Chapter 6: I Will Marry the Person I Love Most in the World
An intermediary agent connects publishers and bookstores. They neither make the books nor sell them directly. Where, then, does their value lie? Of course, there are plenty of textbook answers. But it’s hard to definitively say they have a mission unique to them, one no one else can replicate.
That’s true for anything. Can you say with certainty that books themselves, or bookstores, are absolutely irreplaceable?
But even in a world where value isn’t guaranteed, we must believe in our own worth and move forward. Because those steps are what build this world.
I continue to move my feet—clumsily, single-mindedly, desperately.
“——So, although the reputation of MARIA’s book is terrible online, the content itself is excellent. I would really appreciate it if you could give it a prominent display in your store, Manager Ohashi…”
“Sure thing.”
“I know it’s not something you can easily agre—wait, what? Is it okay?”
Manager Ohashi adjusted his glasses and nodded. “Thirty copies for the first shipment.”
“Is that number… alright?”
For a town bookstore that isn’t a large chain, thirty copies is an order size typically reserved for bestsellers.
“Because you’re confident it’ll sell, right?”
“Of course.”
“Then it’s fine. Ah, I’ll put this book in this box.”
Manager Ohashi continued packing books for return. I had forced my way in, asking for time for my sales pitch even while he worked.
“Even if an article comes out in a weekly magazine and there’s a huge bashing online, the question is what percentage of the Japanese population actually sees that topic and gets influenced by it.”
Perhaps seeing my puzzled expression, Manager Ohashi explained.
“Did it get picked up by TV talk shows? But even with some TV coverage, at most, not even a quarter of Japan’s population knows about it. In other words, 75 out of 100 people don’t know about the bashing. Thinking about it that way, don’t you think there’s a chance to sell books?”
Manager Ohashi spoke nonchalantly, but I thought his opinion hit the mark.
“Online, you only see the world you’re interested in, so you feel like everyone is looking at the same world. But in reality, the world you don’t see is much wider.”
I felt a hint there for how real bookstores could surpass the internet.
“That said, it’s basically a book for fans, so the image damage is tough.”
“You’re right… But really… thank you very much.”
“Hinosaka-kun, are you going around to various bookstores like this?”
“Ah, yes. All day today.”
Thanks to that, my legs feel like sticks.
“I’m banned from coming to the office, but I got permission to go outside. So this is less like work and more like my personal request.”
“Ah, you mentioned that. But I wonder. Won’t quite a few people stock it?”
His casual words were incredibly strange to me.
“Um… sorry to be blunt again, but why did you think so, Manager Ohashi?”
“Because no matter how bad the reputation is online, I trust the opinion of the person I meet in real life.”
Those words, spoken without any pretension, soaked into my heart.
“Because I know how you work, Hinosaka-kun.”
While the masses bash a fictional version of me online, he sees the real me.
“No matter how troubled you are, you wouldn’t do anything detrimental to us bookstores.”
I never thought that would be something to be so grateful for.
“So these thirty copies are proof of the trust you’ve built.”
“Thank… you very much.”
“But if they don’t sell, do your best to sell them all even if you have to hold a spot sale, okay?”
…I was a little moved, but the manager was severe after all.
The next day, I visited bookstores where I had appointments from the morning.
“Yo, isn’t it the Hinosaka-san who’s stirring up the world! Man, I never thought you were a go-getter who laid hands on a minor model!”
Manager Wakiya in his aloha shirt said in a loud voice that echoed throughout the store.
“Manager Wakiya! Could you lower your volume!”
Insiders who knew I was doing MARIA-related work naturally knew that “the reported cohabitation partner = me”…
“Oops, my bad. So, you’re going to tell me an interesting story today?”
“Yes, I wanted you to hear the sales promotion plan for the MARIA book—”
I made my proposal in the back room.
“…Hmm, ‘My Memories of Bookstores’, MARIA-chan’s own newly written papers, 200 types prepared, distributed one type per bookstore at 200 bookstores, huh.”
“What do you think?”
“Store-limited benefits are nice. It becomes a motivation to visit the store. But 200 types…”
“That book lover and bookstore lover was complaining, ‘200 types isn’t enough!'”
Even I was slightly put off by Arisa churning out paper manuscripts like a demon.
“That’s crazy! But… considering her family home is KIMISAKAYA Bookstore, maybe it’s reasonable. The content was crazy too, mainly her biased love for bookstores. Also, Lemon Tsuta did a good job.”
I had handed over the galley proofs before completion to especially trustworthy people.
“This makes the bookstore side want to support it too, and it should be a good campaign. If she goes this far, even customers who don’t know her will think ‘This girl is a serious bookstore lover, not just for fashion’, so it becomes an appeal.”
“Then, I’ll register as a participating store.”
“Yeah, please do. …But well, conducting a guerrilla campaign in bookstores without major publicity and picking a fight with the mighty A&G… it’s damn interesting. The fighting figure is entertainment.”
“Ultimately, I think it’s fine if MARIA’s own story reaches the world.”
Arisa’s feelings will surely resonate with many people.
“…Not ‘selling a book’, but ‘selling the story of MARIA fighting’, huh. It’s adversity now, but that also becomes drama. Hinosaka-san, you have quite the producing ability.”
“The one working hard is MARIA, though.”
“You can’t do this much without a relationship of trust.”
I was honestly happy to be evaluated.
“Can you gather 200 participating bookstores? Is it easy with the distributor’s reach?”
The network with bookstores nationwide is the distributor’s greatest strength.
“It’s tough because there’s no time, but I’ll stick to it until the last minute. I want to increase the number of sales floors with heat even by one.”
“I’ll call out to bookstores I know too. I want to ride the winning horse.”
“Thank you very much…!”
“If it goes well, let me say arrogantly ‘I saw through that it would succeed from the beginning’!”
Manager Wakiya laughed cheerfully.
“Maybe people like Hinosaka-san will gather young and interesting guys, connect them, and change this industry. …I won’t lose either though!”
While steadily increasing cooperating bookstores, the bashing against MARIA was increasing in intensity. Even if we could gather 200 cooperating bookstores, there is a limit to the sales that can be generated there. There are over 10,000 bookstores nationwide. Therefore, word of mouth is extremely important to generate large sales, but…
[MARIA’s book is coming out~. Should I buy it~] [@You should stop buying books by bitch pillow MARIA. Details here ->] [Eh… it’s scary to be suddenly spoken to by a stranger?] [@I’m just telling the truth to people deceived by MARIA] [Seriously annoying. Blocked. lol] [@As expected, MARIA fans are scum with no common sense] [Wait, alt account? Seriously annoying so stop! I don’t intend to buy MARIA’s book either!]
If you try to bring up the topic of MARIA online even a little, antis will fly in and attack. Such a structure had been created.
“They are completely operatives.” According to junior Ayako Senga, that seems to be the case. “There are people who are persistently sticky on bulletin boards too. This is a professional job.”
It’s a story James is capable of doing. I think there is no need to take anti opinions seriously, but the reason to push them aside and go out of the way to support is also only for enthusiastic fans.
A&G’s search results were also in a terrible state. Searching for MARIA’s book didn’t get hits, only gossip articles. Furthermore, a large amount of false information was being spread claiming to be MARIA’s personal information. Like MARIA is a delinquent. Was doing compensated dating. Has experience of being taken into protective custody. Not going to school. All obviously false, but creating an impression is unavoidable.
A&G’s dominance online was mighty, and we had to say we were at a disadvantage.
However. It is also a fact that there are zones online where A&G’s dominance does not reach.
“…So~, now even ordinary middle and high school girls live stream themselves, create communities, and have fans.”
Even over the phone, it is her policy to speak in MARIA’s way when dressed as MARIA.
“Can you see the URL I sent now on your computer~?”
While on the phone, I jumped to the page where a high school girl “reader model” was streaming video sent from the PC. First, the girl’s face is shown in close-up. Rather than just for viewing, it seems closer to a video for communicating with viewers, talking to them through the screen all the time.
“Leo-san, long time no see~! Ken-chan-san, thank you very much~!”
And around the video showing the girl, numerous avatars are displayed. It seems to be a mechanism where each viewer creates an avatar and gets recognized by the streamer. There is also a viewer counter, and it seems over a thousand people are accessing.
“Something… called a gift is being sent?”
“That’s right, there are free and paid ones, and viewers can present them to the streamer~. And depending on the number obtained, the streamer can get benefits~. Well, it’s a system where fans can tip~.”
“O-Oh.”
“It doesn’t click at all, does it.”
“…No, I’m taken aback. I understand if it’s a celebrity, but I have a simple question of who watches an amateur’s stream and why they want to give presents…”
“Every celebrity starts as an amateur! Generally, when introducing products here, amateurs with strong communities sell more than talents~.”
“…Seriously?”
“Because even if someone known only from TV introduces a product to 10,000 people~, if they aren’t interested, it won’t sell at all, right? But if an amateur girl introduces it within the fan community she always interacts with~, even if there are only 100 people, she can easily sell more than ten items.”
“A-Amazing…”
Only a voice of admiration comes out.
“Anyway~, I have many acquaintances there~, so I’ll have them promote the book there, okay?”
“I’ll leave that area entirely to MARIA-san.”
“The smaller the community, the stronger the unity~, so they won’t be swayed by online opinions.”
That was precisely the place where A&G’s dominance did not reach online. Countering A&G’s dominated online world with these small communities with heat.
“…Kenichi-san, aren’t you tired?”
“Did you perhaps take off your makeup?”
Suddenly it became “Arisa’s” voice. I think this quick change is also amazing.
“Because your voice sounds tired.”
“Because I’m crawling around outside…”
No money or manpower, so I have to move myself.
“But it’s not a bad tiredness, rather there’s a sense of fulfillment.”
“I see…”
“Is something wrong?”
Arisa murmured in a soft tone.
“No. I just thought I wanted to see Kenichi-san’s face directly soon.”
Even now the physical distance is far. But I felt we were connected.
“Sink or swim, ten days left.”
In ten days, our books will start lining up nationwide.
“I want to win. …I don’t want to lose.”
Just selling books isn’t enough. True victory is when MARIA’s feelings are conveyed to the world, and A&G’s acquisition of KIMISAKAYA is stopped without MARIA marrying. The journey to that point is endlessly long.
“Arisa, don’t push yourself either. Rely on me when it’s tough. If you think it’s impossible, you can’t bear it, I’ll fly to you anytime.”
“You’re overprotective, Kenichi-san. But I’ll remember. …Thanks.”
Immediately after finishing the call with Arisa, there was a call from junior colleague Ayako Senga.
“Sorry, Senga. Leaving various jobs to you.”
“It’s fine~. I can manage because Senpai is working from home~. By the way Senpai, you haven’t met MARIA, have you?”
“No. Haven’t met once since then.”
“No quibbling that it’s fine if it’s Arisa, okay?”
I have told some insiders MARIA’s true identity. It will be known when the book is released anyway.
“I told you I haven’t met her.”
“Hmm. Is that so. I felt a smell of flirting though~.”
Scary. You aren’t wiretapping, are you? After discussing business, I asked for her opinion on the current flaming situation.
“If you let me speak from a professional gossipper’s perspective.”
“What is a gossipper?”
“I’m concerned that Taro Yamaki has started mentioning it on SNS.”
“Taro Yamaki…?”
“He’s a commentator appearing on wide shows~. Seems he was originally a manager of a suspicious consulting company. Anyway, Taro Yamaki is the type who tries to stand out by persistently bashing targeted cases. I don’t feel any principles or assertions in what he bashes, and the theory that he moves receiving money from clients is strong.”
“…Meaning he was hired by A&G?”
“If so, I think the attacks will continue~. He’s good at talking and getting along in the world, so he has multiple regulars on terrestrial and internet TV. If mentioned there, it will be influential~.”
“It’s probably a negative campaign anyway… but.”
I thought of something and said it.
“If they take it up conversely, won’t it become promotion? That’s exactly flaming marketing.”
“Yes, there is that view too. If the purpose is obstructing book sales, coming this far, ignoring it without making it a topic should have the most damage. Normally.”
So I considered the reason in my own way, Senga continued.
“The enemy wants to crush MARIA and the MARIA book thoroughly until there’s nothing left.”
Break her heart. I feel James’s will in that.
“Also, selling with flaming marketing is fine in the short term, but getting labeled will affect things later~. Negative impressions cannot be overturned just because it sold well.”
That would be a considerable blow to me and MARIA’s plan. James might be intending to look further ahead and obtain everything. Meaning MARIA—Arisa and KIMISAKAYA Bookstore.
“Anyway, this… might have one more climax.”
And Senga’s prediction hit the mark perfectly.
“—So, I think this is a grave matter. A minor, a fifteen-year-old middle school student, is deceived by adults blinded by profit to publish a photo book. How dangerous this is. I haven’t been able to confirm the contents, but surely sexual appeal is included. Then we have to consider how it stands against child pornography standards. Moreover, I heard it’s close to individual activity. Meaning no agency is in between, and deterrence based on law doesn’t work properly. Cohabitation away from parents at fifteen, that’s running away from home, right? One step wrong and it’s kidnapping. Therefore, there is a high possibility that her book involves things akin to crime. So we must not buy this book and encourage future criminal acts. Bookstores nationwide too, should at least consider placing it in places not visible to middle and high school students.”
“What is this…!?”
Contacted by Senga saying “Turn on the TV right now!”, I turned on the TV, and on a wide show, that Taro Yamaki was commenting on the report about me and Arisa. He was a man with a suspicious atmosphere wearing round glasses and a bow tie. The content he was speaking was also nonsense. Sexual appeal and child pornography are unrelated to the content. It is true she doesn’t belong to an agency officially, but management work is entrusted to an agency. However, it’s nasty that he blurs his statements moderately. He isn’t lying.
The program switched from the studio broadcast to VTR. It seems to be a special feature on crimes involving children unrelated to our case. However, following that comment. Surely viewers will input that our case is also somehow close to crime.
“Damn it!”
I hit the table strongly. I don’t think bookstores will remove the book, but it became difficult to make it stand out in stores. Also, the reservation trend for the MARIA book at this point, which Senga summarized, was terrible. Since the main purchasing demographic assumed to be middle and high school girls are not familiar with pre-ordering books online, I didn’t expect much from the start. But even so, it’s bad. The weekly magazine report coming out just before the start of general reservations hurt.
Another major factor is that A&G reservations are zero. I inquired about this matter to the A&G side through official channels, but the only reply was “Unable to sell due to system deficiency”. Obviously, it was intentional.
“—What is with that old guy. I’ll protest to the program! Saying whatever he wants!”
It was fortunate that Arisa, who called out of worry, was burning with anger rather than depressed.
“I’ll refute on SNS.”
“Don’t… not yet.”
“If I keep silent like this, I’ll be beaten continuously!”
Since the scandal report, MARIA’s SNS had been suspended. It hurts that notice from the person herself is impossible, but it can’t be helped since whatever she says now will be attacked.
“Let those who want to say things say them.”
“But like this, does it look like we can win? Objectively, not wishful thinking.”
“…With the numbers I can see now, it’s tough.”
“If it were a normal book, I think we could expect word of mouth after release…”
“Thoroughly good reviews will be crushed and operations will be done so only bad remarks stand out.”
I don’t think they will loosen their hand at the very end. Like this, we lose. So we have no choice but to aim for a reversal move, but—
“…Actually, this Taro Yamaki is appearing on an internet TV show where he is the main tomorrow. He might say selfish things again, so I have to check…”
When the time for the internet TV came the next day, Taro Yamaki began even stronger criticism.
“The problem is, above all, this man from the publishing distribution company. Bringing a fifteen-year-old child into his home. It’s a case where he should be arrested as a criminal.”
Probably he can speak more freely on internet TV with fewer regulations.
“However, I don’t know how he cajoled them, but no damage report has been filed. So he is left at large.”
“Nobody received damage!”
Arisa across the computer screen is shouting. While watching the program on the TV connected to the internet, I was video calling Arisa on the computer.
“Moreover, amazingly, they are trying to force the release of the photo book that caused the problem. No, wait a minute. Before that, there is accountability, right?”
“There is no accountability!”
Arisa retorts at each point, but in the program where Yamaki serves as MC, there are no guests stating opposing opinions and it’s a solo performance state.
“They should hold a press conference and apologize/explain. If they can’t do that, they should cancel the book release. Otherwise, the corporate stance will also be questioned. What do you think, everyone? Opinions at hashtag #YamakiTV.”
The live broadcast program is viewer-participation type. A large monitor is installed in the studio, and statements on the net with designated markers are displayed on the monitor in real time.
[Should apologize] [The man should come out and explain. If there’s nothing guilty, he should be able to] [I think the company has accountability] [Want the worst lolicon man arrested quickly]
It’s a strange feeling that a mere man who is not a celebrity is attacked by the public to this extent. Words across the screen don’t stab me directly, so I don’t get hurt. But it feels like the tip of a blade is thrust at me, surely wearing me down.
“Oh my, the voice pursuing the man’s responsibility is louder than expected~.”
Other guests were all agreeing.
“Naturally. I also have a middle school daughter, and I always warn her not to be deceived by sweet words inviting her to the entertainment world.”
“For Japan to be recognized as a more mature country in the international community, I think how we can deal with such criminal acts is important.”
Nodding satisfyingly, Yamaki said as if it were a brilliant idea.
“Right~, I expect a sincere response. If there is no place for explanation, I will prepare it on Yamaki TV. How about explaining yourself by all means?”
[Yamaki-san say more!] [The aggressive program stance is the best! Social evil should be condemned!] [Man come out without running away]
Assuming I won’t come out anyway, saying whatever they want. Righteous arguments spoken standing in a place where the opponent cannot refute are not much different from mere violence.
But… I probably have to thank Taro Yamaki. Whatever the content, this is the first time so much time has been devoted to me on TV. This timing with the book release approaching closely. Provocation with no room for complaint. The stage is fully set—
“—Then let’s go out.”
An ominous and fearless voice was heard. From Arisa Kimisaka on the other side of the PC screen.
“Hey, Arisa…”
“Kenichi-san, I will appear on this program.”
“W-Wait a minute. What are you saying?”
“Are you okay with just being talked about like this? No way, right?”
“That’s for me… or rather first the strategy—”
My only miscalculation is that I forgot how brave and daring a girl Arisa is.
“Sorry, I already tweeted.”
“Whoa!?”
Arisa sticks out her tongue theatrically. What did she tweet… that was understood immediately. Because the tweet with the hashtag was taken up on the live Yamaki TV.
[I will appear on the program and explain fair and square by MARIA]
[Hey this is MARIA’s official account!] [Even though it was stopped for a long time!?] [This development is too hot lol] [Unexpected MARIA descent on Yamaki TV!] [Isn’t it staged?]
I hurriedly launch another tab and check MARIA’s SNS page. The number of retweets is spreading with tremendous momentum: fifty… eighty… a hundred. The internet TV studio was also buzzing.
“…No, I didn’t expect a reaction from MARIA herself… It’s not staged, you know? But, if you wish, I’ll prepare the place! Next week’s Yamaki TV at this time, you’ll appear, right!?”
MARIA’s declaration to appear on internet TV immediately became news and ran through the internet. At one point, it was displayed at the top of a major portal site, and even more people came to know. It was a topic hot enough to be taken up as a hot word on SNS.
And a week passed in a flash, and the day of the broadcast arrived. MARIA posted again on SNS, which had no movement after tweeting once a week ago.
[Today, I will speak the truth from my mouth. Everyone please watch.]
The number of retweets for that tweet exceeded ten thousand.
[Was it from 18:00? Explanation conference finally coming?] [Actually seems her book releases tomorrow. Promotion right] [But Taro Yamaki is bashing MARIA like crap? Might be a tragedy lol] [MARIA-chan do your best~!]
I was visiting the studio where such a high-attention program was broadcast live. Being internet TV, I underestimated that the equipment wouldn’t be much, but.
“…Senpai. Isn’t it amazing? It’s incredibly full-scale? Bubbly?”
“…I’m honestly scared too.”
There are four cameras. Looking overhead, dedicated lighting is densely installed, the monitor displaying viewer tweets in real time is large, and the set was luxurious. Staff and people in suits were overflowing in the studio. Aren’t there too many people?
“You guys. Don’t look around like country bumpkins.”
“Section Manager Mizuno saying that has heavy makeup today too—…sorry Senga joke!?”
As MARIA’s related parties, we three from Shin-Nihon Publishing Distribution also entered the studio. I was the ringleader of the turmoil, but perhaps it’s dark under the lighthouse, nobody seems to think the person himself is here.
“MARIA-san entering!”
Eyes naturally turned to the entrance where the voice came from. Dazzling pure white. The neat white one-piece dress appearance highlights her transparency even more. The flashiness of the gradient twin-tails hasn’t changed, but the makeup is lighter than the usual MARIA. That seemed like a display of will to fight as the two persons MARIA and Arisa.
Walking MARIA meets my eyes. Actually meeting face to face was for the first time in less than a month. I want to go to her side and talk right now. MARIA’s eyes also felt moist.
“…Are you okay?”
Staff calls out to MARIA who stopped. As if to suppress trembling, MARIA was grasping her left arm with her right hand. It’s her first TV appearance. Must be anxious. Moreover, knowing viewers turn eyes of curiosity. Also, the opponent is a man criticizing herself thoroughly, and it was visible that it was completely away.
And she is not appearing on the program empty-handed. She is hiding a certain blade. That might also be a cause fueling anxiety and tension. I convey “Do your best” only with movement of eyes and mouth. That’s all I can do now. MARIA started walking again. The trembling seemed to stop.
The actual performance approached, and the movement on site became hectic. Staff came to warn us observation group, “Please don’t enter beyond here!” Yamaki stands on the left of the set, and MARIA and three other guests sit on the right. Standing behind the camera, I could see the entire studio in exactly the same composition as the viewers.
“I’m not doing anything but I’m getting nervous… Senpai.”
“…Hinosaka, you aren’t thinking weird things, right?”
Section Manager Mizuno was strangely concerned about my state.
“Five seconds to live, four, three, —”
On-air footage flows on the TV installed for staff and related parties. At exactly 18:00, the fateful program started. It’s the beginning of our battle.
“Well, Yamaki TV started this week too—”
MC Yamaki greets and then introduces today’s lineup. Viewer numbers can also be confirmed on the broadcasting screen. Immediately exceeded 500,000. Tremendous attention level. I also get nervous and my heart hurts as if squeezed.
“Today’s attention is this person no matter what! First TV appearance tonight! Model MARIA-chan has come to the studio!”
MARIA is introduced and applause occurs. The broadcasting screen switched to a close-up of MARIA.
“Good evening~. I’m MARIA~. Please treat me well today~.”
Even on live internet TV, Arisa is undaunted and in her usual MARIA tension.
“Amazing… doesn’t seem like first TV. Aura is coming out.”
Senga was also impressed.
“First, for those who don’t know MARIA-chan, please watch this.”
VTR flows, and MARIA’s work history is introduced. There was mention of the scandal in it. There was no malice in the editing itself, but the impression is bad. After this, arrangements are made for MARIA to explain.
“I want to support, but this scandal was disappointing.”
“Maybe MARIA-san should have had self-awareness too.”
“Awareness as a professional was necessary. Of course, the man is the worst though.”
Three guests comment on the weekly magazine report one after another. And threading through the gaps, MARIA opens her mouth and starts a counterattack.
“So, that is—”
“Story from MARIA-chan later. Then first from this corner.”
When MARIA tries to refute, Yamaki interrupts and proceeds to the next corner.
“Eh…”
MARIA’s eyes swim and she is bewildered.
“…Different from arrangements.”
As Section Manager Mizuno says. The script and progression are different. Whether this is common in the TV world or not. However, it didn’t take time even for an amateur like me to realize it was strange.
The program plays VTRs of entertainment, politics, and other various news. After that, the structure is to develop talk in the studio while also looking at general viewer opinions in real time. Every time a VTR ends, who gets the pass is written in the script. However, in reality, Yamaki does not pass to MARIA at the place written “MARIA”.
Conversely, when it’s not MARIA’s turn.
“What do you think, MARIA-chan?”
“Eh… well, let’s see~. I think… not very good.”
Suddenly asked to comment on a diplomatic issue, MARIA was perplexed. Moreover, with Yamaki controlling, opinions within the program are unified, and conflicts between guests do not occur.
“I think the agency is bad here~. Coercion is no good~.”
“No, the talent is bad. Since they violated the contract.”
MARIA’s opinion is immediately countered and crushed.
“That’s right. In this case, it’s the talent.”
Yamaki also doesn’t go to follow MARIA. Keeping a smile, but agitation was running on MARIA’s face. Undoubtedly coming to trap MARIA. Probably all performers are enemies.
[Isn’t only MARIA off since earlier?] [Even though fluent in own video stream, depth is known] [Believers who said MARIA is smart (lol)]
Critical comments towards MARIA were flowing on the monitor.
“Displayed comments are controlled. Don’t know if manual or automatic.”
Senga operating a tablet PC says.
“Is that so?”
“Look. There is a comment [MARIA being lackluster is because Yamaki has no skill], but it’s not shown on the monitor.”
“Is this the way of the entertainment world…? If so, it’s a crappy world.”
As Section Manager Mizuno says, since even we watching feel uncomfortable, MARIA’s inner thoughts are beyond imagination. From the middle stage onwards, even the number of times MARIA spoke decreased.
But today’s centerpiece is the appearance of MARIA in the vortex. Even on the net, voices like [Let MARIA speak] [When will MARIA’s apology start?] [Dragging too much] increased, and some were displayed on the monitor too.
“Now, it’s time to listen to MARIA-chan everyone has been waiting for!”
Finally, finally. MARIA’s main corner came. She herself had moved to the center seat.
“Here it comes, Senpai! It’s MARIA’s counterattack time!”
“Yeah… but getting fatigued is concerning.”
First live TV appearance, must be considerably nervous, and keeping concentration is tough too.
“I want her to hold out…!”
During VTR, MARIA exhaled a big breath.
“—So, MARIA-chan’s first photo & essay book is scheduled to be released tomorrow.”
First, there was an introduction about the MARIA book. After this, criticism will be developed about selling the book without explanation to the scandal. Criticism is expected. Just hit back with prepared rebuttals. Come on, counterattack this time. I also put spirit into it and clench my fist—
“And one more thing, we heard MARIA-chan has a hidden face, right?”
Unpleasant goosebumps stood. Yamaki is looking at MARIA like a beast assessing prey. I had a premonition something terrible would happen.
“Um… yes?”
To the blank MARIA, that fang is swung down mercilessly.
“Surprisingly, she is the granddaughter of the president of KIMISAKAYA Bookstore everyone knows!”
MARIA’s body jumped as if receiving an electric shock. The faces of the three guests surprised saying “Eh-” are displayed on the screen. MARIA’s face is distorted. Probably mine is similar.
“So you like books. I’m convinced.”
“Yes… that’s right.”
With fangs stuck and bleeding profusely, MARIA answers with a twitching smile.
“MARIA’s involvement with KIMISAKAYA… not public yet, right?”
“Should be general release upon tomorrow’s book launch… right, Senpai?”
Yet, Yamaki had caught that information from somewhere. My muscles are rigid as if poison circulated throughout my body. Since when was this poison planted—?
The story shifts to the acquisition issue of KIMISAKAYA Bookstore by A&G for some reason.
“If A&G and KIMISAKAYA become together, it’s full of good things for users, right MARIA-san?”
“That might be so but… if one bookstore becomes too big…”
“Corporate strength will also be gained, and there is a possibility it becomes a catalyst to rebuild the publishing recession.”
Supposed to be MARIA’s specialty area, but cannot keep up with the guest’s story development. Agitation drags on, breathing is faint.
Furthermore,
“Actually here, we are connected with a special guest via relay.”
Yamaki said as if delivering the finishing blow. I’m no longer surprised that developments not in the script are happening. This is a stage to blood sacrifice MARIA from the beginning.
“He will approach the truth of the problem of A&G and KIMISAKAYA Bookstore. A&G Japan Book Division Executive Officer, James Big Mountain-san!”
Beyond the monitor, the hateful opponent sitting on a chair and waving his hand is there. MARIA and I literally lose our voices. And—understand everything. Our enemy is this man through and through.
“James-san, thank you for your time despite being busy today.”
“Sorry I couldn’t go to the studio either. Happy to be with everyone even via relay!”
James beyond the monitor said with a refreshing outing tension. Since he is tall and has Western blood, he really looks good if he puts on a mask. First, introduction VTR of A&G and James flows, followed by questions in the studio.
“A&G’s acquisition of KIMISAKAYA Bookstore is concerned to affect Japanese publishing culture, but.”
“As a premise, our company has announced nothing. But, even if it becomes an acquisition hypothetically, bad influence is impossible! Rather publishing culture will be protected.”
“I see. Actually, is there a possibility of acquisition?”
“Well, of course I can’t say zero. Since nobody knows the future—”
James answers fluently to any question. As if taught questions in advance.
“Now, some might wonder why A&G executive Mr. James is appearing today. However, there is meaning in this casting.”
Yamaki raises his tone and says suggestively.
“That he knows something about the truth of MARIA-chan’s report.”
“Hey Hinosaka… don’t you feel a dangerous atmosphere?”
I also felt the bad air Section Manager Mizuno mentioned on my skin. What is the meaning of James himself appearing in this place.
“That’s right. I know the reason why MARIA was cohabiting with an employee of a distribution company… giving specific name, Shin-Nihon Publishing Distribution.”
“What is that reason?”
“Fearing that A&G and KIMISAKAYA Bookstore become one and possess mighty power in the publishing industry, Shin-Nihon used an employee to cajole the granddaughter and attempted merger breakdown work.”
What is this guy saying—.
“Totally… totally wrong!”
Unable to endure, MARIA shouted. That way of speaking was mostly Arisa.
“I was… about to be forced to marry you…”
“Marriage? What are you saying? Even though you’re still fifteen and not of marriageable age?”
“But really… the one who wanted to marry was James and.”
“She is being instilled with strange things like this.”
“Oh… then, the aspect changes considerably. Actually, not a problem between individuals, but MARIA-chan was used in the hegemony struggle of the publishing industry.”
“Wrong!”
“Hinosaka this is…” “S-Senpai. It’s becoming terrible…”
“I insist it’s the truth to the end. Just I can’t produce physical evidence either, so how to believe is left to the listeners~.”
What nerves does he have, James says brazenly. And as if decided beforehand, guests comment one after another.
“Must have been deceived by a bad man. Poor thing.”
“MARIA-san is a victim.”
—But I see, with this MARIA became a victim. The bad guy became only me.
“Wrong…”
MARIA—Arisa murmurs, but that voice reaches no one. Not the truth. But a story that looks interesting if believed as truth was hung in front of eyes.
[What is this super development lol] [Thought dragging but brought a bomb] [Means interfered with corporate acquisition by getting into president’s relative?] [Publishing industry too scary]
In the unstoppable violent flow in one direction,
“Why… how come…”
That girl was alone. Even though people around are talking about her, only she is left behind alone. The defenseless girl there was not MARIA, but just Arisa Kimisaka. I feel deja vu in that scene—after all.
Because it’s just the same. In the past, when a girl was suffering from flaming, I had a face like a mere bystander, but. But actually.
—Actually… help me… please.
I was asked for help by her. Nevertheless, I couldn’t save her. Swallowed by muddy stream, powerless and could do nothing. Even now. If riding James’s scenario like this, only I am condemned as a bad guy, and Arisa who became a victim is forgiven by society. James is also thinking, isn’t he. If he raised MARIA up with that much calculation and came out to this place himself, it’s impressive.
—That is the role of you, a small fry named obstacle?
I felt James at the relay destination said so only to me. Such an overwhelming flow can’t be helped anymore—I thought so. But what if I try to swallow it conversely? Becoming able to think so is thanks to the existence of the “wife” fighting by my side.
Seeing me start moving, Senga voiced “Ah—”. Crossing the line explained not to cross. Nobody watches my movement in the studio during live broadcast. Even if noticed, there would have been no leeway to stop me walking dashingly. From the position of a bystander to the front stage. A human who should not be bathed in spotlight to under the dazzling light. Into the burning flames.
I jumped out in front of the camera, next to Arisa.
Silence as if the world stopped visited for just one second. Immediately staff with demonic expressions start running. Instantly I shouted.
“I am Kenichi Hinosaka, reported by a weekly magazine to be cohabiting with MARIA!”
“Eh, who… eh!?”
Yamaki flinched at the sudden intruder, but my words seemed to enter his ears.
“Cohabiting with MARIA-chan… distribution company employee…?”
“Hino… Saka…?”
James across the screen also calls my name unable to hide surprise. Unexpectedly that might have helped. Running staff stops suddenly. Reality of going up to the front stage called TV program didn’t well up much.
“Kenichi… san?”
Arisa had completely returned to her natural self.
“I came to save you.”
Since no mic is attached, small voice won’t be picked up. Arisa tied her mouth in a straight line while eyes moistening, and nodded repeatedly.
“Development not in script… right. Really, the person himself? MARIA-chan… called?”
Looking at Arisa—MARIA, light returned to her hollow eyes.
“…Yes~. I had the rumored distribution company employee, Kenichi Hinosaka-san come~.”
Viewer comments on the monitor were accelerating differently.
[Seriously!?] [Person himself appearing is too hot lol] [Putting out real name!] [Is this MARIA’s boyfriend?] [Lolicon. Police do work] [What’s gonna happen!?]
Messy situation where even performers are perplexed. But excitement rises that much. Viewer count displayed at bottom right of monitor exceeded one million.
[Trend #1 lol] [How to watch this?] [Comment shown!]
Yamaki stares at one of the staff. The person who seems to be the director at the end of the gaze whispers to the AD to write cue cards. What to care now? Script prepared for us is ignored, isn’t it. No need to rattle just because I mess up the program a bit and liven it up, right? Because the most important condition in this place should be met—.
“Interesting so continue as is!”
The curtain of this stage does not fall yet.
“Shin-Nihon Publishing Distribution’s… Hinosaka-kun… never thought would come here.”
James has a twitching smile. Your story is a lie! James is the one who tried to obtain MARIA using KIMISAKAYA Bookstore acquisition! I only protected her—shout that, and what actually happens. You are the one telling lies—just returned so. Yamaki and other guests are James’s allies. Even if MARIA becomes my ally, if claimed “deceived”, proof is difficult.
Ultimately becomes endless argument. So I decide to take the hidden double-edged sword in hand. It is a sword with possibility to defeat even a giant.
“…Arisa, we’ll do it here.”
“…Okay.”
If it’s a world where if a swell is born once even if not truth, it swallows even truth. If it’s a world where the masses believe what they want to believe somehow appropriately.
We will present this story.
Supporting roles are other performers. Audience is viewers nationwide. Lead role is of course—.
“Can I speak~? Everyone is waiting, right~!?”
MARIA raised her hand and shouted. That lively atmosphere changes the flow.
[Finally!] [This is expectation!] [MARIA-chan do your best~!]
Monitor is filled with affirmative opinions.
“So viewers can understand easily, I will organize…”
Yamaki tries to bring it to his pace gently.
“But~, everyone wants to hear my story first~. So please let me speak alone!”
[That’s right! Want to hear MARIA’s story!] [Great agreement!] [Go for it] [Yamaki don’t intrude! Annoying!]
Charisma JC starts exerting original power. Unable to control fully, voices supporting MARIA increasing on monitor. Yamaki is sending eye contact to director frequently, but “Viewers exploding so summarize well!” cue card was out throwing it.
Producer and staff likely assistant seem to be arguing with voices likely to enter broadcast “If cut here it’s complaint, conversely scolded from above for waste!”, “Absolutely not okay this!?”. “Went viral, rest will manage somehow right!?” “But sponsors…!” Finally grappling started. Anyway thanks to arguing, not forcibly stopped. Live broadcast continues.
“Can you wait. After this my talking time is—”
“Which customer wants to hear your story~!? None right~!? A&G puts customer voice first right~!?”
[None] [Want to hear MARIA’s story] [Let MARIA speak!]
“……Understood. Go ahead.”
Pushed by momentum of MARIA and comments, Yamaki also yielded with bitter face. On program structure where viewer voices are visualized, cannot deviate too much from that expectation.
“So~, everyone good evening, I’m MARIA. I feel I’m speaking properly for the first time today. Um, regarding the weekly magazine report this time, sorry for causing trouble and worry to everyone.”
MARIA faces camera with serious look and bows deeply. Yamaki also seems relieved at decent beginning. And, when MARIA raised her face next,
“…But why do I need to apologize~. Don’t have to~.”
She was floating a daring smile.
“Didn’t cause trouble to anyone~. Understand if to family or related parties. Me, saying weird things?”
Yamaki and guests were dumbfounded at that provocative attitude.
“So, I want to tell everyone the truth from now.”
MARIA starts dominating the place.
“I was reported to be cohabiting with a general male working for a publishing distribution company… this person next to me. Regarding this matter, speaking frankly…”
After nailing viewers plentifully, MARIA confessed.
“It is fact. Cohabiting is exactly so.”
[Admitting it!?] [Shocking confession] [No excuse!?] [What to do lol]
“But~, impure heterosexual interaction suggested in article does not exist~.”
Totally cheeky attitude, but conversely refreshing. Too clear, can’t take eyes off. Even staff grappling are nailed to MARIA.
“Really none, not lie. I also think it’s questionable?”
Showily MARIA pokes my arm with elbow.
“What do you intend…”
James murmurs. But up to here just fact. Should be no rebuttal.
“W-Wait a minute! Cohabitation… you admit? But that is because forced and deceived…”
Yamaki interrupts.
“Not deceived. You guys say deceived probably. Want you to listen once with that premise~.”
Arisa speaks to viewers who are audience to the end.
“In short, because cohabiting with consent. But no kiss either. Turn-off right~.”
“…That’s natural.”
Intended to keep silent, but interjected one word indeed.
“But that much, the partner cherished me. Contact-like contact is maybe me hugging his arm. …Really various things accumulate right?”
Meaningfully MARIA smiles.
“Then regarding why living together, it was to make books hard until late at night~. ……Yes, people who thought lie now~, won’t get angry so raise hands~.”
MARIA waves right hand to camera.
“Yup, people who raised hands are correct~. That reason isn’t zero, but no need to live together right~. Well, there are various circumstances, but skipping all that, eventually.”
Yamaki, other guests, James, staff, cannot stop MARIA. Letting no one interfere, not reading air, just dashing.
“Because I like him. Because I like him most in the world.”
“Because I love Kenichi Hinosaka-san very, very much.”
MARIA’s confession. I surely wasn’t the only one whose heart was struck.
[Whoaaaaaaa!] [She said it lol] [MARIA is making a huge public confession] [Crazy crazy crazy!] [Is this okay!?] [God episode]
“It’s simple and seems real, right? Because it is the truth.” Her serious expression and the weight of her sincere words must be reaching the viewers.
“Wait, hold on! MARIA-chan… even if you are being deceived, you like him. That’s fine. It’s common for children to like older people.” Yamaki was desperate to regain control. “But cohabitation is a crime. Besides, there’s no way he’s serious…”
“I know there’s an age gap. I know it will be an obstacle. But I like Kenichi-san so much that it doesn’t matter. That’s why I’m cohabiting, and I intend to get married too.”
“M-Married!? But legally…”
[Marriage lol] [Congrats!] [No she’s still a middle schooler] [Go overseas quick]
“I’m serious, you know? I can’t legally marry yet, so it’ll be after I reach that age though~.”
“You are being deceived…! What do you call this if not being deceived!?”
“I’m not deceived one bit~! Because I’m seriously in love.” James must have anticipated Arisa’s rebuttal. Naturally, he would have assumed he could refute it. Yet now, a complete reversal phenomenon was occurring.
“No matter how it started, there’s no way I would mistake true love, right?” Her words had power enough to make one want to believe even without basis.
“Your parents are naturally opposed…” Yamaki was also desperate to change the point of discussion.
“I got permission from my family~. My family who cares about me and respects my will says so. So it’s not running away from home at all, okay?”
MARIA steals people’s eyes and dances lightly. Undoubtedly, the protagonist of the story sweeping the topic in Japan now was MARIA—Arisa. The number of viewers increased from one million by another hundred thousand, two hundred thousand.
“I love my family very much. But because I found someone I like even more, I will marry Kenichi-san.”
“I won’t acknowledge it…!”
“What are you saying, you total outsider?” MARIA coolly points at James across the relay.
[Mysterious emotion] [Has there ever been such a decisive announcement] [It’s pure love!] [Do your best MARIA!] [The guy is carrying the dreams of all lolicons] [How far will this go!?]
“…By the way, changing the subject! I like books~, and I like bookstores. The reason is that I am the heir to KIMISAKAYA Bookstore. This is also a true story~.”
It turned into a one-man show where no one could retort to the sudden topic change.
“Also about the acquisition by A&G, I reject that proposal! It’s absolutely not because I was deceived by the distributor person. Simply…”
I know the current way of speaking is Arisa, not MARIA.
“W-What are you saying? It’s not even a formal story—”
“Because I want to protect KIMISAKAYA Bookstore. Because I don’t want to extinguish the fire that bookstores light in the world.”
Even in a world where it’s hard to distinguish lies from truth, genuine feelings will surely be conveyed.
“And all those feelings are packed into this book releasing tomorrow~! I did it by my own will without being deceived by anyone, and sexual appeal is of course zero~!” MARIA says this showily.
“That is… MARIA-chan is just being made to think so…”
“So, please read and judge for yourself, unread Yamaki-san~. Everyone too, please buy the book I made with my beloved person releasing tomorrow at bookstores~!”
[Will buy tomorrow] [Wait Yamaki hasn’t read it?] [He talked like he knew the contents] [This guy just reads the script arrogantly without researching]
“……Of course, I will read the book again later.”
The studio, which was supposed to be a public execution ground, had transformed. MARIA, who was scheduled to be sacrificed, turned the tables. Our sword is steadily reaching the giant’s throat. Comments are displayed on the monitor like a flood. The number of viewers reached 1.3 million. Belatedly, I became calm, realizing things had become outrageous. Section Manager Mizuno, who entered my field of vision, had her mouth wide open, and Senga was thrusting her right fist up shouting “Go—!”. No, you shouldn’t shout.
“Aim for max viewer count!” “It’s over…!” Excited staff and lamenting staff. Chaos. Flaming. No, it’s a huge blaze now. We are burning more than ever. But this flame of flaming is about to swallow everything. Now, it’s my turn to grip the sword. MARIA and I only state our feelings without lies or falsehoods. Though it’s not genuine romantic feeling. But that doesn’t matter here right now. Just as others say whatever they want about us, we also talk as we please. Listeners just judge the ‘story’ we spin as they want to believe.
MARIA hands me a pin mic.
“Then, I leave the rest to you!”
I thrust the received sword at this world.
“Good evening, I am Kenichi Hinosaka.” Is it because I was shown so much by Arisa that my voice didn’t tremble?
“I am the cohabitation partner MARIA-san mentioned earlier.” Extreme tension and excitement numb my senses.
“I apologize for causing a stir in the world regarding us this time.” I bow deeply like MARIA.
“But as MARIA-san said, we haven’t done anything illegal.” A smile naturally spilled out.
“Therefore… I think there is no problem so I won’t exercise self-restraint.” I oppose head-on the flow created by the surroundings.
“Since we intend to marry in the future, we think there is no need to be told anything by others about cohabiting from now.”
“That’s crazy right!? Why is cohabitation allowed!? Marriage is strange in the first place! Deceiving her…” James had lost the leeway to maintain his facade. By me speaking, the scenario James drew that I am deceiving MARIA for business collapses.
“If you want to complain, go ahead as you like. That I’m deceiving a minor. That I’m a lolicon. That I’m abusing my professional position. Everyone has the right to say freely. But I also have the right to ignore it.”
This is not an excuse. It’s just a declaration.
“If there is a problem, appropriate public institutions will intervene. Unless that happens, I will continue dating MARIA-san.”
“It’s totally a problem, intervention must come!”
“It’s not for you to decide, James-san?” He was getting annoying so I reacted.
“Common sense? We two have no intention of being bound by such things.” It’s a declaration of war from me to the world.
[Amazing… amazing] [Lo-li-con-De-cla-ra-tion!] [Crazy. Somehow tearing up] [Was there anyone who declared marrying a JC?] [Someone reported?] [Just flaming marketing] [I fully support the two] [I’m 16 now dating a working adult so I empathize insanely] [Movie adaptation decided]
Burn. Burn more and more. Throw everything in, whether goodwill or malice. Burn endlessly with others’ selfish feelings as fuel. People cannot help but look up at the burning flames. The bigger the flame, the more people the light reaches. There’s probably no turning back, but I won’t regret. Changing the flow of the world surely can’t be fulfilled without doing it this boldly.
“Why I came out to this place today and spoke out of my way, that is—”
Let’s go as far as we can go. Two of us, together.
“Because I love MARIA-san. I won’t let anyone interfere with our love.”
The studio was quiet. No, maybe my senses are weird to feel so. People behind the camera are running around busily. Neither the momentum of comments on the monitor nor the counted viewer number knows where to stop. It’s chaos. That is precisely why, now these words pierce the world with meaning.
“I won’t lose to the villain there plotting to tear our relationship apart and obtain both MARIA and KIMISAKAYA Bookstore in his hands.” I point at James and accuse.
“…What are you saying…?”
“I’m saying I won’t hand over my fiancé to you, who tried to acquire KIMISAKAYA Bookstore and obtain MARIA with that bookstore as hostage!”
“Don’t say nonsense!? You’re the one who interfered!” James stands up from his chair and shouts.
“What is interference~? Rather you are the nuisance, and aren’t you obstructing the sales of the book Kenichi-san made~? By manipulating A&G’s site and search engine illegally~.”
“A… Arisa is being deceived…!” That rebuttal sounds empty now.
“Are you saying I’m being deceived including all these feelings of mine~? People who think so can just think so? But the fact is toootally different!” After all, both are making arguments without being able to present evidence to viewers now. However, between MARIA overflowing with confidence and James distorting his face with impatience, who do people want to believe? Between the two pledging love to the whole world in this place and a mere executive of a super giant company, which do people think is more interesting to believe?
“It won’t go according to the scenario you drew!” James was arrogant, assuming he could control the masses. That’s why he came out to this place. But that is a huge misunderstanding. There is no way one can control the flow of the world. In that sense, we are also just being tossed by rough waves.
“I’ll prove that you are the real small fry!”
“What is a small fry saying!? Arisa is mine!” —Do you realize that’s a slip of the tongue?
“Um, hey! Broadcast end time is approaching, so around there!” Yamaki claps his hands and says. Normally impossible progression.
“Then lastly! We will pursue our dream so treat us well~! We’ll surely make people in the world say books and bookstores are interesting~!” Just as MARIA showed a smile filling the camera frame, the program ended.
Legendary broadcast accident. Or just a broadcast accident. It is difficult to accurately measure how much effect the live broadcast called so had. Ultimately, the number of viewers grew to nearly two million. Including the views of recorded distribution and illegally uploaded videos afterwards, there is no doubt that even more people saw it. Due to the excessive response, it was taken up by TV wide shows, and thanks to that, it became even more recognized. If true, I think it wouldn’t be strange for the spot to hit the publishing industry trouble exposed in the program, but reality…
[Seriously moved!] [Isn’t it super pure love?] [I am also in an age-gap relationship with a teacher. If there is love, it doesn’t matter what anyone says. I got courage from that figure] [Became a fan. Hinosaka-san too, please protect MARIA] [Supporting forever. Please fulfill true love together]
We gained overwhelming empathy for the love of the two, especially from young women. Of course, there were equal or more negative opinions. However, both affirmation and negation, most opinions were sent about the romance of the two. Well, that kind of story is what everyone is most interested in.
So what made our live broadcast, which could have ended as just fireworks, meaningful were the communities that supported MARIA and the 200 cooperating bookstores for MARIA book promotion. People with communities not only rode the topic but spread that MARIA’s book should be read. Also, 200 cooperating bookstores pushed the book in stores saying their feelings should be known. With the cooperation of such many people, the flame we burned became a light reaching the world in the true sense.
Evaluation of books is actually quite difficult. What is a good book, what is a bad book. Criteria change depending on people and times. However, the only thing always certain in the publishing industry is that the number of sold books does not lie.
MARIA’s first photo & essay book “MARIA Declaration” was decided to be reprinted the day after release.
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