Fukushū no Kage CHAPTER 4

Academia Shiroi

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The sun shone brightly in the September sky as Haruto Akiyama gazed out the window of his dorm room at Shiroi Academy. The day was marked as a holiday, offering a break from the rigorous classes and endless studies.

The perfect opportunity to enjoy a day off with his friends.

Haruto removed his uniform shirt, letting a gentle breeze brush against his face. The feeling of freedom expanded in his chest as the campus bustle softened with each step he took toward the central cafeteria. The trees in the gardens shaded the common areas, and for the first time in a long while, his mind was completely free from daily stresses.

He met Renji, Mikasa, and Yuta near the main pavilion. Each of them was dressed in casual clothing, different from their school uniforms, and their expressions reflected the excitement of spending a day together without restrictions.

"Let's do something fun today!" Renji exclaimed with a genuine smile as he adjusted his glasses.

"I think we need a break," said Mikasa, tying her hair into a low ponytail.

"Too much studying lately."

Yuta, as calm as ever, looked at his friends with a slight smile. "I agree. Today's the day to break the routine."

Haruto nodded, fully agreeing.

"Where are we going?"

Renji chuckled softly.

"That's still up for discussion. But for now, let's just enjoy the day!"

They began walking together toward the streets closest to the campus. As they moved, the conversation flowed naturally. They shared anecdotes, recalled funny moments at school, and laughed more freely.

Their first stop was a small café recommended by other students. Upon entering, they were welcomed by a warm and cozy atmosphere. The tables were occupied by other groups of friends, but there was still enough space for them.

"I think this place is perfect," said Mikasa as they sat around a table in the corner. "The vibe is relaxing."

"Yeah, we can finally forget about class problems," Renji commented, scanning the café's menu.

"I want something sweet."

"Always obsessed with desserts," Yuta teased, looking at Renji with a smile.

Mikasa made a slight face and added,

"Well, sometimes you have to give in. Sweets aren't always bad."

Haruto laughed softly, noticing how comfortable the conversation was. The tension he usually felt at the academy gradually faded, replaced by moments of sincerity and trust.

"Then I'll order something savory," Haruto said, glancing at the menu.

"To balance things out."

Renji raised an eyebrow in doubt.

"Balance? You're weird, Haruto."

"Not that much," Haruto replied with a wink, prompting a soft laugh from Mikasa.

After a few minutes of choosing their orders, the four friends finally ordered coffee, tea, and small dishes that resembled snacks rather than full meals. While waiting, they began talking about their goals and future dreams.

"One day, I'd like to become a scientist," Yuta said in a calm voice.

"I've always been interested in molecular biology."

Renji nodded, adjusting the frame of his glasses.

"And I want to go into computer engineering. I like the challenge of solving complex problems with technology."

Mikasa, in turn, reflected for a moment before speaking.

"I've always dreamed of social justice. I want to study law and help those who truly need it."

Haruto looked at them, surprised by how diverse their aspirations were, and felt grateful to be with people who shared a genuine desire to better themselves.

"I think I'm a little lost," he admitted with a faint smile.

"I'm not so sure about what I want to do in the future."

Mikasa looked at him closely, her expression gentle.

"Don't worry. Sometimes finding your purpose takes time. What's important is to try."

"Exactly," Yuta added.

"As long as you keep trying, you'll discover what really drives you."

Renji took a sip of his tea before speaking.

"Besides, we're always here to support you. You don't have to figure it all out alone."

The atmosphere in the café remained calm, but the words they shared strengthened their bond even more. Haruto, sensing the sincerity in their words, nodded with a slight smile.

After a few minutes, their snacks arrived, and each of them immersed themselves in the flavors of their food. Haruto especially enjoyed small moments like this, far from studies and tension.

"Our next stop," Renji said after finishing his fruit tart,

"is a park. I think we all need some fresh air."

"Yeah, that sounds perfect!" Mikasa responded, smiling widely.

The park wasn't far. Walking under blooming cherry trees and through shaded paths, their conversation continued to evolve. They talked about everything, from funny anecdotes to silly dreams they didn't share with anyone else.

As they walked, Haruto remembered childhood days with Renji, those happy moments when everything seemed simpler. Now, those shared memories took on an even greater significance.

"I remember when we used to go to the park as kids," Haruto said, smiling as he looked at Renji.

"We'd run all over the place."

"Yeah, and you always ended up beating me," Renji replied, laughing softly.

"You were such a pain back then."

Mikasa joined the conversation.

"How cute. You've always been a team, even in your mischief."

Yuta, who had remained quiet until then, nodded silently, also enjoying the shared memories.

In the distance, a group of children played on swings and slides, their laughter filling the air. In contrast to those memories, Haruto understood how valuable it was to share this moment with his friends.

The park, though small, offered the serenity they needed. Under the trees, their conversation continued, letting the hours pass without hurry or worry.

As evening fell, the group headed back to the academy, but before returning to their dorms, Renji suggested one last stop.

"A little anime store near the center. What do you think?" he said with a sly smile.

The others immediately agreed, and upon entering the store, they were greeted by a world of bright colors, collectible figures, and manga neatly arranged on shelves.

Haruto felt almost like a child in a toy store, his eyes lighting up as he browsed the rows of volumes from his favorite series. Mikasa found several law books for her future studies, while Renji began mentally calculating the cost of electronic gadgets. Yuta stayed quieter but observed the illustrations in a graphic novel with interest.

Hours later, the four friends sat in a nearby café, each enjoying their own choice of drink.

"Today was amazing," Haruto said with a wide smile, savoring his tea.

"Thanks for everything."

Renji, Mikasa, and Yuta nodded silently, each sharing a small smile.

The day had been perfect: joyful moments, shared memories, and a stronger bond than ever.

With the sky painted in shades of purple and pink, Shiroi Academy appeared calm in the distance. The students remained busy in their routines, but for that day, Haruto had learned something important: it's not always about being the best or the strongest, but about being surrounded by those who truly matter.