Arc-1 SS-02

“Ugh! I just can’t sleep!”

Even though I don’t have work tomorrow morning, sleep deprivation will wreak havoc on my skin. But the more I try to relax, the more awake I feel. And I know exactly why. It’s because of Rina Takechi—my junior by a year—and the two new candidates I met today at the agency, both set to debut this year.

When I, Tomomi Uchikawa, auditioned for Sistema Solare, the group wasn’t exactly popular. It was mid-tier at best—the kind of idol unit that could vanish without ever making a name for itself. I applied with the mindset that I could dominate the stage as a central member. Compared to the other girls, I was confident in my looks—and sure enough, I passed the audition without any trouble.

From that moment on, I dedicated myself completely—to advancing my own career and to pushing Sistema Solare into the spotlight. I was constantly exasperated by the older members who seemed to be just drifting along, but their complacency only made it easier for me to stand out. I powered through the grueling lessons with sheer willpower.

And my efforts paid off. Sistema Solare’s popularity skyrocketed, eventually putting us shoulder-to-shoulder with top-tier idol groups. I even claimed the top spot in the Grand Festival’s popularity poll, solidifying my position as the group’s ace and center. That’s when I was given the nickname Sole.

Even so—even standing at the very peak—I was filled with unease.

Because of Rina Takechi.

A fifth-generation member who debuted at last year’s Grand Festival—yes, the very same one where I came out on top.

Her beauty is truly exceptional—not just within Sistema Solare, but across the entire idol industry. Even I have to admit that, in terms of pure looks, she outshines me. If it were just her face, I might still have had a shot. But as a third-generation member, I thought my two years of experience would keep me ahead of a rookie.

“She’s great at singing and dancing too. What even is that…?”

Rina’s more than just a pretty face. Her singing and dancing are top-tier, and even as a newcomer, she already commands the stage. Naturally, she gained fans at an alarming rate. The general producer is now strategizing how to fully capitalize on her rising popularity. I had to lay low during my first year, but she doesn’t have to. Not at all.

She hasn’t been moved into a main vocal position yet, since the current popularity poll hasn’t concluded. For now, they’re only giving her solo assignments—commercials, magazine shoots, things like that. I heard she’s turned down acting jobs, apparently not a fan of them. Still, her extraordinary beauty has made her a hot topic online. I made the mistake of searching her name once and saw threads calling her the next ace… or even the next center. That only deepened my anxiety.

With about four months left until this year’s Grand Festival and the next poll, I’ve been focused on defending my spot at the top. But after meeting this year’s new candidates, that unease turned to dread.

Nozomi Nanazawa.

Let’s start with her. A poised, elegant beauty—one who could rival me in looks. Later, I found out she’s not just “ladylike”—she’s the actual heiress of one of Japan’s most prominent corporate groups.

Some of my current commercials are backed by her family’s companies, and they sponsor a number of TV programs as well. Frankly, I can imagine she’s a real headache for the agency to handle. She’s someone I absolutely can’t afford to antagonize. If anything, I should try to keep her on my side—or at the very least, stay neutral. Still, I can’t let her surpass me in rank. I’ve worked too hard for this. She’s spent her life in luxury—I won’t lose to someone like that.

“…She’s manageable, at least.”

The real issue lies with the other one.

Mikuri Kayanuma.

She’s just as threatening as Rina Takechi—maybe even more so. Based on what I’ve heard from the agency staff, she’s rated as highly as Rina… possibly even higher.

Her beauty is equal to Rina’s—different in tone, but just as breathtaking. Not only that, her singing and dancing are rumored to be among the best Sistema Solare has ever seen. On top of her refined, ladylike appearance, she has a gentle, approachable personality. One of the female managers told me that the older men at the agency—yes, even the president and general producer—are completely smitten with her. Unlike Rina, she’s open to acting work, too.

“Ugh… What kind of cheat code is she running?”

Beauty, charm, talent in singing, dancing, and acting—she’s the full package. Not just an idol, but a potential all-around entertainer. The only supposed drawback is her terrible stamina—but that’s something training will eventually fix.

“Why are these rivals suddenly popping up one after another…?”

Of course, I welcome new talent if it helps boost Sistema Solare’s popularity. That’s not the issue. But I don’t want my own standing to be threatened. I know it’s selfish. But after climbing my way to the top, I can’t help wanting to protect my place.

“Phew… Well, those two won’t be a threat this year. For now, it’s Rina…”

In the dark, my eyes narrow with resolve.

I won’t let anyone—anyone—take my place as Sistema Solare’s ace and center.