(LL!SIF) Cốt truyện (Tiếng Anh)

**Toàn bộ nội dung trong trang này đều được sao chép từ Kouhime và đã được chỉnh sửa tiêu đề các chương. Nếu muốn đóng góp bản dịch tiếng Nhật và tiếng Việt, xin hãy đóng góp tại (LL!SIF) Cốt truyện (Tiếng Nhật) và (LL!SIF) Cốt truyện (Tiếng Việt)**
Đây là cốt truyện của μ's. Để xem cốt truyện của Aqours, xem (LL!SIF) Cốt truyện/Aqours (Tiếng Anh).

## Mở đầu - Chúng tôi là μ's (Nhóm năm hai)

**Honoka:** Mình là thành viên của mó nhóm School Idol tên là μ's, và mình đang trong quá trình huấn luyện ể trở thành một School Idol♪
**Honoka:** Để trở thành một School Idol sẽ rất khó khăn, nên mình muốn nhờ bạn việc này...
**Honoka:** Thật ra, Eli, bạn của mình phải mới phải. Eli là ai á?
**Umi:** Honoka, giải thích lại từ đầu cho kĩ càng đi.
**Honoka:** A! Umi!
**Umi:** Hân hạnh được gặp, mình là Sonoda Umi.
**Umi:** Xin lỗi vì gọi bạn đến đây chỉ để nghe một chút thông báo nhé.
**Honoka:** Umi cũng là một thành viên của μ's, và cậu ấy còn là bạn thuở nhỏ của mình♪
**Honoka:** Và tụi mình còn đang đợi một ngời nữa
**Kotori:** Honoka~
**Honoka:** Ah, ở đây nè, Kotori~ Kotori cũng là một người bạn thuở nhỏ của mình, và là một thành viên của μ's ♪
**Kotori:** Mình tên là Minami Kotori. Rất vui được gặp bạn.
**Honoka:** Từ khi μ's cũng chưa lâu lắm đâu.
**Honoka:** Tụi mình khá là nổi tiếng gần đây. Khá là sốc đó!
**Kotori:** Cậu bất ngờ dữ vậy hả, Honoka...?
**Honoka:** Ahaha... Nhưng nhờ kết quả đó đã làm tụi mình hoạt động tích cựực hơn.
**Umi:** μ's hoạt động tích cực hơn thì rất tốt, nhưng mà...
**Kotori:** Điều đó cũng có nghĩa là tụi mình đang rất bận rộn...
**Honoka:** Đúng, Kotori cũng đang làm phục trang cho cả nhóm.
**Kotori:** Cho nên tụi mình cần ai đó giúp đỡ.
**Kotori:** Nếu đuợc thì bạn giúp tụi mình một tay nhé.
**Umi:** Minh nghĩ không khó lắm đâu, cho nên không sao đâu.
**Umi:** Công việc của bạn sẽ chủ yếu là lên lịch biểu diễn và luyện tập
**Umi:** Bọn mình cũng rất cảm kích nếu bạn có thể chỉ đạo bọn mình trong khi biểu diễn
**Honoka:** Nói vậy thì có vẻ hơi khó...
**Umi:** Ôi, chỉ cần luyện tập chút thôi mà
**Honoka:** Được rồi, chúng ta sẽ bắt đầu với một buổi diễn♪ Đi thôi~!
 **Honoka:** Yeah! Mình nghĩ chúng ta vừa làm tốt hơn mọi khi!
**Umi:** Nhờ bạn giúp quả là một ý tưởng tốt
**Kotori:** Cơ mà cảm tưởng như bọn mình đang lôi kéo bạn vào chuyện này...
**Honoka:** Nào nào, đừng để ý mấy chuyện lặt vặt ấy chứ!
**Kotori:** Không biết liệu có thể gọi đó là 'lặt vặt'...
**Umi:** Chúng mình không muốn ép bạn phải giúp đâu
**Umi:** Tiếp theo, bạn có thể giúp bọn mình luyện tập...?
**Honoka:** Luyện tập là cần thiết nếu ta muốn có một màn trình diễn tuyệt vời. Làm ơn giúp bọn mình một tay!
**Kotori:** Chúng mình sẽ rất vui nếu bạn giúp.
**Honoka:** Whoa, bạn thật sự sẽ làm sao!? Trông cậy vào bạn cả đấy!
**Umi:** XIn nhờ cậy bạn.
**Kotori:** Ah... vui quá.
**Umi:** Luyện tập liên tục chúng ta sẽ tiến bộ thôi.
**Kotori:** Người mà bạn luyện tập cùng cũng là một phần quan trọng.
 **Honoka:** Mình nghĩ chúng ta đã tiến bộ!
**Umi:** Đó là thứ khiến luyện tập thật tuyệt vời.
**Kotori:** Xin lỗi vì tự dưng nhờ bạn giúp.
**Kotori:** Nhưng mình thật sự hạnh phúc vì bạn đã làm những chuyện này cho bọn mình.
**Honoka:** Đúng thế! Chúng mình phải giới thiệu với bạn cả những người khác nữa!
**Kotori:** μ's là một nhóm 9 người.
**Kotori:** Ngoài năm hai ra, còn có năm nhất và năm ba, tổng cộng là 9 thành viên.
**Umi:** Nhắc đến thì, mình không thấy bọn họ quanh đây.
**Honoka:** Hmm, họ đi đâu rồi?
**Umi:** Đi tìm họ đã nào.

## Chương 1 - Chúng tôi là μ's (Nhóm năm nhất)

**Maki:** Ah, what's going on?
**Kotori:** We've found someone to help us~
**Maki:** I see. I'm Nishikino Maki, a first-year student. Nice to meet you.
**Honoka:** Maki-chan always gives off a cool and mature aura, but she's actually really nice!
**Maki:** N-Not really...
**Maki:** Anyway, what will you be helping with?
**Umi:** We wanted some assistance with live performances and lessons.
**Kotori:** Is there anything else you wanted help with, Maki-chan?
**Maki:** Hmm... I think we should decide on our goals together as a group.
**Honoka:** Goals?
**Maki:** Yeah. The sky's the limit for us!
**Maki:** But we'll just burn out if we set the target too high, right?
**Maki:** That's why we need to take it one step at a time.
**Umi:** You're right... I've heard that effective goal setting is important no matter what you're trying to improve at.
**Honoka:** I kind of understand but I kind of don't...
**Maki:** Well, don't think too hard about it.
**Maki:** Goals should come naturally. Think about it this way:
**Maki:** When you achieve a goal, a new path will open up.
**Honoka:** I see. This is important!
**Kotori:** We're going to look for the other members now. What about you, Maki-chan?
**Maki:** I'll go with you.
**Maki:** Hanayo was around earlier... but I don't see her now.
**Umi:** I wonder where she went...
**Maki:** I think Rin is by the school gate, so let's go there.
 **Rin:** Would you like to join the idol club~?
**Honoka:** Rin-chan, what are you doing?
**Rin:** Honoka-chan! Isn't it obvious that I'm recruiting?
**Rin:** This era calls for diversity!
**Rin:** Our idol club needs new members too~
**Maki:** ...She's got a point.
**Honoka:** I see, new members!
**Kotori:** We found someone to help us with our idol activities.
**Rin:** Oh! I'm Hoshizora Rin, a first-year. Just call me Rin~
**Rin:** Are you going to be a school idol with us~?
**Maki:** They're not a school idol; they're just helping us out.
**Umi:** We did overlook that possibility.
**Umi:** It could be possible for you to become a school idol.
**Kotori:** Umi-chan...
**Rin:** If you're going to be helping us out, it'd be nice if you could send out invitations too~
**Kotori:** When you send out invitations, you'll be able to make more friends.
 **Honoka:** I see! It's good to invite lots of people to perform with us!
**Honoka:** I wonder if we'll meet an amazing person who's good at both singing and dancing, and also willing to do my homework every day.
**Umi:** We won't.
**Rin:** I don't know what kinds of people we'll meet either...
**Honoka:** Maybe there's a trick to invitations...
**Rin:** Hmm... if we shout like this...
**Rin:** *Would you like to join the idol club~!?!?*
**Rin:** Maybe we'll find someone good like that!
**Honoka:** *Would you like to join the idol club~!?!?*
**Rin:** *Would you like to join the idol club~!?!?*
**Umi:** Let's leave them alone.
**Maki:** Yeah.
**Kotori:** A-Ahaha...
**Hanayo:** Ah... ah... I finally... caught up...
**Maki:** What's up, Kayo-chin?
**Rin:** A-Are you okay!?
**Hanayo:** I saw you guys a little while ago... so I chased after you...
**Honoka:** Sorry, Kayo-chan, I didn't notice you...
**Hanayo:** A-Anyway, more importantly! Um, you're here to help us, right?
**Hanayo:** I'm Koizumi Hanayo, a first-year student!
**Kotori:** Kayo-chan knows a lot about school idols.
**Honoka:** Is there anything you want help with, Kayo-chan?
**Hanayo:** O-Oh, yeah!
**Hanayo:** Unit composition is very important for a school idol group...
**Hanayo:** I'd like an outside opinion on what composition would work best.
**Umi:** That's right. It might be easier to come up with a good formation when you're looking from a different viewpoint.
**Hanayo:** Sorry for making you do something so tough...
**Honoka:** I'm sure it'll be fine!
**Umi:** You've met all of the first-year members now.
**Honoka:** Yeah, let's look for the third-years now!

## Chương 2 - Chúng tôi là μ's (Nhóm năm ba)

**Nico:** Nico Nico Smile~ I'm everyone's favourite idol, Nico♪
**Kotori:** Nico-chan, we found someone to help us~
**Nico:** I see. You did the right thing by coming to introduce them to me, the club leader, right away.
**Maki:** It was us that met them first, though...
**Nico:** When it comes to the world of school idols, I, Yazawa Nico, am front and center. You'd do well to remember that name.
**Rin:** That kinda makes you sound like a basketball player~
**Maki:** It's safe to ignore about half of whatever Nico-chan says.
**Nico:** ...
**Kotori:** Ahaha...
**Nico:** Hey you! You don't really look like you know much about idols.
**Nico:** I'll give you some important information... Right! I'll tell you about the center position!
**Nico:** It wouldn't be a stretch to say that the center position decides whether a live performance succeeds or fails.
**Hanayo:** The center position is the star of the unit. Depending on the situation, they can completely change the image of a song.
**Honoka:** Even within the same unit, you should change the center depending on the song~
**Nico:** That's right! For now, let's just have me as the center!
**Maki:** You don't have to listen to her.
**Nico:** ...Maaaki-chaaaan!
**Honoka:** Nico-chan and Maki-chan are always like this.
**Umi:** Leaving that aside, it's good to be aware of the role of the center position.
 **Nico:** As you see, the center position is a very important aspect.
**Hanayo:** The center position is a mark of prestige for an idol!
**Maki:** Well, unlike Nico-chan, I don't really care about being the center.
**Nico:** Oho...
**Maki:** W-What?
**Nico:** Again with the denial. I already know that you've secretly been writing a song so that you'll be ready for the day you're in the center~
**Maki:** Hey! W-What's wrong with that?
**Maki:** It's normal to write a song to match the image of the center!
**Honoka:** Uwaa, what kind of song is it? I really want to hear it!
**Maki:** I-It's nothing special...
**Umi:** I'm interested, too.
**Kotori:** Me too~! I want to hear!
**Rin:** I want to hear it too~!
**Hanayo:** If Maki-chan is the center... it must be a cool type of song, right...!?
**Maki:** You guys... I-I don't care!
**Honoka:** Wait up, Maki-chan~!
**Honoka:** S-Somehow we ended up outside the school while chasing after Maki-chan...
**Rin:** You don't have to run away...
**Maki:** ...Tch.
**Nozomi:** Oh my. Hello, everyone.
**Honoka:** Nozomi-chan~
**Nozomi:** Ah, hello there. I'm Toujou Nozomi, a third-year student and vice president of the student council.
**Umi:** I've seen you around here a lot.
**Nozomi:** That's because I have this.
**Rin:** Ohh, a tarot card!
**Nozomi:** It says that if I wait here, the person I am waiting for will come.
**Hanayo:** That's the spiritual leader of μ's for you...!
**Nozomi:** Are you showing the new member around?
**Kotori:** Yeah, they're getting a lot of experience.
**Hanayo:** You learn fast... it's amazing.
**Nico:** Well, you don't seem totally useless.
**Nozomi:** Time for a practical assessment, then.
**Nozomi:** During a live performance, you can use special skills to appeal to the audience.
**Umi:** The mood of a live changes drastically when you use a special skill.
 **Kotori:** That felt great♪
**Nozomi:** However, there aren't many opportunities for an appeal within a single performance, so keep that in mind.
**Honoka:** I see... I'll have to study this further...
**Umi:** Honoka, you should know this by now...
**Honoka:** C-Come on, Umi-chan... I just wanted to reconfirm how it works!
**Umi:** (stare)
**Honoka:** Uu...
**Maki:** That goes for Rin, too!
**Rin:** What~?
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan...
**Nico:** Oh right, Nozomi, did Eli say anything to you?
**Nozomi:** Oh yes, she wanted us to go to the student council room.
**Kotori:** I wonder why.
**Umi:** I want to introduce you to her too, so let's go.
**Honoka:** Okay!
**Eli:** Hello, I see you've met everyone else already.
**Honoka:** Yeah!
**Eli:** My name is Ayase Eli. I'm a third-year student and the president of Otonokizaka Academy's student council.
**Honoka:** Eli-chan is part of both μ's and the student council!
**Hanayo:** She's very dependable, so we rely on her a lot...!
**Maki:** She's different from a certain other third-year student.
**Nico:** Did you say something!?
**Eli:** Sorry about how noisy they are.
**Eli:** --Anyway, thanks for going to all of this trouble.
**Eli:** Please continue to assist us.
**Rin:** We're counting on you~
**Hanayo:** I-If there's anything you don't understand, please don't hesitate to ask.
**Nico:** Well, try not to hold us back... Ow, that hurts, Nozomi!
**Nozomi:** Just go at your own pace. Let's work together!
**Maki:** I'm looking forward to it!
**Kotori:** It's a lot to take in all at once, but... we'll move forward step by step!
**Umi:** Yes, I hope we can all be together forever...
**Honoka:** Ehehe... this is going to be fun!

## Chapter 3 - Một không gian tập lớn hơn!

**Maki:** There's no choice. They're obviously not going to let us use the auditorium every time.
**Rin:** I want to practice somewhere spacious~
**Kotori:** Saying that won't help...
**Umi:** Right.
**Honoka:** Okay!
**Kotori:** ?
**Honoka:** I'll go see if there's somewhere else we can use!
**Umi:** Wait, Honoka!
**Nozomi:** ...There's no stopping her.
**Hanayo:** You think so too, right, Nico-chan?
**Nico:** Yeah, that group was definitely the centre of the idol scene back then.
**Hanayo:** They were the best at everything, from singing, to dancing, to looks. And most of all, back then when live performances were growing in importance, their expressiveness on the stage was just...
**Nico:** ? Huh, isn't that Honoka-chan over there?
**Hanayo:** You're right... Honoka-chaaan!
**Honoka:** Ah, Kayo-chan, Nico-chan! Hey!
**Hanayo:** We were about to head over to the classroom... What are you doing?
**Honoka:** I was looking for somewhere that we could dance.
**Hanayo:** Somewhere to dance?
**Honoka:** Yeah, somewhere with more space than the classroom, so that we can dance to our hearts' content!
**Nico:** You're right! An empty classroom just isn't enough to bring out all of my appeal.
**Hanayo:** Ahaha... But all of the school grounds are being used by the sports clubs...
**Nico:** There might be somewhere off-campus that we can use.
**Honoka:** You've got a point! Thanks, Nico-chan, Kayo-chan! \*runs off\*
 **Honoka:** Hmm, is there anywhere we can go~?
**Kotori:** \*pant\* \*pant\*
**Kotori:** Honoka-chaaan, just how far are you going?
**Honoka:** There isn't anywhere good in the school...
**Umi:** That doesn't mean you'll be able to find a place outside...
**Honoka:** I want a place where we can dance freely... I guess we won't find one even if we go outside...
**Nozomi:** Besides, if you want to hold club activities outside of the school campus, you have to submit an application form to the student council.
**Kotori:** Oh right, how's Eli-chan doing?
**Nozomi:** She's probably still in the student council room. She got there earlier than I did, but she said that she still has some more documents to sort out.
**Honoka:** Alright, let's... make Eli-chan figure it out!
**Umi:** So it ends up that way after all...
**Honoka:** Eli-chan!
**Eli:** W-What's going on?
**Honoka:** I want somewhere spacious for us to practice!
**Eli:** ...What happened?
**Umi:** She thinks the classroom is too cramped...
**Honoka:** It's problematic if there isn't much space, right?
**Umi:** Yeah...
**Kotori:** Would we be able to get permission to use the auditorium?
**Eli:** It's not impossible, but... preparation would be an issue.
**Eli:** If you want to use the sound and lighting systems, it'll take a long time to set up...
**Honoka:** Hmm...
**Eli:** For the time being, if it's a spacious area that you want, what about the courtyard?
**Honoka:** That's right! Are we allowed to use that?
**Eli:** There are other clubs that use it, but they've probably already left.
**Umi:** Is this really okay?
**Eli:** Yes. Just don't damage the greenery, okay?
**Honoka:** Let's go, let's go! Right now!
**Eli:** How's this? There should be plenty of space around here.
**Honoka:** Great!
**Rin:** We can move around all we want!
**Honoka:** Oh...?
**(Crowd):** (murmur murmur)
**Umi:** People are crowding around us.
**Nozomi:** They're probably wondering what we're going to do.
**Nico:** What's going on?
**Hanayo:** Did something happen?
**Honoka:** Oh, perfect timing, you two!
 **Rin:** That felt great!
**Hanayo:** Performing outside is so much fun...
**Nico:** Yes... soon we'll be performing in full stadiums...
**Honoka:** Maki-chan!
**Honoka:** How was it?
**Maki:** ...What do you mean?
**Honoka:** It's kind of hard to move around when you're in the center position, right?
**Honoka:** But since we're out here, it should've been easier, right?
**Maki:** What... Is that why you decided to look for a bigger area?
**Honoka:** It's not just that. I wanted to give it my all, too!
**Maki:** ...You're so silly.
**Honoka:** Ah.
**Umi:** That's Honoka for you.
**Kotori:** I think Maki-chan is thankful, though.
**Rin:** Honoka-chaaan, Maki-chan is mine, so don't take her away from me~
**Maki:** Who's yours!?
**Kotori:** Hehe...

## Chương 4 - μ's được phỏng vấn?!

**Umi:** You seem really upbeat, Honoka.
**Honoka:** Because we're having a rehearsal! ♪
**Honoka:** There's still time before the performance, but we usually don't get a chance to use the stage equipment.
**Umi:** Yeah, it's been a while since we've been able to use the auditorium.
**Nico:** Wha... Whaaat!?
**Umi & Honoka:** ?
**Nico:** A sudden interview with the famed pure angel of μ's!?
**Nico:** My turn in the spotlight has come!
**Nozomi:** No, the interview is over already.
**Kotori:** We received a sample copy of the town magazine today.
**Nico:** I never heard anything about this!
**Nozomi:** Oh right, you weren't there, Nico-cchi.
**Nico:** First of all, who would they even interview besides me!?
**Kotori:** Me...
**Hanayo:** And me...
**Nozomi:** And me.
**Nico:** Hang on! I can sort of understand Kotori and Hanayo, but Nozomi is neither pure nor angelic!
**Nozomi:** Huh? You might get the wrong impression from my sense of style, but fundamentally, I'm pure, no?
**Nozomi:** Also, fortune telling is closely connected to the purity of the heart.
**Nozomi:** If you aren't pure, then the fortune telling results won't appear.
**Umi:** True... fortune telling and divination are holy occupations.
**Umi:** For instance, shrine maidens and the like seek purity.
**Nozomi:** Yes, yes, shrine maidens have a very pure aura, right?
**Nico:** Tch...
**Maki:** Anyway, she's more suitable than Nico-chan.
**Nico:** Grr! Fine! Just you watch!
**Rin:** She left...
**Kotori:** We can't start the rehearsal now...
 **Nico:** I was supposed to be avoiding media exposure, but...
**Nico:** While they weren't noticing me, they held an interview for the town magazine...!
**Nico:** Right now, most of my exposure is on the internet. When you think about the number of people that can appeal their pureness there, it's definitely an effective strategy.
**Nico:** However, this community-based town magazine isn't inferior to the internet.
**Nico:** At most it only has a few hundred subscribers, but they're guaranteed to be people who live near Otonokizaka Academy.
**Nico:** That means that it's an awfully effective medium of increasing visibility in this area, as well as to people in their thirties and higher--a demographic that's hard to appeal to through the internet!
**Nico:** Yes, whenever you walk through the shopping district, housewives and shop employees will see you, and think to themselves, "Ah, could that girl possibly be her...!?"
**Eli:** Nico, do you want more publicity?
**Nico:** Eeeeeek!?
**Nico:** Did I say that out loud...?
**Eli:** Very much so.
**Nico:** How long have you been listening to me?
**Eli:** Starting from around "While they weren't noticing me..."
**Nico:** ...
**Eli:** But if that's the case, I have some good news.
**Nico:** ?
**Kotori:** It's that reporter again...?
**Eli:** Yes, he wants to do another interview.
**Eli:** When I told him that we're doing a rehearsal in the auditorium today, he said that he'll come over right away.
**Eli:** He's probably already here.
**Nozomi:** Ah, is that so?
**Nico:** He's very dedicated.
**Nico:** After all, you can't understand μ's as a whole if you only interview Nozomi, Kotori, and Hanayo.
**Honoka:** Girls, the rehearsal is starting~
**Nico:** Let's go!
 **Rin:** It's a whole different feeling when you're on the stage~
**Hanayo:** It's a bit nerve-wracking...
**Kotori:** Nico-chaaan, the reporter from the town magazine wants to interview you.
**Nico:** The time has come...!
**Nico:** Yes~ I'll reach your heart with my Nico Nico Smile~ Everyone's favorite idol, Yazawa Nico, is coming now~
**Maki:** She's in such a hurry...
**Eli:** Don't learn from her greed, though. We're school idols, after all.
**Honoka:** Umi-chan, Kotori-chan, I got some yummy refreshments just now! Ah, everyone else should come too, before they run out!
**Umi:** Well, Honoka's already like that.
**Kotori:** Ahaha.
**Honoka:** ?
-Several days later-
**Eli:** Oh right, they published the article with the interview from last time.
**Nico:** Show me!
**Eli:** Here.
**Kotori:** Wow, they gave it a lot of space!
**Honoka:** You're right!
**Umi:** Let's see...
**Umi:** "Muse did a live show at Otonokizaka Academy."
**Umi:** "The girl in the picture is Yazawa Nico-chan."
**Umi:** "She's small but she works hard."
**Everyone:** ...
**Nozomi:** Why are the sentences so basic?
**Eli:** Because it's an article targeted towards little kids.
**Rin:** Little kids?
**Eli:** Yes, they plan on putting it up at kindergartens and nursery schools in the area.
**Hanayo:** N-Nico-chan...?
**Maki:** Isn't this great? Now you'll be really popular with kids.
**Nico:** Waaaaaaaah!

## Chương 5 - Người trợ giúp từ Hội đồng Học sinh

**Hanayo:** Yeah...
**Nozomi:** Girls~
**Rin:** Nozomi-chan?
**Nozomi:** There's something I'd like some help with.
**(Everyone else):** ?
**Nozomi:** Can you come to the student council room with me?
**Nozomi:** Sorry about this.
**Hanayo:** What happened?
**Eli:** Actually... we'd like some help with the student council work.
**Kotori:** Student council work...?
**Rin:** Sounds fun!
**Maki:** What about the other council members?
**Eli:** Everyone's caught the flu...
**Hanayo:** It's been going around, huh?
**Maki:** None of us have caught it, though.
**(Everyone else):** ...
**Umi:** Anyway, if that's the case then we'll have to do it.
**Kotori:** Let's help.
**Honoka:** Yeah, yeah!
**Nozomi:** Thanks, everyone.
**Umi:** So what should we do?
**Eli:** Sort out these documents for me.
**Eli:** Some of them require stamping and some of them don't. Could you separate them for me?
**Rin:** Piece of cake~!
-30 minutes later-
**Honoka:** (glances around)
**Umi:** Honoka, pay attention.
**Honoka:** What's this...?
**Kotori:** ?
**Honoka:** Hey, hey, Eli-chan, what's this?
**Eli:** That's a box for letters to the student council.
**Rin:** Letters?
**Eli:** Yes. If there's something bothering you about the school, write it on a piece of paper and put it in the box.
**Rin:** Huh, I didn't know there was something like that.
**Maki:** They explained it when we enrolled.
**Rin:** O-Oh, is that so...~
**Hanayo:** What kind of stuff do people write...?
**Eli:** You can take a look if you're interested.
**Honoka:** Really!?
**Eli:** Yes. Reading these and helping the students is an important task for the student council.
**Honoka:** Alright, in that case...
**Honoka:** Umm...
**Honoka:** "The broadcasting room's door doesn't close right."
**Nozomi:** Come to think of it, I recall hearing that someone bumped into it.
**Eli:** Did it break then?
**Honoka:** I'll go fix it!
**Rin:** I'll go too~
**Umi:** Wait, Honoka!
**Maki:** Rin!
 **Honoka:** We fixed it!
**Nico:** That was fast!
**Nozomi:** Huh? Really?
**Rin:** The broadcasting club was already fixing it, so we helped them out.
**Nico:** Oh, is that all?
**Eli:** But it's admirable that you pitched in. Thanks.
**Rin:** Ehe!
**Honoka:** What's next!?
**Umi:** Instead of reading these, you should keep sorting out the documents.
**Honoka:** Aww...
**Kotori:** Ahaha... we can take care of the documents ourselves.
**Umi:** Jeez, don't spoil her, Kotori.
**Honoka:** You're the best, Kotori-chan! I'll let you pick the next mission!
**Maki:** She's treating it like a game...
**Kotori:** U-Umm...
**Kotori:** Th-Then... th-this one!
**Kotori:** "The music that plays at lunchtime is all classic music which is no fun. I'd like it if you'd play more recent songs."
**Hanayo:** They have a point...
**Maki:** What's wrong with classic music?
**Nico:** You just don't get it. It's that attitude that's the reason why enrollment rates have dropped. You have to consider the needs of the students!
**Rin:** Leave it to us!
**Nozomi:** ?
**Honoka:** The broadcasting club told us just now that they want to broadcast our lives!
**Nozomi:** Ooh, that sounds interesting.
**Rin:** I'm going to go over there!
-5 minutes later-
**Rin:** We'll be doing a live tomorrow at lunch!
**Maki:** That's so sudden...
**Nozomi:** Do we have space in our schedule?
**Eli:** Somehow...
**Nico:** Alright! Let's captivate the school with our voices!
 **Honoka:** I wonder if everyone enjoyed it~
**Eli:** I think they'd be more surprised than happy...
**Nozomi:** They suddenly started broadcasting our song.
**Kotori:** Hehe, I'm sure they all liked it.
**Umi:** The student council has more work than I thought.
**Eli:** Yes...
**Hanayo:** But this way we've helped the broadcasting club too, so they're also happy... it's amazing.
**Rin:** It's an infinite loop of happiness~
**Honoka:** This is called the "butterfly effect," right!? And it all started because everyone was sick!
**Nico:** That doesn't sound quite right...

## Chapter 6- Hanayo's Grand Diet Plan!

**Eli:** Hmm, I'll go with tiramisu.
**Rin:** What about you, Kayo-chin?
**Hanayo:** I-I'll...
**Hanayo:** ...pass.
**Rin:** Huh~!? What's wrong Kayo-chin? Are you not feeling well!?
**Hanayo:** It's not that...
**Maki:** What's wrong, Hanayo? This is unlike you.
**Hanayo:** C-Compared to the rest of you, my style is... uu...
**Hanayo:** So I wanted to go on a diet!
**Rin:** Don't worry about it~
**Maki:** She's right, Hanayo.
**Honoka:** Yeah, yeah! You're cute as you are!
**Hanayo:** B-But I've already decided!
 **Umi:** I didn't know she was worrying about it that much...
**Honoka:** I think she's fine, though...
**Maki:** Right. She just hasn't realized that she has strengths of her own.
**Maki:** Being scrawny has its own problems.
**Nico:** What are you implying!?
**Eli:** Anyway... I don't think Hanayo will come to terms with it just from what we say.
**Nico:** Hmm.
**Honoka:** How about we convince her to give up on her diet by tempting her with sweets?
**Umi:** I just don't want her to end up disliking herself...
**Eli:** First of all, let's give her some self-satisfaction.
**Nozomi:** Is there no other way?
**Rin:** Okay! Let's do a live!
**Umi:** A live?
**Rin:** If she realizes that she doesn't have enough stamina to perform well, she won't go on a diet!
**Kotori:** Huh...
**Nico:** Will that really work?
**Rin:** It'll be fine! Leave it to me!
**Rin:** Kayo-chin!
**Hanayo:** Uwa!
**Rin:** I'll help you with your diet~
**Hanayo:** You'll help...?
**Rin:** The best way to lose weight is to exercise!
**Rin:** So, I've prepared a live stage!
**Maki:** It was me that did it.
**Rin:** Go at it harder than ever!
 **Hanayo:** \*pant\* \*pant\* That was harder than usual...
**Rin:** If you get thinner, will you be able to handle difficult lives like this?
**Rin:** It's better if you don't lose weight!
**Hanayo:** Hmm...
**Honoka:** Kayo-chan.
**Hanayo:** ?
**Honoka:** There's lots of idols out there.
**Hanayo:** ? Lots?
**Honoka:** Yeah, even when you only look at school idols, there's a lot of them.
**Hanayo:** Y-Yeah, I guess.
**Honoka:** Our fans come to see us perform, even though there's so many other idols.
**Honoka:** It's a wonderful feeling.
**Honoka:** So I've been thinking to myself - why do they come to see us?
**Maki:** Hmm...
**Honoka:** But in the end, I don't really know.
**Kotori:** Ahaha...
**Honoka:** But you know, I'm sure that they come because it's us.
**Honoka:** Clumsiness, aloofness, shyness, and teasing...
**Honoka:** As μ's, we combine all of those.
**Honoka:** And so they come to see us as that μ's.
**Kotori:** Yeah... that's right.
**Honoka:** So...
**Honoka:** Of course we have to get better at singing and dancing, but there's no need for us to change ourselves.
**Eli:** Indeed. I'm sure that your fans also like seeing you eat delicious food.
**Maki:** Well, we've already been featured in the media, so changing your character now won't help.
**Nico:** Yes... My cuteness is already well-known throughout the entire world.
**(Everyone else):** ...
**Nico:** Hey! Why are you ignoring me!?
**Hanayo:** I-I... I'm shyer than the rest of you... Is that okay...?
**Eli:** That's part of your personality.
**Hanayo:** Is it okay if I'm kind of chubby too...?
**Rin:** Of course!
**Hanayo:** Is it okay if I eat a lot...?
**Honoka:** Yeah!
**Hanayo:** Ehehe... thanks, everyone...
**Maki:** However! You still have to maintain reasonable proportions.
**Hanayo:** Ah.
**Maki:** Well, I'll keep an eye on it for you.
**Eli:** If Maki's in charge, it'll be more problematic than the diet...
**Umi:** I'd rather not get involved.
**Kotori:** Same here...
**Nozomi:** Thirded.
**Hanayo:** H-Huh!?
**Hanayo:** Save mee...

## Chapter 7- μ's Without Umi

**Eli:** OK. Let's go with this for our next mini-live.
**Nozomi:** Nicely organized.
**Umi:** I'm going to go visit the archery club now.
**Honoka:** Okay, have fun!
**Rin:** It must be tough to be in the archery club at the same time~
**Hanayo:** Does the archery club have tournaments or anything?
**Kotori:** I think they do...
**Nozomi:** We're only going to get busier. Will she be okay?
**Honoka:** Umi-chan can handle it!
**Nico:** It's no big deal for her.
 **Nozomi:** Honoka-chan, Kotori-chan.
**Honoka & Kotori:** ?
**Nozomi:** Look...
**Kotori:** A magazine?
**Nozomi:** On this page here... in small print...
**Honoka:** It's Umi-chan!
**Kotori:** "For generations, we have been featuring the Sonoda family, known as the head of traditional dance."
**Kotori:** Wow~ Her aunts are here, too~
**Hanayo:** Such graceful forms...!
**Rin:** Wow!
**Honoka:** I-It says that Umi-chan said that she works hard every day so that she'll be a worthy successor to the family someday!
**Nico:** Of course she'd say that in an interview.
**Honoka:** Umi-chan has to practice her traditional dancing too...
**Kotori:** Yeah...
**Honoka:** Umi-chan's family is the head of traditional dance, so that should really take priority over μ's...
**Kotori:** Yeah... if something happens, she might not be able to come to the live...
**Maki:** That won't happen to people who are as responsible as her.
**Honoka:** I guess...
**Nico:** You're worrying too much. Haven't you two known her for years?
**Nozomi:** That's why they're worrying so much...
**Kotori:** I wonder what Umi-chan will do...
**Umi:** Sorry I'm late.
**Honoka:** U-Umi-chan!?
**Umi:** ? What's wrong, Honoka?
**Honoka:** I-It's nothing!
 **Honoka:** Come on, Kotori-chan, if you're going to ask then now's the time!
**Kotori:** Huh!? It's better if you ask...
**Nico:** Ahhh, I can't watch this any longer.
**Kotori:** Nico-chan...?
**Nico:** Umi-chan, those two want to know what's going on with this article here.
**Honoka & Kotori:** U-Uwaaaaa~
**Umi:** Ah, this... My mother begged me to do it.
**Umi:** Apparently her friend was the editor.
**Nico:** Oh, I see.
**Umi:** Yes. And in return, they'll feature our next live in an article as well.
**Eli:** Umi doesn't miss any opportunities, huh?
**Umi:** It took away precious practice time, so it's the least they could do.
**Umi:** ?
**Honoka:** B-But it was all about traditional dancing!
**Umi:** Well, it was an interview about traditional dance, so of course it wouldn't talk about anything else.
**Kotori:** What about becoming a worthy successor to the family?
**Umi:** That's not for a long time. I wouldn't succeed them so quickly anyway, right?
**Honoka:** W-What about μ's!?
**Umi:** I don't understand your question...
**Kotori:** You'll keep going with us, right?
**Umi:** ? Of course...?
**Kotori:** Thank goodness...
**Umi:** Did you two think I was going to quit μ's after you saw this article?
**Honoka:** Geh!
**Kotori:** I-It was Honoka-chan!
**Honoka:** B-Because you're busy with the archery club too!
**Umi:** Honoka, Kotori.
**Honoka & Kotori:** Yes...?
**Umi:** As you know, both traditional dance and the archery club are important to me.
**Umi:** But you also know that μ's is irreplaceable for me... no, for all of us... right?
**Kotori:** Umi-chan...
**Umi:** ...Hehe.
**Umi:** Besides...
**Umi:** Giving up on something you've started is a warrior's disgrace. I won't abandon it so easily.
**Honoka:** Umi-chaaaan!!
**Umi:** Stop that, Honoka!
**Honoka:** Ehehe. I'm nothing without you, Umi-chan.
**Kotori:** ...Honoka-chan, that wording is strange.
**Umi:** ...Sheesh.
**Honoka:** The three of us will be together forever and ever!
**Maki:** This sounds like a wedding...
**Hanayo:** T-This is polygamy...
**Rin:** Kayo-chin and Maki-chan should be my brides too~
**Maki:** No!
**Hanayo:** Ahaha...
**Eli:** Well, this case is closed.
**Nozomi:** You were secretly worrying about her too, right?
**Eli:** Of course.
**Eli:** I can't bear to imagine a μ's without Umi.
**Nozomi:** Hahaha...

## Chapter 8- Enter the Festival!

**Eli:** What's wrong?
**Nozomi:** I drew cards for everyone... but all of the results were bad.
**Eli:** Hmm...
**Nozomi:** For example, Honoka had the Chariot in reversed position. That symbolizes recklessness without fear of losing.
**Eli:** ...Isn't Honoka always like that?
**Nozomi:** ...That's true.
**Honoka:** Ah! Eli-chaan, Nozomi-chaan! Oh, whoa!
**Honoka:** A-Ahaha... I'll be going ahead to the clubroom!
**Eli:** W-Will she be okay?
**Nozomi:** See you~
**Nozomi:** I'll write out the results of the fortune telling...
**Eli:** ...It looks like you're listing our flaws.
**Nozomi:** You don't have to worry about it too much.
**Eli:** We need to be aware of our faults, too.
**Nozomi:** Together as μ's, we make up for each other's flaws.
**Nozomi:** But you know, μ's is really lucky.
**Eli:** ?
**Nozomi:** This is a fateful turning point! We can't miss any chances! ...Something like that.
**Eli:** A fateful turning point...
**Nozomi:** I'm sure a chance will appear soon.
**Eli:** Let's work hard so that we can take advantage of it, then.
**Nozomi:** That's right. Will you be practicing with us today?
**Eli:** I'm going to drop by the student council room first. You can go on without me.
**Nozomi:** Alright. See you later.
**Eli:** Oh... a letter? Did someone leave this behind?
 **Honoka:** What's up, Eli-chan?
**Hanayo:** It's rare for you to call all of us to the student council room...
**Eli:** Hehehe...
**Kotori:** E-Eli-chan...?
**Eli:** I have good news, everyone!
**Eli:** μ's will be participating in *Love Live! School Idol Festival*!
**(Everyone else):** What~!?
**Rin:** So what's that?
**Eli:** ...
**Hanayo:** *Love Live! School Idol Festival* is an event where school idols from all over the country gather!
**Nico:** They reserve a huge venue and several school idol groups perform in succession.
**Hanayo:** Yes! Last time it started with A-RISE and there were 12 groups in total! It was a huge, huge, huge success!
**Rin:** Coool!
**Nico:** I was there in the audience last time. The quality of the performances and the tension in the audience were amazing.
**Hanayo:** Yes... it was great...
**Eli:** The scale will be even larger this time.
**Kotori:** A-And we're going to be performing there...?
**Hanayo:** I'm already nervous...
**Maki:** They won't allow a half-hearted performance.
**Honoka:** Let's practice right now!
**Eli:** I booked the auditorium already. Let's practice on an actual stage.
**Rin:** Nice, Eli-chan!
**Eli:** In return... let's show them the best performance!
**Umi:** I'll do my best.
 **Hanayo:** T-That was a hard performance...
**Rin:** B-But weren't we great!?
**Maki:** I suppose we were okay.
**Nico:** I'm still capable of more.
**Rin:** You're sweating really hard, Nico~
**Honoka:** It's kind of shocking... μ's is so well-known now...
**Kotori:** Yeah... I didn't expect this when we started out.
**Umi:** Let's wait until we succeed in this performance before basking in sentimental feelings.
**Umi:** We'll finally be performing for such a large audience, after all.
**Umi:** Let's do our best to reach them with our feelings.
**Honoka:** Yeah!
**Nozomi:** Just as predicted... right?
**Eli:** Yes... But what's important is what we do now.
**Nozomi:** Indeed. I couldn't see whether or not we'd succeed.
**Nozomi:** It all depends on us.
**Eli:** Everyone!
**Eli:** There's still time before the School Idol Festival.
**Eli:** Let's keep refining our performance to create the greatest live!
**Everyone:** Yeah!

## Chapter 9- We Can't Practice Today

**Hanayo:** They're doing a rooftop inspection today, so we can't practice. I'm sad too...
**Rin:** Oh! Can't we just practice somewhere else~?
**Hanayo:** I asked about that too, but the courtyards are already being used by other clubs.
**Rin:** I see... What should we do today, then~?
**Hanayo:** I've never done anything after school besides practice with μ's, so if we can't practice then I don't know what we can do...
**Rin:** That's because you love idols so much, Kayo-chin~
**Hanayo:** Ehehe... It's kind of scary to think about what I'd be doing if I'd never joined μ's...
**Rin:** Huh~? Why scary~?
**Hanayo:** The first thing I ever decided that I wanted to do was to join μ's. So if μ's didn't exist, I wouldn't have done anything...
**Rin:** Kayo-chin...
**Hanayo:** I'm not athletic, and my grades are average. All I did was follow the idol scene...
**Hanayo:** I wasn't sure if there was anything out there for me to do...
**Hanayo:** That's why I'm really happy that I can be a school idol with you guys.
**Hanayo:** ...I'm still not confident enough to call myself a real idol though, ehehe.
**Rin:** What are you saying, Kayo-chin!? That's not true!!
**Hanayo:** Huh, Rin-chan...?
**Rin:** You're not making any sense!
**Hanayo:** Huh... wh... what...? Why are you mad at me, Rin-chan? Did I make you mad somehow?
**Rin:** You said that you can't do anything yourself! That's not true!
**Rin:** You're a proper idol! An idol that won't lose to anyone else!
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan...!!
**Rin:** You're also cute, and you're good at making rice balls, and you look good in glasses!!
**Rin:** So stop saying such negative things~!
**Hanayo:** R-Rin-chan... th... thank you...!
**Rin:** I'm not good at complimenting people... but that's how I truly feel!
**Hanayo:** Yeah... yeah...!
**Hanayo:** I'm here right now because you and Maki-chan supported me back then.
**Hanayo:** If it wasn't for you two, I never would've joined μ's... So I'm really, really thankful.
**Rin:** I wouldn't be a member of μ's if it wasn't for you, too!
**Hanayo:** But...
**Rin:** That's why I'm even moooooooore thankful to you, Kayo-chin!
**Hanayo:** ...Hehe.
**Rin:** Ehehe...
**Hanayo:** I'm glad we joined μ's and became school idols!
**Rin:** Yeah! I think I'm really lucky to be able to practice with you guys every day~ ♪
**Hanayo:** Hmm... I brought more rice balls today, but since we can't practice, I guess I shouldn't have.
**Rin:** I'll eat them all~
**Hanayo:** Ehehe. Let's eat them together then, Rin-chan!
**Rin:** Yay! I love you, Kayo-chin~!
**Hanayo:** \*nom nom\* Yummy!
**Rin:** \*nom nom\* Your rice balls are the best~
**Hanayo:** Let's practice hard tomorrow ♪
 **Nico:** The weather's so nice ☆
**Maki:** Yeah.
**Nico:** Don't you just get all excited and want to go out and play with Nico Smile on a day like this?
**Maki:** Nope.
**Nico:** Fine, I'll be blunt about it! We're taking a break from practice, right!? So why do we still have to study!?
**Maki:** Doesn't it make sense to study when we can't practice? Also, you spelled that English word wrong.
**Nico:** Urk... I-Isn't it obvious that I spelled it wrong on purpose!?
**Maki:** Why would you make a mistake on purpose...? If you want to go play, just hurry up and finish your homework.
**Nico:** What about you, Maki-chan? You've just been reading a book this entire time!
**Maki:** I'm already done all of today's homework.
**Nico:** Eek!
**Maki:** I'm also done preparing for the next lesson.
**Nico:** Eeeek! You're a monster!
**Maki:** Don't say such disgraceful things. If you did your work properly every day, you wouldn't have ended up the way you are.
**Maki:** You were probably the type of student that started doing their summer homework on August 31st when you were a kid, right?
**Nico:** S-Shut up! You're good at studying, so you can't understand how I feel!
**Maki:** Well, it's not that I don't understand.
**Nico:** Huh? You aren't!?
**Maki:** I am... but there *are* things that I'm bad at, too.
**Nico:** Really?
**Maki:** Of course.
**Nico:** Like what?
**Maki:** That... is irrelevant right now.
**Nico:** At this point in the conversation, you can hardly say it's irrelevant~
**Maki:** Uu... I shouldn't have said anything.
**Nico:** So? What is it? What are you bad at!?
**Maki:** Don't be so happy about it!
**Nico:** I'm happy because it means I might be able to help you with it ♪ What are you bad at?
**Maki:** Well... you know, that idol-like stuff.
**Nico:** ...Huh?
**Maki:** The stuff that you do! Whatever, let's just stop talking about this.
**Nico:** Don't tell me that you wanted to do "Nico Nico Smile~!" too...!?
**Maki:** No! I mean like... those cutesy idol actions.
**Nico:** Maki-chan...!!!!
**Maki:** Uu... Don't look at me with those sparkling eyes! I only thought about it a little bit! Just a little!
**Nico:** Oh~ You should've just told me~ ☆ I'm always willing to help with those things ♪
**Maki:** Nico-chan...
**Nico:** It's a shame that we can't use the rooftop today, but there's still other things that we can practice ☆
**Nico:** Okay, follow after me! "Nico Nico Smile~ ♪ I'm Nico Smile, and I love studying~ ☆"
**Maki:** No way! Also, that's a blatant lie!
**Nico:** You complain too much... Fine then, I'll make a new one just for you. This is a special service, okay?
**Nico:** "Maki Maki Ma~ ☆ I'm Maki-chan, and even though I say mean things, I'm nice on the inside~!"
**Maki:** Grr...! There's no way I'm ever saying thaaaat!!
**Nico:** Ahh, Maki-chan, don't get mad!
**Maki:** I thought you'd understand how I felt... but I was stupid to ask you for advice.
**Nico:** No, I do understand everything about you.
**Maki:** Liar!
**Nico:** I know all about your cute aspects.
**Maki:** Huh...
**Nico:** You probably haven't realized it yourself, but you're cute in a looot of ways, you know?
**Maki:** C-Come on, don't say that... it's embarrassing.
**Nico:** So let's show everyone else your cute side too, okay?
**Maki:** Nico-chan... Um, th-thanks.
**Nico:** Don't sweat it. Now, let's start practicing!
**Maki:** What kind of practice?
**Nico:** Eeh, what are you playing dumb for? Follow after me! "Nico Nico Smile~ ♪"
**Maki:** Sigh... Well, if it's already come to this... "Nico Nico Smile~!!"
**Nico:** You need to be more sweet and charming! One more time, "Nico Nico Smile~ ♪"
 **Honoka:** Aww... it sucks that we can't practice~
**Kotori:** We've been practicing every single day, so it can't hurt to take a break.
**Umi:** That's right. There's no archery club meeting today either, so why don't we go somewhere together?
**Honoka:** Yeah, I guess days like this are good too ♪ Let's go shopping then~
**Kotori:** Okay~!
**Umi:** I never knew there was a variety store here.
**Honoka:** Uwa~ Kotori-chan, that strap is really cute~!
**Kotori:** Hehe, it's a cute and fluffy alpaca ♪ That stationery set is cute too, Honoka-chan~☆
**Honoka:** It's rare to see stationery paper with pictures of bread on it! Plus, it looks so realistic... \*drool\*
**Umi:** Honoka! Don't eat the paper.
**Honoka:** Ah, that was close! I just naturally started drooling when I saw it...
**Umi:** Jeez... You need to be more serious.
**Honoka:** Ahaha...
**Kotori:** Umi-chan, Honoka-chan, let's go to that arcade next~
**Honoka:** Okay, let's go!
**Honoka:** This is a nice place! I'm going to go look for a dance game...
**Kotori:** I think I'll go look at the crane games...
**Umi:** The one that would be compatible with that person would be...
**Kotori:** Huh? Umi-chan, are you doing a love horoscope~??
**Umi:** Eek! N-No! It's... um... umm, the alpaca!
**Kotori:** Eh?
**Umi:** I wanted to see if I was compatible with the alpaca... yeah... ahahaha...
**Kotori:** You like alpacas that much? Let's match alpaca accessories then~♪
**Umi:** I-I'll consider it...
**Kotori:** Okay, I'll aim for the alpaca plushies then! One for me, and one for you ♪
**Kotori:** Ah, but if we're going to match, then I want to get one for Honoka-chan too ☆
**Kotori:** I'm going to go get them now~ I'll bring back plushies as souvenirs ☆
**Kotori:** Okay, here they are ♪ This one is yours, Umi-chan ♪
**Umi:** T-Thank you... You're good at the crane games, huh?
**Kotori:** Ehehe~ I tried really hard because I really wanted them!
**Kotori:** This alpaca's outfit is so cute~! Maybe our next μ's outfit should be like this too ♪
**Umi:** An alpaca wearing clothes.....??
**Umi:** Umm... Anyway, where did Honoka go?
**Kotori:** She said that she was looking for a dance game... Let's go find her.
**Umi:** The dance games are over there, I think... Oh? There's a big crowd there.
**Kotori:** You're right~ Maybe Honoka-chan is there? Excuse me~ Please let me through~
**Honoka:** Ei! ☆
**Honoka:** And now turn here!
**Honoka:** Jump... Finish! ♪
**Umi:** Honoka!
**Kotori:** Uwaa~! Honoka-chan, you're amazing!!
**Honoka:** Kotori-chan, Umi-chan! Sorry, did I make you wait? I'm done now.
**Umi:** More importantly, you were great! The crowd is really something, too... You're even at the top of the rankings.
**Honoka:** Ehehe~ Ever since I became a school idol, my score in this game has been rising ♪
**Kotori:** Wow~! You've become popular here!
**Honoka:** Ahaha, I'm happy about that, but...
**Umi:** But?
**Honoka:** In the end, it's a lot more fun to dance with the rest of the group!
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan~ ☆
**Umi:** We'll be able to practice again starting tomorrow.
 **Eli:** ...Sigh.
**Nozomi:** Eli-cchi, I'll put the documents here.
**Eli:** ...Ah, okay. Thanks, Nozomi.
**Nozomi:** Hehe, it's so easy to tell what you're thinking ♪
**Eli:** Eh? What do you mean...?
**Nozomi:** Eli-cchi, it's not good to be impatient.
**Eli:** Jeez... You can see through anything.
**Eli:** I'm feeling down just because we can't practice today...
**Nozomi:** That's because μ's is really important to you, right?
**Eli:** Yeah. It... really is.
**Eli:** But... it's kind of strange.
**Nozomi:** What is?
**Eli:** Before, it was normal to just spend my afterschool time on student council work...
**Eli:** But now I'm used to staying late every day to practice on the school roof.
**Eli:** Even though if I'd never joined μ's, I would've been content with just my student council work.
**Nozomi:** You'd be satisfied with just that?
**Eli:** Yes. I always have been.
**Nozomi:** Hmm... I don't think that's true.
**Eli:** Why not?
**Nozomi:** Because it's fate that brought both of us to μ's.
**Eli:** Fate...?
**Nozomi:** Yes, fate. It's already been decided that the possibility of "If I'd never joined μ's" does not exist.
**Nozomi:** So isn't it wrong to think that you would've been satisfied with just your student council work?
**Nozomi:** I don't think you would've been content if you hadn't joined μ's.
**Eli:** I see... You might be right.
**Eli:** Maybe I never had the choice of not joining μ's to begin with.
**Nozomi:** Yep ♪
**Eli:** It felt like a noble goal to do everything I could as student council president to prevent the school from being closed down.
**Eli:** But doing my best for the school with μ's is much more fun.
**Nozomi:** You only worked hard with μ's for the school's sake?
**Eli:** Jeez, Nozomi. Now you're just teasing me. You already know, right? I love μ's, and I love being a school idol.
**Nozomi:** Hehe, I just wanted to hear you say that ♪
**Eli:** You feel the same way, don't you?
**Nozomi:** Of course ☆ But for me, what's most fun... is seeing you having fun, Eli-cchi.
**Eli:** Hehe, you're acting as if you're my mother or something.
**Eli:** Ah, a phone call... Hello, this is Ayase.
**Eli:** The roof inspection is done? I understand...! I will inform everyone. Thank you.
**Nozomi:** Great! We'll be able to practice tomorrow ♪
**Eli:** No, today! Let's get in some practice today, too!
**Nozomi:** But the sun is already setting.
**Eli:** I'm sure everyone else wants to practice too! I'll get the key to the rooftop, so let the others know, Nozomi!
**Nozomi:** Okay, okay. You're sure excited, huh? I'll do my best too~ ♪

## Chapter 10- Summer Festival Fortunes

**Kotori:** You look so happy, Honoka-chan.
**Umi:** That goes for you too, Kotori.
**Kotori:** It's fun to wear a yukata, hehe ♪
**Eli:** It's still too early in the year, so it doesn't really feel like a summer festival to me.
**Nozomi:** Early festivals have their charm, too. There's so many cute little kids here ♪
**Hanayo:** Ah, there you are! Hey everyone!
**Maki:** What happened, Kayo-chin?
**Hanayo:** They have a place where you can draw on paper lanterns. Let's go try it~
**Nico:** Drawing ourselves on paper lanterns, huh?
**Umi:** I'm not very good at drawing... Can I write on mine instead?
**Nozomi:** Sure! It sounds like fun to make our own personal lanterns ♪
**Eli:** Let's go, then!
**Eli:** Is everyone done? What did you draw, Maki?
**Maki:** This.
**Honoka:** Oh, those musical notes are cute~! It suits you well, since you love music so much.
**Hanayo:** Here's mine.
**Nozomi:** A mountain of rice bowls, huh? You're the same as ever.
**Hanayo:** Ehehe... What about you, Rin-chan?
**Rin:** I drew a cat, nya~!
**Umi:** That does seem to fit you... especially that triumphant pose.
**Rin:** It's going "Yaaay!" ☆
**Kotori:** I drew a small bird~ (TL note: "Kotori" means "small bird") And Honoka-chan drew... "Ho"...?
**Honoka:** Yeah! It's the "Ho" in "Honoka"! It matches the T-shirt I wear when I practice!
**Eli:** What did you write, Umi?
**Umi:** This.
**Eli:** C... "Cutting the Gordian knot"...
**Nico:** Umi-chan, don't cut the lantern, okay!?
**Umi:** I won't!
**Rin:** What did Nozomi-chan put? Wa... "Washiwashi"...? (TL note: Nozomi likes using this phrase when she's groping the girls)
**Nozomi:** Yes! It's cute and it represents me well ☆
**Nico:** What a scary lantern...
**Nozomi:** Really~? Isn't it cute? Ah, what did Eli-chan draw?
**Hanayo:** The word "μ's" with nine hearts around it?
**Kotori:** So cute~!
**Umi:** I get it. Each of those hearts represents one of us, right?
**Nico:** Ehhh. You're all so boring! All of that stuff is so old-fashioned.
**Honoka:** What, old-fashioned~!?
**Maki:** What did you draw then, Nico-chan?
**Nico:** Hehe, watch and be amazed! Look at this!
**Eli:** "Nico Yazawa"...? (TL note: Written in English)
**Nozomi:** Huh!? Nico-cchi, you wrote your own name on it!?
**Maki:** You don't have to write your name on it just to prevent people from stealing it.
**Rin:** But if you lose it, it'll be easier for people to return it if your name is on it~ ☆ Nico-chan, you're so smart ♪
**Nico:** Wh...!? N-No! You're all wrooooong!!!!
**Kotori:** What's wrong, Nico-chan?
**Nico:** This is an autograph by the school idol Yazawa Nico-chan! I'm not just writing my name on it to mark it as mine!!
**Honoka:** Oh, so it's an autograph~!
**Umi:** Will a time come when we'll have the opportunity to give out autographs?
**Nico:** Of course it will. That's why you should prepare for when that day comes.
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan, that was kind of cool!
**Nico:** Also, the first autographs are valuable because of their rarity.
**Eli:** Hmm... So this is valuable, huh?
**Nico:** M-Maybe not right now, but in the future! It'll definitely be worth a lot in the future!!
**Kotori:** An autographed lantern, huh? That sounds great~ ♪
**Nico:** Hehe, I know, right? It's okay if you all want to copy me.
**Maki:** Looks like it got dark while we were drawing. The faint light from the lanterns makes for a great atmosphere...!
 **Rin:** I can't eat any more~ I'm so full, so happy...~
**Hanayo:** Are you two taking a break? I'm going to go buy some fried squid and buttered potatoes, then ♪
**Honoka:** Whoa...!? Kayo-chan can still eat more~?
**Rin:** That's Kayo-chin for you. She's so enthusiastic~
**Honoka:** Festivals are all about the delicious food stands~ Ahh, I'm so satisfied~!
**Kotori:** Hehe, Honoka-chan loves festivals~
**Nozomi:** Let's go to the Bon Festival dance ♪
**Kotori:** Okay, I'll do my best ☆
**Umi:** You two are going? Okay, I'll wait here then.
**Nozomi:** What are you saying? You're coming with us.
**Kotori:** Hurry, hurry~
**Umi:** Whoa! I get it, I get it, don't drag me~
**Eli:** I'm glad everyone's having fun. Summer really is the season for festivals ♪
**Maki:** Well, nothing wrong with that.
**Eli:** ...You don't seem to be enjoying yourself too much.
**Maki:** That's not true. It's just that... I don't know what I should be doing at places like this.
**Eli:** I understand that feeling. It was so much easier to let loose and have fun when I was a kid.
**Nico:** Ahh~! Nico Smile really is the best!
**Nico:** The adorable Nico Smile is the center of attention wherever she goes...!
**Maki:** I have no idea what you're saying... but as long as you're having fun, sure.
**Eli:** What were you the best at?
**Nico:** At the target shooting stand, even though I'd already won a stuffed animal, the manager said "You're cute, so I'll give you another try"!
**Nico:** Ahh~ Isn't my beauty just unfair? What if God pulls me away from this world!?
**Maki:** Wasn't he just treating you like a kid?
**Nico:** It's not fair to you guys, so I'll give you my prizes~ This one's for Eli, and this one's for Maki-chan ♪
**Eli:** Ah, a lion plushie. It's cute ♪
**Maki:** Eh... Why is mine a gorilla!? Don't you have anything cuter?
**Nico:** Don't gorillas seem like they'd be good at studying? I thought it'd be perfect for you~ ☆
**Maki:** ...Well, whatever.
**Nico:** More importantly, you two should be having more fun. It's a waste to come all the way to a festival just to stand around and watch.
**Eli:** You're right... What do you want to do, Maki? Even if you just want to try it out, that's fine.
**Maki:** I don't really care...
**Eli:** Really? We're at a festival, so you should be more honest ♪ Okay?
**Maki:** ...! ...Then, how about a yo-yo balloon... maybe...?
**Nico:** We'll go get one then! What about Eli?
**Eli:** Hmm... Can I have a candy apple?
**Nico:** Okay, so after the yo-yo balloon are candy apples! Jeez, you're making me have to take care of you, so hurry up!
**Maki:** What about you, Nico-chan? Isn't there anything you want to do?
**Nico:** I want to look at the masks afterwards!
**Maki:** Huh? You're just like a kid.
**Eli:** Are you going to get a sentai mask and become Nico Ranger?
**Nico:** I-It doesn't matter what kind of mask it is! Come on, let's go already!!
**Maki:** There's nothing we can do about her, huh...
**Eli:** It's because you're so obstinate, Maki.
**Eli:** Well, I'm not any better.
 **Hanayo:** So like, she correctly guessed what I want the most right now~
**Kotori:** Wow, that's great~! She helps me when I'm in a pinch, too~
**Hanayo:** Her power is the real thing!
**Kotori:** Yep~♪
**Honoka:** Huh? What power?
**Hanayo:** Nozomi-chan's tarot card readings! She can figure out anything!
**Kotori:** I want to consult with her the next time I have a problem~
**Nozomi:** Hehe, feel free ♪ I'll read them for everyone~
**Umi:** Being able to tell what a person wants or what their future has in store for them by looking at cards... It's hard to believe.
**Eli:** But she really does get it right, so there has to be something behind it, right?
**Umi:** Yes, it seems so. There's a lot of things in the world that can't be explained with science.
**Rin:** There's a lot of things I don't know, but I know that Nozomi-chan is amazing~
**Nozomi:** There's an extreeemely strong power hidden inside my cards ♪
**Nico:** Eh? In that case, tell me what questions are going to be on the next test.
**Maki:** You're being condescending even though you're relying on her so desperately?
**Nozomi:** Do you know what will happen to you if you use my power for unfit purposes...?
**Nico:** Eek...
**Nozomi:** I've got you now~!!
**Nico:** Kyaaaaa~!
**Eli:** I wonder if she stores some kind of power by groping you guys...
**Hanayo:** Why don't you try getting your fortune told next, Maki-chan? She's really good at it, and you'll get some advice too ♪
**Maki:** Well...
**Nozomi:** You're welcome anytime ☆
**Kotori:** Do you have any troubles right now, Maki-chan?
**Maki:** Of course I do, but...
**Kotori:** Go for it ♪
**Maki:** B-But it's not really something I can talk about.
**Kotori:** Huh?
**Maki:** I don't believe in occult things like fortune telling anyway.
**Nozomi:** ...
**Hanayo:** B-But, she's always right about it...
**Maki:** I mean... there's no reason for it to be right, so it seems silly.
**Nozomi:** Hmm... Maki-chan doesn't believe in my power?
**Maki:** Well...
**Maki:** Um, I have to go now.
**Rin:** Where are you going?
**Maki:** Why does it matter? Anyway, see you tomorrow.
**Kotori:** Maki-chan...
**Eli:** I don't think she was trying to criticize Nozomi... She must've not wanted to talk about it.
**Nico:** Well, don't be discouraged, Nozomi... Wait, whoa! What are you scheming!?
**Nozomi:** She won't understand the true power of my readings unless she experiences it first-hand.
**Nozomi:** You'll all help, right?
**Rin:** S-She's scary...
 **Maki:** Nozomi, I don't mind if you read my fortune, but... I just can't believe in those cards.
**Nozomi:** Hmm. Nishikino Maki-chan.
**Maki:** W-What...
**Nozomi:** On today's quizzes, you got 98 in math, 99 in English, and 92 in classical literature. So close to full marks, no?
**Maki:** Huh...!? How do you know that!?
**Nozomi:** The swimsuit you bought yesterday was a tropical-colored bikini ♪
**Maki:** Huh!?
**Nozomi:** Rin-chan invited you to go to a ramen shop with her after school ♪
**Maki:** Wait! Why do you know all of this!?
**Nozomi:** Well, this is all thanks to a certain spiritual power!!
**Maki:** That's scary... How does it work!?
**Nozomi:** And now, just for this Nishikino Maki-chan who still doesn't believe in spiritual powers, I will determine the color of the panties that she is wearing today...
**Maki:** Ahh! Okay, okay~! I believe now~!
**Nozomi:** Hehe... Really?
**Maki:** Yes! I believe now, so let me go~
**Rin:** Heeey, Nozomi-chaaan!
**Rin:** I invited Maki-chan out for ramen just like you told me to! Ah! M-Maki-chan...
**Nozomi:** Oops...
**Maki:** Huh... What's the meaning of this?
**Nozomi:** Ahh, hahaha... Just a little longer and it would've worked ♪
**Kotori:** So the reason why Nozomi-chan asked everyone about their conversations with Maki-chan...
**Honoka:** ...was to surprise Maki-chan by showing her just how great her fortune telling is?
**Maki:** Sheesh, she was making arrangements like that while bragging about it...
**Nozomi:** Ahaha... That was your punishment for making fun of my readings ☆
**Maki:** Well, it *is* my fault for calling it silly.
**Eli:** But... you could've read her fortune even without planning all of this, Nozomi.
**Nozomi:** I already know what's troubling her.
**Maki:** W-What? I didn't tell anyone about my troubles...
**Nozomi:** You still haven't come up with a new song for the school festival, right?
**Maki:** W-Why do you know that...!?
**Nozomi:** You really wanted to ask everyone for help, right?
**Maki:** Yes, but...
**Honoka:** Huh, really?
**Kotori:** I see~ You should've just told us earlier.
**Maki:** I still haven't managed to make a new song even though the festival is almost here... And everyone's so busy, so...
**Maki:** But no matter how much I think, I can't come up with anything good...
**Umi:** Let's all think about what kind of song we want to perform, then.
**Eli:** We can all come up with lyrics, too.
**Rin:** We'll perform together at the school festival with a song that we wrote together~
**Maki:** Together...
**Nico:** Maki-chan needs to have more faith in us~ I'll come up with the perfect song for us ☆
**Maki:** That worries me, but...
**Maki:** ...Thanks, Nozomi.

## Chapter 11- Tastiest Season

**Honoka:** Hehehe... hehehe...
**Kotori:** What's going on, Honoka-chan?
**Honoka:** Well, you see... hehehe...
**Umi:** If she's giggling this much, it must be related to food.
**Honoka:** That's right! Look at this!!
**Umi:** Is that a card from the bread store you always go to?
**Honoka:** Yeah! It's a point card! I just need one more point~ ♪
**Kotori:** Wow, that's great!
**Honoka:** After going there every day, the time has finally come~
**Umi:** Do you mind if I take a look at it?
**Kotori:** Uwa~ That's a lot of stamps.
**Umi:** Y-You have to buy 300 pieces of bread from there!?
**Honoka:** Hehe, I worked hard ♪
**Umi:** "Those who collect enough points will receive an amazing prize"...
**Kotori:** I wonder what it'll be~ ♪
**Honoka:** I don't know what it is, either. The people at the store wouldn't tell me...
**Kotori:** Maybe it'll be a plate with a picture of bread drawn on it~? That sounds cute ♪
**Umi:** It could be a coupon or something like that, too.
**Kotori:** I would want bread-patterned cloth. Then I could make a bread-themed costume ♪
**Honoka:** Great idea! Umi-chan would look really cute if we made her archery uniform out of that...
**Umi:** Don't!
**Honoka:** I-It's just a joke~ Umi-chan, what kind of prize would you want?
**Umi:** Hmm... I'm not really interested in special prizes. A piece of bread would be enough for me.
**Honoka:** I see~! There isn't anyone in the world who would be unhappy to receive bread!
**Kotori:** Hehe, Honoka-chan really loves her bread.
**Umi:** You'll know the answer the next time you visit.
**Honoka:** Yeah~ I'm so excited~!
**Honoka:** I should go there right now!
**Kotori:** What? Right now?
**Honoka:** I'll be right back! See you~
**Kotori:** Ah... she left.
**Umi:** Leaving aside how much she wants that prize... I think we can learn from her enthusiasm.
**Umi:** She's taking a long time...
**Kotori:** I can't wait to see what she got~
**Honoka:** Heey! Umi-chan, Kotori-chan!!
**Umi:** She's back!
**Honoka:** Sorry about that. It took a while because I was talking about the prize.
**Kotori:** Let's see what you got~ ♪
**Honoka:** It's... this!
**Umi:** Isn't this just white paper...?
**Honoka:** It's great! Absolutely amazing!! The news of the century!!!
**Honoka:** They'll make an original bread of my choice!!
**Kotori:** An original bread...
 **Eli:** So they'll make a new kind of bread with the taste and appearance of your choice?
**Honoka:** Yeah! Isn't it great~ ♪
**Maki:** Good for you. What kind of bread will you ask for?
**Honoka:** That's the problem... There's so many kinds of bread that I like that I have no idea~
**Kotori:** She's been pondering it since yesterday. That's why I thought we could all help her~
**Hanayo:** In that case, let's all say what our favourite bread is. Maybe she'll get an idea from that.
**Honoka:** Yeah! Help me~
**Nozomi:** I like steamed meat buns best ☆ Double the filling, please ♪
**Maki:** I don't think that's considered bread...
**Nozomi:** It's close enough.
**Umi:** I'm fond of Chinese-style steamed buns too. I like how they're only moderately sweet.
**Nozomi:** Steamed meat buns without the meat... You're missing the best part.
**Eli:** I like pirozhki the most ♪ I've made it by myself before, but it takes a long time so I can't do it often.
**Kotori:** Eli-chan's homemade pirozhki... That sounds delicious~ ♪
**Nico:** As for me~ I think what suits me best is... a sweet and fluffy cream roll~ ☆
**Rin:** I don't think cream rolls suit you at all~
**Nozomi:** Savory snack breads would be a better match.
**Nico:** No! Cream rolls!
**Hanayo:** I want to eat bread made with rice one day.
**Umi:** B-Bread made with rice!?
**Hanayo:** Yep. I don't know how to make it, but it sounds like it'd be spongy and really good.
**Eli:** That sounds perfect for you. What about you, Maki?
**Maki:** I like sandwiches. Tomato and chicken with basil sauce ♪
**Kotori:** That sounds good~ You're so stylish ♪
**Rin:** I think you should ask for ramen bread~! There's already yakisoba bread out there, so why not ramen bread too~?
**Nozomi:** That's a good idea! If you put BBQ pork into it too, then it'll be perfectly nutritious!
**Hanayo:** What about Kotori-chan?
**Kotori:** They all sound so good... I don't know what to pick~~
**Honoka:** Hmmmmm... hmmmmmmm...
**Umi:** Honoka looks like she can't decide, either. Maybe this had the reverse effect.
**Honoka:** That's not it... Your ideas all matched your personalities so well. I'm trying to think of something that matches me as well...
**Nozomi:** Something that matches you... It's hard to express enthusiasm in bread~
**Eli:** Why don't you ask your family for ideas as well?
**Honoka:** Oh! That's right!!!
**Nico:** Whoa, calm down!
**Honoka:** Guys, guys, I just thought of something reaaaaaally good!!
**Rin:** What is it~?
**Honoka:** I'll put my family's red bean paste inside the bread!!
**Hanayo:** Huh...?
**Honoka:** It'll be a fusion of Eastern and Western cuisine! Ahh, I've finally got it! It's a breakthrough discovery!!
**Umi:** Honoka... have you ever heard of red bean bread?
**Honoka:** Ah...!!
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan...
**Eli:** What bread did she decide on in the end?
**Nozomi:** She really couldn't choose~
**Honoka:** Heeeey, everyone! My bread is here~!
**Kotori:** Ahh, let's see~
**Rin:** Is it ramen bread~?
**Umi:** This... This is...!
**Maki:** All of our faces are on the bread!
**Hanayo:** I-It's so cute...!
**Honoka:** Hehe, they're filled with red bean paste too ♪
**Nico:** They made nine pieces of bread for you? That's crazy!
**Honoka:** Yeah! I didn't think it was enough to only make bread for myself...
**Honoka:** I told the baker about all of us and got these in return! They said to call them the next time we have an event ♪
**Eli:** It was supposed to be just for you... and yet now it's for all of us.
**Kotori:** Honoka's face is so cute~ ♪ Everyone else is really cute too~ They really do look like us~ ☆
 **Umi:** We've been practicing for a while now. Let's take a short break.
**Honoka:** Yay~ I've been wanting to rest...
**Kotori:** Phew~ I like practicing, but breaks are necessary too ♪
**Nico:** I-I'm spent...
**Hanayo:** \*nom\*... \*nom nom\*...
**Rin:** Ahh, Kayo-chin's eating a rice ball~ I wish I could have one too~
**Honoka:** I-It looks so good! \*drool\*
**Hanayo:** I made a lot of them, so everyone can help themselves.
**Honoka:** Yay~ Time to dig in ♪
**Rin:** Kayo-chin would make a great wife~ ☆
**Hanayo:** Don't say that... You're making me blush, Rin-chan~
**Nozomi:** Hanayo's rice balls really do taste good!
**Eli:** Yes, the amount of saltiness is just right.
**Kotori:** Thanks for that~ Now I want to give it my all for the rest of our practice!
**Maki:** Yeah. It felt like the second half of practice would be really tiring, but after eating that rice ball, my fatigue just disappeared.
**Hanayo:** Yep! Rice balls are perfect for when you're worn out from practice~
**Hanayo:** They're also great for when you're sleepy in the mornings~
**Hanayo:** They're also really filling, so you won't get hungry in the middle of class either~
**Hanayo:** You can also change up the seasoning as much as you want, and you'll be good friends with rice dealers, and...
**Hanayo:** Anyway! I strongly recommend rice balls!!
**Honoka:** Wow Kayo-chan, you're a rice ball master!
**Hanayo:** Ehehe...
**Umi:** Hanayo, is there any special technique for making rice balls?
**Nico:** I want to know, too! My rice balls are good, but Kayo-chin's are even better.
**Hanayo:** I'll teach you as much as I can!
**Hanayo:** Yay! Let's have a rice ball class~
**Kotori:** I'm so excited for Kayo-chan's rice ball class~ ♪
**Eli:** Hehe, today you'll have to call her Hanayo-sensei instead.
**Hanayo:** Good morning~
**Honoka:** Morning! We're ready for your lesson... Whoa! Kayo-chan, you came here carrying that much rice on your shoulders!?
**Hanayo:** Yes...! It's for making today's rice balls. I thought we could split up the leftovers afterwards, ehehe.
**Umi:** But... isn't that 10kg of rice?
**Honoka:** We have rice at our place, so you didn't have to bring it yourself...
**Hanayo:** No, Honoka-chan!!
**Honoka:** Huh?
**Hanayo:** The ingredients become the soul of rice balls...! I brought the most suitable rice possible for making them!
**Honoka:** I-I see! Ahaha...
**Hanayo:** First we must prepare the cooking environment! Everyone make sure to wash their hands well, including under your fingernails!
**Everyone else:** Okay...
**Nozomi:** Hanayo-sensei is serious about this!
**Rin:** Kayo-chin-sensei's so cool~ ♪
**Nico:** Heh... hehe... I'll accept this challenge!
 **Honoka:** I washed my hands~
**Nozomi:** The rice looks like it's almost done cooking, so let's start now.
**Umi:** So even the water is important when cooking rice... Looks like we'll be learning a lot today.
**Kotori:** Kayo-chan-sensei, we're counting on you~ ♪
**Hanayo:** O-Okay!
**Nozomi:** Huh... Hanayo-chan, your voice is really shaky!
**Hanayo:** Th... Thank you... for... coming today...
**Rin:** Kayo-chin, try to relax!
**Maki:** I can understand how she feels... it's pretty nerve-wracking to have everyone watching you.
**Eli:** Even though we're supposed to be school idols?
**Maki:** That's a different story, right Kayo-chin?
**Hanayo:** Y-Yes~ Someone help meeeee~
**Kotori:** Don't worry, Kayo-chan! I'll help you~
**Nico:** I guess I'll have to help as well. Since I'm so cute, everyone will be watching me instead.
**Umi:** That's Nico logic for you.
**Hanayo:** Uu, thanks Kotori-chan, Nico-chan~! If you're helping me then I think I can do it!
**Honoka:** Ah! Looks like the rice is done~
**Hanayo:** Let's see... aah...!!
**Eli:** What's wrong, Hanayo? Is it undercooked?
**Hanayo:** I-It's beautiful... and this scent is just so... ♪ Yes! Today's rice ball class will surely be... a... success...
**Eli:** So you were shocked because it was cooked well...?
**Rin:** Kayo-chin really loves rice~
**Kotori:** Kayo-chan, I'll line up the other ingredients over here, okay~?
**Nozomi:** Looks like it's going to turn out well ☆
**Hanayo:** Today I brought salmon, dried plums, kelp, and mustard greens. We'll start with the common types of rice balls.
**Honoka:** You're calling them normal, but... they all look really good~
**Hanayo:** Hehe. The ingredients may be normal, but their flavors are just right for rice balls ♪
**Umi:** ...\*nom nom\*...
**Maki:** Hey, Umi-chan! Why are you sneaking a bite!?
**Umi:** Ah...! Sorry, it looked so good that my body moved on its own...
**Nico:** What's this!? It looks so delicious!
**Rin:** That's not fair, you two! I want to eat some too~~
**Eli:** I suppose the trick to making good rice balls also depends on the ingredients.
**Nozomi:** For sure~
**Hanayo:** The ingredients and the rice are both important, but the most important thing is something else.
**Kotori:** Really? What is it, then~?
**Hanayo:** What's most important is that you make them while thinking things like "I want these to be delicious" and "I want others to think they're delicious."
**Hanayo:** Make sure the rice balls are filled with those feelings!
**Honoka:** "I want these to be delicious," huh?
**Umi:** "I want others to think they're delicious"...
**Hanayo:** Ehehe. I think that this is something everyone can do even without a rice ball class.
**Maki:** I've never thought about it like that, though.
**Nozomi:** The true filling for these rice balls are our feelings, huh?
**Honoka:** That's great... Kayo-chan, that's great! You really are the master of rice balls!
**Hanayo:** That might be going too far... You're making me blush, but I'm happy to hear it. Ehehe, shall we all make them together now?
**Everyone else:** Yeah!
**Nico:** It's done! Nico Smile's "Love Nico" rice ball ♪
**Rin:** I'm done too~ It's not really that triangular, but... I put my feelings into it~!
**Umi:** Let's eat them right now, then.
**Eli:** Oh, don't you think it'd be even better if we exchanged our rice balls?
**Honoka:** Great idea, Eli-chan~ Time for a rice ball exchange!
**Nozomi:** Rin-chan, your rice ball tastes great! It's full of love ☆
**Rin:** The rice grains in Kotori-chan's rice ball are so light and fluffy~!
**Maki:** Hey, Nico-chan! Your "Love Nico" or whatever rice ball has nothing in it!
**Nico:** Plain salted rice balls are the most delicious, obviously!
**Maki:** What... Well, it does taste good...
**Honoka:** Uu, it's so good~! This might be the first time I've had such delicious rice balls!

## Chapter 12- The Festival Begins!

**Hanayo:** It looks like Eli-chan and Nozomi-chan are busy with their student council work.
**Hanayo:** \*stare\*
**Nico:** Honoka and Umi are helping Kotori with the stage outfits.
**Rin:** Aw... even Maki-chan is busy...
**Nico:** She said she was going to put the finishing touches on our song for the school idol festival.
**Hanayo:** Everyone's so busy since it's almost time for it.
**Rin:** Darn it~ It's so boring when everyone's busy!
**Nico:** Looks like it's only us three that will be practicing today.
**Hanayo:** What should we do? Sing? Dance?
**Rin:** Either one is fine~! Well, I guess we'll start with dancing.
**Hanayo:** Okay! Let's get ready then--
**Nico:** No! Both of you are doing it wrong! If I was to grade your attitude towards practice, you'd both get a zero.
**Hanayo:** Zero!?
**Rin:** W-Why!? Why do we get zeroes even though we're both doing our practice like we're supposed to be?
**Nico:** Obviously nothing is going to come from practice so unmotivated that it starts with words like "I guess."
**Hanayo:** Unmotivated...
**Nico:** Yeah! School idols from all over the country are preparing all sorts of skills for this festival. We have to work harder too!
**Rin:** By "all sorts of skills," do you mean singing and dancing?
**Nico:** Of course singing and dancing are crucial, but there's more to it than just those. There's still things we're lacking in.
**Hanayo:** What are we lacking in...?
**Rin:** I know~♪ I need to be better at making funny faces~!
**Nico:** Who cares about funny faces!? That has nothing to do with being a school idol!
**Hanayo:** What about scary faces then?
**Nico:** Absolutely not!
**Rin:** Ah! I know~ We need to be able to make weird faces, right? I'm good at that! Look~♪
**Hanayo:** A-Ah...! Rin-chan, you shouldn't do that in public...!
**Nico:** W-What!? Stop! Stop! If you show that face to the world, our image is going to tank!
**Rin:** Don't you think it's better to have an element of surprise~?
**Nico:** It's more than an element of surprise in your case!
**Rin:** That's not true!
**Hanayo:** So what is there aside from funny faces, scary faces, and weird faces...?
**Rin:** Angry faces!
**Nico:** Just stop it already! It has nothing to do with faces! What I meant was posing.
**Rin:** "Posing"... so, making different poses? Isn't that just like practicing dancing?
**Hanayo:** Maybe she means model posing?
**Nico:** Listen up, okay? Stage atmosphere is very important for school idols.
**Rin/Hanayo:** Stage atmosphere?
**Nico:** Yes! Us school idols don't appear on TV, so we're able to interact directly with the people who come to watch us.
**Nico:** Since it's unpredictable what will happen during a live, we have to be able to react cutely right away.
**Hanayo:** That's right...! Nico-chan, you really do know a lot about idols!
**Nico:** You two should be taking notes.
**Hanayo:** Yes ma'am! "Reacting cutely right away"...
**Rin:** It's fine to make weird faces and poses in front of each other, but we shouldn't be doing weird things in front of fans, right?
**Nico:** Yep. There'll be lots of news coverage for our festival performance, so we need to prepare for it right now!
**Hanayo:** Special training, huh? ...I'll do my best!
**Nico:** Today's mission will be to maintain adorable poses! We'll master school idol poses~
 **Rin:** What kind of pose would be good~?
**Nico:** First you should imagine yourself in a certain situation. Then you'll be able to move accordingly.
**Rin:** H-Huh~??? I don't get it... Nico-chan, can you give us an example?
**Nico:** The sounds of the waves... the smell of salt water... I'm walking along the beach.
**Nico:** Since I'm walking barefoot on the sand, the soles of my feet feel prickly... but I think that stimulus feels kind of nice, hehe.
**Nico:** And then I spot you on the other side of the beach... could this be fate...?
**Rin:** Ah, I get it! Kayo-chin, make a pose like you would if you spilled curry udon soup on your clothes!
**Nico:** Hey! Why did you ruin my moment with *that*!?
**Hanayo:** Hmm... a pose for spilling curry udon soup on my clothes... okay!
**Hanayo:** Noo... the curry udon soup splashed all over...
**Rin:** That's so cute, Kayo-chin~! The way you're clenching the hem of your skirt is so cute~
**Nico:** The pose itself isn't bad, but can't you come up with a more school idol-like situation?
**Rin:** I thought a school-setting situation would be better than walking on a beach...
**Hanayo:** It's Rin's turn next. Hmm, how about drinking water after your club activities~?
**Rin:** Huh? Drinking water~?
**Rin:** G-Gulp, gulp?
**Nico:** That looks so forced.
**Rin:** You do it then, Nico-chan!
**Nico:** Kya, club activities are over now~? I just happen to be spent, too~ I was thinking I'd drink some water~
**Nico:** Would you like to turn the faucet on with me...~?
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan, that's...
**Rin:** It looks forced in a different kind of way...
**Nico:** N-No it doesn't!
**Hanayo:** Ah, why don't we try taking pictures with a camera this time?
**Rin:** That sounds good! It's also good practice for media coverage. Come on, Nico-chan~
**Nico:** Alright! Watch and learn!
**Hanayo:** Okay, I'm taking it!
**Nico:** Nico Nico Smile~ I'm your eternal idol, Yazawa Nico☆
**Nico:** It's a bit embarrassing to have so many pictures taken of me... but if it makes you happy... I'll do my best♪
**Hanayo:** Okay~ Good work, Nico-chan!
**Rin:** Hmm... Yeah, Nico-chan is pretty cute~♪
**Nico:** Hehe, of course I am. ☆
**Rin:** Kayo-chin, show us the pictures~
**Hanayo:** Okay, give me a second... here we are... Ah! I'm sorry, I'm bad at taking pictures...
**Rin:** Ah... they're all blurry...
**Nico:** Ack... Well, whatever! Even if the camera couldn't capture it, my cuteness should still be left in your memory!
**Nico:** I guess I should take the cameraman's hands into consideration and move a bit slower during the festival.
**Hanayo:** You were really cute, Nico-chan~☆ Okay, next is Rin-chan!
**Rin:** Umm... Okay then, let's jump!
**Rin:** Let's do our best in our club activities! Meow!
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan, your energy is really coming through~
**Rin:** Hehe... You're making me blush~
**Nico:** It wasn't bad, I guess. You'll be even cuter if you make the cuteness run all the way through to your fingertips.
**Rin:** Even cuter? Hmm... I don't know if I can do it~
**Nico:** Can't you have more self-confidence?
**Rin:** Okay, I will! I'll try even harder during the real thing!
**Nico:** Hanayo is last.
**Hanayo:** N-Nice to meet you...
**Nico:** Don't just stand straight like a pole, twist your hips more!
**Hanayo:** Like this...?
**Rin:** That pose is really cute, Kayo-chin~♪
**Hanayo:** Ah... thank you...! I'm glad, but it's a bit embarrassing...
**Rin:** Kayo-chin's also cute when she's embarrassed~
**Nico:** Don't talk about embarrassment now! There'll be even more people watching you at the festival.
**Hanayo:** Ah... That's right, I'm sorry...
**Nico:** ...Well, the fact that you get embarrassed easily is a charm point for you, too. Have some confidence.
**Hanayo:** Okay... Thanks, Nico-chan...!
**Hanayo:** I never realized how important poses were... I'll make sure to practice more.
**Nico:** Just a single pose can change the impression you leave on others. So you should try to be as cute as you possibly can in front of everyone.
**Rin:** Okay, let's try some more poses~!
 **Hanayo:** Looks like everyone is busy again... even though it's almost time for practice...
**Rin:** I'm tired of Nico-chan's posing practice too~
**Nico:** What do you mean you're tired of it? Looks like you want even harsher practice.
**Rin:** Huh~!? I don't want to be the only one that has to do overtime~!
**Honoka:** Ahh, I'm beat!
**Rin:** Honoka-chan, Umi-chan!
**Hanayo:** Are you done helping Kotori-chan with the outfits?
**Umi:** Yeah, we're done, but...
**Hanayo:** But...?
**Umi:** Kotori said there were still some other things that had to be done, and that she would take care of them herself.
**Nico:** Other things to be done? Like adjusting the hems?
**Umi:** I don't know... There's a lot of things that Honoka and I don't know about making clothes.
**Rin:** That's because Kotori-chan usually does it by herself, right?
**Honoka:** Kotori-chan's amazing! She can do such detailed work... Meanwhile, I can't even get a thread through a needle...
**Rin:** Anyway, let's practice together now!
**Umi:** Did you three start practicing already?
**Nico:** We've been having posing lessons.
**Honoka:** Posing?
**Hanayo:** Like this pose~
**Rin:** Or this kind of pose~
**Honoka:** Ahh, that's really cute! ♪
**Umi:** But Hanayo, why do you look so troubled in that pose?
**Hanayo:** This is a pose that represents me spilling curry udon soup.
**Umi:** ...? Why would you make a pose like that...?
**Honoka:** Well, it's true that we should all make cute poses at lives and when getting our photos taken.
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan said that we should improve on other aspects for the school idol festival.
**Rin:** We have to be perfect down to our very fingertips!
**Hanayo:** School idols always have to be seen in cute poses!
**Nico:** I see that you two have both learned the rules of posing.
**Honoka:** That makes sense! Okay, we'll join you then... Ah, I think Umi-chan is fine as she is though.
**Umi:** Why?
**Honoka:** Because you're always practicing in front of a mirror by yourself~
**Umi:** !! Y-You saw that!?
**Rin:** Umi-chan secretly practices idol poses~!? I wish I could see that~!
**Umi:** I won't do it!
**Honoka:** But your poses are so cute, Umi-chan~ Like the one that's like, bam~!
**Umi:** Honoka...!!!
**Honoka:** Eek!
**Umi:** Don't you dare say anything else!
**Honoka:** O-Okay! I won't, so stop glaring at me like that~!
**Umi:** Sheesh... It's your fault for saying things like that.
**Nico:** Umi gets embarrassed easily, but she's upbeat during lives so I don't think she'll have to worry about posing.
**Hanayo:** That's right! Umi-chan always looks so confident in her poses and her expressions on stage ♪
**Umi:** That's because... well, I'm a school idol, right...?
**Honoka:** Yeah! It's because you're a school idol!
**Rin:** Hmm~? I hear someone coming~!
**Eli:** Sorry we're late!
**Rin:** It's Eli-chan and Nozomi-chan~!
**Nozomi:** Sorry it took us so long to get here. We finally finished our student council work.
**Eli:** Let's start practicing!
**Nozomi:** Hmm? Maki-chan and Kotori-chan aren't here yet?
**Maki:** Sorry, were you waiting for me?
**Umi:** Maki!
**Nico:** Have you finished fine-tuning our song for the school idol festival?
**Maki:** Yeah, it's done. Now we just need everyone to learn it.
**Rin:** I want to hear it~
**Maki:** I want everyone to hear it too, but is everyone here right now?
**Eli:** Umm... looks like Kotori isn't here yet, even though it's past our meeting time.
**Kotori:** Haa, haa...
**Honoka:** Kotori-chan~!
 **Eli:** Great, Kotori made it in time. We were just about to start practicing.
**Nozomi:** Kotori-chan, are our festival outfits in that bag...?
**Kotori:** Yep, since Honoka-chan and Umi-chan helped me out, all of the outfits are done. Here ♪
**Rin:** Wow~!
**Hanayo:** S-So cute... ☆
**Maki:** These match the song perfectly, too.
**Umi:** Are the finishing touches complete?
**Kotori:** Well... not quite, actually. But there's only a little bit left, so do you mind if I just cheer you guys on today?
**Honoka:** Huh, are you saying that you won't be practicing today?
**Kotori:** Yeah. I'll do the finishing touches while watching from the sidelines.
**Eli:** Kotori... that's not right.
**Kotori:** I'm sorry Eli-chan, I wanted to have everything done for today, but...
**Maki:** That's not what she means, Kotori.
**Kotori:** Huh?
**Eli:** I didn't say it was bad that you didn't finish making the outfits. I said it wasn't right for us to practice without you.
**Eli:** I wasn't worried about our practice being delayed... Don't you think we should practice our new song together?
**Maki:** She's right. I just finished composing this song by myself. Won't you sing it with us?
**Kotori:** Ah... okay!
**Nozomi:** Besides, if you're not with us, μ's is going to take a big loss in our cuteness factor.
**Nico:** Huh~? I think I'm plenty cute though~ As long as I'm here, we'll be fine~ ♪
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan...
**Nico:** I-I'm just kidding! Kotori's style of cuteness is different from mine anyway! I need Kotori with us for balance.
**Kotori:** Ah... ♪ I think the rest of you are already cute enough, but hearing you say that makes me happy. Hehe...
**Kotori:** Thanks! I'll join you for practice, then ♪
**Umi:** That makes me feel a lot better.
**Honoka:** Hey, Kotori-chan. What is it that's not done for the outfits yet?
**Kotori:** Well... it's this part on the back. I'm not done it on everyone's outfit yet...
**Honoka:** Huh? On the back...?
**Maki:** ! Is this... our names?
**Kotori:** Yep. I wanted to embroider all of our names on the back as a good luck charm, but it took longer than I thought it would.
**Nozomi:** I think it's great ♪ Of course, the embroidery is great, but what's most important is your feelings behind it ♪
**Kotori:** I also wanted to put "μ's" above the names. It'll only take about an hour more.
**Eli:** Let's work on the embroidery before we start practicing, then.
**Kotori:** Huh... is that okay?
**Eli:** It'll take less than an hour if we all work on it together, right? That's much more efficient.
**Nozomi:** Sounds good ♪ After that, we'll be able to sing a new song while wearing new outfits~
**Maki:** I agree. If it's just embroidery, I can help with that.
**Rin:** I want to help too~ But I think I'll need Kayo-chin's help... it looks hard~
**Hanayo:** Hehe, okay! We'll work on it together ♪
**Nozomi:** Eli-chi, make sure you don't prick yourself with the needle.
**Eli:** I-I'll be fine!
**Nico:** If you're having a hard time with it, I'll help you. I do stuff like adjusting hems all the time.
**Nozomi:** Hehe ♪ Oddly enough, Nico is the more skilled one here.
**Umi:** We'll help, too.
**Honoka:** Yeah!
**Honoka:** They're all done now!
**Kotori:** Thanks so much, everyone! It was my idea, but in the end everyone contributed...
**Kotori:** I'm sure that it'll be even luckier since we all worked on it together ☆
**Eli:** Being a school idol isn't something that you do alone.
**Nozomi:** I think the outfits are lucky, too.
**Nico:** Nozomi's always carrying those things...
**Nozomi:** It has a divine blessing ♪
**Maki:** If Nozomi says that, it must be true...
**Eli:** ...Maki's become much more honest ♪
**Maki:** I-I'm just saying what I think. It's not like I've changed.
**Umi:** Hehe, that's just like you.
**Honoka:** The song is done, the outfits are done... all that's left is to practice!
**Nozomi:** There's not much longer until the school idol festival. I'm so excited~
**Hanayo:** We'll have to work hard on both our singing and dancing...
**Eli:** Yeah. Let's do our best to refine our skills.
**Eli:** ...With all 9 of us together, of course.
**Kotori:** Got it~!

## Chapter 13- School Idol Festival

**Rin:** Phew~ I'm beat~
**Hanayo:** Tomorrow's the big day... the school idol festival!
**Umi:** The song Maki composed is great, so it was a lot of fun to practice.
**Nico:** It's really energetic, right? I like it too.
**Honoka:** Maki-chan, you didn't get any big inspiration when you discussed it with us, right?
**Honoka:** What were you thinking about afterwards that led to this?
**Maki:** Eh!? N-Nothing in particular...
**Nozomi:** So it must've been something in particular, right?
**Maki:** U-Umm...
**Kotori:** It's okay if you don't want to tell us~ Either way, it's a great song♪
**Maki:** Well... I came up with the idea when everyone was talking about school idols.
**Maki:** You know how you don't need to have any special talents to become a school idol, right?
**Umi:** Huh...?
**Maki:** Don't worry, I'm not insulting any of us.
**Maki:** I just thought it was really cool that you can shine in this field as long as you work hard at it.
**Hanayo:** We can shine as long as we work hard...
**Maki:** Even if we just look at μ's, it's not like any of us were born with the qualities of an idol.
**Maki:** But we supported each other and trained together... Results will come as long as we work for them.
**Umi:** I wasn't sure how we'd end up at first... but lately I've begun to feel that we've become proper idols.
**Kotori:** It makes me happy when we rise in the rankings~♪
**Maki:** So rather than talent, it's our feelings that are most important...
**Rin:** Hmm~
**Maki:** And I wanted the other school idols in this country to work hard as well.
**Maki:** No, not just the school idols... I wanted to write a powerful song that would inspire everyone to give it their all.
**Maki:** Umm... anyway! I wrote this song hoping that I could reach out to everyone that's struggling out there.
**Honoka:** Maki-chan... That's great, Maki-chan!
**Maki:** Whoa, wait~ Honoka, you're heavy~!
**Rin:** I wanna join in~
**Maki:** S-So heavy...
**Eli:** Reaching out to everyone that's struggling... Sounds great to me.
**Nozomi:** I can sense those feelings in the song. We'll all have to make sure we convey them properly.
**Nico:** Well, it's not right to say that none of us have any special talents. Can't you exclude me from that?
**Rin:** Nico-chan is special in a lot of ways~
**Nico:** What are you implying!?
**Umi:** Eli... Can we practice it one more time?
**Eli:** Sure, but... why?
**Umi:** I want to put my feelings into the song too, just like Maki!
**Eli:** Good idea! Let's do one final run then!
**Kotori:** I'll do my best for Maki-chan's song~
**Maki:** Thanks, everyone...
**Eli:** Just once more though, okay? Tomorrow's the real event, so we should go home early today and rest.
**Umi:** All right, time for one last practice. Let's go, Honoka!
**Honoka:** Yeah!
**Honoka:** School idols shine as much as the effort they put in, huh?
 **Honoka:** Thanks for coming today, everyone!
**Honoka:** How was my singing and dancing? I practiced it with all of the other μ's members...
**Honoka:** I'm so grateful to them... I'm reaaaally happy right now! ♪
**Honoka:** Ahaha... hehehe...
**Honoka:** Huh...!? N-No way...
**Honoka:** Uwaaaaaa! I slept in!!!
**Yukiho:** You're still not up, Honoka!? It's already time to leave!
**Honoka:** W-Wait! Give me three minutes! No, two will be enough~!
**Honoka:** Just don't leave me behind~~!
**Honoka:** Haa... haa... ugh... I can't go on...
**Yukiho:** Honoka... you can't quit now when you've already practiced so much.
**Honoka:** Okay...
**Eli:** Honoka! Yukiho-chan! Good morning♪
**Alisa:** Good morning!
**Honoka:** Oh! It's Eli-chan and Alisa-chan!
**Alisa:** Good luck! I can't wait to see μ's on stage... ♪
**Honoka:** Thanks! I'll do my best~♪ If you're cheering for us then we'll succeed for sure!
**Honoka:** There'll be a lot of other school idols there too, so Yukiho should enjoy it a lot♪
**Yukiho:** Huh? ...Sigh, you don't get it at all, Honoka.
**Honoka:** Eh? What?
**Alisa:** Hehe... μ's is all that Yukiho talks about nowadays.
**Honoka:** R-Really!?
**Alisa:** Yukiho loves μ's, and is always talking about how cool your performances are!
**Yukiho:** Stop that, Alisa! You don't have to say those things~
**Eli:** I think Alisa and Yukiho-chan have been practicing our songs, too.
**Alisa:** Ahh! That's a secret!
**Honoka:** Wow...! Is that true!? I'm so happy...
**Honoka:** Thanks to both of you...! Let's dance together next time!
**Yukiho:** No, I'll pass~ It's embarrassing!
**Honoka:** Huh!?
**Eli:** Hehe, you're all so cute♪
**Honoka:** Morning~♪
**Umi:** Honoka! Thank goodness you made it in time.
**Honoka:** Geh...
**Kotori:** Umi-chan was really worried that you'd sleep in and be late~
**Umi:** Looks like I was just worrying over nothing, though.
**Honoka:** Aha... ahaha...
**Nico:** We'll be standing on the stage of our dreams soon...
**Rin:** I'm a bit nervous~
**Hanayo:** I-It'll be fine! We practiced so much!
**Rin:** That's right~! Thanks, Kayo-chin☆
**Maki:** I hope this song reaches everyone...
**Nozomi:** ...It definitely will☆
**Eli:** All right, let's go♪
**Alisa:** Good luck everyone...!
**Yukiho:** I'm only worried about Honoka...
**Alisa:** Let's go take our seats!
 **Umi:** It's our turn next.
**Kotori:** Yeah!
**Rin:** I'm so excited...
**Nico:** That aside... the other school idols are pretty good, huh?
**Hanayo:** Must take notes...
**Maki:** What are you doing, Kayo-chin?
**Hanayo:** I'm taking notes on the cute things they do.
**Maki:** Yeah, their voices and movements are pretty cute.
**Nico:** Kayo-chin knows that if μ's doesn't do this, we won't be invited to the idol research division either.
**Hanayo:** Ehehe... Nico loves idols just like I do.
**Honoka:** I've seen them in magazines before, but... it makes me really happy to know that there are this many school idols out there.
**Rin:** We're all idols~
**Kotori:** Their clothes are cute too~☆ I'll have to take notes, too.
**Eli:** Our turn is approaching.
**Nozomi:** They're calling our name♪
**Eli:** We'll finally stand on the school idol festival stage.
**Hanayo:** T-They're cheering so much...
**Nico:** That means they have high expectations for us...!
**Hanayo:** I-I-I'm s-scared...!
**Umi:** Are you okay, Hanayo!? Your legs are shaking.
**Rin:** Will you be all right, Kayo-chin? I'll hold your hand~
**Rin:** Squeeze~!
**Hanayo:** Ah! Rin-chan! Hehe, you're warm~
**Rin:** Ah, you're smiling now~☆
**Nozomi:** Hanayo-chan and the rest of us are all really cute♪ It'll definitely be a great stage☆
**Hanayo:** Ehehe... thanks!
**Umi:** We've been practicing every day for this... Let's do it the way we always do.
**Kotori:** I hope we don't make any mistakes though~
**Eli:** It's fine if you make a small mistake. Just be confident.
**Kotori:** O-Okay!
**Honoka:** I want to treasure the emotions that Maki-chan put into this song.
**Maki:** Honoka...
**Honoka:** We want to encourage the other school idols, right?
**Honoka:** And whether it's work, study, or hobbies... we want to encourage everyone who's trying their best.
**Honoka:** That'll definitely be the source of my energy!
**Umi:** Honoka... I agree!
**Honoka:** I want our stage to give everyone else that energy, too!
**Rin:** Energy, huh~ I have a lot, so I'll share it with everyone!
**Hanayo:** As for me... I'm not sure if I'll be able to...
**Nozomi:** You worry too much, Hanayo-chan! You've got a lot of energy too, so it's fine if you mess up a little!
**Hanayo:** R-Really? But for some reason I'm still anxious.
**Rin:** I'll squeeze your hand again~♪
**Eli:** This is a festival for school idols. Let's all enjoy ourselves♪
**Hanayo:** That's right... I'll have fun too♪
**Nico:** I'll become the greatest idol ever on this stage♪
**Honoka:** Let's all have fun and spread our excitement!
**Everyone:** Yeah!
**Honoka:** All right, here we go!
**Honoka:** μ's...
 **Honoka:** Ahh, yesterday's performance was the best~
**Rin:** It was so fun~ It felt like we were real idols~
**Nozomi:** We've already become real idols♪
**Hanayo:** I never thought I'd be able to stand on such a big stage... Umm... I'm really happy!
**Kotori:** Yeah~ It felt like a dream♪
**Umi:** I've never felt that way before... My heart felt like it was dancing, too.
**Nico:** Ahh... I want to stand on that stage again.
**Eli:** H-Hey, everyone! We were supposed to be practicing...
**Honoka:** It's fine to take a day off, isn't it? I feel kinda burnt out... I'm sleepy...
**Rin:** Me too~ Zzz...
**Hanayo:** Ah, I'll eat some rice balls and then take a nap too, then.
**Eli:** Huh!? Shouldn't you go back home if you want to take a nap?
**Nico:** Idols are forbidden from not getting enough sleep. Yawn... I'm tired too♪
**Eli:** W-Whaaat? Everyone's asleep!?
**Nozomi:** Hm? Come to think of it, is Maki-chan taking a break today?
**Rin:** Zzzzzzzz~
**Hanayo:** She had something she needed to do, so she stayed in the classroom.
**Nico:** Yawn... Is she studying by herself? That girl's such a study freak.
**Maki:** What's going on?
**Nico:** Ahhh! Y-You scared me! If you're here, then say so!
**Maki:** I just got here, you know. Anyway, what were you talking about?
**Nico:** I was saying that I'm so lonely when you're not around~☆
**Maki:** What...? You were probably badmouthing me anyway, right?
**Nico:** Geh...
**Maki:** Well, whatever. More importantly, I have something I want to tell everyone!
**Honoka:** What is it?
**Hanayo:** Wake up, Rin-chan!
**Rin:** Mm... What's happening?
**Umi:** Is it related to yesterday's performance?
**Maki:** Just listen to this!
**Honoka:** Huh... this is...
**Eli:** I've never heard this song before... is it by another school idol?
**Nico:** Hmm, it sounds really nice♪
**Maki:** No, I composed it yesterday after the festival.
**Kotori:** W-What!? You did it in such a short amount of time~!?
**Hanayo:** That's amazing, Maki-chan!!!
**Nozomi:** Indeed...! Maki-chan, you must've been really inspired yesterday, huh?
**Maki:** Yeah... There were lots of school idols, and lots of people in the audience...
**Maki:** When our performance ended, it kind of felt like a surge of emotions came upon me... and an idea for a song just came to me...
**Eli:** To think it'd have excited you that much... Well, it truly was incredible. ♪
**Umi:** Yes. Let's get to practicing our new song right away, then.
**Honoka:** Yeah!!! Suddenly I really want to practice!
**Rin:** Me too~ I love Maki-chan's songs, so I'll start giving it my all again~♪
**Kotori:** Hehehe~ Seems like everyone's wide awake now.
**Nico:** I'll be the first to master this song!
**Eli:** Great, everyone's back to normal☆
**Maki:** Back to normal? Were they being strange?
**Nozomi:** Not at all. It's just that μ's can't start without you, Maki-chan♪
**Maki:** Huh...? Don't say embarrassing things like that.

## Chapter 14- We Love Sweets!

**Umi:** I've been looking forward to helping make sweets at your shop.
**Rin:** I'm still sleepy~
**Eli:** The clean air feels good though, right, Alisa?
**Alisa:** Yeah!
**Honoka:** Yay! Alisa-chan came, too? Yukiho will be happy~♪
**Alisa:** I'm excited too!
**Honoka:** Oh? Speak of the devil♪ Morning, Yukiho~
**Yukiho:** Why is Honoka awake this early... Huh!? Why are you all here? Even Alisa!?
**Alisa:** We all came to help at the shop today.
**Yukiho:** Eh... really!?
**Kotori:** Yep~♪ I'll do my best♪
**Nico:** I wasn't really excited or anything~
**Maki:** You can leave early, then.
**Nico:** I-I never said I wanted to! I was a little excited, okay? You'd all be lonely without me, right?
**Maki:** Yeah, yeah. You're the same as ever.
**Nico:** Huh? I don't want to hear that from tsundere queen Maki-chan!
**Maki:** W-What!?
**Nozomi:** Hehehe, despite what you two say, you sound like you're having a lot of fun.
**Yukiho:** But... you finally have a day off, so it feels bad to make you help us.
**Honoka:** Huh, what are you saying~? They chose to come so it's fine!
**Yukiho:** But...
**Hanayo:** Yukiho-chan, we don't mind, you know? We came because we wanted to help.
**Yukiho:** Really!? I don't think helping out is any fun, though.
**Umi:** We like the sweets here, so we want to help out.
**Kotori:** It makes us happy to be able to help, so it's fun♪
**Yukiho:** I see...!
**Eli:** There's more to it than that. It's not just the sweets at Homura that we like, we also love Honoka a lot, too.
**Yukiho:** Huh...
**Umi:** Isn't it normal to want to help someone that's important to you?
**Honoka:** Ehehe... Eli-chan, Umi-chan, you're making me blush~
**Hanayo:** Honoka-chan is important to us, so you're important to us too, Yukiho-chan.
**Alisa:** I want to make sweets with you, too...!
**Yukiho:** Aw... Thanks, everyone.
**Honoka:** Ehehe... You're really saving us here~ Mom gave us a ton of work to do! Isn't that just mean?
**Honoka's Mother:** Honoka, what did you just say?
**Honoka:** Ahhh, when did you get here!?
**Honoka:** Our mom is really scary when she's mad~
**Honoka's Mother:** Ahem...
**Honoka:** I-It's nothing!
**Honoka's Mother:** Thanks for coming today, everyone. I'll be counting on you.
**Everyone:** Okay!
**Nico:** More importantly, let's go inside already! It's freezing!
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi, there's no need to hide your embarrassment~
**Nico:** I'm not! It really is cold... A-A-Atchoo!
**Nozomi:** Uwa, it really is!
**Nico:** That's what I've been saying! A-A-Atchoo!
 **Umi:** Is everyone wearing their aprons and bandanas?
**Kotori:** Yep! I'm wearing mine~!
**Honoka:** More importantly, Yukiho~ Bring some tea over~
**Yukiho:** Honoka! Aren't you supposed to be helping!?
**Hanayo:** What are we making today? I hope I can be of use...
**Nozomi:** I wonder, too. Will it be Homura's famous steamed buns?
**Honoka's Mother:** I was thinking of making sweets to celebrate the new year.
**Eli:** For the new year?
**Honoka's Mother:** It takes some skill, but... would you like to see?
**Everyone:** Wow~
**Umi:** They're so delicate and lovely.
**Kotori:** Little birds on top of white rice cakes... They look great~♪
**Honoka's Mother:** What you'll be making today are the apricot flower decorations.
**Umi:** Are the flowers edible?
**Honoka's Mother:** Yes, of course.
**Eli:** Amazing...!
**Alisa:** This is the first time I've ever seen such pretty sweets...!
**Hanayo:** Isn't the flower beautiful, Rin-chan?
**Rin:** ...Will I be able to make this...?
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan?
**Rin:** ...Huh?
**Hanayo:** What are you spacing out for?
**Rin:** I-It's nothing~ I was just a bit surprised at how nice they looked.
**Hanayo:** Really? That's fine, then... They really are pretty.
**Honoka's Mother:** Let me teach you how to make them, then. First...
**Kotori:** So when you do this, it becomes an apricot flower♪ It's so soft and pink and cute~
**Honoka:** This yellow pastry is used for the stamen and pistil.
**Umi:** Wrap the pastry around the red bean paste... then shape it with the spatula...
**Yukiho:** Once you finish the flowers, place one on each sweet and it'll be done.
**Nozomi:** This goes like that... Using a spatula is pretty tough~
**Eli:** Your flower looks really nice, though.
**Nozomi:** Yours is pretty good too, Eli-chi.
**Alisa:** Hmm... the one I made has a weird shape.
**Hanayo:** Umm... will something like this be okay?
**Honoka:** Yeah, looks good!
**Nico:** ...Come on Maki-chan, help me out here.
**Maki:** Huh? Mine isn't that good either, you know!
**Nico:** What!?
**Rin:** Huh? Hmm~ Why can't I get it right...?
**Nico:** Seems like Rin-chan isn't any good at this either... Well, as long as the people who can do it put work into it, we'll be fine.
**Maki:** Everyone has their place. We should help clean up instead.
**Rin:** N-No! I want to keep trying until the very end~
**Rin:** I mean, if you just give me a little more time, I think I'll be able to figure it out...!
**Alisa:** Me too... I don't want to give up yet...
**Umi:** Rin, Alisa-chan...
**Rin:** I'm not good at cooking, but... I want to try making these pretty sweets. I mean, they're so pretty!
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan...! Don't worry, you'll be able to do it!
**Honoka:** Okay, let's all help Rin-chan and Alisa-chan!
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan, I'll help you, so let's do our best together!
**Rin:** Uu... waahhh~ Thank you Kayo-chin~ I'll do my best!
**Yukiho:** I'll help you too, Alisa! I'm sure you can do it!
**Alisa:** Thank you... I'll give it my all!
 **Rin:** Ah, I get it now! While it's spinning you insert the spatula~!
**Umi:** That's right! It's looking good.
**Alisa:** And now like this... Is this what the flower is supposed to be like?
**Nozomi:** It's super cute! You're great at this, Alisa-chan☆
**Alisa:** Ehehe...
**Rin:** And now we take the base that I made~
**Alisa:** And put my apricot flower on top...
**Rin:** Wow...! It's done~!♪
**Eli:** I'm impressed... You two did a great job! It's very pretty.
**Alisa:** I'm really happy that I was able to make such a lovely dessert!
**Hanayo:** You two really tried your best.
**Rin:** Yay~ I'm so happy~! Thank you, Alisa-chan~ Thank you, Kayo-chin~ Thank you, everyone~~
**Kotori:** Alright, while we're still worked up, let's finish off the rest~
**Nico:** Wait!
**Hanayo:** Huh?
**Nico:** ...Teach me too.
**Maki:** I want to learn, too!
**Maki:** Seeing Rin and Alisa-chan work so hard kind of motivated me to try harder, too.
**Rin:** Ah...! I'll teach you~
**Eli:** Hehe, this time it'll be Alisa and Rin who'll be setting the example♪
**Alisa:** Yeah!
**Rin:** Rin-sensei's lessons begin now~
**Maki:** Done~ This is fine, right?
**Alisa:** It's perfect!
**Nico:** I-I did it! A Love Nico flower♪
**Rin:** It's a really cute apricot flower~
**Maki:** You two are really good at teaching. It wasn't difficult at all♪
**Alisa:** It's because I know which parts are the hardest...
**Nico:** Rin-chan is a surprisingly good teacher, huh?
**Rin:** Rin-sensei is an ally to the unskilled~☆
**Honoka's Mother:** How's it going, everyone?
**Honoka:** We're almost done~♪
**Nico:** I'll finish off the rest with Maki-chan.
**Honoka's Mother:** Oh my...! They're beautiful.
**Honoka:** Everyone made them with utmost care.
**Eli:** Good work, Alisa.
**Alisa:** Ehehe...
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan's are pretty too♪
**Rin:** You're making me blush~
**Umi:** Nico's and Maki's are also very elegant.
**Nico:** I know, right? I'm sure it's because my elegance made its way into the sweets~
**Maki:** I didn't think I'd be able to do it... but I'm glad I tried.
**Honoka's Mother:** I've made a whole lot, so you girls can each have one.
**Nozomi:** Really? We're super lucky then☆
**Yukiho:** I've brought tea~
**Eli:** Mm... mm...!? This is really good!
**Kotori:** It melts in the mouth~♪ I didn't know sweets this delicious existed~
**Alisa:** I-It's amazing...!
**Yukiho:** Homura is famous for steamed buns, but our sweets are good, too.
**Honoka's Mother:** Would you girls like to try selling these to our customers?
**Kotori:** Ah, I want to~
**Nico:** I'll help, too! I'm sure they'll love them.
 **Honoka:** How about some of Homura's delectable sweets~?
**Umi:** We're selling special ones to celebrate the new year!
**Maki:** It doesn't seem like anyone's buying them...
**Hanayo:** Even though they're so cute...
**Honoka's Mother:** How's it going? Did you get any customers?
**Kotori:** Well...
**Honoka's Mother:** I see. How are you calling out to them?
**Hanayo:** "We're selling special sweets for the new year, so please buy some"...
**Maki:** We're not being rude or anything.
**Rin:** They're cute, elegant, and really yummy... so why?
**Umi:** They're eye-catching and taste delicious... I thought they'd be perfect for the new year.
**Nozomi:** They're so good that I want to eat them all year long, not just at the start of the year.
**Honoka's Mother:** Hehe, why don't you try to convey that to the customers?
**Honoka:** Huh?
**Eli:** I see... You have to say more than just "Please buy this"...
**Hanayo:** I get it... We didn't say why we were recommending them.
**Alisa:** Oh...!
**Umi:** That was a blind spot of ours.
**Kotori:** Even though we know exactly what the charms of these sweets are~
**Rin:** I loooove these sweets~!♪ I want to be able to convey this love!
**Eli:** Makes sense...! Let's try again♪
**All:** Yeah!
**Honoka:** We did it! They're all sold out!
**Honoka's Mother:** Wonderful! Thank you so much for today, everyone.
**Rin:** I wonder if the sweets we made will make the customers happy~
**Nozomi:** Of course they will! They're super cute, after all☆
**Rin:** Ehehe...
**Alisa:** Today was a lot of fun! Especially since you were with us, Yukiho!
**Yukiho:** I had fun, too! I normally hate helping out with the store, but today was really, really fun!
**Rin:** Yawn... Now that it's all over, I'm getting sleepy...~
**Hanayo:** That's because you were really focused.
**Maki:** I'm pretty tired, too.
**Kotori:** It's just like after dance practice~
**Eli:** Making and selling sweets really gives you a sense of accomplishment.
**Alisa:** Yukiho's family is amazing for being able to do this every day!
**Honoka:** You have a point...
**Yukiho:** Mom is working hard every day...
**Honoka's Mother:** Hehe, I'm glad you understand.
**Honoka:** Maybe I'll pass on bread occasionally and eat our sweets instead~
**Rin:** I just remembered, while we were selling them, a man praised us and said "Today's confectioneries look magnificent"!
**Hanayo:** Huh, you mean, the ones that we made?
**Rin:** Yeah, he was really glad and even shook my hand! I was reaaaaaaaaaaally happy~☆
**Hanayo:** That's amazing, Rin-chan!
**Umi:** The sweets that we made were able to make the customers happy...
**Honoka:** Ehehe, it's pretty impressive... It's just like being a school idol♪
**Maki:** A school idol...? What do you mean?
**Honoka:** We worked hard and practiced to make delicious sweets, and were able to make people happy~
**Honoka:** Just like how we make people happy as school idols♪
**Kotori:** I see~♪
**Nico:** Traditional confectioneries and idols... they don't seem to go together at all, though.
**Eli:** I don't think their principles are too far apart, though.
**Rin:** Today was a lot of fun~ I want to come again♪
**Honoka:** Feel free! Let's do our best at both making sweets and being school idols♪
**Rin:** Yeah~! I love both sweets and being an idol☆

## Chapter 15- Winter Wonderland

**Maki:** W-What's wrong?
**Honoka:** Ahhhhhh it's so cooooooold!!!
**Maki:** Huh!? Don't be so loud; it's scary!
**Honoka:** Ah, Maki-chan. Don't you think it's just way too cold every single day these days?
**Maki:** You've got a point. It shouldn't be this cold... I hope spring comes soon.
**Honoka:** Get over here, spring!!!
**Maki:** Ah... It's not like it'll hear you just because you're shouting, so please don't try.
**Honoka:** Oh, that's it! I wonder if anyone knows any tricks to beat the cold.
**Honoka:** Let's go ask them! C'mon Maki-chan, hurry!
**Maki:** I don't really want to... hey, wait, Honoka, let go~!
**Kotori:** Winter countermeasures...?
**Honoka:** Yep, Kotori-chan. Isn't there anything you do?
**Maki:** \*pant pant\* Honoka, slow down!
**Kotori:** I don't do anything in particular... but I know a way you can withstand the cold~
**Honoka:** What is it!?
**Kotori:** There's an old saying that says that fashion brings endurance! If you wear warm clothes, you'll feel warm~☆
**Maki:** W-What?
**Kotori:** You could wear a pannier under your skirt, or knee high boots♪
**Maki:** But we're wearing school uniforms, right? I think it'd be weird to wear a pannier and knee high boots with a school uniform...
**Kotori:** Then just wear a cute coat♪ You'll surely be happy wearing one♪
**Honoka:** I don't know if it'll make me happy or not, but I can't wear that inside the school building...
**Kotori:** I see... I guess it's hard to be fashionably warm...
**Umi:** What's going on? You all look puzzled.
**Honoka:** Umi-chan!!! You always have a solution at times like this!
**Maki:** She wants to know how to keep warm during the cold winter.
**Umi:** Hmm... Cold weather is said to refine the soul, so I don't think there's any particular need to take action against it.
**Honoka:** U-U-Umi-chan, you dummy! Fine, I'll just ask someone else!
**Umi:** D-Dummy...!?
**Maki:** Wait, Honoka, come back!
**Umi:** Sigh...
**Hanayo:** I don't really mind the cold weather that much, so... sorry, I don't have any ideas for you.
**Honoka:** I see...
**Rin:** Oh, I thought of something good~! You'll warm up if you move your body around~♪
**Honoka:** Move my body, huh? Well, just running around a bit isn't going to warm me up.
**Rin:** Just run until you're warm~♪ Let's go, Honoka-chan, Maki-chan~☆
**Honoka:** W-Whoa!
**Maki:** Why me, too...!?
**Honoka:** \*pant\*... \*pant\*... I'm beat... Rin-chan, do you always run so much?
**Maki:** \*pant\*... \*pant\*... Once you stop, it just gets cold again...
**Nozomi:** Are you two doing extra training?
**Honoka:** N-No... We couldn't find a way to beat the cold...
**Eli:** Really? I don't think it's that bad.
**Nozomi:** I do cleaning and other chores early in the morning, so I don't think it's that cold either.
**Honoka:** Ha... haha... hahaha...
**Nozomi:** Whoa, she fainted! Wake up! You'll die if you fall asleep there!
**Honoka:** .........
**Eli:** Ah, she's back.
**Honoka:** This is the end for me... I'm going to go into a long hibernation now... Thanks for everything, Maki-chan...
**Maki:** Hey! Don't say scary things like that!
**Honoka:** We couldn't find a way to defend against the cold... I'm getting sleepy...
**Nico:** Defend against the cold?
**Maki:** Ah, Nico-chan.
**Nico:** You seriously don't know how to do that? Allow me to teach you how...
 **Rin:** I'm here~☆
**Honoka:** Come on in, everyone! Let's get the hotpot started!
**Umi:** Hotpot with everyone... that's a good idea.
**Nico:** Right? Everyone knows that winter is the season for hotpot.
**Kotori:** If hotpot is a good idea, then I think a cute coat would've been a good idea, too...
**Eli:** What?
**Hanayo:** We've all brought our favorite hotpot ingredients, but... how should we start?
**Eli:** Let's take turns putting them in.
**Kotori:** Huh? Favorite hotpot ingredients...!?
**Umi:** Did you forget to bring them?
**Kotori:** N-No, I brought something, but...
**Honoka:** Okay, I'll go first! I brought the most important thing in hotpot: meat!
**Rin:** It's the same meat as barbecue meat~!
**Eli:** I brought salmon. I was thinking it'd taste good with miso.
**Nozomi:** That's our Eli-chi! As for me, I brought tofu.
**Nico:** I brought fried tofu and shiitake mushrooms! They're sure to make the soup taste good☆
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi knows what she's doing♪
**Hanayo:** I brought rice and eggs... I was thinking we could eat them like porridge at the end.
**Umi:** Okay, we'll save yours for later then. I brought spring onions, mizuna, and spinach.
**Rin:** Those are all vegetables...
**Umi:** If you don't like vegetables, then eat them together with something you do like.
**Rin:** I see... You're so smart, Umi-chan!
**Maki:** I guess I'm next. I brought tomatoes.
**Hanayo:** Huh!? Tomatoes... like, the red ones!?
**Eli:** Do tomatoes taste good in hotpot...?
**Nico:** I'm getting a bad feeling about this...
**Maki:** It's not dangerous or anything.
**Nozomi:** Hmm, I think I've seen tomato hotpot on TV before, so it's fine, right?
**Honoka:** Yeah, it's totally fine! Now then, next is Kotori-chan!
**Kotori:** What!?
**Honoka:** Huh!? Did I say something weird?
**Kotori:** No, you didn't, but...
**Nico:** Oh I know, you brought the same ingredients as someone else, right?
**Umi:** Don't worry, we'll be able to finish it even if you think it's too much.
**Kotori:** T-That's not it...
**Rin:** What's in this box~?
**Kotori:** Ah, Rin-chan, don't...!
**Nico:** What's the big hold up? Hurry up and put it in! We have to keep up with the speed that the flame heats at.
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi sure knows how to prepare hotpot, huh?
**Kotori:** Uu... I'm sorry everyone!! T-There~!
**Umi:** What's that...? It looks like a triangular prism...
**Maki:** Kinda looks like cake, right?
**Hanayo:** W-Whoa! It doesn't just look like cake, it IS cake!?
**Honoka:** Whaaaat!? W-Why did you put cake in the hotpot, Kotori-chan!?
**Kotori:** I was told to bring something I like to eat... I like cheesecake... so... umm...
**Kotori:** Ahhh, I'm so sorry~!
**Honoka** I see. I might've said to bring "something you like to eat" instead of "something you like in hotpot"...
**Kotori:** I'm sorry, Honoka-chan! I'm sorry, everyone!
**Honoka:** I'm sorry too, Kotori-chan!
**Nico:** Save this mushy stuff for later! Hurry up and get the cake out of there!
**Rin:** I brought cup noodles! They go perfectly with hotpot~♪ I brought nine of them, one for everyone~!
**Eli:** Wait, Rin! If you put a lot of dried noodles in at once...
**Nico:** Eeeek! It's sucking up all of the soup~
**Rin:** Huh~? It looks like there isn't enough water~ Someone get some water~!
**Maki:** More importantly, the cheesecake dissolved already!
**Umi:** Umm...
 **Honoka:** Ahh... That was so good. I'm stuffed!
**Eli:** I thought it was ruined, but I'm so glad we started over.
**Hanayo:** It was too bad about the cheesecake though.
**Nico:** Yeah!
**Kotori:** I wasn't really thinking, and just threw it all in... I'm so sorry...
**Nozomi:** What happened happened. We all got to eat good food, anyway.
**Umi:** Well then, it's about time we head out.
**Eli:** Woah! So much snow has piled up.
**Honoka:** With this much snow, we should be able to play in it!
**Rin:** Yay! I looove playing in the snow!
**Maki:** Even though you said it was so cold earlier...
**Honoka:** Hehe... After eating hotpot, I guess I feel a lot warmer.
**Hanayo:** Hmm? Nico-chan, what are you making?
**Nico:** Can't you tell by looking? It's a snowman.
**Rin:** Nico-chan's snowman... has arms growing out of its head!
**Nico:** Hey! Those aren't arms, they're my twin tails. It's so obvious.
**Rin:** Oh, so it's hair coming out of the head. I've never seen that; it's cute.
**Umi:** Nico's snowman is pretty cute.
**Nico:** Isn't it?
**Maki:** A Snowman, really? You're not a kid anymore.
**Nico:** What did you say? If that's how you feel then, fine... Hnng!
**Maki:** Ahh! Hey, don't throw snow at me!
**Nico:** If it bugs you, why don't you try fighting back then?
**Maki:** Oh, I see. I hope you're ready! Hrrr
**Nico:** Ahh!
**Rin:** Me too, me too! Haa~
**Nico:** Oomph! N-Now you've done it!
**Honoka:** Snowball fight? Let me join in!
**Rin:** Come on, everyone!
**Hanayo:** Waa! Ah, it's so cold! Hnng...
**Kotori:** Waa! So cold! Okay, I'll do my best too!
**Honoka:** Kotori-chan... That just went completely the wrong way!
**Nico:** Snowball fights aren't just some kind of game you know! got it? This is a battlefield!
**Maki:** Ah! Hey, I couldn't breathe for a second there!
**Hanayo:** Hehe, Snowball fights are so much fun
**Eli:** Everybody's so into it! Looks like fun.♪
**Umi:** Eli and Nozomi, you're not going to join in?
**Nozomi:** I think watching is more fun. Umi-chan, how about you?
**Umi:** No, well, I also think just watching is more fun...
**Honoka:** Here I go!
**Umi:** Ahh!
**Honoka:** Ah, Umi-chan, sorry!
**Nico:** Love Nico Attack!!
**Nozomi:** Ahh!
**Eli:** Ahh!
**Nico:** Ah... um, sorry? Well, with you three standing there, that's bound to happen...
**Umi:** ...
**Umi:** This is our fight now. We can't just back down from this! Let's do it!
**Nozomi:** It's time to show you what happens when you get us mad ☆
**Eli:** Everyone... I hope you're ready for my power shot♪!
 **Nozomi:** Spiritual power!!
**Maki:** Ouch! Nozomi, you're way too serious!
**Eli:** I wonder who it was that said snowball fights are battles! Hnng!
**Nico:** Hiiii!
**Umi:** Haa! Haa!
**Honoka:** Uwaa!
**Nico:** This is ridiculous... I guess it's expected of Team Childish.
**Eli:** I want you to say that you're putting in your all!
**Nico:** Ahhhhhh!!
**Rin:** 1,2, 1,2, and...
**Kotori:** 1,2, 1,2 and...
**Hanayo:** 1,2, 1,2 and...
**Maki:** Hmm? I wonder what they're doing over there
**Nozomi:** It's not wise to look away. Hah!
**Maki:** Hyaa! So cold...
**Honoka:** At this rate we'll lose! All we can do is try and turn things around in one move!
**Eli:** ...Hmm? Wait, I could have sworn there wasn't such a large snowman here until a minute ago...
**Nozomi:** Oh wow, it's true. It's nothing to worry about though, it's just a snowman.
**Umi:** But for a snowman, isn't it strangely big? It also looks like it's moving a bit...
**Rin:** Tada! Rin is a snowman, nya!
**Eli:** Ahhhhh!! A ghost!
**Umi:** The snowman talked!?
**Nozomi:** Everyone, look closely! It's Rin!
**Rin:** Rin-chan snowman... attack! Hnng, hnng, hnng!
**Umi:** Ahh... she got me
**Nozomi:** So... strong...
**Eli:** W-Well done.
**Honoka:** Yay! That's our win then!
**Hanayo:** Well done, Rin!
**Rin:** Rin-chan snowman... attack! Hnng, hnng, hnng!
**Honoka:** Waah!
**Hanayo:** Aaan! It's so cold...
**Kotori:** Rin... chan...
**Nico:** W-Wait, Rin-chan! It's OK! We can just talk it out!
**Rin:** Rin-chan snowman... attack! Hnng, hnng!
**Nico:** Ooph!
**Maki:** Gaack!
**Rin:** Rin-chan snowman is the strongest, nyaa~
**Eli:** Hahahahaha!
**Honoka:** Rin-chan, that was too amazing!
**Umi:** I never would have expected you to become a snowman. You're just unbeatable.
**Nozomi:** So true.
**Eli:** Snowball fights... are so much fun!
**Nico:** I also had fun, but I'm completely white with snow now!
**Kotori:** That was soooooo much fun!
**Hanayo:** Also, just like eating Hotpot, your body warms up a lot.
**Honoka:** So true! Hotpot and snowball fights are such a fun way to warm up in the winter!
**Rin:** I also had a looot of fun!
**Maki:** I didn't know what would happen when those three got serious, but it was a lot of fun.
**Umi:** OK, after a 15-minute break we'll have another snowball fight and settle this once and for all.
**Honoka:** What?! Umi-chan, you still want to play?
**Everyone:** Hahahahaha!

## Chapter 16- Mountain Hike/Scary Test

**Kotori:** Honoka, we've only just started climing the mountain...
**Rin:** Mountain♪, mountain♪ So tall and big♪
**Hanayo:** When we make it to the top, let's eat rice balls together.
**Maki:** I didn't know you liked climbing mountains, Rin.
**Umi:** Climbing a mountain this time was Rin's idea, huh?
**Rin:** Yeah! There aren't many chances to climb mountains, but I think screaming "Yahoo!" from tall places will be fun.
**Honoka:** Yeah, yeah! I want to reach the top soon.
**Nozomi:** There's an overwhelming sense of spirituality on mountains, it feels great♪
**Eli:** Won't it feel better once we reach the top? We've gotta try our best.
**Nico:** Guys, it's just a mountain. Why are you all so excited?
**Kotori:** Hmm? Nico-chan, what do you mean by that?
**Nico:** With mountains, you climb up and then immediately climb back down. It's not exciting at all!
**Nozomi:** You have no confidence in your stamina, huh?
**Nico:** I- it's not like I have a problem with my stamina or anything...
**Eli:** It looks like you can take a cable car up about halfway. What do you think?
**Maki:** I kind of want to ride it. I don't really enjoy being exhausted.
**Nico:** That's right, these things are there to be used.
**Honoka:** OK then, let's take the cable car halfway then climb from there.
**Rin:** Eh? I don't want that! I want to climb the whole thing without help!
**Rin:** I'm going up ahead!
**Umi:** Rin! This is mountain climbing! You don't have enough energy to run all the way up it!
**Rin:** This is a race to see who can get to the top first!
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan, wait up!
**Nozomi:** She already made it that far? Wow, Rin's pretty fast.
**Eli:** But she's going too fast. It would be nice if she didn't crash halfway, but...
**Umi:** Anyhow, we should all go after her.
**Nico:** \*gasp\* \*gasp\* Why did we all have to climb instead of using the cable car?!
**Hanayo:** Sorry Nico-chan. I think it's easier to meet up Rin-chan by taking this path instead.
**Nico:** You don't need to apologize, Hanayo. I'll make plenty sure Rin does later though.
**Honoka:** Did Rin really go farther than this?
**Kotori:** Ah! Look over there!
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan!?
**Rin:** Everyone...
**Umi:** It's not good to go off on your own, Rin. Are you feeling OK?
**Rin:** Yeah, sorry. I wanted to hurry and climb, but I got pretty tired part way...
**Rin:** You all wanted to ride up together, but I ended up running off by myself... I'm really sorry everyone.
**Eli:** What? It's not like you at all to be this apologetic. Let's all just keep climbing together, OK?
**Hanayo:** It's OK Rin-chan. From here on I'll hold your hand.
**Rin:** Kayo-chin?
**Hanayo:** Why don't we go together? And once we get to the top, why don't we eat rice balls together?
**Maki:** Then I'll hold your other hand.
**Rin:** Even Maki-chan?
**Maki:** Unhappiness doesn't really suit you Rin, and I don't want to see it. Come on, get a grip.
**Rin:** Ehehe... Kayo-chin, Maki-chan. Thanks!
**Rin:** I somehow feel a lot better just by holding your hands!
**Kotori:** Ahaha... Isn't that great, Rin-chan, Maki-chan, Kayo-chan?
**Eli:** I feel relieved. We came all this way, so I wanted to make amazing memories with everyone♪
**Nico:** In order to make fun memories, you need to take breaks...
**Kotori:** If you're going to take a break, let's have some snacks too. I brought some, so let's eat them together~
**Honoka:** Eh? Snacks? I want to eat snacks!
**Kotori:** Hehehe... I knew you'd say that, so I brought a LOT of snacks with me today.
**Honoka:** Woohoo!
**Umi:** When climbing, it's not a good thing to be tired. Let's take a break and then keep going for the summit.
 **Nozomi:** Please protect everyone in μ's from now on... Please let everyone always smile from now on...
**Umi:** Please let everyone in μ's live healthily without harm from now on...
**Nozomi:** Why don't we get everyone else from the main temple?
**Umi:** I didn't know they had a temple around here.
**Rin:** I think I should pray that everyone makes it safely to the top!
**Hanayo:** Then me too!
**Maki:** Ha... Ha... Is this the summit?
**Nozomi:** Maki-chan, you finally made it? But we're not at the top. There's still more.
**Maki:** What, really? I guess I was wrong...
**Eli:** But looking at the map, I have a feeling we're getting pretty close.
**Nico:** Haaa... Haaaaaa.... I'm finally at the top...
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan, apparently there's still more to the top.
**Nico:** Ehhh!?! We've climbed this much and there's still more?!
**Hanayo:** But it looks like it's just a bit farther. Come on, look...
**Kotori:** Ahh~ The scenery is so pretty~♪
**Honoka:** It really is. It's really pretty tiring climbing, but it's so exciting to be this high up!
**Umi:** There's just a bit more. Let's all work hard and keep going, OK?
**Nico:** Wait!!
**Kotori:** Eh? Nico-chan, what's wrong?
**Nico:** I-Isn't everyone still tired? I think we should rest up a bit more♪
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan, are you OK? Is this too hard?
**Nico:** Eh? I- I'm fine.
**Eli:** Come on, if you're tired, you should be more honest about it. Here, I'll carry your bags for you.
**Nico:** Sorry... thanks.
**Nozomi:** Eli, you're way too soft on Nico.
**Eli:** Wait a second, Nico, you're bag's so heavy. What's in here?
**Nico:** A change of clothes, a microphone, a camera...
**Maki:** Why are you carrying so many things you don't need?
**Nico:** But I always need to be ready for pictures, and there's always a possibility that we shoot a PV...
**Eli:** I don't really mind you brought all that, but you need to carry it.
**Rin:** Ah, we finally made it! This is the top, huh!
**Umi:** This view... It's so amazing!
**Eli:** It really is... I can't believe there are this many mountains next to each other.
**Kotori:** It's amazing☆... I can see Mt. Fuji~
**Honoka:** Let's see... Oh wow, you really can!
**Maki:** The wind... it feels great.
**Hanayo:** Yeah... It feels really great.
**Nozomi:** The summit is the best place for Spiritual Power. I feel completely recharged.
**Rin:** Yahoooo~~
**Honoka:** Yahoooooo~
**Nico:** Nicoooooooooo~
**Kotori:** Nico-chan, your voice is really unique.
**Umi:** Way too unique...
**Honoka:** Ehehe... This is so much fun.
**Rin:** I got pretty hungry from shouting so much...
**Eli:** Haha. How about we have lunch then?
**Hanayo:** There's a lot of rice balls♪
**Kotori:** Umi and I made side dishes too, so eat up!
**Rin:** Woohoo!
**Nozomi:** Hmm. The rice balls you eat on mountains are in a different class.
**Maki:** They really are. So delicious.
**Rin:** Ehehehe...
**Hanayo:** What's is it, Rin-chan?
**Rin:** I was just thinking about how happy I was.
**Rin:** It's not like learning a new song, or making a hundred friends, but I have 8 very very important friends.
**Eli:** Rin...
**Rin:** I'm with my 8 best friends, and eating rice balls on the top of a mountain. There's no way I can't be happy!
**Kotori:** Yup. It's just as you said.
**Maki:** I had a lot of fun too. Let's do this again with everyone sometime.
**Hanayo:** Yeah!
 **Kotori:** OK then... let's go!
**Honoka:** Yeah!
**Kotori:** Macaroons are from what country?
**Honoka:** Ehh? I've never thought about that...
**Kotori:** Ten seconds left. 10, 9, 8, 7...
**Honoka:** Uhh... OK, got it! America!
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan! Incorrect.
**Honoka:** What? It's not Japan? Or America? How about... Africa!
**Kotori:** Bzzt!
**Honoka:** What? Kotori-chan, aren't your questions a bit hard? Foreign countries aren't brought up very much~
**Umi:** You think there are only 3 countries Honoka?
**Honoka:** Being asked so suddenly is hard. How about you Umi-chan, you probably don't know where Macaroons are from either.
**Umi:** France.
**Kotori:** Umi-chan, ding-dong!
**Honoka:** Oh...
**Umi:** Honoka, don't you think you should think about things outside of being a school idol a bit more?
**Umi:** I'm not saying getting good scores on tests is all that matters, but you should be able to at least pass.
**Honoka:** I... I know that!
**Kotori:** I think it might be easier if we had a study session together.
**Eli:** ...
**Maki:** Now look at this picture. Can you tell me what it's of?
**Rin:** Ah, there are so many ducks on that farm!
**Hanayo:** Hmm...
**Maki:** Then, how about you tell me why there are so many ducks on this farm?
**Rin:** Hmm?
**Rin:** Why?
**Rin:** Because... ducks are cute?
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan, that's a bit off...
**Rin:** Well, maybe it's just a large family of ducks!
**Maki:** Not even close. They were born as chicks elsewhere and brought there.
**Rin:** Hmm? Why? Maybe they came to play?
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan, see, this is what they call duck-farming methods
**Hanayo:** They eat harmful bugs and their droppings are made into fertilizer.
**Rin:** Really? Kayo-chin, you're so smart!
**Hanayo:** Hehe. When researching rice, I learned about duck-farming methods and just remembered it.
**Maki:** Hanayo, you're interested in rice farming?
**Maki:** Well then, next question. These questions will all be about duck-farming.
**Rin:** Ehh? There's more?!
**Eli:** ...
**Nozomi:** Eli-chi, did you go out to check on everyone again?
**Eli:** I was just a little worried. It looks like they're trying hard, but it might be close this time.
**Eli:** It looks like they're trying hard to make sure our club isn't suspended, but...
**Nico:** What? Is this about School Idols?
**Eli:** No, this is about the end-of-term exams
**Nico:** \*gasp\*
**Nico:** Oh... really?
**Nozomi:** Nico-chi, did you forget? Among the third-years, you're the most in danger.
**Nico:** Danger? I... That's not true at all...
**Nozomi:** It's not?
**Nico:** Hmph Uu・・・・
**Eli:** If someone doesn't pass their exam this time...
**Nico:** this time...?
**Eli:** They'll have to do morning practice!
**Nozomi:** You mean, a morning study session?
**Eli:** Yeah. They'll have to come to school an hour early to take supplementary classes.
**Eli:** This is a school after all. You have to study after all.
**Nozomi:** That's true. And it would look pretty bad if someone in the club the school president was in failed.
**Nico:** ....
**Nozomi:** Hmm? What's wrong, Nico-chi?
 **Umi:** Like I said, how did international trade drastically change after starting to use the Indian trade route by way of the Cape of Good Hope
**Honoka:**... W-What?
**Kotori:** Come on Honoka-chan, you can do it!
**Umi:** Come on, let's trace it on a world map. First place your finger here.
**Maki:** Let's start with the points you can get most easily. You can understand the most basic things just by reviewing it.
**Rin:** I wonder if I can do it...
**Maki:** You definitely can! This is just like when you throw yourself into sports. This is just like those sports you love.
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan, you can do it!
**Rin:** I got it! I'll give it a shot!
**Maki:** If you get the basics down, everything gets easier, so let's try our best. Let's start from this vocab list.
**Eli:** It looks like the first and second years have Maki and Umi to carry them along.
**Nozomi:** I guess we have Eli-chi to teach us too. How about it, professor Eli-chi?
**Eli:** I don't really mind, but make sure to study by yourself too.
**Nozomi:** Got it.
**Eli:** Especially Nico, you're always just scraping by. Make sure you study properly this time.
**Nico:** Ehe-!
**Nozomi:** By the way Eli-chi, isn't it about time we go to the student council meeting?
**Eli:** Hmm? Oh, it's already this late?
**Nozomi:** Eli-chi, how about you go ahead? I've got a little to do before going.
**Eli:** OK then, I'll be going ahead.
**Nico:** \*sigh\*. I always feel so uneasy before tests.
**Nozomi:** When Eli-chi said you weren't prepared for the test, she was right, wasn't she?
**Nico:** There's almost no time until tests. I want to do something, but there's not really much I can do.
**Nozomi:** You still want to grasp at straws? In that case, would you like to witness my power?
**Nico:** Eh... That's suspicious... It's really suspicious, but...
**Kotori:** Everyone, good job on your tests!
**Honoka:** I'm so relieved I didn't fail~
**Umi:** I was apprehensive at first, but all your effort paid off.
**Rin:** Me too, me too! I memorized a lot, and it was just swirling around my head, and I somehow got by!
**Hanayo:** That's because you worked so hard, Rin-chan.
**Maki:** You really did. At a critical moment, you showed you could get results quite spectacularly.
**Honoka:** I bet all the third years did great, too.
**Umi:** I bet Eli and Nozomi were fine, but...
**Nico:** Sorry to keep you waiting, Nico~
**Kotori:** Nico-chan! You look so happy!
**Honoka:** So that means... Nobody failed!
**Nico:** Of course not! I'm sure this is obvious, but I had a lot of points to spare!
**Umi:** Really? Nico, you must have studied really hard!
**Eli:** You did a lot better than I was expecting. I've changed my opinion of you, Nico.
**Nozomi:** I knew it, my power was amazing, huh?
**Nico:** Hey, Nozomi, don't talk about that in front of everyone else!
**Maki:** That's suspicious... Nozomi, you hard a part in this, didn't you?
**Eli:** Really? I won't ignore any cheating. What did you do?
**Nozomi:** I didn't do anything bad. I just gave her a pencil to use.
**Hanayo:**... A pencil?
**Nico:** This. It's one of Nozomi's 3-sided pencils.
**Umi:** A 3-sided pencil... Those are pretty rare nowadays.
**Rin:** I remember having one when I was a kid.
**Honoka:** Hey, wait. Why did just having this pencil increase your score?
**Nozomi:** Hehe. I put a lot of my power into it, so you could completely ace the 3-choice questions.
**Eli:** 3-choice questions... Wait, you can't mean...
**Kotori:** Wow! On this pencil, there's 1, 2 and 3 written on it...
**Nico:** I just rolled this pencil and wrote down the answers. Thanks to this pencil, I got all the 3-choice questions right!
**Eli:** Wow, I'm amazed. You really did that?
**Nozomi:** Results are results, what's wrong about that?
**Honoka:** Nozomi-chan! Let me use one of those pencils too!!
**Rin:** Me too!
**Nozomi:** That's fine. I'll prepare some pencils for you two then.
**Honoka:** Yahoo! With that I won't have to worry about any more tests!
**Umi:** Using that pencil is fine, but... Make sure you study as well!

## Chapter 17- This is Our Home

**Eli:** Yeah, I got permission for that.
**Nico:** Then it's decided. We're doing it today!
**Nozomi:** This is gonna be so much fun!
**Honoka:** Hmm? What are you guys doing?
**Nozomi:** The term exams are done, so we thought we'd have a house party on the roof!
**Kotori:** Really? That sounds like fun!
**Rin:** Couldn't this also be celebrating Nico, Honoka and myself not failing?
**Honoka:** Yeah! We definitely worked hard, after all.
**Umi:** I understand what you're trying to say, but celebrating you not failing your tests... Feels kind of wrong.
**Hanayo:** But having a house party with everyone definitely sounds like fun.
**Maki:** It's not a house, so I don't get why everyone's calling it a house party...
**Rin:** It's fine, don't worry about it! You nitpick too much!
**Nico:** Yeah! Besides, isn't the roof kind of like a home for μ's anyway?
**Eli:** Nico's incredibly happy face...
**Maki:** Just looking at it makes me embarrassed, so why don't you stop.
**Umi:** A house party doesn't seem like it's that big of an event, but we still have things to do, right?
**Hanayo:** Like making food with everyone...
**Eli:** That's true. How about we split into three groups? One for cooking, shopping, and preparing the venue?
**Honoka:** If we work hard, this is going to be a really fun party! I'll do my best!
**Nozomi:** I guess we're the shopping group, huh
**Rin:** Yup! For groceries, just give them to me and I'll carry them!
**Kotori:** Let's all do our share, OK?
**Rin:** For parties you've gotta have Orange Juice or Cola or something.
**Nozomi:** If we buy those first, they'll be really heavy. Let's get paper cups and plates first, then party goods.
**Kotori:** This paper napkin is so cute! Hey, Nozomi-chan, let's get these!!
**Rin:** Hey, these glasses have a nose and mustache attached to them! These are cool, Nozomi, let's get these too!
**Nozomi:** Rin-chan, aren't those Mustache glasses? Those are the best! Let's get paper cups, plates, napkins and those glasses♪
**Kotori:** Moustache glasses...? Haha, Rin-chan, you look like an old man!
**Rin:** Hah hah hah, When I put on these glasses, my speak style also becomes like an old man!
**Nozomi:** OK then, let's get 9 of those glasses.
**Kotori:** Eh? Isn't that a bit too much?
**Nozomi:** Oh, really? How about we just get 5 then?
**Kotori:** Sounds good. How about for the other 4, we'll get cat-ear headbands?
**Rin:** Ahh! Cat-eared Kotori-chan is so cute! I don't know which one I should wear...
**Nozomi:** Very nice, very nice. When you think of parties, you have to pave party crackers too, right?
**Kotori:** After that, we just need drinks and whatever the cooking group wants us to get, and we're done.
**Nico:** Cooking group, fired up and ready to cook!
**Umi:** I don't mind cooking, but I don't have much experience cooking for parties.
**Nico:** With sandwiches, all you do is wrap it like this, clip both ends and then wrap a ribbon around it and it's cute!
**Eli:** It's so cute! Those sandwiches look just like candy!
**Umi:** I see... Nico, I'd like you to teach me all about cooking!
**Umi:** As hard as it may be, as long as I can do it I'd like to follow your lead!
**Nico:** You're misunderstanding here. You can make things cute without any tricks. I'll teach you, so let's make them together, OK?
**Eli:** This is a party and we're not trying to attract customers, so why don't we make something that takes less time instead?
**Umi:** I see. I was definitely thinking too hard about that...
**Nico:** We just have to make tasty food and we're set. We should make food that everyone else likes, too.
**Eli:** Haha. If we do that, we've got to be sure to make rice balls for Hanayo, too.
**Umi:** It's time to show off the results of the Rice ball class from before
**Nico:** Well then, let's cook some rice. She eats a lot, so we have to make sure we cook a lot.
**Umi:** OK! I'll start preparing the vegetables then.
 **Honoka:** 1,2... 1,2...
**Maki:** Honoka, are you alright? I'll give you a hand.
**Honoka:** Maki-chan, thanks! We should be fine with this many tables, right?
**Maki:** Yeah. Now all that's left for the home party is to... put up decorations?
**Hanayo:** Decorations, huh? What kind of decorations would be nice?
**Honoka:** Hmm... How about we use flowers?
**Hanayo:** But, flowers are pretty expensive, so we probably couldn't buy many.
**Honoka:** Wait, uhh, how about making a rope out of paper?
**Maki:** What about we use a μ's-like decoration?
**Maki:** We probably shouldn't do anything too costly or flashy though. It's a home party, so we should take it easy.
**Honoka:** μ's-like decoration?
**Maki:** Hey Hanayo, would you mind drawing something for me?
**Hanayo:** Wh- What?! Me?!
**Maki:** I got to see some of your drawings earlier Hanayo, they were really good.
**Honoka:** Oh, sounds good! I also want to see Hanayo draw something!
**Hanayo:** Well, uhh... If you really are looking forward to it that much... I'll give it my best shot!
**Honoka:** Woohoo! Hanayo-chan, thanks!
**Hanayo:** ~♪
**Maki:** Oh, that's cute! You're drawing all of our faces?
**Hanayo:** Yeah. There were a lot of fun and difficult experiences from being a school idol. I'm thinking about them while drawing.
**Maki:** Smiling faces and troubled faces... There sure are a lot of different expressions, huh?
**Hanayo:** Drawing something like this is a bit of a monument, huh? I can't really do anything well, so at least I'll have this picture.
**Maki:** ...At least this picture? Aren't you pretty amazing? You know a lot of things and I think you're amazing.
**Honoka:** That's right! You're well versed in school idols, you're good at making rice balls, and your pictures are really cute.
**Hanayo:** Hehe, aww, now I'm blushing.
**Maki:** Why don't we try drawing something out too?
**Honoka:** Yeah! That's nice too, but I kind of want to do something out. Maki, come here for a second.
**Maki:** Hey, Honoka! That's tickles!
**Honoka:** Well, you see...
**Maki:** ...! Oh, I see. That definitely suits μ's
**Honoka:** Doesn't it? Well, Let's start preparing for it!
**Kotori:** We're back!
**Eli:** Welcome back! ...Huh?
**Umi:**...I-Is the person wearing Mustache glasses Rin?
**Rin:** That's right!
**Nozomi:** Mustache glasses are cute, aren't they?
**Nico:** What are you doing?! They're not cute at all!!
**Nozomi:** But now that we have them, you'll definitely try them on, right Nico?
**Nico:** I... I'll do no such thing!
**Kotori:** We got Mustache glasses and other things, as well as all of your ingredients.
**Umi:** Thanks a lot. We're almost done preparing here, so the ingredients you brought will help a lot.
**Rin:** Hmm.... Oh wow, that smells so good!
**Eli:** Rin, will you help out too? You can make rice balls and roll seaweed, right?
**Rin:** Yeah! I'll roll all of them up for you!
**Umi:** Shouldn't they be just about finished with the decorations on the roof by now?
**Eli:** OK then, how about we all go up to the roof?
 **Honoka:** Everyone's here now! Good job on the preparations!
**Eli:** Woah... There are so many pictures up!
**Umi:** Is this... us?
**Maki:** Hanayo drew all of μ's for us. Don't you think it captured everyone's features well?
**Kotori:** So cute!
**Hanayo:** Hehe...
**Rin:** This Rin is doing my cat pose!
**Nozomi:** The mouth is just like a cat... That's pretty cute.
**Nico:** This Rin is crying... I wonder why that is.
**Eli:** Nico, try looking at below the crying Rin.
**Nico:** There's a picture of an exam...
**Hanayo:** I drew while thinking about the last round of midterms, so...
**Umi:** There's also a Shinto shrine archway and Nozomi's face.
**Nozomi:** Aww, I'm so happy. I might just pray for your good fortune sometime.
**Kotori:** There's a picture of Umi holding a bow next to School Idol Umi. That's so cute.♪
**Rin:** Kayo-chin's face is also really cute. I'll just put some hearts right here...
**Hanayo:** Haha. Thanks, Rin-chan.
**Honoka:** Hey hey, Nozomi-chan. Let's all doodle around Eli... Wait, whaaaa~?!
**Nozomi:** What's wrong?
**Honoka:** Mustache... Nozomi-chan, when did you wear glasses and become a moustache person?
**Nozomi:** Hehehe... These are Mustache glasses. I'm going to fondle you now!
**Nico:** Illegal! That feels illegal, you can't do it!
**Kotori:** Mustache glasses, in some weird way aren't they a bit cute?
**Umi:** I don't really understand...
**Kotori:** Hey, Umi-chan... I have a favor to ask. Umi-chan's Mustache glasses... Can you put them on?
**Umi:** I refuse!
**Kotori:** Please Umi-chan? I mean, I have a feeling that if you put them on you'll be really cute!
**Umi:** Aww... If you do that, I'll waver... No, I won't do it!
**Rin:** Hmm... I have some cat ears here too, why don't you try these Umi-chan?
**Umi:** Oh, OK. Then I guess I'll...
**Kotori:** Aww. But I bet Umi-chan with cat ears will also be cute.♪
**Hanayo:** I might put on cat ears too...
**Maki:** Then me too.
**Nico:** Hmm... Which should I do...?
**Nozomi:** Nico-chi, if you don't hurry you won't be able to pick. Eli-chi, why don't you put on cat ears too? They're pretty big so they'll be cute.
**Eli:** I'm going with the Mustache glasses! You can't wear them outside of situations like these. Running away feels like a waste.
**Nozomi:** Eli-chi! That's good, the Mustache glasses will look good on you.
**Honoka:** I'll also put on the Mustache glasses! Rin-chan, you'll put them on too, right?
**Rin:** Yeah!
**Kotori:** Then me too!
**Maki:** If Kotori put them on, it seems like she'll be more forgiving.
**Kotori:** Hehe... I am a mustache person.
**Eli:** Then the last item left is... Nico, you get the cat ears.
**Nico:** I got it...
**Rin:** Ah, Nico-chan, are you depressed? Wouldn't the mustache glasses be better after all?
**Nico:** I really don't care which one I get!
**Maki:** With just mustache-people and cat-eared people... this feels pretty surreal, huh?
**Honoka:** Why don't we have a game between the cat-eared people and the mustache-people
**Nico:** Let's not! Geez, isn't the food getting cold?
 **Umi:** Well then, I think I'd like to make a toast.
**Kotori:** \*clap clap clap\*
**Honoka:** Huh? Lead everyone... In a dance?
**Eli:** Umi, it's a house party, so don't take too long.
**Rin:** \*munch munch\*
**Hanayo:** I'm really looking forward to the food that Umi-chan's group made.
**Rin:** \*munch mumble mumble munch\*
**Hanayo:** Ahh! Rin-chan, you already started eating?!
**Maki:** Geez. In just a bit we could have all eaten together... Why could you not wait that little!?
**Rin:** Hehehe... The food seemed like it was calling me...
**Nico:** Everyone always goes ahead and starts eating... I just can't let my guard down.
**Honoka:** The food really looks delicious though. I think I might just eat as well♪
**Nozomi:** Umi-chan, I think it might be best if we just started already.
**Umi:** I understand. Well then, cheers!
**Everyone:** Cheers!!
**Honoka:** \*munch munch\* Ahh, so delicious! This is just cheese and tomato, but why is it so good?!
**Maki:** Really. This salad tastes like it has basil and olive oil in it.
**Nozomi:** This sandwich is cute and tastes really good.♪
**Kotori:** Nozomi-chan, this stew is also really good. This potato is really firm.
**Hanayo:** Ah! These rice balls have seals where they're wrapped up!♪
**Rin:** Kayo-chin. Let's eat some rice balls together!
**Hanayo:** So good! These rice balls are so good Rin-chan!
**Eli:** Hehe. It's great that everyone's so happy.
**Nico:** Making food that we've prepared with everyone... Definitely is delicious, right?
**Umi:** Yeah! Let's have some while it's still warm!
**Kotori:** Haa~ I'm so stuffed.
**Nico:** There's still plenty left, so feel free to have some more later... Wait, the rice balls are all gone?
**Hanayo:** Yeah!
**Eli:** Why don't we take a bit of time later to relax and talk too?
**Honoka:** Fufufu... It's too early to relax!
**Maki:** Actually, we've got one more thing to show you here.
**Rin:** What, what is it?
**Hanayo:** OK then, I'll just pull back this cloth... Hnng!
**Umi:** This is...
**Kotori:** Aww, you also decorated our outfits!
**Honoka:** That's right. Kotori, you're always making our outfits, so we decorated them!
**Maki:** I think Honoka is trying to say that a lot of μ's memories are packed into these outfits.
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan, thanks!!
**Eli:** It looks like there are a bunch of comments written after one another. Let's see what they say.
**Umi:** "μ's starts from here, huh? It might be discouraging with just the three of us, but I won't forget the feelings I have even now."
**Umi:** Honoka... I was also prepared when we were on that stage back then.
**Kotori:** When I looked at you, Honoka-chan, I thought that I definitely couldn't give up.
**Honoka:** I would never have been able to stand up on that stage alone. I can't begin to think how grateful I am to you two.
**Hanayo:** I'm also glad that Rin-chan and Maki-chan are here. I'm so glad the three of us joined μ's.
**Rin:** Kayo-chin.♪
**Nozomi:** Let's see... "It was really reassuring when the ever-knowledgeable-about-idol Nico-chan joined μ's."
**Nozomi:** "I'd like to be taught a lot from Nico-chan from here on out"... it says.
**Nico:** !!
**Nico:** E- Even I was discouraged back then... I was pretty happy when I joined μ's.
**Nico:** I might have thought just a bit that I wanted to join. Uhm, that's why.... \*sniff\*.
**Eli:** Nico... are you alright? Do you want to use my handkerchief?
**Nico:** I- I don't need it! Hey Rin, lend me those moustache glasses for a bit.
**Rin:** Huh? Why?
**Nico:** The best school idol in the world, Nico-ni, is making a face unbefitting for her, so I don't want anyone to see.
**Rin:** Nico-chan... It's alright, just put on a happy face!
**Maki:** These outfits are from when Eli and Nozomi joined.
**Eli:** Oh, you're right.
**Maki:** At first I thought it was impossible and we couldn't get enough members, but... I'm really glad that Nozomi and Eli joined.
**Honoka:** After Eli-chan joined, everyone's... bond? I don't know why I'm saying "bond," but I have a feeling μ's got stronger.
**Kotori:** If Nozomi hadn't been here, μ's name probably would have been different. I'm so glad that μ's is known as μ's.
**Eli:** Thanks! I'm so happy that I joined μ's. Nozomi, you're like that too, right?
**Nozomi:** Yeah.♪
**Honoka:** Haha.. I'm a little embarrassed now...
**Honoka:** I'm embarrassed, but... I'm hungry again after all this talking.
**Umi:** Oh Honoka, you're such a glutton. But I guess I could probably eat a little more too.
**Eli:** Haha. There's lots of food left, so let's eat up today!
**Maki:** It might be pretty fun to look back at things one-by-one with everyone.
**Hanayo:** Yeah! I'm so glad with did a house party today!

## Chapter 18- Alpaca Escape!/Nine Paths

**Umi:** Geez Honoka, you say that so many times every day...
**Kotori:** Hey, the weather today is nice and it's warm, how about we eat in the courtyard?
**Honoka:** Yeah, sounds good! That might be a really good idea!
**Umi:** It does. It definitely might feel better to eat outside.
**Honoka:** Then we should hurry to the courtyard!
**Honoka:** Huh? Hanayo and the others are here. Heeeey!
**Hanayo:** Hmm? Oh! You guys are also eating out here?
**Honoka:** Yeah! Why don't we all eat lunch together!
**Maki:** I guess everyone's coming here because the weather's so good.
**Rin:** But Eli and the others aren't here yet, right? I'll go and get them!
**Kotori:** Rin-chan, make sure not to go too fast and fall, OK?
**Umi:** Whenever I see Rin run, she's really fast...
**Hanayo:** I wonder if we can get all 9 of us.
**Rin:** I'm back ~nya♪
**Honoka:** Woah, so fast!
**Eli:** Today's weather sure is nice♪
**Nozomi:** I'm so happy to get to eat lunch with everyone.
**Nico:** We really didn't have to come outside to eat, did we?
**Kotori:** When eating outside in the sunlight, food tastes better and makes you happier.~
**Nico:** I wonder if that's really true...
**Umi:** Well, how about we start eating?
**Honoka:** I'm digging in then!
**Rin:** Huh?!
**Rin:** K-Kayo-chin, are you feeling OK today?
**Hanayo:** Eh? I'm not feeling bad. If anything, I feel good...
**Rin:** But... That...!
**Maki:** What's wrong? If anything, you look sick Rin.
**Rin:** But... Kayo-chin. Her lunch today is sandwiches!
**Maki:** What!?
**Nozomi:** It's really true... Have you had enough rice balls for one lifetime?
**Hanayo:** T-That's not it!
**Honoka:** It couldn't be... You filled the sandwiches with rice balls?!
**Hanayo:** No! Today I just felt like eating sandwiches for a change.
**Rin:** Oh, that's all? We all have days like those I guess.
**Honoka:** I think I understand. Today I felt like eating lots of vegetables, so I put lots of veggies in today.
**Umi:** You normally eat a lot of meat, so it's a good thing for you to eat vegetables.
**Nozomi:** It's because vegetables are there that meat tastes better after all.
**Honoka:** Hehe... I thought I should try to eat vegetables to stay healthy.
**Hanayo:** Huh? Just now, was that an Alpaca cry...?
**Eli:** Ahh! Honoka, behind you!
**Honoka:** Huh? A-A-...
**Honoka:** Alpaca!?
**Nico:** W-what's it doing here? Did it escape from its pen by itself!?
**Hanayo:** It might be getting a little excited. It's alright, don't be scared, let's go back to your pen, OK?
**Eli:** I've got to let the teachers and students know! I'm going to the broadcast room.
**Kotori:** Oh no, it's taking Honoka-chan's lunch with it!
**Honoka:** Huh!? Give it back! That's my lunch!!
**Maki:** Honoka, that's dangerous! Give up on your lunch and for now just wait until we get the alpaca back to its pen.
**Honoka:** I don't wanna! I'm supposed to be the one eating my lunch!
**Honoka:** Give me back my lunch!!
 **Hanayo:** \*pant\* \*pant\* Honoka and the alpaca are just too fast...
**Rin:** We lost sight of them. Maybe they went in another direction?
**Kotori:** I wonder if Honoka's alright...
**Nozomi:** Kotori-chan, she'll be fine without you worrying about here. I guarantee it.
**Kotori:** That's right, huh? Thanks, Nozomi-chan.
**Umi:** That's right... I wonder where exactly Honoka and the alpaca went off to.
**Kotori:** Oh, I got it!
**Nico:** Kotori, do you have some kind of clue?
**Kotori:** Times like these, why don't we try thinking like the alpaca?
**Nico:**...What?
**Kotori:** Alpaca... I am an alpaca...
**Kotori:** Hmmm... I'm hungry~paca.
**Umi:** W-what's going on? I don't understand...
**Nozomi:** The alpaca is possessing Kotori-chan? Kotori-chan, well done.
**Nico:** What is this? There's no way you can become an alpaca like this!
**Hanayo:** But you might find some kind of a hint. Alpaca-san, where are you right now?
**Kotori:** Hmm... I wonder about that~paca
**Kotori:** I want to go to a place with few people~paca.
**Nozomi:** The alpaca certainly might be scared being around so many cars and people it hasn't seen before...
**Maki:** Alpacas don't know how to cross traffic safely, let's hope it hasn't been hit by a car...
**Rin:** We've got to hurry and find the Alpaca and Honoka-chan!
**Honoka:** Waaaaaaaaait!!
**Umi:** Honoka!?
**Hanayo:** Honoka-chan is definitely still pursuing the alpaca!
**Maki:** Let's go after her!
**Nozomi:** Looks like Honoka-chan entered the Kanda Myoujin shrine.
**Honoka:** I found you! I'm not letting you get away this time!
**Umi:** It's her! It's Honoka!
**Hanayo:** The alpaca's here too!
**Nico:** Geez, both you and the alpaca cause a lot of trouble. I'm ending this here!
**Honoka:** I found you!
**Honoka:** You'll give me back my lunch, right... wait, what? Ahh! You're eating it!
**Nico:** So this is where you are...
**Hanayo:** \*pant\* \*pant\* You're here with the alpaca, too. Huh? It already finished eating your lunch?
**Kotori:** The leaves in your lunch were definitely delicious ~paca. Hehe♪
**Honoka:** \*sob\* My lunch for today has...
**Nozomi:** That's too bad, but the alpaca definitely didn't have any ill-intent. Why don't you forgive it?
**Honoka:** Fiine...
**Honoka:** A- Ahh!
**Rin:** Ahh, the alpaca's licking Honoka-chan's cheek!
**Hanayo:** Don't you think that it's saying "thanks for the lunch, Honoka?"
**Honoka:** I hate to say it, but... Since it's eating it so happily, I don't have a choice.
**Eli:** Everyone, thanks for the hardwork. That sure was a nuisance, huh?
**Nozomi:** It was, but it was pretty interesting. Were you OK, Eli?
**Eli:** Yeah. It seems that the person in charge of the pen today forgot to lock it...
**Hanayo:** Oh, that's what happened? We should probably think about a rule to make sure that they don't forget to lock the gate.
**Eli:** But most importantly everyone's safe.
**Rin:** The only thing that wasn't safe was the contents of Honoka-chan's lunch!
**Honoka:** It's shocking not being able to eat during lunch...
**Umi:** It's OK. We'll all share some of our lunch with you.
**Kotori:** That's right. So come on, cheer up, Honoka-chan.
**Honoka:** Yeah! Thanks everyone!
**Honoka:** It's sad that I couldn't eat my lunch, but because everyone so nice and the alpaca was cute, I'm over it.
**Eli:** Haha. That's good then. I got the lunch break for today extended a little bit, so how about we all have lunch?
**Honoka:** Yeah!
 **Eli:** Hmm...
**Nozomi:** Eli-cchi, what's wrong?
**Eli:** I kind of want more people to know what μ's does...
**Nozomi:** Hmm, that's true. We should educate not just those who come to see us, but everyone else too.
**Nozomi:** But there's a limit to how much you can communicate by word of mouth...
**Eli:** Before, you shot a video introduction to our club, right? How would you feel about making another one?
**Nozomi:** Sounds good! How about this time we go more in depth?
**Nico:** Fufufu... Looks like it's finally time for the debut of the school idol research club!
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi!
**Eli:** Hmm, it certainly does seem like a good time to listen to Nico.
**Honoka:** Hmm? So this time Nico-chan will be making the movie, huh?
**Kotori:** I can't wait to see it.♪
**Hanayo:** I wonder what we'll do for it this time.
**Umi:** Even though we need Nico to start, seems she's the only one not here.
**Eli:** But she seemed really fired up about it... I wonder where she went off to.
**Maki:** Ah, here she is!
**Nico:** Good, everyone's here.
**Rin:** Wait, you're saying that when everyone here was waiting just for you?
**Nico:** I'd like it if from now on you don't call me 'Nico' for a while.
**Rin:** Ehh?
**Nico:** Call me "director." Understand?
**Nozomi:** Ahh... Nico-cchi, you flipped a weird switch in your brain, huh?
**Nico:** You all want to educate people about μ's, right? Then we can't do things half-heartedly. Let's give it our all from here on out!
**Kotori:** I think that being normal is just fine though...
**Rin:** That's kind of scary, I wanna go home.
**Nico:** Hey, hurry up and get ready!
**Honoka:** O-OK!
**Nico:** "What it means to truly be a school idol... Today Sonoda Umi is thinking deeply about that while writing lyrics."
**Umi:** You're filming me fake composing lyrics?!
**Nico:** Isn't making lyrics a very important part of being a school idol? I'm just filming what it would normally be like.
**Eli:** I'm also really interested in how you write your lyrics Umi!
**Umi:** But... It's just normal. I write down things I've thought of in my notebook, and later come back and collect them...
**Hanayo:** Umi-chan, when do you normally come up with an idea for your songs?
**Umi:** Hmm... Times like when I'm in the bath, or when I'm talking with everyone, probably.
**Rin:** So Umi-chan, when you're in the bath or talking you get lost in thought, huh?
**Maki:** I kind of want to see that notebook.
**Umi:** A-Absolutely not! If someone were to see that, my life...
**Kotori:** It'll affect your life!?
**Nico:** How about we do something more exciting? Like you shouting out song lyrics while doing archery? Isn't there something flashy we can do?
**Umi:** There's no way I'm doing that!!
**Nico:** "And so, Nishikino Maki extends her hands towards the piano. Composition is a battle of isolation."
**Maki:** I'd really like it if you could stop putting in weird narrations!
**Honoka:** Do you compose everything while facing a piano? Or do you do it completely on paper?
**Maki:** Just like Umi, I start out writing down my ideas in a notebook, and later on imagine the song. I also sometimes suddenly start singing.
**Nozomi:** Ehh? I feel like suddenly being able to do it is one of Maki-chan's special talents.
**Maki:** T-That's not true at all...
**Nico:** OK, OK. Here, Maki, put this on.
**Maki:** What is this, a spring?
**Nico:** This is a tool to train the physical strength of your arms. With this, the movie will be more appealing!
**Maki:** Ugh... That seems pretty stupid. I'm definitely not wearing that though!
**Nico:** Hmm, hmm...
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi, how's it going? Are you making a nice feeling movie?
**Nico:** Well, there's not as much excitement as I'd like, but it's going pretty well.
**Rin:** Director Nico, isn't your way of making movies a little strange?
**Hanayo:** The narration's a little much, but when it comes to passion for School Idols, Nico-chan is definitely the best.
**Nico:** Hanayo...
**Hanayo:** So I think that it's pretty nice that Nico-chan got to shoot a movie the way she wanted. Keep at it, Nico-chan.
 **Nico:** "And so in order to stand up to the rigorous school idol training, Koizumi Hanayo eats rice like she does every day."
**Hanayo:** Uhm, Nico-chan... That narration is kind of hard to absorb...
**Nico:** "'Eat rice! Eat more!' cries Hanayo. When it comes to her passion for rice, we are all touched!"
**Hanayo:** I don't say that!
**Eli:** After this is dance lessons.
**Rin:** I finally get to move around!
**Honoka:** Nico-chan, it's almost time for the grand finale, right?
**Nico:** Yup! Our practice location became way too boring, so I'd like to recover that here.
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi, you're working pretty hard at this.
**Eli:** OK then, for our director Nico's sake we'll all sing together today. ♪
**Umi:** Hanayo, you're slightly late!
**Hanayo:** Uhhh, yes!
**Maki:** Honoka, at that last part can you hold that note a little longer?
**Honoka:** I think so. I'll try it again one more time!
**Nico:** \*gasp\*
**Eli:** Everyone, let's try and do the next part with a bigger smile. ♪ One more time!
**Rin:** Let's go!
**Nico:** \*gasp\*
**Nico:** Oh, isn't this just fine already?
**Kotori:** Nico-chan, what's wrong?
**Nico:** I thought about all sorts of ways to try and stand out in the movie, but μ's is definitely amazing.
**Nico:** Even without consciously trying to make things flashy, we're OK. Everyone practicing is really eye-catching already.
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan...
**Nozomi:** Isn't that nice? The person who was touched by everyone's hardworking form was Nico-cchi.♪ I got some pretty good shots~
**Maki:** Nozomi! You're also shooting a movie!?
**Nozomi:** Yup! I shot everything in secret.
**Nico:** Why? Are you saying that you were worried about my filming abilities?
**Nozomi:** Of course not! I wasn't worried about that at all.
**Nozomi:** I thought that if you became the director, there would be nobody there to film you, so I took video of you myself.♪
**Nico:** Nozomi... So that's it! Thank you!!
**Nozomi:** I'll set up the camera, so all of us can practice together after this.☆
**Eli:** Sounds good! Well then, let's do it Nico!
**Nico:** Yeah! I'm going to put all my effort into this now!
**Nico:** Thanks for waiting! It's done, this session's movie!
**Honoka:** Oh!! Show me, show me!
**Nico:** Everyone make sure to thoroughly enjoy it. OK, I'll start it up.
**Kotori:** Ah, here Umi-chan is writing song lyrics, huh?
**Umi:** In the end, after that you filmed what I wrote on the paper...
**Hanayo:** There are lots of words that I couldn't think of on there. That's pretty amazing...
**Rin:** Now we're at the part where Maki-chan is singing!
**Eli:** Amazing... Getting to hear the songs you write in this form, is amazing!
**Maki:** S-Stop it! More importantly, couldn't you just have skipped over my part?
**Nozomi:** Now is the part shot during the lunch break.
**Hanayo:** Ahh! Only the narration in my part where I say "Eat rice!" is left!
**Rin:** Kayochin's love of rice always has to take the lead!
**Nico:** At this point Hanayo's character will live on, so don't worry!
**Hanayo:** Really? But if Nico-chan says so, then I guess that's fine.
**Kotori:** I think that Kayo-chan's cute traits and the "Eat rice!" part's combination isn't quite balanced and is pretty cute.
**Hanayo:** T-Thanks, Kotori-chan! Ehehe...
**Honoka:** And now the part with eveyrone dancing!
**Eli:** ...
**Umi:** Eli, what's wrong?
**Eli:** Because the last time we shot a movie, Nozomi and I weren't here, so...
**Eli:** Being able to watch this with everyone and be able to say "this is μ's!" makes me really happy.
**Nozomi:** Isn't it? We're now part of the group.
**Nico:** Well, you were part of μ's a long time ago, but it's pretty important to remain in this movie too, huh?
**Maki:** Being able to watch us like this is pretty heart-warming.
**Honoka:** Thanks Nico-chan! That was an amazing movie!
**Nico:** Wasn't it? I'll shoot another one for you sometime.
**Umi:** As long as we have this, people who see it will get to understand μ's a little bit better.
**Eli:** Yup. For us and people who come to see us, this will be the best movie ever!

## Chapter 19- Rain, Rain, Go Away

**Umi:** That makes 3 days in a row. The weather forecast says it'll also rain tomorrow.
**Nico:** And because of the rain we can't use the roof again.
**Rin:** We're not practicing again today?! I don't want that! I want to be able to move around more!
**Nozomi:** Well, occasionally it's pretty nice to relax and watch the rain fall.♪
**Maki:** Agreed! It's too bad we can't practice, but sitting around just sighing is annoying.
**Honoka:** \*siiiigh\* I hate this. I hate this. I hate this. I hate this.
**Umi:** Honoka... Why would you make such a big sigh immediately after what Maki just said?
**Kotori:** Everyone, thanks for waiting!♪
**Hanayo:** Kotori-chan, what are you holding?
**Kotori:** Ehehe... This is the raincoat I talked about before.♪ I bought matching ones for everyone.
**Eli:** Matching raincoats? How cute.♪
**Nozomi:** It would be pretty cute to put them on and dance with.☆
**Kotori:** Yeah!☆ I thought maybe everyone should have their own colors, but also thought that occasionally matching is cute too.♪
**Nico:** Coloring a scene that would normally be dark because of the rain... Well done Kotori.
**Rin:** Then let's put these on and pract-
**Umi:** Not allowed.
**Rin:** What do you mean not allowed!? Just sitting around resting is really boring!
**Honoka:** Yeah, yeah! It's really boring!
**Maki:** Come on, you guys aren't 2nd graders.
**Rin:** I can't move around like this. I'm going to go run around a bit!
**Hanayo:** Ri-Rin-chan, where are you going?
**Honoka:** Then I'm going to dance around a bit too!
**Nico:** Wait, what do you mean by 'dance around a bit!?'
**Nozomi:** Haha... Those two have a lot of energy left.
**Eli:** Oh no. It would be problematic if they let off steam in the courtyard. We've got to get those two back.
**Umi:** I guess we have no choice then. I'll go after them.
**Kotori:** Umi-chan, good luck!
**Hanayo:** Then, I guess I'll go try and find Rin.
**Maki:** It would be bad if you went by yourself, so I'll go with you too.
**Hanayo:** Maki-chan, thanks!
**Maki:** Be careful not to trip.
**Hanayo:** Yup!
**Hanayo:** I'm back~ I brought Rin-chan with me.
**Eli:** Thank goodness. Hanayo, Maki, thanks.
**Rin:** I feel a little refreshed after running.
**Maki:** \*pant\* \*pant\* Rin, you run way too much...
**Honoka:** Guee~
**Nico:** W-What was that voice!?
**Nozomi:** Maybe some new species of animal?
**Umi:** Thanks for waiting. I brought back Honoka.
**Kotori:** Umi-chan... You didn't have to control her that much...
**Honoka:** Dis Burts!!
**Hanayo:** Umi-chan, you're putting too much power into it...
**Umi:** That's because Honoka tried to run away several times!
**Honoka:** But I did that because I couldn't practice because of the rain and I was bored...
**Eli:** I understand how you all feel, so I'll do something to help out today.
**Honoka:** Eh?
**Nozomi:** We found an unused classroom.
**Eli:** The wind ensemble is out at another school today, so I got them to let us use the music room.
**Nico:** We made it so we can do actual practice; you should be thankful.
**Honoka:** Oh! Thank you, Nozomi-chan, Eli-chan, Nico-chan!!
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi went door to door, and opened every single one to check.
**Nico:** Grr... You should have told me sooner that there's a club schedule in the school council room.
**Rin:** So, today we can practice!?
**Eli:** It's the music room, so we really shouldn't dance much, but instead we should be able to sing as much as we want.
**Kotori:** Since it's the music room, maybe we can get Maki-chan to play some piano for us.
**Maki:** That's fine. Don't lose to my piano and sing properly, OK?
**Honoka:** We might as well also sing while wearing the rain coats. I think I started to like the rain a bit more after this.
**Kotori:** Agreed~ I kind of want to see everyone wearing them too.
**Umi:** That's great. At this rate we shouldn't have to stop Rin or Honoka.
**Maki:** It's good to be lively, but being too lively is actually problematic.
 **Maki:** It's raining again today, huh?
**Rin:** \*pant\* \*pant\* Maki-chan! Let me under your umbrella!
**Maki:** Huh? But you're carrying an umbrella in your hand already!
**Rin:** But... I'd rather be under your umbrella than my umbrella!
**Maki:** What do you mean by that?
**Rin:** Rainy days are boring, so I try and find ways to make them more interesting!
**Maki:** I don't understand... I'm going to use my umbrella by myself, so you do the same.
**Rin:** OK then Maki-chan, I'm coming in!
**Maki:** H-Hey, come on, don't just come in as you please! Were you listening to me!? Wait, wouldn't it be better to do this with Hanayo anyway?
**Rin:** Kayo-chin said that today she was helping out a teacher and would be late.
**Maki:** That's fine, just get out from under my umbrella!
**Rin:** I don't wanna!
**Maki:** But I hate this!
**Hanayo:** Huh? You two didn't go on home without me?
**Rin:** Ah, Kayo-chin!
**Maki:** Ahh!!
**Rin:** Kayo-chin, listen to this!
**Hanayo:** E...Ehh?
**Maki:** Hey, Rin! Suddenly letting go of my hand is dangerous!
**Rin:** I just wanted to be under Maki-chan's umbrella, but she wouldn't let me in!
**Hanayo:** O-Oh, really?
**Maki:** Isn't it kind of unbelievable that she brought an umbrella but tried to share someone else's umbrella?
**Hanayo:** Uhm... Then how about you come under my umbrella instead?
**Rin:** Kayo-chin, thank you! Kayo-chin is nice as always~
**Hanayo:** Anyone getting soaked would be pretty bad, right?
**Rin:** See, even though Kayo-chin is this nice, Maki-chan's just a cheapskate.
**Maki:** ...Cheapskate?
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan, isn't that a bit much...?
**Rin:** Ehh? How about "troubled person?"
**Maki:** Hey, i-it's not like I'm cheap or a troublesome person at all!
**Rin:** Even though you wouldn't let me under your umbrella?
**Maki:** Hmph. If you think that, then why don't you come under here?
**Rin:** But I'm already under Kayo-chin's umbrella!
**Maki:** Grr...
**Hanayo:** Um... Is it OK if I share Maki-chan's umbrella then?
**Rin:** Eh? But then I'll be all alone!
**Maki:** Isn't that fine? Then I'll head home with Hanayo.
**Rin:** I don't want that!!
**Maki:** Kya! Hey, Rin, let go of my hand!
**Rin:** I'm doing this because of what you said earlier! I wanna go home with Kayo-chin and Maki-chan!
**Hanayo:** Ahh! If you keep pulling, the umbrella's gonna fall... Ahh!!
**Rin:** It's OK, I'll go get it!
**Hanayo:** Thanks Rin-chan.
**Rin:** You're welcome. After all, it would be pretty bad if Kayo-chin got soaked.
**Hanayo:** But... It's a little late to say that now...
**Rin:** What do you mean by that?
**Maki:** Rin, you really didn't notice!? Everyone's been soaked for a while now!
**Rin:** Oh, you're right! When did everyone get so soaked!? \*shakes off water\*
**Maki:** Hey, you're sending water everywhere! You really are just like a cat!
**Rin:** Shake shake meow~
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan, that was really cold!
**Rin:** Haha. Even though it was raining today, it was pretty fun!
**Rin:** OK, I'm heading back now!
**Hanayo:** Eh? You're leaving already?
**Rin:** Yeah! My house is this way, so... I'll see you guys tomorrow!
**Hanayo:** Ah... I already can't see her...
**Maki:** Really... Rin sure is sporadic, huh?
**Hanayo:** But this is certainly like Rin-chan. Days like these are fun once in a while, too.
**Maki:** It was too bad we got wet, but... That proactive attitude of searching for fun things certainly is like Rin, and isn't really bad.
**Hanayo:** Maki-chan...
**Maki:** W-What!?
**Hanayo:** The three of us heading home together sure is interesting.
 **Eli:** \*Achoo!\*
**Nozomi:** Eli-cchi, are you OK? It's been raining a lot, so maybe it's gotten a bit chilly.
**Eli:** It would be nice if it weren't a cold, bu- \*Achoo!\*
**Nico:** Hmm? Eli, you caught a cold? What a slacker.
**Eli:** Ah... Nico...
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi you seem like you're doing well today.
**Nico:** Isn't that obvious?! The number one school idol in the universe can't go to the bathroom or catch a cold!
**Nozomi:** Of course, of course. It's nice you're acting so tough.
**Nico:** H-Hey! Listen to me seriously!
**Nozomi:** I am listening! You said that you were the cutest in the galaxy, right?
**Nico:** O- Hmm... As long as you understand.
**Nozomi:** Hehe. Nico-cchi sure is cute again today.♪
**Nico:** You better not be making fun of me!
**Nozomi:** Of course not! Right, Eli-cchi?
**Eli:** ...
**Nozomi:** Eli-cchi, are you okay?
**Eli:** Yeah. Sorry for making you worry about me.
**Nozomi:** You don't seem that well. I'll take you home, so how about we head out now?
**Eli:** Hey, Nozomi. I'm... Am I actually slacking off?
**Nozomi:** Eh?
**Eli:** Didn't you say that earlier Nico? I caught the cold because I was slacking off.
**Nozomi:** Haha. That was obviously just one of Nico-cchi's jokes!
**Eli:** I keep telling everyone to study seriously and practice seriously, but maybe the one slacking off the most was me...
**Nico:** ...
**Nozomi:** You know, Eli-cchi. If you really were the one slacking off, the school idol group, much less Otonokizaka itself would have probably already disbanded.
**Nozomi:** Because you worked so hard, Otonokizaka academy exists, and μ’s can do their club activities.
**Eli:** I don't know how much of that is from my hard work... but I definitely think that I like working hard.
**Nozomi:** Right? Everyone thinks that you always work hard in bleak situations.
**Eli:** Thank you. I guess I got a little disheartened because I'm a little under the weather. I'm hopeless, aren't I?
**Nozomi:** Sometimes you do some useless thing and become exhausted. Sometimes you've just got to let that out.
**Eli:** Heh. It's just as you say Nozomi.
**Nozomi:** I doubt I can be that reliable too often, but if something happens, I'd like for you to rely on me anytime. Nico-cchi, don't you feel the same?
**Nico:** I guess I have no choice...
**Nozomi:** H- Wait, why are you stripping, Nico-cchi?!
**Nico:** Just my Cardigan. I'll loan it to you Eli.
**Eli:** Oh... Is it really OK?
**Nico:** It's because you're like that Eli, that I'm starting to feel bad. It's warm, so hurry up and get back to being your usual self.
**Eli:** Nico... I'm so happy, thank you Nico.
**Nozomi:** Hahaha...
**Nico:** Why are you grinning, Nozomi?
**Nozomi:** Nothing really... I just thought that you two were getting along really well, that's it.
**Nico:** Getting along well... I mean, aren't we in the same club and same year?
**Nozomi:** Sure, sure.
**Eli:** Haha... Because Nozomi is here, Nico is here... and everyone in μ’s is here, I'm so happy.
**Nico:** Isn't that obvious? Just by having Twinkle Angel Nico Ni in the same school, shouldn't that make you incredibly happy? Ah... Ah... \*Achoo!\*
**Eli:** Nico! You're sneezing too now!
**Nico:** No, that's not it! That wasn't a sneeze... That was a sneeze-like idol pose...
**Nozomi:** You sure are stubborn, huh? Here, I'll lend you my scarf.
**Nico:** Oh... Thank you.
**Eli:** How about today we all go home early together?
**Nozomi:** Sounds good. While we're at it, how about we go together holding hands?
**Nico:** Ehh!? We're going to head home the three of us holding hands?!
**Nozomi:** You don't want to? If you don't then it'll just be Eli and myself all lovey-dovey heading home.
**Eli:** How about you join on too, Nico? Here.
**Nico:** I got it. But just today, okay? After today I'll save the handholding for handshakes at offices.
**Eli:** Got it.
 **Kotori:** \*sewing sounds\*
**Honoka:** Hmm...
**Umi:** Kotori, you're really good at finishing up hand-sewn things well, aren't you?
**Kotori:** Ehehe... I guess I just have a knack for how to sew.
**Honoka:** Hmm...
**Umi:** Honoka... Why have you been making that face since earlier?
**Honoka:** But it's raining again!
**Kotori:** Today none of the other rooms were open, huh?
**Honoka:** We can't practice again! Man, these rainy days sure are boring!
**Umi:** I know it's too bad, but just moaning about it is even worse!
**Kotori:** I know! Wouldn't it be OK if we just sang somewhat quietly in the classroom?
**Honoka:** Oh, that would work! I'll go and call everyone and we can secretly practice singing!
**Umi:** But that... I don't think that's a good thing to do.
**Kotori:** It's only for today, so... Isn't that OK, Umi-chan?
**Umi:** Ha!
**Honoka:** Right, right, Umi-chan? It's just for today!
**Umi:** Uuu...
**Umi:** N-No! Even if you use your cuteness to make me feel doubtful, you can't do it!
**Kotori:** No matter what?
**Umi:** No matter what. Because I have to protect what we are and are not allowed to do as a club.
**Kotori:** Oh, really... I guess it would be bad to cause trouble for everyone, huh?
**Umi:** Besides, you say that rainy days are boring, but you should be looking for ways to make them more fun.
**Honoka:** Umi-chan, you like rainy days?
**Umi:** Yes. I also like rainy days.
**Honoka:** Ehh? Why?!
**Umi:** For example... I like the sound rain makes when it hits the window. It's a routine sound like when Kotori threads a needle through cloth.
**Honoka:** ...hits the window, huh?
**Kotori:** Umi-chan, you think of me on rainy days? That makes me so happy!
**Umi:** When it's raining really hard, the rain drowns out all other noises and I can get lost in my thoughts.
**Honoka:** Hmm...
**Umi:** Even when it's just one rain drop. Watching the drops of rain fall from a leaf is also nice.
**Kotori:** Umi-chan... You think about a lot of things, huh? Isn't that nice?
**Umi:** I'm not sure whether it's nice or not, but anyhow, there should be something fun you find about rainy days.
**Honoka:** Umi-chan... Umi-chan, that's amazing!
**Umi:** ...Amazing? I don't really think it's that amazing...
**Honoka:** It is amazing! Because all I can think about is whether or not I can practice.
**Kotori:** I think that rainy days suit you, Umi-chan. Seeing Umi-chan with a slightly unhappy expression being rained on might make me a little excited.
**Umi:** I don't plan on getting drenched with rain though...
**Kotori:** Ehehe... I think that Umi-chan is a little bit of a romantic, so I think it suits you well.
**Umi:** Romantic... Really?
**Kotori:** You think about the sound of rain, or the size of the drops. So I think that makes you good at thinking up song lyrics.
**Honoka:** Yeah, right?! You're the same age as we are and we look pretty similar, but how are we this different?
**Umi:** We may be the same age, but our personality and way of thinking are definitely different.
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan is very Honoka-chan-esque. Everyone's way of thinking is different, and I think that's great!
**Honoka:** Hmm? Everyone's way of thinking is different, so it makes talking to them more fun, right?
**Umi:** That's true. I also find it very fun talking to you two.
**Kotori:** Me too!
**Honoka:** Hey, Umi-chan! Tell me more about the rain!
**Kotori:** Me too, I want to hear Umi-chan more too!
**Umi:** Yeah. Of course that's fine.
**Umi:** But look! Outside...
**Kotori:** Oh! It looks like it stopped raining!
**Honoka:** Look over there! You can see a small rainbow!
**Honoka:** So there are fun things to do even when it's raining!
**Umi:** Honoka...
**Honoka:** Umi-chan, after we're done practicing, tell me more about the rain. Don't forget, it's a promise!
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan, you're too fast! Let's go to the roof too.♪
**Umi:** Yeah!

## Chapter 20- Star Festival Fireworks

**Kotori:** Yeah! That's some nice bamboo grass.
**Hanayo:** Should we start by making decorations? Or should we continue our practice from yesterday?
**Honoka:** Hanayo-chan, Kotori-chan!
**Kotori:** Ah, Honoka-chan♪
**Honoka:** What are you two doing? Let me join!
**Hanayo:** In a little bit Kotori-chan and myself are going to go to a nearby preschool and help out with the Tanabata celebration.
**Honoka:** Oh, really? It is Tanabata soon, huh? You're helping by bringing the bamboo grass?
**Hanayo:** Yeah. After that we're supposed to tell a Tanabata story outloud.
**Honoka:** Oh, really? I want to hear that too!
**Kotori:** We've only practiced partway through so far but... How about we recite it for Honoka?
**Hanayo:** Yeah!
**Honoka:** Yay!
**Hanayo:** OK, here we go.
**Hanayo:** "A long, long time ago, there was a God who had a very beautiful daugther named Orihime."
**Kotori:** Hello, I'm Orihime♪
**Hanayo:** "Orihime was very good at weaving, and weaved every day."
**Kotori:** \*weaving sounds\* Please let me weave a beautiful cloth...☆
**Hanayo:** "The God searched to find someone to marry Orihime."
**Kotori:** You there, what is your name?
**Hanayo:** I am Hikoboshi. As long as it's regarding cattle, I can do anything!
**Kotori:** "The God became very interested in the hard-working cattle farmer known as Hikoboshi."
**Hanayo:** OK, today I'm going to do my best!
**Kotori:** Ahh... What a wonderful person...♪
**Hanayo:** "Before anyone realized it, the two fell in love and got married."
**Honoka:** Woah!!
**Kotori:** Hehe... We still have to practice the part of the story after the marriage though.
**Honoka:** That felt really good! It was easy to understand and really cute!
**Hanayo:** Really? Hearing that really puts me at ease.
**Kotori:** I thought with just the story, the kids would have trouble understanding it, so... I thought we could also be Orihime and Hikoboshi.
**Honoka:** Well done! After you practice through to the end I want to see it again!
**Kotori:** Yeah, of course!
**Honoka:** But isn't Tanabata about how Orihime and Hikoboshi were separated? How did that happen?
**Hanayo:** When the two of them were together they were really happy, but didn't they both stop being able to work?
**Kotori:** Kinda like how you get bad marks on an exam when you play around too much, right?
**Honoka:** Eh... That doesn't sound like you're talking about other people!
**Kotori:** And then God got mad and made the two separate.
**Honoka:** Ehh? Before separating them, wouldn't it have been better if God had just said "Do your best to work hard" instead!?
**Honoka:** Even though God was the one who searched for someone to marry Orihime... Isn't that just being mean?
**Kotori:** Hmm... When you put it like that, that kinda makes sense.
**Hanayo:** And now they can only meet once a year, huh?
**Honoka:** Isn't that just really sad?!
**Hanayo:** Eh? I... Sorry!
**Honoka:** Ah, sorry. I didn't mean to get mad at you there~
**Hanayo:** R-Right? I understand that, but without thinking...
**Kotori:** So we should probably include in the story the part where the two are forced to separate, just like Honoka-chan said.
**Honoka:** Right! But that might turn into a conversation not about Tanabata, so maybe it's not such a good idea... Haha...
**Kotori:** And the part where they can only meet once a year, isn't that really nice too?
**Hanayo:** I hope everyone at the preschool enjoys this story too.
**Kotori:** Yeah! Hanayo-chan, let's start practicing again!
**Hanayo:** Yeah!
**Honoka:** I'm really looking forward to your storytelling. I'll bring everyone with me, too!
 **Hanayo:** "Finally the night of Tanabata, magpie swooped down to where Orihime and Hikoboshi were."
**Kotori:** We're birds known as Magpie. We'll make a bridge between the two of you!
**Hanayo:** "And so, under orders from God, many many magpie swooped down and used their wings to make a bridge."
**Kotori:** We'll make sure to support you, so don't fear and cross over us.
**Hanayo:** Orihime...
**Kotori:** Hikoboshi-sama...
**Hanayo:** "And so, for one night every year, the two were allowed to meet each other."
**Honoka:** Hanayo-chan, Kotori-chan, well done!
**Hanayo:** Honoka-chan, everyone! You all came!
**Eli:** You two were really good!
**Nico:** If Nico-ni were Orihime-sama, I think it would have been SOOO much cuter, but Kotori also did a great job.
**Umi:** Yeah. It was very Kotori-like and well done.
**Kotori:** Hehe... Thanks you two♪
**Rin:** Kayo-chin's Koboshi-sama was really cute and well done!
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan, you're making me blush! I'm so glad that everyone here at the preschool enjoyed it too♪
**Kotori:** I'm so glad we practiced!
**Nozomi:** The sad part of the story of Tanabata of how they want to meet but can't, is great.
**Eli:** Yeah. But thinking about if I could only meet the person I truly cared for once a year... It's too sad.
**Nozomi:** That's also kinda true, huh?
**Maki:** Well, it can't really happen like that in real life, so everyone should just be happy.
**Rin:** Maki-chan is as cool as always.
**Maki:** I-It's not really... Don't say it like that.
**Rin:** Ehehe...
**Hanayo:** Everyone! We're going to start writing out our wishes for Tanabata now. The teacher gave us our paper so we can as well.
**Umi:** While we're here, we might as well join in, huh?
**Nico:** To all of the fans of Nico-ni in the world, may Nico-ni's love fall upon them...
**Kotori:** Eh? Nico-chan, what did you just say?
**Nico:** Ehehe... A very very important wish of mine.☆
**Eli:** Hmm... Maybe I should write "May Otonokizaka Academy's history continue on" on here?
**Nozomi:** Is it OK to not write "May μ’s history continue on" instead?
**Eli:** Yeah. Because I want μ’s success to be something that we accomplish with our own hands.
**Maki:** Eli, that part of you sure is reliable.
**Hanayo:** So, A year's worth of rice is how many bags I wonder...
**Nozomi:** You're wishing for a years worth of rice? That sounds like some sort of sweepstakes prize.
**Kotori:** Hey Umi-chan, what did you put?
**Umi:** "May Honoka's oversleeping problem be healed"
**Kotori:** Ahaha... Maybe I should put that too, so that our wish is twice as strong?
**Eli:** Hmm? Honoka, you're not going to write one?
**Honoka:** I wrote a bunch at home to bring with me already!
**Eli:** That's just like you Honoka, you're always so impatien- Wait, hold on a second.
**Honoka:** What's up?
**Eli:** ...Wait, did you actually write all of those?
**Honoka:** Yeah!
**Hanayo:** Hmm? But... There are so many!
**Rin:** You're going to put all of them on the bamboo grass?
**Umi:** Why did you do that many?
**Honoka:** Ehehe... I was wishing that they came true while writing them, and before I realized it I had written that many.
**Umi:** Honoka, you really are greedy... Though that does sound like you.
**Maki:** So? What did you write on them? Were they all different?
**Honoka:** Nah. My wish was "May it be clear on Tanabata so that Orihime-sama and Hikoboshi-sama can truly meet" only.
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan...♪ I guess you said earlier that you would hate it if Orihime-sama and Hikoboshi-sama couldn't meet, too.
**Honoka:** Yeah! I think it would be much better if the two of them could be together everyday, but it's a promise so I can't do anything.
**Honoka:** So that's why I wanted to wish to make sure that just on the day of Tanabata the two of them could definitely meet!
**Hanayo:** Hmm? It looks like this is the only one that's different.
**Honoka:** Oh. Now that you mention it, I wrote one that says "May μ’s continue to do lots of things in the future" as well.
**Honoka:** As long as Orihime-sama and Hikoboshi-sama can meet, why not grant our wish as well. I guess that's a little greedy, huh... Ahahaha.
**Umi:** Honoka... I think that's a great wish.
 **Nico:** Ughhh... Ughhh...
**Rin:** Huh? Nico-chan's groaning?
**Eli:** What's wrong? Are you feeling ill?
**Hanayo:** Could it be you ate too much?
**Nico:** That's not it... It's not that I ate too much...
**Kotori:** Not that I ate too much...?
**Nico:** Uuuuuuuuuuuu~ Today's way too hot! The cicadas have even started have started screeching! It's way too hot!
**Nozomi:** Is it really that hot? Maybe we should sprinkle some water outside soon.
**Umi:** It's going to get even hotter soon though. You should get your body used to it a little bit at a time before it gets too hot.
**Kotori:** Are you OK Honoka-chan?
**Honoka:** It's hot... But I'm fine! Since it's summer, I want to do something you can only do during summer!
**Nico:** Honoka, you betrayed me!
**Honoka:** Eh? I didn't betray you! C'mon Nico-chan, let's do something summer-related!
**Rin:** *Let's! Let's!*
**Hanayo:** Wow, Rin-chan, it's really funny when you speak into an electric fan!
**Rin:** *Isn't it? Your voice gets really distorted and sounds funny!*
**Honoka:** Oh, that's very summer-like! I like it!
**Umi:** I see... Speaking while being cooled down by the fan would cool you down; that makes a lot of sense.
**Honoka:** Let me try too!
**Rin:** OK, here you go!
**Honoka:** OK! *We are the school idols μ’s~*
**Nico:** I... That, let me do that too.
**Rin:**  *Of course!*
**Nico:**  *Nico Nico Smile! The smile you won't ever forget, Yazawa Niconi!*
**Maki:** I don't really understand what anyone's saying...
**Nozomi:**  *Why don't you do it too, Maki-chan? You really want to do it too, don't you?*
**Maki:** Eh? It seems kinda strange and I don't want to. Umi, you do it.
**Umi:** I think I'll pass too...
**Maki:** Besides, when you think of a summer-like thing, isn't this kinda plain? There's bound to be something more fun.
**Eli:** This is less like a summer-like thing to do than it is like something elementary school kids do during summer break.
**Nico:** That's true, huh? We're not kids after all.
**Umi:** Weren't you just happily playing up until just a minute ago?
**Nico:** N-No, of course not.
**Honoka:** In order to not lose to the summer heat, Nico-chan, you've got to find a fun summer-like thing to do!
**Nico:** I won't lose!
**Maki:** That sounds like something a loser would say.
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi, nice fighting spirit
**Nico:** \*Ahem!\* I'm not going to lose to the summer heat, but help me search for a cooler place.
**Rin:** Nico-chan, you're looking pretty proud.
**Eli:** It's going to be hot for a long time, so why not instead of searching for a cool place, we search for a summer-like place?
**Kotori:** Summer-like place...
**Hanayo:** Ah! Now that you mention it, isn't today the day of the big fireworks show?
**Eli:** Now that you mention it...!
**Honoka:** Is it really? Woohoo, Nico-chan! We can do a lot of summer-like things now!
**Nico:** Eh...? But I want to play in an air-conditioned room...
**Honoka:** Let's all go home, change into Yukata and come back! OK? Catch you guys later!
**Nico:** Honoka! Listen to what other people are saying! ...Jeez she's fast.
**Kotori:** I also think we don't get to do this enough, so maybe I should change into a Yukata too♪
**Eli:** That's something you can only really wear during the summer, too.
**Nico:** \*sigh\* So what everyone's saying is that they want to see a Yukata-clad Nico, huh?
**Maki:** Nobody said that.
**Nico:** I guess if everyone really wants to see me in a Yukata no matter what, I'll bless you with my presence at the fireworks show.
**Hanayo:** I want to see Nico-chan in a Yukata♪
**Nico:** Hehe, right?
**Eli:** Alright♪ Then let's all gather back here later.
**Umi:** OK. I'll be back later then.
**Maki:** ...
**Maki:** ... \*sigh\*
**Maki:** Everyone's already left, huh?
**Maki:** I was actually a little interested earlier... Where's that electric fan?
**Maki:**  *Ahhhh~ Ahhhh~ I'm Nishikino Maki~*
 **Nozomi:** Oh, they're here, they're here.
**Honoka:** Sorry for the wait! Everyone's wearing Yukatas, they look great!
**Nico:** That's because when you think about School Idols, you've gotta have Yukatas!
**Nozomi:** They're certainly different from uniforms, and have very vibrant color schemes.
**Umi:** C-Color schemes?
**Hanayo:** Hmm? Honoka-chan, you sure are carrying a lot with you.
**Honoka:** Yup! My Mom told me to take some watermelon with me! It's all cut up too, look!
**Eli:** Woah, that looks great!
**Rin:** Because when you think of summer, you've got to have watermelon! Your Mom certainly understands~
**Kotori:** And I brought a huuuge vinyl sheet with me♪
**Honoka:** OK then, how about we go and look for a good place to watch the fireworks from now!
**Honoka:** \*munch munch\*...
**Hanayo:** This watermelon is so sweet and delicious!
**Rin:** \*munch munch\*...
**Eli:** When you think of a summer fruit, it has to be watermelon, right?
**Nozomi:** When it's in season it's the most delicious fruit, and nutricious too. There are only good things about it.
**Honoka:** \*munch munch\*...
**Nico:** Hey, hold on! Honoka and rin, you're eating way too quickly! You're going to finish it all off before the fireworks start!
**Kotori:** There's a while before the fireworks start, too.
**Honoka:** Well, how about we play some Shiritori while we wait?
**Eli:** This isn't the kind of game you normally play in the summer, but... Occasionally it's fun.
**Umi:** It's also a brain exercise. Let's try it out.
**Honoka:** OK, we'll start at "μ’s" then. Next person is... Maki-chan!
**Maki:** Me? "'s"(zu)... "'s"(zu)... Hey, Honoka, isn't that kind of hard to start with?
**Nozomi:** Maki-chan, you're giving up so early?
**Rin:** Maki-chan lost already?
**Maki:** I...I'm not losing! Uhm, well... "Zushiou!"
**Rin:** ...What's "Zushiou?"
**Honoka:** A king? (Ou-sama) Sushi?(Sushi)
**Maki:** From Mori Ougai's "Sansho the Bailiff," the two characters were Enju and Zushiou were both in it, right?
**Rin:** Mori...gai?
**Honoka:** Sansho the Bailiff...?
**Maki:** A-Anyhow, it's a person's name! Next is "u." Umi, I'm counting on you.
**Umi:** Then... I'll do "Athletics meet" (Undoukai). Next is Nico, with "i."
**Nico:** The cutest, Nico ni~ (Ichiban Kawaii Nico-ni)
**Hanayo:** Ehh?
**Nico:** "The cutest, Nico-ni~" Next up is Nozomi, with "ni."
**Eli:** This is the first time I've seen anybody use their own name in Shiritori...
**Nozomi:** Well, it's the kind of thing Nico would do, so it's fine. I'll do... "The Little Mermaid" (Ningyo Hime). Next up is Rin-chan.
**Rin:** "me"... Ah, "Labyrinth!" (Meiro) I want to try going to a big labyrinth! Next up is Kotori-chan!
**Kotori:** "ro" huh? How about "bay leaf?" (roorie)
**Honoka:** What's a bay leaf?
**Kotori:** It's a spice that you use when you're boiling things like stew.
**Honoka:** Really? I didn't know that! Maybe that's why the stew you make is so delicious.
**Kotori:** Ehehe... Next up is Eli-chan!
**Eli:** Then I'll do a food too. "Escargo." (Esukarugo) Next up is Hanayo.
**Hanayo:** "Rice!" (Gohan)
**Honoka:**...What?
**Hanayo:** Eh? What?
**Rin:** Kayo-chin, your last letter was "n!" That means you lose!
**Hanayo:** Eh? Oh, that's right! On instinct, I just...
**Maki:** Your love of rice sure runs deep, huh?
**Honoka:** That's very Hanayo-like, I think it's great. Ah, the fireworks are starting!
**Kotori:** Ah, they're so beautiful!
**Umi:** Having all 9 of us wearing Yukata watching fireworks... It's very summer-like and will make for great memories.
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi, you also found something you kind of enjoy about summer too, right?
**Nico:** Hot things are hot, but... This certainly was a lot of fun!
**Honoka:** Summer sure is fun! Let's keep on enjoying summer lots from here on out!

## Chapter 21- Fun at the Pool!

**Eli:** Honoka, what's wrong? Are you not feeling well?
**Honoka:** I can't bear... the heat anymore...
**Eli:** Ehh? But up until now haven't you just been saying how much fun summer is?
**Honoka:** That's when I can bear the heat... I can't bear the heat now...
**Nico:** Of course. I thought that was something you'd say eventually Honoka. Everything has a limit... Ahh, so hot!
**Nozomi:** Hmm... You're both weak to both the winter and summer, huh?
**Umi:** If you're like this before we practice, I really sympathize with you for afterwards.
**Eli:** I thought it might be OK since it's not that hot in the morning, but... This is pretty bad.
**Nozomi:** And it's almost 90 degrees again today... How about we take a break from practice today?
**Honoka:** Eh? Cancel practice?
**Nico:** Agreed. Just for today, right? There's no way we can practice in this heat.
**Honoka:** That's not allowed, definitely not allowed!
**Nozomi:** It's hot, so can't you also not practice?
**Honoka:** That's one thing, practice is another. Even though it's hot we have to practice!
**Nico:** Honoka, you traitor!
**Maki:** Even though Honoka can't handle the heat very well, she still wants to practice...
**Rin:** I understand that. It's kind of like having a second stomach.
**Kotori:** That's right. When I eat cake until I think I'm full, even then afterwards I think about eating macaroons.
**Umi:** I don't understand what you're talking about.
**Honoka:** C'mon Nico-chan, let's go~
**Nico:** Everyone else go. I'm just going to wait here.
**Umi:** What a slacker... I'll give you a hand, so please stand up.
**Nico:** Ahh! I. Can't. Do. Ittttttt! Sonoda-san, it hurts when you pull that hard!
**Umi:** Wh-... Don't use such a strange voice!
**Rin:** I got it! Since it's so hot, what if we change into swimsuits?
**Eli:** Ehh? Practice while wearing swimsuits?
**Rin:** And then it'll feel like we're playing. Won't that be fun?
**Maki:** I'll pass. It's too embarassing.
**Nozomi:** Well, how about for just the people who work hard practicing, we go to the pool?
**Nico:** Pool?!
**Honoka:** Woohoo! We get to go to a pool after practice♪
**Hanayo:** What a summer-like thing to do... Can't wait.
**Eli:** Then we'll do what Nozomi suggested. The people who don't practice don't get to come, so let's practice hard, OK?
**Nozomi:** We can all go to the pool, but Nico wouldn't be able to go, huh?
**Rin:** Nico-chan will be the only one who can't go to the pool? How sad...
**Nico:** Excuse me! When will you let me start practicing? Could everyone please move to the start line?
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan, you really want to go to the pool, don't you?
**Umi:** Honestly... But it looks like we'll be able to seriously practice today.
**Kotori:** Yeah♪ Let's all work hard to practice and then go to the pool!
**Honoka:** It's so hot! It's the pool! The heat is so much fun!
**Eli:** And before practice you were so exhausted before practice... You're really in high spirits now though.
**Nico:** Hehe... At the pool,　the midsummer heat becomes a spice!
**Eli:** I'm sorry, Nico... I don't really understand.
**Umi:** Thanks to the pool, we managed to get through with practicing.
**Rin:** Ahhhhhhh!!
**Hanayo:** Ehh!?
**Rin:** Kayo-chin, that swimsuit really suits you!
**Hanayo:** Eh? Ah... Hehe... C'mon Rin-chan, that's really embarassing.
**Nozomi:** You two always get along so well.
**Kotori:** I want to go over to that pool.
**Honoka:** OK then, let's go together!
**Nozomi:** I think I'll try going over there then.
**Rin:** Nozomi-chan, I'll come with you then.
**Maki:** I think I'll take a break.
**Nico:** We just got here, so I'm not going to let you take a break. C'mon, let's go!
**Maki:** Stop dragging me with you!
**Umi:** Everyone's sure fired up. I guess I'll have to give it my all too.
**Hanayo:** I wonder where I should go... So excited.
 **Eli:** Well then, I wonder what I should do first.
**Maki:** Eli, you seem pretty happy.
**Eli:** I mean, it's the pool. When you're at the pool, everyone feels happier.
**Maki:** I don't really... Well, I guess I'm pretty happy just sitting poolside.
**Nico:** Hmmmmmmm....
**Maki:** Wh-What?
**Nico:** Nothing really... I was just thinking you just don't seem that excited even though you're wearing a sexy swimsuit.
**Maki:** That... That wasn't intentional. I just thought it was kind of cute, so I wore this swimsuit.
**Eli:** That swimsuit was the right choice. You're a lot more open when you're near water, huh?
**Nico:** You two, stop talking about swimsuits! What do you mean open? Isn't she just excited?
**Maki:** I am not one bit!
**Eli:** Hmm? There are so many people over there. I wonder what's going on.
**Maki:** Today they're doing a watermelon splitting today. It was written down at the entrance.
**Nico:** Oh really? As long as there's a big audience, I'll have to show off another of my strengths.
**Nico:** Ummm...
**Eli:** Nico, over here!
**Nico:** Over here, right?
**Maki:** No. Over here!
**Nico:** I get it! Over here is the watermelon Nico~
**Nico:** I got the watermelon! Love Nico....!
**Nico:** Huh? There's no watermelon here?
**Maki:** The watermelon's over here! Why'd you go so far to the wrong place?
**Eli:** Good effort... Except I can't really say that.
**Nico:** I had no idea where your voices were coming from, so of course this happened! You two haven't tried it, so of course you'll say that.
**Maki:** I'll go next then.
**Nico:** Hehehe... I think I might just take a picture of Maki failing.
**Maki:** Uhm...
**Eli:** Maki, over here!
**Maki:** Is that... over here?
**Nico:** Oh, she's doing it...
**Eli:** And then just a little bit more this way.
**Maki:** About this much... right?
**Maki:** 1, 2 and... \*crunch\*
**Nico:** Gehh
**Eli:** Maki, that's amazing! You split the watermelon perfectly in two!
**Maki:** Thanks. I think I could only predict its location because I heard everyone's voice so well.
**Nico:** Don't say it like it's that simple!! There's no way anyone could predict that so easily!
**Maki:** W-Why are you so mad about it? It's no big deal, right?
**Nico:** But I wanted to take a picture of you failing, but you perfectly split it!
**Nico:** I bet Eli would be able to split it perfectly, too... Ah, what a letdown.
**Eli:** Hey, Maki, Nico! Is the watermelon in this direction?
**Maki:** Eli, you already started?
**Nico:** And she's already going completely in the wrong direction!
**Eli:** Hey, it's over here, right?
**Nico:** No, it's more this direction!
**Eli:** Uhm... Here?
**Maki:** No, the opposite direction!
**Eli:** What do I do? I have no idea what's going on right now...
**Maki:** Eli, can you hear my voice? Slowly walk this way.
**Eli:** I got it!
**Nico:** You don't understand anything...
**Maki:** I didn't know Eli was this bad at splitting watermelon... It might be kinda cute.
**Eli:** Nico, Maki! Where are you!?
**Nico:** Ehehe... I got to see something nice today. I'm going to be taking lots of pictures.
**Eli:** Now that it's come to this, I have no choice but to do it!
**Nico:** Eli, that's dangerous!
 **Rin:** The pool sure is fun! It's cool and feels great!
**Nozomi:** It sure is♪ And it's a great reward for practicing.
**Rin:** Today I'm going to play to my hearts content!
**Umi:** That's exactly what we should be doing, Rin!
**Rin:** Eh? Umi, why are you holding my hand?
**Umi:** Pools are the best things to build stamina with.
**Nozomi:** Build up stamina? But we came here to have fun...
**Umi:** First how about we start with freestyle, 50 meters each way doing 10 laps each way?
**Rin:** Eh? Ehhhh!?
**Umi:** After that we'll do 20 laps of breaststroke.
**Umi:** It's a good workout and you get to be in the water... Isn't it a great way to have fun in the summer?
**Nozomi:** Umi-chan! That's not fun, that's a workout!
**Umi:** Eh?
**Nozomi:** You don't seem satisfied...
**Rin:** Even without swimming that much, I think there are lots of other ways to have fun!
**Umi:** OK then, let's head over to that pool then!
**Nozomi:** Wait just a minute!
**Rin:** Umi-chan, were you listening to what I just said?!
**Umi:** What is it you two? I just want to go over to that pool already.
**Nozomi:** Before you start swimming, don't you want to find out what kind of pools they have here?
**Umi:** You mean what kind of facilities this place his?
**Nozomi:** Yeah. Isn't this first pool a little bit scary? How about we look into the rest a bit?
**Umi:** I see... That's a good point. Let's go see what other facilities are here.
**Nozomi:** Alright, let's go take a look! *Listen, Rin-chan, we have to make sure Umi doesn't go into practice-mode, OK?*
**Rin:** Got it! I'll give it a shot.
**Umi:** The water circulates 24 hours a day so that it's always sanitary, hmm?
**Rin:** Hmm?
**Nozomi:** Rin-chan, act more interested in what she's saying!
**Rin:** Oh, that's a good idea.
**Umi:** The water temperature is also maintained, so even if you swim for a long time, it won't burden one's body.
**Rin:** Eh? Swimming a lot is good, but I'd rather relax and play instead.
**Umi:** Hehe... There's no need to worry, there will be assigned times in between for breaks.
**Umi:** Well then, let's start swimming!
**Nozomi:** Wait!
**Umi:** Again? But I've been waiting since the first time you said to!
**Nozomi:** I brought a beach ball with me.♪ How about we play some with this?
**Umi:** Oh. Then let's play some after we're done practicing.
**Rin:** Umi-chan, you're so stubborn...
**Nozomi:** *If we swim that much, we'll collapse before we can play! Isn't there some way out of this?*
**Umi:** Rin, Nozomi, today you two seem a little bit off. Is something wrong?
**Nozomi:** Umi-chan. The truth is that I have something that I'm reaaaaally curious about.
**Umi:** Something you're really curious about...? What is it?
**Nozomi:** Well, that would be... Umi-chan in a swimsuit.
**Umi:** Eh!?
**Nozomi:** Thinking about what kind of poses you could do in that swimsuit... I got a little excited.
**Rin:** Ah, I want to see that too!! Umi-chan, you always look so good when you pose!
**Umi:** I... That's...
**Nozomi:** So instead of swimming practice today, I'd rather learn how to be more school-idol-like from you.
**Umi:** Learn how to be more school-idol-like... from me?
**Nozomi:** Not just me. Rin also feels the same way.
**Rin:** Yeah! Instead of swimming practice, school idol practice is better! Umi-chan, teach me!
**Umi:** R-Really?! ...I guess I don't have a choice.
**Rin:** I want to see Umi-chan open her hands with a Poof and go like Pow!
**Umi:** L-Like this?
**Rin:** Umi-chan, that looks great! I'm interested in the part where you shift your waist a little bit.
**Umi:** Ahh!? Rin, don't touch me like that!
**Rin:** Ah... Umi-chan's stomach, it's so smooth!
**Umi:** G-Get away from me! That tickles!!
**Nozomi:** Isn't it fine?♪ I'll take a picture!
 **Kotori:** Tada! Look, look♪、 today I brought a raft with me!
**Hanayo:** Ahh! It's so big! And it has a pink roof, it's so cute!
**Honoka:** The three of us can easily ride in that, huh?
**Kotori:** Let's all carry this to the pool.
**Honoka & Hanayo:** Got it!
**Everyone:** One, two, one two...
**Kotori:** Now, float! Hngh!
**Honoka:** Wow, looks great. Let's get on too!
**Kotori:** Yay♪
**Hanayo:** Can we get in without flipping it over?
**Kotori:** It's OK♪. Hanayo-chan, give me your hand.
**Hanayo:** OK.
**Kotori:** It'll be fine as long as you take your time getting on.
**Hanayo:** Ehehe, thanks you two. I was a little uneasy, but it turned out fine.
**Honoka:** It's pretty relaxing riding this boat, huh?
**Kotori:** It feels like a secret house for just the three of us.♪
**Hanayo:** It's kind of exciting when it's just the three of us.
**Honoka:** I got it! How about the three of us tell some secrets?
**Kotori:** Tell secrets?
**Honoka:** Yeah! In turn, we secretly share the secrets we know.
**Hanayo:** The stories that we tell here will be just between the three of us. It's a little thrilling, but seems interesting!
**Kotori:** Hmm... How about I tell a secret about Hanayo then?
**Hanayo:** Eh? Like what？
**Kotori:** Hanayo, you always carry around rice balls with you, right?
**Kotori:** Earlier I saw you carrying rice balls to eat in the first hour, and then again for the third hour we were here.
**Hanayo:** Kotori-chan, you saw that!? Even though I thought I ate those so that nobody could se...
**Kotori:** It was sort of a coincidence that I saw you. You sneaking off to eat them was so cute I accidentally squealed a little bit.
**Hanayo:** But they were really small rice balls. I figured they would be better than snacks, so...
**Honoka:** They seem more nutricious than snacks and are more filling.
**Hanayo:** Now for something that I saw... Earlier I saw Honoka try to do bunny hops up the shrine stairs.
**Kotori:** Eh, Honoka-chan, that's amazing! You can do bunny hops up stairs?
**Hanayo:** But she couldn't get all the way up a step, so she gave up on the first step.
**Honoka:** Uuu... I thought I could do it, but it turned out to be impossible in the end...
**Hanayo:** But having that much enthusiasm for practice, I thought was pretty amazing.
**Honoka:** Ahaha... Thanks, Hanayo-chan! Hmm, I wonder what secret I should tell about Kotori now...
**Kotori:** Uu... I'm so nervous...
**Honoka:** The other day I saw Kotori open up a bag of sweets in an empty classroom.
**Hanayo:** Hmm...
**Honoka:** And then Kotori-chan took one from the package and tried to eat it.
**Hanayo:** Hmm...
**Kotori:** Ah! You can't possible be talking about...
**Honoka:** And then suddely shouted out "These aren't snacks, these are bath salts!"
**Hanayo:** Ehh!?
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan, you saw that?!
**Hanayo:** Kotori-chan, you tried to eat bath salts!?
**Kotori:** Yeah... They were bathing salts in the shape of Macarons... And when I first had them in my hands I kinda knew...
**Honoka:** Really, who would have thought they were bath salts though?
**Kotori:** It's embarassing, so keep it a secret! Don't tell that to anybody else!
**Hanayo:** Ahh, Kotori-chan! Ahh! When you move that high up in the boat so suddenly the balance...
**Everyone:** Ahhhh! \*Splash\*
**Hanayo:** Ahh, that surprised me! The boat flipped over...
**Honoka:** Kotori-chan, you got too into it...
**Kotori:** Ehehe... But it was so embarassing!
**Hanayo:** Let's make sure those secrets stay between just the three of us, OK?
**Honoka:** Yeah, I promise!
**Kotori:** Sharing secrets is a little unnerving, but is pretty fun!

## Chapter 22- Otonokizaka's Open Campus

**Kotori:** Honoka-chan always practices here hardest, such a good girl.
**Nico:** Hey, Eli and Nozomi haven't gotten here yet. Those two sure are slacking, huh?
**Umi:** Eli and Nozomi said they have student council work today and won't be coming.
**Maki:** They told us that yesterday, Nico-chan did you forget already?
**Nico:** Eh? There's no way I could have forgotten...
**Hanayo:** I understand that it's just for today, but it's kind of lonely when not everyone's here.
**Rin:** When Eli-chan and Nozomi-chan aren't here, we don't really click.
**Honoka:** Hmm, if it's student council work, I wonder if we'd be able to help out.
**Kotori:** Should we go and take a look?
**Umi:** But we should be sure that we don't get in the way.
**Honoka:** Got it!
**Eli:** Nozomi! I'm trusting the posters to you.
**Nozomi:** Leave it to me!
**Eli:** For now I'll go see the teachers and decide on a schedule.
**Kotori:** Hello!
**Nozomi:** Hmm? Did everyone come to check on us?
**Nico:** You two said you weren't coming to practice, so we were worried.
**Honoka:** More like we were just lonely, ahahaha...
**Rin:** Eli-chan and Nozomi-chan sure look busy.
**Eli:** Even if you say that, we're about to finish. Sorry about today.
**Umi:** What is the student council working on right now anyway?
**Eli:** We're preparing for the upcoming open campus.
**Honoka:** Open campus... Isn't that the day that middle school students come?
**Kotori:** Yup! It's where they go to visit a bunch of different high schools.
**Nico:** For the unpopular schools like Otonokizaka, we've got to put our all in.
**Honoka:** We're not unpopular!
**Maki:** Even if you say put our all in, isn't it supposed to be showing off our classes?
**Eli:** We've been trying harder recently. We included all our facilities and clubs in the introduction...
**Nozomi:** I'm also making club videos available to watch♪ Don't you remember I took one for us too?
**Rin:** Yeah, yeah! Is it OK if we come watch too?
**Nozomi:** Hmm... It's OK, but there might be a lot of middle school students in the classroom.
**Rin:** I see...
**Honoka:** How about μ’s does a performance then?
**Nozomi:** I'd love to. But we can't just let our club be the only ones to do a performance.
**Honoka:** That's true, huh...?
**Kotori:** It's not an event for us to have fun, but one for the middle school students to see the school.
**Maki:** But I think that's a bit plain. Wouldn't it be better if it were more fun?
**Umi:** This is a school they'd be in every day if they enrolled, so it's important to tour. Also don't call it plain.
**Nozomi:** I see... Elicchi, why don't we try to think about this a bit more?
**Eli:** Hmm... An open campus... Maybe it is a bit plain.
**Umi:** There's no reason for you to worry about it. It's that kind of event after all.
**Eli:** If we changed what kind of event it was and everyone became more interested... Isn't there merit in trying?
**Nico:** Yeah, yeah! If it's just a campus tour nobody will want to come here.
**Eli:** Honoka, what do you think?
**Honoka:** Me?
**Eli:** Yeah. Which open campus do you think would be better?
**Honoka:** I... think that a more fun open campus might be a good idea.
**Honoka:** Clases and facilities are important too, but Otonokizaka has a lot more strong points.
**Honoka:**  *Except the classes aren't in the top 10 best parts about Otonokizaka...*
**Umi:** Honoka...
**Honoka:** That's why I want to show that there would be really fun things if they enter Otonokizaka.
**Hanayo:** If they get to see a fun event before they enroll, I think they'd be more excited.
**Maki:** I think a more fun event would increase the number of applicants.
**Nozomi:** I think it would be good if there were more chances to do something fun to appeal to people.
**Kotori:** I also think it would be good if people got to see the fun Otonokizaka.
**Eli:** I see... Being able to see a fun Otonokizaka could be good for the people who want to enroll, too.
 **Eli:** I've put together all your ideas, and...
**Eli:** I've proposed that we add a school festival to the open campus.
**Umi:** You're still doing the rest of the open campus, right?
**Eli:** Of course. Seeing the facilities and classes is very important, but after that let's be sure to give them a good time.
**Nozomi:** When you think about what you need for a school festival, wouldn't a refreshment booth be one?
**Eli:** Yup! If we start hurrying with the preparations now, we should be able to make it before the open campus.
**Hanayo:** And if we have a refreshment booth, we should also have a food booth!
**Kotori:** Sounds like fun! Honoka-chan, how about your family's store comes as well?
**Honoka:** Eh, more red bean paste?
**Umi:** ...That's what you're upset about?
**Eli:** Even though touring the school is important, it's a difficult and boring subject.
**Nozomi:** Eli-cchi...
**Eli:** I think this is a good chance to share more about our school than we have in past open campuses.
**Umi:** That's true. Since we're already doing this, 音ノ木坂にとっていいものでありたいです
**Nico:** Then how about we think about a good booth idea that we can do?
**Eli:** Sounds good. And we should recruit other people besides us who want to help, too.
**Eli:** In addition I think there are clubs who would like space to show off. Let's make this a fun open campus together.
**Honoka:** I'll go ask everyone!
**Rin:** I'll go and ask the sports club, too!
**Maki:** Do you really think that everyone will participate?
**Eli:** They will! Nozomi, let's go draw everything up. We'll definitely make this a success!
**Hanayo:** \*writing\* And... "Everyone please come to Otonokizaka academy's open campus."
**Kotori:** "Everyone applying to Otonokizaka academy, as well as those in the neighborhood, everyone is welcome." Yup, that'll do it.♪
**Umi:** Most open campuses are limited regarding who they allow, but everyone will be able to come to this festival this time around.
**Kotori:** Yup! I also asked some people I know if they'd come, and they said they'd be here!
**Nozomi:** Eli-cchi suggested while we're at it we might as well show everyone a good time. The more people show up, the more exciting it will be.
**Hanayo:** Having people in the neighborhood come... It's a little bit embarrassing, but at the same time I'm kind of happy.
**Nozomi:** Yup! Because schools are made up of the guardians, community and lots of other people.
**Eli:** I'm back! I made a report to the health center.
**Hanayo:** Good work! Thanks to that we can have a food booth now, right?
**Eli:** Yup. There wasn't much time to prepare, but it looks like we'll be able to proceed as scheduled.
**Umi:** This is very different from all the open campuses before now, but I'm glad we could pursuade the teachers.
**Nozomi:** That's because of Eli-cchi's track record, as well as how politely she presented everything.
**Eli:** After everyone agreeing to this, I just definitely wanted to avoid not receiving permission for this.
**Nico:** Eli's definitely someone who can get things done when she needs to.
**Maki:** Why are you looking so proud, Nico?
**Eli:** It wasn't just us, all other clubs said they wanted to do this too, which helped. This was only possible because of everyone.
**Kotori:** Everyone can take shifts tending the booths, so that we'll all be able to look around too.
**Rin:** Hey, hey! The volleyball team says they'll do a practice match!
**Honoka:** I also heard that the theater club will be doing a play!
**Nozomi:** The volleyball team and theater club, huh? The schedule sure is filling up quick.
**Hanayo:** Maki-chan, you're also going to play some piano, right?
**Kotori:** Is that true, Maki-chan?
**Maki:** Yeah. If there's nothing going on then nobody will come. But as long as everyone's participating, I might as well do what little I can.
**Rin:** That's not true!
**Nozomi:** You playing the piano isn't just something to fill up the schedule.
**Kotori:** I'm really looking forward to your playing...
**Rin:** Everyone's definitely going to come see you play!
**Maki:** I got it, I got it so stop being so clingy!
**Rin:** Haha... Sorry, I got carried away.
**Honoka:** Hey, μ’s gets to perform too, right?
**Eli:** Of course! Let's make sure that everyone gets to see us, too.
**Nozomi:** I made sure that our recital was the absolute first thing on the schedule.
**Honoka:** Yay! Let's make sure we practice hard so that we can make everyone happy!
**Umi:** This seems like it'll be a really fun open campus.
**Eli:** I want everyone to learn lots about Otonokizaka! I want everyone to have a lot of fun!
 **Honoka:** I'm so glad it's sunny the day of the open campus!
**Umi:** Absolutely. I want to enjoy today as much as I can.
**Hanayo:** Ah, Maki-chan!
**Umi:** Are you going to the gymnasium from here?
**Maki:** Yeah. It's a little early, but I want to try the piano out before my recital.
**Honoka:** Everyone's definitely going to come see you perform!
**Maki:** Definitely? If everyone shows up, there won't be any empty seats.
**Umi:** Maki, please do your best.
**Maki:** I won't let you down. OK, I'll see you all later.
**Hanayo:** Maki-chan looks so cool!
**Honoka:** Maki-chan's piano is always great.♪ I'll make sure to reserve us some good seats so we can see her.
**Honoka:** Ah, look over there! There are all sorts of colors of chocolate bananas over there! It's Kotori-chan's booth!
**Kotori:** Ehehe. Welcome to Kotori's chocolate banana stand!
**Hanayo:** So cute! These are all covered with chocolate, right?
**Kotori:** Yup! This one's covered with mint chocolate, this one's strawberry chocolate, and this one's grean tea chocolate!
**Umi:** And you have all sorts of toppings, too?
**Kotori:** Yup! These are tiny flower chocolates, and these are tiny bird chocolates. Make sure to put lots on, OK?
**Honoka:** I want some! Can I have some? I want some!!
**Kotori:** Could I interest you in a chocolate banana?
**Honoka:** Yeah, yeah!
**Kotori:** Thank you. Would you like some milk tea with tapioca in it as well?
**Honoka:** Definitely!
**Kotori:** Ehehe... Thank you!
**Umi:** You're very good at this. It's good you've gotten so many people to come.
**Kotori:** It's not just the middle-schoolers, but also everyone in the neighborhood and other high schoolers too.♪
**Rin:** Ah, everyone!!
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan! How was the volleyball team's practice match?
**Rin:** The enthusiasm was incredible! Everyone was cheering and the players all got more fired up too!
**Rin:** I really wanted to play too. Let's go and play with the volleyball team sometime!
**Nico:** The flower hairpin you're wearing right now is really cute, but the impact is a little weak.
**Nico:** I think something like this unicorn brooch would really suit you.
**Nico:** See, it's cute! Let's show off your cuteness to the world!☆
**Honoka:** Hmm? Look, that's Nico over there.
**Nico:** You over there, let's make the best of what you have. With just that pearl bracelet...
**Nico:** If you make your lips a little more pink... There, now you're awe-inspiringly cute.
**Rin:** Woah! Nico-chan, you're just like one of those people on television!
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan, you're giving out fashion advice, right?
**Nico:** Ah, you guys came? I'll give you both some advice as well.
**Rin:** You're like the queen of fashion!
**Honoka:** You're not just giving out advice, you're also selling accessories?
**Nico:** Yeah. These are accessories that Eli made.
**Hanayo:** Ehh!? Eli-chan made all of these!? They look like what you'd see in a regular store! Actually, they might look even cuter...
**Eli:** Ehehe, thanks. If you select some parts, you can make these by yourself.
**Kotori:** That sounds great! Eli-chan, show me!
**Nozomi:** Hmm? Everyone came? How about you come for my fortune telling after you finish here?
**Rin:** Nozomi-chan, you're doing fortune telling, huh...? Wait! What a long line!!
**Eli:** Yeah. This line hasn't shrunk at all this whole time.
**Nico:** It's just as popular as my fashion advice!
**Nozomi:** That's because my fortune telling is actually right.
**Nico:** Is that really true? You're not just being vague?
**Nozomi:** Please let Nico's grades go down just a little bit...
**Nico:** S-Stop it!! That's such a cruel wish to make!
**Hanayo:** Nozomi-chan's power really is amazing, huh? I guess I'll get in line too then.
**Umi:** Sounds good. And then after that let's go see Maki's recital.
**Honoka:** After Maki-chan, let's go see Umi-chan's practice kendo match.
**Kotori:** All of the kids from your dojo are coming too, right?
**Umi:** Yup. Everyone's been practicing for today, so I hope you all enjoy it.
 **Kotori:** Maki-chan, you were really amazing~
**Honoka:** Yeah. It reminded me of the first time I met Maki-chan.
**Maki:** I remember. You asked me to try being an idol out of the blue; it really surprised me.
**Honoka:** Hahaha... It would, wouldn't it? Even I understood that I was asking something pretty crazy.
**Honoka:** But when I heard your piano back then I really thought it was amazing.
**Maki:** I... I get it, even without you saying that.
**Honoka:** Maki-chan...
**Maki:** I was also thinking about the first time I met you while I was playing piano today.
**Maki:** You really surprised me back then... But I'm glad that you invited me back then.
**Honoka:** Ehehe... I'm also really glad I invited you!
**Rin:** If we didn't have your piano, μ’s might not be where it is today.
**Eli:** Umi, your practice Kendo match was really amazing.
**Nozomi:** Everyone else put their all into it too; it was so cute.
**Umi:** Thank you very much. Having everyone there was very reassuring.
**Nozomi:** I also really want to see Umi's dancing.
**Umi:** O- Of course, it's a great opportunity...
**Kotori:** Hmm? Something smells really good.
**Umi:** It smells great, almost like soy-sauce.
**Honoka:** Ah, it's grilled rice balls!
**Hanayo:** Welcome!
**Rin:** We've been waiting for you!
**Honoka:** Hanayo-chan, Rin-chan!
**Umi:** What an amazing amount of rice balls. Hanayo, you made several hundred yourself?
**Hanayo:** It would have been pretty hard to make enough for a stall, so I had a local store prepare them for me.
**Rin:** I also got help from a local ramen shop!
**Honoka:** A Hanayo-Rin collaboration, huh?
**Rin:** To make this easy for girls to eat, it has lots of vegetables and a healthy salt broth...
**Hanayo:** And I have lots of varieties of rice balls so everyone can have their favorites.
**Kotori:** Mmmm, it's so good!
**Maki:** And they're small so they're easier to eat, too.
**Hanayo:** Our shift's almost over, so let's go over and help out at Homura in a bit.
**Honoka:** Would anyone like one of Homura's delicious steamed buns?
**Kotori:** Homura's steamed buns are really delicious!
**Umi:** You wanted 3, correct? Thank you very much for your patronage.
**Kotori:** 6, right? Wait just a minute while I put them in a box for you.
**Rin:** Wow, you've sold so many!
**Umi:** There were a lot this morning, but now we're almost sold out.
**Honoka:** Yeah! Once we're all out, let's start with the prep for the stage!
**Rin:** I wonder if everyone will come.
**Honoka:** They definitely will! Along with the steamed buns I included directions to the stage.
**Rin:** I also told people to come see our performance when they bought ramen.
**Nozomi:** I told people their luck would improve if they came see our performance.
**Honoka:** Oh, you'll take the last one? Thank you very much!
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan, you sold all the steamed buns!
**Eli:** Good work everyone!
**Maki:** Eli, isn't it pretty tiring having to keep checking on everyone?
**Eli:** Not at all. Everything so far has been a success, and there haven't been any problems.
**Umi:** And everyone from the neighborhood that showed up seem to be having a good time. What a relief.
**Nozomi:** Today was a great success.
**Eli:** Yeah. If this had been more showy, more people might have come, but...
**Eli:** Hehe... I guess this is a lot more like Otonokizaka.
**Honoka:** Yeah! Because we're like Otonokizaka, we love Otonokizaka, right?
**Nico:** And last up is our concert.
**Kotori:** Woah... Look at where we're performing!
**Hanayo:** Wow. There's still time until the performance, but the seats are mostly filled already!
**Eli:** We've done so well up until now, so let's go and finish things up with a great performance!
**Nozomi:** Let's get our power to reach out to the people who came all this way to support us.
**Honoka:** Let's go and give them a great show!

## Chapter 23- Shrine Helpers

**Umi:** Good morning.
**Nico:** \*Yawn\* 6 A.M. on a Sunday... Nobody else on the planet is awake this early.
**Hanayo:** I think there are plenty of people awake somewhere on the planet right now, but... It definitely is a bit early.
**Honoka:** Hey, did you know? Going back to sleep after waking up feels really good... \*snore\*
**Maki:** Honoka, you fell asleep!
**Rin:** \*mumble\* I'll have a cup ramen please...
**Kotori:** Rin-chan, wake up!
**Eli:** C'mon... Get it together you guys!
**Honoka:** W-Was I asleep just then?
**Nozomi:** Hehehe... Everyone, thanks for coming today. Maybe the meeting time was a bit early?
**Umi:** It's fine. Because today's the day we're helping out at the shrine.
**Eli:** Some of us are still half-asleep, but we've all been looking forward to this.
**Nozomi:** We're having a wedding ceremony today, so we're short on hands. It'll be great having you all helping. Thank you. ♪
**Maki:** I wonder if we'll actually be able to help out at a shrine.
**Nozomi:** It'll be fine. The work we've been tasked with is mostly things you can handle.
**Nozomi:** Oh, but...
**Honoka:** But...?
**Nozomi:** But first we have to sort out introductions. Let's go!
**Nozomi:** Today I'll be helping out with my precious friends. I look forward to working with you.
**Hanayo:** I look forward to working with you.
**Maki:** I look forward to working with you.
**Eli:** Let's give it our all today so we don't upset God.
**Kotori:** Since Nozomi-chan introduced us to God, I'm relieved. Let's give it our all today!
**Nozomi:** You guys are all very, very important to me, so I wanted to introduce you all to God.
**Eli:** Nozomi. Thank you for introducing us.
**Nozomi:** Don't be so cold.
**Maki:** Heh. Today's Nozomi seems pretty fun.
**Rin:** Today's Maki-chan also seems pretty fun.
**Maki:** R-Really? I think that I'm pretty normal though...
**Nozomi:** Well then. Now that we've finished our introductions... We get to enjoy ourselves with that.
**Umi:** ...What exactly is "enjoy ourselves with that?"
**Honoka:** Breakfast!?
**Hanayo:** Breakfast!!
**Maki:** You should eat breakfast at your own house. Wait, didn't you eat breakfast before you came anyway?
**Kotori:** Then, by enjoy, you mean...
**Nozomi:** You should be able to tell by looking. Come on, let's go already~
**Kotori:** Aah! I can walk without being pushed~
**Nozomi:** Hmm. How about this? Honoka-chan, is it tight?
**Honoka:** No, it feels just fine~
**Hanayo:** Wow, Nozomi-chan, you're also really good at fitting people.
**Nozomi:** Helping with that is nothing; I have to wear these all the time.
**Rin:** Hey, did you make a mistake with my fitting? The armpit of it is completely open!?
**Nozomi:** It's OK to have that part open. It's also easy to stick your hands into♪
**Rin:** Gah! Nozomi-chan, don't reach in there!!
**Kotori:** Umi-chan's hakama is a different color than her normal archery one.
**Umi:** Indeed. I'm used to wearing a hakama, but it feels different wearing a shrine maiden one instead.
**Honoka:** Umi-chan's archery hakama suits her, but a shrine maiden one is also feminine and cute.
**Umi:** D-Don't praise me so much.
**Honoka:** Why are you hiding in a corner?!
**Umi:** Sorry, just whenever I get complimented...
**Nozomi:** Hmm... When I look at everyone in a shrine maiden outfit, it sure is a magnificent sight.
**Nico:** Super Idol Nico being dressed as a shrine maiden is really rare! It's too rare!
**Eli:** There aren't normally that many chances to wear one normally, so it is pretty rare.
**Honoka:** I was really tired not too long ago, but now I'm really excited! This is so exciting.
**Hanayo:** I'm also really excited now! I wonder if I'll be any good as a shrine maiden. Gotta try my best.
**Eli:** Thanks to Nozomi, we should be able to enjoy our day like this.
 **Rin:** \*Scrub scrub\* I wonder if that's OK?
**Hanayo:** Wow, the handrail you cleaned is really pretty!
**Rin:** You're making me blush~ I clean a lot, so I guess I got into the mood.
**Hanayo:** I'm happy it looks so nice, and being with everyons is really fun.
**Rin:** Yeah! Kayo-chin, let's clean over there next.
**Hanayo:** Ah, Rin-chan wait~
**Eli:** Hanayo and Rin look like they're having fun~ I wonder if cleaning here is more fun because it's different from usual.
**Maki:** The weather is also good; this kind of thing is good on occasion too.
**Nico:** ...
**Eli:** Hmm? Nico, are you in a bad mood?
**Nico:** Of course I am.
**Nico:** Rather than cleaning, we should be doing a more fun performance. Something more sparkling fits me more than these buckets!
**Maki:** P-Performance?
**Nico:** Isn't it obvious!? We've already changed into cute shrine maiden stage outfits after all!
**Honoka:** Ehh!? These are stage outfits!?
**Nico:** They obviously are stage outfits!
**Umi:** They're not stage outfits!
**Eli:** Hahaha... What a Nico thing to say.
**Nico:** Even though I got up so early, all there is is cleaning? I wanted something more challenging.
**Nozomi:** It's because shrines are a place to worship God after all. You don't want to upset God, do you?
**Eli:** Even at home before you have people over, you're more likely to clean it well.
**Honoka:** Oh right. Shrines are a place that people visit as well as a place that God sometimes visits.
**Nico:** B-But I think for now this is clean enough...
**Nozomi:** God isn't someone who gets mad at something so insignificant. So I guess this much cleaning is alright.
**Nico:** ...
**Nozomi:** But to me, this place is a really really important place. So I want to make sure this place is clean.
**Nozomi:** When it isn't done well here, I'm not like myself.
**Nico:** Nozomi...
**Maki:** During morning practice too, it seems like you clean here before you come.
**Kotori:** Yeah. Because Nozomi-chan is always here for us, I'm relieved every morning.
**Umi:** Indeed... Because this place is very important to Nozomi.
**Eli:** An important place to Nozomi is an important place to us too.
**Maki:** After listening to what she just said, can you still say you don't want to clean?
**Nico:** ...
**Kotori:** Huh? Nico-chan, where are you going?
**Maki:** Don't tell me she's leaving.
**Nico:** I replaced the water in the bucket. So we can make this place look nicer.
**Rin:** Over here is also really nice now!
**Nico:** You two are too naive!
**Hanayo:** Ehh!?
**Nico:** Look here! The handrail is stilly cloudy. Do it again!
**Rin:** Ehh? Nico just started acting like a mother-in-law!
**Nico:** Don't talk while working! After we're done here we're going to work over there!
**Hanayo,Rin:** Y-Yes!
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi, thank you.
**Nico:** It's not like I'm doing this for you. This is for God.
**Honoka:** Alright, so we don't upset Nozomi-chan or Nozomi-chan's beloved God, let's give our best too!
**Kotori:** Yeah!
**Maki:** Nozomi, you don't normally talk about yourself that much so it's nice finally hearing some of your thoughts.
**Umi:** Indeed. Just by not revealing too much, we show that we're reliable at heart.
**Umi:** Saying that makes me embarassed. It's really not that impressive.
**Eli:** Nozomi's normally big hearted, but gets things done. I think that's why the two of us get along.
**Nozomi:** Eli-cchi, don't you have too many compulsions? Wouldn't it be better to be nicer more?
 **Nozomi:** Now we just have to open this door, so could you take this over there Hanayo-chan?
**Hanayo:** Yup! I'll stretch it over~
**Nozomi:** Yup, right there! I think this is about all we can do to prepare. Now we just have to leave the rest to the real shrine maidens.
**Eli:** They're about to have a wedding ceremony here... Isn't it wonderful?
**Nozomi:** A wedding ceremony is definitely the happiest day in one's life.
**Honoka:** Nozomi-chan! We cleaned the hallway~
**Rin:** I made sure it was really sparkly too!
**Nozomi:** Well done, well done♪ Honoka-chan and Rin-chan, you two really helped out today.
**Honoka:** Hehe...
**Rin:** You're making me blush...
**Maki:** When you look at those three, it almost feels like a teacher and her students.
**Kotori:** Hahaha. It's teacher Nozomi-chan~♪
**Nozomi:** Hehe. And as an added bonus, all of the students I'm in charge of are really cute.
**Eli:** Nozomi, all the attendants are here.
**Nozomi:** Thanks, Eli-cchi. OK, let's go over there so we don't get in the way of preparations.
**Honoka:** I'm glad that we properly cleaned everything up before everyone got here for the wedding.
**Nico:** There are quite a few people, but are they all coming for the wedding?
**Umi:** There are a lot of people in normal clothes. Don't a lot of people come just to pray?
**Hanayo:** Everyone probably come to pray to God.
**Nozomi:** That's because God is broad-minded. You can pray about school, marriage, children, or anything else, as well as blessing weddings.
**Nozomi:** When I become a real shrine maiden, I'll also pray that your breasts will grow.
**Nico:** Don't look at me like that!
**Kotori:** Ah! Hey, Honka-chan! Look over there~
**Honoka:** Eh? Woah, it's the bride!
**Eli:** Harasho! She's so pretty!
**Nico:** A white kimono, huh?
**Umi:** It's really pretty, and gives off a holy feel.
**Maki:** When you think of a wedding, you generally think of wedding dresses, but that white kimono is amazing too.
**Kotori:** Hehehe...
**Rin:** Kotori-chan, you're grinning!
**Kotori:** Hehehe... I was just thinking if I get to wear one, which one I'd wear.
**Umi:** I'm torn on which I'd rather choose to wear. But I'm sure that both would suit you, Kotori.
**Honoka:** Yeah! As long as it's Kotori-chan, I'm sure you'll make a cute bride.
**Kotori:** If I get the chance, I'd definitely love to try wearing either one.
**Nozomi:** I think that a white kimono would be nice, but... I'd also love to wear a wedding dress.
**Eli:** I'm sure both would suit you too, Nozomi.
**Nozomi:** There you go again. Flattery will get you nowhere.
**Eli:** Hehe. I'm not doing this to get anything out of it.
**Hanayo:** A cute wedding dress would probably suit you Nico-chan♪
**Nico:** I want to wear a wedding dress, but... It's not really like I'd hate wearing a kimono either.
**Kotori:** I know! I'll make us costumes based on brides for the next concert♪
**Hanayo:** Wow, that sounds amazing!
**Nico:** OK then, how about I be the bride, and you all can be like the attendants?
**Maki:** Nico-chan... Are you an idiot?
**Nico:** Kuu~ Make a better comeback! I just thought I'd try to make you all laugh!
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan also seems like she'd make a nice bride.
**Rin:** Really? I think you'd be much better suited.
**Maki:** I'm sure it'd fit you both great. I'm really looking forward to your outfit, Rin.
**Rin:** Ehh? If you and Kayo-chin don't wear it with me, I don't want to either!
**Maki:** I got it, I got it. If that time comes, I'll wear it with you.
**Rin:** Ehehe, I win!
**Nozomi:** That bride sure was really cute.
**Nico:** Well, I guess I'll let it slide that you're giving all your attention to the bride today.
**Rin:** Nico-chan... What are you fighting with...?
**Eli:** All the attendants' smiles were dazzling... I'm sure it made us all happy today too.
**Umi:** Indeed. The bride, groom, and the attendees definitely seemed happy...
 **Umi:** Thank you for visiting.
**Hanayo:** The children's shrine is over here.
**Kotori:** I'll show you there now.
**Rin:** Nozomi-chan, I've finished cleaning this sign.
**Nico:** It's still dirty in this corner though.
**Rin:** Nyaa~... Nico-chan, you're still acting like a mother-in-law...
**Nico:** It's still dirty... But I'll clean it for you.
**Rin:** Nyaa~!? Nico-chan, you're so kind!
**Nico:** Hey, Rin! Get off of me!
**Eli:** Everyone, I think we've all managed to get the hang of working as shrine maidens in just one day.
**Nozomi:** It surprised me how quickly you all learned, well done. You guys have been working so hard since early this morning, so I'll let you stop soon.
**Honoka:** Ehh? But there are people still coming to pray; we'll keep helping out.
**Nozomi:** Hehe. Just offering is plenty. If I make you all work any more than this, God will get mad.
**Honoka:** Really? Got it.
**Eli:** So I guess we'll end it here for today then.
**Nozomi:** Thanks everyone for working so hard today.
**Everyone:** Thanks for your hard work!
**Honoka:** Today was so much fun~!
**Maki:** Definitely. I'm not just saying that, it was definitely fun.
**Hanayo:** This was my first time dressing as a shrine maiden, as well as working alongside them. I was really excited today.
**Kotori:** And now we're more like the real deal too.
**Umi:** Indeed. There aren't many chances to get this kind of experience either.
**Nico:** We weren't the stars like we normally are as school idols, but it definitely wasn't bad.
**Nozomi:** I'm glad to hear that. I'd be happy if you all came to help out again.
**Honoka:** Yeah! Let's all come help out together again.
**Eli:** Oh...
**Honoka:** Eli-chan, is something wrong?
**Eli:** Oh, it's nothing. I was just thinking that more and more people are coming to the shrine.
**Honoka:** I'm pretty close so I didn't think about it too much, but a lot of people come to shrines, huh?
**Eli:** I know this is obvious, but... I was just thinking about how even after we finish helping, neither God nor the shrine will rest.
**Nozomi:** Of course. Shrines are incredible places after all.
**Rin:** Even though I've been working hard since this morning, I'm not tired at all~
**Umi:** Hehe. That's because fun is more important than exhaustion.
**Honoka:** Could this possibly be the Spiritual Power that Nozomi-chan is always talking about?
**Rin:** Ehh!? Then, I got my hands on some of this spiritual power!?
**Nozomi:** Hehehe... I thought I should let you all experience some of this spiritual power today, but...
**Eli:** But...?
**Nozomi:** I think that when all of you are helping out, the most prevalent power is ours. Today was a loooot of fun♪
**Eli:** Nozomi... We all had a lot of fun too. Well and truly.
**Nico:** You better be grateful to us.
**Nozomi:** Yup. Of course.
**Nico:** Uuu... You're being really honest today.
**Kotori:** Hehehe... Even though Nico should be more honest...
**Eli:** It feels kind of sad taking off these clothes though.
**Nozomi:** Yeah. They suit you all so well.
**Hanayo:** Let's all take a picture together before we go then.
**Honoka:** Sounds good! Let's do it, let's do it!
**Nico:** I guess I have no choice...
**Maki:** Nico-chan... Even though you brought a camera and tripod.
**Eli:** That's because Nico expected to perform today.
**Nico:** Y-You're so annoying. C'mon, I set the timer. Let's all line up.
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan, over here!
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan, come right here between Umi and me.
**Umi:** Today Nozomi's in the very center?
**Maki:** Nozomi, come right here.
**Nozomi:** Ah. Is it really OK for me to be in the center?
**Eli:** Of course! Come on, don't look at us. Look into the camera.
**Nozomi:** Hehe... Got it.
**Nozomi:** ...It really is best when we're all together♪

## Chapter 24- Let's Cheer for Umi!

**Umi:** Honoka, I have something I need to talk to you about...
**Honoka:** Hmm? What is it?
**Umi:** I'm sorry to ask this, but would you let me take off our dance lesson on Sunday?
**Honoka:** Ehh? Of course it's fine, but...
**Kotori:** Umi-chan, it's really rare for you to take off practice.
**Rin:** Ahh, I understand! Umi-chan, you're going to play on Sunday instead!
**Umi:** No, I'm not going to be playing, but...
**Honoka:**...but?
**Umi:** Uhm...
**Umi:** A-Another day would be just fine. I'll see you later!
**Honoka:** Ah, Umi-chan!
**Nozomi:** Hmm... I wonder what's up with Umi-chan.
**Hanayo:** She certainly does seem a bit different than usual.
**Nico:** Suspicious! She's definitely up to something.
**Maki:** I don't think it's suspicious or anything. Everyone has one or two things they don't want others finding out, after all.
**Nozomi:** Ehh? I wonder what kind of secrets Maki-chan's keeping from us~
**Maki:** D-Don't grin like that!
**Nico:** C-Could it be!?
**Hanayo:** What's wrong, Nico-chan?
**Nico:** She's being poached by another school idol group!!
**Kotori:** Ehh!?
**Honoka:** There's no way! It's Umi-chan we're talking about here.
**Honoka:** I mean, Umi-chan is cute, is perfectly womanly, is good at dancing and can write song lyrics, so being recruited isn't that farfetched.
**Honoka:** ...Wait. Then... Umi-chan's really being poached!
**Rin:** Ehh!? I don't want that to happen!
**Nozomi:** Hmm. I really don't think that's what's happening though.
**Nico:** Nozomi, you're too naive! It's the golden age of school idols. There's nothing strange about headhunting!
**Honoka:** But Umi-chan's part of μ’s, there's no way she'd do that!
**Maki:** There's no way that Umi would retire from μ’s, but... Being recruited isn't out of the question.
**Kotori:** No way... Umi-chan...
**Nico:** So it's come to this. We're going to trail her!
**Everyone:** Trail her!?
**Nico:** Now that we're agreed, here, put these on.
**Rin:** Woah, sunglasses...
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan, do you always carry sunglasses around with you?
**Kotori:** And enough for everyone...
**Maki:** If we put these on, we won't be able to walk around normally, let alone trail her.
**Nico:** Stop nitpicking! Let's go after her!
**Hanayo:** Nico-chan seems like she's having fun.
**Nozomi:** Ahaha... Could it just be that Nico-cchi wanted to trail someone?
**Rin:** Umi-chan will always be part of μ’s, but I'm kinda interested in what secret she has!
**Nico:** Hey! I've been waiting forever! Hurry up!
**Honoka:** Ahh! Nico-chan, wait up!
**Kotori:** Umi-chan... I wonder what you're up to.
**Umi:** So, please let me take Sunday off.
**Eli:** Umi... I understand, but is it really OK not telling everyone?
**Umi:** Yes. I don't want everyone to make a fuss...
**Eli:** It's too late to at this point anyway... I guess this suits you well though.
**Umi:** Sorry.
**Eli:** There's no need to apologize. I won't tell anyone, so make sure to do your best.
**Umi:** OK. I'll be going then.
 **Hanayo:** \*pant pant\* Ah, it's Eli-chan!
**Eli:** Everyone! What are you all doing wearing sunglasses?
**Nico:** Eli, have you seen Umi anywhere?
**Eli:** She was here just a minute ago, but...
**Maki:** Did she say something to you?
**Eli:** Uhm... What exactly do you mean by 'something?'
**Rin:** Like being recruited to another school idol group!
**Eli:** Ehh? Recruited?
**Kotori:** Well, when we heard that Umi-chan was taking off practice on Sunday, we started talking about how she might be being recruited.
**Eli:** So you've all heard about Sunday then.
**Hanayo:** Ehh? Eli-chan, do you know where Umi-chan is going on Sunday?
**Eli:** Ehh? Well, uhh... I don't...
**Nozomi:** \*glare\*
**Eli:** W-What?
**Nozomi:** It's nothing. I was just thinking about how honest of a person you are.
**Honoka:** Ah, look! Umi's over there!
**Rin:** Nico-chan, what do we do?
**Nico:** We go after her. We'll trail her to the bitter end; conceal yourselves.
**Nico:** Ah, this is Eli's pair.
**Eli:** Sunglasses...
**Hanayo:** Umi-chan appears to be heading towards the shrine.
**Nico:** Let's go!
**Eli:** But... How about we stop trailing her?
**Eli:** We've got to be sure to think about Umi-chan's feelings and... Hey, none of you are listening!
**Umi:** ...
**Kotori:** Umi-chan seems to be making a pretty serious expression.
**Honoka:** Yeah.
**Hanayo:** I wonder if she's worrying about something.
**Nico:** Quiet. Umi's moving.
**Umi:** Hehe...
**Rin:** Umi-chan's... laughing?
**Umi:** Let's start from here today.
**Honoka:** Umi-chan's... dancing?
**Maki:** Hey... Isn't this the same as our dance practice?
**Kotori:** Oh! Now that you mention it...
**Hanayo:** Umi-chan's performing the dance moves she was working out earlier.
**Kotori:** So she's practicing the parts she wouldn't be able to do on Sunday now while she has time.
**Honoka:** So I guess it's true that Umi-chan isn't being recruited after all.
**Hanayo:** I also think that's true.
**Nozomi:** So we were worrying over nothing then?
**Nico:** Then why was she keeping it a secret from the rest of us? I'm going to go ask her!
**Eli:** Wait!
**Nico:** Eli?
**Eli:** So... listen up everyone.
**Eli:** I didn't want to tell you all this, but... Umi has an archery tournament on Sunday.
**Honoka:** That's what it was? But why wouldn't she tell us that she had a tournament?
**Eli:** Umi didn't want you to miss your practice, and wanted to make sure that she didn't drag you all down.
**Honoka:** So that's what it was...
**Eli:** So let's just respect her wishes.
**Kotori:** I didn't know that Umi-chan was thinking about those sort of things. I'm sorry, Umi-chan.
**Honoka:** But... That's wrong!
**Maki:** Wrong... What's wrong?
**Honoka:** I mean, I want to support her in the tournament!
**Hanayo:** Honoka-chan...
**Honoka:** Time spent cheering for Umi-chan isn't wasted time! I'll definitely support her!
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan...♪ I also feel that way.
**Honoka:** Right? OK then, let's all go on Sunday to cheer her on!
**Nozomi:** Sounds good. I'm in.
**Nico:** Let's all surprise her.
**Eli:** Everyone... You guys won't turn back, huh? Alright then.
**Honoka:** Sorry, Eli-chan.
**Eli:** It's fine. Because I also really wanted to cheer on Umi.
 **Hanayo:** Alright everyone, we will now commence making Umi-chan's lunch.
**Honoka:** Got it!
**Maki:** Rin, did you make sure to wash your hands?
**Rin:** I sure did! Getting an upset stomach isn't a good thing.
**Kotori:** Hanayo-chan, you sure cooked a lot of rice.
**Hanayo:** Yup! Because we need enough for 9 people!
**Eli:** What should we make first?
**Kotori:** I kinda want to make octopus weiners.
**Honoka:** OK then, I'll cook the weiners.
**Kotori:** OK! I'll put on the sesame seed eyes when you're done.
**Nico:** I'll make some omelettes. They'll be sweet, just like me♪
**Eli:** I'll help out♪ Nico, you really love sweet eggs, right?
**Nico:** Hey, don't mistake me being sweet for me having a child's sense of taste.
**Nozomi:** Kayo-chin, you're in charge of the rice balls, right? Maybe I should help out as well.
**Hanayo:** Yeah! When at a tournament, you use a lot of energy, so I think that rice balls are the best then!
**Maki:** We didn't really need an explanation to know that rice balls would be good.
**Hanayo:** Ehehe... Let's make sure to make lots of different kinds of rice balls, OK?
**Rin:** Uwaa, Nozomi-chan! What are you doing with that seaweed?
**Nozomi:** It's something that's popular right now: Deco rice balls♪
**Eli:** By Deco, do you mean decoration? I haven't heard of that before...
**Maki:** Nozomi... Writing "UMI" with the seaweed is going to be pretty embarassing for her.
**Nozomi:** Hehehe... You don't get it, do you? Being a little bit embarassed is good.
**Kotori:** Exactly! It's embarassing but also makes you happy!
**Hanayo:** When you finish with a rice ball, be sure to wrap it with foil and place it here.
**Rin:** Got it! I put in mini tomatoes and apple in these~♪ Now I'm getting pretty hungry.
**Hanayo:** Ehehe... I'm really looking forward to lunch♪ Rin-chan, there's some leftover apple if you'd like.
**Rin:** Woohoo! Kayo-chin, I love you!
**Honoka:** Haaaaaaa!!
**Kotori:** ?? Honoka-chan, why are you holding the weiners over your head?
**Honoka:** I thought I'd try and put some fighting spirit in there for Umi-chan!
**Kotori:** Ahh~ Then I'll try it too! Haaaaaaaa!
**Nico:** Sorry for the wait~ I've finished cooking the sweet omelettes Nico♪
**Hanayo:** We'll be done as soon as we put everything together♪
**Kotori:** Let's make sure we don't forget to bring a big picnic blanket along with the lunch.
**Eli:** Ehehe... This will be quite a picnic.
**Maki:** It's a little bit early, but how about we head on over?
**Honoka:** Ahh, I got it! Before we do that, how about we make her a big banner to cheer her on?
**Rin:** Sounds good! When you cheer someone on with a banner, the tension sure goes up!
**Maki:** But... Wouldn't Umi hate that much of a fuss being made? Besides, people don't really make huge rackets at archery competitions anyway.
**Nico:** Then I'll make some pom poms to cheer her on with　Nico♪
**Maki:** Pom poms are definitely out of the question.
**Nico:** Out of the question!?
**Eli:** That makes sense. We don't want to cause a big fuss there, so I'm afraid we should stop with the banner this time.
**Nico:** Aww, and pom poms are also out...
**Rin:** Nico-chan, don't sulk! After the tournament's over, I'll make some pom poms with you~
**Hanayo:** Even if we don't use them at the tournament, we can use them for a concert♪
**Nico:** Hehe, you get it too! When the tournament's over I'll help you make some pom poms then☆
**Nozomi:** No, no. Wouldn't you be getting help rather than giving it?
**Nico:** Well, I can't say that's not true...
**Honoka:** Then how about headbands?
**Kotori:** That might be nice♪　If we wear white ones she might be able to see us.
**Hanayo:** But it wouldn't be a good idea to draw or write too much on them.
**Eli:** Hmm... If we use just the backsides, wouldn't it be OK? OK everone, let's do it♪
**Maki:** What are we going to write? 'Go for Gold' or something?
**Honoka:** Umi-chan probably already decided on what her goals were for the archery section, so...
**Honoka:** How about we go with like 'We love you Umi!' or something? Because our love of Umi definitely isn't a lie.
**Nico:** Ehh? Isn't it kinda direct and embarassing?
**Maki:** I think it would be pretty good for someone as thick-headed as Umi.
**Nozomi:** OK then, let's make our love-filled headbands♪
 **Umi:** \*sigh\*
**Honoka:** Umi-chan!
**Kotori:** Umi-chan!
**Umi:** Ehh? Why are you all here?
**Eli:** Sorry Umi. I ended up mentioning the tournament.
**Umi:** Eli... So what's what it was.
**Honoka:** Umi-chan! How could you keep the tournament a secret from us!? You little scamp.
**Kotori:** Everyone came today to cheer you on, because Honoka-chan insisted that cheering you on wasn't wasting time.
**Maki:** Isn't it obvious that we'd all come for something so important?
**Umi:** Kotori, Maki, Everyone...
**Nozomi:** We made this for you♪ With lots of love and power. Here!
**Umi:** A headband...! Thank you so much. I'll use this right away.
**Kotori:** Hehehe...
**Hanayo:** Ehehe...
**Umi:** WHat's wrong? Why are you all grinning?
**Eli:** Umi, take a look at the back of the headband.
**Umi:** The back? Ah, this...!
**Eli:** We all made it together. We thought maybe you could wear it during the tournament.
**Umi:** "W-We love Umi-chan"... I've never seen such a showy headband before...!
**Hanayo:** We may have put a few too many hearts on it, but... the front of it is plain, so...
**Nico:** This suits the school idol Sonoda Umi perfectly, Nico♪
**Rin:** Hey, Umi-chan! Let's eat lunch together~
**Hanayo:** We all made lunch together! We want you to eat this and then do your best in the tournament.
**Umi:** Thank you so much... I should be able to do my best after eating lunch and wearing this headband.
**Kotori:** Umi-chan, good work out there~
**Honoka:** That was amazing, Umi-chan! You managed runner up in the individual section!
**Umi:** Thanks so much! It was a small tournament, but placing still made me really happy.
**Eli:** I've always wanted to see Umi doing archery... I'm so glad I got to see that today.
**Nico:** The reason why you managed to be runner up was definitely because we all came to cheer you on~☆
**Umi:** Indeed. Thank you all so much for today. But really...
**Nozomi:** Really...?
**Umi:** I didn't want to make you all come.
**Hanayo:** Ehh?
**Umi:** Because you all think of me just as you'd think of yourselves.
**Umi:** You guys are working hard towards being school idols, so I didn't want to take time away from that with something personal.
**Maki:** ...
**Umi:** But... I've changed my mind.
**Umi:** I was really happy today! I wanted for you all to be here today after all.
**Kotori:** Umi-chan...♪
**Eli:** Hehe. That's good to hear. Thanks for not worrying about how you might be slowing us down.
**Honoka:** Exactly! Because I've definitely been slowing everyone down lots!!!
**Nico:** Honoka, that's not something you should be proud of...
**Umi:** Haha, Honoka!
**Honoka:** Eh?
**Umi:** Because you're always like that, you're always pulling us forward.
**Honoka:** ...??
**Umi:** Honestly... You don't really notice your appeal.
**Honoka:** Ehh~? Sorry, Umi-chan.
**Umi:** Haha. I'm not mad, in fact it's the opposite! I'm really happy!
**Kotori:** Umi-chan, Honoka-chan...♪
**Hanayo:** I'm glad we could all come today to cheer you on...☆
**Maki:** After this... Let's take a break from dancing for the day? I bet every one of you is pretty tired.
**Umi:** Not at all. Please let me participate as well.
**Kotori:** But it's right after the tournament, Umi-chan...
**Umi:** I definitely am a little tired, but right now I really feel like practicing.
**Eli:** Hehe... Then I guess it's decided♪
**Umi:** I know that I'm sometimes hard to work with, but I look forward to working with you all!
**Rin:** Umi-chan's intro was pretty funny~
**Maki:** Wasn't it a bit like someone who's about to get married? It was pretty strange, but it wasn't bad.
**Honoka:** OK then, let's head back and practice!
**Everyone:** Yeah!!

## Chapter 25- Merry Christmas

**Kotori:** And you know what that means?
**Hanayo, Kotori:** It's almost time for a Christmas party!
**Hanayo:** If we have a fun Christmas with fun everybody, it would definitely be fun.
**Kotori:** Yeah! But, I'm sorry for calling you out today. It didn't look like I'd be able to finish these outfits by myself in time though.
**Hanayo:** It's no problem! You're always doing the outfits by yourself, so I was thinking that I'd love to help as much as I can.
**Kotori:** Hearing that from you makes me pretty happy.
**Hanayo:** I can't work as quickly as you can, but I'll try my best!
**Kotori:** Thanks♪ Whenever you help me out, everything always goes much quicker. You're so reliable.
**Hanayo:** Ehehe, now I'm blushing.
**Hanayo:** So for the outfits we're making today, we're using a red material and a white material... Could it be we're making...?
**Kotori:** Yup♪ These are santa-type outfits. I thought we could wear them to a Christmas party, or on stage.
**Hanayo:** Santa, huh...? How nice♪ We should also make santa's bag.
**Kotori:** We're also going to be doing a gift exchange with everyone. Let's make a huuuge bag, OK?
**Hanayo:** Yeah! So what should I help out with first today?
**Kotori:** Probably start with this pin tuck. I already have the thread pulled already...
**Hanayo:** I guess I should use the iron and then start sewing?
**Kotori:** Yup♪ That's Hanayo for you~
**Hanayo:** Haha, it was nothing. Shall we start then?
**Kotori:** Hanayo-chan, are you OK? If you have something you don't get, feel free to ask me, OK?
**Hanayo:** Got it! I'll be fine though. I've also gotten pretty used to using a sewing machine.
**Kotori:** That's great then. With the clatter from the sewing machine, isn't the mood a bit different?
**Hanayo:** I kinda get that. And with these arm warmers you let me borrow, I can do everything while relaxing.
**Kotori:** Everyone was talking about how it was so hot until recently, but it's already December again.
**Hanayo:** Yeah... But there might be proof that we got the most out of it.
**Kotori:** Yup. We sang a lot, and danced a lot. We got plenty out of it.
**Hanayo:** I'm happy that I got to help out with making the outfits, too.
**Kotori:** Ehehe. Thanks, Hanayo-chan.
**Hanayo:** ...And there. How's this for the pin tuck?
**Kotori:** Let's see... Wow! This is done really well! Hanayo-chan, you're so careful with this kind of thing.
**Hanayo:** Ehh? It's nothing like that! You're the person who taught me to be so careful at things, one by one.
**Kotori:** Really? I guess I might have.
**Hanayo:** Yeah. When I did something sloppily, I had to redo it, so you taught me "If you hurry, you'll go in circles."
**Hanayo:** You and everyone in μ’s has taught me so many things... Occasionally I think back on them.
**Kotori:** I also think about how great it was that I joined μ’s with everyone else to be a school idol.
**Kotori:** I was able to spend so much fun time with everyone, all because Honoka-chan wanted to try being a school idol.
**Hanayo:** Yup♪ But in my case, it was because Rin-chan and Maki-chan gave me a huge push.
**Hanayo:** But in the end it was Honoka-chan who wanted to do this first.
**Kotori:** When I think about that, I wonder if I still would have become a school idol if Honoka-chan hadn't invited me.
**Hanayo:** If I hadn't become a school idol, I might not have met everyone... I don't really like thinking about that.
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan might be a little forceful at times, but she pulls us along with her.
**Hanayo:** I learned a lot of things from Honoka-chan, and received a lot of feelings as well...
**Kotori:** Ehehe... Could it be that Honoka-chan is actually our Santa?
**Kotori:** If you imagine Honoka-chan with a white fluffy beard, it's pretty cute.
**Hanayo:** If Honoka-chan is Santa... I guess that makes us the reindeer?
**Kotori:** Ehehe. Reindeer are also cute♪ And we're the ones who actually carry around the presents♪
**Hanayo:** I guess we should be more like Honoka-chan and make sure everyone has great experiences and memories.
 **Nico:** Hmm...
**Nozomi:** Hmm...
**Nico:** This is so hard to decide.
**Nozomi:** I know~
**Nico:** We can only spend 1500 yen per person for presents? Should I get something really amazing, or lots of cute things?
**Nozomi:** What about a hair pin or scrunchie?
**Nico:** What about cosmetics? If I find sales I can get 2-3.
**Nozomi:** This boxed perfume set is pretty cute♪ Look, the image on the lid is cute.
**Nico:** But I don't know if other people would like the same kind of fragrances as me.
**Nozomi:** How about stationary next? Or the imports store?
**Nico:** Hmm... I think I'll try here a bit more first.
**Nozomi:** Hmm?
**Nico:** What? Don't stare at me like that.
**Nozomi:** I just was thinking this is kind of unexpected.
**Nico:** What is?
**Nozomi:** I thought you'd say something more along the lines of "It's something I chose for you, so you should be happy whatever it is♪."
**Nico:** Well of course anything I choose will be cute, but since we're doing this I'd like to exceed everyone's expectations.
**Nico:** And I thought you'd just go "The spirits choose this!" and pick something immediately.
**Nozomi:** Hehehe. There are a lot of times like that, aren't there? But there are times I ponder things too.
**Nozomi:** This time is a gift exchange, so I'm not really sure who I should give what present to.
**Nozomi:** You can't really picture what someone's face will look like when they receive a present from you, so...
**Nico:** I see. So you're actually thinking about those kind of things. I wonder what I should do...
**Nozomi:** Ehehe...
**Nico:** W-What? You're not plotting something, are you?
**Nozomi:** I guess I'll just pick out a present for you then.
**Nico:** ...What?
**Nozomi:** I'll just pray that my present will fit you, and it will.
**Nico:** Stop it. If you're saying it, it seems like it'll come true.
**Nozomi:** You don't want me to?
**Nico:** ...It's not that
**Nozomi:** Ehehe. I thought you'd say something like that♪
**Nozomi:** OK, let's choose a present that will suit you then~
**Nico:** ...
**Nozomi:** For you it would probably be something like a scrunchie, or pink lipstick...
**Nico:** Hey, Nozomi. Whose present are you getting?
**Nozomi:** Hmm, but maybe I should write "may you succeed in school" on a notebook instead.
**Nico:** Hey, listen to me!
**Nozomi:** Hmm? Did you say something?
**Nico:** Wait a second... You've been like this the whole time.
**Nozomi:** Hmm?
**Nico:** Saying you'd pick my present, or looking out for me. Are you doing this for me?
**Nozomi:** That... I guess that's because I'm really comfortable with myself. There's absolutely no reason to worry.
**Nico:** Liar
**Nozomi:** I'm not lying.
**Nico:** Really?
**Nozomi:** Yes, yup. Of course♪
**Nico:** \*sigh\* I guess there's no helping it. If you're going to choose a present for me, I'll choose one for you.
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi...
**Nico:** I'll use your spiritual power to pick out the perfect present.
**Nozomi:** ...OK!
**Nico:** I'll say this just to be sure, but anything that I pick will be premium, OK?
**Nico:** Something that you can't buy with just money. A lot of it. Just by being chosen by me!
**Nico:** So make sure to be grateful. Got it?
**Nozomi:** Yup!
**Nico:** Now, use your power and pick out a present from me.
**Nozomi:** Hehe~ Leave it to me!
**Nico:** Honestly... Seeing you like this reminds me how much of a handful you are. You're just like a child.
**Nico:** ...Well, I'm going to go over in that corner and browse, OK?
**Nozomi:** I guess Nico is actually pretty reliable, and is like an older sister at times.
 **Eli:** I have all the materials, so now we can make it.
**Umi:** I've never been to a bacon specialty store before.
**Eli:** Really? It's a little expensive, but this is the trick to making it taste really good.
**Umi:** It's not thinly cut, you buy it in a block, right? I think the flavor will really come out.
**Maki:** So... Do we really have to be the ones to make this?
**Eli:** Of course! It's a party, so let's be sure to make delicious food for it♪
**Maki:** But wouldn't roasted turkey be a more fitting dish for a Christmas party?
**Umi:** ...Huh?
**Maki:** Oh, I know. How about we have a chef come from a catering place?
**Umi:** ...Have a chef come!?
**Eli:** That's our princess. What an incredibly unreasonable thing to say.
**Maki:** Ehh!? It's that strange?
**Umi:** Food that a chef prepares might be delicious, but food that we prepare ourselves is going to be really good too.
**Maki:** But...
**Umi:** Is there something you're worried about?
**Maki:** ...I don't really cook.
**Eli:** Oh, don't worry. We'll teach you, so let's get started.
**Umi:** We're going to start with pot-au-feu, so there's no need to worry.
**Maki:** ...OK then, I'll give it a shot.
**Maki:** So, is this size OK?
**Eli:** Yup! It's the perfect size.
**Maki:** It took quite a long time just to cut one carrot...
**Eli:** Hehe, that's because you were so careful while cutting it.
**Umi:** Indeed. Quantity is better than quality.
**Eli:** When you're done with them, put some olive oil into the pot.
**Maki:** Uhm... This much? Did I put too much?
**Eli:** Just a bit more... That's good. First fry the onions and garlic together.
**Maki:** Got it. About this much heat?
**Umi:** Yes. That's just right.
**Eli:** Maki look at you, you're doing just great.
**Umi:** Even if you never do this, you're very good at cutting and heat control. You've got quite a knack for this.
**Eli:** Very true. Even if we hadn't taught you all this, you'd be doing just fine.
**Umi:** It looks like the rest of the cooking will go smoothly.
**Maki:** There's really no reason for you guys to compliment me for nothing.
**Umi:** What? We're not doing that at all.
**Maki:** ...\*sigh\*
**Eli:** Maki, what's wrong?
**Maki:** I was just thinking that if I were a normal highschooler I'd be able to do this without any help.
**Umi:** Really? There are lots of different ways of cooking, so I don't really think that's true...
**Maki:** But I mean, I can't even do simple things.
**Eli:** Simple things...? Is being able to cook really that simple?
**Maki:** I can do well in school and compose, but I can't do things that everyone else can.
**Maki:** Not being able to do simple things... How uncool.
**Eli:** Maki, do you normally think about what is simple for people and what isn't?
**Maki:** Not normally, but on occasion, yes.
**Eli:** For starters there's nothing saying cooking is simple, and you can do plenty of things.
**Umi:** Your knack for composing really is amazing.
**Maki:** You guys...
**Eli:** You should be sure to treat your treasure your talents from now on.
**Maki:** ...
**Eli:** Your response?
**Maki:** ...Fine.
**Eli:** Hehe. Good then.
**Eli:** I've got it. Let's cook together on a regular basis from now on♪ That way you'll make a great wife someday.
**Maki:** W- Wife!?
**Umi:** You'd probably get a lot better at things if we did this more often.
**Maki:** R- Really?
**Eli:** Hehehe. Let's do this again sometime, darling♪
 **Honoka:** Presents♪ Presents♪ I'm so excited to exchange presents!
**Rin:** Woah!! All of the presents are in this big sack?
**Honoka:** Yup! Kotori-chan made it for us. There are also santa outfits, so let's try them on!
**Rin:** I also bought a beard! A really long, white beard!
**Honoka:** Wow, just like the real thing! Now to wear this, and then attach the beard...
**Honoka:** Ho Ho Ho! Rin-kun, have you been good this year?
**Rin:** Hehehe. Honoka-chan, you're just like the real Santa!
**Rin:** This party is going to be really fun!
**Honoka:** Since we're doing it, we might as well have fun 'til the very end.
**Rin:** 'til the end... How about startling everyone?
**Honoka:** Oh! I wonder if we could actually surprise everyone. Sounds like a plan!
**Rin:** Like the two of us hiding in the bag!
**Honoka:** Ehh!? This bag?!
**Rin:** And then we'll look just like presents! When everyone enters, we jump out and scare them!
**Honoka:** That sounds great! I'll hold the bag open for you, so get in!
**Rin:** OK! Woah, this bag really is huge!
**Umi:** Honoka! Rin!
**Honoka:** Ahh!!
**Umi:** You guys have been making lots of noise for a while now. We can hear you downstairs, so be more quiet.
**Rin:** O- OK...
**Umi:** Geez, what were you two planing anyway?
**Honoka:** Ahh... Umi coming in really startled me...
**Rin:** Then I don't think we'd really be able to startle anyone.
**Honoka:** I wonder if it would be okay not jumping, and just raising our voices.
**Rin:** How about when everyone opens the door, we yell "Merry Christmas!" or something.
**Honoka:** Sounds good! It'll surprise everyone and make them happy at the same time.
**Rin:** Ah! There are footsteps coming from over there. That might be everyone!
**Honoka:** Rin-chan, hide! Come on, hurry up!
**Rin:** After the door opens, on my mark, OK?
**Honoka:** Got it! They'll be here soon, right?
**Rin:** Ah, they're here. Ready, and...
**Everyone:** Merry Christmas!!
**Honoka:** Ahh!? What was that sound!?
**Rin:** Ehh!? I thought we'd be the ones surpsing you all!
**Eli:** Ehehe. We got you, didn't we?
**Umi:** Hehe. When I came by earlier I realize you two were planning to surprise us, so...
**Honoka:** Ehh!? That's no fair, Umi-chan!
**Rin:** You two are pretty cute when you're rushing...♪
**Rin:** Ahh, Nozomi-chan you're taking a video!
**Hanayo:** Ehehe. Sorry for surprising you, Rin-chan.
**Rin:** Ah, Kayo-chin you're no fair either!
**Maki:** You're always playing with Rin, so isn't OK to have the tables turned every once in a while?
**Nozomi:** Ahh, Kotori, the stuffed animal you brought is really cute!
**Kotori:** It's a reindeer plush. I made you all one, too♪
**Honoka:** Ehh, how cute!! Huh? Why am I the only one who gets a Santa instead of a reindeer?
**Hanayo:** Ehehe... That's a secret!
**Kotori:** Ehehe... THat's a secret!
**Honoka:** Hmm? This Santa is pretty cute, so I guess it's fine.
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan, that santa outfit and beard really suit you♪
**Rin:** I brought a bushy beard for everyone, too!
**Nico:** Nico ni is a female Santa, so I don't want a beard.
**Umi:** ...Nico. Nobody will know you really want to wear the beard if you say things like that.
**Nico:** I'm telling you, you're wrong!
**Eli:** We have lots of food, so make sure you all eat plenty, OK♪
**Nozomi:** It smells great. Did you all make this?
**Eli:** It came out really well. And Maki was a great wife♪
**Kotori:** Maki-chan, you were a wife? I wanna hear about that!
**Maki:** I keep telling you, I wasn't a wife!
**Hanayo:** I'm really excited about the food♪
**Honoka:** This time we all get to celebrate it together! Let's start this party!
**Rin:** Let's start with a toast! Ready, and...
**Everyone:** Merry Christmas!!

## Chapter 26- Trio Trials

**Kotori:** Yup! If we practice too much, we'll get tired.
**Hanayo:** It's soon, huh... Our next concert...
**Kotori:** I'm looking forward to it, but I'm a little worried.
**Honoka:** But, I'm happy to be able to do another concert!
**Kotori:** This time, it's an event where units of 3 participate.
**Honoka:** Yup! As long as Kotori-chan and Hanayo-chan are with me, I'm reassured~
**Hanayo:** Do you really...do you really think that!?
**Honoka:** Huh?
**Hanayo:** A performance with only 3 people at a time... I'm a little uneasy.
**Kotori:** Up until now, we've only done performances with 9 people...
**Honoka:** Uu...that's true...
**Kotori:** I wonder if everyone is willingly practicing? Makes you a little uneasy...
**Hanayo:** B-But! We can't possibly lose here!
**Kotori:** Hanayo-chan, are you OK? You seem very worried.
**Hanayo:** I-I-I-I'm fine! To defeat your enemy, you must first know your enemy!
**Kotori:** Enemy~!?
**Honoka:** Hanayo-chan, what are you fighting with~!?
**Hanayo:** So, I bought the School Idol magazine that went on sale today!
**Hanayo:** The girls that will be in this upcoming event is probably in it, I think...
**Kotori:** Ohh, as expected of Hanayo-chan♪
**Honoka:** Lemme see...oh, these girls are cute♪
**Kotori:** There's an interview article included too. Interesting~
**Hanayo:** ........
**Honoka:** Hanayo-chan, which girls do you want to see?
**Hanayo:** It's no good...
**Honoka:** Eh?
**Hanayo:** With nothing but such competition...I can't win...
**Hanayo:** My self-confidence has forfeited...
**Kotori:** Eh, Hanayo-chan, that's too hasty~
**Honoka:** That's right! It hasn't even started yet.
**Hanayo:** Y-you think... But, as soon as I start thinking it's no good, the thought keeps spinning in my head until that's all that's left...
**Honoka:** Well, the girls in this book are really cute, and their talk is really interesting---
**Honoka:** But Hanayo-chan is also really cute, and her talk is also really interesting.
**Hanayo:** Eh!?
**Kotori:** I love how Hanayo-chan's cheeks are squishy and how she talks enthusiastically about onigiri.
**Honoka:** When you look at Hanayo-chan's happy face, you feel happy yourself♪
**Hanayo:** T-thank you. But the other girls are...
**Honoka:** Hanayo-chan!
**Hanayo:** Y-yes!
**Honoka:** I think the other school idols are all cute, but I don't just look at everything around me!
**Hanayo:** Is...that so... I got worried too fast...
**Honoka:** During the 9-person activities of μ's, I think about us having fun and putting on a fun concert for the people that came to see us.
**Honoka:** Because Honoka is different from Hanayo-chan, I might be able to do it because I'm selfish, but...
**Honoka:** Let's think more about ourselves! Like ourselves, let's treasure μ's.
**Hanayo:** I see... You're right. It's just as Honoka-chan says.
**Kotori:** Hearing Honoka's words, I've gotten excited.
**Honoka:** This time, because it's just the 3 of us getting on stage... Let's treasure this time of us 3 being together.
**Hanayo:** Yup! Now, us 3 being on stage is all I can think about.
**Kotori:** When it's over, we'll get on stage as 9 people again.
**Honoka:** Alright! So, let's practice a little more today and pack in a little more dancing.
 **Umi:** One, two, three, four, one, two, three, four...
**Rin:** Nya, nya~...
**Umi:** One, two, three, four, one, two, three, four...
**Rin:** I'm dizzy~
**Nozomi:** Ah, Rin-chan, what's wrong!?
**Umi:** Rin!?
**Rin:** Ow ow ow ow... I got kind of dizzy.
**Nozomi:** Can you stand? Should I lend a hand?
**Rin:** I-it's over, nya... You guys, the rest is entrusted to you...nya...
**Nozomi:** Wah, why are you purring and rumbling to me~
**Umi:** You two are messing around... By the looks of it, you seem fine.
**Nozomi:** Since the event's coming up soon, maybe we've been working at it too much?
**Rin:** That's not true. I'm totally fine; I just staggered a little bit.
**Umi:** It's not good to ruin your physical condition before the event, so let's end today's practice here.
**Nozomi:** Rin-chan, go to bed early today, okay?
**Rin:** Wait, wait! It's not like my physical condition is ruined, so let's practice a little more.
**Umi:** I understand your feelings of wanting to practice, but...
**Rin:** ...No good?
**Umi:** ...I'm troubled.
**Nozomi:** Okay. In that case, let's do a different kind of training.
**Rin:** Eh, what's the different kind of training!?
**Nozomi:** Instead of body training, it's soul training♪
**Rin:** What's that? Is it spiritual?
**Umi:** Could it be image training?
**Nozomi:** Umi, that's correct! Think about what kind of appearance you'd like to have when you're on stage.
**Rin:** What kind of appearance...so, basically what kind of attitude you'll stand in?
**Nozomi:** Nope, that's not it. For example, imagine the fighting spirit that you have before the stage curtain opens.
**Rin:** Hmm, hmm... Everyone is gathered in a circle.
**Nozomi:** When you're in a circle, you're close to your friends, right? In that case, what kind of words do you want to tell your friends?
**Rin:** Uhh, something like "I'll do my best, so let's all do our best together!"?
**Nozomi:** That sounds good. And after that?
**Rin:** After that... "It'll be a fun concert, so let's have fun too"?
**Umi:** This is good. You're image training properly.
**Rin:** Really? If it's something like this, I think I can do image training!
**Nozomi:** Nice! Let's try a bit more with that spirit.
**Rin:** Yeah! Nozomi-chan, what should I do next?
**Nozomi:** Next would be... from the stage, what kind of feelings would you want to convey to the audience?
**Rin:** What feelings I want to convey to the audience...
**Rin:** That's right. Last time, when I met eyes with the audience and smiled, they smiled back!
**Nozomi:** Wonderful! So you want to share the feelings of having fun with the audience. I wonder if it'll reach all of the people who came to watch.
**Umi:** In order to share our feelings, I think it's important that we first give it our all and have a fun concert.
**Nozomi:** That's true. Even though this event is only going to be the 3 of us, I want to have a fun concert with the power of 9 of us.
**Rin:** Oh yeah! What about holding our hands out wide like this and saying "thank you, everyone!"?
**Nozomi:** Ooh, that sounds good. If you cross your arms once and then open them up like that, your feelings might fly out to them!
**Rin:** I see~ You might be right!
**Umi:** Shall we try arranging a bit for this time's choreography?
**Rin:** Yeah! Since we have the chance, it's better if we share lots of our feelings. You should try it together with us too, Umi-chan.
**Umi:** Yes, I definitely will.
**Nozomi:** Umi-chan is like a pro at sending out her feelings after all.
**Umi:** Huh? What do you mean by that?
**Nozomi:** When you're on stage, don't you shoot "bakkyuun" to the audience?
**Rin:** Hee, is that true? Umi-chan, I want you to teach me how to shoot like that~
**Umi:** Hii... Nozomi, Rin! Stop it already!
**Nozomi:** Eee
**Umi:** You two are always so quick to tease like that.
**Rin:** I'm not teasing you! But a blushing Umi-chan is cute~
**Umi:** T-that's what I'm talking about...
**Nozomi:** We're just talking about how much we like you.
**Rin:** That's right~
**Umi:** Honestly... However, this became good image training for when we go up on stage.
**Rin:** A lot of things will happen when we go on stage, so image training was a good idea!
**Umi:** Let's work on our choreography a bit and then continue practicing tomorrow.
**Rin:** Alright!
 **Eli:** Fu... let's end practice here.
**Nico:** The event is already so close. The audience will soon be coming to see Nico ni, nico.♪
**Maki:** What's that...
**Eli:** We're almost done with our lessons... but what can we do afterwards?
**Nico:** We have to do everything we can... so we could practice singing a bit more.
**Maki:** ...
**Eli:** Maki, what do you think? ... Maki?
**Nico:** What's wrong, spacing out like that?
**Maki:** ...I was just thinking that you two are pretty enthusiastic.
**Nico:** Ha? Of course we are. Right, Eli?
**Eli:** Right! If we're going to do it, I want to have the best performance.♪
**Maki:** But... the next event is only going to be the three of us.
**Eli:** And what about it?
**Maki:** We might have to compete with the other members of µ's.
**Nico:** Isn't that fine? So we don't lose to Honoka and the rest, we have to do our best.
**Maki:** But...
**Nico:** Hey, just because our friends are participating, don't say that we should hold back or something.
**Maki:** I-it's not like I was going to say we should hold back.
**Eli:** Maki... without everyone else, you're not sure on how the stage should be, aren't you?
**Maki:** That....! might be... a bit true.
**Eli:** It always been the 9 of us together until now, so you would get worried.
**Nico:** But Honoka's and Umi's group won't go easy on us just because we're their opponents.
**Nico:** If they do, I definitely won't forgive them.
**Maki:** ...Nico-chan.
**Nico:** Our friends will appear on a different stage, so if we give a bad performance and get told we did worse, wouldn't that upset you?
**Maki:** Yeah...
**Nico:** So we have to give the best performance.
**Eli:** The 9 of us aren't in a relationship where we have to take care of each other, so that's why I think we can focus on our own performance.
**Maki:** That's... certainly true.. We also have to have the greatest performance.
**Eli:** That's more like it. Since we're here, why don't we practice a bit more for today?
**Nico:** I was thinking...
**Eli:** What is it, Nico?
**Nico:** I'm just going to say it. Nico ni, Eli, Maki. I think our unit is the best.
**Eli:** Y-yeah...
**Nico:** Aren't we a cool beauty unit?
**Eli:** Yeah... well, if I had to say, I guess so.
**Maki:** Eli and I are fine, but I can't think of Nico-chan as a cool beauty.
**Nico:** And if we add a certain something to our cool beauty unit, I think we'd be perfect.
**Maki:** A certain something? Don't hide it. Hurry up and say it.
**Nico:** That is... something only I have, ultra cute prettiness!
**Maki:** Ultra cute...
**Eli:** Nico... are you saying that we don't have any cuteness?
**Nico:** Kya! Sorry for speaking the truth~!
**Maki:** Grr....
**Nico:** But we have the most powerful secret right here!
**Eli:** And how will you teach your ultra cuteness to us?
**Nico:** You just have to carefully observe the living paradise beauty, Nico ni, nico.☆
**Eli:** Paradise cutey...?
**Maki:** Sorry, but I have no interest at all.
**Nico:** Ha?! That's why you guys aren't cute enough. Not at all.
**Eli:** Is that so? Do I need to be cute like Nico?!
**Maki:** Hey, Eli! Don't take what Nico-chan's saying seriously.
**Eli:** B-but if I can become cute this way... it might not be bad.
**Nico:** Become even cuter and we'll practice to become an idol everyone will love!
**Nico:** Alright, follow after Nico ni, nico! Nico nico nii.☆
**Maki:** Eh, we're doing this practice again?!
**Eli:** Nico nico nii.☆
**Maki:** Eli.... are you serious?
**Nico:** Hey, you slanted eye individual over there! Please practice properly! Nico nico nii.☆
**Maki:** ... Nico nico nii.
 **Rin:** Ehehe~
**Hanayo:** Ehehe...
**Honoka:** Dehehe...
**Nico:** Could you three stop looking at each other and grinning?
**Eli:** It's fine.♪ It's been a while since all 9 of us have gathered up.
**Umi:** It's because we've been continuing practicing in our groups of 3.
**Nozomi:** I didn't think we'd all be able to practice together before the event.
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan suggested that we all get together and practice.
**Honoka:** Yeah! We're appearing in the event as groups of 3, but all 9 of us together is µ's after all.
**Maki:** I wasn't exactly worried, but it's nice seeing everyone doing well.
**Hanayo:** Yeah! I'm also happy that we could meet up like always.
**Nico:** Weren't you guys lonely not being able to see Nico nii?
**Rin:** I was a little lonely since I wanted to see Kayochin.~
**Nico:** Rin, are you listening?!
**Rin:** Eh? What'd you say?
**Nico:** I was saying "weren't you lonely not being able to see Nico?"!
**Rin:** Ah.
**Nico:** Stop looking like you're not interested.
**Hanayo:** I was also lonely. I was lonely... but I was okay!
**Eli:** That's good. Hanayo and Kotori had uneasy expressions before we started practicing... I was worried.
**Kotori:** So I wouldn't lose to loneliness, I decided to give my best anyways.
**Hanayo:** Yeah! I decided I'd have a great performance with Kotori-chan and Honoka-chan.
**Umi:** You were able face forward and practice. I'm glad.
**Eli:** You two have grown a lot.
**Nozomi:** Even though we were separated, our feelings were connected.
**Eli:** Honoka, I'd like for you to let me hear your enthusiasm in tomorrow's performance.
**Honoka:** Eeh, only me~?
**Umi:** Isn't that fine? I also want to hear your enthusiasm.
**Rin:** Me too!
**Honoka:** µ's will go up on stage in 3 groups... but I think our feelings are connected.
**Kotori:** Yeah.♪
**Honoka:** Each of us is thinking that we won't lose, so I thought it'd be good if we let out more power than usual!
**Honoka:** I'll definitely have the best performance! So I'll give it my all~!
**Honoka:** Uooo~!
**Hanayo:** Wa, Honoka-chan, they're speeding up over there!
**Nozomi:** Fufu, Honoka-chan's enthusiasm is incredible.
**Maki:** Geez, Honoka. What will you do if you tire yourself out before practice?
**Honoka:** Uo~... Ah, that's right. We were about to practice...
**Nico:** Hey, don't just talk. Prepare for practice already. I've been waiting this whole time.
**Kotori:** Ehehe...
**Nico:** Kotori! Were you listening to me? Why are you laughing?
**Kotori:** I was just thinking that it's kind of been a while since you've scolded us like this.♪
**Nico:** Ha? No grinning! Get ready for practice!
**Kotori:** Ufufu... okaaay!
**Umi:** One, two, three, four, one, two, three, four...
**Eli:** Hanayo, raise your legs more!
**Hanayo:** Yes!
**Maki:** Honoka, can you hold out the last part in the song a bit more?
**Honoka:** I'll try!
**Nozomi:** Maybe it's because it's been a while since everyone's gotten together, but our spirit is incredible.
**Kotori:** Seriously... We have to practice so we won't lose either. Nozomi-chan, let's practice together!
**Nozomi:** Alright!
**Honoka:** This is fun! As I thought, practicing with everyone is fun!
**Nico:** Honoka, I won't forgive you if you fail in the next performance!
**Rin:** That's just like Nico-chan~.
**Nico:** I know! Come on, let's practice!
**Eli:** Let's have the most fun performance tomorrow!

## Chapter 27- Chocolates are Trouble!

**Maki:** Kyaa!
**Hanayo:** R-rin-chan!
**Rin:** Hehen! This is Rin Oni's victory!
**Maki:** Geez... I don't feel like we can beat you at tag. You're really nimble.
**Hanayo:** Rin-chan won... so Maki and I will treat us to lunch.
**Rin:** Yay.♪ I want char siu bowl~.
**Kotori:** Fuu... I think we'll be okay over here.
**Honoka:** I saw Umi go to gymnasium earlier, so I think it'd take her about 5 minutes to get here.
**Kotori:** Maybe we should go to the gymnasium once more before Umi-chan gets here.
**Honoka:** You're right! That way Umi-chan won't find us and it'd be our win!
**Umi:** ...Ah.
**Honoka:** If Umi-chan doesn't find us, then she'll treat us to lunch, right?
**Honoka:** I absolutely want to beat Umi-chan and absolutely want her to treat us!
**Umi:** Hee...
**Kotori:** Hi-!
**Honoka:** If she's treating us, I wonder what would be good~.♪ I'd like bread, but I just don't know which kind to choose~.
**Honoka:** Today I feel like... cheese curry, or maybe a danish with apricot...
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan...
**Honoka:** Ah, but it's hard to not consider a bacon potato dog either...
**Kotori:** Behind... behind you...
**Honoka:** Huh? Is there something behind me?
**Umi:** I am.
**Honoka:** Uwaa, U-umi-chan!
**Umi:** Honoka, Kotori. I found you. No, more specifically, I've long since found you.
**Honoka:** Eh~?! I didn't realize at all!
**Kotori:** You're good at erasing your presence.
**Honoka:** Kuu, how frustrating! My yakisoba bread~...
**Umi:** Ufufu, you two don't seem to be good at tag.
**Kotori:** Even I...
**Honoka:** Huh? Kotori-chan?
**Nico:** Haa... haa...
**Eli:** We're no match for Nozomi...
**Nozmoi:** Ufufu. I win at tag!
**Honoka:** So they were also playing tag.
**Maki:** We completely lost to Rin.
**Hanayo:** She's fast and excels at tag.
**Rin:** Tada! This is the char siu bowl I got!
**Maki:** We ended up getting the char siu bowl too though...
**Umi:** Fufu, it looks good though. Well, let's have lunch.
**Honoka:** Wait, Umi-chan. Kotori-chan went somewhere just earlier. Where did she go...?
**Umi:** Kotori?
**Honoka:** Kotori-chan, if you're here, say something!
**Umi:** She's not here. Even though she was with us until just earlier. Just where did she go?
**Honoka:** It doesn't look like anyone's here either...
**Kotori:** Ufufufu...
**Umi:** Hi-
**Honoka:** Kotori-chan, I wonder where you went...
**Umi:** Ho-ho-honoka...
**Honoka:** Eh? ... u-u-uwaaa, it's an oni!
**Umi:** Honoka, please stand back! I'll take the oni!
**Kotori:** Ahem. I will give this to you two.
**Honoka:** T-the oni... gave us chocolate?!
**Kotori:** Ufu. Eat it happily.
**Umi:** It's not an oni, but Kotori?!
**Honoka:** Kotori-chan?! Why were you wearing an oni mask?
**Kotori:** I thought I also wanted to win at tag.
**Umi:** Oh Kotori... so you were upset that I had found you.
**Honoka:** Ahaha, Kotori-chan unexpectedly doesn't like to lose! Well, shall we all eat our chocolate together?♪
 **Eli:** ...
**Nico:** Eli, what's wrong?
**Eli:** Ah... um, it's nothing.
**Nico:** What? Something's wrong, isn't there? Say it clearly.
**Maki:** It's not like you to be so restless.
**Eli:** ... Uh... well, I'll ask then.
**Nico:** Go ahead.
**Eli:** Have you... ever given chocolate? Or received any?
**Nico:** Ha?
**Maki:** How worthless. I'm not interested.
**Eli:** Eh, then you've never given chocolate? Nor received any?
**Maki:** Eh...
**Eli:** Have you given? Received?
**Maki:** Uu, aren't you persistent today?
**Nico:** Isn't it because you aren't answering properly?
**Maki:** Even if you tell me that... w-what about you?
**Nico:** Nico ni is different than the unpopular Maki-chan~.
**Maki:** Hah? Don't say I'm unpopular.
**Nico:** You see, Nico ni is a school idol who's like a symbol of love☆ after all, aren't I?
**Eli:** Certainly... that might be true...
**Nico:** That's why I receive about 500 boxes of chocolate on Valentine's Day.♪
**Maki:** F-five hundred? Hey, Nico-chan, are you telling the truth?
**Nico:** Eh? O-of course it's the truth.
**Eli:** That's amazing, Nico! So you really are a symbol of love☆.
**Nico:** If you say Nico ni, you think love☆popular. If you say love☆popular, you think of Nico ni!
**Eli:** Love☆popular...?
**Nico:** Basically, Maki-chan and Eli are completely different than me.
**Maki:** I-I'm not any different!
**Eli:** Eh?! You don't mean you're also a symbol of love☆...?!
**Maki:** I don't!
**Nico:** Maki-chan is stubborn, so you don't seem like you'd be popular.
**Maki:** That's not true! Someone like me is perfect and alluring... probably...
**Eli:** Is that so...?!
**Nico:** Eli doesn't have anything in particular.
**Eli:** It's not like I don't have any appeal... maybe...
**Nico:** ... Haa. You guys are completely unpopular, aren't you?
**Maki:** ... We can't help it. We don't have any opportunities. I mean, not even you do.
**Nico:** Nico ni is everyone's Nico ni, so I won't do anything as sinful as finding a partner.♪
**Eli:** I... don't have any experience, but there are people I admire.
**Maki:** There are? What kind of person would you like?
**Eli:** I don't know about the ideal person, but I want to become happy if I fall in love.
**Nico:** Isn't that too obvious?
**Eli:** It might be, but I felt like I was about to carelessly forget those feelings.
**Maki:** I understand what you want to say, but isn't that not about them and more about your own feelings?
**Eli:** Now that you say it, that's true... Well, what about you, Maki? What kind of person would you like?
**Maki:** Me? ... Nothing in particular.
**Nico:** Really? You're not saying anyone is fine, are you?
**Maki:** I don't know... but I think a sincere person would be nice.
**Eli:** So you'd like someone who won't lie.
**Maki:** It's okay if they tell a white lie, but I'd like if they absolutely wouldn't betray me when it's important.
**Eli:** If they would lie at an important time, it would be hard to have faith in them. And Nico? What kind of person would you like?
**Nico:** Nico ni is everyone's Nico ni, so I won't do anything as sinful as finding a partner.♪
**Maki:** You already said that.
**Eli:** I'm very happy with µ's right now... so it's hard to imagine being happily in love.
**Maki:** I get it. I'm happy, so I don't have the time for that.
**Nico:** You two, that's okay!
**Nico:** After all, we're everyone's school idols! It's better that we distance ourselves from romance!
 **Umi:** Let's start by melting the chocolate.
**Nozomi:** The hot water is in this bowl. Put the chocolate in here and we'll stir it bit by bit.
**Rin:** Okay. How's this?
**Umi:** Ah, if you mix it that vigorously...
**Rin:** Huh? The water got mixed with the chocolate...
**Nozomi:** Oh my...
**Umi:** It would be best if you tried to do it more carefully.
**Nozomi:** As expected of Rin whose specialty is cupped ramen. Don't worry about it.
**Rin:** Uuu~, but I'll make sure to do my best today until the very end!
**Umi:** The water has already gotten inside... should we try remaking it?
**Nozomi:** Only a bit of water got in, so I think we'll be fine if we continue with this... What should we do?
**Rin:** Let's start over from the beginning!
**Umi:** I also think that would be better. You're very motivated today, Rin.
**Rin:** Yeah! I want everyone to eat delicious chocolate after all.
**Umi:** You did say you wanted to make chocolate for everyone in µ's.
**Nozomi:** Ufufu. It's nice that we're the µ's Rin-chan loves.
**Rin:** Really? Do you think everyone will be happy?
**Nozomi:** Of course! Let's do our best today.
**Umi:** Well then, let's start from beginning once more. I'll also teach you how to do it more carefully.
**Rin:** Doki doki...
**Nozomi:** Ooh, isn't this good?
**Rin:** How is it? What do you think, Umi-chan?
**Umi:** ...
**Rin:** Eh, n-no good?
**Umi:** Fufu. It's good. Perfectly so.
**Rin:** Yay~! I finished the chocolate to give everyone~.
**Nozomi:** You did well, Rin-chan.
**Rin:** Yeah!
**Umi:** Now let's do the toppings last.
**Nozomi:** Let's put on all kinds of things, like nuts or sprinkles. We even have a decorating pen.
**Rin:** Alright! I feel like an artist. It's exciting~.
**Nozomi:** But do you really know about Valentine's Day, Rin-chan?
**Rin:** I know at least that much. It's a day when you give chocolate to those who've helped you, right?
**Umi:** Eh? Well, that is true...
**Rin:** Huh? Is that wrong?
**Nozomi:** You see, Rin-chan, you can also give it to the people who've helped you, but it's really for the people who you like.
**Rin:** Really? But everyone in µ's has helped me and I love them all, so it's completely fine.♪
**Nozomi:** I guess so. But someday you might be able to have one.
**Rin:** Have what?
**Nozomi:** Someone you really love.♪
**Umi:** Wh-...
**Rin:** Eh? Well, there's Kayochin and Maki-chan... aren't you talking about everyone?
**Nozomi:** Once you become older, you might be able to.
**Nozomi:** ... Once you have that person, you'll be able to think that you don't need anything else anymore.
**Rin:** Hmm... Umi-chan, do you have someone like that?
**Umi:** Eh?! O-of course I don't!
**Nozomi:** But if I really think back to it, maybe you do?
**Umi:** Y-you don't mean... that's...
**Nozomi:** ... When you're in front of that person, it's like you become a different person than usual.
**Rin:** Hee, I don't really understand, but it makes your heart beat.
**Nozomi:** If you find someone like that one day, you'll want to make them extraordinary chocolate.
**Umi:** U-uwaaah!
**Rin:** Umi-chan cried out?!
**Umi:** No-Nozomi! Please stop talking about this!
**Rin:** Eh, but it's so interesting~.
**Nozomi:** Umi-chan, are you saying I'm on the right track?
**Umi:** You're not! How... shameless...!
**Rin:** Uwa?! Umi-chan, your nose is bleeding!
**Umi:** Kuu, it's because you two are talking about such shameless things!
**Rin:** T-tissues! Hurry up and give Umi-chan some tissues!
 **Kotori:** Run run.♪
**Honoka:** Hmm? Kotori-chan, you seem happy~.
**Kotori:** Ehehe... well, actually, tada!
**Honoka:** Waa, what a cute box!
**Hanayo:** Aaaah! Th-th-that chocholate!
**Honoka:** Uwa, what is it, Hanayo-chan?
**Hanayo:** Isn't that the chocolate from that really famous shop? I think I saw it on TV the other day!
**Kotori:** Ufufu. You're correct.♪ I hear it's made from an amazing award winning chocolatier.
**Honoka:** Shokolatie...? But now that you say it, the chocolate smells good.♪
**Hanayo:** The said on TV that you can't but any if you don't line up, so it's really expensive.
**Hanayo:** Ha...?! Kotori-chan, could it be that you're going to give it to someone special?
**Honoka:** Give it to someone special...? Ha... you don't mean?!
**Hanayo:** Honoka-chan, do you know about Kotori-chan's special person?
**Honoka:** Do... do you mean... that we won't be able to eat this chocolate?!
**Hanayo:** Honoka-chan... you just wanted to eat the chocolate.
**Kotori:** Fufu. Don't worry, you two. I bought this so that we could all eat it together.
**Honoka:** Really?! Yay~!
**Hanayo:** B-but it's supposed to be really expensive...
**Kotori:** I could only fit 3 pieces into the box, so I was able to buy it with my allowance.♪
**Honoka:** T-three pieces...? They sell chocolate in pieces...?
**Hanayo:** I wonder how much one cost...
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan, Hanayo-chan, let's stop talking about the price and eat already~.
**Honoka:** Yeah! I've been waiting!
**Hanayo:** This might be the first time I've ever eaten chocolate this good...!
**Kotori:** Here, Honoka-chan, say "aah".♪
**Honoka:** Aah.♪
**Kotori:** Here, Hanayo-chan, "aah".
**Hanayo:** Aah.
**Honoka:** Mugumugu... mumu... this is...!
**Hanayo:** Really... really delicious...!
**Kotori:** Maybe it's because there's herbs in it, but it tastes mature.♪
**Hanayo:** My heart was beating at first... ehe, but eating it made me feel a bit relieved.
**Honoka:** By making your heart beat, do you mean because it was so delicious?
**Hanayo:** Not exactly. Thinking that Kotori-chan would give this chocolate to someone special made my heart beat.
**Kotori:** I don't have anyone like that~.
**Hanayo:** That's right! None of us do, right?
**Kotori:** Yeah! But... if there was someone special, I might not have the courage to give it to them.
**Hanayo:** Kotori-chan...
**Kotori:** I'm always accompanying Honoka-chan and the others, so I don't think that I would be able to move by myself...
**Hanayo:** Kotori-chan, I also understand those feelings.
**Kotori:** You too?
**Hanayo:** Yeah. Like if I were rejected, or if I acted awkward afterwards...
**Hanayo:** It's not even just about romance. Whenever something is about to begin, I immediately think about these kind of things. I know it's not good...
**Honoka:** Ah, I also understand that!
**Kotori:** Eh, you too, Honoka-chan?
**Honoka:** I definitely wouldn't be able to hand it over~.
**Hanayo:** So Honoka-chan doesn't have the courage to give chocolate either...!
**Honoka:** I mean, I wouldn't be able give such delicious chocolate to someone if I couldn't eat it myself!
**Hanayo:** Huh?
**Honoka:** I'd definitely open the box before giving it away! And I'd definitely eat it by myself!
**Kotori:** Honoka-chan...♪ You sure are a gourmand.♪
**Honoka:** Huh? We were talking about not being able to give the chocolate away because it was so delicious, right?
**Hanayo:** We weren't... but I think that's fine for you, Honoka-chan!
**Kotori:** Ufufu. Agreed!
**Honoka:** I don't really understand... but now that I've eaten a piece of chocolate, I want to eat more~.
**Kotori:** Then I'll make some for you!
**Honoka:** Eh, really?!
**Kotori:** Yeah! If it's for you, I'll make as much chocolate as you like!
**Hanayo:** Shall we go buy the ingredients now and start making chocolate together?
**Kotori:** Yeah.♪ Let's go.
**Honoka:** Yay, Kotori-chan, Hanayo-chan, I love you!

## Chapter 28 - Yazawa Girls' Fesitval

**Nico:** And to clean the kimonos... yep, with that, it's done.
**Nico:** As expected, the Yazawa family's dolls are cute and lovely, nico.♪
**Cocoro:** ...
**Cocoa:** ...
**Nico:** ...Cocoro, Cocoa. Is there something you want to say?
**Cocoro:** I-it's nothing! Right, Cocoa?
**Cocoa:** ...Yeeeah.
**Cocoro:** Geez, Cocoa...!
**Cocoa:** I was thinking about it before... but our dolls-
**Cocoro:** Hey, Cocoa...!
**Cocoa:** Ah, that's right. I-it's nothing.
**Nico:** Look here, if there's something you want to say, be sure to say it. If you don't, I won't understand.
**Cotarou:** Dolls, small.
**Nico:** C-Cotarou...
**Cocoro:** Th-th-th! You can't say something like that!
**Cotarou:** ...?
**Cocoa:** That's right, Cotarou. Sure our dolls are small, but the large dolls are really expensive.
**Cocoro:** Yes. We can't be coaxed into buying large dolls and have it be a burden on our family's finances.
**Nico:** Uu...
**Cocoro:** I-I'm sorry, onee-sama.
**Nico:** Fu... it's fine. It's true that our dolls aren't large.
**Cocoa:** Onee-chan...
**Nico:** But you see, try thinking about it well. Don't we have the cutest dolls here?
**Cotarou:** ...?
**Cocoro:** Different than these dolls...?
**Nico:** Here, put your hands over your heart and think about it.
**Cocoa:** Even if we do that, I don't think there are any other dolls though...
**Nico:** Cocoro.
**Cocoro:** Yes?
**Nico:** Cocoa.
**Cocoa:** What?
**Nico:** So you don't realize it...
**Nico:** You guys are our cutest dolls.♪
**Cocoro:** W-we are...?!
**Cotarou:** ...Dolls?
**Nico:** No matter where you search in the world, you wouldn't find any dolls this cute. Be proud.
**Cocoro:** Onee-sama...! I was wrong, onee-sama.
**Cocoa:** Eh? Then you're a doll too, right, onee-chan?
**Nico:** Of course.♪ The three of us are the cutest.♪
**Cocoa:** Hehe... so we were. We were dolls!
**Cotarou:** Dolls, cute.
**Cocoa:** If we're dolls, then it's fine if the displayed dolls are small!
**Cocoro:** Yes.♪ It's embarrassing for onee-sama to tell us that we're dolls.
**Cocoa:** That's right, let's borrow onee-chan's cute one piece and play dress up!
**Cocoa:** Is that okay, onee-chan? We'll only play as dolls in the room!
**Nico:** Yes, that's fine.♪ Be cute dolls, you two.
**Cocoa:** Yay! Let's go, Cocoro.
**Cocoro:** Yes! Thank you very much, onee-sama. You come too, Cotarou.
**Cotarou:** Yeah.
**Nico:** ...
**Nico:** Haa... that somehow went well.
**Nico:** We can't buy anything like new dolls... so this is the only we can do it.
 **Eli:** What to have for dinner tonight... I should have thought about it before I came to the supermarket.
**Eli:** We already have potatoes and carrots, so maybe curry.
**Nico:** Haaaa....
**Eli:** Oh!
**Nico:** I can't do anything about the dolls, so I have to at least make the meal wonderful.
**Eli:** That sounds like Nico. She must be shopping for dinner.
**Nico:** If I buy a big, cake-shaped bowl of sushi and decorate it, that should make the display better.
**Eli:** Nico! What a surprise!
**Nico:** We've got some white soup broth, so some parsley and clams would be good.
**Eli:** Nico? ...Maybe she didn't notice me.
**Nico:** For now, I'll get some parsley, peas, carrots...
**Eli:** Niiico!
**Nico:** Eh? EEEK!!!
**Eli:** Wh-why the shocked face?
**Nico:** Nothing! It's nothing!
**Eli:** If it's nothing, then let's do our shopping together. ......Why are you backing away?
**Nico:** Urgent business! I just remembered some urgent business. See you later, Eli.
**Eli:** Huh? Why are you running off? Nico!
**Eli:** \*Pant\* \*Pant\* Where did Nico go?
**Eli:** Something must be troubling her. It isn't like her to have secrets.
**Eli:** I have to keep looking.
**Nico:** \*Pant\* \*Pant\*...\*Gasp\*
**Nico:** I should be safe here. Eli is so persistent.
**Nozomi:** Oh! Nico-cchi, are you racing someone?
**Nico:** Eh! Nozomi! It-It's nothing! Let me pass.
**Nozomi:** Hmmm....
**Nico:** What are you grinning about? Hurry up and get out of the way!
**Nozomi:** But whenever you are in a rush like this...
**Nozomi:** It definitely means something fun must be going on.
**Nico:** Eeek! Let...Let go of me, Nozomi!
**Eli:** Ah, there you are.
**Nozomi:** Oh! Eli, were you looking for Nico-cchi?
**Eli:** Nozomi, don't let her out of your grasp.
**Nozomi:** Of course!
**Nico:** So...this is the end...
**Nico:** I just want those kids to have a fun Hina festival.
**Eli:** Oh, I get it.
**Nozomi:** There's no need to keep something like that a secret. Why did you run away?
**Nico:** Because...
**Nico:** It's so uncool for a multi-talented super school idol to not be able to do anything for her family.
**Nico:** I don't want my friends or my family to see me doing something so uncool.
**Nozomi:** Nico-cchi...
**Nico:** No matter what I do, there is no way I can buy any big Hina dolls.
**Eli:** I know how your brother and sisters feel.
**Nozomi:** Did you want big Hina dolls as well?
**Eli:** I wanted the whole display with all the courtiers and musicians...not just one man and one woman.
**Nico:** Me too! I thought a doll with some Hishi mochi would be great.
**Nozomi:** A doll with some Hishi mochi would satisfy you?
**Eli:** Ha ha! Nico, you always think with your stomach.
**Nico:** Not now! I'm talking about when I was a cutie-cute kid.
**Eli:** But it looks like you are going to make some lovely food. I'm sure your brother and sisters will have a great Hina festival.
**Nozomi:** You are so devoted to your family. They'll definitely be overjoyed.
**Nico:** They can eat my cooking any time. I'm not sure they'll be that thrilled.
**Nico:** Well, I'm going back to the supermarket. See you guys tomorrow.
**Eli:** ........
**Nozomi:** Eli, this is where we come in.
 **Eli:** OK, so everyone make sure to keep it a secret. I'm sure Nico and her family will be surprised.
**Honoka:** A Hina festival party! Sounds like fun!
**Kotori:** I'm happy too. I was thinking I want to spend some time with Cocoro, Cocoa, and Cotaro.
**Umi:** But we are talking about Nico's family. Is it OK for us to just butt in?
**Rin:** If it was me, I'd be really happy and surprised if someone held a secret party for me.
**Maki:** By the looks of it, Nico takes a lot of responsibility on herself.
**Nozomi:** There are lots of troublesome girls in μ's, right?
**Maki:** Don't look at me when you say that. You're the one who's a pain in the neck.
**Eli:** If Nico doesn't want us to do it, then we won't. But I'm pretty sure Nico wil be happy.
**Hanayo:** Nico really loves her family. I can't help wishing she was my big sister.
**Umi:** Yeah, Nico is usually a bit...but I understand why her brother and sisters are proud of her.
**Rin:** When I was little, I was always like "buy me some new shoes" or "buy me a new ball."
**Hanayo:** And you could never understand why they wouldn't buy them for you right?
**Nozomi:** And then you'd say, "but everyone else has got one."
**Rin:** Totally! And my mom would say, "Don't say that. There's no way that everyone has got one."
Man... Even remembering it is frustrating.
**Maki:** Don't worry about it. That was when you were a little kid. There's no need to get worked up about it now.
**Rin:** Huh? You're rich, Maki, so you have no idea what it feels like.
**Maki:** Wh-What has it got to do with me? ou are talking like a child.
**Rin:** Humpf!
**Nozomi:** Hehe! Calm down, Rin.
**Eli:** Kids are always jealous of what the see around them. Like, comparing your house to your friends' houses.
When you think about it now, it really doesn't matter, but back then it was the most important thing in the world.
**Honoka:** I think I know what you mean. When i was little, I remember eating a sweet bun, and then asking my mom to buy me more to take home. She got so mad.
**Umi:** Really?
**Honoka:** At the time, I remember thinking my mom was so mean, but now I think about it, maybe it would have been better to buy sweet buns the next day.
**Nozomi:** Huh?
**Rin:** I'm not sure, but I think you're talking about something else, Honoka.
**Honoka:** Re-Really?
**Umi:** Jeez... Honoka, what are you babbling on about?
**Nozomi:** Calm down, Umi. It just shows that we are going to have a great time at the Hina festival party.
**Kotori:** We can't buy dolls, but I still want to have a great party.
**Hanayo:** Oh!
**Rin:** Huh? What is it, Hanayo?
**Hanayo:** Why don't we make origami dolls out of really nice paper? I don't know if that would be the same, though.
**Maki:** Good idea! That way we can make the courtiers and musicians.
**Honoka:** Wow! Great! Let's go and get some paper from the stationary store and make them together.
**Rin:** Agreed!
* Time passes, the girls are at Honoka's house\*

**Honoka:** Erm... Hanayo, how's this?
**Hanayo:** Hmm, looks good. Make sure the corners are aligned so you can make a proper fold.
**Maki:** Finished! If we put these two together, we have a complete doll.
**Eli:** Harasho! This high-quality paper makes great dolls.
**Honoka:** Hanayo, you're amazing! You can even make the musicians.
**Hanayo:**Bu-but, all I did was look up how to do it in a book. Individually they are pretty small, but there are lots of them, so they look great together.
**Rin:** Hanayo! I made the display stand.
**Hanayo:** OK! Wow Rin, this looks fantastic!
**Rin:** Hehe! You are always so quick with the compliments, Hanayo.
**Maki:** It's been ages since I made something with my hands. It's like being a kid again, but it's fun.
**Nozomi:** The dolls are all done. What's next?
**Kotori:** Ta-da! Look! Look!
**Honoka:** Wow! Kotori, you look amazing! Just like a Hina doll!
**Maki:** How lovely! Is that a Hina doll haori coat?
**Kotori:** Yes! I can't make a full twelve-layered kimono, but a haori coat is easy to make and gives the general atmosphere.
**Nozomi:** And it's decorated with plums and rape blossoms! How lovely!
**Kotori:** Kimono fabric is expensive, so I only used a little. I tried suing spare fabric for the rest.
**Hanayo:** The patchwork flowers are make out of kimono fabric. They're so cute!
**Honoka:** Everyone! Mom's got everything ready.
**Eli:** Honoka's mom is going to teach us how to make Hishi mochi. What a luxury!
**Honoka:** Huh? Why?
**Nozomi:** Hehe! Being taught how to do something by a professional is a valuable experience.
**Honoka:** Really?
 * Nico's House\*

**Cocoa:** Huh? Why are we going out?
**Nico:** Dunnno. But apparently everyone is waiting for us at Honoka's house.
**Cocoro:** They're your friends, so I'm sure te must have a reason.
**Nico:** They probably want to help us with something. Well, I guess it's fine.
**Cotaro:** I'm coming too!
**Nico:** Of course, Cotaro. They said they wanted us all to come. Come on, let's get ready and go.
* Honoka's House\*

**Hanayo:** Oh! They're here! They're here! Nico, everyone, over here!
**Rin:** Hi Cocoro, Cocoa, Cotaro!
**Cocoro:** H-hi! Thanks for inviting us over today.
**Nico:** What's going on?
**Umi:** Nico, you know what day it is today, right?
**Nico:** Of course! It's the Hina festival.
**Honoka:** We're going to have a Hina festival party today!
**Cocoa:** Huh? A Hina festival party?!?
**Cotaro:** ?!?
**Cocoro:** But... is it OK for us to join your party?
**Maki:** We planned this party because we wanted you to join. Will you join us?
**Cocoro:** Of...Of course!
**Cocoa:** I can't wait!
**Cotaro:** Yeah!
**Nico:** ... But...
**Cocoro:** Oh! Cocoa, look at this!
**Cocoa:** Whoa! Look at all the dolls. They're so pretty!
**Hanayo:** They're origami. We can make some together later.
**Cocoro:** You're got all the courtiers and musicians. It looks so lovely.
**Cocoa:** Yeah! Look, sis! these dolls are so beautiful.
**Nico:** Why...?
**Eli:** Nico, let's all have fun today.
**Nico:** Eli, I don't mind, of course... but...
**Rin:** Nice! Let's have loooads of fun today!
**Kotori:** Right, all you super-sute Hina dolls. Time to change!
**Cocoro:** Hina dolls... Does that mean...
**Kotori:** Yep! That means you, Cocoro, and you, Cocoa.
**Cocoa:** Woah! Let's get dressed up right now!
**Kotori:** You too, Nico!
**Nico:** Me too? Really?
**Nozomi:** Why are you being so modest? Hurry up and change!
**Nico:** Wa-wait! Stop pushing!
* they get changed into the costumes\*

**Cocoa:** Wow! Wow! It's so pretty! I really feel like I'e become a Hina doll.
**Cocoro:** Yay! I can't believe I get to wear such beautiful clothes. I'm so happy right now.
**Maki:** It looks good on you too, Nico.
**Nico:** Th-thanks...
**Umi:** Hehe! You're very demur today.
**Nico:** ...Stop laughing at me!
**Cocoro:** Cotaro, you've got a lovely Haori coat as well.
**Cotaro:** Cool!
**Cocoa:** Huh? Cotaro, what do you have in your hand?
**Cotaro:** A drum!
**Rin:** I'll play with you. I've got an upturned bucket with some cloth stretched across it.
**Cotaro:** OK!
**Nozomi:** When we are done, we have some delicious Hishi mochi to eat.
**Nico:** You planned all this... for us?
**Umi:** Does it not meet with your approval? I was worried we might be imposing.
**Nico:** N-no. .......... Umm, thank you.
**Maki:** Good. I'm glad you're happy.
**Eli:** Um, Nico...
**Nico:** Eli...
**Eli:** I don't know what you're thinking right now, but I did this because μ's is like a family to me.
**Nozomi:** Me too! We are all one big family, Cocoro, Cocoa, and Cotaro included.
**Nico:** .......... Thank you. I never say it, but...you're all...
**Hanayo:** OK everyone, let's take a picture.
**Nico:** Oh...
**Honoka:** Nico, Cocoro, Cocoa, Cotaro, everyone smile!
**Cocoa:** Smile, sis!
**Cocoro:** Show us your beautiful smile, Nico!
**Cotaro:** Smile!
**Nico:** Hehe. OK, I'll give you the cutest smile in the universe.
**Hanayo:** OK, are you ready? Say cheese!

## Chapter 29- Songwriting Retreat

**Hanayo**: Yep. We've got a training camp soon to prepare for our new songs.
**Rin**: And we are doing it at Maki's vacation home!
**Hanayo**: Me and Rin made it. We thought the camp would go a lot smoother if we made a guidebook.
**Maki**: Wow, you guys are serious. Can I take a look inside?
**Rin**: Of course!
**Maki**: Page one is... Is this a picture of my vacation home?
**Hanayo**: Yeah. Drawing a picture means everyone will understand that we are doing another training camp at your vacation home.
**Maki**: I'm pretty sure everyone already knows where we're going. Anyway what's on the next page?
**Rin**: This is a picture of our practice outfits and this is a picture of a backpack, and this is a picture of a purse and some snacks to go in the backpack...
**Hanayo**: These pictures are a checklist of things to bring.
**Maki**: Wa-wait a minute!
**Rin**: Huh?
**Maki**: How come you went ahead and drew pictures of the stuff we should bring. I mean, this guidebook doesn't have a single word in it!
**Hanayo**: We thought drawing pictures would help people understand instantly what they need to bring.
**Maki**: What are you on about? The next page... and the next! Don't you think it's better to explain in writing rather than pictures?
**Hanayo**: Maybe, but...
**Rin**: What's the problem. If we draw pictures, then people who can't read japanese will still be able to understand.
**Maki**: Everyone in µ's CAN read Japanese!
**Rin**: Humph!
**Maki**: Unbelievable! There is no need to put in so much effort for this.
**Rin**: But we were so, so excited about going to hang out at your vacation home...
**Maki**: We aren't going to hang out! Besides, it isn't a place for having fun.
**Hanayo**: But your vacation home is such a lovely place.
**Rin**: Right! It's so big, we can invite loads of people and it won't be a problem.
**Maki**: Inviting loads of people WILL be a problem.
**Hanayo**: Huh?
**Maki**: Look, you can't just invite anyone you like. The only people who can come are µ's members.
**Rin**: Oh...
**Maki**: No one else is allowed. You huts are OK, because it's you.
**Hanayo**: Oh, Maki!
**Maki**: Don't expect so much, you two.
**Rin**: You are looking forward to the training camp as well, right? You cant wait, can you, Maki?
**Maki**: .... I suppose.
**Honoka**: Yay! We're here!
**Kotori**: Talking really makes the journey fly by.
**Eli**: OK! Let's split into three teams and get to work.
**Umi**: One team each for lyrics, music, and costumes, right?
**Nico**: Huh? What's the rush? Let's just chill out and have some snacks first.
**Umi**: It's better to get work out of the way first. That will make the relaxing and snacking even better.
**Rin**: Me and Nico will help Kotori.
**Nozomi**: Honoka and I will help Maki with the music.
**Honoka**: What can we do to help with writing music?
**Maki**: I came up with a general idea before we came, so we should be able to start writing straight away.
**Honoka**: Wow! it's the first day of training camp and we are almost done already! That is so like you, Maki.
**Maki**: But I can't get the end quite right. Sorry, but do you two mind waiting a little?
**Nozomi**: OK! It'd be great if there was something we could help with, but I guess that's pretty hard.
**Honoka**: Well, we'll cheer you on with some rousing hurrahs!
**Nozomi**: Huh? Shouting "hurrah" while she's composing will damage her concentration.
**Maki**: ............
**Nozomi**: Oh, are you mad, Maki?
**Maki**: Quite the reverse! You two have given me a good idea.
**Honoka**: Huh? H-How?
**Nozomi**: I don't understand, but that's lucky.
**Maki**: It's fine every now and then. Seeing you tow carefree girls seems to bring a melody to mind.
**Honoka**: Hehe! Maki paid us a compliment.
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## Chapter 30- Worried About Maki?!

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## Chapter 31- Unsung Heroes

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## Chapter 32- μ's Versus A-RISE

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