Early morning.
When Ray finally opened his eyes, he was startled to see sunlight pouring through the windows.
Raziel Phoenix was already gone.
This was his first time practicing the new meditation technique, and he'd clearly slept in.
He jumped out of bed, quickly washing up.
For Ray, meal time was sacred.
He rushed toward the dormitory doors with renewed energy. But before he reached them, he noticed a group of upper–grade students looking around suspiciously, as though searching for someone.
As he drew closer, a familiar figure came into view.
Rachel.
She was wearing the academy uniform, her long golden hair tied into a high ponytail. Girls matured early, and she already stood half a head taller than Ray. Her figure was tall and slender, carrying the budding elegance of youth.
At the same moment Ray noticed her, Rachel turned and spotted him.
"It's him!" she shouted, pointing straight at Ray.
