Kai's morning routine carries a subtle thrill, the events of the previous day adding an extra layer of anticipation.
After breakfast and a brief exchange with his parents, he makes his way to school, a certain eagerness propelling him forward.
Arriving at school, Kai senses a collective buzz among the students, unaware that today holds special significance beyond the regular routine.
The morning classes unfold, each passing minute bringing him closer to the culmination of the mystery surrounding Ethan's birthday.
As the day progresses, Kai immerses himself in his studies and practice, the routine grounding him amidst the mounting anticipation.
The final bell echoes through the hallways, signaling the end of classes for the day. Kai gathers with his friends, the usual camaraderie weaving through the group.
In the Combat Department, where the boys and girls often converge, there is an undeniable energy.
The girls, having concluded their private discussion from the day before, now join the boys with smiles that hint at hidden secrets.
Kai, always observant, can't help but notice the exchanged glances and suppressed smiles among the girls.
He approaches the group with a casual yet curious demeanor, "What's up, guys? Why the secrecy yesterday?"
Sarah, her mischievous spark undiminished, replies, "Oh, just planning a little surprise for Ethan. You'll find out soon enough."
The boys exchange curious glances, but before they can delve deeper, the conversation shifts to achievements and progress. Boys, each sharing their recent progress, celebrate the continuous growth within their group.
As the friendly banter continues, the school day draws to a close, and the time to part ways approaches.
Kai's mind, however, is still fixated on the impending revelation.
The afternoon sun casts a warm glow as Kai, along with his friends, gathers at the agreed-upon location.
The girls, with an air of excitement, carry a bag that undoubtedly holds the much-discussed gift for Ethan.
Ethan, unsuspecting, greets everyone with a cheerful smile. The group, with a shared sense of anticipation, surrounds him.
Sarah, the orchestrator of the surprise, hands over the wrapped gift to Ethan with a teasing smile, "Happy Birthday, Ethan!"
The moment hangs in the air, suspended between expectation and revelation. Ethan, with a mixture of excitement and curiosity, unwraps the gift.
The boys, along with Kai, watch attentively, eager to discover the contents.
As the wrapping paper falls away, revealing the carefully chosen gift, a collective gasp escapes the group.
It's not just a notebook; it's a custom-made leather-bound journal, the cover embossed with intricate designs. Inside, heartfelt messages from each of Ethan's friends adorn the pages.
The surprise is met with smiles, exclamations of awe, and expressions of gratitude. Ethan, touched by the thoughtful gesture, expresses his appreciation to the group.
The air buzzes with a sense of camaraderie and shared joy.
But the surprises don't end there. As Ethan opens the notebook, he finds additional gifts from each friend.
Kai has crafted a hand-carved wooden keychain, Michael has gifted a personalized playlist, and Alex has contributed a sketch of their group, capturing a moment of their friendship.
Leon has prepared a mixtape of their favorite songs, and Jackson contributes a handwritten poem capturing the essence of their friendship.
The girls, not to be outdone, present Ethan with individual yet heartfelt gifts. Aoi gives him a birthday card, Emily hands over a collection of his favorite snacks, Akane gifts a small potted plant symbolizing growth, and Rachel presents a personalized bookmark for his reading adventures.
The group, now engulfed in the warmth of celebration, begins sharing stories, laughter, and heartfelt wishes.
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden hue on the scene, the friends feel the weight of the hundred chapters they have lived through together.