This story is a work of fiction.
Or rather, everything in this world is mostly fictional.
It's made up…
and exaggerated.
They hide whatever is an inconvenience.
If that's the case, fans of idols would prefer that they made up good lies.
In this world, lies are a weapon.
Ai!
I wish I could've seen this cuteness in person!
Idol group B Komachi's permanent ace and irreplaceable center role,
the ultimate 16-year-old beauty, Ai!
Four years since they formed!
The group has slowly gained popularity and media coverage,
and they've finally caught the public's eye!
It starts here! This is where her path to stardom…
Why are you in a patient's hospital room, playing an idol's DVD?
Haven't you got any common sense?
Observing beauty is good for your health.
Since no idol concerts are held in the countryside here.
It's part of medical practice.
You're recruiting cult followers.
Don't make that our hospital's official views.
Oh, speaking of which, Doctor. It trending on Twitter earlier…
What?!
Ai's going on hiatus?!
So you really are a cult fan.
Isn't that girl only 16? You lolicon.
Call me anything but that.
There's a reason for it, a good reason.
I also did my internship at this hospital.
Back then, I used to slack off in patients' rooms just like now.
Get to work.
One of the patients I met at that time changed my destiny.
And this is Mei-Mei! Her dancing is good!
Hm.
Ari-pyan and Kyun-pan are better at singing.
But my favorite…
has got to be Ai!
We're about the same age, but she's so mature and good at singing and dancing!
Above all, I love her face.
If I could be reborn, I want this face.
What do you mean reborn? Don't say such stupid stuff.
You need to dream more, Doctor.
Haven't you ever thought, "What if I was born as the child of a celebrity?"
What if you had the looks and connections since the time you were born?
Nope.
You really don't dream enough.
Sarina, you're cute too.
There's no need to be reborn.
Once you're discharged, go become an idol.
Then I'll be your fan.
Really?
Doctor, I love you! Marry me!
Give me a break, that'll be social suicide.
You moralist.
Too bad. I'll think about it seriously once you become 16.
Sixteen, huh?
Doctor, you're mean.
It's a realistic plan.
Anaplastic astrocytoma.
She was only 12 years old.
If she were still alive, she'd be 16, just like Ai.
I must be seeing Sarina in the idol that she liked.
I just want to watch over Ai as she walks the path that Sarina dreamed of walking.
I see.
So basically, you're a lolicon.
Were you listening? Wasn't that a pretty touching story?!
Doctor, your obsession with her feels crude.
Aren't you using Sarina as an excuse to unleash your desires?
Don't be stupid. I swear on her name, I'm supporting Ai with a pure heart!
But if that Ai girl asked you out, you would go out with her, wouldn't you?
Lunch break's over now. I'm going back to work.
Well, Doctor? Swearing on Sarina's name, what's the answer?
But I'm worried about Ai. I hope she comes back safely.
OB-GYN
Hi, thanks for waiting.
Um, so this is your first visit here, Hoshino.
Yes.
Based on her belly, she's at about 20 weeks.
Pretty late for a first examination.
She's 16. I see, so that's why.
One of those ones who came this far, being unable to consult anybody.
Are you her parent?
Well, on paper.
Huh?
She was raised in a children's home,
so I'm actually like her legal guardian or guarantor.
I see.
Sixteen and raised in a children's home.
This story sounds familiar…
It's just like…
Doctor, what do you think?
Isn't there a chance that she's just extremely constipated?
If she were, she'd be dead.
Everything's fine on that end. No problems today either!
Let's do some tests first. Please wait while we get prepared.
OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY
Wait, wait, wait, wait… Huh?! Is she the real deal?!
Is she Ai's look-alike?!
No, being a longtime fan, I could never mistake her!
Wow! Ai is super cute in person!
Not now!
My favorite idol is pregnant!
I'm about to vomit from the shock.
Ai.
Seriously, how did this happen?
Like, seriously!
Why didn't you at least consult me, the CEO?
Who's the father?
That's…
a secret!
A secret, eh?! Then I can't do much about that!
Based on the results, you're 20 weeks pregnant with twins.
-Twins. -Twins.
Twins…
Ai, are you serious about having them?
If the world learns you got pregnant and had kids at 16,
you and our agency are both over.
Doctor, what do you think?
You have the right to make the final decision.
Think about it very carefully.
As a doctor, that's all I can say.
As a doctor, that is.
Whoa, seriously?
IDOL MARRIES COMEDIAN
And I liked MIU…
How timely.
Wait.
If I die now, isn't there a chance I can be reborn as the child of an idol?
That's a creepy thought.
But hey, would you be able to cheer for an idol with a man and a kid?
Even if you have a man you like, I'll continue to support you.
But if you give birth to a child,
I won't be able to see you rise to the top anymore.
Fans' opinions are selfish, huh?
Don't you think so, Sarina?
Oh.
Doctor.
Hoshino.
The cold night winds will hurt your body.
I'm dressed warm, so don't worry!
I chose this place because of the CEO's recommendation, but it really is nice!
You can already see the stars really clearly in the evening.
You could never see this in Tokyo.
Did you come all this way because you'd draw attention in Tokyo?
Huh? Have I told you about my job?
A long time ago, I had a patient who was a fan of yours.
Yikes.
Since the doctors are mainly old men here, I thought I wouldn't get noticed.
I guess I can't hide my overflowing aura! What a problem!
Her confidence is cute.
Will you stop being an idol?
Why? Nope.
But then…
I don't have a family, so I've always dreamed of having one.
There are twins in my belly, right?
I'm sure it'll become a lively and fun family then!
You're going to have children and continue as an idol.
That would mean…
That's right. I'm not going to announce it.
Idols are just an image. They're creatures that shine with the magic of lies.
Lies are the ultimate form of love.
Once you can hide a kid or two, that's when you're a first-rate idol!
No matter how many lies you build up and how tough you have it,
it's a fun job where you seemingly sing with joy on stage!
But I do want that "joy" part to be true though.
Nobody really realizes it, but we have feelings and lives too.
The joys of being a mother and the joys of being an idol.
Normally, it's either or.
But I want both!
Ai Hoshino is greedy like that.
This idol named Ai was much bolder, more cunning, and stronger than I thought.
She was beaming like the evening star.
We've agreed.
Huh?
The doctor and the fan inside me are in agreement.
Ai Hoshino.
I guarantee that you will safely deliver healthy babies.
If that's what you call joy, I'll accept it.
Since you are hopelessly an idol,
and I am hopelessly a fan of yours.
Now, going forward,
let's use an alias at our hospital.
Okay.
In your case, there's a high chance of a C-section.
What?
If the babies have large skulls,
with your body type, the pelvic opening usually isn't wide enough.
Really.
A scar on her belly would affect her work.
Doctor, isn't there another way?
Epidural anesthesia, sophrology, no…
Anything's fine. My body's super strong anyway.
Ai…
It'll be fine, I'm sure I can have a natural birth.
I mean, they're my kids! I'm sure they'll have small, pretty faces!
You and your carefree attitude…
Maybe the reason I became a doctor was for this moment.
I'll make sure you deliver more safely and successfully.
I'll protect your family.
To be honest, I do have mixed feelings about it.
But I hide them the best I can.
"Lies are a form of love."
Stars are incredible because those words are starting to sound real.
FORTY WEEKS
ESTIMATED DUE DATE
Doctor, good night.
But rush over if I call.
Okay. My house's close by too.
Well, even if I can't, another doctor will come.
No, I want you, Doctor.
I'm joking. I'll see you later.
Okay.
Once this is over, my connection with Ai will end,
and we'll return to being an idol and a fan.
I saw a bit of her real self,
but I actually came to like her frank personality.
I wish for her life to be full of joy from the bottom of my…
Are you the doctor in charge of Ai Hoshino?
She's using an alias.
Even if you saw her at the hospital,
how do you know her last name which is not known to the public?
Do you know her personally? Can I ask your name?
Hey!
Could he be a stalker? Right when she's about to deliver too…
Damn it! Making me run through these mountain paths…
Where'd he go?
Ugh, that scared me. My mind went blank all of a sudden.
Oh, my phone.
Did Ai go into labor?
Where's my phone?
It's so dark, I can't tell.
Wait, my body won't move.
I need to hurry and go.
I promised her that I'll make sure she delivers healthy babies.
I need to get up,
and help deliver her children.
Haven't you ever thought, "What if I was born as the child of a celebrity?"
What if you had the looks and connections since the time you were born?
If I die now, isn't there a chance I can be reborn as the child of an idol?
If I could be reborn…
I never seriously thought about it.
I mean, isn't that right?
I never thought something like that would occur to me.
I always thought someone like me would go to hell once they died.
But…
Hm?
Once I woke up, I was in heaven.
This is me now.
What a good boy, Aquamarine!
Anyhow, I've been given a ridiculous name.
Currently, I am living as the idol Ai Hoshino's son.
Please don't ask me why.
Even for me, it took a long time to accept this reality.
Have I been reborn?
Or is it called "reincarnation" nowadays?
Why do I have memories of my past life? How does this system work?
I am a doctor after all. I intend to uncover this system one day.
However…
For now, I want to indulge in this baby life.
This environment where my favorite idol completely pampers me
really heals my exhausted mind from my adult life.
G-Goo-goo…
Coming.
Oh yeah, there's another resident in this house.
What is it, Ruby?
Ruby Hoshino, the baby born as my twin.
This one has a less damaging name.
If it isn't too late, I'd like to switch.
What's wrong, Aqua?
That one's Ruby. You call yourself their mother?
I can't help it, it's hard for me to remember people's faces and names.
Isn't that awful? Men in Japan tend to idealize the mother figure too much.
You don't even have a passport. Don't say something so global!
Besides, you don't even accept overseas shoots!
But I can remember the people that I think have talent, CEO Sato.
Close. My name is Saitou, you shitty idol.
ICHIGO PRODUCTION CEO ICHIGO SAITOU
More importantly! Ai the idol will make her return today.
We're discussing the plan from here.
Your first comeback will be tonight's music show.
It's live, but you good to go?
Of course.
While Ai is at work, my wife will watch the kids.
ICHIGO PRODUCTION MIYAKO SAITOU
Your wife's so young.
The other members are also creeped out by you favoring young girls.
Never knew. I'll be careful.
Can't I bring these two with me?
Of course not!
Don't forget!
If the world finds out you're a 16-year-old mom with two kids,
your career as an idol will end there.
I'll be asked to take responsibility and my agency will be done for.
Everyone goes to hell together!
The paperwork to city hall, shopping, no bringing the kids anywhere!
Only if there's an absolute emergency,
you go out by saying that you're babysitting our kids!
What?
What a pain, right Ruby?
That's Aqua.
Ai will probably go under the really bad type of moms.
But the CEO and his wife will generously support us,
so maybe it'll work out somehow.
Rehearsal's soon. Let's move.
Okay!
Oops.
That was close! I almost flashed my boobs to you.
Just keep them covered outside.
No, this isn't good. I'm too worried about this girl!
B Komachi is on set!
We're B Komachi, nice to meet you.
Yes, nice to meet you.
I don't even have babysitting experience.
Why do I have to do this?
Ai has finally returned today!
Are you okay? Are you eating well?
Yes! I'm eating lots!
Good, she's doing okay.
Oh yeah, speaking of eating, my boy was--
My boy?
I meant my kitten! I adopted him recently while I was taking a break.
Ah.
-Actually, I don't know about her. -I'm always saying weird things.
You'll be on camera in 30 seconds.
Give us a good performance!
-Yes! -Yes, we will!
You know B Komachi?
Nah. Not interested.
I heard their music, but they're average. Neither good nor bad.
But I guess this is what sells.
Right.
Mass-produced idols.
We have to find a compliment, but what's there to say?
Isn't the center's face the only praiseworthy thing?
I know the group but haven't heard of them in months.
-Who squeezed them in? -Underground idols…
Ichigo Production. Don't know them.
One's got boobs. Make her do gravure.
Call her to dinner for the producer.
In this industry, there are lies and calculations under the smiles.
10 SECONDS
An empty slot isn't allowed in broadcasting.
And to maximize the performance of any performer, even the staff will lie.
Same with the higher-ups.
They pretend to make good work, but they're fixated on numbers.
Jeez, bring it on.
Our Ai…
is a hardcore liar!
That CEO's pretty crazy.
If Ai's secret is exposed, he risks losing everything.
But I can understand. There's no way you can't be crazy for her.
If the light before you is too bright, people simply get burned.
You get pulled in like moths drawn to a flame.
Even if your wings burn off, you can't stop.
I'm no exception. I'm glad that I can watch over Ai this close.
I'm almost thankful to the guy who killed me.
If this rebirth is a miracle caused by my perseverance toward her,
it makes sense.
To be honest, I wanted to help her deliver normal children, but…
It's beyond my powers. You can't win against the supernatural.
So I'm just going to enjoy myself.
Wait.
N Station's on already! Why didn't you wake me up?!
Oh my gosh! Mama's too cute!
All viewers should pay hundreds of millions to watch!
Isn't her expression when she turns just awesome?
She's so wicked, she might as well be a demon! My gosh!
I just changed my diaper, but I might wet myself again!
She has a great face, great style, and great singing.
Our mom is seriously too talented!
I gotta rewatch the recording right away!
Live shows are meant to be watched live, so why didn't you wake me?
These bodies get ridiculously sleepy, so let's both cooperate!
I tried waking you several times.
Oh, seriously?
This idiot was also reborn from someone, just like me.
I actually noticed it pretty early on.
Huh? Drop dead!
You apes who can't understand talent and beauty!
Her performance quality proves she's better!
It's inevitable that management would favor her!
I bet you're an ugly hag anyway!
Look at a mirror before you say that again, you bag!
Ugh, can't believe this!
She was looking up, "B Komachi Ai,"
and having fierce reply battles with haters on social media.
Are you…
the same as me?
Uh…
A baby just talked! How creepy!
You too.
I can't help but think
how I really wanted to help Ai deliver some normal children.
Oh my gosh!
Recording it once to watch it forever is wicked cost-efficient!
Not some weird twins like us.
Ai.
You liar. How dare you have kids!
Why?
You tricked me!
Aqua.
Are you hungry? You want my milk?
Oh, you don't?
Aqua sure likes his bottle.
Look at him drink!
As an adult, I feel that having an idol breastfeed me crosses the line.
Yes, yes.
My milk again?
Ruby sure likes breast milk.
This bastard…
It's time for work.
Okay!
I'll be going then.
Have a nice day.
Bye-bye!
Can't you show some restraint?
Why?
As her daughter, the law of nature says I must suckle on Mama's boobs.
It's a natural right that I've been granted.
Just asking, but were you a female in your past life too?
Yeah.
Then, I guess that's borderline okay.
Your jealousy is gross!
Well, a grown man breastfeeding does sound ethically wrong!
I'm so glad I was born a female, so I can rightfully suckle on boobs!
From my ethical perspective, that's still wrong though.
Poor Mama.
She would never think her own child is her otaku. That's seriously gross.
Oh, poor Mama. I'll protect you for life.
You're definitely more gross.
I need to change my diaper, so go away.
Sure, sure.
Why do I have to do this job?
Aren't I the CEO's wife?
I married him because I thought I could work with pretty boys.
But instead, my job is to care for a 16-year-old idol's kids?!
A single mom with an unknown father?!
That's way too shady!
First of all, I didn't get married to become a babysitter!
Huh?
Being able to serve Mama should bring you nothing but pure joy.
What's wrong with her head?
Well, there is some validity to what she's saying.
Ugh.
Wait, isn't this a cover-up of a scandal?
I know.
If I sell this story to a tabloid, I could become rich.
Just screw everything! Let's do this!
Uh, this is bad! What do we do, kill her?!
Not possible, we're no match for an adult.
I was just kidding about that, but were you being serious?
If we let her be, she'll surely become a threat.
But…
What do we do?!
She's taking pictures of the maternity handbook!
Rather, this is our chance.
I got an idea.
With this money, I'll push my host up to the top of the monthly rankings.
Oh, pitiful girl.
The thirst in your heart cannot be quenched by champagne.
Who's there?!
I-I am the messenger of god.
Your reckless actions can no longer be overlooked!
Messenger of god?
Wait, a baby just talk… No way.
According to your common sense, can babies speak? Face the truth.
Uh-uh! Even if you say god sent you, I don't believe in that stuff, so…
Oh, I know! I'm getting punked!
It must be a show that Ai will be on to punk the manager! That's it!
This sure is an elaborate prank. Where are the cameras?
Guess it was too far-fetched.
Come on, Ruby, climbing onto the table is danger…
Know your place. I am the incarnation of Amaterasu.
The god you people speak of.
God?
You have been blinded by money, nearly abandoning your destined mission.
Destined mission?
Ai Hoshino was chosen by the god of entertainment.
And her children are twins who are also destined for a great mission.
'Tis your destined mission to protect them.
Your actions go against the gods.
If this lasts, divine punishment awaits you.
Divine punishment?!
What divine punishment?!
Specifically?!
Specifically? Specifically…
You die.
Yes, you die!
No! That's too specific!
What should I do?
The answer is simple.
You must protect our secret.
And care for us by following everything we say.
Everything…
If you do, getting remarried to a handsome actor may no longer be just a dream.
For real?!
I'll do it! I'll do anything you say!
Even lick your insoles!
That will not be necessary.
Remarrying a hot guy!
Was this okay?
Either way, there's a limit to what infants can do.
Now, we can go outside too.
Yay!
But that was pretty good acting back there.
Were you an actress somewhere?
Uh-uh. My first time.
First time? Didn't you do plays at school?
I was raised in an unusual environment.
Hm. Then it must be talent.
Maybe you're a future actress.
The future…
I've never even thought of it.
I have a sister now.
She's a weird girl who's an idol otaku.
However…
Ai's dancing is so sharp! She seriously has charisma!
Hm.
I like Ai the most in the world,
but I like you just as much, Doctor!
Her passion whenever she spoke about Ai
was exactly like yours,
Sarina.
What? Did you call me?
My bad, did I wake you?
No, I didn't.
If you're gonna sleep, go to the futon.
Well, yeah.
It can't be…
Sarina was my name in my past life anyway.
A few months had passed since Ai made her return as an idol.
B Komachi's great comeback…
was not exactly happening.
My salary this month is 200 thousand yen.
Hey, isn't our agency's salary too low?
Didn't our last song rank third on the Oricon Singles Chart?
Isn't the middleman's cut too big?
What's the matter suddenly?
We don't do manufacturing to distribution. We're just a tiny talent agency.
You should know we have low profits.
I realized the world is all about money.
What an ugly truth you realized.
It's fun being an idol,
so I wouldn't have minded staying this way if it were just myself.
But to send these kids to a good school or let them do extracurricular activities…
To give them more options, I need to become even more popular,
and earn more money, right?
At this rate, I can't make these kids happy.
I wish a job for a commercial or movie would come in.
A big company at that.
First off, quit buying that expensive ice cream.
I'm off to my lessons.
Be good kids while I'm gone.
Hey, don't idols make like a million yen a month?
Of course not.
Of course not?!
Royalties for music and TV appearance fees are split between the members.
If their merch doesn't sell, concerts are in the red.
And costume fees are deducted from the salary.
Only a handful of idols make a million yen a month.
What, the money isn't reaching the hardest working people? This world's doomed!
Oh, I know!
Why don't all otakus take turns offering their livers to Ai, and we sell them…
Your mindset is what's doomed.
Stop with your post-apocalyptic religious views.
She can sing, dance, and has a great face.
She takes lessons, does voice training, and practices choreography at home.
B Komachi should be a popular group…
Hey, manager!
Why isn't our Ai getting any work?!
You shitty management! Market her more!
It's not as easy as you say.
To sum it up, idol groups are a system where about a dozen people work as one
to fight over the same jobs against a single celebrity.
We're barely getting work selling as a set right now.
If she wants to work alone, that'll be a tough wall to break through.
There are girls who graduate being idols to work solo,
but can't get jobs alone, so they work at high-end restaurants in Roppongi.
And there are tons of former idols who become "Minato Girls"
who are paid to drink to get by.
I don't really know, but…
Tokyo's a scary place.
I do recognize that Ai is amazing.
But that's only within the idol field.
You need a special skill of your own to survive in the world of entertainment.
Because jobs that you can profit from won't be for "somebody in B Komachi,"
they have to be jobs that only Ai can do.
Just being an overachiever as an idol isn't enough.
Ai, you look a little down.
You just recovered, so don't push yourself, okay?
That's not it!
I missed lunch, so I'm super hungry!
What's that? Your foodie image?
-Let's do that part again. -Sure, okay!
I can't get into the mood.
I'm gonna egosurf.
GOOD OR BAD, AI HAS A PRO'S SMILE IT LOOKS INHUMAN…
He's got me there.
CONGRATULATIONS B KOMACHI
A promotional event!
A mini concert!
This is something you can only win in a lottery!
This is my first time properly seeing Mama's stage.
Listen carefully.
I brought you two because you insisted,
but I'm the one who's going to get reprimanded if the CEO finds out.
No cheering, running, or talking!
Keep your pacifiers on and stay quiet, okay?
That's right, Ruby. Just don't do anything that catches people's attention.
Anything that tips off our relation to Ai--
You don't have to tell me.
You saw how upset Mama was.
I'm here because I'm worried about her.
We're not here to have fun…
Today, we have three members of B Komachi here!
B Komachi!
GOOD OR BAD, AI HAS A PRO'S SMILE
Whatever you say, I am a pro after all.
IT LOOKS INHUMAN…
I don't really understand.
Aren't you the ones demanding me to be inhuman?
I study my smile in the mirror and modify it to the millimeter.
How I narrow my eyes, how I grin…
It's all calculated.
I always put on the smile that pleases people the most.
I am made of lies after all.
…Goo-goo! Ga-ga! Goo-goo…
What's with those babies?! They're doing the otagei!
Their movements are too sharp for infants!
What did you say about being worried? You're enjoying it more than anyone!
It was pure instinct!
Wow.
What the… That's amazing.
My babies are so cuuute!
Retweeted 210,000 times.
Even the reposted video has two million views.
I know that baby content trends easily, but this is a little too…
Come with me.
WHAT'S HER NAME?
DID AI SMILE LIKE THIS? MY IMPRESSION OF HER CHANGED
LIKE TROUBLESOME OTAKUS
THIS IS IT! THIS!
I see.
So this is what you want.
Now, I know!
One year later.
We became old enough to walk and talk without drawing suspicion.
And my sister…
Mama! Mama!
Hmm?
Pat me on the head!
There, there.
She became the definition of a creepy spoiled fan who calls their idol "Mama."
Ahh, I'm ascending to heaven!
Where did you learn such difficult words?
Don't tell me…
Umm.
Can Ai be suspecting us?
You're like an insane prodigy.
That being a needless worry, we're spending our days in peace.
Must be genetic.
Modeling, radio assistant,
Ai was steadily gaining work.
And her job today could be called the culmination of her efforts.
I'm excited about your first TV drama, Mama!
It's a minor role though.
Listen up, you two.
I'm taking you both because you insisted,
but don't ever call Ai "Mama" on the set.
Don't forget that you're supposed to be my kids.
Yes, yes. Mama, pat me on the head.
Me too, Mama!
Mama, gimme me an allowance.
I'm Ai from Ichigo Production. Nice working with you today.
Nice working with you.
Is something wrong, Director?
No, not really.
He's kind of scary.
His face is.
Huh? Who are these kids?
Uh, these are my kids.
A manager bringing their kids on set?
The work-style reform bill?
Huh?
Times have changed.
Well, there are people who bring dogs on set too.
-Are you sleep-deprived? -Can you tell?
Twins! How cute!
Oh, I think this girl is that gravure model.
That one's "the young actress that's too cute for her talent."
Goo-goo! Ga-ga!
Stop trying to act cute.
This is bad. My body can't take this.
Huh?
You're that manager's kid.
I don't mind you being here, but I'll kick you out if you start crying.
Uh, we're babies, but we shall make sure to never cause such interruptions!
We understand it is the minimum rule to not disturb the filming process.
We kindly ask for your continued business with Ai…
This baby talks like crazy!
Where did you learn those words?
A bit on YouTube.
YouTube's incredible! Times have changed!
I've seen many mature child actors, but I've never seen one this mature.
Are you an actor too?
Well, I don't do that type of thing.
You'd be interesting to have on screen. I wanna use you for something.
This is my card.
If you join an agency, call me.
No, if you want to give me work, please pass it to Ai instead.
Oh, that idol.
She has an excellent face. If she's lucky, she'll survive.
Luck? When she has an excellent face?
Listen, there are three types of actors.
Look at them there.
One is the star actor.
Their job is to bring in customers.
They serve the same purpose as an ad, so the pay is good.
Next is the talented type.
They ensure the quality of the work. Their job is to uphold the company brand.
The last one is the new face.
No one's expecting acting skills from them.
As long as they're refreshing to see on screen, they pass.
It's also to let future stars build experience.
Well, it's an industry-wide investment.
This means all those new faces there are in the stage of being an investment.
You either win the viewers or the staff.
Without either, you'll be replaced by the next newbie.
If any of those new faces survive within this set, it's a big success.
That's the world we're in.
The ones who survive are only the top class.
Hm. Then she'll be fine.
Because Ai is a top-class idol.
Uh, there's no point in being a top-class idol.
Huh?
Director! The run-through is ready.
Okay, I'll watch it here.
Ready…
What are you saying?
You want me to ask Toma?
Hey, don't ever do that, okay?!
Aren't you always with him?
Her acting is average, but she draws attention.
Right? She was saying earlier…
On stage, you have to look cute for everyone from every angle,
but you just need to be cute for one person here, the camera.
If it's the same as a music video, it's my specialty.
You did it! I'll…
A music video perspective?
Times have changed.
Oh! It's really good, so you should definitely watch it!
I'll even lend you the DVD!
You're too loud.
It's too early. You can always challenge…
I can't wait for Mama's acting!
We did take a lot of scenes.
It's almost time.
It started!
Are you kind of upset?
No.
Did I do something?
This is the scene!
What's with him?
Oh, it's Mama!
Close up on her!
Huh? Is something wrong?
Wait, Toma!
Miki, why are you here?
That's why we should've never met.
What do you mean by that?
What? That's it?!
That was only one scene!
They cut out too much!
Was my acting that bad?
That's not true!
Yes?
Hey, Director! What happened?!
Oh, the mature baby.
You didn't use Ai at all!
Oh, that. It was a shame when it turned out so well.
Then how come?!
The lead actress's agency
markets her as "the young actress that's too cute for her talent."
So, what would happen if a cuter face is in the same shot?
That'd affect her marketing image, right?
Ai was just too cute for that screen.
So due to the higher-ups' wishes,
we had to edit her out as much as possible.
What's with that…
The cast's screen time is set by the power balance between companies.
So think of it as an accident.
I can't accept it.
You can dream of working in showbiz, but showbiz is no glamorous dream.
It's not a place for art, but for business.
But I do understand your point, and feel bad about it too.
It might not exactly make up for it, but I want to give Ai some work.
It's for a film. No complaints, right?
Seriously?
But…
on the condition that you're cast too.
Listen, Mature Baby.
In Japan, the casting is usually all decided by the higher-ups already.
The more money goes into the project, the more it has to succeed.
The higher-ups have their own battle to get actors who can call an audience.
The only directors who have casting rights are either super bigshots
or super low-budget small-scale film directors.
Now, which one do I look like?
A super bigshot--
And wrong!
This is a low-budget film set.
Director, thank you for taking care of Aqua today.
No, no. Has that one issue been worked out?
I believe so. Aqua belongs to Ichigo Production starting this month.
People get mad if I use a child who isn't with an agency.
If it's acting, I'm sure my sister is better than me.
No, I want you.
I'm casting Ai in exchange for you.
This is called a barter in this industry.
This is basic knowledge, so remember it.
Your appearance was bartered for Ai to be cast?
That scary director seems to really like you, Aqua.
What did you do to end up this way?
I didn't do anything special.
Old-timers like being treated casually by young people for some reason,
so I purposely don't act too polite.
What a snotty baby.
I used to work with grandpas and grandmas, so I know how to deal with my elders.
Who knew this odd skill would come to use?
Mama! Mama!
I wanna go back to Mama's place! Why isn't Mama here?!
Ai films on a different day.
I wanna go home and goo-goo! I wanna ga-ga in Mama's chest!
Isn't she embarrassed to do that at her age?
Not that I know how old she is.
This is a place for pros!
If you're here to play, go home!
Um…
I'm Kana Arima, this film's actress.
Oh, isn't she that one girl?
Um, what was it again?
The genius child actress who licks baking soda?
The genius child actress who can cry in ten seconds!
Everyone says my crying in TV dramas are amazing! I'm amazing!
I don't really like this kid.
She feels fake, so my gut says I can't stand her.
Sometimes people are strangely hard on child actors, like you.
I know that you got in with connections.
At the script reading stage, you and that idol weren't even in this.
Mama said the director squeezed them in!
You know that's a no-no!
No, that's not exactly--
I saw the TV drama the director shot before, but that idol was barely in it.
Huh?
I bet her acting was so bad they had to cut it all out.
But I guess she's good at kissing up to people.
Assistant Director, hold my bag!
Um, wait just one second.
Bro…
I know. She's just a kid… I won't kill her.
To simply sum up the plot of the film…
A woman who is not confident in her appearance
gets plastic surgery at a sketchy hospital deep in the mountains for some reason.
We are the creepy children that the woman meets at the village entrance.
Greetings, visitor. We welcome you.
Please make yourself at home.
As expected of a genius child actress. She's good.
If I tried doing the same, the difference would be painful to watch.
Even a complete amateur can tell that much.
Then what do I do?
In normal circumstances, I would just have to act like a creepy child.
But that's not what's being demanded of me.
What the director wants is probably…
In this village, there is only one inn.
Once you check in, you may explore the area.
This scene was one that was added later on.
After learning of me, the director wrote it with me in mind.
If I consider that fact, I shouldn't have to act.
Following the stage directions is enough.
He never said it out loud, but what the director means to say is…
Even without acting, you're creepy enough.
Now, let me guide you.
Cut! Good!
Looks really good!
Wasn't that just my usual brother?
Wow! You gave me the chills.
Really? That's good.
It's not good.
Put that camera away. Let's take the next one.
Yes, sir!
Director, retake that scene.
Hm? Well, there were no problems.
There's a big problem!
My acting…
was nowhere near as good as that kid.
No! One more time!
Please! I'll do it much better this time!
-One more time! Please! -Kana.
Mature Baby.
What do you think is most important as an actor?
Hmm. Talent or having a good sense?
Motivation and effort?
Well, those are important too.
But in the end, it's communication skills.
If the other actors or staff don't like you, you'll lose work fast.
There's no future for a bigheaded kid acting like a diva already.
Did you want to teach her a lesson?
I wasn't thinking of anything self-righteous like that.
But it's good experience.
Your acting was dead on to how I envisioned it.
That girl was much better.
I was just being my usual self.
But I never said a word to do that.
Reading my mind is communication too.
Of course, acting upon understanding stage directions is one of the basics.
But actors who can pick up on those unwritten directions are rare.
Because there's always a correct image in the director's mind.
Rather than great acting,
become an actor with perfect acting.
Well, I'm not gonna be an actor.
And that was how I got my foot in the door of this industry.
He has a stage name already.
Aqua. I've memorized it.
I won't lose next time.
Three years have now passed since we were reborn as Ai's children.
The film shot by the director was somewhat credited,
and he was nominated for a Director's Prize.
Looking back, I think my acting was pretty good.
But…
In the end, Ai stole the show in that film.
I don't know if that triggered it, but her work has increased quite a bit.
If I were to describe Ai now,
she would be the most trending idol at the moment probably.
Ai will be 20 soon.
We're still spending our days in peace without being exposed to the public.
Also…
GOROU AMEMIYA DOCTOR MISSING
My body still hasn't been found.
You're looking cute today too! Super cute!
Well, Mama's cuter above all though.
What's this weird rivalry?
We entered kindergarten.
By the way, what were you doing before you were reborn?
How old are you really?
Um.
If I turn out to be the younger one…
What? I knew you were just a kid.
You'll be listening to me from now on, kiddo.
Uh, I'm a grown woman!
What an insensitive brat to ask a woman her age!
Besides, who cares about my past life?! Stay out of my business!
Well, that's true.
It's depressing to think of my past life.
That's how much I like my current life now.
Compared to the days of exhausting work,
a kindergartener can just eat, sleep, and read a book all day. Easy.
But I'm surprised she can play all out like that.
A kindergartener is reading Natsuhiko Kyogoku's tome…
Everyone, it's dance time!
Your family will come watch you dance soon!
So let's do our best to practice!
Okay!
No, I don't wanna!
Oh, Ruby?!
Why did you run off?
Because I can't dance. Or like, I've never danced before.
Huh?
Were you always cooped up in your room?
Kids nowadays…
I was like a shut-in anyway.
I tried a couple of times, but I couldn't do it.
I doubt I can do anything athletic.
I don't know what you've been through, but are you sure about this?
You have a long life ahead of you.
Oh. Are you practicing dancing?
Then Mama will do it with you.
I need to practice an old song for our next concert.
Mama, that part was a bit weird.
Huh?
Your hand was higher when you danced at Budokan.
Hey, did you watch my concert videos?
What a good memory!
Of course.
I watched Mama's concert videos hundreds… No, thousands of times.
I remember all the choreography.
How did it go again?
This part was more…
Oh, are you okay?
Yeah.
The way you move… It's like you're preparing to fall.
Because I was always falling over.
If I didn't brace myself, I would get hurt.
When you're scared of falling, you fall even more.
Just stand more boldly and stick out your chest.
You'll be fine.
Trust Mama.
My life was mostly spent in a hospital room.
My body was impaired and it never listened to me.
So I always admired her from my bed.
Mama's cool moves are all engraved into my brain.
All of that light is burned into my eyes.
She's my light.
If I could just move like that…
Move freely like that…
More!
Move more!
My body!
Oh, it's okay for me to dance!
This girl…
So it wasn't just her acting skills.
Her dancing intuition…
Plus, she has her mother's good looks.
What a scary thought…
For some reason, I decided to contact the guy I broke up with.
Hey, the kids have gotten pretty big now. Why don't you meet them once?
No, I'm not talking about getting back together or anything.
It all started when I overheard my kids talking.
I've been trying not to think about it,
but I wonder who our father is.
Ugh, just the thought of it makes my heart sink.
Stupid, you're upset over something like that?
It must have been a virgin birth. There was no man in the first place.
They were coming to a weird conclusion, so I thought this was bad.
Our kids are really smart, so I'm sure they'll understand our situation.
Yeah. My new address is…
Oh, it's Ai!
Lemme take a picture!
You seriously like Ai.
Work is going well.
I even reached over a million followers.
The world is looking at me.
Jeez, this sake is good!
Here's to your new home! Drink up!
Wow, it's Mori Izo!
Stop right there.
Ai won't be 20 until next week. Wait just a little longer.
Ah, that's right!
Hm?
The drama with Ai as the lead role has a high viewing rate!
B Komachi has a packed schedule too,
and next week, we're finally performing at the dome!
He's in a really good mood.
The CEO's dream is to take his idols that he produced to Tokyo Dome.
It's also the dream of everyone at the company.
Is the dome that great?
It's different from other venues.
You can't even book a slot without going through a broker.
An experienced staff is required to control a large audience.
Even the artist goes through a strict screening.
It's a venue that needs a lot of the staff's time and effort.
It's not a place you can buy with money.
Only a handful of artists can reach that stage.
The dome is everyone's dream.
Really.
If I'm successful, everyone's happy.
That's why I act happy too.
It's an important time right now. Don't cause any scandals!
No matter what, don't try to meet the father or anything.
Of course!
I am a liar.
Before I even think, I always say what's best at the time.
I don't even know what's true and what's a lie anymore.
Pat me on my head.
Hm? There, there.
I was always bad at loving anything.
That's why, I never thought someone like me could possibly become an idol.
You said you were recruiting people,
but for an idol? Me?
What a laugh.
Right now, we're putting together an idol unit
with our agency's middle school models.
You can aim for the center role.
Not interested.
But I think you're perfect for the role. Really!
I don't recommend it. Since I'm from a children's home.
I lived with my single mom, but she got arrested for theft when I was little.
So, I was sent to a children's home.
But my mom never came back to get me even after she got released.
If I scared him a little, I thought the talent scout would withdraw.
It's okay. I preferred being at a children's home over getting abused.
I don't have any memories of loving anybody or being loved.
Someone like that can't become an idol.
My idea of an idol was
an innocent being that would flash smiles and put a smile on everybody.
The complete opposite of a liar and misanthrope like me.
Someone like me wouldn't be able to love the fans or be loved by them.
I think that's fine.
It's not a job meant for normal people anyway.
That background adds to your personality.
B-But, idols all say stuff like, "I love you!"
It's a lie if I--
It's okay to lie.
Rather, a beautiful lie is exactly what the audience wants.
Lying is a talent too.
It's okay, lie all you want!
It's okay?
To say, "I love you," even if it's a lie?
Deep down inside, don't you want to love somebody too?
You just don't know how and you can't find someone to love.
Just singing and dancing cutely is an expression of your love for the fans.
Once you become an idol, you'll see "I love you" in the lyrics all the time.
And as you keep saying that you love everyone,
maybe that lie will become true.
A lie will become true?
After hearing those words, I decided to become an idol.
I wanted to love somebody. I wanted someone to love.
If I became an idol, I thought I could love the fans.
I wanted to say it from the bottom of my heart,
so I kept spreading my lie saying, "I love you."
I thought I could love my kids if I became a mother.
I still haven't told my kids that I loved them yet.
If I said those words and realize that it was a lie…
The thought of it scares me.
That's why, I continue to lie today.
That's why I still believe lies can become true.
Even if someday, I have to pay the price.
CAN'T WAIT FOR TODAY'S DOME CONCERT!
Is that the CEO?
Yes!
Congratulations on your dome concert.
Are the twins doing well?
Doesn't it hurt?!
But you hurt me more! It was painful!
Because you had kids when you're an idol!
You betrayed your fans, you slut…
You ignored your fans!
I bet you were laughing at us behind our backs! You liar!
After saying that you loved us!
It was all a lie!
I was always irresponsible to begin with.
I'm not innocent. I'm sly and dirty.
I don't know what it means to love someone.
So instead,
I always told a pretty lie that would make everyone happy.
Hoping that one day, those lies will become true.
I worked hard and did my best to put everything into those lies.
To me, lies are a form of love.
I was trying to express love in my own way.
I don't know if I was able to really love you all,
but I sang about love while wanting to love you.
Praying that someday, it will become true.
Even now, I still want to love you.
Quit lying.
I bet you don't even remember me. You just want me to let you go--
Ryousuke, right?
You came to my handshake events.
Oh, was I wrong?
Sorry, I'm bad at remembering people's names.
I was happy when you gave me that star-shaped sand.
I still have it displayed in my living room.
What the hell?
That's not…
Just come right away!
Ai! I called an ambulance!
Jeez, I let my guard down.
So this is why door chains exist.
They didn't teach me that at the children's home.
Don't speak!
The bleeding…
It's the abdominal aorta, shit!
I'm sorry.
I don't think I'm going to make it.
Are you okay?
Did you get hurt at all, Aqua?
No…
I wonder if today's dome concert will be canceled.
I feel bad for everyone.
And just when the film schedule was being finalized too.
Please apologize to the director for me.
Hey, what's wrong?
What's happening over there?
Don't come, Ruby.
Tell me!
Ruby?
Your dancing at the recital was really good.
I think that you might become an idol yourself one day, Ruby.
A mother-and-daughter performance sounds so fun.
And maybe Aqua might be an actor?
I wonder what kind of adults you two will become.
Oh, I wish I could see you with your backpacks on.
And at the school open house,
I want to hear people say, "Isn't Ruby's mom super young?"
I wish I could watch you two
grow up by your side.
I wasn't a very good mom,
but I'm glad that I had both of you.
Um, what else?
Oh, I need to say this…
Ruby.
Aqua.
I love you.
Ah, I finally said it.
I'm sorry it took me this long to say it.
I'm so glad.
These words are definitely not a lie.
Ai?
Ai, from the idol group B Komachi, has been murdered.
Early morning today, in a condominium in Tokyo,
there was a report of a man stabbing a woman.
When the police arrived, the woman believed to be Ai
was stabbed in the abdomen, bleeding on the floor.
She was pronounced dead at the hospital.
The man thought to be the suspect was an enthusiastic fan of hers,
and he was declared dead after attempting suicide a few hours later.
According to the police, Ai had just moved into a new home.
It is likely there was an accomplice,
so the case will be investigated.
The Tokyo Dome concert scheduled today has announced its cancellation,
and a sea of fans before the venue are now filled with sorrow.
AI TO INFINITY ETERNAL FAVE
The shocking news of an idol being murdered by a fan
and the culprit committing suicide soon after
spread in less than an hour.
The public's response was mostly sympathetic.
But as expected,
there were those attention seekers who used the dead as entertainment.
While there were many selfish assumptions and slander,
there were those that were close to the truth.
What do you mean by "No surprise," huh?!
If an idol falls in love, it's no surprise she's killed?!
That can't be right!
You've all been madly in love with idols,
so how could you deny her of her own love?!
You're just taking it out on women since you haven't got a girlfriend!
That's sick! Drop dead!
Why is the internet like this?
Mama just died, but all this stuff makes me wanna die too.
If you're famous, can anything be said about you?
"Price of fame"?
Quit saying stuff like, "The customer's always right."
That's not for you to say!
Those are just words that
people that have been hurt say to accept their bitter reality!
Don't use it as an excuse to hurt people!
Once three days passed, the topic of Ai's death was used up.
After the news of early snowfall causing traffic jams took over,
it was never brought up again.
As if the snow covered up Ai's death.
The CEO and his wife had moved us to their family register,
so we were never covered in the main news.
Because the suspect was already dead and taking into account my young age,
the police interrogation ended quite simply.
But the counseling for victims continued long.
Would you like to really become our children?
Of course, your mother can only be Ai.
You don't have to think of me as your mother.
But I think of you two as my own children.
What do you think?
MORI IZO
Mama said that I might become an idol one day.
Aqua, do you think that even I could do it?
What's the point?
If you wanna make money, it'd be faster with a different job.
And fans will always be selfish. You'll get bashed if you get a boyfriend.
Yeah, but still…
Mama was always shining.
Ruby will probably get over this.
For better or for worse, I noticed she has a pure heart after a few years with her.
But me…
I've already died once anyway.
I don't want to live in a world without Ai.
That stalker was the same guy who killed me.
How was he able to find Ai's hospital?
How did he get to our new home?
The killer was just a college student without any skills.
I doubt he could do anything like what a detective does.
He had an informant.
And they must've been close to Ai.
The only person who knew her hospital was the CEO.
But would he do something like that to his company's star?
A colleague?
No, the members of B Komachi were never that close.
And I've never seen Ai with a friend.
It's a known fact that Ai has no relatives.
She didn't know how to contact them either.
Then that only leaves…
our father.
She was keeping it a secret even from the CEO,
but from Ai's limited social life, there's a high chance he's in the same industry.
Since he and I are related by blood, I can find him by DNA testing his hair.
The culprit who put Ai to such a fate is in the entertainment industry.
I can't die yet.
Not until I find him and kill him with my own hands!
Director.
Oh, Mature Baby.
Uh…
My condolences… I don't know what to say.
Don't worry about that.
Hm?
I have a favor to ask you instead.
What is it?
Do you want to raise me?
Hey.
How much longer, Ruby?
Jeez, just wait a second, Bro!
This uniform is cute but difficult to put on.
But it sure is cute!
Don't make us late on the first day.
Isn't your skirt too short?
Bro, you've always sounded like an old geezer.
Oh yeah!
Mama, we'll be off now.
Thus, our prologue came to an end.
And the curtain rises on a new act.
And…
I begin my tale of vengeance.
Is this recording?
Okay! I thought it might be nice to make something like this.
When you're all grown up, I hope we can watch this while drinking together.
I doubt I'd still be an idol at that age though.
Oh, by that time, maybe you two will be idols.
You are my kids, so it's totally possible!
Whatever you end up being,
please grow up to be strong.
That's my only wish as your mother.
Subtitle translation by: Kanami Kitabayashi