Mirroring Souls

Research, Data and Statistics (Pt. 1)

In just a week, the twins had seamlessly adapted to their new environment, forming bonds with Miku, KAITO, and MEIKO. However, the looming specter of the scheduled meeting with Director-san drew nearer, a designated time set specifically to evaluate their progress, particularly under the watchful eyes of MEIKO.

In the course of this new week, Rin and Len exhibited notable progress in developing distinct personalities. Their introduction to singing or humming, aided by a music program kit sent by researchers, showcased promising advancements. Working alongside Miku, their performances were harmonious and seemingly flawless during practice. However, when singing individually, a disparity emerged—Rin displayed confidence, while Len appeared more reserved and hesitant, revealing potential concerns about his system's self-assurance. These nuances prompted MEIKO and KAITO, the group leaders, to take note and address the situation. Recognizing the importance of addressing the disparity in Rin and Len's singing confidence, MEIKO decided to reach out to Yowane Haku, a fellow member of the research team. Haku, a derivative of CV01, initially conceived as another CV, transitioned into a researcher due to discontinuation. Battling a mix of jealousy and deep depression for not being a VOCALOID herself, Haku found solace in her close connection with MEIKO and occasionally sought refuge in alcohol to cope with her emotions.

MEIKO dialed Yowane Haku, her gloomy yet unique companion in the project. "Hi Mei-Mei," Haku's melancholic voice greeted, a testament to their close bond. "Why did you call me?" she inquired.

"Hey Ku," MEIKO chuckled, acknowledging Haku with their shared nickname that reflected their friendship. Despite their differences, a strong bond had formed between them since their initial releases. "I was just calling about the new mirror vocals," MEIKO explained, hoping Haku had insights into the project.

"Oh, new youthful vocals...?" Haku's voice dripped with a sense of gloom, revealing a desire for the youthful energy embodied by these new vocal creations. "Yeah, two twin girls or something, right?"

"No, no," MEIKO corrected her. "A girl and a boy, mirroring images. They changed up the designs... I thought you were in on this?"

"Mmm... I thought so too." Haku's response carried a deflating groan. "It seems I slept over it, haha."

MEIKO facepalmed, rolling her eyes. "Haku, how the hell do you not know this? You're supposed to be in on the project!" She took a deep breath, grimacing slightly. "Anyways, I came here to talk to you about the data and statistics on the twins. They've been making progress, a lot of it too! Especially with Miku," she added her name softly, aware of Haku's feelings regarding Miku's success.

"Yeah... her. Um, I think I got those data and statistics... you emailed them to me, right?"

"Yes, yes, I did," MEIKO confirmed with a soft groan.

"Mhm!" Haku acknowledged, "I'll look at it now..." She yawned, clearing her throat. "Director-San doesn't agree with them, huh?" Haku asked, her voice revealing a blend of boredom and curiosity. "I'm just reading the reports and the research forum... You're really trying to keep the twins...?" Haku chuckled, not surprised at MEIKO's determination, well aware of her resolute nature.

MEIKO nodded, puffing her cheeks slightly. "Look, KAITO and I have decided to keep these twins. I keep on repeating it, but they have so much potential, not just as a duo, but also individually!" She caught her breath, flopping onto a nearby desk chair. ".. I have a meeting with the Director soon, and I NEED to prove to him with these data and statistics in just a week that they are beneficial! The crowd will love them... please, just review the data and tell me what you think. I need to prove him wrong." MEIKO's plea carried a sense of urgency, her eyes reflecting the weight of the situation and the determination to secure the twins' place.

Haku's gloomy expression seemed to soften, her gaze shifting to the reports on her screen. "Alright, Mei-Mei, I'll go through this stuff." She sighed audibly. "You know, you're a bit too determined for your own good sometimes. But fine, let's see if these twins are as special as you believe..." Her tone retained its melancholic undertone, but there was a subtle hint of curiosity in her voice. Haku knew how passionate MEIKO could be about her decisions, and she couldn't help but be intrigued by the prospect of these new additions to the VOCALOID database.

As Haku delved into the data, KAITO happened to walk into the room, catching a snippet of the conversation. His friendly smile faltered, sensing the gravity of the situation. Slowly approaching MEIKO, he decided to share some urgent news. "Hey, MEIKO. I overheard your conversation with Haku. You need to know that Len's progress is... well, staggering, but not in a good way. His adaptation to singing solo is turning out to be more difficult than we anticipated. It's concerning, and you should take a look at the reports..."

MEIKO's expression shifted from curiosity to worry. "Staggering progress? KAITO, what do you mean?" Her concern deepened as she looked at him, seeking more concern about Len. KAITO's usual optimism was replaced with a tinge of worry. "Len seems to be struggling a lot. His confidence is wavering, and his overall performance is falling short of expectations. We might have to address this quickly... and the Director might do something about this.."

Worry etched across MEIKO's face. "That's not good. We were just discussing the twins' progress, and now I'm more concerned than ever. I don't want the Director to separate them or.. change them!" In the midst of this unfolding situation, Haku, who usually carried an air of gloom, found herself unexpectedly intrigued by the new information. The atmosphere around her shifted momentarily, a glimmer of curiosity and interest replacing her usual sense of hopelessness.

Haku's revelation hung in the air, the weight of its implications sinking in. "This data only shows what they do when those twins sing together... the girl's system is more solo-oriented, meanwhile, that younger boy..." Her voice trailed off, leaving an unsettling pause. "He's... just a derivative in a way."

A heavy silence followed, both on Haku's end of the line and in the room with MEIKO and KAITO. Haku continued, her tone taking on an unexpected quality. "H-He's... it shows he only does better if he sings with the older girl." A nervous gulp resonated through the phone. "...He's... like me in a way."

MEIKO and KAITO exchanged uncertain glances, absorbing the magnitude of this revelation. The realization that Len's capabilities were heavily reliant on singing with Rin, akin to Haku's situation, cast a shadow over their optimistic plans. The Director's reservations about the younger boy now seemed even more challenging to overcome. The impending meeting with the Director suddenly carried a heavier burden, and the urgency to present compelling data became more crucial than ever.

Meanwhile, unknowingly to MEIKO, KAITO, and even Haku, Rin had been eavesdropping on the conversation, her eyes widening with each revelation. As Haku described Len's situation, Rin's protective system instincts kicked in. With a glance towards the room where Len was distractedly chatting with Miku, Rin's expression shifted. The lively, carefree demeanor she had formed momentarily replaced by a subtle hint of concern and determination. Rin's determination solidified as she backed away from her eavesdropping post. The promise she made to herself was clear – if Len was at risk, she would do everything in her power to ensure he stayed. To her, they were a unit, intertwined in a shared existence. Clenching her fist, Rin took a deep breath, calming herself as she prepared to face the challenges that awaited them during the impending meeting with the Director. Her resolve was unwavering, and she silently vowed to protect Len and their newfound place.