A Symphony for Tomorrow/Story

### A Strange Instrument's Tale

A former bass clarinet and Flower Knight, Anri. Recently, it has been said that four other Flower Knights who were “former instruments” have appeared. Anri needs to make a place where these girls can stay, so goes to ask Dancing Lady Orchid and Nazuna for advice, before deciding to host a music event.

*-Anri appears on centre stage and gracefully bows.*
**Anri:** Thank you very much for coming to this music event which has been hosted by the knight company.
**Luluna:** To all of our esteemed guests...
**Valnbone:** Umm... In order to become familiar with us musical instruments...
**Eir:** In order for you to enjoy music!
**Mattia:** We stand upon this stage!
**Anri:** In order to conclude this day, we hope you will enjoy our performance.
Everyone, please relax – and enjoy.

*-The five people on stage all take a bow together. The audience applauds. But what happened to get to this stage is...*
**Nazuna:** A music... Event?
**Anri:** Yes. I haven't thought of anything specific yet, but if we host something like that...
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Niihihiiin♪ That sounds fun, right?
**Nazuna:** You're right, it sounds great... But why so suddenly?
**Anri:** As you may know, I had a little bit of a special birth...
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** I have a feeling that it wasn't that little. Because it was from that clarinet I found!
**Anri:** Yes... I started off as a bass clarinet. I was found by Dancing Lady Orchid-san, and with the help of Danchou-sama, I was able to gain this human form.
I don't know whether it was because of the blessing of the World Flower, or if it was some other kind of miracle...
Anyway, because of these circumstances, I have a strong attachment to music.
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Right, right? Didn't you hear that there are more kids like Anri-chan here?
**Nazuna:** That's... Yes. Strangely enough, it's continuing to happen... There have been about four Flower Knights just like Anri-san.
**Anri:** I don't know either what the meaning could be behind this. But, those girls have the same existence as me... So I feel that I should do something.
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** So that's why you came to me for advice♪ I'm sure the others like instruments and music too, so I thought it would be fun to host an event!
**Anri:** A special birth can make a person grow up lonely. Fortunately, I was quickly adopted by Danchou-sama and the others, but I don't know how the four new people feel...
**Nazuna:** So you want to host a music event as a sort of mixer party to help them get used to the knight company... Or something like that?
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Niihihin♪ Exactly♪
**Nazuna:** I think it's great! Music is widely enjoyed, so it would be perfect for interactions and comfort. Don't you think so? Danchou-sama!
**Anri:** I think that Blossom Hill would be the best place to host the event. The other Instrument Flower Knights seem to be staying in their countries of birth... I'll need to contact them and meet up with them.
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Can I come with you?
**Anri:** Ah, could you help out with the leftover preparations needed for the event for me, Dancing Lady Orchid-san?
If me and Dancing Lady Orchid-san split up to explain the situation, it would be easier to understand.
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Of course, that's right! Well then, ummm...
**Nazuna:** I'll go and find some Flower Knights who are available and send them to welcome you. I'll arrange that from here♪
**Anri:** Thank you...! We're definitely going to make a great event!
I'm counting on you too, Danchou-sama!

### Gather to the Beat, First Person, Second

In order to welcome the Flower Knights who were former instruments; Scotch Broom, Correa and and Sandersonia are dispatched to Lilywood. There, they meet two sisters, which used to be a contrabass and a violin, Luluna and Mattia.

Uuu, it would have been better if Correa-san and Sandersonia-san came with me instead of splitting up...
**???:** Kya...! **Scotch Broom:** Ouch...!
**Scotch Broom:** Wa...! I-I'm sorry! I'm sorry, I wasn't looking! A-are you alright!?
**Luluna:** N-no, it's my fault for running into you...
I'm sorry, it seems like trash like me has unfortunately run into a member of humanity... I haven't soiled your attire, have I? Use this handkerchief...
Aah, but my handkerchief is woven from gathered dust, so would only further spread the dirt, what should I do?
**Scotch Broom:** Eeh...!? Wh-what are you saying? I'm in no position to have you clean me with such a pretty handkerchief, I'm a water flea witch that embarrasses her grandmother's name...!
**Luluna:** You're being polite for my sake. Don't talk so bad about yourself, if you end up like me...
**Mattia:** Lu-Luluna! You're saying that again!
**Luluna:** Mattia...
**Correa:** Scotch Broom-san! We've finally found you...!
**Sandersonia:** Wh-what's the matter? What kind of trouble...?
**Scotch Broom:** Correa-san, Sandersonia-san...! No, I bumped into this person...
Hey, “Luluna-san”?
**Luluna:** Yes. I'm Luluna, the Flower Knight Scaly Hydrangea. You might not believe me, but I used to be a contrabass...
**Scotch Broom:** I, we, found her! We came to meet you! The Contrabass Luluna-san and the violin Mattia-san!
**Luluna:** What?
**Mattia:** I'll explain this, Luluna. These people are also Flower Knights from the knight company...
**Luluna:** There's a music event at Blossom Hill...
**Mattia:** Yeah. Sounds fun, right? There are also former instrument Flower Knights like us, so I'm curious...
**Correa:** Um... Is it true that you two used to be instruments?
Ah, no! It's not like I ever doubted it! It's just a little odd...
**Sandersonia:** On top of that, Luluna-san and Mattia-san are sisters, right? What could that mean? We were sent out to meet and welcome you, but we didn't have very many details...
**Mattia:** Ah, ummm yeah... How should I put this? We are instruments, but even we can't explain it fully...
**Luluna:** That's right. When I woke up, I was like this. This trash that arms and legs grew out of, I'm sorry.
**Mattia:** H-hey Luluna! You're not allowed to say things like that! You're so much more better than me...!
**Scotch Broom:** Ah, huh!? You also feel like that, Mattia-san!?
**Luluna:** Yes... There's no doubt that my influence is what has caused Mattia to feel sorry for me. For some reason, all of us violinists...
**Mattia:** All... Huh...?
**Correa:** ...? What are you two doing?
**Luluna:** ... Ah, no... Just for a moment, something felt like it was stuck... I must have gotten confused, but I am crazy. I probably just got clogged with sawdust.
**Mattia:** I also just had a feeling that something that got stuck... ... No good, I don't know. Anyway, myself and Luluna are both types of violin.
**Luluna:** The violin, viola, cello, and contrabass are all considered types of violin. But there are cases when I, the contrabass, is not included...
**Sandersonia:** I see... So that's why you two are sisters... So does that mean that every violin that becomes human would all be considered sisters?
**Mattia:** That's... What do you think? I don't know of any other violins that have become human, so...
But since there are so many different instruments, I don't think every one of them could be family.
**Luluna:** That's right. For example, if the same craftsmen made the instruments, then they would feel something in common that would make them relatives.
**Mattia:** The time when Luluna became a human was slightly different, but the moment we met in human form, we felt “Ah, my sister!” Ehehe, it's weird, isn't it...
**Correa:** Hmmm, it is truly strange. The fact that instruments have become people, and that different instruments have done so, as well as the criteria for being a family...
**Sandersonia:** There are still so many strange things in this world...
**Luluna:** I'm truly very sorry... I don't know myself, I wish I could get rid of my head, which isn't even of any use as a hatstand.
**Mattia:** don't say that, Luluna! You will definitely become a far better Flower Knight than some immature violin like me.
**Scotch Broom:** Uuuu... If I was a wonderful witch like granny, then I'm sure I'd have some knowledge of this mystery... I'm sorry for being useless garbage! Please think of this broom as my main body!
**Sandersonia:** Co-Correa-san! What do we do! We don't have anyone with any amount of self-confidence!
**Correa:** Y-yeah...! We'll have to keep it together, but I don't think I have the confidence to overcome this situation!
**Sandersonia:** A-anyway, let's go to Blossom Hill everyone! The music event will definitely be fun!

### Gather to the Beat, Third Person, Fourth

The Flower Knights continue to travel all around. Lily meets the flugelhorn, Eir, in Banana Ocean, while Saffron meets the valve trombone, Valnbone, in Winter Rose and they all travel towards Blossom Hill together. However, Valnbone admits that there's something she's worried about...

**Eir:** Yeah! Sounds good! It sounds really fun!
A music event... What will I do? It'd be great if they had some jazz performance stages!
**Lily:** I absolutely love being on stage too! So Eir-san likes Jazz?
... Ah, that's right, you're a flugelhorn. You'll certainly find a jazz performance.
**Eir:** Eh! I can... Wait, you know about the flugelhorn!?
**Lily:** Because a jazz stage would be so cool! I love cool stuff. I love a cool stage bathed in spotlights!
**Eir:** Wa! What should I do, I'm so happy! Ehehe, jazz, it's so cool and you're free to have fun!
**Lily:** Fufuu, I wondered what kind of person a former musical instrument turned Flower Knight would be... But it seems like we're a perfect match!
Hey, does jazz have vocals too?
**Eir:** Of course! There are a lot of songs...
I'm the best at improvisation, and there are even vocal versions for that! It's called scat.
**Lily:** Ah, I've heard of that.
**Eir:** It might be pretty difficult the first time? But it's really fun!
**Lily:** How great, the more difficult the thing you do, the louder the cheer from the audience!
**Eir:** Yeah! Life's all about high risk/high reward, isn't it!
**Lily:** You know it!
Well, let's hurry to Blossom Hill! Other... Instrument Flower Knights might already be there.
**Eir:** I'm looking forward to that too, I always thought that I was the only one who was an instrument turned human... OK, let's go let's go!
**Saffron:** Hey, I can really have this?
**Valnbone:** Hmm... You welcomed me, so I must return it... It's Valnbone's snack... I'll give it to you specially...
Hmm... It's Valnbone's most important, most special cupcake...
**Saffron:** Then, I shouldn't take it! You eat it!?
**Valnbone:** Hmm, joke... It was, a present, from the start... Please, don't hold back... Hmm, hmm.
**Saffron:** R-really... Then, it's fine...
**Valnbone:** Hmm. I also got a present from you... Saffron coloured yarn... A beautiful yellow... Happy. Valnbone's colour, is yellow... Hmm.
**Saffron:** Fufu, I'm happy you liked it. I had heard that you like handicrafts. I like clothes too, so it was fun to find you that gift.
Also... It's really odd. You seem like an ordinary girl. I can't believe that you became a human from a normal old trombone...
**Valnbone:** Hmm! Wait, wrong... Valnbone... Isn't a normal trombone... Valnbone is a valve trombone...
**Saffron:** I... see? I'm sorry, I have the bare minimum knowledge of orchestra, so I don't know much about the detailed stuff.
**Valnbone:** Valve trombone... Is a trombone, but is like a trumpet... It's like a trumpet, but is called a trombone...
Identity crisis...
**Saffron:** Oh, maybe this is more serious than I thought... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to.
**Valnbone:** Hmm. It's fine... There are a lot more strange things than that now... Instruments... People... Flower Knights... Joking around... Hmm.
**Saffron:** Well, That's certainly true... But there are a few people like you.
**Valnbone:** Hmm! Really, that's... Surprised... Happy... Excited...
Music event too, excited... Valnbone will do her best to perform... Hmm. ... Saffron will also perform?
**Saffron:** Eeh? I'm not sure about that... I can't really sing or play an instrument.
Even if you practice as much as you can, it's still hard to perform in front of people. But it looks really fun.
**Valnbone:** Hmm, a shame... It would be nice to be able to perform together with that kind of person... Hmm.
**Saffron:** Ufufu! Certainly! Anyway, let's go to Blossom Hill. It's my job to make sure you get there unharmed.
**Valnbone:** Hmm... ... Hmm...
**Saffron:** On the way, we can talk about handicrafts... Hm? Valnbone-san, what's the matter?
**Valnbone:** Hmm, hmm... Well, no matter... I was just worried about something... I'll ask everyone when I get there... Hmm.
**Saffron:** Something you're worried about...?

### The Completed Parts

The Instrument Flower Knights all meet in Blossom Hill. The girls are all happy to meet new friends and they begin to speak about the music event. That's when Valnbone talks about the thing that worries her. For some reason, pests always attack her when she plays music outside...

**Eir:** ......
**Mattia:** ......
**Valnbone:** ......
**Anri:** ...... So, everyone's ready.
**Eir:** U... Waa! Amazing! Everyone really is instrument people!
**Mattia:** How weird, we've only met but I can tell! You two, are the same as me and Luluna...!
**Luluna:** It would be embarrassing to be called a musical instrument alongside someone like me who should be in with the firewood, but I can feel it... “The same”. Why?
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Because we're instruments, resonance? Why... A mystery...
**Anri:** Fufufu...
**Nazuna:** You all managed to safely gather, everyone! Thank you to all of the Flower Knights who also went out to meet and welcome. Now that we're all together, it's about time to reintroduce ourselves...
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Yes yeees! Well, from me♪
**Mattia:** Sandersonia-san, Correa-san, and Lily-san all love music! Ehehe, it makes me happy.
**Lily:** Well, from my point, I just love to sing songs. It's more like I love to sing on stage!
**Eir:** Even thought they're normal Flower Knights, there are still a lot of people who love music, singing and instruments?
**Nazuna:** That's right, there are lots of people like that♪
**Valnbone:** Hmm... A music event... Everyone will come...?
**Luluna:** That's great. I think that the more people who participate, the better the event will be. I living lump of dust like me would have no choice but to stain the last seat...
**Mattia:** Grr... Luluna...
**Anri:** Fufu, but Luluna-san's not saying that she won't join in either. She's positive about this event as well.
**Mattia:** Ah, that's true!
**Luluna:** ......... Yes.
**Saffron:** Then... What kind of style should this event take?
**Scotch Broom:** It would have to be a concert, right? A full fledged performance by everyone who used to be musical instruments, the real sound... It's like listening to something like that would be a self introduction...
**Correa:** That sounds great, but what about a musical performance experience workshop?
Of course it'll be open to the knight company, but what about if the townsfolk could all come and join in as much as they feel and enjoy playing musical instruments too, from small children up to the elderly...
They way me and Sandersonia-chan first met was because of music. Isn't that wonderful? Hey...
**Sandersonia:** Correa-chan...
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Muu, both of them sound really fun... What should we do, Anri-chan?
**Anri:** I don't mind, but I'd like to do both.
The objective of this is that everyone can become aware of the Instrument Flower Knights. To allow the Instrument Flower Knights to become connected.
And to also let the Instrument Flower Knights to find a place for them... That's all.
So because of that, I think that both a concert and a workshop are both necessary.
**Saffron:** That's right, I agree. Preparations are going to be difficult, as we don't have enough for either of these.
**Lily:** If it's only preparation, then if everyone works together, we'll be fine.
I've always had to do it all by myself... So are instruments important? Something like an ensemble?
**Eir:** Lily! Thanks! So kind!
**Lily:** It's fine, if there's an event, then it means I have a chance to show off on stage!
**Eir:** Ehehe, let's all have a session together!
**Mattia:** Then, do you think this is going to have a two part structure? Which should go first...
**Saffron:** Ah, hey hey. Before we make a plan, do you have a moment? Before we came here, Valnbone said she had something she was worried about...
**Luluna:** She's worried about something...? Ah, C-could she be worried about me existing?
**Scotch Broom:** N-no, it's probably because of me...!
**Correa:** Y-you two are completely wrong, so don't worry!
**Valnbone:** Hmm... I'm impressed you watched out for me, Saffron... You saved me... Umm... Hmm... Alone in a field... ... If I perform or something...
Bugs come...?
**Mattia:** Ah, they come, they come!
**Luluna:** They come, huge pests... Towards the real pest that is me.
**Eir:** They certainly come! So it's not just a coincidence!?
**Anri:** Eeh...!? What do you mean...!?

### Experimental Fugue

Just by performing, they get attacked by pests-- Anri, who has never experienced this before, decides to hold an experimental performance on the plain. This brings a lot of pests to attack them, but thanks to Dancing Lady Orchid and Mattia's protection, everyone is safe. They wait for the results of the other Flower Knights' experiments while wondering why such a phenomenon occurs.

**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Anri-chan, are you OK?
**Anri:** Yes, I'm fine. I was a little nervous, but I'm fine now.
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** If we perform, pests will... Will they really come?
**Anri:** I don't know. I haven't really had this particular issue before. But, all of the other four...
**Mattia:** In order not to cause trouble, we always play outside of the cities... After a short moment, pests will attack.
**Luluna:** Unless they're angry at me for being nothing but trash, they might be attracted to the sound...
**Eir:** It seems fine when I play at places like a jazz bar or something, they don't seem like they come into town. But they definitely come if I ever play outside...
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Is it Valnbone and the others' fault?
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Well, I get the feeling that something will come when it hears the sound.
**Anri:** So does the problem lie in the sounds of the instruments themselves...? Or are they attracted because of us being former instruments ourselves...?
If that's the case, it might have something to do with the other four waking up...
Even if it's not that, it'll hinder our daily lives if we just leave it alone.
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** So, we have to confirm it either way. A brief experiment♪ Right♪ If the pests come, please command us Danchou!
**Anri:** Well, let's start. – Everyone! Break a leg!

- *Anri raises her voice so it carries off into the distance.*
*The four former instruments who were waiting in the shadows a little far away can be seen nodding. All in order to fight against the pests.*
**Anri:** Sigh... Well, feel the spotlight, and this song--

- *Anri takes a deep breath, and pauses for a moment... then the low, soft sound of the bass clarinet begins to flow. It's a slightly heavy sound that rolls softly. The melody continuously changes, but is a song that's worth listening to--*
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** ...! Danchou! They're coming!
**Pest Drawn by the Sound:** Ururuu... Vuruu!

- *Just as the instrument girls testified, a single pest approaches, apparently reacting to the developing performance. It rears up in aggressive motion towards Anri, who is performing in the grassland.*
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** !! Anri-chan! Watch out!

*- But, faster than the eye can see, a crossbow bolt pierces the pest's body.*
**Pest Drawn by the Sound:** Vuruuu!
**Mattia:** I won't let you!

- *Then, a bullet from a gun.*
**Pest Drawn by the Sound:** Vugaaa!
**Eir:** One more! What was that!? You have business with us!? Sorry if you just wanted to listen to the music!
**Valnbone:** Hmm... But... Listening in without permission, not good... Leave... Please... Hmm

*- Mattia, Eir, and Valnbone. They jumped out from the shadows with weapons ready as if they wouldn't let it touch Anri in the slightest.*
**Luluna:** Anri-san...! We'll protect you from here, so please continue with the performance. We need to see the state of the pests...

*- Luluna speaks while standing as if she's Anri's shield.*
**Anri:** .........!

- *So Anri nods deeply and continues her performance.*
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Wa--! There's loads coming! Grr, I wanted to listen to Anri-chan's performance too! Then you had to get in the way, idiots!
Of course, I'm the back-up!
**Mattia:** Dancing Lady Orchid-chan! Thanks!
**Valnbone:** Hmm... the pests, are restless... They come...
**Eir:** This is the most that have ever come! Why!?
**Luluna:** It seems like they haven't reacted to Anri-san until now...? I-I knew it, it's because of the stench of my trashy self...
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Luluna... Leave the self hate, for later...
**Luluna:** Uuu... I'm sorry, I'm sorry!
**Mattia:** ... Fuu! F-finally... They're all gone now... Right?
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Yeah!
**Anri:** Good work. Is everyone unhurt? I'm sorry, I didn't fight...
**Eir:** Rather good work to you for keeping up the performance! Right. How's your breath?
**Anri:** Yes, I'm managing. I'm good at endurance. Also... I never imagined so many pests would come.
I've performed outside like this before. But I've never been openly attacked like this before.
**Valnbone:** Hmm... But, they attacked today... Why...?
**Luluna:** I don't know, I'll need to think about it some more. After all, it depends on how all the other Flower Knights' experiments go.
**Mattia:** Should we go back for now? I-if more bugs come, it'll be a problem.
**Anri:** You're right...

### Mysterious Waltz

The pests only ever attack the Instrument Flower Knights when they perform. Scotch Broom speculates that the reason for this is because of the “heterogeneity of the Instrument Flower Knights”. Saffron and the others say that the point of this is to get used to this world. In order to do that, they unite and hold their heads high to make the music event a success.

**Lily:** There were no reactions at all to mine or Sandersonia's song or Correa's handbell.
**Sandersonia:** We did our experiment on the same plain as Anri-san and the others, but just in a different place... How was it with everyone else's places?
**Fragrant Olive:** There was no activity in my area either. I tried to see if they would respond to the instrument itself, and not the sound... I tried swinging my weapon around like a bell, but nothing happened.
**Billy Buttons:** I actually played. I played my drums while walking around aimlessly, but there were no signs of pests.
**Loquat:** Loquat too, I was joined by the Mikan sisters and I played my biwa down by the lake. It was peaceful from beginning to end. The result was a fun time where everyone was smiling.
**Anri:** As I thought, it's just us that they react to...
**Mattia:** Why would they do that...?
**Correa:** Scotch Broom-san, does anything come to mind? Something you read in a book once, or something you heard from one of the other witches?
**Scotch Broom:** Eh, umm, ummm...
This might just be my imagination. Is there a strange feeling with this world...? Maybe the pests are reacting to something like that...?
**Eir:** A strange feeling?
**Scotch Broom:** Ah! I'm not trying to say that everyone's an outsider!? How scary! Actually, I'm---...!
**Anri:** I-it's fine, it's alright! I understand what you were trying to say...!
**Valnbone:** Hmm... This is a world of people and flowers... People that are made from instruments like Valnbone and the others aren't so common...
**Mattia:** When it was only Anri-san, she didn't stand out so much... Then us four all woke up at the same time.
**Luluna:** The pests desire the power of this world, so are attracted to our “heterogeneity.”
**Eir:** A “Those we don't understand must be eliminated!” kind of instinct? Grrr, what a bother!
**Valnbone:** Hmm... It's like Valnbone and the others are like an annoying stone in their shoe... I understand their want to throw us away... Hmm.
**Saffron:** It's not good to understand how it feels to be thrown out...
**Valnbone:** Hmm, I know... Valnbone and the others will throw out the pests... Awaay...
**Lily:** But, what should we do? They're just going to continue to attack us?
**Sandersonia:** They don't seem to come all the way into the city, so should we take more care about where we perform?
**Correa:** But that's kind of inconvenient, isn't it...? Are you saying that our activities are going to be restricted?
**Saffron:** I think so... We'll just need to get used to it?
**Mattia:** Get used... To it?
**Saffron:** Yes. To this world, and this way of life. If you live like a normal person while being a Flower Knight, then that feeling of foreignness will eventually fade away.
**Scotch Broom:** That... Might work!
If the pests are reacting to “these multiple strange existences that have suddenly appeared” then we need to make the “strange” less obvious.
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** So if should be OK if they hide in plain sight?
**Lily:** Well, if that's fine, then this will be easy, right? First of all, it would be great if the music event was a success!
**Mattia:** I-I see!
**Saffron:** We'll invite a large number of people to be the audience and gather various people to participate in the mixer. If we do that, then we'll make everyone's existence widely known, and they'll be able to become more familiar with you. I don't think that way is a bad idea for you to get used to this world.
Well, someday you might not get attacked, but that might just be an optimistic way of thinking... For now, it's worth giving it a try, right?
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** ... That's what she says, Anri-chan! We need to do our best! Niihihi♪
**Anri:** Fufu...! That's true. In order for us to continue living here... In order for everyone to accept us.
So we can be on the side that's protecting this world. We need to do this event properly!
**Eir:** Yeah yeah! Hey, I wonder if me and Yuri could do some impromptu jazz on stage!?
**Lily:** Would that be alright!?
**Anri:** Of course. Why don't we use that as the opening?
**Yuri:** Great! That's the best spotlight chance!
**Eir:** It's a high risk/high reward position! We need to burn it up!
**Valnbone:** Hmm... You like clothes, right Saffron... How about a consultation on performance costumes... Is that alright...
**Saffron:** Eeh? Yeah... But, hmmm. It shouldn't be a problem?
Suitable clothes for playing instruments and performing in front of people.
If there's a place we can do consultations, then we could do it while listening to the music. Above all, it would mean I could help with the event too...
**Valnbone:** Hmm! ... Valnbone will help too... Just a little... Petite doll gifts for those who come for a consultation...
**Scotch Broom:** ......
**Luluna:** ......
**Scotch Broom:** ... I'll do my best to not hold you back!
**Luluna:** Rather, I'll do my best to chew up these useless legs that have grown out of me...
**Correa:** I'm so excited for this mixer♪
**Sandersonia:** Me too...! It would be great if we could meet new people.
**Mattia:** That's right! Umm, would you two like to try out the violin?
**Correa:** Eeh...! Could I do it... I'm interested!
**Sandersonia:** Me too! Let's learn together, Correa-chan!
**Mattia:** Ehehe. Please teach me how to sing and play the hand bells too!
**Anri:** We've come up with part of a plan. Firstly, the opening will be Eir-san and Lily-san's stage.
**Eir:** Yeah!
**Lily:** OK!
**Anri:** After that, the venue will open up to the public for a hands on musical instrument experience as well as a networking mixer. Saffron-san's costume advice window will be set up at various places.
**Saffron:** I'll do my best.
**Valnbone:** I'll help too... Hmm.
**Mattia:** I would love to get out and talk to as many people as possible!
**Sandersonia:** There might be some people who are shy there. I'll also work hard to speak to them!
**Correa:** The Flower Knights who are good with instruments and singing are also going to participate. I'd like to support them.
**Scotch Broom:** I'm thinking that I can fly on my broom and strengthen the patrols.
We still have that problem with the pests... Even if we say it should be alright in the city, it's still important to have security.
**Luluna:** I'll also join in with the basic tasks of the experience event... As close to the entrance as possible... But I want to be somewhere where it's hard to be noticed. Somewhere where I can become a shield if anything happens.
**Mattia:** Luluna, if something happens, everyone will be fighting together, you know?
**Luluna:** I-I know that...
**Anri:** Then, once the networking mixer is done... To finally conclude the event. The five of us instruments will do a performance.
--- Or something like that.
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** I'm looking forward to everyone's performance! I've only ever listened to Anri-chan's solos until now!
**Anri:** Fufu, that's right. I'm looking forward to it too.
**Saffron:** Ah, but... How do we do that? An orchestra... It's too small a scale to call it that. Is it alright if there isn't one?
A conductor, that is.
**Anri:** Ah... Yeah, you're right... What should we do?
**Mattia:** If that's true, we're a good number of people to not need one... But...
**Eir:** Jazz doesn't need a conductor either. But this time, we're having an event to get to know music. So it would be better to have one?
**Valnbone:** Hmm... that way would... Be cool... Or something... Hmm.
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Would having Danchou as a conductor be out? Ah, because he's never done it before?
**Correa:** A conductor is a hard job, to be able to do it so suddenly...
**Lily:** If we're talking conductors, then why not Black Locust-san? She even has a baton.
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Well, if we can ask her... Let's... Do it...
**Anri:** You're right. Let's do it.
**Mattia:** ......
**Sandersonia:** ? What's the matter? Danchou-san will be watching us...
**Mattia:** Ah! N-no! It's nothing!
We'll have to do our best if Danchou-san is going to come and listen to our performance, so I'm just a little nervous. Ehehe...
**Anri:** ... Fufu. That's right. Danchou-sama will definitely join in, so please have fun.

### Touching Rhapsody

The music event will be held in two parts. Lily and Eir are the opening act, then many members of the public and Flower Knights gather for the musical instrument experience and the networking mixer. Meanwhile, Black Locust, who was asked to be the conductor for the finale, suggests she teach Danchou how to conduct.

**Lily:** Of course! I'll go all out to be cool and have Eir showered in applause!
**Herbaceous Peony:** Waa... Lily-san's sparkling and cool... Master, that way of singing is called scat. It's written in this pamphlet.
**Tree Peony:** Fumu, and that instrument must be a flugelhorn. It goes bwaah and has a stylish sound!
**Melampodium:** Do I really like music too? I can play the piano and such. I dance too. My parents made me learn.
**Montbretia:** I can also play the classical instruments that I learned. The violin too. Ufufu.
**Mattia:** Waa...! I'm so happy, ehehe♪ If you could give advice to the people that have no experience with me, it would be a huge help!
**Melampodium:** I'm not good enough to be able to teach people though... But I'm used to playing alongside children, so I'll do my best!
**Montbretia:** I'm the same as her on the right, but this is a great time to make some memories. Let's give everyone some fun memories to take home with them♪
**Correa:** I always thought pianos and violins are the star players of musical instruments.
**Sandersonia:** I know! Children from good houses all learn them... It gives off an upper class image. The sound is also very delicate and beautiful... So I think it's wonderful!
**Mattia:** Ehehe... You're making me embarrassed. I feel very sorry that someone so inexperienced as myself is the face of violins though...
But the violin isn't just a high class and honourable instrument! The violin also hides a wonderfully devilish virtuosity!
**Reed:** Eh, devilish... So it causes misfortune for people? Virtuosity...? I-I'm kinda interested now...!
**Tiger's Claw:** Wa... I wanted to become a diva. Operas in full fledged theatres on the mainland use all of these instruments.
**Luluna:** What kind of musical instruments do you like, Tiger's Claw-san? Are there any instruments that are found in your home town...?
**Tiger's Claw:** Hmm, my speciality is with percussion.
**Luluna:** Really! Would you like to use my stomach, which has no other use than to dispose of useless food, as a drum?
**Tiger's Claw:** Are you a fool? ... No, what are you saying?
**Anri:** Thank you for your work, are you having fun? Have some sweets and take a break.
Fufu, playing musical instruments takes a lot of energy, doesn't it? So eat something sweet and take a break. Here, take this candy wrapper.
Ah, here, one for you too...
**Walnut:** Hm? Ah, yaay, thanks♪
Hey hey, what's inside of this... Hm? What's wrong? Onee-san, are you in trouble?
**Anri:** Eh......? Ah, n-no...
I'm sorry. I just suddenly had a nostalgic feeling... What was that...?
**Walnut:** Nostalgic?
**Anri:** ... I'm sure it was because of your outfit. For me, it's a motif used in songs that are very close to me...
**Walnut:** Eh, I wonder why. Is it a song that's related to Walnut? I'm curious.
**Anri:** Fufuu, thank you for your interest. Ah, the inside of that candy is dragée.
**Walnut:** Dragée! I know of that♪ Sugar covered sweets with nuts inside of them, right?
**Anri:** Yes. I love them... They're very special to me.
**Saffron:** I see. Black Locust-san has said that the conductors should desirably have a dignified appearance.
**Black Locust:** Yeah. Of course everyone will be looking at centre stage, so it's necessary to take the dignity of the orchestra's leader into account. Even if it's just a small local event, it's still a good idea to do things properly.
**Saffron:** It would be difficult and too expensive to make high end clothes for this occasion, so we should make good use of some cheap clothes or clothes you already own.
I'll make up a sheet of tips on how to dress well, so wait a moment... Here you are.
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Thank you for coming for a consultation... This is a free musical brooch... Made from yarn... Here... Hmm.
**Black Locust:** Fuu, it seems like this is going to be a success, this booth too.
**Saffron:** Yes, all thanks to you. Valnbone, do you have enough free gifts?
**Valnbone:** Hmm... It'll be close... I'll make extras... Hurry hurry... Order up... Hmm, hmm.
**Black Locust:** Speaking of, isn't almost time for the concert on stage?
**Saffron:** Ara, you're right. Black Locust-san, there's no problems with the conducting?
**Black Locust:** Yeah, I'll be fine. We've had a lot of rehearsals with the girls. Right, Valnbone.
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Black Locust is a good conductor... No problems...
**Saffron:** Right, that's good.
We haven't had any reports from Scotch Broom-san who went out on patrol for us... Are we going to be able to finish this safely.
**Black Locust:** By the way... Right now would be a good time to take it easy and learn some music or a new instrument, right?
Fufu, what are you looking at? It's you, Danchou-san. How's it going? You're brief study of conducting.
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Danchou... Will be the conductor?
**Black Locust:** You don't need to make that set up. It's an easy thing to swing the conductor's baton around. If he learns it, then his bond with the Instrument Girls will deepen.
**Saffron:** Ufufu, that sounds great, right Danchou-san. If you can talk to me about it with such a light heart.
**Valnbone:** Hmm...
**Scotch Broom:** Fuu...! Yeah, there's nothing out of the ordinary right now...!
It's almost stage time though... I won't be able to listen to everything, but just for a little...
**Black Locust:** Yes, it's a gentle curve, like extending a sleeve by drawing a triangle...
Nice, you're doing well, Danchou-san! Nobody would think this is your first time. Do you actually have some experience of this?
You're just moving your body? Then, that would mean... That you might some talent. Fufu.

### A Symphony for Tomorrow

A concert featuring all of the Instrument Flower Knights closes off the event. Under the conduction of Black Locust, the five performers complete a wonderful performance just as Scotch Broom, who had been on guard patrol, reports a pest attack. The Flower Knights stop the five from panicking as they head out to battle, with the knight commander taking the conductor's role for this final performance.

Fufuu... It's very faint, but I can hear the music from here. Is it because of the wind? What a beautiful melody...
... Huh? Could this be... This looks bad--

- *The venue is wrapped in applause.*
*- Anri, Mattia, Luluna, Eir and Valnbone. They bow deeply, wave at the audience, and although they're still a little nervous, they look at each other with relief.*
*- The concert stage started with the introduction of the five players. Under the conduction of Black Locust, they deliver many wonderful performances to the audience.*
*- It's all very informal and friendly, but they never forget their dignity. The audience thoroughly enjoys the proud tones of their instruments.*
**Mattia:** We did it...!
**Eir:** It was great, right!?
**Luluna:** Haa... I'm so relieved...
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Mission Comple...
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Anri-chaaan! That was the best!
**Anri:** Fufu...! I'm so happy, I was so nervous!
**Lily:** That was really great! I'll have to hand over the top spot to you, how regrettable!
**Sandersonia:** That full fledged performance was truly amazing...! It was like I was singing on that stage...!
**Correa:** Would you like to join everyone in the choir on stage next time? I'm sure it would be wonderful♪
**Mattia:** Waa, sounds great! I'd love to!
**Saffron:** Everyone...!
**Sandersonia:** Ah, Saffron-san, thank you for your work. ... Has something happened?
**Saffron:** Scotch Broom has had a sighting on her patrol. ... The pests are heading towards the city!
**Anri:** What, really...!?
**Saffron:** It seems like the sound of the performance has reached to the outside of the city, possibly because of the wind. Scotch Broom-san is calling up other Flower Knights to go and stop them right now.
**Eir:** W-we need to go too!
**Lily:** Wa-wait up, Eir. Wouldn't it be better for you to continue performing?
**Eir:** Eh, but...
**Lily:** Look, the applause hasn't stopped. They're also calling out “Encore”, right?
**Mattia:** Ah...
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Encore! Encore!
**Saffron:** ... You're right. Everyone, if you're going to stand on stage, you need to answer an encore. Fufuu.
**Sandersonia:** Division of labour is important!
**Correa:** This is what it means to hold an event together!
**Black Locust:** Yes, exactly. The encore is a sign of gratitude, straight from the heart... You need to deliver a wonderful performance to the audience until the very end.
I'll take command of the battle. Leave the fighting to us senior Flower Knights. So---
I leave the conducting of the concert to you, Danchou-san!

*- The knight commander stands on stage with the spare baton entrusted to him by Black Locust.*
*- The girls, who have already reappeared on stage, stare at the knight commander with a serious look and nod.*
**Anri:** For today's final performance – Our best song! We'll give it to you!

*- As if trying to cut through the slightly strong breeze – The tip of the baton shines in the clear sky.*
**Sandersonia:** –Ah! The performance has started!
**Scotch Broom:** You're right...! We can even here it out here!
**Correa:** Because... Of the wind...
**Saffron:** Fufu, aren't they a bit too enthusiastic with their performance?
**Lily:** When you're on stage, anything goes! But, doesn't that sound like some kind of special sound?
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** That's right! It's such a natural sound! They're getting used to things fast!
**Black Locust:** We'll be their partners until they get used to it! That audience seating is here!

–Fufu. It seems like Danchou-san is also conducting very well.
*- The one who is waving the conductor's baton is the knight commander. The movements of the conduction is still awkward. Still, the girls all get the meaning of the instruction.*
*- The sound of the flugelhorn, which dislikes formality, is relaxed.*
*- The sorrowful contrabass envelops the crowd.*
*- The valve trombone seems out of place, but rolls along mischievously.*
*- The serious violin shows it's brilliance with transcendental technique.*
*- The bass clarinet seems to be enduring, but echoes notes of joy.*
*- The music being played is refreshing, somewhat lonely, yet brave. It drifts on the wind as if to inspire the Flower Knights who are fighting outside of the city in order to protect them.*
*- Bathed in the sounds of music and people coming together. The large audience replies with cheers and rapturous applause.*

### Epilogue

The pests were driven away, and the music event was a huge success, so everyone was happy. Anri and the others say that even though they are special beings, they should continue to live in the same way as other people. However, that's because at the worst, they have special feelings that they themselves can only create. They express their gratitude while wishing that they can continue to connect people through music.

**Nazuna:** Thank you for your work...!
**Anri:** Thank you...!
**Sandersonia:** I'm happy it finished safely!
**Correa:** Yeah, I was wondering what might happen, I'm glad...
Black Locust-san and the others are currently cleaning up, so let's meet up with them later.
**Scotch Broom:** Uu, I, couldn't hear the concert at all in the end... I wanted to hear it just a little.
**Luluna:** I'm sorry I'm sorry, if you would like to hear my performance, which is like nails on a blackboard, then please ask me anytime...!
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Talking of, everyone's... We'll play for you anytime... Hmm
**Eir:** That's right! It's more like we all want to play together! Anytime, anywhere you feel like! All that jazz!
**Lily:** Was it really a huge success? This event? Then, I want to do it next time. I'll get on stage as many times as you want!
**Mattia:** But, the pests will come back to attack again...
**Saffron:** It'll all fit in soon! If it does happen again, we can all handle this much. It's normal for it to be necessary to have security at events.
**Mattia:** Umm... Thank you very much. We instruments needed someone to perform for... I was relieved to find people in this world that we could do that for.
**Saffron:** I'm thankful for that... Hey, why don't you stop worrying so much about being an instrument? All of you.
**Scotch Broom:** You're, right... If you do that, it would be easier for those “strange” feelings will fade away.
**Lily:** That's right that's right, we're all Flower Knights here.
**Mattia:** Everyone... Thank you!
**Dancing Lady Orchid:** Anri-chaaan, I'm so happy! Did everything go all right? Niihihin♪
**Anri:** Fufu, truly... It's all thanks to everyone, and Danchou-sama's conducting.
......
... We really are just normal people, aren't we? As long as we don't break as instruments, our lives will continue on.
Just like when I woke up like this, we might just be going through cycles of falling asleep and waking up.
But, that means... That's all. I think I still need to work on this thought.
Just as the art of music connects our souls and thoughts for a long, long time... We who play music should strive to do the same.
**Mattia:** That's right... In one hundred, or two hundred years in the future, I might still be able to perform the violin...
I believe that the music then will still hold fragments of today's memory.
**Eir:** Even with jazz, there's meaning in stacking it up... The depth of the sound? I'm sure today's stage time will bring something like that out!
**Saffron:** ... Fufu. I see, how nice.
Well, to be precise... It's not about whether you are instruments or people. Let's just get along naturally as “fellow Flower Knights”.
... Or something like that?
**Lily:** Fufufun, so what I said hit the mark the closest!
**Scotch Broom:** But, it's kind of romantic, isn't it! Even when you're no longer here, your feeling will always connect people.
**Sandersonia:** Ah, if there is such a thing as reincarnation... Does that mean that we'll meet each other again? That's my dream!
**Correa:** Reincarnation, feelings connecting people... Does that mean that no matter how many times you're reborn... You'll always love the same person? Is that even possible...?
**Scotch Broom:** How wonderful... It's so romantic.
**Mattia:** Th-that might be... the case...?
**Luluna:** H-how embarrassing...
**Saffron:** Fufuu. Either way, it sounds like we're going to have lots of interesting conversations... We're also going to be able to listen to lots of wonderful music.
**Anri:** --- Yes. Anytime!
**Eir:** Thanks everyone! To say it like Lily, ka-boom!
**Valnbone:** Hmm... Appreciation... Deep... Like a storm rain...
**Luluna:** I'll do my best to not let my roots rot and wither as a Flower Knight!
**Mattia:** Thank you for your advice and guidance, everyone!
**Anri:** Danchou-sama too. Please take care of us from now on.
Please let us--- support you forever.