ONE MORE TIME

Hello, everyone,

and welcome to the Ark Cheerleading Championship!

Woohoo!

Even though this is just a preliminary game, a lot of people have come.

First of all, allow me to explain the judging criteria.

Each performance will last for a total of 3 minutes,

during which you'll show us how well you've prepared.

The scoring is out of 100 points,

and is broken down as follows:

Your own cheering: 50 points.

Audience engagement: 20 points.

Cheers from the audience: 20 points.

Tumbling: 10 points.

That may seem a bit strict,

but there's a reason for that.

That's because the team that takes home the win

won't only win a cash prize worth thousands of dollars,

but will also qualify to participate in the prestigious Ark Sports Festival next month!

You all know what an honor it is to perform at the Ark Sports Festival, right?

Wooohooo!

It's always nice to hear a crowd that's jazzed up!

Keep those cheers coming, because they comprise part of the judging criteria.

Raise your voices loud and clear for your favorite teams, you hear?

And with that, let's meet our first team!

Team Rewind, your performance starts in 5 minutes.

Please get ready.

Phew...

Are you ready, Clay?

Of course.

I've been ready since yesterday

I am a bit nervous though, since this is my first time being in a competition and all...

I've imagined participating in one of these for years,

but I never thought I would ever be part of Rewind!

Now I can die without any regrets.

...

Just remember what we practiced. I'll take care of the cheering.

You're in charge of engaging with the audience.

You got it! Leave it to me.

I'll try to reduce your stress by getting everyone's attention on me.

Thank you.

Um... so Bay...

do you still get nervous when people stare at you?

... Yes.

It's much better than before,

but it's still a bit difficult when someone fixates on me for too long.

I see...

...

...

... Why are you staring at me?

Hehe.

... Er.

Quit kidding around, will you?

I wasn't joking.

I was staring at you so that you'd get used to it,

but I'll stop now.

... Phew.

Let's just stick to the routine that we practiced.

If we do that, we should be able to pass the preliminaries easily.

...

We have to win first place in this competition.

Rewind's reputation hangs in the balance.

Hehe, sure thing. I'll do my best.

You're the main reason I joined this team,

but another factor was that I wanted to see Rewind back on the big stage again.

... Thank you for saying that.

All right, let's head out.

Wooooooo!

OMG, Clay is gorgeous!

Good luck today, Bay!

Phew...

Go! Go! Victory!

You Can Do It! Cheer Up!

Everyone, clap your hands!

Now raise them above your head,

and do the wave with me!

One, two... huh?

Whoops, I missed the beat...

Haha, that's okay! You're adorable!

All right, let's try that again.

One, two, three!

From the left!

Whoooo!

Now the right!

Whoooo!

Keep clapping those hands!

Let's go! Let's win this!

Everyone, shout it out with me: Keep Fighting!!

Keep Fighting!!

Bay is simply the best.

No one can beat her when it comes to cheerleading.

She has the natural charisma befitting a leader.

It's a shame that her reputation took a hit because of those nasty rumors a while back.

Not least of all because they turned out to be entirely fabricated.

It seems they've taken on a new member, Clay, is it?

Her technique is nothing to write home about, but her showmanship is commendable.

I believe she's been Bay's lifelong fan.

Ah, really?

Hmm.

But you know...

You did great out there, Clay.

You too!

I don't think we did half-bad today.

We got a good reaction from the crowd, and we didn't make any serious blunders.

I think so too.

I think we can expect a fairly high score.

Here's hoping!

After all, Rewind has never gotten anything less than 90 points.

... Right.

They're about to unveil the scores soon.

Here they are!

... Huh?

...

Bay...

Is something wrong with my eyes?

H-how can that be right?

... 65 points?

I can't believe this.

I've never received such a low score. I'm in shock.

Yeah... me too.

I never would have thought we'd get a score like that.

Which part do you think they didn't like?

Your cheers were perfect.

And your tumbling was spot on.

I'll try harder to engage the audience during the finals.

I'll put my best foot forward as well.

Hmm...

Hmm...

... Hmm?

Coach!?

How long have you been there?

Wow!

Coach, when did you come?

Why didn't you say anything?

Oh, really? Sorry.

I guess I didn't hear because I was talking to Clay.

Yes, and it's serious.

There's apparently something wrong with our cheerleading.

Have you heard of the Ark Cheerleading Championship?

It commenced today.

Really? Well, I'll give a short summary just to be safe.

It's a massive cheerleading competition held every spring

where all the cheerleader teams in the Ark get together.

It's divided into two main rounds: preliminaries and finals.

The five teams that pass the preliminaries advance to the finals,

and the team that finishes first is crowned the champions.

In addition to a massive cash prize, they're also given the opportunity to perform at the Ark Sports Festival.

Don't tell me you haven't heard of that either!

Well, in a nutshell, it's a big sports competition held in the Ark.

The scale is immense, and sports enthusiasts of all stripes participate.

Anyway.

Yes.

If you win the Cheerleading Championship, you can cheer as the main feature during the Ark Sports Festival.

That's why the competition is so fierce every year.

If you perform at the Ark Sports Festival,

it works wonders for your exposure.

In fact, it was there where Rewind got our first big break.

...

Of course, due to a series of unfortunate events, and my own hang-ups, Rewind's reputation has lost a bit of its luster.

Don't worry, Bay. We'll restore our reputation somehow.

You've always got me.

... Thank you.

That's why this competition was important to me.

I thought it would be a chance for us to lift ourselves out of the mire.

But...

During this preliminary round, we received the lowest score we've ever gotten.

We barely managed to progress to the next round.

If we don't step up in the finals,

we'll be eliminated for sure.

Two weeks.

You're right,

but the biggest issue right now

is that we don't know exactly what's wrong with our routine.

I have no idea what we're lacking.

This might come off as arrogant,

but I really don't think our performance was so bad as to warrant that low score.

That's why we came to ask you

to see our routine

and tell us in where we're falling short.

We figured you could be an objective third party.

Thank you.

Thanks!

We'll need more space to do our thing,

so why don't we head to the practice room?

Sometimes when you join a competition, they'll give you a special outfit.

But more often, we simply wear our team uniforms.

Have a seat.

This will give you a good vantage point to judge our performance.

Our cheering itself and our showmanship.

For the former, pay attention to how we incorporate stage performance into our dance routine.

For the latter, you have to see how well we engage with the audience and capture their attention.

Cheerleading is more than just waving a pair of pompoms around.

There is a lot that you have to think of.

Anyway,

you can consider yourself to be the stadium audience that's watching our routine.

Hehe.

I'm a bit nervous about cheerleading in front of you, Coach.

All right... let's begin.

Go! Go! Victory!

You Can Do It! Cheer Up!

Coach, hold my hand.

We'll do the wave together!

One, two... huh?

Hehe, whoops. Lost the beat.

Let's do that again. Starting from the left.

C'mon, say it like you mean it!

Haha,

I love the enthusiasm!

One more time!

Now raise your hands above your head and clap!

Let's do that again, with some cheering!

You can do it!

Are you ready, Bay?

Ready. You've got this.

All right!

Let's keep it up! We're gonna cheer until our voices are hoarse!

Everyone, focus on me.

V-I-C-T-O-R-Y! What's that spell? Victory!

Shout it with us: Victory!

Let's give a killer cheer now! For 3 whole seconds! Lemme hear you scream!

Whoa, the stadium is really fired up!

One more time!

Are you okay, Coach?

You're pouring sweat.

Hehe, let me wipe that sweat off for you.

So, in which area do you think we need improvement?

Don't hold back. I want to hear it all.

... Is it that bad?

...

No, I won't get hurt.

If I shy away from constructive criticism, I won't be able to grow.

I'm ready.

Oh boy oh jeez oh man.

I'm freaking out! I'm gonna stand behind Bay.

...

You make it sound like our routine was perfect.

...

Hmm...

While it's wonderful to hear compliments from you,

this only deepens the mystery as to why our score was so low.

I don't think the score could be wrong.

Other people? Like who?

Let me think...

Oh, I know someone who's perfect!

Phew!

It's like a sauna in here.

Can't you feel that, Epinel?

I think the temperature's rising.

I think it's exactly the same.

I don't know...

What do you say we install a few more AC units in here?

I don't think Rumani would allow it.

I can hear her turning us down now:

"You're meant to work up a sweat in the gym. Do you really need that many air conditioners?"

Whoa! It's like Rumani's right here talking to me!

Huh?

I feel a cool breeze coming from somewhere...

Coach?

Coach?

You must be why I felt that cool breeze come in.

Can I hug you for a bit?

Hello.

Hey, everyone.

Hey there.

What's up?

What brings you to the gym?

Are you here to exercise?

No.

As you know, the Ark Sports Festival is just around the corner.

She is training diligently in the Ark for this.

Speaking of sports competitions,

you two must be awfully busy right about now.

Oh right, isn't that cheerleading competition going on?

Right.

In fact, the reason we're here is to ask a favor regarding that.

Sure, what's up?

We were hoping you could take a gander at our routine and give us some feedback.

Why would you need our feedback?

Our team is in dire straits right now.

Sounds like you've got a serious problem on your hands.

I've followed Rewind throughout the years,

and I don't ever recall hearing a score that low either.

Of course.

Our squads both cheer each other on.

Epinel and I are diehard Rewind fans.

So you want us to watch you and point out anything we think needs improving?

Right.

We performed for Coach,

but he said there weren't any issues.

I'm not sure how much help we'll be, but we're more than happy to take a look.

If I could offer a suggestion from the jump, could you shake your pompoms a bit harder?

It creates a fantastic fanning effect.

All right, we'll start.

Wow, that was fantastic! You guys always knock it out of the park.

I always get so jazzed up watching you do your thing.

Hmm...

Something is missing...

You think so?

Actually,

I was thinking the same thing.

I also felt something was missing when watching your cheering.

I couldn't figure it out at first, but I think I've got it:

It might have to do with the lack of members in your team.

So you're saying we don't have enough members?

Yeah, I agree with Folkwang.

In a small space, the fact that it's just the two of you isn't a major deal,

but on a big stage, it does feel a bit underwhelming.

Huh, I never thought about that.

It would be better to have at least one more person.

Like a backup dancer, you know?

It might also be a good idea to recruit a few more full-fledged cheerleaders.

You've still got some time until the finals roll around.

...

Other than that, were there any issues?

None that I can see.

I can't think of anything negative to say.

Me neither.

...Okay.

Then we'll try to find more cheerleaders.

Thank you for telling us.

If you'd like to show your gratitude... could you buy us an air conditioner?

Just ignore her.

Anyway,

I hope you guys take home the victory this year.

Me too.

Thank you.

We'll do our best.

Hehe.

It was an audition that got me my spot on the team.

That wasn't long ago though, and we're already holding another one for a new member?

I'm a bit concerned.

Like Clay was saying, it was only a few months ago that we held auditions.

She was the only participant.

There was negative press surrounding the team,

and our reputation hit rock bottom.

Pretty soon after that, all the other team members left.

Anyone can see that Rewind is on a downhill trajectory.

If it were me, I certainly wouldn't be interested in joining us.

I don't agree at all! I really wanted to join Rewind.

Although it was a bit of a bummer getting turned down at every audition.

Cause luckily for me, there were no other applicants.

That's not why you got picked.

You've got a natural knack for showmanship.

You saw it yourself, Coach.

Crowds are like putty in Clay's hands.

She definitely has the ability.

At the time, other team members were responsible for vetting applications, I was far removed from that process.

I only participated as a judge in the final audition, so I didn't even know that Clay had applied every time.

Hehe, well, at any rate, I'm just happy that I ended up in Rewind.

So long as you don't give up, opportunities will always come your way.

And now that I've joined the team I've been dreaming of, I'll do whatever it takes to get Rewind back on top.

... Clay.

So let's stop sitting around feeling sorry for ourselves, and get outta this rut!

... Yes, all right. Let's do it.

Thank you, Coach.

So, where should we start?

Arranging an open audition would take a lot of time.

I think it might be better if we contact people directly.

... Hmm.

But I don't really know anyone.

Ha, I knew it.

I've heard about how you're quite the social butterfly, Coach.

Looks like there's substance to those rumors.

Already?

Wow, you're amazing, Coach!

Hmm...

First and foremost, they should have commendable stamina.

We don't want anyone getting tired and giving up whenever things get tough.

Secondly,

while they don't have to be an incredible dancer, they at least have to be flexible.

Thirdly,

it's imperative that they have courage.

A lot of maneuvers we do involve tumbling and being airborne.

I agree with what Bay said.

Actually, I've kind of got two left feet and can have a hard time following a beat,

but I never give up, and I never get tired. I'm also pretty courageous, if I do say so myself.

Huh? Ch-cheerleaders?

Huh...? Ch-cheerleaders...?

Please, we're begging you.

You'd be doing us a huge favor.

It's definitely fun to think about.

What do you think, Noir?

I'm not so sure I'm confident enough to be a cheerleader...

It might be embarrassing dancing in front of a lot of people.

It's not the same.

Don't worry about the cheerleading.

I'll hold your hand and show you all the steps.

...

Are you really interested in this, Blanc?

Totally! As long as you're okay with it, that is.

It'll be fun to learn something new,

and cheering other people on sounds like a great time. Good vibes all around!

Uh...

If you're that dead set on it... then I'll do it too.

!!

!!

Are you really going to help?

Sure... I'll do what I can.

It still makes me a bit self-conscious to think of everyone looking at me dancing though...

Hehe, don't you worry. Leave all that to me.

Blanc and I will take the lion's share of the attention.

Oh man, I'm so pumped!

So when is the competition?

Hold on...

Blanc, that's...

Oh no, you're right!

What? What's wrong?

There's a big event being held at Coin Rush in two weeks' time.

We're supposed to be practicing for that, so I don't think we'll be able to help after all.

We can't even steal you for a moment?

Sorry, but we really have to focus all of our attention on our training...

It's our own fault for not asking about the timing up front. Again, so sorry!

No, there's no need to apologize.

What a bummer.

If you ever need any more people in the future, be sure to hit us up, and we'll be down!

R-right!

Thanks.

Cheerleading?

We tried it at last year's school festival.

Yeah, I remember it being a lot of fun.

That's right!

You were really good at it!

So were you.

I dunno, I found all the aerial stuff a bit challenging.

I felt like I was a massive anchor.

I was such a klutz back then.

You don't have to worry about that!

I've got two left feet myself. All the jumping around is tough for me as well.

Really?

Hmmm...

You and I are kind of similar, actually.

That's why I'm the one in charge of hyping up the crowd.

I stick to the front of the stage and engage with the audience.

You can do that with me.

Hmm... that might be fun.

What do you think, Naga?

If you're up for it, then I'm game.

Hmm...

Pretty please?

I'm worried though. What if we're no good at it?

You don't need to worry about that.

I'll hold your hand and show you all the steps.

Well, if you say so... maybe we can give it a try...

Thank you!

You're a lifesaver!

When is the competition?

Two weeks from now.

Oh dear, I don't think that'll work then.

That's when we have exams.

We've got some serious cramming to do.

Darn, why did it have to take place during exams?

What a bummer.

... Well, it can't be helped.

I'm sorry.

We'll be sure to go and watch you during the competition.

Yeah, we'll be in your corner for sure!

... Thanks.

*Sigh*

I knew from the start that this wouldn't be easy,

but this is really tough going.

We're at a total impasse.

Yeah.

And those two seemed like they'd be such a good fit.

Oh my, a cheerleader?

Hehe, sounds fun.

Do we get to sing while we do it?

Singing? Well, if you'd like to...

??

Darn, that's too bad.

How does cheerleading work anyway? Does it go like this?

Um, more or less, but...

One, two. One, two.

Usually you want your movements to be rhythmic, like this.

Ah, gotcha.

One two... one two...

...

Er...

You guys...

I think she's got an even worse sense of rhythm than me.

One two... one two...

We can't have two people without rhythm on the team.

...

What is it?

I thought you were dead.

How should I know?

Why are you still here?

??

I should have known you'd come here to spout off nonsense.

Get lost.

This conversation is over.

...

Coach, this girl is kinda scary... Let's just go.

This is proving to be a real challenge.

We can't exactly force anyone to work with us, either.

How about you, Coach? Do you think you could do it?

Oh, hi Commander!

... Huh?

Hmm... So that's what happened...

You all must be quite worried.

How much time did you say was left until the finals?

Two weeks.

I see.

Huh? You mean all of us?

Erm... do you need good eyesight for that?

My eyes are shot.

All you need is stamina, flexibility, and a good amount of courage.

Oh, nice!

Those are skills that most police officers should have.

I suppose that's true.

Sorry, but I'm not overly familiar with cheerleading. What exactly goes into it?

Would you like me to show you?

If you could, that'd be great!

All right, we'll give you a brief overview.

Cheerleading is usually divided into stunts and dance moves.

Our routine is mostly dancing with a pinch of stunts mixed in.

Just think of it as cheering someone on, but you're using your body, and pompoms, to express it.

Okay, I get it.

Looks like fun!

Actually, I've seen Bay cheer a few times while I was on patrol.

It might be exciting to get into the thick of it.

I wanna try it out!

Coach...

Do you actually think things might work this time?

I know. What a relief.

How did that last move go again...?

What is that sound? Is that coming from you, Miranda?

Whoa!

This really brings me back! You look like me when I first joined Rewind.

And now the arm...

??

??

Huh?

I can't move my arm.

What?!

Huh?!

Are you okay?

It doesn't hurt...

but I think I should go to the Repair Center.

...

Sorry, guys.

I really would have liked to join you, but I don't think I'll be able to.

Er... actually, I don't think I'll be able to either.

I'm blind as a bat, and I don't think I'll be able to follow along with the dance moves.

I'll just end up being a burden.

Sorry, everyone, but it doesn't seem like we'll be much help.

Wait a second!

Can't you still help us, Poli?

Huh? Me?

Pretty please? With a cherry on top?

!!

We're desperate.

We don't have much time until the competition.

Ugh... Bay...!

I'm begging you as well!

You guys... isn't this all a bit dramatic?

...

I would help if I could, but I simply don't have time...

Hold on a sec, Poli, weren't you scheduled for a two-week vacation in two days anyway?

Hey, you're right!

You've accrued over 50 days of PTO, so it's mandatory that you take time off.

Ah! You reminded me!

I've been so busy that it slipped my mind.

Okay, fine.

Quiry, Miranda.

You two are officially in charge of affairs here for the next two weeks. I'm going to use some of my PTO to help Clay and Bay.

!!

!!

You got it! Miranda and I will hold down the fort.

Just leave it to us!

Yeah,

don't you worry about the police station!

If anything pops up, be sure to get in touch with me.

Understood!

Thank you, Poli.

We'll make it worth your while.

Don't mention it!

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous,

but in the end, I'm sure it'll be an exciting new learning experience.

I'm really looking forward to the next two weeks.

Us too.

Definitely!

We'll meet you in the practice room tomorrow.

I'll prepare something suitable for you to wear.

Much appreciated.

Will you be joining us, Commander?

Ladies and gentlemen, I believe we've got ourselves a complete team!

Let's keep our heads down and get ourselves ready for the finals!

Let's do it!

Poli, if you're done changing, you can come out now.

I don't know about this outfit...

It's a bit too light and flowy for me.

I'm not even sure how you're supposed to wear it. Is this right?

Yep, you got it!

Hehe, thank you!

What the...?!

Grrr...

Let's begin, shall we?

Where's Clay?

Hmm...

Maybe because she stayed up late practicing.

Yeah.

She was going on about how since we've acquired a new teammate, she wants to try harder than ever.

I've tried sending her messages, but I haven't been able to get a response.

...

We can't just sit around and wait for her, so let's start practicing.

Roger that!

First, let me show you the basic movements.

Put your hands on your waist and spread your feet shoulder-width apart,

then jump up and bring your feet back together.

Just like that.

All right, I'll try it out.

Good. Now, repeat that one more time, and afterwards,

put your hands together and make a V first towards the sky, then the ground.

One, two! One, two!

One, two! One, two! Like this.

Now, extend your arms diagonally and shake your pompoms.

All right.

S-sorry!

I'm really late!

I'm so sorry!

I set an alarm, but I slept right through it.

It's okay.

You stayed up late practicing last night, is that right?

Yeah...

Sorry again.

I'll come in 10 minutes early for the rest of our time here.

I most especially want to apologize to you, Poli.

I'm setting a terrible example, showing up late to our first practice.

It's okay!

Bay was showing me some starting moves.

Hmm? Are you okay, Coach? You're drenched in sweat and out of breath.

Are you our newest member?

Oh, haha. I see.

...

I don't think we have to worry too much about Poli.

She's getting the movements down pat and seems flexible.

Her stamina is nothing to sneeze at either.

If we put our heads down and focus for two weeks, we shouldn't have any issues.

Really?

That's a huge weight off my shoulders.

Impressive!

Sounds to me like you've got a natural knack for cheerleading, Poli.

I just did what Bay told me to do.

Now that you're here, Clay, let's all sync up.

All right.

Got it.

Poli, now you come forward and extend your arms diagonally.

Then, while you're jumping, shake your pompoms.

Okay!

That's good!

Now, Clay, you go up and engage with the audience.

On it!

Whoa!

Clay! Are you okay?

I-I'm fine!

Everyone, raise your hands and clap.

Hehe, you catch on quick, Coach.

...

All right, Poli, now side step and exit.

Okay.

Clay, come behind me.

All right!

Wh-whoooaa!

Gah!

... Ugh.

S-sorry! I didn't hurt you, did I?

I'm fine, but...

You're making more mistakes than usual today.

I'm sorry, everyone...

It's okay.

We all have our off days.

Hmm...

I think we can wrap it here.

We covered a lot of ground today, so it should be fine.

Poli is catching on quickly.

We'll pick up where we left off tomorrow.

I think you could use a little breather, Clay.

For today, focus on recovering.

Bay is right.

You might end up hurting yourself if you don't get enough rest.

... All right.

Thank you for being so understanding.

One, two, three! Everyone, jump together!

Hyah!

Hyah!

A bit faster, Clay.

A bit higher, Poli.

There you go, great!

Now spin in a circle twice and keep shaking those pompoms.

Poli, raise your hands a bit higher.

Okay!

Clay, extend your legs a bit more.

Will do.

Nicely done today, you two.

Phew... thanks.

Cheerleading is a blast! The more you do it, the more fun it is!

I'm really impressed with how you're keeping up, Coach.

Would you be interested in joining us next year?

And Poli, you're doing great following all the moves.

If you ever get stuck, just let me know.

Sure thing. So far, I think I'm okay.

Glad to hear it.

Oh, right. Clay.

Yes?

You're doing great, but when you're engaging with the audience,

I think it might be better if you moved a bit faster.

Otherwise, you and Poli might accidentally bump into each other.

Oh, and one more thing.

You know the part where I'm moving backwards while you're getting up from a kneeling position?

Try to pay a little more attention to that.

Right now, you're wobbling a lot when you stand up.

Understood!

Thank you.

Let's call it a day then.

Okay, now stand up... don't wobble...

Dang it... I thought I had it that time.

Gah!

You startled me.

Oh... no, not yet. I'm practicing a bit more on the areas Bay pointed out earlier.

If we want to win the competition,

I've got to work hard.

Why'd you come back here anyway?

Oh, I see.

Well, goodnight.

I'm gonna stay here and keep at it.

Hehe, don't worry, I won't.

...

...

Coach, what time is it?

What time did we agree to meet?

Where on earth is Clay?

She's not answering any messages.

You could be right.

She's been oversleeping a lot lately.

She's usually never late.

You did? Did she pull another all-nighter?

That's unlikely.

Clay has never missed a practice session, not even once.

You did? Did she pull another all-nighter?

...

Sorry! So sorry!

You're late.

I-I slept through my alarm again.

I'm so sorry...

What time did you get back to the dormitory?

Um... around 3 am, I think?

Don't tell me you were practicing that entire time?

Huh?! How did you know?

I wanted to perfect the movements I kept messing up before.

I'm really sorry.

... It's okay.

Just hurry and get ready.

... Yes!

...

... Hmm? Oh, right. She was late because she put in more practice. I should be understanding.

Anyway, we should get ready too.

One, two! One, two!

Now, Clay, stand up.

Okay.

Gah...!

!! Are you okay?

Y-yeah, I'm okay.

Sorry.

... Let's try it again.

O-okay.

One, two.

All right, Clay, stand up.

I'm sorry!

I had it down pat last night.

Let me try again.

... One, two.

...

...

... Let's take a short break.

I need to get some air.

...Okay.

Commander,

is it just me,

or does it feel kinda tense in here all of a sudden?

I feel somewhat uneasy.

!!

Sorry...

Just take it slow.

Okay...

... How about you try that again.

Y-yeah...

Again.

Okay...

...

...

Do you think we should intervene, Commander?

I feel like things are gonna reach a boiling point soon.

Clay.

How many times have you fouled up this same movement?

I... I...

We only have a week left until the competition.

Why do you insist on making the same mistake time and time again?

...

Am I the only one who is frustrated at how much time we're losing because of this?

N-no!

I hate it too!

I know how hard you're practicing, so I let it slide at first.

But you keep being late, and keep making mistakes.

I'm getting tired of it.

I'm starting to doubt

you're even practicing during all these late nights.

Are you lying...

No, I can't say this.

...

... I'm sorry.

I need to get some air.

...

...

Um... are you okay, Clay?

Oh... yeah... I mean...

All right, sounds good.

Oh, hey Coach.

...

I'm sorry.

I hate that you and Poli had to see that side of me.

...

No, I'm not okay.

I think I'm more exhausted than I thought.

I don't think I have the patience anymore.

To be honest, I feel like giving up.

I know I shouldn't have these thoughts, but... as each day goes by...

I feel like maybe I'm asking for too much.

... Coach.

...

Do you think I'm doing all right?

...

... No, I don't.

Thank you for saying that,

Coach.

Yes, thanks to you.

... I'll do my best.

...

...

That's a great idea!

I'm in the mood for sweet potato fries.

Sorry, but I'm a bit busy today.

M-me too...

We'll have to take a rain check.

...

Chant? What kind of chant?

That's sure to get our blood pumping before practice!

Let's give it a try!

Rewind, Rewind! If we can't do it, no one can!

... Win... can't... no... can.

Rewi... d... one... can...

That's enough stretching. Let's start.

What we're trying to accomplish today is to do a routine without any slip-ups.

We need to act as if this is the real thing.

Sounds good!

... Okay.

Coach, can you turn on the music?

Go! Go! Victory!

You Can Do It! Cheer Up!

All right, Poli, Clay. Step forward and do your thing.

Come on, everyone!

Wave your hands with me!

Good, now put your hands on your waist and step back with the beat.

Keep Fighting!!

Phew... come on... I can't mess up this time.

You're up, Clay.

... Okay!

No...

Clay, focus! We don't have time for you to space out!

Move on to the next bit of choreography!

O-okay!

Good job, everyone.

Let's end there for today.

Clay, c—

I-I'm going to head back.

Good job, everyone.

Be careful on the way back.

...

Okay. Fine.

Good job today.

*Sigh*

Yeah, what's wrong?

... Oh.

Sorry.

I know I keep bringing the mood down.

Hardly the behavior of a proper leader.

Don't worry about it.

It's impossible for a group of people to get along all the time.

Still, you took time out of your schedule to help us.

I feel bad exposing you to all this.

It's okay. The A.C.P.U. has had plenty of rough patches of our own, believe me.

How about we talk for a little while?

We've been practicing so much, we haven't had much time to just sit and chat.

... Sure.

I know I should extend an olive branch.

I just don't know how to do it.

When Clay made a mistake earlier,

I wanted to wave it off and tell her it wasn't a big deal...

but I couldn't.

It's like I don't know how to talk to her anymore.

*Sigh* I know how you feel.

I'm supposed to be the team leader. I shouldn't be behaving like this.

Being a leader is tough.

Whenever a team member makes a mistake, you need to be a nurturing force that guides them forward.

But we often have our own emotions to tangle with, so it's not always easy.

We know in our heads what we have to do, but our hearts don't always follow.

...

By the way, did you see Clay's knees earlier?

Her knees? No.

They're pretty bruised up.

They weren't like that before.

...

I'm just saying.

It seems to me that she's working pretty hard.

Figured you ought to know.

...

Also, the team won't function only because I'm doing okay.

That's right.

Sometimes, when I'm lacking, my team members come and pick up the slack.

...

At times like this, an honest conversation can be a lifesaver.

If we leave things unsaid, that won't resolve anything and only foster more resentment.

Eventually, that resentment could become so great, that the damage would be irreversible.

...

??

You're both right.

I think it's time Clay and I have a serious talk.

She and I have never had that before,

but that's about to change.

Great! Good luck.

Thank you for the advice.

Oh sure. Bay can handle it, I'm confident of that.

Hardships and rough patches like this are all part of becoming a stronger, more unified team.

Precisely.

Having said that,

you should probably tag along just in case.

Just to make sure nothing bad happens.

I'll see you later.

Clay, are you in there?

I'd like to talk to you for a moment.

... Are you there?

Coach?

What are you...

Thank you.

I don't think so.

Hmmm...

If she's not in the practice room, and she's not here...

...

Could she be...

I think I know where Clay is.

Phew...

First, sit down...

Then... stand up!

Argh!

Why why why?!

Why isn't this working?!

Work, stupid legs.

I can't screw this up and cost us the finals.

...

I'll try again.

I knew this is where I'd find her.

Clay always comes to the stadium when she's got a lot on her mind.

She says it's easier to imagine the audience out in the stands. It lets her practice without feeling nervous.

First, sit... and then...!

Ow... my knees are killing me...

...

Coach.

Am I a bad person?

She's working so hard, and I pushed her into a corner.

I didn't even try to ask her how she was feeling. I just kept pressuring her to get better.

... I'm the worst.

Oh my gosh!

It's so late already!

I can't be late again.

Practice is at 11 am tomorrow,

so I should set an alarm for 9 am.

... Another alarm for 9:05.

... And one for 9:10.

What if I just sleep in the practice room? Then I definitely won't be late.

...

What if Bay hates me...

This is all my fault.

I'll apologize to her properly tomorrow.

...

Dammit.

I'm wasting time sitting here worrying like this. I should be using this time to practice one more time before I head back.

One, two...!

When you stand up, use your abdominal muscles.

!!

B-Bay?

What are you doing here?

You're relying on your waist too much.

That makes you lean forward, which causes you to lose your balance.

Instead, utilize your abdominal muscles more.

O-okay!

Now you try it.

... Phew!

That's right, now focus your strength on your core to keep yourself upright.

Okay!

Whoaaaa!

S-sorry...!

It's okay. Let's take it from the top. Slowly this time.

Also, another word of advice...

!!

!!

B-Bay, I did it!

Good job.

...

I couldn't have done it without you!

Thank you so much.

...

Clay... I'm sorry.

Huh? For what?

For yesterday.

For pressuring you.

I was blind and arrogant. I thought I was the only one working and putting my best foot forward, yet you were working just as hard as I was, if not more.

I assumed that you weren't serious about this competition, and really leaned in on you.

That's a mistake a leader should never make,

and for that, I'm sorry.

I'm sure you were torn up about how I treated you last night.

N-no! I'm fine...

You didn't look like it.

Um...

You can be honest with me.

If I were in your shoes, I would have certainly been distraught.

As the team leader, it's my responsibility to understand how my teammates are feeling.

So once again, I apologize.

...! Bay, you don't have to do all that!

...

I understand how you feel.

If I were you, I would have done the same thing.

But... what really made me sad was...

The fact that I was practicing so hard every night, and...

This competition is incredibly important to me.

I really do want us to be in the first place.

I've always felt that, and have since the first day I joined Rewind.

And...

And... *Sob*

D-don't cry! I'm sorry, Clay.

No, it's not what you think...

I'm so sorry that I was so late all the time.

I set so many alarms, more than I could count... I promise I did!

... I know you did.

Coach?! Have you been here the whole time?

I didn't even notice you!

Are... are you crying?

You say that, but I can see the tears falling down your face.

Are you feeling better?

... Hehe. Yeah.

I appreciate you being brave enough to apologize first.

That's why I've always looked up to you.

I'm sorry to have put you through all this, Clay.

Let me ask you something. Do you know why we call ourselves Rewind?

Of course I do. Every cheerleader knows that.

It's the name of a specific maneuver.

No, I'm talking about the original inspiration behind our name.

The original inspiration?

I don't know that...

It refers to winding back time.

So let's take it back, start from the beginning, and prepare for the competition.

We'll take it one step at a time. Together.

Bay...

*Sob*

You're crying again?

Now's not the time for crying, you know...

I'm sorry, I can't help it!

Coach... I've never dealt with a situation like this before. What should I do?

Ah, good idea.

Huh? What are you talking about?

Thank you.

Waaaahhhhh!

Um... the tears don't seem to be stopping...

Sorry,

when people try to comfort me, I only end up crying more.

...

Go! Go! Victory!

You Can Do It! Cheer Up!

You're up, Clay.

All right!

All right, nicely done. Let's move on to the next section.

Okay!

The atmosphere has really improved, don't you think?

What a relief.

Ugh... so tired...

We've been practicing for 10 hours now...

Is Bay coming back?

She said she'd be right back.

Everyone, eat this.

Then, back to practice.

What's all this stuff?

I bought some snacks.

I didn't know what you guys liked, so I grabbed a bit of everything.

Wow! Sweet potato fries and sweet potato milk!

I was craving sweets. Thanks!

Awesome! I was in the mood for an energy drink, thanks!

Let's get some calories in us and keep at it.

You got it!

Yes!

Let's try that move one last time.

Ready?

Yes!

Yes!

Coach? Why are you joining in?

Everyone, welcome to the Ark's cheerleading championship!

Many more spectators have shown up for today's competition than they did for the preliminaries.

Whooooooo!

The five teams that passed the preliminaries will be competing in the finals.

The judging criteria will be the same as it was in the preliminaries.

We are all excited to see who will be crowned the champions in this year's competition!

Whooooooo!

Without further ado, let's meet the first team.

Team Rewind, get ready.

Oh man, I'm so nervous...

Phew...

How are you doing, Poli?

I'm perfectly fine!

I just wanna show off all the hard work we've put into this routine.

...!

You're incredible, Poli.

I'm gonna try and approach all this with the same mindset.

She's right. We've poured our hearts and souls into this choreography,

so nothing's going to go wrong.

Thanks, Coach.

All right, everyone, team huddle.

What should we chant?

Hmm...

When I say, "Rewind!", you both respond, "One more time!"

Since we've got our eyes on the prize once again.

Oooh, I like that.

Rewind!

One more time!

One more time!

All right, let's go out there.

Whoooohoooo!

Go! Go! Victory!

You can do it! Cheer up!

Everyone, clap your hands!

Now raise them above your head!

Pleasepleaseplease...

Oh man... I wasn't nervous at all during the performance,

but waiting for the scores is agonizing.

...

Thank you everyone for all of your hard work.

Right back at you, Bay.

I was so in the zone that I don't even remember how we did...

All that matters is that we didn't make any mistakes.

Thank you as well, Coach.

Even amongst that massive crowd, I could hear your voice cheering us on.

The scores are out!

95 points!

Hold on...

Is that number next to the score our ranking?

... Yes. It is.

...

...

...

D-do you think the score is wrong?

Or maybe they got first and second-place switched?

No... I think it's correct.

I'm sorry...

I should have worked harder to engage with the audience.

Me too...

Listen to me, you two.

We did a great job out there.

Honestly, I think we were perfect.

And our score is infinitely higher than what we got during the preliminaries.

So I'm satisfied.

Still...

We'll always have another opportunity in the future, so don't be too hard on yourselves.

Hey, you're right! There's always next year.

If you need me then too, I'm more than happy to sign up!

Yeah!

Next time, the first place is gonna be ours!

I think so too.

Well, things may not have ended exactly how we wanted them to,

but how about we all

take a picture together for posterity?

That's a great idea!

Sure, let's do it.

Coach, could you take the photo for us?

Oh, were you about to say something? Sorry for interrupting.

Wow, is there anything you can't do, Coach?

Thanks, we really appreciate it!

Bay, Poli, hurry and get in here!

Here, you stand in the middle, Poli.

Me?

Sure. Bay and I will stand on either side of you.

Sounds good.

All right, Coach, we're ready.

Urgh... getting squeezed...

I-I'm fine.

Oh Poli, you're so cuuuuute!

Th... thank you.

Everyone did great.

We sure did!

Ye... yeah...

Eat up, everyone. Dinner's on me tonight.

It's the least I can do.

...

This is gonna be great! Thanks!

Yeah, thanks, Bay!

I should be the one doing the thanking.

Thank you all

for sticking with me.

Especially you, Coach.

Argh! I still can't get over the fact that we lost by just three points.

I know... it almost would sting less if we'd lost by a large margin.

It is disappointing, but like I said before,

I'm satisfied with our score, and our performance.

During our routine, I could feel that we were all in sync.

It was better than I could have ever imagined.

You're right about that.

We were in total sync, and the energy we had together was out of this world.

Totally. This was my first time doing this, but I had a total blast.

I'm absolutely down for doing it more in the future.

Really?

In that case, would you consider joining our team?

I'd love to have you join us as well.

Oh, well... I appreciate you both saying that,

but I am a police officer, after all.

Haha, we were only kidding.

We know you're busy with your other job. We were just complimenting you.

Hehe, thanks.

Yeah, we're going to participate in the Nikke track and field championship next.

It's not as big as the Ark Sports Festival, but it's still fairly well-known.

We're going to make sure we're prepared, and bit by bit, we're going to climb our way to the top.

Darn, I wish I could join you,

but I've got to work at the Police Station tomorrow.

Rest assured, though, I'll be cheering for you from afar.

Thank you both for your kind words,

but this is something that Clay and I intended on completing on our own from the very beginning.

Speaking of which, are you ready, Clay?

Yep! Ready as I'll ever be!

The top spot is gonna be ours for sure!

Yeah!

That's what I like to hear.

...

Let's take it back, one more time.

You bet! One more time!

I was disappointed to hear that you placed second in the cheerleading championship,

but it's nice running into you guys here.

Yeah, this track and field championship is a pretty big gathering too.

Also,

one of the officials told me that not only did Rewind win by a large margin,

but you got chosen as the best team?!

That's incredible!

It's all thanks to Clay's perseverance.

No, it's because of your stalwart leadership!

Both of you contributed to your success.

Hehe, I guess you're right. It feels like our efforts are finally paying off.

Oh, right.

I was watching your rehearsal earlier, and it looks awesome!

You two are more synced up than ever.

I felt that too.

And remember when I said that the stage looked a little empty before?

How could I forget?

Even though the stage was quite big this time around, it didn't feel empty at all when you were up there.

You two were more than enough to fill it up.

I couldn't agree more.

Really?

That's such a relief to hear. I was worried about that.

Anyway, I'm glad we were able to see you both do what you do best.

We should go off and do some stretches.

All right, sounds good.

We've gotta win this upcoming event!

Good luck. We'll be in your corner.

Break a leg!

Phew... it's sweltering out here.

When we win, can I use the prize money to buy an air conditioner?

I doubt Rumani would approve of that.

Why not? I'll have won the prize money, so it'll be mine to spend!

We should get going too, Clay.

All right.

Let's give it our all today.

You know it.

Oh, before we go on stage,

should we do our chant?

Sure! That'd be great.

All right...

Rewind! One more time!

Rewind! One more time!

Let's do this!