Vaulx-en-Velin, South West of France, March 26, 2030 - 6:30 AM
Lyris got up from his bed and prepared for his new day of school: clothes, notebooks. He had almost forgotten about the math exam that he clearly hadn't revised for. He smiled faintly and headed towards the bathroom, going through his hygiene routine. As he looked at himself in the mirror, all he could do was contemplate the body he hated so much— a thin, lean body, an angelic face with soft eyes, childlike love handles, and small feminine lips.
"I hate myself..."
An unconscious phrase, but one he couldn't control. Before leaving, he hugged his older sister with one last smile.
Lycée du Parc, Lyon 6th, South West of France, March 26, 2030 - 9:30 AM
Lyris was grabbed and pulled into a dark corner of the hallway. The blows came first to his ribs, then to his face. The world around him blurred as the laughter of his attackers seemed so close and distinct. The pain was there, but even stronger was the humiliation. Every punch was a confirmation of his weakness. He closed his eyes, resigning himself to the fact that he couldn't do anything.
"Hey... Are you okay?"
A warm hand was extended to him, a feminine voice rang out. He imagined it was his sister, but when he looked up, it was a goddess he saw, a glimmer of hope in this world of suffering for him.
"Uh... Yeah, yeah... Thanks for helping me, I guess?"
Lyris stammered awkwardly in front of the girl, who immediately replied.
"That's cute... It's been a while since I've seen a guy act like this. Well... What's your name?"
She said, smiling warmly, her body leaning toward Lyris. Lyris seemed almost embarrassed and speechless at the attention she was giving him.
"My name is Lyris... And... You?"
The young girl heard the bell ring, and she turned, exclaiming joyfully.
"LORANE! REMEMBER THIS!"