Rendered in Code and Color

Chapter 4: Shadows and Silhouettes

Kazuki was particularly interested in one of their signature drinks after reading it's description:

Komorebi Coffeehouse isn't just about traditional offerings; it's about experiencing the unique. Among the many special beverages, the 'Komorebi Kooler' stands out. Inspired by the cafe's very namesake — the dappled sunlight filtering through leaves — this drink is a visual and gustatory spectacle. At the base lies a rich, earthy matcha layer, representing the forest floor. The middle layer boasts of intense cold brew coffee, dark and mysterious like the shaded underbrush. Finally, it's topped with a frothy, creamy milk layer, as light and airy as the sunbeams breaking through the tree canopy. Together, the layers not only mimic the beautiful play of light and shade in a dense forest but also offer a complex play of flavors, from the bitterness of matcha and coffee to the creamy sweetness of milk.

It was basically a matcha latte except with cold brew coffee and was layered instead of mixed. Kazuki was curious how they managed this.

Miyuki on the other hand, was interested in one of their seasonal drinks:

The transformation of Japan during cherry blossom season is a sight to behold, and Komorebi Coffeehouse seeks to encapsulate this ethereal experience in a cup. As sakura petals drift gently to the ground outside, inside the café, baristas craft the 'Sakura Latte.' Starting with a base of smooth, rich espresso, they then incorporate a delicate cherry blossom-infused syrup that carries the ephemeral floral notes of sakura. The milk, steamed to velvety perfection, is poured artfully, creating a creamy canvas upon which skilled hands design foam art resembling cherry blossom petals. Garnished with a few actual sakura petals or a light sprinkle of edible glitter for that ethereal glow, the result is a beverage that mirrors the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms. Every sip transports one to a serene park, under a canopy of blooming sakura, making the Sakura Latte not just a drink, but an experience of Japan's most treasured season.

Miyuki particularly loved the spring season — especially the picturesque beauty of cherry blossoms. Once she pointed it out, Ayaka and Kaori both decided on the same beverage.

As for Hiroshi, he went with a big standard medium roast with creamer and sugar.

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 After they received their drinks, lovely conversation about the flavors and presentation ensued. They were all quite happy with their choices and would definitely be returning regularly. During a lull in conversation, Kaori took a deep sip from her cup, then placed it down thoughtfully.

"Isn't it surprising? This morning you two were complete strangers to us yet, here we are. Talking and hanging out like we're all childhood friends."

Miyuki smiled faintly. "Honestly, I was really anxious. My family name always created a rift between me and other people. So making friends was difficult and knowing which ones were genuine was even harder. On top of that, my family wants me to go into politics. You could imagine their surprise when I enrolled in an art institute. I guess I came here feeling very... alone. But then you came along, Kaori. You saw me, not a name. Then you introduced me to Ayaka and Hiroshi and I finally got to meet K-Kazuki."

Kazuki blinked at her mention of his name, but quickly brushed it off. "Yeah. Kinda funny. I was content with being a background character but then these two pop out of nowhere and drag me into a conversation."

"Haha. Yeah, Ayaka was all like, 'come one Hiroshi! We can't leave one of our classmates to be all loner vibes'" He said in a mocking tone. "I told her you were probably fine but she insisted."

"Hey, that's not what I sound like! He just looked lonely was all." Ayaka protested.

Kaori looked slightly apologetic, "Ayaka, you can't just force people out of their comfort zones like that. I'm sorry about that, Kazu-kun. But I'm glad you didn't turn tail and run, I have a feeling our group wouldn't be quite as fleshed out." She gave a sidelong glance at Miyuki.