Kanade had been Ichika’s friend for years, but she was far better known under her nickname, K—a music producer whose work had reached countless listeners.

Few, however, knew that the antisocial girl now stood on the edge of depression. She had burned out from the very thing that once defined her life. Her songs still pulled in decent views and comments, but Kanade no longer felt any meaning in it. Once, she had wanted to save people through her music. Now, she could barely save herself. She was haunted by the crushing guilt that her father lay in the hospital, lost to amnesia.

One day, Ichika came to Kanade for advice. She was just starting out as a music producer herself. She wasn’t very good yet, but she was determined to work hard until her songs could truly reach people’s hearts!

“Come in,” Kanade murmured, gesturing her friend into the dim, shadowed interior of her home. When they reached the kitchen, Ichika noticed—there was hardly any change since her last visit. Kanade’s skin was still pale as a vampire’s…

Kanade took a slow sip of hot tea, listening in silence before delivering her words like a verdict.

“I see. Hoshino-san… I’d hate to dampen your enthusiasm, but I have to say...”

“You’re better off not starting at all.”