When the Background Character Meets the Named Characters

Choosing the path of a hero, a protagonist, or even a villain felt like the well-worn road, a cliché with little allure.

From where I stood, I yearned for something different, something truly unique, something no human in history had done before—the path of the background character.

You might be wondering what led me to make this unconventional choice.

Was it my love for anime?

Perhaps my passion for manga and light novels

Or could it be my hours spent immersed in video games?

Honestly, it's a blend of all three. They motivated me to fully embrace the role of a background character, a person who effortlessly fades into society, avoids the spotlight, and doesn't need anyone's attention except when it's time for a polite smile or a casual frown—basically, going through life at the same pace as everyone else. Even if a billion people were to disappear, I wouldn't hold onto grudges or seek revenge. I'd simply continue existing because, deep down, I am and will always be a background character.

The morning sun painted my face with its gentle warmth as I kicked off my day. In the mirror, I met my own gaze—an average face, black hair, and an unremarkable appearance that allowed me to blend into a crowd effortlessly. Today was like any other morning, and I proceeded with my routine.

Heading to the bathroom, I enjoyed a refreshing shower before donning my uniform for the day. I was alone in this house, a place left empty by my parents, who were overseas.

They sent me a weekly allowance, enough to take care of myself. This was their house, not a rental, so I didn't have to worry about expenses.

However, they had taken my little sister with them, believing she was the better face for our family.

Despite being the older brother, they entrusted her with that role. So, I was left here to live my life in Japan as a background character.

With my uniform on, I proceeded to the kitchen to prepare a simple breakfast. I cracked a couple of eggs into a sizzling frying pan, their delightful aroma filling the room as they cooked to perfection.

The rich scent of freshly brewed coffee wafted from the pot, mingling with the fragrance of eggs and toast. It was a modest breakfast—scrambled eggs, buttered toast.

Once breakfast was ready, I plated it up and settled at the dining table.

"Let's dig in!"

Savoring meals alone had become a familiar routine, one that didn't bother me at all. It was like my introverted nature had found its perfect match in my role as the overlooked background character.

I finished eating, pushed my plate away, and reached for a glass of water. The cool liquid washed away the taste of the scrambled eggs and buttered toast.

Standing up, I let out a soft sigh, acknowledging the solitude that awaited me for the rest of the day.

With measured movements, I pulled my chair back, the sound of wood scraping against tile resonating through the room.

The only noise was that of my footsteps on the linoleum as I made my way to the door. Each step felt like a melancholic note in the symphony of my solitude.

I reached for the doorknob, its cold touch mirroring the chill in my heart. The door opened with a familiar creak, and I stepped outside into the world.

It might have been a simple act, but it felt like crossing into another dimension—one where I was eternally alone.

The world outside greeted me with its customary indifference. The neighborhood remained quiet, save for the distant hum of life beyond my solitary existence.

As I let the door close behind me, it felt like I was sealing myself into this lonely reality once more.

With a heavy heart, I began my 15-minute walk to Ouran Academy, a journey into a world where solitude was my constant companion.

Arriving at the illustrious Ouran Academy, its grandeur immediately took me aback. The campus sprawled before me, adorned with an array of majestic buildings, each an emblem of the institution's rich history.

Passing through the ornate entrance gate, I embarked on my journey toward the imposing central building.

Yet, my progress came to an abrupt halt as a scene unfolded before me that seemed as if it had been plucked from the vivid pages of a manga or a light novel.

A cluster of boys had encircled a girl who sat upon a bench near a resplendent fountain, exuding an air of unparalleled elegance.

Her long, silver tresses flowed like a cascade of moonlight, framing a countenance of breathtaking beauty.

Each strand of her hair fell into place as if celestial hands guided them, while her captivating violet eyes seemed to hold a profound and enigmatic depth. Her very presence painted a work of art by the cosmos itself.

"Are you Luna Hoshizaki, the girl who aced the entrance exam?" one of the boys stammered, his voice trembling with admiration.

She graced them with a warm smile and replied with a humility that matched her elegance, "Yes, that's me. My name is Luna Hoshizaki, and your compliment means a lot."

The boys surrounding her blushed deeply, their admiration palpable. Yet, from the edges of the crowd, a new voice emerged, shifting the dynamics of the scene.

"A new transferee from the second year? Not bad," came the voice from the back of the group.

The boys parted like a sea, creating a path for a newcomer to step forward. Whispers and gasps of recognition rippled through the onlookers.

"It's Hiro Tanaka! The third-year Hearthrob, the legendary Five-Timer! "One boy whispered to another.

"Then that makes Luna her sixth?" another boy mused in astonishment.

"I can't believe he didn't leave any leftovers for us," another lamented, his envy thinly veiled.

With graceful poise, Luna rose from her bench, her violet eyes unwavering, as Hiro boldly approached. Hiro kneeled before her, his hand tenderly taking hers, his eyes aflame with passion.

"My lady, you are the very embodiment of beauty, the definition of perfection," Hiro proclaimed, his voice sincere as he pressed a gentle kiss to her hand.

The boys stood in rapt silence, eagerly awaiting Luna's response. This was an unprecedented spectacle, a rare opportunity to witness the legendary Hearthrob laying his heart bare in earnest pursuit.

"Luna, would you go out with me?" he asked, his voice tinged with anticipation.

The air grew thick with tension as everyone held their collective breath, anticipating Luna's reply.

Yet her reaction diverged sharply from their expectations. With a frigid and unimpressed expression, she swiftly withdrew her hand from Hiro's grasp, her rejection echoing through the stunned silence.

"Such flattery holds no sway over me. I have no interest in you," she declared, her tone as icy as the depths of winter.

Without a backward glance, Luna turned and departed, her silver hair flowing like a radiant waterfall behind her, leaving Hiro kneeling in abject humiliation.

The boys, who had been fervently watching this unprecedented encounter, found themselves in a state of disbelief.

"Impossible. The legendary Hearthrob... got... rejected?" one boy stuttered in sheer shock.

Hiro remained on his knees, his wounded pride undoubtedly evident. The silver-haired girl who had just transferred to their academy had bested the legendary five-timer. News of this extraordinary event would surely spread like wildfire.

As I shook off the earlier shock, I continued my determined stride towards the academy building.

The next destination on my journey was the auditorium, and with every step inside the academy building, I could sense the palpable excitement rippling through the air.

It was all because of the anticipation surrounding the impending speech by the new student council president.

It appeared that everyone, from students to staff, was eagerly looking forward to this moment.

Upon entering the auditorium, my eyes locked in on two students who stood out in their impeccable uniforms.

One was a tall, striking blond figure, while the other was a shorter individual with sleek black hair.

I couldn't help but approach them, eager to make new friends, just like a typical background character would.

"Good morning! I'm Ced Nakano. What are your names?" I introduced myself with textbook precision, as if I were following the script of my own life.

"I'm Kenta Hamada, and this vertically challenged guy is my pal, Renjiro Sakashi."

Renjiro couldn't resist puffing out his chest and boasting, "Whoa there, buddy! You're calling me short? Let me remind you, I've charmed not one, not two, but a whopping three girls already!"

Kenta shook his head with a wry smile, deflating Renjiro's ego. "You don't even have a girlfriend, man."

Undeterred, Renjiro countered with a confident smirk, "Well, just you wait. By the end of this school year, you'll be the one without a girlfriend."

Kenta fired back with a playful grin, "Oh really? I'm putting my money on the opposite outcome."

Their friendly banter was like a scene ripped from a classic comedy anime, and I couldn't help but chuckle at the hilarity of it all.

"So, what year and class do you guys belong to?"

Kenta's face lit up with genuine warmth. "We're both second-year students from Class 2-A. How about you, Ced?"

With a sense of camaraderie building, I replied, "Great! We're in the same class. I'm a transfer student, so I'm also a second-year student in Class 2-A."

Kenta's smile widened. "Well, that settles it. We're classmates now."

As we continued our friendly banter, it was as if I had just unlocked a new achievement in a video game, forging unexpected friendships with Renjiro and Kenta.

Our adventure as background characters in the grand story of Ouran Academy was just beginning.

The atmosphere in the auditorium shifted as the principal stepped onto the stage. He approached the lectern, adorned with the academy's emblem, making it clear that this was an official school event.

"Good morning to all the students," he began, his voice carrying through the auditorium. "I welcome you to this new school year at Ouran Academy and introduce you to our new student council president, Luna Hoshizaki."

As Luna appeared on stage, waving with the elegance of a swan, I couldn't help but think back to that unforgettable moment by the fountain where she had turned down that legendary playboy five-timer.

Who could have guessed that the very same silver-haired girl would ascend to the illustrious title of Student Council President? I mean, seriously, I thought she'd just blend in as another popular girl, but boy, was I way off the mark! It was like the universe itself decided, "Nah, this girl's destined for the spotlight."

But the surprises didn't end there. The principal chimed in, announcing, "And now, our new vice president of the student council, Kaori Sato!"

Kaori made her entrance, her brown hair shining like a beacon, and those captivating blue eyes of hers... Well, let's just say they could put a supernova to shame.

She joined Luna onstage, and together, they greeted the students with smiles so radiant that it felt like we were staring at the sun, but in a good way.

Even the boys in the audience were hyped up, and you could tell that even Renjiro and Kenta had their own grand plans brewing.

The principal eventually stepped aside, allowing Luna to take the spotlight. She looked out at us with determination in her eyes.

"Good morning, everyone. I'm your new student council president, despite being a transfer student. I promise to make this school year a success with well-balanced and harmonious events. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated," Luna declared, her smile exuding an undeniable charm. In response, the boys and girls in the audience burst into applause, with some even standing in admiration.

As Luna basked in the cheers, the chants of "Luna! Luna! Luna!" echoed through the auditorium.

Luna took one last moment in the spotlight and spoke into the microphone once more, "Thank you, everyone! Let's make this the best school year ever!" She waved gracefully, and the applause continued in full support.

Once Luna left the stage, the principal made a final announcement: "May you all enjoy this school year!"

After the speech, we exited the auditorium, ascended the stairs, and arrived at the second floor.

As we made our way down the hallway, I half-expected Renjiro or Kenta to take the lead in opening the classroom door.

However, much to my surprise, they seemed to be channeling their inner background characters; their legs were trembling with fear.

Well, I guess there's no high-intensity drama with those two around; they were, after all, fellow background characters.

"Since you're our new friend, Ced, can you give that door a gentle push?" Renjiro asked, his voice quivering, and Kenta nodded, mirroring the trembling anticipation.

I couldn't help but sigh at their display of fear and hesitation. With a resigned attitude, I took it upon myself to open the door.

However, the door's creaking noise was so thunderous that it could rival the commotion of a celebrity visiting a meet-and-greet.

As I scanned the classroom, it was hard to miss the epicenter of the commotion: Luna and Kaori, sitting side by side.

Luna was engaging in conversation with a group of boys and girls, while Kaori had her own entourage of admirers.

They had quickly become the talk of our classroom, and their popularity charts were off the charts.

I couldn't help but wonder what had become of Renjiro and Kenta. I turned around to find them nervously making their way into the classroom. They paused and hesitated, trying to figure out which side to join.

Renjiro boldly declared, "Kenta, we've been pals forever, but just so you know, Kaori is mine."

Kenta responded with a sly grin, "Who are you kidding? You're settling for second place, buddy! Me? I'm aiming for the gold—Luna herself!"

With that, Renjiro headed toward Kaori, and Kenta made his way to Luna. They were clashing for their affections in the tight space of the classroom, like a scene straight out of a rom-com.

Those two, Renjiro and Kenta, were the living embodiment of background characters who refused to give up.

As I sighed, I knew that Renjiro and Kenta were likely in for another round of humiliation.

I took my seat near the window, the perfect spot for a background character to blend in and observe.

It offered a view to gaze at when the classroom discussions got boring. That's right; I had this whole background character thing down to an art.

Five minutes later, Renjiro and Kenta go back to their seats, their expressions a tragic mix of sadness and defeat.

I couldn't help but think, "Good job, guys," and in my mind I salute their dedication to the cause of being background characters.

Their bold attempt to win the hearts of the popular girls had once again ended in failure.

Their faces, etched with the spirit of being background characters, showed that they had given it their all in the pursuit of obscurity.

While their determination to embrace their background character status was admirable, my heart couldn't help but feel sorry for them.

They had bravely executed the "Ultimate Background Character Move: Confessing to the Popular Girls on the First Day of School for Maximum Humiliation!" This technique was so rare that it could only be found in anime, manga, or light novels.

The legendary move was all about confessing to the most popular girls in the academy on the very first day, with the sole purpose of getting rejected in the most dramatic way possible.

The goal was not to succeed but to solidify one's status as the ultimate background character.

Renjiro and Kenta had truly mastered this technique, showcasing their commitment to the art of being background characters.

The day continued with the homeroom teacher guiding us through various introductory activities.

After the initial rounds of name exchanges and classroom protocols, we found ourselves in the middle of some seminars, mostly about the grading system and upcoming events.

As the clock ticked away, signaling the approach of the final class for the day, the sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows in the classroom. The homeroom teacher, a beacon of authority, rose to address us once more.

"Class, I have an important announcement to make," he declared. "The names of your roommates and the corresponding dorm room numbers are already posted on the outside of your door."

I could feel the electric anticipation ripple through the classroom, particularly among the male students.

Having girls as roommates had become the stuff of dreams for them, and now it seemed like those dreams were inching closer to reality.

Renjiro and Kenta, those two schemers, were probably plotting like mad scientists by this point.

The final bell chimed, a sweet sound to the ears, marking the end of the day's lessons. The homeroom teacher waved us goodbye, and we eagerly packed our bags, ready for the big reveal.

Exiting the classroom felt like entering a battlefield of excitement. The hallway was a chaotic mess of students, each vying for a glimpse of their destiny written on that class list. I joined the fray, pushing through the sea of bodies, desperately trying to find my name.

"Ced... Ced... Ced... Where am I?" I muttered under my breath, my eyes darting across the page.

Finally, I spotted it: "Dorm room no. 30 Ced Nakano."

My heart skipped a beat, and I couldn't help but gulp nervously. My roommates' names were listed beneath mine, and as I read them, my eyes widened in disbelief.

Luna Hoshizaki and Kaori Sato.

A sense of disbelief washed over me. Luna and Kaori, the two most prominent and named characters in the class, were my roommates.

Panic began to set in; I was just a background character, and now I found myself sharing a room with these two iconic figures of Ouran Academy.

Meanwhile, Renjiro and Kenta had their own room assignments to deal with. Renjiro was positively thrilled as he exclaimed, "Yes, thank the heavens! I'm sharing a room with Miharu Kuroda!"

Kenta, on the other hand, seemed utterly crestfallen. His roommate turned out to be another boy, not the girl he had hoped for.

He knelt down in dejection, and Renjiro couldn't resist a teasing jab, "What are you doing with that boy, Kenta? Haha! Looks like I'm winning our bet."

Kenta's response was one of disappointment and frustration.

"Don't celebrate too early, Renjiro. You may not know who Miharu Kuroda is."

Renjiro laughed heartily. "Ha! Me, scared of Miharu? Impossible! I know I have the heavens on my side. But more importantly, you're the one who's going to lose our bet, Kenta."

Renjiro and Kenta then turned their attention to me, perhaps intending to ask what room I had been assigned.

However, the thought of them finding out that I was sharing a room with Luna and Kaori, the school's stars, filled me with dread.

Without a second thought, I ran away, descending the stairs and fleeing the crowded academy building.

My heart was still pounding as I gasped for breath, the weight of my situation sinking in.

I finally arrived at the Ouran Academy dormitory building, my footsteps echoing through the quiet hallway.

Still trying to catch my breath, I located the door with the number 30 on it. Heart racing, I knocked nervously.

The door swung open, revealing Luna and Kaori, both looking as stunning as ever.

"G-g-good afternoon. I'm C-C-Ced Nakano, and I'll be your roommate. P-please take care of me," I stammered, bowing nervously.

"Of course, we will," Luna replied with a gentle smile. Kaori reached out and held one of my hands, and Luna took the other.

"Kaori, can you let go of him?" Luna's tone had a possessive edge to it.

Kaori teased, "Should I? You act the same way, Luna."

Luna's attitude shifted. "Let's stop this teasing, Kaori. We're friends only because that's what the students see. But if a boy appears as our roommate, he's mine."

It became apparent that Luna had two distinct sides to her personality: the public face of a leader and a possessive, almost character-like side.

I couldn't help but feel like I was caught between these two enigmatic personalities.

I asked, my nerves palpable, "What are you two fighting about?"

"Isn't it obvious? We're fighting for your attention, Ced Nakano," they replied in unison, their tone possessive and unsettling.

And thus, took an unexpected turn, trapped between Luna and Kaori, the two sides of their enigmatic personalities.

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