There was room for more, and a team of mechanics and technicians were already working discreetly inside that compartment, making the final adjustments.
Thomas and Kenji looked at each other. Kenji, wide-eyed, could barely contain his excitement.
"A garage... inside the plane?" Kenji muttered, in complete shock. "Is this real? Am I dreaming? And those are your cars! That Bugatti... and Elara, her Lamborghini SC20 with your name on the license plate! And a Ninja H2R? Two Ferraris? This is...He shook his head in disbelief, his eyes shining with youthful wonder, enumerating each vehicle with fervor.
Thomas, who had turned to talk to Akemi about the awesomeness of the plane itself, and who hadn't paid attention to Kenji's detailed list, just stammered, still processing the existence of the garage: "Daniel... what... what is that? Cars inside the plane? That's... unprecedented. What a fleet!"He was shocked by the idea of flying vehicles, without absorbing the specific magnitude of each model.
Daniel laughed, a sound that echoed around the dance floor.Yes, Mr. Reed. They're our cars. Why waste time renting or securing ground security at each destination when we can bring our own? It's safer, more efficient. The garage was designed to accommodate armored vehicles and other equipment we might need. It's part of our mobility logistics and the guarantee that we'll have the complete infrastructure wherever we are."
He gestured to the ramp. "Welcome aboard. And get ready, because this is just the gateway to what awaits us."
Henry approached, his voice soft but audible.Mr. Reed, Ms. Akemi, Kenji. Allow me to guide you. Daniel's family, including support staff, housekeepers, chefs, and security personnel, is already on board waiting. Twenty-five people in total, ready to ensure everyone's comfort and safety."
Elara's family nodded, still stunned by the enormity of the scene. They followed Henry toward the ramp, while Daniel made sure Elara was by his side, a proud smile on his face. That black A380 wasn't just a means of transportation; it was a statement of power, purpose, and the world Elara was about to plunge headfirst into.
The covered ramp extended like a silent, metallic arm of the A380, inviting them into the flying fortress. The sound of the wind on the runway and the distant roar of other jets faded as the plane's garage door gently closed behind them, sealing them in an environment of luxury and efficiency. The garage's interior was a spectacle in itself: the floor gleamed under strategically placed lighting, highlighting the imposing cars resting there, their matte surfaces and white interiors creating a striking visual contrast. This was no cargo plane; it was an extension of Daniel's mansion, designed for maximum mobility and security.
Daniel gestured to the side door that led from the garage compartment to the plane's interior. Henry was already there, opening it with a small smile.
"Welcome aboard our home in the sky," Daniel said, his voice now more relaxed, but still with unmistakable authority. He offered his arm to Elara, who was still taking in the sight of the garage. Thomas, Akemi, and Kenji followed him, the curiosity on their faces more vivid than ever.
They entered a bright hallway, where the air was perfectly conditioned and scented with a gentle scent of cedar and jasmine. As they progressed, the atmosphere of luxury and cutting-edge technology became even more evident. The walls were paneled in dark wood and brushed steel, with built-in mood lighting that adjusted automatically. The floor, covered in thick, soft carpet, muffled every sound, allowing them to glide in silence.
At the end of the hallway, they emerged into a spaciousloungeThe main deck, which stretched the width of the plane, had no rows of seats, but rather cream leather sofas arranged in cozy configurations, individual armchairs with side tables, and a large dark glass coffee table that seemed to float above the carpet. A full bar, clad in polished onyx, sat to the right, with a barista already at the ready, smiling warmly. A retractable movie screen occupied one wall, and panoramic windows with automatic shades offered stunning views of the airport and the sky.
Before starting the tour, Daniel led the family to the center of thelounge, where the flight crew was already waiting, lined up and ready for the presentation.
"Family," Daniel began, with a gesture of his hand. "I would like to introduce you to the team that will accompany us on this journey."
He gestured to four men who stood there, dressed in impeccable pilot uniforms, distinguished in their professionalism and composure.These are our pilots. We have four to ensure we always have a rested and ready crew, especially on long-haul flights and complex routes. Each of them is a former fighter pilot with years of experience in high-pressure situations."
Daniel pointed to the first pilot, a man with a strong build and piercing eyes.This is Boris. He's Russian, a master of maneuvers and flight strategies."
Then to a man with oriental features and a calm smile. "This is Wei, our Chinese expert, with impeccable precision."
He continued, introducing the last two. "And this is John and Alex, both Americans, veterans with impressive track records."
The pilots nodded in greeting, a gleam of respect in their eyes as they looked at Daniel.
Daniel then gestured to eight women, elegantly dressed in understated yet sophisticated uniforms that evoked the luxury of elite airlines, but with a more personalized touch. They smiled with professionalism and friendliness.
"And these are our flight attendants," Daniel announced, a slight glint of amusement in his eyes as he saw the reaction of Thomas and Kenji, who seemed slightly stunned by the beauty and grace of the women. Daniel, in his mind, thought with ironic humor:'Prince Rashid really doesn't miss an opportunity to try to "gift" me with wives, sending the most beautiful Qatar and Emirates employees. Do you think I don't know, Rashid?'
"All have been trained to the highest standards of service and hospitality, ensuring that your flight experience is impeccable," Daniel continued, maintaining perfect composure. "They will take care of all your needs on board, from personalized meal service to any assistance you may require."
The stewardesses bowed politely, their voices blending into a harmonious "Welcome aboard!"
Akemi smiled at the flight attendants, impressed by their elegance. Thomas and Kenji were still processing the scene, Kenji giving his father a discreet elbow, who was trying to maintain a serious expression.
"Now," Daniel said, turning to the family, "Let me take you on a little tour of our new flying home." He offered his arm to Elara again.
The A380 Tour: Comfort and Capacity
Daniel led them from theloungemain, explaining each section of the plane with deep and detailed knowledge, almost as if he had designed it himself.
"This main walk," Daniel began, gesturing to thelounge, "This is the heart of the aircraft for social interaction. Here we have a full bar, where our barista can prepare any drink you desire. Further ahead, there is a formal dining area with a table that extends to accommodate up to twelve people. It is operated by a hydraulic system, allowing the table to be expanded or retracted as needed. It is ideal for group meals or more formal meetings."
They moved into the dining area, which was a vision of elegance: velvet-upholstered chairs and a polished dark wood table that reflected the light. The windows were large, offering uninterrupted views.
"The kitchen," Daniel continued, pointing to an inconspicuous door, "It's equipped with cutting-edge technology, capable of preparing any type of cuisine. We have a team of renowned chefs on board, ready to satisfy any palate, at any time of the day or night. Guests can order anything they desire, from a gourmet international dish to something more home-cooked and comforting."
They proceeded to the aft of the main deck, where Daniel showed aprivate cinema room. The reclining chairs were made of soft leather and fitted perfectly to the body, with sound systemssurroundbuilt into each seat. The walls were acoustically soundproofed and lined with dark fabrics, with small LED lights imitating stars on the ceiling.
"This is the cinema," Daniel explained. "You can choose any movie or series, or even project your own media. The sound system is state-of-the-art, and the screen is retractable, ensuring total immersion."
Kenji, his eyes shining, could barely contain himself.This is better than any private cinema I've ever seen!"
Daniel smiled.Exactly. Comfort and technology are paramount."
He led them back to theloungemain entrance and to a marble and brushed steel staircase that led to thedecksuperior. Recessed lighting guided every step, and tempered glass railings gave a sense of lightness and space.
"No deck superior," Daniel explained as they climbed, "This is where the private quarters are located. This floor is divided into sections to ensure everyone's privacy."
The first section Daniel showed was aluxury suite complex, clearly intended for Elara's family. There were three suites, each with its own living room, spacious bedroom with a king-size bed,king-size, closetand a private bathroom with a high-pressure shower and a whirlpool tub. The walls were covered in light wood paneling, and the windows offered unobstructed views of the outdoors. The furnishings were modern, with touches of contemporary art.
"Mr. Reed, Akemi-san, Kenji," Daniel said, opening the door to the first suite. "These are your suites. Each one is designed for maximum comfort and privacy during your trip. Feel free to settle in and enjoy."
Akemi touched the silk sheets of the bed, her eyes watering.Daniel-san, this is more luxurious than a five-star hotel."
Thomas nodded, impressed.Truly spectacular, Daniel."
Kenji was already exploring the lighting controls and USB ports."Wow, this is... surreal!"
Daniel smiled, pleased with the reaction. "We haven't seen everything yet."