Four Hundred And Forty-One

Four Hundred And Forty-One

“You are playing a very dangerous game.” Arisu-san was the first to break the stunned silence. The sheer frostiness of her tone made Kanzaki-chan flinch, looking down pale-faced.

“Is that a threat, Arisu-chan?” Endou-san said, holding his ground. “Your army of fans would be so disappointed to see you acting this way. You were always so elegant and composed back then.”

“A threat? Please.” She scoffed in response. “Why would I threaten you? Besides, it is hardly me you need to be wary of upsetting.” She cast her glance towards the sliced and still smouldering camera rig. “As for my fans...” she continued, displeased. “I dare say there are those who believed in me all this time, and to you...” she turned to the camera and managed a cold yet beautiful smile. “I thank you. It means a great deal to me, to have those who believe in me. Those who believed the lies or turned on me, however... betrayers and snakes are never forgiven. I no longer need you. I will rebuild my life without you.”

“So brave...” Kanzaki-chan managed quietly.

“...Surely you need to be more wary of slandering the hero of Britain, who by your own admission is rather close to both Princess Eleanor of Britain, our own Imperial Princess, and has placed a great number of the rich and powerful in his debt. And who can cut metal and plastic with mere light as he wills it. No... Miyauchi is playing a dangerous game.” Any respect in her tone was now gone, along with honorifics for whoever that was.

“Miyauchi-san has nothing to do with this...” Endou-san said, losing control of the interview a little, and Arisu-san gave him a withering glance full of contempt. “Of course not. Forgive me if this does not make good television, but I did wonder why this was live, but I thought Miyauchi would keep his word to me. Perhaps I was not clear enough.” She looked at me then, and I nodded, saying she could continue. “I know what he will be saying right now, that I should understand, that this is simply the way of show business and the media, especially talk shows dealing with celebrities. The pair of you are quite popular presenters, no?”

“Thank you?” Ogawa-san managed weakly.

“It is plain to me that you have been investigating Akio-san before this programme was even conceived. I have to admit being impressed by your thoroughness. Ratings for this live broadcast must surely be awe inspiring.”

“Yes, you should be proud you are the star of one of, if not the highest grossing talk show in history. Perhaps even the most watched show in history!” Endou-san boasted, though his eyes betrayed he was aware that Arisu-san was still coldly furious.

“Oh, I am. So let me show my gratitude. You asked about Akio-san’s healings. Akio-san, would you be prepared to talk about it?”

“Yes, I don’t mind. I am excellent at healing, I can fix a lot of illnesses and injuries that medicines can’t. But it’s not trivial.”

“So you can fight, create illusions, heal... is there anything you can’t do, Akio-kun?” Ogawa-san took the opportunity to press me. I heard the whine of the earpiece in Endou-san’s ear, and with a tiny flick of wind I cracked it, causing it to fizz sparks as it died, Endou-san giving a startled yelp.

“The are some buzzing mosquitos about. Did one bite you?” Arisu-san remarked as Endou-san groped at his tender ear. “A shame.”

“Let me answer your question. There’s lots I can’t do, of course. But even more I can.” I declared. “I would like to make a phone call. Do we have a fax number here at the studio?”

I looked at Ogawa-san, flaring my Charm and Majesty again, and she nodded, a little dazed. “Yes, it’s....” she gave it to me without complaining.

Grabbing my phone, I started dialling a number. “It’s me.”

Hinata answered on the other end. “Those jerks.” Hinata raged. “Grandfather will be complaining to the station, I’ll get grandfather Itsuki to as well! The sheer nerve of them!” I could hear several people around Hinata telling her to calm down.

“It’s fine. I’m not exactly thrilled myself, but dealing with public opinion was something we were always going to have to work on. Do you have the draft documents for the charitable plan we discussed? If so, please fax them to...” I rattled off the number I was given.

“I’ll do that.” Hinata promised. “And quickly too, I don’t want to miss anything. Arisugawa-san is rather fiery. I almost feel sorry for those fools. Not that it’ll stop me destroying them. Oh... by the way, Kana says she’s embarrassed at you calling out to her on live TV, but she definitely wants that date.” I heard Kana protest, and Hinata finished with “Love you! Goodbye!” and hung up.

As I spoke, Arisu-san was finally answering the leading, almost accusatory question that Endou-san had delivered. “Perhaps it is not for me to answer, but I feel a certain guilt, as I asked Akio-san to be here, and he does not deserve such callous disregard for his efforts. So, we talked about the equitable distribution of wealth, did we not?”

“Who were you talking to?” Kanzaki-chan whispered to me as all attention was on Arisu-san.

“One of eleven.” I laughed. “And someone that FujiTV probably doesn’t want to make an enemy of. Knowing her, she’ll probably end up buying the station just so she can fire everyone. But...”

“So, if the median salary is four and a half million yen, what does a top surgeon earn? Nothing, I would expect you will tell me, considering your disgust at Akio-san earning a fair price for his efforts.” Arisu-san continued.

“...I don’t blame you.” Kanzaki-chan insisted. “We work hard as idols, and maybe some would do it for free out of love, but those sorts never last... we have to make a living, right.”

True. I can’t say I haven’t felt bad about it, hence why we whipped up the plans Hinata is sending over now. But I can’t just do charity exclusively. “Thanks. I mean, I need the money, I have big family to support.”

“No kidding.” Kanzaki-chan giggled quietly. “Being a good provider isn’t a bad thing.”

“Now imagine my shock when I find that doctors, surgeons and the like get paid, and paid well.” Arisu-san continued her rebuttal. “I imagine the average is around twenty million yen a year, and for those with truly exceptional skills... I would think they get paid as much as they wish. Is that so wrong? Besides, are you working for free, Endou-san, Ogawa-san? I expect not, though I believe you are hardly providing value for money right now.” Arisu-san was still on the offensive. “And I am sure you make a great deal of charitable donations, volunteer and do many other good works, no? In fact, let us compare.” She turned to me with a smile. “Akio-san, how many lives have you saved these past months?”

“I honestly couldn’t say. Many thousands at least, perhaps tens of thousands. Though I couldn’t save everyone.” I admitted, remembering the dead. Even so, hearing it spelled out, I do feel a bit proud. I’ve accepted what I can and can’t do. And now Tsukiko is back, all I have to do is grow stronger and I can prevent as many future tragedies as I can. But still not all of them. Because no one can do that. All we can do is the best we can. “I’ve also helped shape policies that will save more. So... I think I can be satisfied.”

“And you, Endou-san?” Arisu-san pressed.

“I... it’s hardly fair to compare!” he protested, his sweat-soaked brow dripping. “The sums involved...”

“Are quite justified. Were you or your wife... oh, are you married Endou-san? If so, I expect she will not be watching proudly right now.” Arisu-san got another savage dig in, but delivered in such an elegant manner that it seemed almost cool, not cruel. “...were either of you, or perhaps your children, dying or disabled, would you not pay for any miracle? In fact, Akio-san has been rather modest in his demands. Expensive yes, but what price is good health?”

“As I said to Kanzaki-chan here, I have a big family. And other reasons for making money too. I don’t feel ashamed to say I want my family and those I love to have a good standard of living. And if I can earn money, while also helping people, I’m happy to do so.” It was then that a staffer rushed in, holding a faxed document, and handed it to Ogawa-san, who looked at it, scanning it. Her eyes narrowed, and then she swallowed.

“Is this genuine?” she asked.

“I would say so. It’s signed by the current Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare.” I replied, sure of my victory over this question. “Kanzaki-san...”

“Yes?” she asked, pleased to be back on show, as this programme was also for her to boost her image.

“Imagine you could heal many diseases and illnesses, perhaps even regrow lost limbs or organs. But each takes time and effort, and you’re very limited in how much you can spare. After all, you have your own life, your own demands, and if you spent all your time healing, perhaps it might lead to worse tragedies.”

“I see. I’d feel bad. I’d want to help, but... I wouldn’t know who to. As an idol I’d of course say my fans!” she managed to get that in. “But as a person... it would be horrible. There’s so many in need. Oh wait, I get it!” She bounced on her chair, smiling. “If I think about it, you’re not any different to anyone else. Even here in Japan, there are the homeless and downtrodden. But even those who can afford to be charitable have to be selective, as their money will run out otherwise. I mean, isn’t that why we’re doing the charity concert, where AKB48 will be debuting our new single!” she reminded the audience again. “The difference is you’re not all talk, Akio-kun.”

“Indeed he is not.” Arisu-san agreed. “Now Ogawa-san, read.” Her tone was menacing, and the woman blanched, but she did as ordered.

“Don’t forget actors and idols too.” I said, drawing a giggle from Kanzaki-chan. “Honestly, that’s a great question.” And a variant on one we rehearsed. Which helps. “Perhaps it’s because of who asked it.” As Arisu-san raised an eyebrow at my flattery, I pretended to think. “It feels... a bit unreal, to be honest. Now, I’m sure there’s other Chosen watching, and they’ll understand. This all came from nowhere. One day I was working on a number of side projects, and...” I went on to describe my old job, before touching a little on the shock of meeting nobles, politicians and Princesses. “So during the battle for London, I was torn. It’s one thing fighting monsters...” I confessed. “But when it comes down to battling other Chosen who are intent on doing evil, or criminals... it’s hard. I agonised over it. But like I said earlier, Eleanor is brave, and didn’t hesitate to put her own life on the line for Britain. I wish every Chosen was as principled as her.”

“Uh...” Kanzaki-chan looked down, her expression doubtful. “Monsters? There are really monsters?”

“Yes, there are.” I shrugged. “How are you with spiders, cockroaches and centipedes?” I asked, and she shuddered.

“Disgusting. I hate those!”

“I am not overfond of them myself, but the consolation is disposing of them hardly feels like anything but a chore.” Arisu-san remarked. I bet she’s the sort of woman who takes a slipper to any pests she sees in her house without so much as batting an eye. Very little phases her.

“Cockroaches the size of big dogs, centipedes as long as buses... yeah, I’ve fought them all. Evil mushrooms that spread death, even a wannabe dragon...” As I launched into some safely edited tales, Kanzaki-chan listened, equal parts repulsed and fascinated. I’m not going to mention sapient enemies. That’s a step too far...

********

“...so the laws actually make a lot of sense.” I pointed out, the rather dry talk of how the new Ministry was going to shape national policy concluding. Arisu-san was an excellent host, her questions insightful, and she made sure to bring Kanzaki-chan into it as well. “I know I said earlier that the Gods told us that great danger is coming. And I have no doubt that’s true, but that’s why we’re working on things right now. There’s no need to panic, I can assure you. I’m sure we have time to prepare.”

“Isn’t there? I’m a bit nervous, I’ll be honest. I don’t want to die before I’m finally the centre, so not before the... oops, nearly gave away something I shouldn’t!” Kanzaki-chan winked.

“Yes, but don’t worry, when the time comes, whatever happens, those of us who were Chosen will step up. So you can rely on us.” I promised.

“You heard him. The hero of Britain is confident that he can protect us. I too give you my pledge, as Arisugawa Arisu, that I too will do what I can. And we are not alone. Chosen may be one in a hundred thousand, but there are many worldwide who are prepared to do what must be done. Not all...” she sniffed. “...there are those that put selfish interests first, but since when has that not been the case? But if you are still worried, if you fear for the future, do not panic, do not despair. There are ways you can help as well. The most important thing you can do is to remain calm. Life goes on. Even in wartime we need stability. Without workers producing food, goods and more, doctors and nurses, delivery drivers, power and telecoms workers... then everything collapses. So do your part, and we promise you, we will do ours, right, oh great hero of Britain, face of the Chosen in Japan?”

“Yes, you can trust us.” I promised.

“So then, do you feel reassured, Kanzaki-san?” Arisu-san asked, and she nodded.

“I do. I’ve had a lot of fun, and it’s been educational. I was a bit surprised by all the chaos, but it’s been a great experience. And I got to meet my ideal man.” She laughed prettily. “Now don’t be jealous my wonderful fans, if you want to be my ideal man too, try harder!”

“Yes, I apologise for the chaos, but do not worry, I daresay there will be changes at FujiTV soon.” Arisu-san said. The assistant producer, who hadn’t been kicked out when Arisu-san took over, signalled it was time to close up, so Arisu-san went into her closing speech.

“So, one last comments from everyone. Akio-san, Kanzaki-san, what question did you wish you could have asked or answered, but we did not have time? For me, I am disappointed I never got to speak about the charity concert more. A... friend of mine is appearing. I would ask that you, the viewers, look forward to it, but be gentle. She believes herself a shining star of the idol world, but reality is often cruel.”

“Oh, now I’m curious. I’ve seen the billing, so... who could it be? If she’s your friend, I’d like to meet her!” Kanzaki-chan gushed. “As for me...” she grinned, blushing. “I wanted to ask Akio-kun here which of his girlfriends are prettiest, and whether they were as pretty as me, but I figured he wouldn’t say.”

Arisu-san and I both froze at that. She recovered first, shaking her head. “Yes, Akio-san may be rather dense at times, but not even he would be so foolish as to touch that one. Besides, such would spark a riot amongst them, and while some of them are rather more ordinary than others... no, perhaps the disaster the Gods spoke of would be his harem rioting in response to that question. It would certainly be destructive enough to qualify.”

“Wow, that was a funny joke, Arisu-chan! You aren’t as strict as you seem. I’m delighted I got to see more of the real you.” Kanzaki-chan said, and I had to laugh. Yeah, there’s flashes of humanity buried deep in her cold exterior.

“A joke was it? Hmm...” Arisu-san said, and I took over.

“Yeah, to me they’re all beautiful. So I would never pick. As for you... yeah, you’re cute Kanzaki-chan, no question. I can see why you have a lot of fans. But for me, there’s not anyone cuter or more beautiful than my girls.”

“Not even Arisu-chan?” she said slyly, and I glanced at my aloof friend.

“I think anyone with eyes can see her beauty, but a girlfriend is always special, right? Now, my question... I guess I’d have liked to ask if you’ve got enough pull to get my sis and her friends backstage at any of your concerts? Like I said earlier, she’s a big idol fangirl.”

“Oh, that’s easy. For you...” she made her finger-pistols again, miming shooting me and blowing smoke. “...I’ll do my best!”

“Good. So, this is Arisugawa Arisu, your interim host, signing off. Thank you for watching.”

“Yeah, I’m Kanzaki-chan, AKB48’s shining star, saying farewell. If you’re an international viewer who doesn’t know our stuff, you could do worse than check out Akio-kun’s recommendations from earlier! Don’t be strangers!”

“And I’m Oshiro Moonstone Akio.” At that Kanzaki-chan looked surprised, giggling, as she hadn’t heard my middle name before. “All I can say is, the world may be changing, but if we work together, we’ll get by, just like always. No, better than always!”

“And that’s a wrap. Good job...” the assistant producer said, face pale. “... so, uh...”

“I suggest you make yourself scarce. Miyauchi will be coming to explain himself, and it had best be convincing...” Arisu-san’s frosty temperament was back on full display.

“So, do you have plans for later?” Kanzaki-chan asked. “Oh, and can we exchange numbers? We’ll need to so I can cash in that favour you promised if I’m ever in trouble.”

“Yeah, no problem.” I held out my phone and moments later our contact details were exchanged. “As for plans, I do, but...”

“In that case, why don’t the three of us go out and celebrate? We’ve broken all ratings records, right? We might even make that famous book of records!”

I glanced at Arisu-san, who shrugged, leaving it to me. Looking at the bright-eyed and keen Kanzaki-chan, I didn’t have the heart to turn her down. Fortunately with Arisu-san there we won’t have to worry about scandals... “Fine, but only for a little while. After all, I’ve got to get back to my eleven rioting girlfriends, who have probably been riled up by your question.”

“Oh, my bad.” She laughed, covering her mouth with one hand cutely. “How about to make it up to you I get you some signed merchandise for your sister? What’s her name?”

“I see she has already figured you out.” Arisu-san sighed. “Come, before we go, I have to deal with our last lingering issue.” The door opened, revealing a very scared older man, slightly chubby and with thinning hair.

“Arisu-chan, I can explain...” he began, and she snorted, crossing her arms, glaring at him.

“I am sure you can. So... you had best begin. I am lacking patience, for some reason.”

Yeah, Arisu-san, I’m sure glad I never had to face her as an enemy. Screw the Raven Knight for nearly forcing us into that conflict. Oh well... as we listened to his profuse apologies, Arisu-san verbally destroying him, Kanzaki-san and I exchanged glances, before we both started laughing. Sure, the interview went off the rails, but thanks to Arisu-san, I think everything went all right...