Sitting at my desk, I carefully went over the papers the students handed in. I tapped my forefingers together as I scrutinized each one. Many students wrote their essays well but whose was the best? That was what I had to find out.

“All right, Brian,” I said aloud. “Pick a new Overlord 1.” I took the essays in my wrinkly hands and brought them to my face. I went over them repeatedly until I was tired of reading. I was just about to put it off until tomorrow until I re-read an essay hidden under the rest. Going over it a second time, I was amazed at how intellectual the student’s answers were. Every question was answered in full with a logical explanation. A personal flair was also added to the paper, making it unique.

“That’s the one!” I said, slapping my desk which made the other papers fly. Looking at the mess, I waved my hand and dismissed it. I pushed myself away from the desk. Placing my hands on the wheels of my wheelchair, I rolled my way out the door and down the long hall. I wanted to congratulate the chosen one in person.

Passing many classrooms, I glanced in each one to see if this particular student was inside. I saw many other children working diligently with their teachers but didn’t find who I was looking for.

I rubbed my wrinkled chin and thought, Okay, Brian. If I were him, where would I be? After a moment, it came to me. I slapped my forehead and exclaimed, “Of course!”

As fast as I could, I wheeled myself around and went back the way I came. I continued until I was upon our smallest computer classroom. Peering inside, I found my student. At the computer in the far corner sat an older boy completely engrossed in his work.

I adjusted my favorite yellow tie and wheeled myself into the room. “Mark! There you are,” I announced. “I have good news.”

Surprised to see his Keeper, Mark lifted his head up and quickly closed out of whatever he was doing, as if he didn’t want me to see what he was up to. “What news, Mr. Bamber?” he asked, turning off the computer monitor.

“After reviewing all the entries, you have been specially chosen to replace Darrell as Overlord #1!” I exclaimed.

Rather than being excited, Mark’s reaction was indifferent. “Thank you, sir,” he said nonchalantly.

“Don’t be so glum,” I said, rolling myself closer to the teen. “You are perfect for the position. With your maturity and ‘theories’, you’ll improve our humble Research and Development Isle for sure.”

Mark managed a smile. “I sure hope so, Mr. Bamber. I doubt myself at times.”

“Well, you shouldn’t,” I told him. “The kids already look up to you. They all know you very well and trust you.”

Mark sighed, “I hope so.”

I was slightly surprised at that response, but said nothing. Rather, I patted the boy on the back and left him to his work. On my way back to my office, I thought about Mark’s behavior. Normally, anything suspicious I would have to report, according to Nikita. But, teens are teens. They are bundles of emotions that cannot be contained. I’m sure Mark is fine, maybe he just handles things differently.

But still…what was he hiding from me?