Elysian's Monogatari

Chapter 135: Ritsu's Logic

"I'll tell you what Ma-kun really wants to say. Geez Ma-kun really can't do anything without me." Ritsu said with a chuckle. "Don't butt in Ritsu. I'm talking to Hokuto and Koga right now." Mao said. "But these two idiots don't get what you're trying to say so I'm just here to help translate." Ritsu said.

"Who are you calling an idiot?" Both Koga and Hokuto said. Ah...T-They harmonized.... Ito thought. "If you get mad for being called an idiot then it's probably true. They say 'the rich don't quarrel' which applies to emotional wealth too." Ritsu said. "What exactly are you trying to say?" Hokuto said.

"I mean Corgi is probably just snapping out of instinct. But you joined the opposition for that child, umm Himemiya Tori-kun was it? Am I right, Hidaka Hokuto-kun?" Ritsu said. "You actually managed to say someone's name properly for once. I'll give you credits for that but you're wrong." Hokuto said.

"Wow so condescending~ Acting all high and mighty for no reason~" Ritsu said. "Don't joke around. It's true that as a member of Rain-bows, I took Himemiya's feelings to account and joined the opposition. But the reason I'm against ES Academy is because I believe it's wrong." Hokuto said

"Are you just being stubborn? Bullhead. Oh~ I see. You're sulking because your friends in Trickstar don't share your views?" Ritsu said. "....." "Let's think about it rationally. Isn't that the kind of character you're supposed to play? Sticking to your persona is important. I play the strategist and it helps me figure out what to do in critical moments." He then said.

"In situations like this I think about what a strategist would do. That role guides me when I'm confused and unsure. Helping me find the right direction. The path everyone wants to take." He added. ...I-I see. R-Ritsu-kun...just by thinking about who he has to be...he can get through his problems...h-how nice...I-I wonder...if I can even...find a perfect role...for me to play... Ito thought.

"So what's your point?" Hokuto said. "My point is if you're going to play the cool-headed type then approach things with more composure. And if you're acting as a leader you should look at the bigger picture. Ugh even saying that makes me feel gross. Sounds like something Ei-chan would say." Ritsu said.

"I am looking at the bigger picture. I oppose the concept of ES Academy because I believe it's detrimental to the future of the idol industry." Hokuto said. "Detrimental? How so?" Ritsu asked. "Let's not forget. When there were no ES overseeing things and idol schools acted in their own ways every one of them spiraled into corruption and decline. That's how the Hanagaki brothers suffered when they were in Reimei Academy back then." He added.

"Don't tell me you've forgotten that, Trickstar. Didn't you guys start a revolution after witnessing that mess?" He then asked. "...." "If ES takes control of all idol training schools they'll create an environment where at least moderately competent idols can be 'produced' consistently. Given ES's philosophy moral decline or delinquency have no place to take root in a profit-chasing, competitive society. A law-abiding society." He added.

"Cold, hard numbers will determine who succeeds and who doesn't. Those who don't measure up will undergo thorough re-education until they do. And if they refuse to comply they'll be mercilessly expelled. In short a world ruined by ES is one where there's no room for incompetence or underachievement. At the same time ES plans to provide a safety bet for those who fall behind. Isn't that right Ma-kun?" He then asked.

"...You sure talk a lot." Mao said surprised. "....T-That's true...Ritsu-kun...Y-You don't always do that right?" Ito asked. "Yep I just feel like I had to address this you know? Plus like I said I'm just here to translate what Ma-kun wants to say." Ritsu said. "...Well Ritsu is right. The ES Academy also serves as a re-education facility for failed idols. That means even adults past school age can acquire idol skills there." Mao said.

"In essence the ES Academy is meant to reform the flawed idol training system into something more practical. It's well-structured for nurturing professional idols. Of course it's all theoretical for now. In practice it'll likely run into numerous issues just like ES did when it started. But ES has the motivation and the resources to address these problems." He added.

"They've already proven that, by dominating the domestic idol industry in no time. The ES Academy doesn't need kings or revolutionaries. It's a factory where idols, as equal products under the god-like will of ES, are continually 'produced'. You might argue it's cold, inhuman, or lacks warmth but those are just childish emotional complaints." Ritsu said.

"As a system for idol training the ES Academy is the 'correct' answer." He then said. "...And you dare call yourself part of the opposition? You're practically singing its praises." Koga said. "I'm not praising it. I just think it's an efficient well-organized system. But as a lazy person it feels like too much hard work so I dislike it." Ritsu said.

"Well I'm graduating soon so it doesn't matter to me." He then said. "And that's why you're just poking at it for fun since it doesn't concern you? Bad habit Ritsu." Mao said. "Praise me more~!" Ritsu said. "Nothing gets through you huh?" Mao said with a sigh.