Love Live!: SHATTER [PART 9]

FULL CiRCLE - FINALE:

*RECEPTION AREA - CiRCLE - SHINJUKU - TOKYO*

Phew... What a day!

I push through the double doors of the studio, the upbeat echoes of Poppin'Party's 'Tokimeki Experience' still ring in my head.

It's been a long day meeting all seven bands, but fulfilling. Pretty successful overall, I've got a lot of advice from some great bands that should really help me with my training.

But, anyone can receive advice. It's actually putting it into action that defines us.

I climb the stairs to the reception area, my notebook still tucked away in my jacket pocket, ready to head out.

CiRCLE feels much more familiar to me now. I wonder if they let school idols perform here? That would be cool.

However, it would be stupid of me to leave without thanking the woman who worked hard to make this all happen.

Reaching the top of the stairwell, I notice Marina is busy talking to a group of girls.

Five, let the rest of today's bands. Another...perhaps?

One with short dark hair looking all shy and fidgety, a pink-haired one waving her hands energetically, a long-haired girl speaking politely but with an edge, a tall one scowling with her arms crossed, and a quirky white-haired girl staring off like she's in her own world.

Hm... I should maybe hang back a little and maybe see if I could talk to them.

Are they another band hustling for a spot?

ANON: "Come on, Marina-san! We've been practicing non-stop. Just one slot tonight, please? We need this!"

SOYO: "Yes, it would mean a lot. We're ready to perform. Surely there's something available?"

Marina shook her head, flipping through her schedule book, I can see the apology forming in her eyes.