Chapter 47
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Samuel was incredibly efficient by the time the morning was over, everything was set up.
I had a plan now. Regardless of whether I won the competition or not, I was determined to start my own design firm. To have more time to prepare, I handed in my resignation.
1 rented a small office across from Ashenford University to use as a temporary studio. After investing some savings into the necessary equipment, Samuel, his students, and I got to work.
of my
The students, full of energy and enthusiasm, dove right in without hesitation, and we made steady progress. A week later, we finally finished our project. At the same time, the day of the Ashenford Design Competition’s bid presentation arrived.
As I walked to the venue, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of the competition. Aside from our team–just a group of unknown designers–the other participants were established, well–known firms in Ashenford.
But there was something about the students‘ youthful confidence that gave me hope. Their energy was contagious, and I couldn’t help but feel a little more optimistic myself. No matter the outcome, we had done everything we could.
Plus, the government had relaxed the competition rules this year. The first–place winner would have their design. funded and constructed by the government, while the top three designs would be displayed at Ashenford Miracle Hall for a week
So, regardless of our chances, we were aiming for a spot in the top three.
At the venue, each team and individual walked the red carpet to their designated seats, guided by ushers. Once everyone was settled, the government officials responsible for reviewing the projects came forward to introduce themselves.
After a long speech from Ashenford’s mayor, Maxwell, the teams were asked to send a representative to draw lots. We drew number ten.
When the presentations began, it was clear that every team had poured their hearts and souls into their work. But the standout, without question, was Xeron Innovations, which had quickly become one of Ashenford’s hottest design firms in the past few years.
In less than two years since its founding, they had gone public. After that, they not only dominated Ashenford’s large–scale architectural projects but also gained recognition overseas. It was safe to say they were a formidable competitor.
On stage, their team leader began presenting their design. As soon as they hit play on the projector, a 3D model appeared on the screen, giving the audience a clear view of the intricate details of their design from every angle. Then, the explanation began.
“To push boundaries and bring something new to Ashenford, we decided to use the latest DC steel from the Country of Mirelia. It’s incredibly strong, never rusts, and doesn’t deform. It gives a futuristic edge…”
Once the explanation was finished, they revealed a physical model–clearer and more lifelike than the 3D renderings. Their design, a massive ferris wheel called The Ashenford Eye, towered over all other buildings in the rity.
With a proposal to be built on top of Ashenford Mountain, would offer views not just of Ashenford, but of a neighboring city as well. And when it spun, the A–shaped cabins would seem to float in mid–air, casting a bright plow that would act as a beacon in the night sky.
Each cabin could hold up to thirty people or more, and with that scale, the appearance of the cabin itself became
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Chapter 47
secondary. What mattered was that if it was ever built, it could potentially become the largest ferris wheel in the country, if not the world.
Who could resist the allure of being part of a project that might be the biggest and best globally?
I had to admit they had a powerhouse of a team.
