B-SIDE IDOL

...

!

Kitten...?

Um...

I think we might be

in a bit of trouble.

...

Well...

...

There you are, Commandant, enfin.

...

...

Commandant...

I'll skip the formalités and get straight to the point, oui?

Me? Allow this? Absolument non!

My precious pop star and the Commandant in a forbidden romance? Mon dieu, c'est scandaleux!

Not while I still draw breath, c'est impossible!

I will never approve this, jamais!

*Sigh...*

President, you're being a little harsh.

Let's be honest, what man wouldn't fall for me?

I'm beautiful,

I'm charming,

and I'm a pop star, on top of that.

It's only natural... Don't you think, my lovely Kitten?

Un moment, ma chère.

What was that I just heard, hmm? "My lovely Kitten"?

That's right.

I call him "Kitten,"

and he...

calls me, "Honey." Isn't that sweet?

!!

Shh.

Hehe.

Well, I guess there's no hiding it anymore.

So I hope you'll give us your blessing, President.

Non, attendez! Juste une seconde!

I'm not finished yet!

Let's go, Kitten.

Woooooo!

T.T. STAR! T.T. STAR!

*Huff... huff...*

Thank you all so much for coming!

I love you!

Aaaaahhh!

That's a wrap for today.

Got it.

Everyone,

thank you for all your hard work today, hehe!

Oh, thank you! You worked hard too.

Mint, I really, really like you!

You look so pretty today!

Really?

I didn't get much sleep last night. My skin doesn't look too bad, right?

No, seriously, you look amazing! Best you've ever looked!

Aww, thank you! You guys always make me feel so confident.

Mwah!

Didn't sleep? You were out for ten hours.

The last thing on the schedule is a joint radio appearance.

A joint radio appearance...? With whom?

They're a boy group that just debuted.

There are two of them as well, so that's probably why we were paired up.

Oh right, I remember now.

What are they called again?

Something "Table," I think...

Double X.

Oh, so that's what they're called?

I wasn't really paying much attention, hehe.

We're on the same show, so make sure you know it, just in case.

Okay!

Hi, I'm Yujin from Double X.

I'm really excited to be on the show with you today.

Oh, hi!

I'm Mint from T.T. STAR.

I'm Prika.

I'm actually a huge fan.

Would it be okay if I got your autograph later?

Of course!

Would it be okay if I got one too?

I listened to your debut song, and I really loved it.

...

Oh wow, I'm really honored!

I-I'll see you later!

Mint,

keep this up, and you're gonna end up in a scandal.

Don't worry,

I won't take it any further than this,

and it's not like they're trying to date me or anything.

What makes you so sure?

After all, I'm out of their league.

The gap's so big that they wouldn't even think to try.

...

You're really full of yourself, huh?

What can I say? I've got the looks and talent.

... Yeah, whatever.

Hmm hmm hmm ♬

Whew, today was exhausting...

I think I'll head back, wash up, do a face mask, and maybe some gua sha, then call it a night.

You're not heading back, Prika?

I'll stay a bit longer and practice.

All right, I'll head back first.

Hmm hmm ♬

Hmm?

I feel like I've seen him before...

If I remember him at all, he must've made quite an impression.

...

Forget it, there's no point in looking into it.

Oh...

I had a feeling you'd recognize me and come say hello.

If I remember someone, it usually means they know quite a bit about me too.

So, where would you like the autograph?

...

Oh.

Ha... hahaha!

That's a rather creative way to get my attention.

I don't think anyone's tried that before.

Hmm, I might even take a photo with you as well.

...?

No, I meant my autograph and a photo with me.

If you keep acting like you don't recognize me, I might get a little sad.

...

Wait, you really don't know who I am?

Then why do you look so familiar?

You... really don't recognize me?

That's right!

So you do recognize me.

Um...

I know you didn't mean anything by it, but if I say yes, people might start guessing where I'm staying.

So could we just say I stepped out to grab something?

Sweets?

No, I like sweets,

but why do you ask?

Anis? Did you say Anis?

...!

Ah! So that's why you look familiar.

You're Anis's Commander, aren't you?

Oh, thank you. I'll enjoy it.

Hmm?

You don't want an autograph or even a photo?

...

He didn't want my autograph? Not even a photo?

... Oh,

I see!

He must've wanted them, but had to leave because he was in a hurry.

Yes, that must be it.

I happen to be free tomorrow, and he is Anis's Commander...

Perhaps I should do something special for him.

...

How much longer do I have to wait?

Aah!

Err, ahem!

Hello, Commander.

I didn't expect to run into you here.

Um...

I actually came to see Anis.

Oh, really?

To think she called me all the way out here... That's a bit awkward.

... I'm sorry, Anis.

Haha, since I have some time now,

let me make it up to you with that autograph and photo from yesterday.

Is that... so?

What's going on?

You're very kind.

I can see why Anis is so fond of you.

W-wait just a second!

I'll go with you.

Oh... Y-yes,

what you gave me yesterday was really good.

All right...

Huh?

Why am I so happy about this?

Oh! Yes, let's go!

...

So, how is it?

Walking with a pretty pop star like me.

You can be honest. I'd love to hear what you think.

...?

You don't see much of a difference?

Is it just personal preference...?

No, I don't think a face like mine is something people have preferences about.

No, not really.

I do get recognized sometimes, and since my work keeps me out in public,

I tend to stay home on my days off to rest and take care of myself.

It takes effort to maintain this, after all.

I'm sorry? What do you mean by that?

...!

O-of course, that's only natural!

You haven't seen that post online?

It was something like, "Would you rather have Mint's face for a week or get 10 million credits?"

I ended up winning by quite a bit.

So there's no way anyone would dislike this face, haha!

It's more crowded than I expected.

I knew it was good, but I didn't think it would be this popular.

It's okay, Commander. I couldn't ask you to do something like that.

Let's just wait in line together.

*Gasp!*

No, it's not that...

It's just your back is really broad...

I see... You look very fit. That's wonderful.

Ahem...

Hello!

What can I get for you?

Hmm hmm ♬

Sure thing!

One chocolate ice cream, please.

Sure, I'll have that ready for you in just a moment.

... By the way...

Um... it is you, right?

Oh my,

I've been getting recognized a lot lately.

Yes, it's me—

I knew it!

You're the Commander of the Commando Unit!

I actually wanted to say hi yesterday, but I held back.

Since you're here again today, I figured I'd go for it.

Wow, you look even better in person!

I added a little extra for you. Hope you enjoy it!

...

You're quite well-known.

Even so... I guess you could call it a bit of a struggle.

I've never really had anyone who understands and can share that with me before, so it feels a little new.

Oh no, not at all.

I really do love this kind of life. It's just so dazzling.

...!

...

Ah!

...!

O-oh no!

...?

What are you talking about?

Don't worry about the ice cream.

What should we do about your clothes...?

Oh no, it's still dripping!

Aha!

No, that's not the point!

We should get your clothes cleaned first!

Hahaha!

No, wait... I shouldn't... Pfft!

This really isn't the time for that!

Anyway, our dorm is nearby.

Let's go there.

Th-that was before I realized it was you, Commander.

Shall we go?

No,

this is my fault. I can't just let you go like this.

I have the room to myself, so it's just us.

Go ahead, take off your jacket.

Oh no, your shirt's completely soaked through...!

Even if you wipe it off with a towel, it'll probably still feel sticky.

Since you've already taken your top off, why not just take a quick shower?

Well, I suppose you're right.

If you showered at a perfect, gorgeous pop star's place, your imagination would probably start running wild.

...

Then you can just wash your stomach area, right?

You can just leave them on the floor over there.

...

Now that the laundry's going, I think I'll rest for a bit...

*Sigh*

You look beautiful today, too.

Thank you so much!

Hmm.

Usually, that's enough to win people over,

but he didn't even blush...

... Wait, don't tell me I'm not his type?!

No, that can't be. People usually like my face.

Well, I suppose it doesn't matter.

Still, I'm glad he's better than I expected.

I can see why Anis likes him.

He's sensible, kind, thoughtful, handsome—

...

...!

Are you all done in there—

...

!!!!!!!!!!!!

Aaahhh!

Uh, um...

Wh-why aren't you wearing a shirt...?

You could've just asked to borrow mine...

...

Good point.

I'll be right back.

... The towel's a bit small, so it's not really covering much.

...

Um, I know this might be rude to ask, but...

would it be all right if I poked it just once?

Your arm.

Most of the men I'm around are in entertainment, so they're not usually this... toned.

I'm sorry, that was a bit forward.

I just don't see physiques like yours very often.

I'm not touching you. I'm just going to poke your arm.

And...

Please don't go around telling people about this, okay?

Let's keep it between us.

...

All right, here I go.

*Poke*

...!

Hm, yeah...

It's nothing, really.

You're welcome to use my steam closet, if you'd like.

No, really, it's my fault your clothes got dirty.

Um...

It's getting late, so... if you don't mind, would you like to stay for dinner?

Oh, I see...

I guess having dinner alone with me in a closed-off space might feel a little uncomfortable.

...!

You're right, I've kept you longer than I meant to.

You should probably get going.

...

What were you thinking, Mint?

Dinner? Seriously?

If someone asked me out to dinner, I'd think twice,

and yet I'm the one who asked him out?

I must've felt really bad about the ice cream. Yes, that must be it.

I guess pretty people are kind too, hehe.

*Sigh...*

That's strange.

It feels like I can catch him, but he keeps slipping away.

... Like a cat.

Phew, finally done...

That's everything for today.

Good work, everyone.

Man, that shoot dragged on forever.

You did well putting up with all that waiting, Avistar.

Not at all.

Oh right,

a staff member left some chocolates for you two earlier.

Perfect timing. I needed that.

Thanks, mystery staff member.

Hmm?

A square...

Chocolate...

...

Abs...

?!

*Huff... huff...*

What's gotten into you?

If you don't want it, just say so.

No, it's not like that.

My hand just slipped.

Mmm, this is really good.

...!

Prika! Wh-why are you eating it like that?!

...?

I'll eat it however I want.

You're acting kinda weird, Mint.

You feeling okay?

...

I guess so.

Maybe I should head back now.

Yeah, we've got nothing scheduled for a while anyway.

Get some rest.

*Sigh...*

I should probably wash up...

...

He was...

right here...

washing his abs with his hands...

Aaaaahhhhh!

I'm losing it...

Mint, since when were you this into muscles?

N-no, what am I even saying...?!

...

No, that's not it.

Someone like me who's petite, pretty, and even a little adorable...

Wouldn't someone tall, muscular, and handsome

suit me better?

It's not that we're mismatched. If anything, we're actually a pretty good match.

That's probably why I can't stop thinking about him.

Yeah, that has to be it!

...

Well, I guess it can't be helped.

Since I figured it out first, I'll take the lead.

I'm free starting tomorrow, right?

Hehe... perfect.

Hello.

Not really.

I'm here to see Kitten.

Who else?

You, of course.

I couldn't stop thinking about it last night...

"Commander" feels a bit too military for a pop star to use, don't you think?

It sounds a little distant, too.

I just like cats.

They're pretty, elegant, and a little aloof, like they might let you get close, but never quite do.

I suppose I'm a bit like that myself,

and we do have a few things in common.

So "Kitten" felt right for you.

I thought it might be nice if we got to know each other a little better.

We do have a way of standing out, wherever we go.

I have a feeling we'd get along quite well.

Oh, really? That's perfect.

Hmm, what should we do?

I'm not too familiar with the Outpost.

Sounds good.

I'm looking forward to it!

...

Even the most dazzling pop star's smile doesn't faze him.

Wow...!

What is this place?

It's so beautiful...

Could you take some photos for me?

Let's see...

...?

Kitten,

you don't usually take photos, do you?

Oh, definitely.

Go stand over there. I'll take one for you.

Hmm...

Since we're already taking photos, maybe we could take one together

as a keepsake.

What do you think?

Of course.

...

Taking couple photos with a sweet, date-like vibe

actually kind of nice.

Oh, you're back—

...!

Hello!

I'm Trina. I take care of everything here in the park.

Oh, hello...

You'd like me to take a photo of you two together?

But I'm not very good at taking pictures. I hope that's okay.

Ah, haha...

Okay, here we go!

One... two... three... Say phytoncide!

For you, Sun, I'm always happy to help.

Take your time and enjoy yourself, all right?

Thank you!

Ah, yes...

...

Kitten didn't seem very interested in me earlier...

Could it have been because of that...?

Hey there, Commander!

And who's that with you...?

Oh my, you're Mint from T.T. STAR, aren't you?

Wow, that's really big...

Oh, sorry about that.

I'm just really happy someone here recognized me.

Yes, I'm Mint from T.T. STAR.

It's nice to meet you.

Not really. She's just really famous, that's all.

Oh right, Commander!

When do you want that massage you asked for?

The essential oil I ordered just arrived today.

Okay, got it.

...

A massage...

Welcome back, Master!

Welcome, Miss.

You're quite well-endowed as well...

Ahem.

This is my first time at a maid cafe, so this is what it's like.

May I show you to a table of your choosing?

I seeee... Aww, that's too bad...

We just got the ingredients in for a special menu made just for you...

Please don't be too disappointed.

I'm certain we shall have the pleasure of welcoming you again.

And you as well, Miss. Do visit us again when you have the leisure.

We shall prepare a splendid meal and attend to you with the utmost care.

Oh, yes...

Attend to me...

Hm? Teacher?

Oh? It really is you,

Teacher!

We only had morning classes today,

so we came out for some dessert.

It's pretty quiet here, so we don't have to wait. We can just take our time and eat as much as we want.

What are you up to, Teacher?

We're not interrupting a date, are we?

Mint? As in Mint from T.T. STAR?

Oh my, it's really you!

You're even prettier in person, hehe.

Haha, thank you.

You know her?

You're not really into pop stars, are you, Tia?

She's the most famous one in the Ark right now.

Oh, I see.

She's so cute and petite ♥

Petite...?

Anyway, we'll get going first.

You two have fun, okay?

Bye!

Kitten,

can I ask you something?

I actually think my figure's pretty close to perfect,

especially for a pop star.

I'm slim enough to look good on camera,

and while I'm a bit on the shorter side...

my proportions balance it out, so I don't come across as small.

And overall, everything's nicely proportioned. Not too much, not too little.

But in the end...

this is your type, isn't it?

I've never felt this far out of my league before.

So this is what it means to be different from the start.

Now I understand why you treated me differently.

... Maybe I was never quite enough for that to begin with.

Change of plans.

I'll be leaving first.

Yes, I'll get in touch later.

I see, I understand now.

My looks, my figure, my personality...

To you, Kitten, they're nothing special.

Then, what I can offer is...

this alone.

Hello, sir.

You're Commander Commander, right?

Miss Mint asked for you.

Please come with me through the back.

You can go in through here.

Come in.

...

Pfft.

Hah, hahaha!

What are you even wearing?

Pfft... Hehe...

Ha...

I can't remember the last time I laughed like that.

Hahahaha!

N-no, stop!

If I have to fix my makeup again, I'm in trouble!

That's honestly impressive.

How does it still show, even in an outfit like that?

Your shoulders, your chest, how thick your arms are—

...

What did I just say?

That's good.

Anyway,

thank you for coming.

Hmm...

I wanted you to see me at my brightest,

at my most radiant.

I thought if you did, you might finally understand how you feel, Kitten.

Just follow me.

That's right.

Did you know?

Backstage is the darkest place, so it's perfect for staying out of sight.

So, this is where you'll be today, Kitten.

Yes,

this is the best seat in the house.

You'll be able to see both me and the fans at a glance.

So, Kitten, why don't you sit here and take in my charm for yourself?

Let's see if you can handle it this time.

Mint, time to start wrapping up your prep!

Oh, okay! I'll be right there!

Go ahead and have a seat here. We'll be starting in about 30 minutes.

Hey, grab the amp from the back for me!

Got it!

Huh?

Oh no, it's okay...

Th-thank you...

...

You've got a staff badge, but I don't think we've met before?

Oh, I see!

I can help you out if you need anything.

I'm the newbie here too, hehe.

Hey, tall guy!

Can you grab that from up there for me?

You're pretty good. What's your name?

Oh, your name's the same as that famous Commander!

Wait, you're not actually him, are you?

Come on, no way a guy like him would be here.

He's on a whole different level than us.

I was just kidding!

So how'd you end up applying here?

Oh my gosh, you applied because you like Mint too?

Honestly, that's most of the staff here.

She's so pretty. Don't you think she just sparkles?

But yeah, that's kinda why she's hard to approach.

She knows she's pretty, so it's tough to just walk up and talk to her.

What if I just look like a nobody to her?

I mean, compared to celebrities, we don't really stand a chance.

So I'm just glad I get to see her while I'm working.

...

Hey, did you see that? She just waved at me, right?

Nah, she was probably just brushing some dust off.

Hmm...

He came dressed rather strangely, so I tucked him away in the darkest corner. I thought that might be enough, but...

I suppose it couldn't be helped...

...!

Hehe.

T.T. STAR, you're up!

Woooooo!

Hello! We're the two shining stars, Twinkle Twin Star!

Everyone, thank you so much for coming today!

We'll start with our first song!

*Huff... huff...*

Phew... that was exhausting.

How did I do, Kitten?

Not just something generic, okay?

I'd really love to hear more details, so could you wait a moment?

... Actually, it might be a little longer than that.

We still have photos and cleanup to finish, so it may be a while. Would that be all right?

Thank you!

Mint, who's that?

He's not a stalker or anything, right? What's with that outfit...?

No, no, he's like my cousin's cousin's brother's son's older brother, or something like that.

...?

Thanks for waiting.

There are still quite a few fans outside, so please wait in the waiting room for a bit.

So what did you really think?

I've never invited someone I know to one of my shows before.

A friend... I suppose that's what you are.

Anyway, it's my first time inviting someone myself, so I'm a little excited.

Right? I really do shine when I'm on stage.

Really?

Oh my,

was my performance really that memorable?

That's very sweet of you, though those compliments came rather easily.

...!

...

Hmm...

I didn't expect that kind of comment. That's a bit surprising.

But yes, it's true.

The only people I'm really close to are Anis and Prika.

With others in the industry, I keep clear boundaries.

I try not to go out too much since I'd rather avoid any unnecessary rumors. That's why I end up spending most of my time at home.

Just staying in, eating, sleeping, doing my skincare...

I guess that's become my routine.

...

So you finally realized we're alike.

Not just in the parts that shine,

but also in the shadows.

Does that make you pity me?

Pfft! What's that supposed to mean?

If anything, you're the impressive one, Kitten.

... Thank you for saying that.

It means a lot to me.

All right then!

I've heard everything you wanted to share,

so shall we head back?

Oh, actually, I need to greet the fans on my way out, so it's probably better if we leave separately.

...

See you next time!

...

Phew...

So much for my last trump card.

It didn't even get the chance to start.

... Still,

there's no reason to give up yet.

If anything, this gave me an idea for something more subtle!

Hmmm...

The Commandant... and my Mint...

Très bien... I see.

Me? Allow this? Absolument non!

My precious pop star and the Commandant in a forbidden romance? Mon dieu, c'est scandaleux!

Not while I still draw breath, c'est impossible!

I will never approve this, jamais!

I call him "Kitten,"

and he...

calls me, "Honey." Isn't that sweet?

So I hope you'll give us your blessing, President.

Non, attendez! Juste une seconde!

I'm not finished yet!

Let's go, Kitten.

Oh my, I can't even joke around anymore, can I?

All right, that's enough. No need to get so worked up, Kitten.

And you too, President.

Mint...? Mon dieu, ma chérie, where's this coming from all of a sudden?

Forbidden love? Don't be ridiculous.

Now then... take a good look.

Which one of us do you think is out of the other's league?

Mon dieu!

Such an obvious question, ma chérie!

My précieuse pop star is beyond comparison!

You are faaaaar too precious! C'est impossible to compare you to anything else!

Exactly.

There's no way I'd fall for a man so easily just because he's handsome, well-built, and kind.

...

... Was that a bit much?

Anyway, I don't know what you may have heard,

but I'm Mint.

I know how to keep proper boundaries, I stay out of scandals, and everyone loves me.

So there's no need to worry.

Because I value myself more than anyone else.

... Okay,

Très bien.

We shall discuss this affaire another time, mon Commandant.

Well then, shall we go?

...

I do not wish to see you leaving together, d'ccord?

Leave séparément, with at least a 10-minute intervalle between.

Good grief.

Anyway, I'll head out first.

...

...

Either way, whether you head out right now or ten minutes from now,

Mint will be waiting for you, naturellement.

Now then... Allez, go out.

Oh,

you came out sooner than I expected.

I was worried Mr. Mustang might keep you there longer.

We saw each other yesterday, and now we meet again today.

Funny how even after just a day, it still feels nice to see each other again, doesn't it?

Starting tomorrow, my schedule's going to be pretty packed for a while.

We might not get to see each other much, so would you like to go for a walk together?

We're getting ready for a new album.

I may have pushed myself a little too hard with all the promotions.

So...

Let's go for real this time, Kitten.

...

That must've been quite a shock earlier.

Please let me apologize on Mr. Mustang's behalf.

Hm...

You know,

I've been thinking about what you said yesterday...

That I seem like someone who never lets her light fade, and that I've been shining since the first time you saw me.

I'd really been wanting to tell you that

it's the same for me too, Kitten.

Of course, we'd met before, but everything was such a blur back then.

So it feels like this is the first time we've really gotten to know each other.

And among all those people around me, you were the one who stood out the most.

Hm...

I'm guessing you get compliments on your looks pretty often?

That may be part of it, but...

there's more to it than that.

I think people who are meant to stand in the spotlight naturally draw others in.

People like you and me, Kitten.

Maybe that's why we're so alike.

Shh.

Don't worry.

People only pay attention to the center stage, where the star is.

But right now, you and I are at the backstage.

And as you can see, it's pretty dark back here.

Even the stars of the show need room to breathe sometimes, don't they?

So...

What if we met backstage like this every now and then, and just listened to each other?

People who live in the spotlight get lonely too, after all.

A private intermission for Mint the pop star

and Commander Kitten.

Visiting the Outpost like you suggested sounds nice too,

but there are too many supporting characters there.

And...

I just can't bring myself

to give this up.

...!

Hehe.

...

Secret Mission: Side by Side

is a success!

Hm? I didn't say anything, though.

You just wanted an excuse to talk to me, didn't you?

I'll let it slide this once, Kitten.

After all, we're the two leads sharing the same stage!

...

...

Un moment,

I'm still deciding where to commencer and how much I should révéler.

...

D'accord,

I...

believe in you, Commandant.

And I also agree that you are a très good personne.

BUT!

Man to man, I simply cannot accepter zis!

First Anis, and maintenant, you're trying to steal Mint too?

Don't you think zat's just a little too cruel to moi...?

Non,

I have observed Mint for a très, très, très long time!

And never...

NEVER... have these eyes witnessed that girl walking around with a man,

no matter the raison!

Oh là là, Commandant, such arrogance!

You and Mint are not similaires at all.

What?!

Mon dieu... C'est over.

Even Mint has already... fallen for you.

...

Then,

Prika is absolutely off-limits! Jamais!

Never! NEVER!

Non, non! Ze talk has only just started, mon cher!

Are you even listening to moi, Commandant?!