Memorial (4)

The performance continued. Just when it seemed one song was about to end, the girl began playing another in succession. Two songs that felt as though they were one, yet were opposites.

The structure was similar.

A song that seemed to hint that something had happened, and that she had changed because of it. A farewell to a mired past and a paean to a new future.

The chiming guitar sang without pause for several minutes, then soon fell silent. Just before thunderous applause erupted, the girl raised a hand slightly.

“I’m sorry, but there’s one more song left. Please save your applause until afterward.”

Suyeon walked over, picked up the electric guitar again, and adjusted the amp. In the expectant silence, the guitar began to sound, little by little.

In the night sky where ash had fallen

the countless stars that had shone

swayed one by one

and opened the window of tomorrow night...