ラブライブの続きを勝手に考えてみる EP -000 ②（3）

Eri Ayase, having graduated from high school just a few weeks ago, now appears more mature than before.

Already taller and more mature-looking than her peers in high school, Eri's suited appearance and well-done makeup today only accentuate her beauty as an adult woman.

She exuded a different charm than when she was a school idol.

Beside Eri, Yukiho happily chatted with Arisa, both seeming to enjoy themselves immensely.

Eri, watching the two of them with a pleased smile, was content.

Though it was still quite early, the three headed towards the gymnasium where the entrance ceremony was to be held.

However, as a former member of μ's, Eri was too famous. Many new students recognized her, forming a line to ask for autographs and photos.

Eri, no longer a part of μ's, obliged them all without a hint of annoyance, responding amicably.

Arisa, watching her sister, couldn't help but admire her. She had told Eri directly how impressive she was, but the response was always the same: "We just did what we loved with all our hearts."

Even after becoming famous and popular, Eri never became arrogant, remaining true to herself and her desires. Arisa admired and aspired to be like her sister, who was more than just a sibling to her.

Inspired by μ's and her sister's role in it, Arisa had enrolled in Otonokizaka Academy. But μ's was no more, having disbanded after their last school idol live in March.

So Arisa decided to aim to be a school idol just as good as μ's.

As the autograph line dwindled, a relieved Eri murmured, "We still have some time before the ceremony. Maybe I'll take a little tour of the school."

Okay. Then I'll go ahead with Yukiho. See you later.

Eri had only meant to mutter to herself, but Arisa heard her clearly.

Blushing slightly, Eri smiled and waved goodbye to her sister and friend.

Otonokizaka Academy's campus was significantly larger than other schools in Tokyo. Even with just six classes and less than 200 students last year, it was spacious enough to feel almost empty.

It was a situation that could have easily led to the school's closure.

One of Otonokizaka's distinguishing features was its large playground behind the school building, as big as a 400m track field and, unusually, even equipped with spectator stands.

Another unique aspect was the abundance of animals. From small creatures like rabbits and guinea pigs to birds, goats, and sheep, it was almost like a small zoo.

Among them, the alpacas were particularly special. It's rare to see such animals outside of a zoo, but Otonokizaka was home to them. And now, they were even considering adding capybaras.

The school opened its animal enclosures to local families with small children, making it a popular spot known as the Otonokizaka Zoo.

Eri walked around the schoolyard and animal enclosures, eventually reaching the entrance of the school building. There was still more than half an hour before the ceremony.

The thought of not coming back to the school she had attended every day for rehearsals made Eri feel a bit sad.

I'm an outsider now. I wonder if it's okay to just wander around inside... Wouldn't that be trespassing?

Though she thought this, her body was already moving, and she found herself walking inside the school. Before she knew it, her feet had led her to the rooftop.

Standing in front of the rooftop door, Eri paused and closed her eyes, lost in thought.

("It was Rin who pushed me forward when I hesitated in front of this door...") Opening her eyes, Eri stepped onto the rooftop.

It was empty, quiet, a place where not even a sound could be heard.

("This is where it all began for me...")

Though the rooftop was silent, Eri could see the past in her mind's eye.

Nico and Maki always arguing, Umi scolding Honoka for eating sweets during practice breaks, and Kotori smoothing things over.

Rin and Hanayo playing together, Nozomi comforting her, and herself enjoying every moment.

Those happy days with all nine members of μ's were vivid in Eri's memory.

Scenes that were once everyday occurrences now felt like precious treasures lost to time.

Tears welled up in her eyes.

Thank you, everyone. I love you all.

Alone on the rooftop, Eri found herself whispering these words.

("This place holds precious memories for us... I'll never forget.")

After spending some time on the rooftop, Eri　left with a smile, thanking the place that had meant so much to her.

During her days at Otonokizaka, she hadn't paid much attention to the school's surroundings, but now, looking at it afresh, she realized its historical significance. The stairs, the corridors, everything felt charmingly old.

The bulletin board in the hallway displayed notices from the student council and the school newspaper. All of it felt nostalgic to Eri. When she reached the door of the School Idol Club room, she paused again.

Originally the Idol Research Club's room, with Nico as its sole member, it had merged with the School Idol Club, formed around Honoka　to become a central place for μ's' activities.

("I was the last to join as a member. We held meetings and chatted here. This place is also precious to me...")

Since it was the day of the entrance ceremony, Eri assumed the club room would be locked, but to her surprise, the door was open.

Wondering if someone was inside, she opened the door, only to find it empty. Likely, someone had forgotten to lock it.

Those kids are always so careless, she said with a chuckle, stepping inside without hesitation.