Please note: I am not a fan of Idolm@ster. To be honest, I've never watched a single episode in my life. Therefore I have no idea who these characters are and might end up making errors in who's voice is whose. I only did this translation because apparently Makoto-kun is an epic reverse trap that I will go gay for within ten seconds... so far it hasn't happened.
Chapter 1 - Symmetrical Pair
Yukiho: Ah. Oh whatever shall I do? Maybe I should just stop. I just know being an idol is impossible for me.
Makoto: Um, er, er… It’s in this building… There it is! It’s there! Aw no, I’m late!
Yukiho: Huh? Something’s heading over here?
Makoto: It might be past the arranged time already. Aw~!
Yukiho: Huh? AW!
Makoto: Ow, ow. I’m so sorry, are you all right?
Yukiho: Yes, I’m fine. Um, er, sorry.
Producer: I’ve seen a lot of girls before but this is the first one that I’ve met that’s actually clumsy. Welcome to Namco Production.
Yukiho: Drama cd
Makoto: Idolmaster
Yukiho: Scene 1: Hagiwara Yukiho and
Makoto: Kikuchi Makoto Chapter
Producer: Hm. Let’s see. Kikuchi Makoto-kun?
Makoto: Yes, nice to meet you. Um, why am I ‘kun’ though?
Producer: Huh? Well, it’s just the feeling I get from you
Makoto: Huh, that’s terrible. No matter where I go, they say the same thing.
Producer: Hah, but you know, you’re a very energetic person Kikuchi-san.
Makoto: That’s my most redeeming feature.
Producer: Oh that can’t be true. Let’s see, the reason for your application is because ‘you like dancing’.
Makoto: Eh? Yes, that’s right. I (boku), not that, I (watashi) saw people dancing at the park and thought I’d like to do it too. Ah, um, er I think I wouldn’t mind wearing cute clothing too. Ah, that’s not my intention though, um if it’s necessary for work I will wear them. Um, it’s not that I don’t like too, um, er.
Producer: Ahahaha, I got you.
Makoto: I (boku), not that, I (watashi) will do my best!
Producer: Um it’s kind of awkward for you. You don’t have to force yourself to use I (watashi) all the time. You can keep using I (boku), it’s just how your personality is. Okay, Kikuchi-san?
Makoto: Yes! But you know; using Kikuchi-san sounds a bit too distant, please call me Makoto!
Producer: Got it, well then, let’s go full out from here on Makoto!
Makoto: Yes sir.
Producer: Great! Now then, the next one is Hagiwara… Um, Yukiho right?
Yukiho: Yes, it’s Yukiho.
Producer: Huh? It’s Yukiho-san right?
Yukiho: Yes.
Producer: Eh. I’ll repeat it again.
Yukiho: Um, excuse me. It’s just that I’m not too good around men… Um…
Producer: Ah, you don’t have to apologize. Can I call you Yukiho?
Yukiho: Yes, go ahead.
Producer: Ah, this might be a bit stumbling point (bad translation). Um, welcome to Namco Production. Thank you for choosing our section over all the other Productions out there.
Makoto: Oh no, not at all.
Producer: Heh. You could say this is the first audition, but it doesn’t mean just because you got in that you’re going debut right away.
Makoto: Yes.
Yukiho: Yes.
Producer: First we’ll start a lot of lessons for you, we promise to support you fully but in the end, whether you bloom beautiful will depend entirely on your efforts.
Makoto: Yes.
Yukiho: Yes.
Mami?: You hear that? How arrogant! He’s so fakin’ he’s cool act. (Trans note: from here on, I can’t tell who is who)
Yayoi?: Hey Mami, I don’t hear them anymore.
Mami: It’s okay Yayoi. But you know, I feel like I’ve heard him say that before. Moreover, he downright poor.
Producer: Seriously…
Yayoi?: Oh I see…
???: Huh? They stopped talkin’.
Yayoi?: You think he heard us?
Mami?: That’s impossible, he’s practically deaf. Hee hee.
Producer: Hold it right there, you shorty foursome, I heard you all!
Mami?: How rude, calling us shorty!
Girls: Yeah!
Producer: It’s because you were bad mouthing me, its payback.
Mami?: I’m only stating the truth, can’t badmouth you if it’s the truth.
Producer: Urg, back talking me all the time.
Mami?: See, you can’t even talk back already.
Girls: You lost, you lost!
Producer: Aren’t you supposed to be in the dressing room?
Yayoi?: We’re just taking a break.
Girls: That’s right!
Producer: A break? Has it really been that long? It couldn’t be… Iori, did you…?
Iori: Oh my, you seem unusually thoughtful.
Producer: You’ve done it again?
Mami?: Yup, Iori went ‘so we’re going to use this color scheme?’
Yayoi?: And then, ‘what’s the point of this design, if the ribbons aren’t long enough?’
???: Wow, you two acted/sounded exactly like Iori-chan!
Girls: hee hee.
Producer: Again? Iori, we decided to go with that color scheme remember?
Iori: When I saw the end design, it was way too simple! Or what, you won’t listen to my opinion?
Producer: Seriously… oh sorry for that, can you wait for me a bit?
Makoto: Ah, yes.
Yukiho: Please go ahead.
Iori: Sorry, we’ll bring him back really soon.
Producer: Okay, we’re heading to the dressing room. Let’s go.
Girls: Okay!
Makoto: A-amazing, I’ve seen them on TV but they’re the real thing.
Yukiho: They sure are.
Makoto: How amazing… Eh hm, um, say… Sorry for before.
Yukiho: Huh?
Makoto: You know, at the entrance. I knocked you down.
Yukiho: Huh? Oh, it’s fine.
Makoto: You’re not hurt?
Yukiho: No, I’m really okay.
Makoto: Really?
Yukiho: Yes. And besides, if I didn’t run into Kikuchi-san, I think I would have just ran away.
Makoto: Ran away?
Yukiho: Yes, um, I’d been debating whether to come to the company for at least an hour.
Makoto: Huh, why?
Yukiho: Because, I had no confidence. I was wondering whether I should really be joining. Even the Production sign up was just sent in by my friend.
Makoto: What?! You’ll be fine Hagiwara-san! I mean take me, I look like a boy. It’s a miracle that I managed to get into here.
Yukiho: That’s not true at all!
Producer: Oh for the… In the end, she decided the first color scheme was fine. I told her that it was the cutest one out of them all in the beginning. Sorry about that, it’s your most important day yet I’m running around all over the place.
Yukiho: Oh, not at all.
Makoto: It’s okay.
Producer: Thanks. Ahhh. Those four are the most hard to handle foursome in the office. They’re always so… Oh that reminds me, I’ve got a favour to ask you.
M+Y: Yes?
Producer: It’s about those girls you just saw. You know them right?
Yukiho: I do.
Makoto: Yes.
Producer: But they’re usually a trio right?
Yukiho: Now that you mention it…
Producer: The truth is Ami is a twin. The other is Mami but lots of things have happened so we switch between them.
Makoto: Oh~, I didn’t know.
Producer: This is a secret, don’t tell anyone else.
M+Y: Yes.
Producer: Thank you. Well then, let’s go back to what we were talking about… Um, what were we talking about. I mentioned the lessons and… Oh yeah, let’s try our very best from here on, the true challenge starts.
Makoto: Yes!
Yukiho: Um…
Producer: Yes?
Yukiho: Um, can I really become an idol?
Producer: Huh? Why ask?
Yukiho: Because I don’t have any confidence in my dance and looks.
Producer: That’s not true. Well, em, you know…
Yukiho: I knew it, it’s impossible.
Producer: That’s um… That’s not true! Um, hey Yukiha, hey you managed to get here on your own here right?
Yukiho: Yes… but my friend sent the sign up form…
Producer: Ah but since you managed to come here is because you thought about doing it right?
Yukiho: Probably…
Producer: Um, well, you’re here now because you managed to get here right? So why don’t you try it for a bit.
Yukiho: Hmm…
Producer: Um, er…
A+M: Big bro just failed to be convincing.
Iori: That stick in the mud is far too unrefined. It’s impossible for him.
Mami: Stick in the…
Ami: Mud?
Yayoi: Huh? What?
Producer: HEY! It’s time for you to go to the studio!
Iori: How rude! Why are you so puffed up about? Oh I now, you want to look good in front of the newbies.
Producer: No, I don’t! That’s not true!
Iori: Oh really? Right?
Girls: Right?
Producer: Hey you guys…
Iori: Well then, we don’t have any more time to play with the Producer. Let’s go to our lesson.
Girls: Okay!
Producer: Play with? Just go already!
Iori: Oh how noisy, we’re going, you don’t have to tell us.
Producer: Seriously but I guess Iori was right. There’s something better than my arguments/opinions. It’s a bit unusual, but come with me.
M+Y: Huh?
Yukiho: Wow, how beautiful!
Makoto: I, I can wear such cute clothing?…
Producer: You can just hold them against yourself to see. Usually we have lots more for decisions. But for today, you can try these.
M+Y: Yes!
Makoto: Oh, this is so cute but if I wear it everyone would just laugh.
Yukiho: Ah, this is so great. Oh this is so cute too!
Producer: How is it? Getting tempted/excited?
Makoto: Yes, very!
Yukiho: Sort of, I guess.
Producer: I’m so glad, well then, why…
Ritsuko: Wrong, just wrong. Costumes/clothing is not just that.
M+Y: What?
Producer: Ritsuko, when did you…
Ritsuko: Really, Producer, why are you not giving new recruits dressing advice?
Producer: Well, these two haven’t… Hey wait, aren’t you just newly recruited a week ago yourself?
Ritsuko: The boyish one, hmm, here this one.
Makoto: This really frilly one? Will it really look good on me?
Ritsuko: That’s right, this is the best one it’ll definitely look good on you. And as for you… Here, this.
Yukiho: Um, excuse me, but this… this looks really daring.
Ritsuko: Hm, you’re right it’s a bit intense/flashy but let’s try something new/daring. There are lots of possibilities out there, you can’t just stay in your little niche and try all sorts of things. That way you can discover new looks for yourself.
Producer: You say some good things Ritsuko.
Ritsuko: Oh~, this is supposed to be the Producer’s job.
Producer: Yes ma’am.
Ritsuko: Hey Makoto, you look super cute.
Makoto: Really?
Ritsuko: See, you’re so cute? And how about Yukiho, do you like it?
Yukiho: Ah, you can see so much leg. Ah, and you can see so much of my belly…
Ritsuko: It really suits you! That’s it, you’re theme/premise is fragility and strength combined!
Producer: Oh I see. Gotta write this down.
Ritsuko: Oh Producer, get it together!
Producer: Yes ma’am.
Makoto: Thanks for today.
Yukiho: Thank you very much.
Producer: Yeah, sorry for dragging you around on your first day.
Makoto: Oh no, it was fun.
Yukiho: I had fun too.
Producer: I’m glad. Well then, tomorrow is when lessons get serious. Things will get tough.
Yukiho: Oh~.
Producer: Ah, sorry. It looks like I got you worried. Your teachers will be strict, but they’re really able to bring out your true abilities. Do your best.
M+Y: Yes.
Producer: See you tomorrow then.
M+Y: Yes, we’ll be going.
Makoto: Wow, what a big sunset.
Yukiho: It really is.
Makoto: It really feels like we’ve taken our first step.
Yukiho: I… I don’t know but it does feel I managed to go forward a bit.
Makoto: Those costumes/dresses sure were amazing. Hagiwara-san looked real cool back there.
Yukiho: Eh? Well, Kikuchi-san looked really cute too.
Makoto: Wow? That’s the first time anyone said that to me.
Yukiho: Really?
Makoto: Yea. You know how I look this right? I’ve been mistaken a boy a lot of times. I never really minded it before though.
Yukiho: I see…
Makoto: Hee. When I become an idol, I thought I might look more girlish. Girlish looking person like Hagiwara-san saying I look cute maedkes me really happy.
Yukiho: Oh not at all. If I hadn’t met Kikuchi-san, I might have just gone home and be crying in my room right now. Thank you.
Makoto: Hahahaha. That was so weird.
Yukiho: It kinda of was.
Makoto: Ah, I’m so happy. To think I made a friend on my first day.
Yukiho: Friend?
Makoto: We’re not?
Yukiho: Oh no, I was wondering if you’re fine with me.
Makoto: You don’t want to with me?
Yukiho: Oh no, I want to. I wanted to ask you actually.
Makoto: Okay! Then, let’s start, nice to meet you and let’s do our best, um, Yukiho.
Yukiho: Yes, Kikuchi-san.
Makoto: Tsk, tsk. Makoto.
Yukiho: Ah, yeah, let’s do our best. Makoto-chan.
Chapter 2 – First Lesson
Makoto: According to the map we got yesterday, this is the building.
Yukiho: Yeah.
Makoto: They say a lot of famous idols practiced and got their start here.
Yukiho: Amazing, so this where they got their lessons.
Makoto: Yeah, well then, let’s go
Yukiho: Yeah.
Makoto: I wonder if this is where we’re supposed to go in.
Yukiho: It seems like it.
Makoto: Good morning!
Yukiho: Good morning!
Producer: Oh, good morning. So, you didn’t get lost did you?
Yukiho: We got lost a bit.
Producer: I see, that’s expected, it’s really hard to get here.
Yukiho: This voice!
Makoto: Could it be?
Producer: Would you like to see?
Makoto: Is it really all right?
Producer: Yup.
Chihaya: These wings…
Makoto: Wow, so this the studio!
Producer: SHHH
Chihaya: … since we’re friends!
Makoto: Amazing!
Yukiho: Yes, what a wonderful/beautiful voice.
Chihaya: Huh? Eh? Ah, thank you.
Haruka: How unusual, Chihaya is actually saying ‘thank you’.
Chihaya: Haruka.
Makoto: Whoa, this time it’s Amami Haruka-chan.
Haruka: You’re the new recruits right? Nice to meet you, I’m Amami Haruka.
Producer: Huh, did you have lessons today Haruka?
Haruka: Some reporters wanted some pictures of me singing, so we decided to head over here.
Producer: I see. Hm, this is great. Let me introduce you, these are our newest recruits, Kikuchi Makoto and Hagiwara Yukiho.
M+Y: Look forward to working with you.
Haruka: Looking forward to working with you. Let’s do our best together.
Chihaya: Same with me.
Haruka: Oh Chihaya-chan, you’re too distant/cool. Oh, I know she looks like she’s going to fall to pieces/break but that’s just how she looks. Don’t worry too much about it.
Makoto: Really?
Chihaya: I don’t really think I’m like that.
Haruka: See? She simply looks frail.
Chihaya: I’d like to continue with my lesson.
Haruka: Ah, but before that, I gotta ask a favour.
Yukiho: Huh? What is it?
Haruka: To mark us becoming fellow idols, why don’t we exchange *mei ado* (Trans note: Short term for “mail address”).
Yukiho: *Mei ado*?
Makoto: You mean mail address?
Haruka: That’s right.
Chihaya: Again? You’re so obsessed.
Haruka: Uh, but you know, we want to talk a lot but won’t see each other often, um unless you don’t want to.
Makoto: Sure, don’t worry about it.
Yukiho: No problem.
Haruka: YEAH! Let’s exchange email addresses. Your cellphone address would be best right? I’ll put in mine first okay. So show me.
Makoto: Okay.
Chihaya: Producer…
Producer: Yes, got it. We’ll clear out so we won’t get in Chihaya’s way.
M+Y: Yes sir.
Haruka: Okay, I’ll be waiting for your email.
Makoto: Oh, okay.
Woman: Haruka-chan, we’re ready now. Can come in now?
Haruka: Yes! See you later.
Yukiho: Um, Producer, is it really all right to exchange emails?
Producer: Yup, it’s fine. Haruka really like email, and besides both of you are idols like her now. There’s nothing to worry about. You should start acting like friends with each other.
Yukiho: Wow, as friends!
Makoto: Yeah, she’s amazing being on TV so much but she’s so nice.
Producer: Yeah, that’s just how she is so she has lots of fans. Though sometimes it causes her lots of troubles/mistakes.
Haruka: Um, I can still hear you.
Producer: ACK! Well, it’s your turn now. Lessons, lessons!
M+Y: Yes sir.
Makoto: DO RE MI FA SO LA TI DO!
Yukiho: do re mi fa so la ti do.
Man: Okay, stop there. Well, Makoto-kun is fine for now, but Yukiho-kun…
Yukiho: Yes sir?
Man: Vocalization is the bedrock of basics but I can’t hear your voice at all.
Yukiho: Sorry sir.
Man: Don’t you want to sing?
Yukiho: Yes I do sir. Sorry sir.
Man: We can’t move on to the next step in voice unless you improve.
Yukiho: Yes sir… Sorry sir.
Woman: One, two, one, two, okay! Listen to the music, you must move your body with the music. One, two!
Yukiho: My right foot, mmm…
Makoto: Whoa, is it this way? This way? Huh? HUH?
Woman: No resting! Mako-chan, the rhythm. It’s the rhythm, this isn’t gym class. It’s dance, now stand up!
Makoto: Yes ma’am!
Producer: Okay, that’s all for today’s lesson.
Makoto: I’m so tired.
Yukiho: So am I.
Producer: Hey now, don’t sit on the floor. Sit on a chair.
Makoto: S-sorry but my knees are so shaky, I can’t.
Yukiho: Me too.
Haruka: Huhuhuh, looks like there’s still lots to work on.
M+Y: Haruka-san.
Producer: Oh, you’re still here?
Haruka: It was a serial interview, I even did my lessons. It was a full day of work.
Makoto: Amazing…
Yukiho: Lessons and interviews…
Haruka: Idols are all about fitness/endurance. So how were your first lessons?
Yukiho: Well…
Makoto: Heh heh…
Yukiho: We were scolded a lot.
Haruka: Ah, well, it’s expected that it won’t all go well. Even I…
Chihaya: It was like it was enough to burst your ears drums (alt trans: sounded like it could shatter windows). (awkward translation)
Haruka: Yeah, that’s it, even my teacher claimed her ears went… Chihaya-chan, you didn’t have to go that far!
Chihaya: I personally thought that it sounded like a violin string screeching…
Producer: Yeah, that was tough…
Haruka: Producer, you’re so mean.
Makoto: No way, but we heard you on tv last night. Haruka-san’s song sounded wonderful.
Yukiho: Yes, I was amazed you could sing so well while dancing.
Haruka: Thank you! Oh, I’ve got some great co-workers!
Producer: And so, these lessons are to make you better. Don’t worry so much.
M+Y: Yes sir.
Haruka: Oh, Producer just stole the spotlight from me.
M+Y: Thanks for today!
Makoto: Wow, it’s so dark out.
Yukiho: It sure is.
Producer: Hey!
Makoto: Huh?
Yukiho: Producer?
Producer: It’s late, I’ll walk you to the train station. You talked with Chihaya and Haruka a lot today.
Yukiho: They’re such famous idols yet they were so nice to us. I’m very honoured.
Makoto: Yeah, me too.
Producer: The director is pretty strict about making sure they don’t get too big for their britches. And besides, they’re happy that they’ve got more co-workers/comrades.
Yukiho: Co-workers/comrades?
Producer: Yeah, was Haruka and Chihaya’s advice helpful?
Yukiho: Yes, very.
Makoto: But, it does seem difficult.
Yukiho: But I wouldn’t mind being like that. To be able to sing and gain the admiration of the audience.
Producer: Oh, positive statement!
Yukiho: But I wonder if I’ll be able to do it?
Makoto: Er, today’s lessons…
Yukiho: We got scolded a lot.
Producer: Hm, this is just the beginning.
Makoto: That’s right.
Yukiho: I sure hope so…
Producer: Okay then, tomorrow Yukiho will practice vocalization all day, until she’s not able to speak any more.
Yukiho: EH!?
Makoto: Oh, that was pretty good vocalization right now.
Producer: Yeah.
Yukiho: Even you Makoto-chan?
Chapter 3 Meeting and Discovery
Makoto: Good morning!
Producer: Hey, good morning.
Yukiho: Good morning.
Makoto: Oh, you’re already here?
Yukiho: Yeah.
Producer: This business is strict about time; it’s good to come early.
Azusa: Oh my, I thought there was a voice I’ve never heard of before.
Producer: Oh, Azusa-san. Why were you in the reception room?
Azusa: Well, to tell you the truth, I got the wrong time for a meeting. I came, oh, about 2 hours earlier than I should have. That is… I was waiting…
Producer: Um, this isn’t too good of a habit. (bad translation)
Azusa: But, didn’t you say being earlier is good?
Producer: But this is way too earlier.
Azusa: Oh, you’re strict as always. Oh my, so those voices I heard, are you the new recruits?
Makoto: Y-yes! I’m Kikuchi Makoto!
Azusa: Oh my, what an energetic person.
Yukiho: I’m Hagiwara Yukiho, good morning.
Azusa: Yes, good morning. You two are so cute.
Makoto: I’m cute? Really?
Azusa: Yes, hee hee, though you might more ‘cool’ than cute.
Makoto: Ah, I knew it.
Azusa: Looks like you’ll be very popular with girls Makoto-chan.
Haruka: Azusa-san, that’s not a compliment.
Azusa: Oh my, Haruka-chan. Good morning.
Haruka: Good morning. Look you two, you’ve got to be careful around Azusa-san.
M+Y: Huh?
Azusa: Oh my, why?
Haruka: ‘Cause she says some seriously outrageous things while smiling.
Azusa: Do I? Oh my, that reminds me Haruka-chan. You’re very early for our meeting.
Haruka: I heard Azusa-san was already at the office, so I flew over right away!
Azusa: Oh my, you came by plane?
Haruka: Huh, um no, that’s not what I meant. Um, anyways, let’s get our meeting underway, the rest of the staff will fly right on over.
Azusa: Everyone is coming by plane? Oh my, it must be so much trouble.
Haruka: Um, er, Azusa-san, you’re just joking around right?
Azusa: Joking? Hm, heh heh, but you know, I’m very happy that I’m going to be singing with Haruka-chan.
Haruka: Me too!
Azusa: This will be the first time we’ve ever sang on the same stage together. Let’s do our best.
Haruka: Yes.
Makoto: Wow, on stage together?
Haruka: That’s right. For my next concert, I was real nervous being by myself so I asked Azusa-san to help me out. And I’ve always wanted to sing with her.
Azusa: Thank you so much Haruka-chan.
Yukiho: Wow, it sounds so amazing, I look forward to it.
Azusa: Thank you. Makoto-chan and Yukiho-chan, do your best.
M+Y: Yes!
Haruka: Well then, Azusa-san let’s go.
Azusa: Yes. See you later Makoto-chan, Yukiho-chan
Haruka: I’ll send you an email later.
Producer: You’re emailing Haruka?
Makoto: Yes, I got 10 last night.
Yukiho: I got lots too.
Producer: Oh, you must have lots to talk about then.
Makoto: Haruka-san’s emails are really fun. But a concert, that’s so amazing.
Producer: One day Makoto and Yukiho will get there.
Yukiho: But will we really be able to do it?
Producer: Yeah, let’s do our best. That’s why we made a training schedule for you. We thought it through yesterday night with the advice of the teachers. Makoto is a dancer type while Yukiho will continue her singing training. All the while, we’ll introduce you to the industry and such.
Yukiho: Wow, there’s something different each day.
Makoto: Huh? Meeting with TV companies?
Producer: We have to first get your face known. But there are plenty of lessons, since we really want to bring out your best. What do you think?
Makoto: Amazing, there are so many little details on me.
Yukiho: Me, too. With this, I really might be able to become an idol.
Producer: Not ‘might’, you ‘will’. It’s going to be pretty tough though.
Yukiho: Huh? It looks like I won’t be with Makoto-chan very often according to this.
Makoto: Hm…
Producer: Well, that can’t be helped. But don’t worry about it, I’ll be with you!
Mami: Oh~, big bro sounds so cool.
Ami: Impressive!
Producer: Wow, tough bunch.
Yukiho: Love you, love you, I try to act like an adult…
Man: Put in some more emotions in to it.
Yukiho: But it’s no good, it doesn’t suit me at all…
Man: That’s it, like that. You’re voice is beautiful, if you can put your emotion into it, it’ll be a beautiful song.
Yukiho: Yes!
Makoto: Kikuchi Makoto, pleased to meet you.
Man: Oh, so this Namco Pro’s new recruit.
Producer: Yes, please take care of us.
Man: This is the first time we’ve had such a sincere/loyal character type. (trans note: literally ‘fidelity, integrity, sincerity, loyalty’)
Producer: Sure is.
Man: I look forward to seeing how we’ll play this out. It’d be great if you do well in your job.
Makoto: Yes, I look forward to it.
Woman: Does that mean you’ll be trio unit then?
Haruka: (can’t hear well)
Makoto: Oh no.
Yukiho: We’re not at all ready.
Woman: Hee, did you get that frantic look?
Man: But of course.
M+Y: Eh!
Woman: It was really cute.
Haruka: See what I mean, make a funny face and they’ll take a picture right away.
Makoto: That surprised me.
Woman: It looks like this is going to make an interesting article for once. Upcoming idols after Haruka-chan, a one pager addition.
Haruka: All right! Okay, let’s thank her. A one and a two…
M+Y+H: Thank you very much!
Woman: Okay, then you should be able to do this rhythm Mako-chan.
Makoto: Yes!
Woman: That’s right, move to the beat of the rhythm.
Makoto: Yes!
Woman: You’re able to sing with your body too, not just with your voice. Larger moves, don’t forget to look.
Makoto: Yes!
Woman: That’s it, you’ve gotten better right away. Keep this up and you’ll be a rookie (bad translation.
Yukiho: Um please, this is Namco Production. We’re advertising for an event.
Producer: Yukiho, that won’t appeal to anyone.
Yukiho: But, but everyone is watching.
Producer: That’s why we’re out here for.
Yukiho: But… but… There’s just no way I can’t speak any louder with so many people around. It would bother them.
Producer: Um, well, this is just practice. Besides, you’ll be singing in front lots more fans than this.
Yukiho: Yes but…
Producer: Hm, then let me go first. Just imitate me. Namco Production! Passing out event pamphlets! Okay, you try Yukiho.
Yukiho: Um, er…
Producer: Namco Production!
Yukiho: Namco Production!
Producer: Passing out event pamphlets!
Yukiho: Namco Production! Passing out event…
Producer: Calm down.
Yukiho: Yes. Um, er, er. Namco Production!
Man: Makoto-chan, try to smile more naturally/softly.
Makoto: Eh heh.
Man: Hm, that seems too fake. This is for your profile pictures, so try to relax more.
Makoto: Ah, yes.
Man: Oh! You looked like a gallant/chivalrous boy in that one, so I took a shot. Wanna go with this?
Makoto: You can’t.
Man: I’m just joking, I’ll take the cutest picture possible.
Makoto: Yes, please do.
Man: I told you already, don’t do that. Come on, smile sweetly.
Makoto: Smile~ sweetly.
Man: Ah man.
Yukiho: Oh, I’m so tired. Huh? Ah, it’s from Makoto-chan. Dance lesson is over, soaked with sweat but I had lots of fun now that I’m able to do lots more moves/steps. Makoto-chan’s gotten so much better. I gotta reply.
Makoto: Ah, already got it. Right now in the train, I sang so much that I can’t speak at all. Keeping a high voice is really hard but I finally got the okay from the teacher for my song I’ve been learning. Wow, Yukiho got better at singing! Heh, I won’t lose!
Chapter 4 A Tense Audition
M+Y: EH?! An audition?
Producer: Yup, after this.
Yukiho: That’s way too sudden!
Makoto: Yeah!
Producer: But if I tell you the day before, you wouldn’t be able to sleep.
Yukiho: But, we’ve only had a month’s worth of lessons.
Producer: I’ve got the okay from the teachers, they say you might be a little rough but a small audition should be doable.
Makoto: Really?
Producer: Yeah, there are things experience can teach you that lessons can’t.
Yukiho: Ah…
Producer: Yes? Oh, I’m in your debt. Huh? Yes? Yes but the schedule of our girls are… New recruits? Yes we do have some. Huh? But the stage is still…. Ah, no…. Ah wait… Ah… As always, they’re so pushy.
Makoto: What’s wrong?
Producer: Oh a girl who was supposed to do the opening act collapsed. So they want someone else to do it, even a new recruit will do. Ah, that’s it.
Yukiho: Eh?
Makoto: You don’t mean…
Producer: Even though we’re their only hope, to send out someone onto the stage all of a sudden without even auditioning experience is… Hm? Makoto, you’re smiling pretty widely.
Makoto: Eh, am I?
Producer: Do you want to go for it?
Makoto: Is it really okay?
Producer: If it’s Yukiho, she’d just faint.
Yukiho: Yes, to all of a sudden get on the stage is…
Producer: But to go for the opening act…
Makoto: It’s okay if it’s only the opening act!
Producer: That’s not what I mean. Opening act is actually pretty hard. But it’s a good chance…
Makoto: I… I want to do it!
Producer: Hm, okay then! If you Makoto says she wants it, let’s do it.
Makoto: Yes!
Yukiho: You’re so amazing Makoto-chan.
Producer: Head towards event right away, I’ll act as your manager.
Makoto: Ah yes!
Yukiho: Makoto-chan, do your best.
Makoto: Thanks, you pass your audition too Yukiho.
Yukiho: Ah, the audition. Do I really have to go?
Producer: You sure do.
Yukiho: Ah, everyone is so confident.
Producer: T-they only look confident.
Yukiho: Oh…
Producer: Calm down, Yukiho.
Man: Those holding audition number 31 to 40, please go to the stage.
Yukiho: Ah! I’m 34…. I… I…I…
Producer: Calm down, calm down! Ah, take deep breaths! Calmed down?
Yukiho: No…
Producer: Ah, um, let’s see, let’s try…
Man: Are all the contestants to 40 here?
Producer: No, we have one more here! Go Yukiho.
Yukiho: Yes.
Producer: Do your best Yukiho! Remember your lessons.
Yukiho: Ah, yes!
Makoto: Whoa, so many people. Ah, I thought this would be my chance but maybe I shouldn’t have come. If I go out and they laugh at me… What should I do?
Announcer: Until preparations are finally done, please enjoy Namco Productions newest idol, Kikuchi Makoto-chan’s song! Makoto-chan, please go ahead.
Makoto: Ah, yes sir!
Girl: Thank you very much.
Man: Thanks for your hard work. Next up is number 34. Hagiwara Yukiho-san.
Yukiho: Yes!
Man: Please match your choreographed dance to the music, and show off your vocal abilities at the same time. The judges are over there.
Yukiho: Pleased to meet your acquaintance.
Guy: I’m pretty bored today, so try to make it enjoyable for me.
Woman: That’s right, there haven’t been anyone who’s got our attention.
Guy: This is your chance, so do your best.
Yukiho: Oh, oh what should I do? So scary… everyone’s so…
Man: We’re starting the music now.
Yukiho: Ah, ah, it started. It started!
Man: Hm, you can’t hear the music?
Yukiho: Um, no. It’s just, um…
Woman: Hey, it’s fine if you start in the middle of it. Just sing.
Yukiho: Ah, yes. Um, er.
Man: Hey, hey, you came here with this level of skill to an audition? Namco Pro, are you making fun of us?
Woman: That’s enough.
Man: Yeah, stop the music! Okay, next.
Yukiho: Um…
Man: What are you doing? It’s over, go home.
Yukiho: Yes sir… Thank you very much.
Producer: Yukiho!
(Music: Agent wo Yoru)
Guy 1: Ah man, she’s still singing.
Guy 2: Ain’t it over yet?
Guy 1: Well, can’t expect much from an opening act.
Makoto: Why? Why? Is it because I look like a boy? Because I don’t look cute, they aren’t listening?
Producer: Hey Yukiho, where are you!? This is bad, where is she? Hey Yukiho!
Makoto: I’m back…
Azusa: Oh, Makoto-chan, how was your first time on stage?
Makoto: Um, it wasn’t any good.
Azusa: Huh?
Makoto: As I thought, I wasn’t any good. It’s impossible for me to be an idol. Because I look like a boy. Nobody was listening.
Azusa: Oh my… Um, let’s sit down here. Okay?
Makoto: Yes.
Azusa: I see, nobody was listening.
Makoto: Yeah, today’s main act was a really cute girl. So when someone like me came out, everyone probably got bored/lost interest.
Azusa: I see, the opening act was pretty tough then. Heh, it reminds me of the tough times I had when I had go singing and nobody would listen to me.
Makoto: Huh? You too Azusa-san?
Azusa: Yes, I’ve sang in a completely empty department store rooftop or a rural amusement park before.
Makoto: No way, but Azusa-san is…
Azusa: Oh no, at the very beginning, nobody would watch but you know, it wasn’t just me. Haruka-chan and Chihaya-chan had to go overcome a lot of things before standing on the stage.
Makoto: Overcome?
Azusa: Yes. Hey, Makoto-chan, why did you want to become an idol?
Makoto: Um, er, I thought, through my dancing and singing, I wanted to cheer up everyone.
Azusa: Oh my, how wonderful. It’s so Makoto-chan like.
Makoto: But I…
Azusa: Hm, having Makoto-chan so sad makes me sad too.
Makoto: Huh, really?
Azusa: Yes, you’re usually so happy and full of energy. When I look at Makoto-chan, I feel happy too.
Makoto: At me?
Azusa: Yes, oh, that might be Makoto-chan’s distinct appeal? Looking at you, makes everything happier.
Makoto: So when I’m happy, everything becomes happier/more fun?
Azusa: Yes.
Makoto: I see. Um Azusa-san, I just realized something.
Azusa: Oh my, what could it be?
Makoto: Um, er, that’s a secret. But, you know, just by thinking about it makes me happy.
Azusa: Oh my, oh my, our crying crow has become better already.
Yukiho: I knew it, I couldn’t do it. It was impossible for me to be an idol.
Man 1: Hey little lady. Hey, hey, you don’t look too happy.
Man 2: What’s wrong?
Yukiho: Ah, um…
Man: Hey, why don’t we go somewhere fun? You’re so cute; it’s not good for you to be so sad.
Yukiho: Um, er, but…
Man 1: It’ll be fine. You’re by yourself right.
Man 2: Yeah, it’ll be fun… Right?
Yukiho: Um, er, no thanks, I’m…
Man 1: Aw, come on, let’s go!
Yukiho: No, no, let me go! Please let go!
Man 2: No way.
Ritsuko: Hey you two! You enemy scum of society!
Yukiho: Ritsuko-san!
Men: Huh, who the hell are you?
Ritsuko: Yukiho, do you know these guys?
Yukiho: No.
Ritsuko: Well I pretty much figured that. So, I guess I won’t hold back then.
Man 1: Huh, what the hell are you saying?
Man 2: Don’t get too cocky, ya bitch.
Ritsuko: Hyah! Hah! Arh!
Man 1: This is bad… She’s…
Man 2: Hey, wait for me!
Ritsuko: Hm, they’re all just talk, how pathetic. Well then… You dumb little girl. Seriously, the producer’s worried and been running around looking around for you.
Yukiho: I’m so sorry.
Ritsuko: Well, in any case, let’s head back to the office. We’ll talk it over there. Today’s audition was just bad luck, the judges were the worst. They all weren’t interested in doing their jobs and ended up ragging on all the other auditioners too.
Yukiho: No, it’s because I was no good.
Ritsuko: Hey now…
Yukiho: It was a mistake to think about becoming an idol in the first place. Excuse me.
Ritsuko: Hey, Yukiho
Yukiho: I’m sorry, I just…
Ritsuko: Wait, Yukiho… Ah, sorry. Um excuse me, please you in front, um… Yukiho!
Chapter 5 To be Reborn
Mom: Yukiho! I got another call from your producer this morning.
Yukiho: Yeah.
Mom: It’s been a week, just how long are you going to hide in your bed?
Yukiho: It’s fine, Yukiho live in a hole for the rest of my life.
Mom: Oh for. Wrapping the sheets around you like that.
Yukiho: It’s fine.
Mom: You know, I was real surprised when you said you were going to be an idol but I was also happy.
Yukiho: Huh? But?
Mom: It was the first time I’d ever heard you wanting to do something. If you still want to go for it, get out from there.
Yukiho: I don’t, I won’t do it.
Mom: I see but you’ll have to do the refusal yourself. I’m not doing it for you.
Yukiho: I just wasn’t any good at all. Hmph? Ah? Ow!
Iori: Hello everyone! How are you?!
Yukiho: Oh, Iori-chan. Yayoi-chan. Is that Ami-chan? Who is it? (song start) She’s so good. Everyone’s so amazing. Just amazing. The fans are enjoying it. Ah, email? Eh, Haruka-san? Come to Mitsuki Station Park Stage and get back what Yukiho’s left behind/forgotten. If you feel like singing again, definitely come. Haruka… Haruka-san… What do you mean, what I’ve forgotten?... I’ll go…
Yukiho: Um, er, it’s here right? Just what… is here? Just what is Haruka-san trying to say…
Makoto: Love you, love you, my chaotic hear overflows of you,
Yukiho: This voice.
Makoto: it makes me impatient.
Yukiho: Makoto-chan is singing by all herself, she’s even dancing.
Makoto: Love me, love me, if you notice me, if only a bit, keep me on your mind,
Yukiho: Makoto-chan… I… I…
Makoto: It’s my first stage.
Yukiho: Love you, love you, I try to act like an adult…
Makoto: Yukiho?
M+Y: But it’s no good, it doesn’t suit me at all. Love me, love me…
Man: Oh? What’s that?
Women: An audition?
Man: Oh how cute.
Girl: Nice voice.
M+Y: I scour magazines for advice and fortunes every single day. It’s my first stage.
(clapping, various comments)
M+Y: Thank you very much.
Man: Good job!
Makoto: Ah ha ha, as I thought, as soon as Yukiho joined in everyone started paying attention. Hm, I guess my dance isn’t quite up to par.
Yukiho: Ah, so amazing. You’re so amazing Makoto-chan, singing all by yourself like that.
Makoto: It was actually pretty embarrassing at first but it’s pretty good practice. On my first day, no one was listening to me at all.
Yukiho: Amazing… It’s so embarrassing that I just hide from it all.
Makoto: Hm, no I’m really glad Yukiho came.
Man: Are you done already?
Makoto: Huh?
Woman: Please do an encore. Won’t you?
Yukiho: Um… Are you sure you want us to sing?
Girl: Please do!
Yukiho: Makoto-chan…
Makoto: Uh, sure!
Haruka: Can I join in too?
Makoto: That voice is…
Yukiho: Haruka-chan.
Girl 1: Huh, that’s Amami Haruka isn’t it?
Girl 2: Eh? What’s this? Is this for TV?
Haruka: Heh heh, I ended up bringing the band along too
Makoto: Eh?
Yukiho: Eh?
Haruka: So, let’s sing together, please?
Makoto: That’s…
Yukiho: Well…
M+Y: Of course you can!
Haruka: All right!
Yukiho: Sorry to interrupt/bother you!
Producer: Yukiho… What is it?
Yukiho: I truly apologize for resting for no reason for the last week.
Producer: Let’s go into the private room.
Yukiho: Um, yes…
Producer: I’m not going to ask the reason why you took a break.
Yukiho: Yes…
Producer: Yukiho, why have you returned here again?
Yukiho: I… I… I want to be an idol!
Producer: I see but… you know it’s going to be hard right?
Yukiho: Yes.
Producer: There are tougher things ahead than that audition before in this business. Are you fine with that?
Yukiho: Yes, I want to sing. I want to sing and make everyone happy. No, I want to sing, very… very much!
Producer: Okay, Yukiho. You didn’t even show your tears until the end.
Yukiho: I… I can’t cry any more.
Producer: Yeah…. Okay. Ah, I feel so much better now. But you know Yukiho.
Yukiho: Yes?
Producer: If you start acting selfish/whining again and not leave you room again.
Yukiho: Yes?
Producer: I’ll go to your house and drag you out by the neck. You better be ready for that.
Yukiho: Yes.
M+H: All right!
Producer: You guys.
Makoto: Yukiho, we’re back together again.
Haruka: Yukiho just has to sing.
Producer: Seriously, listening in like that. You three, the punishment for that performance you gave at the train station is still on its way.
All: Aw!
Bonus Track 1
Trans Note: A note is in order, because I’m sure a few of you will not know what an ‘elevator girl’ is. It’s literally someone, always female and wearing a uniform, in Japan who mans the elevator at a department store or retailer and presses the button for customers and announces stops, going up or down, floor level, specials on sale, etc for customer. That’s it, they used to be incredibly common (personally I find it a little annoying, why do I need a person to press the button? Can’t I just press it and go up or down?) but now are a dying breed (personally I hope they’re extinct) because people can do the work themselves and a automated sound/announcer can say what is on each floor. These elevator girls were almost literally a required feature for any self respecting retail department store throughout Japan once.
Yayoi? (Who?): What if Yukiho was an elevator girl?
Makoto: The scene takes place at a metropolitan department store. Yukiho is working here as an elevator girl.
Yukiho: Going up! Um, going up!
Man: Um, you’re going up right?
Yukiho: Huh? Ah, yes. That’s right. Um, sorry.
Man: Oh, you don’t have to apologize. So I’m getting on.
Yukiho: Yes.
Man: Um…
Yukiho: Yes?
Man: There doesn’t appear to be other people who want to get on.
Yukiho: Oh, you’re right. Sorry, um then we’ll be going.
Man: Please do.
Yukiho: Thank you very much for patronizing to Bon Department Store. Please tell me what floor you wish to go.
Man: Um. To the seventh floor.
Yukiho: Understood. AHHH!
Man: What’s wrong?
Yukiho: I-, I pressed the button for the fifth floor. I’m so sorry!
Man: Ah? Huh? Um, it’s okay if it stops, you can just press the seventh floor button then.
Yukiho: Ah I see. Thank you for informing me.
Man: Oh no, please no need to lower your head.
Yukiho: Fifth floor, new clothing section.
Man: Um, er, the seventh floor?
Yukiho: Ah, I’m so sorry. Um, er, seventh floor. AHH!
Man: What’s wrong this time?
Yukiho: I pressed the third floor button? I’m so sorry, I’ll go dig a hole and bury myself in it.
Man: Ah hah. Hah.
Bonus Track 2
Makoto: What if Makoto was an art teacher?
Yukiho: The scene takes place at a work studio of the famous teacher Makoto. Today there are lots of… Actually only a few students in.
Man: Sensei, what do you think of this?
Makoto: Hmm, it could stand to be a bit more energetic.
Man: Energetic, you say?
Makoto: Yeah, say like this colorless banana! RARGH!!!
Man: WAH! You painted the banana red?!
Makoto: Yeah, yea this is how it should be!
Man: Um, Sensei, I would like add in an apple. What should I do?
Makoto: Hm, let’s see… In this case, we would draw a relatively thick and broad outline, and paint a lot of yellow .
Man: Um, er… Sensei…
Makoto: Then make it all round, and then if you just keep on painting it round and round. What do you think?
Man: I can’t tell if it’s an apple any more.
Makoto: That’s okay. You can’t let shape/objects dictate your painting. In any case, you gotta put in more verve/energy into it to make the painting complete. (bad translation)
Man: Uh…
Makoto: Okay then, I gotta complete my painting. Okay, preparations are complete. Now then. ZEH! TORYA! EI!
Man: Whoa. The paints flying up to the ceiling. Ah, Sensei please try to keep the paint on your creation.
Makoto: EI EI EI EI! SORYA!!!
Man: Er. Can’t take this any more. Let’s get outside.
Man: Ah, I don’t if that’s normal for someone so famous but when I went to her show/display I just couldn’t get the art. (bad translation)
Makoto: Okay! I’m really getting into it now!