Chapter Text
"Thank you again for coming with me to help Midoriya-san and Hoshino-san with their project, Kasumi-chan." Yu says gratefully as she walks up to Starlight Scoops, her steps light and hurried.
The petite ashenette walking beside her gives Yu a cheerful smile, "It's no problem, senpai! Kasumi wants to help too!" She replies, bouncing on the balls of her feet, "Seriously, that parlor needs some serious revamping! And with Kasumi's artistic skills, we'll definitely be able to turn it into a magical wonderland!"
Yu chuckles at Kasumi's enthusiasm, feeling a mix of amusement and fondness. As much as a little rascal her little kouhai can be at times, she knows that she can always count on her to be a good sport and help out when needed.
It is three past one in the afternoon, the end of school for Yu and the Nijigasaki Idol Club. Like she promised yesterday, she will make sure to help Izuku and Amaya with their project. And while she did ask the club (as well as Sophia and Yorimi) if they wanted to join in, only Kasumi has agreed. The others said they couldn't make it due to either after-school club activities (not relating to school idol clubs), personal commitments, or just simply not being in the mood. Yu didn't mind, though. One is better than nothing, right?
"Oh! Look!" Kasumi exclaims, pointing at the parlor, "There's Midoriya-san and Hoshino-san! I wonder what they're up to."
Yu follows the ashenette's gaze and sees Amaya and Izuku standing outside of the parlor, gazing at the parlor's entire exterior. In the greenette's hands is a notebook, where he and Amaya seem to be discussing something about it. Both of them are wearing a very serious expression, as if they are discussing a matter of great importance, which, in context, they probably are.
The pair makes their way towards the two, with Yu giving them a small wave as she approaches.
"Oh! Takasaki-san! And Nakasu-san!" Izuku, after noticing Yu and Kasumi approaching, smiles and waves back, "You are actually here! And you bring Nakasu-san too!"
"Of course!" Yu replies with a warm smile, "Like I said yesterday, we're here to help however we can! And Kasumi-chan here was eager to join in." She gestures to her ashenette companion.
Kasumi grins cheekily as she strikes a pose, "Yup! Kasumi is always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need! Even if that means getting her hands dirty!"
Amaya giggles at the ashenette's words, "Well, we're very grateful for your help, both of you. We were just discussing some ideas for the exterior." Her gaze moves to Kasumi, "But I have to ask. Respectfully. What are your skills?"
"Kasumi?" The ashenette grins proudly as she points to herself, "Kasumi is a master of creating something delicious! While breads and pastries are Kasumi's specialty, she also has some experience in other types of cooking and baking." She pauses, then continues with a sly smile, "And, if Kasumi may add, she is also a master of creating something adorable. And ice cream is definitely something adorable!"
"Oh?" Amaya blinks, clearly intrigued by Kasumi's words, "So, you're saying you can help us create some ice cream flavors?"
"Yep!" Kasumi nods enthusiastically, "I admit, compared to someone like Kanata-senpai, who is a goddess in cooking and baking, Kasumi isn't the best at it. But Kasumi still knows a thing or two about creating deliciousness! And she's willing to help you out!"
"That's wonderful!" Amaya's eyes sparkle with excitement, "Having someone with some experience will really help us out! Thank you, Nakasu-san. Your input on flavors could make a big difference."
Kasumi beams with pride, crossing her arms confidently, "Leave it to the universe's cutest school idol! I'll make sure this parlor gets the cutest and most delicious treats!"
Izuku chuckles at Kasumi’s enthusiasm, feeling grateful that she and Yu have joined them, "We were just brainstorming ideas for how to make Starlight Scoops feel magical and inviting from the outside too. With the flavor menu and the decor ideas, we're hoping to give it a look that makes people stop in their tracks."
"As of right now, however, we are making some plans for the renovation." Amaya continues as Izuku hands Yu his notebook, where almost everything is already scribbled down in it, "We believe an overhaul is needed to better fit the theme we're going for."
Yu hums thoughtfully as she scans over the notes. The neatly written words are clear and easy to read, making it simple for her to grasp the idea they are going for. The renovation list is short but straightforward, and Yu finds herself nodding approvingly at the ideas.
- Exterior Refresh & Signage
- Task: Repaint the exterior with a fresh coat of midnight blue and deep purple to make it stand out. Update the signage with a new, illuminated sign featuring "Starlight Scoops" in flowing, star-themed lettering.
- Additional Elements: Add small LED star lights around the entrance.
- Impact: This immediately gives the shop a more inviting and magical look, attracting curious passersby and setting the tone for the celestial theme.
- Entrance & Selfie Wall Setup
- Task: Replace the old chalkboard with a modern, sleek menu board to feature "Today’s Special Constellation Flavor."
- Selfie Wall: Design and install the "Starry Dream" selfie wall inside, near the entrance, with a glowing sign and hanging silver and gold star decorations.
- Impact: Provides a unique and interactive element, ideal for social media, which helps spread word-of-mouth marketing.
- Seating Area Redesign
- Task: Divide the seating area into two themed zones:
- Celestial Zone: Add plush seating in deep blues and purples, with round tables that feature silver tops and star map decals under the glass.
- Nebula Nook: Create a cozy corner with soft lavender and galaxy purple seating, adding hanging star garlands for ambiance.
- Impact: Creates an inviting, comfortable atmosphere that encourages patrons to linger, making the parlor a memorable destination rather than a quick stop.
- Cosmic Mural Wall
- Task: Paint a galaxy mural on one main wall, incorporating constellations like Orion and the Big Dipper.
- Additional Elements: Install mirrors with star-like speckles on sections of the wall to reflect light, creating a "floating stars" effect.
- Impact: This mural becomes the centerpiece of the shop, reinforcing the cosmic theme and transforming the parlor into an otherworldly experience.
- Counter & Display Case Upgrade
- Task: Replace the plain counter with a shimmering dark quartz or marble countertop that has subtle flecks resembling stardust.
- Display Case Update: Expand the ice cream display case and add decorative labels and constellation symbols for each flavor.
- Digital Screen: Install a digital screen above the counter, cycling through menu options and cosmic visuals.
- Impact: The upgraded counter and display case elevate the presentation of the ice cream, making the experience of ordering feel more immersive and magical.
- Lighting & Ceiling Transformation
- Task: Paint the ceiling a deep midnight blue and install small, dimmable LED lights scattered like stars.
- Additional Lights: Add constellation lighting above the seating areas for a soft, magical glow and pendant lights shaped like crescent moons and stars above each table.
- Impact: Creates a cozy and enchanting atmosphere, especially for evening hours, where the "night sky" effect becomes a major draw for customers.
- Flooring Replacement
- Task: Replace the basic tile floor with terrazzo tiles that have silver and gold flecks to add a subtle, shimmering effect, resembling stardust.
- Impact: The new flooring completes the parlor’s overall aesthetic, giving it a high-quality finish that matches the rest of the celestial theme.
- Cosmic Music and Ambiance
- Task: Install a small sound system to play soft, ambient music that enhances the relaxing, magical feel of the parlor.
- Impact: This background music subtly enhances the customer experience, making each visit to Starlight Scoops feel calm and special.
- Thematic Menu Update
- Task: Design and print new thematic menus that reflect the celestial vibe, with each flavor name resembling constellations or stars.
- Impact: This adds the final cohesive touch to the parlor, making even the smallest details feel magical and thoughtfully integrated.
"Ohhhhhh…" Kasumi hums thoughtfully, taking the notebook from Yu, "This sounds like a lot of work, but… Kasumi loves it! This sounds very exciting!"
Yu nods in agreement, feeling a mix of excitement and determination at the idea. However, one major equation is missing in this equation—the budget.
"I love this so far, but, uhm, Hoshino-san? Midoriya-san? I-I have a question." She speaks up hesitantly after a moment.
"Hm? What is it, Takasaki-san?" Izuku asks curiously, tilting his head to one side.
"Well, I just… Did you guys have a budget in mind for all of this? I mean, the ideas are amazing and would really elevate Starlight Scoops, but renovations like these can get expensive." Yu points out carefully, her gaze flickering to Amaya and Izuku.
Amaya's expression falters slightly, a mix of realization and anxiety creeping into her features, "You're right, Takasaki-san. We hadn't fully thought about the cost yet… but given the state of the parlor and the limited income it brings in, well… I might be able to afford a few upgrades, but a full renovation like this…" She trails off, biting her lip.
Izuku looks thoughtful as Yu returns the notebook to him, flipping back through his notes, "We could prioritize the changes that will make the biggest impact first. Maybe start with the exterior and a few of the interior touches that create that starry, inviting feel." He glances at Yu and Kasumi, "Maybe we can find ways to save on the decor too—recycling, maybe even some DIY projects?"
Amaya's face brightens at the idea, "You know, I have some contacts from my fashion design classes that might be able to help with sourcing some affordable materials." She says, her excitement returning, "And DIY touches could add that personal feel we’re aiming for. It'd be like we're building Starlight Scoops with our own hands."
Kasumi beams, bouncing a little on her feet, "Exactly! Kasumi's an expert at DIY! We could turn this place into a starry wonderland without breaking the bank!"
Yu smiles, looking at Izuku and nodding in agreement, "I think that's a great approach. We can tackle one part at a time and keep building momentum as things improve."
Amaya lets out a sigh of relief, her shoulders relaxing, "Thank you, everyone. With all your help, I think we can do this—even if we take it one step at a time."
"Yup!" Yu agrees, feeling a surge of determination, "And we'll make sure Starlight Scoops is a success!"
Izuku nods firmly, a small smile tugging at his lips, "We'll do our best to turn this place into something special, Hoshino-san."
Kasumi grins, pumping her fist in excitement, "Starlight Scoops is going to be the cutest ice cream parlor in all of Shizuoka! No, the entire Japan!"
Amaya chuckles at Kasumi's enthusiasm, "Thank you, Nakasu-san. And I'm sure we can all work together to make Starlight Scoops a success." She then looks at them with a small smile, "So, shall we get started?"
The three others nod eagerly, ready to take on the challenge.
"So. What should we do first?" Yu asks, looking around.
Amaya hums thoughtfully, glancing around the parlor, "Well, for starters, we can start with clearing out some of the old decorations and items we no longer need. We'll make space for our new ideas, and then we can decide on which small, manageable touches we can begin with today."
"Hmmmmm…" The teens look around, considering the possibilities.
She gestures to some of the mismatched chairs and tables, along with a few old posters that don't quite fit the new vision, "Maybe we could start by removing these items so we have a cleaner canvas to work with. Then, we could repaint the front sign or start sketching out ideas for the cosmic mural."
Izuku nods eagerly, setting his notebook aside to help, "That sounds perfect! Clearing some space will also give us a chance to start envisioning how we want things to look. Let's see what we can do with what we have right now."
Kasumi grins and skips over to a wobbly chair, lifting it with determination, "Out with the old and in with the stardust! We'll make this place look like a celestial paradise!"
"But about the paints." Yu purses her lips slightly while crossing her arms on her chest, "Where can we get some good ones on a budget?" She finishes, looking at Amaya for guidance.
Amaya hums thoughtfully, tapping her chin, "I might know a place in town that sells affordable art supplies. They have a pretty good range of paints, and sometimes, if you're lucky, they offer discounted batches. We could take a quick trip to pick up the essentials if we all chip in."
"Sounds like a plan!" Kasumi exclaims, her excitement undeterred, "While we're at it, maybe we can get a few brushes and rollers too. DIY starts with the right tools!"
Yu nods, glancing at Izuku, "We can split up the budget if need be. Every bit helps, and it'll let us stretch our resources. Midoriya-san, what do you think?"
Izuku smiles, feeling a surge of warmth for the group's commitment, "I think that's perfect. Every small step brings us closer. Plus, the more hands-on we are, the more unique and personal Starlight Scoops will feel."
"I just wish that everyone is here." Kasumi pouts slightly, sounding disappointed, "Imagine how fun it would've been if all of us were here!"
Amaya laughs softly, shaking her head, "It's okay, Nakasu-san. I know that the more, the merrier, but having you, Takasaki-san, and Midoriya-kun here already means the world to me." She offers Kasumi a warm smile, "Besides, I'm sure we'll see more of your friends stopping by as the project progresses. With each new addition and change, Starlight Scoops will become a place that truly feels like it belongs to all of us."
Kasumi brightens at Amaya's words, bouncing a little on the balls of her feet, "Yeah! That's true! And even if we don't have the whole club here, we can still have fun!"
Yu nods in agreement, feeling a spark of enthusiasm, "Right! And we can always come back with more people to help in the future too."
"Oh! Oh! Oh! We can also help from the other groups too!" Kasumi exclaims, her eyes gleaming with excitement, "µ's, Aqours, Liella!—we can get them all involved!"
"That sounds like a great idea!" Yu agrees, "Imagine how special it would feel to have all the groups together, helping to make Starlight Scoops a success. We could even do it as an idol event—a service project!"
"…Wait. There're more of them? How many school idols does this world have?" Izuku wonders, a little shocked at the amount.
"Uhm, with all due respect, girls. I don't think it will be a good idea to bring your idols friends here." Amaya interrupts them, sounding a bit worried, "I mean, as much as I appreciate the enthusiasm, I don't think having big names like them will do us any good. I-I mean, while I want Starlight Scoops to be recognized by many, having too many well-known idols here at once might draw an overwhelming crowd or set expectations that I can't meet just yet. I want Starlight Scoops to grow gradually and organically, you know? Like… a hidden gem people stumble upon and fall in love with."
"Awwww, whaaaaat~?" Kasumi pouts, crossing her arms, "Why not? It'll be so cool!"
"I am aware, Nakasu-san. But like I said. If big names like µ's and Aqours come in all at once, it could set the bar too high too soon. I want to create a steady, welcoming atmosphere where people feel like they’ve discovered something special on their own. Kind of like… a constellation that takes shape little by little, rather than a sudden burst of stardom." Amaya explains gently, trying to balance Kasumi's excitement with her own concerns.
Izuku nods thoughtfully, seeing her point, "It makes sense. We could still work with the idea of a 'soft' promotion, maybe through subtle word-of-mouth. That way, people gradually hear about it and become curious enough to visit, but it doesn't cause a big rush."
"…Right." Yu, though disappointed, can see where Amaya and Izuku are coming from as she agrees with a small nod, "Maybe we could even have some of our friends mention Starlight Scoops here and there without making it a big deal. Just enough to build some interest."
Kasumi's pout softens, and she nods slowly, "Okay, that's true. I guess a big crowd all at once would be a lot… But when it's ready, then can we all come together for a special event here?"
Amaya laughs softly, nodding, "Absolutely. When the time feels right, maybe we can hold a fun little gathering or even a themed night with you all. We'll make it something memorable but manageable."
Kasumi's face lights up, satisfied, "Deal! And in the meantime, we'll make this place sparkle one step at a time!"
"All right." Izuku smiles, feeling a surge of determination, "Let's get started then. We have a lot to do."
"Agreed." Amaya nods, turning to face the others, "And thank you again for being here, everyone. Let's do our best."
Kasumi beams, pumping her fist in excitement, "Starlight Scoops is going to be the cutest ice cream parlor in all of Shizuoka!"
"And everyone will enjoy themselves here!" Yu exclaims, a wide smile on her face.
With that, the four of them set to work, clearing away old items to make room for their plans. Amaya directs the group with gentle confidence, while Izuku jots down notes and sketches in his notebook. Kasumi enthusiastically pitches in wherever she can, and Yu cheerfully carries out tasks. They remove all unnecessary items, except for the chairs and tables still needed when the parlor opens. Once they have the budget for new ones, they'll replace the older furniture with more fitting pieces. For now, any chairs or tables deemed unnecessary or showing signs of wear are placed outside to be disposed of later. It may be a slight inconvenience for customers, but it's the most practical approach for now. They don't want to overwhelm the space with broken pieces.
As they work, the four of them fall into an easy rhythm, laughing and chatting as they carry out the small tasks. Even though the work is physically tiring, the atmosphere is light and energized by their collective sense of purpose. Each one of them, even Kasumi with her playful attitude, is committed to giving Starlight Scoops a fresh start.
"A million thanks, Takasaki-san." Izuku says gratefully as he and the idol manager are moving a large, slightly rusted table outside, "I'm glad you're here. Seriously. While I may not look like it, I really appreciate extra hands for this project. It will definitely make things a lot easier and smoother."
Yu chuckles as she pushes her side of the table towards the door, "It's no problem, Midoriya-san. My hands are always at your disposal. Besides, I want to help Starlight Scoops become a success too. And, well, it's a good chance for me to hang out with you more!" She smiles warmly at him, "I mean, we get to spend time together, get to know each other more, and help someone else too! It's a win-win-win, really!"
Izuku blushes slightly, feeling his heart skip a beat at her words. He's glad that Yu wants to spend time with him and that she's willing to help Starlight Scoops succeed. And he has to admit, it feels nice to have extra help, especially when it comes from someone so kind and enthusiastic. He's truly grateful to have her here.
"Thank you again, Takasaki-san." He smiles back at her, "I am glad you're here. Truly."
"And I am glad I'm here too!" She replies as they set down the table next to the parlor's front door, "I'm having lots of fun, and I know this is going to be amazing. We're going to turn Starlight Scoops into something truly special, and I can't wait to see what we create together."
Izuku nods in agreement, feeling a sense of determination, "We'll do our best, Takasaki-san. Starlight Scoops is going to be a place where everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy themselves. And we're going to make sure of it."
"Yeah." Yu agrees with a wide grin, "And we'll make it a place that Hoshino-san can be proud of too. And who knows? Maybe the club and the other school idols will come along later. Like… a family gathering or something!"
"School idols… Hmmmm…"
While he's not exactly hooked by this idol culture, the greenette can't deny that his interest has been piqued. It does seem like something really cool to experience firsthand. Plus, after meeting the Nijigasaki High School Idol Club members yesterday, his curiosity is only growing.
Maybe it wouldn't hurt to at least learn more about school idols and their activities. Nijigasaki could be his first window into this fascinating culture.
"Hey, Takasaki-san. Can I ask about your club?" He asks as they go back inside the parlor to grab another worn-out table, "I mean, I'm a bit curious about them."
"Oh, of course!" She replies cheerfully, "What would you like to know?"
"Well, for starters, your position." He says, tilting his head as they make their way towards the corner of the parlor where the old, rusted table is placed, "I mean, yesterday, you said that you are the manager of the Nijigasaki High School Idol Club. And then Nakasu-san said that she is your club's president. So I'm confused. Are there, like, different roles or special positions among club members, or is it more flexible than that?"
Yu chuckles as they lift the table together, "Yeah, it can be a bit confusing at first. Nijigasaki's club is unique because it's built around individual idols. Each member has her own style, and that makes for a bit more freedom in roles. While Kasumi-chan's technically the president now, I'm the manager—the one who organizes events, schedules, and supports everyone in the background."
"So it's kind of like you're coordinating the team while Nakasu-san leads?" Izuku asks, his curiosity growing.
"Exactly!" She smiles, "Kasumi-chan's great with ideas, and she brings so much energy to the club, so her being president works well. And I get to focus on logistics and making sure everything goes smoothly."
Izuku nods with a small hum, "That makes sense. So, what about the other clubs? Are they organized the same way?"
"Not exactly. Each school's idol club is structured differently." Yu explains, "For example, µ's and Aqours follow more traditional setups with leader roles and team-based activities, while Liella!'s dynamic is somewhere between those two."
"Sounds like a lot of teamwork." Izuku comments with a smile, catching Yu's gaze, "I can see how it might be really fulfilling, especially when you're all aiming for a shared goal."
"Absolutely. It's one of the best feelings." Yu agrees, setting the table outside, "Each of us works hard not only to shine individually but also to lift each other up. It's like we're all stars in one sky, coming together to create something brighter."
Izuku nods, feeling a new sense of respect for Yu and the other idols. It's not unlike the way heroes inspire each other. While their methods are different from one another, they all have a common goal: to use their talents to make a difference in the world.
"…Say, Takasaki-san. Do you ever think about… you know, performing as a school idol yourself?" He asks as they take the table outside and set it next to the other one.
Yu laughs softly, shaking her head, "Me? A school idol? I don't think I could ever do that. Besides, I already love my role as manager. I get to help others shine and support them from the sidelines, so I'm happy with where I am."
Izuku tilts his head in curiosity as they make their way back towards the parlor, "Really? I think you'd be great at it. I mean, you never know until you try, right?"
Yu stops for a moment, surprised, and then laughs softly, her cheeks dusted with a faint blush, "Well, I appreciate that, Midoriya-san. But honestly, it just feels… easier to support everyone else from behind the scenes. I'm not really the type to be in the spotlight." She pauses, giving him a warm smile, "But thanks. It's sweet of you to think I'd be good at it."
"U-Uhhhh…" He stammers, blushing slightly at her words, "I-I was just saying what I thought. That's all."
Yu laughs again, her eyes gleaming with amusement, "I know, I know. I'm just teasing." She pats him on the shoulder, "Come on, let's go grab the last of the tables."
They head back into the parlor, their camaraderie easy and comfortable as they work together. Despite the task's simplicity, there's a sense of satisfaction in clearing out the old and preparing for the new—a feeling that this small project, while humble, is something worthwhile. The air inside Starlight Scoops feels brighter, charged with renewed potential as they make room for Amaya's dream to finally take shape.
With each step, their excitement grows, as if each item moved and each plan discussed is bringing them one step closer to turning Starlight Scoops into the special place it deserves to be.