That day, the sky over Riverton was gloomier than usual, perhaps signaling the major change about to happen in Stefan's life. That morning, he sat in the back seat of the car, watching the small town he had always called home. The little house on the outskirts, Uncle John and Aunt Clara's grocery store, and the narrow streets he used to walk every day—all of it now seemed to fade into the distance. So many memories were etched into every corner of this town, and although his heart felt heavy, he knew it was the right time to leave.
"Stefan, you're going to do great out there," Uncle John said with hopeful eyes, glancing toward the open road. "We're already proud of you."
Stefan just nodded, not sure what to say. His feelings were mixed. On one hand, he was happy to finally be leaving this town, reaching for the dream he had held onto for years. But on the other hand, anxiety and fear lingered about what awaited him in the big, unfamiliar capital.
Aunt Clara turned around from the front seat and gave him a gentle smile. "Don't forget, if things get tough out there, don't hesitate to reach out to us," she said. "We'll always support you."
Stefan nodded again, though his heart was still uneasy. He knew that even if they couldn't go with him to the capital, the support from Uncle John and Aunt Clara would always be with him. It was a source of strength he carried with him every step of the way.
Eventually, the car stopped in front of the bus station. The bus to the capital was already waiting. Stefan pulled out his large backpack, packed with clothes and everything he would need. After placing it in the luggage compartment, he turned back to give his final goodbye to Uncle John and Aunt Clara.
"Take care, Stefan," said Uncle John with a wide smile, though his old eyes looked a little glassy.
"Don't worry about us. We'll always be here for you," Aunt Clara added softly.
Stefan gave a faint smile, trying to steady himself. "Thank you, Uncle, Aunt. I'll do my best."
Then, with determined steps, Stefan boarded the bus. As the doors closed, he saw Uncle John and Aunt Clara still standing there, waving. His heart felt even heavier, but he knew this was the right decision. This long journey would change his life forever.
The trip to the capital took the whole day, and Stefan spent most of the time gazing out the window. Much of the view was of sprawling countryside—fertile lands, green hills, and farmers working in the fields. Not far from Riverton, life already looked different. Every road, every building, and every face he saw carried something faster and bigger. Stefan felt like a stranger in this new world, even though he hadn't reached the capital just yet.
When the bus finally arrived at the city terminal, Stefan looked around. The city was far bigger than he had imagined. Towering buildings loomed above him, vehicles sped by at astonishing speeds, and the blaring of car horns was almost constant. So many people, each absorbed in their own business, walking past each other without a second glance.
Stefan took a deep breath, trying to calm the nerves that crept through his body. He knew this was the place that would test him. This world was much larger and more complex than anything he had imagined, but he felt ready. This was the opportunity he had waited his whole life for.
With his backpack strapped on, Stefan stepped out of the terminal and looked for a taxi to take him to the university. He had studied the city's layout, even though every step felt unfamiliar. Soon, a taxi pulled up in front of him.
"To Coders University, please," Stefan said as he opened the door and got in.
"I'll take you there, no problem," said the driver kindly, then began the drive toward the university located in the heart of the city.
As the taxi moved through the streets, Stefan watched the world outside. Along the way, he saw various modern buildings, grand in appearance. Most of them were offices for large companies, while on the other side of the road were bustling campuses filled with students walking, chatting, and hurrying from one class to another. It all made Stefan feel both anxious and amazed. This was the world he had long dreamed of—a world far bigger than the theories he used to study in books.
Finally, the taxi stopped in front of the large gates of Coders University. Towering glass-and-steel buildings stood tall, radiating the prestige of the institution. In front of the gates, a large sign read:
"Coders University – Home of the Codebreakers."
Stefan stood there for a moment, trying to collect himself. This was the place that would change his life. He knew the journey ahead wouldn't be easy and would likely be filled with challenges. But Stefan was ready. The world held many secrets—and he was determined to uncover them.
"Thank you, sir," Stefan said to the driver as he paid the fare.
"Welcome to the capital, and good luck at the university," the driver replied with a warm smile.