Shōjo☆Kageki Revue Starlight: Re LIVE/Story/Main Story 13: Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins
Event Guide
Previous	"Shapeless Play - Unknown Lead"

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins is the thirteenth chapter of the main story of Shōjo☆Kageki Revue Starlight: Re LIVE. It is the second chapter of Arcana Arcadia.

Transcript

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 1

Maya:

"Is that...the so-called 'Paradise' you are trying to create...?"

Maya:

"Clever... And you intend on taking all of that — 'Emperor'!"

Akira:

"Of course! Everything in this 'World' belongs to me – it's the core of the truth, the laws of nature!"

Shizuha:

"My... How arrogant..."

Claudine:

"Power is violence... And just like this... Us powerless 'Lovers' will be torn apart."

Shizuha:

"One day, 'Judgement' will fall upon this foolish decision."

Akira:

"That's preposterous! I do not fear 'Judgement'!"

Nana:

"Yes, that's you. Just what is 'Justice'—"

Akira:

"I make the call."

Akira:

"I fear nothing. If I were to fear... It would be falling down halfway through my supremacy..."

Akira:

"I...will definitely make it. I'll take down anything and everything that stands in my way!"

Tamao:

"Wonderful... How wonderful! That is what makes you mortal!"

Tamao:

"So will the 'Emperor' change fate with that strong will...or burn out in regret..."

Tamao:

"I'll watch on until the very end... Without a doubt, as 'Death'."

Maya:

"All right... Then let us wait at the 'World's' end. That time shall come before long—"

Masai:

And, scene. Thank you.

Akira:

Huff, huff...

Maya:

Phew... Good work, Yukishiro-san.

Akira:

Huff... Standing on the same stage as everyone, I can't afford to cut corners even when it comes to practices.

Claudine:

Now, there's no need to be so modest.

Claudine:

It was just like that of an actual performance. Enough to overpower everyone else.

Maya:

"That's preposterous!"

Maya:

That adlib... I could envision the "Emperor" with that one line, it was very much in-character.

Akira:

It's an honor to be told that by you, Maya Tendo.

Akira:

But if you're talking about adlibs, Tomoe too.

Tamao:

...Huh?

Shizuha:

That line in the beginning.

Akira:

Kocho, you noticed?

Nana:

The original line was "Without a doubt, as 'Death'... I'll watch on until the very end".

Nana:

The order was swapped.

Tamao:

That's right, Daiba-san. I thought putting "Death" at the end would give it a greater impact.

Maya:

...So you changed it last minute.

Claudine:

Yeah. Right before you said the line... A split-second decision.

Tamao:

They said it's fine for us to act freely... I got swept along by everyone's acting and couldn't help myself.

Maya:

...It was splendid.

Tamao:

To be praised by Maya Tendo... It's an honor.

Tamao:

But Kocho-san too.

Shizuha:

Huh?

Tamao:

"How arrogant...".

Tamao:

I could sense the sadness and powerlessness from your acting, all the way to your fingertips...

Tamao:

I'm going to learn a lot from you from now on.

Shizuha:

Oh, uh, okay...

Masai:

Let's end today's script reading here!

Masai:

We'd assigned the difficult task of not sharing your roles with anyone else before the initial read-over...

Masai:

But thanks to that, we've gotten a lot of great inspiration.

Amemiya:

Thank you, everyone... It's all thanks to your acting that each role feels like it's come alive.

Amemiya:

The script team will now re-work the script once more based on the acting you've just shown us.

Masai:

It's possible that the contents and composition for all six acts might turn out completely different...

Masai:

We'll make this stage better and better in time for the "Performance Festival"!

Akira:

I look forward to it.

Maya:

I can't wait.

Masai:

Then this marks the end of the first "Performance Festival" script reading. Good work, everyone!

All:

Good work!

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 2

Karen:

Wow, that was so great!

Aruru:

Yeah! It was!

Karen:

Tendo-san's lightning collided with Yukishiro-san's thunder...

Aruru:

Shizuha-chan's gradual pace was enhanced by Tamao-chan's brisk pace...

Karen:

Everyone's brilliance was shining so brightly!

Aruru:

Like... How a fluffy shape turns round!

Karen:

The tingles...

Aruru:

The excitement...

Aruru:

It's too much!

Karen:

Too much!

Hikari:

...Stage-crazies.

Misora:

...Yep, stage-crazies.

Mahiru:

Oh, don't talk like that, you two.

Aruru:

Yeah, Misora! How could you say that?!

Karen:

Yeah, Hikari-chan, you meanie!

Mahiru:

That wasn't mean at all!

Karen:

Huh!?

Mahiru:

I understand feeling excited after the first script reading...

Mahiru:

But don't shout so loudly in the middle of the street!

Karen & Aruru:

...!!

Mahiru:

Both of you already have loud voices to begin with. Look, the people walking around us are staring.

Karen & Aruru:

We're sorry.

Hikari:

...Mahiru's voice just now was loud too.

Misora:

It was loud... wasn't it.

Mahiru:

What?! Oh... I-I'm sorry!

Karen:

Heh heh, so you're excited too, Mahiru-chan!

Mahiru:

N-no...

Mahiru:

Well... I guess you're not wrong.

Mahiru:

...Today's script reading was really stimulating.

Karen & Aruru:

Right? Right!?

Hikari:

Yes. I got goosebumps too.

Hikari:

All the talented performers gathered together on one stage.

Hikari:

Colliding to complete an unfinished story...

Karen:

Yes, exactly!

Aruru:

That's what I wanted to say!

Hikari:

It feels like something new... A stage is being created.

Hikari:

Nervousness and anticipation... I can see the shimmering within the tingling...

Hikari:

It's...nice.

Karen & Aruru:

Yes, nice!

Misora:

Wow... Kagura-san. You could understand Aruru's "Aruru lingo" completely...

Mahiru:

Probably because she's used to Karen-chan.

Mahiru:

Oh... Everyone, be quiet!

Mahiru:

We're speaking loudly and getting looks again...

Karen & Aruru & Hikari:

Oh...

Mahiru:

At this rate, we're all stage-crazies.

Shizuha:

"That's preposterous! We do not fear being crazies!"

Mahiru:

Huh... Oh, Kocho-san!

Misora:

Hello, Shizuha-senpai!

Shizuha:

I'm sorry, it took me a while to shower.

Aruru:

Shizuha-chan, you were great. That "Judgement" role was fantastic!

Karen:

You had such intense ads with Tendo-san and Yukishiro-san!

Misora:

Ads...?

Mahiru:

I think she's talking about the ad-lib exchange.

Misora:

Oh, I see!

Shizuha:

It's only because Tendo-san and Yukishiro-san led the scene so well... And Tomoe-san too.

Shizuha:

It looks like it's still going to take me a while to fully immerse myself into the role. I want to hurry back and practice.

Aruru:

Whoa, we've found another stage-crazy here!!

Misora:

Then let's go home. Back to Frontier.

Misora:

See you, Aijo-san, Kagura-san, Tsuyuzaki-san!

Shizuha:

See you at the next practice.

Karen:

Yes, see you next time!

Aruru:

See ya!

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 3

Aruru:

Ah, that was fun. I can't wait for the next practice!

Misora:

Aruru, you kept stumbling over your lines today.

Aruru:

Ngh... We were surrounded by all these amazing people, so I only got a little nervous!

Misora:

Well, I guess so. I was nervous too.

Misora:

I never thought I'd get to practice with the renowned Claudine Saijo-san. Never could've imagined that.

Aruru:

Right. Clau-chan has been performing on stage for a long time!

Misora:

Of course I'd get nervous.

Misora:

And it's also my first time to stand on a stage as big as the Toho Art Theater!

Aruru:

Yeah. I'm really glad we got chosen for the "Performance Festival"!

Misora:

But... I only realized after I stood on the stage with everyone for practice...

Aruru:

Huh? What?

Misora:

...That it's scary.

Aruru:

Huh? Scary? What is?

Shizuha:

Misora-chan...

Aruru:

Don't worry, it's fine! There's nothing to be afraid of!

Aruru:

A gigantic stage and amazing people! It's such an exciting stage!

Aruru:

We're gonna watch everyone's acting and learn a lot.

Aruru:

We'll definitely be able to create the most fun and happy stage together with everyone in the "Performance Festival"!

Shizuha:

Fun and...happy stage...?

Aruru:

Shizuha-chan?

Shizuha:

Aruru-chan... Do you really think that?

Aruru:

Huh...?

Misora:

Shizuha-senpai...

Shizuha:

Aruru-chan. The "Performance Festival"... That stage—

Shizuha:

(There's no lead role, that's why it's a hell where performers battle it out for the lead position.)

Nana:

Whew...

Junna:

Here you go, Nana. "Banana Milk".

Nana:

Oh... Thanks, Junna-chan.

Junna:

Phew... Script reading from morning till now sure is exhausting.

Nana:

Yeah. But...it's a nice kind of tired where it feels like the stage has really begun.

Junna:

Yeah, you're right.

Junna:

Then here's to finishing the first "Performance Festival" script reading.

Nana:

With "Banana Milk" and "Strawberry Milk".

Junna:

Heh heh.

Junna & Nana:

Good work.

Nana:

Mmm... Delicious.

Junna:

I can finally relax.

Nana:

Yeah. The "Performance Festival" rehearsal room had such a tense atmosphere.

Junna:

Well, that's because today was the first time for all the participating schools to gather.

Junna:

And on top of that, a sudden etude with our given roles?! Of course we'd be nervous!

Nana:

Haha, you're right.

Nana:

Masai-san and Amemiya-san said it too, but...

Nana:

Thanks to everyone's performance, I can clearly see the outline for all the characters.

Junna:

That's true.

Junna:

Even though the "World" Arcana doesn't have a particular concept...

Junna:

Seeing Tendo-san's performance and hearing her lines, really brought the "role" to life.

Nana:

Yeah. The one who brought that out was...Yukishiro-san's "Emperor".

Junna:

The human-like "Emperor" covered in selfish desires was a great comparison against Tendo-san's detached role.

Nana:

And also... The story's trickster, "Death".

Junna:

Yeah! "Death"!

Junna:

It felt like that role had such a huge range of possibilities with Tomoe-san's acting.

Junna:

I was really surprised to see that kind of acting from her.

Nana:

Yeah, me too.

Nana:

The acting was really well done and it caught everyone's attention.

Junna:

Yeah... It was really inspirational.

Junna:

Yours too, Nana.

Nana:

Huh?

Junna:

You held your own against Tendo-san, Yukishiro-san, Kocho-san, and Tomoe-san.

Junna:

I won't lose either.

Junna:

Since I'm standing on the same stage with all these talented people.

Junna:

In order to make this stage a success... I'll give my all to the role I've been given.

Junna:

Just watch, Nana! I'll give the best performance with my "High Priestess"!

Nana:

Junna-chan...

Nana:

...Yes.

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 4

Futaba:

Kaoruko! Ka-o-ru-ko!

Futaba:

What are you mad about?

Kaoruko:

I'm not mad or anything.

Futaba:

You only walk that fast when you're mad.

Kaoruko:

Uh...

Futaba:

Why did you say you're going back to the academy all of a sudden?

Kaoruko:

...It's nothing.

Kaoruko:

I'm just... I just feel frustrated for some reason.

Futaba:

Frustrated...

Tamao:

Oh, we can't have that.

Tamao:

Why don't you have some sweets and take a breather, Hanayagi-san?

Kaoruko:

Tamao-han...

Tamao:

There's a place nearby with delicious pancakes.

Tamao:

They closed shop once because they gave out too many freebies, but they got a lot of support and have re-opened.

Tamao:

Shall we go together? Isurugi-san too.

Futaba:

I-It's okay...

Kaoruko:

You two should go. I'm busy. Bye.

Tamao:

Is this for..."role preparations'?

Kaoruko:

...!

Tamao:

Thank goodness... I'm glad it looks like it got across with my acting.

Futaba:

Got across... What are you talking about?

Tamao:

...Hanayagi-san's "Devil"... It was really charming.

Tamao:

It was adorable and attractive... Very sweet.

Kaoruko:

...!?

Tamao:

My "Death" is like an ode in reply to Hanayagi-san's acting...

Kaoruko:

Ode in reply...? It wasn't so elegant.

Kaoruko:

That's... Yes. ...A "declaration of war".

Futaba:

Huh...

Tamao:

Exactly right, Hanayagi--san. As you'd expect.

Tamao:

As I'm sure you're aware, our Rinmeikan Girls School Performance Department has disbanded and narrowly escaped death by becoming the Performance Association.

Tamao:

And this "Performance Festival" that we've been given...is the best stage to light our flame of life with.

Futaba:

Light your...flame of life?

Tamao:

—The revival of the Rinmeikan Girls School Performance Department.

Futaba & Kaoruko:

...!

Tamao:

Seisho Music Academy, Siegfeld Institute of Music, Frontier School of Arts...

Tamao:

Take down all the powerful schools present and then our Rinmeikan Performance Association will release the best brilliance—

Tamao:

And beyond that light, the Rinmeikan Girls School Performance Department will rise. I'm sure of it.

Tamao:

We have nothing to lose. This stage is the beacon of our revival.

Tamao:

The lead of the "Performance Festival" is ours. I just wanted to tell you that.

Futaba:

Tomoe... You...

Tamao:

So please hurry and catch up without losing to anyone.

Tamao:

Until the day when you fight with me comes, Kaoruko Hanayagi-san.

Kaoruko:

Tamao... Tomoe...!

Tamao:

Excuse me... Goodbye.

Kaoruko:

......

Futaba:

......

Futaba:

Tomoe sure has changed.

Kaoruko:

...Pfft.

Futaba:

Kaoruko?

Kaoruko:

Catch up...she said.

Kaoruko:

That girl who has never once won against me in dance... Sounds like she's taking me lightly.

Kaoruko:

...We're going home, Futaba-han.

Futaba:

Huh?

Kaoruko:

...I'll accept this declaration of war.

Kaoruko:

Just like a lot has happened to her, I'm also no longer the girl she thinks I am.

Kaoruko:

I'll show her...just who the lead of this stage is... Right?

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 5

Elle:

Revue...

Elle:

A spellbinding performance conjured out of song and dance...

Andrew:

The one who shows the most brilliant Revue and lights the fire in the young girl's heart...

Elle:

—Will be on the path to become the "Unknown Lead".

Elle & Andrew:

Revue has begun.

Junna:

People have stars they're destined for.

Junna:

Glittering stars, morning stars, shooting stars.

Junna:

Even if I can't see my star, I'll look up from this day on.

Junna:

Junna Hoshimi, 99th Class! I'll take hold of a star of my own!

Kaoruko:

Dancing and singing back and forth, fighting desperately day after day.

Kaoruko:

Crossing swords on stage once more. The blooming of young blood at their best.

Kaoruko:

Kaoruko Hanayagi, 99th Class. I'll have you follow me till the very end.

Junna:

Hanayagi-san...

Kaoruko:

—Hoshimi-han.

Elle:

"Timeless Play"...

Andrew:

Struggling for the "Unknown Lead"—

Elle:

Sing.

Andrew:

And dance.

Elle & Andrew:

Battle for brilliance.

Junna & Kaoruko:

Haaaah!

Junna:

"Timeless Play"... "Unknown Lead"...

Kaoruko:

What's with all the vague words and stuff?

Junna:

True. But...those were some exciting words!

Junna:

Right now, it's just a play without a single line... But in the center of that stage...

Junna:

Yes, the "Unknown Lead"!

Kaoruko:

Huh. So you're saying you can see it?

Junna:

Yes, I can for sure!

Junna:

What's needed in order to be able to stand on that stage—

Junna:

What is needed to ensure this uncertain future— It's the "present"!

Kaoruko:

Ngh...!

Elle:

(as a child)
Amazing...!

Elle:

(as a child)
Both of them... Beautiful and cool... They're shining.

Elle:

(as a child)
......

Elle:

(as a child)
Hey, Andrew. My heart's racing for some reason...

Junna:

"What win I, if I gain the thing I seek? A dream, a breath, a froth of fleeting joy."

Junna:

William Shakespeare's words.

Junna:

Fix your eyes on the future and carry out the role you've been given on the existing stage!

Junna:

What I'm accumulating "now" will lead me to the "Unknown Lead" of the unseen future!

Junna:

I'll become it – for sure.

Junna:

I will be the "Unknown Lead"!

Junna:

...?! My arrow's been cut down?!

Kaoruko:

...Pardon me, Hoshimi-han.

Junna:

?!

Kaoruko:

Unlike you, I can't take such vague things as the truth...

Kaoruko:

We know nothing about this "Unknown Lead".

Kaoruko:

But...

Kaoruko:

I'm not gonna lose.

Junna:

...!

Kaoruko:

A good child who's always been an annoyance of mine...suddenly bared her teeth and bit me.

Kaoruko:

I thought she would always just be chasing after me... But she...

Kaoruko:

Ahh... This is so annoying...

Junna:

What... What are you talking about?

Kaoruko:

I'm just talking to myself.

Kaoruko:

"Timeless Play"... "Unknown Lead"...

Kaoruko:

Pardon me, Hoshimi-han.

Kaoruko:

Either way works for me... I don't really care.

Junna:

You don't...care...?!

Junna:

Ngh...!?

Kaoruko:

I won't be able to forgive myself...

Kaoruko:

If the girl who I thought would always be chasing after me...surpasses me and becomes the "Unknown Lead"...

Kaoruko:

That's just...

Kaoruko:

I definitely won't allow that!!

Elle:

(as a child)
"That's the only thing..."

Elle:

(as a child)
"The only thing that I definitely won't allow"...

Elle:

(as a child)
"Breaking the contract with the devil must never..."

Andrew:

?!

Andrew:

Elle, just now...!

Elle:

......

Kaoruko:

Until the day I get to face that girl—

Kaoruko:

I can't afford to lose to anyone!

Kaoruko:

Position Zero!

Junna:

...!!

Elle:

The brilliance from stage girls brought out fragments of plays...

Andrew:

This is..."Wisdom" and "Attachment".

Elle:

Yes.

Elle:

The "Revue of Wisdom and Attachment" is over.

Arcana ∀rcadia
REVUE
Revue of Wisdom and Attachment

Elle:

(as a child)
*huff*... *huff*...

Elle:

(as a child)
"'Give me your soul...' said the devil."

Elle:

(as a child)
Ohh, I've got butterflies...!

Elle:

(as a child)
I have to write this... The story is overflowing. Quick!

Andrew:

Elle...

Elle:

Yes...

Elle:

The stage girls' Revue has lit the fire in the young girl's soul...

Elle:

A story is being born within Elle.

Elle:

It's started.

Elle:

Shapeless Play... The creation of "Play A".

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 6

Rui:

Ms. Ukaji, this is...!

Ukaji:

Exactly – it's the costume for the "Performance Festival".

Ukaji:

That said, it's just the one I made for rehearsals...

Ukaji:

It doesn't even come close to the quality of the ones the costume team makes.

Rui:

Huh...?

Rui:

Are you telling me that you made this...?!

Ukaji:

Yeah, I wanted to help even if just a little.

Ukaji:

So I asked the festival organizers if I could copy the costume paper pattern.

Ukaji:

I thought that if you could wear this, you'd feel closer to the real performance.

Rui:

Th-Thank you very much, Ms. Ukaji!

Rui:

Wow, the quality of the collar and cuffs... This is just like the real deal!

Ukaji:

Thank you. You're too kind...

Ukaji:

I was a student at Rinmeikan too, so I know my way around cooking, cleaning and sewing.

Ukaji:

I used to be known as "Seamstress Masako" in my days.

Rui:

"Seamstress Masako"... That's a beautiful nickname.

Ukaji:

T-That was a long time ago.

Ukaji:

Well, these are all the costumes for the rehearsals. Can you hand them over to everyone?

Rui:

Huh? I-I couldn't possibly rob you of that role!

Rui:

I'm sure everyone will be ecstatic to be able to practice wearing the costumes you made!

Ukaji:

Everyone's busy rehearsing for the "Performance Festival" now. The script reading sessions have begun as well.

Ukaji:

I'm happy supporting you all from the backstage. There's no need to worry about me.

Ukaji:

So, please?

Rui:

Ms. Ukaji...

Rui:

I got it. You can count on me to deliver them.

Ukaji:

Have a great rehearsal, Akikaze-san. I hope everyone does their best too.

Rui:

Yes, I'll do my best!

Rui:

Hm?

Rui:

Where are Fumi-senpai and Ichie-senpai? They are nowhere on campus...

Rui:

I can't wait to hand them their costumes...

Tamao:

("Death")
"Wonderful! How wonderful! That is what makes you mortal!"

Tamao:

Hmm...

Tamao:

("Death")
"Wonderful... How wonderful. That is what makes you mortal..."

:

*clap clap clap*

Rui:

T-Tamao-senpai is amazing.

Rui:

Her lines as "Death" just now... So frightening, so cold... I got goosebumps.

Rui:

She's improved even more since the script reading...

Tamao:

...Oh, hi, Rui-chan. I didn't see you there. What's the matter?

Rui:

Eek! Ah, yes!

Rui:

This... This is for you, Tamao-senpai. It's the costume for rehearsals.

Tamao:

Costume for rehearsals...?

Rui:

Ms. Ukaji made it using the paper pattern from the stage costume.

Rui:

She said it might help making you feel closer to the actual performance.

Tamao:

Ms. Ukaji did this...?

Rui:

Her eyes were slightly red too... She must have worked overnight to make it.

Tamao:

...

Tamao:

Thanks, Rui-chan. Please put it over there.

Tamao:

I'll wear it in a short while. I'd like to continue practicing a bit longer.

Rui:

Huh? Ah, yes.

Rui:

If that's okay, I'll help you practice!

Tamao:

...Rui-chan.

Tamao:

I appreciate the gesture, but there's nothing you can do to help me.

Tamao:

Besides, I'm sure you have things to do in preparation for the "Performance Festival" too.

Rui:

Ah...yes.

Rui:

I-I'll let you practice then.

Rui:

...

Rui:

Tamao-senpai...

Rui:

She was so focused that I could feel the pressure all around her...

Rui:

Hmm... It almost felt like she was out for blood...

Yuyuko:

Oh, Rui.

Rui:

Yukko! Where did you go?

Yuyuko:

I had minor business to attend to. Huh? What's that costume?

Rui:

Huh? Oh, this is...

Yuyuko:

Rui... Did something happen?

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 7

Yuyuko:

Woah, Ms. Ukaji made it?

Rui:

Yeah. She got the paper pattern from the organizers of the "Performance Festival"...

Rui:

Her eyes were red, so I'm sure she stayed up all night making our costumes...

Rui:

But...

Rui:

Tamao-senpai reacted so coldly.

Yuyuko:

......

Rui:

I also can't find Fumi-senpai and Ichie-senpai either...

Rui:

We're scattered around even at such an important time as this...

Yuyuko:

"Scattered around"...?

Yuyuko:

Rui... Do you really think that?

Rui:

Huh?

Yuyuko:

What are your feelings toward the "Performance Festival"?

Rui:

My feelings...

Rui:

I feel honored to have been chosen as a part of the cast...

Rui:

Standing on the same stage as Tamao-senpai means that I cannot allow any mistakes in my acting.

Yuyuko:

Is that all?

Rui:

Huh...? What are you hinting at, Yukko?

Yuyuko:

The first day of the script reading...

Yuyuko:

Tamao-senpai went over to Kaoruko-san and the girls from Seisho.

Rui:

Tamao-senpai went to see Hanayagi-san?

Yuyuko:

Yeah. And what do you think they talked about?

Rui:

Huh...?

Rui:

Tamao-senpai, Kaoruko-san, and Futaba-san all learned traditional Japanese Senka-ryu dance from the same teacher...

Rui:

Having shared that experience, they now find themselves on the same "Performance Festival" stage.

Rui:

I'm sure they each have fond memories, so they probably talked about that when they met...

Yuyuko:

......

Yuyuko:

Heh heh... Ahaha!

Yuyuko:

You never fail to amuse me...

Yuyuko:

You're truly a kind person, Rui.

Rui:

Huh...?

Yuyuko:

How long were you planning on fooling yourself with that?

Rui:

Huh...?

Yuyuko:

The "Performance Festival" is our – Rinmeikan Performance Association's battle. It's already started, Rui.

Rui:

Huh?

Yuyuko:

Tamao-senpai...

Yuyuko:

She went over to declare war.

Rui:

Declare...war?

Yuyuko:

"Take down all the powerful schools present and then our Rinmeikan Performance Association will release the best brilliance—"

Yuyuko:

"The lead of the "Performance Festival" is ours."

Yuyuko:

This is what Tamao-senpai said.

Rui:

She said that...?!

Yuyuko:

She did... She's prepared for it. And so are Fumi-senpai and Ichie-san.

Yuyuko:

Didn't you feel anything during the script reading?

Yuyuko:

Didn't you see her eyes, her expression, her voice, her acting... her resolution?

Yuyuko:

She lunged at everyone – all the talented actors – with her acting during the reading...

Yuyuko:

She's prepared to attack everyone and stop their breath with her performance in order to become the lead in the "Performance Festival".

Yuyuko:

Even if it means fighting with the members of her own Performance Association...

Rui:

...!

Yuyuko:

That's why no one is practicing with one another.

Yuyuko:

The time to be chummy is gone. It's time to polish your skills and be assertive.

Yuyuko:

Did you really think she went over there to talk about the good old days? Our seniors have grown.

Rui:

Is that why she acted so coldly when I said I'd practice with her...?

Rui:

I get it, but...

Rui:

If that's how she really feels, why didn't she tell me?

Yuyuko:

...It's too late for that.

Yuyuko:

Don't be spoiled. No one, not even I, can allow themselves to help each other.

Rui:

...!

Rui:

"There's nothing you can do to help me"...!

Yuyuko:

...That's what she said to you...

Yuyuko:

It means that the way you are now, you're of no help to her.

Rui:

That's...

Yuyuko:

Tamao-senpai can be very strict. It's like she's "Death" itself.

Yuyuko:

......

Yuyuko:

There's a story called "Shinigami", meaning "Death", in rakugo...

Yuyuko:

If you see Death sitting next to a sick man, it means that man hasn't much time left to live.

Yuyuko:

You remind me of the sick man.

Yuyuko:

If you're not ready to defeat the other performers...

Yuyuko:

You'll die in vain on the stage. You have no right to carry the honor of Rinmeikan nor to stand on the stage.

Yuyuko:

So, please...

Yuyuko:

Consider this warning my final notice, Rui Akikaze.

Rui:

Yukko...!

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 8

Elle:

Revue...

Elle:

A spellbinding performance conjured out of song and dance...

Andrew:

The one who shows the most brilliant Revue and lights the fire in the young girl's heart...

Elle:

—Will be on the path to become the "Unknown Lead".

Elle & Andrew:

Revue has begun.

Yuyuko:

One — Feelings hidden within ourselves. Two — The stage brought them together.

Yuyuko:

Three — For our future play. Four — I will show you the strength of traditional theater!

Yuyuko:

Rinmeikan Performance Association – Yuyuko Tanaka! I will put my life on the line!

Rui:

Drawn by a distant pearl, I rested my blade.

Rui:

Distance awakens me. I draw my blade and run to you.

Rui:

Rinmeikan Performance Association – Rui Akikaze! My life is on this stage!

Rui:

Yukko...!

Yuyuko:

......

Elle:

"Timeless Play"...

Andrew:

Struggling for the "Unknown Lead"—

Elle:

Sing.

Andrew:

And dance.

Elle & Andrew:

Battle for brilliance.

Yuyuko:

Hah!

Rui:

Ngh!

Yuyuko:

You're lacking power in your moves. You're wavering.

Rui:

Yukko...!

Yuyuko:

This Revue is for the "Unknown Lead"... This isn't the place for people who are unsure about standing on the stage!

Rui:

Ngh! Yukko... What about you?!

Rui:

Do you want to be the "Unknown Lead"?! Do you have a reason for it?!

Yuyuko:

Of course. Because I want to complete the "Timeless Play".

Yuyuko:

I'm sure our seniors feel the same way.

Rui:

...?!

Yuyuko:

The closure of the Rinmeikan Girls School Performance Department... It must've been even more painful for our seniors to lose something this important to us.

Yuyuko:

Something that will never disappear, never die. To engrave our own existence on the stage...

Rui:

To challenge...the "Timeless Play".

Yuyuko:

But the stage is alive...

Yuyuko:

We don't know if Tamao-senpai and the others will be able to revive the Performance Department.

Rui:

Y-Yukko!

Yuyuko:

I'm just saying it's a possibility.

Yuyuko:

In which case... Are you planning on saying goodbye to your dreams together with our seniors?

Rui:

Huh...?

Yuyuko:

No, right?

Yuyuko:

We take over...the dream of reviving Rinmeikan's Performance Department.

Rui:

Take...over...?

Yuyuko:

We must be the ones to shoulder it – Tamao-senpai, Fumi-senpai, and Ichie-san's wish.

Rui:

...!

Yuyuko:

Our seniors have already been shouldering this dream. That's why they can't afford to carry you too.

Yuyuko:

The way you rely on Tamao-senpai now—!

Rui:

T-That's impossible! Because...

Rui:

Because... We're still just first years!

Rui:

The dream of reviving Rinmeikan's Performance Department... That burden is too much for me!

Yuyuko:

Rui...

Rui:

If it's a stage without Tamao-senpai, I...!

Rui:

I mean, I got onto the stage to chase after Tamao-senpai. I only seriously started doing theater after joining the school...

Yuyuko:

So?

Yuyuko:

...Do you know about Seisho's Banana-san?

Rui:

...What about Daiba-san?

Yuyuko:

She didn't really start standing on the stage until after she'd entered Seisho Music Academy.

Rui:

What...? She didn't...?!

Yuyuko:

Blessed with an athletic body and long limbs. Height that makes everyone envious...

Yuyuko:

Rui... You have something that everyone wants, but could never have.

Yuyuko:

Yet...you only act spoiled.

Yuyuko:

Tamao-senpai will graduate one day and then it'll be your turn to be a senior.

Yuyuko:

When Tamao-senpai is gone, who will you be?

Yuyuko:

When there's no one else to call you "Rui-chan", who will you become?

Rui:

Ngh...!

Rui:

*huff*... *huff*...

Rui:

So... this is...Yukko's determination...

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 9

Yuyuko:

Let's end this. Those who don't belong here should get off the stage.

Rui:

N-No... Don't make me go...

Rui:

Don't leave me behind...Tamao-senpai!

Yuyuko:

......

Yuyuko:

...Ugh, this is annoying...

Yuyuko:

I'm the one who's standing on the stage with you right now.

Rui:

Huh...?

Yuyuko:

You see... I like your acting.

Yuyuko:

It's clumsy and pure... But you always try your hardest and occasionally appear really big...

Yuyuko:

Just like you love Tamao-senpai...

Yuyuko:

I also love you on stage.

Yuyuko:

Kichi Miroku, Onikage, Urashima Taro, Nightingale, all of them...

Yuyuko:

Those roles all happened because of you, Rui Akikaze. All my favorite characters.

Yuyuko:

Yet... You say you can no longer play those roles without Tamao-senpai. If those performances were all done for Tamao-senpai...

Yuyuko:

Those of "us" who have had our hearts stolen by the Stage Girl Rui Akikaze... How pathetic.

Rui:

Yuk...ko... Are you crying...?

Yuyuko:

...Oh, can't have that. I let my emotions get the best of me.

Yuyuko:

It's time to end this. We can't have someone who doesn't belong remain on this stage.

Yuyuko:

As you are right now you're not able to shoulder the Rinmeikan Performance Association with me.

Yuyuko:

I can't move forward either.

Yuyuko:

If you're the "Rui-chan" who can't perform by yourself, then—!!

Rui:

...I won't quit.

Rui:

...I'm not quitting.

Yuyuko:

......

Rui:

Just like you said... For me, the stage is Tamao-senpai.

Rui:

But if I quit... I won't be able to stand on that stage again.

Rui:

I... I don't want that!

Yuyuko:

...!

Rui:

I entered this world because I admire Tamao-senpai! I chased after her and have come this far!

Rui:

And... It taught me about the fun, intensity, and enjoyment that is the stage.

Rui:

The excitement that comes from becoming someone that isn't yourself.

Rui:

The joy from creating something together with everyone. The cheers and overflow of applause from those who support us—!

Rui:

Now that I know all about that, there's no way I could step down from this stage.

Rui:

I can't do it, Yukko!

Elle:

(as a child)
......

Elle:

(as a child)
"...Now that I know."

Elle:

(as a child)
"I can no longer pretend that I don't."

Andrew:

Elle...!

Elle:

The stage girls' Revue has lit the fire... A story is being born within the young girl—!

Yuyuko:

Haha, looks like you've finally mustered up the determination.

Yuyuko:

There's no way you could step down... Are you being serious?

Rui:

I'm serious!

Yuyuko:

Even if Tamao-senpai is gone?

Rui:

Even when...Tamao-senpai is gone!

Yuyuko:

Even if aiming for the "Unknown Lead"... means you may have to fight Tamao-senpai one day?

Rui:

......!

Rui:

Fight Tamao-senpai...one day...

Rui:

Even if I have to fight Tamao-senpai!

Rui:

*huff*... *huff*...

Yuyuko:

..."Position Zero".

Rui:

Huh? Oh...!

Rui:

P-Position Zero!

Yuyuko:

Heh heh.

Elle:

The brilliance from the stage girls brought out fragments of plays...

Andrew:

This is..."Creation" and "Sacrifice".

Elle:

Yes.

Elle:

The "Revue of Creation and Sacrifice" is over.

Arcana ∀rcadia
REVUE
Revue of Creation and Sacrifice

Yuyuko:

Phew... My words finally got across.

Yuyuko:

Now I can move forward too.

Rui:

Yukko... What are you...?

Yuyuko:

I just have some minor business to take care of. I told you, didn't I? I want to complete the "Timeless Play".

Rui:

Then... Is that the reason why you were riling me up...?

Yuyuko:

No, don't even try to think that I was holding back or lost on purpose.

Yuyuko:

This was a result of us singing, dancing, and battling with all our might.

Rui:

Yukko...

Yuyuko:

Oh, and one more thing.

Yuyuko:

"Ajara kamokuren Ruruiruirui Tekerettsunopaa."

Rui:

Huh? What?

Yuyuko:

It's a spell from the "Shinigami" rakugo to ward off Death.

Yuyuko:

Now you won't lose. To anyone – not even "Death".

Rui:

Yukko...

Rui:

But... I'm not sure if I'll be able to fight properly...against "Death".

Yuyuko:

Well, people don't change so easily. So you wouldn't be able to leave Tamao-senpai's side so easily either.

Yuyuko:

So all you can do is to start with what you're able to do now.

Rui:

What I'm able to do... Tamao-senpai said that to me too.

Rui:

...I'll give it a try.

Rui:

First, I've gotta catch up. Just like the Laelaps hound!

Yuyuko:

But then that's no different from the old Rui.

Rui:

People don't change so easily... Right?

Yuyuko:

Well, well. I guess that's it for me.

Rui:

Heh heh... Thanks, Yukko!

Rui:

I'll give it a shot. I'll put in all my feelings towards Tamao-senpai!

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 10
Arcana Arcadia Act 1

Girl:

This— Might have once been a dream, or perhaps a memory from here on.

Girl:

I woke up in a desolate desert.

Girl:

Why...am I here?

Girl:

...I don't know.

Girl:

Where...did I come from? What did I come here for?

Girl:

...I don't know.

Girl:

Just...who am I?

Girl:

......

Girl:

I don't know anything.

Girl:

But...

Girl:

But I have to keep moving.

Girl:

To where?

Girl:

...I don't know. But I have to go.

Girl:

Because I've made a "promise".

Girl:

...With who?

Girl:

I don't know...but I told "them".

Girl:

'I'll be waiting. At the end of the moonlight... At the promised place – the secret paradise.'

Girl:

That's why...I started walking.

Doctor:

"Oh... You're awake."

Girl:

When I wake up again, I see a gentle smile.

Girl:

"Where am I...?"

Doctor:

"This is my clinic. You passed out on the outskirts of town."

Doctor:

"You were plagued by the disease for three days and three nights... But it looks like the worst has past. I'm glad the medicine worked."

Girl:

"You're the one who saved me..."

Doctor:

"Aw, shucks. It's a doctor's job to save people."

Doctor:

"What's your name? Why were you passed out in such a place?"

Girl:

"...I don't know."

Doctor:

"You don't know?"

Girl:

"Yes... My name, where I came from, where I'm supposed to go..."

Doctor:

"You don't know? Could it be the high fever you had from the disease has affected your memory somehow...?"

Doctor:

"If you've lost your memory, then this is a new discovery! I must investigate this further... Oh."

Doctor:

"S-Sorry. When I start thinking about illnesses, I get very excited..."

Doctor:

"What a troublesome disease."

Girl:

"Heh heh."

Doctor:

"Oh, you finally laughed. Looks like you might be able to have some soup for dinner at least."

Girl:

"Um... Can I ask you something?"

Doctor:

"What is it?"

Girl:

"This disease you've been talking about..."

Doctor:

"Oh, I'm talking about 'delusional fever'."

Doctor:

"An epidemic that started spreading like wildfire a few months ago. It's a terrifying disease that causes high fevers. Some patients don't wake up from it and pass away."

Girl:

"Delusional fever..."

Doctor:

"People call it an uncurable illness... I lost my father, mother, and sister, to this disease."

Girl:

"...!"

Doctor:

"After that, I dedicated all my time to researching this disease...and managed to make a specific medicine for it."

Doctor:

"So then... In order to save people who are suffering from this disease, I've been traveling all over the nation."

Doctor:

"That's how I found you."

Girl:

"Thank you, doctor... If you hadn't found me, it would've been the end of my journey."

Doctor:

"Journey? Were you on your way to somewhere?"

Girl:

"...I don't know."

Doctor:

"I see. Well, you've definitely recovered. You should take the time to rest now."

Doctor:

"...But whether or not you'll have the time depends on 'her'."

Girl:

"Huh...?"

High Priestess:

"That's right – your days of rest won't come. Nevermore—"

Girl:

Vatican knights wearing armor and spears appear together with the voice. And then—

Doctor:

"Looks like she's caught up after all... High Priestess!"

High Priestess:

"I've finally found you, felon."

Doctor:

"Nrgh... Let me go! I haven't committed any crimes!"

High Priestess:

"My, the audacity. You quack who's been misleading the people with your suspicious drugs..."

High Priestess:

"You've committed the 'crime of not believing in the miracle of God'..."

High Priestess:

"Saving people is the miracle of God – man cannot save another man."

High Priestess:

"Now, take him."

Doctor:

"If I'm a sham, then the Magician you've hired is an even bigger sham for always making things up!"

High Priestess:

"Your abuse toward me... I suppose I can take it as 'lese majesty'?"

High Priestess:

"Let's go...to the burning hill."

Girl:

"Oh... Doctor!"

Girl:

Unable to leave the bed, I was left behind... And the doctor was taken away by the High Priestess.

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 11

:

*knock knock*

High Priestess:

"Who is it?"

Magician:

"It's me, Your Eminence."

High Priestess:

"Oh, Magician. Come in."

Magician:

"Excuse me."

Magician:

"The doctor has been detained in the underground prison."

Magician:

"The sentence will be executed tomorrow morning without delay—"

High Priestess:

"Good."

Magician:

"Medicine is a miracle that can be seen by the eye. It violates and denies the work of God."

Magician:

"Those who cast doubt on Your Eminence's authority..."

High Priestess:

"Oh my... Are you going to treat me like a barbarian too? A philistine who's filled with suspicions and clings to the Vatican's authority?"

Magician:

"Not at all."

Magician:

"I'm merely trying to fulfil my role as Your Eminence's aide."

High Priestess:

"That's fine."

High Priestess:

"Then, I shall also fulfill my role."

High Priestess:

"Eradicating the disease and saving man from death is a miracle of God. Only faith in God can save man."

High Priestess:

"Other possibilities... Other values... It only weakens one's loyalty to God."

High Priestess:

"Any possibility of salvation that's not faith... It can only be whisperings of the devil."

High Priestess:

"Only death awaits those who deny the work of God."

Magician:

"Most certainly."

Magician:

"Once that doctor is executed, Your Eminence's path will be secure—"

Magician:

"How about another glass of red wine to celebrate. This is the finest wine, granted by the His Holiness."

High Priestess:

"...Yes, let's."

Girl:

At that time, the doctor was in prison.

Doctor:

"Ugh... Open this! Open this door!"

Doctor:

"There are many patients with delusional fever who need my medicine! There are lives that can be saved!"

Doctor:

"Is God's influence more important than those who are dying?! Answer me, High Priestess!"

Magician:

"...Your abuse just now is lese majesty and has just earned you another 50 years to your sentence."

Magician:

"But I suppose it carries no meaning for one who is to be hanged tomorrow."

Doctor:

"...?! Who is it?"

Magician:

"...The sham Magician hired by the High Priestess."

Doctor:

"...What did you just say? Tomorrow morning, I will..."

Magician:

"That's right. You are to be hanged and burned at the stake for the crime of defiling God's influence."

Doctor:

"Ridiculous... This is all ridiculous. It's all a tasteless farce!"

Magician:

"It's meaningless to shout. Her Eminence has had a great deal of wine and is asleep."

Doctor:

"Are you messing with me?!"

Magician:

"..."

Magician:

"Doctor... So you don't want to die?"

Doctor:

"What? Of course I don't."

Doctor:

"But I'm not afraid of death. If I were, I wouldn't be able to treat delusional fever."

Doctor:

"If I die, so will those lives that could be saved. To have my ambition fall through... That's what's regrettable."

Magician:

"..."

Magician:

"You're right, this is a farce. This story has been decided a long time ago..."

Magician:

"But... What if it could be changed?"

Doctor:

"...What?"

Magician:

"You'll be the main character of this farce."

Magician:

"In exchange, you'll be cursed."

Magician:

"Happiness as a person, joy... Throw all of that away and you'll be able to walk down an even harsher path as the main character."

Magician:

"What do you say? Do you have the determination to go down that path?"

Doctor:

"...Determination, you say?"

Doctor:

"...I've had it long before I'd started walking down this path."

Magician:

"...That's fine."

Magician:

"..."

Magician:

"—You simply need to yell the words I've just said. The moment death approaches."

Magician:

"Whether or not you choose to believe me... Whether you'll become the main character – it all depends on you."

Doctor:

"...Why?"

Doctor:

"Why...would you do this for me?"

Magician:

"..."

Magician:

"I've also made up my mind—"

Doctor:

"..."

Girl:

And then morning came. The morning where the hanged doctor is to be executed.

High Priestess:

"Now is the time to test your faith in God!"

High Priestess:

"The delusional fever not subsiding is evidence of your wavering faith and loyalty..."

High Priestess:

"And the one who used dubious tricks to cast doubt in the people's hearts...is this 'Hanged Man'."

High Priestess:

"Now, throw rocks at and set fire to this 'Hanged Man'."

High Priestess:

"Then your faith will be reignited and your loyalty will become steadfast!"

Girl:

"Please stop!"

Doctor:

"...!"

Girl:

"Why would you do such a terrible thing?! That man saved my life!"

Girl:

"Many other people have also been saved by him... So... Why?!"

Magician:

"Young girl, step back. It's dangerous here."

Girl:

"But...!"

Magician:

"Believe. Not in God...but in him."

Girl:

"Huh?"

High Priestess:

"Now, let's begin."

Girl:

I try to stand my ground, but I am pushed away by the crowd and a fire is lit by his feet.

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 12

High Priestess:

"Now, repent in the flames."

High Priestess:

"Only the miracle of God can save man. Those who deny that are nothing but a criminal."

High Priestess:

"If you aren't a criminal, then God would save you."

Doctor:

"But... You're saying that my being burned is evidence that I'm a criminal?"

Doctor:

"A farce. This is all a farce. Ngh... Ahhhhh!"

High Priestess:

"No. That flame is the reality. The flame is the truth."

High Priestess:

"There is no other miracle that can save man except for faith."

Doctor:

"...No."

Doctor:

"It is people...who save people."

Doctor:

"Even in despair and shattered, I still shoulder the responsibility and go down the path I believe in. Only a person's belief can bring light to people."

High Priestess:

"You're wrong! Those are words of the devil! Everyone, you mustn't listen to him!"

Doctor:

"Deny it all you want, but whether or not this path leads to Hell—"

Doctor:

"I...am not going to stop walking!!"

Magician:

"Yes... Those words..."

Magician:

"You are the main character – 'Hanged Man'..."

Girl:

After saying those words, the Magician collapses. And then—

:

*thump* *thump*

Devil:

"'Not going to stop walking'..."

Devil:

"—'The show must go on.'"

Devil:

"I've heard you loud and clear. Here's the contract!"

Doctor:

"W-What is this black shadow—"

Devil:

"The Devil has come to save you, 'Hanged Man'."

Doctor:

"The Devil? Me?! Why?!"

Devil:

"Why? Because you said the oath."

Doctor:

"'Not going to stop walking'...!"

Devil:

"Correct. And a soul has been used for the exchange. All that's left is to fulfill the contract."

Doctor:

"Soul...?"

Devil:

"Oh... Yeah, that Magician's soul."

Doctor:

"What?!"

Devil:

"One of the delusional fever patients you saved around two months ago... The redheaded young girl."

Devil:

"That was the magician's granddaughter."

Doctor:

"...!"

Devil:

"The magician knew while serving the High Priestess that the skill of man is what can save people."

Devil:

"That's why she struck a deal with me. To save the Hanged Man in exchange for her life..."

Devil:

"To change this world."

Doctor:

"...!"

Devil:

"Heh heh... To think the sham Magician's last act is to call upon the Devil using real magic. How clever."

High Priestess:

"You... Magician, how could you betray me at the last moment...!"

High Priestess:

"Devil, begone!"

Devil:

"Oh, who should be the one to leave? High Priestess."

Devil:

"The freed 'Hanged Man' uses his skills to save the people, meaning the values will change."

Devil:

"You gather faith through fear of burning at the stake and boast that only God can save man. High Priestess, your services are no longer needed."

Devil:

"If you've finished playing your role... It's time for you to step off the stage."

High Priestess:

"Eek... G-Get away from me, Devil! S-Someone, save me!"

Devil:

"Aren't you the one who hanged those who begged for their lives in the name of God, and burned them at the stake?"

Devil:

"Now it's your turn to dance as the criminal. On the stage of Hell, forevermore—"

High Priestess:

"No... No.... Ahhhhhh!"

Devil:

"'Hanged Man', our contract has been fulfilled."

Devil:

"Let's meet again in Hell when you have fulfilled your role one day."

Doctor:

"Yes... I'm grateful for your help, Devil."

Girl:

I thought it was enveloped in flames, but before I knew it, the High Priestess and Vatican knights had all disappeared.

Girl:

The Devil must have taken them to Hell.

Girl:

And that's how the doctor...the "Hanged Man" was saved.

Doctor:

"A life saved by the Devil... My role as the main character..."

Doctor:

"Create an era with no God, destined to face challenges – this IS a curse."

Girl:

"...No."

Girl:

"That's definitely...a promise."

Girl:

"I think it's a 'promise' with someone dear to you."

Doctor:

"Promise... I see, a promise."

Doctor:

"...It's gonna get busy."

Doctor:

"I was given this life at the expense of the Magician, so I must save as many people as I can."

Doctor:

"Would you be willing to lend me a hand?"

Girl:

"Huh?"

Doctor:

"If you continue on this journey to save people, you may be able to find your memories some day..."

Girl:

"I'm sorry...I have to go. To the promised place."

Doctor:

"Huh?"

Girl:

"'I'll be waiting. At the end of the moonlight... At that promised place – the secret paradise.' ...That's the promise I made."

Doctor:

"...I see."

Doctor:

"Have a safe journey. Don't push yourself too hard."

Girl:

"Thank you. I definitely won't let this life that you've saved go to waste."

Girl:

With that, I part ways with the doctor and continue on my journey.

Girl:

The journey to an unknown place where someone is waiting for me.

Girl:

But the person I met taught me this—

Girl:

Even if this path leads to Hell—

Doctor:

I...am not going to stop walking.

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 13

Lalafin:

Let's see, my role is... Um...

Lalafin:

Not at this moment, but something that is in— Belongs in? Seen in...? The future...

Lalafin:

Feels like something that'd be nice to have...

Lalafin:

Not in a heavy way, but more like— Clink! A bright atmosphere?!

Lalafin:

And also...like...someone that's full of "hope"!

Aruru:

Lalafin, stop right there!

Lalafin:

What!?

Tsukasa:

You're explaining the role of "Hope", so you can't use the word 'hope', right?

Lalafin:

Ohh, that's right! Oops...

Lalafin:

Aw, this "Self Introduction Etude" is too difficult!

Shizuha:

Heh, I guess so.

Shizuha:

By giving a self introduction, you'll be able to gain clarity for your role and come up with a better picture.

Shizuha:

I thought this practice method would be perfect for the tricky roles this time.

Shizuha:

Right, Misora-chan?

Misora:

Yes! My family's theater troupe often does the same thing.

Tsukasa:

That said...you're right – it is a tricky role.

Tsukasa:

Lalafin's "Hope".

Tsukasa:

Misora's "Faith".

Tsukasa:

And my "Charity"...

Tsukasa:

We're playing three Major Arcana cards from the Visconti-Sforza tarot deck.

Aruru:

Yes, that's right! I didn't know about the Vi... Bi... Biscotti one!

Tsukasa:

It's Visconti-Sforza. I'm interested in fortune-telling, so I knew about it, but...

Tsukasa:

The most commonly used one that everyone knows is the Tarot of Marseilles with the 22 Major Arcana cards.

Lalafin:

Is it a really old tarot deck? That um... What was it again? Vi... Bi... Big Bang...?

Tsukasa:

Visconti-Sforza. And yes, it's the oldest one in the world.

Tsukasa:

Both the numbers and Arcana cards are different from the Marseille version. There's no information on the upright and reverse positions either.

Lalafin:

Ngh, there are too many unknown aspects.

Aruru:

That's what makes it interesting! It's because it's unknown that we can create something new!

Aruru:

Creating a new future at the ends of the barren wilderness! That's definitely our stage!

Lalafin:

A perfect casting for us from Frontier School of Arts!

Aruru:

It'll be rewarding! Rewarding for sure!

Lalafin:

Aruru... Well, yeah, you might be right!

Tsukasa:

Amemiya-san from the script team said that to us, right?

Tsukasa:

How it's difficult, but is also exactly why she wants Frontier to make it into something new.

Misora:

Our Frontier Spirit is being tested!

Lalafin:

Whoa, this is a huge responsibility!

Shizuha:

Heh heh... We can't lose either, Aruru-chan.

Shizuha:

My Arcana, "Judgement"...

Aruru:

My Arcana, "Moon"!

Shizuha:

Both are used in numerous works.

Shizuha:

That's why we have to come up with a surprising portrayal to create a role that no one has ever seen before.

Aruru:

Of course!

Aruru:

Our "Wild Pirates" unity won't lose to anyone anywhere!

Aruru:

We'll captivate the whole theater with a performance no one has ever seen before!

Aruru:

The happiest stage we'll all create together! The lead roles in the "Performance Festival" will be us!

Misora:

Aruru...

Lalafin & Tsukasa & Shizuha:

......

Aruru:

Let's do our best at rehearsals from tomorrow!

Aruru:

"Let's do our best at rehearsals from tomorrow!"

Aruru:

...Even after I said that—

Aruru:

Why has no one come to rehearsals since then?!

Aruru:

I've been all by myself ever since the first script reading was over!

Aruru:

Why? I don't get it! Is Tsukasa-chan going to all the sweets shops?

Aruru:

Is Lalafin researching a new transformation pose?!

Aruru:

Is Shizuha-chan playing games overnight?

Aruru:

Is Misora busy with her part-time job?!

Aruru:

Where is everyone?!

Aruru:

Now's not the time to be practicing by myself... I have to go find them!

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 14

Shizuha:

"My... How arrogant..."

Shizuha:

"One day, 'Judgement' will fall upon this foolish decision...!"

Shizuha:

......

Shizuha:

...This is no good.

Shizuha:

This kind of ordinary acting... "It's not good enough".

Shizuha:

It needs to be more intense and persuasive, otherwise..."I can't win".

Shizuha:

What should I do...?

Shizuha:

...That's right.

Aruru:

Aww... They're nowhere in the school... Where did everyone go...?

Aruru:

Don't leave me all alone... Huh?

Aruru:

Oh... That's Shizuha-chan!

Aruru:

Shizuha-chan, I found you!

Aruru:

Hey! Why haven't you been coming to rehearsals?!

Shizuha:

...Oh... Aruru...chan.

Aruru:

No one's coming to rehearsals, you know?! Shizuha-chan, do you know anything—

Aruru:

...What are you doing?! Why are you pinching yourself?!

(Note: This was originally "...What are you doing?! What are you going to do with that utility knife?!", and was changed in the English translation only.)

Shizuha:

My "Judgement"...still hasn't come to life.

Shizuha:

It's not good enough... My character isn't alive yet...

Shizuha:

That's why I have to wake it up with extreme pain—

Aruru:

S-Stop, stop!

Shizuha:

Aruru-chan, don't stop me!

Shizuha:

I need to feel strong pain to be able to play a role that casts 'judgement' on others!

Aruru:

T-This is for understanding your role...?!

Aruru:

This is wrong! Why do you have to push yourself to such lengths?!

Shizuha:

Because "it's not good enough"... Because "I can't win"!

Aruru:

...?!

Aruru:

Shizuha-chan, you ARE good enough!

Aruru:

You are you, so you just need to do your own acting! There's no need to beat anyone!

Aruru:

To have to corner yourself like this for role preparations... It won't become a fun and happy stage at all!

Shizuha:

Fun and...happy stage...

Shizuha:

Aruru-chan, do you really think that?

Aruru:

Huh...?

Shizuha:

Do you really think...that the "Performance Festival" stage is a happy stage?

Shizuha:

You didn't feel anything? After seeing everyone at the first script reading...

Aruru:

I-I did? Maya-chan's lightning and Akira-chan's thunder...!

Aruru:

Your gradual pace and Tamao-chan's brisk pace!

Shizuha:

Then you should know...

Shizuha:

The "Performance Festival"...is hell.

Aruru:

Huh...? Hell...?

Shizuha:

Even with the rough unfinished first draft of the script...everyone is competing fiercely to become the center of the play – the lead.

Shizuha:

Become the center of the stage, release the best brilliance under the brightest spotlight, insist on being the lead—

Shizuha:

Sing, dance, and compete...

Aruru:

......!

Shizuha:

If you go on with these half-baked feelings...you'll just get killed by the stage.

Shizuha:

Everyone knows this, so that's why we're all facing it by ourselves.

Shizuha:

Tsukasa, Lalafin, and Misora-chan too. In order to self-reflect and become stronger.

Aruru:

Th-That's... That's not right.

Aruru:

Because we're friends... No, family! We're a family creating the same stage.

Aruru:

Why do you have to do it by yourself?! Let's move forward together! We can do a camp or have sleepovers!

Aruru:

What's wrong with everyone?

Aruru:

What's the matter with all of you!?

Shizuha:

Aruru-chan...

Shizuha:

Aruru-chan, you're—

Elle:

Revue...

Elle:

A spellbinding performance conjured out of song and dance...

Andrew:

The one who shows the most brilliant Revue and lights the fire in the young girl's heart...

Elle:

—Will be on the path to become the "Unknown Lead".

Elle & Andrew:

Revue has begun.

Shizuha:

Heartbroken loneliness as I fall with broken feathers. The neon lights invite the stage of bonds.

Shizuha:

If "now" and "reality" are but a night's dream, I'll carve my flight onto the stage.

Shizuha:

Stage Girl — Shizuha Kocho! I spread my wings, to Frontier!

Aruru:

Sparkling bullets, loaded onto wings and heading into the wilderness, looking for a free stage.

Aruru:

The spotlight is a goldrush, and with both hands, grab onto that BIG DREAM!

Aruru:

Stage Girl — Aruru Otsuki! Against the wind, to Frontier!

Elle:

"Timeless Play"...

Andrew:

Struggling for the "Unknown Lead"—

Elle:

Sing.

Andrew:

Dance.

Elle & Andrew:

And compe—

Aruru:

No competing!

Elle & Andrew:

Wha—?!

Aruru:

I... No, we won't fight.

Aruru:

Elle, Andrew. I...will change the rules!

Aruru:

We're a family! Five in one! We're a family creating the same stage!

Aruru:

That's why there'll be no fighting between us. Never.

Aruru:

If we have to fight... I'll fight in everyone's stead!

Aruru:

I'll take everyone there! To the "Unknown Lead"—

Aruru:

I'll make everyone the "Unknown Lead"!

Misora:

Aruru, why are you still saying such things?

Lalafin:

"I'll make everyone the 'Unknown Lead'".

Tsukasa:

You think that would make us happy...?

Elle:

Huh...?!

Andrew:

W-Why are you guys here?!

Curtain Rises - The Journey Begins Part 15

Elle:

Huh...?!

Andrew:

W-Why are you guys here?!

Lalafin:

Audio, backdrop, and stage equipment help carry out Stage Girls' dreams... That's what a stage is, right?

Tsukasa:

I have to go. To that stage— Hup!

Misora:

Aruru!

Lalafin:

Lalafin JUMP!

Andrew:

A-All three of you—

Elle:

They jumped onto the stage!?

Aruru:

Everyone...!

Misora:

Aruru...

Misora:

You... "How long are you going to stay standing there for"?

Misora:

As you are right now, you can't stand on the same stage as us.

Aruru:

Misora...?

Lalafin:

Be hungry, demand, compete... That is what Stage Girls are, no?

Lalafin:

Which is why...we can't stay as a close family forever.

Aruru:

Lalafin...!

Tsukasa:

No matter what stage, there's always only one lead. If someone is standing in the lead position...

Tsukasa:

You either get off the stage...or take over the lead. Those are the only two choices.

Aruru:

Tsukasa-chan, you too...!

Shizuha:

Creating the happiest stage with everyone is nothing but an illusion... A faint and fleeting night's dream...

Shizuha:

We are friends and rivals at the same time. We're rivals fighting to become the "Unknown Lead".

Aruru:

Shizuha-chan, stop...!

Shizuha:

That's why...we're disbanding the "Wild Pirates".

Aruru:

...!!

Aruru:

...No ...I don't want that...

Aruru:

No, I refuse! I refuse to do that!

Aruru:

We finally became friends... We finally became family.

Aruru:

Yet why do we have to fight among ourselves as family members?

Lalafin:

Aruru...

Aruru:

In which case... That's fine then.

Aruru:

If I have to fight everyone for it... I don't want to become the "Unknown Lead"!

Misora:

......

Misora:

Why are you against it so much? What are you afraid of?

Misora:

You, who lit up the path I needed to go down on with so much confidence—

Lalafin:

You, who gave me the strength to declare what is important to me—

Tsukasa:

You, who taught me the importance of seeking the best and continuing to think—

Shizuha:

You, who gave me the courage to not fear getting hurt— Why?

Aruru:

Because it was all for everyone's sake! I could do my best because it was for everyone!

Aruru:

Because I...

Aruru:

...I have nothing when I'm by myself. Without everyone, without the stage... I have nothing.

Misora:

Aruru...

Shizuha:

Andrew... I want to ask you to change the Revue battle card.

Shizuha:

Frontier's Revue...will be Aruru Otsuki against the four of us.

Aruru:

......?!

Andrew:

Y-You can't just decide that...

Elle:

...I understand. We'll change it.

Andrew:

E-Elle?!

Shizuha:

Stand up, Aruru Otsuki.

Shizuha:

This is what you dug up within me. Passion and determination...

Shizuha:

That's right... "Revue Frontier" is beginning.

Shizuha:

I'll be the one to dig it up this time – your brilliance.

Tsukasa:

If you don't have the strength to continue walking in the wilderness, take your fall here and put an end to it.

Lalafin:

If you have the will to move forward in the wilderness...defeat us and move on!

Misora:

Show us, Aruru Otsuki...

Misora:

—Who are you?

Aruru:

......!

Aruru:

My name is Aruru Otsuki.

Aruru:

I was raised surrounded by many people.

Aruru:

I have my dear friends and respected seniors...and my important stage.

Aruru:

I'm very happy.

Aruru:

But... I know nothing about myself.

Aruru:

About my parents or where I was born.

Aruru:

When I was picked up, I had a piece of paper with "Aruru" written on it with me.

Aruru:

I had nothing.

Aruru:

But... That day when the "Sky Blue Theater Troupe" visited the orphanage—

Aruru:

That's when I met the stage.

Aruru:

I was touched by Misora's acting and said I wanted to join the theater troupe...

Aruru:

The sister was really happy to see me show my own will for the first time and let me join the theater troupe.

Aruru:

After that...Misora played the lead, Dorothy, in "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" and I stepped on my first stage as the dog, Toto.

Aruru:

That day...I met the stage.

Aruru:

But I... I know nothing about myself.

Aruru:

And neither do I want to know.

Aruru:

Because I have the stage now. A stage I can stand on with everyone—

Aruru:

—I have that. I do, I do have that.