After all the debates, sketches, and ideas that had flowed freely, every step necessary to build a kingdom was finally complete. They had crafted a realm from their combined imaginations, weaving together territories, drafting laws, and even selecting a figurehead. Though most of the woodworking engineering class chose to remain behind the scenes, Mike alone embraced the heavy responsibility, agreeing to take on the role of King.
Standing tall at the group's center, Mike wore a smile with pride and a hint of bravado. "Becoming a king… it'll look great on my portfolio," he chuckled softly, savoring the grandeur of his new title.
A raspy voice came from the corner of the room. Mr. Pope rose from his seat, his steps measured, like an overseer appraising his students' work. He walked over to the table where the students had gathered, glancing at each of them before asking, "Are you all sure there's nothing else you want to change?"
Irvan furrowed his brow. "How much time will we spend there?" he asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty and a hint of restrained worry.
Mr. Pope chuckled lightly as if the question amused him. "I can't answer that just yet. You already know, don't you? This internship lasts only a week… in the real world," he said casually.
Upon hearing this, they exchanged glances, each considering the implications of the journey ahead. A few whispered amongst themselves, expressions mixed with curiosity, apprehension, and suspicion. Faint murmurs about what awaited them in Vanchett drifted through the air, casting a tense atmosphere over D'Lobby.
"Once more," Mr. Pope continued, his voice calm, nearly a whisper, "are you certain? If you're sure, we leave now."
"Back to the Villa?" asked Juan, his face innocent.
"To Vanchett, where else, you blockhead," Zane shot back with a grin, drawing small laughter that eased the tension.
One by one, they all nodded, signaling their readiness to step into the country they had crafted. "We're ready," they declared in unison, their voices full of resolve echoing through the room.
Mr. Pope's smile widened, a look of pride—and perhaps a touch of awe—crossing his face. With unusual enthusiasm, he shouted, "Alright, woodworking engineering class!!! You're ready!!!"
"Yeah!" the students cheered, fired up by the excitement he ignited. They laughed and hollered, the warmth in the air masking the heavy secrets that surely awaited.
Mr. Pope glanced at his wristwatch, his expression turning serious. Pressing a few buttons, a soft beeping sounded, and he pushed firmly on the last one.
In an instant, the familiar walls of D'Lobby began to fade. Every wall and piece of furniture transformed into holographic light as if unraveling into thousands of fragments drifting away. They all floated now within a rushing tunnel of time, with glimmers of multi-colored lights swirling around them, like thousands of fireflies dancing in the darkness.