Chapter 142: Zombie
The alarm clock rang, as usual, at 4:30 AM. Its shrill noise brutally shattered the peaceful silence of the dark room. The sound was worse than a dagger slowly driven into their weary hearts: each aggressive beep resonated painfully in their exhausted minds, mercilessly reminding them of the harshness of the coming day.
The three men, Alexandre, Marlon, and William, dragged themselves out of bed and quickly dashed to the showers. Unlike other mornings, there were no crude jokes or furtive glances toward the women also taking showers to lighten the tense atmosphere. Their minds were entirely consumed by the imminent challenge. Their faces, closed-off and grave, clearly revealed the inner tension gripping them; every thought was focused on the unknown trials they would soon face.
Barely dressed, they hurriedly swallowed a quick breakfast at a nearby snack bar. Without pausing to chat or savor their meal, they crossed the large central courtyard of the academy. At this early hour, however, the outdoor gardens offered a spectacle of rare beauty: a thin layer of dew delicately covered vividly colored flowers. Majestic trees, with imposing trunks and lush foliage, dominated the scene, silently watching over the academy like immutable vegetal guardians. A slight, fresh breeze gently rustled the leaves, reinforcing the deceptive impression of peace and serenity at this hour.
As they walked, William scanned the surroundings and eventually remarked with puzzlement:
"Where have all the second- and third-year students gone?"
Alexandre immediately furrowed his brow, aware of this strange detail he had overlooked until now.
"That's true... I've hardly seen any since yesterday. Even the showers were strangely empty this morning."
Marlon, looking dark and concerned, gravely added:
"Given the psychotic tests they're already putting us through in our first year, I can't even imagine what those guys must endure at their level..."
They finally reached the amphitheater entrance, where a large number of their fellow first-year students had already gathered. Alexandre and Marlon immediately noticed Drak, his arms freshly bandaged—clear proof that he had recovered from his injuries and was ready again to face the upcoming challenges.