Chapter 46 Hoshikawa Kurumi's Past (2)

Hoshikawa Kurumi’s Past (2)

From the next day, the three of us second-generation members began rigorous lessons. We gathered in the studio and immersed ourselves in intensive training, starting from the basics, determined to catch up with the senior Luminous Stars members.

The vocal trainer began the session seated at the piano, guiding us through basic scale exercises. Shiori-chan led the group, her clear voice flowing effortlessly through the scales. Each note she sang harmonized perfectly with the piano, a testament to her musical background. Having perfect pitch, her accuracy and tone were impeccable.

After the vocal lesson, we transitioned to dance practice. Thanks to my prior experience, I picked up the choreography relatively quickly.

Shiori-chan and Kanade-chan, however, were new to dancing. They struggled, especially with the more intricate steps and faster rhythms. Watching their earnest efforts, I resolved to help them however I could.

The next two weeks were intense. While the beginning was marked by missteps and frustration, Shiori-chan and Kanade-chan gradually improved. By the end of our training, they could execute the choreography competently. Witnessing their growth filled me with joy and pride.

After these grueling individual lessons in singing and dancing, a major shift occurred in our routine.

“Starting tomorrow, joint lessons with the first-generation members will begin. Let’s give it our all and build on what we’ve practiced so far!”

Hearing those words sparked a mix of emotions—excitement and a nervous thrill. Judging by Shiori-chan and Kanade-chan’s expressions, they felt the same. For us, who had spent two weeks mastering the basics, this marked the start of a significant challenge: being directly compared to the first-generation members.

—The next day.

The much-anticipated joint lesson day arrived. As we waited in the studio, the seven first-generation members of Luminous Stars walked in, their presence overwhelming. For a moment, we second-generation members were frozen in awe.

Summoning my courage, I stepped forward to represent our group.

“From today, we are joining Luminous Stars as second-generation members. We look forward to working with you!”

Then, Amamiya Haruka-san, the first-generation leader, stepped forward. Her short black hair framed her refined features, and her dignified gaze left me captivated.

A real idol… Her presence is incredible!

Haruka-san radiated a calm and gentle aura, her kind smile easing some of our nervousness.

“Hello, I’m Amamiya Haruka. I’ve been looking forward to meeting the second-generation members. We’re still growing too, so let’s work together to create amazing performances. If there’s anything you don’t understand, don’t hesitate to ask.”

Among us, Shiori-chan seemed the most excited. I noticed her softly gasp, her hands trembling slightly. Of course—she had mentioned being a fan of Haruka-san. Meanwhile, Kanade-chan’s gaze was fixed on another member, Amane-chan, the group’s ace. She once told me that someone she admired looked up to Amane-chan, so this moment must have meant a lot to her.

With introductions done, we moved straight into the joint lesson.

“One, two, three, four!”

The stark difference in skill levels between us and the first-generation members became apparent as soon as the lesson began.

Their movements were sharp and precise, reflecting their extensive stage experience. Although we second-generation members worked tirelessly to keep up, the gap in skill was undeniable.

I didn’t realize the difference was this big…

“Shirasaki, speed up a little. Your rhythm is lagging.”

The trainer directed this to Kanade-chan, who nodded with a flustered expression and quickly adjusted her movements to match the advice. Meanwhile, Shiori-chan made a mistake during the positioning drill and ended up moving in the opposite direction of the group.

“Shiori-chan, over here, over here.” A senior member kindly called out, guiding her back to the correct position.

With every small mistake, we grew acutely aware of how challenging joint lessons were compared to solo practices. The first-generation members’ speed, precision, and natural stage presence were at a level we could only aspire to reach.

By the end of the lesson, we were drained but had gained invaluable insights.

During the break, we second-generation members instinctively gathered in a corner of the studio. Covered in sweat, everyone looked anxious.

“Sigh, my dancing was worse than I thought…”

Kanade-chan sighed, voicing her frustration. Shiori-chan nodded, adding her thoughts,

“I’m completely holding the seniors back. I need to perfect my positioning as soon as possible…”

Their serious expressions showed how deeply they were affected…

Wanting to lighten the mood, I decided to act cheerful.

“Don’t worry, Shiori-chan, Kanade-chan. You’ll both improve from now on. Everyone struggles at first!”

“But Kurumi-chan, you’re keeping up just fine, aren’t you? You’re amazing, Kurumi-chan.”

The unexpected compliment made me blush, but deep down, I felt genuinely happy.

“Do you think so? I’m just trying desperately to keep up.”

After the lesson, as I caught my breath, drenched in sweat, I suddenly heard a voice behind me. Turning around, I saw Haruka-san, the first-generation leader, standing there.

“Kurumi-chan, how are you holding up?”

Her presence took me by surprise, and I braced myself, unsure of what she might say. To my relief, it turned out to be a casual conversation.

“Um, I still have a lot to work on, especially my dancing. Kanade-chan, Shiori-chan, and I were just discussing how we’ll all need to push harder together.”

“I see. From what I’ve observed, you seem to have some extra capacity, Kurumi-chan. Right now, you’re the most capable among the three of you. I hope you can help support Shiori-chan and Kanade-chan.”

Hearing those words, my face heated up. Haruka-san’s direct praise caught me off guard, leaving me momentarily speechless.

“Y-yes! I’ll do my best and work even harder!”

Her words became a profound source of encouragement for me. They bolstered my confidence, making me feel like I could guide my fellow second-generation members.

From that day onward, I carried Haruka-san’s advice close to my heart, becoming more proactive in supporting Shiori-chan and Kanade-chan.

“Shiori-chan, for this step, try extending your legs a little more. It’ll make the movement look much more graceful.”

During practice, I stood beside Shiori-chan, guiding her step by step.

I gave similar advice to Kanade-chan as well.

“Kanade-chan, for that turn, try spinning more confidently and make it bigger.”

“Okay, got it!”

Kanade-chan nodded and immediately incorporated the feedback. I could see her latent potential beginning to shine.

Kanade-chan’s dedication was undeniable. She often stayed behind after lessons for extra practice, her unwavering determination evident in her eyes.

I had dreams of aiming for the center position someday, but I felt that goal was still out of reach. Competing with someone as talented as Amane-chan seemed daunting. However, Kanade-chan appeared to genuinely aspire for that role.

Over time, Kanade-chan’s progress became unmistakable. Her singing and dancing grew more polished, her movements more refined and captivating.

One day during practice, Kanade-chan was assigned a solo part. Her flawless performance left everyone in awe.

That moment marked a turning point for her—Kanade-chan’s awakening as an idol.

Watching her, I realized something profound.

Kanade-chan wasn’t just skilled—she was a genius. Her natural aptitude as an idol was on an entirely different level, setting her apart in a way I or anyone else could only admire.

Among us second-generation members, Shiori-chan undoubtedly excelled in singing, while I believed my strength lay in dancing.

But Kanade-chan possessed something beyond raw skill—she had the talent and charisma of a true idol.

Her charm effortlessly drew people in, and her overwhelming stage presence captivated audiences. She wasn’t just cute; she had an aura and star quality that couldn’t be ignored.

Before I knew it, Kanade-chan had surged ahead, leaving me behind.