The next day
Stage SEKAI
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MEIKO
Wow...! I don't think any of us realized the Lumina Grand Prix would be such a big competition.
Airi
By the scale of the program, as well as the number of entrants. Also, the thought that went into it. Everything went beyond our expectations...
Len
So that they can move forward...
That goes perfectly with what you've all been trying to do as idols.
That goes perfectly with what you've all been trying to do as idols.
Airi
Hmm... There really were a lot of things, but the part that resonated with me the most was her story about what it means to have an idol's heart.
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Elementary School Airi
Light blue is in right now, so I tried adding that for a more grown-up combination!
Elementary School Airi
And this pleated skirt is key too!
The hem's a little short, so it...elongates my legs, right?
The hem's a little short, so it...elongates my legs, right?
Airi's Mother
Hehe. Where did you learn that...?
You must've been studying fashion quite a bit lately.
You must've been studying fashion quite a bit lately.
Airi's Mother
Oh, Afternoon Girls...?
They're the group that's been on TV quite a lot lately, yes? Aren't they incredibly popular?
They're the group that's been on TV quite a lot lately, yes? Aren't they incredibly popular?
Elementary School Airi
Yeah! That's why being a member of their sister group would mean getting to appear on TV and put on a lot of shows.
Elementary School Airi
Yup! Everyone in Afternoon Girls is really cool and mature, so this group's gonna be more cute and cheerful.
Elementary School Airi
And their goal is gonna be to make all of Japan smile! Just like my dream!
Airi's Mother
That's right. The agency also seems reputable, so I don't have a problem with you auditioning for them.
Airi's Mother
Yes, but... Before you go ahead with this, there's something I need to ask you, Airi.
Airi's Mother
There are countless others just like you out there who look up to idols and want to become one...
Airi's Mother
Auditioning for this group means competing against them. Do you understand that?
Elementary School Airi
If I want to be chosen, then I'm gonna have to start practicing harder than ever.
Airi's Mother
Yes. However, that doesn't mean you're allowed to let your grades slip. Do you promise to work hard in both respects?
Airi's Mother
I believe in you, Airi, so I'm going to give you all the support I can. Let's do our best on this audition!
Airi's Mother
Hehe. Aren't I?
Anyway, let's start by finding more information about this audition, shall we?
Anyway, let's start by finding more information about this audition, shall we?
Elementary School Airi
Okay! Let's see... The first step is to send in an application and have them review it...
A few weeks later
Park
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Elementary School Airi
(I'm glad Mom and I worked so hard coming up with answers to those questions!)
Elementary School Airi
(But I can't let my guard down, since I still have to pass the second round...)
Elementary School Airi
(I've gotta sing and dance in a way that totally blows the judges away!)
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Neighborhood Bully A
Whoa, you're right. And why are you wearing a skirt?! You look so stupid in that thing.
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Elementary School Airi
(Are they still bitter about the way I punished them for picking on my little sister?)
Next Chapter: How to Sparkle