The release of the song composed by Noel – [The Nighthawk Star] was green lit and it got played on air over the radio for the first time. For the first time, the sound belonging to VANISHING STARLIGHT was delivered to the masses. They could only hope that it reached their hearts as well.

He had already reached a point where there was no turning back. Of course, Noel did not have the slightest intention of turning back.

To deliver the songs to more people. In order to fulfil that goal, Noel had decided to continue moving forward.

Also, for that goal, Noel asked his own producer, Revo, his reason for wanting to produce his songs.

–It’s true that I was drawn to your songs.

Revo got those words out first and then he continued speaking right after that.

— On top of that, I was thinking that I wanted someone’s songs to reach people in a place that my songs won’t reach no matter what.

It was not just for his songs. Even though he already knew that was not the only reason, he still received a considerable amount of shock.

Revo said he wanted his songs to be delivered to someone who may or may not exist. But it was not clear who that someone was.

If Noel was told more clearly from the very beginning about what that goal was, he would definitely lend a hand to reach it.

But by not telling Noel about this goal until now, it seemed like Noel was not someone who could be trusted. So annoying……now that he thought about it, he felt a bit sad.

That was why on that night, Noel said the following to Revo.

— I am no longer some existence that would be given things all the time. This time I must become someone who can contribute too. I can accomplish my goals even if you’re not around. I—

He really had those kinds of thoughts. He could not keep relying on Revo. However, with the momentum, he uttered the following words.

–Don’t need you.

If only he corrected himself straight away, if only he said he was lying……he regretted it.

Revo smiled after hearing Noel’s words.

–Then, why not try it out by yourself?

He was not angry, he was not being reckless, he just smiled and said,

–All the best.

He then suddenly disappeared from before Noel.

After that, Revo could not be contacted at all, even till this very day.

 

*

For the meetings to discussing about VANISHING STARLIGHT’s promotional materials, Noel ended up having to attend it. Usually, these kinds of meetings were attended by Revo—

Noel sat down next to his manager, Ichizou Ninosuke, in the meeting room, and one of the staff members asked him a question.

“What time will Revo-san be coming in today?”

When Noel heard the question, for a moment, he was at a loss of what to say. During that gap of time, Ichizou seemed apologetic but he still replied with a friendly smile.
“Regarding that, Revo-san seems to have some urgent matter which he can’t get away from…..So when he’s not around, Noel and I will be in charge.”

When Noel heard Ichizou give a reply as though it was no big deal, his eyes widened. Revo being gone was Noel’s fault and he did not want to drag Ichizou into it.

“Hey, you don’t really have to….”

Ichizou looked at Noel and smiled without saying anything. Noel also stopped talking there and then. They had no choice but to deal with Revo not being around.

The reason why Revo was gone was probably due to Noel. Noel had no intention of putting the burden on Ichizou, but at any time, he would help out in areas which Noel did not understand. That smiling face provided support for Noel without the need for words.

 

Without even giving Noel the chance to say “I want to do it” during the meeting, he pretty much just proceeded on his own accord. ……There was almost no meaning for Noel to be sitting there. However, when Noel tried to say something, the meeting only fell into chaos, but Ichizou would follow up with it well and eventually things settled down.

“Shit……!”

After the meeting finally ended, everyone but Noel and Ichizou left. Noel glared at the project plan that got distributed while scratching his head. Seeing this kind of Noel, Ichizou gave a forced smile and backed up a bit.

“It’s not as though I don’t get why you’re irritated but try to hold it back, ok, Noel…….”

“I know! Also, I’m irritated with myself. In all honesty, I could not follow what was going on at all……There are some things that I don’t even understand what they are saying……but………”

When he thought about it again, he fully realised that it was completely useless and without thinking, he suddenly went face first on the table. Gon, and the hollow sound of his forehead hitting the table rang out in the room.

As he felt the pain on his forehead, Ichizou spoke, seemingly surprised.

“Ah. Are you feeling depressed?”

“No! I’m angry!”

Standing up forcefully, Noel slammed the table hard and yelled angrily at Ichizou. Ichizou only raised both his hands in Noel’s direction as though to calm him down.

“It, it’ll be fine. Right now, we’re pretty much just confirming the things that were decided on so we can proceed without any questions. Don’t put so much burden on yourself….”

Yet, while saying that, his voice became weaker.

“………is what I would like to say but that’s also difficult, isn’t it?”

Of course, Noel nodded in response to Ichizou’s words. Because it was Noel, not being worked up was an impossible task.

“I wonder why Revo-san isn’t around at this period of time?”

Ichizou slumped his shoulders as he muttered without the intention of directing that question at Noel. When Noel heard that, he was unable to remain silent.

“I…….!”

However, the words did not continue. Because he was struggling with the feelings of having to explain the reason behind giving Ichizou so much trouble as well with having to apologise for dragging him into this, Noel shut his mouth.

Seeming to have guessed that something had happened based on Noel falling silent after saying words that got cut off mid-way, Ichizou smiled and said.

“Perhaps something happened in the world he’s heading towards, right?”

Not being able to look at Ichizou’s smiling face, Noel averted his gaze away from the other party.

“……Who knows.”

“……………”

Ichizou could not speak when he saw Noel’s reaction and awkwardly kept quiet. However, he immediately said something right after,

“It’ll all work out! I’ll support you so that you can focus on your songs, Noel! Alright, let’s confirm the next thing!”

Speaking with a ridiculously cheery expression and voice, Ichizou looked at both his notebook and smartphone, then as though he realised something, he turned towards Noel.

“Ah, Noel. You have an interview with Yamaguchi-san tomorrow.”

Ever since the release of [The Nighthawk Star] got decided, the interviews from various magazines increased. Among them was the All genre music magazine [SOUND AROUND] which Yamaguchi Hajime, a person he had an exceptional impression of, was part of. Though it was not as if Noel had the intention of forgetting him.

“Yeah, I got it……wait, tomorrow?!”

Noel who had averted his gaze from Ichizou’s face and weakly leaned against his backrest suddenly sat upright and returned his gaze to Ichizou when he heard what he said. He had thought that Yamaguchi’s interview was some time later.

“So you forgot about it after all, haven’t you? It’s good that I reminded you. I also had the impression it was one day after. That was dangerous. Confirming is important & important.”

Though Ichizou appears to be laid-back, his management of schedules was perfect. It might not show on his face, but he was probably tired as well.

At this moment, the door opened and one of the staff members who at the meeting earlier peered into the room.

“You’re here. Noel-san, it’s about the event programme, can we…..”

“Ah! Yes, yes! I’ll go over now!”

Before Noel could even react, Ichizou had ran off. Ichizou was still working. It was not as though he was not tired but that smile on his face would always be there.

(I’m not the only one who’s exhausted……Most of the times, the one who becomes exhausted is—-)

Noel squeezed his eyes shut and slapped both of his own cheeks.

He should stop thinking about that right now and focus all his attention on the issues he had to deal with in front of him.

 

*

The interview with Yamaguchi of [SOUND AROUND] took place in the same room of the publishing company as last time. The silver fox Yamaguchi welcomed them with a calm demeanor as he always did. However, when he looked at Noel and Ichizou, his eyes widened in surprise.

“Both your complexions don’t look so good……”

“…. It’s just your imagination.”

“We’re alright & alright.”

Noel replied in a soft voice while Ichizou replied brightly. However, when Noel looked at Ichizou’s face, fatigue peeped through that brightness. Just as Noel was thinking that he himself probably had the same kind of face, he poked Ichizou.

“Get a hold of yourself.”

“You too, Noel.”

“I-know-“

Ichizou returned the jab and Noel replied in an unhappy manner. Seeing how the two were beginning, Yamaguchi chuckled, covering his mouth. If it were someone else, they would have gotten angry about that laughing but it was strange. Yamaguchi’s laughter did not give them a detestable feeling.

“It won’t be that tough….is what I would like to say but it’s my duty to respond to your enthusiasm for coming here despite your fatigue. Nevertheless, your health is the most important. Please be careful.”

While gently telling Noel and Ichizou such words, Yamaguchi suddenly had a serious expression.

“Ah, excuse me, sorry about that. Please, take a seat, make yourselves at home.”

Yamaguchi directed Noel and Ichizou to the sofa and they sat down. Then saying that he would go make some coffee, he left the room and in almost the same time, Noel and Ichizou both leaned against the back rest of the sofa. However, they did not complain to each other.

“……I feel healed, Noel.”

“……Yeah.”

It felt as though time was passing leisurely only in this space. Also, both Noel and Ichizou only felt that way considerably thanks to Yamaguchi’s pleasant personality.

A quiet room that was filled with the warm rays of the sun. And sitting on a soft sofa and letting go of their strength while leaning against the backrest, for a moment Noel felt that his body was softly floating and he was getting drowsy, then he frantically straightened his body away from the back rest.

(Crap, I almost fell asleep….)

He shook his head to get rid of the drowsiness. Speaking of which, Ichizou had not said anything. Looking to the person next to him, Noel raised his arm.

“Wake up!”

“……Ha?! Eh, I fell asleep?!”

The side of that raised hand swung down onto Ichizou’s forehead. Noel’s chop caused Ichizou, who was sleeping with a peaceful expression, to open his eyes and he shot up the same way Noel did. While straightening his glasses, Ichizou looked at Noel, his eyes narrowing suspiciously.

“Noel, you looked like you wanted to sleep as well….by any chance……”

“I, I didn’t fall asleep! Don’t lump me together with you!”

“Eh–, you’re acting kinda suspicious……Anyway, this is bad. I need to wake up properly.”

Noel glanced sideways at Ichizou who was hitting his own cheeks while stifling a yawn.

(……This guy is exhausted as well.)

He was already determined to handle taking over Revo himself. But the reality was that not only was it a difficult task, in the end, the burden was placed on Ichizou as well. As a sociable person who was much easier to talk with to compared to Noel, he became the bridge between Noel and other people.

And with that, Yamaguchi returned holding cups of coffee. Noel and Ichizou drank that coffee to fight off their drowsiness. The fragrant smell and bitterness among the rich flavour cleared up their heads.

With his thoughts cleared up, Noel straightened his posture.

“Alright, we can start anytime.”

Yamaguchi, who was staring at Noel, gave a relieved smile and started the interview.

“If that’s the case, then let’s begin. Thank you.”

Last time, for Yamaguchi’s interview, or rather, for these kinds of interviews, he could only spin a tale. However, when it came to the fake stories that Noel, who sang [The Nighthawk Star], made up, anyone who listened to [The Nighthawk Star] would almost certainly feel the contradiction.

He was bad at using words to express his feeling unless it was through songs. However, with Yamaguchi’s help, Noel was able to respond to the questions with his own words.

“—Then regarding the completion of [The Nighthawk Star], did your producer, Revo-san have anything to say about it?”

When Yamaguchi asked that question, Ichizou gulped. Noel covertly peered at Ichizou, glancing sideways. As expected, he had a perplexed expression and he looked back at Noel.

“He was delighted”, it would had been alright to just say that. In actual fact, Noel did think he was delighted. However, was the current Noel in the position to say such a thing? He did chase away and deny the person who he said was delighted.

Without thinking, he put in strength to his folded hands that were on his knees.

“Noel-san?”

Yamaguchi addressed him, seemingly concerned and Noel suddenly came back to his senses. He ended up thinking about it again. Ichizou also directed a worried gaze at Noel.

“Noel, so Revo not being around is becau—Ah!”

After he accidentally let slip of those words, Ichizou nervously looked at Noel with an awkward expression. Looking at Ichizou who seemed to have said something without meaning to, Yamaguchi blinked and stared at Noel.

“Revo-san is not around, meaning……?!”

Yamaguchi’s eyes turned round, and he had a peculiar expression. Next to Noel, Ichizou was starting to get nervous. On the contrary, Noel was surprisingly calm. If it was Yamaguchi, it was alright to talk—He probably just wanted someone to lend a listening ear. Moreover, he did not want to lie to Yamaguchi anymore.

“Revo (That guy) is not around right now……It’s my fault.”
(T/N: They used Revo but put the furigana “Aitsu” next to it.)

“Wait, Noel………!”

Ichizou became flustered but Yamaguchi, still with a calm expression, intently waited for Noel’s words.

“Two days ago, when that guy disappeared, I asked him for the reason why he chose me. I wanted him to just say it was because of my singing. But I was wrong. That guy had other motives.”

“Other motives……?”

Yamaguchi asked him in response and Noel almost blurted out the answer, but he felt awkward about speaking of Revo’s motives on his own accord.

“Never mind, everyone has their own circumstances, so I have no intention of probing too deeply.”

Yamaguchi said as he narrowed his gentle eyes. Noel was relieved. Even if it was just a figure of speech, Noel did not so much as understand it clearly, he did not even know if it was possible to be understood.

“……So I said to him “I don’t need you.” I want to think that I’m alright without him and I want him to think the same way as well.”

“So you want the relationship to be on an equal footing in order to make it possible to establish trust, correct?”

“Ye…. yes, that’s exactly it!”

After hearing Yamaguchi’s words, without thinking, Noel raised his voice.

He had been thinking about this ever since Revo disappeared, finally Yamaguchi said those words that expressed his feelings.

“If he had some goal, I wanted him to tell me about it…. He did save me. So if he just told me, I would give my all to cooperate with him. Yet…… He vanished like this……”

It was ridiculous of him to say such words while saying that he did not need Revo. He knew that but he could not help but utter those words.

Ichizou observed Noel while looking as though he was at a loss of what he should say.

Yamaguchi cast down his eyes and pondered quietly.

Then slowly raising his head, Yamaguchi spoke softly.

“I do not think I know Revo-san better than the rest of you but……”

His thoughtful eyes reflected Noel’s and he framed his words in a placid manner.

“It seems like he had a goal, correct? Is it a goal that he could give up on just because you said a single phrase of not needing him, Noel-san?”

It was also appropriate to say that it was a shock; Noel was surprised by Yamaguchi’s words. He stared wide eyed and even his tone faltered.

“I’m sure…. he’s not that kind of person….who would give up that easily.”

Even though Revo received Noel’s rage that welled from the bottom of his heard, Revo still maintained his composure.

“Did Revo-san say anything when he left? Was he angry?”

Noel shook his head after being asked those questions. Now that he thought back about it, even now, he had no idea what Revo meant.

–Then, why not try it out by yourself?

–All the best.

Revo was smiling when he said that. It was not a hateful smile…. Which why he could understand the meaning behind it.

Noel continued talking about it and then Yamaguchi smiled gently.

“Then I can’t be mistaken, wasn’t that an encouragement for you, Noel-san?”

That was unexpected. It was true that the words that were said with a smile was not said in a teasing or sarcastic manner and much less in an angry manner. That was why until now Noel could not understand the meaning behind those words.

Noel had told Revo that he was not needed so he was unable to accept that those words were essentially—words of encouragement.

Yamaguchi nodded at Noel with a kind expression and continued speaking.

“This is merely my speculation but……I believe that Revo-san is expecting more of you now compared to before, don’t you think?”

“More than before?”

“For example, if you had the ability to do production, then the range at which you can express yourself will grow, right?”

For a brief moment, Noel caught a glimpse of a mischievous expression beneath Yamaguchi’s gentle face.

Noel gaped and made an air-headed sound.

“The ability to produce……I’m not able to…that kind….”

“Pfft. No, no, pardon me. This is simply my speculation. I merely had expectations.”

Yamaguchi gently laughed at Noel’s surprise and then he looked straight in Noel’s direction with an expectant gaze. Other than kindness, the other thing reflected in his eyes was a serious amount of expectations.

Feeling uncomfortable and embarrassed by Yamaguchi’s gaze, Noel averted his eyes once and after he calmed down, he looked back to meet Yamaguchi’s eyes.

“………Why do you have your eyes on me and even go as far as cheering me on?”

“Of course, it’s purely because I’m drawn in by your music.”

“But, there’s something besides that, right? Why are you doing this? Any normal person won’t call someone who lies during interviews.”

With this persistent hounding, Yamaguchi looked at Noel and chuckled.

“When you put it that way, that is true.”

“Ha?”

“It’s not that uncommon to lie during interviews in this industry. Because there’s an image that needs to be maintained, there are some things that the people from the office rather not be written.”

“Is that so?”

Looking at Ichizou, he showed a wry smile, shrugged and nodded his head.

“Yes, oh well. Various people will be troubled if it doesn’t sell after all and because of that, I want to dispel bad images as far as possible.”

“You come face to face with your music in a pure and honest way. And when I see that, it’s just….”

And Yamaguchi cut his words short, hesitating and at a loss. He still kept that gentle smile of his but for a split second, a noticeable sadness floated in those eyes that were behind glasses. Noel thought he was seeing things but Ichizou, who was beside him, suddenly stood up.

“Ya, Yama-san, um………!”

Ichizou addressed Yamaguchi is a strangely friendly manner.

From how flustered he was acting, Ichizou probably knew the reason for that moment of sadness.

Yamaguchi smiled as though to tell Ichizou that he was alright then he showed Noel a gentle gaze. As expected, the colour of sadness could be seen.

“……When I look at you, I remember my own child. He loved music and practiced singing every day to become a singer.”

Yamaguchi’s words were in past tense. It was a story about an important existence that was no longer around.

“The two of you are not similar and I am not cheering for you as a substitute. It’s just that that earnest attitude towards music made me remember my child.”

Then Noel noticed. There was definitely a colour of sadness that could not disappear within Yamaguchi’s eyes.

Even so, he looked forward, focusing on a future where he could anticipate someone’s progress. He felt that future in Noel—or that was what it seemed like.

“……Then with that attitude, how far can you go, what can you show us all……And before I knew it, I had those kinds of expectations.”

Yamaguchi smiled broadly at Noel who was staring wide-eyed.

“The reason will differ for each and every individual. Regardless, I’m sure aside from me, there’s a large number of people who have expectations of you. And I wish to let the masses know of you as you get closer to believing those expectations, Noel-san.”

“……Are we going back to that topic?”

“Well, I am a reporter.”

Noel said while showing a dry smile and Yamaguchi replied him in a teasing tone and laughed.

“……Sorry for making you remember that.”

“It’s fine. Rather, you have reminded me of memories that have been forgotten as time goes by. While I was enjoying your rendition of [The Nighthawk Star] over the phone at first, I could see a starry sky spread out when I closed my eyes……I was star gazing with that child, a memory of a night that was like any other.”

Yamaguchi closed his eyes and placed his hand over his chest as though he was embracing something previous. Whether it was the sadness from the past or the anticipation for the future, he carried them carefully within his heart.

“……I wonder if I can live up to your expectations?”

Yamaguchi opened his eyes and smiled at Noel when he heard the few words that were uttered by Noel. That smile seemed to say, “Don’t worry”, “It’ll be fine”, “Cheer up”. Looking at that expression, Noel felt a bit better. Then, he spoke loudly as though he realized something.

“Ah! Even though I said those words, they were all off record, okay?!”

“Fu fu, I understand.”

Seeing how Noel had cheered up and his expression as he exclaimed, both Yamaguchi and Ichizou who was just watching from the side laughed.

When the interview came to an end, Noel said his goodbyes to Yamaguchi and headed for the entrance then unexpectedly, he stopped. Then he turned his head to look at Yamaguchi who came to see them off. Realising that Noel was looking at him, Yamaguchi tilted his head, surprised.

“……Please let everyone know me better.”

“Yes. Of course.”

“Then, I shall meet your expectations……. No matter who it is, I’ll deliver to them.”

Even to the place where Revo could not deliver to, Noel might be able to do it. If that was the case.

Noel walked to Yamaguchi and stared at the other party’s eyes straight on.

“……I deliver my music to where your child is as well.”

As though he was going to go straight for the sky, he grinned and lifted his index finger.

“The nighthawk can fly anywhere.”

“………. I’m sure he would love that and sing with you.”

It might be because of the light but Yamaguchi’s eyes gave off a slight twinkle as he smiled in delight.

 

*

 

“Next, we’ll talk about the commemoration event for VANISHING STARLIGHT’s debut which is arranged to be on the thirteenth of September……”

The exhibition locations are the major CD shops within the city. Such events for singers had been held in these kinds of places multiple times.

The man who was in charge of managing the event spoke to Noel with a beaming face.

“Because VANISHING STARLIGHT is a band that garnered much interest, how about we do it like a talk show? Before the song starts, we’ll accept questions. I’m sure the fans would want to hear about Noel-san and of course the members as well as Revo-san.”

“Eh, no way.”

Noel answered on reflex when he heard the man’s question.

“N, Noel!”

Ichizou admonished Noel for speaking out his true feelings in such a straight manner. Though Ichizou more or less seemed to understand Noel’s feelings, but the way he said it might not have been pleasant.

The manager showed an annoyed expression for a short moment then quickly glossed over it with a smiling face. When Ichizou saw that, he also smiled and spoke.

“If you ask us, I think the mystery is what makes people more interested, don’t you think? Furthermore, the selling point of VANISHING STARLIGHT is the combination of the band members’ skills and Noel’s singing ability coming together to bring a burning performance. Right, Noel?”

Ichizou smoothed over the situation with a smile and then looked to Noel for an agreement.

“Yeah. I’m confident we can captivate those who listen to us. Anyway, we just want them to listen to our song.”

“But if we do that, then the number of people who come to the event would be limited. The event would be a little bland.”

Even though Noel said that, the man showed an astonished expression. That expression and those words got on Noel’s nerves—He could not forgive anyone who took their music lightly.

“…. So, our song is lacking in charm?”

“No, that’s not what I’m saying….!”

“That’s exactly what you’re saying.”

Noel glared at the man who was stumbling over his words. Then perhaps the man decided to stop keeping up with his appearance and he glared back at Noel, as though to fight back.

“……The amount of hard work a newbie band has to put in to gather a sizeable listener base, you don’t know, do you? It’s not just your songs, if you don’t do more than that, then that little bit of interest is not going to draw anyone over.”

“I understand that to some level. But I want people to know about our songs first. Not our backgrounds. All that is inside our songs.”

“Are there even such amazing customers who can understand that……?”

The man said those words and sighed in exasperation and Noel stood up without thinking.

“You……!”

“Wait wait wait! Noel!”

While talking in a hushed voice, Ichizou grabbed on Noel’s arm after he stood up. Noel looked down and shot him a glare and Ichizou shook his head with a look of desperation. You mustn’t pick a fight here, that was what those desperate eyes were telling him.

Seeing how Ichizou was acting, Noel only clicked his tongue and held himself back before sitting back in his chair.

“Then, then let’s reshuffle the programme. We’ll do the song first then the talk. How about that? If it’s Noel’s song it will definitely bring in a lot of guests! I also have to consult the other band members!”

After they heard Ichizou’s suggestion, the man and Noel glared at each other once and then reluctantly nodded their heads.

“……Then, I’ll be counting on you.”

Noel still had something he wanted to say to the man who looked dissatisfied but as Ichizou was still smiling with desperation that peeked out while pulling onto Noel’s sleeve, he kept his mouth shut.

 

After the meeting ended, Ichizou let out a sigh of relief and stroked his own chest.

“Ah—that’s great…. somehow we ended it….”

Noel sighed in the depths of his mind then he looked at Ichizou who was worn out. Averting his gaze, he spoke.

“Sor…. sorry. I lost my cool.”

Ichizou, who looked like he was on the verge of planting his face on the table, raised his head up in surprise. Noel looked at Ichizou by glancing at him sideways and the latter smiled softly. Then after ensuring that the last person had left the room and only the two of them were left, Ichizou spoke to Noel.

“I’m sure you couldn’t help it. He did talk about your important song in such a manner, right? But it’s no good to fight each other there and then.

“………………….”

“Noel?”

The gaze that was on Ichizou was averted again. Noel only showed a tense expression but Ichizou managed to connect the dots.

“Ah, you don’t want to do the talk? Then, how about we just increase the song list?”

He managed to settle that situation and now he was also thinking about how to arrange things for Noel and beyond that. Noel only lost his temper and it did not even come to his mind to do something as simple as thinking calmly. He was reminded that the only thing he managed to do was make the situation more perilous.

He hated himself and without thinking, he released a sigh.

“Since it has already come to this, guess I’ll do it?”

“W, what a weak-willed thing to say…That’s not like you, Noel.”

“You helped me out, didn’t you?”

The words said by the man just now clung onto Noel’s ears.

— It’s not just your songs, if you don’t do more than that, then that little bit of interest is not going to draw anyone over.

Was it really like that? That fact together with his own incompetence made him feel like his confidence was diminishing.

“…. Do the fans who want me really exist?”

“Wh, what are you saying?! Of course they do!”

Ichizou straightened up in his seat and spoke forcefully. That was hurtful.

“Those kinds of people don’t exist. They merely listen to it because it sounds good.”

Irritation and anxiety made Noel’s words sound offensive.

The people who really want to listen to Noel’s music do not exist—It would be a lie if he said he did not feel that way. However, that became a trivial matter which got quickly erased as his heart filled with emotions when he got connected with other people. He had no intention of saying such a stupid thing, but the irritation and anxiety made his words harsh.

The gentleness on Ichizou’s face vanished. He kept his eyes down and then stared at Noel from the back of his glasses.

“…. Doing things like denying your fans is really the lowest of the low.”

His words reverberated through the room which was submerged in silence.

“That’s a move that will destroy the feelings of those who have been supporting you, Noel. And I’m one of them too…… Because you never realised it, so you have the gall to say these kinds of things.”

His words were not as harsh as Noel’s and somewhere in Ichizou’s eyes were feelings of unease and rage. What he was directing at Noel was just honest rage from being hurt by him. Although he was showing Noel his rage, that rage was not one of animosity towards Noel.

Catching Noel in his eyes that were behind his glasses, Ichizou spoke clearly.

“I’m really hurt by what you said.”

The words got cut off and still with rage filled in his eyes, without getting agitated, without speaking roughly in fury, he continued speaking in a quiet tone.

“I believe in your ability and I want your songs. That’s why I’m supporting you the best that I can. Everyone around you shares the same sentiments as me, Noel. Yama-san—Yamaguchi-san, Marie-san, Eiji-san as well as Revo-san definitely feel the same way.

Noel should have been able to reply if it was just his usual words. Even if he was grabbed in the chest and dragged upwards, he should have been able to stop those words. However, Ichizou’s words weighed heavily on Noel, permeated into him and sealed his mouth.

“Your words just now have cut down everyone’s hard work, good intentions and support.”

Then Ichizou lightly looked down. He averted his gaze away from Noel, turned on his heel and went straight for the door. The eyes that could be seen when he turned around contained not anger, but other mixed emotions. Those were the eyes of someone who was hurt.

“….. I feel betrayed that you actually think like that.”

With Ichizou’s back still facing him, the door closed. The door was not even closed that forcefully but that bang, as though severing the space that Noel and Ichizou were in, was remarkably loud to Noel’s ears.

“What’s that about….”

Noel spat that out weakly and sat in his chair.

–I’m really hurt by what you said.

Ichizou dared to talk about his own feelings. He thrusted the fact that he was hurt by Noel right at him.

— Your words just now have cut down everyone’s hard work, good intentions and support.

He became aware about the unforgivable things he had said.

He got irritated like a brat and mindlessly hurt other people.

“If so, then I haven’t changed at all….”

After blurting that out without thinking, realisation suddenly dawned on Noel.

“No…. that’s wrong. I’m different, from before……”

No matter how much Noel denied it, Ichizou believed in Noel’s songs, supported him and followed him. He would not call such a person “others”.

“That guy…. Ichizou…..”

He was not the “others” whose hearts would not be in pain even when they got hurt.

He got hurt because the “song” he believed even more then Noel had was denied. And to think he believed in Noel’s singing ability even more than Noel himself.

Noel wanted to change. He thought he had changed. He thought that he changed in various ways after meeting Revo, noticing that there are various people who supported him and coming into contact with the story [The Nighthawk Star] and composing a song.

But now that that has passed, could it be the only thing that had changed was the scenery and Noel was still standing at the same spot? Did he not move from where he was at all?

Surely, there was a large shackle known as distrust chained around Noel’s ankle and if he wanted to walk out, it would likely remain a task that was more difficult that he thought.

“Damn……!”

Nothing was going well. Was he going to return to those days again?

Noel thought he believed in Ichizou. He was a disappointment for lashing out like it. That was just Noel running his mouth off in his own selfish anger. In that case, even if Ichizou only left while being stunned by the entire thing, Noel had no right to stop him.

……. He seemed to trust Ichizou and that was so clear that it was almost detestable. He only realised it now.

The unease and anxiety as well as Ichizou’s words went through his clothes like a liquid and gradually weighed down on his body and mind.

(T/N: Okay, the above two paragraphs were very difficult to interpret. It made absolutely no grammatical sense to me.)

“What should I do……”

He forcefully kicked a chair that was nearby, but it did not make him feel any better. The grating noise only increased his frustration.

 

*

The anger passed its baton to the high tension that was accompanying it and Ichizou continued to walk aimlessly. Gradually his pace slowed, and he finally came to a stop. Then Ichizou grabbed his head and squatted down on the spot.

“I said too much & said too muchhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!”

After yelling, he suddenly raised his head. He intended to go out for the time being to avoid other people, but he did not really look around himself. Fortunately, he was at the carpark where no one was present. Ichizou was relieved but the waves of regret washed over him soon after and he raised his voice once more.

“Ahhhh, he’s definitely angry & angry! This is bad, why did I pick such an important time to get on Noel’s bad side–?! Ah, but Noel was also at fault! But even so, there was no need to go as far as saying those kinds of things, Ichizou Ninosuke–!”

After yelling all that in one breath, Ichizou let out a huge sigh. He breathed naturally and calmed down then Noel’s words from before replayed in his mind.

— Do the fans who want me really exist?

–They merely listen to it because it sounds good.

He could not fathom that those words were what Noel really wanted to say. Even if they were, he should understand that Noel didn’t think of everything like that.

Even so, he could not hold back. He did not want Noel to talk in that kind of manner.

Ichizou placed his hand on his chest. When he first listened to Noel’s singing, he felt an elation rising up in him like never before and it was something he could not forget till this day. As though he could see things in a new light, as though his body temperature rose sharply, as though he could hear the emotions that were coming from the song, his mind and heart was shaken.

Ichizou suddenly frowned and crossed his arms while tilted his head. Did Noel not realise that he was holding onto such power?

“He doesn’t know?”

Still feeling irritation, Ichizou just thought “That’s surely a crime.” Even though he did not even sing, he had a feeling of jealousy.

As though to spit out the pent-up feelings, Ichizou sighed.

“And….to think that I finally managed to establish a relationship of trust between us……”

When they first met, he had misgivings about whether they could even trust each other but after [The Nighthawk Star] was completed, he thought that Noel could also rely on him.

At that moment, the smart phone in his pocket vibrated shortly and he took it out.

“Ah, it’s a LANE—”

(T/N: LINE message parody)

When he saw the name that was displayed on his smartphone with the social networking application’s message, Ichizou’s eyes widened. The time when it was delivered was only just. He immediately dialed Revo’s mobile phone number. For a moment, he heard a static like noise and was unsure if the call would even connect but the noise quickly disappeared, and then a complete silence. The instant he realised that the call connected, Ichizou raised his voice.

“Revo-san! Where the heck are you?!”

The person who was on the other side of the phone—Revo, was surprised by Ichizou’s voice and reacted a tad slow but he soon heard a teasing voice.

[It’s – a – se – cre-t.]

Ichizou was stunned for a moment when he heard that voice that seemed to be having fun but quickly raised his voice again,

“Even if you say it cutely, it’s useless! Please come back as soon as possible-! Things are getting bad here!”

[I thought you might be having a hard time but is Noe-Noe really that unreliable?]

“That’s not the problem!”

Ichizou calmed himself down and lowered his voice.

“Noel….is doing his best. But no matter what, asking him to suddenly be a producer is difficult. He’s still an amateur who doesn’t know much about this industry.”

[But it’s not as though he won’t be able to do it, right?]

Revo said lightly and even though Ichizou wanted to retort, he could not find the right words and kept his mouth shut.

Noel was lamenting about his lack of ability, but he still did the work that he was not used to.

(Earlier, I should have told him that….)

On the contrary, he spoke in such a way as though he was denying Noel.

“……Revo-san, did you disappear in order for Noel to grow?……Is it like that?”

There was no reply from the other side. There was just a small amount of static then, perhaps Ichizou had imagined it, he heard a sigh that sounded like a small laugh.

“I already understand what’s going on, more or less. You also have some kind of expectation of Noel.”

Ichizou, Yamaguchi and the others share the same sentiments of expecting something from Noel’s song – and perhaps the singer himself. He could not help but think that Revo was also one of those people.

[Because he’s extremely interesting in various ways.]

“Yeah. I think that Noel has the ability to draw in various kinds of people.”

Ichizou and Revo as well may be among those people. That was why they wanted to support him in every way they can. But yet……

“Right now, Noel has lost his confidence. So at the very least, just once, can you please have a talk with Noel? Originally, I was supposed to just follow behind him but I might have said too much too him…. I think that just a word from you would surely help Noel regain his confidence.”

[You’re both pampered children, huh?]

“Wha………!”

The words that were said in a teasing manner pierced right through him. As long as Revo came back, then things would become more manageable—it seemed like Revo noticed it and saw through that dependence. It was not known if Revo noticed that Ichizou had went silent from shock, but he spoke,

[It’s true that I have expectations of Noel—that’s why I have no need to go back.]

“But—”

There was a short staticky noise which became heavier, then the sound of something being snapped. After that the static could not be heard and in its place was an intermittent “Bu-”, “Bu- “, the sound of a line that got cut off.

“Eh, wait…. Revo-san? Eh? Did he hang up & hang up?! Hey! Revo-san?!”

He yelled at his smartphone but the “Bu-“ sound could no longer be heard. Frantically, he tried to call back but,

[The number you have dialled is beyond a Horizon reachable by radio waves–]

He could only hear a phrase that he had never heard before. Ichizou weakly slumped his shoulders and hung his head then when the display on his smartphone eventually went off, the black screen reflected his own miserable face.

“Isn’t that a bit, cold of him….”

After grumbling the words that followed, Ichizou shook his head.

“…. Am I wrong?”

Hearing Revo’s saying that he had no need to return made him see Revo’s smiling face while wearing his pair of suspicious sunglasses appear in his mind. It was not his foresight but his faith in Noel.

“That person……wants to see Noel’s growth before anything else.”

Because he believed in Noel’s ability and had expectations.

“And he definitely has faith in me as well.”

If it’s you Ichizou, you will support Noel—he felt that was what Revo was saying even if he was not around.

Noel will definitely show Ichizou and the rest a scenery that they have never seen before. That baseless confidence could not be erased ever since the time he first heard Noel’s song.

–Did he really have that kind of ability?

Those calm words rang out in Ichizou’s head.

Ichizou looked up to the sky and the thin night sky that appeared between buildings was reflected on Ichizou’s glasses.

“…. Because I want Noel to become that kind of existence, because I believe he can become that kind of existence, I will support him.”

Ichizou spread out his hand to towards the sky and slowly closed it into a fist. Then he turned on his heel and briskly returned from where he came from.

 

*

“Noel!”

“Woah?!”

A loud noise was made when the door to the room where Noel was in was opened.

Noel who was leaning against the back rest of his seat was so surprised by the door opening when no one knocked and by the loud voice yelling his name that he jolted upwards. To his mind that was absent mindedly in thought, something which he was not used to, the loud noises were an overstimulation.

“Wh, what?”

It was supposed to be someone who he had his guard up against, but he still responded in a defenceless voice.

Ichizou, who entered the room in a hurry, went before Noel and fixed his gaze on him.

“Hey, Noel.”

The eyes that were behind the red and green glasses no longer had the colour of anger. If anything, those eyes were holding a certain sparkle.

(……what’s up with this guy……!)

He was so angry just a while ago, why is he looking at me like this now? Is he not angry or disappointed?

Ichizou was the type of person he had never encountered before. He was different from what Noel had in mind, so he was unable to understand.

He did not understand him.  Because he could not understand, Ichizou’s words and actions made him confused and irritated. Or rather, it creeped him out.

“…. Go back already.”

“Eh….”

Ichizou was dumbfound for a moment then he narrowed his eyes, seemingly hurt.

“Isn’t the work now beyond the scope of your job? What you’ve done is enough already.”

“What are you saying…. I want to help you.”

“I said that’s not necessary.”

Noel added on to his forced words when Ichizou spoke and he glared at the other party strongly.

Saying that he wanted to help was probably said out of sincerity. Ichizou’s eyes shone with determination. That light that was far too honest made Noel lose his cool. Anyway, right now, he did not want to deal with Ichizou any further.

(This guy is more impossible to understand than I have thought, besides–)

He was probably a better person than Noel had imagined. That was why he wanted to cut those bonds.

“I thought I betrayed you? So you don’t have to force yourself to associate with me. You’re already—”

Not needed. Was he going to say that again?

“What are you talking about?”

In the moment when Noel hesitated, Ichizou, who was being somewhat foolish, raised his voice which rang out throughout the room. Without thinking, he looked at Ichizou and his eyes widened because Ichizou was saying that he did not understand what Noel was saying.

As expected, Ichizou had an unexpected reaction. Why was he making such a face and not feeling sad or angry?

“Like I said….!!”

At the moment Noel got frustrated and spoke in a rough voice. Ichizou looked like he suddenly realized something, and he glared right back at Noel. Then yelled angrily in a volume that exceeded Noel’s.

“To throw all the work out of the window over something so trivial? Are you an idiot?! I have no intention of doing my job in such a half-hearted manner! Stop being so stupid!”

Ichizou yelled all that in one go and his face became flushed and his shoulders heaved, breathing deeply. This time it was Noel’s turn to be wide eyed.

“Tri, trivial? Didn’t……you yell at me? Which is rare for you.”

“No no, it’s not trivial?! What you said was not trivial at all. I’m saying that this dispute is trivial!”

Perhaps Ichizou became self-aware that he had become riled up and ranted on and on, he took a deep breath to calm himself down and continued talking.

“Anyway…. whatever I said earlier cannot be taken back. But, I will not stop being your Manager or whatever over something like this. No matter how frustrated you become, I have the obligation to support your success and above that, I want to see you become successful!”

Ichizou said those words with a serious expression and waited for Noel’s response.

He definitely thought that he would be dumbfounded. But it was the opposite. He got angry and clashed head on with Noel.

“Shit. You really have become…”

“N, Noel?”

Noel sighed with his back facing Ichizou and Ichizou called out his name, feeling uneasy. After Noel kept quiet for a while, collecting his thoughts, he turned to face Ichizou.

“……a maniac. I’m sorry for acting as though I was venting.”

Ichizou became goggle eyed when he heard Noel’s words, but he quickly smiled, feeling relieved.

“It’s not acting, you were venting, right?”

“Yeah, yeah, Sorry!”

Noel sat down and yelled in irritation and Ichizou laughed at him for a while, but he suddenly showed a serious expression.

“……However, I do not want you to say things like denying your fans ever again. It’s still okay if you just say that to me…. I’ll just get angry. But if you say that in front of anyone else, I won’t let you off.”

Ichizou made an expression as though he was hurting somewhere, and the air became heavy. In order to clear away that heaviness, Noel spoke forcefully.

“……I’m not going to say it anymore, idiot!”

“Wha?! I, idiot…….! Then what about you, Noel?!”

“You’re annoying!……Are you calling me an idiot in a roundabout way?!”

“I didn’t say it! I’m just thinking it!”

“Isn’t that the same as saying it?!”

Noel yelled angrily and Ichizou also glared in his direction for a while but suddenly he burst into laughter. However, he quickly looked away from Noel and looked off into the distance.

“I now understand veeeeeerrrry well that you aren’t able to trust others Noel. It’s not as though people change that easily, right?”

“Are you trying to pick a fight?”

Looking at Ichizou who was staring off into the distance, veins appeared on Noel’s forehead and he clenched his fists. Half of him was joking and then there was another half where Noel was gripping his fist strongly as though to grab and push down the dark feelings within his hand.

Just like Ichizou said, people did not change that easily. Noel was unable to trust people from his heart. Even if he thought he could trust them, there was always this anxiety stuck at the bottom of his heart that might spill out accidentally in an instant.

(But, that’s how I am now.)

Were you disappointed? Until now, that would not had really mattered. However, this man in front of Noel’s eyes at this moment had cooperated with Noel and faced him in such a way.

Ichizou was not merely a nobody who brushed past Noel, he was a person within Noel’s inner circle. The current Noel did not want to let down such a person.

Ichizou raised his head and looked at Noel again. His expression made Noel a bit bewildered. For some reason, he was smiling in a cheerful manner.

“I wasn’t picking a fight with you. I was thinking that it’s great that I managed to understand you.”

“Ha?”

“If I am able to know what you are thinking, Noel, then I would also know what I should do. If you are unable to trust me then I will say that I trust you and I’ll take action so that you can trust me.”

Making a face as though it was nothing great and something natural, Ichizou continued to speak.

“I would like for you not to misunderstand me. I understand you and I’m not disappointed in you. How should we build relationships from now on, this is one of the processes. I do not want to retreat without knowing nothing about you. What about you, Noel?”

For Ichizou, this was likely something natural. Noel was envious of him who was able to trust people so easily. The very basis of the way they think was different – that was what he thought. However, he wanted to try trusting people who were like Ichizou.

Noel replied, looking away from Ichizou.

“……No interest.”

“……Isn’t that mean?”

While saying that, Ichizou let out a chuckle. What kind of face was Noel making now, his intention of wanting to walk closer has been seen through.

Ichizou swelled up his chest full of confidence from who knows where.

“I have no intention of leaving you! There’s still a long road ahead for VANISHING STARLIGHT!”

–Will always be with you, Noel.

Suddenly his grandmother’s words crossed his mind. He had always thought that that was a lie. He never thought that it was inevitable because she died. If he gave up on that mindset, then he felt like he could not expect anything from anyone else.

However, his grandmother probably said those words, full of expectations and wanting to always stay by Noel’s side. Even if she already knew that her life was coming to an end, she could not possibly not say those words. Because she could not bear to leave him.

Those were words for the future ahead of them. Those words were said to let the uncertain future have a bit of certainty, connecting them.

“A long road ahead……?”

He only mumbled those words but Ichizou tilted his head, seemingly to have heard the soft voice.

“Did you say something?”

“No…. nothing.”

Noel shook his head and Ichizou looked at his expression and smiled brightly.

“I also want to see how far you can go. Also, I think that you definitely won’t betray our expectations. We’re sure of the power of your songs. If not, that wouldn’t be this many people supporting you. Everyone supports you because they gain strength from your songs. Of course, that applies for me as well. I believe in the power of your songs. That’s why I’ll give my all to work alongside you. Just remember that.”

Ichizou’s words had no lies or hidden implications. His words were so honest to the point that being doubtful would seem idiotic instead.

Noel nodded and stopped thinking for a moment. He wanted to say something to this man who did not hide anything.

“……After meeting you, I thought that I’ve changed. However, it’s just like you said, it looks like it’s not easy for me to have trust in other people.”

Ichizou had an awkward smile when he heard that, and Noel let out a small laugh.

“Don’t make that face like you stepped on a land mine. Weren’t you the one who said that? Also, it’s a fact that it’s difficult for me to trust others.”

However, it was also true that he was changing. At least, wanting to reveal his inner thoughts to others was not possible for the past Noel.

It was Revo who gave Noel a chance to change. That was why.

“I wanted to trust that guy who found me. However, he up and disappeared and I thought I was going to be alone again….what should I aim for, what should I use as a guide, I don’t know at all…..I can’t even trust myself.”

He was not able to trust himself more than anything or anyone else. He decided that he wanted to change yet he was still unable to get rid of his doubts.

He had started to change but it was not enough.

“But, [The Nighthawk Star] is a song that I have confidence in. So if people say that my song is good…. then I’ll have faith in your words, that I have fans……and that others have hope in me.”

Noel wanted to believe in those words. Because it was a song that he had confidence in, he did not want to doubt the words of praise.

It was difficult to change his ways, but he wanted to change.

Hardening that resolution, Noel focused his gaze on Ichizou and smiled.

“……So I won’t say those words anymore. There’s no reason to argue over such a meaningless thing.”

Ichizou also returned a delighted smiling expression.

“Can you trust me then?”

When that was said, Noel had no confidence. He just made a strained smile.

“……Don’t expect too much.”

“Ah ha ha, I get it. I’ll moderate my expectations.”

Even though Ichizou said that, his smiling face showed that he was full of expectations for Noel.

Somehow or other, the materials from the meeting entered their field of vision. Though Noel pretty much did not mention it, this discussion was to allow Noel to give his all in his singing. And more than that, there were people waiting for Noel.

“There are people waiting for me. We will definitely make this event a success. We’ll show them that we can do it even if that Sunglasses isn’t around.”

In any case, rather than just meeting the expectations, he wanted to not just stop at meeting said expectations but to betray them, in a good way.

(i.e. go beyond the expectations.)

“……Yeah, I agree!”

Ichizou gave a strong nod and smiled.

Noel decided to trust Ichizou. Also, he had to rely on him. Noel steeled his will and for the sake of getting rid of the anxiety causing factors, he spoke.

“About the meeting just now….”

“Hm?”

“I reflected on my behavior…. however, I don’t like it that our song was taken so lightly. Is it okay to say that?”

“Yeah. We shouldn’t compromise on what you wanted to do for the music part, Noel. And we hope he can understand.”

“That’s right.”

Noel nodded and he heard a tiny laughter from Ichizou who was beside him. Noel heard it and stopped before glaring at Ichizou. And sure enough, he was smiling.

“What are you grinning about?”

When Noel said that, unexpectedly, Ichizou only raised his brows.

“I wasn’t grinning! It’s just that I’m sort of happy that you’re consulting me, Noel.”

Ichizou said that and smiled again. How can this guy change his expressions so skillfully? With a look of admiration that eventually became a flabbergasted one, Noel spoke with a sigh.

“I wasn’t consulting you just now.”

“Eh, you weren’t?”

“No, I wasn’t. Rather than that, aren’t we pressed for time. Let’s head for the rehearsals.”

Speaking flatly to Ichizou who seemed disappointed, Noel briskly walked away before Ichizou and headed for the elevators. Behind him, Ichizou laughed, sounding astounded.

“Yes yes. …. Ah, oh right!”

Suddenly Ichizou raised his voice and Noel stopped in his tracks.

“What, did I forget something?”

Noel turned his head and Ichizou showed him a strained smile.

“Ah, sorry sorry. Noel, you didn’t forget anything. I remembered that I had to update the information about your radio appearance. Information is important in this era, you know.”

“Is it through that LANE or something that you were talking about earlier?”

“That’s part of it.”

Taking out his smartphone, Ichizou operated the touch screen. Updating information was Ichizou’s territory. Noel intended to go off first. However, the instant before Noel decided to walk away, Ichizou’s face, no, the colour of his face changed and he stopped moving. Like a piece of animation that had hit the pause button, he stared at the display, motionless.

“Hey, what are you doing? I’m gonna go off first.”

Noel pointed his toes in the direction of where he was heading towards but Ichizou looked as though he completely did not hear him. He stood shock still, staring at the display like he was going to devour it and only the hand that was operating the smart phone and the eyes that were following the words were moving in a hurried manner.

Seeing that the other party was acting out of the norm, Noel could not move his eyes away from Ichizou. It was an atmosphere that made it hard to say anything.

Eventually, Ichizou’s hands and eyes stopped. If one looked carefully, his hand was trembling slightly.

“Noel……”

Calling Noel with a somewhat hoarse voice, Ichizou raised his head. His expression was stiff, letting Noel know that something was up. It was definitely not good news.

“Did, something happen?”

Ichizou walked up to Noel.

“Look at this.”

Noel also lowered his gaze to look at the display of the smart phone that Ichizou held out with a hardened expression….and the words that leapt into his eyes stunned him.

“…. No way, this…..!”

It was an article on the internet.

[NOEL from the trending rising band VANISHING STARLIGHT had past violent actions against former band members?]

With a poor excuse of a question mark, that headline leapt out. Right underneath the headline was a photo of Noel. At the end of the article were a selection of comments from fans from social media platforms.

[Didn’t Yuki’s band get disbanded after Noel hit them? I heard it from them.]

Then it continued with comments that agreed with that statement. Did they announce it publicly? No, if they did that, their popularity would fall. They were the ones who caused the disbanding by provoking Noel and getting themselves hit on purpose. They probably would not announce that it was Noel’s fault.

(T/N: In case anyone gets confused about this part (Because I did), Yuki’s goal was to disband. If he has already achieved this aim, he would not stir any more trouble to bring Noel down as it might cause those who actually like Noel to turn against them and it might give Noel a chance to bring up that it was Yuki’s fault.)

(Then, it’s the fans stirring this up on their own? But……)

As though to hide the image from Noel who was glaring at the article, Ichizou operated his smart phone and changed the image that was being displayed.

“Noel, calm down.”

Ichizou placed his hand on Noel’s shoulder. Ichizou who had a stiff expression seemed to have regained his composure.

“I’m a bit surprised by this as well but sometimes there will be things that come to sabotage you. If it becomes more malicious when there’s no basis of fact, then we can file a lawsuit……”

Ichizou spoke to that point and then stopped after looking at Noel. Seeing that Noel’s hands were clenched and looking at his expression, Ichizou placed his chin against his smart phone and muttered.

“…. I can’t say it’s completely without basis, right……”

Though he spoke with a troubled tone, his expression was less grave than it was at the instant when he read the article earlier. Perhaps it was because he was used to such situations in his work or it was because of his naturally carefree personality. However, Ichizou hid that expression of his and Noel calmed down.

Bing, with a faint sound, the elevator door opened, and numerous people got out of the elevator and walked past Ichizou and Noel.

While waiting for the people to pass them, Ichizou pointed at the entrance and spoke.

“There’s people here so let’s get back to the car and talk there first.”

Noel and nodded and together with Ichizou, they headed for the basement carpark.

 

After getting into the car and shutting the door, Noel let out a sigh. It was suffocating as though he had stopped breathing until he came here. He wanted to talk about it quickly, but the words were heavy.

(…. Why now……)

“Noel? You alright?”

He came back to his senses when Ichizou peered over in a worried manner.

He did not have the time to remember how angry he was at them. Right now, what Noel had to do was to explain the entire situation and formulate a strategy on what to do from now on.

“………. I was not able to see eye to eye with them before we disbanded. I had thought that it was a mistake to team up with them but as a band we were fairly popular, and we decided that we’re gonna perform at a huge location. Then I got ahead of myself. Perhaps if we continued on like that, if it’s with those guys, wouldn’t a debut be possible. I was thinking of thoughts that were unlike me.”

Perhaps I could make music together with someone. Even if our personalities were not compatible, they might disappear if we become more popular and then we’ll perform in even bigger locations. I had those kinds of thoughts. But, in the end—

“They had an aim…. I think their ambition was to debut. However, they didn’t practice at all. And apart from not practicing, they didn’t even want to rehearse. I got frustrated at them for not wanting to practice and in return, they got frustrated at me. That day, they deliberately did not come to practice, they drank and even laughed and taunted me….”

He looked down and clenched his hands.

“I snapped and hit them.”

The strength of his clenched fists disappeared, and he stared at the palm of his hand. As he touched the scars formed by the cuts that happened during guitar practice and his fingertips that have formed callouses, Noel realised that what rose within in his chest was neither frustration nor rage, but emptiness.

“I don’t even understand now. They know that they’ll get better if they practiced but yet…. why don’t they aim higher?”

He only realised now that that had always vexed him. It was not just Noel, they should have wanted to make better music and performances but they squashed down their own potential and that irritated Noel even more.

Even if he understood now, it was too late to do anything. While feeling that emptiness, Noel lightly spoke of the conclusion between them. They were only connected to that extent after all.

“Then, we disbanded.”

“……I see.”

Ichizou leaned against the seat of the driver’s seat and crossed his arms.

“Hmmm, I would like to say that you don’t have to worry about it …. but the timing is a bit terrible at this point of time.”

“If this goes on, wouldn’t the event and the sales of the CD be affected?”

“True, I can’t say that it won’t be affected.”

“Then….”

Before Noel could ask what they should do, Ichizou fixed his gaze on Noel. In the usual cheerfulness that was expected of Ichizou, with a straight gaze, he stared right at Noel as though seeing through him. Then he spoke in a calm tone.

“However, Noel, you should just focus on the event.”

“But….”

“This kind of thing is my job in the first place. You just have to work to focus on providing good music.”

Saying as such, Ichizou smiled. It seemed like he wanted to say to just leave it to him. However, Noel stared into space, staying quiet and that smile became a forced one.

“As expected, you can’t agree to it? Speaking of which, you can’t be thinking that you can’t count on me, right?”

“Well…. it’s not that I’m not thinking that….”

“So you were thinking it?! How mean & mean!”

Although he was just half joking, Ichizou who raised his voice was venting slightly in a humorous manner. Looking at Ichizou acting like that, Noel wondered if the other party was angry but right after he gave a blank look, he suddenly laughed, feeling relieved.

If they were able to joke around to this level, he probably did trust Ichizou.

Noel laughed and he hid his embarrassed face by putting on a scowl and looking away. Then he cut the topic off by waving his hand.”

“That sort of thing doesn’t matter.”

“It’s not good for me though?!”

Ignoring Ichizou who refused to back down, Noel muttered softly.

“—I know those guys well. I wish it would end with this level of fuss……”

Hearing Noel’s words, Ichizou’s expression froze.

It would be great if that detestable hunch did not come to fruition. However, this hunch was formed by the past experiences he had with them.

“We can’t let strange rumour spread by handling it badly, I was thinking of just observing the situation for a while….”

After saying that, Ichizou was deep in thought. Noel also understood what Ichizou was saying. Rather, he also felt that Yuuki and the other former band members were not aiming for such a thing.

“…. This kind of thing is your job in the first place, right?”

“? Yeah, it is.”

Noel repeated the words that Ichizou said earlier and Ichizou gave him a blank look.

While he was on the brink of a “trivial” argument with Ichizou, he said it.

— To throw all the work out of the window over something so trivial? Are you an idiot?! I have no intention of doing my job in such a half-hearted manner!

— I believe in the power of your songs. That’s why I’ll give my all to work alongside you. Just remember that.

Ichizou definitely said that. Believing in his words and leaving the task to him would be best choice that Noel could make now……Even if it was something that was difficult to do.

“Then…. I’ll leave it to you. But, you must inform me if something happens.”

Noel said as such as he looked at Ichizou’s face and Ichizou nodded firmly.

“I’ll update you on the situation regularly so don’t worry about it. I am your manager after all.”

He was being his usual cheerful self, but that smiling face looked a bit reliable.

“In any case, we need to grasp what is going on now. Right now it seems like it’s mainly spread by social media, so let’s contact the people who know more about……Ahhh!”

In the middle of quietly thinking through the next course of action, Ichizou suddenly raised his voice. Noel jumped on instinct as he heard that sudden loud voice and he glared at Ichizou. Not noticing that Noel was glaring daggers, Ichizou frantically buckled his seat belt and switched on the car’s engine.

“Now what?!”

“Th, the rehearsal! It’s time! Oh no!”

Ichizou yelled as his face turned pale. Noel also looked at the clock that was displayed on the dashboard and the blood drained from his face.

“Hit the pedal-!”

“Noel, buckle your seat belt! It’s even worse if we get arrested.”

“Gah-, damn! I get it! Hit the pedal and drive safely then, you!”

“What’s with that unreasonable request?!”

While panicking, Ichizou checked that the surroundings were safe before he drove the car off.

Fortunately, as the roads were also empty, they barely made it to the rehearsal on time.

 

*

 

After the rehearsal ended, Noel got called and stopped by Ichizou. It was already late into the night but because Ichizou had something to tell him, he was brought to one of the rooms in the rehearsal studio.

Noel quickly sat on the sofa that was placed in the corner of the room.

Ichizou passed a bottle of water to Noel who had sank deeply into the sofa, feeling weary.

“Sorry for calling you when you’re feeling so tired. But I think the earlier we settle this, the better.”

Sipping a mouthful of water slowly from the bottle that he got from Ichizou, Noel closed his heavy eyelids and asked.

“What do you want to settle earlier?”

“While you and the others were rehearsing, I went to look for more information about the rumours and I asked various people for their assistance and they already helped me investigate……”

Hearing those words, Noel’s eyelids shot open and he straightened up from the sofa he had sunk into.

“Serious?”

“Serious & serious. I think he will be coming here soon.”

With great timing, just as Ichizou said that, someone knocked on the door. Ichizou hurriedly gave a response and opened the door. Then, the man who was there let out a huge yawn before lightly raising his hand, noticing Noel who was seated on the sofa.

“Yo, Noe-cchi. Were you rehearsing? Good work.”

Flashy hair that was standing and sharp even when it was midnight. Shibukawa Eiji was standing there.

As Eiji was the best when it came to the details of online reports, he requested of Eiji to investigate the source of the rumours. He gave his consent immediately. In fact, it seems like he had already investigated on his own before he received the request, and he contacted Ichizou in no time.

A vein popped up on Noel’s temple when he heard himself being called with a nickname in a light tone.

“Didn’t I already tell you not to address me in such a weird way……!”

“It’s fine, isn’t it-, even Revo-cchi addresses you in all sorts of ways- “

“I don’t like it! Besides, aren’t you addressing that guy in a strangely close way?!”

Looking at a shocked Noel, Eiji gave a thumbs up.

“We drunk together so we’re already best friends, right? – Ah, don’t tell me, Noe-cchi, you’re jealous of me?”

“Cut the annoying bullshit and get on to the important business.”

Pushing away Eiji who had his arm around his shoulder, Noel glared at the other party with all his might. While Eiji purposely showed a frightened look, he moved away with a clearly amused expression.

Even though a playful grin appeared on Eiji’s face, he still put on a serious gaze and started talking about the matters at hand to Noel and Ichizou.

“As expected, it seems that those guys posted information about themselves. Did their own fans write about it or did they pretend to be their own fans and post the information on social media or it could be both. Then, Other fans have questioned the involved parties about the rumours, but it doesn’t feel like they are affirming or denying what happened.”

Eiji spoke calmly until that point then he shrugged his shoulders once and smiled, sticking out his tongue. However, that was not his usual smile. It was a mocking smile as though he detested the what was happening.

“Ah, the way they did it is downright dirty. Rather than attacking Noel directly, they fanned the imaginations of the people who heard the rumours and I get that feeling that they are just waiting for it to blow up on its own.”

After Eiji said that in one go, as though to spit out something that had accumulated within his belly, he showed a somewhat refreshed smile and returned to his usual self.

“But, the voices of those who look forward to Vanishing Starlight’s debut are resolute, right? Even if I leave it as it is, I was wondering if the turmoil would just settle down on its own, what do you think?”

Eiji had the same opinion as Ichizou. However even if the two of them said as such, the uneasy feeling within Noel could not disappear. It was not as though he did not trust them. Eiji wrote articles on the web so he knew the ins and outs of web-based reports. And as for Ichizou, it seemed like he had encountered this kind of trouble numerous times before. They probably read about the structure of such online material and the flow of information for them to say that.

Even if he knew that, Noel was unable to imagine that the rumours would quieten down just like that. …. Thinking about all the things that his former members have done, he did not think they would pull out that easily.

“But…. we don’t know what does guys would do if we left them as they are.”

“Noel, you’re particularly worried about this….is there some kind of reason?”

Ichizou stared at Noel, looking surprised but Eiji made a face like he understood and scratched his head of close cropped hair.

“Ah—Like I thought, those rumours were true, huh?”

Eiji let out the words like he was monologuing, and Noel frowned while Ichizou frantically followed up after Noel.

“Eiji-san! Yes, it really might be Noel’s fault that he lashed out at them but there must be some sort of reason—”

“No no, I wasn’t talking about that.”

Seeing how flustered Ichizou was, Eiji waved his hands before him and smiled in a funny manner. However, the smile quickly vanished, and his expression became serious. Then he shot a look at Noel.

“–It’s information that they definitely cannot let out.”

Ichizou looked blankly while Eiji looked at Noel with a sharp gaze as though he was irritated. However, it did not seem like that irritation was directed at Noel. Noel frowned as well, not understanding.

“The song that was performed during the event after those guys formed a band with a new vocalist…. isn’t that song composed by Noel? That became a part of the rumours.

“Eh?!”

Ichizou raised her voice but he was not the only one who became surprised. Even the one who was directly involved, Noel, was shocked as well.

The rumour about “Noel hit his former member” was not something he had expected but the fact that there were people who noticed that “The song they performed belonged to Noel” was out of his expectations as well.

There were people who knew that it belonged to Noel just from the sound alone—that fact was more shocking than anything.

Seeing Noel with a shocked look, Eiji laughed heartily then he stopped, and a doubtful frown showed on his face.

“Those guys said that they made the song themselves though……Noel, did your scores or something get stolen before you all disbanded?”

Though he was investigating what happened, Eiji spoke as though he was quite sure already and Noel averted his gaze from the look directed at him. It was already a matter of the past. Also, even if Noel said his work got stolen now, it seems like it would only cause a greater uproar. It would be a lie to say he did not have any regrets but now Noel did not have the energy to pursue that incident.

“……Dunno. I don’t listen to their songs.”

“Playing it off so coolly-. Doesn’t it piss you off at all?”

Noel looked back at Eiji and as expected, the other party was searching for Noel’s real feelings.

If you want, I could make it an article—Noel took on that gaze which was filled with that intention. Then Noel lowered his gaze, rejecting Eiji’s offer.

Behind his closed eyelid were twinkling stars. The star’s twinkles were beautiful and small and if one did not pay attention, they seemed to disappear quickly.

“……Right now, I have “The Nighthawk Star” and “VANISHING STARLIGHT”. They are my everything.”

Opening his eyes, Noel clenched both his hands, as though to protect the stars that were within his eyes.

“I finally managed to grab onto these two things only and I’m definitely not letting them go. That’s why we need to be cautious. I don’t care what happened in the past.”

“In the past you say, it hasn’t even been a year.”

Hearing Eiji say that in a flabbergasted tone, Noel raised his head in surprise. Speaking of which, it had not even been seven months since they disbanded. These seven or so months have been way too eventful, so he felt like it had been a long time. And at that time, he was really boiling with anger.

After looking long and hard at Noel, who was wide eyed, Eiji breathed out.

“I get—it. If you’re already alright with it then I don’t have anything to say. However, well, just remember you still have a card to play. Just in case you have to use it, I’m going to ask around for evidence.”

“I already said it’s fine, I don’t need it.”

Noel said that, but it seemed like Eiji really wanted to do it and looked thrilled.

While making an excited expression, Eiji still shot a serious gaze at Ichizou.

“Then, we’ll just remain status quo for now?”

“Good question. Given the momentum and how trending this article was, it would affect us greatly if we go at it carelessly.”

“Then, I’ll pay attention to what those guys are doing. Make the event a success, yeah? Of course, I’ll go over and get something to write on out of it~”

Even though those words were said so optimistically, Eiji was actually saying that they can count on him. Just like Ichizou, it should be alright to trust this guy.

After pausing for a while, Noel looked at Eiji and nodded.

“Yeah…. I’ll leave it to you.”

Eiji made his most surprised expression of the day when he saw Noel’s reaction and he stared hard at the other party.

“……Noel, you’re really tired huh? Do you have a fever or something? Do you wanna go to the hospital?”

“You bastard, are you just picking a fight? That pointy head of yours is the one that needs to be treated in the hospital.”

“If that happens, then my identity would be dead.”

Before Noel could listen to Eiji’s light-hearted words to the end, he leaned his back against the sofa once more and closed his eyes.

Because he was relieved, the fatigue within him came back hard……I really want to sleep soon. Or so he said and then he fell asleep just like that.

Ichizou’s frantic voice could be heard when he saw that Noel had become motionless.

“Ah, wait, Noel?! You shouldn’t be sleeping here, right?! I’ll send you back so at the very least walk to the car!”

“Ngh-. Al-ight……”

“His head knows but his body is not connecting! He’s gone back to the usual Noel!”

He was able to hear Ichizou’s impolite voice and Eiji’s amused laughter in his dreams.

 

*

Morning. Even with that said, it was not early in the morning. The sun had already risen high into the sky but because the industry he worked in was considered a nocturnal one, it was rare for Noel to wake up before noon. Standing in front of the mirror at his sink, he forced his eyes open. Though he was originally not a morning lark, it seemed like only a bit of fatigue remained.

Washing his face, he slapped his cheeks with both hands before wiping the water off. The sound was louder and crisper than he expected, and it was more painful than expected. But, he was awake. Looking at the mirror, his usually pale cheeks have become red.

As he changed his clothes, he opened his folding phone and there was a message. It was from Ichizou.

“Don’t stand out & don’t stand out!!!!“

A message that was annoying despite being short. Swapping from that, he confirmed the event that was inputted into his calendar. He was supposed to meet up with the rest after the morning for event related matters and then there was also an input to rehearse for the event.

Dressing as plainly as he could and putting on a mask, Noel left his apartment. Today he was heading for the studio via walking and public transportation. Lately, because he had been getting around by letting Ichizou drive him around, it felt like a long time since he walked outside.

Although every single time he told Ichizou that there was no need to chauffeur him around,

“Noel, aren’t you aware of what a flashy and outstanding appearance you have?! What if you get mobbed and aren’t able to get away?! Also, now there’s those strange rumours, what if something happens……”

And Ichizou will prattle on and on and if he got unlucky, a long lecture would start—though Noel will stop listening thirty seconds in—

Today, that Ichizou called earlier as he had to send his much younger brother to and from kindergarten.

“Sorry, Noel. It was always my sister-in-law who sends him, but she caught a flu. Onii-san is taking her to the hospital so I’m the only one who can send Gonosuke to school. It’s the time when Miina and Shiina are already heading to school….”

“That’s-why, I said that you don’t always have to send me around, right? Quickly send …. your, younger bro……”

He noticed…. that he could hear Gonosuke’s voice from the phone. Noel closed his heavy eyelids and he could hear Ichizou’s relieved voice.

“Thank you. But Noel, try not to stand out, ok? Put on a mask and if possible, hide your hair as well! Are you listening? ….hey! Noel?! Are you asleep?!”

He was asleep.

He got a bit anxious, but he managed to get up without oversleeping and now he was out of his house. As he walked, little by little, his sleepiness got driven away and his head became clear.

While on the path to the station, the phone in his pocket vibrated. He thought it might have been from Ichizou but he was mistaken.

“Yo, Noel! It’s me, Eiji! Where are you now? Is Nino-cchi there as well?”

“I’m on my way to the station. And who’s that?”

“Ichizou-san! Because he’s called Ninosuke so it’s Nino-cchi.  It goes well, Noe-cchi!”

“Stop that. He’s not with me now. Do you need something?”

“Right. Well, it’s nothing much. It’s just that it’s about those rumours, it didn’t spread that much, right?”

“Ah-, it seems like it.”

Noel did not look much into the articles and reports related to this but Ichizou did say as such. It seemed like it did not become a trending topic as the days passed. He wanted to make sure for himself but Ichizou stopped him, saying it was better if he did not read those things. He must not let his motivation drop.

What Noel should be doing was to focus his attention on the event that was drawing closer.

Noel asked Eiji through the phone.

“Did you do something?”

“Oh no, I only watched- If anyone did anything, it would be you.”

“Ha? I didn’t do anything at all!”

Did I do something that unknowingly added oil to the fire? Noel spoke to Eiji in a strong tone without thinking but a pfft came from the other side of the phone and Eiji laughed while talking.

“In a good way. The ones who look at you, your fans have increased. Even if there are rumours, there are hordes of fans who have decided to support you.”

An unexpected phrase. Just before he could say some forceful words, Noel did not know how to reply and he kept quiet, secretly blushing. Perhaps Eiji got a sense of Noel’s reaction and he could hear the laughter that Eiji was unable to hold back for a while.

“Stop laughing! I’ll hang up! And, what was that about?!”

After yelling into the phone once more, Noel continued to walk, having stopped some time earlier, while waiting for Eiji to speak.

“Oh, right right. I’ll get right down to business now. Because their task of getting in your way did not go well, they’re getting frustrated. Perhaps they might go and find you directly, so be careful……Areh? He-llo, can you hear me- Noe-cchi-?”

“……You’re incredible.”

Noel faced the direction he was heading and muttered those few words. The words were directed at Eiji but Noel’s attention was no longer on the phone call. However, Eiji who was on the other side of the phone and did not realise that, continued to speak in his usual light tone, soaked in delight.

“What’s up, suddenly talking like that? You won’t get anything even if you praise me you know? I only scribbled a little passionate and a little long special edition article about VaniStar?……Hey, Noel? Don’t tell me the reception is bad? Can you hear me?”

He could hear Eiji’s voice clearly. However, his pleasant words words barely entered Noel;s ears. But the words of praise that Noel directed at Eiji were not lies.

“……You were right on the mark, weren’t you?”

“Ha? Eh, don’t tell me……! Hey, don’t rush into it, okay?!”

“I know. See ya.”

“Don’t just “see ya” me—”

Cutting off Eiji’s voice that was coming from the other side of the phone, Noel stared at the men who were glaring at him while standing on the path. The mobile phone he just cut the call on was vibrating again. It was probably a call from Eiji but Noel ignored it. He did not want to turn his gaze away from the men who were walking over.