Ep 7. Reunion

In the seventh episode of Forest of Piano's first season, titled "Reunion," our protagonists, Kai and Shuhei, cross paths once again. The episode opens with a curious flashback to Kai's childhood, where he received a mysterious notebook which would eventually lead him to the world of piano music. The flashback ends with Kai waking up in a rather rundown hotel room, ready to take on the day.

Meanwhile, Shuhei is on his way to a competition and stops by a record shop, where he runs into his old friend, Takako. They engage in a brief conversation - it is clear that Takako is quite fond of Shuhei, and it seems as if they haven't seen each other in quite some time. However, the conversation is cut short as Shuhei has to run off to his competition.

Upon arriving at the competition, Shuhei unexpectedly encounters Kai once again. This time, though, Kai is the one who initiates the conversation, and the two of them share a heartfelt reunion. The two boys are ecstatic to see each other and reminiscence about old times. Kai even reminds Shuhei of a certain tune that they used to play together when they were kids, before the two of them part ways once again.

As the competition proceeds, we see Shuhei giving it his all, playing beautifully on the piano. Takako is in the audience, beaming with pride, cheering Shuhei on. But just as he finishes, he realizes that he left something back at the hotel room he was staying in - the same hotel room that Kai is also staying in. Without a second thought, Shuhei runs back to the hotel room to retrieve the item.

Upon arriving, he sees that the room is completely empty, besides the book of sheet music which Kai left behind. He begins to play "Clair de Lune" from the book, but is suddenly interrupted by Kai, who had just entered the room. The two of them engage in a beautiful, impromptu duet of the same tune. It is as if none of their past differences matter anymore, as they are brought together once again through the power of music.

The two boys get to talking again, and Kai reveals that he will be performing in an upcoming concert as well. Shuhei excitedly tells him that he'll be rooting for him, and even offers to be his page-turner, to which Kai eagerly agrees. The two of them part on good terms once again, with Kai leaving Shuhei with the same notebook that he received as a child. Shuhei is touched by the gesture, and the two of them share a final farewell.

This episode of Forest of Piano perfectly captures the power that music has in bringing people together. Despite their past differences, Kai and Shuhei are able to reunite and bond in a beautiful flurry of notes and melodies. The episode is filled with heartwarming and emotional moments that leave a lasting impression on the viewer. We can't help but root for these two boys as they pursue their dreams and passion for music.