As the playful banter and excitement of the students filled the air, a sharp, commanding voice cut through the noise.
"Alright, enough!" barked a male teacher stepping out from the bus. "It's time to head out!"
The students immediately quieted down, saying their final goodbyes. A few girls managed to sneak in and touch William's arm, giggling as they promised to meet again someday—when they were all great and famous. William awkwardly smiled, feeling a mix of embarrassment and amusement.
The students quickly lined up in front of their respective academy buses. At the entrance of the military academy bus, a strange device stood like a sentinel. It was sleek and metallic, giving off a faint hum. As the students approached, a boy at the front of the line couldn't help but ask the teacher what it was.
The teacher gave a cryptic smile. "Oh, it's nothing to worry about," he said. "It just checks to see if anyone isn't who they claim to be."
