Ensemble Leveling
Chapter 46: SPIKA – Rebirth
Noon soon arrived and so too was the end of their scheduled beach time. After cleaning themselves up after their beachside activities, Jihoon felt his own stomach’s growling and decided that it was probably a good time for lunch if nothing else.
The trip itself isn’t too eventful. As they walked the route toward the restaurant where they reserved their table, Jihoon took the moment to look at the surrounding scenery around. Surprisingly, there just seems to be no end to new things to be sightseeing with each step.
Like a tapestry of ever-changing scenery, each step revealing a new facet of the island’s charm. Vibrant gardens filled with exotic, multicolored flowers that shimmered as though kissed by morning dew stretched along the path. The air carried a subtle sweetness, a mix of salt from the sea and the faint floral notes of the famed lotus blossoms that seemed to linger everywhere.
The gentle rustle of bamboo in the breeze added a layer of tranquility, and the occasional ripple from a playful fish or a distant bird’s chirp filled the silence with life. Every corner they turned felt deliberately designed to captivate and enchant, as though the island itself whispered promises of peace and wonder.
Jihoon himself couldn’t help but feel the pull of it all. He’d been to scenic places in his world before, but they lacked the deliberate care and mystical aura that the Lotus-Eater Island exuded. It was as if the environment was alive, adapting to draw people in, to make them feel at home in its embrace.
Even without experiencing the acclaimed lotus of this land, tourists would find it difficult to leave this place without some unrequited feelings within. Living up to that namesake of this enchanting island in a way.
‘It’s almost unfair,’ Jihoon thought, his gaze lingering on a cascading waterfall that sparkled like liquid crystal as they cross the ornate bridge over its stream. ‘They don’t even need the lotus flowers to work their magic. This place already has a grip on your heart before you even realize it.’
Just as he let his focus wander all over the scenery, they have just arrived at their destination without him even remotely aware in the slightest.
“We’re here” Karim said as Jihoon has to collide with one of them just to snap out of the reverie.
“Hey! Watch where you’re going”. Rosa said as he accidentally collided with her.
If it was any other dwarf, hell would have been raised by just how much they take any slight against them seriously. But… since it was between Rosa and Jihoon, she just interjected with a tsundere-ish ‘hmph’ instead which spoke of how much she valued him beyond measurement of merit itself.
He had no idea how much this relation just saved him.
“Immortal’s Dream,” Karim announced with a small flourish, gesturing toward the elegant wooden sign above the entrance.
The name was carved into dark, polished wood with inlaid golden lettering that glimmered softly in the sunlight. The establishment itself exuded an understated opulence, its architecture blending seamlessly with the serene beauty of the island. The open-air design allowed a gentle sea breeze to flow through, carrying with it the scent of the nearby lotus gardens. Along with an unobstructed access view to the sea for those to see.
Jihoon glanced at the restaurant, then at Karim. “This doesn’t look like your run-of-the-mill eatery. You’re telling me this is where we’re having lunch?”
Karim grinned with the usual trademark smirk of his. “You’ve got that right. This isn’t just any restaurant. This is Immortal’s Dream, one of the best dining establishments in the entire Calphennis region. Some even say it’s one of the hidden gems of Southern Absence itself.”
Jihoon raised an eyebrow skeptically. “Best in the region? Then why isn’t it swarming with people? A place this good would have lines around the block.”
The wood elf chuckled, the knowing glint of a seasoned merchant in his eyes.
“That’s the beauty of it. Immortal’s Dream doesn’t advertise, not in the usual sense. It’s a hidden treasure, something of a well-kept secret. Only those in the know ever make their way here. Exclusivity breeds intrigue, and intrigue makes a name far more valuable than any flashy advertisement ever could. It’s a lesson you’d do well to remember.”
“So, you’re saying it’s one of those places where word of mouth does all the heavy lifting?” Jihoon said as he glanced around at the peaceful setting, noting how the lack of crowds only added to the establishment’s allure.
“Exactly. It’s a niche within a niche—high-quality food, impeccable atmosphere, and a clientele who value discretion. As a merchant worth his salt, I keep tabs on places like this. The ones that people whisper about but never shout. And today, my dear Jihoon, we’re here to enjoy the fruits of that knowledge.” Karim said as he gave Jihoon a satisfied nod.
Jihoon glanced back at the restaurant, feeling his curiosity piqued. He couldn’t help but feel a twinge of anticipation. After all, no one knows the places of Absence like its merchants do.
As they enter and make themselves comfortable, the atmosphere once again designed for relaxation. There are separate rooms with own interior design if the customers prefer which is reasonable given that Lotus-Eater Island is a relaxation resort. In the end, they chose the Eastern-design personal dining room.
Jihoon’s eyes scanned the menu, his curiosity sharpening as he explored the various offerings. The list was a fusion of dishes, many of which were tantalizingly familiar, drawn from the Eastern cultures of his world. With all honesty, if it weren’t for that similarity, his adaptation phase would have gone unimaginably longer.
Amidst the array of options, one particular line of text caught his attention: "Kimchi Spicy Noodle."
He paused, staring at the words as though they were a bridge to a forgotten part of himself. Despite the chaotic amalgamation of Absence's cultural tapestry, this dish seemed to have survived that journey intact.
“Well, what’s the hold-up?” Karim leaned over with a teasing grin. “The longer you take, the harder it is for the rest of us to order.”
Rosa gave an exaggerated sigh, leaning her chin on her hand. “It’s not like it’s coming out of your pocket, Jihoon. Just pick already. I swear you overthink everything.”
Jihoon chuckled nervously, his gaze still locked on the menu. “Alright, alright. I’ll have the Kimchi Spicy Noodle.”
Despite the encouragement, placing the order felt strangely arduous. As though the choice itself carried an inexplicable weight, Jihoon hesitated for a heartbeat before finally confirming it with the waiter.
When the dish arrived, its piping hot aroma wafting up in a comforting wave, Jihoon felt an unusual pang deep in his chest. The vibrant colors of the dish—red broth flecked with spices, thinly sliced kimchi, and noodles perfectly curled—drew him in with an almost hypnotic pull. He lifted the chopsticks with a hand that trembled slightly and finally took his first bite of it.
The spice hit his tongue like a familiar melody, and suddenly, an overwhelming sensation of emptiness welled up within him. His heart clenched as he realized why he had felt so uneasy during the wait.
When was the last time he had eaten something like this properly in his world?
The answer eluded him, buried beneath a decade of chaos and survival following the Gate disasters. Yet, within his mind, the taste stirred something forgotten—a flicker of a life he’d once had, before it was all taken away.
The dining room melted away, and he found himself seated in a far simpler restaurant with all the colors turned sepia. The faint hum of conversation buzzed around him. The dish before him looked almost identical, steaming and fragrant. Around the table sat shadowy phantoms—people he knew he should recognize, yet all their appearances were shrouded in impenetrable darkness and featureless.
It was his past coworkers. The Arisen Studio days that he had lived.
The name alone sent a jolt through him. He had laughed with these people, worked late nights alongside them, shared meals in places just like this. How had those memories been buried so deeply, left untouched for so long? Jihoon clenched his fists, his chopsticks trembling as the scene in his mind began to fray at the edges.
It shouldn’t have been like this. How could he have forgotten their faces?
“Listen here, everyone. This is on me since we have once again completed another contract with a big subsidiary. I’m certain that one day that the name of our studio will be spoken and heard as our work verify our standing”. The large shadowy figure spoke clearly yet as the shadow clung so deeply that he just can’t grasp at who was it behind said demeanor.
The surrounding phantoms cheered while he as though alienated. All until he noticed one just nearby him that isn’t shrouded in darkness.
Jin Sarae… his old friend, his junior. One that he slain with his own hand when they met once again after that painful decade that the Gates have wrought upon their lives. As though that painful 10 years that has yet to happen, Jin still exudes that brilliant optimism and wisdom ahead of ages.
“Hyung,” Jin’s voice called out, breaking through Jihoon’s spiraling thoughts like sunlight piercing a stormy sky. His tone was vibrant, filled with the youthful energy Jihoon remembered so well that it became painful to hear again now.
“You’re staring off into space again. What’s on your mind?”
Jihoon froze, his grip on the chopsticks tightening. This wasn’t right. This wasn’t how memories worked. Jin wasn’t supposed to notice him like this—wasn’t supposed to act. Memories were static, immutable. But Jin… it was as though Jin was alive in this memory.
“You’ve been amazing, you know that, right?” Jin’s voice carried that earnest tone he always used whenever Jihoon had trouble accepting a compliment. “Taking me under your wing, showing me the ropes… I couldn’t have made it without you.”
Each word was like a dagger in Jihoon’s heart. The weight of Jin’s death bore down on him, the image of their final confrontation bleeding into the memory like ink spreading on paper.
He remembered it vividly… The ruined courthouse bathed in twilight, Jin’s peaceful expression after finally being released from the burden that has weighed him since the Gates. The cursed firearm that was his only livelihood and utter damnation lay motionless as Jihoon deflected its final, cursed shot back into its firer with the same decayed halberd that he is using now.
He clenched his fists, his chopsticks as though nearly snapping in his hands. The memory wavered under the weight of his turmoil, but Jin’s voice cut through again.
“Hyung…” Jin’s expression softened as if sensing Jihoon’s pain. “You’ve always been like this, haven’t you? Carrying everything on your shoulders, blaming yourself for things you couldn’t control.” Jin leaned forward, his gaze piercing. “You don’t have to keep doing this. You don’t have to keep punishing yourself.”
Jihoon’s breath hitched. It was uncanny—this wasn’t how memories worked. Yet Jin’s words struck with pinpoint precision, like he had reached through the fabric of time itself to comfort Jihoon in his despair.
“You know what I’d say if I were here, right?” Jin continued, a teasing glint in his eyes. “Don’t get so wrapped up in your failures that you forget to look at what you’ve achieved. You’ve done so much, Hyung. More than anyone could have asked for.”
Jihoon’s throat tightened. “But… I killed you,” he whispered, his voice trembling. His confession go unheard of the phantoms around.
Jin smiled, his expression filled with a kindness that Jihoon didn’t deserve. “And I’d still tell you that wasn’t your fault. It was the Gates. It was the world that broke us. Because of circumstances beyond any of our control”.
Much as he wished to just stretch out a hand to keep this remembrance longer. He knew deep down already the futility of it all, he had gone through this already when he prepared for the Maestro title of this world.
“Just live strong, for all of us who couldn’t see find the light ahead.”
Jihoon sat there, the weight of the forgotten memory pressing down on him, but something else stirred in its place. A fragile sense of resolve. His words, even if they were nothing more than a fragment of his imagination, resonated deeply without a doubt.
Perhaps, it was another reminder in a long while in this journey, Jihoon allowed himself to believe that moving forward wasn’t just an obligation. It was something he has to do. For Jin. For Alvorna. For himself.
Jin then continues to his spicy noodle with a smile on his face as though the remembrance returning to how it should. Surrounded by people who shared a passion of music as they spent the moments together.
The taste hasn’t changed and yet, he probably understands why the substance felt different now.
“Jihoon, are you alright?” A familiar voice brought him out of the remembrance as the world around returned to normal.
The dining room of the Immortal’s Dream came into focus once more, vibrant and real. He blinked, disoriented, his gaze darting to his companions, who were all staring at him with varying degrees of concern.
Then he noticed something else. His bowl of spicy kimchi noodles was empty. The realization hit him like a jolt as he didn’t even remember finishing it.
And then, Jihoon realized the reason for their concern. His face was wet, tears streaming down without his notice. His chest felt heavy, as if he had been holding his breath for years and had only just exhaled.
When he realized what’s going on, everyone was giving him that strange look on their expression. Jihoon’s gaze turned toward the noodle bowl that was empty from when he didn’t even know. And he finally noticed that he was crying. He must have been looking rather pathetic and they were concerned with his wellbeing.
The silence stretched uncomfortably. Rosa opened her mouth, looking ready to speak, but hesitated. Alvorna’s emerald eyes studied him intently, as if trying to piece together a puzzle she couldn’t quite solve. Aquarius turned her look away from Jihoon as though his current state reminded her too much of her own before she met him. Even Karim, who could usually find humor in any situation, seemed uncharacteristically quiet with that penetrating gaze.
Jihoon quickly wiped his face with the back of his hand, a hot flush of embarrassment rising to his cheeks.
“I… I’m fine,” he said, though his voice cracked slightly. He forced a weak chuckle, trying to downplay the moment. “Must’ve been the spice. Really hits harder than I thought.”
All that embarrassment compounded and suddenly the lotus chamber therapy just couldn’t come soon enough for him.
After that awkward situation arises and passes. Their destination for the time being is the large inn at the highest point of the island. Named ‘Perfect Cherry Blossom’;
Jihoon could already make out the faint outline of its architecture—a blend of traditional elegance and contemporary functionality, nestled beneath a canopy of ever-blooming cherry blossoms.
Supposedly, this inn was renowned not just for its breathtaking views but also for its teahouse, said to be one of the best in all of Southern Absence region. The cherry blossoms surrounding the inn were meticulously cultivated to bloom year-round, creating a dreamlike scene that drew visitors from far and wide.
“It seems like it’s still going to be a considerably long journey on foot though. It’s awful that we’re not even allowed to use our own magic to arrive faster.”. Jihoon said as he looked at the destination within his view.
Karim gestured toward the path ahead, his merchant instincts always observant. “Well, think of it as part of the experience. You won’t find another inn like this, even in Absence. Besides, the journey is part of the charm, don’t you think?”
In Absence, personal magic was an everyday reality for everyone, yet its usage is forbidden within certain areas. Like this resort, or any place of civilization for that matter without proper authorization. That part is enforced by the Harpies themselves in the Absence’s code of law so that one doesn’t simply just use destructive power when it convenient in the matter.
Imagine every citizen armed with unremovable weapons ranging from small arms to nuclear weapons, it would easily be a nightmare for any attempt of civilization for that matter.
Actually… that was already reality in his world.
The restriction wasn’t arbitrary either as Jihoon had already picked upon about Absence’s enforcement of its laws, particularly by the Harpies, whose vigilant presence ensured compliance.
By comparison to what his world become, Absence’s balance of power and regulation seemed almost utopian—if one ignored the implicit threat that came with the Harpies’ watchful eyes. Then again, it doesn’t try to be utopia when even its current state is better than his world’s best.
Jihoon raised an eyebrow but decided not to comment further. He glanced at Rosa, who seemed more preoccupied with fiddling with her rose-gold twintails than worrying about the trek. Aquarius who basically has no change in usual routine since she used her own Water Magic to lift herself in the air, it’s one of the few exemptions of the law for certain someones.
The others seemed unfazed by the prospect, and he didn’t want to be the one to complain. They had a long way to go, but at least the scenery along the way promised to be worth it. With a resigned sigh, Jihoon adjusted the strap of his Hunter bag and belonging and prepared himself for the climb.
And yet as they walk, his mind still sometimes turns inward to that reminiscence and the feeling within. It brought him back to the first day of his arrival in this world, when he first met Karim, and how struggled with his self-value and identity when he tried to reconcile with his broken identity, and the trauma of the past 10 years during preparation for the audition.
And in his mind, the familiar melody played as he then hummed it. The same song, that brought him instantly to the title of Maestro for how profound its composition was.
Eb_F_Gb_Ab+ Bb+~~| Eb_F_Gb_Ab+ Bb+~~|
The fastest to Maestro title in entirety of Absence’s academic history. The song’s name is…
Bb+ Eb+_Db+_Cb+ Bb+_Ab+_Bb+~Bb+|
SPIKA
As the introduction progression moves steadily upward, an emotion of yearning is built up. It finally resolves in a descending melodic line in the higher register followed by an oscillation around the key signature’s dominant chord. This creates a feeling of emotional pent-up instead of release as if foreshadowing what to come.
He had an idea.
And it seems that everyone around him had the same thought as they took out their respective instruments. Karim has no instrument, but he knew he could contribute something on his own.
After all, how could the work of a such renowned Maestro stay forever closed in there?
Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb F_Gb_Bb+ Ab+| Gb_F_Eb Db Eb_F_Gb Db+_Bb+|
Even though Alvorna’s main instrument was her violin, her interaction with Jihoon atop the cloud stage together in their first meeting has led her to realize her own an aspect of her own power. Even without a woodwind in hand, she manipulated the winds to create the sound of one. Even though the rules are in place, as long as no harm is done, no one really would say anything. Especially to the Daughter of the Matriarch herself.
Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb F_Gb_Bb+ Ab+| Gb_F_Eb Db Gb_F Eb_Db_Eb~|
With key signature of E-flat minor, otherwise known as the key sign of devotion and longing. As established when he first composed it back during the audition for Maestro title in the Lengsel Academic Hall. With its tempo, one could easily mistake it for whimsical feelings and carefreeness which contradicts its key signature.
Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb F_Gb_Bb+ Ab+| Gb_F_Eb_Db Eb_F Db+_Bb+~Bb+|
A more complex melodic movement, with larger intervallic jumps between registers. The pattern suggests a dialogue between lower and higher ranges, as the note progression ascends and descends, creating a conversational quality. Or more exactly in this case, retrospection of self as one lingers on the past.
Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb F_Gb_Bb+ Ab+| Db+_Bb+_Db+~ Eb+~_Gb+~ F+_Eb+_Db+~ Eb+|
As the notes refrained again, the following conclusion features higher register notes in a more elaborate pattern, before ending in a tonic note and fulfilling its emotional climax.
Finally, Alvorna lifted her violin to the neck gape as she begins to perform.
Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
Eb+_F+_Gb+~ Eb+ F+_Gb+_F+~F+|
Eb+_F+_Gb+~Gb Bb++_Ab++_Gb+_F+~F+|
Bb++_B++_Db++~ Eb++_Db++_B++_Eb Eb_F_Gb~ Ab+_Gb+_Ab+_Bb+|
With the back-and-forth movement between F+ and Gb+, this melody creates an intense feeling of uncertainty or internal conflict. Then the range of the progression extended dramatically up to even another register notch, this dramatic leap upward followed by a descending line creates a moment of emotional climax or breakthrough.
The descent back to F+ suggests a return to the earlier emotional state, but now transformed by the experience of reaching those higher notes.
And the final chord is the utmost intense as it features highest notes so far in the progression (B++, Db++, Eb++) before dramatically plunge down to the lower register tonic (Eb) and then settling in the dominant note. This extreme range of movement is supposed to create powerful emotional expression of catharsis yet only further delayed as it ends with another imperfect cadence once more.
This time, Rosa settles into her role as she places the rose-gold harmonica in-between her lips.
Bb_B Db_Eb Bb~| Bb_Eb_Ab+_Gb Ab+_Gb_F~F Db| Eb_Bb Eb_Bb Gb Ab+_Gb_F~|
Falling back to the much lower scale, the notes now follow a gentler ascend and returning motion. Like a questioning motion, held sustained as though a moment of contemplation.
Once more with the usage of the dominant chord, it doesn’t immediately resolve as it significant rises in pitch (to Ab+) followed by a gradual descent. This creates a wave-like motion that as though emotional rise and fall, like a sigh or a release of tension. The sustained F adds emphasis to this descending movement.
However, as it soon oscillates between the tonic and dominant note, before rise sharply just to descend as though seeking something.
Bb_B Db_Eb Bb~| Bb_Eb_Ab+_Gb Ab+_Gb_F~F Db| Eb_Bb Eb_Bb Gb Ab+_Gb_F~| Gb_F_Eb_Db Eb~~|
The melody refrained once more, reinforcing upon what was already performed. Before concluding properly on its tonic note, giving the proper resolution withheld before.
Bb_Db_Bb Db_F_Ab+ F_Ab+_Db+ Db+_F+|
Db+_F+_Db+_F+ Ab++_Db++_Eb++ Db++_Ab++_Db++ Ab++_F+_Db+|
F+_Db+_Ab+ Db+_Ab+_F F_Db_F_Db Ab_F-_Ab_F-| Bb-_Eb-_Eb~Eb~~|
Then Aquarius follows up with her harp as her fingers slide across its strings as she performed an arpeggio rising from low to the highest register possible before descending again. The pattern of descending third creates a cascading effect before finally moving into lower register and ending on a tonic note, signifying finality.
The air hung heavy with the resonance of their combined effort.
Jihoon opened his eyes, a glimmer of determination in his gaze.
That was only the introduction. The song now truly begins.
Jihoon took out his electric guitar that he brought with from his world. The visceral, gritty and rebellious sound that stood out greatly yet harmonize with the same natural harmony of the classical instruments.
Eb~~~| Db_Eb~Eb~~| Gb_F Db_Eb~Eb~| Db_Eb~Eb~~|
Bb_Db_Bb_Db F_Eb~Eb Bb+| Ab+_Bb+_B+ Bb+ Ab+_Bb+ Eb|
Eb_Gb Ab+ Gb_F_Db_Eb~Eb|
Opening with a long sustained tonic note, creating a sense of stillness and contemplation, Then with gentle movements between the adjacent notes feel like quiet sighs or gentle breathes. Combined with the return to the sustained key signature’s tonic note creates a meditative quality for listeners.
The melody ascended in alternating progressions, stirring emotions from deep within. Each note climbed toward the dominant register, gentle yet deliberate, evoking the sensation of emotions rising from contemplation toward expression. As the melody rose and fell, the feeling of heightening intensity was tempered by a return to a lower tonic, grounding the piece in a quiet strength.
The final line creates an arch-like motion, rising to Ab+ before descending back to the sustained tonic, providing a sense of serenity and acceptance at the end.
Immediately, the leading performance switched to Alvorna as she grasped the transition without hitch.
Bb+_Eb Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb_F_Gb Bb+_Ab+| Gb_F_Eb Db Eb_F_Gb Db+_Bb+|
Bb+_Eb Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb_F_Gb Bb+_Ab+| Gb_F_Eb Db Gb_F Eb_Db_Eb~|
Bb+_Eb Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb_F_Gb Bb+_Ab+| Gb_F_Eb Db Eb_F_Gb Db+_Bb+|
Bb+_Eb Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb_F_Gb Bb+_Ab+| Db+_Bb+_Db+ Eb+_Gb+ F+ Eb+_Db+_Eb+~|
Refraining from the introduction melody once again, Alvorna’s Wind Magic weaved into the sound of flute out of the flow of ether itself. All while as Jihoon relegates himself into backdrop as his guitar’s play in assistance of her wind. Karim contributes what little he knew of music by clapping his hands to the rhythm of their song, providing the layer of earthly percussion.
Bb+_Eb Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb_F_Gb Bb+_Ab+| Gb_F_Eb Db Eb_F_Gb Db+_Bb+|
Bb+_Eb Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb_F_Gb Bb+_Ab+| Gb_F_Eb Db Gb_F Eb_Db_Eb~|
Going for another refrain again, Alvorna follows up with her violin as she bows its string, all while simultaneously maintaining the sound of flute with her Wind Magic at the same time. The song’s intensity risen as though a concert is formed by all the disparate instruments coming together. After all, a song is only as lively as the number of musical instruments performing it together.
Bb+_Eb Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb_F_Gb Bb+_Ab+| Gb_F_Eb Db Eb_F_Gb Db+_Bb+|
Bb+_Eb Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Eb_F_Gb Bb+_Ab+| Db+_Bb+_Db+ Eb+_Gb+ F+ Eb+_Db+_Eb+~|
Rosa also joined as she freestyles along with the main melody on the backdrop. As the group continues their journey on the way while performing with all their spirits, they no longer care for the distance for the performance itself entranced them as they become closer with one another.
Bb Bb Bb_Bb Ab_Gb-| Bb_Ab B_Bb Ab_Bb~Bb| Bb Bb Bb_Bb Ab_Gb|
The performance dipped into a moment of introspection after that climax before, the energy subdued as Jihoon’s guitar took a simpler, more rhythmic approach. The repetition of dominant notes added a layer of insistence, a quiet determination that mirrored his own thoughts.
Then Rosa came in and took the spotlight for herself as the harmonica played in dramatic shift from the downtime just before.
B+ B+_Bb+ Gb_Ab+~Ab+| Ab+_Ab+ Ab+_Ab+ Gb+_E E_Gb| B+ Bb+ Gb_Ab+~Ab+_Ab+ Ab+_Ab+ Gb+_E Gb|
Bb_B_Db Eb_F_Gb Ab+_Bb+_B+ Db+_E+~|
With a dramatic shift to higher register immediately at outset, following with a repetition of neighbor dominants A sense of heightened emotion or urgency is evoked, with the sudden drop in pitch before going for an accidental at near end seemingly evoke vulnerability or exposure. Before finally making a sweeping ascend glissando to higher tonic creating feeling of transcendental release, the tension melting away like waves receding from the shore.
As the golden hour arrives again, its warm incandescent shines upon their route, and their forms. Their most brilliant moment captured and existed only in the moment itself as the final hour of the daytime drew close.
The sun’s rays painted the island in hues of gold and amber, casting long, soft shadows that added an ethereal quality to everything. The road they walked on appeared as if paved with gold, each step they took shining in the twilight, like the world itself had been touched by the performance they were creating.
The trees lining the path seemed to sway in rhythm with the sea breezes, their leaves catching the light, glowing softly as if echoing with the music in the air.
Passersby stopped in their tracks, captivated by the sight and sound. The combination of Rosa’s dramatic harmonica solo and the Maestro’s guitar, intertwined with Alvorna’s violin and Aquarius’ harp, painted a scene of unity and artistry that seemed to transcend expectation or even onstage performance. Many didn’t even realize they had stopped moving, their feet rooted to the ground as they absorbed every note.
“Wait… Isn’t that… SPIKA?” someone murmured in awe.
“The first debut song of the fastest Maestro of Absence? Here? Now?”
Whispers turned into excited murmurs as more people gathered. None could resist the allure of the music, nor the radiance of the performers themselves. They were illuminated by the golden hour, their figures seeming to glow from within, their instruments reflecting the sun’s waning light like treasures brought to life.
The golden hour was just as much as a fleeting moment in daily life, yet its significance never wanes. Like a frame in time, immortalizing the group in their most brilliant form, their music reaching hearts as effortlessly as sunlight graces the earth.
Because after all, to Jihoon. It was the brilliance of both new blood and old glory.
For a fleeting moment, he forgot the weight of the past and the uncertainties of the future. In this hour, surrounded by close friends and the awe of strangers, his music resonated not just outward but inward. Because for the first time in what felt like years, he felt alive in a way that couldn’t be measured.
The performance continued, as Alvorna once again took center stage of the performance. As though everyone else knowing their own assigned roles already, all become silent as only her Wind Magic played the pre-chorus while Jihoon somberly glides across his strings in backdrop to her notes’ shadow.
Bb_Eb F_Gb Bb~| Gb_Gb B~~| Ab+_Gb_F~ Gb_Ab+ F_Eb_Db~Db|
Bb_B~~ Eb_F_Gb_Ab+ Gb_F_Eb_Db Eb_F~~|
The opening phrase moves upward through the broken chord pattern to arrive at the dominant note. Then rising further to B natural to create tension with the key signature. And the following sustain of said note creates a sense of suspension or unresolved yearning.
Then descending from Ab+ creates a sighing effect, followed by another brief rise and fall. The sustained Db neighboring the tonic at the end only creates a temporary point of rest, not complete resolution. The frequent rises followed by descending patterns emulates waves of emotion, which when in Eb minor means longing or grief.
And then this following section creates dramatic tension with the Bb to B (dominant to neighbor dominant) natural movement, then features a sweeping scalar motion upward followed by a descent. The sustained F adjacent to tonic note at the end leaves its listeners hanging emotionally, again.
Bb_Eb F_Gb Bb~| Gb_Gb B~~| Ab+_Gb_F~ Gb_Ab+ F_Db_Bb+~Bb+|
Ab+_Bb+_B+_Bb+ Ab+_Gb_F_Bb Gb_F_Eb_Bb Gb_F_Eb~|
Then refraining from the initial melody again, reinforcing its emotional weight. Like returning to an initial feeling or thought. But Alvorna then followed up with a higher register dominant (Bb+), creating a greater contrast and emotional range than the previous.
After rising to the highest note in the melody (B+) before ultimately descending back to Eb, the tonic. This creates a sense of completion or resolution, though the minor key maintains a melancholic quality.
As a whole, it expressed deep melancholy with moments of intense yearning but with a sense of resignation or acceptance in its final descent. Of nostalgia for moments that will never return. That was what Jihoon recognized of his life, and his way of acceptance so that he could live for the present moment.
That’s what all his close relations around him realized too.
Rosa paused, her harmonica hovering just shy of her lips. Karim, who had been clapping to the rhythm, fell silent. Even Aquarius’ harp strings stayed still for a moment. The raw, unfiltered emotion pouring from Alvorna’s performance of his song had touched each of them, mirroring truths they perhaps hadn’t even acknowledged themselves.
It may have been Jihoon’s song, but by performing together with him and attuning to its emotions, it is by proxy their song too by capturing a shared understanding that transcended words that could have been spoken.
In that moment, the weight of the past didn’t feel as heavy. Instead, it felt like a foundation upon which they could build something new, something enduring. Pulling from hazy realization itself, they come to put even more effort into the performance itself.
Bb_Eb F_Gb Bb~| Gb_Gb B~~| Ab+_Gb_F~ Gb_Ab+ F_Eb_Db~Db|
Bb_B~~ Eb_F_Gb_Ab+ Gb_F_Eb_Db Eb_F~~|
Bb_Eb F_Gb Bb~| Gb_Gb B~~| Ab+_Gb_F~ Gb_Ab+ Db_Ab+_Bb+~Bb+|
Ab+_Bb+_B+_Bb+ Ab+_Gb_F_Bb Gb_F_Eb_Bb Gb_F_Eb~|
This time, Jihoon and Alvorna perform together as Alvorna’s violin soared as she refrains the entire previous section again. Yet despite the same melody is played, the electric guitar and the violin interplay with one another as though conversing between. The violin’s melody swells as though trying uplift the guitar together with it.
As if Alvorna is wordlessly trying to cheer Jihoon up to her best even if the result doesn’t show any return for her effort.
Their traveling brought them to a cable car station that will bringing them directly to one of the highest points of Lotus Eater Island. The place where the ‘Perfect Cherry Blossom’ inn is located. Its appearance looks archaic yet though exudes so much historical charm as though like a piece of history, untouched by time, had been transplanted here.
Once again, it was just another reminder of how much Absence long moved past its tumultuous history just so that anyone can just live to become their own very best.
Yet as they board their cable car, the performance still goes on, their music filling the enclosed space with rich, resonant sound.
Eb_F_Gb~ Eb F_Gb_F~F| Eb_F_Gb~ Eb F_Gb_F~F|
Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+~ Ab+_Gb_F~| Bb Bb_B_Db~ Db_B_Db_F~F
Rosa takes the lead as her harmonica swells in place of Alvorna. She refrained one of the introductory melodies from the beginning as the backdrop strum of the guitar compliments.
The repeated descending patterns and oscillations of (Eb-F-Gb) notes create momentary feeling of suspension. The back and forth going establishes a sense of questioning or searching. As though she repeatedly asking Jihoon if he is fine or not.
The pattern then expands upward to reach Bb+ (higher register dominant) before descending, creating a more dramatic emotional arc. The sustained F at the end feels like a moment of contemplation go unanswered. Then chromatic movement and reaches up to F natural, creating tension against the Eb minor tonality. The sustained F creates a moment of heightened emotional intensity.
Eb+_F+_Gb+~ Eb+ F+_Gb+_F+~F+| Eb+_F+_Gb+~ Eb+ F+_Gb+_F+~F+|
Eb+_F+_Gb+~Gb Bb++_Ab++_Gb+_F+ Bb+_Bb+| Ab+_Bb+_B+~ Bb_Db~~ B_Eb Eb_Eb~~|
Alvorna now also rejoined the performance as the Dwarf and the Harpy performing their signature instruments together. As the sound of violin and harmonica and the wind of flute harmonize, a celebratory feeling ignited as unspoken bond between them all resonate.
The progression now moves to a higher register (noted by +), repeating the opening pattern but with increased intensity due to the higher pitch range, creating a sense of emotional escalation.
The final section crescendo to the highest notes of the melody (Bb++, Ab++) before making a dramatic descent back to tonic note of the key signature. A powerful sense of emotional climax and resolution emboldened with the sustained tonic note.
This melody as a whole is a journey through intense emotional states, depicting a struggle with recurring thoughts or feelings that continue to build in intensity before finding resolution. The extensive use of sustained notes and repetitive patterns creates a hypnotic quality, while the dramatic register changes suggest emotional transformation.
As the cable car rose higher, the warm golden hour sunlight painted the world below. The vast sprawling natural landscape of Lotus-Eater Island all taken for view. The golden sky dominates the upper half of the scenery. Soft, delicate, scattered clouds add texture and depth to the scene. The glimmering sea sparkled in the distance, reflecting said hue. The distant mountains and hills fading in the horizon. The incandescent-imbued foliage evoking the ephemeral bliss of this last hour of the day.
Taking in the scenery, the company between them together stoke the passion of the performance greater in response.
Bb+_Eb~~ F_Gb_Bb+~ Ab+~| Gb_F_Eb Db Eb_F_Gb Db+_Bb+|
Bb+_Eb~~ F_Gb_Bb+~ Ab+~| Gb_F_Eb Db Gb_F Eb_Db_Eb~|
Bb+_Eb~~ F_Gb_Bb+~ Ab+~| Gb_F_Eb Db Eb_F_Gb Db+_Bb+|
Bb+_Eb~~ F_Gb_Bb+~ Ab+~| Db+_Bb+_Db+~ Eb+_Gb+ F+ Eb+_Db+_Eb+~|
Refraining another of the previous section of the song again. Alvorna’s Wind Magic led the prelude with the sound of woodwind while Jihoon continues performing the backdrop strumming to keep the rhythm going. The wavelike melody moves with melancholy and longing between high and low notes.
Then afterward, she follows up the second half with her violin as she performs with fervor. Rosa also joined as she blows on her harmonica in rhythm like Jihoon’s strumming. Moments of intensity finding its resolution before ending this section with a resolute climax.
Conceding the lead performance role once again, Alvorna passed the metaphorical baton over to Rosa as she took over the main melody once again.
Bb_Eb F_Gb Bb~| Gb_Gb B~~| Ab+_Gb_F~ Gb_Ab+ F_Eb_Db~Db|
Bb_B~~ Eb_F_Gb_Ab+ Gb_F_Eb_Db Eb_F~~|
Bb_Eb F_Gb Bb~| Gb_Gb B~~| Ab+_Gb_F~ Gb_Ab+ F_Db_Bb+~Bb+|
Ab+_Bb+_B+_Bb+ Ab+_Gb_F_Bb Gb_F_Eb_Bb Gb_F_Eb~|
Rosa refrained once again as she performs her harmonica solo while Jihoon strums his electric guitar and Alvorna sometimes assist with the sound of flute occasionally. The same familiar chorus returned once more as it is previously performed by Alvorna’s violin. She too, conveys her own worry of Jihoon in her own way as she pours all the heartfelt breath into every note. Like an encoded confession of all her worry for him in which any words of empathy would substitute.
Alvorna even realized it and she have no intention of letting Rosa out done her like this. Her competitive spirit ignited as she took back the spotlight once more.
Bb_Eb F_Gb Bb~| Gb_Gb B~~| Ab+_Gb_F~ Gb_Ab+ F_Eb_Db~Db|
Bb_B~~ Eb_F_Gb_Ab+ Gb_F_Eb_Db Eb_F~~|
Bb_Eb F_Gb Bb~| Gb_Gb B~~| Ab+_Gb_F~ Gb_Ab+ F_Db_Bb+~Bb+|
Ab+_Bb+_B+_Bb+ Ab+_Gb_F_Bb Gb_F_Eb_Bb Gb_F_Eb~|
The violin of the Harpy swelled once more as she competes with Rosa’s harmonica as they both together perform the chorus in an unspoken rivalry. They both poured their emotions into their performance, their instruments vying for dominance while paradoxically blending and interplaying seamlessly into the whole so well that their rivalry was lost to anyone not acutely aware of its context.
Jihoon, oblivious to the competitive undercurrent, continued to strum his guitar with the same usual flow, his focus on the music rather than the subtle fight for his attention. Yet the combined melody carried their emotions clearly to him, even if he didn’t consciously grasp the intent behind their competitive fervor.
Karim clapped to the rhythm with a merchant’s steady hands, adding a grounding pulse to the melody, while Aquarius’s harp provided a shimmering backdrop, her well-placed plucks emphasizing the climactic moments.
The music swelled, interlaced with longing, defiance, and shared purpose. Their journey, once a simple ascent to the inn, now felt like an odyssey marked by unity, emotions, and the brilliance of their combined artistry.
As the cable car neared its destination, their song reached its crescendo. The music echoed across the mountainside, carried by the wind, leaving anyone who heard it spellbound. Each performer’s emotions resonated in the air, crafting a moment that felt timeless. In that golden hour, amidst their shared melody, there was no past, no future—just the music and the bond it created.
With the unspoken rivalry ignited with Jihoon stood between their crossfire, with the previous chorus coming to an end. Alvorna made her transition to the bridge as the tension between her and Rosa became unpalpable in the melody itself. Even though the song is supposedly entering downtime, the intensity hasn’t yet waned but remains as foreboding even long into progression.
Her violin swells in swift motion as she slides across the chromatic scale.
Bb~ Db_E Bb| Ab+_Gb F_Eb Db_Bb~Bb| [~~~~]|
Bb+_Ab+ Gb_F~F~| Gb_F Db_Eb| Bb+_Ab+ Gb_F~F~| Gb_F Db_Eb|
[~…~] is empty measure
Following through the start immediately is the dominant note yet again before moving upward toward its tonic. And then moving through a sharp descent. The second measure also follow through the same direction to the dominant chord in what can be heard like palpating breath.
Then with a moment of empty measure with only the sound of Karim’s rhythmic clapping, Aquarius’s harp plucking to fill in the absence. Without even Jihoon’s guitar or her rival’s harmonica, she took in this brief moment of self-reflection. And only after this singular silent measure that Alvorna start to pick up her pace.
From the momentary peace yet contemplating resignation, Rosa also takes measure as the two continues to duel again.
Bb Db Eb~| Eb_Db Eb_F Bb+_Db+ C+| Db+_C+ Bb+_Ab+ Bb+~|
Eb_F_Gb~ Eb_Gb_Bb+_Ab+~Ab~| Gb_Ab+_Bb+~ Db+_C+_Ab+_Bb+~Bb+~|
Rosa’s opening phrase climbed upward in measured steps, pausing momentarily on the tonic note before leaping to dramatic heights. The accidental notes she wove into her melody created a sense of emotional tension, their sharpness cutting through the sound like a cry for something unattainable. Her harmonica’s tone shifted between peaks and valleys, evoking the emotional surges of yearning and determination.
The following measures feature dramatic register shifts and multiple sustained notes, creating a sense of emotional waves or surges. The movement between registers feels like emotional peaks and valleys.
Once Rosa finished her part of the verse, Alvorna swoop in like a bird of prey for the spotlight.
Bb+_Db+_Eb+~ Db+_Db+ Bb+_Gb+_Ab+_Gb+ F_Db_Eb~Eb|
Bb_Db_Eb~ Bb+ Ab+_Bb+_Gb_Db Eb| Bb++_Ab++_Bb++_Gb+ Db+_Eb+~Eb+~|
Her violin picks up upon where Rosa was at. The violin cascaded downward through the registers, beginning with a dramatic flourish at the high tonic before descending into lower, richer tones. Her performance was a cascade of emotional release, the tension of the earlier rivalry transforming into something almost transcendent.
The highest notes soared with piercing clarity, each one a summit of intensity, before the melody settled into a resolution that felt less like an ending and more like a transformation.
Each note seemed to embody her emotions—her pride, her competitive spirit, and perhaps something deeper that even she couldn’t quite put into words.
Jihoon, strumming steadily in the backdrop, remained unaware of the undercurrent of rivalry driving the performance. To him, it was merely another stunning moment of musical harmony.
With the verse completed following the pre-chorus. Surprisingly, it wasn’t either of them that picks the main melody. It was Aquarius with her harp.
Eb_F_Gb_Eb Ab+_Eb_Ab+_Gb Ab+_Bb+~~ Ab+_Gb+_F|
Eb_F_Gb_F Eb_F_Gb~ Db_Eb_F_Eb Db_Eb_F~| Eb_F~~ Db_Eb_F_Gb Bb+~|
In swift and rapid motions her fingers went, the mermaid princess displayed her own musical prowess as her fingers leapt widely across the harp strings all over the high and low register. The sustained dominant chord ascent before falling back quickly like surging tide of emotion before its retreat, like an unfulfilled yearning before disappearing into sea foam.
The following measures moved into the lower register, each note placed deliberately in gentle stepwise motion. The resulting mood was introspective, evoking the quiet contemplation of a solitary moment. Sustained notes lingered like thoughts too profound to fade quickly, before a rise to the dominant chord hinted at something greater on the horizon.
Eb_F_Gb_Eb Ab+_Eb_Ab+_Gb Ab+_Bb+_Eb+~ Db+_B+_Bb+~|
Ab+_Bb+_B_Bb Ab+_B+~~ Gb_Ab+_Bb+_Ab+ Gb_Bb+~~| Gb_Ab+_Ab+_Gb Ab+_Ab+~ Bb+_Eb+_Bb++~ Eb+|
Refraining from the previous patterns once more, Alvorna’s took the center stage of performance first as her Wind Magic imitate the sound of flute as she ascends the progression to the tonic note of higher register, weaving an intricate prelude with a delicate yet assertive touch. The increasing intensity of her melody hinted at the culmination to come.
As the backdrop harmony returns, the clapping of Karim’s steady hands, Aquarius’s harp and Jihoon’s guitar. As though preparing for the last hurrah between all of them, the descending notes toward dominant only further highlight the prelude to come.
Alvorna proceeds to spur onward with chromatic movement of the flute, dancing near around the dominant note. The melody captured an intricate emotional journey, as if portraying an internal dialogue of conflict and transformation. The shifts between registers mimicked voices in conversation, blending seamlessly yet distinctively.
And finally… the last measure ends as she lingers briefly before making massive leapt across the register before finally end on a higher register tonic. Like preparing for a headstart, the sprint before taking flight.
The sun dipped lower, its golden rays casting long shadows and igniting the cherry blossoms in a fiery display of pink and orange as they approach the ‘Perfect Cherry Blossom’ inn. The surrounding scenery, bathed in this incandescent glow, felt like a reflection of the music’s emotional peaks. Even the cable car seemed to glide more smoothly as if carried along by the song’s ethereal energy.
This was their final refrain, the last hurrah of a shared performance that transcended words and reached for the sublime.
Bb+ Bb+ Eb+_Db+_B+_Bb+~Bb+| Db+_Eb Db+_B+_Ab+_Bb+~Bb+ |
Ab+_Bb+_B~ Ab+_B+ Gb_Ab+_Bb+~ Gb_Bb+| Eb_F_Gb_F Gb_Ab+_Bb+~Bb+|
Alvorna equipped her violin as Rosa also placed her harmonica between her lips. The two perform wholeheartedly as though the original rivalry intent didn’t exist. Although they may attempt to try overwhelming one another but their vastly different instruments of their own only interplay with one another instead.
The opening features repeated dominant note followed by descending chromatic motion in the high register, creating a sense of insistence followed by emotional descent. The sustained dominant note at the end of each measure creates lingering tension. Then the chromatic movement like before creating tension, followed by dramatic register shifts. The pattern of rising and falling that is prevalent from beginning to end only further reinforces the emotion of the song now that it is in its last chorus.
Eb_F_Gb_Eb Ab+_Eb_Ab+_Gb Gb_Ab+_Bb+_Gb+~ F+_Db+_Bb+~|
Ab+_Bb+_B~ Ab+_B+ Gb_Ab+_Bb+~ Gb_Bb+| Gb_Ab+ Ab+_Ab+ Ab+_Bb+ Ab+_Gb+_F_Eb|
As the melody moves from lower to higher register in a sweeping motion, as if everyone is gathering emotional energy or building intensity for the final measures. Then following with a long ascent as though one could reach heaven as the melody climbs up to Gb+ before descending, making one feel the emotional reaching followed by withdrawal immediately afterward.
The final section returns to the chromatic tension with B natural before preparing for a final descent through multiple registers to end on a tonic note, to finally bring a release of all the accumulated tension.
Both of them took in their breath as they together performed the last measure. The lingering note repeated as though one took the last time to look back before sprinting ahead without return. To relieve oneself the burden of the past so that one can live for the present.
That’s the essence of SPIKA.
Bb+_Eb~~ F_Gb_Bb+~ Ab+~| Gb_F_Eb_Db Eb_F_Gb~ Db+_Bb+|
Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Ab+~ Gb_F_Eb~ Db_Gb~~| F_Eb_Db~ Eb~~|
Making the callback to one of the original melodies once more as its finale draws close. The flute sound of Alvorna’s Wind Magic led the main melody as she replayed its gentle yearning, the sustained tones evoking quiet self-reflection. The melody echoed the themes of longing and acceptance as if the music itself was a conversation between the performers and their hearts.
Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Ab+~ Gb_F_Eb~ Db_Eb_F~| Gb_Db+_Bb+~Bb+~~|
Eb_F_Gb~ Bb+_Ab+~ Db+_Bb+_Db+~ Eb+_Gb+ F+ Eb+_Db+_Eb+~|
The chromatic shifts rose and fell, climbing and retreating as if mirroring the tumultuous journey of the human heart—an unending quest for meaning amidst struggles. Each rise in the progression hinted at hope, yet the subsequent descents reminded of the inherent fragility of those aspirations.
Then with the backdrop harmony going at the climax, Alvorna once again changed to her violin as everyone else played in compliment toward her performance. The steady clapping of Karim’s hands, strum of Jihoon’ electric guitar, pluck of Aquarius’s harp and Rosa’s harmonica all played to drive the homecoming of the melody.
For one last measure, the performance reached its peak as all the distinct lives connected.
Eb_F_Gb_Eb Ab+_Eb_Ab+_Gb Ab+_Bb+_Eb+~ Db+_B+_Bb+~
Ab+_Bb+_B_Bb Ab+_B+~~ Gb_Ab+_Bb+_Ab+ Gb_Bb+~~| Gb_Ab+ Ab+_Ab+ Ab+_Gb_Ab+~ Bb+
After all of that jubilant performance of the chorus before, the song enters its outro. Nearly all the instruments have died down, only the sound of flute playing the ending melody while the harp of Aquarius and Jihoon’s slap of the guitar acts as percussion keeping the background harmony going.
Eb_F_Gb_Eb Ab+_Eb_Ab+_Gb Ab+_Bb+_Eb+~ Db+_B+_Bb+~|
Ab+_Bb+_B_Bb Ab+_B+~~ Gb_Ab+_Bb+_Ab+ Gb_Bb+~~| Gb_Ab+_Bb+_Ab+ Gb_F~~ Eb_F_Eb~Eb|
Then changing to the violin, the harp in Aquarius’s hands played in full force as its tranquil and peaceful sound mark the completion of the song. And finally, the finishing notes…
Bb+_B+_Db+_Eb+~Eb+~~
As the final note faded into the golden warmth of the setting sun, the cable car reached the summit. The group sat in silence, their surroundings bathed in incandescent light as cherry blossoms danced gently in the breeze.
They have arrived, at the ‘Perfect Cherry Blossom’.