Um, okay. Before we get into practice, I'll set aside some time today to discuss everyone's staging effects.

Everyone's already come up with some ideas, right?

Ayumu and Shizuku, I'd like you two to have a look at my plans.

Wow, this is incredible.

Yeah, I think this will make it look like a real amusement park.

*Giggle* I brainstormed with Karin and came up with this.

Little Setsuna over here wouldn't let me sleep.

That's why I got some input from her as well.

Setsu approaches things in a way that I never would, so she's full of epiphanies.

I've got your sleepless efforts to thank for this, Karin!

You've put in some sleepless effort for us as well, Ai.

That's right. You had your nighttime consultation window open for us when we needed you!

What you told us about your experience in the Association was so helpful.

But then it started to feel like a lesson partway through, so I had trouble getting my head around it…

Please go a little easier on us next time, Ai!

Leave it to me! I'll try to think of an easier way to explain things!

You're such a softie, Ai. I'm gonna bet that it's all on the little puppy for not having the brains to understand it.

HEY! I heard you call me “puppy” again! Be respectful to your elders!

Mia, you shouldn't tease Kasumi.

She can't help but call you that because you're so cute, Kasumi. There's nothing cuter than a puppy, right?

Grr… I suppose, if you put it that way. I AM adorable, after all.

You could say that again. I just wanna pat you on the head!

Go ahead and pat me, I don't mind. Just make sure that you don't mess up my hair clip.

Aww, you're as cute as a button, Kasumi!

*Giggle* Lanzhu and Mia sure have settled in well.

They really have, but there's still so much that I want them to tell us about. I'm constantly looking to incorporate new ways of thinking.

Speaking of new ways of thinking, forming new units was definitely a novel idea. I'd honestly never considered that as an option before.

Great idea, Ai!

*Chuckle* It's because I had my eyes opened to a new way to have fun!

Whenever I see someone who impresses me, I get all fired up and work my butt off. That feeling is AMAZING!

I've got my eyes locked on Karin and Lanzhu, you know?

Even when I clash with them and take them on, I just can't seem to win. But that's what makes it even more fun!

All I wanna do is have fun! Whether I'm performing solo or in a unit, I'll do anything to achieve that goal!

You sure are something, Ai. Your goal is so clear.

Maybe Ai is the most selfish of us all.

I'm not selfish! I'm just true to myself!

(Everyone's really excited.)

Lanzhu and Mia have joined us. Ai, Karin, and Shioriko have returned. They've really brightened up the Club's vibe. Everyone looks like they're having fun.

Seeing these girls now with their enthusiasm just…

…makes me so excited for the upcoming live shows!

Should I also try my hand at being a school idol?

Will these unsettled feelings disappear if I perform like everyone else?

But what kind of performance should I do? What feelings should I try to convey?

center

What do school idols really mean to me?

[Fade out.]

left

[Fade in.]

Phew. I'm exhausted again today! Hey, do you want to stop by somewhere?

There's a newly-opened stand that sells fruit juice. We could go there, or…

Listen. There really is something off about you. You seem glum, even. What's wrong?

I-I'm sorry! There was just something on my mind again—

Actually, no. Something isn't just on my mind. I've got these unsettled feelings in my head.

I want to talk it out and organize my thoughts. Will you listen?

[Fade in/out.]

I see, so that's what's been on your mind lately.

Do I really not like school idols as much as everyone else?

Even when I try to consider being a school idol, I can't picture myself as one at all.

All I see is me in the audience, cheering you guys on.

I'm just a fan and an audience member. Do I really belong in the School Idol Club?

…Hey, do you wanna stay over at my place tonight?

There's a lot that I want to talk to you about.

Please?

Ayumu…