Scenario:Μ's Third-Years - Doing What We Can

Doing What We Can

Eli, Nozomi, and Nico wake up once more in Tenacie. This time they are the only members of μ's to cross worlds, as Beobachter's power is waning due to numerous people abandoning their roles as school idols. Deducing that the school idols in this world need a goal to pursue, the third-years begin planning a competition.

---

Nozomi: Mngh... So bright... Is it morning already?

Woken by the sun's rays, Nozomi sits up and stretches.

Nozomi: A nice and warm greeting from the sun...

Nozomi: A soothing breeze carrying the scent of fresh flowers...

Nozomi: ...

Nozomi: But why was I sleeping outside? And here of all places...

Recognizing her surroundings, Nozomi's confusion only grows as she takes in the familiar town.

Lyria: Oh! Nozomi!

Eli: I'm glad to see you got up just fine.

Vyrn: You guys sure know how to give someone a heart attack, poppin' out of nowhere like that a second time.

Nozomi: Eli-chi? Along with the captain and crew... We hopped worlds again, didn't we?

Eli: We sure did. Welcome back to Tenacie.

Nico: Ugh! That primal beast sure has a lot of nerve dumping me in the middle of town! If you're going to call, at least do it privately!

Nico: Nobody wants to wake up in public all exposed! Every time, I swear!

Medusa: You're really noisy for someone who just woke up. Is it really that big a deal?

Nico: I'll have you know that a school idol's sleeping visage is a carefully guarded secret! One bad angle is all it takes for your career to go down the drain!

Medusa: So what, sleep talking's fine then? Mumbling and drooling with your mouth wide open... You made a pretty funny sound too.

Nico: I-I did not! You think you can say whatever you want just to mess with me?

Medusa: Excuse me? Are you calling me a liar?

Nico & Medusa: What is your problem!

Eli & Athena: Nico, stop that!
Medusa, stop that!

Nico & Medusa: Grrr...

Nico & Medusa: Hmph!

Athena: It's been a while since we've witnessed this sort of exchange, hasn't it?

Eli: Ahaha... I feel like I should apologize in advance for all the trouble she's going to cause.

Vyrn: Hey, keepin' things lively ain't a bad thing. 'Specially with the town the way it is right now.

Nozomi: The town...

Scrutinizing her surroundings more closely, Nozomi senses something different in the air.

Nozomi: I'm guessing we were called here for a reason then.

Vyrn: Probably. It'd be faster to show you. Since everyone's awake, you ready to take a look around?

Nozomi: Wait... Where are the other μ's members?

Lyria: About that... I think Beobachter only brought you three over.

Beobachter—a primal beast with the ability to link worlds and summon idolized beings from them.

Though initially at odds with μ's and the crew, Beobachter has since found a better purpose for its powers.

Eli: If it needed us for something, wouldn't all nine members be better?

Lyria: Beobachter probably wanted to, but I don't think it had enough strength left to get everyone...

Nozomi: Aren't primal beasts like gods in this world? Something must've happened if it's not feeling well.

Athena: Perhaps the purpose for its existence has been called into question. Considering the state of the town...

Athena: I believe we shall once again need your help in order to solve this matter. Will you aid us?

Nozomi: I'd never dream of saying no to a divine being. Count me in.

Eli: If there's a problem and people are unable to practice, you know I can't leave well enough alone.

Nico: ...

Medusa: What about you? Not going to help?

Nico: Hmmm, I dunno. What if we run into big, scary monsters again? You expect little ol' me to—

Eli: First we need to scope out the town and see for ourselves what's going on.

Nico: Wow! Just going to ignore me like that!

The idols accompany the crew through the town, taking in the girls practicing their songs and dances.

School Idol 1: One, two, three, four... One... Two... Three...

Eli: Looks like everyone's practicing together, but...

School Idol 1: Sigh... What are we going to do?

School Idol 2: No one's going to come to our concert...

Nico: Practice shouldn't make people this miserable. Last time we swung around, they were having a blast.

Nico: Ugh, I can't stand it! I'll go show them how it's done—

Medusa: Wait. Nico, I think a friend of yours is coming over.

Nico Fan: Nico!

Nico: Oh! Long time no see!

Lyria: This girl is...

Nico Fan: I sure did! I'm gonna be just like you when I grow up!

Nico: That's right: a Nico-Ni fan!
So how's it going? Still working hard at being just like me?

Nico Fan: Yeah! I sing and dance all the time!

Nico Fan: But... Everyone else doesn't want to practice anymore...

Nico: Did something happen? Tell me what you know.

With a small nod, the girl details what happened to the town after μ's departed.

Due to the success of the joint concert, the concept of school idols spread to nearby islands.

In turn, many people came to visit Tenacie and became engrossed in concerts and other related activities. But their attention didn't last long.

School Idol 1: No way! Why... Why won't you come to our concerts anymore?

Visiting Girl 1: Well... It's not like I don't like what you're doing, you know?

Visiting Girl 1: But watching the same performance over and over again gets kinda boring...

School Idol 2: What? You quit being a school idol?

Visiting Girl 2: Me and the other members talked and... we realized our group was going nowhere.

Visiting Girl 2: But we'll still be rooting for all you Tenacie girls!

Nico Fan: Before we knew it, most people gave up... And now there's not many of us left.

A moment of quiet passes as the group processes the new information.

Athena: This must be why Beobachter's power has diminished.

Eli: With the influence of school idols weakened in this world, its connection to them is also weakening...

Nico Fan: Always doing the same thing is boring, but... we don't know what else to do.

Medusa: Hmm... Sounds to me like everyone got stuck in a rut and gave up. Not that I can blame them.

Nozomi: What do you think, Eli-chi?

Eli: From what I've seen...

Eli: Everyone around town seems to be writing new songs and creating more dance routines.

Nico: They've upped their skills since the last time we saw them, even if they aren't too into what they're doing right now. Honestly, a little pep, and they'd get a crowd going.

Eli: Their performance capabilities have definitely improved... But then why are they so demoralized?

Nozomi: And why have so many given up?

Third-Years: Hmm...

The three idols fold their arms and ponder.

Eli: One of those girls thought that her group was going nowhere... Do you think maybe everyone's lost sight of their goals?

Nozomi: If they have, all the fans in the audience would be able to tell. People would start to drift away...

Nico: An idol should always be aiming to make people smile. You telling me they lost sight of that?

Nozomi: Maybe... But it would help to have something more concrete to go after. Something like... a Love Live competition.

Nico: Ah...

Nico Fan: What's a Love Live?

Nico: It's a contest where school idol groups get together and see which one puts on the best show. Kind of like a huge concert festival.

Nico Fan: Wow, everyone all together? I wonder who would win!

Eli: I think we've found our solution.

Nozomi: Facing others may be kind of tough, but this way it'll be easy for everyone to see how much the idols have grown. Fans will want to cheer that much harder too.

Nico: And the girls that felt like they had no way forward... They might wanna try again if one of their favorite groups does well.

Athena: Are you quite sure? The birth of a new battleground does not, at least to me, seem like a sensible idea.

Eli: It won't be the kind of competition you're thinking of, Athena.

Eli: I know it might sound bad in theory, but trust me when I say it's actually about doing your best and giving it your all. Everyone should walk away with a smile.

Athena: I see... A competition where everyone walks away with a smile...

Eli: I can't believe we taught everyone about dancing and singing, but forgot one of the most important things. Leave it to Nozomi to pick up on it.

Nico: H-hmph! I totally noticed a long time ago! I just didn't say anything!

Nico: Anyway, we know what to do now! Kick life back into this town with a school idol festival—it's Love Live time!

Vyrn: A festival, huh? Guess we've gotta spread the word and get people interested.

Nozomi: But before that...

Nozomi draws a single card and holds it up.

Nozomi: The cards tell me that we should host the festival somewhere that isn't Tenacie.

Nico: Seriously? Why? We're in school idol central right now! Why the heck should we pack up and move?

Eli: I agree with Nico for once. It might be hard to adjust to a new place after all this time.

Nozomi: Well, the cards also say that we'll find a light at the end of the tunnel if we aren't afraid of a little darkness first.

Nico: You want to not speak in riddles?

Nozomi: It won't be easy going somewhere else, but it'll be worth the hardship if we take the chance.

Nico: Hmm... Fine by me. We'll find the perfect place with lots of potential attendees and show them what idols are made of!

Vyrn: So where ya gonna find a place like that? If all you want is a crowded town, I've got a couple ideas in mind.

Nozomi: Why don't we leave everything to my trusty dowsing rods?

A glint in her eyes, Nozomi reveals two metallic rods and waves them around.

Eli: Are those what you used back when we needed granite for a new stage?

Nozomi: They sure are. When you need something found, nothing works better.

She begins to focus intently on the rods, eyebrows scrunched together in concentration.

Nozomi: Mmmm...

Nozomi: Hah!

Nozomi: I'm sensing it's... this way!

Nico: Uh, hello? There's only sky in that direction! Are you trying to lead us on some wild goose chase—

Sierokarte: Very interesting... That's Port Breeze you're pointed toward right now.

Nico: Ugyahhh! Where did you come from!

Sierokarte: Hehehe! I couldn't help but overhear your conversation.

Vyrn: You really love to drop in outta nowhere, don'tcha? You here for something?

Sierokarte: About that... I'd be more than happy to pitch in and set this competition up.

Sierokarte: There's a venue in Port Breeze that's been looking for some new entertainment, you see.

Sierokarte: I was in town hoping to recruit the talented people here when I spotted you folks.

Eli: Khorosho! That's some good timing... But are you sure?

Nozomi: I know you came here looking for idols, but we're talking about a pretty huge event.

Sierokarte: As long as the director in charge of the venue gives permission, there shouldn't be a problem!

Sierokarte: She's a big fan of music. With enough convincing, she might even turn it into a town-wide celebration!

Nico: Attention across the whole town... A chance to spread the Nico-Ni signature smile...

Nico: What are we waiting for? Let's go pay this director person a visit!

The rest of the group agrees, and (Captain) begins to plot a course for Port Breeze.

Nozomi: ...

Nozomi: Trouble always follows after a stroke of good luck...

Doing What We Can: Scene 2

Hearing of an open venue in Port Breeze, the third-years go to meet the director in charge. Though the director has a passion for music, she refuses to acknowledge school idol music and cuts the discussion short. Later, the crew meets an attendant at the inn who explains that the people of Port Breeze are unfamiliar with school idols, which leads the third-years to decide to perform an eye-opening concert.

---

The crew travels to Port Breeze, hoping to meet with the venue director there and bring their school idol festival to life.

To avoid overcrowding the meeting, only Eli, Nozomi, and Nico make their way to the director's estate.

Eli: Hello, we're μ's. I believe Sierokarte arranged a meeting for us...

Maid: Good day. We've been waiting for your arrival. If you'll follow me, I'll show you to the madam's room.

Granddaughter: Hmph... Eli, Nozomi, and Nico in the flesh, huh?

Granddaughter: I hope you know you're making a big mistake. School idols aren't welcome in this place.

Nico: What? We just got here! What did we even do?

Granddaughter: Hmph.

Maid: Miss, please! You mustn't be rude to the madam's guests.

Eli: So... you know who we are?

Granddaughter: Maybe I do. What's that to you?

Eli: I just find it strange, considering we came to this town only once before. You must have a pretty sharp memory to remember our names.

Granddaughter: I-I just happened to keep them in the back of my mind!

Granddaughter: Anyway, you should turn back before you regret it. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Nico: What was her deal?

Maid: I apologize for the madam's granddaughter. She's been beside herself ever since she heard you were visiting.

Nozomi: Seems like she can't get us off her mind.

Nico: Ugh, I don't like it.

Eli: Nico, people are free to view us however they like. It's not our place to judge.

Nozomi: Kept us in the back of her mind, hmm...

Maid: Pardon the interruption, but if you'll follow me once more...

Nico: Wh-whoa... This is a crazy big mansion... B-but it's not as big as my villa!

Eli: Your villa?

Nico: Y-yeah! A house this size is normal by my standards!

Nozomi: Nico-cchi... Are you nervous?

Nico: Me? Nervous? Pffft, I'm just meeting someone super important. Why would I be—

Nozomi: Squeeze, squeeze, squeeze!

Nico: Gaaahh! What are you doing!

Nozomi: Hehehe... I'm just working out the kink in your shoulders.

Nozomi: I get it though. You're trying to keep yourself together. But it's not good to get so worked up, okay?

Nico: Okay! All right! Now get your hands off of me!

Eli: Cut it out, you two. You're making a huge racket.

Maid: There's no need to worry about noise. Our voices may carry down the hall, but they won't be heard in the rooms.

Maid: The madam is a connoisseur of music and often invites musicians into the estate for performances. Thus most areas are completely soundproof.

Eli: Khorosho... That's some dedication.

Maid: Most of the interior design is to the madam's tastes. Take the portraits lining this hall, for example. All are of famous musicians.

Maid: But enough of that. We're here.

The maid opens the door. Inside, an elderly woman with a kind smile greets them.

Director: Sierokarte told me you were coming. You wish to hold a musical festival in Port Breeze, yes?

Director: I'm beside myself with excitement! Come, come, this way.

The director invites the three girls to settle into plush chairs and partake in a host of snacks and tea.

Eli: Thank you very much. We're sorry to intrude like this...

Director: There's nothing to be sorry about. Sweets are better savored while enjoying a conversation, after all.

Nico: (Huh... She actually seems like a nice person.)

Director: I must admit, I'm burning with curiosity. What instruments do you play?

Nozomi: Oh, um, we don't play any...

Director: I see. You sing opera then?

Director: Or do you do ballet? Eli here carries herself much like a dancer would.

Eli: We don't do either. We're school idols.

Director: School... idols...

Eli: Yes. Essentially we sing and dance on stage to spread cheer—put smiles on our audience's faces.

Nozomi: We were hoping to generate some friendly competition among school idols with a big festival, and...

Director: ...

Nico: (Hmmm... Doesn't seem like she gets what we're talking about.)

Nico: (Wait! This is the perfect opportunity for me to jump in and show her what a real idol's all about!)

Nico: Ahem... Let me give you a sneak peak of the famous Nico Yazawa special that's all the rage at our concerts!

Nico: You'll want to pay close attention and keep this phrase close to heart!

Nico: Here I go! Nico-Nico—

Director: How dare you bring up school idols!

Nico: Ni?

The director suddenly raises her voice, her tone livid.

Director: Don't think I haven't seen them parading around town with their discord and chaos!

Director: True music should be classical—orderly and elegant. A sacred ceremony between those who perform and those who listen.

Director: Without tradition and protocol, it cannot be called art. But the lot of you frolicking around without a care in the world wouldn't know the first thing about it!

Nico: Excuse me? We only came because you needed people to fill up your empty venue!

Director: People only of the classical sort, thank you very much! I'd rather have silence for all eternity than allow you to sully that space!

Eli: ...

Taking in the director's harsh words, Eli mulls over her thoughts before calmly opening her mouth to speak.

Eli: I understand that you hold a great appreciation for the classics.

Eli: To someone in your position, our music may sound like children banging on pots and pans.

Eli: But with enough hard work and practice, I know we can put on performances just as stunning as—

Director: Then come back when you've reached that level! The fact that you're not there yet means you're still just children passing the time frivolously!

Nico: Why you...

Eli: Nico.

Nico: ...!

Eli: ...

Eli: A long time ago, I used to think like you. School idols were nothing but amateurs pretending to be professionals—passing the time frivolously, as you put it.

Eli: But my friends... They showed me exactly how wrong I was! This isn't some silly way to pass the time. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Nozomi: Eli-chi...

Eli: Give us a chance to show you just how serious we are. One performance, that's all I ask.

Director: I refuse. I have absolutely no intention of entertaining this farce!

Director: Take your school idols and go somewhere else. This conversation is finished.

Nozomi: Eli-chi. Nico-cchi. I think it's best if we leave.

Nico: But...

Nozomi: The director's a busy woman. It'd be rude to take up too much of her time, right?

Nico: ...!

With stiff bows, the three girls bid the director a solemn farewell.

Director: Sigh...

A moment later, the woman rings a nearby bell.

Maid: Yes, madam?

Director: Could you arrange food and lodgings for our previous guests? I'm afraid I was a bit too callous, considering they are still associates of Sierokarte.

Maid: It shall be done at once. I know just the place.

Director: Very well. I'll leave everything to your judgment.

Maid: If I may, madam?

Director: What is it?

Maid: Will you truly not assist them with their festival?

Director: Of course not. Perish the thought.

Maid: My apologies for asking, madam.

Nico: ...!

Nico: Who does that old hag think she is! She had no excuse to be that rude!

Nozomi: I'm proud, Nico-cchi. You did good behaving yourself in there.

Nico: Wh-why're you acting like I wouldn't have, huh? Not like I could've risked a bad impression anyway! School idols have enough of a bad rep here!

Eli: I'm starting to feel like we won't reach the light at the end of the tunnel for a long while...

Granddaughter: Told you you'd regret it!

Nozomi: You're...

Granddaughter: Grandmother won't ever acknowledge any music other than classical!

Granddaughter: So don't bother trying anything in this town! Pack it up and go home!

Nico: Hmph! Think we're pushovers, do you?

Nico: Well too bad! I became a school idol to put a smile on everyone's faces! Even your grandma's!

Nico: She'll definitely come around once she sees what we're made of!

Granddaughter: Are you deaf or just an idiot? Grandmother's never going to change her mind!

Nico: I'll let you in on a secret: only an idiot would call someone else an idiot!

Granddaughter: Guess that means you're actually an idiot!

Nico: Excuse me? You can forget about ever getting my autograph then!

Nozomi: All right, Nico-cchi, calm down. Remember we've got other things to focus on right now.

Eli: You know what Honoka and the others would do in this situation, don't you?

Nico: I know, I know! Plan a concert or something and liven the town up, yeah? Fine, let's do it!

Granddaughter: B-but why? There's no point...

Eli: Someone who loves music as much as your grandmother might change her mind once she catches us in action.

Granddaughter: ...

Granddaughter: I give up. Do whatever you want!

Nico: Sheesh... Why come bother us when you're just going to walk away anyway!

Granddaughter: Here! This is for you!

Nico: Uh... Are these tickets?

Granddaughter: The maid booked you all an inn! Also my grandmother's sorry for being rude!

Nico: Hey! You think a quick sorry's gonna cut it?

Nozomi: Hmm... Was that really all she wanted with us?

Eli: What do you mean?

Nozomi: ...

Instead of answering, Nozomi silently watches the director's granddaughter walk away.

The three idols meet back with the crew and head to the inn for dinner.

Nico: Munch, chew... And that's how we got kicked out of the mansion!

Vyrn: That's one heckuva breakdown...

Nico: Chomp, swallow, bite... My blood's boiling just thinking about it! Can't believe she said whatever she wanted and—

Nico: Choke! Hack!

Nozomi: Nico-cchi... Here, take a sip of water.

Eli: I understand how you're feeling, but you shouldn't let your emotions get the better of you.

Nico: I-I know that!

Medusa: You still want to do something in Port Breeze, right? But without the director's permission, I'm not so sure that's a good idea.

Nozomi: Yeah... It'd be great if we could convince her somehow...

As the group ponders their next move, a stranger hesitantly approaches their table.

Inn Attendant: E-excuse me... Are you three members of μ's?

The girl introduces herself as the daughter of the inn's proprietress. She explains that she became a fan of μ's after viewing their previous performance in Port Breeze.

Inn Attendant: You lit up the whole area as soon as you started moving!

Inn Attendant: Watching you do Advance→Tomorrow was so much fun!

Overcome with excitement, she starts to sing a phrase from the song and attempts a twirl.

Inn Attendant: Wh-whoa!

Eli: Watch out!

The girl tumbles, caught off balance, but Eli is quick to catch her.

Eli: You okay? That part has fairly tricky footing.

Inn Attendant: Th-thank you, Eli. It's my fault for being so bad at dancing...

Eli: Nonsense. The choreography was correct, but most importantly, you were having fun.

Nico: If you really want to work on your moves though, I'm willing to give you some pointers. The universe's number one idol, at your service!

Inn Attendant: Oh, um, I think I'll pass...

Nico: Excuse me?

Inn Attendant: N-not that I'm not grateful! It's just... I'm not actually a school idol!

Nozomi: Really? You definitely dance like you've practiced before.

Inn Attendant: I've dabbled a little bit, yeah. But I couldn't get anyone else to join me... Nobody really knew what I was talking about so I gave up.

Nico: Why not give a try on your own first? Show everyone how it's done, and they might tag along later.

Inn Attendant: There's no way I can do that... You saw how awful I was at singing and dancing.

Inn Attendant: Everyone else always tell me I shouldn't waste my time practicing either. I'm not cut out for it.

Nico: Forget everyone else!

Nico: Do what you want to do. It's your life, not theirs. Or are you going to let their opinions decide who you are?

Inn Attendant: Well...

Inn Attendant: I guess it wouldn't be so bad to give it another shot... But it sure would be nice if I didn't have to do it alone.

Nico: Just leave that part to us! They won't be able to stay away after they see us perform!

Inn Attendant: D-does that mean you're putting on a concert?

Nozomi: That's right. We plan to spread the word about school idols, and then host a big competition after.

Eli: With enough attention and people enjoying themselves, even the director won't be able to turn a blind eye...

Nozomi: Which means we've got to make some noise and give the town everything we've got!

Inn Attendant: O-oh... That's quite the grand plan you've got in the works...

Nico: Hey, this is your chance too, you know? Once we get our festival set up, you'll be able to kick your career off in style!

Inn Attendant: You really think I've got what it takes to be a school idol?

Nozomi: Of course. But you don't have to take my word for it. Look here.

Nozomi draws a tarot card. With a deft flip, she reveals a picture depicting bright stars in the night sky.

Nozomi: Stars of premonition will fall... Surely, and without fail.

Nozomi: Just like they once fell for us...

Inn Attendant: Stars?

Eli: Let's wrap things up for now. Tomorrow's looking to be a long day!

Lyria: Sounds good to me! We'll help you with whatever you need!

Nico: All right! Full speed ahead—this town won't know what hit them!

When one door closes, another opens. The group begins in earnest to plan a Port Breeze concert.

Doing What We Can: Scene 3

Preparations complete, the third-years put on a concert in Port Breeze. Many people gather and crowd around the park stage, including the director's granddaughter, but the congestion begins to cause issues for the merchants in the area. The director arrives to put a stop to the chaos and announces that all school idol concerts are henceforth prohibited in Port Breeze.

---

(Captain) and company begin preparing a concert, hoping to introduce the concept of school idols to more Port Breeze citizens.

In order to perform that afternoon, the group splits into two teams: one to set up the stage, and the other to hand out flyers.

The stage prep team makes steady progress under Eli's guidance.

Athena: Phew... That's the last of the chairs. I believe the aisles are now finished?

Eli: They are, thank you. Sorry we had to put you through so much manual labor...

Athena: No need to apologize. It was a good learning experience. Though I must admit, I'm curious about the sheer number of seats you had me prepare.

Eli: This park is right next to a busy street, so I'm hoping we'll draw in a decently large crowd.

Athena: I see... You're hoping to have more than enough space to accommodate. That's quite clever.

Eli: Y-you think so? I'm flattered to hear it.

Athena: ...?
I was merely stating the truth.

Nozomi: Sorry to keep you waiting! I brought boxed lunches packed with meat!

Eli: Thanks, Nozomi.

Eli: Did you get that other errand done too?

Nozomi: I did everything I could. The rest will be up to her.

Eli: All right. In that case, we better focus our attention on making this concert a success.

Vyrn: Heya! The equipment check's all done!

Eli: Appreciate it! That about wraps up the preparations on our end.

Eli: Hmm, hmm, hmmm...

Humming to herself, Eli spins atop the stage to the melody.

Eli: Hey, (Captain)? I'd like to try out a new dance. Would you mind taking a seat in front and letting me know what you think?

(Captain), while eager, doesn't know much about school idols, and suggests that someone else might be a better judge.

Eli: I'm not too concerned about technique. I'm more curious about your general opinion.

Nozomi: The three of us had a little meeting yesterday and decided it might be better to simplify some of our choreography. That way it's more accessible to everybody.

Eli: So actually, your opinion is more valuable than an expert's. Wait here a second. I'll get everything ready!

Vyrn: Haha, they sure dashed backstage real fast, huh?

Lyria: I know I'm just as excited for the concert! Let's keep doing our best to help out!

Meanwhile, the flyer team works hard in another part of town.

Nico: Did you see that? I already finished handing out a stack!

Medusa: I did too! Actually, I went even faster than you!

Nico: As if!

Medusa: Oh yeah? Let's time the next batch then!

Nico: Fine by me! We'll settle this once and for all!

Athena: Good grief... Since we finished early, I thought I would check on you all... And of course those two are at it again.

Inn Attendant: ...

Athena: ...?
Is something the matter?

Inn Attendant: I was just thinking that everyone's really something else... Eli too...

Glancing down at the nearly untouched pile of flyers in her arms, the girl sighs.

Inn Attendant: I almost feel like... Why bother trying when people like μ's already exist?

Athena: From what I've seen... The world of school idols is vast, and anyone can be accepted, regardless of faults or differences.

Athena: You will be welcomed so long as you have the courage to forge ahead. Nico has shown me that.

Inn Attendant: She has?

Athena: Indeed. She persists bravely forward at all times, using her "Nico-Nico-Ni" as a shield.

Inn Attendant: At all times... You really believe I can do the same?

Athena: Of course. Anything is possible if you can face your fears and stand when you are knocked down.

Inn Attendant: O-okay, I'll see what I can do...

Inn Attendant: E-excuse me! Would you be interested in attending a school idol concert today?

Maid: A school idol concert?

Granddaughter: Hey, this is for μ's, isn't it? Those three are still at it?

Inn Attendant: Oh! You've heard of them already? Are you a fan?

Granddaughter: Hardly.

Inn Attendant: In that case, you definitely have to come!

Granddaughter: What... Did you not hear what I just said?

Inn Attendant: I wasn't really interested in them at first either. But then I saw them perform live, and it completely changed my life!

Granddaughter: ...

Granddaughter: Well good for you. I'm still not going. Have fun with those flyers.

Inn Attendant: Ah... Wait!

Granddaughter: (I was at that exact performance too.)

Granddaughter: Wow... I never knew music like this existed...

Granddaughter: I also...

Director: What is all this racket? Come, let's hurry back to the estate.

Granddaughter: B-but... Can we stay a little longer?

Director: Don't waste your time on this drivel. Besides, we'll be late for your piano lesson if we don't leave now.

Granddaughter: ...

Granddaughter: Yes, Grandmother.

Granddaughter: There's nothing I can do anyway...

Soon, the beginning of μ's concert draws near.

The three idols ascend the stage, greeting the gathered audience with bright smiles.

Nico: Hey, everyone! Thanks for coming to see us!

Eli: We're the school idol group μ's! Please sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

Nozomi: There's actually nine of us in μ's, but due to some special circumstances, the others couldn't make it...

Nozomi: But to make up for our missing members, we're going to sing and dance that much harder! We hope you'll have fun!

Spectator 1: It's the girls from before! Heeey! Can't wait to see you perform again!

Spectator 2: A school idol group, huh? Wonder what they're about to do.

Vyrn: People are tricklin' in pretty slowly... The empty seats are standin' out like sore thumbs too.

Inn Attendant: Even though Nico and Medusa handed out so many flyers...

Medusa: Nothing to worry about. Once the concert hits full swing, there won't even be room left to stand.

Inn Attendant: But...

Medusa: ...

Medusa: If you're still feeling antsy though, why not go out and advertise once the music starts?

Inn Attendant: That's... actually not a bad idea! Okay, let's do it!

Medusa: Huh? Wait, what? Why're you dragging me into this?

Medusa: Ugh, fine!

Nozomi: Without further ado, please listen to our first song...

Townsperson: What's that sound? Music?

Medusa: There's a concert going on in the park over there. A group called μ's is performing.

Inn Attendant: Th-they're amazing! Like nobody else you've seen before!

Medusa and the inn attendant's efforts, combined with the echo of the concert's music, draw in person after person.

Spectators: ...!

The seats and surrounding area are quickly filled to overcapacity, just as Medusa predicted.

Nico: (The crowd's spilling over into the other side of the park... There's no way this concert isn't going down in history now!)

Eli: (Yeah, no doubt about it. But...)

Nozomi: (Eli-chi? You sound worried about something.)

Eli: (I'm not sure why, but I've got a bad feeling about this...)

Eli: (I hope I'm wrong though.)

Inn Attendant: Wow... So many people went to watch, the town's completely empty...

Inn Attendant: I guess I should head back too—

Inn Attendant: Wait, is that...

Spotting someone in what was supposed to be an empty street, she approaches the lone straggler.

Granddaughter: What was the point of giving me this?

The director's granddaughter grips a card with twinkling stars painted on one side.

Heaving a big sigh, she recalls the moment she received it.

Granddaughter: ...

Granddaughter: So they're holding a concert... Too bad Grandmother won't ever...

Nozomi: Looks like today's going to be a cloudy one. It would've been nice to have the sun's blessing.

Granddaughter: What are you doing here?

Granddaughter: Surely you're not going to try to talk to Grandmother again.

Nozomi: No, no. I happened to be in the area buying lunch and thought I'd stop by.

Nozomi: I wanted to give you this.

Granddaughter: What? A card?

Nozomi: Think of it as a good luck charm—one that'll show you the way forward.

Nozomi: I just can't leave well enough alone, especially with someone who can't be honest with herself.

Granddaughter: What are you playing at?

Nozomi: When we first met, you warned us about your Grandmother, remember?

Nozomi: You were looking out for us, weren't you? Wanted to spare us the disappointment.

Granddaughter: N-no, that was just...

Nozomi: But you know... I think what you really wanted was to spare yourself the disappointment.

Granddaughter: ...!

Nozomi: No matter how cloudy it gets, the stars still sparkle on the other side.
As much you try to hide your feelings, you'll never be able to make them disappear.

Nozomi: Come to our concert. I'm certain you'll find the star you're looking for if you do.

Granddaughter: The star I'm looking for...

Inn Attendant: Hey, you! You're here to watch μ's, right?

Granddaughter: Ah! You're that flyer girl.

Inn Attendant: Let's head there together! We need to hurry though, or else we'll miss it!

Granddaughter: I-I am not here to attend! I came to see if anyone was really going to watch this silly display!

Granddaughter: You shouldn't go either. Associating yourself with school idols is only going to spell trouble, especially once my grandmother catches wind of this.

Inn Attendant: So what? I'm not afraid!

Inn Attendant: You shouldn't be either! Do what you want to do! It's your life, not hers!

Granddaughter: ...!

Inn Attendant: That's what Nico said to me before... I'm still working on being as brave as her though.

Eli's Voice: I'm sorry to have to say it, but the next song will be our last.

Inn Attendant: Come on! No time to hesitate now!

Granddaughter: Hey! Wait, don't pull me!

Third-Years: ...

Inn Attendant: W-we made it! It's The Door to our Dreams!

Granddaughter: The Door to our Dreams...

The lyrics of the girls' last song speak of the strength to chase after dreams even while lost.

Filled with emotion, their song washes over the crowd.

Eli: (It's okay to be lost, so long as you believe in yourself.)

Nico: (Not just yourself either. Trust in the people by your side too.)

Nozomi: (Do so, and the stars of premonition will fall upon your chest...)

Granddaughter: ...!

A memory unbidden suddenly comes to mind.

Granddaughter: ...!

The scene remains vivid despite all the time that has passed.

Granddaughter: Wow... I never knew music like this existed...

She recalls the day that all nine members of μ's visited Port Breeze for the first time.

Granddaughter: I also...

Granddaughter: I also want to give it a try!

The words that escaped her so naturally were surprising, even to herself.

Maid: Quite a performance. I can see why they captivate you so.

Granddaughter: Wha... Are you spying on me for Grandmother?

Maid: Not at all. I merely came to observe the activity which you so desire to do yourself.

Granddaughter: ...!

Maid: Let me know if there's anything I can do to help you along. My job as a maid wouldn't allow for less.

Inn Attendant: They're so incredible... I hope I can be like them someday.

Inn Attendant: Those "stars of premonition" though...

The inn attendant glances toward the girl by her side.

Inn Attendant: U-um...

Granddaughter: Huh? Do you want something?

Inn Attendant: Yeah! If... you wouldn't mind... do you want to be school idols together—

???: That's enough! Cut the music and get off the stage! This concert is over!

Confused murmurs ripple through the throngs of people as armed soldiers burst onto the scene.

Nico: The heck? What's the big idea?

The cheerful music is quickly shut off.

As the soldiers clear out the audience, the perpetrator behind the interference reveals herself.

Director: What a shame. To think this disorderly display is what you call your true music.

Nozomi: Are you the one who ordered those soldiers here?

Director: Of course. Only my private army can get the job done right, after all.

Nico: Hey! Who gave you permission to rain on our parade, huh?

Director: I should ask you the same thing. Your disturbance has clogged the way to the surrounding businesses.

Puzzled, the idols watch as an enraged figure squeezes through the crowd.

Merchant: What is the meaning of this commotion! Can't you see I'm trying to put food on the table here!

The merchant gestures at the cargo-bearing wagons that litter the street, all stranded among the waves of people.

Director: I'm afraid you've forced my hand by causing trouble for the local economy.

Eli: I'm sorry... I should've accounted for the congestion.

Athena: No... The blame lies with us. You had your hands full on stage, but we couldn't move fast enough to deal with the issue.

Director: The mayor and I had a little chat, and we've come to a decision to prevent further incidents.

Director: Henceforth, all school idol concerts are banned from this town!

Lyria: No way... All of them?

Director: Of course. They brought this upon themselves.

Eli: ...

Eli: Our sincerest apologies for the trouble we've caused. I understand the gravity of the mistake we've made, and I am truly sorry.

Eli: But this is our mistake, and our mistake only. Please, reconsider the ban! Other school idols don't deserve to be punished too!

Director: Reconsider? Don't make me laugh. You should be grateful you weren't thrown in jail.

Eli: B-but...

Director: You've proved to me that school idols are nothing but a nuisance—children playing at the performing arts.

Director: Do yourself a favor and leave this town. Farewell, μ's.

Nico: A concert ban... What're we going to do about the competition then?

Nozomi: We'll have to pack up and go elsewhere, but news of what happened here is going to spread.

Eli: So... Anyone have any ideas?

Silence answers Eli's question as the group watches the director walk away.

Third-Years: Find out what happens next time on Our Way Forward! Level 100 edition!