The Fresher's Day

YEAR 2026

The auditorium buzzed with excitement. Rows of seats slowly filled with nervous first-years, their voices blending into a sea of laughter, introductions, and hurried conversations. Some eagerly exchanged social media handles while others sat quietly, clutching their schedules and looking around uncertainly.

Behind the stage, Aoi paced back and forth. She had rehearsed her speech countless times, yet standing only a few steps away from the podium made every line disappear from her mind.

"Relax," one of the organizers said with a laugh. "It's just a welcome speech."

Aoi smiled weakly. Easy for them to say. Her fingers instinctively brushed against the blue scarf around her neck. The fabric was old now, faded by time, but she had never once thought of replacing it.

A volunteer signaled from the side of the stage. It was time. Taking a deep breath, Aoi stepped into the spotlight as the chatter gradually faded. Hundreds of eyes turned toward her while she gripped the podium and smiled.

"Good morning, everyone!"

"Let's give a warm welcome to the newest members of our campus family!"

Applause rippled through the auditorium.When the room settled once more, Aoi glanced across the crowd and somehow her eyes paused on a girl sitting alone in the corner. While the students around her chatted excitedly, she sat quietly with her hands folded in her lap, as though unsure where she belonged. Aoi smiled faintly. The sight felt strangely familiar.

Aoi blinked and returned to her speech, 

"Some of you are already making friends."

"And some of you might be wondering where you fit in…"