He turned toward Ray, Raziel Phoenix, and Lily. "Good luck. Don't let our choice affect you. The three of you are incredible."
Tears slid down his cheeks as he smiled brightly, fists clenched at his sides. "We'll meet again. Next time, we might even challenge you. Barbara and I won't fall behind."
Ray suddenly stepped forward and pulled both of them into a tight embrace. His shoulders shook with quiet sobs.
"We'll conduct the exam tomorrow," Alfred said simply, then strode out of the classroom.
*
Barbara and Volt returned to their rooms to pack.
Ray didn't know what agreements had been made behind the scenes. He only knew one thing.
Class Zero now had only three students left.
Ares was gone.
Now Barbara and Volt were leaving too.
Mom and Dad left me. Vivienne left me. Now my teammates are leaving as well.
Why do the people I care about always disappear?
Ray stared blankly out the window at the field below, sorrow pressing heavily against his chest.
Pain… and guilt.
