Chapter 1: Troubles

'I thought it would be good to run away from home, but now where am I? I don't understand anything. I have money to last 2 more days. What should I do then?'

Kase Shigeo. Age 18. Presently in Fujisawa, Tokyo. In a state of anguish. For a boy who had everything he wished for, but currently has nothing with him. He originally thought that this would be effortless to live independently. But with no support, he eventually realized that he made a big blunder. Now he almost has little to no money to live in such a big city. He is also kind of depressed. In his mind, he thinks that nobody in his family is trying to find him.

But that's not the case here. His family members are under stress now. They are trying their best to him but with no clue, they are stuck with it. Although his brother may have a clue. He is currently heading toward Tokyo to find him. But he is also not quite sure about it.

Asateru Shigeo. Elder brother of Kase Shigeo. Asateru and Kase are 3 years apart. Asateru knows his brother very well. He understands that his father's decision may cause trouble in the future. He also kinda feels bad for him. But this is unthinkable to him as he would do something like this. But he is also hopeful about him. Kase is smart. He knows that he would be okay. But after a month, he is worried now. So eventually he decides to take this matter into his own hands.

******

It's been almost a month today. Shigeo ran away from home. Mainly due to family reasons. His father is a politician. The father wants to make his son his successor. But the son's dream is somewhat different. His uncle was a traveler. He has heard many stories from his uncle since his childhood. Inspired by him, he wants to become a traveler. But his father does not agree at all. It happened almost 8 years ago today. Shigeo's uncle died in a plane crash. As if the whole world stopped for Shigeo's father. He could not accept the death of his brother at such a young age. Shigeo's father has not yet forgotten this incident. So, even if he can fulfill all the other wishes of his son, he cannot fulfill this wish. Fear still works in his mind. If his son suffers the same fate as his brother. But Sigeo is adamant about his will. He recently graduated from school. He wants to go abroad to continue his studies. But his father is not listening to him at all. He wants to send him to a nearby university.

" Why don't you just listen to me? I just want to study abroad. I'm not a child anymore. I understand which is better for me and which is not." said Shigeo to his father in desperation.

" Enough is enough. I don't want to hear from your side. You certainly don't know how this world works. That's it. As long as I'm here, you are not allowed to go anywhere!" replied his father in an angry manner.

After having a heated conversation with his father, he is having a walk outside. Thinking about what should he do? This is maybe his first time arguing with his dad. Normally his dad is very chill with him. But this time is different. He never experiences such kind of pressure at this point in his life. But he is stubborn about his decision. He wants to go abroad to experience something new. Something refreshing. He also wants to learn about photography. His uncle was also a photographer. When he was little, he was mesmerized by his uncle's work. How beautiful were they! To him, his uncle was is an idol. A role model. But he also kind of understands what his dad is up to. He saw how his dad was when he heard about that unfortunate incident. Normally his dad is a strong man. But he never sees him crying until that moment. So he kind of expects that reaction after saying his life goal.

'Walking outside with Satoru. My childhood friend. We are friends since kindergarten. My and his father are the closest allies. I'm not sociable at all. So naturally, I have no friends in school. I don't know why but I just don't know how to talk with anyone. Maybe it's just a fear that I still have to overcome. But I don't need any friends. Because I can easily rely on Satoru. He is my best friend after all.'

Shigeo tells Satoru about his current situation while walking.

"So, what should I do then? Convincing him (Shigeo's father) is nearly impossible." Shigeo tells Satoru.

"Jeez! Your situation is kinda messed up. I'm also confused. You know what? If I were in your situation, I might escape my home. Maybe they can understand if they can't find me. They will know how passionate I am about my intent. I have some close friends in Tokyo."

' I know it's sound stupid. It is stupid. But in this scenario, I'm a bit emotional. I just don't know what to do. So I just did what I thought would be great. But I was wrong. Very wrong.'

After hearing that, the light bulb flashes into Shigeo's head. So he made up his mind. He will run away from his home. But he just simply can't run away from that easily. So he did a week of preparation. Planning every single step. From choosing a location to how to escape from home without any trace. He didn't even tell his friend who gave him this idea in the first place. He thought he might get caught if he tells anyone. So he kept his plan a secret. And eventually, manage to escape successfully.

******

Present Day at Fujiwara, Tokyo.

Shigeo is in "Carnival Cafe". He comes here very frequently. This cafe is relatively peaceful. He likes that kind of place. Where nobody is going to disturb him. He can think of himself and there is no one to interrupt him. But that's not the only reason why he comes to this place very often.

'Ah! I just don't know anything. What should I do? Maybe find a job? But how? Who gonna give me a job at this age? I also don't want to go to the house of my acquaintances. What if they just call my father? I'm done then.'

Shigeo thinking all by himself. Then suddenly-

"Hey! Are you okay? You are looking stressed right now. Can I help you?"