[Oshi No Ko] Season 3 Episode 9: Greed and Passion

Director Gorou Amemiya faces the stark financial realities of filmmaking. He and Gotanda navigate endless meetings with producers, investors, and distributors. Millions of yen are discussed, and the art quickly becomes a matter of profit and risk assessment. The process is a necessary evil, turning creative vision into a commodity.

Gorou articulates his grand ambition: to create a work that resonates for a century, a social phenomenon. Gotanda, though recognizing the sentiment, counters with a cynical, pragmatic view. He cares more for making money now than posthumous praise. Their contrasting philosophies highlight the constant tension within creative industries.

Casting proves to be another hurdle for Gotanda. Popular actors are difficult to secure, their schedules tight, their interest fleeting. The last-minute withdrawal of a key actress further complicates matters, though Aqua Hoshino is confirmed for a role. Gotanda relies on past favors, exposing the transactional nature of the industry.

Kana Arima playfully, if morbidly, tests Aqua Hoshino with a choice of painful deaths. Her childish humor contrasts sharply with the underlying tension of Aqua's burgeoning fame. When other students recognize him, they are forced to flee. This shows the immediate, disruptive impact of public attention on their everyday lives.

Hiding from the public, Kana expresses her frustration with Aqua's growing renown. She offers a new, public-friendly nickname, "A-kun," then blushes as she declares him a "dear friend." The moment is fraught with unspoken romantic tension, swiftly shattered by Aqua's abrupt revelation. He states plainly, "I broke up with Akane."

Mem-Cho arrives, noting the apparent closeness between Aqua and Kana. She then shifts to concern, addressing the breakup with Akane. Mem-Cho urges Aqua to smooth things over, seeing the social awkwardness of the situation. Aqua responds with a chilling resolve, implying he will use any means necessary.

Aqua Hoshino walks past Akane Kurokawa in a hallway, his expression blank. He calmly declares his intention to use "everything I can," including Akane herself. A news article linking him to Ai Komachi flashes on a screen, confirming his public identity. At Ai's grave, he whispers a vow to fulfill her "true wish."

The episode concludes with Ruby Hoshino appearing behind Aqua at Ai's grave. Her eyes gleam with a dark, unsettling star-like quality, and a mischievous, almost sinister smile plays on her lips. She observes her brother, calling him a "tragic hero." Her presence suggests a shared, darker path for the twins.