564

The weight of expectation bore down on me, and I couldn't help but feel the pressure of performing in front of an audience.

As the curtain began to rise, the bright lights of the auditorium flooded the stage, illuminating the instruments and the small ensemble of performers. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my racing heart. The audience's murmurs faded into silence, and I could feel their eyes on us, waiting for the music to begin.

Matsuyukine leaned closer, her presence grounding me even as my nerves threatened to overwhelm me. "Remember, just follow my lead," she whispered, her voice calm and steady. "You've got this."

I nodded, though I wasn't sure I fully believed it. I could see her teammates exchanging glances, their expressions a mix of concern and encouragement. I felt a sense of unity among us, bound by the shared goal of delivering a beautiful performance.