《The Thoughts of A Firework》


 Prologue, The Destined Coincidence

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 5. New Semester, Nervous!

    1.


    My phone is ringing. I still don''t want to wake up and ignore it. Though, if I realize that my phone is ringing, I already woke up, isn''t I?


    "Arkan, hurry up! It''s your first day in the second semester, don''t be late!"


    Mom''s voice calling makes me wake up. I got up from my sleeping position and sit on the bed. Yawning, I took my phone to look at the time. The clock shows 5:45 a.m. My room feels really cool and dark. I can see a stray light under my door frames. My hanging fan makes a buzzing sound while turning left and right, can''t see it but I can feel the wind hitting and missing me.


    "Looks like it''s going to be an ordinary day..." I said weakly


    Monday, 26th December. I got out of bed and went down to the first floor. Heading to the kitchen, My nose catches a nice and warm smell of tea.


    "Wow, a morning tea. I would want it" I said to My mom who is brewing tea in a cool morning.


    "Mom has eaten snacks, while you haven''t. You can''t drink the tea yet" Mom answered. She continues, "Take a shower first, I''ll prepare breakfast for you".


    "-Kay..."I can only agree because this drowsiness distracts me, if this keeps up, I might end up in the bed again rather than the bathroom. I''m in the bathroom to wash my face and take a shower... I guess not.


    After 10 minutes. I finished taking a shower and went to my room to wear my school uniform.


    "Ah, you are now clean and neat. Mother has prepared breakfast for you. Eat and get ready for school" Said Mom who sees me went into the living room.


    Mom made stuffed buns and hot tea. Stuff that is easy for the stomach to digest. I sit down and started eating my breakfast.


    I finished my breakfast. Intended to go straight to school because the clock is showing 6:15 a.m. Actually, the school starts lessons at 08:00 in the morning. However, students are required to enter early since we will have the Principal speech in the schoolyard today, About the second semester and such.


    "Ah Arkan, just a moment, Mom has prepared lunch for school".


    Mom gives me a box-looking thing that is covered with green cloth with red stripes. Definitely a food container. "What''s in it?" I asked.


    "Hehe, just look at it when you''re at school" Mom looks like someone who will strike a prank on children.


    Well let it be, this makes me save some money too.


    I said to myself.


    "Thanks, I''m leaving".


    "Be careful".


    I took the bicycle stored beside the porch of the house. The bicycle that Mom said has been around since her high school days. Indeed the model is like an old bicycle. This bicycle has a back seat so you can take someone with you. I can imagine both Dad and Mom being together on this bicycle. Frightening.


    ...


    Ordinary day. The air is cool and the dew flies. The sun''s rays almost shone upon me, only blocked by the twin mountains behind me.


    I took the route I usually take. The suburban route, this is not the closest route. I chose this route because of its peaceful and serene conditions, rather than going through the main road which is full of vehicles. Noisy.


    After cycling for about 25 minutes, I arrived at school. Quite a lot of students have arrived.


    I entered through the gate.


    "Good morning".


    "Good morning".


    I exchanged greetings with the school security guard.


    Not only us, but many students also greet each other as friends.


    I get off my ride and start pushing it. There is special parking for cyclists next to the teacher''s parking lot.


    I park my bike, lock it using a standard cycle lock, then start walking toward my class. My class is on the second floor of building A. Not too far from the bicycle parking lot. After arriving at class, I immediately go to my seat to sit down. Burying my head into my arms above the desk.


    "Ahoy, young man, good morning" A familiar voice greeted me in a pirate tone.


    I replied, "Good morning, Roger" in a military way.


    The one who greeted me was Tomi, he stood beside my desk.


    "How can a pirate win against an armed military force?".


    "Struggle..." I answered simply. What is he talking about? Pirates nowadays also use dangerous firearms.


    "Why are you so listless today?" Ask Tomi.


    "Have I always been excited?".


    "That''s true..." He agrees shortly. Somehow I felt a silent contempt.


    Tommy continued asking, "So, how was your vacation?"


    "You call that a vacation?" I answer with a question.


    "Can you not answer my question with another question?" Tomi complaints.


    "Sorry" I said short.


    "Fake".


    "True" I counter his word.


    "You...".


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    We both laughed a little. It''s not a conversation between close friends should be, but this makes me comfortable.


    "You''re not going to ask how I spent my vacation?" continued Tomi.


    "No need to ask something that is already known" I ask with a plain face.


    "Hooo? What did I do?".


    "Go to gam-".


    {To Every Student That Presents In The School, Please Group As A Class and Head Towards The School Yard}


    My answer is cut by an announcement.


    The announcement is repeated twice.


    {To Every Student That Presents In The School, Please Group As A Class and Head Towards The School Yard}


    Everyone in my class gets up and starts walking toward the front-side glass door. Like an organized pack of robots.


    "What''s up?" Ask Tomi.


    "Probably the Principal will have some speech today".


    "What a pain. Didn''t the Principal have some weird speech back in the day?".


    "He had. But, I think this time he will only talk about ''The second semester has begun'' kind of thing" I answered.


    "Well, whatever. Let''s just go. Or the patrolling teacher will be mad".


    "Yeah" I answered short.


    The schoolyard is decently large. It has a basketball field and a small stadium for important announcements. Such as this one, probably.


    Everyone gathers in the schoolyard. Each class forms a square formation that stretches to the back. Boys and girls have a different square lines, sided by each other. After every class forms its own line. The Principal gets to the stadium, testing the mic that is put there.


    My prediction was right. The Principal talks about the second semester and how he''s looking forwards to it. I don''t know why and don''t care since it mostly says how students should spend their time according to the school. Which is obviously, studying.


    I didn''t listen to the rest of the speech, but I''m convinced that I didn''t miss any important announcements. After he''s done with his speech, everyone disbands their line and goes everywhere they wanted like ants crawling around.


    I''m going back to class since I really want to sit so badly, after standing in a sun-burning yard listening to the Principal''s ''speech''.


    Not to be surprised, I was the first one to arrive at the class. Everyone else wanders around waiting for the next schedule at 8 AM and now is still 7:50 AM.


    I once again sit and bury my face into my arms and the desk.


    To once again be annoyed by Tomi. "Yo, I want to pick up the last conversation" Says him while shaking my right shoulder.


    "Huh? Give me a break already. What was it?" I ask annoyed.


    "It was you guessing on how I spent my vacation time".


    "It''s not that important...".


    "Just guess it".


    I take a deep breath and then exhale it.


    "Hufft... Go to GameCenter and play games every day" I answered curtly.


    "Woah, amazing. You got it bullseye!" He shouted.


    GameCenter is the place if you want to buy various types of games. I happened to see Tomi going there when he wanted to go to the bookstore. For my guesses on how I know Tomi was playing games, Tomi is indeed a game lover or often called a gamer.


    "I happened to see you enter the GameCenter on my way to the bookstore".


    "Oh, Why didn''t you say hi?".


    "I don''t want to bother you".


    "Who would be bothered by a greeting? You just don''t want to bother and go straight to the bookstore, Didn''t you?".


    Bullseye.


    "Well, whatever. What did you buy at the bookstore anyway?" Tomi asked again.


    "Continuation of a novel I finished two weeks ago".


    "You seem to really like that series, lend it to me some time".


    "You''re not the kind of person who enjoys reading books" I said with a mocking tone.


    "Oh, I''m not so sure about that..." The little smirk in Tomi''s mouth.


    "Then..." I said while nodding at Tomi''s face. "Just go to the library, there are lots of scientific books to read so your grades go up a little".


    I hit the pedal.


    "RUDE".


    Someone has entered the classroom. Without realizing it, many students were already present in the class.


    "Okay kids, sit at your own desk" Said our homeroom teacher.


    "Expect revenge" Tomi said in an annoyed tone and then went to his desk.


    All the students were already seated at their desks and our homeroom teacher started talking.


    "I will take the first and second schedule to do counseling for the second semester and surprise all of you".


    Two subject schedules huh... That''s about an hour and a half.


    Says my mind.


    The students were confused by the word ''surprise'' that was said by our teacher. Since the ''Surprise" can be anything from good to bad. The class started to get noisy and our teacher, usually called Ms. Lily, told us to be quiet.


    "Okay, okay there''s no need to be loud just because I said the word ''Surprise''. It''s not something bad so just shut it".


    The class goes silent again.


    "Okay, for today..." Ms. Lily continued her talks.


    I opened the book and read it. It might seem impolite, but I still listening to Ms. Lily''s speech. It''s one of those hidden talents that everyone has. Ms. Lily has also ''give up'' on my attitude a long time ago. Because in the past, she often scolded me for not paying attention to her while talking. But when she asked questions about what was discussed, I answered them with ease. It had been repeated several times before she finally gave up.


    "...You will have a new classmate".


    ...


    The class that was already silent is made even more silent by what Ms. Lily said. All the students are completely silent. It took me a few seconds for me to return from the book world to reality.


    A shocking reality that is.


    "Eh...".


    "EHHHHHHHHH".


    "HAAAAAAAAA".


    Many voices of surprise were raised by the announcement.


    I, who was also surprised looked towards the classroom door and saw a gray silhouette in the hallway window.


    The hallway windows weren''t as clear as the windows to the outside of the school. So what is behind the window is not clearly visible.


    "All right, all right, SHUT UP!!!" Ms. Lily snapped at us to be quiet. The class returned to silence. I saw the silhouette in the window move slightly as Ms. Lily gave a loud yell. She continues her talks. "You guys, can you not be too noisy? It will disturb other classes".


    Even though what overpowered the shocked voices of the students was her own shout. "All right, everyone''s quiet. Hana, come in girl" said Ms. Lily while facing the door.


    The silhouette moves from the window...


    Familiar name, maybe...


    I drop the book I was holding to the table.


    2.


    The sound of the class is really noisy and chaotic when the teacher announced that there will be a transfer student that goes into their class.


    I''m nervous.


    I didn''t think the transfer of a new student would make such a commotion.


    I''m scared.


    I can''t forget those moments.


    "...Hana, come in girl" The teacher told me to enter the classroom.


    I took a breath and let it out. "... Huffft... OK!" I muttered.


    I step into the classroom and feel all the gazes on me. I stand in the center of attention, in front of the whiteboard.


    "Introduce yourself" Said the teacher.


    I open my lips. "... N-nice to meet you, my name is Hana Binatha, and I''m transferring to this school in the second semester. I hope we can be friends" I said in a loud tone so I could be heard. Though I''m really nervous inside.


    Everyone fell silent, and after a few seconds, I heard whispers from person to person. What they were talking about, I don''t know.


    "Sit on an empty chair, there are a few in the back rows" She ordered.


    I started walking. All the eyes of the class were on me. I can only stare forward, towards the empty seats in the back row. I once looked to my side...


    I see...


    Ah... What a nostalgic and familiar vibe...


    I said to myself.


    Stopping at an empty table with a chair tucked into the table, I can''t help but just stares still into the empty table. There are a few empty seats, maybe someone is absent. I pull up the chair, hung my bag on the table hanger, then sit on the chair with my arms crossed on my thighs.


    "Hana moved here for several reasons, it would be impolite to ask. Therefore, be friends with her" said the female teacher


    "Yes..." Their voices sounded weary...


    After that, the supervising teacher started talking about the second semester. I, who just start taking lessons in the second semester, can only follow little by little.


    ...


    While the teacher is talking, the class atmosphere is really awkward, only the teacher''s voice can be heard. Though, I can feel the gazes of other students toward me.


    "... Alright, that''s it for the counseling this time, I''ll be leaving the class. See you kids later".


    "Yes..." answered the students in unison.


    She then walked towards the door only to stop and turn towards us and say. "Ah, don''t forget to become friends with Hana, she''ll need someone to show her around the school. Become good friends with her".


    ...


    No one answered. The class just fell silent.


    Maybe it''s true, they are reluctant to be friends...


    I said to myself while lowering my head and clenching my fingers.

 1. The Color of Fireworks

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 2. First Semester Finals, Finished!

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 3. Clarifying The Misunderstanding

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 4. Preparing For A New School Life

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 6. New School, Same Stuff... Or Not?

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 7. Shes Not The One You Think She Is

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 8. Thus! Our New Life Begins!

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 9. Your Thoughts of Fireworks?

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 10. Its Midnight, Lets Go Home

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 11. A Morning Greet

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 12. A Group Work

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 13. Take One for The Team

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 13.5. Thank You

    Soothing my mind in the afternoon sun. The class feels quiet. Well, all that left is me and my first-ever girlfriend''s bag, Chika, who are both drowned in the orange light of the sun that is about to set. Well, even though the person herself isn''t in the class at the moment, so I''m the only one left.


    Chika was assigned to give today''s class report to the teacher''s room. I''m not waiting for her to walk home together, that''s not it. However, I intend to give her a deep thank you for doing such support for me. An opportunity for me to make friends.


    As explained by Farya, it turns out that Chika had told them about my situation and that has difficulty making friends at my new school. And because of that, Farya, Rifa, and Saena, all of them planned a surprise for me. A very simple gift but a meaningful one. Friendship bond.


    The wind from one of the outside windows near Arkan''s table which is still open hits me, it feels cold. I then decided to close the one window that is still open because the window curtain keeps waving by the wind. As I walk, my body is constantly buffeted by the February breeze, which feels slightly cool but harsh. When I almost close the window, a sound by of a door being slides until it hits the corner can be heard from behind me.


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    I turn around and see the girl I was waiting for standing between the frame of the door she opened. The girl''s body looks dark because it is covered by the shadow of my body which is exposed to light from outside the window. ¡°Hana? Why aren''t you go home yet?" Chika asked while standing still.


    Without answering her question, I signal Chika to come towards me by waving my arms up and down. Not questioning my order, she began to walk closer.


    Chika is right in front of me, with a confused face, she keeps looking at my face. Me who already had an initial goal on why I waited until the afternoon and called her, is smiling. When I wanted to convey what is in my heart, like a support by nature itself, I was gently pushed by the evening breeze at that time. Opening my arms wide as if I wanted to grab Chika''s whole body, I gently embraced it.


    Chika who is shocked says in a high tone, ¡°Han?! Hana?! What''s wrong?!".


    Not answering her question, I tighten my hug and say, "Thank you".


    In an instant, Chika seemed to understand what I was doing. Her heart rate returned to normal. Even though I feel she is still a little surprised, she seems to have understood why I did this. Chika too, just like me, hugged me tightly, slowly.


    The wind that has been hitting us gently and making the window curtains keep swaying is finally gone. My ears heard a weak girl''s voice softly saying, "You''re welcome" while feeling a gentle and soothing pet on my head.

 14. Her Past

    The blue sky accompanied by many bright white clouds dazzled my vision. The reflection of the sun which is little by little covered by huge white clouds makes the atmosphere cloudy and cool. I keep looking out of the school window even though there''s a lesson going on in class. A relatively young male teacher explained an economics subject that I listen to without really paying attention. As you can see, I''m a model of a delinquent student who must be taught some valuable lessons.


    Nothing important, I just can''t get rid of this uncomfortable feeling in my heart. Again and again, Hana Binatha. The girl who recently moved to our town and school, I can''t get her out of my mind. This girl who can be included in the quiet student category has difficulty making friends at school. Always paying attention to her doesn''t make me a stalker, you know. I''m just a little curious, about why it''s so hard for her to make friends.


    Well, if I overdo things I''ll become a freaking hypocrite.


    The bell for break time is ringing. I, who don''t really care, keep looking out of the window, releasing my gaze to the free sky. It''s noon now, the sun is at its highest point in the sky. Keeping on staring at the sky makes me begin to feel the weight in my eyelids. It''s fine, right? It''s break time, it should not be a problem. I''m starting to fall asleep but end up saying something beyond my control. "... Hana, why did yo-".


    *BUMP*


    "WOAH, ARKAN SUDDENLY FALL!".


    The loud voice of a boy I recognize his voice wakes me up a little. "Woah, what''s wrong with you? It''s rare to see you fall asleep in class".


    In response to those words, me who was still half asleep can only reply, ¡°Huh? Oh yeah... I''m a little sleepy¡± I said in a sluggish tone.


    The reason on the sudden wake is because I was suddenly shouted at by someone who doesn''t know any manners. Giving my stare towards the person who had woken me up. However, my vision is very blurry.


    "Who?" I asked sleepily.


    "Have you forgotten the face of your own friend just because you haven''t seen each other since this morning? Rude" Said Tomi.


    As expected, who in this class has business with me besides him anyways? Well, nothing in particular, either.


    "Oh, it''s you. What is it?" I said in a slightly closed tone. Indirectly telling him not to talk to me. Sleepy.


    Tomi answered my question while sitting in someone''s chair in front of me, ¡°Well, don''t be angry like that. I''m sorry for bothering you. I was just shocked because you suddenly dropped your head on the table. Very sleepy, aren''t ya?¡±.


    "Don''t just sit in someone else''s chair".


    "Don''t mind me".


    Tch, this guy is annoying.


    "Yeah, I''m a little sleepy" I replied annoyed.


    Tomi who is tapping his fingers on the table made a very loud sound and it hurt my ears that needed some quietness.


    ¡°Staying up all night? Watching TV shows? Playing games? Reading books? Or¡­ thinking about Hana?¡±.


    His last words suddenly surprised me and I came back to my senses as if I wasn''t sleepy at all. "Hah? What do you mean?" I asked in a stiff tone.


    I did think about Hana, but not to that extent. How could he know, anyway?


    "I heard your sleeping words, ''Hana, why did you-'' like that" He explained.


    "Was I? I''m not aware of that. To be honest, I haven''t really focused on my own thoughts since yesterday an-¡°.


    "Arkan!" Tomi suddenly shouted at me. I turn my look towards him. His serious expression like he wants to know something and doesn''t want to get a ''no'' give me a backbone shivers. If it has come to this, I can''t run away from him. The bond of old friends sure is great, huh? He can tell if there''s something stuck in my mind very quickly.


    I made a smiling face and then thought of the best way to convey my thoughts to him.


    ¡°¡­ How do I put it? You''re right, it''s about Hana¡± I frankly said it was about Hana because it''s no longer useful to hide it. ¡°I''m just curious about the reason why it''s so hard for Hana to interact with others. It sounds weird coming from me, I know, but Hana seems to have a hard time making friends. And I think it has something to do with her past. The reason why she chose to transfer herself¡± I explained.


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    Finished muttering, I turn my gaze to Tomi who is in front of me. The look on his face stunned me. I thought he would have a serious face but instead, a smile while directing his gaze sharply at me can be seen from him. He smiled and then said briefly, "Is that so?".


    I am in deep silence.


    ¡°But¡­ weren''t you the one who said not to meddle in other people''s business? Especially Hana¡± Said Tomi while twirling his index finger at me.


    Tomi is right. Even though I''m curious, that''s none of my business and I can''t just go around sneaking into Hana''s life. That might make her hate me in the end. However, what kind of frustration is this¡­


    "Well, yeah, you''re right. However, I can''t deny, there is an uncomfortable feeling in my mind about this matter" I explained.


    ¡°Hmm? Tell me more¡±.


    Telling him about this matter? I''m not sure if I can share the things I''m concerned about Hana without her permission. I could have started a strange rumor that can have had a negative impact on Hana''s school life which has been improving lately.


    Seeing the look on my confused face, Tomi says, "It''s a no, huh?".


    "I''m sorry. The situation is a bit complicated, even I''m also confused¡± I said while apologizing.


    Tomi sighed in a slightly disappointed tone and then make a smile. "It''s fine. In the case of Hana, I think you better go along with her. You already helped her in school. Then, why not let her share burdens with you and vice versa, maybe that can make Hana herself feels better. Give her a place to share something inside her heart".


    "I see. I''ll think about it" I replied shortly.


    Even though Tomi didn''t know anything about Hana''s condition, he managed to guess a bit from what Hana was experiencing so far.


    Sharing, huh?


    Tomi suddenly makes a weird face and then says, "Nosey Parker".


    "Shush it".


    Tomi''s words ended up making me think for a whole day during school. How do you go along with Hana and share both of our burdens? Isn''t it if we want to share our difficulties we have to trust each other? Not that I''m worried that Hana doesn''t have any trust in me, but it''s better to think normally, I think. After all, it should be Hana herself who has to first tell me about the problem she''s having. Because we share. If I''m the one to ask instead, it would sound weird instead, right?


    But, yeah. The will to burden oneself with other people''s problems can be called kindness and stupidity. Though, I don''t know which one am I at.


    {The Tenth Schedule Has Completed. Students Allowed to Go Home}


    {The Tenth Schedule Has Completed. Students Allowed to Go Home}


    The final bell has rung, Though my mind is still thinking about these annoying matter and end up didn''t even tidy up my desk. Many students have already gone home, although there are some who were going to take part in extracurricular activities. The class is quiet and I''m with it become one, sitting silently on my seat.


    Like a call from Heaven telling me to go home, a familiar girl''s voice called my name. ¡°A-Arkan?¡±.


    A gentle voice called out to me in a gentle tone. Finally, I woke up from my endless thoughts and replied, ¡°A-Ah, what''s wrong? Hana".


    I turn my gaze to the side where Hana is. Her face is slightly above my eyes so I have to turn up my head a bit. "Nothing. I''m the one asking you. How come you haven''t gone home yet?".


    When I look around, I realized that only me and Hana is the only two left in this class. The outside window let the orange sun shine through on us both. I can see the sun is about to go to the underworld which will be replaced by the moon in the new phase of February.


    "Ah, no. Just busy thinking about some things that are not important "I replied.


    "Not important enough to make you stay at school?".


    "Yes".


    Wait, isn''t this a good opportunity to ask for that?" Oh yea, Hana, I have a little question for you¡± I said.


    Hana looked towards the outer window slightly dropping her face and says, "What?".


    Damn it, this sudden opportunity makes me didn''t know how to convey my words properly. I should have prepared myself before.


    "Hmm?".


    Come on, Hana is waiting. I just have to say it.


    ¡°W-Will you accompany me to see the fireworks tonight?¡±.


    ¡­


    "Hah?".


    "Hah?".


    Wait, wait, wait! How come that sentence is the one that came out?!


    Why did I even invite her to watch the fireworks display tonight? What date is it today? Wait, how can I invite him without knowing the date?!


    Rather than the panic expression that I have,  Hana is giving quite a calm expression about my strange invitation.


    ¡­


    Wait! Duh, she became a statue instead!


    "Ha-Hana, don''t think what I said earlier" I said in a stiff tone.


    ¡°¡­ Want to¡± Hana said something in a very small tone.


    "Hah?".


    "I do Want to!".


    ¡°Eh?¡±.


    ¡°Like, I, said! I want to!" Hana said in a broken tone.


    Since I''m afraid that the misunderstanding would continue, I said, ¡°No, no, no! We''ll go into the forest, you know? Don''t you feel uncomfortable walking into a dark forest with a boy like me?" I explained.


    "Why not?! We''ve both been there together, twice too!¡± She fought back. "Besides, when I''m with you... I feel comfortable" Hana said in a weak and cute tone.


    ¡­


    "Hah? Why do you feel comfortable when you are with me?¡± I asked.


    After I asked that question, Hana''s face suddenly turned red. Is she blushing? No, it could also be because of the orange sunlight reflecting on her face.


    "It''s nothing! Anyway, we''re going there tonight! It''s a promise! Half past seven, okay?!¡± She said in a forcing tone then ran to her desk, took her bag, then goes out of the classroom.


    ¡°Wai-¡°. Ah, she''s out of sight already.


    ¡­


    However, it really took me by surprise.


    ''when I''m with you I feel comfortable'', huh?


    I think I''m a bit happy to hear those words.


    Well, what has happened has happened. This could also be an even bigger opportunity to ask her about that. But, in order to make it fun while waiting, what should I do?


    Looks like I have to pay an old friend a visit.

 15. A Windy Night

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 16. Lonely Light

    A light breeze caressed us, its warmth and gentle touch reminiscent of snuggling under a cozy blanket with the perfect temperature. The wind carried an inviting sensation, as if inviting me to relax and embrace its soothing embrace.


    Hana''s voice quivered softly, each word weighed down by a heavy burden. Her expression made me question if I had done something wrong. Doubts clouded my mind, but my curiosity persisted, fueled by my belief in Tomi''s words.


    Hana turned to me, her face mirroring the same emotions as before. She glanced away, then back at me, perhaps seeking confirmation through my expression. "Why do you want to know?" she asked.


    "Just a little curious" I initially replied.


    "A little?" she questioned.


    "Ah, I''m sorry, I lied. I''m really curious" I corrected myself.


    "Hehe..." Hana chuckled.


    "And also!" I exclaimed, clenching my hand tightly. Hana''s shocked gaze shifted towards me. "You often appear gloomy. Even during your introduction, you seemed sad. Maybe people don''t see you as someone they can be friends with. However, somehow, I sense a familiarity in your situation. And when Chika is with you... When I revealed that Chika is a bully, your face turned pale and filled with shock. Well, no one would expect a class president to have been a former bully. Lastly, this is just a guess from someone like me, who doesn''t have many friends. Hana, did you feel lonely in your previous place?".


    I realized my rambling had gone too far. But this was necessary to confirm the uneasy feelings I had about Hana. I felt selfish, forcing a girl to openly reveal her past stigma. What an asshole of a person I am.


    Hana had listened to my lengthy chatter, her surprise evident in her widened eyes and heightened blue pupils. Oh no, did I say too much?


    After a moment, Hana changed her expression and resumed her formal smile. Finally, she broke her silence. "Please stop, it''s alright. Your concern makes me happy".


    The fireworks in front of us began to fade. The sparks, which once reached great heights, gradually diminished. As I observed, the fireworks lost their flame. Hana''s eyes, previously illuminated by the fireworks, also grew dim.


    "Oh, they''ve gone out. I''ll light another one" I said.


    Hana didn''t respond to my words and continued staring ahead. I picked up the second Fountain firework and brought it forward, replacing the extinguished spark. Igniting the fuse, I sit back down beside Hana, who remained silent and motionless, gazing at the cityscape with her open eyes. Soon, the second firework ignites.


    Shortly after the fireworks lit up the night, Hana opened her mouth, seemingly waiting for the moment when the fireworks would emit light. "Are you sure? It''s a boring story. A story from someone who doesn''t really understand what friendship is".


    "Yes" I replied succinctly.


    Hana keep her gaze fixed on the stream of light emanating from the fireworks before taking a deep breath and exhaling. A tiny dew formed on her trembling, pink lips. Finally, she spoke. "Where should I start? Ah, I guess I''ll start from that moment" she mused to herself.


    Hana began her story. "Back when I was eight years old, in third grade, I struggled to socialize and make friends. However, the lack of friendship was not my biggest problem at that time. Though because of it, weird rumors circulated about me among many students in my class. It''s quite embarrassing, but I was very attached to my mother. You might have heard about my mother. She was the ray of. She was the rainbow light in my life which wasn''t too colorful at that time. Because I was too attached to her, many thought I was strange. Maybe yes, maybe not, I don''t know. Is a 9-year-old child shouldn''t be sticking with her mother anymore? Nearly all of my graders from the same school know about me so changing classes won''t have any effect. The teachers didn''t help at all and just said, ''Just forgive them, okay?''. I have often experienced insults to cruel behavior from my classmates. It all continued until I graduated from elementary school¡±.


    Hana, who look almost out of breath, stopped for a moment and then look forward once again. It''s this hard for her to remember her past, huh¡­


    After a short break, she returned to the story. ¡°I thought it would all end when I entered middle school, but too bad, a lot of elementary students end up in the same middle school as me. Therefore, all the things that happened in elementary school happened again in junior high school. There are even really severe moments. At that time I was in the second grade of junior high school, and my mother fell ill because of the symptoms of Leukemia that started to appear in her body. I had asked permission from the class president that I would stay at the hospital to accompany my mother and won''t attend school, however, what she did instead said that I was skipping to our teacher. And I ended up in the introspection room. I told the truth and was very grateful for being trusted by the teacher. This is no longer a matter of rumors about me, this has entered the realm of bullying¡±.


    Oh, I see... That''s why she turn a little pale when I revealed that Chika was a bully. But what kind of school memories is that? I''ve almost reached the limit of my patience. The blood in my body boiling really hot. Despite that, I have to keep listening. Even Hana herself looked calm¡­ no, she is hiding her trembling slightly.


    The cold wind blew relentlessly, slapping our faces with an icy force. As if out of nowhere, a sudden gust extinguished the candle flame, plunging us into darkness. The once vibrant fireworks lost their sparkle, casting an even colder and gloomier atmosphere. When I turned to Hana, her tear-streaked face caught me off guard. The tears overflowed, teetering on the edge of her trembling lips, almost cascading down to her trembling thighs.


    "H-Hana, are you..." I began to ask.


    "BUT THEY!" Hana''s voice pierced through the air, high-pitched and filled with anguish. "They... dragged me into the girl''s restroom and tormented me there. Every cruel word they uttered, it reached into the depths of my heart, even mentioning my late mother... ''Haha, your precious mother is no longer here,'' ''Who will you embrace now?'' ''Too bad, your mother is gone.'' They directed all of these hurtful words at me... I couldn''t bear it any longer, so I-I ran back home... My family isn''t well-off. Without my mother''s support, my father had to take on extra work and would return home late that day." Hana''s voice trembled as tears streamed down her face. "I locked myself inside our house, curling up under the blanket, crying my heart out. I kept crying until my father arrived and comforted me. He advised me to change schools, to find a place where I wouldn''t be recognized."


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    "Now, with my father always occupied with work, I''m all alone. Even though I have my uncle to look after me, I still live in solitude."


    Gradually, her gaze turned towards me. Hana''s face, despite the tears, possessed an ethereal beauty, an exquisite facade that concealed the multitude of burdens she carried. Her closed eyes, moist with tears, formed a fragile smile that sent shivers down my spine. My heart ached with a mix of sorrow and empathy. This was the weight she bore... What an extraordinary girl...


    "But that''s just a dreary tale from someone who has never truly experienced friendship. Isn''t it dull?" Hana said, her smile intertwined with tears.


    Overwhelmed, Hana burst into tears, the weight she carried proving too heavy. What kind of life had she endured? I grew weary of listening, frustration building as I clenched my fists with all my might. It wasn''t anger towards the individuals in Hana''s story; it was frustration at Hana herself, who continued to smile despite her tears. Hana''s sobs infuriated me, but I restrained myself. There was only one thing I could do.


    In the distance, a speck of light erupted from the ground, ascending skyward. How fitting, the fireworks festival had begun. From afar, the chemical explosions painted the night sky, launching colorful sparks into the air. It was the only solace I could offer Hana.


    "Your story... it can''t end here, can it?" I spoke up.


    As she wiped away her tears, Hana looked at me, confusion etched on her face. "Eh...?"


    "Your story hasn''t reached its climax yet, has it? You haven''t even introduced the characters" I vaguely explained.


    "W-What do you mean?" Hana''s voice quivered.


    Taking hold of the unlit Roman Candle firework, I tightened my grip. Igniting the fuse, I aimed its tip towards the city, where the brilliance of the fireworks danced in the night. A few seconds later, the first burst shot into the sky, exploding with a brilliant display. Blue sparks scattered, reminiscent of Hana''s irregular yet captivating presence.


    "You! You came to this city, met me, and made friends with others, didn''t you? This isn''t the end of your story. It''s just the beginning. I won''t allow it to conclude like this. At least when you are not happy with the ending" I declared, my voice resolute yet gentle.


    I noticed Hana''s astonishment, but I believed it was for the best. Letting my instincts guide me, I continued, "You''re an incredible person! You''ve shouldered the weight of your turbulent emotions all by yourself. But if you ask me, that''s not the best approach. If I were in your shoes, I''d repay them a hundredfold! You''ll make them regret it, won''t you?" My voice rose with determination.


    Hana, fixated on my words, wiped away the remnants of her tears. "... Yes!"


    "Good! Then take the remaining fireworks. Let''s light them together," I said.


    ¡°Eh?¡± Hana asked confused.


    "Now!" I screamed.


    ¡°Y-Yeah, just a moment¡±.


    Hana took the last Roman Candle type of firework, then hold it while standing beside me. We both stare off at the city view full of twinkling lights of fireworks. With Hana''s left hand and my right hand holding the fireworks at the same time, together.


    I give the matches I use to light the candles and other fireworks to Hana. "Lit it on fire" I said simply.


    ¡°Eh? I can not".


    "Don''t worry, I''m beside you" I said calmly.


    After hearing the comforting words coming from me, Hana set off the fuse of the firework. We both face the city so we too could join in with the festival that is going on in the city.


    The first firework shot into the sky, drawing my gaze to Hana''s enraptured expression as she followed the trajectory of the colorful balls soaring and exploding above us. Even though it was a simple firework, her wonderment is palpable. The second, third, and fourth fireworks burst into the night, filling the air with splendor. Then, a fifth firework also launched, but to our surprise, it failed to detonate.


    "Huh? It didn''t explode?" Hana''s voice was tinged with confusion.


    Was it a dud? Or perhaps delayed? However, the firework continued to radiate light and flames, descending towards the ground under the pull of gravity until it stood right in front of us, and...


    *BOOOMMMM*


    The sudden explosion engulfed our surroundings. Our vision blurred, and my ears rang with disarray. But amidst the chaos, my concern is solely for Hana.


    "Han?! Hana! Are you okay?!" I shouted desperately.


    "Y-yeah" Hana weakly replied, her voice barely reaching my ears.


    Thankfully, Hana is unharmed. I breathed a sigh of relief, not knowing what I would have done if she had been hurt. But what had just happened? Why did the firework explode right in front of us? What on earth...?


    Silence settled in the aftermath of the explosion, the ringing in my ears overpowering any other sounds. Slowly, my eyes adjusted, and I found myself staring in shock. Was this some sort of hallucination caused by witnessing the fireworks detonate before our eyes?


    "W-what the he-" I began, but Hana''s abrupt shout cut me off.


    "WHAT THE HELL?!" Hana''s exclamation mirrored my own astonishment.


    Well, it wasn''t entirely surprising for her to react this way. Wait, if Hana sees what I also see, then this couldn''t be a hallucination, could it? I struggled to find words in the face of this inexplicable phenomenon.


    Our feet stands in an unfamiliar place, a vast meadow stretching as far as the eye could see. A solitary tree crowned a nearby hill, and a gentle breeze caressed us once more. The air held a pleasant neutrality, neither cold nor warm. It felt like stepping into a dreamland. And when I looked up at the sky, a sight of pure beauty greeted my eyes. The dark night is adorned with countless stars, filling the expanse until no gap remained visible.


    I, rendered speechless and breathless, managed to utter, "Woah..."


    "Oh, wait, Arkan! The fireworks!" Suddenly, Hana''s voice snapped me out of my reverie.


    Fireworks? Whoa! The fuse is lit, but how? What had been launched earlier instead of the final shot? Reacting swiftly, I pointed it skyward, ensuring we wouldn''t be caught in the blast, once again. After a brief pause, the sound of the firework being shot reverberated through the air. It soared above us before... exploding. The detonation unleashed a resounding boom and a shower of sparks. Yet, something peculiar occurred. The remnants of the explosion, the sparks, and the radiant glow refuse to dissipate. Time seemed suspended, but the luminous particles continued their descent, reminiscent of autumn leaves gently falling from their branches. Eventually, the particles settled before us, emanating a comforting warmth.


    Unconsciously, my hands move of their own accord, forming a pose as if to catch the particles. With closed eyes, I feel the gentle touch against my palm.


    As I opened my eyes, I found myself back in our original location, standing alongside Hana, both of us holding the firework wand, gazing out over the city''s sea of lights.


    What have just happened? How can we traveled there and returned here? Could it have been a hallucination? No, Hana experienced it too, and the sensation of being there feels undeniably real. What have caused this inexplicable event? It''s far too dangerous to attempt a repetition.


    Agh, my mind is full of questions it''s annoying. I have to confirm it with Hana first.


    I turn my head back to Hana. ¡°Han-¡°.


    I was once again stunned. Why? Why is Hana shedding tears? Is it leftover from before? No, a new tear popped out of her right eye then slowly reaching her cheeks.


    "Hana, you are... crying...".


    "Eh...?".

 17. Her Strong Feelings

    Gazing off freely towards the city, I am captivated by the scattered light of fireworks. A strange feeling washes over me as I inhale the night air, tinged with the lingering scent of gunpowder from the fireworks held in my left hand. It''s as if the air has transformed from soft and gentle to ethereal and soothing, transporting me to an entirely different realm. Could it be an illusion? Curiously, I notice a warmth emanating from the firework stick I just fired. Yet, the sensation of the smooth and calming night breeze remains vivid in my memory. I reach out and touch a speck of light that has landed before me, finding comfort in its gentle warmth.


    ¡°Hana, you are¡­ crying¡­¡± Arkan''s voice breaks the spell.


    Surprised, I feel tears trickling down my cheeks. I brush them away, starting from my chin and moving up to my cheeks.


    Arkan and I exchange bewildered glances, both at a loss for words. The shared experience leaves us with more questions than answers. Concerned, Arkan breaks the silence, "Are you all right?".


    Lost in my thoughts, I offer a brief, stiff response. ¡°Y-yes.¡±


    ¡­


    *BRUKKKKK*


    Suddenly, Arkan collapses beside me. His body crumples into a seated position, head lowered and one leg bent, his trembling hands gripping tightly to support himself.


    ¡°A-Arkan? What happened?!" I worryingly inquire.


    Did he get injured from the earlier fireworks mishap??


    ¡°Hufft¡­¡± Arkan lets out a tired sigh. "I''m relieved that you''re okay. If you had been hurt, I wouldn''t know what to do".


    This person... rather than worrying about himself, his thoughts immediately turn to others. Even in times of danger, someone else takes precedence in his mind. Such individuals still exist, it seems.


    ¡°Hahaha¡­¡± Arkan''s laughter echoes softly, though his lowered head obscures his smiling face. Even in moments like this, he manages to find humor. "Hahaha! What was that... the fireworks exploded right in front of us... Did you see it? That was a close call, wasn''t it?" His words are interrupted by a joyful laugh.


    Unbelievable. Instead of being alarmed by the dangerous situation we just experienced, he bursts into laughter. And for some reason, his laughter stirs something in my heart, prompting me to join in.


    ¡°... Hahaha, you''re right. That was close, huh? It was really dangerous earlier" I chuckle, unable to contain my amusement.


    Our laughter continues, transforming the previously serene atmosphere into one filled with life and mirth. We exchange playful banter amidst the diminishing fireworks, until the explosions gradually fade away. Finally, the last firework erupts, followed by a solitary boom. As the echoes of the explosion subside, so does our laughter.


    ¡­


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    Arkan retrieves the lighter I had returned earlier and ignites the dormant candle. The vibrant hue and gentle warmth emanating from the flame instantly transport me back to that enigmatic place, evoking memories of the delicate fireworks particles that once graced my right hand. Lost in thought, I fix my gaze upon the dancing candle flame, its flickers meandering aimlessly in the slight chill of the breeze.


    ¡°But... what was that all about, huh?¡± Arkan''s voice pierces the silence.


    His words mirror my own sentiments, suggesting that he, too, is entangled in the enigmatic allure of that place. We share a mutual sense of bewilderment and fascination.


    ¡°I wish I knew. Perhaps it was merely an illusion? But that place... it felt undeniably real to me,¡± I respond, struggling to articulate my thoughts.


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    Arkan nods, acknowledging the uncertainty. "I feel the same way. Alright, let''s piece together the fragments and attempt to unravel this mystery" he proposes.


    I offer my assent through a solitary nod, a wordless affirmation of his suggestion.


    Raising his index finger, Arkan begins enumerating the first point. ¡°Firstly, we were unexpectedly caught in the chaos of a fireworks explosion. Did anything else transpire during that moment?¡±.


    I pause, searching my innermost being for any lingering sensations. ¡°I can''t recall anything else. However, in that moment, an overwhelming sense of joy enveloped me. It was as if happiness overflowed within my very core¡± I vaguely recount.


    Understanding my words, Arkan probes further. "I see. Anything else? Any physical sensations, perhaps?"


    With a brief and concise response, I reply, "None that I can discern. Did you experience anything out of the ordinary?" My words linger, the final sentence tinged with an inquisitive undertone.


    Arkan bows his head in agreement, his silent concurrence evident. Then, he raises his second finger, signifying the next point. ¡°Secondly, we found ourselves abruptly transported to an unfamiliar realm. It revealed a sprawling meadow crowned by a solitary tree atop a gentle hill. The night sky shimmered with a constellation of stars. I could feel the wind caress my skin, yet it bore neither warmth nor coldness" he recounts.


    In accord with his description, I offer a nod, affirming our shared experience.


    ¡°Third, it turns out that both of us were still holding the Roman candles fireworks which should have been lit before, but for some reason, it was re-ignited. And the results of the explosion didn''t disappear like time has been stopped, but the particles keep falling until it is in front of us. Then, we touched the warm point of light and suddenly return to where we were before. Like that, right?" He explained.


    Arkan describes the incident really well. I acknowledge it because the experience is just exactly the same. Does that mean it wasn''t an illusion?


    ¡°Anyway, thank goodness we weren''t hurt. Thinking about it would be a difficult task. Trying to repeat that phenomenon is also dangerous because the trigger could be exposing ourselves to an explosion of fireworks from pin-point range" He said. Arkan once again on both his feet and says, "Okay. Let''s go home, the festival is also over. I also managed to get my answer".


    When I heard it, I stand up and agreed. "Yeah, let''s go home" I said in a soft tone.


    We both tidied up this place and rush back out of the forest. When I take a look at my cell phone, the clock shows 9:12. Tomorrow is Saturday, so sleeping late is not a problem. But, after everything that happened, I want to rest as soon as possible. Looks like Arkan got my intention too.


    The two of us walk through the dark forest and only rely on the flashlights of our two cell phones. Surprisingly, there''s no breeze passing by, so the atmosphere feels empty and hollow. Not even the blue moonlight could penetrate. The atmosphere is silent without the sound of insects ringing, though, there are us making sounds while stomping the ground.


    While looking ahead, Arkan says, ¡°I''ll ask the experts what happened just now. Maybe they know something¡±.


    It pop right into my head who is the ''expert'' that Arkan mentioned. "Ah, Tio and his Uncle?".


    "Yes. I''ll tell them what happened tonight. Of course, all I''m going to tell is the part when we, or rather I got hit by the explosion and become disillusioned. So, you don''t have to worry about weird rumors happening again¡± He explained.


    Woah, he decided while thinking about my feelings. He completely understands my trouble after hearing the story I told him and didn''t want me to go through anything of that kind again. Friends are great, huh?


    "Oh, I see. Thank you." I thank him because that is really helpful.


    Ah, while talking about a fireworks maker. I''d better ask about that now. "Hey, Arkan. Can I learn how to make fireworks at Tio and Uncle''s place? I want to make my own¡± I said.


    ¡°Hmm? Sure, can. Even I myself made my own creation of fireworks taught by them. Well, it''s just a coincidence that I succeed" He said with a straight face.


    ¡°What, seriously? Arkan can make fireworks? Why didn''t you say it before? I''ve always wondered how fireworks are made, you know!¡± I replied with high tones at the end.''


    ¡°We-well, you never asked. I''ll ask them when they can make time for that. Let''s also ask about that phenomenon too".


    "Okay, it''s a promise, yeah? Hell yeah! I can finally make my own fireworks. As soon as possible, you hear?!¡± I said excitedly.


    "Hah? What are you talking about. We can''t do it at the time, we have midterms exams, you know? A week from now on¡±.


    With just a few words, my excitement is gone in an instant. I lost all the imagination that I had created. And it became worse with the fact that I haven''t prepared anything at all to face the test".


    Seriously? Midterms? A week from now?


    I stop my momentum in surprise. As if I have become a statue, all the muscles in my body cannot move. I totally forgot about that matter...


    Arkan in front of me also stops his movement, following me. He even have a look on his face that didn''t expect that I would forget that there was PTS next week. Woah, what timing is this...

 18. Mid-Terms Exams

    The cold morning air feels refreshing. The morning sun warm my body which is covered with a thick crombie type of coat. This coat feels amazingly warm. I''m a bit grateful for deciding to use it because I could feel that my two poor bare hands are actually cold as ice. However, when I look in the mirror at home, if I didn''t wear a school skirt, I would see myself as an adult woman going to work on a cold morning because my coat is covering my uniform. Ah, maybe my tote bag which only contains needed stationery and a few notebooks will give off the impression of a high school girl, would it?


    Stepping on both feet on the residential street that leads to the nearest bus stop, I could feel the calming silence of the morning, but it was suddenly disrupted by the sound of dogs barking. Without a bicycle, this is my only way if I don''t want to be late for school. I already checked the bus schedule. I take out my cell phone and look at the clock, now it shows 6:45. The bus arrives at 6:55 AM and leaves at 7:05 AM. After looking at the clock, I hastened my steps a little. It wasn''t too far, but it would be bad if the bus I''m looking for is long gone.


    After arriving at the bus stop, I buy the ticket and rushed to get on the bus that almost leaves the station. Thankfully I rushed earlier, I might have to walk and be scolded by the teacher at school later. I took a seat on the right side so that I would not be too exposed to the scorching glare of the morning sun. I open my bag and draw out a math notebook and start reading it. Why am I reading? Because today is the first day of the Mid-term Exams.


    ¡­


    "Morning".


    "Good morning".


    Too bad it wasn''t a conversation I have with my friends. In front of the school gate, many students exchange greetings with other students, even with the teachers on duty and the security guard.


    I''m a little jealous. Though, that''s fine too, right? I managed to get some friends. I also want to be greeted in the morning. Well, maybe they''re already in class, I''ll greet them later on.


    As usual, the front stairs are packed with students trying to get up to the second floor where their class and mine are. I keep wondering why they didn''t choose the quieter inner staircase, the distance of the stairs and the class may have influenced it, but I couldn''t tell the difference between getting stuck on the stairs and taking the longer path, which one is slower. Giving my gaze ahead, I direct my footsteps towards the stairs that are roomy. While remembering a little about the mathematical formula that is likely to appear in the exam this time.


    If y = mx + c, I can substitute 2x + 5y - 4 = 0. Move the numbers around, counting there and counting here. and the result is¡­


    ¡°¡­ Negative two-fifths¡±.


    "What''s up with it?".


    "Woah!" I exclaimed in surprise. The voice of an excited girl in the morning sounded close beside me. I turn my head and it was Farya. I look back there were Rifa and Saena who are waving their hands towards me.


    ¡°You startled me¡­¡± I said while letting go of all the shock in my heart.


    "Hehe, good morning, Hana" Farya greeted me.


    I, who heard the soft greeting, felt a little happy and relieved in my heart. Answering Farya''s greeting, I said ¡°Yes, good morning, Farya¡±. I looked back. "Good morning too, Rifa, Saena" I greeted in a gentle tone.


    "Morning" Sapa Rifa replied.


    ¡°Morning¡± Saena answered with a wave.


    After greeting each other, we walk up the stairs to class. While walking, we all talk and joke around with each other.


    A tap can be felt on my right shoulder. "Han, Hana. Did you know? Saena was chased by a dog when she was leaving school, haha!¡± Said Rifa.


    "AH, DON''T TELL HANA!" Saena replied.


    ¡°Ahaha, I saw that too¡± Farya followed. ¡°When the three of us were going to our usual place to start walking together to school, I saw Saena being chased by a dog, maybe a Rottweiler? Or the Cane Corso kind?¡± She continued.


    "That was a Rottweiler. Identical to the brown fur on the chest and legs " Rifa explained.


    Wow, Rifa knows about the characteristics of dogs. I wonder if she has her own dog at home? Next time I will ask about it.


    ¡°Ugh. Straight out of luck. I was just petting his head, though. Suddenly he pushed himself towards me. The owner released his harness from carelessness. I end up being chased too. The drool in his mouth disgusts me¡± Saena said.


    "Oh, so it was the owner running behind, huh?" Said Rifa


    "Ahahaha" I let go of laughter together with them except Saena.


    "Oh yeah, what was the ''negative two-fifths'' earlier, Hana?" Ask Farya.


    "Hah? Oh. It''s nothing, I''m just calculating random numbers in my brain. Since today is the schedule for the math test" I explained.


    As if it has been doused by a very painful reality. Farya makes a really sour face. Ah, have I done something wrong, again? Farya makes a look on her face like really doesn''t like it after I mention the words ''Mathematics'' and ''Today''s exam schedule''. The way she walk became abnormal.


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    Out of curiosity, I try saying those words again. "Today''s exam schedule Mathematics an-".


    ¡°Stoooppp! I don''t want to hear any more¡± Farya exclaimed while crouching down and folding her arms over her head in a protective pose.


    The three of us stopped while looking at Farya''s cute pose. ¡°Ahaha. When it comes to exams and math, Farya is helpless" said Rifa. ¡°But, you are a very diligent one, Hana. Walk while studying like that. Such a model student" She continued.


    ¡°We-well, I just wanted to put in a bit of effort. You guys have studied too, right?¡± Me answering with a questing at the end.


    "Well yeah, a little" Saena answered briefly. Looks like she''s still sullen with Rifa who picks up her embarrassing moments.


    "I had. I don''t know about Farya, though¡± Rifa answered while mocking Farya at the same time.


    Farya, who hears Rifa''s mocking, looks curter than before. She''s looking down even more and feels really lethargic. "D-damn you, diligent nerds. I''ll curse you and make your grades below average. Cries upon my wrath!¡± said Farya in a tone like a Demon King who lacked education.


    ¡°Ahaha¡­¡± Our laughter saw Farya''s pitiful action that cursed us while lying on the floor.


    We continue on our way to the class. Actually, it''s almost time for the first schedule, but we still walk on casually because other activities that usually start out at the start of school, are removed on exam day. While chatting and others. The four of us were almost at the front of the classroom. Farya''s rambling about how she couldn''t focus on studying is also almost over.


    ¡°¡­ And in conclusion, it''s Chika''s fault because she keeps taking me around the city. Even during the fireworks festival last week" Said Farya.


    ¡°Ah, last week''s festival. You did come, didn''t you?" I asked Farya.


    "I did come. In fact, everyone is there except for you¡± Farya answered while pointing at the two people behind me. "Two weeks ago I asked you if you had some free time for the festival, and you said no. So yeah, only you are left behind" She continued.


    Ah, so that was is it, huh?


    The reason I refused invitations from my friends was because I wanted Arkan to invite me instead. It''s embarrassing and I can''t tell them. However, I was grateful because at that time I received an invitation from Arkan. I can share stories with Arkan about my past, which I can''t tell them for now. And I''m very happy about that whole sharing thing. Though, he didn''t really share his part.


    ¡°Ahaha, sorry, okay? I have business at that time¡± I answered briefly. I can''t say what ''business'' I meant.


    I return my gaze to the front. With Farya beside me and Rifa and Saena who are chatting together behind us. I see a silhouette of a person I knew from the direction of the front stairs. Is that¡­ Arkan?


    With this distance and speed, we might meet in front of the back door together, that is if he''s going to enter the class through the back door and he most likely won''t.


    With thoughts like that in my head, I speed up my walking, leaving my friends who are walking at normal speed. Not to enter through the back door and win the ''Who Gets In The Class Fastest'' competition. Wait, is there ever really one? Anyway, not for anything, but just for¡­


    {First Schedule Has Started}


    {First Schedule Has Started}


    Arkan''s silhouette became clearer and bigger the closer I get. Until I''m right in front of someone I''m walking towards to. As usual, Arkan wears a school uniform like the others, with his khaki brown colored messenger backpack strapped around his body. Arkan looked at me with a look of surprise and confusion on his face. That''s right, come to think of it I''m not the class treasurer who would go after students who miss paying their part. I''m just a friend of Arkan.


    With both of us facing each other, I said, "Good morning, Arkan" in a gentle tone.


    Arkan, who was previously surprised, sighed and the look of his confused face disappeared. "Yes, good morning too, Hana" He replied in the same gentle tone as me.


    After getting what I wanted, I turn around, smiled and immediately leave Arkan, walking towards the back door where my friends were. I see the confused look on the faces of my friends.


    "Hey, what were you doing, Hana? You looked happy¡± Farya asked.


    "It''s nothing" I answered vaguely and immediately entered the classroom through the back entrance door.


    "Ah, it looks like Arkan" Rifa said while covering his forehead with his hand in a respectful pose like trying to give her vision more clear landscapes.


    I ignored their questions and continue to sit on my chair. I see Arkan enter the classroom through the front door and walk toward his seat. Chika also turns out to have arrived in the classroom before us and is waving her hand at me. I waved back.


    Chika is visited by Farya who seems to want to ask something. They are chatting, though I couldn''t really hear because of the noise of the class. There are those who chat like Chika and Farya, some are looking at their notebooks, some are writing in their textbooks, and some ar-


    "HAH?!" Shouted a girl in front of me.


    I, who was looking around the classroom, is shocked, as well as the other students. They go silent and look at Farya and Chika''s positions. Because the sound of chatter between Chika and Farya starts to rise and the class is silent in shock, I can hear what they were talking about. ¡°What do you mean you have studied?!¡± Farya asked Chika in a high tone.


    "Hah? Of course, I studied. There''s literally an exam in front of us¡± Chika answered briefly.


    "And I''m here thinking I''ve found my life buddy..." Farya said wearily.


    "Besides, why aren''t you studying if you''re only going to complain at the end?" Chika answered in a high tone.


    ¡°Ugh¡­ Damn you, diligent nerds¡­¡±.


    Before long, our first exam supervisor comes inside the classroom. It turns out that it''s our actual supervising teacher, Ms. Lily.


    Ms. Lily enters the class and walks towards the teacher''s desk which is in front. She sits down and seems to write something in the class diary.


    "Okay kids, you will be under my watch today. I am indeed your supervisor but too bad I will not give you any leniency. Use your own strength. If anyone is caught cheating, the answer will be crossed out and they have to repeat the exam" said Ms. Lily as if she was giving a speech in front of the class.


    Complaints can be heard from the class students. But I''m sure it''s just a joke and there''s no way they''d think a teacher would give them waivers on semester exams.


    ¡°Alright, put in your notebooks and take out your writing tools. I will start giving the question and answer papers¡± Ms. Lily ordered while tidying up a pile of papers and tapping the bottom of the pile on the table.


    Everyone simultaneously did as they were told. I''m no exception. With this, the midterm exams finally begin.


    ¡­


    First day. Running smoothly. There are some questions that are a bit difficult, especially math, but my grade should be safe.


    ¡­


    The second day. It''s a bit difficult because I don''t like Biology. However, it shouldn''t be that bad.


    ¡­


    The third day. Running smoothly. I have no problem with today''s schedule. However, it seemed the others didn''t, especially Farya¡­ Well, physics can be a little tricky.


    ¡­


    Fourth day to sixth day isn''t anything too special. Some are difficult, some are easy. There are highs and lows. Even though in the end, I''m still confident in my studies and would at least get a top ten if I''m lucky.


    ¡°It''s finished¡­¡± Said one of my seat neighbors.


    Yes, it''s finally done.

 19. A Little Game

Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

 20. And the Winner Is…

    The class atmosphere is a little noisy with the sound of students talking to their respective interlocutors. Some of what I''ve heard is the topic of what ranking they are hoping to get. Maybe it''s strange, like, why didn''t the school tell this when they met the students'' eyes to eyes when they gave their semester report cards last Friday? Why should it be published today? This might trigger social discrimination against last-ranking students. Well, part of it was their own fault and part of it is just my exaggeration.


    In fact, students who are likely to get the order below can still have friends. For example, Farya. Currently, she is chatting with his friends, including Chika. They don''t really think about achievements but consider last week''s incident just a small game.


    By the way, today is supposed to be the day to decide the winner, between my team which consisted of me, Farya, and Arkan, then team Chika which consisted of Chika, Rifa, and Saena. Even though I forced Arkan a bit to join, when Chika said it was just a waiting game, he finally agreed.


    For the rules themselves, for each order of five multiplication starting from 1-5 = 100, the points will be reduced by ten points. Until it ends at number 36 where the points are 30. And for processing the points will only be added with each member. The winner''s prize itself is still the same, it''s just that the losing team must grant the winning team member''s wish. Terms and conditions apply.


    I believe I''ll be at about 10th place myself, fingers crossed.


    {First Break Schedule Has Started}


    {First Break Schedule Has Started}


    Several students stand up from their seats and quickly leave the class. Well, the first break schedule has started, maybe they want to go to the canteen immediately so they don''t stand in line. Or maybe, they want to see the ranking papers that have been published on several bulletin boards which are separated at several different places.


    That''s right, I also see Chika standing, facing me, and waving her hand for me to go there immediately. Me, who understood, immediately approach Farya and Arkan.


    Like someone with a fever, Farya''s body suddenly changed drastically from the one she had this morning. However, when invited, Farya still agrees.


    Next, Arkan. Walking leisurely until halfway to Arkan''s desk, I''m watching him playing with his cell phone, but he suddenly stand up and that startled me a bit. His body suddenly stood up while looking at the screen of his cell phone, then he turned his gaze to me.


    He says, "It''s time".


    "Yes" I answered briefly.


    Chika''s team seems to have gone first, the three of us are still walking towards the bulletin board which is on the 1st floor of building A. Walking in a group way with me who is squeezed by Farya and Arkan."I''m sorry. Looks like we''re going to lose because of me. Last week, I didn''t study enough. And now you''re involved too, Hana" Said Farya with a regretful tone.


    I didn''t feel burdened because I wasn''t, and since it was me who was the one who accepted Chika''s challenge. I, then say, ¡°It''s okay, really. I want to join too. In fact, Arkan should be the one apologized to because he is the one who is being bothered¡±.


    ¡°That''s right, yes. Sorry, Arkan¡± Farya apologized to Arkan.


    While continuing to face forward, Arkan declares, ¡°It''s okay. It''s just a waiting game. Besides, we''re going to win¡± He uttered in a very confident tone.


    Completely confident or just some sweet words to comfort Farya, I don''t know.


    After getting close to the bulletin board which is located in the middle of the building, many students could be seen gathered there. It''s hard to see a piece of paper among the crowd of students jostling each other. There, I can see Chika''s team gathering outside the crowd, it seems they haven''t had a chance to see the ranking papers yet.


    I approach them and ask to confirm it. "Chika, have you seen the order paper?".


    "Not yet. It''s too crowded, blocked¡± Chika replied.


    As I thought, at this rate, it''s better to wait for it to be quiet, Waiting while sitting in the nearby school garden with the others, we chatted and joked with each other.


    Sometimes discussing our little game that will end in a few minutes.


    Ten minutes passed, and the crowd of bulletin boards that has begun to being abandoned by the curious students and opened wide for us. Without saying anything, I use head sign language to communicate to Chika, telling her to immediately end this game.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    We all gathered in front of the bulletin board and sees several posters and white papers of which there were six in total. The contents are the ranking order of students from each class. I then looked for my class which is class 1-B, which is on the far left of the second.


    Knowing my expectations and being aware of my expertise in the education area, I skipped the 1-10 ranking list and only take a look at the top 15. And exactly as predicted, I ranked 12th with 80 points added to my team. To be honest, even though I had expectations I wouldn''t break into the top 10, I still feel pretty disappointed.


    For the others, Chika is below me at 14th with 80 points, Rifa is 19th with 70 points, Saena is 24th with 60 points, and Farya is¡­ 33rd with 40 points.


    Wow... looks like it will be difficult indeed. Maybe it''s not possible, huh?


    ¡­


    Wait!


    Which rank is Arkan? I haven''t found his name yet from the top 10 above. Could it be¡­


    Quickly, I checked the top of the order on the white paper and, ¡°Wa-¡°.


    "HAH??!!" Shouted a girl beside me.The one who screamed was Chika and she immediately grabbed all the attention of all the students around us. Because, literally, a Dark Horse had actually come to turn things around in our favor.


    How could Chika and I not be surprised to see someone I forced into a waiting game AFTER the game''s winning key had been determined before the game had even started. Arkan, being 4th in our class ranking, that''s equal to 100 points. And if we add them up, Chika''s team has a total of 210 points, and our team has a total of¡­ 220 points.


    We all turn our eyes to Arkan slowly as we were surprised by the result. Arkan is playing with his cell phone and then turns his head to us maybe because he felt all the eyes on him.He turn to me and says, "So, did we win or not?".


    I am still amazed that even explaining in detail is too long. "With Chika''s team scoring a total of 210 points, and our team scoring 220 points, we are the winners."


    "Is that so? Thank goodness, then" Arkan said casually.


    We are all speechless with a very simple answer and as if he knew what the result would be. He really keeps his word, isn''t he?


    "We won¡­?" Farya asked me in a quiet tone. To answer her, I just nodded, she looked dumbfounded after seeing my gesture.


    "No, no, no. How?!" Chika asked Arkan in a high tone. She continues, ¡°How come? The winning condition has been determined even before the game starts, you know?!¡±.


    Arkan looked a little bothered by Chika''s question and immediately answered in a low tone, "Well, being a loner with lots of free time, and no activities, actually has its own unique benefits".


    "Hah?? Last semester you didn''t really excel too, why now?!¡± Chika kept bombarding Arkan with questions.


    "There isn''t any. I just have a lot of free time¡± He answered simply.


    "Is something inside intervening?" Chika asked with a tone of exaggerated suspicion.


    "Don''t put weird suspicion on me, I don''t have any connection like that" Arkan denied the suspicion.


    "Come on, Chika. It''s just a game, and we are the losers¡± Said Rifa to calm Chika from behind.


    "I don''t mind if I lose to Hana, but if I lose to that person, I feel really annoyed!" Hana said in a high tone.


    "Who cares? Team Hana who won the game, do what the team that lost should have done¡± Arkan seemed to not care about anything Chika said.


    With Chika who felt annoyed by herself, and me who still feel a little surprised, Farya approached me. Both of my hands are held by her and her lowered head is then slowly rising to look at me. She also says in a soft tone, "Thank you, Hana".My mouth also smiled then reply, "Yes, you''re welcome". I continue, "So, what wish do you want to fulfill?".


    "I''m... still thinking about it, because I didn''t expect to win, hehe" She said.


    After hearing that, I move my hands from her grasp and started to face the one who had brought victory to our team. However, the figure was no longer where he should be. I looked right and left, and finally found him. He is walking towards the classroom stairs and is already quite far. Damn, since when did he get away?


    My feet are running to catch up with him. What a hassle. Did he think it was cool to leave the scene after being the MVP? You are not a Vigilante.


    Cutting my distance from him by half as much as before, I shout his name. "Arkan!!!".


    And the person I called slowly turned around. My body stopped running and stopped reducing the distance between us.


    Preparing my mouth to say something embarrassing but still must be done. ¡°Arkan! Thank you! You are very helpful! What is your wish?!¡± I said in a loud tone.


    The look on his face made it hard to see what kind of face he is making. But then, he said ¡°Yeah! You''re welcome! Glad to be able to help¡±, with a thinking pose, he seemed confused to answer my question.


    After a while, he replies, "I''ll leave it to you!" in a loud tone.


    Then, he turns around. That person really is...


    Seeing him, I did the same thing. However, only to be called back by Arkan.


    "Hana!"


    Hearing the call from afar, I turned around.


    He continues his words, ¡°Tio has contacted me! He says Friday you can be there! Yes, you know what it is for!¡± loudly so I can hear it.


    The news that made me very happy also multiplied my joy that day. Quickly, I reply, ¡°YES! I WILL DEFINITELY COME! THANK YOU!" with a super loud tone while waving my hand high.


    And with that, our long-distance conversation ended. Arkan spin around while waving his hand and started walking to class first. Once again, I replicate him and turned towards the group of my friends who are still on the bulletin board.While walking, I thought, ¡°Hmmm. What will suit his taste?¡±.


    suspicion.


    "Come on, Chika. It''s just a game, and we are the losers¡± Said Rifa to calm Chika from behind.


    "I don''t mind if I lose to Hana, but if I lose to that person, I feel really annoyed!" Hana said in a high tone.


    "Who cares? Team Hana who won the game, do what the team that lost should have done¡± Arkan seemed to not care about anything Chika said.


    With Chika who felt annoyed by herself, and me who still feel a little surprised, Farya approached me. Both of my hands are held by her and her lowered head is then slowly rising to look at me. She also says in a soft tone, "Thank you, Hana".


    My mouth also smiled then reply, "Yes, you''re welcome". I continue, "So, what wish do you want to fulfill?".


    "I... still thinking about it, because I didn''t expect to win, hehe" She said.


    After hearing that, I move my hands from her grasp and started to face the one who had brought victory to our team. However, the figure was no longer where he should be. I looked right and left, and finally found him. He is walking towards the classroom stairs and is already quite far. Damn, since when did he get away?


    My feet are running to catch up with him. What a hassle. Did he think it was cool to leave the scene after being the MVP? You are not a Vigilante.


    Cutting my distance from him by half as much as before, I shout his name. "Arkan!!!".


    And the person I called slowly turned around. My body stopped running and stopped reducing the distance between us.


    Preparing my mouth to say something embarrassing but still must be done. ¡°Arkan! Thank you! You are very helpful! What is your wish?!¡± I said in a loud tone.


    The look on his face made it hard to see what kind of face he is making. But then, he said ¡°Yeah! You''re welcome! Glad to be able to help¡±, with a thinking pose, he seemed confused to answer my question.


    After a while, he replies, "I''ll leave it to you!" in a loud tone.


    Then, he turns around. That person really is.


    Seeing him, I did the same thing. However, only to be called back by Arkan.


    "Hana!"


    Hearing the call from afar, I turned around.


    He continues his words, ¡°Tio has contacted me! He says Friday you can be there! Yes, you know what it is for!¡± loudly so I can hear it.


    The news that made me very happy also multiplied my joy that day. Quickly, I reply, ¡°YES! I WILL DEFINITELY COME! THANK YOU!" with a super loud tone while waving my hand high.


    And with that, our long-distance conversation ended. Arkan spin around while waving his hand and started walking to class first. Once again, I replicate him and turned towards the group of my friends who are still on the bulletin board.


    While walking, I thought, ¡°Hmmm. What will suit his taste?¡±.

 21. Warm Evening

    The same Monday, it''s just that the class is quiet because most of the students have gone home. However, if you pay attention through the window outside the classroom, many students are still enthusiastic about participating in their extracurricular activities. Seen from afar, the basketball club''s kids looked excited about bouncing the ball onto the court floor while shaking their opponents, until finally they jumped high onto the basket and score an amazing two points. The scorer''s sweat bounces off and reflected the warm evening sun.


    Nice Layup. Two points.


    That''s amazing, right? They seem to be really glowing with passion because they really love what they are doing now.


    Thinking like that, somehow I feel sorry for myself. Because you see, I''m contemplating how impressive other people look, in contrast to me who''s just reading a book of fantasy fiction novels without doing anything else useful. Am I jealous? Of course not, because this kind of life is what I really want. It''s just that something feels lacking.


    Well, instead of thinking about things that I can''t possibly solve just by thinking.


    "Let''s go home, then".


    The sound of a basketball bouncing sounded louder when I''m at the 1st floor of building A, right next to the basketball court. During the walk, I turned my attention to the members of the basketball extracurricular. It''s dangerous if you don''t look ahead while walking. However, I continue to be impressed by their performance. Our school''s basketball club is indeed one of the powerhouse in our city. Their extracurricular schedule is every Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 4:30 PM to 6 PM, and currently, it''s still 5.30 PM. That''s some amazing stamina resistance.


    Even though it distracting, my feet know where to go. Before even realizing it, I had arrived at the bicycle parking area and my bicycle looked very apparent because it is literally a different era model. And because my bike is the only one left at the parking lot.


    I opened the bicycle lock that was wrapped around the rear wheel of the bicycle, got on it, and immediately pedaled.


    The route I use will be slightly different from usual. Why? Because in the late afternoon, the house complex route for some reason feels¡­ spooky. Not that I''m afraid or anything, but the feeling of someone always watching you while driving at high speed always haunts my mind to this day, even though it''s been a long time since that. Therefore, the route I''ll be using this time is the downtown route filled with everything a ''City'' has. Such as the flickering light of buildings which on average don''t reach more than 6 floors, the noise of vehicle engine passing by, and some muddy places due to insufficient water absorption.


    Ilutu City, even though this is the epicenter, still lacks signs of traffic signs and safety procedures. Traffic lights and crosswalks are still rare. And worst of all, there are no special lanes for cyclists on city streets so I have to ride on pedestrian sidewalks. Thankfully, the sidewalk is quiet at this time, since if I''m not careful, I could run into someone.


    Well, our city''s economy is still growing.


    Also, if using this route, I will be passing through the government hall. The city of Ilutu, although on the skirt, this city is quite large. The area is divided into 5 other small areas. Incidentally where I live is in the downtown area. Apart from the government hall, there is also a large Supermarket, no, maybe it would be more correct to put it in the ''Mall'' category because apart from being a center for buying and selling daily needs, the place also has an Arcade which I often visited in the past and another thing which a Mall would normally have. A Shopping Center, probably.


    "Well, that place has changed drastically since the last time I stopped by" I said while looking at the two-story building which is quite large.


    Because really, the last time I visited this place, there wasn''t a second floor at that time. Two years ago maybe? The only thing that interested me in coming here, the Arcade, end up getting too boring for me. Looking at the building from afar for some reason keeps me nostalgic, even though I often pass by here when going out, sometimes.


    After being satisfied looking at a second-floor building from afar, I immediately pedaled my bicycle and moved forward. Until my eyes catch a silhouette of a girl coming out of the Mall parking lot that I was looking at earlier.


    While continuing to approach her, I noticed that the girl looked a little troubled to carry a plastic bag that might contain her groceries. Her school uniform is the same as mine, no, that''s for sure. All schools in our country have one national uniform that must be worn on Mondays. And I can''t see the school ID on the left sleeve.


    Accelerating the speed of my bicycle so that I can catch up soon and see clearly who the girl is. Wait, why do I even wonder who that girl really is? It could be anyone but someone I know, anyway. There are only a few girls I know, and still, my brain feels like recognizing whoever it is.


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    My bicycle was finally next to the girl''s body. However, I choose to look away and still face forward, because if only it wasn''t someone I knew. While next to each other, a little sigh from the girl can be heard while she''s carrying a white plastic bag with the logo of the local supermarket. Familiar soft voice. Not far ahead, I finally stopped the bike and turned around.


    And sure enough, who I see right now is Hana. She is carrying a plastic bag that is probably filled with groceries. Of course, as a good friend, I should come and help her, right? That was my selfish reason to be able to meet her.


    ¡­


    "Need help?" I say with a cool tone.


    Hana, who finally realized I was right in front of her, flinched slightly because of my offer without any greetings.


    ¡°A-A-Arkan?! You startled me" She said like a person who had just been startled by a ghost.


    ¡°Haha, sorry, sorry. You look troubled, can I help you? My bike has a basket in front of it¡± I offered while showing the front side of the bike.


    "It''s fine?".


    "Yes, if only to the nearest station. I don''t mind" I said.


    "Station? But I don''t have any more money¡± She said in a relaxed tone, contradicting her own words.


    "¡­ Hah? You ran out of money???¡± I asked in a serious tone. This girl, wandering around a city that was new to her without a penny left? No matter how you look at it, this is too reckless.


    "Only my pocket money, my savings are still at home, really. There was an interesting promo earlier at the supermarket, I have to get it¡± She answered casually for the second time.


    ¡°That''s not the problem¡­¡± I said in a tone like I had given up and Hana was just confused hearing my sigh.


    ...


    We walk on the pedestrian walkway with me leading my bicycle but not pedaling, with a white plastic bag filled with Hana''s groceries placed in my bicycle basket. Hana stepping beside me while facing her face to the front. She''s always this casual even at times like this. It''s the second time I''ve met her under these unreasonable conditions, back in the forest and this time.


    We obey the stop signs for pedestrians. But if we looked right and left, no vehicles are about to pass and we started walking again. The time is approaching 6 PM, and the sky begins to lose its twilight orange color and is replaced with street lights that illuminate all the way.


    "Are you seriously planning on walking that heavy plastic bag all the way to your house?" I asked worried.


    "Not really. Earlier, I asked my Uncle to pick me up but he didn''t read any of my SMS message, it was already 15 minutes ago" She explained.


    Then she intends to walk to her house because the SMS message has not been read. Very reckless, indeed.


    "And? Why do you buy so many groceries? Are you refilling the fridge?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yes, to refill- OH, YES!¡± Hana suddenly shouted at the end like realized something.


    ¡°W-What?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I bought all these groceries because later someone will come to the house. A friend. And I want them to taste the cooking of mine. However, if we walk from here to my house, will we get there before half past six?" She said.


    ¡°P-Probably not¡± My answer was not supportive at all.


    Hana also looks like she is thinking hard and seems to be looking for existing ways to find a solution to this problem. She even posed like someone who had a headache.


    And finally, like having a brilliant idea, Hana pointed at the back of my old model bicycle. "Bicycle piggyback, all the way!".


    ...


    We end up both riding the same bicycle. With me as the driver, Hana is the passenger behind me, and the white plastic is in front of me. Because of the additional weight which is quite heavy, I have to spend extra energy for every pedal stroke of the bicycle. But, can''t possibly say that in front of Hana, can I?


    After leaving the downtown area and start entering the residential area, we got peace from all the noise of city vehicles. Somehow it feels even too quiet, just the two of us at the time. I begin to slow down my pedaling and my body start to relax after working too hard before. If I''m not mistaken, Hana''s house can go through this route.


    Hana is behind holding on to the bottom of her seat. The cold night wind greeted us gently. It feels so quiet. There is only the sound of the chain rotating in the rotating gear of my bicycle that could be heard clearly. Although suddenly, there''s a girl''s soft singing voice behind me.


    ...


    ? ¡­ Oh, little sparks in the sky, how could you fly freely into the night? ?


    ? The way your light shines upon us, brighter than the moon ?


    ? Your warm, colorful illumination that thaws the freezing heart ?


    ? But your light, soon will fade ?


    ? A goodbye to the vivid sparkles ?


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡°¡­ Mother¡± Hana said weakly and suddenly she hugged me from behind gently. Feeling the touch of a girl on my body made my reflexes flinch and almost lost my balance. It was close¡­ me and Hana would have fallen.


    Hana wasn''t bothered by the stabilizing movement I made and kept her head tucked under my waist. This girl apparently still feels grief over her mother, huh? Well, if one of the most important figures in your life goes away, forever, it''s certain that the feeling of grief will still be felt even though the times have changed. For months or years, the feeling of longing will definitely still be felt very much. But, that song, Do I think it was the same song? Was that the whole lyrics? How did she know? So many questions, but right now, my main goal is to get Hana home safely.


    Finally, we arrived in front of Hana''s house. The host herself is still contemplating while leaning her head behind my back.


    "Hana, come on down. We''ve arrived" I said.


    Without saying anything, Hana get down and slightly lowered her head. When she is inside the yard, Hana closed the fence and said, "Thank you. I always trouble you. Someday, I will repay all your good deeds" She said with a smile at the end.


    What is this? Suddenly she became very kind, even though earlier she was gloomy. Well, maybe this was her way of showing her gratitude to me.


    Hearing Hana''s sentence, I reply, ¡°Yes. I look forward to it¡± briefly.


    But instead of turning towards her house, Hana is staring at me seriously. She starts thinking again, but this time I couldn''t tell what is going on in her head.


    "How about this, Arkan" She said like she''s negotiating something.


    "Hmmm?".


    "You can come inside my house, interested?" She said casually.


    ¡­


    "Hah?".

 22. Hanas Home

    Someone sitting lazily on the sofa which is quite soft and soft in texture, it is me. It does feel like an expensive sofa. While staring at a TV with uninteresting news channels and a wooden table with glass as a placemat above it, separating me from what I''m watching. This family room is white painted and richly decorated. There is a sofa and table I''m sitting on, a rug under it, a TV with a cupboard where it stood, a functioning but unoccupied aquarium, a few frames of paintings that aren''t to my taste, and a wall clock showing the time 6:18 PM.


    If anyone asks ''Where is Hana?'' Well, the house owner is cooking in the kitchen across the room right now. If you''re still confused, let me recap what happened 15 minutes ago.


    ¡­


    "Hah? I''m entering your house? Why?" I asked.


    ¡°I want to repay my debt to you. Since after this my friend will come to have a taste of my cooking, why don''t I invite you too? My cooking is delicious, you know. I think". Why hesitate at the end? But, that''s not really the case. This girl always ignores the main problem.


    "Is that really okay?" I answered. Wait, why am I even asking if I can or not? Well, if there''s no problem with Hana, maybe I...


    "Yeah, no problem" Hana answered casually. Wait, I can???


    Hearing her answer, I said, ¡°Very well¡­ then-¡°.


    ¡­


    And then I''m here. Earlier I asked if I should help Hana in the kitchen like cutting or washing vegetables but Hana refused, the girl said that I should just rest because I was tired of escorting her home. Well, that''s true, anyway.


    By the way, I''m going to tell you something very important. Currently, in the kitchen, Hana is wearing a white apron with a cute pink checkered pattern. Damn, now that I think about it, I can''t get that image out of my mind. That''s so goddamn cute. Also in this situation, the exhausted me is resting in the living room while Hana is in the kitchen cooking.


    "It''s like¡­".


    NO! I can not say, not even think about it. Get those thoughts out of my brain, come on. I tried to forget what I was going to say, even going so far as to shake my head like a member of a rock band headbanging.


    Ah, my head is spinning, but the sweet smell of Hana''s cooking enters my nose and calms it down. Then, come to think of it, Hana did all of this because a ''Friend'' is coming. For her to do all these things, they seem to be pretty close. I didn''t ask the friend''s name earlier and I started to think, is that friend a boy or a girl? It would be great if she got a guy friend other than me... would it?


    This growth is too fast.


    *Ding* *Dong*


    The sound of the doorbell rang signaling someone pressed the bell button outside. Who?


    ¡°Arkan, can you please open the door? My hands are busy right now¡± Hana exclaimed, sounds normal, even though she seemed to be shouting.


    Following the instructions of Hana the house host, I step towards the locked front door. And my thoughts are only about who this ''Friend'' of Hana is. But, I will have the answer in a moment. Whoever he or she is, none of my business.


    Taking the key that is on top of the small cupboard by the front door, I stuck it in the keyhole and turn it sideways. There was a sound of the lock opening and slowly, I opened the door.


    ¡°Haha, are you surprised, Hana? Because I came earlier to help!- Wait, Huh?¡±.


    Looks like this girl came to the wrong house. "I''m sorry, I think you are mistaken about the address. Goodbye". I close the door and lock it again.


    A girl''s scream was heard, which was not clear because it was blocked by a tightly locked door. Because I consider it impolite, I finally opened the door again.


    "Sorry, you''re at the wrong address" I said.


    ¡°I wish I had! What are you doing at Hana''s house?! Could it be, Hana is in danger???¡± She said aggressively, it''s impolite.


    "Don''t make weird assumptions. If it wasn''t for me, Hana might still be on the road right now¡± I answered.


    "Hah???".


    Chika stood with an irritated face that is clearly visible like daylight while carrying a tote bag filled with cardboard boxes. Her clothes are casual with a red shirt and dark blue skirt that reached her knees like how people would want to visit a friend.


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ¡°So, are you going to let me in or not? I''m Hana''s guest, you know¡± She said in a cocky tone.


    Without being able to resist because she used the word ''Guest'', I open the door for her. "Yeah, yeah, come in".


    "What''s up with the denying tone?".


    ¡­


    "Excuse me, Hana!" Chika excused herself politely and called Hana. This polite and impolite girl took off her shoes and put them in the shoe cabinet above mine.


    "Then what is your business here?" She asked in an aggressive tone. So what? I was originally wanted to go home earlier, no need to be alert like that.


    "I happened to meet Hana in front of the city supermarket, because she looked troubled I just helped her. If you ask why I''m still here, feel free to ask Hana yourself, because I don''t know either¡± I explained.


    ¡°Heee¡­¡±.


    Why is she so suspicious?


    "Then, what are YOU doing here?" I asked.


    ¡°I intended to come because Hana invited me to taste the food she will make, but I came earlier to help her. I also brought my outworn game console with me, because it seems like Hana doesn''t have any entertainment media other than a TV" She explained.


    Ho? She''s really paying attention to her. But indeed as much as I''ve seen, Hana doesn''t have anything as a medium of entertainment except the bookshelf in the TV cabinet. I assume so because I only saw the first floor of the house and haven''t seen the second floor, especially Hana''s room. And maybe Chika had been there before so she thought like that.


    "You stop by often?" I asked.


    "Well yeah, since Hana told me about many things and said that she lives alone here, I''ve stopped by 3x since a week ago. Just to keep her company".


    What are you, a bodyguard or some sort?


    Well I guess, she finally become open with the others, huh? That''s nice.


    "How about you? Have you been here before?" Chika asked me.


    "Well, I''ve been here at New Year''s" I answered.


    "HAH?! THAT''S LIKE THREE MONTHS AGO! THE HELL ARE YOU DOING WITH HANA AT THAT TIME?!" Chika shouted in front of me.


    "Why are screaming like that? It''s not like I''ve come inside before" I deny any suspicion she probably throws at me.


    "Hmmm? Is that so? Well, it''s fine, I guess" She finally stops yelling.


    Chika then entered the dining room which is merged with the kitchen across from the family room I''m heading to. Putting my back on the sofa and the voices of girls talking can be heard. I happened to hear Chika praising Hana who is currently wearing an apron, she said she looked beautiful and cute. This time I agree with her.


    Even though my work is just sitting around relaxing, I actually quite enjoy it. Lazing on this high-quality sofa makes me too comfortable. My body is too relaxed until I am finally asleep.


    ¡­


    ¡°¡­Arkan¡±.


    A soft voice called me. Sounds like a girl.


    "Arkan".


    This time, my body felt swayed in the shoulder.


    ¡°Arkan! Hana shouted in front of me.


    Finally, Hana''s call woke me up. My closed eyes began to open by themselves. Light entered the retina of my eyes and showed Hana above my head, looking at my eyes which finally opened.


    "¡­ Hmmm?" I answered sluggishly.


    "Good morning. Too tired, huh?" Hana asked like a mother who was waking up her child.


    I followed the flow and continue to respond, ¡°Ah, yes. Good morning¡­ what time is it?¡±, while yawning.


    Trying to control my body and get up, Hana says, ¡°It''s already 8 PM, and also, my homemade dinner is ready, you know¡±.


    After Hana said that, my nose caught the fragrance coming from the direction of the dining room. The smell really makes my sleepiness disappear and my stomach feels empty.


    "Let''s go to the dining room. Chika is already there too¡±.


    "Ah, okay" I replied simply.


    I forced my body which is still slothful even just to get up, and together with Hana walk to the kitchen room. There is a dining table covered with a white tablecloth with black stripes around the edges and six chairs around it. The dining table is decorated with plates of food on which there is food that looks very tempting. And Chika is just sitting there while preparing her own plate.


    "Yo, are you awake? You''re just like a kid, easily sleeping in someone''s house. You''re impolite¡± Chika said to me who is walking towards her.


    Hearing such insults, I responded with, ¡°Yo, it wasn''t bad either, being woken up by Hana. It feels like¡­¡±.


    Chika responded by hitting the table and getting up from her seat. "Hah, seriously? That''s cheating¡±.


    ¡°Hehe, are you, possibly, jealous?¡± I said in an annoying tone on purpose. Chika''s face is expected. She becomes red.


    "Ahaha, what are you guys talking about" Hana said. Then, she continued, "Never mind, the food is already on the table, let''s eat".


    We take our seats and Hana sat beside Chika opposite of me. My gaze have been focused on the dish in front of me which wasn''t the kind of food commoners like me would eat. Because just look, in front of me are deep-fried shrimp, ballad potatoes cut into cubes, tofu soup with clear broth, and fresh vegetables.


    Even though I remember earlier she ran out of money on the street, it turns out to buy all these groceries, huh?


    My mind became doubtful about whether I should spoon rice onto my plate and started taking all the dishes in front of me. However, everyone but me has started taking their share. Instead of just staring into the void, I end up getting my shares, too. And sure enough, it tastes really good. Is this really a high school girl''s cooking? It''s like cooking made by someone who knows the kitchen like her best friend.


    "This is good" I said.


    "This is really good" Said Chika.


    After hearing our answers in unison, Hana said with a smile, ¡°Hahaha, thank goodness. Looks like my touch hasn''t rusted".


    ...


    I continued to eat her homemade with pleasure.


    After finishing my plate, my stomach is completely filled. I think I wouldn''t be able to move for a few minutes. Hana''s cooking is on a different level from that of high school girls in general. Is it on my mother''s level? Possibly.


    After a few minutes of chatting and praising Hana''s cooking, Chika got up from her chair and walked over to pick up her tote bag.


    ¡°Oh yea, Hana, I want to give you this old game console of mine. I already have the latest generation, rather than keep gathering dust in my house, I''d better give it to you " Chika said, pointing the bag to Hana.


    Hana stood up from her chair and say, "Eh, is it okay?".


    "Yeah, I hope it still works" said Chika.


    Suddenly, a sound of a car parked outside the house was heard. And the sound of a car door opening and closing. Who''s stopping by at half past nine tonight?

 23. Her Uncle and A Little Cleaning

    "Ah, it''s Uncle" Hana said while looking at the screen of her cell phone.


    Hana''s uncle is coming here??? Is it okay that I''m here? Chika might be fine, but a boy like me among them is a bit¡­


    "Your uncle is coming, Hana?" Chika asked in a casual tone.


    "Yeah, earlier I asked him to pick me up in front of the mall, but because he didn''t read my message, I ended up going anyway, and I happened to meet Arkan" Hana explained.


    "Is it fine that I''m here?" I asked a little worried. Since it would be troublesome if Hana''s uncle asked something out of the ordinary, I''d better say goodbye together with Uncle Hana getting into the house.


    "Huh, why? It''s okay" Hana replied.


    Well, if asked what, I just have to answer that I''m just a friend of Hana who happened to meet on the street. Wait, that can''t be an excuse for why I''m at Hana''s house all night like this.


    The sound of the front door opening reached my ears. Opening the door of the house like it''s your own, wait, it''s actually his, huh?


    Hana walked down the front aisle and I heard her say, "Ah, Uncle". Hana greeted her uncle whose figure was still not visible to me who was still sitting at the dining table.


    "Hana, I''m sorry I didn''t read your message earlier. Uncle did not have a cell phone at the time". The deep voice of a man in his forties.


    "It''s okay, Uncle. I also arrived home safely, really¡± Hana responded to her uncle''s concern.


    ¡°By the way, Uncle saw a bicycle that is not ours in the yard. Are there any guests?¡±. My body stiffened suddenly.


    "Ah yes, a friend stopped by. They are in the dining room¡± Hana said.


    "Oh, I see. In that case, Uncle should greet them¡±.


    Even though I couldn''t see them walking over here, somehow I keep imagining them taking steps over here. I myself have never met her uncle, what kind of person is he? Is it possible that Chika has met him?


    After thinking that, I turned my gaze to Chika who is also looking at me with a rather serious face. That''s a no, huh? When Hana''s uncle said he saw a foreign bicycle outside, he didn''t immediately assume that it was Chika.


    After receiving a temporary answer, I turn my gaze again toward the entrance to the dining room and I see the figure of a middle-aged man who is staring at the two of us. He looks tall and wears clothes that are quite thick and his sharp eyes are both directed at us.


    Seeing someone who should be respected, because he is the uncle of my friend, my body stands up and I introduced myself. ¡°Ah, sorry for interrupting. I''m a friend of Hana. My name is Reza Arkan¡±. Shit, was I too sudden? My self-introduction was also a bit stiff.


    Continuing me, Chika also introduced herself. "Good night. My name is Chika Rain. I am also a friend of Hana. Sorry for disturbing Hana''s residence".


    "Nice to meet you, I''m Hana''s uncle. Thank you for accompanying Hana until this evening¡±.


    "No, no. Actually, we were the ones who troubled Hana. Even making dinner for us¡­¡± I said.


    "Hmmm?" He looked confused by what I just said. Then he turned his gaze to Hana. Ah shit, did I talk too much?


    "I invited them, really. In fact, if it weren''t for Arkan letting me ride his bicycle from the mall, I might have arrived home later" Hana explained. I felt relieved after my moral values are helped to rise by Hana in front of her uncle.


    "Oh, I see. Thank you, Arkan. It was my fault Hana had to walk home alone¡± Then, he slightly bowed his head and thanked me.


    "Don''t mind it! I just happened to be there¡± I said in a high tone because I was quite surprised by what he was doing.


    After chatting between the four of us at the dining table, Hana takes used plates and started cleaning them in the kitchen sink. The chat between the three of us continued and mostly about how Hana''s cooking tasted really delicious and like it was made by someone who has been honing her skills in kitchen-like daily activities. Her uncle said that it was true that when she was at her old house, Hana, after her mother''s death, she was always alone at home. Because his father was very busy supporting them both, he rarely came home. Hana should be able to be independent and take care of herself. Hana herself also told me about a time when she felt very lonely in her old house.


    ¡°I try not to bring up those topics in front of Hana. When she was about to enter her new school, I''m also worried whether she could make friends or not. Looks like my worries are unneeded, huh?¡±. He continued, ¡°Hana is a cheerful and kind girl. So please, continue to be friends with her¡± He said while bowing his head, again, above the table.


    This time, neither of us could say anything. It looks like today, unusually, me and Chika are in one thought. And that''s all when it comes to Hana.


    ¡°¡­ That, that''s for sure¡± Chika responded to Uncle Hana''s words.


    I didn''t say anything and remained silent. It''s not that I don''t have one thought, but I just choose to agree in silence.


    Chika then take her tote bag on the floor and placed it on the table. The tote bag looked clean on the outside, but the inside is extremely dusty, really looking like it had been left in storage for years.


    "Hana, I want to try turning on the game console to check whether it''s still on or not, can I borrow your TV?" Chika said to Hana who is cleaning the dishes.


    "Oh, yes. Just try it¡± Hana answered without looking back at Chika because she was too busy wiping the dishes.Then, Chika walks towards the living room while carrying her bag. Out of curiosity, I went to take a look. It seems that Chika''s family is quite well-off so she can buy a game console, she even bought the latest generation after this one.


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    In front of the TV cabinet, Chika opened a dusty box and then reveal the black-painted game console. There is clearly a DVD reader above it. Then, she took the console''s power cable and plugged it into the wall socket, along with the other cables that lead to the TV. Chika seem to be used to electronics, so I was surprised.


    "You look like you''re used to it" I said.


    Hearing my question, Chika answered without taking her eyes off it. "If it''s just like this, ordinary people should also understand".


    Oh, I see. Well, if that''s the only thing, I still can understand.


    After everything is ready, Chika turned on the TV along with the game console as well. However, there is something strange. The TV is on, but not the game console.


    "Not connected?" I asked.


    "As I thought, it looks like it has to be repaired first and then it can turn on" She continued.


    If you just look at the outside, this is already in the dirty category, like, really dirty and dusty. I can''t imagine the inside. Has this girl never cleaned it once?


    "Hey, have you ever cleaned the inside during use?" I said.


    ¡°Huh, the inside? Why?" She said as if confused by my words.


    Wow... This has already gone too far. This girl is helpless.


    ¡°You¡­ even though the inside looks protected, there must be lots of holes where dust can enter and contaminate the inside of the game console¡±. I continued, ¡°If too much dust collects, the inside will overheat and could damage the parts inside¡± I explained.


    ¡°I-Is that so? You know too much" She said awkwardly.


    Suddenly, a shadowy figure that exceeded my height appeared behind me. It startled me a bit and I turn around, it turns out to be Hana''s uncle.


    He asked, "What''s wrong?".


    "Ah, nothing. The game console doesn''t seem to turn on¡± I answered.


    "Oh, I see? Is it broken?¡± He continued.


    "Probably not, but I want to make sure" I replied back. Then I continued, "Uncle, does this house have screwdrivers of various sizes?".


    ¡°Hmmm? As far as I remember, there was a red storage box in the back storage, above a short cupboard. But for what?¡± He explained while pointing towards the back of the house.


    ¡°I want to open the inside of the console, it''s probably very dusty from not being maintained by this irresponsible owner¡± I explained my goal.


    Realizing my indirect insult, Chika said, ¡°Oi, I don''t understand any of this. How can I know?".


    Not listening to her excuses, I went to the warehouse to get the necessary tools. I''m not pretending to be knowledgeable about this, but my father often invites me to stop by the electronics store owned by his friend. Don''t know the reason, but I often see the practice directly. Once even tried to solder a small copper wire, even though my hand was held at the time.


    The dark storage room became bright after I turned on the light. In a red metal box that sits on top of a small storage cupboard, I take a small box containing screwdriver heads and various types and sizes of bits. And also a small cleaning brush.


    Back to the living room, I grab Chika''s game console and borrow it outside. ¡°H-hey, where are you taking it?¡± Ask Chika.


    "I''ll see the part inside, it''s probably very dusty so I''ll do it outside" I replied.


    Opening the front door and walking towards the front yard of Hana''s house, I sit down on the floor bordering a not-too-wide expanse of grass. Chika who apparently followed me, sit beside me.


    Without further ado, I said, ¡°Can you light the console with a cell phone flashlight? It''s too dark in here".


    "Yeah, yeah" was the short answer she gives.


    Then a light flashed from beside me, giving me clear vision. Because even though there is a light on the ceiling, it wasn''t enough.


    I flip the console over to reveal the underside and started looking for a screwdriver bit that fits the game console''s bolt size. Then, I put the right one on the head of the screwdriver and started twirling the tightening bolt which fasten the rear plate.


    ¡°You look skilled, do you do it often?¡± Chika asked suddenly.


    In response to the question, I said, ¡°Not really, it''s a basic skill that you just need to observe other people do, you can learn.¡± I explained modestly.


    After the seven screws holding the back of the black plastic box were removed, I removed the backplate.


    ¡­


    Surprised and not surprised at the same time. After I opened the back, dust is blown out by the sudden wind. Both of us coughing after inhaling the dust that drifted out from inside it.


    "Can you just keep your stuff from dust, can''t you?" I said.


    "Hah? The new generation has been launched for a long time. It''s been a long time since this thing feels the fresh air after I bought a new one¡± She said in an innocent tone.


    ¡°And you intend to give Hana this piece of junk?¡± I said in a high tone.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Chika was at a loss for words to defend herself.


    Well, although I admit I was a little rough when I said that because if you look at it from my side, what did I really give to Hana? But when viewed from an objective side again, this is a gift without the giver''s concern.


    Inside the dust-covered game console, you can see a green plate that is probably a motherboard, as well as lots of black wires and other colors to differentiate. I blow all the dust that gets in the way and scatter them. Then, I use a small brush that I brought from the storage to clean the hard-to-reach areas.


    It''s a good idea to do all of this outside the house, otherwise, we''ll only add more work for Hana.


    There are some cables that are broken or not connected properly. The I/O cable also looks loose.


    ¡°There are cables that are peeling off, cables that are loose, and possibly parts that are rusty because they are exposed to water molecules. How can this be?" I asked confused.


    "You''re amazing".


    It wasn''t the girl beside me who said that, but the deep voice of a man who is watching us from the front door of the house.


    Hearing the sudden and exaggerated praise, I replied, ¡°Ah, not really. I can only check. If it''s about repairing a broken cable or something else, I can''t do it without spare parts".


    "Haha, so you really have to take it to an expert, huh?" He said while laughing.


    ¡°W-well, yeah¡±. I continued, ¡°The controller is fine, right?¡±.


    Chika who I threw at the question answered stiffly, "I-it should be safe, probably".


    ¡°Well, you have to take it to the experts anyway if you want this artifact to turn on again because there''s no way I can fix it. Incidentally, I know someone who is an expert in this matter, if you want I''ll introduce you later¡± I said.


    "Really? That''s great! How about next Saturday?¡± Chika said excitedly.


    "Sure be".


    After hearing my agreement, Chika made a cheerful face which she is trying to hold back. It''s too bad it just makes her ridiculous.


    "How is it? Arkan, Chika¡± Hana called us both.


    "It can''t turn on, it has to be taken to an expert. Me and Chika are going to my acquaintance who is an expert next Saturday, want to tag along?" I asked Hana.


    "Oh, sure!" Hana agreed.


    After getting the discourse on the next Saturday, I take my cell phone out of my uniform pants pocket to check the time. However, what I see is that 30+ messages were not read, sent by Mother. Ah, crap, I didn''t look at the time and it''s already 9:15 PM! She would really scold me hard if I didn''t come home since tomorrow is not holiday.


    "Then, I want to go home first. Just leave the game console at Hana''s house first¡±.


    "Ah, then me too" Chika continued.


    ¡°You guys want to go home? How about the girl? Need a ride?" Uncle offers a ride to Chika.


    ¡°Ah, no need, uncle. My house is quite close¡± Chika said rejecting the offer.


    I take my bicycle and lead it out of the front yard of Hana''s house. Together with Chika, I said goodbye to Hana and her uncle.


    "See you, Hana" Me and Chika said together.


    "Yes, see you later" Hana replied.


    ¡­


    We walked. Wait, we''re in the same direction?

 23.5. Nice Friends

    1.


    The atmosphere of the house became quieter after they had both gone home. Now, there''s only me and my uncle at home. I have kept Chika''s gift in the warehouse because it is too dusty. Earlier, I asked Uncle whether he had eaten or not and he said he had. So, now, I have nothing to do but watch TV. There is no homework from school because we just finished Mid-Terms. This is a little boring.


    Then, my uncle sits beside me. "They''re gone, huh? It turns out that this house can be crowded too¡± Said Uncle.


    I agreed and responded, ¡°Haha, yeah. It was pretty fun. Chika and Arkan tasted my cooking and they really liked it. Chika also gave me a present, although it still can''t be used¡±.


    "Hahaha. But, yeah, they''re good friends¡±


    "True. They''re my best friends. There has never been someone like them in my life before¡± I said while looking at the TV which is broadcasting an animated children''s cartoon.


    ¡°¡­ Take care of your friendship. Especially, the boy. What was his name just now?¡± Said Uncle.


    Arkan? Why did he put him in a priority?


    ¡°Arkan. It''s impolite, you know¡± I said while turning my gaze to Uncle sharply.


    "Haha, yeah, sorry". Uncle continued, "I''ve only met him once so I can''t really say much, but, even if it''s only for a short time, I know that the boy really values you as a friend".


    ¡­


    A friend, huh?


    "Yes. He''s been really nice to me. I don''t know why, but, he was the first person I opened my heart to and told about the times before moving here. And since then, my life has started to get better, like a miracle¡± I explained. My heart felt a strange feeling and immense relief.


    ¡­


    "In that case, I better go home. It''s quite late at night. Your aunt might scold me if she left alone at home¡± He said while standing up.


    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    I answered simply, "Yeah, of course".


    I escort Uncle to the front of the house and give each other goodbye while watching his sedan drive slowly. The atmosphere in front of the house is very quiet, exactly the same as inside.


    Ah, I want them to visit again.


    2.


    I didn''t use my bicycle which function is to ride on because I''m currently walking with someone. Even if we don''t get along, I''d better walk at the same pace as her. Therefore, I just lead my bicycle and walk on my own two feet. The person walking beside me also seemed to have something to say.


    Well, although I also have a lot of questions for this girl.


    Therefore, I take the initiative to start first. ¡°Hey. Has Hana told you everything?¡±


    She answers in a slightly stiff tone as if unsure of the answer. ¡°Y-yeah, I guess¡±


    "Did she tell you when she first met me?".


    "Hah? No?" She said in denial.


    ¡°Hana and I first met a week before Final exams last time. We both met in a strange place, the forest. I thought it was strange, why a girl like Hana could be in the forest, apparently the reason she got lost was chasing a cat. Very stupid".


    ¡°Pfft, seriously?!¡± Chika suddenly laughed. Then she says, ¡°You told me a lot of questions but it seems you weren''t lying. That''s really Hana. But, wait, why are you telling me this?¡±.


    "Who knows? Maybe I just wanted to annoy you. The fact that I''ve been friends with Hana way longer than you¡±.


    "You¡­".


    As long as we walk, a few turns from the T-junction that we passed, countless street lights shone on us. We both continue to walk towards our respective goals, and it just so happened that it is still the same way.


    ¡°Hana''s uncle''s story earlier, that''s what happened before Hana moved to this city. You should have been told by Hana too".


    ¡°Yeah, that story really makes my blood boil. I can''t believe Hana went through all that. Well, I guess I have no right to say that, huh?¡± Chika said while looking down.


    She''s¡­ really changed.


    "You''ve changed, haven''t you? Your concern for Hana proves that¡± I said. Didn''t mean to cheer her up, but I guess I did anyway.


    "Haha, right, huh?".


    "Today we are not as usual. Let''s mention our moments of us having the same thoughts today, taking turns¡± I continued, ¡°Hana who is wearing an apron is so freaking cute¡±.


    "Hana''s cooking is too good".


    ¡°Uncle Hana is strict, but kind¡± I said.


    "Is he? I don''t think he''s too strict. He''s really nice, though".


    And, ¡°The people who bullied Hana are bastards¡± We both said together.


    "That includes you, idiot" I said insulting Chika.


    ¡°Oh, shut up. It''s no more" She defended herself.


    The two of us then stopped between the two turns. This is where our paths differ.


    "In that case, I''ll pass here" Chika said while facing herself to me.


    "Yes" I answered briefly.


    Chika walked first and disappeared from my sight. If that''s the case, I''ll go home too, okay?


    That night, I was scolded by my mother. In fact, even if I have school, it''s still after the exam. There''s no homework to be done. But, my mother still scolds me.

 24. The Fireworks Makers

    Welcome weekend, goodbye weekdays.


    As the final bell rang, signaling the end of another exhausting week, relief washed over me. The monotonous routine of classes and exams had taken its toll, leaving us students yearning for the freedom of the weekend. The days after exams felt particularly dull, lacking the usual excitement and activities. Yet, despite the boredom, I still looked forward to the weekend, knowing that something more significant awaited me.


    On Fridays, our early dismissal provided a glimmer of hope. Instead of the usual 4 PM departure, we were let go at 2:30 PM. The scorching sun and clear blue sky accompanied me on my walk home, but today, I deviated from my usual path. Instead of heading home, I made my way to a different bus station, the designated meeting spot for a long-awaited rendezvous.


    Reaching the station, I sought refuge under the roof, seeking respite from the relentless heat. Resting my feet on the provided seats, I fanned myself with a book, attempting to create a cooling breeze. As I observed a bus pulling up, its sliding doors opening and closing to welcome new passengers, I resisted the temptation to board. My companion had not yet arrived, and I waited patiently, knowing we had agreed to meet here after he finished his "urgent" business.


    Even the sheltered area couldn''t shield me from the sun''s unrelenting rays. Desperate for relief, I approached the station''s vending machine and purchased a refreshing can of cold cola. As I inserted the bill and watched the can make its descent, I eagerly reached down to retrieve my chilled beverage from the dispensing slot.


    Tit~


    The sound of a button being pressed caught my attention, and I turned around, still crouched, to find a pair of feet standing in front of me. Looking up, I discovered that the person I had been eagerly waiting for had finally arrived.


    "Arkan, what took you so long?" I asked, my tone tinged with annoyance.


    "Just wanted to buy some cold tea. What''s the problem?" he responded, a hint of irritation in his voice.


    "Forget it. Step back, I need to stand up," I replied, my frustration evident.


    Obeying my request, Arkan moved aside, muttering about his thirst as he did so.


    This person, sometimes kind and considerate, other times incredibly infuriating. Perhaps he had orchestrated this delay just to tease me. Meeting his eyes, I couldn''t help but continue our exchange. "So, have you finally finished your ''really-serious'' business?" I asked, exaggerating the importance.


    "Yes, yes, I have. Can we not dwell on that?" he retorted, his annoyance palpable.


    "It''s your own fault for being late to school," I persisted.


    "I didn''t use my bicycle this morning. That''s why I was late," he defended himself.


    "Why didn''t you bring your bicycle anyway? It''s not like the usual," I probed further.


    "We''re going to Tio''s uncle''s house. Do you even know the bus route?" he responded, sounding as if he underestimated my knowledge. Truth be told, I had no clue.


    "I can ride a bicycle with you," I offered casually.


    Arkan looked momentarily dumbfounded by my suggestion. What was wrong with riding a bicycle together?


    "No!" he exclaimed sharply.


    Why not? What prevented me from being his passenger this time? We had ridden the same bike just last Monday. Was I too heavy?


    As I arrived at this half-formed conclusion, a sullen expression settled upon my face. Despite his silence on the matter, I couldn''t help but feel a twinge of irritation emanating from him.


    "Look, the bus is here. Come on, let''s hurry up so we won''t be late," Arkan declared abruptly, grabbing my hand and pulling me along with him. His actions were often impulsive, catching me off guard.


    We found seats in the middle of the bus, surrounded by empty ones despite the ample availability. The overhead handles remained untouched as passengers opted for the comfort of the seats. Sitting side by side, a vacant seat separating us, the silence settled between us.


    "Is your friend already home by now?" I asked, breaking the quietude.


    "He should have been home 30 minutes before us," Arkan replied, his tone betraying a trace of worry.


    "Oh, I see?" My answer is short.


    Most likely Tio''s uncle lives on the border so he won''t disturb other people who live in the city. When it came to fireworks, they would definitely be complaining about the loud sound they make.


    "Is he staying there because of people''s complaints?" I asked briefly.


    Arkan who seemed to understand my unclear question answered, ¡°Maybe. But it''s more a factor of because that''s where the fireworks manufactory is, it''s even built long before his own birth¡±.


    ¡°A-Amazing! It''s like a historic relic of Ilutu city!¡± I responded in a high tone of awe. I even slightly push my body closer to Arkan which surprised him a little.


    ¡°I-it might be an exaggeration to call it a ''Historical Remain'', but yeah, I agree. The descendants of Tio''s family are already known as suppliers of fireworks for major festivals, and Tio himself seems to want to continue his family tradition" Arkan explained.


    After hearing all those amazing things, I asked Arkan in a stiff tone, ¡°H-hey, is making fireworks difficult? I''m a little worried¡±.


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    "Worried? Why?" He asked looking confused by my words.


    "It''s nothing! Answer me, is it difficult or not?¡± I denied it and kept asking.


    ¡°W-Well, when it comes to whether difficult or not is it, when I first tried it, it wasn''t that difficult. Maybe because at that time I was still directly directed by Tio''s uncle''s instruction¡± He explained.


    I breathed a sigh of relief because it turned out that the first time I would be instructed. If I do it myself, I''ll be confused as heck.


    Having nothing else to talk about, we are both silent the rest of the way until we got off at our intended station and start walking. It is now 2:50 PM. Turns out the trip was quite long, huh? The evidence is that the atmosphere of the city has disappeared and been replaced with a vast expanse of rice fields as far as the eye can see. This is actually my first impression of the outskirt city, Ilutu.


    Our journey is not completely silent. Sometimes I chat with Arkan and vice versa. Conversations like this seem natural for us who have been friends since we first met in the middle of nowhere. A gentle breeze hit us who are walking above the asphalt road flanked by rice fields. There are a few scarecrows that are displayed randomly in the rice fields.


    Exiting the rice field area, we are greeted by a fairly large residential area. Most of the houses are traditional models made of wood that have not been touched by modern architecture. This makes the village vibes a lot thicker. Until we stop our leg at a big house with the same model as the others but with concrete materials, beside the house, there is a shophouse that is still closed.


    "This is the house" said Arkan.


    While a little gawking, I say, "Wow, it''s really big".


    Then, Arkan, like someone who had often stopped by, without hesitation, stepped into someone else''s yard.


    ¡°W-wai- Arkan! Is it okay?¡± My words are convoluted.


    ¡°Well, I told them we are coming and got permission. It should be fine. Besides, if you call them while shouting it''s not good either, isn''t it?" What he said is true too.


    "That''s not the problem, but ...".


    "Ah, good afternoon, Uncle" Arkan greeted an old figure who turned out to be the person we were looking for.


    ¡°Ahhh, Arkan, huh? Welcome. Tio is in the back working¡± His answer sounded happy to see Arkan. Then, his gaze turned to me sharply.


    ¡°Oh, who is that young girl beside you?¡±.


    "She''s the girl I told you" He said simply while glancing at me, telling me to introduce myself.


    ¡°O-oh, good afternoon, my name is Hana Binatha. I came because I wanted to learn how to make fireworks. Nice to meet you" An overly formal formality that ends with a bow of the head.


    ¡°Ah, is that so? Okay, then let''s go back to the manufactory. The "factory" is behind the house".


    Tio''s uncle then walk back the way he came, followed by Arkan who preceded me. On the side of the house, there are stepping stones that lead to the backyard.


    When I arrive at the back of the house, I''m surprised by how large the backyard is. If anyone wants to play football here, it''s definitely possible for inter-regional matches. Maybe a little exaggerated but that''s my picture.


    On the right, there is a building that is still connected to the main house.


    "That building is the ''factory''. Well, you can call it that but it is just a simple workshop" Said Tio''s uncle as if he was reading my mind. Continuing the steps of the three of us towards the designated building, the door to the building which is almost entirely concrete is opened by someone from inside. A boy can be seen coming out from the inside and then stopping after seeing us walking towards him, or the building behind him.


    Waving his hands, he shouts, "Oiiii, Arkan!"


    He greeted Arkan beside me, who is responding to the boy''s greeting with a wave of his hand. I assumed he is Tio since his build is similar to those of us high schoolers.


    Tio then ran towards us and greeted Arkan directly. "Yo!".


    "Yo, as usual at this hour you''re really enthusiastic, huh?" Arkan responded to his greeting.


    "Haha, it''s been a long time since you stopped by, two years?" he continued.


    "What are you talking about, I stopped by yesterday. But, well, this place hasn''t changed much either¡± Arkan answered him back.


    That''s right, not too long ago Arkan came here to ask for fireworks for the two of us at that time.


    Their conversation feels like the reunion of a friend who has not seen each other for a long time. Somehow, I feel left out again, they seem too busy in their own world.


    "Come on, let''s talk inside. Young Hana is also here, you know¡± Said Uncle Tio as if he was reading my heart. Great. But wait, what was his deal with using ''young'' in front of my name?


    Then, Tio who finally realized that Arkan wasn''t the only one here turn his eyes to me, staring at me sharply like he was analyzing my qualifications. "Oh yeah. My apology, you must be the girl Arkan said. Nice to meet you, my name is Tio Rey, just call me Tio, Arkan''s old friend" He introduced himself.


    I also then introduces myself. ¡°Ah, yes. My name is Hana Binatha, just call me Hana. Nice to meet you¡±.


    "Done greeting each other? Let''s go inside, then¡± Said Tio''s uncle.


    Hearing his orders twice, we all then starting to walk toward the fireworks workshop building. The building is made of concrete which stands out very much, different from most of the buildings around here which are made of timber. Maybe to prevent accidents from fireworks. Even so, the door still uses wood and there are also several open windows for air ventilation.


    On the inside, we were greeted with a room with a dirt floor. It smells of sulfur too. Rarely is there any visible wooden furniture. The lighting is also sober, but it''s not too dark either. We are then taken to a room where the smell of sulfur is really sharp, and also the smell of gunpowder, though it''s not as sharp as the sulfurs. Wait, isn''t to make a gunpowder you need sulfur too?


    Then, Tio uncle''s left us and entered a room with a wooden door. Until he came out a few minutes later carrying a pile of cloth, maybe dresses?


    "Change your clothes, because if your uniform gets exposed to chemicals it will be troublesome" Said he to me and Arkan. While Tio was also wearing the designated clothes.


    After changing clothes and also wearing cloth on our faces as masks and gloves, we were given plastic chairs to sit on. While Tio came out of a room carrying a bucket and some black plastic.


    "Hey, uncle" Arkan said suddenly calling him who was preparing tools that I don''t know the name of.


    Hearing Arkan''s call, he turned his gaze to Arkan. "Hmm?"


    Arkan then changed his eyes to me for a moment then back to Uncle Tio again. ¡°Yesterday, I had a strange incident. While playing with fireworks, the shells didn''t explode in the sky and instead came down and exploded right in front of me".


    ¡°Pfft, you''re so unlucky¡± A mocking laugh from Tio who is preparing some strong-smelling ingredients.


    Arkan will start telling them about the incident, huh?


    Not responding to Tio''s ridicule, Arkan continues, ¡°Then, whether it''s a hallucination or something, it''s like I''m moving from my resting place to a meadow that widens as far as the eye can see. The conditions were very calm as if time had stopped, the night sky was clear, illuminated by many stars, and a gentle wind was blowing¡±.


    As if attracted by Arkan''s story, Uncle Tio asked, "A meadow?".


    Nimbly, Arkan said, "Does Uncle know something?".


    "Wait a minute, will you?". Then, he stood up and went out of the building.


    Tio''s uncle abruptly rose from his seat and made his way outside the building, leaving us bewildered and filled with questions. The three of us exchanged glances, silently contemplating the mysterious turn of events. Tio''s expression mirrored our confusion and curiosity, his serious demeanor adding to the intrigue.

 25. Fireworks In the Making

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 26. The Day We Set It Off

    The noisy sound of the working bus engine echoed inside the cabin. The bus had just left the station, and the three of us were sitting in the middle row facing each other. The interior of the bus resembled a train cabin, perhaps designed to accommodate more people. Unfortunately, since I started using this station yesterday, there have been very few passengers. Hmm? Three of us? Of course, because today Chika is accompanying me and Hana.


    "So, why do I have to come along?" Chika said in an annoyed tone while looking ahead.


    "Well, why not? We just went to his friend Arkan, the electronic technician. He said it would take a few hours to fix his game console. Why not wait with us? Besides, you don''t have any plans for today, do you?" Hana replied.


    "Not really..."


    Complaining continuously, I couldn''t help but feel irritated. "If you don''t want to, you can just get off at the next station, right?"


    "It''s not that, I''m just not that into fireworks, so I might just be a hindrance," Chika said.


    "Oh, really? Too bad, you''ll miss something very important and rare," I said, trying to sound important while still glued to my phone screen.


    "What? What do you mean?" she asked. Hana, who was also confused about what I meant, turned to me along with Chika.


    Sighing, I continued, "Hufft... Hana today... she will dance with fire."


    "What?!" exclaimed Hana.


    "... Seriously?" Chika asked with skyrocketing curiosity.


    "Yes."


    "No way! I won''t dance!"


    Without questioning the truth of my statement, Chika continued, "Have you seen it yourself?" she asked, her eyes shining.


    "Of course. When it was just me and Hana, she danced with fireworks in both hands. At that moment, Hana looked..." My tongue suddenly stopped at the end of the word. Why did I hesitate when saying it? Yesterday, I could say it smoothly. I continued, "Just see for yourself later."


    "I won''t dance!" Hana insisted, while Chika had an eager expression on her face.


    The rural area where Uncle Tio''s house was located had a strong atmosphere. Most of the houses still used wood and were surrounded by vast rice fields, which were now illuminated by the setting sun. Unfortunately, it was still daytime, and the scorching sun accompanied us. The asphalt road was rarely used by motor vehicles, which is why it has remained intact until now.


    The three of us arrived in front of Uncle Tio''s wooden door. Just like yesterday, I knocked three times before stepping back to avoid being hit by the door from inside. It seemed that my cautious action was useless because Tio greeted us from the side of his house.


    "Hey, you came really early," he said, welcoming us.


    "Yeah, Hana and I had some things to do together, and since we''re done, we decided to drop by here," I replied.


    Tio''s gaze wandered around us as if he realized something odd. And indeed, there was one extra person we brought, against her will.


    Chika and Tio exchanged glances. Chika''s face looked slightly disturbed, while Tio''s gaze became sharper and then changed instantly as his mind recognized the face.


    "Wow, this is an unexpected surprise. Chika?" he said with a high tone.


    "Y-yeah... Long time no see," Chika stuttered while raising her hand.


    "Yes, indeed. The last time we talked was in the second year of middle school. But it''s strange, isn''t it? You''re hanging out with Arkan, even though you haven''t been on good terms with him since middle school." Said Tio while recollecting his past memories of middle school.


    "It''s just a coincidence that our business happened to involve him," I replied.


    "Well, when I heard that you both entered the same high school despite your contrasting personalities, I couldn''t help but laugh. ''Poor Arkan,'' I said," Tio teased me.


    Feeling provoked, my eyebrows furrowed as I said, "Enough, let''s not talk about the past. By the way, where''s your uncle?" I tried to change the subject.


    Tio turned his hand and pointed backward, saying, "Ah, he''s at the back. We just finished preparing the fireworks for tonight''s festival. Will you guys come?"


    "Oh, right, today? I''ll watch from the usual spot then," I gave a brief and unclear response, but I was sure Tio understood what I meant. Tio turned to Hana and asked the same question, confirming it.


    Hana then glanced at me with a slightly piercing look. "W-What?" I asked.


    Returning to her usual expression and turning away, she said, "It''s nothing."


    Her puzzling and unpredictable behavior, resembling a shifting jigsaw puzzle, kept me stranded in the marsh of uncertainty and confusion. I was left grappling with this perplexing enigma that always emerged with unexpected frequency.


    The inner world of a woman, terrifying indeed.


    I''m certain that even in the future, when there''s advanced computer technology capable of cleverly retrieving someone else''s personal data, it would still struggle to face this particular adversary.


    The three of us started following Tio from behind. Hana and I walked side by side, with Chika trailing behind us, as if wanting to hide. It was rare for her to behave like this.


    A cold breeze swept over us as we set foot on the backyard field of Tio''s house. My eyes caught the silhouette of someone in the middle of that open space. The silhouette stood up and began waving their hand at us. As we approached, the figure became clearer.


    "Hey, heyyy!" Uncle greeted.


    I waved my hand in response, while Hana immediately replied, "Good afternoon, uncle."


    "Haha, hello, Young Hana. You''re early to visit," Uncle chuckled.


    "Yes, the three of us have something to attend to. Why not wait here?" Hana explained our early arrival.


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    "Oh, I see. Hmm? Three of you?" Uncle said, confused.


    Tio''s Uncle''s facial expression showed confusion as he looked at our group consisting of two boys and one girl, with an additional creature behind me.


    "Ah, ahaha! Forgive my blurry eyes. I didn''t see a young girl back there, haha!" he said, chuckling a bit. I don''t know why, but I found it funny too.


    "A-ah, it''s okay, uncle," Chika replied, her voice trembling.


    Then, Uncle suddenly shifted his gaze towards me with a smirk and a ridiculous smile. Whatever he had in mind, it wasn''t true.


    "But how could you, Arkan?" he said to me.


    "Huh? What?" I asked, confused.


    "How could you bring Young Hana yesterday and bring another girl today?"


    See, it''s nonsense.


    "Don''t say ambiguous things. Look, now both of them are confused about how to react," I argued. I couldn''t see Hana''s expression as she was looking down, and Chika was looking at me with a scornful and disgusted look.


    "Haha, yes, sorry, sorry. Uh..." Tio''s uncle stopped speaking and looked at Chika. Oh, right, he doesn''t know this girl''s name yet.


    Her scary expression from earlier quickly changed due to Uncle''s glance. "Ah, my name is Chika Rain. Sorry for bothering you while you''re busy," she introduced herself.


    "Well, well, it''s no problem. Wait here for a moment, okay? I will bring the fireworks made by Young Hana yesterday," he said.


    "Can they be lit already, uncle? Shouldn''t we wait a little longer?" Hana asked to confirm.


    "It should be fine. As long as the mixture is attached to the wire stick, it can be lit," he explained as he walked towards the building where the fireworks were made.


    While waiting for Uncle to return, I stood in the middle of the field, feeling the cold breeze of the approaching rain clouds coming from the opposite direction of the setting sun. It felt cold. Dark clouds began to gather above the Ahar mountains, encircling our town.


    It''s definitely raining...


    "Oi!" A shout accompanied by a strong pat on my right shoulder. "What''s up with you? Just spacing out," Tio said.


    Slightly startled, I took a step back from Tio and said, "It''s nothing, just looks like it''s going to rain."


    "Oh, right. Darn it, I hope someone takes care of the laundry at home."


    "Aren''t there anyone at home?" I asked.


    "There are, my younger brother. And that''s the problem."


    "Ah..." I pretended to understand.


    After three minutes passed, Uncle came out of the building''s sliding door and started walking towards us. In both of his hands, it looked like two cubes with needles sticking out of them.


    The two white cork pieces were placed on the ground. Uncle then took out a candle and a gas lighter from the back pocket of his pants.


    "Young Hana, the one on the right is yours, and the one on the left is Arkan''s."


    "Ah, okay."


    Hana and I stood side by side with our fireworks corks, squatting while the others surrounded us.


    "Please, Young Hana, light up your firework," Uncle said.


    "Um, alright..." Hana replied hesitantly.


    The flame on the lighter ignited, emitting a warm aura in this chilly rain breeze.


    Slowly, Hana brought the tip of her firework stick closer to the flame. But, five seconds passed, and it didn''t light up. Ten seconds passed, and it still didn''t light up.


    "Why isn''t it lighting up?" Chika asked.


    "Maybe it wasn''t dried enough," Tio answered.


    I glanced at Hana''s face as she closed her eyelids with a serious expression, as if she was hoping. She tightly gripped the firework stick in her hand.


    Then, when she opened her eyes, both of Hana''s eyes sparkled with sparks of fire. It seemed like the coloring agent she used for her firework was calcium, as the sparks had a bluish hue. Haha, how fitting. Her bright blue eyes reflected the ignited firework in front of her. Her face looked joyful, and her mouth formed a wide smile.


    Hana stood up, holding the slowly dying firework stick. She looked at me with an expression of disbelief that she had succeeded. In response, I extended my hand towards her and dramatically gave her a thumbs-up. She laughed while slightly covering her mouth.


    Hana moved away from us and stood tall, raising her firework high. She began swinging her hand, creating sparks that resembled raindrops of shimmering light. I was mesmerized watching her. The dark atmosphere caused by the rain clouds covering the sun made the shimmering lights stand out.


    "I-I want to try too!" Chika exclaimed suddenly, grabbing one stick from Hana''s cork and placing it over the flame of a candle before immediately following Hana.


    Taking a step back to keep a distance, I was joined by Tio''s uncle. "Haha, look at them, like children who have just seen fireworks," I said.


    "Haha, you''re right. Well, you might be right," Uncle replied. "Arkan, do you know why Hana loves fireworks so much?"


    "Ah, it''s probably because fireworks remind her of her late mother..."


    "..." Tio remained silent, perhaps a bit surprised by that statement and choosing to stay quiet.


    "...Is that so? No wonder she feels connected to the magic she creates. For her, fireworks are not just visual entertainment but also a symbol of the limitless power and beauty. Dazzling flashes of light and captivating colors can represent vivid memories and happy moments shared with those who have passed away. Each explosion can be a metaphor for the impact achieved by the people they love in their lives, leaving a lasting impression even though they are no longer here. But, why fireworks specifically?"


    While Uncle shared his perspective, Hana had already lit two other fireworks simultaneously. Then, Chika also returned to take another stick and lit it up. But instead of joining Hana in the middle of the field, she came to the three of us.


    "Getting bored already?" I asked with a hint of teasing.


    "Not really, it''s actually quite exciting. However, I don''t want to miss out on this rare event either," she said as if understanding what was about to happen.


    "Haha, true, right?" I said arrogantly because my earlier prediction was correct.


    Suddenly, from somewhere, a ray of sunlight leaked through a gap in the dark clouds. The light illuminated above Hana, as if giving her a stage to perform. Without wasting any opportunity, Hana began moving her hand delicately in all directions, gradually. She moved it up, down, sideways, in synchrony, and finally spun along with her two fireworks. My eyes couldn''t move away from her, as if captivated by her charm. Everyone was mesmerized by her.


    The two fireworks extinguished, and the flickering light was once again covered by rain clouds. Hana stood there in silence, letting down her arms. Then, she started humming softly. She continued humming, and the melody reminded me of something.


    ¡­


    ? Oh, little sparks in the sky, how could you fly freely into the night? ?


    ? Like fireflies dancing with grace, a mesmerizing sight ?


    ? Your presence ignites the darkness, a beacon in the vast expanse ?


    ? A symphony of twinkling stars, a celestial dance ?


    ? The way your light shines upon us, brighter than the moon ?


    ? A gentle glow that illuminates, dispelling all gloom ?


    ? Each spark a universe of its own, a tiny burst of magic ?


    ? Painting the canvas of the night sky with colors so tragic ?


    ? Your warm, colorful illumination that thaws the freezing heart ?


    ? Embracing us in your tender glow, a work of art ?


    ? Amidst the cold and solitude, you bring a sense of wonder ?


    ? Filling our souls with warmth, tearing the darkness asunder ?


    ? But your light, soon will fade, like a fleeting shooting star ?


    ? A gentle reminder that all things must come to an end, near or far ?


    ? Yet in our memories, your brilliance forever will reside ?


    ? A testament to the beauty of moments, on this fleeting ride ?


    ? Oh, little sparks in the sky, your time may be brief ?


    ? But the joy you bring, beyond measure, an ethereal relief ?


    ? So let us embrace your shimmering grace, as the night unfolds ?


    ? For even in your departure, your essence forever holds ?


    ? A goodbye to the vivid sparkles ?


    ¡­


    <div>


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    <div>


    "This song..."


    Hana turned towards us and said something. ''Ah... I remember it. The lyrics of this song, I finally remember everything.''


    It was the gentle melody of a poet''s song that could lull you into a deep sleep like a lullaby. Hana''s soft voice made the hairs on my neck stand on end. The tone was incredibly soothing to the ears.


    "Han-" My response was interrupted as I saw tears streaming down her face. I couldn''t move, my body felt frozen. Until a drop of rain from the sky touched my face, bringing me back to my senses.


    <div>


    <div>

 27. Dive Into The Past

    The cold air, laden with the scent of rain, gently mingled with a bittersweet sensation, evoking a flood of long-forgotten memories that lay dormant within the chambers of my heart. As the rhythmic patter of raindrops incessantly battled against the clay tile roof, their relentless assault reverberated through the air, disturbing the calmness of my surroundings. Each exhalation escaped my lips, transforming into delicate vapor that hung in the misty atmosphere, suspended as almost ethereal droplets, a visual manifestation of the intangible emotions swirling within me.


    I gently wiped my wet right cheek with a soft white towel, unsure if it was tears or rainwater. As I remembered the entire lyrics of that song, I felt incredibly happy, moved, and puzzled as to why I had almost forgotten most of the lyrics. It was one of the legacies left to me, and I felt foolish for forgetting it. There was also a sense of curiosity as to why I could remember everything in that very moment.


    "Young Hana, have you finished drying yourself?" A soft voice of a middle-aged man came from behind the guest bathroom door, asking about my condition.


    Considering he was the host, I had to hurry. "Yes, Uncle. Sorry for the inconvenience."


    "It''s alright. Dry your whole body to avoid catching a cold."


    "Okay," I replied briefly.


    The changing room felt cramped with multiple doors leading to other rooms and the bathroom entrance. There were several wooden furnishings, such as a wardrobe with hangers, a wooden rack, and a three-tiered drawer. The room was illuminated by simple incandescent lights, giving off an orange hue. On the wall, there were plastic clothes hangers, and my school uniform was wet hanging there. Thankfully, my underwear remained dry as I wore double layers.


    After drying myself, I tidied up all my uniforms and placed them in my backpack as temporary storage. Ah, I forgot to comb my wet hair. Oh well, I didn''t bring a comb, and it would be uncomfortable to use someone else''s without permission.


    I pushed the sliding wooden door aside and exited the room. I could hear a conversation from the adjacent room, which was the family room with a U-shaped sofa, a table in the middle, and a TV hanging on the central wall with a table underneath, along with a DVD player. I walked towards that room.


    "How are you, Hana?" Arkan asked his uncle Tio as I entered the room where they were gathered. I saw Arkan standing with Tio''s uncle, while Tio was sitting, observing them, and Chika, as usual, was sitting in the corner of the sofa with a towel on her shoulder.


    "She should be done soon¡ªoh, there she is." Tio''s uncle turned towards me, motioning with his hand, signaling me to come over.


    "Hana, are you okay? Would you like a warm cup of tea?" Arkan asked with a worried and serious tone.


    "I''m fine, really, no need," I declined. Why was he the one offering? Was he also a host?


    "But it startled me," Tio said. "The rain went from level 0 to level 100 in less than a second." Game level analogy, huh? I didn''t understand.


    "Yeah, it has been cloudy for a while, but the sudden increase in volume caught us off guard," Chika added. Apparently, even though she secluded herself, she remained active.


    "Alright then, I will make some warm tea for everyone, at least to provide some warmth," Tio''s uncle said.


    "Oh, in that case, let me help, Uncle," I offered with good intentions.


    "No need, Young Hana. You stay here," my good intentions were halted once again.


    Everyone in the room finally settled down. Chika and I faced the side of the TV, while Arkan and Tio sat on a long sofa facing the TV. The cold, damp air and the silence filled only with the sound of raindrops reminded me of the dark times in my previous residence. Arkan''s serious face, Chika''s pouting, and Tio continuously facing Arkan made me uneasy.


    Unconsciously, I blurted out, "I''m sorry."


    In an instant, everyone seemed to snap back to reality.


    "Sorry? Why are you apologizing?" Arkan asked.


    All eyes were on me. Being treated like this, I didn''t know how to respond, so I could only lower my face.


    "Do you feel guilty because we all got caught in the rain?" he continued.


    My face lifted, and it turned out Arkan had already stood up from his seat, looking at me while I kept my head down. It''s not easy for someone to guess what''s in someone else''s heart, but Arkan answered it so easily.


    "Was anyone blaming you from the beginning?" After saying that, he looked around with me following his gaze. Tio shook his head, and so did Chika.


    "If anyone blames you, I''ll punch that person," Chika said.


    "But, the fireworks..."


    Tio answered, "Oh, if it''s about that, it''s not a problem. If it''s dried again, it will ignite as usual." He continued while looking at Arkan, "However, that thing..."


    "That discussion can wait until Uncle is here. It''s better to have him with us, right?" Arkan replied.


    "Sounds reasonable."


    I didn''t know what they meant, but I didn''t ask. Nonetheless, I didn''t inquire. We all sat back in our previous positions, waiting for Tio''s uncle who was brewing tea for us.


    The aroma of fragrant tea, infused with hints of delicate floral notes, gracefully permeated the airy shortly after, with a gentle and measured stride, the uncle entered the room, his presence accompanied by a symphony of clinking porcelain. Balancing a wide square plate adorned with intricate patterns in both hands, he carried an antique teapot, its handle wrapped in aged wicker, and a collection of dainty teacups, each with its own story etched upon the surface. With utmost care and precision, he poured a nice warm, wait no, hot tea to each of our cups.


    "Be careful when drinking it, okay? I accidentally used a high flame." He said.


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Tea served in such hot conditions while the weather was cold due to the rain was indeed delightful. As it was served, I took one cup and sipped it. It was a bit hot, but it was okay. The sugar used was also slightly bland; perhaps the uncle didn''t stir it evenly.


    We all sipped the warm sweet tea while exhaling from our mouths, releasing vapor as the warm air met the cold outside air.


    Then, the uncle sat on the sofa facing me. "Alright, now that everyone has warmed up, I have one question for Young Hana," he said. His words almost made me choke in surprise. A question? For me?


    "I-Is there anything wrong, uncle?" I replied, stuttering.


    "Ahaha, no need to be tense. You didn''t do anything wrong." Arkan said the same thing earlier...


    "I just want to ask one thing... Do you know where that song came from?" Suddenly, his tone became serious. I was confused and nervous about how to answer, even though I actually had an answer to the uncle''s question.


    "Sorry, Uncle, let me change the question. Have you ever visited the Ilutu City Festival? Or have you only watched it on television?"


    Now, it ends up not making any sense with the first question and making me more confused. Nonetheless, I reply, "Ah... I may have seen it on television, but I haven''t been there in person."


    "In that case, where did you learn the lyrics of the song you just sang?" For some reason, uncle sounded extremely serious when the ''song'' I sang came up.


    Nervously, I answered, "...I-I know the song from my mother."


    "Yo-your mother, you say...?" Arkan interjected suddenly.


    "What, Arkan?" Tio''s uncle asked.


    "N-No. It''s just..." He seemed unable to answer and shifted his gaze towards me.


    I smiled. "My mother... has passed away, Uncle."


    In an instant, silence enveloped the room again. Tio, his uncle, had a look of surprise and regret on his face. Arkan simply lowered his head, Tio appeared shocked, and Chika turned away.


    "I-Is that so... I apologize for asking such an impolite question. I sincerely apologize," Uncle said.


    I could feel his genuine apology and regret. I responded softly, "Ahaha, it''s okay, Uncle. I have already accepted it..."


    ''Accepted''... Have I truly moved on from that?


    "So, it was your mother who taught you that song?" Uncle continued his question.


    "Yes, my late mother often sang that song to me. Whether I was sad or when we celebrated something, she would always sing it. That''s why I memorized the lyrics. Although I have forgotten some of them, they all came back to me earlier for some reason."


    Ah, damn it. Diving into memories like this, remembering my late mother who is no longer here, it hurts my heart.


    "I don''t know where the song came from. I never asked. But when my mother sang it, she looked so happy and cheerful. My father also enjoyed her singing. They both seemed to reminisce about a pleasant past."


    "..."


    "Why did you ask about that, Uncle?" I asked to make sure.


    "A-Ah, nothing. Actually, the song originates from the Ilutu City Festival. Well, one of the event in that festival. A really cool one, you see."


    Upon hearing that statement, I couldn''t say anything. I was too shocked and could only utter words of confusion.


    "E-Eh... I see..."


    "...If I may ask, what was your late mother''s name?"


    Slowly, I placed the antique cup filled with hot tea that I held tightly onto the table, to avoid it from falling. My gaze became empty, not knowing the intention behind his continuous questioning.


    Trembling and stuttering, I answered, "My mother''s name is Nathalia Amber."


    Suddenly, my uncle stood up from his seat, his face showing a surprised expression. He didn''t say anything and his body tensed up. He took a step back, causing him to stumble over the sofa behind him and fall. Fortunately, he fell onto the sofa in a sitting position.


    As time passed, the look of surprise on uncle''s face disappeared, replaced by a... sadness. He clasped his hands together, clenched like he was pleading, as if he had received tragic news about someone close.


    A fleeting thought crossed my mind. What is the connection between him and my mother? But I couldn''t voice that sentence.


    "W-What''s wrong all of a sudden?" Tio tried to find an explanation for his uncle''s strange behavior.


    "A-Ah, sorry. Excuse me for a moment, will you? I need to get something from my room," he said with a weak tone. He stood up, then gave me a compassionate look before leaving the room. His gaze left me unable to respond.


    Silence once again enveloped us in the room. None of us spoke. But I saw Arkan continuously looking at me with a worried expression.


    "What was that all about..." Chika said.


    "I don''t know either," Tio replied.


    While we were puzzled, we heard the sound of things falling coming from the room where uncle went. It sounded like scattered cardboard boxes. Once again, we were taken aback.


    "What now..." Chika muttered.


    "That old man..." Tio growled with a slightly harsh tone.


    Then, Tio''s uncle returned to the room, holding a DVD disc in his hand. It was covered in dust, leaving stains on his clothes.


    "Hey, isn''t that..." Tio ask him something, while recognizing the thing in uncle''s hands.


    Ignoring us, who were staring at him with confusion and worry, he continued with his own activities. He inserted the DVD disc into the DVD player on the table, which was connected directly to the TV.


    With deep curiosity, I finally asked, "Uncle, what are you doing?"


    "Soon, you will find out, Hana," he said with a serious tone. He continued, "By the way, do you know where your mother''s hometown is?"


    What a strange question again. What does it have to do with the current situation?


    Nevertheless, I still answered, "Honestly, I don''t know."


    My uncle''s movement, which was about to press the ''Play'' button on his DVD player, came to a halt. Slowly, he shifted his gaze towards me.


    I continued, "I have never been told much about my parents'' background. I only know that they are not from my old town. My Uncle and Auntie used to visit our house often to take care of me when I was little, while my parents were busy. But other than that, I don''t know much."


    True enough, I don''t know the reason too. Was it because they were too busy to make a story? But there were also my Uncle and Auntie visiting us, they can tell me much or less about them. Had I''ve been to this city before? Where my Uncle and Auntie lives? Nope. I always thought this city was a place for a retired family like my Uncle. Never in my life have I thought this place was...


    "I see..." he said. Finally, he pressed the ''Play'' button after inserting the DVD disc.


    Uncle stood parallel to the TV and pressed the power button on the electronic device. From a black screen that showed nothing, a text appeared: ''Fire Dancer #12''.


    "This is... a glimpse into the past entrusted to me. Generations that inherit our traditions. And one of them is..."


    The snippet from the DVD began playing and the black screen start turning grey.


    [Hey, does this device really allow me to see myself in the past?]


    My heart skipped a beat as I heard the voice of a woman in the recording. The room we were in was immediately filled with the gentle whispers of the woman as the footage started playing. Suddenly, once again, a voice flowed from the speakers, a voice that evoked memories of warmth, comfort, and unconditional love. It was my mother''s voice, clearly taking me back to the colorful moments of the past.


    [Can''t I practice being a Fire Dancer before helping make the fireworks?]


    A male voice responded.


    [Come on, making fireworks isn''t that difficult. Just help me for a bit, it should be fine, right?]


    My mother''s voice was distorted, but I was certain it was her. On the TV screen, there was also the face of a beautiful girl who resembled me more than the mother I knew. Tears welled up in my eyes as I heard their laughter and joyful conversation once again. A single tear fell from my cheek into the grip of my hand.


    The recording continued, and as the analog camera faithfully captured each moment, the flickering flame, born from the torch clutched in someone''s hand, dispersed the darkness, casting a warm glow that illuminated the surroundings and unveiled a figure standing proudly on a magnificent stage adorned with enchanting decorations. In her grasp, she held Sparklers ablaze, their radiance dancing in harmony with the flickering firelight. With graceful movements, the woman gracefully wove through the roaring inferno, her every step synchronized with the bursts of vibrant fireworks that adorned the night sky, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle that mesmerized all who beheld it, a testament to her artistry and the indomitable spirit that burned within her.


    "Is that... my mother?"


    "Yes, she is your mother. Nathalia Amber. When she lived here, she was an incredibly talented Fire Dancer."


    A trace of a recording left behind in time. A memento of someone who once set foot in this house.


    A hidden memory.

 28. Memories Of Fire

    A TV speaker that sounded broken emitted a distorted voice of a girl. I didn''t know if the problem was with the TV speaker itself or if the recording was meant to sound that way. Meanwhile, the TV screen played a recording from a DVD disc showing the girl on the screen. Her very familiar face left me stunned. Even though I only saw her for a few minutes, I instantly knew the nature of that girl. Cheerful, radiant, joyful, and full of happiness, it emanated from her face.


    I was convinced that she was someone remarkable in her time.


    That''s what I thought before Hana uttered the word ''Mother'' with a nearly tearful face upon seeing the person she loved so dearly appearing once again in her life. The confirmation from her uncle Tio was also an undeniable fact.


    The recording continued to play. From what I could gather, it was a recording for the "Fire Dancer" performers. They were the participants in a show during the grand festival of Ilutu city, held once a year. It had been a long time since the last time I saw that performance, as it had not been continued. To my knowledge, there were no ''performers'' left to carry it on. It was a stunning artistic heritage left behind.


    The recording concluded with a performance by Nathalia Amber, also known as Hana''s mother, as the ''Fire Dancer''. It was a luxurious and grand performance. The elegant fire dance and the shimmering lights made me feel warm. This performance felt so different from the last one I saw, maybe three years ago.


    The expression on Hana''s face that I saw at the moment was difficult to put into words. She seemed to be holding back tears but kept her gaze fixed on the TV screen. Her hands were clenched. It was as if she couldn''t believe she was witnessing the past of the person who raised her with love and care is such a beauty and elegant person.


    The TV screen dimmed, indicating that the recording had finished playing. Hana lowered her head, and I could see her tense lips returning to normal, while her rigid hands opened wide, and she spoke.


    "...What is the meaning of this...?" she said softly.


    All eyes turned toward the source of the voice, but no one could provide an answer.


    She continued with a weakly rising tone, "Why is my mother in this recording? Why is she here?! Is this city her hometown?!! THEN, WHY?! I... don''t know what to do." Her voice trailed off weakly at the end.


    A single tear fell from Hana''s lowered face. Her hands covered her saddened expression, collecting the tears that fell. My body stirred slightly, but to only ends up losing to Chika who quickly reached her side and comforted her.


    "...What... should I do?"


    At this moment, I didn''t have an answer to Hana''s question.


    Tio, who was beside me, tapped my left thigh and gestured with his head, indicating that we should give Hana some space for a while. I silently agreed and stood up, and it turned out that Uncle Tio followed us as well.


    We ended up on the back porch of Tio''s uncle house. The drizzling rain still accompanied us. The atmosphere wasn''t as lively as before because the rain had subsided, but the cold and dampness in the air still felt thick. Despite being attacked by the cold weather, my mind was still hot with thoughts about what had just happened. Ah, that''s right.


    "Uncle, when did you find out?" I asked.


    "If you ask when... maybe it was when I first met Miss Hana yesterday. Her face looks exactly like how Miss Natha looked when she was young, even her personality, especially when she touched the sparkler earlier and sang, it reminded me of her. But I never expected that she had..."


    Once again, the atmosphere turned gloomy and cold. Even though I had never known her, it seemed that the memories she gave to Uncle Tio were very precious if he was affected like this...


    "So her name is Nathalia Amber, huh?" Tio''s statement, which seemed like he knew Hana''s mother, intrigued me.


    "Hmm? Do you know her?"


    "Her face, yes. But her name, no. I often watched old recordings of the ''Fire Dancer'' performers. And hers was like a treasure eaten by time," he explained.


    "Yes. If I''m not mistaken, you really liked Miss Natha''s performances," Tio continued, teasing his own niece.


    "Yes, yes, I admit that I liked the shows she did." Wow, Tio rarely gets honest like this.


    I changed the topic of conversation. "But what about the festival tonight? Will the rain be a problem?"


    "Hmm? There shouldn''t be any problem. The supply of fireworks can be sent to the city center later in the afternoon," Tio answered my question.


    "What kind of preparations are there a few hours before the event starts?"


    "What do you want, anyway? Right now, only me and Uncle can take care of this place. The other staff members are in the city center, getting ready. It''s the usual."


    "I regret saying unnecessary things in front of Hana."


    "Huh? What did you say?"


    "...''One of the biggest suppliers.'' My ass."


    The dark sky finally allowed a beam of light to pass through. The rain had also stopped. The large puddles on the field reflected this phenomenon. Unconsciously, 15 minutes had passed. It was time for us to go back. It seemed that Tio and Uncle understood as well.


    As we returned, it turned out that the TV speaker was playing the sound from the recording we had just heard. The TV screen also replayed the recording we had watched. On the sofa, just like before, Hana sat and focused on watching the recording. She recorded in her memory the precious moments of someone who was so dear to her life.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    Until the recording ended again, we just stood silently at the entrance of the room, observing from afar a fragile girl in confusion, collecting memories of her mother. The TV screen turned pitch black, Hana clenched her hands, and her mouth seemed to be swallowing something bitter.


    "...Are you feeling calmer now, Young Hana?" Tio''s uncle said as he approached the chair he had previously sat on.


    "Yes, I''m sorry for losing control of my emotions," Hana weakly replied.


    "It''s okay. Uncle understands the longing for your mother. I''m sure Miss Hana has some questions, and I will gladly answer them to the best of my ability."


    "In that case... if this is indeed my mother''s hometown. The place where she grew up to become the mother I knew. How was she back then?" Hana asked with a serious tone. The expression on her face showed both conviction and curiosity.


    "Ah, Miss Natha when she was young, right? Let me dig through my memories first. This old head of mine tends to be a bit slow," he said, scratching his head with his hand.


    Finally, perhaps, he retrieved some memories hidden in his mind.


    "This was the first time I met her in person. She was still in high school at that time. It might not be accurate to say that it was the first time we met, but it was the first time we directly interacted with each other. Her personality... she was too cheerful for her age. Her optimism, cheerfulness, creativity, and sometimes recklessness easily set her apart from others."


    Hana''s face appeared more relaxed than tense after hearing that statement. Did she feel happy because her mother''s personality hadn''t changed since then?


    "Then, what was the reason for my mother leaving her hometown?" Hana threw the question.


    Uncle Tio''s face showed disappointment upon being asked such a question, then he sighed. "...They really didn''t tell you anything, did they?" He continued, "At some point, I received a letter from Miss Natha saying that she would leave this town, maybe forever. Shortly after, I was informed that she had married a man, your father. I don''t know the name of the man. But when she said she wouldn''t return to this town, it worried me. Since then, I never knew about Miss Natha''s whereabouts."


    "So... it was my father who made my mother leave her hometown?"


    "It seems so. As for this matter, it''s better to ask your father directly or someone close to him. Like that old rascal Elard," Uncle said with a slightly harsh tone at the end.


    "Elard...? Do you mean my uncle?" Hana asked.


    "He should know. Because he was the one who informed me about Miss Natha''s marriage."


    "I see." Uncle continued with a new topic.


    "And when I first met your mother. Nathalia came to me because she was interested in fireworks. And at that time, she was the next candidate for a ''Fire Dancer,'' so she was interested in fireworks as a prop for her performances."


    "...A ''Fire Dancer''?" Hana asked.


    "Ah... like your mother, they were individuals who mastered the art of manipulating movements like fire to create captivating performances. With graceful movements and a deep connection with the element of fire, they managed to captivate audiences with their daring and skilled displays. And one of their tools was a type of firework called Sparklers. They would perform during every major festival in the city of Ilutu. But unfortunately, no one has held that title for the past three years," Uncle explained.


    "So, that''s how it is. So, my mother was also a ''Fire Dancer'' back then..."


    "And perhaps, without you realizing it, Young Hana, you just performed that show earlier," Uncle added.


    "E-Eh...?" Hana responded in confusion.


    "Well, even though your moves weren''t entirely correct..." Tio continued. "S-So, that''s it? I-I''m sorry," Hana replied, feeling guilty. "No need to apologize. Does anyone instantly master such difficult moves?" he continued.


    "But honestly, I was stunned watching Hana dance earlier. I couldn''t take my eyes off her for some reason. Maybe because everything was too perfect¡ªthe backdrop, Hana as the performer, and the blue fireworks," Chika finally spoke up. I almost forgot she was here. Oh, by the way...


    I glanced at Chika, and our eyes met. She seemed bothered and said, "W-What?"


    "Nothing, but what I said earlier was true, right?"


    ...


    "Ah..." Both of us then looked at Hana.


    Hana, who finally understood my statement, blushed. She felt embarrassed because my prediction that she would dance today came true. Apart from the three of us, others were just confused by our behavior.


    "Is it difficult to become a ''Fire Dancer''? I understand that the movements look challenging, and playing with fire can be dangerous... but surely, there must be someone crazy enough to do it, right?" Chika continued asking.


    "Well... actually, only descendants of the tradition are allowed to become ''Fire Dancers,'' and they must be female," Uncle answered the question.


    "Gross... what kind of tradition is that?" Chika said with a disgusted tone.


    But this was also new knowledge for me. I knew that only women could play the role because I had seen only women perform in the show over the years. However, I had just learned that it was a rule that only descendants of a certain one could portray the role.


    A thought crossed my mind.


    "Wait, if Hana''s mother could play a role as a ''performer'' in that show, technically, Hana could also play a role, right?"


    "Ah," all four of them said simultaneously.


    In an instant, Uncle slammed his hands on the table, startling those around him. "THAT''S IT!!" he exclaimed. "WE CAN REVIVE THAT DEAD TRADITION, WITH HANA''S HELP, WE CAN DO IT!" Uncle continued shouting with great enthusiasm. He was thrilled because one of the best performances in the Ilutu city festival could be revived.


    "You need Hana''s consent first, you old brain," Tio retorted. "I know. In that case, what do you say, Young Hana?" Hana, still shocked, tried to calm herself while Uncle awaited her answer. "I can also hire you as a part-time employee here. Of course, you''ll be paid. While you''re here, you can also learn the ''Fire Dancer'' movements. How about it?"


    Hana, feeling pressured, could only respond, "I-I''ll think about it first."


    "O-Okay..." Uncle''s disappointed voice could be heard.


    Finally, the conversation came to an end, and they shifted to discussing Hana''s mother and the moments they had shared in the past. The rest of us could only watch without interrupting, as seeing them share memories of the same person was very comforting.


    Funny incidents, moments of sadness, extraordinary experiences, and the kindness of that person were continuously recounted by the two of them. I thought Hana''s mother was amazing. If she could make these two individuals so enthusiastic when discussing her, she must be an extraordinary person. Perhaps, if I can, I would like to meet her.


    All of this continued until the afternoon turned into evening, precisely at three o''clock. Since I felt that the matter of the game console entrusted to my acquaintance technician should have been taken care of by now, and we shouldn''t stay here for too long as it could disrupt Tio and his uncle''s work.


    "Hana, let''s go home. They will be busy with the evening festival. We shouldn''t disturb them," I said.


    "Ah, is that so? Alright."


    "Are you leaving? It''s actually fine if you stay here a bit longer," Uncle Tio replied.


    "We... are going. Home," I emphasized for the last time.


    "I-Is that so? Alright. The rain has stopped a while ago."


    The three of us bid farewell from Tio''s uncle''s house. We walked along the road surrounded by the same rice fields as yesterday, using the same train station, stopping by my acquaintance technician as we did earlier to pick up her game console, then taking the same route until we were near Hana''s house.


    "Ah, you two go ahead. I want to drop by my uncle''s house first. Here''s the key. If you want to go home, just hide it under the doormat, okay?" Without waiting for my approval, Hana immediately left after handing me her house key.


    "Wait, Hana!" Chika called out to her, but she kept running.


    "You better give it up, you should know what she intends to do."


    "But... why do I have to be with you again?"


    "Don''t ask me," I replied.


    The two of us then quickly headed to Hana''s house.