"Crybaby." This word is often used to describe those who are emotional and weak. But what if someday a boy with such a label is given the duty of protecting his loved ones? This is the story of that kind of boy.

A world full of technological advancements, where people rely heavily on machines. Our main character, Remond, is a normal boy often tagged as a "crybaby" because of his overly emotional nature.

---

Cedar Valley High, the bathroom:

A group of bullies hovered over Remond like predators toying with their prey.

"Hey, Remond, how about you give us some money so we can grab some food from the cafeteria?" said the leader, smirking. "If you do, we'll spare you."

Remond looked up briefly, clutching his bag tighter, but said nothing.

"Come on, hand it over already. If not, we'll give you a lesson you won't like," another bully growled, cracking his knuckles.

"But I don't have any money left," Remond replied in a low, trembling voice, eyes fixed on the tiled floor. "All I have is the dormitory, where I get food and other essentials. I don't receive any money from my parents."

"You're just hopeless," the leader scoffed, shaking his head with mock pity.

Without waiting for a response, the bullies spat on him and sauntered out, laughing. Once alone, Remond slumped against the wall, tears streaming down his face. He wiped them away quickly, but more kept falling. The bell rang, its shrill tone echoing in the empty bathroom. Slowly, his sobs faded as he gathered himself to face the rest of the day.

---

After school:

Remond trudged down the street, his bag feeling heavier than usual. By his side walked Sid, his only friend at school. Sid had his hands in his pockets, his expression dark as he stole glances at Remond's hunched shoulders.

"Those bastards bullied you again today?" Sid asked, his voice tight with restrained anger. "Why didn't you come to me? I swear I'll beat them up next time," he added, clenching his fists.

Remond let out a weak sigh, avoiding Sid's gaze. "Don't talk like an idiot, bro. They're much bigger and stronger than us. They're upperclassmen, after all. If we inform the authorities, it'll only make things worse."

Sid stopped mid-step, spinning to face Remond. "But how long are you going to endure this torture? This is too much for a crybaby like you, bro."

"Hey! Don't call me a crybaby!" Remond snapped, finally looking up, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

"Well, it's the truth, bro. Since childhood, I've always seen you cry whenever you're hurt, scolded, or even watching a tragic movie. You cry enough to make a river," Sid teased, his lips quirking into a grin.

"That's because I'm just a little bit emotional," Remond muttered, turning his head away, his voice defensive but softer.

Sid burst into laughter, throwing an arm around his friend's shoulder. "Hey, don't get mad. I was just messing with you to cheer you up," he said, giving Remond a playful push.

Remond cracked a small, reluctant smile, the tension easing slightly.

---

On the street:

As their conversation carried on, they passed a man with distinct Eastern features. His piercing gaze lingered on them for a moment before he continued walking.

Sid nudged Remond. "What was that guy's deal, bro? Do you know him?"

Remond shook his head, glancing over his shoulder as the man disappeared into the crowd. "I have no idea who he was."

Sid's eyebrows furrowed. "Weird. He gave me the creeps."

---

Near Dr. Edwards' house:

The faint smell of smoke drifted into the air as they turned the corner. A commotion erupted nearby, and their hearts sank when they saw thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky.

For a moment, they froze, their brains struggling to process the scene. Then it hit them.

"No, no, no! Uncleeeeee!" Remond screamed, his voice breaking as he sprinted toward the house.

Sid's eyes widened in horror. "Damn it, Remond, wait!" he shouted, running after him.

As they neared the burning house, flames roared violently, consuming everything in their path. The heat was unbearable, but all Remond could think about was his uncle. He stumbled forward, desperation etched on his tear-streaked face.

"Uncle Edwards!" he shouted, his voice hoarse. "Are you in there?!"

Sid grabbed his arm, holding him back. "You can't go in there, bro! You'll get yourself killed!"

"But I have to! My uncle… he's in there!" Remond cried, struggling against Sid's grip.

"Damn it, we'll call for help! Stay here!" Sid yelled, dragging Remond away from the house as bystanders began to gather.

Remond's knees buckled, and he collapsed on the sidewalk, sobbing uncontrollably. In his mind, one thought repeated like a mantra: Uncle… please be okay.