The Story We Realize With You

HAPPY PARTY TRAIN TOUR - First Stop, Nagoya

Day Before Production (Rehearsal)

We arrived at the venue fairly early... 7am, to be exact. But, we hadn't seen the stage yet. We were directed to go to the studio backstage. On our way there, I stepped over to Nanaka-san.

"Nanaka-san."

"What is it, Kurisu-chan?"

"Are you sure..." I couldn't find the words.

"Mm?"

"Are you sure... you're prepared? I mean... it's the day before the show, and you're rehearsing now?" She pursed her lips and shrugged.

"Well, some of our schedules can get crazy, but we manage things like choreography, with the members we have on hand. 'Cause, y'know, some of us have activities outside of Aqours." I nodded, understanding. "Look at Arisa." She smirked. "You've done your research on her, I bet." I blushed. Needless to say, Arisa-san does have her share of a packed schedule. "All those photoshoots of hers are bound to tire her out." I nodded again.

"That's true." I peered down. "I just assumed that for something this big, you would have more preparation."

"It can't be helped, really."

She's right. I can't question their methods. I'm in no position to question how they do things as a group.

We finally reached the studio, and I peeked inside. It was incredibly spacious! Though, there were still some things being moved around. Anju-san passed by me, and opened the door.

"Ohayougozaimasu!" she greeted. Minutes pass, and the girls lined up to introduce themselves to the rest of the staff. Rikako-san was the last to introduce herself. I kept my eyes on Rachel as she translated.

"Good morning, I'm the voice of Sakurauchi Riko, Aida Rikako. It's nice to meet you all." She gave a bow, and everyone gave their respects. I shyly stepped back before Rikako-san patted my back. "You're next, Kurisu-chan!" she whispered. I blew a breath before slowly stepping forward.

"Good morning, uhm..." I was at a loss for words, before Rikako-san nudged me.

"We've already briefed everyone on why you're here, so you just have to say your name." She gave a wink, as I sighed softly.

"Good morning. My name is Krystal Rodgers. I'll be in your care today, everyone!" I bowed, and heard everyone give their respects. I stood up straight before blowing a quick breath. Leo moved on to his introduction.

"Hello, everyone. I'm accompanying Krystal here, and my name is Leo. It's nice to meet all of you." He bowed, before turning it over to Rachel, who introduced herself in fluent Japanese. She gave a bow, and everyone said their respects. One of the choreographers stepped up and clapped.

"Alright, everyone. Let's get started with the first song on the setlist." The setlist was taped up on one of the walls of the studio. Leo and I looked at each other, smiling. The first number on the setlist was "HAPPY PARTY TRAIN."

All of their concerts in Nagoya, Kobe and Saitama are two whole days. Here's what the setlist was for Day One in Nagoya.

HAPPY PARTY TRAIN

Pops heart de Odorun damon!

MC 1

Shoujo Ijou no Koi ga Shitai

Sora mo Kokoro mo Hareru kara

Waku-Waku-Week!

G Senjou no Cinderella

MC 2

Koi ni Naritai AQUARIUM

MC 3

Thrilling・ One Way

Kinmirai Happy End

MC 4

Kaigandoori de Matteru yo

GALAXY HidE and SeeK

MC 5

INNOCENT BIRD

Kowareyasuki

MC 6

Shadow gate to love

Aozora Jumping Heart

SKY JOURNEY

MC 7

Kimi no Kokoro wa Kagayaiteru kai?

ENCORE

Sunshine Pikkapika Ondo

MC 8

Taiyou o Oikakero!

It was certainly a jam-packed setlist. But, I was really looking forward to seeing all the songs live!

I could slowly feel my stomach turning.

Why am I suddenly so nervous? It's not like I'm the one performing!

I gazed at everyone as they practiced the choreography.

Maybe it's because I understand, as a performer, what it's like to prepare for a show. The nerves don't leave you until you actually step onstage. The nerves come and go. But, in the end, it's all worth it.

I smiled softly at the thought.

I've always thought that one of the many reasons why I love this group is because I'm in the same age group as them. So, I feel a bit of a bond with them, I suppose. I find myself smiling like a complete idiot when I think of that.

I hadn't realized about two hours had passed since rehearsals began.

"Ku-ri-su-chaan!" Since I was sitting against the mirror, Anju-san crouched down to my level.

"Eh?!" I squeaked. She giggled.

"Everyone's taking a break," she said, nodding towards the other members. "There are some snacks in the hall outside, so come grab some with me!" Rachel translated her, and I smiled as she offered her hand.

"Sure!" She helped me up.

"Oh, and you're free to call us by our nicknames, if you want!" I raised my eyebrows.

"Is it really okay?"

"Of course, it's okay!" she replied, nodding. "Right, guys?" The rest of the girls nodded. I blushed.

"Th-Then, I will... An-chan!" She giggled and placed a hand on my shoulder.

"That's better!" Shukashuu came up to me.

"We were wondering why you addressed all of us with '-san', even though some of us are pretty much the same age as you; felt kinda weird." I scratched the back of my head, sheepishly.

"Hehe, sorry. I just... wanted to be respectful."

"Stop with the formalities!" Rikyako said, patting my back. "We're all friends here, right?" she added, giving a wink. I blushed.

"R-Right... Rikyako."

So, from that point on, Leo and I called them by their nicknames.

An-chan. Rikyako. Shukashuu. Suwawa. Aiai. Ainya. Aikyan. King.

"Arisa-san—" I bit my tongue, remembering that I'm supposed to say her nickname. She furrowed her brow, as I tried again. "Arisa—" C'mon, Krys! Get it right! It's Arisha! I groaned. She laughed.

"I guess I'm the only one that you can't seem to address by her nickname, huh?" I peered down.

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be! In fact, I feel kinda special knowing that you have such respect for me." That wasn't a lie.

"I do. I actually... look up to you, in a way." She chuckled.

"Well, I'm glad you have someone to look up to in the group." She lent a soft smile. "I look forward to hanging out with you more, Kurisu-chan!" I smiled.

"So do I!"