So that's what Shizuku was thinking.

Yeah. I think she pondered long and hard about her decision to join the School Idol Association too.

So I don't want to be too hard on her.

Me too. Especially since we'll still be there for each other, no matter where she goes.

Right! So I'm also going to keep rooting for Shizuku like I always have.

*Giggle* That's just like you. And I'll be cheering for her right here with you too!

I'm so glad to hear you say that, Ayumu.

Because well, it seems like this blindsided Kasumi and Emma, so I'm kind of worried about them.

Yeah, me too. Kasumi and Shizuku are pretty close, so this was probably a big shock for her.

Are they doing all right?

Hard to say… But I completely understand why they'd be down in the dumps. We're all sad to see her go, after all.

But we made up our minds to do our best as the School Idol Club, so that's just what we have to do.

The rest of us can help support them too, so don't feel like this is all on you to worry about.

You know, I never knew you could be so supportive.

*Giggle* You think so? Did I show you that we don't always just rely on you for everything?

You're always doing your best to support us, but don't forget that we want to be there for you too.

Thanks, Ayumu. I feel like a weight has lifted off my shoulders.

But at the same time, I'm really interested to see Shizuku as a member of the School Idol Association.

Your love for school idols is back in full swing! *Giggle*

Ohhh, don't tease me! But that's how I really feel. I'm sure all the experiences she'll have with them will be a huge boon for her.

The Association has the perfect facilities for her to really polish her skills as a performer.

Once she gets some practice in that kind of environment and if she keeps singing Mia's songs, I'm sure that we'll see a Shizuku unlike any we've seen before.

I can't wait to see Shizuku after she's faced those new challenges.

*Giggle* You really do love every single school idol, huh. Aren't you even a little upset?

I wouldn't say I'm not upset. But, there are many things that I'm not able to provide, and I think it's most important that everyone is able to do the things they want to do.

The School Idol Association might be amazing, but I don't think that means the School Idol Club, nor you, has lost to them.

And I'll be right beside you with everyone from our club as we keep growing as school idols.

So don't focus on anyone else. Keep your eyes on us, okay?

Of course, my eyes are always on you guys. Because I'm excited to see you and everyone else perform.

Then we also have to do our best to surprise you with a performance that won't lose to Shizuku's.

Ahaha. I'm looking forward to that.

[Fade in/out.]

*Sigh*

Even though I was determined to transfer to the School Idol Association, I still should have thought more about my timing to break the news to everyone.

Everyone was in really low spirits after the guerrilla gig, so why did I pick then to tell them?

But I couldn't just not tell them. After seeing Kasumi's show… The president, she and Kasumi looked like they'd just figured something out.

For some reason, I got so anxious.

Oh, geez! Just sitting here thinking isn't helping me! I need to call Ai!

[Taking out phone.]

Hey there. What's up, Shizuku?

I'm so sorry for calling so late. There's actually something I wanted to talk to you about.

[Fade in/out.]

Oh now I see, so that's what's going on.

I really am sorry about calling you out of the blue like this.

Don't worry, it's fine! I'll talk to Lanzhu about it, so come to the clubroom after class tomorrow. Everyone will be happy to have you!

Gah… Thank you very much.

But I think you should properly lay out your reasoning for everyone so that they understand why you're doing this, not just Prez.

Yes, I know I should, but…

Well, I suppose I don't have any room to talk, though. It'll take time to get there, but I want everyone who loves school idols to be close with each other.

Indeed…

Hey now, turn that frown upside down! You're coming to the Association to boost your skills, right? We have a strict daily routine, you know!

I-Is it really that hard?

We've got experienced professionals who are really helping us put our noses to the grindstone. I'm dead tired every day.

But that's exactly why I feel like I'm improving. This way really works.

Ai…

So, Shizuku, don't sweat it and come dive right in!

O-Okay! In that case, I'm looking forward to it!

Yep, yep! Better get lots of sleep tonight so you're good and ready for tomorrow! Good night!

[Putting phone away.]

I'm getting really excited about the School Idol Association.

I'm sure there are things that I can only learn there. I'll do my best!