Harmonia

Harmonia is a kinetic novel set in a distant future, where a young robot searches a devastated world for the emotions he has lost. After an immense war leaves the sky covered in ash, the land stripped of vegetation and water dried up, humanity dwindles and survivors gather in small communities.

Story

Before the war, science created Phiroids: human-like robots capable of emotion, intended to become partners for people and improve their lives. One Phiroid wakes in a decayed factory with his emotions not working and his production apparently unfinished; his right hand has no artificial skin, leaving its machinery exposed. Driven by an innate desire to be with humans, he wanders the ruined landscape in search of his lost emotions.

A young girl finds him and, believing him to be human, cares for him. She names him Rei and brings him to a small, pleasant town, where he gradually learns about emotions while living with her.

Characters

Rei is the emotionless mechanical boy who awakens in the factory ruins. He wears a glove over his exposed right hand and follows his desire to be with another human until Shiona finds him.

Shiona lives in a church in one of the makeshift towns. She is cheerful and often comforts others, describing people's feelings and emotions as shapes and colors. She loves singing and performs in the church or town square.

Tipi lives in the town's library, a place that still stores physical books in an age of digital books. She is often found crying, and although the townspeople know about her, few go near her. Shiona calls her the blue girl.

Storytelling and music

Harmonia is presented as a kinetic novel, a format focused solely on storytelling. It uses its scenario, graphics and music to create a sense of presence and empathy for its characters.

The character design and original art are by Itaru Hinoue. The scenario is by Tsuzuru Nakamura and Kai, and the music is by Shinji Orito and Ryo Mizutsuki. The theme song, “Todoketai Melody,” has lyrics by Kai, composition by Shinji Orito, arrangement by Yuichiro Tsukagoshi (NanosizeMir) and vocals by Ayaka Kitazawa. The insert song, “Towa no Hoshi e,” has lyrics by Kai, composition by Tomohiro Takeshita, arrangement by Meeon and vocals by Haruka Shimotsuki.