Chapter 1: 1
The neon lights of Tokyo's bustling streets flickered as they reflected in the rain-slicked pavement. Anzu Masaki, a lithe and graceful dancer with a mane of jet-black hair, hurried through the crowded streets. In her arms she held a letter that had arrived in the morning, a letter from the Erosia Republic.
The invitation was to an exclusive dance event, one that promised to catapult her career to new heights. Anzu had returned to Japan after studying abroad, eager to conquer the dance scene in her homeland.
She could feel the excitement bubbling inside her as she pushed open the heavy glass door of the coffee shop, nestled in a quiet corner of a bustling Tokyo neighborhood. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee enveloped her, and she made her way to a small table by the window. She set down the invitation and ordered a matcha latte, her heart fluttering with anticipation.
Her phone buzzed with a message from her best friend, Yumi. "So? What's the big news?"
Anzu grinned, snapping a picture of the invitation and sending it back. "Just got an invite to dance in the Erosia Republic. Can you believe it?" Anzu typed back, her fingers dancing across the screen.
Yumi's response was instant. "OMG! That's huge, Anzu! You gotta go!"
Anzu smiled, taking a sip of her matcha latte. The sweet, creamy flavor grounded her, a familiar comfort in the midst of the whirlwind of excitement. She looked out the window, watching as the city pulsed with life. The Erosia Republic—it was a world away from the neon lights and sushi bars of Tokyo.
And then there was the call a few days later, the one that would change everything.
It was Valentina Rossi, the producer herself, her voice a sultry purr down the line, her English tinged with an Italian accent that was as melodic as it was commanding. "Anzu, darling, I heard you're the best thing to come out of Japan since ramen noodles. I want you in my show."
Anzu's heart pounded in her chest as she clutched the phone, trying to keep her voice steady. "Mrs. Rossi, I...I don't know what to say."
Valentina laughed, a sound like warm honey. "Say yes, my dear.
That's all there is to it," Valentina purred, her voice a velvety marble in a sea of excited nerves.
Anzu's grip tightened on the phone, her knuckles turning white.
"I mean, I...I would love to, but I don't know anything about the show yet. What kind of dance is it? What's the theme? I need to prepare."
Valentina chuckled, a sound that was both reassuring and enigmatic. "Oh, darling, don't you worry about any of that. It's all part of the surprise. As for the preparation, you were a Broadway dancer, weren't you? You'll be fine. Leave everything to me, Valentina declared firmly. "I promise you, Anzu, this is an opportunity that will change your life. I have a car waiting for you at the airport. You stay with me while you’re in the Erosia Republic. no hassle at all. Trust me, darling.”
Anzu felt a flutter of anxiety in her stomach, but the promise of adventure and the allure of Valentina’s confident attitude won her over. "Okay, Mrs. Rossi. I'll do it."
Valentina’s laugh was like a melody. “Call me Valentina, darling. We’ll be great friends, I know it. See you soon, Anzu”, Valentina said, her voice dripping with honeyed promise before the line went dead. Anzu stared at her phone, a mix of excitement and apprehension swirling in her chest. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart.
She looked out at the bustling streets of Tokyo, the neon lights casting a kaleidoscope of colors on the wet pavement. The city was alive, pulsating with energy and opportunity. Anzu felt a surge of determination. This was her moment, her chance to shine on an international stage.
According to the email that Kyoko later received, the show was an annual event featuring traditional dance from the Republic of Erosia, inviting guest dancers from all over the world every year.
In her hands, Anzu held a packet of papers they had delivered to her doorstep with a red ribbon wrapped around them. Inside was a series of sketches of costumes that Anzu had never seen before. “The stage costumes will be traditional dance costumes from the Republic of Erosia,” and the email concluded, "Due to various circumstances, the contract will be concluded on site." Anna grinned with a twinge of optimism and a raised brow as she read that sentence.
Anzu opened the attachment and found several photos, some of them from a previous show. Both the men and women appeared to be wearing only loincloths and accessories, but the lighting and smoke made it hard to see.
The text read, "The stage costumes will be traditional dance costumes from the Republic of Yerosia," and at the end of the email it said, "Due to various circumstances, a contract will be concluded locally." Anzu read the text and gave a slightly optimistic smile, then raised her eyebrows.
The Republic of Erosia was a small island nation on the Mediterranean coast and that while it was a thriving tourist destination, it had a reputation as a progressive nation that advocated "sexual liberation" and "women's freedom." Entertainment was thriving here, and Anzu thought that performing on stage in this country would add luster to her career. But as she looked at the photos, she felt a twinge of unease. The dancers seemed to be doing more than just dancing—especially in the photos where the lighting was more revealing. She thought about the costume designs, the allure of performing abroad, and the more detailed emails she had received from Valentina Rossi.
The capital, Erosia City, was known for its vibrant nightlife, and Anzu realized that she would be part of a show that might be more provocative than she had initially imagined. She took a deep breath adjusting her glasses, the cold air from the AC bringing her back to the room.
A week later, Anzu was in the Republic of Ethiopia.
She had planned to spend the first day after her arrival resting and meeting Valentina on the second day. After dropping her luggage at the luxurious hotel where Valentina had arranged for her to stay, she headed to a nearby beach.
The Mediterranean Sea stretched out before her, sparkling under the bright sunshine. The sand was warm beneath her feet, and the salty air filled her lungs as she walked along the shore. The beach was a mix of locals and tourists, the latter easily recognizable by their excited chatter and camera flashes.
Anzu found a quiet spot away from the crowds and sat down just as a wave washed up on the shore. She leaned back on one hand and watched the world around her. The Erosia Republic was a world away from the bustling streets of Tokyo, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of adventure and excitement.
In many parts of the Republic of Erosia, revealing skin was legal, and there were many topless women (some of whom were foreign tourists.) Anzu was surprised, but a woman who passed by laughed and said, "In this country, going topless is encouraged in nightclubs and the like." Anzu was confused. She had heard about the Republic's liberal attitudes, but seeing it in action was a different story altogether.
Anzu looked around, her eyes wide with surprise as she took in the unfamiliar sights. Women lounged on the beach, their skin glistening with sunscreen and oil, completely at ease with their surroundings. Some of them even had piercings and tattoos that Anzu had never seen before. "I didn’t know this culture was so open about nudity." she muttered to herself, her cheeks flushing slightly.
Sexual matters do not seem to be considered taboo in the Republic of Erozia, and I saw many young people having such conversations. Among them were couples who repeatedly engaged in flashy body contact, and couples who indulged in passionate lovemaking as if nothing unusual had happened. Anzu looked away, thinking about the dance show she was about to perform. The invitation said it would be a traditional dance, but given the liberal atmosphere, she couldn't shake the feeling of uneasiness. What on earth was a "traditional dance" in this progressive republic?
As she stood up, brushing the sand off her legs, she felt a strange mix of curiosity and apprehension. She had come here with an open mind, but the reality of the Erosia Republic was more liberating than any fictional depiction she had heard.
Anzu decided to go to the museum, where she learned about the history of the Erosia Republic and the country's unique open sexual culture, how a woman's pregnancy is treated as a social celebration, and how the act of reproduction is considered sacred based on traditional worship of the Earth Mother.
Mixed in with the other tourists were locals who were carrying their young children. Some of the locals looked like they were in their senior years or beyond, and all of the locals, regardless of age, seemed to have a sense of harmony and joy that she had never seen before. "I have never heard of any country that worships the earth mother," she said to herself.
The museum was quiet, the only sound was the sound of the stone floor as her feet shuffled on it.
The museum guide explained to Anzu that much of the entertainment in the Erosia Republic incorporates sex, but that ritualistic sexual intercourse is featured in the country's traditional Mother Goddess worship ceremonies, and that this is thought to have developed into entertainment as it includes theatrical elements. "The dances are performed not just for pleasure, but also to honor the goddess, to celebrate life, and to ensure fertility."
The museum guide explained that traditional dance also contains such elements, but that they are merely part of the dance performance, merely gestures. At one time, worship of the Earth Mother Goddess was banned, and actual sexual acts were replaced with gestures, which continues to this day. "Masaki-san, the Republic of Erosia has a rich history of celebrating life through dance and movement, but it is also a history that has seen change and evolution. The dance you perform is not just entertainment; it has a deeper meaning, a connection to the divine." Anzu listened intently, gazing intently at the intricate tapestries and statues depicting the goddesses and their rituals.
Anzu felt a strange sensation bubble up inside her, a mixture of excitement and trepidation.
The next day, Anzu met Valentina at a cafe in town.
As they sat down, the cafe's warm, inviting atmosphere surrounding them, Valentina's eyes sparkled with mischief. "So, Anzu, what do you think of our little island paradise?" she asked, leaning back in her chair and crossing her legs. "I must say, I find it amusing that you're surprised and confused by our open culture. You're in for a treat, darling. This is a place where people don't hide their desires—including, of course, our dance performances."
Valentina's gaze held a glint of amusement as she took a sip of her espresso. The cup trembled slightly as she placed it back on the saucer.
"So, tell me, what do you think of our little village?" she said, her eyes sparkling with curiosity and amusement.
Anzu shifted uncomfortably in her seat, her cheeks flushing as she tried to find the right words.
"I have to admit, Valentina, I'm confused. The people here, the way they live... it's so different from what I'm used to. But when I learned about the belief in the Earth Mother Goddess at the museum, some of the ideas came to light." She took a deep breath, her fingers tracing the rim of her glass. "I guess I'm still trying to wrap my head around it all. I mean, the way they talk about sex and its role in society back home in Japan is frowned upon. But here it's... it's different. It's celebrated, it's worshipped. I've never seen anything like it before."
Valentina chuckled, her eyes holding a playful gleam. "Darling, you're in a place where people embrace their desires, where they worship life in all its forms. It's not about repression or shame; it's about freedom and celebration."
Valentina sipped her espresso, her eyes never leaving Anzu's face. "As for the show, it's organised by the National Theatre and there are around 20 performers," Valentina began, her voice full of enthusiasm. "Five of them are guest dancers, you being one of them. The show is based on traditional Erosian dance but to keep it fresh and exciting we've incorporated popular dance styles from around the world into the choreography. It's all part of the show's unique charm - a mix of traditional and contemporary elements. We invite guests from all over the world to create buzz and give the audience something familiar yet fresh and exotic. This show is exactly what that is about - a way to incorporate something new and exciting while still respecting tradition."
Anzu listened intently, her mind racing with the implications of what Valentina was saying.
Valentina then explained about the stage costumes. The costumes for traditional Erosian dance for both men and women consist only of a loincloth and accessories, meaning that women are topless. Anzu was surprised, but when she heard the explanation that it was to express mysticism and the vitality of life, and that it was a revival of the ancient belief in the Earth Mother Goddess, she understood.
She felt a mix of excitement and apprehension, not just about the physicality of it all, but also about the depth of meaning behind the performance. "But, Valentina, I'm not sure I can do this. I mean, I've danced in front of audiences before, but never like this. It's so... different from what I've done before."
Valentina leaned forward, her voice softening with understanding. "I know it's a big step, Anzu. And I know it's intimidating, but think of it this way: maybe this will lead to new forms of physical expression." She then explained that although the dance includes sexual acts, they are basically gestures and not actually performed.
Valentina's eyes held a mixture of encouragement and understanding as she continued. "It may seem shocking, but the Republic of Erosia has always been a land that celebrates the human body and the divine. Just like the ancient rituals of the Earth Mother, this is a sacred act that will help you to connect with something more profound than just physical pleasure."
Anzu's eyes were wide and her heart was pounding. "So you mean I'm actually going to perform these...gestures...in front of an audience?" she asked in a whisper. Valentina's eyes were sparkling with a playful gleam.
"Yes, but being able to express natural human emotions on stage through gestures is a profound experience. That kind of dance inspires people's hearts and minds. But I want to be part of the process where this dance brings people together and makes them realize that we are all the same," Anzu confessed. Her voice was calm despite the swirling thoughts. She had been a dancer her whole life and was passionate about art and dance, but she had never imagined herself performing in a show like this and the thought of the men taking part for the wrong reasons made her shudder.
Valentina, sensing Anzu’s hesitation, leaned forward, her eyes filled with sincerity. "I understand, Anzu. This is a unique opportunity, and you have to be comfortable with it," she said softly. "But, just as you said, it is deeply rooted in our traditions and culture. It's a way to honor the Mother Goddess and to celebrate life itself. It's not just about the physicality; it's about the spirituality and the celebration of the human form. This is traditional. It's not just a dance for entertainment, but something deeper."
As the words left Valentina's lips, Anzu felt a newfound sense of purpose. She would be a part of something that went deeper than mere performance, something that honored a tradition passed down through generations. She felt a sense of weightlessness and reverence.
Anzu took a deep breath, letting the weight of what she was about to do settle into her. She didn’t have a lot of time to consider anymore. She had already committed to this journey, and the prospect of embracing such a profound tradition felt both exhilarating and intimidating. She looked into Valentina's eyes, her voice filled with a newfound determination. "Valentina, I will do it."
Valentina smiled, her eyes sparkling with pride and admiration. "That's the spirit, Anzu. I knew you had it in you," Valentina said, her smile widening as she reached into her bag and pulled out a thick envelope. She took out the contract. "Now, let's make this official."
Valentina pulled out a contract. It was paragraphs and paragraphs of legalese. Anzu's eyes widened as she scanned the document. On one page she noticed a line that read, "The show may involve personal physical interaction as a penalty for games or competitions," but Valentina quickly ignored it with a wave of her hand. "Don't worry, this is a clause that only applies when filming variety shows. It's just a formality," Valentina reassured Anzu. Her voice was smooth and confident.
"I have a question," she told Valentina. The atmosphere in the coffee shop was as warm and inviting as ever, but Anzu's words seemed to add a heaviness to the conversation.
"No problem, Anzu, feel free to ask anything you like." Valentina replied, still smiling, her eyes never faltering from Anzu's face.
"Um... what does this clause here, 'Provisions regarding physical effects' mean?" Anzu asked in a voice a little brighter than usual, pointing to the clause in the contract.
Valentina leaned forward in her seat. "Ah, that's just a standard clause, darling. It's an explanation of unexpected illness or injury. It's an agreement that covers the possibility that the organizers might not be able to take full responsibility for unexpected accidents."
Anzu was satisfied and signed the contract. Rehearsals would start the next day, and the performance would be in a week. The weighted pen felt foreign in her hands, nearly slipping between her fingers as she scratched her name on the line. Her stomach flipped as her heart pounded, her arms flushing red while she shook Valentina's hand.
Valentina's smile stretched wider, if that was even possible. “You won’t regret it, Anzu.” Her eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief, and Anzu couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to this than she was letting on. As Valentina put the contract away, she poured on the smiles. “Today is your day to explore. Enjoy your time in Erosia, but tomorrow, we work. It will be challenging, but it will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life."
Anzu had been assured by Valentina that her journey into the Republic of Erosia's dance scene would be one of immense personal and professional growth. Valentina had departed on the other side of the street next to the Erosia City Museum.
As she made her way down the bustling streets of Erosia City, Anzu couldn't help but feel a strange mix of excitement and trepidation. The vibrant energy of the city buzzed around her, the air thick with the scent of sweet pastries and saltwater. The cobblestone streets were lined with vibrant buildings, their whitewashed walls adorned with colorful flowers and laughter. Children played, chasing one another through the narrow alleys, their voices filling the air with a melody of joy. Anzu felt a deep sense of awe as she took in the beauty of this place. She had been to many cities, but the charm of Erosia City was unlike anything she had ever experienced.
The city's vibrancy, the joyous laughter of its people, and even the tactile sensation of the cobblestone streets under her bare feet had all conspired to cast a spell over her. She felt a strange sense of liberation, a kind of freedom that was both exhilarating and terrifying. Anzu was wearing a white camisole and denim shorts, but she still felt like she was wearing too much. However, she felt uncomfortable about being topless in private.
"Work is work," she thought, trying to suppress the nervous excitement bubbling inside her as she walked through the bustling streets. She had always been a professional, but this was a new kind of professionalism. She walked down the narrow streets, the smell of garlic and olive oil wafting through the air from the open-air restaurants. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow over the city.