Irvan stood with a satisfied smile after securing the territory for his class. The map before them now displayed the Eastern side of the central continent as the domain of the Wood Carving Techniques class. Around him, the other participants began to prepare themselves for the next question, but Irvan still felt the thrill of their first victory coursing through his veins.
"Well done, Irvan," Veranis said with a firm tone. "For the next question, you need not answer."
Irvan nodded in understanding, his contented smile unwavering. He stepped back, allowing the other participants to take the stage. The joy of victory surged within him, but he knew the challenges were far from over.
Veranis quickly moved on to the next question. "Question two: what is the type of map that shows the shape of the earth's surface with contour lines representing elevation and slope called?"
Imron from the Marketing class swiftly pressed the buzzer and confidently answered, "Topographic map!"
Veranis smiled and nodded. "That is correct, Imron. Congratulations! Now, please delineate your territory. You may discuss this with your friends first, but you only have 10 minutes since you answered second."
"I'll discuss it with my friends," Imron replied firmly.
"Very well, close your eyes, and you will be connected with your friends."
For 10 minutes, Imron stood still with his eyes closed. After the time was up, he stepped forward and examined the map intently. He began to outline his territory on the northernmost continent, selecting the easternmost region. It was a clever and strategic choice, a territory close to the sea.
Irvan, always affable, attempted to engage. "Looks like we'll be neighbors, buddy," he called out with a wide smile.
However, Imron ignored him, and focused on his task without acknowledging Irvan's greeting. The air grew tense, but Irvan did not lose his spirit. He understood that the competition in this game world would only grow fiercer, and friendships might not be everyone's priority.
Meanwhile, in the D'Lobby, Alvin and his friends watched intently. They began to wonder why the Marketing class had chosen a territory so close to theirs.
"Why did they pick a territory so close to ours?" Rudy asked anxiously. "It's unusual. Aren't they all allergic to us?"
Alvin pondered for a moment before responding. "Perhaps they have a different strategy."
"I could never trust someone from the Marketing class," added Zane, who appeared more serious than usual. "They might see us as a threat and want to hinder our progress."
Amid their discussion, the large screen in the D'Lobby displayed Imron still marking his territory. They all watched closely, trying to analyze every move made by the Marketing class.
Once finished, Imron stepped back, and Veranis announced, "The eastern territory of the northern continent now belongs to the Marketing class. Congratulations!"
Mike looked at his friends with strong resolve. "We must stay calm. Only then can we face whatever comes our way."
Erika, Zane, and the others nodded in agreement. They knew the journey ahead would not be easy, but with friendship and teamwork, they were confident they could face whatever challenges lay ahead.