I think we're really improving!

Yes, that seemed fairly balanced.

I think for the second verse, instead of doing that leg move all together, we should try something a little more creative. What do you think?

Oh, I thought so, too. And the angles should match.

Okay, let me replay that part real quick.

[Fade in/out.]

Oh, I kind of ruin the balance.

Wow. Karin, you look so slender and stylish.

We don't want me to be the only one standing out this time, though.

Hmm. Then let's tweak this part a little.

(Oh, what a waste. Karin looked so pretty.)

The singing needs to match up better, too. We should decide on everything now, like how many beats to hold the note at the end of the hook. Right?

Yeah, I guess if we're going to do this, we need to be thorough.

Oh, sorry. That was me. I'll make sure to match the music better.

(But I really love how Emma's voice carries. This is a group performance though, so I guess we have to make the sacrifice.)

[Fade in/out.]

Oops, I accidentally added an extra step again.

You really hop around on stage like a little rabbit. A certain somebody was telling me how cute that is.

What?! *Giggle* She tells you stuff like that? She should tell me, too!

*Laugh* I'll let her know on the way home today.

Wh-When it's time to leave, I'll go with you! For now, I'll watch out for those extra steps.

Let's give it another shot! I'm gonna record it.

Okay!

[Fade in/out.]

Whoa, that was great!

Yes, we were synchronized.

What did you think?

How can I put this feeling of uncertainty into words…

The precision of the performance has improved each day. Their dancing is synchronized. Their voices sound lovely together. It's hard to believe it's their first time as a group.

But something… I don't know. Something feels off.

What's wrong?

Huh?! Oh, it's nothing!

Really? If you say so. So, what did you think of that performance?

You were completely in sync! It was perfect!

Really? Hearing you say that puts me in a great mood.

We're getting closer to becoming your ideal group!

Y-Yeah.

My ideal group?

Maybe…

Maybe this performance has become too much about what I want?

Maybe that's why I'm feeling uncomfortable.

Let's play it back again and review it!

Oops, my smile looks forced there.

My smile is looking kind of stiff, too. How embarrassing!

Karin, you're amazing. Your expression never falters. I guess it's thanks to doing modeling.

I suppose I may be slightly better at controlling my facial expressions. Still, I really stand out too much during this part. Maybe I should move behind everyone?

Why didn't I realize this sooner? Even though it's a wonderful performance, and everyone's singing with a smile, it's all just a facade.

I've been trying to force them into performing like μ's and Aqours.

Even though I knew that what makes them really special is that they all have their own charms.

But I made them suppress those, took away their freedom, and restrained them.

Maybe I'm moving too much? *Laugh* I always end up wanting to add extra steps there.

I know what you mean! I always want to pose during this part, right here.

I love your poses, Kasumi.

*Giggle* Thank you so much! I'm proud of my poses. I'm always practicing in front of the mirror.

I learned how to pose from Kasumi during the group practice. I used to find it embarrassing, but now it's really fun.

Karin taught me how to work my legs and make them look attractive. I feel a little more grown-up now, which makes me really happy.

Then it's time to teach you how to take your allure to the next level.

Huh?! W-Wait, I'm not emotionally prepared for that yet!

I was wrong.

Nijigasaki's idols each have their own distinct personalities.

They have their own versions of what makes an ideal school idol, and they shine the most when they're aiming for that ideal.

Nijigasaki's members have their own charms that are different from those of μ's and Aqours.

It's true that their group performances are overwhelmingly powerful, but that's because they're doing something that's a perfect fit for them.

But the Nijigasaki that I love and support is different. If they're not having fun doing the things they want to do, their charms are cut in half.

If everyone keeps working on what they truly enjoy doing, I think their charms could even surpass those of μ's and Aqours!

I think they have the potential to get there! I need to apologize and let them know I was wrong!