10
Will’s Introduction
The door, shiny black as a crow’s wings, still operated on hinges, unlike most others in the city. Its weight was a surprise. A heavy metal, the door displayed an engraved sign with letters in gold: Plauditorium. Filled with anticipation and without hesitation, Will turned the knob and, with more effort than he thought he’d need, pushed the door open.
At first, he was puzzled. A warm earthy fragrance, just short of what you’d call sweet, greeted his senses. He stood, pondering it for a moment, his eyes sweeping the expansive room for clues. But he suddenly realized he carried the same odor himself—his suede jacket multiplied a hundred times. Every Plauditor wore one.
Even though he’d slid in just before eight, Plauditors were already there, working zealously. Wa
