My role at the Grand Live began with a microphone and I took a deep breath.
"Welcome everyone to Grand Live today, thank you for coming! Unlike Winning Live, today we'll be singing with all our hearts to share our feelings with our fans—so please enjoy!"
The lights dimmed.
The opening notes of Make Debut! filled the venue.
I chose it because it's considered the easiest song in the Twinkle series—and because I needed it to be. I was the only one whose skill level lagged behind the rest. Starting with a lower-difficulty song was my way of surviving the spotlight.
If I stumbled or forgot a lyric, it wouldn't matter. All I had to do was get through one song.
After that, I would retreat behind the scenes.
Then when my turn ended I was exhausted after just one performance. Meanwhile, the others were preparing to sing and dance to 18 songs—each taking center stage once, backed by the full ensemble.
And they did it. Flawlessly.
While Hello handled the logistics, I became the backstage support.
To a trembling first-time performer, I whispered:
"Falling or biting is allowed. You'll be okay."
To another, I handed juice and said:
"You've got time before your turn. Stay hydrated."
I wasn't sure how much it helped. But I tried.
Rice-chan sang A Small Prayer. Her delicate voice and ethereal presence made it unforgettable.
Thank You performed Aya Fantasia. Her emotions nearly overwhelmed her—and she looked ready to cry.
They were both really incredible.
Some girls sang original songs. Others nailed Twinkle series classics. Every performance was full of heart and skill.
And me?
I was the only one who stumbled.
The gap in ability was real. But still I gave it my best.
At the end, everyone returned to the stage to sing GIRLS' LEGEND U together.
Finally after two and a half hours of music, movement, and emotion.
The first Grand Live ended in success!