Chapter 17: Chapter 17

Inside the dark tunnel, the buses sped forward, illuminated only by their headlights. "Glory Phonk" pulsed through the vehicles, setting an eerie but lively mood. In the back seat of one bus, William turned to Miss Mona, his voice tight with urgency. "Mr. Duke is going to blow now."

Up front, Mr. Duke placed his hand on his chest and whispered, "Death to the traitors." The elderly bus driver's eyes widened in terror as he slammed on the brakes. But Mr. Duke's smile remained fixed, cold and malicious. He thought it was too late.

Suddenly, the explosion happened.

The sound was deafening. A thunderous boom roared through the tunnel, shaking everything. William shut his eyes tightly, bracing for death. His ears rang violently, and soon, blood trickled from them. His head spun, and the world around him seemed to warp from the force of the blast. He blinked his eyes open.