Rhythms and Secrets

The next morning unfolds just like any other for Kai. His daily routine kicks in—morning exercises, a wholesome breakfast, and a warm farewell to his parents.

With his backpack slung over his shoulder, he heads to school, blending into the steady flow of students.

School hours pass in a familiar blur of classes, practice sessions, and diligent studying. The routine is comforting, a backdrop to the unfolding events of the day.

As the last class in the Divyakar Department concludes, Kai finds himself navigating the well-worn path to the Combat Department.

The day's end draws near, and in customary fashion, his friends gather in the Training Room to share updates on their progress.

Yet, when Kai arrives at the Combat Department, a subtle shift in the air catches his attention. The usual camaraderie between the boys and girls seems momentarily altered.

Ethan, Michael, and Alex are huddled together, engaged in conversation, while the girls stand a bit apart, their voices carrying an air of confidentiality.

Curiosity getting the better of him, Kai approaches the boys, a quizzical expression on his face.

Ethan, with a calm tone, responds, "They say they're having something to discuss among themselves. Something they don't want us to overhear, apparently."

"A secret meeting, huh?" Kai ponders, glancing toward the animated group of girls.

Michael adds, "Seems like it. They're quite adamant about keeping it under wraps."

Setting the secretive atmosphere aside, Alex steers the conversation back to their progress. "Leaving that aside, how was your practice today?"

Ethan, sporting a grin, announces, "I broke through to Novice Rank Middle level."

Michael chimes in, "Same here. Today's been a good day."

Kai, with a sense of determination, asserts, "I'll be joining the Novice Rank Middle level soon."

While the boys continue their exchanges, on the girls' side, a different narrative unfolds.

Sarah, with a playful glint in her eye, poses a question, "What do you think would be the best gift for a boy?"

Emily, curiosity dancing in her eyes, can't resist a teasing tone. "Who's the lucky guy, Sarah? And what's the special occasion?"

Caught off guard, Sarah blushes, "Tomorrow is the 27th of July, Ethan's birthday. I happened to stumble upon it in the attendance record book."

A ripple of laughter cascades through the group. Rachel, grinning, adds, "The best discoveries are always accidental."

Playfully teasing Sarah, Emily urges her, "Come on, Sarah, what's the grand birthday plan?"

Sarah, with a pout, turns away, prompting more laughter.

Akane, with a chuckle, intervenes, "Alright, girls, let's give her a break. How about we focus on helping her instead?"

Aoi, Emily, and Rachel, now offering apologies, cease their playful teasing.

Aoi says, "Sorry, Sarah, we couldn't help it. You were making such cute expressions," while Emily and Rachel share a laugh.

Sarah, turning back to her friends, smiles and asks, "Alright, any ideas for a birthday gift?"

Aoi suggests, "Maybe something related to his interests? A book, a gadget, or even a gaming accessory?"

Emily, twirling a strand of her hair, proposes, "Or something sentimental, like a personalized item or a heartfelt letter."

Rachel nods in agreement, "And a surprise element. How about a good old-fashioned surprise party?"

Listening to the suggestions, Sarah ponders, "Okay, I've decided what I'll give."

The girls, unable to contain their curiosity, bombard her with questions. "What kind of gift are you giving Ethan?" they ask in unison.

But Sarah, now reveling in the suspense, playfully responds, "Not telling you guys. It's payback for all the teasing. You'll know tomorrow if Ethan opens it in front of you."

Emily teases, "Come on, Sarah, don't leave us in suspense. What's the gift?"

Akane, with a laugh, steps in again, "Girls, enough with the interrogation. We'll find out tomorrow when Ethan opens the gift."

As the day flows into the evening, the time to leave for home arrives.

The boys gather their belongings, ready to head out. The girls, with their secret plans and camaraderie intact, prepare to embark on the next chapter of the day.