BanG Dream: The Unexpected Part-Timer

Poppipa's Greatest Disaster

I yawned as I settled into the chair behind the reception desk, my phone playing artcore music in the background.

A familiar group entered the live house with radiant smiles.

"Nakasone-kun! Hello!" Kasumi greeted enthusiastically.

"Oh, Toyama-san... Hello," I replied.

Saaya peered at my phone. "What are you listening to?"

"Just some music... Anyway, are you guys here for your usual practice?"

The Poppin'Party members exchanged glances and nodded. Kasumi stepped forward, her eyes shining with excitement.

"We actually want to create a new song before the summer vacation ends!"

Arisa chimed in, "Plus, there are only three weeks left."

"Compose, huh..." I mused.

To compose a song, you need to be adept at writing catchy melodies and drawing inspiration from various sources.

Chord theory, including popular chord progressions, was crucial, as was understanding harmonization. One also had to dive into phrasing, dynamics, and rhythm to craft a well-rounded song.

I couldn't help but look forward to their new creation.

I smiled at them, saying, "Alright then, I'm looking forward to the song~"

"Yeah! It'll be easy peasy!" Kasumi exclaimed.

"Easy indeed," Hanazono added.

"Y-Yeah, good luck, Poppin'Party."

With their determination and enthusiasm, I knew they'd create something special.

The group nodded and made their way to the lobby to start working on their new song. I watched them go, appreciating their dedication.

The Poppin'Party members exited the live house after a two-hour

bidding me farewell.

"Goodbye, Nakasone-kun!"

"Yeah~ See ya!"

This had become a sort of cycle, as they'd been repeating this pattern for the past week. I couldn't help but wonder what was going on with them. Were they facing challenges in creating their new song?

Two days later, they returned with Kasumi greeting me cheerfully.

"Hello again!~"

And the pattern continued:

"See you tomorrow!" Kasumi waved as they left.

This had become their daily routine. It was clear that they were putting their hearts and souls into this project.

However, their exhaustion was starting to show. Bags had formed under their eyes, a clear sign of the toll their intense practice was taking.

Marina leaned in close and whispered in my ear, "How about helping them?"

I whispered back, "Me? How can I help?"

She smiled and replied, "It's up to you. You seem eager to help, though."

I glanced at the weary Poppin'Party members. "Alright..."

Leaving the reception desk, I faced the group.

"Everyone, listen up."

They turned their tired eyes toward me, although Hanazono appeared slightly sleepy.

"Can I join you and help with your problem?"

"Eh?" Kasumi exclaimed, grabbing both my hands. "Really!?"

Where did she find this sudden burst of energy?

"Yes, I'll help. I won't get in the way, but I can offer hints or suggestions."

"That's perfectly fine!" Kasumi shook my hand vigorously.

"Then it's settled."

Kasumi's excitement was palpable as she released my hand.

"Kasumi-chan seems to be having fun," Rimi whispered to Saaya.

"Hehe, you're right," Saaya whispered back.

"Thank you, Nakasone-kun!~"

"Y-Yeah," I replied, smiling awkwardly.

Kasumi finally let go of my arm.

I cleared my throat. "Alright, first things first. You all need some rest. We'll meet here tomorrow."

"Okay!~"

And so, I agreed to help them create a new song for the summer vacation, starting the next day.
I should start working on how to help them and guide them.

For some reason, I feel like a producer helping a band.

"Haha... As if."

As I was about to return to my place behind the reception desk, Kasumi hurried in, panting.

"Nakasone-kun, wait..." She gasped between breaths.

"T-Toyama-san? Didn't I tell you to go rest?"

"Y-Yeah, but there's something I want to ask!"

I tilted my head slightly, walking closer. "What is it?"

"Your email."

"O-oh..."

I retrieved my phone, and we exchanged email addresses. But for some reason, I felt a nervous tremor.

"Okay, Nakasone... Just because this is your first time exchanging contact information with a girl doesn't mean you should be shaking...!"

I gave myself a mental pep talk to calm my nerves. "Yeah, that's right, me... Calm down and stay cool."

"Haha~ Thank you!~" Kasumi smiled and turned around. "See ya tomorrow!"

"Y-Yeah."

Kasumi dashed back to her friends.

Uwah... That smile of hers is too much for my heart to handle.