Chapter 12

Chapter 12 Meanwhile: Theo's Side Quest! What Challenges Await Him? Will He Reap an Epic Reward or Face His Final Doom? Theo hadn't entered the game with the rest of them. He planned to join them soon. First he had to make sure their hardware could handle the strain. "And that's how you get the perfect golden-brown color," Hope was saying. "There's nothing less appetizing than a yellow corn dog."

"I believe you," said Theo. He was only half listening. He and Harper had set up a fairly complicated computer network in the cafetorium. At the heart of the network was a single PC that Theo had brought in from home. He had built the computer himself! (Well, his dad had helped.) But he hadn't realized it would be pushed so hard so soon. More than a dozen VR goggles were all using the software installed in Ash's set, which were plugged into Theo's PC, which was remotely networked to the server in the library. It was a web of connections. And like a web, it was beautiful but delicate. One broken thread could cause the entire thing to collapse. They just hadn't had time to make it better.

Theo was relieved to see that everything seemed to be working. It wouldn't work for long, but it didn't have to. Just long enough for them to find that vex, herd it in the right direction, and restore the Evoker King. Hope finally stopped talking about corn dogs—a very strange food, in Theo's opinion. In the sudden silence, he overheard new voices. Theo realized they were coming from a little side office connected to the cafetorium. The adult voices were hushed and urgent, and curiosity got the best of him. He crept closer, recognizing Ms. Minerva's voice. "I'm telling you, it's an inspiration. They're all in the game right now, working together. The rules changed on them, and they adapted."

"They're wonderful kids." That was Doc's voice. "Although the technology they're using is also pretty wonderful." "When it works!" said Ms. Minerva. "So we know they can adapt," said Mr. Mallory. "That will be important if we select them for this program." "It sounds like we're in agreement," said Ms. Minerva. "It will be a big change…." "But change can be a good thing," said Doc. "I have the paperwork right here. We can make it official." Theo heard the rustling of papers. He peeked around the corner. All three adults were huddled over stacks of

paper and manila file folders. He saw his school photo clipped to one of the folders. Was that his permanent file? "This school won't be the same without them," said Ms. Minerva. "Or without us," said Doc. "But it's the best solution for everyone," said Mr. Mallory. "Now how about we take a break? I was promised snacks." "Po's cousin has her food truck parked outside," said Doc. "I'll treat." "Oh, good," said Ms. Minerva. "Who doesn't love a corn dog?"