I don't know why or how I can help her or- or- why. I wanted to ask her since I found out but I couldn't! She's Char! How can she just want to quit so early?" I froze when Momo placed a hand on my head. She soothingly patted my hair down, careful of the flower pin. I found it hard to believe that she was younger than me when she could be so calming.
"Hey it's okay. You don't have to explain it to me. I know."
"You know?"
She nodded. She removed her hand to take out her phone. "Char-senpai came to Ayano-senpai and I to talk about it a few days ago. She asked us to keep it a secret until she was ready to tell you. Or I guess until you found out."
"You and Inoue-senpai? Why senpai?"
"This will explain everything." She flipped her phone to face me. "She wanted me to record our conversation so that you could watch after you found out."
I see my hands shaking as I took the phone from her. The video still had the big play sign over the black screen. I took a deep breath before clicking it to start. Momo in the video removed her hand from the lens. She double checked that it was running before sitting back down at the large table next to Inoue. They appeared to be in a designer studio judging from the multiple fabric rolls spread out in the background.
"So the camera is set up, how can we help you Char-senpai?"
"I wanted to get both of your opinions on something I've been thinking about for a while now." Char glanced once at the camera. "I'm thinking about my future in Aikatsu. If I should quit soon."
Inoue gasped while Momo remained calm. Her gesturing for the older to calm down. "What? Why? Wait, why did you come to me? What is going on?"
"Char-senpai, whatever your decision is I will support it." I did a double take between the video her and the one standing before me. She wasn't at all fazed by what the top idol just said nor did current time her regret it. That was the thing about her. She was always clear on what to do and say.
"You- you would?" She leaned forward onto the table.
"I'll be blunt since this is a serious topic. Is this related to Charlotte-senpai's debut?"
I could see her bite her lip. "Yes."
"I see. And is this hesitancy also related to Charlotte-senpai?"
"Yes." Me? I'm the reason why Char was going to leave Aikatsu? That was the last thing I wanted to do. Momo guessed it so easily too. I was hurting her with everyone seeing it so clearly.
"I'm lost here." Inoue quietly spoke.
"Char-senpai I think you have Ayano-senpai confused. She left being an idol to develop more of her brand for Inoue-san's entry to Dream Academy. Not in a way out of responsibility but of her own passion. Focusing on Momo, it was like when she refused to compromise me choosing my debut song. Serious out of concern of the other.
"Sorry I didn't realize." Because I've only seen Char mainly through Aikatsu videos it was rare to see her down. I didn't want that for her. Her smiling was supposed to be the norm. Though that was the expectations that we held for Fumiko and we all saw how that turned out.
"It's alright. She is still your senpai and a fellow idol. Asking for some help is normal. Even for the Queen."
"Uhh, still lost here. Why does Takahashi-chan want to quit Aikatsu? And why does it relate to the other side of her?" Char sighed.
"For some context, I was essentially created in Charlotte's mind in the image of a perfect idol. In a way, she allowed herself to experience the life she always yearned for through me. For the longest time we were both okay with it. That changed when she debuted. Don't get me wrong I always wanted and even pushed for it myself. I never really thought of the consequences that came with. Now that I have, I can't think of a way for both of us to continue. And if one of us has to leave, it should be me."
"And what consequences are we talking about?"
"For the first time Char-senpai had to see her as not another part of herself but as two separate entities. However, that cannot be physically possible because they cannot separate their bodies. Only minds. Before Char-senpai never saw Charlotte-senpai's perspective. How people looked at her or how much more work she needed to put in to reach the top. Not to mention that the biggest hindrance to her growth was her own perfect idol. It was inevitable that the two were going to get in each other ways despite all the support they give."
Char nodded along to what Momo had to say. I could tell by the look on her face that she everything correctly. I felt it myself. I had to make many sacrifices for her to rise in Aikatsu. Meaning both my body and time. Now if I saw it, she did. The two of us love each other. The same goes for Aikatsu. But deep down we both knew that there could only be one top idol.
That wasn't me. I couldn't beat her. Not when I caved in for her needs. She was always going to be the perfect idol. I couldn't ever be her.
"I always thought that when Charlotte debuted I would do anything to help her. Yet every time I watched her perspective, I was the one hurting her. Even just this week she turned down the opportunity to be on your trivia show because of my schedule. I don't want to continue if it ends up hurting the person that means the most to me." I was handed a handkerchief. It was then did I realize that I was crying alongside my other half.
"That's not right." Everyone, including me looked towards Inoue. "Takahashi-chan, the other one, gave up that opportunity and many others because she loves you. Quitting your work will only sadden her."
Though she was known for her childish way of thinking, she was older than everyone in the video. Plus, her brand was only able to reach the level it could because of her way of thinking. She could handle herself and help those around her naturally.
"When I quit being an idol I knew I would hurt Kikyo. She was my main supporter through it all and at times I felt that I betrayed her. Still when I told her my reasoning through it all, she forgave me. She was slightly hurt by my way of thinking but understood. I continued my brand for her and myself. That determination that I had to do what I love is what made it forgivable. I'll ask this not to be rude but out of concern; is your Aikatsu so shallow that one person that is not yourself is going to decide to end a potentially history marking idol?"
Video Momo held back a smirk at her genuinely processing the question. The sole person that could end her career wasn't me or her fans. It was Char.
"I... I can't quit now... I... I still have a lot to go." The two girls smiled at her answer. So did I. I couldn't have been happier that she chose to continue. Not because of me but because she chose to herself. That she still had more to show in Aikatsu. Now that the thought was in her head, quitting would be near impossible. Again, it was my fellow idols and new friends that supported me. Not that she knew I knew.
"I wish that you and Charlotte-senpai get along in the future then."
"Me too! I don't know much about your other half that I want to see her doing more. Something tells me that the only way to see the both of you grow is with each other. I can't wait!" The video had a few seconds left that Momo started to take her phone back.
"After that we talked about today. Char-senpai ensured me that she would complete the photoshoot without any issues. And from my updates from the designer that I contacted to have her all her photos taken first, Char-senpai was absolutely perfect. I beileve that she has reached a new height in her abilites too."
After watching the video I learned more about how Char thinks. We may be opposites but we were a lot more alike than I thought. While she grew today I was still worried about going on one show. "Momo, please let me appear today! I want to become someone worthy of being Char's idol. I can't let her down this early in my career after all she did for me."
"Alright. Follow me then."
The moment we walked onto set, everyone welcomed me wholeheartedly. This one time I didn't see the flash of Char's impact here. I didn't know it until I witnessed it now but I really want to be the one to that people look at. The way that they greeted me with smiles was so new that I didn't want to give it up.
The entire show I forgot about the cameras on us. I found myself lost in the questions and the activities associated with them. Laughing with those around me at the friendly competition pokes. No longer was I afraid of how I could appear to them. All I wanted was to high five each of the players every time that we got a question right. Laugh when we gave a ridiculous answer. There was so much about Aikatsu that I haven't experienced myself. Less of the stage, idols were people that connected with others. A simple game show may be background to others on the tv as they eat. Right here, in this moment, I reminded myself how much I love Aikatsu.
"Now it's time for the final segment of the night! Our teams are now tied with 1 win each, the boys team winning 15 extra points during our appeal time. Meaning that if the girls do not gain at least 15 points, they will lose. Let us see what the event is going to be!" Momo was, surprisingly, a good host. I often forgot that the mature girl could boost her energy to above what was required. While still keeping her image intact.
Carrying a comically large hammer off her shoulder, she gestured to the giant colourful wheel beside her. After slamming down the rubber hammer on the pedestal, the lights on the sections started to spin. Each colour naming a different event we participated in. First round was listening to a second of the song and guessing it. Second round was guessing song names with a scramble of letters. The boys' team was a bit ahead but we were still determined to win.
"And the final event is... Speed run Q&A! Rules video cue!" A video played on the large screen in the middle of the room. It explained that this was going to be a purely trivia section that depended on speed and accuracy. There were going to be 10 questions, each worth 5 points. Meaning that our team needed at least 6 questions to win. We were allowed to ask questions for clarification if neither side got the answer and were given a chance to challenge if our side found the answer to be off before the verdict.
"Everyone understand?" We gave her a chorus of confirmation. "Good! Now I have a tidbit about this segment. As seen in the last segments, they have had another component. However, since this part is purely question and answer I was given the opportunity to create the entire question bank. The further we go on, the harder the question shall be. Be extra sure to pay attention to the details as that is something I'm very picky about. Shall we get started then?"
"Yes!" Momo creating the questions was a bit of a worry. My teammates felt that way too with their reassurance of each other.
"Then here's the first question! Please name the only idol on record to have debuted 11 times including her own solo."
All six contestants slammed down on the buzzer. "Oh what a close call. Everyone here is very eager and intelligent. However, according to the sensors in each button, it seems that Tachibana-san was the first to buzz in. Tachibana-san please state your answer."
"Frost Aurelia!"
"That answer is... Correct! The boys' team are widening their gap. Do not get disheartened as this is only the start. On to the next question!"
My team really didn't back down from the disadvantage as we kept nailing questions left and right. It helped that Momo was starting to show off her knowledge that slowed down everyone's answer. The ninth question didn't have anyone guessing until she gave a few hints. This last question was going to be the hardest that no one knew what to expect.
"How fitting for our finale! The scores are tied with 30 to 30, including the original 15 points the boys already had prior. The girls have given them no slack with answering questions but we shall see if the boy's early advantage will come to save them. The next question is going to settle everything tonight." Intense music played in the background. Everyone kept their shaky hands hovering over the buzzer.
"Here we go! Please pay extra attention to my wording. Retired pop idol Gumi was the first to ever perform in the, at the time, newly built Happy Nights stadium. This resulted in setting the record of the highest amount of tickets sold for this venue. For context the stadium was designed with the ideal of 1,000 people but has never been filled to the max due to errors that lead to potential hazards that restrict full capacity. The question is this; What is the number of tickets sold this night, setting this record?"
Gumi and the Happy Nights stadium? That happened before any one of us had been born. Of course we should have all known the name Gumi but the stadium she performed in? The number of people? That would take a mega fan to know. Or a Suzukawa Momo. However, thinking about it, she did give some context. It had to be less than a thousand and the highest amount it could be.
The buzzer sound of the boys' team broke my train of thought. "Yes Sawada-san! What is your answer?"
"Um 995?" He said very questionably.
"The boys' team's answer to the final question to how many tickets were sold is 995. Five less than the maximum. And that answer is..." It couldn't be that. It was too easy. Momo wasn't that simple to understand. Everything she said had to be a hint that we were missing. A newly built stadium for Gumi, a very popular idol in a time period where idols were rare. The internet too made it impossible for people to spread info that it was purely her fans that wanted to see her.
I slammed down on my buzzer. Not giving any time for anyone to react I shouted out, "Challenge! The answer is 1,000!"
Momo looked between the two teams. "We have our first challenge by Charlotte-senpai! The boys team have stated 995 and the girls team 1,000 at the max point. While both are very logical there and I can see the reasoning there is only one correct answer. And that person leading to the winning team is..."
The lights went out with some spotlights driving around. I bit the inside of my lip. It was a wild guess but I had to trust that I heard everything right. I wasn't going to lose this when it was so close.
"The winner is... the girl's team with the answer of 1,000 people! Congratulations!" Confetti went off on our side with the main screen turning to congratulations. My two teammates jumped to pull me into a group hug as those in the studio clapped for us.
"Now let me explain why Charlotte-senpai was correct. As this was the first performance at the Happy Nights the safety measures were found out after the 1,000 tickets were sold. However, before the concert started letting people in they found the mistake in the blueprints that brought a halt to the show and were moved to another stadium to please all 1,000 fans who brought tickets prior. Meaning that they never filled Happy Nights beyond the maximum but all 1,000 tickets were sold. I would like to also give an honourable mention to Sawada-san. He was partially correct in Gumi, at another time, and multiple other idols afterwards, holding the second place in record for most sold tickets, which is the current recommended amount at 995. With that being said I once more congratulate our winners tonight."
My teammates and I took center stage to take our bow. Call me sappy but I felt like crying seeing all of them smiling at me. Including those behind the camera. It felt even more accomplishing knowing that I was the one who got it correct. I have to thank Char for giving me the chance to participate. That and so much more.
Momo and I sat outside the venue as we waited for our ride to come pick us up. The excitement caused by all the action was starting to wear off. This was the life of an idol. One minute we were the star of the night with everyone praising you and the next silence. It was almost euphoric how calm it is. Giving myself a chance to catch my breath with some fresh air.
"Hey Momo, you know I became an idol on your will. Can I ask what you think of me now that I've debuted? Have I met your expectations?" I loved being an idol. I wanted to grow more. To meet everyone's expectations without having to always second guess myself and receive reassurance.
"Nope. Not at all." I waited a second for her to continue. To say that I exceed her expectations and that I could continue rising. The first person to believe in me when I couldn't. Momo still couldn't be proud of me. I made her go through so much though. To have her bluntly state her thoughts, I knew she was telling the truth.
"So was I a let down?"
She shook her head. "The day that you debuted you were shaking. Scared of those that looked at you. You still are. Each day that passes, you become more confident. You go for more auditions, speak more in interviews, smile more. You are not a letdown; you are only growing with each struggle. I think that is the key point to this all."
"Then-then when do you think I'll meet your expectations?" She pointed upwards to an electronic build board. As if she timed it, the image changed to a promotional ad featuring Char.
My idol Char. The start of my Aikatsu and yet one of my greatest limiting factors.
She looked up at the build board. "Char-senpai is amazing. Do you remember her speech after becoming Starlight Queen? The final words? I didn't understand them until I enrolled and exposed myself to this world did I understand what she meant."
"Word by word she said, while being Queen means a lot to me, it is not the end. I'm going to continue rising. I don't know where that'll lead me though since Aikatsu is everywhere. I still have a lot to learn and grow."
"Yes. As expected of her biggest fan. You know, when my mom retired she told me that she only stopped prompting. But she'll never stop being an idol. Aikatsu is amazing like that. Idols are not defined. It's all a mindset. Same with you. The day that you can proudly say you're an idol is the day I can say that I'm proud of you. Until then I'll be there to support you. Char-senpai, Fumiko, Snapshot. We'll support you way past when you realize you deserve it. Advance forward knowing that."
The image on screen changed to another random advertisement. A quick impression that lasts. That was Char. It didn't matter how long an idol has been in the industry. It matters the mark they leave behind. I haven't done that yet. I still needed to grow. I wanted to grow.
"That's embarrassing to have you say so confidently."
"You really are a cute idol!" I didn't get a chance to respond when she tackled me into a hug. She giggled to herself, squeezing me tight. I lightly patted her on the back as she spouted high level words about what makes something considered cute.
"Momo, thank you."
"This is nothing. I'm always happy to help out." I pulled back to look at her face.
"No, I mean it. Momo, you give me courage when no one else could. Not only that but you gave me a stage, became an inspiration, and most of all you've been my friend. Both sides of me are grateful that we have you to help. And now that I have achieved my debut I have the next thing to accomplish in mind."
"May I know what that is?" I jumped up from my seat.
"I-" taking a deep breath I placed my hands on the side of my face, "I want to become Starlight Queen!"
I never shouted that loud before. I never stated what I wanted out loud before. Starlight queen? That was only a dream that I thought would be forever unattainable. And that was just the beginning. Becoming queen was a lot of work. Upholding what that title means is equally the same, if not more. From now on I wanted to try for it instead of seeing it as an ending point. To be an idol that I can proudly call myself.
"I would like to try this as well." Momo stood beside, ignoring the people startled by my shout. I didn't mind all the eyes since I was focusing on her. "I want to have an interminable Aikatsu!"
Momo grew a lot from her first day since I showed her around for orientation. Showing her around campus was pretty useless when I knew she already had been there. She wasn't someone that needed me or Char to be her mentor. She needed someone to stay beside her. I never would have thought that that first day would lead our relationship to then like this. She is a great idol. And if an idol like her believes in me, I can try for myself too.
A/N: Again, I will like to say that I am aware that this is not meant to be an accurate representation of people with split personality disorder. This is merely how I want to easily display their relationship with my limited skills. It does not excuse it but I hope that if I can at least acknowledge anyone that may be hurt by interpretation.
Trivia: This chapter originally was going to be based on the idol that made Charlotte fall in love with Aikatsu quitting the industry. It would open a part of Charlotte that would make her question how far she could reach as this idol never became top. Essentially what this chapter goes over but with Char because it would be harder for myself to introduce a new idol here for the sake of it.
Have you all heard that we're getting a 10th anniversary special with the original generation?! I'm completely over the moon to see them all together. I can't wait for it that I made sure I released this before the 15th.