Liz and the Blue Bird

Mizore is introduced as a reserved and introverted student, deeply immersed in her world of music. As a senior in high school, she finds solace in her oboe playing and is often lost in her thoughts about her best friend Nozomi, an outgoing and charismatic flutist.

Mizore and Nozomi practice a duet from *Liz and the Blue Bird*, a piece that resonates with their friendship. The musical narrative of Liz and the blue bird mirrors the girls' own emotional struggles and foreshadows the separation they will soon face with graduation approaching.

As graduation approaches, Mizore begins to feel increasingly isolated from her classmates and turns down invitations to bond with her fellow bandmates. Struggling to articulate her feelings to Nozomi, she grapples with the fear of losing her closest friend.

Despite initial reluctance, Mizore's perspective shifts when Nozomi expresses interest in applying to the same music school after graduation. This revelation reignites Mizore's motivation, but it also brings up insecurities about her true aspirations.

Their peers notice Mizore's growing motivation towards music and worry that her drive stems solely from Nozomi's influence. This concern adds pressure to Mizore, who feels conflicted over her independence and passion for music.

Tensions escalate between Mizore and Nozomi as concert preparations intensify. Mizore's anxiety grows, compounded by memories of Nozomi's past distancing from the band, which leads to friction in their rehearsals.

With guidance from their instructor Niiyama, both girls begin to gain clarity about their relationship. They identify themselves with roles from the music they perform, realizing the emotional depth of their connections and the sacrifices they must consider.

During a pivotal rehearsal, Mizore delivers a passionate performance that leaves their bandmates in awe. The emotional intensity of their duet reveals the depth of Mizore’s feelings, leading Nozomi to step out in tears after the performance.

After the rehearsal, Nozomi admits to Mizore that she has been jealous of her talent and reveals that her previous ambitions regarding music school were based on insecurity. Mizore expresses the depth of her feelings, but Nozomi avoids fully acknowledging their emotional connection.

As time passes, the emotional distance between Mizore and Nozomi becomes apparent. Nozomi begins to focus on her entrance exams, seemingly sidelining their bond as friends and bandmates.

Mizore receives an unexpected invitation from Nozomi to go to a café after school. In this casual moment, Nozomi reassures Mizore of her support for their duet, but hints at needing extra time, leaving Mizore confused yet hopeful.

As they walk to the café, Mizore reaffirms her commitment to continue playing the oboe. This conversation marks a crucial moment in their friendship, as both girls navigate their complexities and the uncertainties ahead.

While strolling together, Nozomi suddenly turns to look at Mizore with an intensity that surprises her. This unexpected moment signifies a possible turning point in their relationship, hinting at deeper feelings that have yet to be fully explored.