[Pictures at an Exhibition] |||V1 Extra-Eiichi-Kun|||
Chapter 45
“Ah, isn’t that Eiichi-kun?”
“Runa, huh. I thought you might come.”
The performance of "Pictures at an Exhibition*" by the Teia Philharmonic Orchestra, sponsored by the Keika-in Group, was having its first show in Tokyo. To put it simply, this was because I asked for it. Being a rich young lady has its perks. I can easily enjoy live music.
"Hmm, Eiichi-kun, why did you attend? I was under the impression that classical music wasn't to your liking."
"I was obligated to attend. It wouldn't do for neither the family nor the executives to be absent, would it not?"
This is something like a duty for the upper class. On the first day, politicians, nobility, and business magnates are invited to add prestige to such concerts. I like these events, so I don’t mind, but it must be tough for Eiichi-kun who isn’t into it.
“This time, since it’s our sponsored groups
performance, I thought my presence would be enough.”
“But you know that’s not how these things work, right? You can't just say 'I see' and get away! You should know better anyone, Runa.”
“That’s true.”
We entered the venue after confirming the dress code and donning our formal attire. While waiting, Eiichi-kun struck up a conversation with me.
“I heard this was your request, Runa. What kind of piece is it?”
“It’s a piece by the Russian composer Modest Mussorgsky, orchestrated by the French composer Maurice Ravel. Originally, Mussorgsky created music for ten paintings seen at his friend’s posthumous exhibition, and those paintings are also displayed here.”
Appreciating classical music becomes even more enjoyable with some background knowledge. 'Pictures at an Exhibition' is especially captivating because it bridges music and art. Eiichi-kun and I then entered the exhibition room dedicated to the piece.
"It's amazing how they've managed to gathered so many of these scattered paintings by the artist."
"I heard they replicated a similar project back in '91, during the bubble economy."
Culture and art can only flourish with economic support. In that sense, Japan during the bubble era, when people poured money into the arts, indeed saw a cultural bloom. While thinking about this, Eiichi-kun suddenly looked straight at me and asked.
"Hey, Runa. Do you like this kind of Russian music because of your Russian blood?"
I paused, considering his words. My Russian heritage runs deep within me, yet the spirit that resides in this body is undeniably Japanese. With certainty, I responded:
"I am Japanese through and through, regardless of how I look or my ancestry or even the hair I carry."
People tend to link things they like to their past. Someone once said that humans are creatures who seek reasons and satisfaction.
"Russia is quite an intriguing country. Perched on the edge of Europe, it transformed into the Soviet Union after the upheaval following World War I. That Union, too, faded into history with the collapse of the Berlin Wall, yet even today, it continues to wrestle with turmoil. Despite its transformations, Russia seems unable to shake off the haunting legacy of the Tsars*."
[T/N- Tsar is Emperor in russian , haunting legacy of Tsars means, the ever so present conflict within USSR Territory, most notable one would Decembrist Revolt(1825) in Nicholas I rule . And little fun-fact after ruso-japan war (1905) socialist led by Lenin started revolution (commie) and in 1917 they acquired power too and Excuted whole Romanove Family, so tell me who do you think was Tsar in this time it was Nicholas II , yes Nicholas name is bad-luck. And empress had the most generic name too Alexandra, ah and she is the one in the song ra ra Rasputin lover of russian Queen- Link if you hadn't listened it , go listen this song is such a banger]
As the villainess, I carry the blood of the Romanov family. The Romanovs were once said to hold one-tenth of the world's wealth. In this far eastern economic power, I, the golden flower that bloomed, am rumored to be a legend and a hope in Russia, which now suffers from chaos and stagnation. In fact, my name has reached many countries worldwide for lending “Pictures at an Exhibition,” backed by the legend of that bloodline.
“Besides, it’s not just Russian music. I also love Ravel’s music. When I first heard ‘Boléro,’ I was instantly captivated by its concept and structure.”
“Boléro?”
Eiichi-kun tilted his head. He probably doesn’t know it. It’s a famous piece, but it’s common not to know the title.
“Shall we listen to it together next time? It’s only about 15 minutes long, so it ends quickly. I’m curious to hear what you’ll think of it.”
“Then, I’ll pass the request to the Teia Philharmonic.”
As we talked, it was time for the performance to start. So, we headed to the hall, and I casually let these words slip out.
“Hey, Eiichi-kun. If I were a Russian princess, would you still be friends with me?”
It was meant to be a joke, but the words carried weight. I noticed Eiichi-kun’s face turn slightly serious.
“Don’t be silly. Runa would still be Runa, even as a Russian princess, right?”
His smiling face was dazzling. I smiled back, letting the question pass as a joke.
“That’s so like you, Eiichi-kun.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Come on, hurry up. It’s about to start.”
“Runa! Don’t pull me!”
Later on, after being thoroughly impressed by "Boléro," Eiichi-kun stood up for a standing ovation.
I did it!
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Glossary
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"Boléro"
One of Ravel’s masterpieces. Instead of an explanation, search and listen to it. You’ll understand its greatness in 15 minutes.