[ Akito pov ]

Akito had always known Toya as composed, and intensely serious about music. But during the days leading up to a performance, Akito began to sense a shift in his partner—subtle at first, but undeniable. Toya was quieter than usual, lost in thought, often staring at his phone with furrowed brows. Something was bothering him, and Akito couldn’t shake the feeling that it had to do with Toya's past.

The opportunity to perform a jazz-inspired set reignited old memories for Toya—memories of his strained relationship with his strict father, a professional musician who had pushed Toya relentlessly. As rehearsals progressed, Toya found himself haunted by doubts. Was his music truly his own, or merely an echo of the expectations he’d been forced to meet? The darker, moodier tone of the set seemed to mirror Toya’s inner turmoil.

Akito noticed the tension during practice sessions—Toya’s playing was precise, but it lacked its usual soul. As someone who once clashed with Toya, Akito felt conflicted. He didn’t want to push him too hard, but he also couldn’t stand to see his partner falter. So, instead of confrontation, Akito offered support the only way he knew how: through music.

In one pivotal moment, the group gathered in the SEKAI, where the Virtual Singers helped Toya reconnect with the emotions behind his sound. Through a quiet but heartfelt conversation and performance, Toya began to open up