The sun had barely risen, but Mizuhara International Academy was already alive with activity. Students were returning from their three-day study trip, their bags slightly heavier with souvenirs and their hearts lighter with memories. The familiar school grounds brought a mix of relief and melancholy, comforting in its predictability, yet dull after the excitement of the past days.
Htet strolled toward the main building alongside Liam, who had spent the entire bus ride back recounting his “epic” misadventures, much to the amusement (and occasional exhaustion) of everyone around him.
Liam (animated): "I’m telling you, Htet, that vending machine at the rest stop had it out for me. I swear it took my money on purpose. Three times!"
Htet (amused): "Maybe it might have sensed your chaotic energy and decided to save the snacks for someone more deserving."
Liam (mock-offended): "Chaotic energy? Someone more deserving?? Hmph, I’ll have you know, this ‘chaotic energy’ is what got everyone through that karaoke night!"
Before Htet could respond, Hana joined them, carrying a small bag of neatly wrapped sweets.
Hana (teasing): "Speaking of chaotic energy, how many people did you traumatize with your singing, Liam?"
Liam (grinning): "Traumatized? Please, they were blessed by your Almighty Liam!"
The three burst into laughter as they passed through the school gates. Around them, other students were greeting each other, sharing photos from the trip, and exchanging snacks. They will be having a short school day today. Despite the early hour, the atmosphere was lively and warm, a testament to the bonds strengthened during their time away.
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Morning Class Scene: Homeroom
The bell rang, signaling the start of the day. Htet and his classmates filed into the classroom, the usual chatter settling as Mr. Nakamura stepped in. His calm yet authoritative presence commanded attention, and the room fell silent as he placed a small book on his desk.
Mr. Nakamura (smiling): "Good morning, everyone. おはようございます。"
Class (in unison): "おはようございます。(Good morning.)"
He adjusted his glasses, glancing around the room with a thoughtful expression.
Mr. Nakamura (calmly): "I hope you all had a meaningful trip. Today, we’ll ease back into our routine with a discussion on a classic piece of Japanese literature: I Am a Cat by Natsume Soseki Sensei. Has anyone read it?"
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Elena raised her hand, her usual thoughtful demeanor shining through.
Elena (thoughtful): "I read it last year. It’s a satirical view of society, told from the perspective of a stray cat."
Mr. Nakamura (nodding): "That's right! Sōsek Sensei uses humor to critique human behavior. Let’s read an excerpt and discuss what it reveals about societal norms at the time."
He opened the book and began reading aloud, his voice steady and engaging. The class listened intently, some jotting down notes while others simply absorbed the story.
Htet found himself drawn to the cat’s musings, which seemed oddly relatable.
Htet (thoughtful): "It’s interesting how something as small as a cat can hold a mirror to society."
Mr. Nakamura (encouraging): "An excellent observation, Htet. Literature often reflects the world around us. It’s up to us as readers to uncover those reflections and apply them to our own lives."
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Class Scene: English Class Reflection
The next class was English with Ms. Saito, who had prepared a unique activity to ease the students back into their studies.
Ms. Saito (enthusiastically): "Good morning, everyone! Today, we’re going to reflect on our study trip. I want each of you to share one thing you learned..academic or cultural and how it impacted you."
Leila raised her hand first, her eagerness evident.
Leila (earnestly): "I learned so much about the tea ceremony. The precision and care behind each step were fascinating. It made me think about how every culture has its own way of showing respect through tradition."
Ms. Saito (smiling): "Beautifully said, Leila. Who’s next?"
Hana spoke next, her voice steady and confident.
Hana (smiling): "I think what stood out to me was how interconnected everything felt, especially at Fushimi Inari. The torii gates weren’t just beautiful..they symbolized guidance and continuity. It made me appreciate how much thought goes into preserving these traditions."
When it was Htet’s turn, he hesitated but eventually spoke.
Htet (thoughtful): "For me, it was the same. The torii gates reminded me that even if the path ahead isn’t clear, you just have to keep moving forward."
Ms. Saito nodded, her expression approving.
Ms. Saito (encouraging): "Wonderful reflections, everyone. I hope these lessons stay with you as you continue your journey."
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As the day wound down, the school buzzed with excitement about upcoming club recruitment. Posters lined the hallways, advertising everything from sports teams to art clubs.
Htet lingered near the bulletin board, scanning the options.
Hana (excited): "Are you thinking about joining a club?"
Htet (thoughtful): "Maybe. I’m not sure what, though."
Liam (shocked): "Wait..you haven't join a club yet?
Elena (joining in): “I bet even Nakamura Sensei did not realize that htet haven't joined any club yet”
Liam (grinning): “Join something chaotic. That’s where all the fun is."
Nimal (calmly): "Or something that lets you relax. Like the tea club."
Htet: “How about you Nimal? Any club that interest you?”
Nimal (grinning): “Nah, I don't have the luxury to join any club. Plus I'm already attached to you guys hehe.”
Htet chuckled, realizing that whatever he chose, it would be another opportunity to grow closer to his friends. Although he understood the perspective of Nimal he was saddened but got over it immediately.
---
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the group gathered in the dormitory’s common room for a quiet moment of reflection. Liam had brought out his guitar, strumming softly as the others chatted.
Hana (smiling): "It’s hard to believe the trip is over. It felt like we were in another world."
Leila (nodding): "Yeah, but it’s nice to be back too. There’s something comforting about familiar routines."
Nimal turned to Htet, his expression serious.
Nimal (calmly): "You know, this trip reminded me of something my dad always says: ‘It’s not about how long you stay in one place…it’s about the memories you make while you’re there.’"
Htet (thoughtful): "That’s true. I guess it’s up to us to make every moment count."
The group exchanged quiet smiles, the unspoken bond between them growing stronger with each passing day. As they said their goodnights and headed to their rooms, Htet felt a renewed sense of purpose.
Htet (to himself): “For once in a while I am looking forward to where this journey will lead me.”
—(End of Chapter 22)---