x
Chapter LXXXIII: A Camping at Cause
It's Sunday, the squad's supposed rest day, but as usual, life has its own plans for each of them.
Kota and Akiko are still asleep, having stayed up late into the night binge-watching "The First Who Confesses Loses the Game." Their cozy room is dimly lit by the soft glow of their laptops, the remnants of popcorn scattered around them.
Meanwhile, Enmei waits at the park, nervously checking his watch every few minutes. Today is his date with Yui, and he wants everything to go perfectly. He's rehearsed in his mind what he'll say, how he'll act—hoping to impress her with his charm.
Tengen is at home, sitting in the living room with his father, both engrossed in a boxing match on TV. Despite the intense match, Tengen multitasks, chatting with Toshiro and Katsu in their group chat, and occasionally video calling Hanako, who listens attentively to his commentary on the fight.
Gin, on the other hand, is at the police assistance desk at the station, diligently sorting through and filing a stack of paperwork. His brow furrows in concentration as he meticulously organizes each document, ensuring everything is in order.
Asahi and Natsuki are out on a hangout, enjoying a leisurely stroll through the city streets. They chat and laugh as they pass by bustling cafes and shops, catching up on each other's week.
Unexpectedly, Asahi and Natsuki bump into Enmei and Yui at a quaint little cafe. Pleasantries are exchanged, and soon they merge their hangouts, finding a cozy table to settle in.
Asahi: (noticing a notification on his phone) "Hey, Enmei, can you check this? It's probably just Ms. Soumei's usual reminders."
Enmei: (engrossed in a mobile game with Yui) "Oh, sorry, I'm in the middle of a GameGo Flip challenge with Yui here."
Natsuki: (chuckling) "Looks like Enmei is more invested in flipping virtual cards than reading messages."
Asahi: (sighs and checks the notification) "Hmm, it's about an upcoming camping trip for the finals and a group project. Ms. Soumei wants us to plan ahead and pack all the essentials."
Enmei finally stops playing and reads through the details with Asahi, nodding thoughtfully as they absorb the information.
It reads,
"Good Morning Everyone! As part of your activities and as the final activity of your Finals, you will be camping. Our Objective is to ensure a successful and enjoyable camping experience, it's crucial to plan ahead, packing essential gear such as a tent, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, food, water, clothing, a first aid kit, and navigation tools. Adhere to best practices by following the principles of Leave No Trace, staying hydrated, storing food properly to avoid attracting wildlife, and practicing fire safety. Respect wildlife, avoid disturbing nature, and be mindful of weather conditions. Key skills to learn include tent setup, fire building, navigation, basic first aid, and outdoor cooking. By doing so, campers can enjoy a safe, respectful, and well-prepared adventure.11Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO0UfyLtu5R
11Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkIrwIIY7Fg
Include documentation (Video, and Photos)
To be submitted next Sunday"
As they discuss the camping requirements, the scene shifts to the Class Rep sitting in a cozy corner of a cafe with Toshiro, deep in discussion about the upcoming camping trip.
Class Rep: (frowning slightly) "It's going to be quite a challenge, especially since we'll be missing classes and studying time."
Toshiro: "True, but it's also a chance to bond as a class and learn some outdoor skills."
Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of the Vice Class Rep, whose demeanor is as icy as ever. She glances disdainfully at the Class Rep before taking a seat across from them.
Vice Class Rep: "I don't see why we should waste time on this camping nonsense. It's impractical and disruptive."
Class Rep: "It's part of our school activities. We need to participate."
Vice Class Rep: (snarkily) "You would say that. Always eager to please, aren't you?"
Toshiro: (interjecting) "Let's not turn this into a debate. We all have to go, so let's make the best of it."
Toshiro suggests a group call with Satou, Katsu, Tengen, and the Vice Class Rep to discuss the logistics and any concerns they might have.
Toshiro: "We need to figure out who's bringing what equipment and ensure everyone is prepared."
Vice Class Rep: (still skeptical) "Fine, but don't expect me to do all the work."
Despite the tension, they manage to outline a plan for the camping trip. Toshiro sends a notification to the entire class, detailing the date, time, and requirements for the trip.
Notification: "Attention everyone, our camping trip is scheduled for next Saturday at 6 PM at The Blue Diamond Suites. Please prepare your camping gear and be ready to participate. Each squad should bring one tent. Thank you."
Back at the cafe, Kota, Gin, Asahi, and Enmei are engrossed in discussing their excitement and plans for the camping trip.
Kota: "I can't wait to roast marshmallows by the campfire. It's going to be epic!"
Gin: "I hope the weather holds up. Rain would definitely put a damper on things."
Asahi: "Don't worry, I'll bring my lucky charm. We'll have clear skies and perfect camping weather."
Enmei: "I'm looking forward to exploring the area around The Blue Diamond Suites. Maybe there are some hiking trails."
As they chat animatedly, Kota's phone buzzes with a message from Akiko.
Akiko: "Hey, I might not be able to make it to the camping trip. Sorry."
Kota: (frowning slightly) "No worries, Akiko. I'll let the Class Rep know."
Despite Akiko's absence, Kota's spirits remain high. He knows the camping trip will be a memorable experience, filled with adventures and bonding moments with his friends.
As the day draws to a close, each member of the squad prepares mentally and physically for the upcoming camping adventure. They pack their bags, check their gear, and anticipate the challenges and joys that await them at The Blue Diamond Suites.
Saturday arrives with the promise of adventure as the students gather at The Blue Diamond Suites, a picturesque building reminiscent of European architecture with its grand blue roof and elegant design. The Class Rep and Toshiro greet everyone warmly, the sun setting on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the gathering.
As the activities kick off, Asahi, Enmei, Gin, and Kota head to a corner where a rustic hammock made of rattan fibers and bamboo beckons. The four playfully fight over who gets to lounge in it first, with Enmei emerging victorious amidst the laughter and teasing from his friends.
Gin: (chuckling) "Looks like Enmei claimed the throne!"
Asahi: "We'll just have to find another spot to chill."
The Class Rep calls them over for the first activity: setting up their tent. The squad gathers around their tent, determined to put it up smoothly.
Enmei: "Hand me that peg, Kota!"
Kota: "Sorry, Enmei, but I think we're missing one."
Gin: (grinning) "Looks like we'll have to improvise!"
As they manage to erect the tent, its slightly lopsided appearance earns a round of laughter from the class.
Katsu: (grinning) "It's rustic chic!"
With the tent set up, they move on to the next activity: grilling. Toshiro takes charge of the grill, while others gather materials to start the fire.
Tengen: (handing over some paper) "Here you go, Toshiro."
Toshiro: (about to light it) "Wait... is this everyone's phones?!"
Tengen dashes away, the class in hot pursuit, laughter echoing across the campsite.
Next, they're tasked with interviewing someone about camping essentials. Toshiro corners Kota for an impromptu interview.
Toshiro: "Alright, Kota, tell me about the must-haves for camping."
Kota: (grinning) "Well, you'll need a sturdy tent, sleeping bags, cooking gear, and of course, marshmallows for the campfire!"
During a break, Asahi, Gin, Enmei, and Kota find a quiet spot on the cemented ground to relax.
Gin: "So, who's up for some meme-sharing?"
Enmei: "I've got a good one about camping fails!"
Kota: (smiling) "Let's lighten the mood before we head back."
Amid their banter, Akiko calls Kota, checking in on how the camping trip is going. He updates her briefly before returning to the group.
Their final activity of the day is the campfire. The Class Rep brings out marshmallows, and they all gather around the crackling flames with sticks in hand, ready to toast some s'mores.
Asahi: (jokingly) "Anyone else think campfires are just nature's way of getting us to eat burnt sugar?"
Gin: "I'd rather be roasting marshmallows than studying any day!"
Toshiro: (playfully) "Speaking of which..."
Toshiro pretends to find a leaf that resembles a cannabis leaf, which causes a stir of laughter and surprise before revealing it's just a Lagundi leaf.
Asahi grabs a guitar and starts strumming, the soothing music blending with the crackling fire. Soon, the whole class joins in, creating a spontaneous campfire jam session under the starlit sky.
Just as Satou begins to share his camping experience, a hushed whisper spreads through the group as they notice a hooded figure standing behind Toshiro. Anxiety flares until the figure removes their hood to reveal it's Ms. Soumei, who had been observing their activities.
Ms. Soumei: "Enjoying yourselves, I hope?"
The students relax, realizing it was their teacher all along, and settle in to listen to Satou's story.
As night descends, the class prepares to turn in. Exhausted from the day's adventures, they retire to their tents, ready to rest.
Asahi: (peering into their tent) "Hey, Enmei, I was just—"
His sentence cuts short as he catches Enmei in a compromising position, video-calling Yui.
Asahi: (stammering) "Uh... sorry, I'll just... um..."
Kota: (startled awake) "What's going on?"
Gin: "Enmei, seriously?!"
The commotion wakes up the entire tent, leading to a flurry of embarrassed apologies and laughter.
Later that night, Akiko calls Kota again, and he reassures her that everything is fine before they all drift off to sleep, the campsite quiet except for the occasional crackle of the dying embers and the rustling of leaves in the breeze.
The next day dawns and the students gradually return to their respective homes after their eventful camping trip. Monday arrives with Ms. Soumei entering the classroom, her presence sparking curiosity among the students.
Ms. Soumei: "Good morning, class. How was everyone's camping trip last Saturday?"
Asahi eagerly shares his experience, followed by anecdotes from Satou, Enmei, Katsu, Kota, and Toshiro. Their stories range from humorous mishaps to heartfelt moments around the campfire.
Asahi: "It was epic! We had this hilarious incident with Tengen and the grill..."
Satou: "And the ghost stories around the campfire were spine-chilling!"
Katsu: "I never thought I'd enjoy making s'mores that much."
Kota: "It was a great bonding experience."
Toshiro: "Definitely a memorable outing."
Ms. Soumei listens intently, chuckling at their tales and nodding in appreciation of their enthusiasm.
Ms. Soumei: "I'm glad to hear you all had such a positive experience. Unfortunately, I have some bad news. It seems there was a misunderstanding, and the camping activity was actually cancelled. I apologize for the confusion."
The Vice Class Rep can't resist gloating.
Vice Class Rep: "Ha! What did I say? Waste of time!"
The Class Rep stands to respond, but Toshiro tries to hold her back, albeit unsuccessfully.
Class Rep: "Maybe it wasn't officially sanctioned, but we still had a blast. We bonded as a class, laughed together, and made memories."
The Vice Class Rep, embarrassed by the Class Rep's confident rebuttal, sits down with a disgruntled expression, muttering under their breath.
Akiko: (whispering to Kota) "It must have been disappointing to hear that it was cancelled officially."
Kota: (nodding) "Yeah, but honestly, it doesn't change how much fun we had. It was worth it."
They exchange a smile, reminiscing about their time together during the camping trip.
Ms. Soumei: "Well, regardless of the mix-up, I'm glad you all enjoyed yourselves. Let's get back on track with our regular activities. Thank you for sharing your experiences. Love those smores though, delicious!"
The class settles into their routine, but the camaraderie and memories forged during their unofficial camping trip linger, a testament to the bonds they've formed beyond the classroom walls.
ns216.73.216.45da2
