The setting is the mid-19th century. Born in the slums of Northern Germany, he is the son of a poor double bass player—a musician who never received a proper formal education due to his family's difficult circumstances. In his teens, thanks to the consideration of a local music teacher who recognized his talent, he took intensive free music lessons during the day. At night, however, he had to spend his time performing to earn a living. Then, at the age of twenty, Johannes visited a famous musical couple of the time and was given the chance to present his first work; both recognized his genius. Robert, a renowned composer, and Clara, who was already attracting attention as the greatest pianist of the era. Through the couple's connections, Johannes was introduced to various artists, gradually making a name for himself and beginning to envision his future as a musician. His first love was Clara, the wife of his benefactor Robert and a pianist who was a mother of five. Though she was ten years his senior, he harbored a burning passion for her in his heart. Meanwhile, Robert lost his life in a tragic accident, and Johannes stayed by Clara's side. For a time, the two relied on each other as family, lovers, friends, and colleagues, transcending their age gap. Ultimately, however, they decided to sort out their feelings and promised to maintain an eternal friendship. Thus ended his heartbreaking first love. Two years later, while barely enduring the suppressed longing for Clara, a second love found him. The beautiful Agathe, born and raised in a middle-class family with a bright and distinctive personality, captivated Johannes. Falling deeply for her, he eventually became engaged. However, when the premiere of his first piano concerto ended in failure, a shadow was cast over their future. Having felt the weight of marriage more keenly than anyone due to his unfortunate family background and his parents' discord, Johannes ended up evading reality. He pleaded with Agathe, saying he could not marry but asking her to remain his lover. Agathe, who naturally desired a stable married life as a woman of that time, eventually left him without looking back. Johannes fell into deep sorrow. He now seeks to forget his inner pain by immersing himself in his music.