Divine & Wicked: The Trapped Memories (Book2)

《 Chapter V: "Destined Day" (Part1) 》

All fifty-two winners from various fields of the arts converged on Melbourne, exhausted after their journey to the Pen Castel Hotel, their home for the next twenty-one days.

Zach found himself rooming with three other male students from different schools, while Calliso had separate accommodations. The next morning, they were ushered into a spacious event room for orientation, where they learned about the exciting itinerary planned for their three-week stay. They were slated to visit three art museums and two galleries, as well as have the opportunity to meet renowned artists for interviews. Following that, they would attend a week-long professional training program at the Milderton Arts Academy. The climax of their experience would be the final week, culminating in an art auction where their works could fetch substantial sums from affluent collectors, and potentially earn them lucrative college scholarships. Zach's anticipation for the journey ahead was palpable.

After two and a half hours, the orientation wrapped up, and a lavish spread of food was served, enticing everyone with its expensive and delicious appearance. Following that, they spent the rest of the day exploring the hotel's amenities.

****《•》****

The next morning, Zach and Calliso stood together, waiting for their bus.

"One of our roommates sounds like he's drowning when he sleeps, and the other one won't stop whistling," Calliso complained, his irritation evident.

Zach chuckled. "Yeah, we've got one guy who's always getting calls from his mom. But aside from that, our room's not too bad."

"Must be nice," Calliso grumbled, "you'll enjoy peaceful nights while we're here. After three weeks of lack of sleep, I'll probably resemble one of those hairless creatures from The Lord of the Rings."

"Or Mr. Hardy," Zach quipped, a smirk playing on his lips.

Calliso shot him a glare. "I'd take the former over resembling a contorted troll any day. That guy seems to have forgotten the concept of sleep, and his sweat stinks like rotten cheese and beer. A shower wouldn't hurt before he shows up at work."

Zach chuckled. "Well, if he can teach, I suppose I can overlook the odor."

"Give sitting in the front row a shot. You might reconsider," Calliso suggested.

Still grinning, Zach boarded the bus with Calliso. They settled in the back seats for the long ride. Three hours later, they arrived at their first museum destination. The imposing building boasted three floors filled with ancient artifacts and artwork. Among the displays were paintings by renowned Australian artists such as Sidney Nolan, Grace Smith, Margaret Preston, and John Olsen. Zach marveled at the beauty and complexity of their creations, crafted without the aid of modern technology.

In the days that followed, they visited various art museums and galleries in Melbourne and Canberra. Zach and Calliso were determined to make the most of their time. They snapped countless photos, recorded videos, and eagerly explored everything unique they encountered. Occasionally, Jacksen would video call them on the phone, still nursing a tinge of jealousy as he knew they were having a blast while he was stuck at home most days. Yet, he also recognized their well-deserved enjoyment. They reassured him with promises of souvenirs to buy and bring back to him once they returned to their dorm room.

****《•》****

Their final stop was an old art museum in Sydney, a bustling public venue teeming with visitors. It dwarfed the smaller galleries they had visited earlier, offering them ample time to explore its vast collection.