The Destruction of Batana

THE ZENZEN 4

So I decided to ask Ador for permission to do a morning routine for the next month. To train my mentality to be ready when the time comes to announce the test results. Thus I no longer feel anxious if I am near the *d*rone-drone hovering around me.

“What's up? Not usually you ask me directly for permission to exit this lab.” Ador who was handling the files looked confused.

What he said was true. I never asked her permission to leave this lab. I just came out to fulfill my needs as a student in the acceler class. The rest of me never stepped my foot out of the lab for any other reason. I'd rather spend my free time in this lab.

Some things have also changed over the past year. Ador allows some children to enter and exit the laboratory with the specified hours and days. The rule was made two months after I entered from the acceler class. Maybe it was some kind of happy expression because I became the disciple he was most proud of right now. I don't know, or maybe it's just a form of disguise if he doesn't need the other kids since I've been in this lab. This allegation I associated with the two oldest children who came out of this laboratory with ease. I had heard Ador was arguing with someone, but the next day they both easily left without saying goodbye to other children.

My guess is also reinforced with five newcomers in the lab. The five children had no physical disabilities like me or the children before. All five of them lost their voice, hearing and vision. Obviously Ador hasn't bothered to take care of a physically handicapped child since I was in this lab.

“I want to prepare myself for the announcement day. At least before I was in that academy I was ready mentally as well as physically. I still feel less than various aspects. Seeing the kids yesterday made me realize that I still need to practice and learn.”

Ador nodded. “Good idea. It is beyond my expectations that you have such grand ambitions. This needs appreciation. Bring a few more kids if you want. You can do a few things together. But if you can you should go home before dark. I don't want you to get in trouble out there. Night is always more dangerous than other times. Nevertheless everyone thinks that night is the best time to have fun.” Ador shook his head. “I disagree with that. Wh why? The average criminal loves to roam around in the dark of the night. They are easier to hide while launching the action at night. Because it was night became the favorite time for criminals to roam.”

I rubbed my face. “Of course I'm not that stupid, Ador. I'll be back at least before dusk. And one more thing, I don't want anyone coming with me. It would just be a waste of time. More convenient if I go alone.”

Ador nodded. “Oke.”

As soon as I got permission from him, I rushed out of the laboratory. The air still feels cold and humid. The sky still looks dark on some sides. A serene sunlight was scouring among the trees in the laboratory courtyard. I started running down a smooth path. I've never run this free and comfortable before.

In the slums there are almost no streets as smooth and clean as in this place.the streets there are very rocky and uncomfortable. In the past when I still had legs, my shoes were often released due to rock scratches or tripping over junk that scattered just about on the streets. I had to sew many times the soles of my loose shoes. If it can't be used anymore, I'm forced to find a new one at the dump or I'm forced to walk barefoot if I'm looking for food.

My life has now changed one hundred and eighty degrees since the fire that killed my brother. I still cannot call myself having a comfortable life because I am still under someone's control. I can only call my life comfortable if I have been in a position where I am the controller.

I'm tracing the road. Pass through ornamental plants, building courts, shops, even a bridge with a clear river below. I stopped for a moment on that bridge. Enjoying the river that glitters in the sunlight that appears to rise from the east. The sky looks clean. Makes the atmosphere cooler and more peaceful.

Now I start doing my goal. I used to be around drones. On holidays like this many children are playing with drones in a park. I can go there as a rehearsal for me for a month.

I headed to the park and found some children running around carrying drones near them. I was surprised by a mini drone that shot right in front of me. I watched the children running cheerfully with their own drones. But strangely I did not find any parents watching them. Perhaps those drones serve as a replacement for their watchdogs.

I spent hours in the not-so-extensive garden sitting under one of the shady trees. At least Ador gave me pocket money to buy food.

It's easy to guess. I'm graduating.

　

***

At five in the morning.

I heard someone shouting out loud and running in the hallway. The children in my room spontaneously woke up and found out who was running around in the middle of the morning blind like this and screaming like crazy. Who else if not Ador.

He's really weird. One of the traits I disliked most about her was her reaction when she was either overjoyed or happy. I've seen him act like that a lot, and it's been a nightmare for me.

We all rushed out of the room. I was still half asleep and ruffled my messy hair. As soon as I saw him Ador called out louder. Make other children wake up and get out of their rooms.

“ZENZEN, YOU'RE WELCOME!!”

The other children who were still half asleep were now flabbergasted and opened their eyes wide. Cheerfully cheered and congratulated me. I am not interested and want to go back to my room. But someone first intercepted me by grasping my hand so tightly. As I turned around, I glared at him.

Arina. After a long time, he finally dared to touch me. I reflexively brushed his hand. Arina kept smiling while congratulating me. He didn't even hesitate to shake my hand and pat my shoulder. Followed by another boy who grabbed me by the neck and ruffled my hair. I just fell silent. The arina? How dare he!

“Alright, to celebrate this day I will take you all on a tour. There is a famous museum in this city that holds some very rare ancient items. I'm sure you'll all love it.”

All the kids cheered happily. I just shook my head. Actually, I was pretty sure that I would pass the academy's entrance test. When I had the test a month ago, I did it all so easily. I didn't find any difficulties while doing the practice and academic tests. That's why once again I'm very confident of being accepted into that academy.