Text

The Garage

NatsumeMmph... Ngh...!

NatsumeUgh, no! Something's off. Start over!

NatsumePhew... Maybe I need more fuel. I have to get my brain working...

NatsumePwah...

HoukaHard at work, I see... My. You've amassed quite an impressive pile today.

NatsumeDon't step on those papers. I'm keeping them.

HoukaI do appreciate your dedication to composing... But might we do something about this clutter?

HoukaThere is, you know, a perfectly good wastebasket right here.

NatsumeThese are vital stepping stones. They only go in the wastebasket once the song is finished.

HoukaI see... Still, before long there will be nowhere left to step...

HoukaHave you considered using a tablet? There should be several models available now at rather approachable prices.

NatsumeHow shallow. Paper and pen are the supreme tools.

NatsumeI use a computer when I'm polishing things up. But by then, it feels more like work.

NatsumeThat very first moment, when you make something out of nothing. You have to stay analog, take your time, and work through it by trial and error!

HoukaI see... That is a composition style one encounters less and less these days.

HoukaMost people begin at the computer these days, after all. It does make your approach rather uncommon.

Natsume! Exactly! It is uncommon, isn't it!?

NatsumeNot that I was trying to be different or anything. It just sort of happened that way.

HoukaIndeed. I find it quite distinctive♪

NatsumeYou get it, then. You really do have to work with your hands.

NatsumeAnd when your brain is completely worn out, drinking an energy drink like this is... Huh?

NatsumeIt's empty already. My caffeine...

HoukaOh my. If black tea would do, shall I prepare some for you?

NatsumeReally? Then I suppose I'll take you up on that.

HoukaCertainly♪ I shall put the water on now, so please allow about ten minutes.

NatsumeT-Ten minutes!? I want it now...

HoukaOf course. Even steeping the tea leaves properly takes a little time...

NatsumeI don't care about that. Just brew it quickly and bring it over.

HoukaI am afraid that simply will not do. It is an essential part of making a truly lovely cup of black tea.

NatsumeNo, taste isn't the priority right now. I just need caffeine, quickly. Do you understand?

HoukaI understand. But on this point, I simply cannot compromise♪

NatsumeWhat!?

HoukaThere are no shortcuts to reaching the "real thing." Only time and care will bring it within your grasp.

HoukaPerhaps it is not so different from your own way of composing, Natsume-san♪

NatsumeNgh... Fine. Do it your way, then.

HoukaVery well♪ I shall bring you a lovely cup of tea.

NatsumePhew... What is with her?