Alright, I didn't make a single mistake this time!

Yeah, that looked pretty good!

Thank you, Len. This is a difficult dance, but you've really helped us get the hang of it.

I'm glad I could help you two.
Huh?

Welcome, Airi!

You went over to see how Shizuku was doing, yes? How was she...?

Well, she was practicing like there was no tomorrow.

She seemed so focused...
I got goosebumps just watching her.

It's been a long time since she last gave off this sort of vibe.

A long time?

Yeah... It reminds me of when I was still a trainee.

A trainee? As in, before you debuted with QT?

That's right. Back then, I practiced like crazy every single day in order to rise above my peers.

Trainees of the same cohort are supposed to work together to improve, but they're also rivals competing for a limited number of debut spots.

In other words, because there are only a limited number of spots, not everyone gets to make their debut.

Exactly. That's why I did absolutely everything in my power to get the attention of anyone I could, and show them that I'm the brightest star.

A reminder of how tough show business really is...

It's incredible to think that you were able to win one of those spots and make your big debut.

To be fair, I had a lot of luck on my side.

But we're talking about when I was a trainee.

Right now, Shizuku is practicing even harder than I ever did back then.

It's like when she'd just become the lead for Cheerful * Days...
No, more than that...

She sent shivers down my spine. She was that cool.

Airi...

Which is why...

I believe she's gonna find a way to succeed.

If the people from that production company saw her now, I bet their jaws would be on the floor.

Huh? What's so funny...?

Hehe. Oh, nothing. It's just...

Shizuku must be so happy knowing that she has a loyal fan such as yourself supporting her.

Yeah, she's so blessed as an idol.

Wait, me? Shizuku's fan...?

No, I wasn't trying to say that...!

But your eyes sparkled so much while you were talking about her just now!

Yeah, she'd probably love to hear everything you just said.

Wait, don't you dare tell her!

A-Anyway, we need to start practicing!
And you two are gonna help us, Len, MEIKO!

Hehe. Of course!