Hideki Akechi

Heavy snow covers the city with a layer of silver as the wind drives busy pedestrians forward. The crunching sound made when the soles of pedestrians' shoes step on the snow adds a musical feeling to the snow-covered streets.

Romance is something the people of this city have never lost. Music lovers from all walks of life have gathered in front of the opera house, and not even the cold can dampen their love for music. I look left and right and soon find the person I'm meeting.

A young man with blond hair and blue eyes is standing in front of the steps with his hands in his pockets. Standing tall and straight with handsome features, wide shoulders, and a narrow waist, he has the temperament of an aristocrat even though he is dressed in casual clothes, which makes him very eye-catching in the crowd.

{character:player}Club president! I'm over here!

I wave as I shout out to Akechi and only stop when he notices me and starts walking towards me.

As the smart mahjong table invented by Mirai suddenly malfunctioned, I was invited to be the temporary training partner of the National University of Fuuchi Mahjong Club and attend club activities with them. The mahjong club won a friendly match at a nearby school last week, so Hideki Akechi has specially invited me to watch an opera show to thank me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}We aren't at the mahjong club. I prefer you to call me directly by my name in private.

{character:player}Sorry, I picked up the habit of calling you that from Natsuki and the others during the club training... When did you arrive? You must have been waiting for some time already.

The water vapor escaping from my mouth quickly liquefies into a fine white water mist in the outdoor environment. I suddenly shiver in the hazy fog, and bounce a few times on each leg to keep myself warm with the exercise.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I only arrived five minutes before you. There's still some time until the show starts, so do you want to take a look around the place first? This is One Han City's grandest opera house, so it'll be a waste to not take a good tour of it while you're here.

{character:player}That sounds great! It would be even better if a certain kind person is willing to explain things to me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Of course! It would be my honor.

The walls and roof made of reinforced concrete keep the cold and noise outside the building, and the marble floor is polished so brightly that it looks like a mirror and can even vaguely reflect the outline of the lights on the ceiling.

I follow Hideki Akechi and listen to him slowly introduce the history and background of this building to me. The building's obscure design concepts are conveyed in a simple and interesting way, which is refreshing and mesmerizing.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It is said that the designer of this theater got a precious luminous pearl before starting on the designs and loved it so much that they incorporated the concept of a pearl into the architectural design. That's why the theater is a massive oval-shaped building, even though most people think it looks more like an alien's UFO.

{character:player}Well, if you didn't tell me this, with my poor imagination, I would only think that it looks like an eggshell.

{character:Hideki Akechi}You wouldn't exactly be wrong. Eggshells protect the vitality inside them and give birth to new artistic creations that can break out at any time. Whether it is the Renaissance or an emerging trend, they can always usher in a new era.

{character:player}That sounds so much more interesting, club president... um, Hideki... You sure know a lot about this place.

{character:Hideki Akechi}My father loved to listen to opera very much. He believed that music can make people become better. He brought me here all the time ever since I was six years old. The most frequently we came here was about two or three times a month.

{character:Hideki Akechi}At that time, the One Han City Opera House was still a rather traditional old-fashioned building. The "eggshell" we see now is what it looks like after it was expanded.

{character:player}No wonder you know so much about the opera house...

He is never stingy with his time and energy when it comes to studying something he's interested in. Maybe that's why Hideki Akechi is such an outstanding person.

Time passes quickly. Before we know it, the show is about to start. On the way to the ticket booth, the drink shop in the opera house catches my attention. Seeing that I was interested, the employee welcomed us enthusiastically.

{character:Employee}"You love me, and I love you. Love is so sweet that it makes the winter warm." For our third anniversary, we've released a special drink called "Sweet Love." Wanna give it a try? It's not only delicious but can also warm your hands up.

{character:Employee}Buy one and get a second drink for half price. It's a great deal.

After noticing that Hideki Akechi and I are together, the clever employee immediately adds.

{character:player}Well...

The aroma of tea mixed with the faint sweetness of nectar wafts into my nose with unstoppable momentum. Without hesitation, I reach out and raise two fingers to indicate that I want two cups.

{character:Hideki Akechi}So the "buy one get the second for half price" marketing tactic does work on you. If I knew this before, I would have used a different tactic when asking you to help the club.

{character:player}That's not entirely it. Being outside for so long makes my body kinda stiff. I could really do with a cup of something hot to keep my hands warm.

{character:Hideki Akechi}...I'm sorry, I didn't notice that. Would it be better if you wear another jacket?

{character:player}No, I'll be okay. I just need a little time. Put your jacket back on first.

I reject his proposal with a wave of my hand and take the bag the employee hands over to Hideki Akechi before he can take it.

{character:player}Hmm? What's this? I thought I only ordered two cups...

{character:Employee}The gentleman next to you requested these.

I look at Hideki Akechi in confusion. He smiles and takes the bag with the tea inside and takes out the two "extra" cups.

{character:Hideki Akechi}These two cups contain warm tap water, which you can use to warm your hands. It's better to enjoy the tea since the shopkeeper worked so hard to make it.

His voice has a charismatic magic to it that makes people believe him unconditionally. I can see from the undisguised charmed look on the employee's face that he had been charmed by Hideki Akechi.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Let's go. The show is about to start, so we should get our tickets checked.

An opera show usually runs for about three hours. To not become one of those annoying people who keep going to the toilet and interrupting everyone around them, I decide to drink fewer fluids around this time. I shake my head, reject the employee's offer, and lead Hideki Akechi straight to the ticket gate.

However, I'm still thinking about that shop filled with the sweet aroma of tea when we get to the ticket gate.

{character:player}It smelled so good. I bet the tea tastes great...

I mumble to myself as we wait for our tickets to be checked.

{character:Hideki Akechi}There are so many people in the queue. By the looks of it, we'll probably need to wait for 20 minutes... {var:player_nickname}, wait for me here. I'll be right back.

{character:player}Hmm? Where are you...

Hideki Akechi turns and leaves, disappearing around a corner, before I can finish speaking.

As I get so bored that I'm about to study the posters hanging on the walls of the opera house, Hideki Akechi finally reappears with a paper bag that looks really familiar.

{character:player}Huh? Isn't this... that drink called "Sweet Love?"

{character:Hideki Akechi}I noticed that you kept rubbing your hands from time to time when we were taking a tour through the opera house earlier. I think it must be because you were outside for too long. I thought... maybe you could do with a cup of warm tea.

{character:player}So you left just then to buy me this milk tea?

{character:Hideki Akechi}You don't like it? You looked like you regretted not getting it when we left that shop.

{character:player}No, I love it. I just didn't think you would notice.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I invited you here today to thank you, so your feelings come first today.

Hideki Akechi reaches into the paper bag and pulls out one of the drinks for me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}This one is yours. It's pretty hot, so be careful not to burn yourself.

{character:player}Thanks... But your cup doesn't seem to be hot. Did the employee make a mistake?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Haha, that's because I don't need to warm my hands with a drink. I only bought two cups because...

{character:player}Because...?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Because the second cup is half price.

{character:player}...

Although Hideki Akechi doesn't look like someone who would be attracted by the "buy one get the second for half price" marketing tactic, his words make me laugh out loud.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Let's go. It's almost our turn to have our ticket checked.

Only after entering the performance hall do I realize how little I know about this "largest opera house of One Han City."

A space that has no obvious boundaries and is composed of gold and red spreads throughout the hall. Exquisite gold-plated statues are perfectly integrated into the area as decorations. Seeing the whole area in the same color gives me the illusion that I've shrunk down.

{character:player}It's really shocking that this performance hall that can accommodate 5,000 people is almost full.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Music is a medium that allows people to communicate without speaking the same language, and people only need a moment to understand the emotions conveyed by actors. This wonderful feeling is why opera shows always have such a big audience.

{character:Hideki Akechi}What's more, this performance features many famous opera actors, so I'm actually not surprised about this.

{character:player}Oh... The ticket must have been really expensive. I feel bad for making you spend so much money on it.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It's not a lot compared with your smile, which makes everything worth it. Besides, I also learned something new from you today.

{character:player}You did?!

Hideki Akechi shakes the cup in his hand gently, causing the liquid to make a distinct water sound when it hits the wall of the cup.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I was curious, so I got the same drink as yours, and it tastes so much better than I expected... How should I put it? Compared to the boba tea I usually have, its aftertaste has a romantic aroma.

Everyone enters the venue while we speak. A bell tolls three times in the theater to remind everyone the show is about to begin. I make a shush gesture to Hideki Akechi and sit upright there waiting for the curtain to rise.

{character:Actress A}I'm coming! I'm coming! Stop torturing my poor doorbell. It's... Oh, excuse me, I thought my roommate had returned. Who are you looking for?

{character:Actor B}Is this where Mr. Kane lives? I made an appointment with him yesterday.

{character:Actress A}Oh, I think you've got the wrong place. Mr. Kane lives next door. The Labrador in his garden is extremely fierce, so be careful when you pass by.

{character:Actor B}Yes, I did go to the wrong place, until you opened the door. The moment you opened that door, I realized that God must have led me here. Beautiful lady, I'm twenty-four years old, with healthy parents and a well-off family, and I'm planning to...

{character:Actress A}Wait! Why are you telling me all this?

{character:Actor B}Because I fell in love with you the moment you opened the door.

The show we're watching is called "Apricot Blossom Rain," and it is one of the ten major opera shows. This show tells the tale of a girl from an ordinary family who meets a young nobleman and how they quickly fall in love despite the disparity in their status and the constraints of secular ethics. In this tale, the father of the young nobleman insists on making his son marry the daughter of a noble family with similar status, forcing the two protagonists to break up and causing irreparable regrets.

On the stage, the actor playing the role of a young, rich, and bohemian nobleman puts on a very likable performance, winning bursts of good-natured laughter from the audience.

When he gets down on one knee in the heavy snow created by a snow machine on the stage with a rose in his hand and sings to the audience, his love fills the performance hall, so powerful that it'll move even the most indifferent person.

However... I can't shake the feeling that he's missing something... As I wonder about this, I subconsciously look next to myself.

Hideki Akechi, who is sitting next to me, is smiling calmly like always. As he sits there quietly, revealing his gentle and considerate temperament. "Now this is what a real young nobleman should be like," I think to myself.

{character:Hideki Akechi}?

Noticing my eyes on him, Hideki Akechi asks me with his eyes if I need his help. I quickly shake my head to tell him that I'm fine and focus on the stage again.

A heavy symphony is played as the stubborn and conservative father discovers his son's love affair. To him, this is a betrayal of the family, so he gives orders to lock his son up at home and force him to meet the daughter of another noble family to bring his "lost" son back on the "right" path in life.

The lovers were forcibly separated, and the young nobleman pretended to follow his father's arrangement to protect his beloved. But those who are madly in love don't think very rationally. When he learned his father planned to announce his engagement at his birthday party, he made an important decision...

{character:Actor B}Beautiful ladies, flowers, gold, and sweet smiles. Everything is so pleasing to the eye. I have an important announcement to make. Yes, right now, at my birthday party.

{character:Actor C}Everyone, I apologize for my son's rudeness. I'll have someone take him back to his room... Listen, now is not the time for you to be so headstrong. If you have any conscience at all as the heir of the family, just shut up and go upstairs, and I'll pretend that never happened.

{character:Actor B}No, father! I've made up my mind.

{character:Actor C}Be quiet!

{character:Actor B}I won't stop even if you beat my back with your cane. If you lock me in my room, I'll shout loudly every day. Even if you pull out my tongue, I'll still write down everything I want to say on paper.

{character:Actor B}I-I'm in love with a young editor of the newspaper! She's a girl who loves life and longs for freedom and romance. Even the sun pales in comparison when she laughs. I'm head over heels for her, and love her with my entire heart.

{character:Actor B}Be it the past, present, or future, she's the only one I'll love! Just like how she'll only love me. I must marry her and have her take on my surname.

{character:Actor C}Shut up, you ungrateful child! Are you crazy?!

{character:Actor B}Father, being in love with someone doesn't break any laws. I just want to give her my everything...

{character:Actor C}Why do you think you have such a noble status? Everything you have is from your family! It seems that I've indulged you so much that you think I'm soft and kind. I'll show you the fate of someone who angers the head of the family! I hope you can still be so naive after I'm done with you... Someone come and take him away! It's time for him to learn some lessons!

This young man who has always been well off never thought that one day his worst enemy would be his own father. He struggled and tried hard to convince him to change his mind, but he was still locked in a dark basement. His spirit, and even his body started dying slowly.

Seeing a free and unrestrained person get tortured until he looks like he has nothing to live for touches my heart even though I know it's part of the script.

The young nobleman, who had everything taken from him, takes a deep breath and opens his mouth in preparation to express his longing for his lover to the moonlight. I can already imagine how sad and beautiful his next poetic words will be. I and the entire audience are looking forward to them.

{character:Actor B}My beloved, for you, I'm willing to sacrifice my life to—Eh?!

However, after the actor started singing one line, the stage was plunged into endless darkness after a short cry...

{character:player}...?

The pitch-black darkness of the theater seems like it is about to drag people into the abyss. Recalling the interrupted singing, it seems that something has happened on the stage.

{character:Hideki Akechi}{var:player_nickname}, are you okay?

{character:player}I'm fine. Um, is this... part of the opera show?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Unfortunately, no. Although it sounds unbelievable... there's a power outage here at the opera house. Ahem, I knew shouldn't have chosen to watch an opera.

{character:player}Why do you say that?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Well, I actually hesitated before coming here... The most famous operas in the world are basically all tragedies, and I can never shake the feeling that they are alluding to something unlucky.

{character:player}Huh?! I always thought you were a staunch materialist. Do you actually care about something like this?

{character:Hideki Akechi}I go back to my grandma's house in the countryside every summer vacation. She has her own beliefs but never forces me to accept them. She spends most of her time taking care of the Buddhist altars at home by herself. It wasn't much later that I found out she had affected me more than I thought.

{character:player}Like not saying anything disrespectful in shrines or never saying divorce lightly? Hmm, I'm just giving examples.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Well... you can think of it like that. I don't want to think this way either, but the fact is, we encountered a power outage while watching a tragic opera at the opera house. You should know that this has never happened here since this opera house was built. I finally got the chance to invite you to something, and this happens...

There is a hint of frustration in Hideki Akechi's voice. It looks like he really does care a lot about this night out. I look at the performance hall, which is so dark that I can't even see my fingers, and don't know whether I should laugh or cry. At this moment, I don't know if I should praise his intuition or not.

{character:Staff A}Dear audience, the opera house is currently experiencing a power outage. We expect the backup power to activate within 15 minutes. Please stay calm and stay in your seat. Thank you for your cooperation.

Unable to use the broadcasting system because that requires power, the manager of the opera house can only shout through a simple loudspeaker to try to calm everyone down. The sudden power outage during the performance confuses and dissatisfies the audience. Fortunately, everyone is still quite calm for the time being, and nothing too chaotic has happened.

In addition to the shouting manager, some staff members with flashlights have appeared in the aisles between the seats to maintain order at the scene.

The flashlights return some light to the theater, and I sit completely relaxed in my chair. Using the weak light, I look at Hideki Akechi beside me. Almost as if he can sense my actions, he turns his head to me too and smiles at me.

One minute... Two minutes... Three minutes... Time passes by, second by second, seeming to flow slower than usual because of the darkness. More than 15 minutes have passed, but there is no sign of light returning to the opera house.

The staff members who are maintaining order keep walking back and forth with their flashlights. Unfortunately, for a performance hall that can accommodate more than a thousand people, the light of a few flashlights is like a drop in the bucket. The audience's patience has been exhausted by the backup power supply that hasn't been activated for some reason and the long wait.

The audience, which has been quiet for all this time, starts to protest. The current situation is really unfriendly for people who are scared of the dark.

To avoid falling and getting injured while walking, after thinking for a while, I decide to stay in my seat and wait for the lights to turn back on.

The audience around me keeps asking staff members about the situation of the power outage. As the darkness has lasted much longer than expected, I can feel that people's patience is about to run out.

{character:Audience A}Let me go! Let me go home—

The thing I was worrying about the most happened. The young woman sitting next to me on the other side is especially scared of the dark, and is having an emotional breakdown after enduring the darkness for so long. She screams as she stands and tries to feel her way out of the hall in the darkness.

{character:Staff B}Excuse me, lady, the backup power supply will be on soon. You have nothing to worry about.

{character:Audience A}I don't want to stay here! Let me go home! I want to go home!

{character:Staff B}Wait, lady—

The nearest staff member waves a flashlight while coming closer. The young woman starts moving towards the exit before the staff can finish talking. Because I'm the closest to her, I get stepped on a few times because she is moving at a disorderly pace and I can't get out of her way in time.

{character:player}Argh—

{character:Hideki Akechi}Are you okay?

Upon hearing my cry of pain, Hideki Akechi immediately turns on the flashlight of his phone. The dim light reveals a clear shoe print on my shoe, which is evidently the handiwork of the young woman.

{character:player}Thank god she wasn't wearing heels, otherwise you'll be coming to the hospital with me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I'm relieved that you're okay... The next time I invite you to watch an opera, I'll make sure I choose a comedy.

{character:player}Sure, but it looks like it won't be long until everyone's gone if this continues.

After the first person leaves, it doesn't take long before more people start to leave after losing their patience in the darkness. Under the influence of a few particularly panicked members of the audience, the scene quickly falls into chaos. Although the staff members keep yelling out for people to stay calm and stay in their seats, more and more people get up and move towards the exit in the darkness.

The sound of footsteps, banging, and mobile phones dropping onto the ground mix together... This is the first time such a chaotic situation has taken place in the theater. Fortunately, most of the audience is still rational, exiting the building in an orderly fashion.

While everyone is busy leaving the venue, the backup power supply finally kicks in, making the entire performance hall bright again.

Very few people are still in their seats in the previously fully seated hall. Meanwhile, the aisles that were empty have become extremely congested.

{character:player}...

Not in the mood to observe other people, I turn my gaze back to Hideki Akechi. Unlike everyone else in the chaotic audience, he has been smiling the whole time. Although he expressed his frustration in the darkness before, the smile on his face right now is like a beautiful mask that hides his true appearance.

{character:Opera house broadcast}Hi everyone, we apologize for the terrible viewing experience. After discussing this with the performers, we have decided to cancel this show and will arrange for you to watch another show within one week. If you are unable to watch the show due to any time clashes, you can go to the box office to request a refund.

{character:Opera house broadcast}The staff of the opera house would like to express their sincerest apologies to you all for this power outage.

The announcement is played at a timely moment, giving the audience who are leaving the perfect excuse to do so. The curtain of the stage is lowered slowly, covering up the figures of the actors who are busy packing up the props. It seems that I'll have to wait until next time to finish watching this romantic love story between the young nobleman and the commoner girl.

Since we won't be able to finish watching the show, Hideki Akechi and I get up and join the crowd leaving the opera house.

{character:player}Things are looking bad... Hmm, Hideki, what should we do now?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Oh? Are you so sure I have a solution?

{character:player}Of course. My instinct tells me that you have a way to fix this. Haha, I guess you can call it "blind" trust.

I can't see Hideki Akechi's expression in the darkness, but I can tell from the smile I hear in his voice that he is not affected by the power outage in the theater and is in a surprisingly good mood.

A staff member soon comes with a flashlight to confirm the situation. I see Hideki Akechi stand up and say something in the staff's ear, after which something seems to have dawned on the staff. It's a pity that the audience area is too noisy for me to hear what they are saying.

{character:player}What did you just say to the staff?

I asked Hideki Akechi the question on my mind after the staff left. Instead of answering my question directly, he laughs refreshingly.

{character:Hideki Akechi}You'll find out soon.

{character:player}Huh?

{character:Actor B}My dear beloved...

I suddenly hear singing in the theater, and despite the darkness around me, I instinctively look towards the source of the sound—the stage! The actors have continued their performance!

{character:player}Did you get the staff to tell the actors to continue with the performance?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Music is one of the fastest ways to quiet everyone down. This performance hall was built with the most comprehensive acoustic design control. The designer did this to allow the audience to enjoy the same opera performance with the same sound quality wherever they are sitting.

{character:Hideki Akechi}If it wasn't because the investors of the opera house forcefully expanding it into a huge performance hall that can fit 5,000 people, today's power outage would not have had any impact on the show as power wouldn't be necessary to make singers' voices heard.

{character:player}You even know these details. Did you take the time to learn about these things?

{character:Hideki Akechi}There's no harm in knowing more about things you're interested in, right?

{character:player}That's true.

Hideki Akechi's facial features are only vaguely visible to me in the darkness. He raises his right hand to make a shush gesture.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Shush—the next part is the only 10-minute solo singing performance by the male protagonist in the whole show. It was once rated as "the most touching musical love poem" by the media, and it's the part I want you to see the most today.

The ethereal singing is full of longing for his lover and his determination to protect her. Although I can't see the scene on the stage, I immediately think of the century-old castle in which the affectionate young man is locked up.

The melody, the rhythm of pauses, the beautiful harmony, and even the breathing sounds made by the actor are just perfect and gives people the irresistible urge to follow the singing and resonate with the feelings of yearning, mourning, joy, and lament.

The singing cuts through the noise and forces its way into the eardrums of every member of the audience, calming their restless hearts. The music seems to pause time and make everything gentle and beautiful. This is the magical power of music!

{character:Actor B}From the very first time I laid eyes on you, I decided that you are the one for me... I once asked myself if the person who stole my soul is an angel or a devil... But I know that you're just an ordinary girl... The thing that made me the way I am is the pure love for you in my heart...

Enchanted by the angelic singing, I turn on the flashlight function of my phone and try to illuminate the stage. Hideki Akechi does exactly the same thing at about the same time as me. He looks at the phone in my hand with his smiling blue eyes.

Spurred by our actions, the audience members around us follow suit. Unfortunately, the light of our phones is too weak and could only barely illuminate blurred figures moving back and forth on the stage.

{character:player}What a shame... We would have been able to see the actors' movements if it wasn't for the power outage.

{character:Hideki Akechi}But it also makes the performance unique.

{character:player}You're right. This solo is meant to express the conflicted feelings in the male protagonist's heart, and the darkness brings out a different type of beauty.

At the end of the solo, the male protagonist makes up his mind to resist his father's dictatorship. Fueled by his love, he escapes the cold basement and rushes to his lover's residence.

The very moment the male and female protagonists meet, embrace, and sing together, the backup power supply finally kicks in, and the lighting, choreography, and music embellish the love expressed at this moment.

{character:Actor B}I must tell you frankly that although my heart is no nobler than another person's heart, I love you with all my heart...

{character:Actress A}Love is such a wondrous word...

{character:Actor B}It is my decision to be under your spell! No matter how enviable my past status was, the truly enviable thing I have is the favor of the women I love.

{character:Actress A}I've asked myself countless times about what I was thinking the moment I made my promise to you. I know there are many sacrifices to be made in the future, but I still want to accept your rose... This idea is so insane that I feel like I've lost my mind!

{character:Actor B}Admit it, my lover, we're destined to be together forever!

{character:Actress A}I admit it, my lover, I hope we'll be together forever and ever...

I turn off the torchlight function of my phone and watch the performance on the stage calmly. Ah! Today is a great day to cry for someone else's beautiful love!

{character:Opera house broadcast}Hi everyone, we apologize for the terrible viewing experience. After discussing this with the performers, we will arrange another performance within one week, and you can reserve a seat for free with tonight's ticket. If you are unable to watch the show due to any time clashes, we will give you a certain amount of compensation for the ticket.

{character:Opera house broadcast}Lastly, the staff of the opera house would like to express their sincerest apologies to you all for this power outage.

The unhappiness caused by the power outage is soon forgotten in the singing. The three-hour performance ends quickly, and I'm still immersed in it when I walk out of the opera house.

{character:Hideki Akechi}The night is still early. {var:player_nickname}, would you like to have a coffee together if you don't have anything else planned? It'll be my apology for the power outage incident.

{character:player}Haha, no one can foresee that. It's not your fault, so you don't need to apologize so seriously.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Either way, it was my lack of foresight. I just hope you won't just remember the power outage when you recall our get-together tonight.

Hideki Akechi frowns slightly, like something is troubling him. This makes me realize that he cares greatly about what I think of tonight's incident. His serious look makes me want to comfort him.

{character:player}Life is full of surprises, and no one knows whether they will get a good one or a bad one. The power outage may have affected our experience, but the opera show was never the most important thing.

The cold breeze blows past us without stopping for anything. The snow-covered branches of an evergreen pine finally tilt under the weight as flying snowflakes dance in the air and fall to the ground.

While I'm scrambling frantically to avoid the falling snow, Hideki Akechi suddenly starts laughing.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I see. Then let me try again. I want to spend more time with you. Can I invite you to have a cup of coffee with me?

{character:player}Of course you can. That's what I was thinking too.

{character:Employee}Hi! What can I get you?

{character:Hideki Akechi}The usual signature set meal. What about you?

{character:player}I'll have the same.

{character:Employee}Great, please wait a moment.

The café Hideki Akechi chooses has an elegant environment, retro and gorgeous decorations that don't feel extravagant, and well-grown succulents placed in front of the bright window walls. The lights and sunlight blend in together on the wall, creating a tranquil atmosphere.

{character:player}The employee seems to know you. Do you come often?

{character:Hideki Akechi}It's been a while since the last time I've been here. We used to meet up at cafés for our club get-togethers as our members love the desserts here.

{character:player}No wonder you seem so familiar with this place.

Any desserts that can get Hideki Akechi's approval are definitely unique and special. With this thought in mind, I relax and hum along with the love song playing in the café.

{character:Hideki Akechi}You're quite good at that.

Sitting opposite me, Akechi nods slightly and compliments me without any hesitation.

{character:player}You heard of this song before?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Ahem, this song is quite popular recently, and I've heard a bunch of people mention it.

{character:player}I'm a little surprised that you also listen to pop love songs.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Well... um, I do listen to them occasionally.

Hideki Akechi clasps his hands together and presses downwards with his palms. According to my extensive movie-watching experience, this is a micro-movement that people make in TV shows when they feel guilty.

I think about what I just said. Did I say something wrong? Maybe he doesn't really like to listen to pop love songs?

I better change the topic. After all, I can't really imagine someone who looks as elegant as Hideki Akechi standing in a concert, waving a fluorescent stick to support idols on the stage.

{character:player}Um, I wonder if our desserts are ready yet. I'm starting to feel a little hungry...

{character:Hideki Akechi}I'll go take a look!

Although Hideki Akechi always smiles calmly, after hanging out with him more often recently, I've learned to read his micro-expressions a little better than before, so I notice that he is secretly relieved.

His smile is like a protective barrier, and I won't be able to tear it down for the moment.

It looks like I'll need to find another chance to learn more about him. Maybe he'll be willing to share more about what he likes and dislikes with me one day.

It's obvious that Hideki Akechi has trouble with topics related to pop music. The lengths to which he is trying to hide it makes me feel mischievous and want to see the embarrassed look on his face when he can no longer hide it.

And also this is a rare opportunity where I get to know Hideki Akechi better, and I obliviously don't want to miss it. So I start discussing this pop song again instead of changing the topic.

{character:player}Hideki, have you really heard of this song before?

My unexpected question freezes the smile on his face for an instant. He blinks and stops smiling, then he looks outside through the window.

{character:player}Um... Looks like I guessed right then.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Um...

The background music of the café changes again. The melody of the piano fills the small space and seems to greatly slow down the flow of time.

He opens his mouth but doesn't make a sound, as if he doesn't know what to say. Seeing him being so uncomfortable, I sign inwardly. As I'm about to drop the topic, Hideki Akechi tilts his head and starts speaking hesitantly.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I just didn't want there to be a gap between us, {var:player_nickname}.

{character:player}Huh?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Although we have traveled together, we meet at the mahjong club of the university most of the time. I'm good at managing the club, so I might have given you the impression that I'm someone who can do anything.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I thought that if you realized that there's something I'm not good at, you might get disappointed... or even lose trust in me.

After saying this, Hideki Akechi raises his head and shows me a familiar smile.

{character:Hideki Akechi}But that's okay. If you want to see this side of me, I can keep showing you this.

He said it in such a matter-of-fact way that it takes me a few seconds to realize what he really means.

{character:player}But rather than seeing you perfect in all aspects, I want to get to know the real Hideki Akechi more.

{character:Hideki Akechi}But the real me might not be that perfect. Is that okay?

{character:player}Of course. I have all sorts of shortcomings, but that hasn't made you alienate me.

His translucent and clear blue eyes flicker as if they can talk.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Sorry, I don't know much about pop music. I know more about classical music. That band called Red-crowned Crane and that song... I've never heard of them before.

{character:player}Haha, both pop music and classical music are just ways people use to express their feelings and emotions through musical notes. If I had to compare them, I would say pop music allows us to express our feelings more openly. I would like to show you if we get the chance.

{character:Employee}Excuse me, here are the two signature set meals you ordered.

The arrival of the employee with our food interrupts our discussion about classical music and pop music. I rub my stomach and find that I really am a little hungry. However... the employee seems to have brought us something more than our coffee and desserts.

{character:Hideki Akechi}...What's this?

{character:Employee}This is a mascot that we're giving out as merch for our collaboration with the Wild Music Festival. Each customer who orders the signature set meal gets one. At the same time, you can also go to the front desk to draw a prize after dining. There's a first, second, and third prize, as well as participation prizes. The top reward is two tickets to the music festival.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Wild Music Festival?

{character:Employee}It's basically an outdoor pop music performance event. Established bands and up-and-coming pop stars will perform on stage during the event. If you want to learn more about pop music, this is a great opportunity for you to go "wild" at the music festival. I think that's everything you ordered. Please enjoy your meal.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Thanks.

Hideki Akechi's eyes linger on the music festival mascot for a while. After a moment of hesitation, he raises his head and looks at me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}In that case... {var:player_nickname}, will you go to the Wild Music Festival with me?

{character:player}Haha, you've already decided that you'll win the grand prize before drawing for it? Wouldn't you feel embarrassed if you don't win the tickets?

{character:Hideki Akechi}I want to invite you to go with me even if we don't win the top prize. It would be a perfect invitation. Besides, the prize draw seems like a good reason to invite you to have coffee with me again since the chance of winning the prize is doubled if there are two of us.

His half-joking words make me feel that Hideki Akechi is no longer as unreachable as he used to be. Instead, he feels closer, like a neighbor.

{character:player}Sure thing. Then I'll be the one to enlighten you about pop music.

Hideki Akechi smiles after hearing me accept his invitation, but there's something different about his smile this time. If I had to describe what's different about it, I would say this smile is from the heart.

Oh right, the music festival... There won't be an emergency power outage this time, right?

Beep beep- Beep beep-

It is a morning on the weekend, and my alarm clock is working uncharacteristically hard playing my ringtone clearly in the quiet room. I sit up while rubbing my sleepy eyes and look at the calendar on the wall in a daze. The bright red mark on it jumps out at me, waking me up instantly.

{character:player}Oh right! I'm going to the stud farm with Hideki today!

There are no stud farms in any of the areas that I visit daily. The reason we're meeting there is...

All the members of the mahjong club start leaving after the club activities end. Seeing that Hideki needs to tidy up our club room, I offer to help him take photos of today's handwritten mahjong records for easy archiving.

Before I can ask him what I should use to take the photos, Hideki unlocks his phone and hands it to me.

{character:player}President, do you trust me that much? Aren't you worried I take this chance to spy on the secrets in your phone?

{character:Hideki Akechi}I thought I don't have any more secrets in front of you?

Although it sounds a little funny, I guess... he's not wrong about that. I touch my nose and focus on taking photos with his phone. After about 20 minutes, I finally manage to take photos of a thick pile of paper.

{character:player}You really have your work cut out for you as the club president...

{character:Hideki Akechi}It won't be long now. Thank you for helping out. You can sit over there and take a break.

{character:player}Haha, Thanks.

I lean back on a chair and check each photo I just took of the logs to see if any of them are off-focus. There are so many photos that I end up swiping the screen almost mechanically with my finger. In a trance, I finish checking all of today's photos and a photo Hideki took appears in front of me on the screen.

{character:player}This is...?

The background of the photo is a lush green field, and there are three people standing on an award platform. Hideki Akechi, the protagonist of the photo, is holding up a trophy and smiling in a way that he has hardly smiled in the twenty years of his life.

According to the timestamp on the photo, this photo was taken four years ago. It must be an important memory to Hideki if he has especially saved it to his phone's photo album.

I stare at this photo in a daze until Hideki comes over to me after finishing tidying up.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Ahem, this is a photo that was taken when I participated in an equestrian competition. Both my mom and dad were busy with work and couldn't come with me, so my coach insisted on taking this photo so they can get feel the atmosphere of this moment.

{character:player}I remember that all participants of the eventing and show jumping competitions must be at least 18 years old...

{character:Hideki Akechi}That's the requirement for large international competitions, but I participated in a municipal youth dressage competition, which is open to participants who are over 14 years old.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Actually, I started learning equestrianism because my father wanted me to, but I fell in love with this sport as my training progressed. Time always passed so quickly when I was on horseback, and the training usually didn't stop until it was completely dark.

{character:player}I see.

I nod in understanding and instantly accept the character setting of gentleman and equestrian.

{character:player}Hideki, do you still practice equestrianism? Can I watch you in person?

{character:Hideki Akechi}I'm sorry but I'll have to disappoint you. My grandma fell ill soon after I won the youth dressage competition, and my father enrolled me in lots of courses at the same time, so I had a lot less time to train.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Although I was really reluctant, after thinking about it for a while, I decided to give up on my equestrian training temporarily to free up more time to learn other things.

{character:player}What a shame... You might even be participating in international competitions by now if you didn't give up.

{character:Hideki Akechi}You're quite confident in me, aren't you, {var:player_nickname}?

His blue eyes form beautiful crescents when he smiles, but something seems missing, which gives me the feeling of regret and sadness. Although Hideki hasn't said much about the topic, I can feel that he misses the time when he practiced equestrianism.

It's inevitable to have regrets if you're forced to give up something you love. I look at the photo again and thoughtfully give Hideki some time to hide his emotions.

{character:player}Oh, who's this person?

In the photo, the young rider standing on the right side of Hideki is frowning like the "unhappy" emoji, expressing his displeasure clearly for everyone to see.

{character:Hideki Akechi}This is Levine, who was one of the leading contestants to win this competition, and he also thought he would definitely win. When the judges announced the scores, and he found out I got 0.5 more points than him, he became so furious that even the coach was like walking on eggshells when talking to him.

{character:player}Oh, so he's a "Mr. Unhappy" then.

{character:Hideki Akechi}"Mr. Unhappy?" Haha, {var:player_nickname}, you always have unique and strangely suitable insights.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I heard that he asked the coach to give him more intensive training after that competition, and he basically ate and sleep with his horse to develop a deeper connection with him, all so that he can beat me and win the next competition.

{character:player}What happened after that? Did he succeed?

{character:Hideki Akechi}After that... You pretty much know what happened. I gave up equestrianism for various reasons, so we never competed again. I did meet him again a few times after that, but I think I've... become someone he dislikes.

{character:player}Is he still upset because he couldn't beat you?

{character:Hideki Akechi}It may look like that on the surface, but...

For once, Hideki disagrees with my point of view. He shakes his head, loosening strands of blond hair that partially cover his bright blue eyes.

{character:Hideki Akechi}The reason he's like this isn't that he is sour about losing to me but because of my situation.

{character:player}Huh?

{character:Hideki Akechi}He thinks it's really sad that I gave up on equestrianism even though I have the ability to be good at it, but he can't express himself properly due to his personality.

{character:Hideki Akechi}At the end of the day, Levine really loves equestrianism.

The serious way in which Hideki explains this to me makes me aware that he doesn't dislike this "rival" of his. In fact, he even wants to become friends with him.

If he can't personally gallop on the racetracks, being able to find someone who really loves this sport to gallop there on his behalf would be a wonderful thing. This is perfectly in line with Hideki's personality.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Although I stopped doing equestrianism training, I can still give you the chance to get in close contact with the horses.

{character:player}!!!

{character:player}Does that mean what I think it means?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, the horse that won the competition with me is still living on a racecourse in the suburbs of One Han City. I'm visiting it this weekend, so you can come with me if you're interested.

{character:player}Of course I'm interested! It's decided then. See you on the weekend!

That's the end of my flashback. I look up at the clock on the wall and see that it's almost seven o'clock.

Given my understanding of Hideki, he usually arrives earlier than agreed. With this in mind, I get up quickly so that I won't be late.

Compared with the congested city center, the suburbs are far quieter. Free from car exhaust pollution, the mixture of fresh air with the faint fragrance of grass and trees smells refreshing and comfortable.

As it turns out, my understanding of Hideki is spot on. When we meet at the entrance of the racecourse half an hour earlier than we agreed, I'm really glad that I decided to leave home early.

{character:player}Hideki, good morning!

{character:Hideki Akechi}Good morning, {var:player_nickname}. To minimize the disruption to the schedule of the horses, I chose to meet you here in the morning. I hope this didn't inconvenience you that much.

{character:player}Although I really didn't want to get out of my comfortable bed, I woke up immediately when I thought about the fact that I'll be able to get in close contact with horses. Speaking of it, if you didn't tell me the address, I would never have realized that there is such a large racecourse in the suburbs of One Han City.

{character:Hideki Akechi}This racecourse runs on a membership model and is mostly promoted in the form of recommendations by members. No advertisements are placed in the city, so it's normal for you to not know about it.

After I follow Hideki into the racecourse, I am shocked by the magnificent reception hall in front of me that is big enough to accommodate hundreds of people and very vibrantly colored, reflecting the unrestrained charm of nature everywhere.

In the lobby reception hall, exquisite artworks are placed every few steps, some of which have appeared on TV before. Although I don't remember their names, I clearly remember the trail of zeroes in the price.

Not to mention, there is a huge painting of eight horses hanging on the wall...

{character:player}Is this painting the "Eight Galloping Horses" that I heard was sold for one billion Coppers on the news?

{character:Hideki Akechi}This is the last painting of Mr. Hongzhi. He announced that he would retire after this piece. Whether it is out of genuine love or for investment purposes, many collectors wanted this painting. Mr. Hongzhi was unhappy with the conflicts that arose over the painting, so the racecourse owner managed to get this painting in the end.

{character:player}Placing "Eight Galloping Horses" here is a good choice. Mr. Hongzhi would be happy to know that.

I look around me. There are exquisite works of art, paintings created by famous artists, and a luxurious reception hall... Everything around me tells me that things must be very expensive at this racecourse. Not to mention, it must cost a fortune to raise your own horse in an independent stable here.

From how Hideki would often buy afternoon tea for the club members during club activities on weekdays, I vaguely sensed that his family must be well off, but I never expected them to be this well off.

In front of me, Hideki seems to be used to seeing all this. He stops and turns to ask me a question.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Since this is your first time here, would you like me to show you around? Or do you have anything else in mind?

{character:player}I want to see your horse, Hideki—the one that you won the competition with.

Hideki came here to visit his horse, so he gladly agrees to my request. After walking a certain distance, we arrive at the stables.

*Neigh* The moment we arrive at the doors of the stables, we are greeted by the excited neighing of the horse, as if he already knew his owner had arrived and was greeting him in advance.

{character:player}He knows you're here before he sees you. Is this the spiritual connection between an equestrian and his horse?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Haha, he just heard us chatting. Horses recognize their owners with their ears, not their eyes.

As we speak, Hideki takes me into the stables. It's spacious, clean, and airy in here, and there's plenty of feed in the manger. Straw is even specially laid under the horse's feet. Even a person who knows nothing about horses knows that this horse is very well cared for.

Now that I can finally see the horse, I see that it is pure white with a long loose mane. It is well-proportioned, but its strength can be seen at a glance.

"No wonder everyone loves prince charming who rides a white horse." When I imagine this steed and Hideki appearing at the same time, I find myself thinking this.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Don't be afraid. He's very gentle and won't hurt you, so you can stand a little closer.

{character:player}Thanks, I'm just a little astonished... by how beautiful he is. This is the most beautiful horse I've ever seen!

*Snort* A streak of silver flashes before my eyes as the horse snorts suddenly and flicks his long tail gently.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Silver Snow, you can't be rude like that.

The tall horse lowers his head and makes an aggrieved expression after Hideki scolds him gently.

{character:player}His name is Silver Snow? What a beautiful name. Um, did I do something to make him unhappy just then?

{character:Hideki Akechi}It's probably because you said he is beautiful and not handsome. Silver Snow is a stallion and is obsessed with being called handsome.

{character:player}What?! He understands what I'm saying?

{character:Hideki Akechi}The IQ of an adult horse is equivalent to that of a six-year-old child. They are curious about the world and learn by imitating everything. When they are unhappy, they will throw a small tantrum and wait for someone to coax them, so don't look down on horses.

{character:player}Sorry, Silver Snow. I praised you with the wrong word earlier. You're the most handsome horse I've ever seen!

{character:Shadow Conqueror}*Neigh—*

Silver Snow neighs happily. Although we don't speak the same language, I miraculously understand what he is saying: "I'll forgive you this time."

{character:player}Hmm, he's such a proud horse.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It looks like you and Silver Snow have already cleared up the misunderstanding. I thought I would have to get you to do something to improve your relationship with Silver Snow.

{character:player}Something that can improve our relationship quickly... You mean feeding him?

I quickly grasp the key point. As Ichihime's owner, no one understands how practical this approach is more than I do.

Seeing that I'm interested in this, Hideki calls over the groom who usually takes care of Silver Snow and asks him to bring over Silver Snow's favorite carrots.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Just hand them over slowly. You'll scare him if you move too quickly. Silver Snow looks big and strong, but he's quite timid.

{character:player}Okay, I got it... Silver Snow, here's a carrot for you. I'm gonna give it to you slowly...

I carefully hand a carrot to Silver Snow. He sniffs it and starts chomping on it.

{character:player}Take your time. There's more where that came from.

{character:Groom}Silver Snow accepted the carrots so easily? That's... incredible!

{character:player}Why is that?

{character:Groom}Silver Snow has a docile temperament, but he is very cautious and never accepts food and water from people he doesn't know well. No one except for Mr. Akechi has been able to gain his trust in such a short period of time.

{character:Groom}When I was selected to be his groom, it took me half a year to just get Silver Snow to reluctantly trust me. Even though I've taken care of him for nearly five years, he still always watches my every action cautiously by the side whenever I add more feed.

The disheartened groom scratches his head helplessly and leaves with doubts running through his head because he can't understand the reason.

{character:player}Hahaha! Judging from how depressed he sounds, he must have put in a lot of effort to gain Silver Snow's trust.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Hmm... That's certainly true. I remember telling him that I can ask the stud farm to send someone else if he wants to give up, but Silver Snow seems to have aroused his competitive spirit, so he rejected my proposal immediately.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I heard the other workers say that he especially moved here and ate and lived with Silver Snow for one whole month before Silver Snow would let him approach his manger.

{character:player}What a determined person... If Silver Snow is so cautious, how did you get along with him in the first place?

{character:Hideki Akechi}My father bought him on a business trip when Silver Snow was still a foal. Due to various reasons, he kept Silver Snow in his birthplace after the business trip ended. It wasn't until Silver Snow was almost two years old that he was moved here to One Han City and officially given to me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Before then, I was training with the horses of the stud farm, so it's not surprising that I went through a rough time after I really started raising a horse. It was particularly bad when Silver Snow started shedding his teeth as one tooth just wouldn't come out, and Silver Snow was in so much pain that he couldn't eat or drink, relying only on infusions to maintain his nutrition.

{character:player}What happened after that? Did you help pull that tooth out?

As if he knows that we are talking about him, Silver Snow's huge head starts rubbing us to show his master his affection.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Haha, you seem to think that I can do anything. If you ever have the need, {var:player_nickname}, I would love to learn about it.

{character:Hideki Akechi}There was a problem with Silver Snow's deciduous tooth, and the veterinarian that came to check up on him was inexperienced and didn't dare to pull out the tooth. Because of this, he starved for nearly three months. In the end, this problem was solved after I asked my father to ask a professor from overseas to help us.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Dental problems are quite common in this type of thoroughbred horse, and Silver Snow recovered quickly after the deciduous tooth was pulled out. Somehow, Silver Snow seemed to know that I helped find that doctor and wholeheartedly accepted me as his master after that. This is why we have a better tacit understanding than other contestants in competitions and might even be why I won that competition.

{character:player}In that case, it really is incredible how he just accepted the food I handed over to him! Do I have some kind of special ability? Or am I wearing some accessories he is particularly fond of?

I look down at the clothes I'm wearing and try to find a believable reason. Hideki starts laughing next to me and raises his hand to stop me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Actually, it's not that surprising.

{character:player}Huh?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Have you heard of the saying: "A horse is like a mirror that reflects its master"? A modest master will train disciplined horses. A competitive master will raise horses that bully other horses.

{character:player}So Silver Snow is so cautious because of you?

Seeing that I didn't understand what he meant, Hideki sighs with resignation and closes the distance between us by leaning over and whispering in my ear.

{character:Hideki Akechi}What I mean is that like me, Silver Snow trusts you and regards you as someone important.

No whisper is light enough to escape a horse's ears. Silver Snow neighs joyfully again as if he has seen through the little secret between Hideki and me and only calms down again after Hideki pats his head lightly.

After saying this, Hideki quickly turns around to take care of Silver Snow, leaving me staring at his slender back with ears that are burning red.

{character:player}Ahem, I trust Hideki a lot too.

This response seems to calm Hideki's emotions. He gradually relaxes and becomes the gentleman I'm familiar with once again. Hmm... He's just as easy to coax as Silver Snow.

The breeze caresses the hay and enters the stables on this summer morning, bringing slightly warm air and a faint grassy fragrance. A thought arises in my heart as I look at the man and the horse in front of me...

{character:player}I want to try riding a horse so badly...

{character:Hideki Akechi}Of course you can. Silver Snow probably wants to go out for a walk too.

Only after hearing Hideki's reply do I realize that I spoke my thoughts out loud.

{character:player}Huh? You mean... you're willing to let me ride Silver Snow?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Don't worry, I think Silver Snow won't mind.

{character:Shadow Conqueror}*Neigh—*

As if he is responding to Hideki's words, Silver Snow stomps twice and lowers his head in a lovely manner. Seeing this, I stop hesitating and guide it out of the stable with Hideki.

A worker tells Hideki that the racetrack is temporarily closed because they are preparing for a large competition, so we take Silver Snow to the training grounds on the other side.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Hold the reins tightly and sit still. Be careful not to shift your center of gravity.

{character:Shadow Conqueror}*Neigh—*

Following the orders of his trusted owner, the steed obediently rides a few laps around the training grounds with me on his back. To my surprise, although this is the first time I've been in close contact with him, we seem to have some tacit understanding. From the corner of my eye, I catch a glimpse of Hideki who is watching me carefully at all times... Well, I guess it might just be due to his master's training.

Although it looks really cool to ride a horse, the summer sun is a little too hot for me. It isn't long before I choose to dismount, let another worker take care of Silver Snow for me, and prepare to return to the air-conditioned hall with Hideki.

{character:Hideki Akechi}{var:player_nickname}, you're very talented at horse riding.

{character:player}All I did was ride on his back for a few laps...

{character:Hideki Akechi}Don't look down on yourself. I'm usually right about people. Silver Snow loves you. If you're okay with it, can I invite you to visit him again another time?

{character:player}Sure thing! I love Silver Snow too.

{character:player}Wouldn't it be a pity to not experience riding a horse since I've come to a stud farm?

{character:Hideki Akechi}True. The stud farm allows people to temporarily rent a horse. You can choose one you like.

Hideki thoughtfully calls over a worker for me and expresses my wishes concisely.

{character:Worker}Sorry, we're preparing for a big competition here at the racetrack, so the racetrack won't be used in the next month. Only the training grounds in the stud farm can be used, but you're not allowed to gallop on horseback over there.

{character:player}That's okay. I just want to experience what it's like to ride a horse.

{character:Worker}That's perfectly fine then. What type of horse do you like? A medium-sized Aslan, a muscular Upper North, or a lighter Orlov Trotter? Each kind of horse has its own characteristics, so you can choose one according to your preferences.

Seeing that I don't know much about horses, the worker patiently explains the advantages and disadvantages of each horse to me. Although the introduction is very detailed, I am still very confused afterward.

{character:player}It's so hard to choose...

{character:Hideki Akechi}In that case, why don't we observe for a while at the training grounds before you decide? It should be time for the horses to go out for a walk, right?

{character:player}That's a good idea... Can I?

{character:Worker}Of course you can. Please follow me.

Hideki and I walk for a while behind the worker before we arrive at the training grounds. On the green field, the horses are galloping, jumping, or acting docilely, each showing a different type of beauty.

{character:Steed}*Neigh— Neigh—*

I feel myself gradually being drawn in as I shuttle through the horses and listen to them neighing.

{character:Worker}So, which type of horse do you like more?

{character:player}Um...

*Clip-clop, clip-clop* While I'm hesitating, a trainer leads a group of fine horses in front of me. The white horse at the front has slender limbs and a shiny long mane around his neck, which immediately attracts my attention.

{character:player}I've decided. I choose this horse!

{character:Worker}What an excellent choice. This is the only Akhal-Teke horse among the horses that can be chosen. It's also known as a Ferghana horse. I'll get Shadow Conqueror to come over here for you.

I feel excited that I chose such a precious horse among all these horses with my own judgment. Because of this, I'm quite puzzled when I see Hideki's worried expression from the corner of my eye.

{character:player}Hideki, is something wrong?

{character:Hideki Akechi}...Nothing. Don't worry, I'll help you.

{character:player}...Hmm?

When the worker pulls the steed over to me, I finally understand why Hideki said that.

The dark blue eyes of the steed are shining with disdain and exude strength and majesty. Sure enough, all precious horses have their own temper. It won't be as easy to get along with this horse as I imagined.

But it also triggered a strange desire to win in me. I must conquer this horse today and make him my mount.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It's very dangerous to suddenly get close to a horse that doesn't know you. You can try to call his name first to familiarize him with your voice.

Hideki has been standing closer to me ever since the white horse was brought over here, but he doesn't ask me to choose another horse. Instead, he patiently guides me through all the steps to gain the trust of a horse. Even the worker next to us praises his meticulousness.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, just like that... You can touch his neck carefully now. This will help Shadow Conqueror calm down.

{character:Shadow Conqueror}*Neigh—*

{character:Hideki Akechi}Don't be nervous. This neighing is a sound of joy. He has tentatively accepted you, so you can get on now. Hold the reins tightly and sit still. Be careful not to shift your center of gravity.

{character:player}Okay.

Although this Ferghana horse called Shadow Conqueror has a temper of its own, he is still an excellent domesticated animal, so he walks around the training ground with me on his back. To ensure my safety, Hideki stands in front of me the whole time, holding the rein tightly while I am riding.

The summer sun is not gentle at all, and even I'm sweating while sitting on the horse's back, let alone Hideki, who is leading the horse for me. After a few laps, I choose to dismount and prepare to return to the air-conditioned hall with Hideki.

{character:Hideki Akechi}{var:player_nickname}, you're very talented at horse riding.

{character:player}All I did was ride on his back for a few laps...

{character:Hideki Akechi}Don't look down on yourself. I'm usually right about people. We can come here more often in the future if you like it here.

As the saying goes, if you're bad at solving problems, then just solve the problem itself. Compared to someone like me who can only make a random last-minute choice, there's someone here who obviously knows which horse would be good for me.

{character:player}Hideki, can you choose a horse for me?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Of course I can.

Hideki is a little taken aback by my request but agrees readily anyway. Meanwhile, I'm not at all worried that he'll choose an unsuitable horse for me. This is the absolute trust I, a temporary training partner of the mahjong club, have in the club president!

After considering the information provided by the worker in the context of his own observations, Hideki chooses a petite white horse that is grazing for me.

{character:Worker}If you like white horses, there's another one that is more excellent here.

{character:Hideki Akechi}A horse rider shouldn't choose which horse to ride based on the quality of the horse. The most important thing is to choose the most suitable horse for them.

{character:Worker}I understand. I bring Shining Night over here now.

The moment this white horse is brought over to me, I instantly understand why Hideki chose him. This steed neighs joyfully, approaches me, and presses his huge head against my shoulder.

{character:player}What's he doing?

{character:Hideki Akechi}This is how horses show affection. You can rub his neck gently as it'll help him relax.

{character:Shadow Conqueror}*Neigh—*

The white horse snorts and obediently stands still to let Hideki help me get on his back before walking around the training ground with me on his back. To ensure my safety, Hideki stands in front of me the whole time, holding the rein tightly while I am riding.

The summer sun is not gentle at all, and even I'm sweating while sitting on the horse's back, let alone Hideki, who is leading the horse for me. After a few laps, I choose to dismount and prepare to return to the air-conditioned hall with Hideki.

{character:Hideki Akechi}{var:player_nickname}, you're very talented at horse riding.

{character:player}All I did was ride on his back for a few laps...

{character:Hideki Akechi}Don't look down on yourself. I'm usually right about people. We can come here more often in the future if you like it here.

Everyone loves to receive compliments, especially when the person complimenting you is President Akechi who has high standards. When I am immersed in joy, Hideki suddenly stops moving next to me.

{character:player}Hideki, what's wrong?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Ahem, nothing. Why don't we return from another route?

{character:player}Hmm...

This suggestion comes so suddenly that it's obvious Hideki wants to avoid something. Unfortunately... it's too late. I follow his gaze and see someone galloping toward us on horseback.

*Clip-clop, clip-clop* Just as the rider and the horse are about to collide with us, the rider controls the horse to side-step perfectly, stopping steadily right in front of Hideki and me.

It's obvious that this person hasn't come with kind intentions.

{character:???}I just bought this Hest Warmblood and started training it yesterday. If everything goes to plan, it'll be my partner in the next race.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It's very suitable for you.

{character:???}You haven't changed at all. Have you lost even the most basic of emotions after you stopped horse racing?

Wait a minute. Horse racing... These distinct words job my memory. Although this person's figure has changed slightly, I remember this person is Levine, the runner-up and "Mr. Unhappy" in the photo.

Levine takes a step closer and speaks in a tone that expresses strong dissatisfaction when he sees that Hideki is unmoved.

{character:Levine}You won that equestrian competition that year. How could you stop racing out of fear of losing? Are you really willing to rest on your laurels like that?

{character:Levine}I feel sorry for your horse for having a master like you.

After speaking, Levine turns and prepares to leave.

{character:player}I really want to see Hideki and Silver Snow perform together...

{character:Hideki Akechi}I can make that happen if that's what you want.

{character:player}Yeah!

Only after hearing Hideki's reply do I realize that I spoke my thoughts out loud.

{character:player}Um, would it be too much trouble?

{character:Hideki Akechi}There's a special training grounds in the stud farm, so it should be okay as long as I let the workers know. But even a private performance can't be too casual, so can I ask you to wait for me at the training grounds so I can prepare with Silver Snow?

{character:player}I accept your request. I'll see you in a bit then!

Fully aware that Hideki is an out-and-out perfectionist, I am not surprised by what he is thinking. I come to the side of the training grounds and wait with great anticipation for the free performance.

Almost as if our hearts are connected, I look at the entrance immediately when the training ground broadcast changes to background music. Hideki enters the training grounds on Silver Snow like prince charming in fairy tales and approaches me slowly.

Dressage really deserves to be called equestrian ballet. Silver Snow moves with the rhythm of the music, completing the change gallop, backward walk, half-pass, piaffe, etc., one by one... Instead of following Hideki's instructions, it's more accurate to say Silver Snow is moving autonomously.

It's so elegant! That's the only thing I can think of. Hideki and Silver Snow become one in my eyes. The horse is the rider's assistant, and the rider is an extension of the horse. The connection between the two is soft but inseparable.

After the music ends, Silver Snow finishes the performance with an amble. Enthusiastic applause breaks out in the entire training grounds, which is the best reward for Hideki, Silver Snow, and the performance itself.

{character:???}Tsk, he's still as skilled as ever. Just you wait and see, it won't be long until I become a champion too!

I hear a sullen voice behind me, which is the only discordant factor in the cheering around us. Judging from the tone, this person should know Hideki. I turn around to see who the speaker is.

However, too many people have been attracted here by the equestrian performance, so I can't identify the speaker at all.

{character:Hideki Akechi}What are you looking at?

{character:player}Oh, nothing. Hideki, your performance with Silver Snow is out of this world! I don't know how I can describe it. In short... it was brilliant!

Hideki accepts my praise graciously and nods his head in thanks.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I'm glad you like it.

{character:player}Of course I like it. I don't think anyone can not like such an amazing performance.

{character:Hideki Akechi}If you like it, I can perform for you again in the future, but I'll make some advance preparations next time to give you a performance that belongs only to you.

{character:Shadow Conqueror}*Neigh—*

On the green grass under the bright sun, Hideki, who is leading a white horse, extends an invitation to me. I don't think anyone would say no, and I won't either.

{character:player}Okay... it's a promise then.

Everyone present starts smiling, and our joyful emotions are accurately conveyed by Silver Snow's neighing.

The sun is so nice today, and the wind is so gentle.

Those words were a little harsh and were tantamount to rubbing salt in the wounds that caused Hideki sadness. Although Hideki doesn't seem to be angered by Levine's words, I can still feel that he isn't happy right now.

My body starts moving, and I call out directly to the rider who is about to leave.

{character:player}Stop!

{character:Levine}What can I do for you?

Levine is polite and courteous to anyone other than Hideki. He takes off his hat and performs a standard knight salute, but that doesn't make me any less mad.

{character:player}You should apologize to Hideki Akechi.

{character:Levine}Apologize... to him? Excuse me, can you tell me why?

{character:player}Don't you think your words were a bit excessive just now?

{character:Levine}But I was just speaking the truth. I know the Akechi family is not a family I can afford to offend, but I'm just expressing my opinion on this matter.

{character:Levine}Raising a horse shouldn't be something that the rich do on a whim. A rider who chooses to give up affects not only himself but also a horse that could have shined on the racetracks.

Levine looks down on me condescendingly from where he is on the back of his horse. His shadow overlaps with the horse's shadow on the ground.

{character:Levine}You have to admit that this is a very selfish thing to do, right?

Of course not! You don't know the whole story! As I prepare to refute him with these words, I am interrupted by a large boom that fills the air as workers drop the goods they are carrying, which makes a loud noise when it hits the ground.

This is a trivial matter that no one would care about elsewhere, but this is a serious problem at a stud farm. The horses in every corner of the training grounds are frightened and neigh restlessly. Thankfully, the trainers are with the horses at all times and calm them down quickly.

But.. there's one exception—

{character:Levine}That won't hurt you, Red Lightning! Look, someone has already picked up the cargo!

Levine hasn't established enough trust with his new horse yet. Even though he points out the thing that gave the horse a fright and pulls on the reins to divert its attention, his efforts do little good. This maroon horse called Red Lightning doesn't calm down completely, and things would be even worse if Levine isn't an experienced rider.

Red Lightning keeps making tiny movements, each of which implies that it is in an anxious state, which isn't good news. Hideki pulls me behind him quickly to protect me from the horse's hooves.

I notice that the workers in the distance are coming here, and I hope that Red Lightning doesn't go out of control before they arrive.

{character:Red Lightning}*Huff, huff...*

*Tick—tock—tick–tock*

At this extremely tense moment, I hear a very rhythmic sound. I look towards the source of the sound and see that it is coming from Hideki's mobile phone. He has turned up the volume on his phone to ensure Red Lightning can hear it.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Levine, adjust its rhythm.

{character:Levine}...I don't need to you tell me that!

Then a miracle happens just like that! Red Lightning gradually calms down after he starts following the fixed beat. Hideki keeps the music going until everything returns to normal.

{character:player}What... was that?

{character:Hideki Akechi}I just used a mobile metronome app.

{character:Hideki Akechi}A fixed beat can help horses make every step rhythmically, which helps the rider calm the horse's emotions. That's why experienced riders usually install a metronome app on their mobile phone in case of an emergency.

{character:player}I see.

{character:Levine}I didn't think you would remember that...

Red Lightning has calmed down and becomes docile again. Levine dismounts, comes up to us, and looks at Hideki with a complicated expression.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Of course, equestrianism is an important part of my life. I'll never forget it.

{character:player}Ahem, actually, Hideki comes to the stud farm very often. If he didn't, you wouldn't always run into him, right?

{character:Levine}...

This "Mr. Unhappy" is a really simple person. The anger in his eyes has disappeared now, and the change in his expression shows that he has accepted our words and his heart has started to waver.

However, he doesn't immediately shake hands and make peace with his "rival." With his head lowered, the rider asks in a muffled voice the issue he has been struggling with for many years.

{character:Levine}If that's the case, why did you suddenly give up on equestrianism...? I trained extra hard so that I could compete with you again, yet you never participated in another competition...

{character:Levine}Many people told me that you're not like me and that winning an equestrianism competition is just another glory to add to your resume, not what you really pursue...

{character:Hideki Akechi}That's not true.

Hideki interrupts him, steps forward, and looks him in the eyes.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Perhaps some people really do learn equestrianism to enrich their resume, but I've never thought that way.

{character:Hideki Akechi}A family member of mine fell ill, and I had a lot of coursework to do. I just didn't have time for everything. I thought about it for a long time before I made this decision, and I apologized to the coach and Silver Snow for this.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I regret that I can't continue to compete with you on the racetrack, but I don't regret my decision. Levine, I owe you an apology.

{character:Levine}Urgh... Is this how the people in your family talk?! That's so cheesy!

He backs away suddenly and makes exaggerated movements to hide his emotions.

{character:Levine}Um, well, I'm sorry.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Huh?

{character:Levine}I misunderstood you earlier and mocked you for so long. I won't do that anymore...

{character:Hideki Akechi}When I visited Silver Snow last time, I heard that you have a great chance of competing in an international equestrian event. I hope you do well.

Probably because he isn't accustomed to interacting so peacefully with Hideki, "Mr. Unhappy" freezes for a moment and keeps opening and shutting his mouth. In the end, he turns awkwardly to touch Red Lightning.

{character:Levine}I'll definitely become the champion! Just wait for my good news!

{character:Hideki Akechi}...Okay.

Levine mounts his horse again and leaves in the opposite direction at a faster speed than when he approached us earlier. Now he is trying to run away from Hideki.

{character:player}At least he recognizes his mistakes and apologizes sincerely.

{character:Hideki Akechi}The world would be a better place if everyone could say what they are thinking directly like you, {var:player_nickname}. Thank you.

{character:player}Why are you thanking me?

{character:Hideki Akechi}I always thought that I'll be the one protecting you when we're together, but you stood up for me today.

{character:Hideki Akechi}If I came alone today, Levine would continue to misunderstand me. It's because of you that we can untie the knots in our hearts.

{character:player}Ahem, I didn't think that much about it... I just know that he was wrong, and I had already come forward before I realized it.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, I know. Either way, I'm very happy today.

Hideki's face seems a little red, but he doesn't avoid my gaze like before. Instead, he takes the initiative to look at me and acquiesces that I've entered his personal zone.

{character:Shadow Conqueror}*Neigh—*

I can't tell which horse started neighing first, but all the horses in the training grounds start expressing their joy in their own way soon. Hideki and I also see a shining brilliance in each other's eyes.

In my heart, I think to myself that it was the right thing to come to the stud farm with Hideki.

{character:Worker}Please wait! A customer has left a gift for you two.

After our first visit to the stud farm, Hideki and I have come here to ride horses together every month. When we finished our ride today as usual and were about to go home, a worker hands us a beautiful gift box.

{character:player}It's for us? Are you sure?

I basically haven't interacted with any customer here other than Hideki, so I'm a little surprised when I hear what the worker said.

{character:Worker}Yes. The person who asked me to give this to you described your appearances in great detail, so there's no way I've made a mistake.

{character:player}Okay, thanks...

Hideki accepts the gift and thanks the worker. I step forward and open the box to find a pair of equestrian hats in different colors.

The tall hat has no wrinkles, and the length of the tongue and rope is just right, appearing simple yet elegant. Someone who can choose this as a gift must be very familiar with equestrianism.

{character:player}I wonder who gave us these gifts.

{character:Hideki Akechi}There are two letters under the hats... This one seems to be for you.

{character:player}Let me see...

I open the letter to see some flamboyantly written lines on the piece of paper—I bought this gift for you along the way to thank you for last time. Also, you really suck at horse riding. Next time, you should get someone else to teach you. Someone like me, a professional rider who is about to win the world championship.

It's obvious that the person who wrote this letter and is so obsessed with being a champion is the "Mr. Unhappy" we met earlier.

{character:player}Is this a gift to thank me for helping to absolve your misunderstanding? He has good taste... but how dare he say that I suck at horse riding! His way of talking is still as infuriating as ever!

{character:Hideki Akechi}Don't get angry, or else you'll become the next "Mr. Unhappy."

{character:player}Hmph! Hideki, you should make him remember what it feels like to be the runner-up the next time he comes to the stud farm.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Well... This challenge is a little difficult, but if that's what you want, {var:player_nickname}, I'll think of a way to make it happen.

Hideki smiles subtly. Not even he thought it would be possible for his former "rival" to become his friend.

With Hideki's permission, I read the letter Levine wrote to him. "As a representative who is participating in the FEI World Equestrian Games on the international stage, I already have higher goals and stronger opponents, but you can't lose either!"

At the end of the letter, "Mr. Unhappy" even drew a very abstract gesture that looks like he is cheering for Hideki but also seems like he is showing off his own achievements.

Tsk, what an awkward friendship you two have.

I wanted to refute him, but just as I'm about to open my mouth, I think of Hideki's attitude whenever he mentions this person, so I decide to give up because he probably doesn't want to have any conflicts with Levine.

After Levine leaves, I walk up to Hideki and pat his shoulder to console him.

Although Hideki doesn't seem to be angered by Levine's words, I can still feel that he isn't happy right now.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It's okay, {var:player_nickname}. I'm already used to this.

{character:Hideki Akechi}He's just angry that I gave up equestrianism. He doesn't bear any malice, so I hope you won't take it to heart.

{character:player}I... understand.

Seeing that Hideki is still speaking in support of him, I suppress the surging emotions in my heart.

Although neither of us mentions him again in the following activities, our emotions were affected by this episode, and the date ends in a hurry.

{character:player}A list of competitors in the FEI World Equestrian Games...?

The title of this push notification catches my attention instantly. I press it and am not surprised to see a high-definition ID photo of "Mr. Unhappy."

{character:player}"Levine will represent us in international equestrian events. Let us wish him excellent results." ...I see, so he has already become such an amazing rider...

The reporter who wrote this article hasn't hesitated to describe Levine's achievements will all kinds of flamboyant words, but "runner-up in the youth group" is particularly conspicuous among the various competitions mentioned.

The runner-up from back then has become a rising star in the equestrian world, but the champion, Hideki Akechi, who also loves equestrianism, had to give up this sport. I sigh deeply in my heart and feel sad about how fate plays tricks on people.

I wonder what Hideki will think when he sees this article. Maybe... only he will know.

In the country where the mountains are lush and rivers are slender, I rest against the window after returning home. The spring breeze doesn't understand what the rain is thinking, yet it smiles as people bustle about in alleys in the rain...

Attracted by the tranquil and serene scene described in this elegant poem, I set aside a weekend to visit this leisurely old town not far from One Han City to feast on this unique scenery with my own eyes.

However, things never go according to plan in real life. Soon after I arrive in the old town, my mobile phone, which has the crucial task of navigating my path, chooses this time of all times to go on strike and can't be turned on again despite all my efforts, so I have no choice but to ask the only person around me at that time—a child playing on the road—for help, and the child readily draws a super simple version of a map leading to the scenic spot for me.

Because of this, I'm now "happily" lost!

{character:player}Where... am I?

The complicated layout of the streets and the white walls and black tiles that all look the same have made my poor judgment even worse. Every corner looks so familiar yet so foreign to me. Maybe it's because I'm too far away from the main street, but I can't see anyone around me. Holding a road map that is no longer useful, I have no idea where to go.

{character:player}I should go back the way I came. If I can still find the way I took when I came here...

{character:???}{var:player_nickname}?

Just when I feel completely lost, I hear a familiar voice from behind me, which is a godsend to me in my difficult situation. I turn around and see Hideki Akechi walking briskly toward me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It really is you. I thought I mistook someone else for you. Why are you here?

{character:player}Well... It's a long story.

I shake my phone with its completely black screen and tell Hideki how I got lost.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I see. All the buildings have the same style here, so it's really easy for tourists visiting for the first time to get lost... Your phone going on strike is also a rather "deadly" problem.

{character:player}Hideki, are you also here to sightsee? ...Hmm, wait a minute, you are not lost as well, are you?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Haha, I'm not lost. After all, I count as half a local here.

{character:player}Eh?!

{character:Hideki Akechi}The Akechi family house is right here in this old town. I used to come here to live with my grandma for periods of time during the holidays.

Hideki's eyes seem to embrace the sunlight when he mentions his grandma, giving off a clear and gentle light.

In the past, Hideki told me a story of the town he lived in when he was a child. The place he described was like something from an ink painting, untouched by the dust of the mundane world and far away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

It can even be said that Hideki's influence is the main reason I was attracted to come to this old town after seeing its promotional information.

{character:player}So this is the place. What a coincidence...

{character:Hideki Akechi}When it comes to visiting an old town, no one knows how to appreciate its unique beauty better than a "local." If you don't mind, let me be your tour guide.

{character:player}Aren't you here to take care of something? Won't I get in your way?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Not at all. I just have a habit of coming back here when I'm free to take a look around the place. After all, this old town is filled with many warm memories of my childhood. This is the only place where I can temporarily free myself from some of my heavy burdens and enjoy a relaxing holiday.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Since you're not saying no, I'm going to take that as a yes. Is there any place you want to visit in particular?

{character:player}Since I'm here, how can I not visit the famous block that has been trending online? There must be something special about it to become a scenic spot.

{character:Hideki Akechi}The block that has been trending online? Got it.

If being able to meet someone who can help you when you're lost is considered lucky, then I must be super lucky to have run into Hideki in this foreign old town.

With him around, everything is arranged so well that I can just sit back and relax, letting him take care of deciding the route and pretty much everything else. Hideki doesn't disappoint me and quickly takes me away from this deserted street to a lively scenic spot.

The old town described in the poem has a serene and tranquil temperament, but the neighborhood in front of me has a unique rural atmosphere and a certain vitality that can't be ignored.

Unlike the urban commercial strips filled with high-rise buildings, the bustling crowds and shops here seem to be a thing of the last century. In the crowd, some people sing and drink as they walk, while others look around everywhere as they walk around in the summer breeze.

{character:player}Hmm... Until seeing things here with my own eyes, I would never have imagined that white walls, black tiles, and colorful neon signboards could appear in the same scene so harmoniously. I think it's worth it to come here just to experience this unique scene.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Haha, you're happy with just this? {var:player_nickname}, you're such a happy and easily satisfied person.

{character:player}As they say, "life is short," so why shouldn't I try to enjoy it while it lasts?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, you make a good point. That must be why I always seem to relax when I'm with you.

{character:Crowd}Amazing—!

The sudden burst of applause in front of us interrupts our conversation. A booth over there is surrounded tightly by a crowd, and some performance seems to be going on. Even the children passing by are begging their fathers to hold them up so they can see. The continuous cheers manage to arouse my curiosity, making me stand on my tiptoes to try to see what's going on in the middle of the crowd.

As I look around everywhere, a pair of strong hands grab my sleeves and helps me up the stone steps by the road. Like a loyal knight, the owner of these hands opens up a space that seems like paradise for me in the middle of the thick crowd.

{character:Hideki Akechi}You should have a better view from here.

The extra height expands my field of vision, allowing my vision to pierce the dark crowd and see a white curtain.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Ah, it's a shadow puppet show. No wonder so many tourists have been attracted here.

{character:player}Shadow puppet show?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, it's a traditional form of art that originated among the people. In a shadow puppet show, artists tell stories by manipulating silhouettes of cardboard characters behind the curtain and using percussion and string instruments. It's a very unique form of expression.

{character:player}It sounds so fascinating. Why have I never seen any performances like that in One Han City? Wait a minute, why does the story being told right now sound so familiar...

Accompanied by the performer's special singing voice, a member of the local gentry with burly arms and a thick waist appears on the curtain, instantly attracting my attention.

{character:Shadow Puppeteer}She should be embroidering dragons and phoenixes in her boudoir since she's the young lady of her family. Instead, she set her sights on studying in Hangzhou. She's just too willful...

{character:Shadow Puppeteer}I miss her too much to let her travel so far... Yet I'm afraid her illness will become worse if I don't let her. I can't make up my mind...

The young lady dresses up as a man to go to school and falls in love with a poor man in her class. Soon after the two express their love for one another, she receives a letter from her father telling her he has arranged a marriage for her. The daughter returns home with her lover, who wins her father's approval with his talent. In the end, the two tie the knot, attracting thousands of butterflies to congratulate them on their wedding day.

The performer's movements make the paper puppet move every so smoothly and naturally that it almost seems to be alive. Fascinated by the show, I feel like I had become a character in the play. It isn't until the performer turns off the lights and walks in front of the curtain that I come back to my senses.

Clapping and cheering for the show are the best ways of showing appreciation, so I don't hesitate to give it my highest evaluation.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It looks like the performer is in a good mood today.

{character:player}The tipping basin in front of the curtain is overflowing with copper coins, so it's only natural that the performer is happy.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yeah... but that's not all. I watched his performance soon after this block was developed, and he also performed today's Butterfly Fairy Tale.

{character:Hideki Akechi}But last time, the father forced his daughter to marry the rich playboy he chose for his daughter, going as far as to separate the lovers and forcing his daughter's lover to die. His daughter also chose to die instead of obeying him, committing suicide on her lover's tombstone on the way to the wedding ceremony. After that, they both turned into butterflies and flew away.

{character:player}It's said that people usually prefer a tragic ending for the protagonists, but I prefer a happy ending for this show.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yeah, that's what I think too. Actually, I was a little worried at the beginning because I thought this might be another tragedy that hints at bad luck...

Hideki's eyelids lower, and he looks a little uneasy. It seems that last time's accident put the young club president under a lot of pressure. I touch the top of his head where his light gold hair is warmed by the sun. Without realizing...

{character:player}The club president is so cute when he expresses his true feelings to me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Huh?

Oh no! I said what I was thinking out loud!

{character:player}Hahahaha... Nothing. By the way, I think today's events are not an omen of bad luck but a joyful reunion, which is a good omen.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Is that what you think? ...Hmm, I also think that today's show is a good omen.

Hideki smiles as he reaches out to help me down the steps. It looks like his mood has improved.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Where are we going next?

{character:player}You want me to pick a place?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yeah. I've realized that my luck improves when I'm with you. You're like my "lucky star," so I want you to pick the next place.

Probably because I'm influenced by the shadow puppet show, I can't stop myself from walking towards the booths in the entertainment area to experience elegant folk arts up close again.

It turns out that my decision is absolutely correct. I saw a woman walking on stilts, a fire-breathing young man, and a stunt performer who showed everyone how to "walk" on water by moving quickly through the air... My experiences during this time reminded me that there really are a lot of talented people all around us.

{character:player}If I ask the performers to teach me, do you think they will take me on as an apprentice?

{character:Hideki Akechi}As they say, it takes ten years of practice to shine for one minute on stage. Many of these performers have been doing this since they were little. I'm afraid you won't be able to leave this town in the next ten years if they accept you.

{character:player}Um... I'll need to reconsider then.

{character:Hideki Akechi}If you're just interested in folk arts, maybe you can learn something simpler first.

{character:player}What do you mean?

Following Hideki Akechi's gaze, I look at a booth in the corner. Unlike the other booths that are attracting tourists with difficult performances, the owner of this booth is a middle-aged man wearing ordinary clothes who neither shouts out loudly nor takes the initiative to solicit customers. He is just sitting there, fanning himself with his eyes closed, only opening his eyes occasionally to cheer for the passing performers.

If not for Hideki Akechi's reminder, I would have just treated him as a very leisurely tourist.

As we get closer to the booth, a faint ink fragrance surrounds Hideki and me. When I see the rice paper and ink spread out on the table, I instantly understand what makes this booth special.

{character:player}Live painting? In an era where most people draw on digital boards, this form of painting has become quite rare.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Although you're right about it being a painting, this form of painting is called blow painting to be precise.

{character:Booth Owner}Oh? I didn't think any young people would still know about this form of art.

The booth owner who is reclining on the seat sits up and stretches lazily. He takes out a homemade cigarette from his pocket, puts it into his mouth, and takes his time walking over to us.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Are you a painter from Qingyun Dojo? My grandma loved your paintings, and I always saw a few new blow paintings with the "Qingyin" stamp on them whenever I came back to visit her every year.

{character:Booth Owner}It's no wonder that you know so much about this.

{character:player}Qingyun Dojo? I think I saw that name on the ad screen at the entrance here. It's a dojo where painters who have all sorts of painting styles gather together.

{character:Booth Owner}It sounds so posh. Just think about it literally. Blow painting is a form of painting where the painter "draws" by blowing onto ink or paint on paper instead of using a brush.

{character:player}A way of painting that doesn't require a brush...

{character:Booth Owner}Our ancestors used stones to paint on stone walls and also painted directly with their hands... Brushes are by no means irreplaceable in the painting process.

Seeing that Hideki and I are genuinely interested in blow paintings, the booth owner decides to give us a live performance. He straightens his messy air and starts to focus. His lazy and dispirited demeanor disappears, and even his eyes seem sharper.

As if it understands the instructions it was just given, the paint scatters and rushes in different directions, moving according to the strength of the blowing, and eventually forms a picture of a peculiar shape.

{character:player}It looks so easy...

{character:Booth Owner}Haha, it isn't very difficult to start off with. Would you two like to make a blow painting to give to someone important to you? I vouch with my character... um, my wallet, that it'll be a meaningful gift.

{character:player}Right now? Um, don't drawing lessons usually start with sketching cubes and triangles?

{character:Booth Owner}You are very demanding of yourself, I see. But creation is about doing whatever you want. Even if the shape isn't perfect, your painting is a good painting as long as viewers can sense its charm.

{character:Hideki Akechi}This is the first time either of us try this, so please be patient with us.

{character:Booth Owner}Don't worry.

{character:Booth Owner}Blow... Blow... Keep blowing... Blow over here! It's looking great. It's easy, right?

"My brain knows exactly what to do, but my hands don't" describes my situation perfectly. I feel a little short of breath after blowing for a while, but I finally manage to draw a simple plum blossom painting with the booth owner's extremely hands-on teaching.

{character:player}I take back what I said earlier. This is hard!

{character:Hideki Akechi}I think it's impressive that you managed to complete a painting even though it's your first time doing a blow painting. You'll improve quickly as long as you practice more in the future.

After teaching me, the booth owner collapses into his chair and doesn't want to make any more comments. It seems that he's finally realized that teaching me how to make a blow painting is a very tiring activity. On the contrary, Hideki, who has just finished his painting, observes my work carefully and points out some deficiencies, which brings back my confidence that had just disappeared.

{character:player}Ahem, if the booth owner is as gentle as you, Hideki, I think I would have done better... Sorry, he didn't have much time to teach you because he was busy helping me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It's okay. I learned a lot from what he told you. As they say, all artists are eccentric, so we need to learn to be accommodating and tolerant.

{character:Booth Owner}Hey, I can hear everything you're saying!

Hearing the booth owner feigning to be angry, I offer timely words of praise, expressing my admiration and appreciation for folk art.

{character:Booth Owner}Alright, alright. No flattery you can say will be better than if you can show me a good painting you made yourself. But... this painting here is pretty good. Aren't you going to take it with you?

The booth owner is standing in front of another table and asks this question while pointing at Hideki's painting on the table, which reminds me that I haven't seen Hideki's painting yet.

{character:player}Oh yeah, let me see your painting.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Um, well...

I walk over to the other table quickly and look at the paper on it. There is a smiling figure on the snow-white rice paper. Although it looks a little abstract, I can still recognize with one glance that it's me!

Hideki looks a little nervous after following me here and seeing my reaction to his painting.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Sorry, by the time I realized, I had already... Um, I've pretty much finished with it.

{character:player}So this is what I look like in your eyes.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Um... not entirely. Due to skill limitations, I don't think I managed to express even one-thousandth of your excellence.

{character:player}But I already think it's amazing. I love it! If you don't mind, can you give this to me?

The dense leaves of the trees on both sides of the road form a huge umbrella for tourists, and the warm breeze carries the fragrance of the pagoda tree through the crowd. After staring blankly for a few seconds, the corners of Hideki's mouth curl into a good-looking smile.

After that, he gives me the blow painting he made. My silhouette is reflected in his clear blue pupils.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Of course you can have it, but I'll do my best to make something better. I hope you'll let me exchange that painting for this inferior one when that happens.

The club president's perfectionism is acting up again! But things seem different this time. Instead of just being about making the painting more perfect, his eyes are filled with expectations—expectations for growth.

{character:player}Sure.

{character:Booth Owner}I might as well see things through to the end. I'll make an exception and frame the pictures for you this time. Just leave me your address, and I'll send you the framed paintings after a while. I hope you two will watch over each other and keep helping each other in the future!

{character:player}You're already losing money by giving away paint and paper, and now you're even framing it for us for free? Will your business last like this?

{character:Booth Owner}Haha, I'm not really running this booth to sell paintings. I just want more people to know about blow paintings so that this art won't disappear in the river of time.

{character:Booth Owner}You don't need to be courteous with me, young man. Treat it as a gift for your grandmother. The support of your grandmother and other old folks around here is why the dojo is still running. Thank her for me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Thank you... I think she already knows.

After saying bye to the owner of the blow painting booth, Hideki and I go straight to the food area to appease our grumbling stomachs. After running around for so long, I feel physically exhausted and sit on a bench by the road to rest after eating and drinking my fill.

While traveling, it goes without saying that you have to taste the local specialties! Without any hesitation, I take Hideki with me to the booths in the food area.

In the hands of the booth owner, it doesn't take long for common ingredients like eggs, starch, white sugar, and water to become a golden round cake. The sweet smell brings out the glutton in me and makes my stomach growl unceremoniously.

{character:player}"Sanbunian, or non-stick imperial pudding"? What a funny name...

{character:Hideki Akechi}Haha, the name of this local snack implies that it won't stick to the plate, chopsticks, or your teeth when you eat it.

{character:Hideki Akechi}According to the legends, an emperor passing through this area in ancient times tasted this dessert at the home of a local official. He thought it had a smooth and pleasant texture and just the right balance of sweetness and saltiness, so he gave this dish this name and made it an imperial cuisine.

{character:player}An imperial cuisine? Then I simply must try it! Hmm... What's this taste... It seems a little... fishy and salty?

To describe the taste with one word is somewhat inaccurate as a hint of a spicy fishy taste spread in my mouth at first, followed by a mellow and fragrant aftertaste.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Hmm... That should be the deep-fried fish skin you're tasting.

{character:player}That's also a local specialty?

{character:Hideki Akechi}That's right. After it is marinated in a special way, a mandarin fish is washed and dried before it is deep fried with a special sauce. Although it smells quite special, the meat is extremely smooth and tender, and it has a unique taste.

{character:Hideki Akechi}In the past, when fishmongers wanted to transport their fish inland to sell them, they would spray lightly salted water on the fresh fish when loading them to prevent them from going bad. That's the origin of this dish.

No matter which booth I stop at, Hideki seems to know something about the snacks they are selling. In addition to being able to briefly explain the preparation method of each snack, he can even tell me related legends and stories. He is an amazing food commentator.

There's no way that an ordinary food enjoyer will know so much about these dishes. After listening to Hideki's explanation of another local snack, I express my doubts.

{character:player}Hideki, you even know about this?!

{character:Hideki Akechi}Well, actually...

{character:Elderly Man}Oh, if it isn't the well-behaved boy from the Akechi family?

Before Hideki can answer me, an elderly man who suddenly appears next to the food stall interrupts him and pats him on the shoulder very naturally before passing over two piping hot skewers of meat that are fresh off the grill.

{character:Elderly Man}Is this your friend? Here, take these skewers on the house. You don't come back often, so you should eat more while you're here!

{character:Hideki Akechi}You've been saying that to me every year since I was a child... {var:player_nickname}, let me introduce this man to you. This elderly man lives next to my family house. This first-class chef is the owner of this snack bar.

{character:Elderly Man}Hahaha, you flatter me. I am no first-class chef. This snack bar is still running thanks to people like you who are willing to patronize my business.

{character:player}Well-behaved boy...?

{character:Elderly Man}I'm referring to Hideki. Compared with my naughty grandchild, Hideki has always been so well-behaved since he was a child, so I call him that.

{character:Elderly Man}It feels like it was just yesterday. You were only this tall at that time, and you were completely covered by the countertop when you came to help your grandma with the shopping. I heard a voice but couldn't see anyone... I thought I encountered a supernatural event in broad daylight.

{character:player}Hahaha, so something that interesting happened in the past.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Ahem, that's all from a long time ago... We'll stop holding you up from your business for now. I'll visit you at home a little later.

{character:Elderly Man}Good boy. I heard some acrobats are having a performance here today. You can take your friend over to watch.

Seeing that we're chatting about interesting things that happened when he was a child, Hideki interjects just in time. The elderly man also stops talking about this. He smiles and waves and even recommends another place for us to go.

Hideki heaves a sigh of relief. As we're preparing to leave, the elderly man leans toward me and "whispers" in my ear.

{character:Elderly Man}He's doing this on purpose because he doesn't want you to know about the embarrassing things that happened in his childhood, hahaha.

{character:Elderly Man}A few days ago, he came to me especially to ask about the local snacks, so I guessed he was thinking of showing someone important to him around the town. That person must be you.

{character:Elderly Man}Haha, this child thinks he can hide everything well, but once you get to know him, you'll realize that everything is so obvious.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Ahem, okay, we need to go to the next place now. We'll chat later.

The elderly man's "whispers" are really not whispers at all. I see a flush of red spread from the tip of Hideki's ears to his cheeks. Finally, at this moment, he pulls me away from the booth like we're running away from it, and the elderly man's hearty laughter follows us all the way.

After leaving the food area, on the way to the entertainment area to watch performances, Hideki and I tacitly say nothing. We walk slowly, one behind the other.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I...

{character:Hideki Akechi}I...

Just as I open my mouth he turns his head like he is about to say something to me, then we look each other in the eye and burst into laughter.

{character:Hideki Akechi}You don't need to take his words to heart.

{character:player}Why is that?

{character:Hideki Akechi}I don't want to give you any pressure. I... want you to just have fun today.

{character:player}Well, I really am having a lot of fun, but... He said you made a lot of preparations for someone important. That... shouldn't be me, who you happened to meet on the street by chance, right...?

I drag out the sound of my words on purpose. Sure enough, the red color I saw earlier returned to his cheeks again. It seems that this old town really is a place where he lets down his guard completely. He is so cute like this. If I don't take this opportunity to "bully" him a little, I feel like I won't get the chance to after he returns to One Han City and becomes that unpredictable young heir again.

{character:Hideki Akechi}{var:player_nickname}, I never realized you had such a wicked side to you. It seems that this trip really is a very "worthwhile adventure" because it has given us the chance to learn new things about each other.

The midsummer afternoon sun warms the breeze slightly, which makes the air between us warmer when it blows past our ears. Hideki seems alarmed. He clenches his fist with one hand and puts it next to his mouth, then he coughs lightly and turns around as if he doesn't want me to notice his slightly red cheeks.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I was thinking of inviting you to visit this town and have some fun, but I didn't expect I would run into you here, so I couldn't prepare for this trip as well as I was hoping to.

{character:Hideki Akechi}When I've prepared everything next time, I hope you will accept my invitation and come here to experience this place again. Is that okay?

{character:player}Sure.

With Hideki leading the way, we soon arrive at the entertainment area to watch performances. There are so many different types of folk arts to see, but it's a shame that I'm already exhausted after running around for so long already, so I can only sit on a bench by the road to rest.

{character:player}I can finally get some rest! Wow, it takes so much stamina just to tour around... I really envy the people who live in the area because they can come and experience something fun and different every day.

{character:Hideki Akechi}You're right, even this old town has such a lively block now.

{character:player}That sounds a little strange to me... Didn't you live in this old town in the past? Why does it sound like you're just as unfamiliar with this place as me?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Well... As I got older, I spent less and less time here, so I missed out on its changes.

As he speaks, Hideki points at the block in front of us.

{character:Hideki Akechi}In fact, until I went to university, this street was just a plain dirt road. There wasn't even an asphalt road here, and a thick layer of dust and sand rises whenever a car drives through it.

{character:Hideki Akechi}At that time, people used to set up a mahjong table under the pagoda tree at the intersection and invite others to play with them. Those who couldn't get a seat at the table would stand beside it and wait for the next game. They would even borrow chairs from the shops on the street when watching people play.

{character:player}It's a very warm scene.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yeah, which is why the plan to develop this town didn't go well at first. Everyone was afraid that their peaceful days would be ruined and the town's original order would be lost.

{character:Hideki Akechi}However, when the whole world is developing rapidly, it's sometimes unavoidable to make choices you don't like. Just like this old town, which now looks completely different from how I remember it.

I look at the intersection of the block. A huge screen displaying a map of this scenic spot now occupies the quarter. The dilapidated small mahjong table is no longer there.

Hideki seems to be going through an emotional moment while looking at the bustling neighborhood. He also seems to be looking into the distant past at the same time.

{character:player}No matter how this old town changes, one thing is certain—the happiness in your memories will never fade away. Even if high-rise buildings are built here in the future, this old town will always be the same town that brings you happiness if you never forget its past appearance.

{character:player}Those beautiful, tranquil, and warm parts of your past will always belong exclusively to you. They will always be memories that belong exclusively to you, Hideki.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Memories that belong exclusively to me...

Hideki repeats my words under his breath, then his eyes become brighter.

{character:Hideki Akechi}You're right. I already have many things that are worth protecting. I shouldn't obsess over the past.

{character:player}Yeah! And if we keep creating new happy memories, when we look back, our memories will be full of happy scenes.

{character:Hideki Akechi}In that case... let's go to this old town's only mahjong dojo to have an exciting match.

{character:player}Huh? Don't you think you're changing the topic too suddenly...?

{character:Hideki Akechi}I want {var:player_nickname} to also have beautiful memories of this old town, and there's no question that mahjong can make you happy.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Don't underestimate the mahjong experts of this old town though. If you don't pay attention, they take all your points.

{character:player}I see you're egging me on. It's not very wise but it's working! Let's go to the mahjong dojo. I'm not going to do my best!

When I recall my trip to this old town many years later, I remember Hideki's smile and the extremely rare True Nine Gates on the mahjong table.

Like Hideki said, we all gained irreplaceable exclusive memories.

{character:player}Well... I can't think of anything good since you asked me so suddenly. Since you're such a good tour guide, Hideki, can you plan the rest of the trip?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Of course I can. Let me see... {var:player_nickname} might like to go to...

The soft chirping of birds fills my ears. Crips and melodious sounds mix with the fragrance of the soil. Hideki tilts his head and thinks for a while before bursting into laughter.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Follow me. I've thought of a place you should like.

I thought Hideki would take me to the newly developed block of the old town. Instead, he took me to a sparsely populated old alley.

The old alley is not at all wide, and the years have left their marks on the bluestone road. The wind blows at a moderate pace, sweeping fallen flowers all over the bluestone road and spreading their fragrance to farther places.

Children who are chasing ducks, kind old people, desperate parents who are helping their children with their homework... This old alley doesn't reject me, an outsider, at all. Instead, it generously embraces me, showing me a type of liveliness and vitality that is completely different from the bustling crowds of the famous block.

Hideki, who is walking at the front, is very familiar with this place and would stop from time to time to remind me to be careful of loose stone slabs.

{character:player}Hideki, do you come here often?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Well... I guess. Whenever I came back to my family house, my grandma would always request me to get off public transport at the entrance of the ally and walk through the old alley alone to find her. Sometimes I'm carrying so many things that I need to stop to rest two or three times along the way.

{character:player}I wish they would make the alley wider, then cars can drive inside here directly, and you wouldn't need to have such a hard time.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Actually, I'm the opposite. I like how it is now.

{character:player}Oh? Why is that?

{character:Neighbor A}Ah, it's the boy from the Akechi family. You are back? Is it the summer holidays again?

A concerned greeting interrupts our conversation. Hideki looks at me apologetically and turns his head to greet the neighbor politely.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, and I'll be staying here for a while this time.

{character:Neighbor A}If you need anything, come to me at any time. Don't be shy.

{character:Neighbor B}Hideki, we just picked some fruit from the trees at home. Take two home with you for a taste...

{character:Neighbor C}These are sunflower seeds from my garden. I guarantee you'll like them!

{character:Hideki Akechi}Thank you...

I follow Hideki, watching as a bystander as he greets the enthusiastic neighbors. Everyone shows kindness to him from the bottom of their hearts, and Hideki gradually relaxes amid the warm greetings. At this moment, he isn't the almighty president of the mahjong club but a child loved by elders.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Sorry, I didn't expect that to take so much time.

{character:player}It's alright. I think... I understand why you like this place. No one can refuse such sincerity.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, it's more accurate to say that I like this close neighborhood instead of this old alley... Ah, we're here.

Hideki takes me in front of a tall gatehouse. Exquisite carvings are carved onto its walls, and green creepers cling to its steeple-shaped sloping roof, giving it a dignified yet gentle appearance.

{character:player}This is...

{character:Hideki Akechi}You should have guessed by now, right? This is our destination, the Akechi family house.

{character:player}!!!

{character:Hideki Akechi}The most attractive thing about an old town isn't its unique buildings but its unique slow lifestyle. I thought you would be able to experience that most directly here.

{character:Hideki Akechi}My father has never come here again since my grandma passed away due to an illness. I am currently the only one living here, so you don't need to worry about disturbing others.

As Hideki opens the gate, an antique courtyard fills my vision. The pavilion, pool, poolside pavilion, and evergreen pine and cypress trees all complement each other and are embellished with white jade railings and glazed tiles of various colors, coming together to show an ancient charm.

But that's not all. The pergola with lush branches and the lovely well in the corner make the courtyard look much warmer. It can be seen that Hideki's grandmother was a person who loved life.

{character:player}This place doesn't look like it is almost always vacant...

{character:Hideki Akechi}I make some time to live here for a short time during my vacation every year, so I've arranged for some people to take care of the family home.

When I think that this is where Hideki lived when he was a child, I can't help but want to get closer. My feet start moving by themselves...

The most attractive thing in the whole courtyard is undoubtedly the grape vine trellis in the corner. Of course, it's not just because I'm thirsty and want to have some fruits after walking for so long, but also because my intuition tells me this vine has a story.

As I sit on the bench under the vine trellis, a sweet aroma with a slightly herbal smell hits my nostrils, giving me an irresistible urge to close my eyes and take a deep breath.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Grapes are in season right now. Want to try some?

{character:player}Can I?

Hideki answers my question with his actions. He picks a bunch of grapes, washes them with water from the well, and hands them to me on a plate. The grapes are plump, with a watery figure faintly exposed under the purple skin, pretty much inviting people to eat them.

I take one grape and bite it gently in my mouth. Its sweet and sour juice fills my mouth instantly as a cool feeling travels from the tip of my tongue to the bottom of my heart, banishing the summer heat from my body.

{character:player}It's so sweet...

{character:Hideki Akechi}My grandma personally selected this grape seedling, and she especially requested for the sweetest breed. When I was planting it later, I accidentally broke a leaf by stepping on it, which distressed grandma for a long time.

{character:player}You planted it yourself? Wow, that's interesting all right, but it's difficult for me to imagine you sweating profusely with your sleeves rolled up as you dig holes and fill them up.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Now that I think about it, it was really hard. I had to make more than a dozen trips back and forth just to transport the sandy loam soil. After planting it, I had to fill it up with soil and pack it tight myself... However, the only thing on my mind was: "I'm about to have my own grape vine", so I didn't care about how tired I was physically.

{character:Hideki Akechi}If I knew at that time that this vine would become a place to get shade as well as a stage of horror, maybe I wouldn't have been so eager.

{character:player}Stage? Grape vines? It's very misleading if you only say half of your sentence like this...

{character:Hideki Akechi}To be precise, it was my grandma's exclusive stage.

The branches and leaves of the grape vines all reach out for the sun, forming a patch of green shade over the bench. Hideki sits down beside me, and the light shining through gaps leaves mottled dots on his clothes.

{character:Hideki Akechi}During the day, this vine is a hero who holds an umbrella to block the sun. When the sun sets, it shows us another side of itself.

{character:Hideki Akechi}The branches and leaves prevent moonlight from pouring in, making this part of the bench darker than everywhere else. When the evening breeze blows, the whole grape trellis will make a rustling sound, as if something is hiding behind your back...

{character:Hideki Akechi}Grandma loves to tell me ghost stories in an environment like that. For example, the tale of the little girl in the red suspender dress, the 13th step that suddenly appears, the rattling sound beside the railway, the woman wearing a huge mask who suddenly appears after school...

{character:player}And then she will take off her mask and ask you: "Am I beautiful"? I've heard that story. She'll try to kill you no matter what you say. I was troubled by this for a long time.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Haha, yes. You can laugh at me if you want, but after hearing this ghost story, I found an excuse to make our butler, Mr. Ayame, drop me off and pick me up for a whole semester.

{character:player}Haha! Does this count as childhood trauma that your grandma inadvertently gave you? Did she know about it?

{character:Hideki Akechi}It wasn't really inadvertent. That was basically grandma's goal.

{character:player}Huh?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Because of my father's influence, I am used to keeping everyone at a "safe distance" from me to prevent them from knowing what I really think. I was also like that with my family.

{character:Hideki Akechi}But grandma disagreed with that. She believed that the whole family is the backup of every member in it, so everyone should be close to each other.

{character:player}Which means your grandma told you a ghost story on purpose to make you ask for help?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, you're absolutely correct. Grandma would also deliberately scare me occasionally. I guess this counts as one of her... bad habits.

{character:player}What did she do...?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Oh, I've been meaning to ask you. Where did you buy the doll on your shoulder?

{character:player}...What doll?

Hideki suddenly mentions something completely irrelevant to what we were talking about. I stare at my empty shoulders for a while before realizing... Is it possible that he saw something supernatural?!

While I'm thinking this, a cold gust of wind blows by my ear, making my hairs stand on end. Frightened, I move to the other side and grab Hideki's sleeve.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Things like that.

{character:player}...STOP RIGHT THERE! I don't want to have any nightmares tonight!

{character:Hideki Akechi}{var:player_nickname}, you can lean on me. I'm most willing to lend you my shoulder.

{character:player}Is this how your grandma used to comfort you?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Grandma likes how I held her hand tightly when I was afraid. She said that's how a child should act, and that they should crawl into the arms of adults when they are afraid. So, although I was no longer frightened by ghost stories when I started high school, I still occasionally pretended to be scared to cheer her up.

{character:Hideki Akechi}It's been a long time since I've sat and chatted with anyone under the grape vines like this since grandma passed away. Thank you for agreeing to come. Now that I think about it, since I met you, I seem to have done many things I never thought I would do.

{character:Hideki Akechi}But I don't dislike that and even find myself hoping for these things to happen sometimes. For example, when you moved towards me without hesitating just now, I suddenly figured out that I want to see more sides of you and show you more sides of me, Hideki Akechi.

Hideki holds my hand and looks at me.

{character:Hideki Akechi}If it's possible, please let me be someone you can rely on.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I...

{character:Hideki Akechi}You don't have to answer me so soon. I just want to tell you how I feel. Please don't let this weigh on your heart.

The flowers blooming in the morning sun swing their petals, and a breeze picks up in the peaceful courtyard, making the grapevines rustle, as if they have answered for me. Hideki smiles with his eyes and extends an invitation to me again.

{character:Hideki Akechi}This fragrance... Do you want to try some pagoda tree flower cakes?

{character:player}Aha, it's rare for you to change the subject so abruptly, Hideki, so... what exactly is this pagoda tree flower cake?

{character:Hideki Akechi}In short, it's a dessert made out of flowers.

{character:Hideki Akechi}According to folklore, if you plant a pagoda tree in front of your door, wealth will come naturally. Almost every household in this old town will plant a pagoda tree outside their door, so the courtyard is filled with the fragrance of its flowers every summer when the flowers bloom. Adults will pick the flowers and make them into desserts, and some gluttonous children would even secretly pick the flowers and eat them directly.

{character:player}Elders like your grandma should believe quite strongly in folklore and feng shui. So there must be pagoda trees planted here too, right?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, there's one outside the courtyard door. Do you want to take a look?

{character:player}Of course. I also want to have a good taste of these pagoda tree flowers.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I'll pick some extra flowers for you then, but remember to wash them thoroughly before eating them.

{character:player}Got it!

On a hot summer day, it's a human survival instinct to stay close to water. I don't know if my mind is playing tricks on me or not, but I feel like it's colder around the well, so I can't resist reaching out to touch the inner wall of the well and greedily absorb the coolness.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Be careful, I'm lowering the bucket now.

{character:player}Oh, okay...

Hideki easily lifts the heavy wooden barrel, sinks it into the well, then tightens the rope in his hand and pulls it up to the ground bit by bit. The barrel only shakes slightly during this time, and not even one drop of water is spilled out.

{character:player}I thought you were the weak type, Hideki, but you're surprisingly strong.

{character:Hideki Akechi}That sounds a little ambiguous. According to what happens in TV dramas, now I need to prove to you that I'm very strong, and this will take place in the dead of night.

{character:player}Ahahahahaha... Are you the same Hideki Akechi I know? Or did my ears play tricks on me?

Hideki chuckles where he is standing, seemingly satisfied with my reaction. His smile is as gentle as always, but there's also a trace of slyness in it, as if he didn't really care about his bold words just now.

I can see that Hideki is very relaxed in this courtyard filled with his childhood memories. At least... he has learned to make a joke.

{character:player}Oh, it feels so cool... It's such bliss to wash your hands with well water in summer.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Let's keep the happiness coming then. Let's chill some fruits. In addition to grapes and lychees, why don't we also chill a watermelon?

Hideki puts the fruits in a wooden barrel and skillfully sinks it into the well water. I look at his busy back and find it difficult to link him with that young heir who was always smiling in One Han City.

{character:Hideki Akechi}My grandma taught me this method. Any fruit that is soaked for a while in the well will become cool and refreshing. One time, I was lazy and put fruits inside the water tank in the corner of the courtyard, but the final effect was nowhere near what I wanted.

{character:player}Hideki, so even you will slack off? I thought you're a machine that never slacks off.

{character:Hideki Akechi}When I first started living here with grandma, many neighbors thought the same thing about me. They would praise me for being a good child whenever I helped out with the housework. For a long time, the kids in the neighborhood hated hearing the name "Hideki Akechi" the most.

{character:player}Oh... I think I can understand how everyone is thinking.

{character:Hideki Akechi}By all rights, having such a sensible and well-behaved grandson is something to be happy about, yet grandma never praised me for these reasons.

{character:player}Why is that?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Well... Let me think about my wording... I know—grandma thinks children should be lively, and it's very important to be "naughty."

{character:Hideki Akechi}Grandma tried all sorts of things to make me more lively. For example, she would make time every day to take me out to play with my friends or buy a bunch of snacks to "tempt" me... Some time later, grandma found out that I was unmoved by these and would sigh whenever she remembered this.

{character:player}Haha, your grandma is such a lovely elder.

{character:Hideki Akechi}That's why I always have some regrets. If I can turn back time, I should be able to do even better.

The topic is starting to get heavy. The relaxation Hideki shows in this courtyard is also a way of making up for the regrets of his youth.

I want to comfort him, but I'm also afraid of mentioning something that will make him sad, so I don't answer for a while. Hideki very keenly notices the change in the atmosphere and changes the subject with a smile.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I don't know if you noticed or not, but the air around the house is slightly sweeter than at the place where you got lost. According to folklore, if you plant a pagoda tree in front of your door, wealth will come naturally. Almost every household in this old town will plant a pagoda tree outside their door, so the courtyard is filled with the fragrance of its flowers every summer when the flowers bloom.

{character:player}Speaking of that... it does seem to be the case.

{character:Hideki Akechi}There's also a pagoda tree planted at the Akechi family home. It's just outside the gate of the backyard. Would you like to go and take a look? When I was young, children around my age would often climb the pagoda trees to pick their flowers and eat them. Occasionally, they would encounter unfriendly bees and end up being chased around.

{character:player}I hope that won't happen to us today.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I can't promise you that. You don't need to worry though, because I'll protect you.

Hideki insists on taking care of the physical flower picking activity, which gives me a lot of free time to look at this tree that "was transplanted here since the Akechi family bought this old home and has witnessed all the history of the Akechi family."

It really is... a massive pagoda tree. According to my visual inspection, not even two people are enough to fully hug its trunk. Being in such close contact with the tree makes me feel that I have been infused with the rich fragrance of the pagoda tree.

{character:player}Hmm? There seems to be some pattern carved here.

A familiar badge mark on the trunk catches my attention. If I remember correctly, this is a magical seal that appears when a hero and a heroine sign a contract in a classic manga many years ago. Counting back the years since this manga was released with my fingers, I come to the conclusion that the only person who could have carved this mark on the trunk is Hideki.

{character:Hideki Akechi}You're really observant. Even I've forgotten about this. I think I did this when I was in elementary school to record a buried secret.

{character:player}Is it similar to how the protagonist of the manga writes a letter and puts it inside a tree hole so he can take it out and give it to his crush when he grows up? Secrets are seldom delivered accurately. This type of plot usually belongs to the deeply affectionate deuteragonist.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I did get the idea to bury a letter for myself from the manga, but it has nothing to do with a crush. Come to think of it... it's been almost ten years since I buried this secret.

{character:player}"Ten years has passed! Let's welcome the return of the Dragon King!" According to how the manga goes, everything will be revealed now.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Haha, you do make some sense. Let's get moving then.

Thanks to Hideki's proactiveness, we dig down vertically along the marks on the trunk and soon find a slightly rusty iron box.

He reaches out to brush off the dirt on the iron box and keeps rubbing its corners like he is hesitating about something.

{character:player}Should I give you some privacy?

{character:Hideki Akechi}That's not it. I'm willing to share everything about me with you. It's just that this letter... I was ten years old at that time, and I had a massive argument with my father. I was very emotional when I wrote this letter and write many of my negative and extreme thoughts in it.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Now that I think about it, even I think those conflicts are insignificant, but they put tremendous pressure on me when I was just ten.

Hideki has always shown everyone his capable side and rarely reveals his fragile and confused emotions. I take a step forward and stand opposite him.

{character:player}Whatever is written in that letter, it is part of the past that you can't change. What's important in life is the present and the future.

{character:player}Our predecessors teach us to use history as a mirror to learn what we've gained or lost. If you treat the letter of the past you're holding as a mirror, maybe you'll have a better idea of what you really want.

{character:player}After all, the Hideki Akechi I know isn't someone who runs away from things.

*Chirp* A sparrow flies over suddenly and finishes my sentence. Hideki's eyes are surprisingly bright as he gently opens the box that has been buried for many years.

To our surprise, the letter inside the box isn't the letter of resentment and anger he wrote as a child.

{character:player}"To my grandson Hideki, if you see this, I hope you think of me and smile." Huh...?

{character:Hideki Akechi}This is... a letter grandma wrote to me.

I woke up in the middle of the night and discovered your little secret by accident. I swapped your letter without your permission. Although I don't know if you'll come back for it in the future, I still want to say sorry to you.

Hideki, are you now a junior high school student, high school student, university student, or have you already started working? Have you found someone you like yet, or are you still always alone?

Haha, don't be shy. You know grandma won't make fun of you. Actually, none of those questions are what I care about the most. What I really want to ask you is: are you living happily now?

Happily. Yes, that's the word. Whether you're an ordinary person or the future successor of the Akechi family, your happiness should be the only criteria that you base all your decisions and actions on.

Grandma hopes that you are opening this letter in a happy and cheerful situation. That's my only expectation for you. —Your grandma who loves you forever.

This short letter contains all the expectations of an elder for her grandson, and it is surprisingly concise. Through the gentle and neat handwriting, I feel like I can see the kind old woman who is sitting in front of a table worrying about her grandson late at night.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Since I was a child, my father taught me that I need to grow up to become a good politician and shoulder the responsibility of the entire Akechi family. He arranged a lot of homework for me, which took up almost all my time, to ensure I would be an outstanding successor to him.

{character:Hideki Akechi}But I'm not a robot who can accept and follow all his instructions perfectly. The more pressure he put on me, the more I wanted to resist...

{character:Hideki Akechi}Although I ran for the position of president of the middle school student council and the president of the mahjong club, deep in my heart, I have always been rejecting matters related to them because I feel that my personal success reflects the success of my father's education.

{character:player}But you're so suitable for these roles, don't you think?

{character:Hideki Akechi}Yes, so I tried to ignore that feeling and the joy in my heart. When I did this, I felt happy and at ease.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I never wanted anyone to discover that, especially my father, but it seems like it isn't important anymore.

Hideki folds his grandma's letter again and stores it carefully in his bosom.

{character:Hideki Akechi}The letter lets me know that I have always been loved by many people too. My life belongs to me. I don't live for my father's or my grandma's expectations.

{character:Hideki Akechi}I shouldn't be swayed by other people's opinions and perceptions because I am irreplaceable in my own life. If I am to answer grandma's question now, I think... I am happy, and I will choose a life that makes me happy in the future.

{character:player}I'm sure your grandma will be happy if she could hear you say that.

{character:Hideki Akechi}Thank you... I'm sure she'll be even happier if she knows that I brought you here to our family home because this directly answers another question she asked in her letter.

{character:player}...Eh?!

The sun hides behind the clouds, creating the most suitable atmosphere for the moment. Hideki walks up to me and raises his hand to take a petal that has fallen on his head.

{character:Hideki Akechi}In the future, can I invite you to come here with me often?

{character:player}Yes...

We can't disappoint our elders, right?