On the morning of the twenty-eighth day—two days before Maria reckoning Duel—
While Ethan was immersed in his own secret undertaking,
The hunters awoke early as usual, preparing for their daily routines.
The day began at the communal cafeteria shared by all within the Hunter's Haven.
The place was lively—vastly larger and more vibrant than the small dining areas attached to the residential quarters.
Among the many tables arranged in eight long rows within the hall, the members of the Third Squad sat together, eating their breakfast in silence.
All of them were present.
Except Ethan.
They ate quietly, each staring at their own plate.
The silence stretched.
Then Raiden suddenly slammed his fist against the table so hard it nearly cracked.
"Damn it! I can't take this anymore!"
He barked, drawing the attention of his squadmates and several nearby hunters.
Raiden ignored the stares and continued.
