章 58: Sound Changes I

We all stepped out of the green room and walked down the hallway. The girls wouldn't stop chit-chatting in excitement until we reached the intersection between the entrance and the stage. We turned right and they became completely silent. The light gradually dimmed as we continued our walk towards the backstage area. I glanced back over my shoulder to see their eyes move around frantically in all directions.

We arrived backstage and climbed the stairs onto the platform, which had been almost cleared of all the boxes and tools. The girls ran past me—except for Umi—and their jaws dropped when they saw the empty court. The rest of us stood aside to let them enjoy the moment.

Risa swept tears from her eyes and Sanae squeezed her as soon as she noticed it. Astra joined the hug a second later.

Umi stood next to them and stared at the venue, not even blinking, with her hands closed into fists. Aki approached and placed her hand on Umi's shoulder.

"Are you alright?" Aki asked Umi.