The Missing Composer

Day 01: As A Replacement

It was about three in the afternoon when I arrived at the master course dormitory. It was an on the spot relocation. I didn't have much choice, and I was still shocked by the news Haruka ran away. She is my childhood friend and my motivation why I joined the music course. I want to make music together with her. But, now that she's gone, my dream is slipping away from me by the minute.

I was asked by Saotome-san to replace her. He said that work should not be impaired by the mere reason of someone running away. I still cannot believe that Haruka ran away. I believe that she's a professional, she won't abandon STARISH just like that, and there must be a reason. Plus, I haven't talked to her yet. I wanted to become a professional before showing myself to her again after eleven years. I may be two years older than her, but I am a year behind her in terms of studies. I was a sickly child. My doctor opposed the idea of me studying in an academy. It took me one year to fully convince him that my body is stronger and will be able to handle the school environment (and of course I promised him that I would take good care of myself). When I was accepted in the academy that Haruka was in, it was the exact day of her graduation performance. She was graduating with an idol group called ST☆RISH (STARISH). I was happy for her and a bit sad for myself. I wanted to graduate with her. I envied STARISH so much, they were able to do the one thing that I wanted to do – make beautiful music with Haruka.

Studying was also a drag for me. I didn't know that I was meant to have an idol partner for every test. I can't find anyone who's willing or available to sing the music that I write. I was only able to pass because they allowed me to sing instead. But, I was not allowed to graduate without a partner. This held me back for another year.

Before the end of the first semester of my second year. Principal Saotome started nagging me to join the idol course instead. I obviously declined, I don't want to end up like my mother who was a washed out singer. Singing burdened her poor and weak body that I inherited from her. I don't want to die like her. But, I cannot deny my love for music. Even though I won't sing, I can still sing make music for other people.

It was only yesterday when Principal Saotome called me to his office. It was where he informed me of Haruka's actions. I was shocked of course, not only by Haruka's actions, but also by the deal that the Principal offered me:

"Take over Haruka's composer position and I will allow you to graduate..."

It was very tempting indeed, and I had quite a long discussion about it with the Principal. In the end, I ended up taking the deal. I'm pretty sure spending time with STARISH will give me some information on Haruka. So, it was late in the afternoon yesterday when I contacted my foster father and told him that I will be moving to the master course dormitory. He was worried at first, but I was able to assure him that I will be fine.

As I've mentioned earlier, it was earlier this afternoon when I arrived at the master course dormitory. No one was there to greet me, they were probably still depressed, an di don't want to bother them so I made a bee line to my room where my instruments were already waiting. I dropped my shoulder bag beside my bed then sat in front of my piano beside the window. The autumn sunset reminded me of those days when I first played the piano. I hated music back then. But, Haruka showed me how fun it can be. It was also the first music that I've composed. Before I knew it, I was playing the music that both Haruka and I composed when we were little.

"That's a nice tune, what is it called?"

A blue-haired guy was standing outside my bedroom door that I accidentally left open.

"She doesn't have a name yet. The truth is, she's still incomplete..."

"She?"

"Uhm, I'm Miharu Kagami, I'll be working with you temporarily. It's a pleasure to meet you..." I greeted immediately after I realized that it was Hijirikawa-san who was in front of me.

"Likewise, sorry to bother you. I'll be leaving now..." then he left as fast as he appeared.

After that awkward encounter, I unpacked my belongings and tucked myself to bed.