BanG Dream: The Unexpected Part-Timer

The Sudden Chills from Afterglow

The classroom was abuzz with whispers and chatter when I returned after the event with Roselia. It didn't take long for the boys to corner me. Soumei, in particular, was quite persistent.

"Now then, Nakasone-kun, you can't escape this time," he said, a determined look in his eyes. "Tell me, what's your deal with Roselia?"

I sighed, feeling like this question had already been asked and answered a dozen times. "Look, I've told you guys, there's no special deal. I'm just an acquaintance. I don't have any secret connection with them or anything."

But Soumei wasn't convinced. He leaned in closer and asked, "Nakasone-kun, seriously, tell me about your relationship with Yukina Minato."

"Eh? Soumei-san, what's with the teary eyes?"

I couldn't help but chuckle.

Because! I got false hope!" Soumei's voice cracked with mock despair. "I thought Yukina Minato would recognize me, but instead, she asked me who I am and how I got the ticket!"

I couldn't help but feel a little guilty about Soumei's dashed hopes.

"I... I'm sorry. But I told you, it's not what you think."

Soumei wiped away his faux tears and managed a smile. "Well, if you say so, I'll trust you for now."

His sudden change in topic caught me off guard. "Wait, what do you mean?"

With a sly grin, he leaned in closer and said, "I mean... you're still single, right?"

Before I could react, his friend chimed in, "We'll be the virgin squad!"

I sighed. "Dude, do whatever you want."

The school days sped by, and before I knew it, it was the end of the school day. I grabbed my backpack and headed to the CirCLE, ready for another day of work.

As I entered CirCLE, the bustling scene in the cafe surprised me. It was unusual to see it packed with customers on a regular day, only reserved for special events.

"Good evening, Marina-san," I greeted the busy manager.

"Ohh, Nakasone-kun! Welcome! Do you mind taking care of the cafe for me tonight?" Marina-san asked, appearing a little frazzled.

I raised an eyebrow, glancing at the crowded cafe. "Sure, but why's it so packed suddenly?"

Marina-san leaned closer and whispered, "Afterglow is performing tonight."

"Really? I had no idea."

"They'll be doing these songs," she added, handing me a sheet of paper. I scanned it briefly.

Three songs were listed:

- Punchline Halloween
- Easy come, Easy go!
- Venom

"Oh, interesting," I muttered.

"Ah, Nakasone-kun, before anything else, can you please help out at the cafe?" Marina-san requested urgently.

My eyes widened, and I quickly replied, "Of course, I'll get right to it! Let me change into my uniform."

I rushed to the staff room to change and then headed to the cafe to assist, all the while keeping an eye on the entrance for Afterglow's arrival.

As I continued serving the customers, my attention was caught by the arrival of Afterglow.

"It's about to start," I murmured, stealing a glance at Marina-san, who seemed to be struggling with the influx of tickets.

I couldn't help but feel a bit concerned for her.

She'll be fine... right?

Time passed swiftly, and as the cafe gradually calmed down, the patrons trickled into CirCLE for the live concert.

I made my way back into CirCLE and approached Marina-san. "Good work, Marina-san," I said with a smile.

"Y-Yeah... Good work to you too, Nakasone-kun," she replied, clearly exhausted from the rush.

"Marina-san, do you think I could catch some of the concert?"

Marina-san looked at me and nodded. "Sure, Nakasone-kun, but please come back."

I gave a quick nod and made my way into the studio. As I entered, a rush of excitement and music hit me like a tidal wave.

Their songs have that feeling of intensity and at the same time, it still feels, the Guitar part in the Intro, and Ran's vocals in there too.

Is this the first song? What was the song name again?! Punchline Halloween

After finishing "Punchline Halloween," Ran took the mic and announced the next song: "Easy Come, Easy Go!!"

The crowd erupted with excitement as the second song began. The instruments came to life, with the drums, guitar, and vocals merging together in a powerful harmony that had the audience enthralled.

the song is like a hype in a chill way, It gives an upbeat and chill mood. A catchy and uplifting song that is fun to listen to and can help lift my mood.

After another electrifying performance of "Easy come, Easy go!!," the crowd was clearly loving every moment.

As the song concluded, Ran addressed the audience with excitement, "Last song, 'Venom'!"

The song "Venom" kicked off with an intense intro, showcasing the guitarist and drummer working in perfect harmony. The bass added a solid foundation to the heavy guitars, creating a pulsating rhythm that reverberated through the audience.

Ran's powerful vocals pierced through the musical intensity, adding to the overall sensation of urgency.

The rapid beats of the song, likely around 150-160 BPM, kept the energy high and made it impossible for anyone in the crowd to stand still.

The fusion of rock instruments like heavy guitars and drums with synth sounds crafted a distinctive and captivating soundscape, evoking a mysterious atmosphere.

The robust riffs and compelling vocals urged the audience to headbang along, immersing them in the music.

The combination of these elements made for an outstanding and immersive listening experience.

After the electrifying performance of "Venom," the crowd erupted into applause. Ran, the band's vocalist, took the microphone and introduced herself, followed by her bandmates.

"My name is Ran Mitake, the vocalist of Afterglow!" Ran announced.

"Moca Aoba, Afterglow's guitarist," Moca followed, with her usual laid-back style.

"Himari Uehara, Afterglow's bass", introduced herself with a bright smile.

"Tomoe Udagawa Afterglow's drummer!"

"Tsugumi Hazawa, the Afterglow's keyboardist!"

"We are Afterglow!" they declared in unison, to the cheers and applause of the audience. After their introduction, they exited the stage, leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement.

It was a chilling performance.