"I am glad someone puts their emotions into their music playing."
Arthur whipped around has he finished putting away his English horn. He gave his thanks as he observed the shorter man: Straight black hair, warm chocolate milk eyes, and an outfit suited best for upper middle class.
"Thank you for playing so wonderfully." he put some change into Arthur's small bucket then bowed and walked away. Arthur stared after the man and wondered what compelled the man to compliment the music.
----
The next day the man came again. He complimented Arthur's talent, gave money, and left. The routine continued for several weeks, and Arthur eventually began to look forward to the man's visits. One day, after receiving his compliment and change, he decided to ask, "Excuse me, sir. If you don't mind me inquiring, but your accent is different than what I am used to. Do you mind telling me where you're from?"
The stranger nodded "I do not mind it at all. I am from an Asian country called Japan. It is very far away and not very many people in this town seem to know what it is." he bowed then hesitantly held out a hand. "I'm Kiku. Kiku Honda."
Arthur took his hand and gave it a firm shake. "I am Arthur Kirkland. A pleasure to meet you.
Mr. Honda nodded. "The pleasure is returned, Kirkland-san."
Arthur blinked a couple of times.
"Forgive me. San is customarily added to an acquaintance's name in Japan." Mr. Honda explained.
A peaceful silence passed between the two. To someone passing by, it would have appeared as though the two have been friends for more than a month.
"I am sorry Kirkland-san, but night is falling and I must be home soon. If I am lucky, I will be to listen to your outstanding performance again tomorrow." With that, Mr. Honda bowed and walked away.
Later that night, as he ate dinner with his brother Scott, did Arthur realize he had met one of the greatest musicians from Asia.
----
Several days passed and Arthur and Kiku continued to talk casually. Despite their conversation, Arthur did occasionally feel nervous around the famous musician. A week went by until Arthur found the courage within himself to ask, "Pardon me if I'm being rude Kiku, but why is it that you have decided to talk to me?" Arthur asked.
"Should I not have decided ever approached you?" Kiku wondered. "Your playing deserves to be complemented. I am sorry if I have caused you discomfort in any way."
"No it's just..." Arthur trailed to find a way to word his thoughts. "I never thought a man of upper class would ever speak to low-class musician."
"I highly believe that social class should not separate individuals. After all, everyone here is human." Kiku replied with a smile. He looked down at his watch and his smile fell slightly. "I have a meeting to attend to. As always, it has been a pleasure talking to you."
"Before you leave, I must notify you that I may not be able to play for the next few days." Arthur informed. "My reed is not playing as well and the closest music shop to sell double reeds is a day's walk away. I do not own a car of my own."
Kiku furrowed his brow as if making an important decision. "I will buy you some reeds." he concluded as he hit his fist against his open palm. A determined look spread across his face.
Arthur let the surprise show on his features. "I did not mean to imply such a thing! Please, I am not worth the burden."
Kiku shook his head. "I have never considered a fellow musician and friend to ever be a burden. You, Arthur-san, are both a friend and fellow musician."
