3 Months Later

Three months had flown by since that fateful night.

Zero's alarm buzzed loudly, pulling him out of his sleep. With a groan, he silenced it, noting it was 7 am on a Monday. He stood up, stretched, and ambled to the bathroom for a quick shower. After patting himself dry, he brewed a simple cup of coffee, enjoying the rich aroma that wafted through his dorm room.

As he tied his shoes, thinking of grabbing something quick to eat from the nearby cafe, his phone beeped. He picked it up, seeing a new message from Sarah White, the student council vice president of the academy. It read: "Please come to the student council room after class."

He slipped his phone back into his pocket, 'status'.

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Name: Zero Elsher

Age: 12 years old

Power: 33 (+3)

Intelligence: 46 (+5)

Stamina: 37.5 (+4)

Unused points: 4 (+4)

Balance: 11,300 Zen (+3000)

Skills: Future Sight -, Calm Mind Rank F+

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The last three months had been... well, normal.

The chaotic events surrounding the Knife Point gang felt like a distant memory. His days were filled with attending classes, hanging out with Mike, Kayla, and Camilla, and occasionally taking on small tasks the system threw his way. Like that time he was challenged to top the class test, and strangely, his 'Calm Mind' skill got a little boost after that. He shrugged it off. A win's a win, after all.

As Zero entered the classroom, he immediately noticed Mike, settled comfortably at their usual spot. The third row by the window always offered them the best view. But today, the seats next to Mike were conspicuously empty. Kayla and Camilla were nowhere in sight.

Walking over, Zero dropped his bag beside the chair and took a seat next to Mike.

"Morning," Zero greeted, nodding at his friend.

Mike looked up, offering a brief smile, "Hey. Morning, Zero."

"where are the girls" Zero asked.

Mike stretched in his chair, turning his attention from the book he was reading to acknowledge Zero. He smirked, "You're really something, y'know? Always lost in your own world."

Zero tilted his head, "What do you mean?"

Mike chuckled, "Kayla and Camilla have been talking about their family event for days. Even posted it in our group chat."

Zero blinked in surprise, "Group chat?"

Mike facepalmed, "Honestly, Zero... You really need to check your phone more often. Remember? our group chat?"

"Oh... right." Zero had a faint memory of being added to a chat group with that name. He sheepishly smiled, "Guess I muted it. Got too many notifications."

Mike raised an eyebrow, Sighing, "Sigh, what should I do with you?"

Zero laughed, "Something like that."

Mike leaned back in his chair, glancing out the window before returning his gaze to Zero, "So yeah, it'll be just the two of us this week. Think you can handle it?"

Zero smirked, "As long as you don't bore me to death with your 'amazing' theories on why anime characters have colorful hair."

Mike grinned, "Oh, come on! That was a one-time thing. Also, you were always busy on your student council thing, Can you even hang out?"

Zero's eyes sparkled with mischief, "we will see."

Zero turned to Mike, his eyebrow raised in curiosity. "Are you all set for the academy festival this month?"

Mike ran a hand through his hair, shrugging. "Kind of? Gave it my best shot anyway. But with you and the girl from the student council taking up two spots, it's going to be tight for the rest."

Zero's eyes widened. "You mean Clara?"

Mike smirked. "Yeah, that one. Noticed you two getting quite chummy lately."

Raising an eyebrow, Zero chuckled, "Jealous much?"

Mike shot Zero a playful glare. "Very funny."

Zero held up his hands in mock defense, "Hey, it's just some harmless teasing. And for the record, I was just curious about her father, the renowned CEO. Wanted some insights, that's all."

Mike hummed, "Sure, 'insights'."

Professor Hernandez, a tall man with spectacles and graying hair, entered with his usual brisk pace, effectively cutting short any conversations. Holding a stack of papers, he made his way to the front of the class. The room's atmosphere changed from relaxed to attentive in a heartbeat.

"Good morning, class," he began, adjusting his glasses, "I trust everyone has prepared for today's lecture?"

Murmurs of affirmation spread throughout the room. and with that, the class started.

After class, upon entering the student council room, Zero took in the familiar sight. All members were already seated.

At the head sat Earl Garrett, a senior with a commanding presence, his deep-set eyes always observant. Beside him were Sarah White, Jackson Reed, and Luna Morales, with her raven-black hair, flipping through a notebook, probably checking the day's agenda.

Clara Asher, whose presence had been the subject of Zero's earlier conversation with Mike, was discussing something with the two other members, whom Zero recognized as Angela Diaz and Simon Foster.

Garrett looked up, his piercing gaze meeting Zero's. "Glad you could join us, Zero," he greeted with a nod.

Nods and murmurs of greeting echoed around the table as Zero took his seat.

"Alright," began Garrett, clapping his hands together for attention, "let's dive straight into today's primary agenda. We've been given the responsibility of selecting five first-year candidates to represent our academy in the upcoming competition against seven other academies."

Luna leaned forward, pushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "This competition is a big deal. We have to make sure we send our best."

Jackson adjusted his glasses and added, "Sure, skills are essential, but we're also looking for students who truly represent what our academy stands for."

Sarah glanced towards Zero. "You hang out with the first years a lot. Got anyone in mind?"

Zero shrugged slightly, "A couple, yeah."

Clara, twirling her pen, chimed in, "You know, since we've already been tracking everyone's academic performance, why not just focus on a physical exam? It would save time and give us a clear picture."

Simon stretched his arms, "Sounds good. Maybe a sprint, a strength test, and a balance test?"

Angela nodded, "That's straightforward. And it ensures everyone gets a fair shot."

Garrett, looking pleased with the progress, said, "Alright, here's the plan. We already have the slots booked for next Friday during PE. Those who want to try out for the competition can participate. If not, they can either watch or skip the PE class."

Zero gave a thumbs up, "Sounds simple enough. I'll spread the word."

Garrett grinned, "Thanks, Zero. Let's make this a smooth process."

after the meeting about the festival they also report the progress they have made in the past couple weeks, Zero left the student council room and went back to his room, He opened his laptop and posted on the NSE Academy web:

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[ANNOUNCEMENT]: Candidate Selection for NSE Academy Representation!

Hello NSE Family,

This is your chance to be the face of NSE Academy and represent us with pride!

If you're passionate, determined, and ready to showcase your talents, we invite you to participate in the selection trials this Friday. Here's what you need to know:

Date: This Friday

Time: 2:00 pm onwards

Location: Academy's Outdoor Track Field

Test Details:

Sprint: Show us your speed and endurance on the track.

Strength Test: It's not just about muscle, but technique and persistence. Ready to lift and prove your mettle?

Balance Challenge: Test your poise and precision as you traverse a beam with a tray and glass of water.

Other Information:

Ensure you wear appropriate athletic wear.

Hydration stations will be available, but it's always good to bring your water bottle.

The selected candidates will represent NSE Academy in the inter-academy competition.

Everyone is welcome to watch, cheer, and support. Even if you're not participating, come and boost the morale of our candidates!

For those interested in participating, please register by Thursday evening to ensure your spot in the trials.

Feel free to drop your queries in the comment section or contact the Student Council for more information.

Let's come together and celebrate the talent and spirit of NSE Academy. We hope to see you there!

Cheers,

Student Council