Morning light slipped quietly through the hostel window, painting the small room in a pale blue glow. A cool breeze entered through the half-open window, gently moving the curtain.
On the bed lay VEIN, asleep.
His left hand rested on a cushion covering part of his face. Thin greenish-blue veins were visible beneath his skin, and faint cut marks ran across his hand. His hair was messy, falling loosely in different directions. Even while sleeping, he was wearing his school teacher's uniform. A small ring was visible on one of the toes of his right foot.
Near the window stood a desk. On it rested a photo frame, slightly tilted. Beside it were a few berries—some red, some blue—lying casually as if they had been left there without much thought.
The breeze brushed through VEIN's hair.
Slowly, his eyes opened.
For a moment his view was dark—the cushion still covering his face. From his point of view, everything was black.
He lifted the cushion with his right hand and placed it beside him on the bed. Then he picked up the watch lying near him with his left hand and raised it toward the ceiling, checking the time.
After a few seconds, he placed the watch back on the bed.
VEIN stood up and walked toward the bathroom sink. He turned on the tap. Water rushed out softly. He cupped some water in his hands and splashed it onto his face.
Droplets scattered across the sink.
He paused for a moment, then reached for a towel. With his left hand he wiped his face and placed the towel back.
He walked into the room again and stood in front of the mirror.
Picking up a comb, he began adjusting his hair. Most of it settled neatly, but one stubborn strand fell onto his forehead.
Near the mirror sat a water bottle.
VEIN picked it up, opened the lid, poured a little water into his palm, and applied it to the loose strand of hair. Then he combed it again.
This time it stayed in place.
Satisfied, he put the comb down.
He walked back to the bed and arranged the cushions neatly. Then he picked up his watch and wore it. After that he took his ID card and placed it around his neck.
Without wasting another moment, he stepped outside the room.
The door closed behind him with a soft click.
VEIN locked it and began walking down the hostel corridor.