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理想のステージを実現させるため、
日々練習に打ち込むAfterglow。更なる成長のため、
ある音楽イベントのオーディションに参加したことが、
彼女達を取り巻く環境を一変させてしまう。
これまで経験したことのない逆境の中で、
彼女達は夕焼け空に何を思うのか――
| Chapter 1 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 11 |
| Chapter 2 | Chapter 7 | Chapter 12 |
| Chapter 3 | Chapter 8 | Chapter 13 |
| Chapter 4 | Chapter 9 | Chapter 14 |
| Chapter 5 | Chapter 10 | Chapter 15 |
Chapter 1[]
Tsugumi
Ran-chan, Moca-chan, Tomoe-chan, are you ready to order?
Ran
Coffee for me.
Tomoe
Ah, make that two!
Moca
I'll have a triple stack pancake set~. The one with ice cream on top~. And a tea, please~.
Ran
Huh? Moca, are you really going to finish all that?
Ran
You were just eating buns from Yamabuki Bakery while walking here.
Tomoe
You managed to devour five of them.
Tsugumi
Th-that many...? Th-that's our Moca-chan...
Moca
Well~, I am going through a growth spurt~.
Ran
I've never seen a time where you weren't in a growing spurt.
Moca
And look how big I've gotten thanks to that.
Tomoe
G-guys, we're here to plan our schedule, right?
Tomoe
You better not overeat and fall asleep. The whole point of us gathering here is to discuss which live music events we're gonna perform in.
Ran
Himari said there are all sorts of events she wants to try entering, didn't she?
Tsugumi
Yep. She said doing an event at a live house we've never performed at might be a good idea.
Tomoe
True, it's important to play on many different stages if we want to improve.
Ran
Speaking of Himari, where is she anyway? Is she not here yet?
Moca
She sent a message saying she's running a bit late~...
Himari
Sorry, I'm late~!
Tsugumi
Ah, right on cue. Welcome, Himari-chan.
Tomoe
Yo, dude, you're tardy today.
Himari
I said I'm sorry~! More importantly, I have big news, everyone!
Ran
Big news?
Moca
Oh, has the diet you vowed to stick to finally paid off, Hii-chan...?
Ran
Hm? You don't look any different.
Himari
Stop! It hasn't worked yet!
Tomoe
So what's the big news, then?
Himari
Fufu, prepare to be amazed~! Believe it or not, they're holding auditions for Melodic Rain!
Tomoe
Melodic Rain...
Tsugumi
Auditions...?
Himari
Exactly! You've heard about the live music event Melodic Rain before, right?
Tomoe
Ah, yeah, I remember now. People have been talking about it recently.
Ran
That's the event that gathers up-and-coming girls bands, right?
Moca
I've heard of it too~. That show attracts a lot of attention, doesn't it~?
Tsugumi
Yep. I heard there are even bands who've received offers from record companies after participating.
Himari
A girl from a band we often see at other events told me about it! She invited us to take part in it together!
Tomoe
Ah, that girl whose band puts on wicked performances, right? You two are getting along well lately.
Moca
Hii-chan is good at making friends~.
Himari
As a result, we've got our hands on valuable information, right? We need to make the most of this opportunity!
Himari
Let's aim for a major debut!
Ran
I don't really care about that... Wasn't our goal to put on the ultimate show?
Tsugumi
Fufu, that's why we've been practicing so hard.
Himari
I know that~. I just think that landing a record deal would be fabulous too~.
Tomoe
Hahaha, well, if we give a killer performance, it's possible we'll get scouted, right?
Moca
Oh~, one could say they go hand in hand~.
Ran
Well, if it's a popular event, a bunch of talented bands are sure to be there. I guess auditioning for it would be worthwhile.
Tsugumi
Mhm. Seeing skilled bands perform in front of our eyes is bound to give us even more motivation.
Himari
Uh-huh! I knew you guys would agree!
Himari
Then are we all in agreement about auditioning?
The Other Four
No objections!
Chapter 2[]
Himari
Sigh~, they're about to announce the results for the first round of judging~.
Tsugumi
A-are you okay, Himari-chan? You look pretty nervous...
Himari
That's because I am~! I know we prepared as best we could, but these other bands seem so talented~!
Tomoe
Hey, man, don't lose your nerve. Don't forget, we gave a great performance ourselves.
Moca
Weren't you telling everyone in our class to cheer for us because we'd definitely make it through~? Where'd all that confidence go~?
Ran
Still, I get why you're worried.
Ran
The overall level of skill here is very high. Your friend's band was really good too, Himari.
Himari
R-right? Oh, I hope we'll be okay~...
Tomoe
Chill out. You're worrying too much. Oh, look, they've stuck the results notice up.
Himari
We're entry number forty-eight, right...? Umm, thirty-six, forty-four...
Tsugumi
Forty-eight... Ah, there it is! We're on the list, everyone!
Himari
You're right! We made it! This is wonderful! We passed!
Moca
Hii-chan, there's no need to jump up and down like that. We can see it with our own eyes~.
Tomoe
Besides, that was only the first stage. We need to perform one more song to make it in, right?
Ran
That reminds me, how did your friend's band do, Himari?
Himari
Ah, I need to check theirs too! I'm sure they'll be fine. Their performance was spectacular, after all~...
Himari
Huh? Umm... Wait, what?
Tsugumi
What is it?
Himari
My friend's number... isn't here...
Himari
...
Tomoe
H-hey, come on, we just passed the first round. Don't pull that face, Himari~.
Himari
But it looks like those girls failed the audition...
Himari
They were practicing really hard, you know. Maybe even more than us...
Tsugumi
Yes, I thought so too. And their performance looked great to me...
Ran
It's kind of weird that they didn't make it through...
???
Please! Tell us the reason!
Tomoe
..? What was that voice just now?
Himari
That voice. Could it be...?
Tsugumi
Huh? Himari-chan, wait!
Himari's Friend
Could you tell us what you didn't like about our performance?
Ran
That's... Himari's friend's band...
Tomoe
They're talking to the producer from the panel of judges.
Producer
Look, there wasn't anything wrong with your performance. Simply put, it's more worthwhile for us to keep other bands over yours.
Himari's Friend
Wh-what kind of bands are you talking about?
Producer
Bands that can attract an audience, obviously. No matter how well you can perform, it doesn't mean a thing unless you can draw paying customers.
Ran & Tomoe
...!
Himari
P-please wait a moment!
Himari
These girls really pushed themselves at practice with the hope of taking part in Melodic Rain!
Himari
Can't you spare a thought for their feelings...?
Producer
I'm sorry, but nobody would come to see an event full of unknown bands.
Moca
When you put it that way, it's not like we're particularly famous either though~.
Tsugumi
Th-that's right...
Producer
What do you mean? Your band has a proven track record. You were a huge hit at Girl Jam last year.
Producer
That event has many fans. Putting a band that had success there in our show would be of value to us.
Himari
D-does that mean... all you're concerned about is the results we produce?
Tsugumi & Moca
...!
Producer
The most important thing is your ability to lure in patrons. As long as you aren't terrible performers, there's no problem.
Ran
... But don't you want to gather bands who put on great performances?
Producer
If performing well is all you can do, then you're not worthy of this kind of event.
Producer
I hate to be the one to tell you this, but a band that can't pull in a crowd is simply messing around. They can't be taken seriously.
Tomoe
How can you say something like that?
Tsugumi
E-everyone is trying their best to put on a great show...!
Moca
That's right. Even us~...
Ran
... I've heard enough. I understand what kind of event this is now.
Himari
Ran...
Ran
I'll say this only once... You have no right to judge bands like that!!
Other Four
...!
Ran
Every band puts their heart and soul into reaching their own goals...!
Ran
Who do you think you are, dismissing people's sincerity by measuring it with your made-up criteria?
Ran
We're in this band for our own purpose, not yours!!
Other Four
...!
Chapter 3[]
Himari
Ugh~! I had no idea it was that kind of event!
Tomoe
I thought it was gonna be a fair fight between all the bands.
Ran
A music event where we aren't even judged on our performance is unbelievable.
Tomoe
Not to mention, they had the gall to claim some bands are just goofing off... That really got under my skin.
Himari
Uh-huh! We made the right decision by ditching the second round of that audition.
Tsugumi
I know how you all feel, but your facial expressions are a little scary...
Moca
Yeah, I think we all need to cool down a bit~.
Tsugumi
Moca-chan...
Moca
In fact, isn't it a good thing we found out what kind of event it really was~?
Moca
If we passed the auditions without knowing, we might've been even angrier...!
Tsugumi
Ah, Moca-chan, I see you're mad as well...
Himari
Moca's right, everyone. That's not the kind of event we want to be a part of.
Tomoe
What we want are shows where you can simply enjoy quality music!
Tomoe
Something with a lineup of bands that give killer performances and guests who come to have fun!
Moca
You said it. That's exactly the kind of event for us~.
Ran
Anyway, let's just forget about that event. We've said our piece. There's no use letting it bother us any further.
Ran
There are a ton of other events we plan on entering, so let's turn our attention to those.
Tomoe & Himari
Yep! Yeah!
Moca
That being said, you made me all tingly back then, Ran~.
Ran
Huh? What are you talking about?
Tomoe
She's talking about when you gave that producer a piece of your mind, of course.
Tomoe
Since you put it out there like that, even I felt a sense of relief!
Himari
Uh-huh! You didn't back down at all in front of that pushy producer!
Tsugumi
The other bands who were watching were surprised by your intensity too.
Ran
That's just because that producer's rambling was getting on my nerves...
Ran
That wasn't very mature...
Moca
Nah, we all felt the same way. I'm glad you spoke up~. Besides, if you hadn't said anything, I would've stepped up to the plate~.
Ran
You, Moca...?
Moca
That producer got real lucky~. Did you know they call me the mad dog of Haneoka? I wouldn't have let them off that easy~.
Ran
Nobody calls you that.
Tsugumi
We don't see Moca-chan angry very often, do we?
Ran
Now I kind of want to see it...
Himari
Moca aside, if Ran hadn't stepped in, I think it was Tomoe who might've exploded.
Tomoe
Huh? Me?
Himari
In those kinds of situations, you're usually the first to jump in, right?
Tomoe
Umm~... Well, I wanted to say something, but Ran took the words right out of my mouth.
Tomoe
I guess I took too long trying to find the right thing to say... Come on, don't make me explain it~!
Himari
Ahaha, so that's what happened. My bad.
Moca
No wonder you were standing there shaking, Tomo-chin. I couldn't tell from your face if you were angry or what~.
Tomoe
A-anyway, let's not get hung up on that!
Tomoe
I propose a toast to Ran for being really cool today! Everyone, grab your juice~!
Ran
Huh? N-no, come on, cut it out...!
Ran
Besides, I was so caught up in the moment, I don't even remember what I said. Quit bringing it up. You're embarrassing me.
Tomoe
Hahaha, don't get all shy on us!
Tsugumi
Fufu, I did feel a little nervous, but you really came through for us, Ran-chan.
Moca
That one line will never get old~.
Moca
"We're in this band for our own purpose, not yours!"
Ran
You're teasing me, aren't you...?
Tomoe, Himari & Tsugumi
Ahaha.
Chapter 4[]
Himari
Okay, let's start afresh and knuckle down~!
Himari
There's plenty of other events I want to try out for!
Tomoe
Yep, it doesn't have to be a huge one either. There's only one thing we're aiming for!
Ran
We'll give the ultimate performance that stays true to ourselves.
Tsugumi
And in order to do that, we need to properly prepare... Right?
Moca
Err, yeah...
Himari
... Hey, Moca~! What's with that unenthusiastic reply~?
Moca
My bad. It just feels like everyone in class is staring at us~...
Ran
Oh yeah? Now that you mention it, I feel it too...
Tsugumi
Are we imagining things...? They look a little worried...
Tomoe
Th-this is a weird atmosphere to start the day off with...
Himari
Hmm, yeah, this is strange... Okay, I'll go ask what's up!
Moca
... Oh, Hii-chan's speaking with them.
Tomoe
If there's something they wanna get off their chest, they should come and say it to our faces... I wonder what it could be.
Ran
It looks like bad news...
Tsugumi
...? Himari-chan looks pretty shocked.
Ran
Ah, homeroom's about to start.
Tomoe
What?! But we don't even know what's going on yet! This is really gonna bug me!
Tsugumi
A-at any rate, we need to return to our seats. Let's find out the full story at break time.
Ran
... Huh? People are gossiping about the other day?
Tsugumi
Are they talking about what happened at the Melodic Rain auditions?
Himari
Yes. It seems our conversation with that producer has spread around on social media.
Moca
Ah~, there were a lot of other bands around us.
Tomoe
Do you mean when Ran took that producer down a peg? Hahaha, so it was cool enough to become gossip!
Ran
What...?
Himari
No, that's not it. After that incident, the auditions were called off.
Moca
...? What do you mean?
Himari
There was an uproar among the other bands who wanted to be judged by their skills. So they decided to cancel the rest of the auditions.
Himari
I was secretly looking it up on my phone during first period... And people are saying we're the cause of all the trouble...
The Other Four
Huh...?
Himari
Apparently, our classmates were worried about us...
Tsugumi
So that's what it was...
Ran
Well, the rumors aren't wrong, so I think it's fine. I only said what I felt was true.
Tomoe
Yeah, I feel bad that the auditions were canceled, but we couldn't just sit back and do nothing while those girls were spoken to like that.
Tsugumi
Yes, I agree. Ran-chan sure was cool, but so were you, Himari-chan.
Himari
What? Me?
Moca
You were the very first person to speak up.
Himari
W-well, I saw that they were too stunned to say anything. I just felt like I had to do something...
Himari
If anything, I'm sorry for dragging us into this.
Ran
It's fine. We felt the same way as you, Himari.
Tomoe
Yeah, there's no need to worry about silly gossip! Let's just focus on performing, the same as always!
Himari
Y-you're right...!
Chapter 5[]
Ran
... Okay, I think that sounds pretty good.
Tsugumi
This song has come together beautifully! I can't wait to play it at our next performance!
Moca
Speaking of performances, have you decided which event we're entering next?
Himari
Ah, about that. I've applied for everything I was interested in... But we've been rejected from almost all of them...
Ran
Huh? Really?
Tsugumi
Wh-what do you mean?
Himari
Apparently, every event has decided on its lineup already~!
Tomoe
Still, it's not just one or two of them, right?
Tomoe
Don't you think it's weird that suddenly we're being turned down from all these venues?
Moca
Could it be a bizarre coincidence...?
Ran
Is that possible...?
Tsugumi
Hey, Himari-chan. "Almost all" means that there are still events that might give us a chance, right?
Himari
Yep, that's right. Just one, though. I'm actually waiting to hear back from them today...
Tsugumi
...?
Himari
Ah, right on cue. Wait a moment, I'm going to read their response.
Ran
I have a bad feeling about this...
Moca
Hmm...
Tomoe
So what did they say?
Himari
Ah, ummm... They've suggested that we postpone our application...
Moca
Does that mean they're rejecting us?
Himari
Y-yeah. Apparently they're concerned about what happened at the other auditions.
Himari
They said that they don't know that much about us, but it's a risk working with a band that might cause problems.
Ran & Tomoe
...
Tsugumi
Perhaps that's the real reason we've been refused by other events too...
Ran
It sure seems that way. They were trying to let us down easy.
Tomoe
Come to think of it, all these events are held at live houses we've never performed at before.
Moca
They don't really know us, so maybe they're under the impression that we're a band that causes lots and lots of trouble...
Tsugumi
B-but...
All Except Himari
...
Himari
What are we going to do...? There are no more events left that I wanted us to apply for...
Himari
We're at the stage where we want to perform at a variety of live houses and level up~...
Tomoe
Hmm... Ah, in that case, I might know someone who can help us.
Himari
Huh?
Tomoe
I've kept in touch with a band from a neighboring district that we met at a previous show.
Tomoe
They told me they're organizing an event and looking for bands to participate.
Tomoe
That band knows us pretty well, so I'll try asking them if we can join.
Ran
I imagine that would give us the inspiration we want from performing at different live houses.
Himari
Ooo, Tomoe~! You're a lifesaver~!
Tomoe
Hahaha, you're exaggerating! That being said, we need to make sure it's an intense performance!
Himari
Agreed. If they're letting us take part, we need to properly fire up the crowd. We don't want to disappoint anyone.
Tomoe
Well, that's true, but I was thinking more along the lines of what Ran said before.
Ran
Me?
Tsugumi
Do you mean when she asked the producer if they were serious about showcasing good performances?
Moca
If we put on a crummy performance now, we'd be a laughing stock~.
Ran
I don't think we need to worry about that.
Ran
After all, we have no intention of putting on a lousy show. The only thing on our minds is giving the best performance possible.
The Other Four
Yep! Yeah!
Chapter 6[]
Moca
Whoa, look, guys~. The audience is really pumped up~.
Tsugumi
Yes, you can feel their excitement from offstage. It's incredible...
Tomoe
The bands before us did a great job of warming up the crowd. Now that we've been handed the reigns, we gotta give a good performance.
Ran
I agree. Let's give it our absolute best, the same as always.
Himari
Ooo, this is our first gig in ages! I'm all fired up~!
Tsugumi
Ahaha, that's the spirit, Himari-chan!
Moca
Although, I get a little worried when you get this worked up~. You might tire yourself out before you actually do anything~.
Himari
Argh~! Stop it!
Himari
More importantly, we need to do that thing before we take the stage!
Ran
Oh, don't tell me she's talking about that thing...
Moca
Hii-chan, you mustn't kill the good vibes they worked so hard to create~.
Himari
What? Why is my thing a mood-killer?!
Himari
It's time like these we need to come together as one! This is the perfect day for us all to do it!
Tsugumi
Ahaha...
Himari
Alright, here we go~! Now, look at me~. Hey, hey...
Ran
Ah, we're finally up. Let's go, everyone.
Himari
Hoh~...! Hey, wait~!
Ran
Hello, we're Afterglow! We'll only be on stage for a while, but we hope you enjoy it!
Audience
...
Tsugumi
Oh? Nobody is responding...
Himari
They were so enthusiastic until now. What happened...?
Tomoe
There's tension in the air...
Audience A
Afterglow is that band everyone's talking about, right...?
Audience B
Aren't they the reason the Melodic Rain auditions were canceled?
Audience C
What~? That's awful! Why was a band like that invited to this event?
Moca
This looks bad. The audience won't settle down...
Himari
Wh-what should we do...?!
Tsugumi
Even the people who always come to see us look uncomfortable...
Ran
...
Tomoe
Ran...?
Himari
Sh-she's frozen up...
Moca
Ran~. Get it together~.
Ran
Huh...?
Moca
We were talking about getting the crowd excited, remember? Now's not the time to space out.
Ran
I-I know that. But this is...
Moca
...
Tsugumi
T-Tomoe-chan! Please start playing!
Tomoe
Huh? But everyone's still talking...!
Tsugumi
Even so, we need to change the atmosphere! We can't just let it end like this...!
Tomoe
...! G-got it! Hey, we've got to pull ourselves together, Ran!
Ran
...!
Chapter 7[]
Tomoe
Man, that show was rough...
Himari
The audience was chatting the whole time. They didn't listen to a thing we played...
Tomoe
I've never had a concert like that before. People were hardly even watching the stage...
Tsugumi
We inconvenienced the band who hosted the event, didn't we...?
Ran
...
Himari
We were aware that live houses and other bands had a poor opinion of us...
Tsugumi
However, we didn't predict that spectators thought of us so negatively too...
Moca
We're the talk of the town. Now everyone knows about our wicked ways~.
Himari
I-it's not funny, Moca~...
Moca
You're right. My bad. I just wanted to lighten the heavy mood~...
Ran
... Maybe we should stop doing concerts for a while.
Himari
B-but the plan was to focus on performing...!
Tomoe
I know it sucks, but there's no way we can play a good gig in that kind of atmosphere...
Tsugumi
Not to mention, we were turned down from all the shows we wanted to enter, right?
Himari
I guess... Then how about performing at one of the live houses we're familiar with?
Himari
Like CiRCLE or Galaxy! I don't think they'd say no...
Moca
I wonder if we'd cause them trouble though...
Himari
Huh?
Moca
Marina-san and Yoshiko-san are both kind people. I'm sure they'd let us enter their events if we asked~.
Moca
That being said, it's not like every audience member knows who we are. What if the same thing happens again...?
Ran
I don't want to cause problems for either CiRCLE or Galaxy...
Himari
Ah...
Tsugumi
Umm, maybe it's best just to wait and see how everything goes for the time being...
Tsugumi
Even if we can't perform live, there must be other things we can do...
Tomoe
Yeah. We could practice or write new songs. Playing shows isn't the only thing bands do.
Moca
Let's take things at a leisurely pace for a while~...
Ran
... Yeah.
Himari
Everyone...
Himari
I'm sorry it turned out this way...
Tsugumi
Huh...?
Tsugumi
Wh-why are you apologizing, Himari-chan? You didn't do anything wrong.
Himari
But I'm the one who got us into this mess...
Himari
I dragged you all into this situation I created... I didn't think about the consequences at all. I should've been more careful...
Himari
As the leader of Afterglow, I'm supposed to put our band first...
Moca
It's not your fault, Hii-chan~.
Ran
Exactly. By that logic, I bear more responsibility for causing our problems.
Tomoe
Nah, if you'd kept quiet, Ran, then I would've said something instead. It was gonna be one of us.
Tsugumi
It's a pity we're in this situation, but please don't blame yourself.
Himari
Thanks...
Himari
Still, I can't just leave things as they are...
Himari
I'm going to come up with a way we can perform again, so just hold on for a bit!
Ran
Huh? What do you mean...?
Tomoe
You don't need to overwork yourself. Just take it easy for now.
Moca
Hmm, do you have any leads~?
Himari
N-no... But I'll work it out! There must be a solution!
Tsugumi
Himari-chan...
Chapter 8[]
Moca
...
Saaya
Hey, Moca. Are you okay?
Moca
Oh? What do you mean? As you can see, I'm the same as always~.
Saaya
Really? You've been standing in front of those buns for ten minutes now. Aren't you overthinking things?
Moca
Ah~, I just couldn't decide which bun I felt like today~.
Saaya
... I heard about what happened.
Moca
Huh...?
Saaya
People seem to be spreading all sorts of rumors... I figured it must be bothering you.
Moca
I see. So even you know the story, Saaya...
Saaya
The Poppin'Party girls are worried about you too. You haven't come to CiRCLE lately, so we were wondering how you were all holding up...
Moca
... I guess things aren't going too great.
Moca
I didn't know gossip had this much influence. The concerts we were planning on entering have all turned us down, and the concert we did play was a mess...
Saaya
No way...
Moca
We're trying to stay positive by concentrating on things we can do other than performing live...
Moca
But Hii-chan feels somewhat responsible for all of this... And there's no way the other members are fine either...
Saaya
... You're thinking of others before yourself, huh?
Moca
What...?
Saaya
I was worried that you were upset... But it turns out you're more concerned that your bandmates feel hurt.
Moca
... Well, I do have a little-known compassionate side~.
Saaya
I see. If there's ever anything you want to get off your chest, you can always talk to me. I'll support you in any way I can.
Saaya
Poppin'Party and Afterglow were both in Girls Band Party, so we should help each other out in our times of need.
Moca
Saaya...
Moca
Then I'd like a hundred times the points on my card today...!
Saaya
Ahaha, that's going overboard.
Ran
It's raining...
Ran
This bad weather has been going on for days... I haven't seen the sunset at all lately...
Moca
Ran~?
Ran
Moca... Ah, by the looks of that bag, you were at Yamabuki Bakery.
Moca
Yep, I bought some snacks to eat on my day off~.
Moca
What are you doing here, Ran? Are you on your way to the florist's shop?
Ran
No. I was trying to write lyrics, but I can't get into the right state of mind... So I stepped out to get some fresh air.
Moca
Lyrics?
Ran
We talked about doing what we can, remember? So I was thinking up a new song.
Ran
Except, I have no vision of what I want to put in a song right now... I'm making zero headway...
Moca
... That makes sense. We haven't got anything we can make into a song yet.
Ran
Huh...?
Moca
We've always put our experiences into our music, right...? But that's only after coming up with our own answer to things.
Moca
I don't think we've found the answer to the problem we're experiencing yet.
Ran
...
Moca
Ran, you haven't said a word about that show we played. Do you not want to talk about it?
Ran
It's not like that...
Moca
Then why don't we talk it over~? Maybe you'll find an answer you can make into lyrics~.
Moca
I've discounted my consultation fee to one bun, just for you.
Ran
What are you talking about? You're already carrying a bag full of buns. Do you really want more?
Moca
I'm half kidding, half serious~.
Moca
... If there's something on your mind, I'd be happier if you told me instead of worrying about it by yourself~.
Moca
After all, there may be something I can do to help~.
Ran
Moca...
Moca
Although, I know that doesn't mean much coming from me~.
Ran
... You don't need to worry. I'm not feeling sad or anything.
Moca
Really...?
Ran
I don't care that much about the gossip. It's not like what we did at Melodic Rain was a mistake.
Ran
It's just that I was swallowed up by the bad atmosphere at that last concert... I'm frustrated that I couldn't do anything...
Ran
It goes without saying that we can't always perform in ideal circumstances. But even that slipped my mind.
Moca
Ran...
Ran
I want to be a band that won't crumble under the weight of trivial stuff like that. Otherwise, we'll never reach the perfect performance we're aiming for...!
Moca
...
Ran
...? Is something wrong?
Moca
No, it's nothing. You've become strong, Ran.
Ran
... Maybe.
Ran
Anyway, that's enough about me. Are you okay, Moca?
Moca
Mhm! Hearing what you said has cheered me right up.
Chapter 9[]
Yukina
Hello, Hazawa-san. I'm meeting Lisa here. Are there any seats available?
Tsugumi
Sigh...
Yukina
Hazawa-san...?
Tomoe
H-hey, Tsugu! There's a customer!
Tsugumi
Huh? Ah, pardon me! I'll take you to your table right away!
Tomoe
Sorry. Tsugu's been like this all the time lately...
Yukina
I don't mind. I'm aware you're facing quite the predicament at the moment.
Tsugumi
So you know about our problems too, Yukina-senpai...
Yukina
Yes, I overhear stories every time I got to a live house or studio.
Yukina
The Melodic Rain incident is one thing, but I also heard you had a terrible experience at a show the other day.
Tsugumi
So people are even talking about that now...
Tsugumi
Ever since that incident, I've been thinking about how to get Afterglow back to what it was before...
Tomoe
Tsugu...
Tsugumi
Of course, I know we can't undo what we did.
Tsugumi
Even so, I have to do something, or else the days we can't perform will just continue. And I know Himari-chan will try and shoulder all the blame...
Tomoe
... Things will never be like before.
Tsugumi & Yukina
...!
Tsugumi
T-Tomoe-chan...!
Tomoe
Ah, wait, I don't mean that we should give up because of that!
Tomoe
I was thinking it'd be better if we could turn things around and become a new us!
Yukina
What do you mean by that?
Tomoe
Well, I- No, we all believe that we did the right thing at Melodic Rain.
Tomoe
If that's the case, we shouldn't try to reverse things. Instead, we need to stand tall and march forward in a way that's true to ourselves.
Tomoe
I know things are difficult at the moment because of what happened. But on the other hand, it's now crystal clear what's important to us.
Tomoe
In fact, if we'd stayed silent back then, I think I would've lost my love for the band.
Yukina
I see...
Tsugumi
Leave it to you to be the cool one, Tomoe-chan.
Tomoe
Huh? Where'd that come from?
Tsugumi
I've been doing nothing but mulling over things. I had no confidence in my feelings, unlike you...
Tomoe
...? Really? I think you and I are both thinking along the same lines.
Yukina
Yes, I think they're both positive ways of thinking.
Tsugumi
D-do you really think so?
Yukina
You desire to overcome this setback and move forward as well, correct?
Tomoe
That's right! That's what I mean!
Tsugumi
Th-that's because all I can really do is work hard... So I want to do my best to not give up!
Tsugumi
We can't be the same Afterglow as always if we can't perform...
Tsugumi
I want to make it so that we can all enjoy being in this band again.
Tomoe & Yukina
...
Tsugumi
Wh-what is it?
Tomoe
Man, that side of you is seriously cool, Tsugu.
Tsugumi
Huh? I-I don't understand. I don't think I have any cool sides...
Tomoe
Of course you do. It's the side of you that faces straight forward, no matter what!
Tomoe
Even in tough times, you always look towards the future. It totally inspires the rest of us!
Tsugumi
Th-thank you...
Tomoe
... If only Himari could think the way you do, Tsugu, or have confidence like me.
Tsugumi
Y-yes. Himari-chan seemed like she was pushing herself too hard...
Chapter 10[]
Himari
...
Himari
(I'm such a moron... I created this dilemma we're in and upset everyone...)
Himari
(I've got to find a way we can perform again... I need to get Afterglow back to our same as always...)
Himari
(Isn't there any kind of event that would be okay for us to participate in...?)
Audience A
Hey, isn't that girl... from Afterglow?
Audience B
She's looking through the event fliers. Do you think they're planning on taking part in one of them?
Himari
...!
Audience A
To be honest, I don't want them to get involved. I'd hate for them to mess everything up like they did at Melodic Rain.
Himari
W-we wouldn't do that!
Himari
It's not like we meant for things to get out of hand...!
Audience A
If you didn't agree with how the event was managed, why didn't you just leave?
Audience B
You went out of your way to stir up chaos. I think it's only natural you're seen as troublemakers.
Audience C
I shudder to think what would happen if that vocalist got mad again and wreaked havoc.
Himari
...! Ran isn't that kind of person!
Himari
She was sticking up for us! She was angry on our behalf!
Himari
Don't speak badly of my friend when you don't even know anything!
Himari
O-oh~.
Ran
That's enough, Himari.
Moca
Found you, Hii-chan.
Himari
...?!
Himari
Ran...? Moca...? Why are you here?
Ran
We went to your house and were told you came here.
Moca
We couldn't just leave all the work to you, Hii-chan~. We wanted to help.
Ran
There's no need to do this alone, right? Performing concerns the whole band.
Moca
It's bound to be better if we work on it together~.
Himari
Ran...
Audience A
More Afterglow members...?
Ran
Hey, if there's something you want to say to me, then say it to my face.
Ran
I'll never forgive you for making my friend cry...!
Audience A・B・C
...!
Moca
Just so you know, I'm angry too~...
Himari
Ran... Moca...
Tomoe
Looks like we weren't the only ones searching for Himari... I guess we're all in tune with each other.
Tsugumi
A-are you okay, Himari-chan? Please don't cry...!
Himari
Tomoe, Tsugu...?
Tsugumi
The two of us were discussing things and started to worry about you, Himari-chan.
Tomoe
Let us help. Figuring it out together is the least we can do, right?
Himari
...
Tomoe
But before that...
Audience A・B・C
...!
Tomoe
So that's what people are saying. Now I know what you all think of us.
Tomoe
If you have something to say, I'm happy to listen. But I won't stay silent while you make my bandmate cry.
Tsugumi
I understand how you must feel, but please listen to our side of the story as well!
Audience A
L-let's go...!
Moca
Ah, off they go~...
Tsugumi
Y-you sure told them, Tomoe-chan...
Ran
Himari, are you okay...?
Himari
Oooh~. G-guys~!
Tomoe
H-hey, don't cry more. People are staring.
Chapter 11[]
Himari
Thanks for finding me, everyone...
Himari
But maybe we shouldn't have done that. What if it becomes another bad rumor...?
Tomoe
Hahaha, it's too late now. Besides, we're used to being misunderstood, so don't worry about it.
Tomoe
Right, Ran?
Ran
Speak for yourself...
Moca
Yeah, you were right on the money back there, Ran~. Even I started shaking in my boots~.
Moca
"Don't come any closer to Himari if you know what's good for you...!"
Ran
I didn't say that.
Tsugumi
A-ahaha... You were all very cool.
Himari
Umm, guys...
Himari
I'm so sorry for causing all this commotion...
Himari
Even though I said I'd fix our situation, I haven't been able to do a single thing. I even broke down in tears in the middle of town. I'm an unreliable leader, aren't I...?
Ran
Well, that's nothing new.
Tomoe
Our style has always been for us all to support our leader.
Moca
If Hii-chan were to become dependable, I'd be a little creeped out~.
Himari
That's too harsh~!
Tsugumi
I know you've been feeling guilty about what happened, but you really don't need to.
Tomoe
Yeah, dude! You should be proud of what you did! You fought to help your friends!
Himari
Tomoe...
Ran
You said you regret not thinking before you acted, but that's what we like about you, Himari.
Ran
You jumped in to defend your friends without fearing repercussions.
Moca
It takes courage to face situations like that head-on~. I don't think I could've done what you did~.
Tsugumi
Mhm, I feel honored to be friends with someone like you, Himari-chan.
Himari
Everyone...
Ran
You know, you said you weren't leader-material...
Ran
But stuff like thinking about consequences, doing things that benefit the band, and being dependable...
Ran
Those aren't the only things that make up a good leader.
Ran
I think a leader's role is to show us what we want to be.
Ran
We should stand against what we believe is wrong and stick to what we want to do...
Ran
That's what we want Afterglow to be.
Himari
Oooh~.
Ran
Ahaha, there you go again.
Himari
I-I can't help it. You're all being really nice.
Moca
Oh? But we're always this nice to you, Hii-chan. Have you never noticed?
Himari
You're always the hardest on me~!
Tomoe & Tsugumi
Ahahaha!
Tsugumi
Ah, look, everyone...!
Himari
The sunset...
Tomoe
Feels like forever since I last saw one.
Moca
Well, it's been nothing but rain and cloudy weather these days~.
Ran
Maybe something good will happen tomorrow.
Tsugumi
Are sunsets your lucky omens, Ran-chan?
Ran
Not just mine. They're ours, right?
Moca & Tsugumi
...
Tomoe & Himari
...
Himari
Yes...!
Chapter 12[]
Himari
Okay, everyone, we're going to give this band our all again starting today!
Moca
Whoa~, Hii-chan, you're one eager beaver~.
Himari
Well, we can't sit around doing nothing.
Tomoe
Uh-huh, the best thing we can do right now is move forward.
Tsugumi
We need to practice as hard as we can so that we're prepared to perform whenever we get the chance again.
Ran
Yeah, that's not a bad idea.
Moca
Ran has blessed us with a rare "not bad~."
Saaya
Ah, you've made it. Ran and the others are here, Kasumi.
Kasumi
Hey, guys, come on over!
Ran
...? Kasumi and Saaya?
Tsugumi
Oh? Is that... Yukina-senpai and Sayo-san next to them?
Sayo
We came here today to talk to you about something.
Moca
Really?
Yukina
Yes. We were thinking of organizing a concert for Poppin'Party and Roselia.
Kasumi
And we were hoping Afterglow would join too!
Ran & Himari
Huh...?
Tomoe
Are you doing this for us...?
Yukina
Not at all. We just happened to feel like holding a concert again.
Yukina
We suspected you'd be interested since your plans were canceled. It seemed like perfect timing, so we came here to ask-
Kasumi
We just want to do what we can to support you guys!
Yukina
Wait, Toyama-san...
Saaya
We need to help each other out during hard times, right? Poppin'Party and Roselia both have experience hosting music events, so we thought we could lend a hand.
Sayo
If we organize this event ourselves, I'm sure the audience will be people who come to our shows often.
Sayo
I don't think you'd have to worry about any unnecessary troubles.
Ran & Moca
...
Himari
We'd be able to perform again, the same as always...
Tsugumi
Thank you very much. I'm so happy you'd do that for us...
Yukina
Showing us an unparalleled performance is the only thanks we need.
Saaya
If everyone's okay with it, I'd like to go ahead with this plan. What do you think?
Ran
Of cour-
Ran
...?
Himari
Oh, sorry. That's my phone. I received a message... Oh, what...?
Tomoe
What is it?
Himari
It's a message from a staff member of last year's Girl Jam.
Tsugumi
Girl Jam? I heard they're holding that event again this year. You didn't apply though, right?
Himari
Right... Let's see... Huh? It says they want us to perform again this year...!
Moca, Ran, Tomoe & Tsugumi
What?!
Moca
Does that mean they're actually requesting our participation~?
Himari
I think so. It says that they enjoyed our performance so much last year that they'd love for us to take part again this year!
Moca
Ah, the message continues..."However, we are aware of your current circumstances."
Tsugumi
If you choose to perform, we must warn you of the possibility of a negative reaction from the audience.
Tomoe
Nonetheless, if you accept our offer...
Ran
Girl Jam will welcome you with open arms...
Kasumi
That's amazing. An invitation from Girl Jam...
Tomoe
Well, I'm happy we can take the stage again, but it's not like our situation has changed.
Tsugumi
It might turn out the same as last time...
Himari
Then should we perform with Poppin'Party and Roselia instead...?
Moca
If we did, I doubt we'd need to worry about the crowd's reaction...
Yukina & Kasumi
...
Ran
Um, Kasumi, Minato-san... Thank you for inviting us to your event.
Ran
I'm sorry for wasting your time, but I want to play at Girl Jam.
Kasumi
That's totally fine! But will you be okay...?
Yukina
Does that mean you're intentionally choosing the event in which you'll face criticism?
Ran
We'd probably be a lot more comfortable at the Poppin'Party and Roselia concert.
Ran
However, I can't help feeling like we'd be running away...
Ran
If we really believe that we did the right thing, then I want to stand confidently on that stage, no matter the reaction.
Himari
Ran...
Ran
That's what I think anyway... What about you guys?
Tomoe
Do you even have to ask? We have no reason to run or hide.
Tsugumi
With the five of us together, we're unstoppable.
Himari
Yep, whatever happens, we won't lose.
Moca
Let's hold our heads high and march into Girl Jam~!
Yukina
I see... That decision is very much like you all.
Kasumi
Good luck with Girl Jam! We'll be there to cheer you on!
Ran
Thanks, we'll show you what we're made of... So stay tuned.
Chapter 13[]
Tsugumi
We did it! I think this song sounds pretty good!
Ran
Yeah. Maybe we should go through it once more so we don't forget.
Himari
Ah, hold on a second! How about a little break?
Himari
We've been practicing for two hours straight, so I'm worn out. You guys should rest too, or you won't last.
Ran
Huh? It's been two hours already?
Tomoe
Man, seriously? Time really flies when you're in the zone.
Moca
Girl Jam is right around the corner, so we need to stay absolutely focused~.
Himari
Then allow me to show you all something that will give you the energy you need!
Ran
An energy boost? From your phone?
Himari
After it was officially announced that we'd take part in Girl Jam, I searched online to see what the general response was~!
Tomoe
You've got guts to look through those comments when our reputation is so bad...
Moca
Hii-chan is always up for a challenge~.
Himari
I'm the type of person that has the urge to know these things!
Himari
Anyway, the reaction wasn't all bad!
Tomoe
Congratulations on making it into Girl Jam! ...?
Tsugumi
I don't care what people say. I support you!
Ran
I'll be in the crowd cheering for you. You can do it!
Himari
At first, I didn't see them among all the negative comments, but there are people who are on our side.
Tomoe
They might bring negative attention to themselves by supporting us...
Tsugumi
Yet they still voice their support...
Himari
Yes, these fans are fighting alongside us...
Ran
...
Moca
Look, someone has written a review of our music~. They're talking about Scarlet Sky, right?
Moca
I felt extremely lonely after being placed into a different class from my friends. This song gave me courage at that time...
Moca
Knowing that there was someone who felt the same way made me determined to keep going.
Ran
... Come to think of it, this may be the first time I've read other people's opinions.
Ran
Our songs are all based on what we've been through, but they strike a chord with people out there who share the same feelings...
Ran
Maybe that's not just the case for these people, but for everyone who supports us.
Ran
Their experiences aren't exactly the same as ours, but they can relate to us on some level...
Tomoe
I guess that's why our music leaves a lasting impression. Looks like we have more allies than we first thought, huh?
Ran
... That reminds me, we still have to decide on one more song to play at Girl Jam.
Himari
Ah, we all came up with good suggestions, but none of them felt quite right.
Ran
That's why I was thinking... we could write a new song. What do you think?
Moca & Himari
Huh...?
Ran
Oh, um, I know we don't have much time, but if we can't find a song we're happy with, it might be better to make one.
Ran
Besides, maybe the reason we can't decide is that we don't have one that suits our current selves.
Himari
Our current selves, huh...?
Tsugumi
I don’t think we've ever worried about what was happening around us before.
Tomoe
... I'm down for writing a new song.
Tomoe
The Girl Jam organizers believed in us. We gotta give them a performance we can be proud of.
Moca
... If Ran and Tomo-chin are blazing with this much enthusiasm, then I'll turn up the heat too~.
Tsugumi
Yeah! Let's do it! We'll perform a song that reflects our current selves at Girl Jam!
Himari
Alright! Then we're all in!
Tsugumi
But what does a song that represents our current band even sound like?
Himari
We can't make one that's the same as always. The situation we're in is far from ordinary.
Ran
No, I think it's fine to keep it the same as always.
Moca
...? What do you mean?
Ran
We'll add the same as always we weren't aware of to this song.
Ran
Afterglow is a place that the five of us cherish. We've always known that.
Ran
However, it's not just a special place for us.
Himari
It's also for the people who come to our shows and always support us...!
Moca
Not to mention, this band is precious to Poppin'Party, Roselia, and our other band friends as well.
Tsugumi
I see. The same as always that we weren't aware of refers to the people who stand by us through thick and thin.
Tomoe
We are who we are now because of them... In other words, they're a part of our same as always.
Ran
Right. So I'd like to express that with this song.
Ran
Until now, our band sang only for ourselves, not for anybody else...
Ran
But I want our new song to acknowledge everyone who watches the same sunset as us. Wherever they're watching from.
Moca
Ran...
Tsugumi
I'd be delighted if everyone listened to us play a song like that from the Girl Jam stage.
Tomoe
That's for sure. I can't think of anything more awesome than watching the same sunset together!
Moca
If that's the case, we better make a start on that new song lickety-split~.
Himari
Y-you're right! I need to rework our schedule leading up to Girl Jam!
Himari
Umm, we need time for both practice, songwriting, and~...
Moca
Hii-chan, calm down~.
Tomoe
Hahaha, this calls for another sleepover at Ran's place.
Ran
It's going to get busy.
Chapter 14[]
Tsugumi
Wow, this year's Girl Jam is an outdoor event!
Tomoe
Yeah, they've scaled up the event from last year. They said more bands are participating as well.
Moca
Don't underestimate the grand era of girls bands~...
Tomoe
That reminds me, the Poppin'Party girls are coming to watch, right?
Ran
Mhm, Kasumi assured me they'd cheer extra loud for us.
Tomoe
Hahaha, cool. Hello, Happy World! said they'd come too, so it's bound to get lively.
Tsugumi
Ah, Pastel＊Palettes are supposed to be here as well.
Tsugumi
Eve-chan said they might not arrive until right before our turn because of work, but that they wouldn't miss it for the world.
Moca
Didn't the Roselia people mention something about coming~?
Ran
Ah, yeah. They said the whole band's coming... Hm?
Tsugumi
What is it?
Ran
Um, there's a message on my phone... It's from Minato-san.
Ran
...
Moca
What did Minato-san say~?
Ran
"I want you to give the best performance possible." She didn't have to tell us that. We were gonna do it anyway.
Himari
...
Moca
...? You're quiet today, Hii-chan.
Himari
Huh? Y-yeah... I was thinking that if the venue is even bigger than last year, then there'll probably be more attendees...
Ran
...? Well, yeah, that's a given.
Moca
Huh? Hii-chan, are you nervous?
Tsugumi
Could it be that you're worried that something will go wrong like last time?
Himari
Of course I am... But there's no way we can let that bring us down!
Himari
This performance isn't just for the five of us. We need to succeed for everyone who supports us!
Tomoe
Hahaha, so that's what was on your mind.
Ran
Well said, leader.
Ran
There are probably a lot of people who don't think very highly of us.
Ran
But there are still those who know exactly who we are. And that's good enough for us.
Moca
Even if people don't understand, we'll put on such a good show that we won't need to care what they think~.
Himari
Of course! That's the plan, right?
Tomoe
You bet. If they think of us as bad guys, then we'll play the role! We aren't mistaken as scoundrels for nothing, you know!
Tsugumi
Tomoe-chan...
Tsugumi
Fufu, this is a strange feeling. Even though the odds are stacked against us, I'm a little excited...
Ran & Tomoe
...
Tomoe
Doesn't that mean you're getting fired up?
Moca
Uh-huh. Adversity really gets you burning~. Even in manga, overcoming a challenge leads to intense plot developments~.
Ran
Let's show the world our best performance.
Tsugumi & Moca
...
Tomoe & Himari
...
Ran
... Aren't you gonna do your thing, Himari?
Himari
Huh?
Tomoe
In times like these, you're always dying to do that thing. What's the holdup?
Himari
Huh? Wait. Are you talking about... my chant?
Himari
What~? You guys have never wanted to do it before. Why now?
Ran
Well, I just figured it be nice on a day like today.
Moca
This concert is a milestone in our lives. We absolutely have to do your chant to mark the occasion, Hii-chan~.
Himari
I can tell you're being sarcastic!
Tsugumi
Fufu, then could you start it for us, Himari-chan?
Himari
O-okay...! Here we go...!
Himari
Hey, hey...
Afterglow
Hoh~!
Chapter 15[]
Ran
Nice to see you again, Girl Jam. We're Afterglow.
Audience A
Afterglow... Huh? Isn't that the band from the rumors? I'm surprised they're here.
Audience B
No way! Is Girl Jam really okay with this?
Audience C
I sure hope they don't cause trouble during their performance.
Moca
The audience is restless, just as we predicted~.
Tsugumi
I know we expected this reaction, but in a venue of this size, it's quite overwhelming.
Ran
We're in a tight spot, but I'm not worried.
Kasumi
You can do it, Afterglow~!
Yukina
...
Tomoe
We can hear the people supporting us loud and clear.
Himari
The fans who always come to our concerts are here too. They're cheering for us with all their hearts.
Ran
On top of that, there's a beautiful sunset...
Moca & Tsugumi
...
Tomoe & Himari
...
Ran
It's time! Let's show them a true Afterglow performance!
Tomoe
(The crowd is still pretty cold...)
Tsugumi
(But little by little... I can feel the venue heating up...)
Himari
(Kasumi and Yukina-san are watching over us. So are our loyal fans...)
Moca
(It must be difficult cheering for us when the other guests aren't on board~.)
Ran
(Which is why we won't give in!)
Ran
That first song was called "That Is How I Roll." Thank you.
Audience A
These Afterglow guys actually perform pretty well...
Audience B
I wasn't expecting much after I heard those rumors... But I think I like them...
Ran
Before we start the next song... I want you all to listen to what I have to say.
Ran
I'm sure you've heard all sorts of gossip about us.
Ran
However, I'm not going to stand here and make excuses. After all, it was my own actions that planted the seeds for those rumors. There's nothing I can do about that.
Ran
I know there are people here who don't like us, but I want you all to know this.
Ran
We just want to put on the best concert possible. We're all here because of our love of bands, and we want to give you all an amazing show.
Ran
I believe that together, we can gaze upon the same sunset...!
Ran
Please listen to "ONE OF US."
Tomoe
(I'll keep the beat, so the rest of you better give it your all!)
Tomoe
(Let's put on a show so awesome that nobody will give a damn about that gossip!)
Tsugumi
(Afterglow was a special place that belonged to the five of us. But I've finally realized that there are others here with us...)
Tsugumi
(Surely, more and more people will join us. When that happens, I have a feeling that we will achieve even greater things.)
Himari
(I can tell the crowd is slowly heating up...! They must have embraced our message...!)
Himari
(We want this moment to continue. We won't stop. Please follow us, everyone...!)
Moca
(What a strange feeling... The atmosphere is red-hot, but I can see each person's face so clearly...)
Moca
(I never knew that having support from others would make me feel even stronger than when it's just the five of us...)
Ran
(I bet we'll continue to face many challenges in the future...)
Ran
(But it's okay. If we keep the heat and fiery spirit from this moment in our hearts, I know we can overcome anything...!)
Himari
Wow! That was amazing! The audience was so excited!
Tsugumi
Yep, I'm glad everyone enjoyed it! I'm getting a bit emotional...
Tomoe
Ahaha, I expect this from Himari, but don't you go crying too, Tsugu!
Tsugumi
You say that, but you look teary-eyed as well, Tomoe!
Himari
That means our performance beat that nasty gossip!
Tomoe
Hey, that performance was pretty darn close to the perfect performance we're aiming for, don't you think?
Ran
Yeah. It wasn't bad.
Moca
Whoa~. If "not bad' is the best rating you can give that performance, your standards must be sky-high, Ran~.
Ran
That just means we have something to aspire to, right?
Tsugumi
Fufu, I agree. If anyone can achieve the ultimate performance, it's us!
Ran
Yeah. That being said, putting on an unbeatable show can't be done alone. We need everyone's support. I realized that today.
Moca & Tsugumi
...
Tomoe & Himari
...
Ran
No matter what happens, we won't stop. Let's keep moving toward the place we want to be...!
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