Ray lay sprawled on the cold, hard ground, his abdomen a gaping maw of crimson flesh. His hands were slick with his own blood, and his breath came in ragged gasps. He knew he was dying, but he couldn't bring himself to care. The pain was too intense, the shock too great.

Through the haze of his failing vision, he saw two figures standing over him. They were translucent and ethereal, their features blurred and indistinct. Ray couldn't tell if they were male or female, human or otherwise. But he could feel their presence, their gaze heavy upon him.

Were they angels, come to escort him to the afterlife? Or were they something else entirely? Something more sinister? Ray didn't know. And he would never find out.

The figures in question were motioning something to him. By the movement of their index fingers, maybe they were calling to him? Afterlife? But wasn't a heavenly light supposed to appear?

But Ray had bigger fish to fry. He tried his best to ignore them as his mind raced with thoughts. He just stared down at the one who was behind him, his expression calm rather than afraid or angry. He felt... pity rather than hate. Pity for the one who would ambush him like a coward, attacking from behind instead of facing him like a man.

As his eyes began to close, he heard profanities being exchanged between a group of people. Then, he heard a familiar voice saying something before he collapsed on the floor.

Some may ask, how did this happen? Well, it all started on November 21st, the day Raymond arrived in a small town known to everyone as Kouh.

.....

Flashback (21st Nov, 2012)

Central Kouh Railway Station was bustling with activity, as retailers from small stalls coaxed customers to buy their goods.

"Get this sausage right here! It's juicy!" one of the venders yelled to a group of corporate working women who just ignored the guy or couldn't hear him in the bustling crowd.

"Ughh, for the love of God, Jesus, Mary and Joseph...," a boy who looked like he was in college signed deeply before inhaling the air fill his lungs. Afterwards, he opened his mouth. "WILL SOMEBODY FUCKING BUY SOMETHING?" earning few looks from his fellow venders and people. "WHAT," he yelled back. "I WANNA BUY A VIDEO GAME! THAT TOO MUCH TO ASK?!"

Meanwhile, all those who were present at the station watched in awe or boredom as the sleek silver bullet train emerged from the darkness, its headlights slicing through the night like twin lasers. The air crackled with energy as the train approached, its speed generating a thunderous roar. The crowd on the platform held their breath, their eyes wide with wonder and excitement.

The train slowed to a halt, its doors sliding open with a futuristic whoosh. A stream of passengers disembarked, their laughter and chatter echoing through the air. The crowd on the platform surged forward, eager to greet their loved ones or to simply experience the thrill of being in the presence of such a marvel of modern engineering.

The bullet train was a vision of sleek, futuristic beauty. Its white and black exterior gleamed like a pearl in the moonlight, and its aerodynamic design suggested speed and power. The train's windows were tinted dark, adding to its mystique. As it approached the platform, it was impossible to look away.

"Welcome to Central Kouh. Thank you for travelling on the Silver Arrow Bullet Train. Good night." A voice of an female AI told the crowd.

Everyone from their seats stood up, backed up their belongings like bags, babies, pets, etc., and proceeded in a civil manner to the exit, save for a young man who sat motionless, his eyes fixed on the blank screen in front of him.

The teenage boy's beady grey eyes scanned the seat in front of him as he gathered up his belongings. His bags were filled with snacks, drinks, and comic books—his favorite things in the world. He loved reading, and he couldn't wait to get home and curl up with a good book.

Ray was excited to be in a new place because he was eager to start a new chapter in his life. He was looking forward to meeting new people, exploring new places, and experiencing new things.

He checked his phone one last time before signing and putting them on his pants' right pocket. His stretched his arms apart as he got up and yawned. It's been a long day and he hardly got any sleep while seating. His body begged for a quiet place with a bed to collapse and fall asleep. Too bad that's gonna have to wait.

The lights illuminating from outside in the train revealed his appearance.

Ray slipped on his black biker jacket, the worn leather creaking softly as he moved. He had chosen it for its rebellious edge, but it also served a practical purpose, keeping him warm on the cool autumn nights.

Underneath, he wore a simple white t-shirt and a pair of faded blue jeans. His hair was styled back, but a few stray strands fell forward, tickling his forehead. In his right ear, he wore a Bluetooth earpiece, blasting his favorite 2000s kicker song, "Taking Back Sunday" by MakeDamnSure.

He took a moment to admire his reflection in one of the passenger windows. He liked what he saw. He was a young man with a sense of style and a rebellious streak. He was ready to take on the world.

Ray disembarked from the train, his footsteps echoing on the platform. He shouldered his bag and hurried towards the taxi stand, eager to escape the bustling crowd and return to the sanctuary of his home.

As he walked, he inhaled the cool evening air, savoring the sense of freedom. He had been cooped up on the train all day, and his body was yearning for release. He glanced up at the sky, ablaze with the fiery hues of sunset. It was a beautiful sight, but Ray was too tired to appreciate it fully. He just wanted to get home and go to bed.

He reached the taxi stand and joined the queue. He tapped his foot impatiently, drumming up the last vestiges of his energy. Finally, it was his turn. He climbed into the taxi and gave the driver his address.

As the taxi pulled away, Ray leaned back against the seat and closed his eyes. He let out a sigh of relief. He was almost home.

......

In the shadows of a vast high school, a hidden sanctuary existed. A small building, nestled among the giants, its weathered exterior a testament to its age. But within its walls, a secret world thrived.

A chamber, neither too large nor too small, its walls adorned with ethereal art. Angels, demons, and otherworldly creatures danced in the flickering candlelight. A chandelier, its crystals casting rainbow hues upon the polished floor. A large glass window, offering a panoramic view of the high school grounds, shrouded in darkness.

In this room, there were not much furniture save for a desk that screamed professional with a black leather skinned chair behind the desk and two standard chairs facing aforementioned desk and the chair.

Behind those chairs, were a short living room displayed that consisted of four sofas facing each other in a corresponding manner. On them, sat some individuals as they kept their gaze at one another. The room was eerily quiet before someone coughed to break the ice.

The room was filled with the smoke of burning candles. A group of people gathered around a table, their faces obscured by the shadows.

"Gentlepeople," said a woman in a black trench coat. Her voice was soft, yet commanding. "How was business today?"

Two of the people seated at the table exchanged glances.

"Everything went according to plan, boss," said a gruff male voice. "Not a thing went wrong."

The woman in the trench coat stared at him for a long moment. Then, she raised her hand and snapped her fingers.

Another woman, this one with short black hair and piercing blue eyes, stood up and walked over to the man who had spoken. She raised her fist and punched him in the back of the head.

"Ow!" cried the man.

"That's what you get for lying, Donnie," the woman said. "We promised the boss we would tell her the truth and nothing but the truth."

The woman in the trench coat nodded. "Donnie will receive his punishment," she said. "Now, Kalawarner, you were saying?"

Kalawarner, the woman with the piercing blue eyes, cleared her throat. "Okay," she said. "We went to the Triad territory and traded those cards to our subordinates. But then we realized that one of them had double-crossed us. We followed him to an abandoned warehouse, and we saw him shaking hands with a few Gremory members. We were pissed, so we annihilated the group and blew the place up."

The woman in the trench coat studied Kalawarner's face. She could tell that she was telling the truth.

"Well done, Kally," she said. "I'm proud of you."

Then, she paused. "You guys weren't injured in any way, were you?"

Both Donnie and Kalawarner shook their heads.

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.

"Who is it?" asked the woman in the trench coat.

"It's Mittlet," came a voice from the other side of the door. "We got a problem."

The woman in the trench coat sighed. "This better be good," she thought. "Let's hear it."

"Come in, Mittlet," she said.

The door opened, and a small figure stepped into the room. It was Mittlet, the youngest member of the group. She had twin ponytails and big blue eyes. She was wearing a silver t-shirt, blue basketball shorts, and white tennis shoes.

Mittlet walked over to the couch and sat down next to the woman in the trench coat. She looked around the room, her eyes darting from person to person.

"Someone ate my pudding," she said in a very serious voice.

The other members of the group burst out laughing.

"It's not funny!" Mittlet pouted. "I had my entire savings on that!"

The woman in the trench coat put her arm around Mittlet's shoulders. "Don't worry, Mittlet," she said. "We'll get you a new pudding."

Mittlet sniffed. "Okay," she said. "But it better be a big one."

The woman in the trench coat smiled. "It'll be the biggest pudding you've ever seen."

The other members of the group continued to laugh, but Mittlet didn't care. She was just glad that she was going to get a new pudding.

......

Ray's taxi pulled up to a small house on a narrow road. He had been asleep the entire ride, exhausted from his long journey. The driver shook him gently to wake him up.

"Sir, we're here," he said.

Ray blinked open his eyes and looked out the window at the dark house. He felt a twinge of excitement. This was his new home.

He and the driver got out and took Ray's luggage. The driver was about to escort Ray to the door, but his radio crackled to life. He sighed and gave Ray an apologetic smile.

"I'm so sorry, sir," he said. "I have to go. Take care."

Ray nodded and waved goodbye to the driver. He took a deep breath and walked up to the door. He pulled out his phone and dialed the number of his contact person.

The phone rang a few times before a grumpy voice answered.

"Who the hell dares to call me at this time of night?" the man demanded.

"I'm the contact," Ray said. "My name is Raymond Black. We're supposed to be meeting today. My train was delayed, but I'm here now."

"Fine," the man said. "I'll be down in a minute."

Ray hung up the phone and waited. A few moments later, the door opened and a man with a grumpy face and a horizontal scar on his cheek stood before him.

"Come in," the man said.

Ray stepped inside and the man closed the door behind him. He led Ray around the house, giving him a tour.

"The kitchen is here," he said, pointing to a small room at the north end of the house. "The living room is over there," he said, pointing to a room on the east side of the house. "The laundry room and bathroom are on the west side, and the bedroom is upstairs."

Ray nodded. He had already seen pictures of the house online, so he knew what to expect.

"I like it," he said.

"Good," the man said. "Then it's yours."

It was nothing to awe at. It had a study desk, a futon lying around and a book shelve with a closet by its left on the corner. There were two large windows which were accessible and held a great view of the neighborhood along with a park. Ray liked it and finalized his deal and begun arranging his new life.

Slowly Ray started arranging his new life. He was excited to start this new chapter. He was a freelance web and graphics designer for two of the largest companies in Japan, so he could afford to live on his own.

He set up his computer and tablet in the bedroom, and turned the futon into a bed. He then went to the kitchen and made himself a sandwich.

After he had eaten, he sat down on the couch and looked out the window at the park. He smiled. This was going to be a good life.

.......

Ray was a quick learner. He quickly adapted to his new city and began to build a network of contacts. He talked to his neighbors, the shop owners, and even the homeless people. He knew that everyone had something to offer, and he was eager to learn from them.

One day, he was walking through the park when he saw a group of students from Kouh Academy sitting on a bench. They were all wearing the school's distinctive uniforms, and they looked like they were part of the elite.

Ray stopped and watched them for a moment. He knew that he wanted to attend Kouh Academy, but he also knew that it would be difficult to get in. He had to figure out a way to stand out from the competition.

He walked over to the group of students and introduced himself. They were surprised to see him talking to them, but they were polite. He started talking to them about their classes, their extracurricular activities, and their plans for the future.

He was impressed by their intelligence and ambition. He knew that he would have to work hard to keep up with them, but he was determined to do so.

Later, at one evening Ray finished his background check on Kouh Academy and closed his laptop. He placed it on his desk and leaned back in his chair, stretching his arms above his head. He was tired from a long day of studying, but he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement.

He had dreamed of attending Kouh Academy for as long as he could remember. It was the most prestigious school in Japan, and it was known for its rigorous academics and high standards for excellence. But more than that, Kouh Academy was shrouded in mystery.

Ray had heard rumors about the school having something to do with the supernatural. Some said that it was haunted by ghosts, while others said that it was a gateway to another world. Ray didn't believe the rumors, but they only made him more intrigued.

He stood up and walked over to the window. He looked out at the city below. The lights twinkled like stars in the night sky. He took a deep breath and smiled.

He was going to Kouh Academy...

In that same night, Ray lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. He couldn't sleep. His mind was racing with thoughts about the entrance exam. He knew that it would be difficult, but he was determined to pass.

He closed his eyes and imagined himself walking through the gates of Kouh Academy. He saw himself sitting in class, learning from the best teachers in the country. He saw himself making new friends and participating in extracurricular activities.

He could see it all so clearly. He knew that if he worked hard, he could achieve his dream.

He drifted off to sleep, dreaming of Kouh Academy.

Monday, 30th December, 2012

Ray arrived at Kouh Academy, his mind racing with anticipation. He had dreamed of attending this prestigious school for as long as he could remember, and now he was finally here.

He looked around at the other examinees, all of them dressed in their best clothes and looking nervous. Ray could tell that they were all smart and ambitious, just like him.

He took a deep breath and tried to calm his racing heart. He knew that he was prepared for the exam, but he couldn't help but feel a little bit anxious.

Ray found his assigned classroom and sat down at his desk. He took out his pen and pencil and placed them in front of him. He took a deep breath and looked around the room.

The exam began, and Ray immediately picked up his pen and began writing. He didn't stop until he had reached the last question. By 10:30, he was the first one to submit his exam.

He left the classroom feeling confident. He knew that he had done his best, and that was all he could ask for.

A few days later...

Ray was flipping his sizzling eggs when his phone rang. He snatched it up, hoping it was good news.

"Hello?" he answered.

"Are you Mr. Raymond Black?" a voice on the other end asked.

"Yes," Ray said.

"Congratulations," the voice said. "You've been accepted to Kouh Academy."

Ray's heart skipped a beat. He had dreamed of attending Kouh Academy for as long as he could remember. It was the most prestigious school in Japan, and it was known for its rigorous academics and high standards for excellence.

"Thank you so much," Ray said. "I'm honored."

"We're pleased to have you," the voice said. "Your results have been processed and sent to your email. We hope you'll do well in our school."

Ray hung up the phone and checked his email immediately. His score was 100/100. He couldn't believe it. He had gotten a perfect score on the entrance exam.

Ray was so happy that he didn't notice the figure watching him from the window. The curtains were drawn, but Ray could tell that someone was there. The figure gave a wicked smile before vanishing.

Ray shivered. He felt a chill run down his spine. He knew that he wasn't alone.

He turned away from the window and went back to cooking his eggs. He tried to forget about the figure, but it was no use. He couldn't shake the feeling that he was being watched.

Two days later...

Ray was running late. Normally, he would be an early bird. But since it was his first day as a student and not just in any school but a reputed one, Ray knew he had to look sharp. He got up at 6 p.m. Did his one hour workout. Did his bathroom rituals. Pulled a ramen cup from the shelves, ripped the center head of completely, poured hot water from the kettle nearby the sink into the ramen cup  and then flicked the tv on and a  news from a channel name as KTV came into view as he eat his morning ramen. 

The scene revealed a crime scene tape surrounds a wrecked car, with two bodies covered in white sheets lying on stretchers nearby. A female reporter stands in front of the car, speaking to the camera.

To think she wasn't an attractive woman would be like to himself, Ray thought. Her eyes are large and expressive, with dark, almond-shaped irises. She has long, dark eyelashes, and her eyebrows are neatly groomed. Her face is oval-shaped, with high cheekbones and a delicate nose. Her lips are full and curved, and she had remorse written all over her face. Her hair is black and silky, and she wears it in a shoulder-length bob. Her hair is slightly curled at the ends, and she has a side parting.

She was wearing a white button-down blouse with a black pencil skirt. The blouse was tailored to fit her slim figure, and the skirt is knee-length and professional. She had a pair of silver stud earrings and a simple pendant necklace. She held the KTV mike as she faced the camera.

"Good evening, this is Naomi Natsumi from KTV, reporting live from the scene of a fatal car accident. In the early hours of this morning, a college-aged couple was killed when their car rammed into a speeding truck. The truck driver fled the scene, and police are now investigating the accident."

To say Naomi wasn't an attractive woman would be an understatement.

Detective Majima's voice cut through the air like a knife, slicing through the chaos of the crime scene. His pale skin and bowl cut hair made him look like a character out of a comic book, but his steely gaze and commanding presence made it clear that he was in charge.

He strode towards the reporter, his long silver leather coat billowing behind him like a cape. He stopped in front of her and looked down at her with his piercing blue eyes.

"Excuse me, miss," he said in a cold, even voice. "Could you please step back? We're still securing the crime scene."

The reporter took a step back, intimidated by Majima's imposing presence. She had never seen a detective like him before. He was like something out of a movie.

"Yes, of course, Detective," she said. "I'm sorry to bother you."

Majima turned and walked away, his leather coat swishing around his legs. He was a man on a mission, and no one was going to get in his way.

The reporter sighs.

The reporter walks away and starts interviewing the witnesses who're present during the accidents took place.

Ray watched the news report about the drunk driving accident with a heavy heart. He couldn't believe that someone would be so reckless and irresponsible as to drive drunk, especially with a passenger in the car. He hoped that the drunk driver would be caught and brought to justice.

After turning off the TV, Ray headed to his room to change clothes. He wanted to look his best for his first day of school, but he also wanted to feel comfortable and confident. He chose a black leather jacket, a black half-sleeved shirt, a pair of grey jeans, and a pair of sneakers. He then stood in front of the mirror and combed his hair backwards. He put on his smartwatch and checked his pockets to make sure he had everything he needed.

As he looked at himself in the mirror, Ray felt a surge of determination. He was ready to start this new chapter in his life, and he was going to make the most of it. He was going to study hard, make new friends, and have new experiences. He was going to live his life to the fullest.

----

Ray looked up at the clear blue sky and took a deep breath. The air was fresh and crisp, and he could smell the faint hint of autumn in the wind. It was a perfect day to start a new school year.

Ray glanced at his watch. It was 8:45 AM. He had fifteen minutes to get to school. He started running down the block, his heart pounding in his chest.

As he ran, he didn't notice the woman in front of him. She was walking slowly, humming a sweet melody. She was wearing a bright yellow and black sports jacket, and her long black hair was tied back in a ponytail.

Ray was so focused on getting to school on time that he didn't see the woman until it was too late. He slammed into her from behind, knocking her to the ground.

Like the video down below.

https://youtu.be/Ux1qs-5_z_o

Before Ray knew, he ended up bumping into the women, throwing her off her feet watched as she fell on to the hard ground with a thud sound, and later receiving a low moaned 'oww' sound from her delicate lips. 

Ray stopped in tracks, contemplating now. Should he help her now and later get scolded by the teacher for being late or should he help her now and risk the scolding knowing he did a good thing before coming there? His inner voice told him the answer.

"Fuck school," he muttered as he approached the girl and offered her his hand, "Hey, you alright."

The girl in question looked at his face and then his hand. He was handsome but she wasn't gonna fall for this trick. Most people would just leave her and go on their merry as if nothing happened. Yet this black leather jacket stood there and offered her his hand. He was helping, that's obvious, but did he have any ulterior motive?

She was also beautiful in appearance, her granny constantly reminded her as well as her friends, her purple colored eye scanned the guy before accepting his hand and grabbing it as he pulled her up.

"Listen, Miss Whatever Your Name Is," Ray tried to apologize as he nervously scratched his rear head. "I'm sorry. Wasn't looking were I was going. Are you alright? Not hurt, are you? Listening, I'm running late for school and--"

"No, you're," she answered as she stared into his black colored eyes. "If you going to the school that I'm going as well, chances are that classes won't start until 9: 15. Got it?"

"Hey, how did-" Ray tried asking.

"Guess? Oh, I am a good guesser. Also, your appearance told me you're a high schooler like me."

The woman, who now Ray realized was a girl and was about his age, extended her hand. Ray did the same and grabbed the extended hand.

"I'm Raynare Night. And you are?"

"Raymond Black. Pleasure's all mine."

Raynare looked at her watch and gestured Ray to walk with her. Both of them kept walking before Raynare decided to break the silence.

"Since both of us have 'Ray' in our first name," Raynare started the conversation. "Guess that makes friends, wouldn't you agree?"

"I guess." Ray said as felt his hands rested in his jean pockets.

"Okay, to avoid confusion and from this day on, I'll be Ray 1 and you will be Ray 2. Sound good?"

"Worse," Ray answered back. For someone as beautiful as her, she was an easy person to talk to and decent being as well. "Prefer being called Mond  to alleviate your 'confusion' and calling you, my new friend, Nare. Now, does that sound cool?"

"Ray 1 and Ray 2 sounds way better."

"Uhh... nope," Ray answered back. "Mond and Nare takes the cake." 

"No, they don't."

"Do too."

"Do not."

"Do too."

"You asshole," Raynare laughed fruitily before lightly shoving Ray.

Ray shoved back. "You too, Nare."

Both of laughed as they kept on walking. 

----
Ray and Raynare continued walking to school, chatting and laughing as they went. Ray was amazed at how easily he could talk to her. She was beautiful, funny, and intelligent. He couldn't help but feel a spark of attraction.

Raynare, for her part, was also enjoying Ray's company. He was different from the other guys she knew. He was genuine and honest, and he made her laugh. She felt a sense of comfort and ease around him.

As they walked, they passed a group of students who were standing by the side of the road. The students started staring at Ray and Raynare.

"What's up with them?" Ray asked.

"They're probably wondering why I'm talking to a loser like you," Raynare said with a wink.

Ray laughed. "Hey, I'm not that bad."

"Oh, but you are," Raynare said. "You're a nerd who's wearing black leather jacket."

"That's not fair," Ray said. "I'm a cool nerd."

"Whatever you say, Ray 2," Raynare said.

They continued walking, and the students continued to stare. Raynare didn't seem to mind, neither did Ray.

"So, what's your favorite subject in school?" Ray asked, trying to change the subject.

"Math," Raynare said. "I love numbers and solving problems."

"Math is my worst subject," Ray said.

"Well, I can help you with it," Raynare said. "We can study together after school."

"Really?" Ray asked.

"Sure," Raynare said. "Why not?"

Ray smiled. "That would be great."

They continued walking, and the students continued to stare. But Ray and Raynare didn't care. They were too busy talking and laughing.

----

Ray and Raynare finally arrived at school. It was 9:10 AM, and they both breathed a sigh of relief.

"Thank God," Ray thought to himself.

"Thank True Satan," Raynare thought to herself.

Ray was then met with a surprise because of Raynare's sudden transformation. Her eyes changed from purple to red in an instant before changing back to her purple ones. He had never seen anyone transform so fast. Truly, the articles about this place wasn't all fabricated lies. Some of them had to true, judging by what he witnessed just a moment ago. He didn't want to believe what he saw but now he had no choice but to believe the rumors were real and not fairytales. 

Hiding his understandable fear, he asked. "What are you doing?"

"What are you doing?" he asked.

"Checking to see if anyone's following us," Raynare said. "I'm always careful, you know."

Ray nodded quietly. He knew that Raynare was from a different world, and that she had to be careful. He would be wise to not piss her off for the time being.

"So, what's your class room number and what category do you belong to?" Raynare asked.

"Sophomore. Class B. Second floor," Ray replied.

Raynare's eyes widened. "You're in my class!" she exclaimed.

"What a coincidence," Ray said.

"Well, let's go then," Raynare said. "No use of standing here and sucking air now."

They walked through the school gates and entered the building. The school was huge, and it looked more like a mansion than a school. All the students were staring at them and whispering amongst themselves. Ray and Raynare ignored them and walked up the grand staircase to the second floor.

----

After a while, they reached their classroom and took sat at the mid row, just four desks back. Raynare sat behind Ray by the window seats. All the students were taking amongst themselves.

Based on their appearances, they belonged to multiple groups and sat according to their chosen rows. Nerdy kids who were discussing space along with math problems were hanging right side of Ray.

Delinquents, who were unruly cheering for a guy called Issei, were showering him with praises with how much of a true man he is and so one. Ray mentally noted to ignore this guy and his gang of thugs.

Right by them, there was a row that seemed to taken by popular kids. Their preppy clothes and arrogant attitudes were a dead giveaway. Ray saw one of Issei's guys arguing with a rooster hair styled rich kid.

To the right side of this row, was the group of emo kids discussing witchcraft and Satan's worshipping. Ray paid no mind to this 'lunatics' as he preferred to call them.

Close to the end row, there were a gang of guys and gals wearing sports clothes that had the initials "K.B" with full form written upwards their back side of the jackets. "Kouh Bulldogs."

As Ray was mentally taking notes who was who, suddenly, the class door opened and all students ran to their respective desks. A bald middle aged man sporting a black shirt tucked under his grey slacks with polished brown formal shoes walked in.

"Good morning, class!" He yelled in a deep voice. As expected from a middle man like him. "As for those who don't know who am I or who are new here, I'm your new English Language teacher Micheal Pearce. You will address me as Mr. Pearce. That clear?" he asked. 

His question was answered with a few nods.

"Good. Now class, just like your new teacher, you also have a new friend and fellow classmate here." He stated before his eyes scanned the entire class until they were on Ray. "Mr. Black, my dear boy, please stand in front of the class introduce yourself, son."

"Yes, Mr. Pearce," Ray said as got up and looked at Raynare. She gave a weak smile before shrugging. Ray signed, knew this was gonna take some nerves. He gathered up his confidence, mentally prepared himself and walked up to the teacher before turning and facing the class.

"Hey, fellow mates," he greeted with a wave. "I'm Raymond Black and it's nice to meet ya'll. Hope we can be friends."

"Dear Raymond," Mr. Pearce coaxed. "Please tell us a bit more about yourself."

"Bit more?" Ray looked at the man in disbelief before gathering up courage and facing the room. "Let's see. I was an orphan. Never knew my parents. Grew up in an orphanage. Ate shitty meals."

 This earned him a few laughs. He continued. "I ran away at some point. Did odd jobs here and there, learnt skills and yeah, here I am." He stopped before facing the bald man. "Think that concludes it."

"It does for now, thank you Raymond. Now, does anyone have questions for Raymond?" Bald man addressed the class.

One of the delinquents stood up. He had a bald head and looked slightly built.

'Great,' Ray thought. 'Just what I needed.'

"Yo, how does it feel to be an orphan, loser? Pretty lonely, right?" he crudely asked and faced his gang as he laughed along with them.

Now Ray was pissed. How dare he? But he knew better lose control, especially in a place like this.

"It feels, great. Thanks for asking."

This shut the asshole up who looked a bit surprised before sitting back down.

Mr. Pearce stared at the delinquent group for a while, his distaste for them visible to everyone. Everyone in this school, including a stoners in this school, hated Issei and his gang of thugs who passed their time by doing activities like vandalizing, smoking, robbing, joyriding, bullying and sexually harassing girls when teachers weren't around. And also stole candies from kids. They enjoyed making kids cry their eye sockets out as they waved their things at them from above while the children begged and tried to get their toys back.

Mr. Pearce gestured Ray to go back to his seat. After Ray sat down, the old man faced the class before stating his verdict.

"All of you hoodlums, you are nothing but a disgrace to our school. And you?" He points at the bald guy. "You will visit the principal after school, especially Shiro Motohama. You like getting into a lot of trouble, don't you, Shiro?"

"Man, this is fuckin' bullshit, dawg!" he exclaimed loudly.

"One more profanity out of your mouth," Mr. Pearce tried to warn. "And you will be sorry. Very sorry."

"Man, this blows." He whined.

"I don't care," Mr. Pearce said. "Now, class. Open page one and read the headline."

And just like that, Ray's school life started.

----

Ray settled in pretty well in two weeks. He was a smart and well mannered student. All teachers liked him for who he was as a person. He made a few friends. He did his best to keep out of Issei and his gangs way. Unfortunately for him, Ray was constantly being watched by this gang and it reached to the point where Ray ended up punching gang leader for trying to get a feel from grabbing one Ray's female friend, who was a cheerleader, her ass from behind and she ended up screaming bloody murder. Ray and Raynare both teamed up and got in a fistfight with Issei and his gangs. It happened after school in the field where no teacher was present.

The two martial artists were a force to be reckoned with. They danced through the gang like a pair of ghosts, their fists and feet flying in a blur. One by one, the gang members dropped, either knocked unconscious or too terrified to continue.

The leader of the gang, a hulking brute named Issei, was the last one standing. He begged for mercy, but the martial artists didn't listen. They continued to pummel him until he was nothing more than a bruised and battered mess.

Ray delivered the final blow, a swift kick to the jaw that sent Issei sprawling to the ground. He lay there unconscious, his face a twisted mask of pain and humiliation.

The martial artists stood over him, their chests heaving. They had won the day, but they knew that the gang would be back. They would need to be ready.

----

Few days later, that day arrived. 

Ray was walking through the park, his mind lost in thought. He had no idea that Issei and his gang were waiting to ambush him.

The park was empty, save for a few scattered leaves and the occasional bird call. Ray should have known something was wrong, but he was too engrossed in his thoughts to notice the strange changes around him.

The sky turned a crimson red, and the air became thick with tension. Ray looked up, startled, and saw a group of clouds gathering overhead. They were dark and ominous, and they rumbled with thunder.

Ray felt a chill run down his spine. He knew that he was in danger, but it was too late to run. Issei and his gang stepped out from behind the trees, their faces twisted with hatred.

What surprised him most was that his Issei's right hand now was replaced by a long red metal scale that had a green crystal ball on the top of Issei's hand. It was glowing repeatedly. It was something that so... bizarre. Ray froze as he watched Issei and his gang of thugs approaching him menacingly. Ray was merely a skilled martial artist but no expert on handling supernatural power dwelling beings. His fear held him from reaching in his pocket to fish out his phone, to call Raynare for assistance. 

She told him about the supernatural and how Issei was one of them. He didn't really paid much attention to that but now had regrets as to why he didn't. If only he waited for Raynare before coming to this park all by himself.

He knew he was dead. 

Issei grinned evilly. "Hello, Ray."

Ray swallowed hard. "What do you want, Issei?"

"I want revenge," Issei growled. "For everything you've done to me."

Ray took a step back. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Issei laughed. "Of course you do. You know that I'm not going to let you get away with this."

Issei raised his fist, and Ray knew that he was about to die. He closed his eyes and waited for the end.

But the end didn't come. Instead, Ray felt a sharp pain in his abdomen. He looked down and saw that Issei had punched a hole through him.

Ray coughed blood and fell to the ground. He lay there, gasping for breath, as Issei and his gang laughed over him.

Ray knew that he was dying. He could feel his life force slipping away.

Present

Ray lay sprawled on the cold, hard ground, his abdomen a gaping maw of crimson flesh. His hands were slick with his own blood, and his breath came in ragged gasps. He knew he was dying, but he couldn't bring himself to care. The pain was too intense, the shock too great.

Through the haze of his failing vision, he saw two figures standing over him. They were translucent and ethereal, their features blurred and indistinct. Ray couldn't tell if they were male or female, human or otherwise. But he could feel their presence, their gaze heavy upon him.

Were they angels, come to escort him to the afterlife? Or were they something else entirely? Something more sinister? Ray didn't know. And he would never find out.

The figures in question were motioning something to him. By the movement of their index fingers, maybe they were calling to him? Afterlife? But wasn't a heavenly light supposed to appear?

But Ray had bigger fish to fry. He tried his best to ignore them as his mind raced with thoughts. He just stared down at the one who was behind him, his expression calm rather than afraid or angry. He felt... pity rather than hate. Pity for the one who would ambush him like a coward, attacking from behind instead of facing him like a man.

As his eyes began to close, he heard profanities being exchanged between a group of people. Then, he heard a familiar voice saying something before he collapsed on the floor.

WRaynare and her gang of Fallen Angels charged into the fray, their weapons drawn and their magic blazing. They knew that they were outnumbered and outmatched, but they were determined to protect their friend and defeat Issei and his gang.

Issei's gang was made up of some of the most powerful and dangerous supernatural creatures in the world. They were all skilled fighters with a variety of deadly abilities.

The two sides clashed together in a chaotic and explosive battle. Mittlet launched streams of fire from her palms, incinerating her opponents. Dohnaseek used his wormholes to transport Issei's gang members to other dimensions, where they would be lost forever. Kalawarner unleashed a barrage of lightning and blood magic, devastating her foes.

Raynare herself fought with a ferocity that even her friends had never seen before. She was fueled by her rage and her determination to save Ray.

Issei watched the battle from the sidelines, a cruel smile on his face. He was confident that his gang would eventually overwhelm the Fallen Angels.

But then, Raynare's chanting reached a crescendo. A blinding light erupted from her body, and a powerful wave of energy swept through the battlefield.

Issei's gang members were caught off guard by the sudden attack. They were knocked to the ground, their bodies scorched and battered.

Issei himself was also injured, but he was not defeated. He staggered to his feet and glared at Raynare.

"You will pay for that," he growled.

Issei raised his hand to cast a spell, but Raynare was faster. She launched a blast of pure energy at him, knocking him backwards.

Issei knew that he was beaten. He turned and ran, his wounded body disappearing into the shadows.

Raynare turned to her friends. "Is everyone alright?" she asked.

Kalawarner, Dohnaseek, and Mittlet all nodded, but they were all injured and exhausted.

"We really gotta stop Gremory scumbags." Dohnaseek said as held on to the wounds on his right shoulder blade.

Mittlet signed in exhaustion. "Yeah, 'fraid Donnie's right. Gotta stop 'em before shit hits the fan."

Kalawarner observed the scene. Too many bodies to count. Some burnt, some missing and gone to who knows where, and some still barely moving from all those blood bending and lighting bending passing through them. She herself knew that it was only a small portion of Issei's thugs. There are hundreds, even thousands of thugs spread across all Kouh.

The thought those thugs roaming around and destroying innocent lives angered her. "Yes, we should dispose of them as quickly as possible. Millions suffered enough already." 

Raynare looked down at Ray, who was still lying on the ground. He was still weak, but he was alive.

Raynare knelt down beside Ray and placed her hand on his forehead. She closed her eyes and concentrated, healing his wounds.

Who knows what awaited them in the future? As she continued healing her best friend, she couldn't help but feel this fight was far from over. It was only the beginning.