4fter★Dark

by CockroachWings

Summary:

A self-isolated composer

A false "star" of a lyricist who is dimming

A temperamental artist with dying self esteem

A playful animator with a crushing secret

♬☆♬

A passionate yet mysterious music group operating at late night hours

Notes:

This will be called Untitled until I think of a good name for them. I'm open to suggestions lol. This is my first time writing a unit shuffle so I'm sorry if it's crap but I hope you enjoy, if you have any questions (no spoilers tho!) then go ahead and ask them thx 4 reading<3

Chapter 1: Opening

Ever since I was little, I loved music.

When I was younger,
I had a small group of friends who cherished music as I did.

We said that we would make a band when we grew up and play for people all over the world…

We went our separate ways during middle school, I guess that’s just how life goes sometimes.

I felt like they didn't take music seriously anymore, so I pushed them all away…

But sometimes I wonder,

Was it me who was at fault for our falling out?

 

{Middle School - Hinomori Household}

Shiho sat at her computer, she just got back from the practice studio. Her fingers hurt at this point but she didn't care. If she wanted to take music seriously, if she wanted to take herself seriously, she’d get over it.

She wasn't sure what she was doing, looking up Miku songs and whatnot, specifically the songs that she remembered playing with her “band” in elementary. She guessed she was just bored when she decided to download a software and start making random compositions, mixing her bass with other online instruments.

Shiho worked at it until she was satisfied and posted it. A simple song, really. Nothing too special. For some reason, it garnered attention, good attention.

Shiho didn't necessarily care about other’s opinions, not really. However she still wanted to be taken seriously…is this how that would happen? Composing..? She didn't mind it, she was still playing her bass. Sure, it wasn't originally how she planned to make music, but it still made her feel accomplished.

“I’ll be a composer."

 

….I still don't know.

 

{Two Years Later}

“This seems alright….it could be better….maybe more layering? Yeah, that would make it sound smoother." Shiho mumbled to herself, it was 24:00. Shiho heard a small chime.

“A DM, it’s from..Hoshi.” She murmured, clicking on it.

(sent at 24:01)
[Hoshi]: Here’s the link to the lyrics for the composition you sent me earlier this week! Sorry I took so long!!! I hope you like them!! :D

(sent at 24:04)
[S]: It’s ok. I don't mind.

‘He always types with a bunch of exclamation marks..’ Shiho thought to herself.

(sent at 24:09)
[Hoshi]: I didn't expect you to be awake!! I guess we do chat at night, but sleep is still VERY important! Are you ok!?!

(sent at 24:12)
[S]: Yea. I’m fine, thx 4 asking. I’m just making sure everything sounds smooth in the song. What about you? You’re usually the first one asleep when we call. If something’s bothering you, you can always talk to me or the others.

(sent at 24:15)
[Hoshi]: Oh? I’m fine! I’m just making sure that I work hard too!! Even if we don't know each other's faces in real life, I’d still like to contribute my part!!

(sent at 24:19)
[S]: I get that. Still, don't overexert yourself.

(sent at 24:22)
[Hoshi]: Of course! Same goes for you haha!! I do say, I have to go because beauty sleep is valuable if I want to look presentable at school lol!! Goodnight S! Chat with you tomorrow!!

(sent at 24:30)
[S]: Goodnight Hoshi, talk to you tomorrow.

Shiho closed Nightcord and yawned a little. She should probably go to bed as well. She got up from her chair and stretched before she saw a notification from her ‘files’ app. A new file…? Maybe Amia sent her the animation…no they already did that…what could it be?

“Huh?” She opened the app and saw a file called ‘Untitled’. She supposed she could give it a listen before she went to sleep, well at least that was before she noticed colorful particles surrounding herself, god she really did need to go to sleep. Shiho was about to just pause it and listen to it tomorrow until she got blinded by a flashing light and suddenly, she wasn't in her room anymore.

{???}

Shiho blinked blearily. “What the…" She looked around to see an eerie looking boutique.

There were dress form mannequins everywhere. Some had actual clothing on them, some were completely bare, and some looked like somebody was doing a project that wasn't quite finished yet.

The overall colors were faded tints of usually bright elements, like they were trying to be bright pinks, yellows, oranges, and greens but they just couldn't. There were pieces of lace on the walls, a few tied in cute bows, some hanging loosely from the ceiling.

The floors weren't anything special, a few papers with…music? Written on them, a few fabrics. The floors themselves were a simple faded white tile. Shiho looked around to see a couple fabric shears on desks covered with drawings of clothing ideas.

The place was off-putting if Shiho was being honest, but it still had a certain charm to it. Just then, Shiho heard footsteps, multiple.

She turned around to see two blondes. “..." They stared at each other in silence, green eyes looking into two sets of blue ones, before Shiho blinked and the girl of the two cried “I WIN!” and jumped up and down. “What now..?” Shiho mumbled.

The boy rolled his eyes, “No you didn't Rin, Shiho didn't even know you were trying to have a staring contest." he huffed. That immediately started a bickering match between the two. Ah, so that’s what it was. Wait….Rin….that sounded familiar. “Excuse me?” Shiho interrupted.

They both looked at her before the boy said, “Oh yeah, we’re sorry. I’m Len Kagamine, and this is my sister, Rin.” he said calmly. Shiho blinked. “As in, the virtual singers..?" She asked.

Rin nodded, “Mhm! We’re here to help you and the others find your True Feelings!” she claimed. Len seemed to agree.

The others..? Were there other people here just as confused as Shiho..? Where were they?

Shiho was sure this was just some odd fever dream that came with staying up as late as she did.

“Uh, sorry, this is a lot…” She muttered. “That’s okay! We understand!” Rin said with a smile.

Then, another girl walked into the boutique. This time, Shiho instantly recognized her, it was Miku! Like the actual Hatsune Miku! This Miku did look a little bit different though. Her hair was a faded turquoise and the texture of it was a little bit more curly than the original Miku, however it was still in her signature pigtails. They were held up by black lace bows, the same ones on the wall.

She wore a slightly confusing dress, the base was black however it had multiple colors of lace attached to the skirt of it. Most of the colors were a dull blue, but there were still tints of pink. She had Bishop sleeves and mismatched knee high socks. One of them was white with black stripes and the other was a soft teal.

Her overall look was gentle yet confusing and her usually cheery blue eyes were much softer and almost sad.

“Miku!! Look! Shiho got here!” Rin chirped and hugged the pigtailed virtual singer then pointed at the grey haired girl. Shiho backed away, she wanted to wake up from this strange dream.

“Oh! I’m glad, are the others here?” Miku asked but Len shook his head. Miku’s smile fell a little. “Well, that’s okay, until then, we’ll wait. Shiho’s probably tired, let’s send her back.” Miku suggested, the twins agreed and went over to Shiho.

“Sorry, I know this is probably overwhelming, but you’ll understand soon, as soon as the others discover SEKAI-”

“SEKAI..?” Shiho asked. Rin nodded, "You’re in the boutique SEKAI! It’s made from you and the other’s True Feelings!” she explained.
“Who are ‘the others’?” Shiho questioned.
“The people who share your true feelings.” Len said.

True feelings….? Shiho was so confused and the three seemed to sense that. “Like I said, I know it’s a lot, so we’ll send you back now, but just know, you can click ‘Untitled’ and you’ll teleport here and we will help you.” Miku said and put a hand on Shiho’s shoulder.

{Shiho’s Room}

Shiho blinked and she was back in her room…she checked the clock, “4:30..? I was asleep for awhile huh..” she mumbled.

‘what an odd dream’ She thought to herself. She could get in a few more hours before it was time to get ready for school. Shiho shut down her computer. She plugged in her phone to her charger, got in bed, and went to sleep.

Chapter 2: Working after dark

Summary:

The gang's all here ahh chapter

Notes:

I found a name 4 them<3 I love them they're my children, also, Hinomori sister action🔥🔥‼️‼️

(posted at 16:00)
[User 1]: Have you guys heard the new 4fter song?

(commented on post at 16:12)
[User 2]: The new what song?

(replied to User 2 at 16:16)
[User 1]: The 4fter song, do you even know what I'm talking about..?

(replied to User 1 at 16:23)
[User 2]: No, I don't. Do they make music?

(replied to User 2 at 16:26)
[User 1]: Yeah, go listen to a few of their songs and tell me what you think!

(replied to User 1 at 16:28)
[User 2]: Alright.

(commented on post at 16:34)
[User 2]: I listened to some of their recent stuff

(replied to User 2 at 16:36)
[User 1]: What did you think?

(replied to User 1 at 16:40)
[User 2]: It’s honestly average, I mean, the composition is good but everything else is just eh. Sure, it has passion, but it just doesn't hit right..

(replied to User 2 at 16:45)
[User 1]: I get that, but I think it makes some people feel understood, no matter how mediocre it is.

(replied to User 1 at 16:49)
[User 2]: I guess. What’s up with the name though? 4fter is really weird. Especially the four.

(replied to User 2 at 16:51)
[User 1]: Oh? That’s not actually their full name, the four is just there because apparently there’s four members. Their actual name is…

 

{Hinomori Household - 17:00)

“This isn't right,” Shiho muttered to herself.
“The overlap of the beat of the drum is drowning out the rhythm of the bass…” She said. Her thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock at the door.

She closed her production software and shouted, “Come in!” and the door opened. It was her older sister, Shizuku. “Hi Shii-chan.” The girl said with a gentle smile, she’d been coming home a bit later than usual, Shiho wasn't sure why, maybe it was archery club or something..

“Hey.” Shiho greeted in a mumble. Shizuku stepped into the room. “Sorry I was late, I was helping some of my underclassmen with something. I see mom and dad aren't home yet, have you made yourself dinner already?” She asked with a polite grin. Shiho shook her head.

“Would you like me to? I’ll heat up some of the leftover Salisbury steak from last night. It’s your favorite afterall.” Shizuku prompted. Shiho shrugged, “If that’s what you wanna do..” she replied. Shizuku’s smile dampened a little, “Shii-chan, I know you like working on that…uhm…..uh, working on music! Yes, that’s it, and I’m happy you found something you like, but make sure to take a break from time to time, it’s not good to stay cooped up by yourself all the time..”

Shiho sighed, Shizuku didn't understand, it’s alright, she probably never would. “Okay. You can go now, I've got stuff to do.” She replied coldly, she didn't mean to come off so rude, but Shizuku was kind of annoying her right now. Shizuku frowned a little before saying, “Okay, Shii-chan, I'll tell you when dinner’s ready.” and walked out, closing the door.

Shiho looked back at her computer and saw a few nightcord messages, ‘ah, they must all be active’ Shiho thought to herself. She opened the group call.

“Hello everybody!” Hoshi called as if he were addressing an audience of people even though it was just three others there. They were all used to it though.

“Hoshi’s back!” Amia said and they could all feel her grin through the computer alone even if they couldn't see them. “Indeed I am! However, I'm sorry that I could not attend last night’s meeting and I’m also sorry I came a little late to this one, aha!” Hoshi apologized.

“It’s okay, you said you would either be late or not be able to attend the last one…” S assured, however then she realized her mic was muted. “Ah damnit.." She mumbled before unmuting herself.

“It’s okay, Hoshi.” S finally got to say. “Ooh! S is here too! I know Aki is too, but I wouldn't if I didn't know any better because he won't speak. Maybe he fell asleep again.” Amia teased, and it worked, because Aki soon made his presence known. “I’m here.” Aki huffed grumpily.

“I wouldn't have known!” Amia retorted. “I bet Aki was asleep until I said that. In fact I bet you’ve been asleep all day!” They continued to tease. “Have not!” Aki tried to defend himself. “Oh really? When did you go to sleep today?” Amia asked. “9AM, but it's defendable, I was just really focused on the art for the song so I didn't get to sleep until that time..”

“I get that, but staying up that late would do horrors to my skincare haha!” Amia giggled. “You really do have your days and nights mixed up, Aki, I hope that’s not too unhealthy.” Hoshi said lightly but his tone had a hint of worry behind it.

“It’s alright, I've gotten used to it, working at night helps me focus anyway because it’s quieter." Aki assured Hoshi. “Hey..! Why don't I get that gentle tone!?” Amia complained. “Because, Hoshi isn't mean.” Aki grumbled.

Amia huffed, “Well then I'll just talk to S,” She declared before continuing, “I finished the animation for the new song you sent us the other day. I’ll send it in a file right now.” they said, “Nightcord is so much easier to use than some of the other platforms. Sending files and art on other apps is so much harder!” they claimed.

“I do agree with you on that.” Aki added in. Hoshi chuckled, “Well I'm happy we can all get along on one point..” he said. “By the way, Hoshi, Aki is working on the art for the thumbnail so when he gets that finished all I have to do is put it all together and it’ll be done.” S said. “That’s great! I’m sure it’s gonna look amazing!” Hoshi declared.

“Sorry it’s taking a little long, I just need to add a few more details…” Aki uttered, sounding distracted, he was probably working on the art right now. “Hehe, now, we all of course appreciate your dedication, Aki, but are you sure that evening school accepts tardy students?” Amia asked teasingly but it was practically an alarm for Aki.

“Oh shit! You’re right..! Fuck, sorry, I gotta go, I'll be back later.” Aki shouted, Hoshi and Amia laughed a little but S understood. “It’s alright, Aki, we’ll call later, I'm pretty sure my sister’s calling for me anyways. We’ll meet later.”

“After dark.”

Notes:

Akito's username is kinda obvious like Ena's is, and the Shinonome's r switched but obvi still have their own individual personalities, I just tweaked it to fit the story better<3

Chapter 3: Daily Occurrences

Summary:

Things that happen often outside of the member's lives on nightcord.

Notes:

Ty 4 reading<3

{4AM - Akito’s room}

Akito yawned, he’d joined back on the call as soon as he got home from school so safe to say he was exhausted. “Ugh…..i’m feeling pretty tired, so I think I'll call it quits for tonight, especially since I stayed up all last night.” He mumbled.

“Okay! We understand, I’d say we should all probably stop here if we wanna be functional people tomorrow, haha!” Hoshi responded. “Alrighty, goodnight then.” Amia chirped before leaving the call, after that, Aki did, then Hoshi, then finally S.

{The next day - Tenma Household}

“Okay, and I think I'm ready to go….Saki-!” Tsukasa called for his little sister but then stopped himself. They usually walked halfway to school together yet….she isn't here? He almost got worried before his mother’s voice called out to him.

“Don't worry, Tsukasa, Saki left early, she said that she wanted to help her friends prepare a show of some sort.” The woman said with a smile. “Ah, her friends, as in Honami, Ichika, and Shiho? I haven't seen them in a long while.." He replied, his mother shrugged. “I think so, but I don't know, she was in such a hurry I barely could catch a word she said before she was out the door completely, haha, you know how your sister gets when she’s excited.”

“Haha! Yes I do! Well, I'll be happy if she’s happy!” Tsukasa exclaimed and his mother smiled at him. “Such a good big brother you are Tsukasa, will you be staying late after school?” She suddenly asked, Tsukasa shook his head. “Uhh, I don't think so, why?” He answered.

“Oh, no particular reason, it's just that me and your father aren't going to be back home until very late so we needed to know that you’ll be here to make sure everything is well. To make sure Saki is well.” She explained, Tsukasa nodded. “Ah! I understand. I’ll be here then!” He reassured.

“Wonderful, let us know if anything happens and we’ll be there as quick as we can, okay?” She said, “Mhm!” Tsukasa replied. “Well, I must be off to school now, goodbye!” He said before walking out the door, “Goodbye Tsukasa.” his mother said behind him.

{Akito’s room}

“The shading here doesn't look good at all..” Akito murmured, it really didn't, the base of the blues didn't match with the hues of yellow at all. With that being said, he tried a different color, and it looked even worse! “Ah damnit, now the hues really don't match..” He huffed.

The ginger put down his drawing tablet and ran a hand through his hair. “I suck, I can’t draw at all today..” He said angrily to himself before grabbing his phone and scrolling through it. Soon he clicked the camera app.

He held his phone up, “This angle should look pretty good..” then he posed with a simple peace sign, and smiled. He hit the little button a few times until he was happy with one of the results and posted it. A couple minutes later he already had a decent amount of likes and a handful of comments.

[User✿]: He’s so cute!

[User★]: Ikr? And he has good fashion too! Def gonna follow.

Akito looked at the comments and let a small grin make its way onto his face. Look, he didn't mean to be so vain, but the compliments were nice every once and a while.

“I’m almost to 9,000 followers..!” He declared to nobody but himself, however then he frowned when he looked at his alternative account, his art account..there were like, 6 followers, and most of them were members of 4fter and maybe his sister.

“I wish my art account got that kind of attention..”

{Mizuki’s room}

“Muuu….the material of the whole animation is cute and all, but it really doesn't match what we’re working on for the moment..” Mizuki sighed to herself and clicked on another material. “No, this one doesn't match either, I might just have to make my own-” Their monologue got cut short by her phone ringing.

“Somebody’s calling me..?” She mumbled, people didn't usually do that, especially not random numbers. She tapped the ‘accept’ button on their phone, ah! It was their teacher!

“Hey, teach! Long time no see hehe……oh. Attendance? Yeah, yeah I get that haha….I don't think this is a joke..! Yes, I will be at the makeup classes at the end of the week, I promise. Alright! See you later!” They hung up.

“I guess I do need to go to school at some point huh? I can't keep hiding forever..” She huffed before looking to see something that caught her eye.

“Oh! That’s such a cute material, it’ll go great with the song.”

{Miya Girls’ School}

Shiho walked through the halls of her high school, she was doing pretty well at ignoring the little whispers and rumours about her, her headphones definitely helped with that. However every now and then she’d hear something somebody said, not that she cared much, as long as it wasn't them saying it.

“Gosh, she’s so weird, I mean, sure, she has a cool aura and all…but nobody’s going to want to hang out with her if she just glares at everyone.” A girl whispered to another. ‘I’m not glaring at anybody, maybe you’re just sensitive.’ Shiho thought to herself.

“I’ve heard that she likes being alone.” The other girl replied and the original whisper gasped. “What!? That’s even more weird, I bet that's just an excuse for not being able to keep any friends..” The other one giggled. “Hehe, yeah…guess what else?” Shiho gritted her teeth, usually this didn't piss her off as much as it was at the moment, maybe the lack of sleep was making her grumpy.

“What?” The girl asked. “I heard that she used to be friends with Tenma, Hoshino, and Mochizuki.” She revealed. Shiho’s feet planted themselves in the ground, she didn't think they knew she was there but if names other than her’s came out of their mouths they would.

“What!? That’s not possible! I mean, they’re all pretty nice people, especially Mochizuki and Tenma. She probably did something really bad to make those girls not want to hang around her..” She whispered back. The other one nodded, “You know what?” “What?” “I bet that she did do something to make them leave her.” Shiho was about to flip, but her friends, or, ex-friends, probably wouldn't want her to so she tried to turn her music up and walk away but her feet wouldn't move for some reason.

“Y’know how Tenma said she went to the hospital?” Oh no she wouldn't… “Uh yeah? But she said that she got sick.” “I don't believe it, I bet Hinomori-” Shiho’s feet finally moved but they went straight to the girl that spewed those words. She suddenly stopped talking, looking nervous. “Oh, hi Hinomori-” “Shut it, shut up. You bet I what?” “Uh, what?” “What do you think I did to Tenma?” The girl looked nervous. “Uhm, nothing, sorry, Hinomori, I think you misheard.” She lied.

“Really? What did you say then?” “Uh, is that the bell? I should probably go, bye!” She said and dragged her friend away from Shiho. Shiho was fuming, she wouldn't have done anything if that girl just kept people’s names out of her mouth. She sighed and walked up the stairs to the rooftop.

She eventually found an empty bench, not that there were any full, there were three people on the rooftop, max, and without Shiho it would be two. Shiho opened her phone and scrolled through the comments on 4fter’s new song.

[User A]: This is really nice. It makes you feel anger, sadness, and passion all at the same time! It kinda inspires you!

[User B]: Yeah, I totally understand what you mean!

Shiho calmed down at the digitally written words. ‘At least somebody’s taking us seriously..’ She thought to herself. She was about to just put on some music and play her bass, something she hadn't done in awhile, before she saw a small flash from her phone screen.

It was…Miku..? Like in her dream…no way. No way she was dreaming about the same exact Miku again.

“Come…..soon…..please…come…soon..” Miku pleaded to Shiho, Shiho wanted this to stop. “Please, come soon.” Then she went away. Shiho was extremely confused, was that some kind of weird ad? What the hell!?

“Come soon? What does that mean..?"

Chapter 4: BLOOM

Summary:

S and Hoshi discover a new artist through Aki and Amia

Notes:

I meant to post this yesterday but the AO3 author curse didn't want me to lmao. Sorry if this seems rushed at all or if there's any spelling mistakes, I wanted to get this chapter out.

{Mizuki’s room}

Mizuki stretched and yawned, they sure were tired. “I think I'm at today’s limit…so I'm gonna log off now.” She said, “Okay!! Goodnight Amia!” Hoshi responded. “Goodnight Amia.” S added, “Night Amia, I think I'll get off too…” Aki mumbled before saying, “Actually, before we go, I have something to ask.” he said.

“Muu? What is it?” Amia responded. “Have any of you guys heard of BLOOM?” He asked. Hoshi and S were confused, but Amia knew what Aki was talking about. “BLOOM? As in the one who makes music and stuff?” They inquired, “Yeah.” Aki affirms. “Uh, sorry, no, I don't know who you’re talking about..” S says. “Me neither.” Hoshi adds in.

“BLOOM is this one person who makes music videos and whatnot just like us.” Amia explained, “They joined the scene only a couple of weeks ago, but almost every video of theirs has nearly 300k views!” she finished. “Huh, that sounds pretty cool.!” Hoshi chirped. “Mhm, what kind of music do they make?” S asked. “Like Amia said, they make similar music to yours.” Aki clarified. “But there’s a difference between S’ music and BLOOM’s.”

“Really? What is it?” Hoshi immediately asked.
“I don't really know how to describe it..I guess that although it’s mostly sad and angry, S’ music inspires you, it has a passionate undertone.” Aki says, “But BLOOM’s…feels, hopeless, almost. If anything, it makes you just want to stop and give up. I think that’s how BLOOM themselves feel, but still, it’s a lot just to listen to one song.” he concluded.

“I can’t help but agree.” Amia giggled, “I only found out about them because of a music maniac, however, it still does kinda punch you, BLOOM’s music.” they claimed. “I still think it’s really impressive how they do that though…” Aki said. “They even draw! And it’s better than mine!” He huffed angrily.

“Eh!? Don't say that!” Hoshi scolded. “I think that your art is really meaningful and inspiring! Like a story on a paper or a screen!” He praised Aki. “Ah…thank you..” Aki thanked him, it was rare he got compliments on his art…and Hoshi somehow was able to do it perfectly.

“No problem Aki! I am simply telling the truth from the sincerest point of my heart!” Hoshi claimed dramatically and it only made Aki more flustered than before. “Thanks, I'm going to send you the URL to their account and go to sleep now..” So Aki did and then left, Amia followed soon after.

Hoshi and S sat in silence for a couple minutes before Hoshi asked S something. “Why don't we listen to one of BLOOM’s songs? Just to see how it feels, and maybe we can even take inspiration from it to make more people see us and inspire them..!” He suggested. “Oh, alright, I was working on a new composition anyway, so I guess a small break wouldn't hurt.” S replied.

Hoshi chuckled “Haha! Correct! Breaks definitely do not hurt!” he claimed. S shared her screen with Hoshi so they could just look and listen off of one computer. “I say we look at their latest song!” Hoshi said in a whisper shout.

“Okay.” S responded quietly, despite their good friendship, they didn't match each other’s energy, that was more Amia than Aki or S, and Amia still struggled to keep up with Hoshi at times.

The two eventually found a song and gave it a listen. Hoshi was surprisingly quiet during that time but Shiho’s head was filled with thoughts. ‘They really weren't kidding huh, this song feels so bitter and lonely..’ She thought to herself before listening some more.

‘why does this feel so familiar..’, it was when she heard a particular piano tune that she realized. ‘This sounds a lot like Hoshi’s old music..’

She had to ask.

“Wow! Aki wasn't kidding, haha!” Hoshi laughed cheerfully like the music playing wasn't similar to his own in the slightest. Shiho was quiet for a minute, thinking of how to phrase her words but she quickly got cut out of those thoughts by Hoshi. “Helloo..? S? Are you there? Are you okay!?” He shouted despite it being very late at night, S wondered if his family members ever woke up because of his shouting or if they were already asleep.

S shook her head ‘Don't back out just because he’s acting clueless.’ she reminded herself. “Uh yeah, I’m alright, I have a question though.” She said. “For you.” Hoshi chuckled, “Okay! Ask away, S!” he said and even though S couldn't see him she was sure he had some sort of grin on his face.

“So, are you BLOOM..?” She asked bluntly. Hoshi was dead silent before sounding extremely confused. “Huh.? Are you asking if I made this?” “Yeah.” Hoshi laughed yet again. “Hahaha! Of course not! I admit, I definitely have skills! However I could never make something this good! Especially not in a short amount of time. He claimed, but S wasn't convinced.

“Are you sure..? You can tell me.” God, now she sounded like one of Honami’s “friends”, she should approach it in a different way. “It just sounds a lot like some of your old stuff, before we started working together..” She explained. Hoshi let out an amused Huff. “You still remember what that old stuff sounded like!? I’m impressed, S.” He praised.

“But like I said, this isn't mine, I couldn't make this.” He insisted, “However you may want to be careful, S, I'm flattered by your doubt! We wouldn't want me having some sort of complex now haha!” Aki would probably say that Hoshi already had one, but S wasn't Aki, and Hoshi apparently wasn't BLOOM. “Why do you ask?” Hoshi questioned her.

“Just because, it sounds like your old music, before 4fter formed.” S told him. “Haha! Well I can tell you it isn't! I’m not good enough to make musical arrangements like that, and I don’t have it in my heart to write such..dark and lonely lyrics.” He said before continuing,
“Nonetheless, as I mentioned earlier, I'm quite impressed you managed to remember what I sounded like before we formed, that was nearly over one year ago!” he exclaimed.

S understood, but at the same time she didn't.
“Well, how could I not? You had a good sound, when I heard it, I knew I had to contact you right away…so I made an account on the fly.” She explained. Hoshi laughed, “Haha! I see, I get a DM from somebody with no profile picture or followers asking to make music, it sounded like such a nice opportunity that I thought it was spam at first..” he revealed.

Hoshi chuckled. “After that, everything picked up really quick! Soon Aki joined, then Amia, and we decided our group name! Now we’re all great friends!” He said joyfully. S agreed, it all happened really fast, it seemed like they’d just contacted each other for the first time yesterday.

“I do have a question though, Hoshi.” S admitted, “Ask away!” he responded. “Why did you decide to work with me? Like you said, it was rather random and it did seem like spam.” She stated. “Oh? Well, it seemed fun, to be able to make music, something I love, with others. And also..I don't know, your music really inspired me when I heard it the first time..it kind of saved me and lit a little spark.” He said.

S was so surprised. Her music what? “You felt inspired and saved..?” She repeated what he said in the question.

“What? I must’ve said something weird, haha! Probably the lack of sleep!” He chuckled but S was still thinking about what he said. “Well, that’s all from me today! Goodnight, S!” Hoshi said. “Night, Hoshi.” S responded quietly.

“My music…inspired somebody? Saved somebody?....I’m relieved..” Shiho mumbled.

{Tsukasa’s room}

After Tsukasa left the call he felt his face scrunch up into a scowl. “Inspired? Saved? What was I on about?” He huffed to himself. “BLOOM…” He murmured before clicking on the comment section under a song.

[User ✿]: This song…it feels so lonely and angry…it almost makes you want to just give up.

[User ☾]: Ikr!? It feels hopeless, but I can't help but listen to it over and over

Tsukasa sighed to himself reading the useless comments. “It’s all rubbish.” He said angrily. “At this rate, I'll never be able to do it,"

"To find it."

Notes:

Yep, Tsukasa has the fuyu role, but I will not try to copy and paste their struggles, hopefully he won't turn out too OOC.

Chapter 5: I Am a Good Boy

Summary:

A look into Tsukasa's daily life

Notes:

I AM SO SO SORRY THIS IS LOWKEY LATE. I HAD FINALS (which I did pretty well on yay) BUT NOW I'M ON WINTER BREAK SO HAPPY EARLY HOLIDAYS I SHOULD POST A FEW MORE CHAPTERS OVER THE COURSE OF MY TWO WEEKS OFF. TY FOR READING I LOVE ALL OF YOU!

[After School - Drama Club Room - 11:00]

Tsukasa wasn't focusing on anything in particular, he supposed he was just zoning out when his teacher called for him. “Tenma!” She shouted almost as loud as he himself was sometimes. “Yes Sensei!?” He responded with the same energy. “Come here!” She commanded. Tsukasa wasn't sure if he felt nervous or full of pride, it would entirely depend on what his teacher said next.

Tsukasa walked over to her, “Yes?” he said politely but he was still louder than he probably should’ve been. “I was reading your playwright, the one from the assignment, and it’s wonderful!” She complimented. “Haha! Thank you very much!” He replied and she smiled. “Would you like me to submit it for a contest?” She asked.

Tsukasa was slightly surprised, “Aha! Alright…if you really think it's that good!” he concluded. “Okay, then I will. You may go back to what you were doing earlier.” She said, “Yes Sensei! Thank you!” he thanked firmly and loudly which got a small smile out of his teacher.

Tsukasa was heading back to his seat when his classmates ran up to him. “Tenma-senpai! I heard that whole conversation! Knowing you, I bet you’ll win an award!” One of them complimented.

“Hahahaha! Of course! It’s only expected of me as a world-future star!” He said then struck a pose. “Wait…you’re just saying that because you need something, aren't you!?” Tsukasa accused.

The three looked at each other before their faces all got red. “Ah damnit….you figured us out..” One of them confessed. Tsukasa let out an amused huff and nodded. “As I thought, ahah! What is it you need my dear classmates?” He asked cheerfully.

“Well, we kind of need help for the dialogue for the upcoming play…I guess it’s kind of a small role but I still want it to be perfect!” The brunette one chirped. Tsukasa chuckled, “Haha! Of course! I understand your confusion! The words and emotion may be hard to get through.” he said.

“Let’s start!” He declared loudly.

{....}

“Ah! I’m so tired already…I'm lost too! I think my brain might just explode!” One of his classmates exclaimed loudly. “Haha! It's only been an hour! I’m sure you’re just doubting yourself, but we could still take a break, overworking yourself isn't good for your health after all!” Tsukasa responded.

Tsukasa’s classmate took a sip of water before saying, “Tenma-senpai has SO much energy and brightness. I bet he’s good at athletics with all of that spirit!” they claimed. Another one nodded her head. “Mhm! You also get pretty good grades, don't you, Tenma-san?” She asked.

Tsukasa just laughed but was a little suspicious. “Alright, alright, what do you need now?” He huffed with fake anger. “No! We really are being honest! You’re so bright and sparkly, you help us whenever we ask, and you're never mean or snobby about it either! But even so, you never ask us for anything in return..” She continued.

“What makes you happy, Tenma-senpai? We wanna do something that helps you too!” The other one chimed in. Tsukasa thought about it,
“What do I want to do..?” he mumbled his smile dropping for a split second before returning.

“I just want to see a smile on other’s faces! As long as you guys are enjoying the activity then I shall enjoy it too!” He grinned.

The younger of the three classmates gasped and covered their eyes. “Ahhh! He’s not just a star, he’s the whole sun!” They shouted. The other one nodded. “Uh huh! I wish you were my older brother, right bro?” They said.

Tsukasa’s heart nearly stopped at those words but he had to push those feelings aside as he was immediately hugged. “Hey now! You can't just hug people without their permission!” He lightly scolded. “Alright, time to get back to rehearsal! You guys have had a long enough break.” He stated.

“Okay!” All three agreed.

{Tsukasa’s Room}

Tsukasa sat down at his computer and logged into nightcord. “Okay….and…” He mumbled before joining the 4fter★Dark server, he didn't really expect anybody to be on but surprisingly, Amia was there.

“Muu? Hi Amia!” Hoshi greeted loudly. “Oh! Hiya Hoshi!” Amia giggled back.

“It’s not very common for you to be on nightcord this time of day..” Hoshi stated, Amia herself seemed to agree. “Yeah, I had a shift at my part-time job but it got moved to tomorrow so I decided to work on this with my free time!” They explained, “But it’s not very common for you to be on nightcord right now either, what’s up with that?” she teased.

Hoshi chuckled before saying, “Yeah, we only had a half day today at school, so I came home early and wanted to work on what I usually can’t on a busy school day!” he declared. “Hehe, Hoshi, ever the hardworker!” Amia complimented.

“Ah! I’m no hard worker, I'm simply contributing my part to our wonderful music!” Hoshi claimed. Amia giggled again and she was about to say something before she heard a knock on Hoshi’s side of the call.

“Oh! One minute, Amia.” Hoshi said but he forgot to mute himself as he turned around and talked to whoever entered his room. Amia wasn't an eavesdropper! Technically, it was Hoshi’s fault for forgetting to mute himself.

“Hey mom, what is it?” Tsukasa asked politely with a smile. “I’m heading over to the grocery store, I’m thinking of making acqua pazza for dinner tonight, it’s one of your favorites, would you like me to make it for you and Saki?” She replied. Tsukasa nodded, “That sounds wonderful!” he said.

Tsukasa’s mother smiled. “Good, I think I'm going to make more than usual because me and your father will be away at a conference meeting.” She said, Tsukasa nodded. “Okay!” He responded, Tsukasa’s mother was going to leave until she stopped and turned back around.

“By the way Tsukasa, you were staying after school to help your classmates in drama club, how was it?” She asked.

“Aha! Yes, yes I was! It went wonderful! I’m glad I was able to help them understand the problems they were facing with the script!” He responded.

“Next time, don't help them as much, okay?”

Tsukasa put on a confused expression, his mother noticed this and smiled. “Just, spend less time with people who will hold you back. If they have to be taught what you already know, they aren't worth the trouble, are they? If you dedicate your time to studying with people at your level, then you’ll learn something as well.” She explained.

Tsukasa blinked before nodding with a small smile. “Yes, okay!” He agreed. “Well then, I'll be off now.” She said and walked out of his room.

Tsukasa turned back to his computer and Amia spoke. “Hoshi…was that your mother?” She asked. “Ah, yes it was! I apologize for interrupting haha..” Hoshi acknowledged. “No, it’s okay! I should be the one apologizing for eavesdropping.” Amia quickly reassured.

“But…what she said just now, that you shouldn't really hang out with others who can’t automatically memorize a script or something..?” Amia mumbled but made it loud enough so that Hoshi could hear it. “Oh.! Hm..I just thought it was just a tip to spend more time with people who are good at that kind of stuff.” Hoshi explained.

Amia laughed nervously. “Yeah, I guess that's one way to interpret it but….y’know, doesn't that kinda make you feel bad because you’re being told which and what friends to choose instead of making your own?” Amia questioned, “It’s a little like someone forcing their values on you. They think, ‘This is obviously the right way to do this.’ That would bother me.” she finished then added, “Oh! Sorry! That’s not what I'm saying your mother is thinking!”

Hoshi was silent, a very rare occasion. “Hoshi…are you alright?” Amia asked, which quickly snapped Hoshi out of his silence. “Oh! Yes I'm good!! Haha! I suppose I'm just not too bothered by those types of things! I was just thinking about how you saw it a different way!” He explained.

Amia smiled, Hoshi couldn't see it but he could feel it. “I see. Well, everybody’s different so as long as you’re fine I'm fine too! Oh, oops! Seems we talked a little too much, we should probably get back to work!” Amia said.

“I agree! I need to make progress haha..”

{Evening}

Hoshi huffed, “Phew…I think I'll stop here for today.” he said.

“Dinner’s ready!” Saki called out, huh, Tsukasa hadn't realized she'd gotten home. He supposed he was just caught up in his work. “Oh! Okay!!!” Tsukasa shouted back.

“Alright Amia, I'll be going now. Talk to you later tonight!” “Okay! Cya!” Amia responded.

{Tenma Family’s Living Room}

Tsukasa entered the living room. It was filled with warmth, which was nice since it was usually empty. He looked over to the four bowls of acqua pazza and smiled. “Wow! This looks amazing! Thank you for always making good food!” He chirped.

Tsukasa’s mother laughed. “Mhm! Eat it while it’s warm okay? You too Saki!” She teased pinching her cheek which got an embarrassed huff out of the girl. “Ah! I’m not five anymore!” She scolded but they could all tell she was holding back a laugh.

As Tsukasa sat down his father asked him a question. “Tsukasa, you’re already in your second year of high school. How is your university prep going?”

“Haha! I’m doing well! I’m enjoying my extra curricular activities as well!” Tsukasa responded.

His mother then said, “I hope your dream to become a…uhm, a star right?” Tsukasa nodded, “Comes true. I’m sure you'll go anywhere you want to! However, isn't it about time to start applying for your dream school?” Tsukasa blanked out for a minute. “My dream school…”

Tsukasa’s mother nodded. “Yes. I gathered a few documents from universities that me and your father thought were nice so that you and maybe even Saki can use them as references.” She explained. “We chose from places you could both learn from as well.” His father added.

“Ah, okay!” Tsukasa said, glancing over at Saki’s sparkly pink eyes filled with joy. “You can choose anywhere you’d like. If you want, since you want to be known by the world, can even go to an overseas area! Just ask me and your father and we'll be right here waiting.” His mother said. Saki nodded. “Mhm! You should do what makes you happy!” She smiled.

“Make sure to choose carefully!” Tsukasa's father added, Saki huffed. “Don’t downplay big brother’s abilities like that! He’s not like other kids, he’ll make the right choice! I’m sure of it!” She cheered her older brother on. His mother nodded, “Yes, he’s a good boy. A son and brother that we’re proud of.” she said.

Tsukasa laughed, “Haha! Yes you’re all correct! Don't worry, I will think carefully before I decide!”

{Tsukasa’s Room}

Tsukasa sat in silence with a blank expression that soon turned bitter. “So annoying..” He mumbled.

“You’re always so bright, Tsukasa.”. Teacher said.

“Don’t be afraid to tell us what makes you happy!” A classmate chirped.

“Make sure to choose carefully..” His father warned.

“He’s a son and brother that we're proud of.” His mother complimented.

Tsukasa looked resentfully at his keyboard. “What makes me happy….is there such a thing?” He asked no one in particular. “I don't know.” Miku suddenly appeared from his phone as a digital projection.

“Tsukasa.” She said simply.

“Miku…”

“I would like…to stay in SEKAI forever…” He said.

Notes:

If u have any questions that hopefully won't spoil the story feel free to ask! I will try to respond to every comment as quick as I can. Ily all. Hope u enjoyed this chapter, btw, I made a playlist of songs I feel like they'd sing so here u go: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6al4mKfgzdWiU6ztjnuWbo?si=-PXm2et7QCurnPiAxbSj7Q&pi=u-aMDmDkaOQwW9&pt=fdb126f6ede6541824c206e78da3a1ff

Chapter 6: Unraveling Ribbons

Summary:

A certain lyricist is starting to miss meetings

Notes:

GUYS. GUYS I'M BACK I'M SO SORRY FOR LEAVING YOU GUYS. I DON'T EVEN HAVE A CRAZY BACKSTORY I JUST LOST ALL MOTIVATION TO DO THIS STORY. BUT IT'S BACK NOW. AND I PROMISE, I SWEAR ON EVERYTHING THAT I WILL NOT ABANDON YOU GUYS LIKE THAT AGAIN. I AM SOSOSOSOSOSOSOOSO SORRY MY LOVES. PLEASE FORGIVE ME. THAT WAS MY BAD, BUT I HAVE A LOT OF TIME ON MY HANDS, AS IT'S SUMMER WHERE I AM, SO MY MOTIVATION IS BACK IN FULL SWING. I'M BACK ON MOOD STABILIZERS NOW SO I SHOULDN'T BE AS INCONSISTENT AS I WAS EARLIER. I PROBABLY WON'T HAVE A SCHEDULE BUT I CAN PROMISE IT'LL BE MORE FREQUENT. AS ALWAYS, IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, FEEL FREE TO ASK ME IN THE COMMENTS!! THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE AND I LOVE YOU GUYS<33

{Shiho’s room}

Shiho wasn't doing anything in particular, just looking at her phone during her school lunch break. However she got a notification from her phone soon after.

“BLOOM posted a new song huh? Might as well give it a listen.” She mumbled and turned her headphones on.

As Shiho listened, she felt the same way she did when she heard their first song. Empty. Lost. Like it was desperately searching for something it could never find. Although it had a slightly carnival-esk melody to it.

When she finally finished the song, she wasn't sure what to say or really think. This one seemed a little more messy and erratic than the last one did, hence the more clown almost circus theme of it. However she didn't have much time to contemplate, as somebody knocked on her door.

“Come in!” Shiho said, and Shizuku soon made her way into Shiho’s vision. She looked…rather excited, almost more so than usual. It was the first time Shiho saw her genuinely happy since the whole idol debacle…

“Are you coming to school today Shii-chan? Are you sick?" Shizuku immediately fretted after Shiho despite not even being in the (rather messy) room for five minutes. “Uhh, no, I'm not sick, and I'm coming in today, just give me a minute.” The gray haired girl muttered before shooing her older sister out to put her school uniform on, her headphones already on her head.

Shizuku was already waiting for her when Shiho walked out of her room with her bag and her bass guitar. Shiho raised an eyebrow.

“Would you like to walk to school today with me, Shii-chan?” Shizuku asked with a genuine smile, and usually Shiho would decline but this was the first time Shizuku looked so excited. Maybe Shiho could figure out why on their way there.

{Scramble crossing}

Shizuku did most of the talking on their way to school, about classmates, or archery club, but mostly just asking Shiho little mundane questions. Once the silence was long enough for Shiho to be sure this round of questions were over she asked her question.

“Something’s been up with you lately.” Shiho commented.

The older girl looked surprised that Shiho had noticed but continued smiling. “Are you worried about me, Shii-chan?” She asked, “Because there’s no need-”

“That’s not what I said,” Shiho interrupted. “I said something’s been up with you lately, I didn't say whether it was something good or bad..you just seem…I don’t know, more bright. Especially since, you know, the idol stuff-” Shiho was quickly cut off of that sentence with a soft hum from her sister.

“I see, well, I guess it's just because I've made some new friends! They’re really nice.” Shizuku said with a gentle smile. However Shiho was cautious. She may be shitty at showing it sometimes, but she cared for her sister, and she had seen her be used one too many times.

“And you’re sure they aren't just using you again? Or they just want popularity because you’re an ex-idol-?” Shiho asked bluntly. She didn't want to hurt Shizuku’s feelings, but she had to make sure Shizuku knew about the dangers, especially when she was so air-headed sometimes.

Shizuku seemed a little bit offended on these random “friend”‘s behalves. “No, Shii-chan, they aren't like that at all. In fact, one of them is Honami. And I know your friends aren't like that at all. I'm surprised she didn't tell you-”

“We aren't friends.” Shiho stated.

“Huh?” Shizuku hummed in confusion.

“I said, we aren't friends anymore. She’s not the type of person I'd-” Shiho muttered but stopped herself, great. Now she sounded like those stupid fucking girls from school. Shiho didn't even know why that came out of her mouth, that’s not how she really thought of Honami.

Right?

“Know what? Fine, whatever, have your friends. Just don't come crying when they leave you after they get whatever they want from you." Shiho snapped before running all the way to school, leaving her older sister to stand there by herself. Shiho really wasn't different. She was a shitty little sister. She was clearly a shitty friend.

Maybe she should just disappear. Stop trying.

{Shiho’s room}

Shiho was sitting in her room after her long day at not just school, but just in general. She shut herself in her room all day when she got back and Shizuku didn't come to check in on her.

She was zoning out a little before she noticed that instead of the sun lighting up her room, it was her monitors.

“It’s pretty dark out. About 24:00, that means…” She muttered to nobody to herself as she logged into the 4fter★Dark nightcord server.

“Is everybody here?” Shiho asked, she treated these like she would a band rehearsal.

“Yep! I’m here and I'm ready to be hard at work hehe!” Amia said enthusiastically yet teasing at the same time.

“Ah, S, I finished the illustration for the video I was talking about earlier. Could you take a look at it?” Aki asked. S agreed before noticing who’s loud presence was missing.

“Sure…but where’s Hoshi?” S asked.

“Oh yeah! He’s not here, but he was here earlier.” Amia said. “Maybe he fell asleep? Unlike most of us, he has a relatively normal school and sleep schedule, so he probably just got tired.” Aki suggested.

Amia hummed, “I guess, but he said he’d be here tonight! I guess even the energetic Hoshi gets tired.” she giggled.

S was still suspicious though, “Did he..” she muttered.

“Well, I'm sure he can miss one meeting. He’s Hoshi afterall, the overachiever, so we can just start without him. S, I'll send you the file.” Aki replied.

“Yeah.” S finally agreed. “Okay, Amia, can you be sure to update us on your work as well?” And the night of work and talking started.

{A week later}

“It’s already been a week since Hoshi stopped coming..” Amia huffed, S didn't respond much, she seemed to be deep in thought.

“When you were last on call with him, did Hoshi say he was going on vacation?” Aki tried to ask, he wouldn't admit it, but he was getting a little worried too.

“Nope, he said nothing about anything like that. Being gone for an entire week without any information is starting to worry me.” Amia said, Aki made a grumble of annoyance at the mystery of Hoshi’s sudden disappearance.

“I hope he didn't get in some terrible accident…or come down with some horrible illness out of nowhere..” Amia worried out loud. “Amia! Don't say stupid shit like that.." Aki quickly got onto them, but this wasn't the two’s usual bickering, instead it was mutual worry showing rearing its ugly head in different ways.

Aki sighed, “I do want to know what’s happening though, Hoshi’s a pretty responsible guy, he wouldn't just stop contacting us out of nowhere…” he noted.

S was silent before saying, “Then we'll just find a way to talk to him.” she proposed. The other two agreed but weren't sure how to do so.

“I agree, but I don’t know how we’d go about that. We don't know what he looks like, where he lives, or his real name. And on top of that, he doesn't have any social media aside from his nightcord account.” Aki reminded them. Amia sighed dramatically in response.

“If only Hoshi posted selfies of himself all the time like Aki does that reveals his face and room all the time!” They complained.

“Why are you saying stalker stuff so casually..?” Aki grunted.

“Yeah, yeah, but I really do wish we had clues…" Amia trailed off, “Ooh! Is there anything Hoshi-related in our chat logs?” she asked.

Aki checked but found nothing. “Nope. Don't see anything. For someone so loud at times, he really doesn't talk about himself much.”

“I do know that he has a mom, and I think a dad that puts a bunch of pressure on the guy.” Amia added to the discussion impulsively. “Eh? Parents?” Aki asked, looking for elaboration they Amia apparently would not give.

“No, it’s nothing,” They assured, “I wonder if there’s anything in our shared folder..” Amia muttered, “Huh..” she hummed.

That caught S’s attention, “What is it, Amia?” she quickly asked.

“There’s a music file I haven't seen before, and yeah, I haven't checked it in awhile, but I surely haven't added anything new!” Amia proclaimed. “What do you mean?” Aki questioned.

“Well, it says that the administrator is ALL of us…and it was last updated on…the day Hoshi stopped coming.." Amia explained, but that didn't soothe any worries.

“They’re right…and the name for it is… ‘Untitled’.” Aki read the name out. It rang a faint bell in S’s head but nothing present enough to make her think about her weird dream that one night.

S hummed before responding, “‘Untitled’? I don't remember making something called that.” she said. Amia huffed lightly.

“Hmm, maybe Hoshi made it and added all of us to it, so the system read it as all of us being the administrators when it was only him?” Amia suggested.

“Yeah, but Hoshi would definitely tell us if he added us all to a shared folder, especially if it’s a song or lyrics of some sort.” Aki debunked their theory.

Amia brushed it off, “Yeah, do you wanna give it a listen?” she asked the other two.

After some silence, S said, “Yeah, let’s listen.” and Aki hummed in agreement.

Suddenly, S was blinded like she was a few weeks ago. This time, she had people to voice it to, and it wasn't a dream. “Huh..the monitor flashed..?” she mumbled.

“It-It’s so bright!” Amia exclaimed.

“What the hell’s going on?!” Aki shouted

S couldn't say anything before she was teleported from her chair by blinding yet colorful particles.

{???}

When Shiho opened her eyes again, she was in the rundown boutique from before..

“.....” It was harshly silent, which usually Shiho didn't mind, but that was when she knew what was happening and where she was.

“What…?” She muttered

“Where..am I?”

Notes:

Once again I'm SOSOSOSOSO SORRY for leaving you guys for so long. I genuinely feel bad for it especially since I don't rlly have a good reason except that I got lazy. But as I said, I'm doing good at the moment, and I hope you enjoyed this chapter after months of not having any updates. Feel free to ask any questions abt the story! I love answering them. I genuinely light up when I see you guys ask them :)

Chapter 7: Boutique SEKAI

Summary:

S, Aki, and Amia get teleported into a strange yet almost cozy boutique.

Notes:

Hope u guys r doing well!! Enjoy the chapter as always my dears<3

{???}

Shiho took a minute to get a hold of her surroundings. It was a rather familiar boutique, definitely something Saki would like. However it was creepy and things were strewn all over the place, so maybe not.

“Where even is this..” Shiho muttered to herself, “A boutique of some sort, but…ribbons are all over the floor…” she kept going as if anyone were there to listen, as if she was reaching out with sentences so if others were here, she could stick with them. “And yet, it feels like I've been here before.” She whispered.

“Hey! Come on! Anybody here..?” A gruff voice shouted, “Hello.! Answer me if you hear us!” another more squeaky one called out.

“Those voices…they sound familiar.” Shiho said, she began to follow where the voices were.

{...}

“Hah….it feels like we’ve been walking around for hours! I mean, what if we’re in some crazy anime where we get isekai’d!” Amia claimed, to which Aki rolled his olive eyes.

“Don’t say such stupid stuff. Besides, it’s not too shabby, I'm sure if we just cleaned the place up a little then it’d look just fine.” Aki insisted, to which Amia nodded with a smile. “Actually, yeah! This place is pretty cutesy.”

Aki was nearly about to get to work before Amia stopped him quickly.

“Wait! You gotta tell me your name y’know.” Amia claimed, “You already know, it’s Aki.” the ginger responded.

“Yeah, but like, your real-time name! I’ll go first, my name is-”

“Amia, Aki?” A familiar voice called out cautiously, the two looked up to see who they assumed was S.

Aki’s expression lightened a little, “S? That you?” he asked casually, the grey haired girl nodded. “I thought I heard familiar voices.” She said softly, Amia huffed and nearly shoved Aki to the ground by hugging him.

“Hey!! How come I didn't get such a nice greeting! Whenever you saw me, you just sighed!” The pinkette complained, to which Aki yelped before pushing them off. The dynamic reminded Shiho of…didn’t matter, she had more important things to get to.

“What did you guys see before you got here?” S asked, “Well, I saw my screen flash, so I closed my eyes because it was rather bright, and then, BOOM! I’m here.” Amia said dramatically, Aki rolled his eyes and gave a much less enthusiastic “Same here. What about you?”

S nodded, “Same thing. It’s an interesting place though.” she mumbled, Amia somehow heard her and nodded. “Yeah, but I sure do wish we met in real life in a more normal way! Like, I thought it was gonna be at a cafe, and we’d be like, hey! I’m so-and-so, not getting teleported into a random boutique.” they rambled slightly.

“Yeah, speaking of names, S stands for Shiho, doesn't it?” Aki asked, though his expression and question seemed rather knowing.

S-or, Shiho gave a cautious nod, “Uh, yeah. How’d you find out?” she asked. “Well your email says Shiho Hinomori, so I kind of figured that’s what the S stood for, glad I was right. Nice to meet ya.” Aki said with a calm smile.

“Nice to meet you too…” Shiho said.

“Well, since we’re introducing ourselves, I'm Mizuki Akiyama! Animator of 4fter★Dark!” Mizuki announced with a cheeky grin, as if Shiho and Aki didn't already know the last part. “Now, that only leaves Aki! C’mon, introduce yourself!” Mizuki said with a smile.

“Do I really…? Well, my name is Akito Shinonome.” He grumbled softly. “Wow! What an original alias you had there Akito!” Mizuki teased, to which Akito rolled his eyes.

“Whatever.” He huffed, “I guess that means I'll call you guys Shiho and Akito in real life then, and you guys can call me Mizuki!” They chirped, Shiho found herself a little caught off guard, she didn't expect for this “friendship” to be moving so quickly, but she went along with it.

“What were you guys doing before I found you?” Shiho asked, “We were gonna clean up this boutique, I bet it would look a little bit better if there weren't ribbons everywhere to trip on, as well as the music sheets.” Mizuki giggled and Shiho nodded. “Alright, I can help.” She offered.

{...}

Akito huffed loudly, “It feels like we’ve been cleaning this one area for hours, this probably isn't even all of the boutique.” he claimed.

Shiho nodded, “Yeah, I'm pretty sure time works differently here. It probably hasn't passed one hour, but it’s not like we’d know considering the windows here are covered with curtains that won’t come undone.” The composer replied. Mizuki sighed in response.

“I wish we got to meet Hoshi here too, I bet he’d be a pretty good cleaner and he’d keep us entertained at the same time!” She lamented, “So you’d just use him for maid services and occasionally have him tell a joke?” Akito teased.

“Eh?! That’s not what I meant!” Mizuki defended themselves before she got rammed into via her back by a flash of yellows and blacks.

“Woah!” They shouted, nearly knocked down by the force before looking to see an excited blonde girl with big blue yet seemingly sad eyes. “Hi! I’m so glad we’re finally able to meet!” The girl cheered, a boy with the same color of eyes and hair quickly followed after her and yanked her away from Mizuki.

“Rin! How many times have we gone over NOT attacking people whenever they come here?!” The boy scolded who the three assumed was Rin.

“Uh, what the hell is going on here..?” Akito questioned, the blond haired boy sighed. “My bad, my sister Rin is a little bit rowdy when it comes to meeting new people. We’ve been anticipating your arrival for a while now and she’s rather impatient." He said, “My name is Len Kagamine, and my sister here is Rin Kagamine.” Len introduced.

“Wait….like, the virtual singers..!?” Mizuki said, the revelation of their identities seemingly healing their probably bruised back. The two nodded.

Shiho remembered them, they didn't look exactly like their popular counterparts…but she remembered meeting them in her strange dream, however she was starting to question whether it was a dream or a memory.

“Why are you here? Why are we here?” Shiho asked in a demanding voice. Rin smiled impishly, “Me and Len are made from your true feelings! And this entire SEKAI is made out of your true feelings too! Now all you have to do is discover them and we can all be the bestest of friends!” The virtual singer said, striking a pose. It was clear she hadn't interacted with anybody but Len.

“True feelings…” Shiho, Akito, and Mizuki seemed to speak at once.

Len sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose, “Rin, you’re probably scaring them with your loudness! But yes, this place, us, and Miku are all made from you three and one other’s true feelings-” he said before Shiho stopped him.

“Wait-Miku? There’s a Miku here?” Shiho asked, she was seriously starting to believe that previous experience wasn't a dream.

“Yes, there’s a Miku here.” Said a soft yet familiar voice. Sharp green eyes met gentle turquoise ones. It was Miku! The same one from that night! Her hair still slightly faded than her original, her dress still a complicated mess of lace and ribbons.

“Woah, woah, woah! Can we slow down please..?! What the actual hell!?” Akito shouted, the boy looking like he was seconds away from pulling out his hair.

“Hm..? Slow down what..? We’re in a still building, Akito..” Miku reminded him, “You know my name!?” Akito replied in response.

“Of course, why wouldn't I? Rin and Len already told you, didn't they..?” Miku said, tilting her head to the side a little before moving to fix the big black bow in Rin’s hair.

“So, uh, who is the fourth person you guys mentioned earlier?” Mizuki asked.

“Him? Oh-” Len tried to explain before getting cut off by a dull, almost angry voice that was usually bright and upbeat.

“I’m right here. I’ve been waiting for you all to come.” Said a boy with pale skin and slight eye bags, his hair an ombre of blond and peach messily tied with a white bow into a short ponytail that rested on his shoulder. His sunset eyes empty yet waiving.

Shiho was so shocked she nearly forgot to breathe, and Mizuki had a strange look of recognition in their pink eyes.

“Tsu…Tsukasa..!”

“Tenma-senpai!”

Notes:

I had to give my boy the 1st anniversary cut, it was necessary and absolutely needed. Source: Trust me bro

Others haircuts:

Akito: 2nd anniversary/dark lily
Shiho: Mizuki new years event
Mizuki: Normal cut cuz Mizuki doesn't need any changes<3

Feel free 2 ask any questions! I love answering them, or if u just wanna talk, I also love doing that with u guys too<3

Chapter 8: Don't You Want To Give Up?

Summary:

Everybody's real identities are revealed...sort of.

Notes:

Sorry this is a little late my dears. It's kind of badly written imo and I think I could've done better but I believe that future chapters will be better. I hope you can somewhat enjoy the ramblings I have my lovelies. <3

{???}

“Ah…Akiyama-san….and…Shiho.” Hoshi-Tsukasa, noted their identities, however he didn't seem to bother trying to address or decipher who Akito was. Akito, who was very confused at the moment but kept his mouth shut.

Tsukasa almost seemed a little surprised at Shiho’s presence, and the feeling was mutual. What was Tsukasa of all people doing here!? Especially looking like….this.

“Tsukasa…is Hoshi.” Shiho muttered to herself. “Tenma-senpai! I can't believe it was you all this time!” Mizuki said with a playful grin.

Akito didn't look too sure, “Are you guys sure this Tenma Tsukasa dude is Hoshi? I mean, Hoshi is way more lively than this guy..” he commented.

“No. This is Hoshi. Tsukasa. Isn't it?” Shiho asked just to make sure, but her mind was still reeling from the fact that not only had she been talking with her ex-best friend’s older brother, but that said older brother was almost annoyed looking instead of his usual theatrics, even over the calls.

Tsukasa nodded, “And you’re S, right Shiho?” he asked, to which Shiho nodded.

He looked over to Mizuki and Akito, “And that’s Akiyama, who is Amia, and that’s Aki…I don't know his name.” Tsukasa said simply.

Akito bristled a little at that but tried not to show it. “I guess it is Hoshi or Tsukasa or whatever then.”

“Well, I’m glad you’re okay, Tenma-senpai! We were all pretty worried about you ‘cause of the cut contact.” Mizuki explained and Shiho wondered if that’s how her old friends felt. How Saki felt. Was Tsukasa upset like this because Shiho had made Saki sad? Left her alone? Was this her doing..?

“Actually, Aki. What is your name?” Tsukasa asked, “...Shinonome Akito.” Tsukasa let out a hollow laugh, it was rather forced. But Shiho didn't see the point in it considering they already saw his angry expression just moments earlier.

“Hah, is that so? I know your older sister, Ena. What a small world.” The blond said and Akito didn't make much of a comment in return to that revelation.

“Why are you here?” Shiho asked bluntly, piercing green eyes looking for an answer in dull sunset ones. “Ah, I'm relieved you asked Shiho, this small talk is really annoying me. In fact, you all kind of are, but that’s alright. Because in the end, we all share the same true feelings!” Tsukasa claimed, which made the other three bristle

“Well, are ya gonna tell us or just tell us how much we irritate you?” Akito snapped at the blond. It seemed like whether loud and cheery, or irritated and quiet, Tsukasa annoyed Akito.

“Of course. I’m here because I'm finally giving up.”

Akito took a moment to process it before getting angry, “Ha? Giving up? On what? Us? Our group? Our music? So what, you just aren't taking us seriously anymore?” he snapped, Mizuki quickly intervened.

“Woah, calm down Akito! And Tenma-senpai, are you saying that you don't wanna make music anymore?” Mizuki questioned. Tsukasa only seemed to get more upset.

“Yes. I’ve said that.”

Shiho was quiet, trying to suppress her anger at Tsukasa’s quitting attitude as she asked, “So does that mean that you’re just gonna make music as BLOOM now?”

Both Mizuki and Akito seemed surprised, “Muu? Tenma-senpai is BLOOM?” Mizuki nearly shouted.

“That’s right? Isn't it, Tsukasa? At least the part that you’re BLOOM? Correct?” Shiho inquired.

The blond nodded in response. Miku, Len, and Rin looked nervous at the growing confrontation but stayed quiet. Maybe they would sort it out by themselves by being completely honest.

“So what? When I was talking about BLOOM yesterday, you didn't say shit!” Akito finally spoke up, and Mizuki snapped out of their shocked trance to try to calm down the ginger. “Ha, Akito, let's try to talk things out-”

“No! He could've fucking talked things out with me when I was literally bragging on him! Are you that self-centered or do you just enjoy laughing at my expense?!” He continued, his fists clenching.

Tsukasa sighed and shook his head, “Quiet down, would you? No need to yell, I'm right here, aren't I? And yes, I am BLOOM, and I will be quitting 4fter★Dark, and music in general. Like I said, I'm giving up.” he explained.

“Why? Why do this so suddenly? Why wasn't it enough?” Shiho questioned, she was trying to not be as irrational as Akito was, but it was getting tougher by the minute.

“Well, at first, I thought your music, your compositions inspired me, Shiho. Gave me a spark of passion..but it didn't last. So now, I'm giving up. It’s easier that way, isn't it?” Tsukasa said.

Inspired him…

‘your music really inspired me when I heard it the first time..it kind of saved me and lit a little spark’

“Easier for you maybe! Not for everyone else! Don't you know how self-ish you’re being right now?!” Akito snapped Tsukasa and Shiho out of their collective trances.

“Akito please try to calm down and Tenma-senpai, you really are acting strange. What do you mean you want to give up..?” Mizuki asked.

Tsukasa huffed, “Hah, this would go so much easier if you guys just acknowledged that you feel the same way.” he claimed.

This made all of them pause.

“Don't look so confused. You all understand my point, don't you? Deep down. Aren't you tired of trying to prove yourselves? You all want to give up more than anybody else. Those are our true feelings. I’ve been waiting for you all to come so we could just…rest here.” He claimed.

That’s what made Shiho snap, “That’s not true. Just because that’s how you feel doesn't mean that’s how we all do. You don't have to give up, Tsukasa. You’re choosing to.”

Tsukasa clenched his teeth, “Oh really? I can prove it right now. Shiho, you’ve already given up on trying to be in a band, so surely you’re considering giving up on composing too. Akiyama, I see how others treat you at school. All they do is talk behind your back or talk right to your face, don't you want to just stop trying to be accepted? And Shinonome, you see how little attention your art gets, don't you-” Tsukasa insulted before he was hit so hard he fell down.

When Tsukasa came back to his senses, he felt a stinging on his cheek and saw Akito glaring down at him.

“I can’t believe I ever respected someone like you.” The younger teenager spat at him before asking Len how to leave, to which he quietly responded,

“You just pause ‘Untitled’ and you’ll-” but Akito was already gone. And Mizuki stared at Tsukasa with a spaced out look before joining Akito in his actions.

Last was Shiho, and at this point Rin was getting really upset.

“Shiho…please don’t go..” She begged the grey-haired girl, clinging onto her, she shoved her off.

“No. I don't have the time to be here right now.” Shiho said before leaving.

Tsukasa sat down, looking blankly at the floor before standing up, brushing himself off, and walking away to a different part of the boutique, Rin and Len scrambling after him.

“Please. Try to help him…and yourselves..” Miku whispered to members who had already left.

Notes:

I once was told that it couldn't be a unit shuffle if Akito didn't punch the shit out of somebody, or somebody like that. But as always, feel free to ask any questions or leave any comments. I love responding to them.

Chapter 9: Talentless Artist

Summary:

Akito crashes the fuck out (the sequel)

Notes:

Please enjoy the chapter my lovelies<3 sorry if Akito seems a little OOC here but I tried my best lolzies<3

{Shinonome Household - Akito’s room}

Akito sat in silence when he arrived in the Real World. He barely acknowledged when Amia or S joined back into the call, not that there was much to acknowledge, they were all quiet.

How dare Hoshi say that to him. To all of them! Especially when he had it so good from what Akito had heard so far! It seemed like the worst he had it were slightly strict parents, who gives a shit!? Hoshi had talent. No, not talent. Talents. Hoshi could sing, he could write lyrics, he could play piano, and one day, as Akito formerly found out, he could draw rather well when all of 4fter★Dark had a joke drawing contest.

So how dare Hoshi even have the mere audacity to just…give up without any rhyme or reason! Akito thought Hoshi had passion. Drive. Qualities he respected! But no. Instead, he was some asshole who wasted his talent and shamed others for having any dedication!

‘And Shinonome, you see how little attention your art gets?’

Akito clenched his fists. He almost wished he hit Hoshi harder for that sentence alone. His brooding was cut short by Amia’s awkward voice.

“Hah…that sure was weird…right guys..?” They tried, and surprisingly, Akito found himself giving her a response.

“No. It was infuriating. I can't believe Hoshi was BLOOM. That day, we were both complimenting his work, his work. And he didn't bother trying to tell us that it belonged to him! What?! He just enjoyed me blabbering on!?” He said, his voice rising with each word. That didn't even touch the surface of how pissed Akito was.

“Yeah…i’ve never seen Hoshi act like that before. He was always so..upbeat. Back there, he seemed almost…envious..? I don't get it..” Amia mumbled, she herself was still distracted about what he said about their school life..

S was quiet besides a quiet, “I wasn't working hard enough..” she mumbled to herself.

“The way he talked to me…the way he talked to all of us! It's almost like he was trying his hardest to make us upset!” ‘To make us give up’ was left unsaid. “Was he being disingenuous the whole time..!? When he said my art was good….” Akito trailed off, trying to keep the tear ducts from gathering in his olive eyes.

“I think we all just need to call it a night, yeah? We’ll talk more about the Hoshi situation tomorrow.” Amia suggested.

“I don't see the point of talking about him at all anymore! He’s an asshole who wasted his talent and made us look like idiots for having dedication. And he obviously isn't going to come back.” Akito claimed.

“No. I agree with Amia. Even if he isn't, we still need a lyricist. And I don't think we can talk about that without getting overly emotional. So we’ll just call it a night. Signing off.” S said almost harshly without giving Akito a chance to speak.

“But-” The artist tried,

“Okay! Cya guys later!” Amia quickly cut in in such a manner that would usually cause Akito to get into banter with them for however Amia signed off too fast for Akito to get a word in.

Akito sat with clenched fists. “Damnit…damnit!” He shouted, slamming his fists down on his desk.

Suddenly the door to his room opened,

“Eh?! Dad? What are you..” He muttered before getting interrupted for what felt like the twelfth time that night.

“Akito. I don't care if you’re drawing. Just keep it down.” His father said sternly.

Akito snorted, “Yeah right. You don't care, do you? I don't have the talent according to you.” He spat, his anger making him more bold than usual.

“Anyone can make art. They don't have to have talent.” He said.

“Get out if all you’re going to do is insult me!” Akito screamed, he hated it. He hated it so much when others belittled him without even bothering trying to give him advice on how to improve.

Akito’s father listened for once and closed the door.

“Asshole!” Akito yelled, throwing some stupid figurine he remembered Ena getting him for his birthday one year.

He was so tired of others looking down upon him. He was tired of looking down upon himself and his art. Akito apparently wasn't allowed self-pity sessions tonight because his older sister barged in his room with a sleeping mask half falling off her face.

“Akito…why are you screaming..? Is it about dad again..? I told you I didn't care if you fought back, but I didn't mean in the middle of the night! I need my beauty sleep!” Ena scolded.

“Shut up! You don't know shit!” Akito shouted.

“Ugh…you’re waking me up more..! I don't care if you draw, do whatever, just be quiet!” The brunette said, her temper rivaling his.

“Just get out of my room!” Akito screamed and shoved Ena harshly, pushing her out of his room. It was a bad habit he really needed to get rid of.

“Ow! Fine! Be like that! Just SHUT UP!” Ena yelled and slammed his own door in his face before he could, storming down the hallway to her room. Akito nearly yanked his hair out as tears clouded his vision.

“Damnit..! Why do they all look down on me..?! Who gives them the right…” He said, grabbing a pen and his drawing tablet. “I'll show them..! I’ll draw so well I'll prove him wrong. I’ll prove all of them wrong and get payback…he’ll see!” He claimed to nobody but himself and a theoretical Hoshi.

{Several moments later}

Akito couldn't draw for the life of him and it was so frustrating! He threw his pen down and sighed. “Why can't I draw? The rough draft looked fine but then the sketch..” He mumbled before grabbing his phone.

Akito opened his camera app with an angry expression before forcing a nonchalant one on his face for the picture, or pictures, and posted it once he was satisfied with the result.

As soon as he posted it, the comments immediately flooded in. Calling him cute or fashionable.

“Ah, almost 10k huh…” A small grin made its way onto his face before it ran away just as quickly as it came.

…..

Maybe he did want to stop trying.

Akito slammed his phone down, “Why does he have to be the one who understands me..?” he choked out. Wiping his tears away.

Notes:

Did you catch my Piano Man reference in this? Tell me if u did lol. Thank you for reading and feel free to comment or ask any questions or just to yap, I love responding to you all<3

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of Ezra's Unit Shuffle Main Stories