Daniel looked up at Blanca, ready to tell her to leave him alone. He was ready to reject her offer and walk away. However, before he could speak, a loud chime resonated on everyone's Databand across platform Alpha.
It was Instructor Baldwin, and she sounded very serious.
"Attention, all Aspirants," Baldwin's voice resonated through the ventilation shafts. "Report to the Gathering Hall immediately. We have a critical announcement regarding Phase Three."
Blanca pulled her hand back. She looked at the ceiling, then back at Daniel.
"Saved by the bell," she grinned. "We can talk later, Number One."
She turned and walked away, her heavy boots clanging on the metal floor.
Daniel watched her go, then he let out a long, deep breath. He stood up from the crate, adjusted his collar, then began to walk towards the hall.
