Four Hundred And Forty

Four Hundred And Forty

“I’m your host for this exciting live talk show, Endou.” The man said, and then the woman spoke up.

“And I’m the prettier co-host, Ogawa-chan!” The woman said in a sing-song voice, despite likely being in her late thirties. “And since our first guest of the afternoon needs an introduction, I’ll do it. Welcome to Kanzaki-chan, one of the popular members of the famous idol group AKB48!”

“Thank you, it’s good to be here!” Kanzaki-chan waved at the cameras, smiling professionally. “I wouldn’t say I’m popular... oh no, I can’t do that to my fans! Everyone who voted me for centre... wait and see the poll results soon! We can have high hopes I’ll be taking the lead on our new single!”

“Speaking of your new single...” Endou-san said, steering the question, as if planned in advance. “...That’s one of the things we’ve asked you on to talk about tonight, Kanzaki-chan. The release has actually been delayed, hasn’t it?”

“That’s right. It was a tough decision... but it’s for the fans, no, the whole country!” Kanzaki-chan cheerfully explained. “As you know, there’s a huge event coming up, a charity concert and fundraiser for the poor victims of the tragedy of Kyoto.” She put on a sad expression, and the two anchors looked solemn. “AKB48 are one of the acts taking part, but we wanted to do our part, so the first time anyone will hear the single, and see our new centre, is at that event.”

“And can we assume that you doing interviews is a hint?” Ogawa-san pressed.

“I can’t break my silence.” Kanzaki-chan smiled winsomely, making heart shapes with her hands. “So you’ll just have to wait and see. It’s a huge event though, with some newcomers, big names in both the idol, j-pop and wider music industries, and I’ve even heard...” she lowered her voice theatrically, and while I watched the screen in our waiting room, Arisu-san snorted sourly.

“She is very good at playing the cute girl. Idols need to be able to. Which is why Suzanne-san is a failure. She has the looks and the drive, but... her personality is too eccentric to ever make it big.” Arisu-san’s words were damning, but her expression as she mentioned Suzu-san was exasperated yet kind.

“...there’ll be some foreign idols and groups too. I can’t name names or management would be sure to punish me...” Kanzaki-chan giggled lightly. “...but it’s a big scoop!”

“And you heard it here first!” Endou-san said happily. “Here on FujiTV’s flagship Sunday talk show...”

The questions turned to such banal topics as how Kanzaki-chan’s idol outfit was cute, and AKB48’s was the prototype for many newcomers in the industry, as well as other matters that were rather light-hearted. That continued for ten more minutes, until they asked a question that made my eyes widen.

“So, you’ve stated in a prior interview that your ideal man is Oshiro Akio, the hero of Britain. Won’t your fans be heartbroken to hear that, Kanzaki-chan?”

As the idol blushed prettily, she turned to the cameras, her ease before them well-practised. “I know, I’m a bad girl. But please still vote for me! I love all my fans, but then, who’s to say Akio-kun isn’t a fan of mine? Besides, I don’t have any time for romance, since I’m too busy shooting my fans through the heart!” She made cute finger-gun gestures at the cameras.

“So, what was it about then?” the female co-host pressed. “What do you mean by ideal man?”

“It’s cool, isn’t it? A knight in shining armour, defending a Princess. As an idol, the industry isn’t all nice. After all... there are those fans who aren’t true, that let their obsessions get the best of them...” For a moment her real feelings came through, before she realised she’d said too much and brightened up, winking at the camera. “Being obsessed with us is fine, we get it, but don’t go moving on to stalking and harassment, okay? We idols are for every fan. So yeah, if you want to be my ideal man, then you have to be able to protect me, all right?”

“So, not his looks then?” the co-host asked, and Kanzaki-san shrugged.

“Oh, no, his looks are great. He’s tall and looks slightly exotic, while still being a classical Japanese hunk, so...” As she talked I felt embarrassment burning within me, and Arisu-san’s lips curved into a smile.

“How does it feel to be a hunk?” Her words were a little unkind, but actually that pleased me, as it showed that Arisu-san was becoming comfortable enough around me for banter, even if it was characteristically harsh. “You know, I suppose she is attractive, in a very artificial sort of way. Most idols are. Maybe if you ask her, she would agree to join your growing collection. Poor White, whatever does she see in you?”

“Harsh.” I snorted. “No, she’s cute enough yes, but that’s not all I look for in a woman. I like a little substance too. I am flattered though, even if she’s likely exaggerating.”

“You think?” Arisu-san arched one eyebrow. “Perhaps you are not so foolish after all. Though...”

“Three minutes!” the staffer in our room said, and Arisu-san nodded.

“We are ready.” She turned to me, handing me a bottle of water from the table beside her. “Take some now, or you will wish you had later.” She was then taking her own advice, gulping down some elegantly, so I uncapped the bottle and took a few swigs, soothing my throat. Kanzaki-chan was talking about me still, but then Endou-san grinned.

“Seems like you’re in luck, Kanzaki-chan, for our next two guests are rather special.” With that we were ushered down a corridor, and soon the door was opened in front of us, revealing the studio. The only open chair was a two-seater sofa, and Arisu-san glared at Endou-san, who saw us and flinched for a moment, before his professionalism restored itself.

“They need no introduction, but we’ll give it anyway, in case you’ve been living in a cave these past few months or been on a long-haul fishing ship.” He waved his arm grandly as we strode in, though Arisu-san hissed at me to walk slowly and gracefully, so I followed her regal example, watching as her red dress wreathed her elegant body as she took every step with measured dignity.

“The hero of Britain, the man who shook the world, Oshiro Akio-kun, and the star of the past, whose rise and fall and rise again is the talk of the showbusiness world, Arisugawa Arisu-chan!”

Guided by Arisu-san’s careful movements I sat down beside her, the side of the seat closest to Kanzaki-chan, who did for a moment seem genuinely starstruck, her face pink, before she shook herself, remembering she was live on air.

“It is a pleasure to be here on FujiTV once more.” Arisu-san said, and I followed suit.

“Yes, it’s good to be here.” I said calmly, my Resilience kicking in. It’s not like this is as troubling as battle or dealing with politics. Though when I think all my friends and family are watching, it’s still tense.

“How does it feel to meet your ideal man in the flesh, Kanzaki-chan? A real surprise, right?”

“Yes, a really big one.” She smiled. “Though it’s very embarrassing. I hope you haven’t been listening backstage?” She totally knew I was going to be a guest too. It’s obvious. “I have to say... you’re even better looking in person.” She suddenly flushed, and that looked genuine, as her eyes flickered before she coughed. “Sorry, unprofessional of me there.”

Endou-san covered for her and turned to us eagerly. “The question that everyone wants to ask is surely, Arisu-chan, Akio-kun... I can call you that, right?” As I nodded, he continued. “Just what is your relationship? The whole of Japan wants to know.”

“I certainly do!” Kanzaki-chan agreed with a smile.

This one was one we definitely rehearsed. “We’re good friends.” I said calmly. “Arisu-san and I are simply that.”

“Yes, there is no relationship, I am afraid. We have a mutual friend who is already engaged to Akio-san...” Hearing her call me so informally was a surprise, but not an unpleasant one. Yeah, got to present our best image for the cameras. “... so tales of romance will have to remain that. Simply tales. I would appreciate putting an end to them now. My past with... rumours... has not been so pleasant.”

At her words, the co-host took over. “Kanzaki-chan, that’s a good point. Akio-kun here was seen in London with a number of beauties, and we have received information from numerous sources that he is not limited to them alone.” Sources, huh?

“Yes, you might be a hero, but you shouldn’t be unfaithful.” Kanzaki-chan smiled at me, making more finger-guns with her hands. “What of the feelings of the poor girls?”

That question, huh? Again, one we rehearsed. “I would certainly agree with you.” Arisu-san said, inclining her head. “But as our mutual friend seems to be very happy, as well as the others I have met... there is no accounting for people’s tastes, I suppose. It would not be for me. But then, I would rather an unrepentant, kind-hearted promiscuous man who genuinely looks after his women, defends them, than a snake who betrays women yet appears a perfect gentleman on the surface. One is a fool but an earnest one, the other...”

That was a way harsher answer than we rehearsed! But I guess if she believes that then I guess I’m happy. Endou-san winced at her venom. “Oh yes... uh... Ryusei-kun...” he managed, before I spoke.

“I suppose I do deserve criticism. But that won’t change anything. I indeed do have many girls I love, and it might be selfish of me, but I’ve resolved to make them all happy. It might be immoral, maybe, but it’s certainly not illegal. In fact...” I laughed. “Anyone who wants to can get married to multiple partners now, though let me give you a word of advice, more partners means a lot more problems, so maybe stick to one, trust me.”

Using levity to deflect, I made sure to smile in an abashed manner. Kanzaki-chan narrowed her eyes for a moment, before asking a question. “Akio-kun, just how many? I’m curious, and I’m sure the audience is too.”

“Uh, eleven.” I confessed.

“Wow, just thirty-seven more and you could form your own rival to AKB48!” she giggled, a pout on her face, before she smoothed it off.

“I confess, that would be a sight to see.” Arisu-san cut in. “They are all certainly beautiful in their own ways. But being an idol is hard, is it not?” Arisu-san adlibbed a diversion. For a moment Endou-san looked set to interrupt, but Kanzaki-chan started talking rapidly, agreeing.

“Oh, you would know, right Arisu-chan? Being a top actress is hard work too. You can sing, right? I remember hearing you did so in an early role.”

“Oh yes, that musical. Yes, I am classically trained as a singer, and I can play the piano and the violin to a high grade. I can dance too, of course, but compared to the rigour of idol work, I would struggle to keep up. The repetition and drills to master each of your songs are incredibly demanding.”

“That’s right, but we do it because we love our fans! You love the fans too, right Arisu-chan? Do you miss acting? You must do, right?” Kanzaki-chan persisted. For a moment Arisu-san shut her dark eyes, thinking, before she let out a cold sigh.

Ogawa-san cut her off. “A question for you, Akio-kun. Would you like to see Arisu-san act again? In fact, have you seen any of her films?”

“As it happens, I hadn’t up until recently, but now I’ve seen a few on DVD. And Arisu-san hasn’t changed. Just so long as she continues to help me out and support me, I’d love to see her act again. If only for her own peace of mind, and to show those who betrayed her they never beat her.” Arisu-san blinked at me, and she had a reaction for the second time in quick succession. Seeing that, Ogawa-san pressed me further.

“You said you were just friends earlier, but are you sure? You sound awfully close.”

“Well, we are close friends. That’s natural.” I agreed, brushing her insinuations off. “Arisu-san may be a beautiful woman, but she’s been hurt before. I’m cheering her on to find happiness however she can, our mutual friend is too. And if I can do anything to help her, I will, no question asked.”

“I see. Looks like you might have some more competition, Kanzaki-chan.” Ogawa-chan giggled. “Oh, there was one thing...”

Arisu-san frowned, and I also sensed something was wrong. “There are those die-hard fans of Ryusei-kun, Mei-chan and the others who say all of the evidence against them is simply lies, fabricated by the government because you are a priceless Chosen? Not that we at FujiTV believe such, we don’t do that, just as we didn’t before, Arisu-chan. But... with Akio-kun’s words, it does sound a little more persuasive... uh...” Ogawa-san, Endou-san and even Kanzaki-chan were going pale as Arisu-san’s fury rose, triggering her League. It was nothing to me, but to these ordinary people it was like being crushed. I used more wind to distract her, but it didn’t work. My thoughts raced, and I realised I needed to act before her temper caused a scene on live TV. I quickly grabbed her hand, squeezing it reassuringly, and she looked down, her oppressive League scattering.

“What was... oh my god, camera, camera!” The crew were zooming in on our hands, but I didn’t care.

“Are you all right?” I mouthed, wind preventing it from being heard, and she used her previous technique to transmit more words to me.

“I apologise. After expecting you to be the one to make such a mistake, I let my anger get the best of me. I... have grown rather prickly over the years. Now... best release my hand. I am fine, I assure you. This will fuel scandal. Not that it will hurt you, seeing as you confessed to eleven girlfriends already. Poor White...”

Nodding, I let go, before I used my Majesty and Charm. Kanzaki-san let out a small whimper, her face red, licking her lips as she looked at me, while even Ogawa-san started looking at me dreamily. Not that I need that, thank you! Endou-san and the camera crew were all focused on me, so I used the distraction. “I appreciate the work the free press does. I think the truth is important. And you know the truth here.” They were nodding along to my words, though the fast breathing of Kanzaki-chan was a little off-putting. “None of the evidence is lies. You aren’t entirely incorrect though. I did pull in a few favours with some connected people to dig it up. But it was unearthed, not fabricated, and anyone that says otherwise... well, you make an enemy of Arisu-san, and you also make an enemy of me. Ryusei...” He didn’t deserve an honorific. “... reaps what he sows. Worse, he missed out. What kind of idiot would ever betray Arisu-san?”

“I think you have gone too far...” Arisu-san whispered, but I shook my head.

“No, I disagree. Obviously the evidence presented to the media is just enough to prove their guilt, the majority will be saved for the courts. Arisu-san’s status as a Chosen should have nothing to do with it. Justice is for all, isn’t it? For rich or poor, for Chosen or not. I was able to do something about it, so I did. If you disapprove, does that mean you prefer an innocent woman to be stained with false accusations, her career she loved destroyed? All because you’re a fan of some trash? If so, please come see me and tell me that to my face. I’ll be happy to discuss it.” I lowered my Charm and Majesty once more, releasing the rapt attention of the anchors and Kanzaki-chan, the latter of which was staring at me with brilliant pink cheeks. With a smile, she clapped her hands.

“That’s so touching! Idols know the pain of scandal too. If only someone would be so bold as to destroy all the lies told about us!”

Feeling a little regretful she was caught up in my Charm offensive, I winked. “Sure, how about this? If you or any of your fellow members get into trouble, I’ll see what I can do. But I won’t cover up genuine misdeeds, all right?”

Kanzaki-chan leaned back in her chair, pointing her finger-pistols are her own chest. “Bang bang! I’m shot through the heart! But I’ll hold you to that, all right?”

“He may be an idiot, and a womaniser, who I am watching at work right now it seems...” Arisu-san broke in. “But a liar he is most certainly not. More promises made. You never learn.” She rolled her eyes at me. “I was predisposed to despise you from what I heard of you from White, but I surprise myself that I tolerate you so.”

“There’s no mystery.” Kanzaki-chan giggled, her flush not diminishing. “You’re great friends. I can tell.”

“Great? You exaggerate. But I admit, he is considerate in his own clumsy way. Now...” she turned her cold gaze back on the two anchors. “How about some proper questions, else we shall take our leave.”

“Yes, I should have taken your feelings into account more, Arisu-chan, do forgive me.” Endou-san apologised, mopping sweat from his brow. He shot me a nervous look, before continuing. “But it is what people are saying, like it or not. Just as you value the truth, so do we here at FujiTV. But maybe if they had to say it to your face, Akio-kun, they’d keep it to themselves.” He laughed nervously. “You are a very protective man it seems. Now... how about a change of pace? Audience questions?”

Arisu-san had mentioned this before we started. The questions wouldn’t really be from the audience, but it made the viewers feel more included, so it was a trick often used by talk shows.

“Fine. I hope it’s a fun one.” I smiled to show I had no hard feelings, although I was still rather annoyed.

“Fun you say? Okay, on a protecting theme, with fun... here’s one. This is from...” he read out a name and a location. “... my question is... what’s Princess Eleanor like? And have you ever met our own Imperial Princess? How do they compare?”

“I’m curious too!” Kanzaki-chan leaned in, smiling. “After all, you’re the saviour of Britain, even the Queen said so. That’s so awesome.”

“A safe question. I suppose.” Arisu-san sighed. “I shall sit this one out. Feel free to try and answer without causing diplomatic incidents.”

“I’ll do my best. Eleanor, huh? Yeah, she’s a woman who takes her responsibilities seriously. She’s very dedicated to Britain and the lives and protection of her citizens. I first met her...” I went on to detail our first meeting in a way that made her look less irritable. “...so yeah, she’s very against polygamy, but the girls talked her around. Getting a picture with some of my girlfriends with the Queen was a highlight of my trip. As for afterwards, the defence of London... yeah, she didn’t take a backwards step, protecting her friends and allies even at the cost of her own life. Fortunately we were there to stop that cost from needing to be paid. Afterwards... we made common cause, and diplomatically, Britain and Japan are closer than ever. I like her, she’s a good girl.”

Arisu-san groaned quietly at my flippant answer, but I thought it was fine. “As for Princess Mikasa, yeah, I’ve met her. I’ve met a lot of important people recently. She’s a kind girl, but a lonely one. It’s hard being a Princess, I think. Fortunately she has a very good friend who cares for her a lot. And she’s a hard worker too. In fact, she and Eleanor are a lot alike. So we should be proud we have a Princess who cares about her country and its citizens too. As for comparisons, I wouldn’t dream of it. They both have their quirks. But I’d say as Princesses go, they both get my seal of approval!”

“And I am very sure they’d be gratified to hear that, from the hero of Britain himself.” Endou-san said. “You’re half-British yourself, aren’t you Akio-kun? Doesn’t that lead to any issues? Perhaps you feel more strongly drawn to Britain than Japan?”

This, huh? My mom and father had raised me fairly, not to be prejudiced to other nations and cultures, and while it came harder for my father, he has travelled abroad for work, unlike a lot of Japanese. But even when I was young there were a few problems at school, and mom had it hard too. If it wasn’t for uncle and auntie helping us integrate... “That’s a foolish question. I do what I can. Britain needed help, so we gave it. When Japan does, I of course step up. Otherwise the Diet wouldn’t put so much trust in us. My race doesn’t matter. But I do see myself as Japanese, I’ve lived here since before I started elementary school. My sister was born here. But I also have a British heritage too, and more importantly... I’m a citizen of this world. We all are. And those of us who were Chosen know what that means, whether we like it or not. Can we have a better question please?” I tried and likely failed to keep the irritation out of my voice this time. Sorry Arisu-san.

There was a faint, mosquito-buzz of a noise I could hear, and on concentrating, it was coming from the ear of Endou-san. Using aether I amplified my hearing, while Arisu-san answered a question from Kanzaki-chan on whether she’d ever met any Princesses.

“... ratings domestically are breaking all records, international markets are paying vast sums for delayed live feeds. But we need to up the ante. Ask some more hard-hitting questions. Yes, I promised Arisu-chan, but she’ll understand. It’s all publicity, everything is down to ratings, just like the film industry...”

All right, that sounds annoying. “So, a new question from our viewers.” Endou-san said, and I braced myself. “Hi, I’d like to see what all the fuss is about. Please both demonstrate your abilities. Despite what the government says, I think it’s all talk, smoke and mirrors.” Endou-san read it out triumphantly.

Arisu-san immediately declined. “I shall pass. I am not so... high-profile as Akio-san here. And he has some tricks that are easy on the eye.”

Despite the hosts trying to cajole her, she steadfastly refused. In the end even Kanzaki-chan was uncomfortable. “Please, it’s rude to bully a lady. Let her retain her aura of mystery. That’s part of her charm.” She winked at me then and mouthed that she’d return the favour.

“Yes, I tell you what I’ll do. I’ll show you two things to compensate.” I promised, and was glad that I had recovered some light element. Raising a hand, I created a rather convincing duplicate of Kanzaki-chan, though I was having to run Body Enhancement to do so. With my Split Thoughts suppressed to keep my dual bodies running everything is so much more difficult. But it’s all good training. Maybe I’ll Rank up soon...

“Wow, it’s me!” Kanzaki-san grinned. She reached out and her hands went through it, the light rippling before reforming. “Whoa, it’s like I’m a Vocaloid. Just... in three dimensions, with no screen?”

Time for wind element. “Here’s the second trick.” I let the jade light flash around us, and suddenly the illusion spoke back. “Whoa, it’s like I’m the real Kanzaki-chan?” The image moved, pointing finger-pistols at her cutely.

“Yeah, can’t quite get the voice right. Too many complicated vibrations.” I laughed, making the illusion dance and call out words. After a while I let it dissipate, but in a spectacular fashion, making a loud thunderclap with wind and a flash of brilliant golden light. “So how was that?”

“I’m a bit worried. Maybe you could replace me... hey...” She flushed suddenly, looking down shyly. “You don’t do anything... weird... with abilities like that, right?”

“He has eleven lovers. You think he has time for such plays? Besides, unless he has seen you in a state of undress, it would merely be guesswork. And you can hardly touch it, can you?” Arisu-san sniffed.

“That was amazing. But... we want to see something that shows us you’re the hero of Britain, not these... admittedly impressive party tri... ahh...” He staggered and fell backwards as I swept a beam of light across the floor in front of him, smoke rising as a furrow was cut in the tiles. The beam continued until it struck an unused camera rig, slicing through metal and plastic, scattering hot sparks as it collapsed.

“Be careful what you ask for.” I sighed, dismissing the light.

“Yes, I feel that for entertainment, the first trick was far more suitable.” Arisu-san said, but her gaze was hard and her tone a warning. “Now, perhaps we should move on? Or would you like Akio-san to demonstrate some combat? Though it would be against you, Endou-san, Akio-san does not care for bullying girls.”

As Ogawa-san sighed in relief, Endou-san continued to wipe his sweaty brow. “No, no. That was perfect.” His earpiece was urging him to continue, and after a minute, he narrowed his eyes, though he did glance at the destroyed rig and gouged floor. I could almost see him thinking that since it was live I couldn’t hurt him. True, but I can certainly strike back in other ways after this...

“Fine then. One more audience question. And this one is from anonymous. They chose to withhold their identity. Because what they have to say is very interesting.”

“Oh? How so?” Arisu-san asked. “For someone who works for FujiTV, you seem to disregard the rules of basic courtesy for your guests. Perhaps we shall decline to answer and cut this short. I believe the viewing public would see your repeated rudeness as reason enough.”

“Rude? No, we at FujiTV simply pride ourselves on impartiality without fear or favour, even for you, Arisu-chan! So... the question is I work for a company where our CEO has been ill for a long time, with a number of untreatable conditions. I then discovered that Oshiro Akio healed him, receiving a significant sum of money in the process. I did some digging, and it seems this has been happening over and over again, rich businessmen and politicians receiving favourable help for money. But when I looked into it deeper, not a single poor person had ever been healed. I think Oshiro-san is no hero, but simply out for himself and what he can get!” Endou-san was trembling a little, but he looked at us triumphantly. “So, that’s our question. Just like with our lovely Arisu-chan here, and her insistence that proof will tell, we have some, of course, provided by our inquisitive anonymous viewer. And I repeat your past words to you, Akio-kun. You do what you can. Help is needed, so you gave it. So then, where is all the help for the poor dying children, cancer patients, elderly poor who are suffering, the weak and downtrodden? Your answer please? And yes, you can leave, but that’s an answer in itself that our viewers might find telling...”

Arisu-san and I met each other’s gaze, and she nodded, though her fists were clenching hard enough for her red-painted nails to dig into her flesh, and her lip was now plum with her blood where she had bit down, furious and ashamed. Yes, you asked me to come, but this isn’t your fault. No... fortunately... I’ve been thinking about this for a while, and I did already make preparations, even if I’ve not enacted them yet. So, a battle... Yes, it was a battle now, even if it was with words, ideas and persuasion, rather than swords, elements and aether...