Chapter Two: A Chosen Candidate
In the infirmary of my grade school, I had a nice friendly chat with my new friend, Chihiro. Despite she has a timid personality, she is actually quite pretty smart with computers, she told me about her interests in computer programming, as she spent most of her time outside school hours, developing softwares or new programming technology that benefitted a lot of people from different industries like medic, game developers and many more. All this coming from a petite girl with execptional talent. She told me that her dad pretty much taught her everything he knew, a computer geek. I found it quite interesting since I had also learn the fundamentals of programming for certain competitions like robotics and miniature cart racing against other schools, I developed interest in anything activity whether it was sports or academics. I blurted out my inner thoughts, "Really nice to have such an amazing talented friend like you, Chihiro. Wish I had met and known you sooner." Chihiro gave a cheerful smile, a little embarassing but it brightened my day. "Me too, Hanako. Maybe next life?" She said. "I really hope so. Say, Chihiro-san. Could I come over to your house and meet your family after school? I would want to familiarize myself and know you better, that is if you don't mind?" I asked her while trying not to look too thrilled, have to act natural anyway.
In my mind, I kept on repeating the words, "Please say yes." over again. I did not want to get my hopes down. "Like a playdate? For sure! Looking forward to have you there, Hanako-kun." She agreed with excitement and I could not thank her enough for giving me the chance to truly understand her. After finishing our long talk, we proceeded to our classrooms to begin the next class until it was the homeroom period before dismissing us. In class, the teachers only taught us how to master new words and basic foreign language to better communicate when meeting someone new. But, it wasn't even a minute later, the students began running around the classroom, playing tag, flying paper airplanes and jumping up and down endlessly. If that wasn't bad enough, the teachers didn't give two cents on calming the students down as the classroom was being thrashed as the result of too much childish prattle. I just focused on the lesson, ignoring these insane, naive students with minds' of a six year old and I even thought the possibility that they would behave better. I could also see Chihiro, covering her head while crouching under her desk, in hopes of not getting dragged into their play zone. I waved my hand back and forth, informing her to come over to my table as I pulled a nearby chair for her. She quietly snuck past the students and took a seat next to me. We then took notes of the lesson, knowing what really matters for the future - education. Probably our only ticket to enrol into an elite school but I'm not even sure if I could secure a spot to one. Until that day comes, hopefully, I will be focusing on being a better me now. Although I had some problems with picking up the lesson, Chihiro helped me through by bring up a tiny, portable computer, surfing the net to showing me what I missed. "Thanks Chihiro." I said. She just nodded with a smile and started recording the lesson for referencing. After classes have ended, all students burst out through the classroom doors like a stampede, glad the door was still in one piece, a second later, the door was detached from the frame and fell down. Chihiro-san and I were astounded in a depressing way on how simple these peers of ours were, with a slight drop of sweat flowing from the back of our heads. That explained where our school's funds ran were spent on. We walked out of the classroom and approached the school gates where the pick up point was. I could see my mom, wearing a white blouse and brown pants, waving at me.
I ran straight to my mom with Chihiro trailling behind me. "Hello, my baby G. How was school? Is this adorable looking girl your new friend?" She pulled me into a hug, everyday. Not that I dislike it, but could she do it somewhere less public. "Yes mommy. School was fun, sorry I got into a fight today. And yes, mom, this is Chihiro Fujisaki, an awesome programmer." I answered each question and introduced her to my mom. Chihiro whispered into my ear, "You mom is very beautiful and loving, Hanako-kun." I then blushed at that remark and Chihiro just giggled before greeting my mother. "Good afternoon, auntie. Your son, Hanako is r-really a nice and sweet f-friend to me. He got injured while saving me from bullies." after bowing and smiled at her. My mom's heart went aflutter after receiving her greeting, my brain froze for a minute after seeing my mom turning into butter, even Fujisaki-san blushed further and was lost for words. Killing the awkward vibe, I asked my mom whether I could go with Chihiro to meet her family and she just agreed immediately after I promised to tell her everything when I got back home.
After getting permission from my mom, my mom got into her car and waved to the two of us goodbye and told us to take care of each other, typically what moms always say to their kids. We then started walking to the south district to where her house was situated. Along the way, she told me that it was nice meeting her, aside from the cringing moments. We both laughed simultaneously upon that understatement of the month. Also, she added that I was pretty lucky to have her as your mom and I agreed because it was the truth. My mom has always been my one and only support, after since my father left us. My mom was dedicated to become the sole and only breadwinner in the family to provide me the chance of education. She had this perception of seeing things in a different light, the good side of things. I always love her faith and belief of hope for the better tomorrow, she was everything to me. I don't know what kind of child I would be if I were to make her sad but I made an oath to repay her by making her happy and nurture the very thing she gave me - hope and love. After making several turns and crossing streets, we made it into the neighbourhood of her home. I could sense it was very peaceful and quiet. I could see young kids playing ball and teenagers basket balling. I wondered if Chihiro plays together with the people here if she was into sports. "Alright we're here. Welcome to my home. It was a quite huge house with a garden inside were I could see field of flowers blooming. The house was no doubt bigger than mine, it has three floors even I got a little 'jelly'.
She opened the gate and locked it when we entered the compound at the front door. Then, I dusted my shirt and adjusted my collar, looking presentable. "A good impression goes a long way." I thought to myself. Chihiro was about to ring the doorbell but I insisted that I did it. Once the doorbell rang, Chihiro opened the door and called out to her dad, "Father, I'm home and I invited a friend over." Her dad came rushing to the front door, nearly tripped but instantly recovered as she checked on her after the bully incident today. "Chihiro, dear. Are you okay, tell me where it hurt, sweetie?" He asked anxiously. "Father, I'm fine. I'm tougher than I look, you know?" She answered with a little self esteem. Then, she pulled me over on the wrist, "I made a new friend, Hanako. He helped me stand up to those meanies i school." When introducing me to her father, I was a little silent until her father suddenly shook my hand up and down, "Oh my! Thank you so much, young man for helping my daughter. And you are a friend of my Chihiro?" thanking me probably a million times in seconds. "I-it is nothing, sir. Just helping a fellow friend." I stammered while I accepted another thousands of his handshakes. "Actually, Mr Fujisaki, I also have your daughter to thank for helping me to the infirmary to be treated." He was really relieved and glad to see his daughter and I getting along after telling me that she didn't get to make that many friends when she was younger either. Slowly, I began to see that we were similar than I thought, somebody who experienced the same as I did.
"It is great to meet you in person, Mr Fujisaki. Chihiro told me a lot about you and your work of software engineering is a second to none and taught her vast knowledge of programming. It's like she is a computer wizard!" I emphasised how awesome it was having a talent that ran in the family. "Well, I wouldn't say the best but we take pride in our work. But my daughter really was one of a kind. She even started working on AI technology." He accepted compliments modestly and I could tell he was grateful to have such a beautiful child. "Mr Fujisaki, Chihiro actually studied about Artificial Intelligence?! I thought that was just science fiction. That's incredible!" I was so hyped about AI, actual machines that can think and act like a normal human with self-learning capabilities.
Mr Fujisaki then asked me whether I would like to see his and Chihiro's project. "Who wouldn't want to see it, sir?" I answered with a question. He was delighted and welcomed me to spend time with Chihiro while he prepared lunch. I took a look around the main hall and living room, it was vast and really cozy. Then, Chihiro asked me to follow her to her workplace up the staircase and I did. I could see family potraits of her and her family. She was really pretty in those dresses of hers with her dad in his thirties and her mother with a lab coat. However, there was a picture of Chihiro that caught my attention but before I could take a closer look, she asked what I was waiting for. I then just walked away from the photo, probably unimportant.
Inside the room, I stared in wonder of so many computers, gadgets and gaming consoles. It was like a techno Disneyland. She showed me her computer and the computer displayed a microphone icon on the screen. All she did was say her name and the computer was turned on. "Was that a voice recognition security? That is so wicked." I asked in amazement. "Yup, want to see something cooler?" She said and I nodded. She showed me that she can create games with the gadgets and softwares she and her father created. I told her that some of these games are popular ones that gamers make videos on their channels. After working her magic, she transferred the programme and application codes into a nearby console. The screen suddenly switched on remotely and I could see that it was a Mario Kart 8 game but I told her that it wasn't going to be officially released until the end of the year.
"You are the first to view the game, Hanako-kun. My father and I worked on this in the last three months." She explained. "But, if you and your father created the game then shouldn't your family be famous for bringing joy to people's lives?" I asked her, curiously wondering why. "We only introduce the game to the gaming corporation and in exchange for our contribution, they funded us reasonably but only if we gave them the credibility of the game." I felt that it was unfair to just give them credit but she told me that it was better to just cooperate. "Are you up for it, Hanako-kun? Ready to game?" She challenged me to a game of Mario Kart. "Well, I guess, the game isn't going to play itself. Challenge accepted!" Both of us began our engines and was ready to accelerate. It was just a matter of time, I'm going to win. I know I can.
After 10 minutes of racing, I sighed and lied down. "I lost. Great game. You win, Chihiro." I admitted defeat with sportmanship. "Yeah, I did. Woo hoo!" She seemed to be having a blast, I enjoyed the time together too. "I asked her whether was she a secret E-sports 'gamer'. She just answered, "No, but who knows someday perhaps..." We burst into laughter. After gaming, we did our little homework session. We asked each other questions and we gave our thoughts and opinions. Took about only 5 minutes, completing homework was nothing.
Later, Chihiro's dad called us down for lunch. We headed down as soon we heard the call. Downstairs, I pulled out a seat for her and pushed it closer to the table once Chihiro seated. She thanked me for the kind gesture and I replied that I was happy to help. Mr Fujisaki made rice served with Japanese curry. Chihiro and I thanked for the food and one whiff of the aroma, it tingled my tastebuds. I took a bite out of the rice and went 'mmmmm'. "Mr Fujisaki, it's so delicious!" I expressed how tasty it was, loving his cooking. He was glad that I enjoyed but what really joyed about was that Chihiro and I were already close friends. Later, we had a talk about plans after graduating grade school. Apparently, he and Chihiro were continuing their project to design programmes for hospital use and create cutting edge technology. Also, the AI they will finish in the coming years. I found that an awesome plan. But, it was unclear to me what was my goal. "That is awesome, love to see it someday. But, I don't know what I will do next."
Mr Fujisaki and Chihiro recommended some choices like pursuing medic, engineering or even a specialist. But, I just said that was the problem which was I couldn't decide what and I could just take them on even sports and arts. "Thanks for the recommendations but I just couldn't decide. Sorry." I answered with a sad tone. "Hanako, it's alright. Everyone has their time when they find their life goals. You are a good kid with a good heart, hardworking, dedicated in academics and sports. I'm sure you will find your calling soon." Mr Fujisaki tried to cheer me up, telling me my time will come when I know my ambitions. Chihiro then suggsted an idea, "I got it. Hanako-kun, why don't you travel around places in Japan? You could learn something about yourself." I gave the idea some thought and it hit me. "That's it! If I want to know my goals, I won't find any answers by waiting. I need to find myself and meet new people, maybe there are people who understands us, Chihiro, looking for the exact same thing." I finally got some insight and I was so excited that I hugged Chihiro unknowingly and she hugged back. Mr Taichi Fujisaki just adored the cute moment, and he took a quick photo that brought me back to reality. Before I realised, both our faces were flushing red as I withdrew myself and we noticed the camera. "Dad!" Chihiro wanted to tell him not to do that. "Chihiro but it's just so adorable. I want to remember this moment." Really hoping he would delete that, but I'm guessing he won't.
Anyway, I finally found a clue and I will be setting off on my journey soon. It was already evening, and it was time for me to take my leave. "Chihiro-san, Mr Fujisaki, thanks for having me over. I'm truly grateful and blessed to meet you. Could I come over again sometime?" I thanked with utmost gratitude. "Of course, Hanako. You are always welcome here." He smiled at me and granting me the chance to come over visiting. "Chihiro-san, good bye. I had a great time with you." I gave my goodbyes to my friend and she replied with a smile, "Me too. See you in school tomorrow, Hanako-kun." I nodded my head and was about to leave while Mr Fujisaki went inside first. Then, Chihiro gave me a quick, gentle kiss on my cheek, again I blushed so hard for like how many times today. I was stunned, but I really loved it. I waved my hands farewell as I began walking home and she waved back.
Finally, as I walked home, I finally knew my calling.
After 2 more years of studying in grade school and spending time with Chihiro and Mr Fujisaki. It was time for us to graduate and went our separate ways since we weren't going to the same school next year. We bid each other farewells and hoped that we will see each other again. I promised her that we will. "See you on the other side, Chihiro." My last words to her.
Finally, I decided to continue studying hard in my new school while particpating every field trip, competition and tournaments in Japan in different cities as my ticket to see amd visit all of Japan. I dedicated myself to make my school, my family proud. For five years, I took part in competitions such as debates, essay writing, public speaking internationally. As for sports, basketball, baseball, badminton and chess were my favourite hobbies so I trained and nurtured my skills since they were my favourite hobbies. I also trained in the art of writing books, drawing paintings and have them published to bookstores and museums as well as mastering in the art of swordmanship. Surprisingly, I was even selected to be an music idol and a singer so I wrote and sang my songs to the world. Although I was trying my hand in many competitions, I managed to win the top rankings. Not entirely the best, but I was already feeling pride, not in an arrogant way. Most importantly, I made acquaintances and friendship with some talented people.
I felt joy in fostering bonds with people, I even kept in touch with them but rarely bacause I was so busy with my new interests that I sometimes barely had enough time to sleep, train and study. But I had my ways, I was excellent at managing my time for each activity and perfecting my skill set. My mom always told me not to push so hard and take a break once in a while, hang out with friends I made. However, my friends were kind of the same, they never stay in one place. I guessed that was the way of life, it was unpredictable.
At that remark, it was my turn...
After graduating from high school, with earning the reputation as the best student in academics, sports and was ranked as one of the top students in Japan and the World stage. At that time, I took things slow, made a public review that I stepped down for a while and took an actual break. The public were a little disappointed but continued cheering for me for my return one day until then they had many idols to admire as they were no doubt better than me. That included sports and creating artwork and major booksellers.
At home on a Sunday, I went through my emails and the MonoChat app. I checked for any messages except from Chihiro who I never replied for months now. I then just typed a quick message, "Chihiro, I know it has been a while. I was super busy with you know, work and all. Really sorry that I took so long. Missed you a lot. Please reply when you get the mesaage." I thought it would take a while for hwr to respond but I guessed that she was busy too. I found it a little saddening so I thought of getting something to eat like a bowl of ramen until my mom was going through the mail until he told me some fabulous news. "Mom, what is it?" She just said that she couldn't be more proud and handed me a brown envelope with a familair badge on it.
One look at it, and I knew I would make it. It was a letter from the headmaster of Hope's Peak Academy, an famous institution for elite students of exceptional talents known as the Ultimates. I opened it and it wrote:
To: Dr Hanako Yuki
(Yeah I got a doctrate for my medical health science and pharmacy.)
On behalf of everyone here at Hope's Peak Academy, I would like to congratulate you om being offered a full scholarship to our school and welcomed you as one of our own.
We hope you will join our prestigious school under the well-deserved and honourable title...
Super High School Level All-Rounder
It would be of great honor and respect if you'll join our establishment! We eagerly await your response and arrival, and hope that you will take this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Sincerely,
Headmaster Kirigiri
This was my calling...
