The Insanity of Tokyo's Shadows | Manjiro Sano

◇chapter eight◇

The campus was filled with a special atmosphere that Akiko knew all too well from her previous life. Well-kept ornamental gardens, framed by cherry trees, and stone lanterns standing silently and solemnly among the plants. Akiko paused briefly and watched the pink cherry blossoms detach from the branches in the gentle wind, gliding down to the cobblestones. Here, in the tranquility of a university garden, the hustle and bustle of Tokyo seemed to recede for a moment.

Today marked a new chapter in her life. Amidst all the new faces and lecture halls, she felt both a little lost and, in a strange way, a sense of belonging. In the seminar room, the students had gathered in front of a large board adorned with Japanese proverbs written in calligraphy, surrounding a model of classical architecture. It was fascinating to fit into student life here, balancing tradition and modernity.

After the day's first lectures and a series of polite introductions, where she introduced herself with soft words and a polite smile, Akiko finally breathed a sigh of relief as she left the building. Still echoing with the effort to remember all the new names and faces, she decided to spend the afternoon with Kaori.

---

Since her first week, Akiko had already grown fond of the lively girl. Kaori was full of energy and reminded Akiko how carefree the world could be. Today, Kaori had suggested visiting a traditional café by the river, known for its homemade matcha teas and wagashi, delicate Japanese sweets. The two met at the subway station, and as soon as Akiko spotted Kaori, a genuine smile spread across her face.

"Akiko chan!" Kaori called cheerfully, waving at her. "How was your first day at university?"

"Exciting, but also exhausting." Akiko admitted with a small sigh. "I feel like I had to remember hundreds of names today."

Kaori giggled, linking her arm through Akiko's and encouragingly said, "Then you definitely deserve a break. Let's go to the café!"

Together they strolled through the narrow streets of Tokyo, lined with small shops, gardens, and the red torii gates of ancient shrines. The scent of ramen and okonomiyaki wafted through the air at every corner, and in the little shops, yukata and traditional fans were on display. When they reached the café by the river, they were greeted by a cozy, warm aroma. The walls were covered with bamboo mats, and fine calligraphies adorned the tables. The soft light and the quiet conversations of the guests created a comfortable atmosphere.

Akiko and Kaori sat by the window and ordered matcha teas and dorayaki, filled pancakes with red bean paste. The afternoon passed quickly as they laughed and Kaori eagerly shared stories about school and her friends. Akiko felt herself slowly relaxing, and the pleasant atmosphere allowed her to forget her painful memories for a moment.

"Akiko" Kaori began thoughtfully after a while "I'm really glad you're living with us. It's like having a big sister."

Akiko looked up, surprised and touched. "Thank you, Kaori. That means a lot to me. And I'm happy that we can spend time together."

The two stayed together for a long time, as the sun slowly set, bathing the café in a golden light. It felt good to be herself again in Kaori's presence.

---

Later that evening, Akiko opened her phone and saw a message from Charlotte, Misabell, and Octavia.

The three had already started a lively conversation about their day in Germany. She smiled as she read the silly messages about the weather and Charlotte's little mishap while biking, which Misabell had called "the highlight of the day."

Without hesitation, Akiko typed back: "Hey girls, I've missed you all! Have you gotten into any trouble without me?"

Seconds later, Octavia replied: "You wouldn't believe how boring it is here without you! Charlotte almost knocked over half the café, an Akiko would have come in handy."

Charlotte quickly added: "That was definitely the bike's fault! I can't help it! And Akiko, how was your first day?"

Akiko chuckled and began to share. "Pretty good, actually, just a lot of new faces and names. Afterward, I went to a little traditional café with Kaori to unwind. She's really become a great friend."

Misabell responded quickly: "That sounds lovely! And hey, you promised to write to us every day! Tell us EVERYTHING!"

Then Octavia curiously asked: "But tell us, have you made any new friends? Do we have competition now?"

Akiko sighed softly and typed back: "You all remain irreplaceable for now! Everyone is nice here, but it's hard to really find someone I can trust that quickly. People seem very polite and friendly, but it's just different from talking with you."

Charlotte jokingly added: "Well then, we'll have to make regular trips to Tokyo to make sure you don't forget us."

Akiko smiled and replied: "You'd better come when I know my way around, then I can show you all the best spots! You'll always be my favorite chaos crew."

Akiko snuggled into her futon and typed one last message to her friends: "Girls, I'm going to sleep now. Thank you for being there."

Then she set her phone aside, closed her eyes, and as the silence of the room enveloped her, the thought of her friends made the shock of the past week slowly fade away.