5 Step Sisters Vol. 2 Chapter 5

The Reason for Letting Go

Two days had passed since the family meeting; it was Friday, May 30th.

A surprisingly gloomy atmosphere hung over the Miyanaga household.

Conversation was kept to a minimum. Although we ate dinner together, laughter only came from the television or videos. The atmosphere was actually more suffocating than when the five sisters had first arrived.

The cause was Fuka.

At first glance, there was absolutely no conversation between Chinatsu and Fuka. Or rather, Fuka was like a small hedgehog with thorns all over her back; no one, myself included, could get close to her.

If I were to describe her, Fuka was the mood maker.

Cheerful and flashy, friendly and good at conversation, she softened the atmosphere of the place. With Fuka in a slump, the mood of the entire house had become heavy.

Yesterday was a running day, but Fuka never came downstairs.

A worry grew inside me.

Perhaps Fuka would give up on the Culture Festival stage and the audition just like this.

If that were the case, as her older brother and as her exclusive manager, what could I do? Whether at home or at school, I kept thinking about this question.

“——By the way, I heard they’re doing a live concert at the Culture Festival.”

Hearing those words, I turned my head while packing up my bento bag.

It was the second half of the lunch break, and most students had finished eating. Asahina and Yaku had pushed their desks together and were chatting happily.

Usually, Chinatsu would join them, but her seat was empty. It was rare, but the honor student Chinatsu had been called away by a teacher.

Chinatsu had been absent-minded and had forgotten to hand in her homework for two days in a row. The cause was undoubtedly the situation with Fuka.

“That copy band, huh. I wonder if they’ve gotten a little better.”

“Shi-non, so strict! Since it’s a rare chance, let’s go see it.”

I thought they were talking about Fuka, but it turned out they were chatting about acquaintances.

“A live concert...”

I muttered softly, and then a thought struck me.

Fuka is an unparalleled idol lover; perhaps a live concert could change her mood. I didn't know if it would cheer her up, but it was better than doing nothing.

I immediately took out my phone to search. Since the school prohibited phone usage in principle, I had to hide it inside my bag to use it secretly.

Speaking of Fuka, I first searched for Lie♡Lie. They were a national idol group and seemed to be starting a dome tour in the summer.

However, the locations were in Saitama and Fukuoka, and the dates were months away. By then, both the Culture Festival and the audition would be over.

Is it too reckless after all? As I muttered to myself alone, Hiruoka turned around.

“Rikuto, why are you mumbling?”

“Hiruoka... um, I want to go see an idol live concert.”

When I whispered this, Hiruoka blinked. It was probably because he couldn't connect the words 'me' and 'idol concert' together.

“That sure is sudden.”

“Er, well, just thinking it might be useful for the future.”

Even I felt it was a lame excuse, but Hiruoka picked up the conversation anyway.

“Oh. If it’s idols, would any group do?”

“Ah, yeah, I guess.”

I gave a vague answer. In the end, I didn't know which groups Fuka liked besides Lie♡Lie.

“But, a live concert isn’t something you can just go see whenever you want.”

“No. They actually hold concerts around here quite often, you know?”

Hiruoka’s answer made my eyes go wide.

“...Eh? Really?”

“Like at the Eco-Park or the Civic Cultural Hall. Though, if it’s a popular group, there’s a war for tickets, but if it’s underground idols, you could probably still make it even now.”

In life, you really do need friends with broad interests. I leaned forward and unreservedly added more requests to Hiruoka, who was skillfully operating his phone.

“Daytime is best. The location should be as close as possible, and the date as soon as possible.”

Hiruoka nodded while operating his phone.

“Then, it’s best to avoid underground lives. In that case... just right, there seems to be a live concert starting at 1 PM tomorrow afternoon.”

He showed me his phone screen; it looked like a ticket sales website.

The venue name was LIVLIV. Although I had never been there, I remembered it being a hologram theater located inside a commercial facility in the city.

“The performers are a Shizuoka trio idol group called Fuji Girls. I’ve been to their live show once too.”

Hiruoka sent me the URL. It stated that it was standing room only and drinks had to be purchased separately.

I immediately tapped on my phone and bought two tickets.

“Thanks. Looks like I managed to buy them.”

On the way back, I shouldn't forget to pay at the convenience store. As I made a mental note and put away my phone, Hiruoka’s eyes became terrifying.

“...So, who are you going with?”

“Eh?”

I couldn't help but freeze, and Hiruoka sighed at me.

“I thought it was strange when you suddenly said you wanted to see idols. You have absolutely no interest in that sort of thing, right?”

“No, that’s—”

At that moment, Hiruoka’s hands forcefully grabbed my shoulders. The eyes staring into mine were bloodshot.

“Hey, Rikuto... We are comrades in the 'Age Equals Single History Alliance,' aren't we? You wouldn't betray me and say you got... got... got a girlfriend, right?”

“What is that alliance? That’s the first I’ve heard of it.”

“Those small details don’t matter. Well? Answer me quickly.”

Hiruoka roared. However, I couldn't exactly say, 'Not a girlfriend, but I got five stepsisters'...

While breaking out in a cold sweat, I asserted my innocence.

“It’s a misunderstanding. It’s just that someone I know likes idols, so I thought I’d go see a concert, that’s all.”

“Oh. Someone you know, huh...”

Although Hiruoka was still suspicious, he tilted his head.

“In that case, is it really okay not to confirm with them first?”

“Eh?”

“Because even if they like idols, they might be the type who doesn't want to see idols they aren't interested in.”

“Ah...”

Being told that, I was left speechless.

Thinking about it carefully, buying tickets without asking Fuka anything was truly a mistake. Come to think of it, it wasn't even a matter of preference; she might have had plans for Saturday.

My shoulders slumped. Should I say I was too careless? My planning was terrible...

I shouldn't do things I'm not used to. While laughing at myself, I sent a message to Fuka to confirm her schedule. Although I added that it was my treat, if she refused, I would just have to cancel.

“By the way, the new products at the convenience store...”

“That subject change was fast. Where did your intensity from earlier go?”

I retorted, and Hiruoka put his hands together with an awkward look.

“Thinking about it calmly, leaving me aside, you’re getting a girlfriend is just too unrealistic, Rikuto. That was my misunderstanding earlier. Sorry!”

“Even though you're apologizing, so why do I feel like I’m being mocked...”

Oh well, as long as my suspicion was cleared. I listened to Hiruoka’s convenience store talk.

“——Rikuto-senpai!”

Hearing that unfamiliar address, I stopped thinking for a moment.

Puzzled, I looked in the direction of the voice and found Fuka standing at the back door of the classroom.

“Fu, Fuka?”

I was stunned. Why was Fuka, who should be in the junior high school building, here?

From a slightly distant position, Fuka loudly explained to the bewildered me.

“I just happened to be at the cafeteria, so I came directly to hang out.”

It seemed she saw the message I sent and decided to come answer me directly. Seeing Fuka’s figure, the classroom immediately broke into a commotion.

“That girl is Chinatsu’s sister, right?”

“She’s a beautiful girl...”

“Did she just call him Rikuto-senpai? What’s their relationship?”

“Miya...moto also calls her by her first name.”

The relaxed atmosphere of the lunch break suddenly became tense. Also, my name is Miyanaga.

Hiruoka also showed a flustered expression and grabbed my arm.

“Wait, Rikuto, what is this? Why did Chinatsu-sama’s sister come to see you?”

“...Well, during that kidnapping commotion earlier, we got slightly acquainted.”

“Co, could it be, the person you said you were going to the idol concert with is...!”

“Ah—no. It’s not what you think.”

I casually denied it and stood up, while Hiruoka grabbed my arm.

“You traitor~!”

I shook off the screaming Hiruoka and walked out of the classroom.

“Fuka, it’s too conspicuous in the classroom, let’s walk a bit.”

“Okay, Rikuto-senpai.”

I walked down the hallway with Fuka, who nodded obediently.

Every time we passed students from other classes, we were bathed in attentive gazes, making me feel restless. Just a middle school student being in this school building was conspicuous enough, and Fuka’s appearance was particularly eye-catching... It felt like no matter where we went, we couldn't find a place that wasn't conspicuous.

Halfway giving up, I tried walking up the stairs where there weren't many people.

“Is the time okay?”

“Yes. The next class is self-study. What about you, Rikuto-senpai? Don't you need to change classrooms?”

“I’m fine... By the way, what’s with that way of addressing me?”

“Because our secret relationship can’t be discovered by others, right?”

I felt like there was something wrong with her phrasing...

Anyway, every time Fuka called me 'Senpai', I felt uncomfortable all over. Not belonging to any club, I had little interaction with underclassmen and rarely had the chance to be called 'Senpai'.

“By the way, was that gentleman earlier Hiruoka-senpai?”

“Yeah, that’s right. How did you know?”

“A maiden’s intuition.”

Fuka chuckled, pressing her index finger against her cheek and smiling.

“Come to think of it, Hiruoka’s sister is in the same grade as you. Did you become friends?”

“Since ya know, then don't mention it!”

Fuka’s Shizuoka dialect echoed through the staircase.

She cleared her throat and then bowed her head in apology.

“Also, Senpai, I’m sorry for not going running yesterday.”

“It’s fine. Looking at your face, I can tell you didn't sleep, right?”

“...You saw right through me.”

Fuka gave a bitter smile. Although she was wearing light makeup, the dark circles under her large eyes couldn't be hidden.

Fuka stopped on the staircase landing, and I stopped as well. Sunlight streaming diagonally from the large window illuminated the surroundings.

Fuka looked straight at my face.

“Was it you, Onii-sama, who put the audition passing notice in the living room?”

She asked with a stiff voice, and I shook my head in denial.

“No.”

“However—” I added.

“Actually, I wanted to persuade you to get ready to confess to the family.”

“Onii-sama, you often pretend to be easy to read, don't you?”

“Did you see through me?”

Even when I imitated Fuka, she showed no reaction.

“...In that case, it was Karin Onee-sama after all?”

Fuka sighed and leaned her back against the wall. The only person who could enter and leave Fuka’s room freely without being suspected by the family, and who wasn't present at the scene—it seemed she had already guessed it was Karin’s doing.

Was Karin’s action this time also to spite Chinatsu? Or was it out of consideration for Fuka? Even if I questioned Karin directly, she would probably only answer the former.

“Are you angry at Karin?”

“I am a little angry... but I knew this day would come sooner or later. It’s just that Karin Onee-sama acted on her own before I had made up my mind. Complaining won’t help.”

Fuka understood after all that she couldn't take the audition while hiding everything from her family.

“But, I wasn't prepared at all. That’s why I said such terrible things to Chinatsu Onee-sama. And to Sorane... I have no face to show her.”

Fuka’s side hair obscured her expression. But seeing her fist clenching the hem of her uniform, I could understand what kind of expression she had right now.

“So—what do you think of Chinatsu?”

After I said that name, the staircase landing, occupied only by the two of us, fell into silence.

Fuka’s voice was unsettled, as if barely squeezed out from a chaotic heart.

“Chinatsu Onee-sama cares about the family, is kind, can do housework and study, is strong and beautiful... To me, she is a sister to be proud of.”

There was likely not a single lie in those words.

After a while, Fuka continued in a lowered voice:

“But, sometimes... I really don't know what to do.”

“Fuka...”

Before I could speak, Fuka looked up. By then, she was already wearing a smile charming enough to cover everything up.

I thought to myself, occasionally, Fuka hides her emotions without a trace.

“Thank you for inviting me to the live concert. I would be delighted to go with you. Did you consider my feelings because I was feeling down?”

“...That’s one of the reasons, but I also wanted to see an idol concert.”

Fuka pouted her lips as if sulking.

“Onii-sama is mean... but occasionally, truly, just a tiny bit, kind.”

Being looked up at by her, I felt somewhat embarrassed, so I scratched my cheek and changed the subject.

“Then, we’ll leave tomorrow at noon—”

“Please wait. You aren't planning on leaving together, are you?”

“Eh? We can’t?”

Since we lived under the same roof, it would be more efficient to match our times and leave together without wasting time meeting up.

However, Fuka looked dumbfounded.

“There’s no atmosphere in that. Let’s meet at Kusanagi Station. Ah, I assume you know, but it’s the Shizuoka Railway’s Kusanagi Station, okay?”

What atmosphere? Although I thought that, since Fuka said so, perhaps that was how it was.

“Well, we might be seen by the other sisters anyway. Let’s do that.”

Being asked where we were going in that vigil-like atmosphere, I honestly didn't have the courage to answer that we were going to an idol concert.

“I didn't mean it like that... but, oh well. Then, let’s meet at twelve. It might be better not to eat lunch.”

The concert started at 1 PM and lasted exactly one hour, so maybe we could eat a late lunch afterward as Fuka suggested.

“Understood, let’s do that.”

“Then, I’ll be looking forward to it.”

Fuka bowed politely and left with her skirt fluttering.

I watched her back, and shortly after, the chime signaling the end of the lunch break rang.

◇◇◇

The next day, Saturday.

I checked my phone; it was 9 AM. I got up from bed, opened the curtains, and was greeted by a clear blue sky perfect for going out.

After washing my face, I went to the living room where Chinatsu was sitting on the sofa.

She was wearing wireless headphones and had her eyes closed. I thought she was listening to some song, but her brows were furrowed, and she had a serious expression. Was she practicing English listening?

Then, Chinatsu seemed to sense my presence and snapped her eyes open.

“Chinatsu, good morning.”

“Good morning.”

As I was about to head to the kitchen, she spoke somewhat hesitantly:

“How is Fuka’s condition? It seems she came to your classroom yesterday.”

I was at a loss for words for a moment, but judging by the commotion in class, it would have been hard for her not to know.

“Well, she seemed energetic enough...”

I corrected my impression to be more accurate.

“It felt like she was forcing a smile, not that she was truly energetic.”

“...Is that so.”

Chinatsu lowered her gaze slightly. Fearing she would fall silent just like that, I spoke up,

“I’m going out with Fuka today, but I can’t say where.”

“Understood. Take care.”

I thought she would object, so I was surprised.

“Is it okay?”

“It’s not a matter of okay or not; it’s not something I can interfere with. If it’s you, I assume you won’t take Fuka to a dangerous place.”

“Of course.”

Chinatsu nodded slightly and stood up abruptly.

“I’m going out with Sorane today.”

Leaving those words behind, Chinatsu walked out of the living room.

Did she feel she should tell me because I told her my schedule for today? Should I call her methodical? She really is a disciplined girl.

There was leftover rice cooked yesterday, so I fried some sunny-side-up eggs and sausages this morning. I put these breakfast staples on the table, randomly changed the channel, and ate leisurely.

During this time, no one appeared in the living room. Fuka should be home, but I wouldn't go out of my way to talk to her. We would meet in the afternoon anyway.

I cleaned up the empty plates, brushed my teeth, and put on a mask. I started my weekly thorough cleaning.

The basics of cleaning are from top to bottom. I dusted the shelves with a duster, vacuumed them clean, and wiped the wooden floor with wet sheets.

After cleaning the kitchen, washstand, bathroom, and toilet—the water areas—I felt satisfied. Cooking and cleaning both have visible results, so doing them gives a sense of accomplishment.

By the way, the range I clean is from the first floor to the second floor. The ban on entering Chinatsu’s third floor hasn't been lifted yet. Even if it were lifted, I probably wouldn't go there.

I took my dusty pajamas to wash and suddenly thought about what to wear. I was going out today, so I couldn't dress as casually as when I went jogging.

“Besides, there’s a possibility of meeting someone I know...”

I didn't know many people, so it might be needless anxiety, but since it was Saturday, many students should be out playing.

...Well, it’s useless to worry about it now.

I returned to my room, rummaged through the closet, and took out a relatively new black T-shirt and jeans.

“Hmm—is this okay?”

Standing in front of the mirror, even I felt the outfit was boring.

Should I wear a red Hawaiian shirt like Dad and scare Fuka out of her wits? Though I’d be troubled if she didn't want to walk beside me.

While absentmindedly wondering when was the last time I bought new clothes, I looked at my phone and was startled.

“Crap!”

Less than twenty minutes until the meeting time.

I hurriedly grabbed my shoulder bag and threw in my wallet, handkerchief, and tissues. Since it was an e-ticket, as long as I had my phone, I didn't need to worry.

I rushed out of the house and locked the door just in case.

I walked quickly toward the nearest station, Kusanagi Station, feeling as if I were being chased by the strange “Chun-chun—” sounds of swallows flying busily about and chicks chirping in their nests.

Fuka was standing by the station; sure enough, she had left the house before me.

She was wearing a light gray beret matched with overalls of the same color. She carried a thin tote bag and wore sneakers on her feet, making it easier to move around than her usual girly casual clothes.

Obscuring her eyes were thick black-rimmed glasses that looked like fake glasses.

“Good morning, Onii-sama.”

As I approached, Fuka noticed me and greeted me.

“Good morning. Did you wait long?”

“Yes, exactly ten minutes. I was looking forward to today’s date, so I arrived too early.”

Date.

She said it so directly that I almost fell into deep thought, wondering if this really was a date.

“This isn't a date, just going out.”

I tried not to show emotion on my face and answered in a curt tone, to which Fuka responded with a mature smile.

“Didn't Onii-sama also dress up more stylishly than usual? Were you perhaps conscious that this is a date?”

I gasped “Ugh,” and Fuka pressed the attack.

“By the way, you haven't praised me yet, have you?”

She peered at me from below, urging me. I gave up resisting and said the words one should say on a date.

“...It suits you.”

Fuka gave a satisfied smile.

“Then, let’s go.”

We passed through the ticket gate and boarded the train bound for Shin-Shizuoka.

On weekdays, the passengers were mainly students and working adults, but on weekends, they were mostly elderly people. I usually took the train alone, so riding the Shizutetsu with Fuka felt fresh.

Perhaps noticing my gaze, Fuka, sitting next to me, stared at Mt. Fuji through the train window.

“The snow on Mt. Fuji has started to melt.”

“Yeah. Once it gets to this season, the snow decreases a lot.”

After the rainy season, summer would officially arrive, and the snow on the summit would disappear.

However, whether adorned with white snow or not, Mt. Fuji is still Mt. Fuji. So I also liked looking at the exposed mountain surface of the summer Fuji.

“By the way, why are you wearing glasses today?”

“It’s a disguise. We have to keep it a secret from everyone that we are siblings, right?”

Fuka winked mischievously and adjusted the angle of her glasses. She seemed to believe that if she did this, even if we were seen going out together on a holiday, we wouldn't be discovered.

Hearing those words, I shut my mouth. Although I felt those glasses only added cuteness and had absolutely no function as a disguise... there was no need to dampen Fuka’s thoughtfulness.

While we chatted about such things, the train arrived at Shin-Shizuoka Station.

We got off the train and started walking. It would take about ten minutes to walk from here to ARITIE.

“Are you used to this area?”

“Hmm—somewhat used to it... I guess. Friends from class tell me about shops too.”

Because it was Saturday afternoon, Gofukucho Street was crowded with people. I suddenly wondered how many people walking ahead of us were heading to the concert venue just like us.

“Is this your first time going to an idol concert, Onii-sama?”

“Yeah. Rather than saying idol, it’s my first time going to a live concert.”

“Ehh?” Fuka let out a cry of surprise. Was it that surprising?

“I don't really listen to music usually either. But influenced by you, I’ve been listening to Lie♡Lie’s songs lately.”

“...Because they are all good songs.”

Her answering voice was a little quieter than usual.

We turned left silently in front of Isetan and continued walking. While being attracted by the advertisement for the Shizuoka City Museum of Art, I crossed the pedestrian crossing, and a plaza that looked like a park appeared ahead.

“Is it here?”

I stopped with Fuka and looked up at the white building. The design of the building itself was avant-garde, and the walls were decorated with stylish art. In the covered plaza ahead, children were running around under the watchful eyes of their guardians.

“Where do we enter for the concert venue?”

“Onii-sama, it seems we can enter from that cafe over there.”

Fuka pointed to the right side of the building.

Fuka walked without hesitation into the cafe, which displayed a menu with hamburger steaks and pancakes. Then, a woman in a suit who didn't look like a cafe clerk, and a man who seemed to be in charge of the register, greeted us with smiles.

“You are guests for the live concert, right? Please confirm your tickets here.”

I operated the ticket app a few times as instructed, and the woman nodded.

“Yes, no problem. Then please pay for the drinks.”

I paid cash for Fuka’s portion as well and received drink tickets.

We walked into the inner area hidden by large curtains, which was a spacious area where idol songs were playing. In the stylish space based on black, there were several sofas with roofs like birdcages. It was probably a waiting area.

Since there were about ten guests lined up, I started to walk over.

“Is it okay to line up here?”

As I was about to join the end of the line, Fuka pulled my arm.

“Onii-sama, that over there is the line for merchandise sales. The concert venue seems to be over there.”

“I, is that so...”

I wasn't used to this kind of thing at all, and I felt somewhat embarrassed, but since Fuka was used to it, I felt reassured. Although it was shameful to rely completely on my middle schooler sister, my experience points were zero, so it couldn't be helped.

Led by Fuka, I passed through the open double doors.

Waiting for me on the other side of the doors was a space like a small black box. On the screen ahead, the name of Fuji Girls and the concert title were projected in a cute, rounded font.

Amidst the sea of people, I looked around the venue. The hundreds of fans packed together were lively; although I couldn't hear what each person was saying, I could tell everyone was equally looking forward to the start of the concert. The anticipation and excitement rode the air and even reached me.

Although there were more male guests overall, there were also female guests. A female-only area was set up on the right end.

“Fuka, what should we do? Want to watch from there?”

“If it’s female-only, Onii-sama will be separated from me, so let’s watch from the back.”

The front was packed with guests, so we headed to the rear, which was relatively empty and had more solo guests.

Although most people were wearing ordinary clothes, there were also people wearing T-shirts printed with the idol’s name and concert schedule. Judging by their attire, they must be loyal fans of Fuji Girls.

Just as I started to feel uneasy about whether it was appropriate for someone like me, who didn't even know the songs, to attend a live concert this late in the game, a cheerful female voice began to broadcast.

『Hello everyone, we are Fuji Girls. Climbers, thank you for climbing today as well!』

...Climbers? Coming to climb?

As I was confused by the mysterious vocabulary, Fuka explained it to me.

“That’s the fan name. The idol group Fuji Girls, which originated in Shizuoka, is themed around Mt. Fuji, so they call their live concerts 'climbing' and their fans 'climbers'.”

“Oh, like Sherlockians... By the way, Fuka, did you research Fuji Girls?”

“Yes. So as not to be rude as a newcomer myself, I investigated member information a bit, checked the official and individual SNS and fan sites, and listened to all the songs uploaded to video sites.”

She felt so serious.

“Is that so. How was it?”

“I thought the song ‘Smash it, Youth!’ was particularly wonderful.”

Smashing it is no good, right? Would it be tactless to retort like that? It probably would be.

“Reaching the climax right from the intro, the choreography is also super cute... I wonder if they’ll use it as a detonator, use it for the middle climax, or save it for the end... I’m really looking forward to how today’s setlist is arranged.”

The two male guests in front seemed to have heard Fuka’s rapid-fire talk and whispered, “This girl knows her stuff...”

The broadcast, after conveying simple precautions, concluded with the phrase, 『The live concert will begin shortly, please wait a moment.』

Fuka took off her fake glasses, rummaged through her tote bag, and energetically pulled out something that looked like a thick pen. If this were a manga, a sound effect like "Ta-da!" would have been written there.

“I brought a penlight properly!”

The surrounding guests were also holding similar pens... penlights. It seemed the color changed with the press of a button, and Fuka was clicking it in her hand. Since there were also guests who weren't holding anything and just had their arms crossed, I probably wouldn't stand out particularly for being empty-handed.

"Oh, looks like it's about to start."

The music playing in the venue switched to a dynamic tune, and some fans had already started clapping to the beat.

A silhouette of some kind was projected onto the screen on the wall. That is... judging by the shape, is it Mt. Fuji?

The stage lights also switched intensely in the order of red, blue, yellow, green, and purple. If we could use this many colors at the Culture Festival, it would surely be flashy and fun. I need to check the lighting equipment during the next practice... even as I thought that, I didn't know if Fuka still intended to stand on that stage.

Almost at the same moment I pressed my lips together, the figures of three women appeared at the edge of the stage.

『Climbers! We kept you waiting~!』

The young women waved with smiles. The appearance of the main act caused the cheers and applause to boil over, and as if responding to that excitement, the intro to the first song began to play.

"It’s coming right away, 'Smash it, Youth!'..."

Fuka, holding her penlight, spoke in a high-pitched voice. Ah, is that the song she mentioned earlier?—Just as I was about to agree with her, I was swallowed by a sound wave the next second, leaving my mouth half-open in a daze.

............?

What is this?

『□△●□■！□△●□■！』

「○△×□●▽÷▲————！」

The idols clutching their microphones were dancing and shouting loudly.

The audience was wildly waving their arms and penlights, shouting loudly.

Yes, I knew they were shouting... but my ears couldn't hear anything. Although the audio equipment in this new facility should be quite good, I couldn't hear the clamor of the audience, or even the singing voices of the idols.

When the song entered the chorus (probably), the atmosphere heated up even more. Intense sound waves, feeling as if I were being punched from the side, reverberated deep in my gut. This explosion of sound was close to a sonic flood.

Intense beams of light swept randomly across the venue.

Why were the audience members looking up at the ceiling and screaming?

Why was the young man standing in front of me looking back at me while waving his penlight? Look at the idols.

"What is the matter, Onii-sama?"

As I stood frozen, Fuka brought her face close to mine.

"No... the voices of the audience around us are too loud, I can't hear the idols singing, right? Plus, the audience is dancing too, so they're barely looking at the stage."

"Idol concerts are generally like this, you know."

Eh? Is that so?

To not lose to the surrounding volume, Fuka brought her face even closer. Tickling my nasal cavity was the scent of a refreshing shampoo, different from Karin's.

"Although it's hard to judge if it's good or bad, some idol groups intentionally sing tunes that are easy to chant to, or choreograph dances that otakus can easily imitate."

"Oh..."

"Especially the man in front of Onii-sama, he is imitating the dance moves..."

Fuka explained this, then suddenly waved her penlight and shouted toward the stage:

"Woo~~! Yes yes yes! Heart pounding! Can't stop!"

『I... love you the most, you know?』

"Me too~~!"

When the song entered the chorus, Fuka continued to let out strange voices like "Woo!" while jumping.

"Fuka! What's wrong with you, Fuka!"

I desperately called out to Fuka, who had gone off the rails. Fuka turned to look at me, sweating as she gave a cute smile.

"Since it's a rare occasion, I am chanting the calls. I watched videos and practiced."

"Is that something you can manage just by practicing beforehand?"

"Of course!"

Fuka said as she hopped around.

Amidst the chaos, I noticed one thing. When we first arrived at the venue, I thought the back was empty and quiet, but that was a misunderstanding.

It was the exact opposite. There were fewer people in the back, so it was easier to move... the strong warriors who wanted to swing their arms or penlights with full force were concentrated here. In other words, Fuka had brought me to an outrageous place.

A brief pause between the first and second songs. I brought my face close to Fuka and whispered,

——I feel like I've wandered into another world.

Fuka paused for a moment, then burst into laughter. Her voice was clearly audible even amidst the loud noise.

"...Ahahahaha! Onii-sama, you are too funny!"

Fuka laughed, trembling like a flower branch, even tearing up as she held her stomach.

Come to think of it, I was super out of place. Fuka had already blended in with the surrounding fans, but I stuck out like a sore thumb. I knew that without needing anyone to tell me.

Would I be able to last an hour in this space? Just as I was feeling uneasy, the music stopped. The unique song where the idols' self-introductions were turned into lyrics seemed to have ended.

I looked at the stage; the three idols stood side by side, waving without even being out of breath. They held their microphones, wearing smiles that looked like they belonged in a textbook, and said in unison:

『Hello everyone~! We are Fuji Girls!』

Is it because they are idols from Shizuoka? Their intonation when greeting also had a unique characteristic. However, this was the first time I heard someone end their sentence directly with "da". I remembered that was a dialect used in the western part, but it didn't feel like something young people would use.

『Everyone is so high! I am Mikan, and my family runs a mandarin orange farm. Nice to meet you!』

『I am Unako, and I love eels! Let's enjoy ourselves to the fullest today too!』

『I am Chacha, my trademark is my twin-tails, and I love Shizuoka tea! Everyone, don't forget to stay hydrated too!』

Just listening to these self-introductions, one could tell their selling point was promoting Shizuoka. Speaking of which, even their stage names were related to Shizuoka. If those were their real names, that would be embarrassing.

The MC mentioned they hadn't held a concert at this venue in three months, and when they asked fans who had come to that previous concert to raise their hands, the atmosphere remained warm throughout. The three of them were different types but had great chemistry, skillfully driving the conversation.

『Well then, let's sing the next song!』

Just then, someone tugged on the hem of my shirt.

I didn't need to think to know it was Fuka. She looked at me, who hadn't gotten into the zone yet, with definite passion in her eyes.

"Onii-sama, how you enjoy a concert is a matter of personal freedom. However, in this kind of situation, it is more fun to get excited together with everyone."

Fuka handed me the penlight. Before I could understand her meaning, I held the penlight with my left hand, and Fuka's right hand overlapped on top of mine.

"I only have one, so let's hold it together."

Her hand was soft, warm, and slightly sweaty. My heart raced, and I didn't know if it was because of the touch of Fuka's hand or because I was being influenced by the frenzied atmosphere of the concert.

"Please match my arm movements and jump together!"

"U-Understood!"

As I nodded, Mikan incited the audience through the microphone.

『Everyone, jump——!』

Fuka and I locked eyes.

In the next instant, as if cast by a levitation spell, my feet left the ground.

"Oi! Oi! Oi! Oi!"

I jumped with all my might, as if I could jump to the moon. I opened my mouth wide and shouted until my jaw felt like it would dislocate. The flood of sound, the vortex of seven-colored lights, the smiles blooming on stage, the fluttering skirts.

The idols radiated light from their entire bodies, and the sweat of Fuka, the fans, and myself flew through the air————

The one-hour concert ended, and we left the venue.

"T-That was amazing..."

Perhaps because I had been in a loud volume environment I wasn't used to, my ears were ringing and my whole body ached. It was strange that despite my physical condition being poor, my mood was refreshed.

"It was the best live concert. My voice has gone hoarse."

Fuka said with a husky voice while fixing her messy hair.

"By the way, Onii-sama, you received responses several times."

I was stunned for a moment, and Fuka explained before I could ask.

"A response means a reaction from the idol. Like making eye contact with a fan, pointing at them, making a heart sign... it might be easier to understand if I say it's a part of fan service? Since they knew it was our first time watching, the idols responded to us very actively."

"So that's what it was."

I definitely made eye contact with the idols on stage several times. I thought it was an illusion, or surely because I only started getting excited halfway through. It might be the idols' strategy, but I could feel their thoughtfulness.

"However, idols really do remember their fans' faces well."

"Yeah. Being remembered by an idol is a joy that cannot be described in words... Which means, Onii-sama."

"What?"

"If it were an easy-to-handle otaku, they would go to the Tokuten-kai (bonus event) right about now."

I thought for a few seconds.

"...I'm tired, can you wait?"

"Understood."

Fuka didn't try to forcefully keep me; her straightforward personality was truly something to be grateful for.

Fuka excitedly lined up at the end of the merchandise sales queue. It seemed that buying a CD there came with a handshake ticket.

"The Tokuten-kai is starting——"

A staff member came out to host the bonus event. The Fuji Girls trio, who had shown their skills earlier, also appeared.

After lines formed for each member, the guests started going to the idols one by one from the front to shake hands. Separated only by a long table, the Fuji Girls trio showed no signs of fatigue from the concert and responded cheerfully.

Fuka lined up for Chacha, who liked Shizuoka tea.

Before long, it was Fuka's turn. I thought they would shake hands and chat and laugh, but Chacha looked this way and brought her face close to Fuka.

"!"

Fuka blushed and panicked for some reason, shaking her head vigorously as if denying something. She was then gently pulled away by the male staff member managing the line.

Fuka trotted back.

"Onii-sama~! I kept you waiting!"

The volume of the "Onii-sama~!" part was too loud, and I felt gazes gathering all at once. It felt like everyone was looking at me, a brother who forced his sister to call him "Onii-sama", but I was innocent.

"W-What happened? What did you talk about with Chacha... san?"

Fuka fidgeted, poking her index fingers together, her face turning even redder.

"Nothing, she, she didn't misunderstand that you were my boyfriend..."

It seemed she was mistaken for having a boyfriend. Was that why she emphasized "Onii-sama"?

In that case, it would be better for me to play along.

"My dear sister, isn't it about time to go exchange our drinks?"

After I emphasized the "sister" part, Fuka, whose cheeks were burning, gradually regained her composure.

"Y-You are right. I am hungry too. Let's go to the cafe to drink something and eat a little."

"Let's do that."

I nodded. Fuka probably suggested skipping lunch just for this.

We first lined up at the drink ticket exchange counter. I chose apple juice in a transparent cup, and Fuka chose orange juice in a similar transparent cup.

"Onii-sama, this Pancake Cup looks delicious."

Fuka said, looking at the menu inside the cafe. Indeed, when tired, one tends to crave sweets rather than a proper meal.

"It's covered in fresh cream, is that okay?"

"No problem. Because I consumed a lot of calories at the concert!"

After asserting this confidently, Fuka looked at me to confirm.

"Onii-sama, you said before that red bean paste doesn't make you fat, right?"

"I didn't say that. I only said that although red bean paste is low in fat, it is high in sugar, so be careful not to eat too much."

"Then I will order the black sugar syrup and soybean flour medium cup, with red bean paste topping."

Fuka, you always interpret things broadly, but even diet-friendly food will make you fat if you eat too much.

"Then I'll have the strawberry... half-size cup."

"Since you treated me to the drink ticket, this time it will be my treat."

I was about to say "You don't have to," but Fuka was already heading to the register. Since she said so, it would be rude to refuse, so I accepted her kindness.

As we waited at a table inside the shop, several fans walked out of the cafe while chatting about their impressions of the concert and the bonus event. The common point was that everyone had a smile on their face.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Onii-sama."

Fuka, having finished paying, sat down opposite me.

A few minutes later, the Pancake Cups were delivered to us, and the portion was substantial. A massive amount of fresh cream almost covered the pancake skin of the cup, topped with strawberry flesh and jam. If the Culture Festival pancakes could be packed with fresh cream like this, it would be great, but with a limited budget, it would be hard to realize.

"Let's eat."

We put our hands together and picked up our knives and forks. Cutting the pancake cup into bite-sized pieces and putting them into our mouths, we voiced similar impressions almost simultaneously.

"...Whoa, so sweet."

"Nn~! It's sweet!"

Fuka held her cheek, savoring the sweetness.

The sugar permeated our exhausted brains and bodies. We ate bite after bite, and finished it in the blink of an eye. I should have ordered the regular size.

After finishing our juice, we left the cafe.

The 3 PM sunlight poured down from overhead. The view of the street was exactly the same as a few hours ago, giving me a strange feeling. Even though I was lost in another world just moments ago, I had now returned to reality.

"Shall we go look around somewhere?"

I suggested reluctantly, but Fuka, who had a somewhat tranced expression, shook her head.

"I'm tired, let's go back for today."

"Is that so. True."

I couldn't force her, so we decided to return to Shin-Shizuoka Station.

On the train ride back, we chatted animatedly about the concert earlier. That song was great, those dance moves were cute. Every time Fuka brought up these topics, she smiled happily. The train swayed gently with a clack-clack sound, much quieter than the concert venue.

As we approached Kusanagi Station, closest to our home, Fuka spoke up:

"Onii-sama, watching a live concert after such a long time today, I was really happy. It was my first time shouting out loud like that."

"Eh?"

I was surprised, and Fuka puffed out her cheeks.

"...I have my image, so I can't lose myself and get excited in front of my friends. At most, I just wave the penlight lightly."

The reason she seemed so liberated was apparently because it was her first time getting that excited.

"So today was really fun."

Fuka looked back on the day with deep emotion, a gentle smile floating on her lips.

"Idols are amazing after all. Watching them, listening to their songs, cheering for them... just doing that cheers you up and makes you feel like doing your best tomorrow too."

The announcement for arrival at Kusanagi Station rang through the car, and the conversation cut off there.

We got off the train, exited the station, and started on our way home. Walking through the sparsely populated residential area, Fuka revealed her inner thoughts.

"——That day, our whole family went to the amusement park."

She gazed into the distance as if recalling the past. I looked at her calm profile and remained silent. I wanted to quietly listen to Fuka tell the story of "that day".

"I had a lot of fun, rode lots of rides. I pestered Mom to buy me a stuffed toy, but Mom said I just bought one recently, so no... I sulked and even cried."

Fuka gave a bitter smile. An elementary school girl riding a bicycle passed by her. I felt as if I saw a younger Fuka than the one now.

"Just then, Lie♡Lie, who had just debuted, was dancing on a special stage in the amusement park. But, only the audience in the very front row was cheering. The people in the back thought they were an unknown group and walked past laughing. But such idols——looked very dazzling in my eyes. I didn't want to cry, so I wiped my tears and watched the stage entranced."

Fuka put her hands together, talking about her admiration as if opening a treasure chest.

"Their costumes were very flashy, like princesses. Even though they sang many songs and danced many dances, they were smiling the whole time... They were so wonderful, making you want to watch them forever."

Then, she looked at me walking beside her.

"Being able to make a crying girl smile is like magic, isn't it? I also want to become an idol who can give courage to others; that is my starting point."

"...Is that so."

"After that, I polished myself to become an idol. I spent my allowance on beauty and fashion, practiced singing and dancing, and even changed the way I usually speak."

"...Hmm? Could it be, that's the reason you adopted the Ojou-sama character?"

"After all, if you don't have individuality among sisters, you can't become an idol, right?"

Fuka said she created the Ojou-sama persona for that reason, and was obsessed with character building even at home.

Hearing that, I tilted my head.

"I feel... that's a bit off."

"It is not off at all! It is the correct effort!"

Fuka puffed out her cheeks angrily, but I thought it was definitely off. Imagine Chinatsu and Mio's reactions at the time; I couldn't help but chuckle.

"The people around you must have been quite surprised."

"Yes. Everyone thought I was playing some game and left me alone."

I nodded along as we walked.

However, I didn't hear Fuka continue. Not only that, but I couldn't hear her footsteps either.

At my feet, the sole of my sneaker stepped on a stone. As if that were a signal, I felt the color of the air surrounding me suddenly change.

"Fuka?"

When I looked back, Fuka had stopped as if nailed to the ground. On her face, a thin, transparent smile appeared.

"I, quit."

"...Eh?"

"The Culture Festival stage, and the audition, I quit them all... I'm sorry for making you help me until now."

Fuka put her hands together and bowed her head deeply. I asked Fuka.

"Can I ask the reason?"

"——You know, Onii-sama? In this day and age, becoming an idol itself isn't such a difficult thing, you know?"

Once Fuka, who had lifted her head, returned to her Ojou-sama tone, she exaggeratedly wagged her index finger left and right. She explained to me using words that felt like dry cookies.

"Underground idols like Fuji Girls are as numerous as the stars... However, among them, the idols who can be called national idols, who can stand at the Budokan, are extremely few."

Fuka shrugged her shoulders and gave a bitter smile.

The atmosphere at today's Fuji Girls concert was heated. However, the venue's capacity was only four hundred people. The tickets hadn't sold out the day before, and the actual number of audience members was probably around three hundred.

And there are as many groups like that as you can count, Fuka said in a cold voice. She explained to me using the polite language she had learned to become an idol.

"Even if you spend your precious time, spend your youth on it, it's impossible to get a return for it. Knowing that, isn't it foolish to take on a reckless challenge in a life you only live once?"

Listening to her voice filled with a cynical sneer that didn't suit her style, I thought to myself.

Fuka must have been told things like this countless times until now.

Was it school friends? Teachers? Acquaintances on the internet? Or strangers pretending to be kind? On the surface, it sounded like advice, spoken in a gentle tone to Fuka who aimed to become an idol.

Thinking about Fuka's past, I spoke softly.

"Hey, Fuka."

Fuka's shoulders trembled.

I smiled at Fuka, who looked up at me timidly.

"Fuka, you are kind, aren't you?"

"...Eh?"

Fuka froze in place as if I had poked a sore spot unexpectedly. I lowered my eyebrows and continued.

"Because, you don't want to blame your favorite family for the present you are giving up on, for that choice... so you want to cover it all up with a lie that only hurts yourself."

"!"

The sound of Fuka gasping reached my ears clearly.

Because Chinatsu showed a sad expression, Fuka hadn't been able to voice her dream until now. She hadn't been able to tell anyone, locking her dream deep within her heart.

It was the same now. If it would make her family uncomfortable... she thought, pulling back the big step she wanted to take.

Life must be easy if you push the reason for regret onto others.

But for Fuka, that should be more painful than anything else. Resenting or hating her beloved family would be more painful than blaming herself.

That's why Fuka lied. What she showed was just a bluff, a paper-thin lie; anyone could understand that with a little thought.

Perhaps pretending not to notice this lie was the kind thing to do.

Even so, I exposed the lie she told for her family's sake and thrust it before Fuka.

"But you know, Fuka. Even if it's a lie, you can't mock idols."

"!"

Fuka bit her lip tightly, almost drawing blood.

I spat out the bitterness in my heart along with my voice.

"Don't deny their efforts, and their smiles. Today's fun concert, and the noisy time... don't treat them as if they never happened!"

Her slender body trembled as if convulsing. Fuka groaned from deep in her throat, her face twisting as if she were about to cry.

"Onii-sama. I actually... don't want to give up."

"............"

"I, I don't want to give up. But, but, I can't help it. No one will support my dream. Even if I pass the audition, I might be asked to withdraw. I might hurt someone again. But, to blindly continue moving towards my dream despite that... how could I do something so selfish?"

Her voice trembled, cracking several times.

However, Fuka didn't cry. She desperately endured, not letting her emotions burst.

This must be to make herself give up on what she didn't want to give up.

Unable to look away from her painful appearance, I clenched my teeth and thought.

That day, I found Chinatsu crying alone——and decided to become a brother to the five of them.

Just like I reached out and grabbed Chinatsu's shoulder back then, the only one who can push Fuka forward now is me. Only I, who have been by her side watching her work hard, can do this.

Because, we are just one step away.

If she takes just one more step forward, Fuka can surely run anywhere.

I exhaled slowly and smiled slightly.

"You know, Fuka. Although I haven't told anyone——I have no dreams. I've never even thought about such things."

"...Is, that so?"

Fuka asked, genuinely finding it strange. Probably because she lived every day so desperately, she hadn't considered there were people like that.

"Yeah. Putting everything aside to work hard isn't something everyone can do. Most people give up immediately, forget, and end things appropriately. Because it's easier to do that before getting hurt, before making a fatal mistake. Because that way you can protect yourself."

For example, when someone says they want to become an astronaut, how many people wouldn't laugh at that dream?

They would laugh that it's impossible, laugh saying good luck, laugh saying look at reality, laugh saying know your place. The reason they react in such a contrary way is surely because they could never say such things themselves no matter what.

They are envious. They can't do it themselves.

Even so, why can this person say such things?

So when someone talks about dreams or visions, people want to pull them down. With blade-like words, trying to hurt undefended hearts.

"That's why Fuka is amazing."

Fuka undoubtedly had a talent for singing. But she wasn't good at sports. It took time for her to master dance moves, and she was by no means a dexterous person.

But Fuka never used those as reasons to give up on her dream, not even once.

I knew such a girl better than anyone.

"Fuka, who never gives up on anything, holding on tight and continuing to work hard—I think you are amazing and cool."

I took a step closer to Fuka.

"Don't forget. It's precisely because you are that kind of person that Mio, Sorane, and I want to lend you a hand. We want to be your strength."

"...!"

Fuka's eyes wavered, and she bit her lip hard.

Fuka said no one would support her. But that is wrong. At least I, standing here right now, support Fuka from the bottom of my heart.

"If bringing vitality to others is the light an idol possesses, then you have already given me courage long ago."

Silence continued for a while.

However, there was no anxiety in my heart. Because Fuka hadn't stopped thinking. What does she truly want to do? What does she want? What does she not want to give up? She was thinking, racking her brain, trying to find the answer.

Finally, Fuka whispered like a sigh:

"...The Culture Festival, I will try my best."

"But..." she continued with little confidence:

"I'll think about what comes after when the time comes."

"Yeah. Understood."

Saying any more would only become a burden to Fuka.

So, I conveyed only my firm will.

"I will stay with you until the end."

"...Yes!"

Although there was no smile, Fuka nodded with a serious face.

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