My eyes open slowly as a bright ray of sunlight burns. Someone must've opened the curtains while I was asleep, which usually means my brother has an announcement to make.
I rub my eyes for the seventeenth time before my vision stops blurring, and I stretch. A sharp, burning sensation in my fists causes me to jolt in pain. I look down at my hands, but they look normal. Must have overdone it yesterday, I think. Regardless, One has likely been waiting for a long time.
I pull on the same clothes I wore yesterday before making my way to the living room. As I open my door, I notice Laina's room across from mine is sealed shut. It's a heavy silence; knowing she's excluded because she's powerless always leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.
"Quickly, Zero!" Hunter says, pushing me aside as he dashes past. "Unless you'd let a human beat you!"
"Never!" I shout, accepting the challenge. Even though Hunter is human, his drive to keep up with us Zejins is legendary.
We sprint down the corridor. Hunter shoves me again to try and get in front, but I manage to ward his hand off. As the light of the living room nears, we slam into One's chest. It hurts more than hitting a steel wall.
"What did I say about running in the corridor?" His voice is stern and slow.
"You've never said anything about it," Hunter claims defiantly.
One shrugs and walks toward the coffee table. "Fair point. But from now on, it's banned."
I follow suit, and Hunter falls in line beside me. The lighthearted moment is instantly dispelled by One's serious demeanor.
"As you're aware, Laina isn't a part of this announcement," One says, holding his hands behind his back. "I would deeply regret informing her that she isn't ready."
"Ready for what, exactly?" I ask.
He points to the table. Two badges lie there, catching the light.
"Monster hunting," Hunter whispers, his eyes filled with a euphoric rush.
My face lights up with excitement as well. This is an incredible opportunity... though I wish I could have shared it with my sister.
"Before anything, I want you to know one thing: just because you're Zejin, Zero, doesn't mean you're any stronger than Hunter." One pauses, forcing a rare smile. "And also, as your older brother, I'm proud to tell you: the training begins now."