Third person POV
Akira's parents, siblings, and relatives are present at his father's side in the Japanese home. Most of Akira and Hachi's classmates and teachers, as well as some friends from the village, are also present, making the birthday party a crowded one. The first floor of the house and the front yard were decorated with Japanese and Western-style birthday decorations. The food was served in catering dishes in front of the window in the front yard and some in the dining table. Most of the people in the house were talking to each other and doing some final preparations for the party. A pile of gifts for Akira is piling up in the living room.
"Hey, we're home…" Akira said to them.
Everyone in the house heard that and looked at him and Hachi, who were standing in the gate of the house.
Those people then were delighted to see them.
"Welcome back home, mga anak!"
"Surprise!"
"Happy birthday, Akira!"
Akira was happy to hear all that, before he and Hachi entered in, alongside Toshi and Htet.
Some of the relatives were happy to see him and Hachi, and one of the Filipino soldiers, Theo Paulita of Ilocos Norte, the Philippines, went to Akira and Hachi and said to Akira, "Happy birthday, Sir Akira!"
"Woah! You don't have to be that formal, Theo-san." Akira was overwhelmed by his address towards him.
Theo then chuckled a bit. "Okay, okay…"
The soldier then looked at Hachi. "You must be Hachi, right?"
Looking at him with some distrust because of his traumatic past, Hachi responded shyly, "Yes…it's me…nice to meet you, sir."
"Yes, me too as well. Don't worry, me and my comrades are here to celebrate Akira's 18th birthday and keep this place safe just in case something bad happens."
"Oh…um…okay…"
Akira then explained to his soldier friend that Hachi has distrust on most people, before revealing the reason why.
Because of that, Theo and most of his comrades then got that, understanding Hachi's feeling and pain.
Meanwhile, Toshi and Htet introduced themselves to Akira's family and relatives, who were very nice to them.