Natsume

Mmph... Ngh...!

Natsume

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

Natsume

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

Natsume

Pwah...

Houka

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

Natsume

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

Houka

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

Houka

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

Natsume

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

Houka

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

Houka

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

Natsume

How shallow. Paper and pen are the supreme tools.

Natsume

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

Natsume

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

Houka

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

Houka

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

Natsume

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

Natsume

Not that I was trying to be different or anything. It just sort of happened that way.

Houka

Indeed. I find it quite distinctive♪

Natsume

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

Natsume

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

Natsume

It's empty already. My caffeine...

Houka

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

Natsume

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

Houka

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

Natsume

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

Houka

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

Natsume

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

Houka

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

Natsume

No, taste isn't the priority right now. I just need caffeine, quickly. Do you understand?

Houka

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

Natsume

What!?

Houka

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

Houka

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

Natsume

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

Houka

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

Natsume

Phew... What is with her?