Hey there, Shioriko.

Hi, Karin. What's wrong?

I could ask you the same thing. I don't usually find you here alone. Where are the other first years?

Kasumi went to go pick up something she left behind, and Shizuku and Rina went to return some books to the library. I'm watching over their bags.

I see. Maybe I can sit here and keep you occupied until they get back.

Th-That won't be necessary. I'm sure they'll be back any minute. And I don't want to impose on your time.

*Chuckle* Sorry. I meant that I wanted to chat with you.

Well, in that case… I'd be delighted.

Hey, remember the hydrangea garden we visited recently? It was gorgeous, right?

Extremely so. It was a magnificent sight.

You really surprised me with how much you knew about hydrangeas. I ended up learning so much.

Oh, those were just things I happened to know.

Around then was when we talked about how hydrangeas don't just change their colors due to their environment, but keep changing once they start blooming, right?

And then someone said it was the same with school idols.

That latter part was Ayumu. Honoka and Ruby also mentioned it.

That's right. Rainy days like today really remind me of that talk now. And when I remember it, it fills me with motivation. How about you, Shioriko?

I thought this as I was listening back then, too…

I've noticed that there are many vibrant colors in the School Idol Club. I think that I've been influenced by everyone's colors from that club… Especially yours, Karin.

My, my. I'm glad to hear you say something so nice. But you know, we've all been influenced by you as well.

I hope that we can keep on influencing each other for a long time to come!