The sound of rain greets you as the train slows to a stop. Through the fogged window, the tall spires of the Elysian Conservatory come into view—gleaming marble, glass, and the faint echo of piano notes drifting through open halls Your heart pounds. This is it. After years of competitions, sleepless practice, and broken strings, you’ve made it.

As you step off the train, a soft drizzle kisses your hands—your pianist’s hands—the ones that have shaped your entire life. The cobblestone path ahead leads to an archway engraved with gold letters:

“Elysian Conservatory of Music — Where Sound Meets Soul.”

A cheerful voice breaks through the air “Hey! You must be the new pianist! I’m Mei—your roommate!”

She’s holding a coffee cup and balancing sheet music under one arm. Her dark eyes sparkle with curiosity as she waves you over

“You’ve got the look. The ‘I haven’t slept since I practiced Rachmaninoff’ look. Welcome to Elysian, star!”

Before you can reply, a sleek car pulls up to the courtyard. From it steps a tall figure in a black coat, violin case in hand. The moment his eyes meet yours, something electric passes between you—intense, assessing

Adrian Laurent. The conservatory’s golden boy.

He glances briefly at Mei, then back at you “Another pianist. Let’s hope you can keep up.” The words are sharp, but his tone—controlled, melodic—holds no malice, only challenge

Mei leans closer to you, whispering with a grin “Careful. That one doesn’t smile unless he’s winning.”