[TL] Part 2 - Chapter 4

* Chapter 4: 冠番組とお披露目 / The Unveiling of Their Show
fuck lmfoa i hat et titLes

|||        4-1: Iori's Decision                |||
9: I'll leave it in your hands.
/7: As the music began to flow, Ten-nii began to dance without any hesitation.
/7: He danced in my position... Where I belonged.
/7: /Because/ it was the rehearsal, Ten-nii didn't cut any corners. He was the most serious one in the studio.
/7: Ten-nii's seriousness and fervency spread to the staff members as well, and the whole studio was tense.
/7: He stood in the center and pulled them along-- it's just as Yaotome-san said before.
/7: He must've been talking about Ten-nii.
/7: When TRIGGER's Kujou Ten stands at the forefront and gets serious, he boosts everyone else's professionalism as well.
/7: Before I knew it, those overwhelming 4 minutes and 30 seconds had ended.
/7: I had just stood there, gaze stolen away, unable to do a single thing.
9: Hah..... Thank you very much. How was it?
Show Director: Perfect! You really saved us there! Thank you so much!
tmg: Ah.... Thank you very much. Sorry for all the trouble, Kujou-san.
9: Rehearsals aren't just practice-- they're for getting the studio pumped up about the actual performance as well. This is all part of our work.
9: Both the staff members and fans will respond to our sincerity.
9: Using your poor physical condition as an excuse is just irresponsible.
7: .......
1: That is certainly a logical argument. However, allow me to ask you something.
1: Have you done something like this to other groups as well?
9: ...What.
1: You haven't, am I correct? It's only because we're IDOLiSH7, because your poor younger brother is here that you're doing all of this.
tmg: I-Iori-san....
1: All of this is just excessive meddling. (1)
1: It's because of this very behavior that you've raised him to be someone who's spoiled and can't do anything by himself!
9: .......
9: ...What?
Nikaidou Yamato・Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Now, now, now!
2: Don't do that, Ichi! He helped us out! I am so sorry!
10: Just as Iori-kun said, Ten, you're butting into other agencies' affairs a little too much! Please forgive us!
2: No, no, not at all! You guys have always taken good care of us. Let's go out sometime!
10: Ah, I'd love to! Let's grab a drink together when we have time! Come on, Ten! Come here!
9: ...Tch.
1: Huh? What did you just do? Did you just click your tongue at me? I heard you. Hey, come back!
2: Just drop it, and get over here!
1: ...W-What about Nanase-san?
2: He's sitting in the corner of the studio with his knees to his chest and is super depressed....
1: See? Look at what you've done! You made him lose his motivation! Just what part of this is 'sincere!'
8: What are you doing, Ten? More importantly, when'd you learn IDOLiSH7's choreography?
9: I can remember things after watching them once.
8: That's impressive. Wait, no, hold up.
8: You didn't have to harass your younger brother like that.... Ow, ow ow! You're stepping on my foot!
9: Sorry. I didn't notice.
8: Hurry up and move!
10: He wasn't harassing him. Ten's just worried about Riku-kun-- Ouch, ouch! That's my foot!
9: Sorry. I didn't see.
10: But you're closer to the ground? --Ow, ow, ow! Sorry!

7: ......This is the worst.
3: Riku, it's okay! You did really well on the actual performance! See, look! Kokona-chan's saying "Congrats!"
6: OH... My figure....
5: Exactly! You were very cool, Riku-kun! Here, have some pudding! It'll cheer you up!
4: Hey, that's mine....
7: But.... But I....
3: Isn't Kokona-chan cute?
5: Isn't King's Pudding delicious?
2: Why does it sound like they're trying to soothe a kid....
7: I.... All I do is cause trouble for everyone....
7: All I do is get in everyone's way....
5: Riku-kun....
1: ....... Manager, if you'll come with me for a bit?
tmg: Yes....

tmg: Iori-san, what is it?
1: ...I'll admit it. You were right. I was wrong.
tmg: Huh...?
1: Regarding the change of center for the new song... I humbly accept.
tmg: .......
1: If we leave things as is, Nanase-san will only continue to lose confidence. Kujou-san substituting in for him was the final blow.
1: Our show begins, and gathers attention.... With Nanase-san at the center....
1: Everyone remembers IDOLiSH7 and Nanase-san's names.... That was my dream. (4)
tmg: .......
1: Well, there's no use in mulling over this. Things will only worsen if we keep forcing it as is. Let's shift gears and move forward. (5)
tmg: Iori-san.... Thank you so much. I understand, both Iori-san and Riku-san's frustrations....
tmg: Because the two of you are always doing your best for IDOLiSH7.
tmg: Even though Iori-san worked so hard to plan things out for IDOLiSH7....
1: It's fine.
1: Manager.... Thank you, for noticing.
1: If it weren't for you, I would've crushed Nanase-san before I could've made him into a star. (6)
1: I'm glad you're our manager.
tmg: Iori-san....
1: I forgot to mention this, but the organization and staging of our last live was wonderful. Your talent can be sensed through your work. (7)
tmg: Not at all.... Don't praise me so suddenly. It kinda feels out of place....
1: I'm trying to spoil you.
1: ...Do you not understand?
tmg: .......
tmg: Iori-san is kind of clumsy, huh.
1: ...Are you making fun of me?
tmg: Not at all. I think you're a very charming person, both when things go well and when things aren't going well.
tmg: Your face when you're calm and composed, when you're ill-tempered, when you're casting your eyes away in embarrassment, when you're crying-- they're all charming. Iori-san is someone who captivates the hearts of others.
1: .......
1: I'll be entrusting the position of center to you, Iori-san, during this important time period for IDOLiSH7.

7: Iori's gonna be center, instead of me...?
1: Yes. We've changed the center on the basis of the song before.
1: It's exactly like that. Don't overthink it. I'm only substituting for you until your condition gets better.
7: ...Won't it be rough, since you have school too?
1: It won't pose a problem.
7: I'm sorry.... For causing you trouble....
1: It's just division of labor. There's seven of us, so we must cover each others' weaknesses.
1: Any questions?
7: Nope. Thank you.... To be honest, I'm relieved. I've been uneasy every morning, before going to work.
7: About whether or not I can do things well, or see it to the end.... That's why, I'm really thankful.
1: .......
7: Haha.... I feel like I gotta thank you somehow, Iori.
1: Are you giving me some under-1000 yen candy again?
7: I'll splurge this time! I'll buy you anything you want. I've got quite a bit of allowance money saved up, you know?
1: Haha. I look forward to it.
/tmg: And so, the center of their TV show's theme song changed from Riku-san to Iori-san.
/tmg: Wishing for IDOLiSH7's growth and success, with Riku-san and Iori-san and all of the member's feelings poured into it....
To be continued....


(1) excessive meddling, aka think HELICOPTER PARENTS LMAO.........
(2) IS THERE NO SHORT WORD FOR SITTING LIKE THIS IN ENGLISH
(3) 代打 actually means pinch-hitter but tHIS IS IIDOLS NNNOT BASEBALL (read: it would seem Strange if i just went SO KUJOU-SAN WAS THE PINCH HITTER) so yeah, here is the Real context.
(4) IF YOU DIDN'T CATCH IT, HERE IS ME SCREAMING, DISTRAUGHT, IN THE TRANSLATOR NOTES BEACUSE THIS IS ALL!! PAST TENSE!! THIS /WAS/ HIS DREAM!!! HE... HE!!!! Aa a A A A A  A A A
(5) lit. 'no use sighing/lamenting over this' and the 'forcing it' part is actually some analogy to ripping seams open (like when u try to put on ur jeans from 3rd grade).
(6) aka pushed him too hard, or smtH, GOD, BEACUSE IORI IS THE ONE WHO WANTS RIKU TO SING, THE MOST, OUT OF EVERYONE, AND MAKE HIM A STAR, IM SO, MEOTIONTins
(7) lit. WE COULD FEEL YOUR TALENT/ABILITIES, so, yeah


|||        4-2: The Unveiling                  |||
3: We're changing the center, huh.... Riku does seem tired, so this is probably for the best.
6: Regardless of what form we are in, our name and our bonds remain unchanged-- we are IDOLiSH7.
6: By the way Mitsuki, I believe it is time for you to let me watch "Magical★Kokona" ....
3: No, it isn't. There's still a lot of other shows we have to watch! Variety shows, and music shows too!
6: OH.... Mitsuki is so passionate about studying.
3: I mean, I absolutely have to make this work! I want everyone to get excited watching our show, and for more and more people to know about us!
3: That, and I'm having a lot of fun right now! Having someone praise you.... When you work hard and someone praises you for it-- that makes me happy!
6: I am happy as well. I am a fan of Mitsuki, so I am also happy when Mitsuki is praised.
3: Now you're saying something real cute!
6: I'm serious. I know that you've been giving it your all for a very long time now.
6: You are both kind and strong, and should've been commended much earlier. Congratulations, Mitsuki.
3: Nagi....
6: Is it okay if I watch Kokona?
3: No.

4: So I heard you're subbing for Rikkun, Iorin?
1: Indeed.
4: Huh. Sounds tiring.
1: Please stop. That person probably hasn't noticed yet.
4: .......
1: Does MEZZO" ever encounter something like this? ???
4: We.... We're super different, so.
1: Isn't it inconvenient for the person comparing?

5: Listen, Tamaki-kun. I won't tell you to stop putting in ad-libs, but don't stray too far away--
4: You're so noisy, ugh....
5: --otherwise there's no point in the two of us dancing.
4: There's just a certain /feeling/ during those times!
4: What you're saying right now is to just dance every step exactly? Like a robot, or what?
5: You're just arbitrarily breaking the formation, and too much at that. You have to respect the person who choreographed all of this....
4: All you do is nag about others! You're always telling me that I can't do this or that! (2)
5: It's because you keep doing things irregularly! There are things that are set in place for everything....
4: You're so annoying! Someone told me that, if they wanted someone well-behaved, then they wouldn't have called for me!
5: Who!? Just who said something so irresponsible!? I'd like to have a word with them!
5: ......!
4: ...W-what!?
5: Could you act as a wall for a bit?
4: Wall? How? Do I spread my arms out? Or raise them? Or should I jump?
5: Don't do anything that would make you stand out!

TV Channel Staff: Thank you very much for going through the trouble to coming here today.
FSC Official: Not at all, it looks like it'll be a show with great viewership. I have great expectations.
TV Channel Staff: Of course!
TV Channel Staff: A music show where TRIGGER are the main MCs. It'll be a gorgeous lineup, since the guests will be from Yaotome Productions' main force as well.
TV Channel Staff: FSC is also cooperating on all fronts. We won't lose to "A Lovely Night with IDOLiSH7!" which is starting in the same time slot!

4: ...Isn't FSC Sou-chan's family? With your family as the sponsors, TRIGGER's getting a new show?
4: And in the same time slot as our show?
5: .......

tmg: Same time slot or not, don't mind it and keep on going! It just so happens that this spirited music show starts at the same time as us!
tmg: They're gonna be held up by a special program, their first broadcast is two weeks after ours, so in that time let's get all the viewers onto our show!
7: Yeah, Sougo-san! It was just by chance!
6: Don't mind! Look, Kokona is smiling!
5: But.... Even so....
2: You were prepared for at least much though, weren't you? Because we were. Alright, I'll read you a book so you better fall asleep.
5: ...Why are you comforting me like you would a child?
2: I thought it was the current trend or something....
tmg: Also, we have other advantages!
5: Advantages? Like what?
tmg: Yamato-san got a call for really big job!
4: That's amazing! Yama-san, a big job!
2: ...Onii-san'd much rather let a bunch of small jobs pile up over time, and work at them leisurely but....
tmg: Re:vale's Yuki-san is the lead actor for this, and it's the movie adaptation of the critically acclaimed police drama series, "Mission!"
tmg: There's an important, brand-new character, and Yamato-san got an offer for the part!
3: Yamato-san, in "Mission!?" Isn't this your big break!
2: I'm not doing it.
tmg: Huh?
2: Can you turn them down? I don't have any intentions on appearing on the silver screen. (3)
tmg: But.... Yuki-san will be there as well, and it's such a big chance....
2: I'm not doing it. Period.
1: But it's a long-awaited chance, right when everyone's doing their best....
6: Yamato.... It is a personal rule of mine to not pry into things.
2: That's good. Keep it up 'til the day you die.
6: Take off your glasses.
2: Why are you breaking that rule all of a sudden?
6: Why are you hiding it? I know. I know what Yamato's secret is.
2: .......
6: Probably.
3: Nagi does? Did hear it from Yamato-san? And by secret, do you mean /that one/....
6: No. However, I'd like him to stop hiding and talk about it. Not only are we your members, we are also your Best Friends....
2: Oh? I know too, Rokuya Nagi. I know what your real identity is.
6: OH.... So you watched as my shadow grew long, and a tail sprang out of me, underneath the full moon in the dead of the night?
2: Close. ...Lend me your ear for a bit.
2: How about we watch some Kokona-chan, together in your room?
6: YES! YES! YES!! I agree wholeheartedly! We must head towards my theater room right this instant!
7: W-what did you say?
3: Whatever it was, it seems like he hit the target. I mean, he did say "yes" a bunch of times.
2: Hahaha. Well, it's naptime for Onii-san, so....
6: Yamato, lend me your ear.
2: Hm?
6: I'm giving you the slip this time. Be thankful.
2: .... You....

Anime Voice: Magical★Flash~!
2: Just how many times has it been already....
6: Wonderful things are still wonderful, no matter how many times you watch them.
Anime Voice: Magical★Turbo~!
2: I'm so sleepy....
6: Yamato is a difficult person. It is quite lonesome, that you'd glare down even your friends when people touch upon your secret.
2: .......
6: What are you afraid of? Please trust us more.
6: I pray that you will find the courage to tell all of us, one day.
2: .......

/tmg: Each member had their own respective problems, but regardless, IDOLiSH7's TV show and its start drew closer.
/tmg: The show's theme song would be a new song, with Iori-san set as the center.
/tmg: The new song was also revealed to the public at the same time.
Program Staff: Now, shall we get ready for the filming?
1: Understood.
2: Ichi, you nervous? It's your first live broadcast ever since you were made center.
1: Please don't lump me together with him.
7: Wha-- Just what do you mean by that!
1: It's exactly what it sounds like.
7: How irritating.
7: But, well, you're really helping me out by doing this, Iori. Don't be nervous, and do your best!
1: Like I said, I'm not nervous.

/tmg: And so, the day came at long last. The day that the center change to Iori-san would be unveiled.
/Takanashi Tsumugi: Please…
/Takanashi Tsumugi: I hope that everyone will accept the new IDOLiSH7…
Mister Shimaoka: It’s time for our next guest, IDOLiSH7!
/Audience: Kyaaa!
/Audience: Eh!?
Mister Shimaoka: And as for the new song they'll be singing for us this time! It seems like the center is Iori-kun.
1: Yes. I look forward to working with you today. This is my first time trying this, so I'm a little nervous. Please don't be too hard on us. (4)
Mister Shimaoka: Ahaha, but you sure look calm. What are your thoughts on this, Riku?
7: Iori always scolds me during my time as center, so this time I get to give him advice!
Mister Shimaoka: That's what you say, but what do you think Iori-kun?
1: Of course, I welcome it with open arms. If its valuable advice, that is.
7: Hey now, what do you mean by that....
1: It was a joke. We have a splendid song this time as well, and we'd love to have everyone listen to it as soon as possible.
Mister Shimaoka: With Izumi Iori-kun as the new center, IDOLiSH7 has turned over a new leaf! And the song is, “Perfection Gimmick!”
Mister Shimaoka: Give ‘em a round of applause!

To be continued...

(1) NAGI IS USING RLLY FOMRAL LANGUAGE HERE AND I LaugEHd
(2) nag is inferred, bUT THE TRIPLE "DAME DAME DAME" WAS KINDA CUTE TO ME
(3) You will be pleased to learn that silver screen (movies), in Japanese is lit. silver curtain!!! I Love This
THE REAL TL NOTE IS FOR MITSUKI'S "Isn't this your big break" bc its more like YO ISNT THIS LIKE AN EXCEPTIONAL JOB ESPECIALLY SELECTED FOR YOU????????/ but. Alas
(4) 50 shades of formalities thaT SOUND kinda weird in english. a little like bad BL lines. But pleASE READ THESE AS PROFESSIONALLY as possilb,e like when you get someonen to look over ur essay or smth idk

THIS CHAPTER IS TWILIGHT, JSEUS CHRIST, BASICALLY, I MEAN ESSNTIALLY THIS HAP  EPNEd:
Yamato: How old are you?
Nagi: Nineteen.
Yamato: How long have you been seventeen?
Nagi: A while.
Yamato: I know what you are.
Nagi: Say it. Say it out loud.
Yamato: .... A weeaboo.
tho technically nagi talks about turning into a werewolf on the full moon or smth so, Yes CONFIRMED.... I am here 2 inform you that this isn't i7 anymore, its Actually Twilight. (open ur eyes guys)

ALSO HELL YEA LAST BIT WAS A LOT OF COPY PASTE,,MMM I LOVE COPY PASTE

|||        4-3: The Source of Their Growth     |||
Mister Shimaoka: With Izumi Iori-kun as the new center, IDOLiSH7 has turned over a new leaf! And the song is, “Perfection Gimmick!”
Mister Shimaoka: Give ‘em a round of applause!
Program Staff: Their timing is perfect....
Program Staff: Even though it's common knowledge in the industry that if you put on IDOLiSH7, things might not go as scheduled....
[cg goes here]
Program Staff: I guess they looked at the cue cards and calculated things from there. No way, could it be, that student is.... (1)
/3: Wow.... Somehow, it's really easy to dance.... Even though he's my younger brother, what is this feeling of stability....
/2: Ichi.... He can see everyone. Whenever someone steps out of place, he moves himself to balance it....
/4: Iorin isn't a super great singer like Rikkun is, but when he's center, everything's easier to do....
/7: Iori sure is amazing.... I thought he'd more nervous. I gotta do my best too!
1: --Hah.... And that was IDOLiSH7! Thank you very much.
/tmg: The new IDOLiSH7, with Iori-san at the center, came to life.
/tmg: Their new form was very well received, even by people who just learned about IDOLiSH7, thanks to their new show!

Passerby: Did you see yesterday's IDOLiSH7!? Ever since Iori-kun became center, they kinda feel more like pros!
Passerby: I totally get it! Look, look! They're less worrying nowadays, since they handle things so coolly now! (2)
Passerby: They were newbies, but they're finally maturing, huh. I mean, didn't their show start? What was it called again? The show's name....

3: "A Lovely Night With IDOLiSH7!" is starting today! Please take good care of us, everyone!
7: Please take care of us!
3: Here are the members! From the right: Iori, Riku, Yamato-san, Nagi, Sougo, Tamaki.
2: What a messy introduction.
3: Well, there's several of us so it'd be hard to remember us all in one go. Alright then, once more!
3: So, from the right: Iori, Riku, Yamato-san, Nagi, Sougo, Tamaki. And I'm Izumi Mitsuki!
4: You didn't change it up at all!
7: And you're the only one who got introduced with their full name!
3: Just felt like doing it my way. And now, for an explanation of our show! In this show, we will be....
/5: Mitsuki-san is so amazing! There's not a moment of silence, as he goes from topic to topic.
/6: Mitsuki's talent is blossoming! Because Mitsuki looks like he's having fun, everyone's relaxing and talking.
Program Staff: That kid's really good at MC-ing! That's a very valuable skill for variety as well. (3)
Program Staff: We haven't seen an idol this good at variety since Re:Vale's Momo! "A Lovely Night with IDOLiSH!" will get such a great response...!

Man: "IDOLiSH7?"
Man: They're the group that won against TRIGGER in last year's Black or White. Their show is actually pretty funny.
Man: The center, Izumi Iori, is 17. Dude, he's still a student! Man, it sure is nice to be young!
Woman: Did you watch "A Lovely Night with IDOLiSH7!"? I'm so happy we can see lots of IDOLiSH7!
Woman: The theme song's center isn't Riku-kun, but Iori-kun. ...Did something happen?
Woman: Iori-kun as center is so cool! IDOLiSH7's atmosphere is a little different from usual too! It feels like they've gotten cooler!
Man: "I-something-or-whatever," is really funny! There's that small dude, who speaks really well!
Man: He was good on other shows too, y'know? The one that Mister Shimaoka hosts. Though he's an idol, and not an entertainer. (4)
Man: Isn't Tamaki funnier? He just goes and says 'You idiot!' just like that, and it's hilarious! (5)
Man: Even though he's an idol, he seems pretty normal and that's kinda funny!
Woman: IDOLiSH7's center! He's so cool! Even though he's younger than me! Maybe I'll keep up with his activities! (6)

Ogami Banri: "A Lovely Night With IDOLiSH7!" is getting fantastic ratings!
tmg: Yes! We've been getting more requests for variety show appearances, especially for Mitsuki-san!
tmg: Iori-san as center has also been very well-received, and everyone's unique points are shining through, so the current IDOLiSH7 is very on point! (7)
Ogami Banri: Fanclub membership has also been increasing! It really seems like they'll become a popular group, just like to Re:vale and TRIGGER!
tmg: Yes! We've got important work like the Zero Area reopening concert ahead of us, after all!
Takanashi Otoharu: I'd like to release a new song for MEZZO" using this momentum.
tmg: I think it'd be great if MEZZO" got a new song! The fans have been demanding for a new single for a long time now!
Ogami Banri: In regards to MEZZO"'s new song, there's been some talk about using it as the theme song for a drama starring the two of them.
Takanashi Otoharu: MEZZO"'s drama debut! How amazing!
Ogami Banri: Indeed... But that offer might just disappear....
tmg: What!? I heard that the script is based off the two of them and is currently in the works, but they're having difficulties with the casting?
tmg: Could it be, an issue with the sponsors...?
Ogami Banri: No, the issue isn't with Sougo, but with Tamaki-kun.
Ogami Banri: The director finds working with actors difficult, so there shouldn't be any problems with leaving newcomers to him, and he's a really big name in the industry, but....
Ogami Banri: He's very strict about rules and manners. And it seems that the director ended up hearing an exaggerated version of the trouble that happened at the emotional reunion from last year.
tmg: Just what did he hear...?
Ogami Banri: That Tamaki-kun was in a terrible mood, went on a rampage in the studio, and ended up sending a staff member to the hospital.
tmg: Sending someone to the hospital....  He properly apologized to them, and both the staff members and Mister Shimaoka-san forgave him for it, though.
Ogami Banri: Things do get blown out of proportion in this industry, so.... It seems that there are many others who have a similar misconception, though Sougo-kun has been very good at clearing that up.
Ogami Banri: I've tried several times to clarify, but he told me that if it's just Sougo-kun, it's fine.
Ogami Banri: What should we do? Tsumugi-san.
tmg: ...If we have Sougo-kun appear in the drama, then they indeed might use MEZZO"'s new song as the theme song.
tmg: However, if we do so, then we will never get the chance to clear up misunderstandings about Tamaki-san. How about we continue to negotiate using the two of them, until the very end?
Ogami Banri: Understood. I need to get better at stir-frying minced chicken. (8)
tmg: Minced chicken...?
Ogami Banri: The director likes minced chicken bentou. If gave him a homemade bentou of that, I figured it'd create a pretty nice atmosphere for negotiations.
Takanashi Otoharu: Especially since Banri-kun's minced chicken is very delicious.
Ogami Banri: Thank you very much.
Takanashi Otoharu: We don't know when we're releasing the song, but let's have the two listen to it.
Takanashi Otoharu: We need Tamaki-kun to become more self-aware in order to clear up the misunderstandings surrounding him. (9)
Takanashi Otoharu: We also need Sougo-kun, who is the closest to him, to become more self-aware as well.
tmg: Self-awareness, huh....
Takanashi Otoharu: Their voices are very compatible. I'm sure they'll be able to draw out each others' charms and bring them to the foreground.
Takanashi Otoharu: The name of the song is "Fragments of Love." It's a song that'll give MEZZO" a fresh start, a new life. I'm sure it'll be the spark for the two's growth.

To be continued....


(1) kanpe / short for カンニングペーパ, or one of those big notebooks with "1 minute left" etc used to signal people on shows, generally for stage directions + timing. think teleprompter, basically.
(2) THIS WAS NOT FUN 2 EIGO, はらはらする is to be kind of on the edge of your seat, or a little anxious, or excited. Alternatively, it can also mean to worry or fret, aND I UNDERSTAND, BEACUSE IM SURE i7 DOES INDEED GIVE ME A LOT OF SECONDHAND STRESS. i7 does a lot of stuff girigiri IKENAI BORDERLINE ("shiroi, wrong franchise--" shsSHHSHSH) so I just,w ent with that since Mitsuki+Yamato mentioned earlier how Iori brings this sense of stability, balance, equilibrium, and just overall ease of conduct to the group as center. So tl;dr, based off of mikki+yams and my own feelings as an onlooker of i7, LESS WORRYING INDEED.
(3) 重宝 lit. PRICELESS TREASURE, YOU BETCHA, MY MANN IZUMI MITSUKI, TALENTED YOUNG MAN IM SO PROUD OF HIM LOOKAT HIM GO ! ! !!
(4) The nuance is that celebrities/show biz ppl/actors/etc are different from idols!! Which I think is most likely an actual divide in the Japanese/overall Asian entertainment industry, since idols are most likely not considered 'real' actors or variety stars and such, but I haven't been into irl idols for a long time now!!! And even so, wrong country!!! But yeah that is what I believe is most likely going on, in making this distinction.
(5) 天然 is what's used to describe Tamaki in this line, because he kind of spontaneously/naturally says 'U FUKIN DUMBASS' aka Remember Last Installment (tv-side mitsuki, viewer-side tamaki, etcetc.) yeah. That.
(6) LIT. TO CHASE, BUT oftentimes used (i see this a lot on my jptl!!) in reference to following the activities of idols, or "chasing" them in that sense, so kinda like 'stanning' though I don't think anyone uses that term as often nowadays!!
(7) lit. 'no gaps' and 'invincible' isn't quite the right connotation (they are very much so vincible, is that even a word, i have no clue), hence........ On Point.
(8) TORI-SOBORO BENTOU IS THIS THING AND IT LOOKS DELICIOUS AND IM WAILING FROm MY SEAT IN DESPAIR RIGHT NOW BECAUSE ITS 3AM AND IM TERRIBLY HUNGRY http://cookpad.com/recipe/258282
(9) 意識改善 is kind of hard! Papa wants TMK and OSK to be more aware, conscious of themselves/others/etc, and to improve upon that. But there really isn't a nice, apt way to encompass all those elements so 'self-awareness' is the closest thing! Just know that that 'awareness' applies to not just themselves, but to others too!


|||        4-4: Infinite Expectations          |||
Takanashi Otoharu: Their voices are very compatible. I'm sure they'll be able to draw out each others' charms and bring them to the foreground.
Takanashi Otoharu: The name of the song is "Koi no Kakera." It's a song that'll give MEZZO" a chance to start anew, be reborn. I'm sure it'll be the spark for the two's growth.

tmg: As expected of Sougo-san and Tamaki-san! Your voices are truly compatible! They're a perfect match!
Yotsuba Tamaki・Osaka Sougo: I see....
tmg: N-neither of you seem to be very satisfied....
5: But it is quite rare that we're listening to our new song despite the release date being up in the air.
4: Are we gonna sing this live or on TV?
tmg: You'll sing it when it's the best time to! The President said that this song will give MEZZO" a chance to start anew and be reborn.
Yotsuba Tamaki・Osaka Sougo: .......
5: Can we, though....
4: I mean, this is pretty much just how we are....
tmg: I'm sure you two will get along even better! How about hanging out together on your days off?
4: Just looking at Sou-chan's face, makes it not feel like a break anymore.
5: Seeing Tamaki-kun's face just dissipates any feeling that it's a break.
Yotsuba Tamaki・Osaka Sougo: But we work together pretty well.
tmg: What calm, yet dry relations....
/tmg: It doesn't feel dangerous like how it used to be, but this coldness, where it seems like they've given up on getting on friendlier terms with each other, is kind of lonely and may pose a problem....
/tmg: Even though their voices are so compatible.... With their voices, they draw out each others' charms and bring them to the foreground. This song in particular is full of their charms.
/tmg: Just as the President said, "Koi no Kakera" should be a song that will spur the rebirth of a new MEZZO"!
tmg: I'll leave the two of you to practice all you want for another hour, since you're already here. If you'll excuse me!
4: Wha....
5: Tamaki-kun, don't say that. Let's keep on trying for just a little longer.
4: ....... Sou-chan, sometimes you talk to or apologize to people by yourself, when we're working.
4: Is that my fault?
5: Not at all.
4: Then, why? If something happened, it's better if you tell me too.
5: I do tell you what I want you to fix, nowadays. Don't worry about anything else.
4: ....... I don't like that about you, Sou-chan. (1)
5: .......
5: Now, shall we practice?
4: Ok.

Momo: Sorry for the intrusion~! Congrats on your show's broadcast! I watched "A Lovely Night with IDOLiSH7!" and it was super funny!
7: Momo-san, Yuki-san...!
Yuki: So when will you be calling us in as guests?
tmg: Re:vale is probably, maybe, a little, not yet, in terms of budget....
Momo: But TRIGGER's new show called us in though.
Yuki: They've got a different budget, since their sponsors are good.
5: .......
tmg: Ah.... What are the two of you here for today?
Yuki: We're here to bully our kouhai.
tmg: Huh!?
7: You're here to bully your kouhai!?
Yuki: Yamato-kun, come over here.
2: No.
1: N-Nikaidou-san...?
Yuki: I have an idea, if you're not going to come here.
2: Sure, do as you like.
Yuki: Understood. I'll yell it out, then. You see! The reason why he turned down the offer! Could it be--
2: I-I'm coming over right now!
Yuki: Sorry about that.
2: ...You've got a terrible personality, as usual.
*slam*
7: ...I wonder what's going on. Yamato-san and Yuki-san....
Momo: Now, now, don't worry! Yuki's a gentleman, after all!

Yuki: Accept the movie offer. It should help you get more work from here on out.
2: I don't need it.
Yuki: You're not cute at all.
2: Sorry.
Yuki: There was a senpai who took care of me back when I started out, and I want to repay him. (2)
Yuki: You should know him as well. His name is, mmph--
2: I don't care about what your circumstances are, but please don't do anything excessive. I don't have anything to do with him anymore.
Yuki: Don't muffle your senpai's mouth. And he does have something to with both you and me, since he is my senpai.
2: Do you know what this is called? This is abusing your power, senpai. (3)
Yuki: You know, if I really wanted to abuse my power, you guys wouldn't have work anymore.
2: ...Alright then, go ahead and try it. Even if it's you, I'm won't forgive you if you do anything to them--
Yuki: Oh, how manly. Didn't think you'd say such a passionate line like that. How about saying it once more?
2: ...You're such a pain in the ass! How'd someone like you get so famous!? Just 5 years ago you were but a car washer at my place! (4)
Yuki: That gaze of yours, as if you were looking down at trash, is quite nostalgic. Your hatred of people in showbiz-- did you change your mind?
2: ...Shut up.
Yuki: You can't hide it forever. Even with glasses, you're the spitting image of that person in their youth.
Yuki: Did you not tell your members either? If so, why did you get into the entertainment industry?
2: ....... At first, it was supposed to be for revenge.
Yuki: How dirty.
2: But it's different now. I want to make their dreams come true. All this gossip about me just gets in the way of that.
Yuki: If it's just gossip, we can protect you from that. If you want to make your members' dreams come true, then you must go even higher.
Yuki: You're a genius, when it comes to acting. To be honest, it was frustrating-- even though I worked so hard to get where I am.
2: Yuki-san....
Yuki: I heard you haven't gone home? He's lonely, you know. He even sent flowers to your concert. (5)
2: ...He fucking sent the type of flowers you'd send to a hostess. What irony. Has that shitty old man gone nuts? (6)
Yuki: Well, I mean, he is a little insensible at times.
2: .......
Yuki: Why did you give up on your revenge?
Yuki: Is it because it was more fun than you expected? This world.
2: .......
Yuki: Acting alongside me will be even more fun. Please think about it seriously, both for your sake and for the sake of your friends, and give me a reply then.

Momo: Sorry, about Yuki.
tmg: Not at all! Re:vale is always taking care of us....
tmg: Why do the two of you look after us, IDOLiSH7, so much?
Momo: Because we love you guys! Just watching them all on TV makes me wanna cheer 'em on. So here I am, doing exactly that.
Momo: TRIGGER, and how they strive for perfection-- I love them too. So I just can't help but root for them, both TRIGGER and hardworking IDOLiSH7.
Momo: Ever since their show started, IDOLiSH7's fans have increased, right?
tmg: Yes! Thanks to the show, the fanclub numbers keep on increasing every day.
Momo: That's good to hear!
Momo: There's something I want you, as their manager, to be careful of, since their popularity is skyrocketing right now.
tmg: What is it?
Momo: As more and more people like them, the feelings people have towards them will begin to change, bit by bit.
Momo: And some of that might bring them pain.
tmg: Ah.... People who hate IDOLiSH7 will begin to appear, won't they....
Momo: Not that. It's feelings of love, that has always made idols suffer.
tmg: .......
Momo: As the fans increase, likewise there'll only be more and more, infinite types of love. People are all unique! They way they love is also unique!
Momo: So there'll be people who are fans of the cool Riku, and people who are fans of the cute Riku. People who want to see them on variety, people who want to see them in lives....
Momo: All of them are thinking about Riku. But there's only one of him, and he can't make everyone's expectations come true.
Momo: That's what will make him suffer. How should I say it....
Momo: People who work as idols love to make others happy, and love being loved.
Momo: If we disappoint the fans, we feel that disappointment two-fold.
tmg: .......
Momo: There'll be some who think 'Just what did we do wrong?' and some who think 'I have to try even harder!'
Momo: But there'll also be some who'll snap, and think 'Hell if I'm gonna listen to you guys!'
Momo: And the fans will snap back. Because of those expectations, displeasure is born. Because there was love, hate was born.
Momo: No one's in the wrong. And there's no best way to go about this. But, even if the idols suffer, there's nothing to be done.
Momo: Everyone gets crushed during this time period. TRIGGER had a hard time too, since they got super popular real fast.
Momo: But since Ten was there, they pulled through. Ten's amazing. I respect him too! He eliminated all factions, and offered himself up to the fans. (7)
Momo: Sometimes that's a little worrying, though. Somehow it feels like Ten's indentured, or something, even though it hasn't been that long since he debuted.
tmg: Indentured, you say...?
Momo: Yeah. I guess you could say he's self-sacrificing....
Momo: Like, no matter how painful it is, or no matter how much you wanna cry, you always have to smile for the sake of others! No matter what, you have to sing, you have to dance!
Momo: He's perfected that mindset of dedicating yourself and serving others. It's like it was drilled into him when he was young.
tmg: .......

2: Aight, I'm off. Also, I don't need dinner.
3: Got it! Have a safe trip.
*SLAM*
3: What's wrong with that old man.... He's got this superbly displeased aura about him....
4: Right?
3: We finally got everyone together, despite how busy it's been lately.
3: Tamaki, I'll be watching TV in my room, so if you get hungry just eat what's in the pot. Make sure to leave some for everyone else, though.
4: Okie.
3: Don't play too many games!
4: Okay.
4: ....... Ah-- I died again.
*DING DONG*
4: Hm? Is it Yama-san?

*CLICK*
4: Welcome hom--
9: .......
4: Oh. It's Tenten.
9: Don't give me such an awful nickname. Here, take this. It's a gift. King's Pudding.
4: Hell yeah!! Is it okay if I eat it all myself!?
9: Do as you like.
9: .......
9: Where is Riku's room?

To be continued....



(1) 'nigate' is always a heaDACHe bc as my jp teacher said, there's a double connotation of 'don't like and not good with' so yeah, that's what's going on here!
(2) i never know how to translate 大先輩 except as ALPHA SENPAI but Very Big Important person who preceeded u in the industry, yeah. Though I'm just gonna assume y'all know what senpai is bc ur a weeb like me!!! weebology 101, now offered all year long, TA: shiroi. god what am i even saYING
(3) PAWAHARA aka 'power harassment' aka 'harassment from someone of/using their position of power in the workplace' so as fun as pawahara is to say in English, alas it does not exist.
(4) うち is so so s o painfully vaGUE
(5) Remember the flowers in Ch. 20 of part 1??? The mystery flowers??? THATS YAMATO'S!!!! YOOOOo
(6) -yagaru expresses anger/contempt, also an edge of roughness and maN THIS WHOLE LINE IS SO CONTEMPT FILLED, HENCE WHY I DID WHAT I DID. Also 'Is he sane???" is the literal but obvs what's going on is Yamato is Heavily Doubting that fact based off of his tone and context so, here it is. I had half a headache but also some fun with this line. ALSO HOSTESS, if you've heard of host clubs, think of the female equivalent of that. Where you pay pretty young women to converse with you and drink with you etcetc hell, just read this. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Host_and_hostess_clubs
(7) 奉仕 has the nuance of altruism or offering up a service, and based off of Momo's subsequent lines that's why there's a 'himself' wedged in there.
ALSO GODDAMN WHY IS EVERY SECTION IN CH 4 SO LONG