Target Acquired

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1st place, Solstice Academy

Symbol: Sunburst

2nd place, Astral Institute

Symbol: Crescent Moon

3rd place, Cascade Preparatory

Symbol: Waterfall

4th place, NSE Academy

Symbol: Phoenix

5th place, Embercrest School of Excellence

Symbol: Flame

6th place, Verdant Heights Academy

Symbol: Leafy Tree

7th place, Ringles Academy

Symbol: Interlocking Circles

8th place, Celestial Academy

Symbol: Star Constellation

===================

Reflecting the information Zero got from his previous life, he knows the competitions are like series of challenges that requires both intelligence and strength, it will be similar like the first year ranking physical exam.

the reason why NSE academy fell to fourth place in Zero's previous life even though they have monsters like Mike and Orion, is that each top three schools have a bigger monster than them, one of them is Verdant Nicholas in Solstice Academy. He is a very big and tall muscular 12-year-old boy, he is very athletic and outpowered both Mike and Orion at the same time.

but Zero know that this time it will change, 'I'll just crush him' Zero in his mind continued. ' I wonder what kind of face he will make' Zero started to smile psychopathically.

As the meeting continued, Sarah leaned forward, her expression focused."Exactly. This festival is an opportunity for each academy to demonstrate their strengths and capabilities. It's an intense competition that will involve various challenges and tasks. The academies will be competing in events that highlight the students' skills, teamwork, and creativity."

Jackson chimed in, his analytical mind engaged. "The festival also serves as a platform for fostering relationships and camaraderie among academies. It's a chance for us to establish connections with students from other institutions."

Luna's eyes gleamed with excitement. "And let's not forget the bragging rights. The academy that performs exceptionally well in the festival gains prestige and recognition."

The thought of representing NSE Academy, the strongest among the academies, stirred something within them. The symbol of the phoenix, embodying rebirth and renewal, seemed even more fitting now. though Zero doesn't really care, he just wants to have fun and ruined other students.

Sarah continued, "Our academy, NSE Academy, has always maintained a strong presence in the festival. The symbol of the phoenix reflects our resilience and ability to rise from challenges."

Luna leaned back in her chair, a playful glint in her eyes. "considering your reputation, Zero, I'm sure you're participating right?."

Zero's expression remained composed. "I'm certainly considering our options. But it's important that we approach this as a collective effort."

Jackson's analytical gaze met Zero's. "Teamwork will indeed be crucial. We'll need to select five representatives who can excel in different areas and complement each other's strengths."

Clara's lips quirked in a thoughtful smile. "The selection process itself will be an interesting challenge. We'll need to consider not only individual talents but also how well the team can work together."

Sarah nodded in agreement. "Precisely. next month there will be another meeting, we the student council will gather all students ranked top 3 in all classes for the first year to test their capabilities and their compatibilities."

Luna's playful demeanor returned. "We wouldn't want a team full of leaders and no followers, right?"

Zero chuckled, appreciating Luna's sense of humor. "Exactly. We need a team that can collaborate effectively and adapt to different situations."

Clara's voice held a note of determination. "Let's make sure our representatives are well-prepared for this festival. It's a chance to showcase not only our skills but also our academy's values."

Sarah's gaze moved from one member to another. "Agreed. Our goal is to excel and uphold the reputation of NSE Academy."

The council members nodded in unison, their shared purpose binding them together. As the meeting concluded, Zero couldn't help but use focused insight on Clara Asher once again, remembering last week that there were errors in his skills.

'focused insight'

===============================

Name: Clara *?*?*?*?*?* Asher

Age: *?*?*?*?*?*

Power:*?*?*?*?*?*

Intelligence: *?*?*?*?*?*

Stamina: *?*?*?*?*?*

Talent:*?*?*?*?*?*

=================================

'still didn't work huh' Zero murmured.

As the meeting drew to a close, the student council members began to disperse, each with their own tasks ahead. Jackson, the treasurer, stood up and adjusted his glasses. "I should head to the training grounds and work on my skills. It's essential to stay prepared for any challenges."

Luna, her playful demeanor still intact, stretched her arms above her head. "I'll be diving into the sea of documents that need my attention. Fun times, right?"

Sarah, the vice-president, gathered her tablet and nodded. "I'll be reporting the outcomes of this meeting to the president and sharing the details with the other council members. We need to make sure everyone is on the same page."

With their roles defined, the members of the student council started to filter out of the room, leaving Zero and Clara in a momentary silence. The atmosphere shifted, a sense of tranquility settling over the room.

Clara turned her gaze toward Zero, her crimson eyes reflecting a mix of intrigue and seriousness. "Looks like it's just the two of us now."

Zero nodded, his expression composed. "Indeed. It's been quite a productive meeting. The festival preparations are shaping up."

Clara's lips curved into a soft smile. "It's an exciting opportunity for us, and it's clear you're enthusiastic about leading our academy to success."

Zero returned the smile, his demeanor open and attentive. But as the conversation shifted, a hint of seriousness crossed his expression. "Clara, I apologize if my question seems intrusive, but I'm genuinely curious. Why did you decide to take the ranking test in advance? Was there a particular reason, perhaps something concerning your family?"

Clara's smile didn't waver, but her eyes held a mixture of understanding and a touch of melancholy. "No need to apologize, Zero. It's a valid question." She let out a soft sigh before continuing. "It was my father's wish, actually. He thought that taking the test early would allow me to focus more on my responsibilities within the council."

Zero's gaze was steady, his curiosity evident. "Your father's wish? Is there a specific reason behind his decision?"

Clara's gaze momentarily drifted to a distant memory before returning to Zero. "My father believes that the student council holds great importance and influence within the academy. He wanted me to have ample time to dedicate to its endeavors without being preoccupied by the test later on."

Intrigued, Zero leaned in slightly. "And may I ask about your father's name and profession?"

Clara's lips quirked into a wistful smile. "His name is Adrian Asher. He's a businessman with a significant shareholder position in NSE Academy."

the moment Clara said Adrian Asher name, no memories came by from zero's mind, none from his current and previous life. But it doesn't matter, Zero suddenly felt a tingling sensation on his right ring finger, his black obsidian ring is vibrating violently to the point Clara almost notice it.

the moment it stopped, a screen suddenly popped out.

======================================

QUEST UPDATED:

Target: Kill Adrian Asher

Reward: 1,000,000 Zen, System Upgrade, Information about the system

Failure: Death

Time Limit: 5 Years 8 months 23 days

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