FAMILY AND HOPE

The next morning, Ming Yue and Rubia awoke to the gentle hum of their revitalization chambers. As they emerged from their slumber, they couldn't help but marvel at how refreshed and rejuvenated they felt.

"Wow," Rubia said, stretching her limbs. "I feel like a new person."

Ming Yue nodded in agreement. "Me too. I don't think I've ever slept that well in my life."

As they got dressed and prepared for the day ahead, they couldn't help but wonder what Raizel had in store for them. Despite their initial suspicions, they couldn't deny the fact that they were grateful for his kindness and hospitality.

When they emerged from their rooms, they were greeted by Genesis, the AI that had guided them to their chambers the night before.

"Good morning, ladies. I trust you slept well?" Genesis asked, its voice calm and reassuring.

Ming Yue and Rubia nodded, still a little unsure of what to expect.

As Ming Yue and Rubia made their way to the main living room, their eyes scanned the futuristic surroundings, taking in the sleek, high-tech furnishings and the advanced robotic servants dutifully tending to their tasks. At the centre of it all, they saw Raizel seated at the breakfast table, his sharp features and formidable presence commanding attention. Standing beside him was Royce, the ever-gracious host, who greeted them with a welcoming smile that belied his formidable physical stature.

"Welcome to the morning's proceedings," Raizel greeted with his usual inscrutable demeanour. "Are you feeling reinvigorated after your rejuvenation chambers?"

Ming Yue and Rubia nodded in acquiescence, their minds still unsettled by the strange circumstances of their situation.

With a subtle gesture, Royce commanded the robotic attendants to serve a sumptuous breakfast for the pair, ensuring that no delicacy was left off the table. Raizel, meanwhile, rose from his seat and made his way to the couch, clutching a sheaf of papers.

"Take your time and savour the most important meal of the day," Royce advised them. "After you've had your fill, kindly join us on the couch. The Master has some important matters to discuss with you."

As they took their seats, the robots swiftly presented them with an array of dishes that left Ming Yue and Rubia astounded. The robots set down plates of steaming hot food in front of Ming Yue and Rubia, causing their stomachs to growl in anticipation. The dishes were a feast for the eyes, each one exquisitely presented with vibrant colours and intricate designs. The plates were elegantly designed, with intricate patterns etched into them.

One plate held a fluffy omelette stuffed with savoury cheese and diced vegetables, accompanied by a side of golden-brown hash browns that looked perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Another plate held thick slices of toast, slathered with creamy butter, and drizzled with sweet honey.

There was a bowl of fresh fruit, bursting with juicy goodness and arranged in a beautiful spiral pattern. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, invigorating their senses.

As they began to eat, they couldn't help but savour each bite, the flavours exploding in their mouths with every forkful. The food was unlike anything they had ever tasted before, a perfect combination of bold and subtle flavours that left them feeling satisfied and energized. It was clear that no expense had been spared in creating this meal.

Rubia practically moaned in pleasure as she tasted the delicious breakfast. "Oh my god, this is shoo good!" she exclaimed with her mouth full.

Ming Yue rolled her eyes and scolded her, "How many times do I have to tell you not to talk with food in your mouth?"

Rubia swallowed her food with effort and retorted, "Come on, Ming Yue, you have to admit this is heavenly. I mean, I could marry this food right now!"

Ming Yue chuckled, "Well, that's great news for the chef. I'm sure they'll be thrilled to know they have a potential suitor."

As Rubia continued to rave about the food, Ming Yue couldn't help but join in on the fun. "You know what, I think I'm going to start a religion based on this breakfast. We could call it 'The Cult of Deliciousness'."

Rubia laughed so hard she nearly choked on her food. "I'm in! Where do I sign up?"

Even Raizel, who had been watching the exchange with his usual stoicism, cracked a small smile at their antics. It seemed like the delicious breakfast had brought some much-needed levity to the group.

After a few moments, both Ming Yue and Rubia finally finished their meal and let out satisfied sighs. "Boy, I'm full. Can't remember the last time I had a decent yet delicious food," Rubia exclaimed.

Raizel, who had been silent this entire time, suddenly spoke up in a serious tone. "Food is a basic necessity for survival, and it should not be taken lightly."

Royce rolled his eyes in annoyance. "Oh please, Master. Don't ruin the mood. They're just happy they're not eating space rations for once."

Ming Yue couldn't help but stifle a laugh at Royce's remark, while Rubia grinned mischievously at Raizel. "Relax, Raizel. We're just enjoying the moment."

Raizel let out a small sigh, his expression softening slightly. "Very well. But do remember to savour every meal, as you never know when the next one may come."

Ming Yue and Rubia exchanged a knowing glance before bursting out in laughter, much to Raizel's confusion and Royce's amusement.

Ming Yue and Rubia couldn't help but laugh at Royce's reaction. Raizel, who had been observing the whole exchange from the couch, cleared his throat to regain their attention.

"Ahem. If you're quite finished, I have some important matters to discuss with you," he said, his expression serious.

Ming Yue and Rubia quickly composed themselves and nodded, their previous levity replaced with a more sombre mood.

Rubia replied, "Why are you always so serious and expressionless, Boo..."

Raizel's face contorted with irritation as he glared at Rubia. "Must you always be so insolent, Ms. Shihoin?" he demanded.

Rubia, undeterred, leaned back on the couch and grinned. "What can I say, Boo? I like a man with a little more personality, you know, like Royce here."

Royce, who had been standing nearby, rolled his eyes at Rubia's comment. "Please, Ms. Shihoin, spare me the flattery," he said with a hint of sarcasm.

Raizel, still annoyed, cleared his throat and continued with the serious matter at hand. "Now, as I was saying, we have a pressing issue that needs to be addressed."

Ming Yue leaned forward attentively. "What is it, Raizel?" she asked.

Rubia chimed in," Is it about dealing with enemies? No problem! Since we are all healed up, we can kick ass!!"

Raizel raised an eye, "Really?"

Rubia grinned confidently. "Don't worry, Boo. We can handle whatever comes our way."

Raizel raised an eyebrow sceptically. "I certainly hope so," he muttered under his breath, earning a chuckle from Royce.

Raizel put forth the papers he was holding for quite some time. Ming Yue and Rubia picked them up and began to read it and were surprised.

Raizel presented the papers he had held onto for some time. Ming Yue and Rubia took hold of them and were taken aback by what they saw.

Rubia stammered, "This...this is..."

Ming Yue was overwhelmed with disbelief. Her lifelong aspiration was finally within her reach.

"This is the application form for Vanguard Academy! Why are you giving this to me?"

Raizel calmly replied, "Was it not your desire to attend a prestigious institution in pursuit of knowledge?"

Ming Yue couldn't fathom it. "I cannot afford such a place. I am completely penniless. I only have enough to provide for my brother and myself."

Rubia's eyes widened as she looked at Raizel, "How did you manage to get a form for Vanguard Academy? It's nearly impossible to obtain one without connections or extraordinary abilities."

Raizel simply smiled and replied, "I suppose you should thank Royce for these. He happens to be the director of the institution."

Ming Yue still couldn't believe what was happening. The dream of attending Vanguard Academy was so far out of her reach, and yet here was the opportunity being presented to her. But the reality of her financial situation hit her hard, and she couldn't help but voice her concerns.

"I appreciate this offer, but I can't afford it. I don't have the means to pay for tuition or living expenses," she said, her voice trembling.

Raizel leaned forward and placed a reassuring hand on Ming Yue's shoulder, his eyes filled with understanding and empathy. "Wealth should never be a hindrance to pursuing one's dreams, especially when one is as driven and determined as you are," he said softly.

Royce's bright smile matched the warmth in his voice as he added, "My Master's generosity knows no bounds, and I am honoured to be able to assist in any way that I can."

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Ming Yue was at a loss for words. Tears streamed down her face as she realized that her lifelong dream of attending Vanguard Academy was finally becoming a reality.

Rubia, equally emotional, joined in with heartfelt words of thanks, "Thank you, Raizel. We are forever indebted to you for this opportunity."

Raizel simply nodded with a small smile, "It's my pleasure to support those who are passionate about knowledge and growth. And I will be honoured to accompany you both to the academy."

Ming Yue's expression became puzzled as a thought struck her. "Ah, my brother! He is still at the tent for two days! I forgot all about him. I must go to him immediately or else things can get dangerous." she said.

Raizel took Ming Yue's hand in his and said, "There is no need for you to worry about your brother any longer."

Ming Yue looked at Raizel with a perplexed expression and asked, "What do you mean by that?"

Suddenly, a small figure emerged from behind the couch, revealing a child of around four years old. His hair was tousled, but his hazel eyes sparkled with curiosity, and his fair skin glowed in the light. He wore clean, tailored clothing that gave him the air of a young gentleman. Ming Yue was stunned as she watched Raizel reach out and affectionately ruffle the child's hair, revealing a tender side of his formidable personality, leaving Royce in total surprise.

Tears cascaded down Ming Yue's face as she delicately touched her brother's cheek, her heart overflowing with emotion. The mere thought of her precious sibling being in danger had been a heavy burden on her soul, and now that she held him close, the floodgates of her emotions burst forth.

"Little Yu..., you're safe," she whispered, holding him tighter than ever. "I'm so sorry for leaving you alone for so long. I promise I'll make it up to you."

Her words were full of love and regret, her voice trembling with the weight of her emotions. Finally reunited with her beloved sibling, Ming Yue was overcome with relief and gratitude.

Despite his tender age, the young boy displayed a level of maturity that belied his years. His words pierced through Ming Yue's heart, causing her to well up with tears.

"Sis, you always work hard for both of us, day and night just so you can provide for us. You are the best sister I could ask for. I wish I could do more for you. But they won't allow me to work! Hmph!"

Raizel and Royce shared a knowing glance, acknowledging the depth of the siblings' bond.

Ming Yue gently patted her little brother's head, promising to teach him how to read and write now that she was going to the institute. But Royce had a surprise in store.

"That won't be necessary, Yue," he said with a reassuring smile.

Ming Yue looked at him with a mix of confusion and curiosity, wondering what he meant.

"Why not?" she asked.

With a sense of satisfaction, Raizel revealed that Ming Yu would be attending school from the following day, much to the delight of the young boy, who flashed a wide grin and victory sign.

Raizel knelt and spoke to the boy, his voice laced with a gentle kindness. "Young man, what do you say about staying here? You can play and have fun as much as you want. Would you like that? And would you like your sister to stay here with you?"

Ming Yu, barely able to contain his excitement, hopped around the room while scanning it with curious eyes.

When Raizel asked the question, the boy beamed with joy and replied with a resounding "YES!" Royce clapped his hands, signalling his readiness to make the necessary arrangements.

As Royce departed with Genesis to handle the necessary arrangements, Ming Yue and her brother found joy in laughter and play. Raizel noticed Rubia's expression and smiled, sensing her thoughts.

"I see your mind is preoccupied with your mother," Raizel remarked, causing Rubia to jump in surprise.

"How did you know that?" Rubia asked, taken aback.

Raizel grinned, "Your concern was written all over your face, my dear friend."

Rubia's gaze dropped to the ground in a sign of sadness. But Raizel, being the wise and experienced that he was, knew exactly how to console her. He spoke softly, his words carrying an air of philosophical wisdom and calmness.

"Patience is the key to unlocking the door of success, Rubia Shihoin," Raizel said, his voice carrying a soothing tone. "For those who wait, their efforts never go unrewarded. Trust in your heart and have faith in the journey ahead. Your mother will be back in your arms soon, just be patient."

Rubia's smile lit up the room as she left to join Ming Yue and her little brother, leaving Raizel alone with his thoughts.

As Raizel gazed through the glass, his mind drifted to a place of uncertainty. His thoughts delved deep into the unknown as he contemplated his next move. He felt as though he had been thrown into an abyss of confusion and his mind struggled to find a way out. He felt lost, he had been plunged into an era that he had never experienced. It was a moment of profound introspection, where his thoughts were philosophical and profound.

As he pondered his next move, he couldn't help but think of an old friend, the woman who had always been there to guide him through life's toughest moments. He hoped that she was watching him, and that she would help him make the right decision. He knew that the path ahead was uncertain, and that he would need all the guidance he could get to navigate it.

"What am I supposed to do? Where am I supposed to go from now on? Left, where there is nothing right, or right, where there is nothing left?"