Festival (1)

The festival day greeted the city with a clear blue sky, making the large stadium shine in the morning light. Its tall metal gates and wide concrete expanses were buzzing with activity as people from all over came to witness the much-awaited event. The entrance was alive with chatter and the bustle of eager spectators lining up to get inside.

Before even entering the main stadium, it was clear that this wasn't just an ordinary event. The grounds outside were filled with makeshift tents and stalls, reminiscent of a local fair. There were simple games like hoop rings, and some daring ones where folks tried to dunk their friends into water tanks for fun. A couple of stalls even had VR sets for people to try out.

Food stalls were everywhere, and the mouth-watering aromas were hard to resist. There were cotton candy vendors spinning the fluffy treat, barbecue stands grilling up skewers, and carts selling cool drinks to beat the heat. Kids, their faces adorned with paint, ran around laughing and playing, while adults found comfy spots to sit, eat, and chat. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with everyone coming together in the spirit of community and celebration.

Zero stood tall, the newly designed NSE Academy uniform fitting him like a glove. The combination of red and black seemed to merge the line between fierce and elegant. The Phoenix, a symbol of the academy, was emblazoned on his chest, its wings outstretched in mid-flight, a beacon of hope and resilience.

Gathering his team, Zero locked eyes with Clara, Mike, Orion, and Aurelia. Their shared determination was evident in their gaze. "Are you guys ready?" he asked. Mike, ever the confident one, draped an arm around Zero's shoulders, grinning, "Of course!"

As they stepped into the heart of the stadium, the ambiance shifted from jovial festivity to intense anticipation. The massive floodlights illuminated the field, casting large, dramatic shadows. The roar of the crowd was deafening, a sea of faces cheering, hollering, and waving flags of various academies. The energy was electric, each spectator's gaze fixed intently on the field, awaiting the competition's commencement.

The announcer's voice boomed over the loudspeakers, cutting through the cacophony, "Ladies and gentlemen! Please put your hands together for NSE Academy!" The cheer that erupted was thunderous, echoing the spirit and excitement of the festival.

He continued, "Today Marked the 30th of the Inter Academy Festival! NSE who holds the champion crown last academy festival stands tall, we're not just witnessing a competition, but a confluence of dedication, talent, and strategy. now let us welcome the other Academies!"

As the announcer's voice reverberated through the stadium, each academy stepped forward in turn, showcasing their pride, identity, and colors.

Solstice Academy:

Students walked in unison, wearing deep gold and sapphire blue uniforms. The predominant symbol on their attire was the 'Sunburst' - a radiant sun with its beams spreading outwards, representing their illumination and undying spirit.

Astral Institute:

The members of Astral came next, draped in silvery-grey and midnight-blue hues. Their symbol, the 'Crescent Moon,' sat prominently on their chest. It spoke of their belief in the power of intuition and dreams.

Cascade Preparatory:

Following closely, the Cascade representatives wore turquoise and deep blue. Their 'Waterfall' symbol flowed gracefully down the sides of their uniform. This emblem symbolized adaptability, resilience, and the unyielding force of nature.

Embercrest School of Excellence:

The Embercrest students emerged wearing rich reds and dark oranges. Their 'Flame' symbol, embroidered with intricate patterns, stood for passion, ambition, and the burning desire to excel.

Verdant Heights Academy:

Verdant Heights showcased their earthy green and warm brown uniforms. Their 'Leafy Tree' symbol was detailed with every leaf carefully designed, embodying growth, deep-rooted values, and interconnectedness.

Ringles Academy:

Adorned in silver and lavender, the Ringles Academy students proudly sported the 'Interlocking Circles' on their outfits. This emblem represents unity, the interconnected nature of knowledge, and the never-ending cycle of learning.

Celestial Academy:

Last but not least, the Celestial Academy students walked in, draped in deep purples and shimmering silvers. The 'Star Constellation' symbol was scattered across their uniforms like a galaxy, symbolizing exploration, the vastness of potential, and the limitless sky of opportunities.

As each academy showcased its unique symbols and colors, the crowd cheered, but Zero focused was elsewhere, the moment Zero saw Ares he used his skill to see Ares Stats,

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Name: Ares Clark

Age: 13 years old

Power:(D+) 24 

Intelligence:(F-) 11

Stamina:(D+) 23 

Talent: Physical Combat

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'monstrous talent' 

for comparison here is Mike's Current stats,

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Name: Mike Rodriguez

Age: 12 years old

Power: (D+) 21 (+12)

Intelligence: (F) 13 (+7)

Stamina: (D) 22 (+11)

Talent: Soccer, Socializing, hardworking.

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'Mike's progress over the recent months has been remarkable. I wonder what's driving him to push so hard. In comparison to my previous life, he's exhibiting an impressive strength now,' Zero reflected.

looking at Orion Hale, 

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Name: Orion Hale

Age: 13 years old

Power: (D) 19 

Intelligence: (D-) 17 

Stamina: (D) 20 

Talent: Focused, Calm, Obeservant.

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Zero then look at his own stats.

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Name: Zero Elsher

Age: 12 years old

Power:(C-) 33 

Intelligence:(B) 46 

Stamina:(C) 37.5 

Unused points: 4 

Balance: 11,300 Zen 

  Skills: Focused insight F, Calm Mind Rank F+, Culling A

Quest in progress: 5

Quest is currently being updated.

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'I guessed Im the monster' zero thought and saw "quest is currently being updated"

'It figures. Being involved in such a significant event, there's bound to be a substantial reward,' Zero mused with a sly grin. 

zero then focused his abilities on Kolson, 

Kolson was a noticeable figure even amidst the throng of students. Dressed in the Solstice Academy's standard uniform of deep navy with a gold trim, the Sunburst emblem of the academy was stitched over his heart. The uniform was well-fitted, highlighting his athletic build without being overly flashy.

His features were strong but not intimidating, with a jawline that was pronounced and eyes that were always observant. Those hazel eyes often carried a thoughtful expression, as though he was always a step ahead in his thinking. A faint scar marked his left eyebrow, possibly a remnant of a past skirmish or accident. His chestnut hair was neatly trimmed, short on the sides with a bit more volume on top, a practical choice.

Standing with a relaxed posture, Kolson came off as approachable, yet there was a certain resilience in his demeanor.

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Name: Kolson Griffin

Age: 13 years old

Power: (D+) 21

Intelligence: (C) 34

Stamina: (D) 20 

Talent: Strategic Insight, Adaptive Thinker, Empathetic Leader.

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'intelligence 34????? that's more than the student council president which is only 32 currently....' 

Zero's subtle smirk transformed into a more sinister, almost maniacal smile. The promise of an exhilarating week ahead elicited a soft, malevolent chuckle from him.

'this will be fun'

"he...he...hehe.."