With just two days left until the big concert, tensions were running high among the members of Morfonica. Their disagreement over a change in the song arrangement threatened to derail their performance.
As I observed from the sidelines, it became evident that if they didn't resolve their differences soon, it could spell disaster for their upcoming show.
I approached the Morfonica crew, their faces etched with concern and uncertainty. Clearing my throat, I commanded their attention with a firm yet reassuring tone.
"Listen up, everyone."
Their eyes turned to me, a mix of curiosity and apprehension dancing in their gazes.
It was now or never.
"Time's ticking, folks. We've got just two days left until the live concert hits, and we're nowhere near where we need to be."
Mashiro nodded in agreement, her expression reflecting the weight of the impending deadline.
"Exactly. And with that in mind, how about we streamline our efforts and focus on what's important?"
Futaba glanced uncertainly at Yashio and Touko, who seemed to be locked in a silent disagreement. "But Nakasone-senpai, they—"
"Nakasone-san has a point," Yashio interjected, her voice decisive. "Let's not dwell on this any longer than necessary. We need to get back to practicing."
Touko nodded in agreement, her expression still tense but determined. "She's right. We can't afford to waste any more time on this."
Looks like the two are on good terms when it comes to music.
With their consensus reached, the five of them returned to their instruments, ready to resume their practice. As they played, I listened intently, noting their strengths and areas for improvement.
It was clear that they were all talented musicians, each bringing their unique skills to the table. Until... Something bugged me.
"Huh? Hold on a second..."
I interjected, causing the Morfonica members to pause and turn their attention towards me.
"Uhm... Can I just ask what exactly is going on here?" I inquired, feeling a sense of confusion creeping in.
Mashiro looked at me with a worried expression. "W-what do you mean, Nakasone-san?"
"Well, it's just that... I'm a bit lost right now. Can someone please explain the actual problem to me?"
I thought Kirigaya-san was complaining about the changes in the second stanza?
The group exchanged glances, unsure of how to respond.
"The problem is that Yashio-san changed my part," Touko finally spoke up, her frustration evident in her voice.
"I see... But could you elaborate on what exactly makes that a problem?"
Touko sighed in exasperation. "The problem is that now I'm getting more of the spotlight during the second stanza. now I owe Rui something, duh!"
I rubbed my temples, feeling a headache coming on.
What...?! THATS IT!? THAT WAS THE PROBLEM!?
Touko's frustration boiled over. "This seriously sucks... I've spent my entire life avoiding owing anything to her..."
Yashio, maintaining her calm demeanor, responded, "You worry over the most trivial matters. I only wanted you to have the spotlight you desired."
"Alright, that's enough," I interjected before the two could continue their debate.
"Touko, aren't you supposed to be happy?" I prodded gently.
She hesitated before nodding. "Y-Yes, I am."
"Great! That's what I want to hear."
"But-"
"But?"
Touko seemed to want to say something but sighed instead.
I offered her a reassuring smile. "Well, if you want to change it back... How about asking the composer of Morfonica, Yashio, to revert it?"
"N-No! It's all good!"
"Then that's what I like to hear! By the way, there are only two days left, so everyone, please practice and don't push yourselves!"
They nodded in agreement as I made my exit.
In the lounge, the members of Morfonica exchanged glances.
"Nakasone-san sure knows how to handle bands," Futaba remarked.
"Maybe he's in a band too?" Nanami speculated, shooting a curious glance at her bandmates.
"Who knows?" Futaba shrugged, exchanging a puzzled look with Mashiro. "He seems to know what he's talking about, though."
"Anyway, he's right. Let's continue practicing," Yashio said, her voice calm and composed as she adjusted her violin.
"Alright!" Touko chimed in, her enthusiasm returning as they all settled back into their positions and resumed their rehearsal.
After a few minutes...
I returned to the rehearsal room, I found the Morfonica members taking a well-deserved break, chatting amiably and refreshing themselves with water.
"Hey, everyone," I greeted them with a smile, drawing their attention. "Good work out there."
Looks like it's doing well! I'm excited for their concert. The Angel's concert
Nanami's eyes lit up with gratitude. "Thanks, Nakasone-senpai!"
I waved off their thanks with a modest grin. "Ah, it was nothing. Just glad I could lend a hand."
Touko glanced up from her water bottle, her expression a mix of relief and something else I couldn't quite place.
"What's on your mind, Kirigaya-san? Is there something bothering you?"
Touko stood up abruptly and motioned for me to follow her. "May I... have a moment of your time?"
Woah... Kirigaya-san talking politely?! That's... RARE?!
"Of course," I replied, trailing after her as she led the way out of the rehearsal room and into the dressing area. Once inside, she locked the door behind us and turned to face me.
"Uhm... Kyocchi," she began, her voice tinged with hesitation.
"Yes?"
"I'm sorry for everything I've caused!" Touko bowed deeply, her words tumbling out in a rush.
I blinked in surprise. "Everything you've caused...? I don't recall you doing anything to cause trouble."
"It's because of me... I nearly drove the live concern to the brink of edge... because of my own actions..."
Huh? I see... So that's why...
I reached out and gently placed a hand on her shoulder, coaxing her to look up at me.
"What are you talking about, Touko?" I asked softly. "It's just a misunderstanding. You haven't done anything wrong."
Touko's eyes searched mine, filled with uncertainty. "But... still!"
"Listen," I said, offering her a reassuring smile. "Even if there was a misunderstanding, it's all in the past now. What's important is that we move forward together as a band, right?"
She hesitated for a moment before nodding slowly, a small smile beginning to form on her lips.
"Right," she agreed. "Thank you, Kyocchi."
As I unlocked the dressing room door and swung it open, I nearly collided with the rest of Morfonica, who were standing right outside.
"Touko-chan... Nakasone-senpai... what are you two doing?" Futaba's eyes narrowed as she fixed her gaze on Touko and me.
"Hm? Ahh~ I wonder~" Touko responded with a mischievous wink, earning a chuckle from me.
"We were just... having a chat," I answered, trying to diffuse the tension with a casual smile.
"A chat, huh?" Nanami raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical.
"Just a chat," Touko echoed, flashing her signature grin.
Nanami exchanged a knowing glance with the others before shrugging. "Alright then, let's get back to rehearsing."
With a collective nod, the group dispersed, and I watched as they returned to the rehearsal room. Turning to Touko, I raised an eyebrow. "You enjoy stirring up trouble, don't you?"
Touko simply laughed. "What can I say? It keeps things interesting!"
Are you gonna end my social life?