DISCLAIMER I DO NOT OWN AIKATSU
A shaky camera steadied itself as the black cover came off the lens. It focused on a sole female figure standing in front of a forest. Behind the camera, the person gave the okay that they were live. She waited a moment after the signal as she watched a monitor nearby show the live comments starting to roll through. A smile gracing her face seeing how many people were watching them.
"Hello everyone viewing our live stream today! I hope that the signal is working well considering our location. My name is Suzukawa Momo and I will be your host today. Please treat me well. However, before I explain today's concept, let me introduce the rest of those that are going to be the main focus." She gestured for the camera filming her to pan to the group of idols behind her.
The seven of them were all blindfolded and dressed in athletic clothing. There was visible confusion through their body language. None of them were even facing the same direction as they had no way of knowing where she or the camera were. Half of them waved at something random in an attempt to make it look like they knew what was happening.
"First up are those from Starlight Academy who I have been honoured to train with everyday. Takahashi Char-senpai, Watanabe Fumiko, Ceasire 'Snapshot' Hayate, and Higawari Shouta-kun! Each one of these contestants being a part of the top 20 potential to win the upcoming Starlight Royalty Cup. I have personally seen what each of them are capable of physically and I can not wait to see how their fruits of labour pay off today."
She walked up to each of them when calling their names to give them a slight pull in the right direction. Letting them step forward properly so that the camera could give them a few seconds of focus. Though she will admit that it was slightly amusing watching them be confused on where they were. Next time she uses blindfolds she should give a subtler way of gesturing to them.
"Next up we have Dream Academy's newest sister unit SELF! Made up of two rising idols themselves, Inoue Ayano-senpai and Kikyo. I have watched these two individually but now seeing them as a unit, they have only unlocked another part of their skills. Perhaps having a sister and a teammate here today shall help them snag a win?"
The two sisters managed to high five each other without their vision. Both eager to see what Momo had prepared that she needed both academies together. At first Kikyo was reluctant to attend. She didn't need Momo's help in getting their name out there. In the end, she agreed purely because Ayano thought it would be fun to attend. A missed opportunity if they didn't try it.
"And finally we have an independent idol, Karasuma Yuki-san! Even without any form of traditional training, he has been gaining a reputation for acing every audition he attends. Today he may become the winning black horse. We will have to see."
Yuki held back a smirk, opting for a more generous smile for the cameras. It was always funny hearing her trying to maintain a professional relationship on screen. That, plus the amount of publicity he was going to get from this event made him full of energy. She already knew that the moment she asked him to attend.
Momo took a moment to look over her contestants. Friends that easily trusted her to attend her event without any background information. She never would have thought she would have a set of friends like this. Different schools, ages, personalities, all gathered together.
They were going to have fun today.
"Now that we have introduced everyone I invite all my guests to remove their blindfolds and turn around." Some of them showed hesitation in fear of what she had planned. The others were eager for the same reason.
What they were met with was a rock wall. A mountainside. It pretty much clicked in all their minds what they were going to do. "Uhh Momo-san you're not serious, are you?"
"Right on the mark! Today I am challenging all of you to climb to the top of Angely Mountain. This being both a training session and a unique experience. Though I realize that this being purely for experience is not enough. That's why I decided to make this a race. The first two among you all to reach the top will receive a mystery prize."
"Wait hold on, shouldn't you be climbing too?" Kikyo complained.
"I never said I wouldn't. In addition to hosting, I will be joining you all in climbing but I won't be eligible for the prize."
"Won't that be too big of a strain on you Momo-chan?"
"Worry not. I have climbed this mountain since as far back as I can remember. There's even pictures of mom carrying me on her back from further back in my youth. This mountain is no different than a walk in the park to me." Their jaws dropped, glancing between her and the mountain. She was a relatively small girl that it was hard to believe she thought a literal mountain to be nothing to fret over.
"Then how about a hint to what the mystery prize is? I'm really curious what you prepared for one of us."
"I should listen to my senpai. A hint. Hmm should I give a hint?" She turned to the monitor flying with comments in positive encouragement.
"I guess a hint would make things more exciting as well. What should I give that wouldn't make it obvious?" She thought about it for a bit. Some extra time added for dramatic effect. "Oh I know. Listen up everyone, your hint as to what the prize is. The prize is something intangible. The winners of today's event will receive an opportunity to be a part of a new, highly anticipated project. One that cannot be auditioned for but only earned."
Everyone was confused. A new project that they couldn't audition for? That meant it was run by someone extremely well known in the industry that they knew they could request people instead of relying on people to fill the spots. And since it was Momo hosting this chance, it wasn't hard to guess that the project manager trusted her a lot to pick said people. Though it was technically Momo's idea to pick their participants through this method. Everyone that she knew could fulfil the roles given that they were on a relatively even playing field. It was a matter of who had more determination.
"I have a question about the project manager then." She turned away from the camera to face Yuki. Letting her idol image drop for a second to scowl at him.
"No spoilers Karasuma-san." She quickly shot him down with her kind toned voice before he could say anything. Those that knew his background, getting somewhat of an extra hint as to what the project was. Or who it was related to in other words.
"Wow look at the chat go. They are excited to see what project I'm referring to. I hope you all are also wanting to see these idols' rock climbing skills as well?" The idols behind her could see the same split monitor as her. Half on the chat and statistics the other half being of them as it showed what the audience saw. None of them could fully read the comments at the speed it was moving. Though they could see Momo's eyes quickly moving back and forth before she stepped back.
"I see! It appears that you are all excited. It's fascinating to read how fast you react and type. Users Suppica and patrichamo5 have been able to type out 11 and 16 unique messages respectively in the last minute. Not to mention user Aipom4 who I recognize very often during our livestreams. They have been commenting non-stop in encouragement of our idols today. Yes yes I see you all commenting too. Go any faster and I may actually lose track."
The idols behind her weren't surprised that she managed to read every single comment flying through. Including their usernames. This was her way of hosting. Using her top tier memory and her fast analyzation skills, she was engaging with the fans in a way that only she, or someone with years or experience, could.
"Ah I see a comment that I should address. This mountain is not meant for climbing casually. That is why I have professionals with us to ensure their safety as they are beginners. I do not advise this type of training to everyone. All those attending today will be allowed to opt out if they feel uncomfortable or get too tired. I repeat, I do not condone this activity to everyone without a lot of preparation. With that, I would like to get started soon while the sun is high and bright."
She drastically took a deep breath. "It's nice weather today."
Momo raised her hand to block the sun out of her eyes. She fully absorbed herself in the nature that surrounded her. Being here multiple times never failed to bring a sense of serenity to her. Not only was the air always clean, it somehow managed to clear out any heaviness to her life.
She turned to face the mountain. Bowing her head in respect for the area that helped raise her. "Please treat everyone well today."
As if the land heard her, a gentle wind blew past all the crew. They all smiled. There were still some nerves due to the extreme activity but that alone gave them strength and excitement to start. Momo could hear it through their restless shuffling and whispers.
"Remember, the early bird gets the worm but the second mouse gets the cheese. Strive for the prize but value yourself first. If you feel like you're at your limit, please don't be afraid to speak up. Safety first. And with that I wish you luck and spirit. Cue the intermission video!"
With her direction, the live stream changed to pre-recorded video to give them some time to work behind the scenes. In other words, give the idols a brief run down on the safety precautions.
"Okay, the video is roughly 10 minutes long so let us get started." She was, surprisingly, met with applause. As if the event was over. But it was merely her part that was over. Being host meant the spotlight moved onto her contestants now. They acknowledged the work that was put in and had to meet it to make the event a success.
After a short intermission to get everyone ready, all contestants stood at the base in the appropriate gear. Momo had been watching from the sidelines as they got taught the basics to climbing. In addition, she would be monitoring all the comments flying through the screen. More and more people were getting word of what was to come that even news outlets had already emailed her their written drafts of the event. Most of them were pre-approved by her as they gave good light to her contestants.
The camera director nodded to Momo, giving her the count in when the short video she prepared for the intermission would end. With the okay that her headphone set was working as well, they were ready to start. Three, two, one, "and we are back! I hope everyone enjoyed the video I and some of the crew put together. The credits of who exactly were at the end of the video that will be available for replay after the live stream is over."
She checked back that the livestream continued properly from the intermission. "While I was enjoying the process of making it, we shall move on to the main portion of the event. Idols? Are we ready to start climbing?"
"Yes!" They all cheered.
"Spotters, are they ready to climb?" She asked to make sure it was all set.
"Yes!"
"Alright then. Everyone get into a starting position!" Each one of them placed their hands on the mountain. Some more confident than the others. Though they were all excited knowing that this was something that past top idols have done before.
Momo raised her hands with a small party popper. "On your mark, get set... Go!"
With the sound of the small confetti exploding, they were all off. Well most of them. The one left remaining was surprisingly Ayano. Momo tilted her head seeing the kind eyes look over those climbing.
"Ayano-senpai? May I ask what is on your mind?"
"Angely Mountain, I remember Kikyo telling me that she wanted to try this at least once. She read and watched the stories before. About the legacy that comes with this place. I imagined that when we came here we would have planned for it. The ultimate goal we had for ourselves to prove how far we made it to even think about being able to challenge it. Now, I'm happy you're the one that arranged this. It is strange to say that I can see a dress in my mind from this?"
"Not at all. Knowing you, the coord will be beautifully made."
Ayano was the eldest of all the contestants. And though her personality sometimes said otherwise, she showed in her own way how much she enjoyed watching over the others. Her bold designs always brought the most of those she gets inspired by. With keen eyes and a quietened tone, she always knew how to make clothes for and loved by others. Using what she loved about those around her was how she grew. How she introduced her unique changes to the well established brands.
"I hope that the climbing meets your expectations as well." She nodded and started her slow ascent. Momo turned back to the camera.
"And they are all off! Though Ayano-senpai had a late start, I believe that she can catch up. Having strong forearm muscles from her years as a designer is going to assist her. Not to mention that she is the eldest here. Having 1-2 years more training than the others. Let's take a look at how they are starting off." They panned out to get a wide shot of the idols.
"Already in the lead is Snapshot and Karasuma-san. This isn't too surprising given their small rivalry while forming DEBUT. Karasuma-san has the advantage by having past experience with climbing Angely Mountain- that he mentioned before- but Snapshot has been trained finely for more strenuous exercises than anyone in this race. Together, the two love to compete that we'll have to review their microphone recordings for any amusing banter that may arise."
She used her eyes to hint for the crew to start up the drones as this lower level angle wasn't very flattering. It was best to have them slowly start up now rather than rushing that part when they needed it. The drones flew upwards. One for each person in order to not miss anything.
"Though, right on their tails are Fumiko and Inoue-san. Fumiko is known for her high energy. Even from down here we can see the smile on her face. I have to commend her for going at a slower pace than I expected. She's grown a lot since her debut to slowly expend her energy rather than all at once. Opposite from her is Inoue-san who is thinking the same as her for once. Same with Snapshot, years of modelling and, from what we heard from her sister, it wouldn't be surprising for her to have some background knowledge in rock climbing. In terms of form, she and Karasuma-san have the best so far." The professional climbers agreed with her on the side.
"Though I have to applaud Char-senpai and Shouta-kun for continuing despite the disadvantage they're at. Char-senpai, though physically fit, has the weight of her title as queen on the line soon. She and Charlotte-senpai would be performing twice that she cannot get injured or tired this way. Shouta-kun as well is the least trained physically and his worried personality gives a slow start. Though the two are still very much higher than the average person would reach at this time. As expected they are going to persevere until the end. I think I can catch up to them at this rate."
She swiftly attached her harness to the pulley line. Though she didn't climb with one in the past, it was better to be safe than sorry. Especially on camera it was best to be a good example. She checked back that everything was still running before she left the ground. Maintaining a livestream over such a distance in the outdoors proved a lot of difficulties in the testing phase. Though all her preparation work was in full swing now.
"Suzukawa Momo is heading up now." All the professionals gasped at her speed. The one in charge of keeping her rope tight struggled to keep up. She truly did know this mountain like the back of her hand. The most upbeat she's been all day was going up.
In less than two minutes, she already speeded past Ayano and was closing in on Shouta. That wasn't saying much as he and the two upperclassmen were very close together.
"Hello Shouta-kun."
He yelped out at the sudden appearance. Clinging to the wall in fear. She reassuringly placed her hand on his back until he regained his composure.
"How did-" Glancing down to see how much she managed to climb then immediately regretting it, "okay I shouldn't look down. Good note. Wow- okay we're high up. I'm okay, I'm okay."
"You're doing great for your first attempt. One step at a time. That's how we've always done things." He loosened up a bit. An effect that Momo always had on him. Taking another little step up.
"Thanks."
"Anytime. Now, I wanted to ask how you feel so far about climbing?"
"It's a lot... easier than I thought. I mean minus the height and this harness- I'm not bad at this. Not as good as the others, especially you, but I'm okay. I guess I'm in better shape than I thought."
"You really are. A lot of people see rock climbing as a skill for those extremely fit. However, anyone that watches tournaments will realize that a lot of the wins comes from finger strength. The ability to hold on. That's not to say that arm and leg strength is not important."
She smiled at his fingers gripping the rocks with little effort. Naturally he had already figured out how to properly balance his body to remain glued to the wall but he didn't even realize that his hands were so strong. The same hands she saw covered in blisters the first time they met. The same hands that reached out to her. They had come so far from the two strangers meeting in a random shopping district.
"What are you smiling at?"
"That I love your hands." He only returned the smile at how she spoke compliments without holding back. He was used to her.
"Saying stuff like that may get us into another scandal."
"Any kibitzer with the dauntlessness to report such tenets is only making a mountain out of a molehill."
"I would make an x with my hands if I wasn't so afraid of loosing my grip. I think I get the idea though. Even if you are doing it to boost my confidence."
"I am serious about all that I state. You shouldn't ignore the smaller detailed skills that you possess. With how much you play your guitar, you're already top in grip strength without realizing. A natural rookie if you must." He blushed at being called his title.
"If I'm the top then I have no idea where you are. You're holding on with only one hand." She shyly placed her other hand back on the wall. Temporarily forgetting that she should be climbing like an average person.
"Don't copy what I'm doing. I'm sure the one holding onto my line below is thinking the same thing. Just watch your hands and feet and you'll do great. Ayano-senpai the same! You're going to catch up at this rate!" She shouted below.
"I'm planning on it!"
She chuckled at her upperclassmen. "I'm going to climb up a bit more but you just take it at your own pace. Enjoy your time. Understand?"
"Yes!" Momo scurried up like a little monkey. Leaving the other two behind.
"Momo never ceases to amaze me!" Ayano shouted to him.
"Me too! Makes me glad that she's not a part of the competition!" The two laughed, picking up their pace a bit.
Char glanced downwards, hearing all the shouting. Not believing her eyes seeing Momo coming at her. She looked back at the drone that was following her around. "Momo-chan is coming. She's... really fast."
In a blink of her eye, the younger host was already by her side. Hardly breaking a sweat when she was already feeling the elevation affecting her. "Hello there Char-senpai. How are you feeling?"
"I'm having a lot of fun! And look-" she turned back with little fear, "it's beautiful here."
"It really is." She was glad all of them were enjoying their time. It was an extreme activity that many may steer away from. Her own dad barely climbed when the females in the family went up. But so far her friends were liking it.
"Oh but Momo-chan, why did you decide for us to do this?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well besides the mystery prize on the line, to bring all of the near top idols together is a bold move. Even for you. I think you have something up your sleeve that makes this event more notable."
"Char-senpai is sharp. The reason I wanted to bring you all together was for my own selfish desire. You are all beautifully putting effort into this. I never thought I would be able to share this activity with anyone besides my mom. So thank you for putting up with me and my requests."
She almost failed to see the brief concern that flashed in the younger's eyes. It was there though. Momo could hide it all she wanted. Char knew an on-screen appearance too well. Her smile too bright for an unexpectedly heavy question. Yet, despite everything that they've been through and all that Momo had done for her, the only way she could support her was through letting Momo set her own pace.
"Of course! Even if I knew what was happening beforehand, I wouldn't have turned it down. Maybe I would have made Charlotte do the climbing though." She joked. Momo knew that her upperclassman could read through her. She appreciated that she didn't press for answers.
"I'm sure that Charlotte-senpai is listening well to this conversation. I'll be glad to bring her next time for a more casual climb. When there isn't more on the line as well. So while I have your attention, I want to ask you to share a few of your thoughts on the upcoming Royalty Cup."
"Well, while I want to be a good senpai to you all, I can't be losing my title after only one year. No matter how talented I acknowledge you first years are, I'm the one that was created to be a perfect idol. I won't be giving my title to anyone until I graduate. Not even Charlotte." Momo looked at her with fascination.
Before she knew the truth of Charlotte and Char's relationship, she imagined that the two would have some form of rivalry. Yet it was only friendly encouragement and positive critics. Flipping their circumstances to be friends. Best friends that were connected through choice rather than proximity. Their situation wasn't one to pity. It was absolutely lovely. And she couldn't wait to see what either can do in the future. Together.
Momo nodded to her answer. Sneaking a few glances down and up at the idols climbing all around her. Each trying their best, every day, all the time. She loved each person here. Admired them for a thousand reasons more. It didn't matter how well this event went, this feeling was enough for her.
Upwards, the remaining idols that haven't been interviewed yet were all close enough to hold a conversation. The drones and their clip on mics were recording everything that the footage was constantly monitored by the staff. Flipping between Momo's hosting and the idols that were conversing among each other. This way fans wouldn't miss out on anything fun and a later footage reel could be posted once the event was over.
Though they were given clear instructions to, subtly, switch off the audio if any sensitive information came up. Or anything that would make the contestants look bad. The two rules being in place as she knew that some of the contestants today could be a tad blunt with their opinions. But while Kikyo was known for such, Yuki was constantly painting an image of a golden boy. Same for Fumiko and Hayate that only had their protective sides come out with those idols respectively.
Hayate looked up at Yuki being above by only a few stones. Still, with this being all new to him and the altitude starting to affect him, he barely saw it phasing Yuki. And that's not to say that his acting skills are coming into play here.
"Have you ever climbed this mountain before?"
"Not as many as Shiro but maybe three or four times. It is good training and a break from the norm. Though we used to do it without all this safety gear. It feels so restricting. I bet she's thinking the same."
He could have easily taken the lead and won the race. But where's the fun in that? A close race gave more excitement. He wasn't even that interested in the prize. After the hint, he had a pretty good idea of what it was. And while the project would do good for him, he personally wasn't insistent on participating. This event was more for him that he intended to give away the winning to the third place position.
"You know I've been thinking about this for a while," Kikyo pitched in from below, "are you and Suzukakwa dating?"
The two Starlight students held back their laughs. "Better not let Momo hear that. She almost threw up when I accused her of that before."
"Okay I'm not that bad of a catch. Rude. But no, we're not dating. Shiro is too childish for me."
"You're only saying that because she treats you like a kid."
"I don't want to hear that from a model that is hundreds of years too young to even consider being on my level."
"You're not going to say that after I beat you today." There was a hidden competitive side that always came out when it came to Yuki. It gave new light to those watching the cameras only. They saw fire in him.
Ever since he thought of the idea of creating DEBUT- no earlier than that- since he became an idol he compared himself to his friends. He was supposed to be the most experienced in the business. Charismatic, beautiful, kind, and mature. Yet he always found himself falling behind.
Through all the challenges he's faced in the past year, he learned that his best characteristic was his determination. Never once giving up despite all those that told him to stick to what he knew. He loved his Aikatsu. All of it. For the child model that always shined with ease, it was inspiring to see the side of him that had struggled yet continued.
"Dream on Snapshot. But when I win, I'll be sure to enjoy the prize in your place."
"Hey hey Karasuma, do you know what the prize is? Give us a hint." Though this was the first time Fumiko and Yuki formally met, there was zero awkwardness between them. It was one of their charms/skills that they were able to adapt their personalities to match those around them. It was definitely an odd pairing still. He was too crude for her liking but in a more casual event like this, they could get along.
"You already got a hint earlier. I want to see your reactions later too. It'll be funny."
"Suzukawa's hint didn't mean anything to us. Only to you apparently. Though knowing her I doubt it's anything I would pass up."
"Are you complimenting her? Because I want video evidence of that." Kikyo rolled her eyes knowing that he was a more annoying version of Momo. Though she didn't know how exactly they were connected, she saw that the two were similar.
It annoyed her but she had to admit that the two were extremely talented as well. Not to mention her connections. Anyone and everyone knew of Suzukawa Momo at this point. Even if they didn't follow her, they knew the things she was capable of. A big shot opportunity was at her doorstep and she chose to make it about her fellow idols. Bring spotlight to them again by hosting this competition.
She hated that this was the kind of idol Momo was. One that actually was able to bring people out, encourage them, think outside the box, beat the standard. That despite all the harsh words thrown her way due to her parent's standard, she kept going. Gathering this group of people was the challenging ability she could do. Kikyo wanted to win this event to be the top of everyone here.
"I'm not complimenting her. Only stating the truth." She mumbled. He still heard it though.
"Awww Kikyo is getting shy! You should show this side more often, it's cute!"
"It is not Watanabe! And you who said we were close enough for you to use my given name?"
Fumiko suddenly climbed past her and Hayate. Making her second and making Kikyo last in the bunch by a good difference. Laughing at the shocked expression that they all had. Where Fumiko lacked in stamina, she made up for in explosive energy. She was the type to be fueled by interactions. As long as she planned it out, the idea of her surpassing everyone here was not too impossible. Her fun personality with humbled ability to hide behind only when needed made her a real idol to be reckoned with.
"I don't want to hear that from someone below me." She mocked Yuki from earlier. This only made them all fired up as they never expected her to be this bold. She was meant to be the idol that always went with the flow. Now she was evolving right in front of their eyes due to their conversation.
Though Yuki was older, they were all rookies right now. The same level. Even in Aikatsu rankings, they were close enough that one event was enough to change the listings between them. This event in particular was going to boost them all. Being surrounded by those that had the proper credentials to critique others was how they grew.
It made Yuki somewhat sad that this wasn't his life. That he was an independent idol that couldn't see this everyday. All the time, at auditions, shows, interviews and more, he was alone. He couldn't witness the growth of others or get close enough to joke with them.
He knew that those at Starlight knew of his blood and they didn't judge. Didn't judge the wall he put up with his acting. This was the environment that his mom tried to help him get into. The one that Momo helped him get integrated into.
"Don't get cocky yet Watanabe Fumiko! I'm only getting started." Kikyo, and in turn Hayate, started to put more into their climbing. It wasn't about the prize or the fact that this was a broadcasted show, it was a matter of pride.
Each idol here wanted to improve. Show their worth to those watching. Prove to those that might think that one idol here was better than the other. They were all equal. Similar. As idols they were unique with the common understanding. All of them, even those that weren't participating, were all after the top position.
"We are nearing the end of our event today! Now we have turned off the drones' streams so who is the closest is a mystery to us all." Momo, now standing over the mountain cliff, greeted the camera. She had already overtook all those climbing that this was merely a waiting game to who would be the two to emerge over the horizon.
"As we wait I want to express my gratitude to everyone that made this whole day absolutely wonderful. With the Royalty cup being around the corner, I've been reflecting on all that happened this past year. If anyone told past me that I would become an idol and make an... irreplaceable group of friends, I would refute it without a second thought. We all were so young. We still are. We still have a lot to grow; to learn. This academic year may be ending but we are far from done. And I personally cannot wait to see what... they accomplish."
She changed her attention to the chat on the screen. Luckily none of them found any of her wording weird. Most of them fell into two categories, thanking them for their hard work or excitedly cheering for those still climbing. This warm environment being exactly what she was referring to. She loved it all.
"Oh! Our first climber has appeared!" The camera quickly panned to the hand gripping the edge. Followed by another. The body pulling themselves into full view. She rushed over to give them the final pull up.
"And it's Karasuma Yuki! The first place position today is Karasuma Yuki! Oh and second place has arrived as well. A turn of events from our last standing it's Inoue Kikyo! Our two winners have been decided!"
Yuki offered a hand up that Kikyo only took because of the cameras on them. Showing off the good sportsmanship by raising both of their joined hands to bow. The two too exhausted that it was easier to play nice. Having everyone clap for them in congratulations.
Closely following was Fumiko and Hayate respectively. They were a bit disappointed that they couldn't win but they only saw it as one battle through a long war. It was the experience that made it worthwhile. Now that they had climbed the mountain once, next time they knew what to expect. Not that the winners were to turn down a rematch. They weren't the type to show that they were also looking forward to that chance.
After a few mini interviews, the last three idols came up. In the order of Char, Ayano and Shouta. Though it might as well be a tie for last place from how close they were. From the drones it seemed like the three were more focused on holding a conversation than winning. Taking their sweet time in climbing up that they were in perfect condition compared to the four that rushed up.
The event was coming to a close that all that was left was to award the winners. Momo gathered all the idols in a line. Yuki and Kikyo were placed in the middle as Momo stood in front of them all.
"You all have done extraordinary today. However, as I stated at the beginning, I have made this a competition with a prize on the line. Karasuma-kun, Inoue-san, please step up." They did just that.
Kikyo and Yuki were her biggest rivals in her Aikatsu. Seeing yet never fully acknowledging her skill until they saw it themselves. To have the ones so critically acclaimed standing in front of her, she felt that it was enough.
"Congratulations once more to our winners. I couldn't be more proud to present this opportunity to you two who have grown immensely. I know that you both will represent our Aikatsu well. To condense it all the prize is-"
"How about I explain it myself?" Momo smiled as her surprise guest made their appearance.
"You actually came?"
"Of course, you're hosting this event for me. I couldn't not show up."
Her long brown hair was braided back to keep the wind out of her face that had barely aged a day. The outfit she wore set her apart from the students in their athletic wear. Professionally clean that not only outlined her well kept body but was also representing her fashion sense that colour coordinated it to match her idol aura. The purple butterflies pairing nicely greeting everyone on set.
All the girls and Shouta clung to each other in excitement. Hayate, himself, was even in shock. They were in the presence of a legend.
Momo stepped to the side as if she didn't already have every single person's attention. "If you will, please explain the prize in my place."
"Of course." She took the microphone, turning to the camera. "Hello everyone watching this live stream, I am the head editor of my own Aikatsu magazine brand Flash Forward. But many of you may know me from my idol days. My name is Shibuki Ran."
"We know that!" Fumiko quickly shut her mouth in embarrassment.
Everyone knew of the legend that was Shibuki Ran. The beautiful blade that was a great idol, model, editor and role model to all the young eyes here today. Her mere presence made everyone's mouths drop open. Probably the only two that weren't affected were Momo and Yuki. Not that they weren't amazed at the impact she had on everyone around them.
"Thank you for that Watanabe Fumiko. It's really nice to know this generation of kids still know who I am." Fumiko almost fainted in happiness that she knew her name.
"You're too modest, Auntie Ran. Being outside of Japan for 2 years is not enough to erase the impact that you have on Aikatsu."
"I think you're pretty close to becoming your own legend though. You're rising faster than any other idol that I've met before. The same goes for all your friends."
"Thank you for your kind words. Though I have to give most of the credit to those that participated today. Two of which, you are going to award their prize today." Ran stepped forward with two pamphlets in hand. Giving it to the two winners.
"That I am. Karasuma Yuki-kun, Inoue Kikyo-san, would you two honour me the chance to work on my new project with me?"
"Yes!" They didn't even need to hear what the project was. It was Shibuki Ran in charge. Name alone, they were in for a treat. As a former idol as well, they knew that they were in good hands.
Ran chuckled. Looking at all of them, two of them being their best friend's kids, she was reminded that this was the new generation. The bright souls that would soak in anything that was thrown their way. Just as she and her friends were in the past. "I appreciate the agreement but you haven't even heard the details yet."
During the past 2 years, Ran and her team of writers travelled around the world to learn more about multicultural fashion and Aikatsu. Unlike when Ichigo went to America to train herself, Ran went in order to bring light to those outside Japan of how they did things and vice versa. Now that she was back, she wanted to explore within her home country. Her project was to take two young idols to travel across the country and experience all that each prefecture had to offer.
Originally she planned to ask Momo and Yuki, given that they were idols that she knew well. However when she first told Momo, the young girl turned it down. Instead she wanted to give the chance to one of her friends. Create this whole event to determine who was the best fit for the project. Ran accepted as she knew each of the idols she recommended was going to excel.
The project details only made the winners want to participate even more. Once again they agreed to participate. After the semester ends, Ran was going to take Yuki and Kikyo across Japan to expand their studies and have them represent Aikatsu of Japan to her global brand magazine.
With the cameras focused on Ran and the winners, Momo let her idol smile fall. Replaced with an almost motherly like one. She didn't feel sad that she gave this to someone else despite all of the others saddened by missing this opportunity. She was proud of them. Knowing that they would do amazing, she couldn't be happier that she gave it to someone that could do a better job than she ever could.
As the sun was starting to set, everyone was nearly done packing up. The event ended perfectly. Surpassing what Momo expected in terms of views, responses, how the idols reacted, etc. Each aspect was all she hoped for. But all good things had to come to an end. The sun setting meant the time for Momo to say anything was running out.
Along with wanting to help Ran find her idols and training them, there was one more thing Momo had on the agenda. One that she couldn't put off any longer.
She reassured that everything in the clean up was on tract then found the two boys she wanted to talk to. "Shouta-kun, Yu-kun, can you two come help me out for a moment?"
The two tensed at her asking so calmly. Glancing once at each other to acknowledge that they weren't imagining it. They've known her long enough to tell that she had something serious to talk to them about. Following her as she led them away from their friends.
"What's the matter Shiro?" She kept her back to them.
"The both of you are, what I consider, to be my best friends. Seeing the very start of my Aikatsu and having me admire you both in that field as well. I thought it would only be fitting if I tell you two first..."
"You can tell us anything Momo-san. We're here for you. What is it?" She bit her lip, forcing herself to face them.
She slowly grabbed onto both of their hands. Looking between the two so that they knew how sincere her words were. The same for her next words as well. Then her attention passed them to the crew giving their last goodbyes behind them. The way all of them were, not just the idols, were brightly smiling. Celebrating the success until the last second.
Momo took in a shaky breath, squeezing both their hands. "After the Starlight Royalty Cup... I'm leaving Starlight Academy and quitting being an idol."
Trivia: And with the near ending of course comes the long awaited return of Ran! I know many of you have questioned where she is or what she's been up to so here she is. To briefly summarize where she's been, she had left Japan to further her magazine brand and knowledge of Aikatsu on a broader level. By travelling globally, she saw how Aikatsu was truly everyone and reported such in her magazine for both idols and fans. So she isn't an active idol anymore but is still very much involved. This isn't going to be her only appearance just to note. She's played a big role in Momo's last statement and hopefully you look forward to it.