Nico hesitates briefly before answering. It's rare for Maki to be open about her feelings, and harder for Nico to lash out at her when they so clearly resonate with her own.

"That's not true," she says at last, planting both hands firmly on her hips. "Yeah, I loved u's too. Of course it's not going to be the same, being an idol on my own. But I love being an idol for what it is. I love singing, and dancing, and putting on shows, and making those who watch me smile." She swings one hand up, pointing it straight into Maki's face. "You can't tell me you don't feel the same. I know you, Maki. You really, really love music! You love being an idol, too!"