The Undying Voice |『 Female OC 』• Oshi no Ko

Verse 10: Contest's Captivating Cadence

The late afternoon sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the bustling streets of Shinjuku. The energy in the air was palpable, a mix of excitement and nerves as the local music contest loomed just hours away.

Umeko walked beside Etnia and Anya, the three friends making their way toward the venue where the contest would occur. The anticipation in the air was palpable, with groups of contestants and their supporters milling around the entrance to the community center. The venue, usually quiet and unassuming, had been transformed into a buzzing hive of activity.

As they neared the entrance, Umeko's eyes widened, and she caught sight of several upcoming artists she recognised from online platforms and small local gigs. Her gaze flicked from one face to another, each bringing a spark of recognition. "Isn't that Yuuta Sato!?" she asked, looking at Etnia, who nodded.

Then, Umeko gasped softly. "And over there! That's Yuno Akihiro! He is a real rockstar!" she added, spotting a boy leaning casually against the wall, his electric guitar slung over his shoulder as he talked to another contestant.

She had only ever seen them online or heard their music through her headphones, and now they were here, in the same space, ready to compete. Beside her, Etnia, who was already used to Umeko's habit of marvelling at her surroundings, flashed a reassuring smile.

"Umeko, you're going to be fine," she reassured, her voice warm with affection. Then, she held her friend's hand. "You've been practising non-stop. So don't be nervous," added Etnia, fully aware of Umeko's usual pre-performance doubts.

Umeko shook her head, a faint blush creeping up her cheeks. "I'm not nervous," she said quickly, though her voice betrayed a hint of unease. "It's just...well, seeing all these amazing artists is a bit overwhelming," she admitted.

"You belong here just as much as they do," said Anya, placing a comforting hand on Umeko's shoulder. "But you are definitely nervous," she said, making Umeko lower her head in embarrassment. "But that's good, though..." she paused, making Umeko look at her.

When she did, Umeko saw Anya handing her a pocky. "It means you will be alright out there as soon as you start performing," said Anya. Umeko accepted the pocky stick with a small, grateful smile. "Thanks," she mumbled, feeling her cheeks grow warmer under the gentle teasing.

They knew her too well, and despite her attempts to appear calm and collected, her friends could always see right through her. The truth was, no matter how much she prepared, stepping onto a stage always brought a mix of excitement and nerves that were impossible to shake.

Before she could think on her nerves any longer, a voice called out from behind them. "Hey, aren't you the girl from Dual Echo?" the person asked, making the trio turn toward it.

They saw a small group of three approaching them. The group consisted of two boys and a girl, all around the same age. The boy who had spoken had short, spiky black hair and a leather jacket that gave him a somewhat rebellious look.

He was flanked by a girl with soft, wavy brown hair tied into a ponytail and another boy, taller and lanky, with his hands stuffed into the pockets of his hoodie.