As the helicopter flew over Holmberg, the class fell silent. Its loud rotor blades created a hum that filled the air. Jack, still reeling from the shock of being removed as captain, glanced up, his frustration momentarily diverted by the unusual sight. The helicopter was descending toward the main courtyard, where it would land just outside the university gates.
"Who could that be?" Sam whispered to Jack, his curiosity piqued.
Jack shook his head, still angry, but equally intrigued. "I don't know, but I'll deal with Professor Smith first. This... this is just too much."
The helicopter landed smoothly, and a figure emerged from the cockpit, stepping onto the tarmac. It was none other than Lord Anto, the founder of Holmberg University. His presence was commanding, and the air seemed to shift when he arrived. He was dressed in a dark blue suit, his silver hair gleaming in the sunlight, and he walked with an air of authority that made everyone, even David, step back.
"Lord Anto! What a surprise!" Professor Smith's voice cracked as he quickly rushed outside to greet the figure, clearly caught off guard.
David, still holding the paper with his "new captain" title, seemed unsure of what to do. "What's going on?" he muttered under his breath, clearly confused by the sudden arrival of the university's founder.
Lord Anto raised his hand, signaling for everyone to quiet down. His voice, though calm, resonated with power as he addressed the crowd. "Professor Smith, I have just returned from a trip abroad and was informed about a decision regarding the Holmberg Redemption Competition."
Jack's heart skipped a beat. His gaze locked onto Lord Anto, wondering if this was his chance to set things right.
"I have been hearing a lot of concerning reports," Lord Anto continued. "Reports about decisions being made without proper consultation and fairness."
Professor Smith's eyes widened in shock. "What do you mean, my lord?"
Lord Anto turned toward Jack, then Sam, his eyes scrutinizing their faces. "I've been told that Jack Anderson was removed from his position as captain without just cause."
A wave of surprise rippled through the class. Even David seemed unsettled by Lord Anto's words.
Jack stepped forward, his voice unwavering. "That's right. Professor Smith removed me without telling anyone, and David here claims to be the new captain based on a letter that I don't even believe is real."
Lord Anto nodded, acknowledging Jack's statement. "I understand. I will look into this matter personally. But I must tell you, Jack, decisions like this should never be made in haste or without transparency."
David's hands trembled as he tried to defend himself. "But... but the letter was from Professor Smith! It's official!"
Lord Anto raised an eyebrow. "A letter alone doesn't make an official decision, David. The integrity of the process is what matters. And from what I can tell, this process needs to be reviewed."
With a swift motion, he turned to Professor Smith, his tone now serious. "Professor, you will bring me all the details of this decision immediately. I will be expecting a full report, and if any foul play is involved, there will be consequences."
Professor Smith stood frozen, not daring to respond. The class, now caught between confusion and anticipation, watched in silence.
Jack's heart raced as he realized that the founder of Holmberg might be his ticket to regaining his rightful place. But as the tension in the air thickened, the distant hum of the helicopter could still be heard, adding an eerie sense of urgency to the unfolding drama.
"Everyone, return to your seats," Lord Anto commanded, his voice cutting through the tension. "I will address this matter shortly. In the meantime, the Holmberg Redemption Competition will proceed as scheduled. But the leadership of it will be decided fairly, not by a letter or a whim."
The students slowly returned to their seats, and Jack exchanged a glance with Sam. This wasn't over. Not by a long shot.
As the helicopter's engines quieted down, the day had taken a dramatic turn. Jack could feel the weight of what was to come—Professor Smith would have to answer for his actions, and the future of the competition—and of Jack's place in it—hung in the balance.