At six-thirty in the early morning, Shimiya Kuki's internal clock woke him from his light sleep right on schedule. He opened his eyes to find the tent still filled with the faint bluish light of dawn. Turning his head toward the bunk opposite his, he found it already empty, the sleeping bag neatly rolled up and put away. Kanzaki Ryuji had evidently risen even earlier and was nowhere to be seen. Looks like he's even more proactive than expected. Shimiya thought silently. Still, early morning was indeed a good time to scout. The light was sufficient, while activity at the other camps might not yet have fully begun, making it easier to observe their true situation.
He got up briskly, tidied his bedding, then lifted the tent flap and stepped outside.
A crisp sea breeze carrying a faint salty tang immediately washed over him, scattering the last traces of sleepiness. The beach in the early morning possessed a tranquil beauty entirely different from the daytime. The rising sun cast soft golden light across the shimmering sea, dyeing the azure water a splendid rose gold. The white beach was deserted, with only gentle waves tirelessly lapping against the shore, producing a soothing rustle. In the distance, the horizon merged with the deep blue sea, vast and refreshing.
Shimiya did not linger to admire the scenery. He headed straight for the lightweight tent being used as a temporary storage room. After taking out his toiletries, he went through the routine of pressing the Leader Keycard steadily against the Identification Zone on the base equipment once again.
[Class B Exclusive Usage Time: 07:59:59]
The indicator light glowed green once more, and the countdown began ticking through another cycle. Only after finishing this did he head toward the pond to wash up.