Seeing the large stone doors abruptly rising from the ground, he whispered in shock."Long-range teleportation gates,"
Shelby smirked. "Boy, this is our latest tech. The Academy funds most of the global research labs, and many of the researchers are alumni. We get first picks."
Zane stared at the gates. Beyond the shimmering portals was only darkness.
"What are you all waiting for? Go!" Frankie shouted.
It was like poking a beehive. Students from the six groups rushed forward, jostling and stumbling to reach the gates. One by one, they vanished into the darkness beyond.
Still, some students hung back. Zane was among them.
He waited, unmoving, as the crowds thinned. Only a handful of freshers remained.
"Boy, good luck!" Shelby said, slapping Zane on the back.
Zane nodded, walking steadily toward the gate and stepping through without hesitation.
