Man On The Moon

Chapter 7: The Simulation

Vettel opens his eyes, the soft light of the morning sun filtering through the window of his room. He takes a moment to fully wake, his mind slowly shifting from the realm of dreams to reality. The events of the previous day, the tour around the Astral Express, come back to him, and he can't help but wonder what the second day will bring. He sits up in bed, a small yawn escaping his lips as he stretches. The room, simple but comfortable, seems a bit more familiar now. He glances around, taking in the room's small details before swinging his legs over the edge of the bed and standing up. He walks to the small bathroom connected to his room and goes about his morning routine, the sound of running water and the hum of the train's systems creating a comforting backdrop. After a few minutes, he looks at his reflection in the mirror, his mind wandering over what lies ahead. He splashes some cold water on his face, the refreshing feeling helping to clear his thoughts. He dries his face and looks at his reflection in the mirror once more as if trying to read the expression on his face and glean any clues about the day's events. He takes a deep breath, his mind a swirling mix of anticipation and uncertainty. Finally, he walks back out into his room, his footsteps quiet on the carpeted floor. The room is still as the train continues its steady journey through space, the rhythmic hum of the engine a constant companion. He picks up a few small items and gets dressed, his mind slowly shifting from the calm of the morning to a more focused state before someone knocking his door room. Vettel is pulled from his thoughts by a soft knocking on his door. He furrows his brow slightly, slightly surprised by the early morning visitor, and walks to the door, opening it to reveal who's outside. Stelle, standing outside, looks up as the door opens, her expression a mix of excitement and a hint of mischief. Seeing Vettel, she grins, her eyes sparkling.

Stelle: "Hey Vettel! Good morning! Sorry, I didn't mean to wake you!"

Vettel, caught a bit off guard, looks at Stelle with surprise. He rubs the sleep from his eyes and answers.

Vettel: "Good morning, Stelle. No, it's fine. I was already awake."

Stelle: "Oh, good! Perfect timing, then."

She steps back a little, revealing Caelus, who's standing just behind her, a mischievous smile on his face. 

Caelus: "Morning, Vettel. Sorry for the disturbance."

He rubs the back of his neck sheepishly, clearly enjoying the slight element of surprise. Just as Stelle and Caelus step back, March 7th and Dan Heng appear from behind them. They both smile at Vettel, clearly part of the plan.

March 7th: "Hey there, Vettel! We hope we're not interrupting anything."

Dan Heng: "Sorry for barging in on you so early in the morning."

He scratches the back of his head awkwardly, but there's a gleam of anticipation in his eyes.  Vettel, now clearly outnumbered and somewhat befuddled, raises an eyebrow at the group standing outside his door. He looks at Stelle, then Caelus, then March 7th, and finally Dan Heng, trying to puzzle together the reason for this early morning group visit. 

Vettel: "What are you all doing here so early? Is everything alright?"

Stelle: "Oh, everything's fine. Don't worry, nothing's wrong."

She smirks, clearly enjoying Vettel's perplexed expression. Caelus and Dan Heng nod in agreement, their smirks matching Stelle's. Vettel, now more confused than ever, leans against the doorframe. He crosses his arms over his chest, his gaze moving from one person to another, trying to figure out what's going on. The silence hangs in the air for a beat, filled only by the hum of the train and the early morning cool. Caelus, unable to hold his excitement, breaks the silence.

Caelus: "We got a surprise for you. You need to come with us."

Stelle, her smile widening, adds.

Stelle: "Yeah, come on, we can't keep you waiting any longer."

March 7th and Dan Heng nod in agreement, their grins matching the other's.

Vettel tilts his head slightly, curiosity now joining the mix of confusion. He looks at the group again, their expressions indicating they're up to something. After a moment, he speaks.

Vettel: "A surprise? And I have to come because..?"

Stelle shrugs nonchalantly, her smirk still on her face.

Stelle: "Wouldn't be a surprise if we told you, would it? Come on, trust us."

Caelus nods, his eagerness almost palpable. March 7th grins, her eyes shining mischievously.

Dan Heng, ever the calm one, adds on.

Dan Heng: "It's better if you see it for yourself. Come on, it won't take long."

Vettel looks at them, his suspicions growing as he takes in their expressions and words. However, there's also a hint of curiosity now, the mystery of the surprise pulling at his interest. After a pause, he sighs, albeit slightly amused.

Vettel: "Oh, alright. Lead the way then."

The group outside his door cheered silently in victory, their grins widening. Stelle steps back, gesturing for Vettel to follow them.

Stelle: "Okay, follow us."

She turns and starts walking, Caelus, March 7th, and Dan Heng following her immediately, clearly eager to get moving. They look back at Vettel, urging him to follow. Vettel, though still a little wary, pushes off the doorframe and steps out into the corridor, closing his room door behind him. He follows the group, their steps light and quick, the silence of the early morning still hanging in the air. The hum of the train is the only sound that breaks the quiet, the rhythm of steel on tracks. The group leads Vettel through the corridors of the Astral Express, turning left and right at various intersections. March 7th occasionally looks back, as if to make sure Vettel is still following, their grins almost conspiratorial. They reach a part of the train that Vettel has not been in yet, a part that seems quieter, more secluded. Stopping in front of a door, Stelle looks at Vettel, a mischievous lilt to her voice as she speaks.

Stelle: "We're here. But close your eyes for a bit, okay?"