The academy tower stood silent against the neon skyline.
High above the dormitories.
Far above the low-ranks worrying about Top Ten.
In the Core Wing.
A door slid open.
Inside, a dimly lit lounge overlooking the city.
Kurogami Ren sat back in a leather chair, boots resting on the edge of a glass table. Calm. Relaxed.
Dangerous.
Floating lazily beside him-
A small, wolf-like creature, a husky breed.
Its eyes were blue.
Its tail flickered like static.
Drift.
The Cyber Powerer of the Wolf Core.
Tiny.
But the air around it felt heavy.
Kurogami exhaled slowly.
"Tomorrow's orientation."
Drift spun in the air once, excited.
"I can't wait to see them in action! Do you think we'll get any good ones this year?"
Kurogami's eyes remained on the city lights.
"Most will quit."
Drift tilted its head.
"Already judging?"
"They think choosing a path makes them strong."
His gaze sharpened slightly.
"Surviving it does."
Drift floated closer to his shoulder.
"But what if one surprises you?"
A pause.
Just for a moment.
Kurogami leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees.
"If someone can endure me… I'll consider it."
Drift grinned.
"I like when you get interested."
Kurogami stood.
The lights behind him cast his shadow long across the floor.
"Tomorrow will be a long day."
He walked toward the exit.
"Rest up, Drift."
The wolf spiraled once and dissolved into his black signet ring.
Silence returned to the Core Wing.