sym-PHONY
6:45 p.m.
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Sights on Wisteria
A Fateful Connection
Season: Winter (冬)
Characters
Chapters
Story CGs
Prologue
Writer: Rae
Location: Toshiki's Apartment
- An afternoon on a chilly early-December day. On a day off at Toshiki's apartment, which has become the unofficial hangout spot for sym-PHONY -
AAAAAAND... CHECKMATE!
What? No way! You can't do that move!
Guys... you aren't even playing chess... You're playing checkers on a chess board.
Don't they literally use the same board?
Well, yeah, but that doesn't change the fact that you aren't even playing with chess pieces... and even in checkers you haven't won yet. You moved a tile further than you're supposed to.
See?! I was right! Sit your ass back down, we ain't done yet!
That's not... sigh whatever.
Uhm... didn't you three come here for a reason? And not to just play checkers and argue?
OH! Right, riiiiight! We're here on serious business!
And, besides that, since when did my apartment become our meet-up spot? How did you guys even find this place?
Don't sweat the details! You told us your address yourself anyway. Well, in passing. But that's besides the point!
Well, back to why we're here, weren't we going to talk about our ideas for the future of the unit?
Mhmm! That's right! But since Toshiki and I both have very little experience in this industry how about you and Toui give us a basic rundown again? Just to refresh our memory!
Just because we both went to Yumenosaki doesn't really mean we remember a whole lot, right Ruka? We were both in units that failed after all.
Toui be so for real right now. How on earth would you not remember such important details?
Do you not remember what Yumenosaki was like then? Barely anyone put any effort in. I love music as much as everyone else in this room but back then? That didn't matter. I'm sure you felt the same way, right?
Not everyone was like you, you know? There were still plenty of idols there who genuinely cared and wanted to do their best to make it in the idol industry.And considering that you attended before I did, I bet it just had something to do with the people you associated with or your class. In fact, that was probably partially why your unit failed.
Hey! Your unit failed too! Don't act like you didn't have issues too!
Uh, not to interrupt your squabble, but don't we just need to remember to appeal to our audiences? For our unit, of course. Alongside basic music stuff like performances, of course.
Don't forget about our outfits! We're an actual v-kei unit! Outfits and aesthetics are of the utmost importance!
Yes, yes, but I'm sure that will be of little difficulty for us. We have Ruka here, after all. And you too, Kanae.
You two are correct. There are more specifics but we can always go over that later if we really need to.Really, it's all stuff we've already talked about several times in passing.We've made it far enough to call ourselves a unit so most of that stuff's already done and over with.
Well ok then, since all of that is apparently out of the way...What about our future?We've successfully debuted and have already gained a few fans of our own, but how do we keep them coming?
How about we all talk about what makes us like visual kei so much and go from there? I'm sure we all have different reasons and different favorite bands so talking about what draws us in might help us draw others in as well?
That's a great idea, Ruka! How about we all make presentations on our favorite parts and go from there?
Sounds like a lot of work, why don't we just ramble stuff off of the top of our heads? It would make it a lot quicker and easier in my opinion.
Where's the fun in that! How about we all make presentations -- if we want -- and meet back up here in a few days to go over them? Plus, we can record them later and post them online so that way people can connect to our feelings!
That's actually a pretty good idea, Kanae.
Thanks!... Wait, what's that supposed to mean?
It's a good idea, that's what it means.
Eh, whatever, let's just get to work and meet back here when we're done!
Do we really have to meet at my place?Sigh Fine, as long as you guys bring your own food. I just wish you guys would stop eating all of mine...
Chapter 1.1
Writer: Rae
Location: Toshiki's Apartment
- Two days later -
Everyone's here now, right? Can we get started?
Mhm! I'll go first! It was my idea after all!
Well then, the floor is yours.
Let me get all plugged in and set up real quick.
I thought we already got everything set up?
I need to pull my presentation up! I know you might not've wanted to make one but I did! And I am not letting it go to waste!
Well, we're all ready when you are.
Jeesh, no pressure or anything, huh? Well, it's all pulled up now anyways! Toshiki! Dim the lights pretty please!
Mhm, I got it.
Thank you! Now let me begin!As a quick little summary: my favorite part of visual kei is the freedom of expression and openness to new things!Visual kei is perfect for those who like the freedom of dressing however they want with whatever aesthetics they want without being harshly judged by peers.There's also almost always new takes and subgenres so there's never a lack of something new and exciting!On the music side of things, it's so broad that everyone can find something they'll be into and I think that's beautiful!Yes, other genres like your usual rock or metal do that as well but with visual kei you get the merging of both aesthetics and sounds.Visual kei is like Japan's version of the West's glam rock but with a more modern twist and underground popularity. Not to mention that it's typically much darker lyrically and aesthetically.As someone who's always been personally infatuated with Harajuku fashion and subcultures, I guess I just naturally would've ended up being into visual kei, even without outside influences.There isn't much else I can add to this but v-kei has been near and dear to my heart since childhood and I believe it'll always be that way.
Well said. Your presentation was almost exactly what I'd expected. It's very you.
I figured you were more into the aesthetic parts of the genre. Not that that's a bad thing of course.
That sounds a little judgemental, Toui. But I suppose you are the one obsessed with the music more than anyone else.
And what's that supposed to mean?
Nothing, I'm simply stating a fact.You're the one with the most interest in the music over the aesthetics or otherwise.
Well let's all calm down now and wait for Ruka's turn!
We share a few points but I suppose I'll pull my presentation up as well. I'll just skip the similar parts.
Yay! I can't wait to see what draws you in the most!
I... think you can already guess but sure.
Chapter 1.2
Location: Toshiki's Apartment
- A few minutes later -
I'll make mine very brief so we can get through these quickly.
Aww...
Ahem. Well then.I'm going to try not to go too deep but I first learned of visual kei while I was still attending Yumenosaki. A friend of mine had come across it while exploring new genres of music and figured I'd enjoy it.This all just so happened to be during a time where I was questioning my identity the most so being shown that anyone can dress in any way they want was life changing to me.The mentality that I can simply dress how I want without caring what other people think was liberating to say the least.It was hard to deal with the stares and insults at first but after a while you become immune to it and realize they don't actually know you nor care. They simply see someone who is free to be themselves and envy that freedom so they feel the need to bring that stranger down.Having been shown by elders in the scene that I can dress as femininely as I want while still being a "man"* gave me the courage to become who I am today.Basically, visual kei is what gave me the freedom that I was seeking and I will forever be grateful to my old friend for introducing me to the scene.Besides all of that, like Kanae said, the music is a wide array of subgenres that are open to anyone willing to listen.Legends of the scene never truly die and new bands have, at least what I believe to be, a fair opportunity to flourish due to the closeness of the genre. Maybe not in your normal form of popularity but more so popular in a way that other fans of other bands are able to find new bands because of joint lives (not too unlike the other idol units here at ES).Everyone knows of each other, for the most part, so it makes things a lot easier when going to lives as well.
Ruka... I'm so glad that you were able to find a way to express yourself properly!
It seems like visual kei had that effect on most of us here too. Well, at least the two of us, Ruka.
I agree with Kanae, it's nice knowing you were able to find confidence through visual kei.
Mhm! And always remember, no matter what you're always going to be our Ruka! That'll never change!
Thank you, you guys. I'm sure not much will change from me but it's nice to know you guys will accept me even if it does.
Of course we will, we did meet each other at some of our lowest points anyway, didn't we? After all, if it weren't for you guys, I'm sure whatever I'd be doing would be something I'd be unhappy with.
You two are making me tear up! Come over here and let's all have a group hug!
Isn't that a little unnecessary?
Shhhh, just c'mere!
Yeah, yeah.
I'm already in hugging distance though?
Shhhh, shhhh, get hugged.
I'm getting squeezed to death over here! Can we move on already!
Sorry, sorry. I guess I got a little too into the moment.
Bringing us back to Ruka's points, how about one day you dress us all up as well? I'm sure at least Kanae and I wouldn't mind.
OMG YES! That would be sooo much fun!! I'd love to see what you'd choose for me to wear, Ruka!~
Uh, yeah, sure. We'd have to go shopping first though. I don't really have anything that would fit you too well in style, Kanae. And I definitely don't have anything that would fit you in size, Toshiki.
I am a bit taller than you, after all.I do think shopping together would be quite fun though.
You guys are forgetting about someone over here!I didn't even say I wouldn't want to join!
Would you?
I'd at least want to be there while you guys are having fun!
Aww~Lil Toui doesn't want to be left out! How cute!
You're the littlest one here!
* When Ruka says "man" it is put in quotations both due to his relationship with gender and the subversion of gender that visual kei presents.
Chapter 1.3
Writer: Rae
Location: Toshiki's Apartment
Ahem. Shouldn't we be continuing with our presentations?
Oh! Yeah. It's Toui's turn now, right?
It sure is but would you please let go of me first? I can't really do my presentation when we're all squished together like this, can I?
You are the one who chose to join Ruka and me on the already pretty full couch...
Well I'm sorry that I wanted to sit down before my presentation!
This isn't the only place to sit, you know? You could've pulled over a barstool from the kitchen .
But the barstools aren't nearly as comfortable as the couch! And there would've been enough space if you guys would've moved over just a tiny bit!
Ahem... do you need to set anything up, Toui?I remember you originally saying you'd rather just do it all off of the top of your head. Are you still doing it that way?
I'm just gonna put up a picture for the background and ramble, so yeah, the plan hasn't really changed that much.
All right, well, the floor is yours then.
Alrighty, one sec.
Toui pulls up a picture of an empty live concert hall on the projector.It seems to be taken right before other concert goers begin to arrive and while the band is still getting ready backstage.
Oh? Did you take this picture yourself, Toui?
Mhm, it's not really anything that impressive though. I just took it since I was way early to a live one time.
I think it's a great picture.Anyways. Please continue.
M'kay so...Ruka likes visual kei for the freedom of expression and Kanae likes it for the same reason but also the openness to things that are new. As for me? Well, I think all of you could take a very easy guess.I like it for the music and performances!Ever since I first came across v-kei, I've always been infatuated with the musical diversity and over-the-top performances.Personally, I'm more of a fan of the louder, more high energy music and bands which also ties into their performances. The louder the music, the more chaotic the concerts typically are and that's what I like! Chaos is fun! -- Well, controlled chaos is.I also love how easy it is to make friends that are also into v-kei! Obviously, it brought us all together and got us to where we are now!All I can hope for from now on is to help spread these feelings to new fans and to hopefully make them all fall in love with it as much as we are!I don't really have much else to add besides that but yeah.
Short but sweet!I can't believe we share the same taste! I also prefer the louder bands! I have a feeling it's in a slightly different way though.
Well, maybe we should sit down and go through our playlists together some time to compare?
Aren't we supposed to be rivals?
Man, I don't know. We've known each other for two years now though so I'd say it'd be okay to call a truce?
That makes me want to stay rivals even more! Hmph!We'll be rivals in taste! A battle of sound, one could say?
Sure, whatever you say.
Grrr! Be more excited! It'll be fun!!
Our taste in concerts couldn't be any more different, Toui.
Hm? How so?
Well, I'm sure it'd be fine if I weren't at the center of it but loud and chaotic events aren't exactly my thing.I much prefer more elegant and theatrical performances. Like the ones of MΔLICE MιZER.
Fair enough, we all have our preferences. And you aren't wrong, their performances were absolutely stunning! I just much prefer high energy, loud events.
It seems we're all equally split on that opinion then. Seeing that I know Kanae would be on Toui's side and I'm on Ruka's.
Yep, yep, I HAVE to have excitement in my performances! I'm always down for anything as long as it's fun though!
Speaking of your opinion, isn't it your turn now, Toshiki?
I suppose it is. I don't have a whole lot to say so it'll probably be quite a bit short but let me go get situated.
Chapter 1.4
Writer: Rae
Location: Toshiki's Apartment
You ready, Toshiki?
Let me sort these cards out first.
Oh? Are you doing this like a full on presentation?
I guess? I just find it easier to do it this way than having to keep checking a slideshow behind me.
Smart!
Anyways. Shall I begin?
Yeah! Go ahead, I can't wait to hear your thoughts!
Alright then.Out of the four of us, I am an outlier. Without meeting all of you I never would have paid any attention to visual kei.I wasn't drawn in by it's sound, sense of freedom, fashion, or anything of the sort but by those who are deeply in love with it.Don't get me wrong, now that I've given it a chance I love the genre very much as well but the genre itself isn't what first got me interested in it.You three's excitement and passion for it made me wish to join in on the fun and to look deeper into it.That fateful day when we all crossed paths and cemented our futures through the discussion of music -- more specifically visual kei -- that's what I have to thank for my life as it is now.In a way visual kei may have saved my life from a path I did not wish to take and I am truly grateful for the opportunity it gave me to be where I am today.But more so, I am grateful to all of you for making the decision to trust me and allowing me to figure out a path to get us here.I may not have a strong bond with visual kei like the rest of you but it has effected me deeply just the same.
Awww that's beautiful!I'm also glad we were able to find a way to make you happy!To be honest, I was also in a similar position.I've already told you guys this before but I was originally going to school for something my parents chose for me and was immensely unhappy.Being a doctor, or engineer, or whatever it was my parents would force me into was never anything I had wanted to do with my life.I have always and forever wanted to do what we're doing right now and I'm very glad to say that I am here with you guys today.My younger self would be very proud of my current self and that always makes me happy to think about.
Wow, you two are getting so sentimental right now it's gonna make me tear up.
I wish I could say our first encounter had done the same for me, but my parents had always been supportive of my wish to be a member of a band so I can't. -- Well, at least on that front.However, they weren't immediately supportive of my choices regarding my image so I can relate somewhat.It feels terrible to not be what your parents expect from you and it's always hard to get over their disapproval.To this day my relationship with my parents has been different since I changed my way of dressing, but sometimes you have to sacrifice something to be truly happy in life.I'm glad the two of you were able to overcome your troubles as well and to be here with us today. I truly wouldn't want to be here with anyone else. And I mean it.
Wh- not you too, Ruka!Ughh but I guess you guys are right.Ruka and I both went to Yumenosaki so clearly our parents have no problem with us being in sym-PHONY but still.All of our past troubles led us here and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else in the world!
Wow, I didn't mean for the conversation to get so serious but thank you, everyone. All of the things you've all said means a lot.
Of course! We're all here for each other, even if we occasionally argue! You could say we're like a family.
Mhm! No matter what happens we're here for each other and nothing can change that.
It feels weird hearing that from you, Toui.
What's that supposed to mean?!
Well, you were just complaining about us all getting so sentimental.
Well, yeah, but I joined in, didn't I?! I have a heart too, y'know!
Yes, yes, I know, I know.
Ruka pats Toui's head.
Hey! I'm not a child!
You two are getting along great as usual.
Huuuuh?
Just like always! ♪
Kanae joins in on Ruka patting Toui's head.
Grrr...
Chapter 1.5
Writer: Rae
Location: Toshiki's Apartment
Well, now that our presentations are all done...What's next?
You're the leader, aren't you? Don't you have an idea already?
I mean, I do, but we'd need to split into two groups. If you're all okay with that.
Sounds fine, what's the idea?
I don't see why not, what would each group be doing?
Okay, so, group one would be going around and asking other people their thoughts and opinions on various visual kei related topics.Meanwhile, the other group would stay here and watch old live performances to learn from.I was thinking group one would be Toui and Ruka, and then group two would be you and me, Toshiki.
You sure you don't just want to be alone here with Toshiki?
Toui nudges Kanae's side with his shoulder suggestively.
Oh my God, shut up!
Kanae responds with a full-force slap to Toui's back.
Ow ow ow! I'm just joking around!
And you get to be alone with Ruka! You didn't hear me making fun of you for that, huh?
Ruka and Toshiki give each other a confused look. They both shrug.
So, basically, Toui and I will be going around Harajuku asking people questions about visual kei that will help further our unit based on their answers?Meanwhile, you and Toshiki will stay here and look through pre-existing bands' concerts, music videos, and whatever else we manage to scrounge together for inspiration?I'm not sure that having Toui and me as the two going out and asking questions to strangers is the best of ideas, but if that's what everyone else is cool with that's fine with me.
Exactly!I see your point but since this is Toshiki's apartment I feel like it'd be better if he and I were the two to stay here. I'm not so sure he'd trust Toui to be here without him around, even if you're here with him.
What's that supposed to mean! I'm not some rambunctious child, you know!
Kanae is right, well, mostly. It's not that I'm afraid you'd do something, Toui, it's more so that I don't really like people being in my home when I'm not here.I guess it's more of a privacy and comfort thing?
Ah, fair enough. Well then, I guess we've all agreed?Should we report back on Monday? Y'know since most people have the weekends off and that'll make it easier to find people to interview and all?
Mhm, sounds good!Just drop off anything that might help Toshiki and I out as soon as you can! Maybe on your way out to Harajuku?
So, besides dropping things off, I guess we'll see you two on Monday then?
Yep, yep! Until then!Good luck you two!
I can't wait to see the results.(It's strange to think that two years have already passed since we all met. Everyone gets along so well together that it almost feels as if we're old friends from childhood.)(So much has changed since we first met.)(We've all gained more freedom in our lives and have been able to find a place where we feel like we belong.)(That place is here. With each other.)(Even if we were a bunch of strange, depressed young adults who felt lost in life we were eventually able to find a way towards the future through each other.)(But, now that I'm thinking about it, just how did this all happen again?)
Chapter 2.1
Writer: Rae
Location: Shukumei University
- Two years ago, beginning of the fall semester. At the front doors of Shukumei University. -
(I really hope the office is open today. One would think they'd have handed me my room key when I came in yesterday but whatever.)(I just hope whoever lets me in can get me a key so I don't have to head back home for the weekend.)(It would also be nice to get to know who I'll be sharing a room with sooner rather than later too.)(With how wide of a range this University covers I hope I'm not stuck with someone too different than me.)(Best case scenario they have better things to do than to be loud at ungodly hours of the night. Oh, and they're capable of cleaning up after themself. Common knowledge stuff.)(Eh, none of that really matters right now, I still need to get my key before any of that happens.)
As Toshiki reaches for the door a younger man starts running towards him from the sidewalk leading from the front gates.
Phew... haah. Please -- God -- please tell me the office is open.
Hm? I was just about to see for myself.
Great! Perfect even!
Toshiki attempts to pull the door open to no success. He then looks over and notices a button for the intercom. He looks over to the other man, shrugs, and presses the button.
Woah! It beeped! Does that mean the door's open now?
That must have been the door unlocking for us. Let's head in.
I'm right behind you.
The two enter the building and head towards the front desk.
Hello there, how may I assist you?
Ah, yes. I came by to see if I could get my room key? I must have gotten here just a little bit too late yesterday and ended up missing the time to get our room keys.
Sure thing. First and last name?*
I'm Hirose Toshiki. I'm a business student in my 4th year here.
Alright, let me go grab your keys, sir.
The receptionist enters a room in the back while the two wait.
Wow, so you're in your final year here then?
Hm? Yeah, I guess I am, huh.
Well I'm Suzuki Kanae! I'm currently an art student! It's nice to meet you Mr. Hirose!
Please, I'm not that much older than you, just call me Toshiki.
Alright! Toshiki it is then!
The receptionist returns with two keys.
I went ahead and grabbed your key too, Mr. Suzuki, since I overheard you saying your name.
Wow! How did you know I came to get my dorm key too?
We've had a lot more people than usual coming in to get their dorm keys today so I just kind of guessed based on that.
Makes sense, not as fun as being able to read minds or something though.
Haha, sometimes I wish I could do that.Anyways, do you two already know your room numbers? They should be on the keys I just handed to you, but if you need any directions I'm here to help.
It seems like we're both on floor two. I can show him the rest of the way, thank you for your offer though.
Well, if you ever need anything else you'll know where to find me.
So we're heading up then?
Mhm, just follow me.
Sir, yes, sir!
* It says first and last name but it's really last and then first.
Chapter 2.2
Writer: Rae
Location: Shukumei University Dormitory
- In the elevator leading to the second floor. -
So you'll be staying in room 204?
Yep, yep! And you'll be right across the hall in 203, huh?
Mhm. I guess that makes us neighbors then.
Yeah! What a crazy coincidence!Oh! Right! Aren't the dorms here two people rooms?
Yes, but considering how things seem to be going around here I doubt they'll be here tonight.Do you have anything you need help unpacking? I haven't brought anything back here with me yet so I have plenty of time left for the night.
Nope! I guess I had the same plan as you and I'm just going to wait until the weekend to go back and grab my stuff.I got too excited to be staying in a new place to bring anything with me, I guess haha.
The elevator beeps signaling their stop.
Well then, I guess I'll return to my room for the night. May as well get all situated in my new room while I still can.I also need to hang up the few outfits I brought.
Aww... see you later then, neighbor!
Mhm, until then.
They both unlock their doors and turn in for the night.However, after entering the new room Toshiki notices someone sitting at the couch.
Ah, excuse me.
...
Hm?
Getting no response and out of curiosity, Toshiki walks over to the person at the couch.
Hello?
The figure stretches, yawns, and turns around just enough to see Toshiki.
Hello. (Yawns) You my new roomate?
I sure am. The name's Hirose Toshiki. But you can just call me Toshiki.
Nagai Ruka.What time is it?
It is... 7 p.m.
Cool.See ya.
Ruka gets up from the couch and heads towards one of the two bedrooms before closing the door behind him.
(Aaaand my roomate has a strange personality. Just like I wanted. Great.)(Well, I better head to my room as well, I suppose.)
Chapter 2.3
Writer: Rae
Location: Shukumei University Dormitory
- At 2 a.m. the following morning -
Toshiki wakes up to a knocking at the front door. He sleepily walks over to see what's going on.
(Yawns) Hello?
Sorry for waking you so early! Can I come in?
Go right ahead.
Thanks! I just don't want to wake anyone else up right now.I feel bad enough waking you up.
Understandable.So what brings you here?
It's my roommate.The guy comes in for the first time half an hour ago with all of his stuff for the semester and starts making a ruckus.Of course, I twist and turn around in my bed trying to ignore him and try going back to sleep, but he just keeps going!I have no idea what he could possibly be unpacking that makes such loud clashing sounds OR what made him think doing all of this at nearly 2 in the morning was a good idea, but here I am now.Mostly sleepless and fully grumpy!
Ooof. Sounds rough.Did you try confronting him?
I tried knocking on his bedroom door but he either couldn't hear it because of how loud he was being or he just completely ignored me.So, I thought I may as well come over here?I mean, I guess we just met each other a few hours ago, but like, I don't know. You seem like the type of guy who'd hear me out!
I'd say hearing people out is a special skill of mine, I do have two younger brothers, after all.Anyways, I'd suggest waiting it out until tomorrow. If you have nowhere else to sleep for the night feel free to curl up on the couch here.I have some tea or milk if you'd like something to drink?
Nah, if I drink anything now I won't be able to settle down anytime soon.Plus, I already brushed my teeth and I don't feel like having to again.I will take you up on your offer to stay here though!
Alright, let me go get you a blanket. I'm pretty sure I have an extra in my closet.
Toshiki heads back to his room to grab a blanket before returning quickly after.
This is just an old fleece blanket a friend gave to me years ago, so sorry if it's too small or thin.
I mean, I could literally just go across the hall and grab one of my blankets if I really wanted to.This'll do just fine!
Good point.Well then, I uh, I suppose I'll leave you be?
Mhm! Good night!
Yes, good night.
Chapter 2.4
Writer: Rae
Location: Shukumei University Hallway
- 2 days later. -
Toshiki! Hey!
Kanae waves at Toshiki from across the hall.
Ah, Kanae, hello.So, how did the confrontation go? You know, with your roomate?
It went pretty well! In fact, he's right here! He wants to apologize for the other day.
The roomate in question pokes out from behind Kanae.
U-uhm. S-sorry about the trouble the other day.
He bows his head as low as he can go without tipping over.
I thought I was the only one in the dorm room and that no one else could hear me, so I wasn't paying any attention to how loud I was being.I didn't know I was so loud that I was bothering anyone else and I'm sorry that you ended up being woken up so early!
No, no, It's quite alright.It was a rough day for everyone so it's understandable you'd be in your own world.
S-still.
Really, don't worry about it.I honestly wasn't expecting my roommate to be at my dorm that day either.
Kanae's roommate leans out of his bowing position and stands straight up, albeit with bad posture and a slight slouch.
O-okay... Thank you, Mr....?
Toshiki, please, there's no need to worry about formalities.
Well, uhm, my name is Katou Toui.Nice to meet you, Mr. -- wait, no.Nice to meet you, Toshiki.
Likewise.
Well, now that that's all over with, how about we all go and get something to eat?I'm done with my classes for the day and could reaaally go for something to eat right about now.
Same here.To the cafeteria?
To the cafeteria!
The three head to the school cafeteria and eat their lunch together.After a little while of talking about their classes, Kanae changes the topic.
So, Toshiki. Since you've already met my roommate, what do you think about yours?
Well... hmm... how do I put this...I haven't had any real conversations with him yet but he seems to have a bit of a um... difficult personality?Perhaps it was because I woke him up mid-sleep but all I got from him was his name and the general sense that he's not much a people person.
I thought I heard a familiar voice.
A man approaches the group's table.
And what do you know, it's my roomate talking shit about me.
Woah, woah, I didn't mean anything like that!After all, we barely talked! I was just making assumptions, really!
(Chuckles) Yeah, yeah, I know. I'm just messing around.It's understandable, after all. I am quite the grouch when I get woken up haha.
So you're Toshiki's roomate? Nice to meet you!I'm Suzuki Kanae, the guy sitting next to me is my roommate, Katou Toui, and I think you already know who's sitting in front of me!
Kanae, Toui, and Toshiki, got it.I'm Nagai Ruka, it's nice to meet you all as well.May I take a seat?
Of course!
Chapter 2.5
Writer: Rae
Location: Shukumei University Cafeteria
After a few minutes of small talk between the three, Toui speaks up.
So, uhm, I don't mean this in a bad way at all but we really are quite an eye catching group here, aren't we?I mean that we all are dressed in such different ways from each other and other people that we kinda stand out... you know?
Now that you mention it, yeah, we are.I'm dressed in menhera, you're in rokku gyaru, and Ruka's in ouji fashion so yeah, we do stand out quite a lot!The only one who looks "normal" here is Toshiki! Haha.
You... can tell I'm into rokku gyaru?
Of course! It's not that hidden.I mean, you are dressed in it, aren't you?Besides that, I've been really into fashion subcultures and the like since I was really young so of course I know all about it and how to tell other people do too!
Really?!We have to talk more about this! It's soooo rare to find someone also into this kinda stuff! Especially other guys!So, so! What got you to look into menhera?I got into gyaru because of a few friends back in high school and haven't really gotten out of it since!
Well, as a kid, my aunt was really into visual kei -- even going so far as to call herself a bangya* -- so I was exposed to the genre a lot as a kid.Of course, I'm still really into v-kei but I just find menhera to fit me better aesthetically.
You're into v-kei too?!What crazy luck I had getting you as my roomate!When we get back I have to find all of my live concert DVDs and we must watch them!
That sounds like such a great plan!We're going to need to stop for some drinks and snacks first though because we don't have any yet and I can already tell we're gonna be watching those for a looong time.
Of course!You get the snacks, I get the drinks?
Sounds like a plan!
Ruka looks over to Toshiki.
I think they forgot we were here, didn't they?
Yeah... I have absolutely no clue what they're even talking about. Do you?
Oh, no, I do, but they're just in their own little world right now.
Wait... what.You do?
Of course, there is a fair amount of overlap between ouji fashion and visual kei, after all.
So... I'm the only one completely lost, then?
It sure looks like that.Would you like a brief explanation?
Please.
Ok, so, basically, visual kei is both a music and fashion genre characterized by it's freedom of expression and defying of gender norms.Some people say it's a music genre, others say it's fashion, but, personally, it's always been a mix of the two in my mind.It started back in the 80s and has been fluctuating in popularity since.Some anime even have visual kei openings, though that's much less common these days.Is that a good enough explanation or do I need to say more?
No, no that's good.So, it's basically an appearance based genre?
Pretty much, yeah.
Chapter 2.6
Writer: Rae
Location: Shukumei University Cafeteria
Aaaanyways! What department are all of you from?I'm from the Visual Arts department, though I do take an engineering class or two to please my parents.
I'm from the Music department!I've loved music since I was a kid so I'm finally fulfilling my dreams and learning more technical stuff!
Now that's strange, all three of us are in differing art-related departments, huh?I'm from the Fashion department. If you can't tell by the way I'm dressed right now, I adore fashion.But I also take a few music classes here and there, I need to put my high school years to use, after all.
Your high school years? Did you go to a music school in high school?
Sort of?I graduated from Yumenosaki before coming here.You may have heard of it it's--
-- One of the biggest idol schools out there!I graduated from there as well!I took a year break before attending here, though.
Hah, what are the odds!A fellow Yumenosaki graduate! I wasn't expecting to meet someone else from Yumenosaki here, what a pleasant surprise!
...?Yume no Saki? I've never heard of it.
Well, didn't you say you're from the Business department when we first met?Considering it's an idol school, it's not too shocking you wouldn't know of it unless that's your thing, you know?
Did you graduate from there as well?
Oh, no, no, I didn't. But I really, really wanted to go there.Of course, my parents didn't approve of it, though.But that's a discussion for another day! Don't let me bring the mood down!
Honestly, you aren't missing out much. The school's been on a decline in recent years, I can't even imagine what it's like right now.
Oh? Really? I never figured that would be happening!
Yeah, no one's really talking about it, it seems.It wasn't that bad before I graduated but you could definitely get the vibe that something was off.We for sure had more slackers than in previous years, and they were going pretty much without punishment.In fact, I'd almost say slacking off was starting to be more worth it than putting in effort.
Toui, you graduated before me, right?
That depends, how old are you?
Ah, right, I guess we need to know how old we are to compare.I'm 20 right now.
So, yeah, I graduated two years ahead of you, I'm currently 22.
That makes sense. That two years difference really helped give time to have the school change between you and me graduating.I wouldn't say it was in total disfunction when I left either, but I could definitely tell that in a few years it's going to be a shell of what it once was.Given I graduated last year, I'd say give it another year or so and it's going to be worthless even attending.
Ahem well... given all of this Yumenosaki talk I have a proposition to make...
Chapter 3.1
Writer: Rae
Location: Present - Toshiki's Apartment
(Ahh... that's right.)(Of course it was Kanae who initiated it all. It's not like the rest of us would've ever thought of making a band together, let alone joining Ensemble Square of all places.)(Really, we were lucky that I was approached by my sister to help create an agency with her. Without that I don't think we'd have been nearly as successful as we've been thus far.)(Next time I see her I'll have to give her my most sincere thanks.)
- and that's why I think we should start with their last...Toshiki? Hey! Toshiki!You there?
Hm? Oh, Kanae!Sorry, I must've zoned out. What was it that you were saying?
You've been out of it for a while now! I was starting to think you fell asleep with your eyes open!Is everything ok? If I'm boring you I can stop...
No, no, it's nothing like that!I was just reminiscing on how we got here and everything that entails.My thoughts must have trailed off without me noticing.
Well, alright.Speaking of, how is your sister doing? We aren't overwhelming her or anything, right?
From what I know, she seems to be handling everything quite well.I offer my help, but most of the time she insists that I'd just "get in the way."
And you're okay with letting your sister take care of all of the agency's work?
Well, I'd love to help her more, but her stubbornness seems to always get in the way.Plus, she is older than me. By seven whole years.I also have the unit's work to worry about so she likes using that as another defense to get me to leave her alone.
I see...Well, I guess that's just another worry for another day!We have research to get back to, after all!So! What was the last thing you remember seeing?
Hmm... well... to be honest I don't really remember anything...We were discussing which band's lives to watch first... and I think we decided on SPITEFUL SCROOGE's* ?
Woah, that far back? We're literally like 30 minutes in... You were daydreaming for that long?Impressive!
I... suppose..?If we're already that far in we probably shouldn't worry about starting from the beginning again...We do have a few other DVDs to go through anyway...
If you're sure about that...I guess I can just summarize it for you anyways, after all!So, basically, what you missed was the cool and epic intro they had with a bunch of violinists playing the violin part of one of their more romantic-sounding songs before the band themselves interrupted and started singing one of their darker songs.Oh! This is also from the second era.Then some pyrotechnics go off and everyone but the vocalist starts moving the stage lights around the crowd.Umm... you did miss literally half of the songs while daydreaming though, so I'll just share this with you later so you can watch it from the beginning on your own!
Alright, thank you.We do have a few others to watch after this so I'll take you up on your offer to come back to this later.After all, the other two are off on their own mission right now and we have no idea when they'll get back so we mustn't waste any unnecessary time.
Mhm, mhm! I wouldn't call catching up with what you missed unnecessary though, per se but yeah!We should get this show back on the road before the other two can beat us to the finish line!
Ah, of course. I almost forgot the other two were out doing their own research.
Geez, you're really forgetful today!Good thing I'm here to keep you on track!
Kanae teases Toshiki.He then wraps one of his arms over the forgetful one's shoulder.
1. SPITEFUL SCROOGE is a parody name for MALICE MIZER
2. The two of them are currently watching a recording of this concert
Chapter 3.2
Writer: Rae
Credits roll on the screen in front of the two cuddled up underneath a thin blanket.
... so?Thoughts?
The one who this inquiry is directed towards stretches, forcing the blanket to fall onto the floor beneath the two.
Hm... I quite liked it.It was a bit more... eccentric than my personal comfort zone, but I had that feeling coming into all of this in the first place.I can see the appeal, however.This specific band seems to be more of Ruka's thing, if I'm being honest.
Wow! It's actually quite funny you say that 'cause this is actually Ruka's favorite band!And don't worry about this not being in your comfort zone, I haven't shown you the bands that I think you'll like the most yet!Those are on the next DVD!
Is that so?Well, what's the hold up then? Let's get to it.
Sir, yes sir!
With that, Kanae inserts the next DVD.
This band's B-T!* They've been active since '83 and I feel like they're right up your alley!In fact, I bet I've showed a few of their songs to you already. They're one of the pioneers of the genre so they're also a pretty good band to start with for people just starting to get into the musical aspect of visual kei!
Hm, that's nice to know, I suppose.So, is this one of the most important performances in visual kei history then?
Hmmmm... kinda? It was harder to find this specific concert in full so this is probably not the whole event but I'd say it's still pretty important nonetheless!
1. B-T is a shortening of Buck-Tick's name
Chapter 3.3
Writer: Rae
Two hours and roughly two DVDs later
Three knocks strike Toshiki's front door.
It sounds like they're back.
Oh! Oh! Let me get the door!
Kanae runs to the door before Toshiki can even stand up.
Soooooo? How'd it go?
If ya'd let us in first, I'm sure we'll tell ya the full story!
Yeah, it's... quite a story. We're all going to need to sit down for it.
...Oh? Is that a good or a bad thing?
You'll just have to wait 'n see!Now let us in already!
Yeah, yeah, come on in.
Kanae moves out of the way of the entrance, gesturing with his arms as the two pass through.