Physical exam

The academy field stretched out in all its pristine glory, a green expanse punctuated by student groups warming up in earnest. The sun's rays cascaded down, lending a golden hue to the scene. In this animated tableau, Mike, with his characteristic energy, was hard to miss. Drenched in sweat, his focused exercises contrasted with Carl's more relaxed stretches.

"Hey, Mike! Already started, huh?" Zero called out, greeting his friend with a nod.

Mike, flashing a grin that spoke of pre-test jitters, responded, "Just getting the engine revved up. Carl's joining in. Wanna join?"

Zero glanced at Carl, noting the subtle tension in his friend's frame. Despite being in a group, Carl seemed isolated, his eyes darting away every time they met Zero's.

Mike leaned closer, his voice a conspiratorial whisper. "Look, I know something went down between you two. But Carl... he's not bad. Maybe it's time to let bygones be bygones?"

Raising an eyebrow in genuine surprise, Zero responded, "Argument? We never had any falling out."

The revelation seemed to take Mike aback. "Really? So, all this time...?"

Zero shrugged, "Seems like a misunderstanding."

Mike, never one to let a moment go without his characteristic enthusiasm, slapped Carl on the back, nearly sending him stumbling. "Hear that, Carl? All's well!"

Carl, a mixture of relief and embarrassment evident on his face, muttered, "Sorry about that, dude. My bad."

"no problem," Zero replied,

Mike's infectious energy once again took over. "Warm-up with us? I'm going all out today! I won't lose to you again Zero!"

Zero, smirking, "It's not about winning, Mike. It's about making the top 5."

Mike flexed dramatically. "For you, maybe. I'm in it to win it!"

Sighing, Zero replied, "Sure do whatever you want, I'll catch up with you guys in a bit. Need to freshen up."

As he walked towards the bathroom, Zero saw a screen system pop up.

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QUEST:

Mission: Get first place on the physical exam test

+2 all stats

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

'as expected' Zero murmured, every time there was an event the system would give me quests, now I confirm that much.

and then suddenly 

WARNING WARNING WARNING

*due to uncertain circumstances there will be slight adjustments*

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

QUEST UPDATED:

Target: Kill Adrian Asher

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

Failure: Death

Time Limit: 2 Years 5 months 23 days (-3 Years)

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

"Well... I'm just unlucky aren't I" Zero murmured.

'I need to recruit the Russian within this year and deal with Asher next 2 years. I have heard from Clara that her father will be watching the festival in person if she manages to become one of the candidates, that will be a good chance to meet him in person to find more things about him.' *sigh* with another sigh zero slapped himself in the face, "let's focus on whats ahead first" zero said 'there is no need to worry about unnecessary things' 

"this system is really messing with me"

***

on the field. A feeling of excitement hung in the air as the 17 candidates stood in a semi-circle, waiting for instructions. There are 12 students on the fifth floor, and all of them joined this test including Clara Asher. there are 5 students that arent in the top 3 ranking in each class.

Professor Strive was emerging from the academy building, a formidable figure known for his stringent training methods. Beside her was Sarah White, the vice student council president, who radiated authority and poise.

"All right, candidates," began Sarah, addressing the group with a clear, commanding voice. "Today's challenge is designed to push you beyond mere physical capability."

She paused to ensure she had everyone's attention. "This test is straightforward but will challenge both your physical prowess and your wits."

She gestured to the sand vests laid out on a table nearby. "These vests are not just to weigh you down, they are designed to simulate a real-world scenario where you might have to carry essential supplies or perhaps a comrade. Your task is to keep the vest balanced while running. If you allow the sand to fall out, not only will it signify a loss of essential resources but it also means you're not in control. Remember, balance and poise are just as important as speed."

Seeing some quizzical looks, she added, "If more than 1kg of sand falls out, you're out. The weights have been adjusted according to your body proportions to ensure fairness among all candidates, whether male or female."

Lucas Belmoth, a tall figure with an imposing presence, seemed particularly intrigued. Despite not being in the top 3 ranks, his determination was evident.

"As for the distance," Sarah continued, "It's a 5km run. It might seem like a short distance to some of you, but with the added weight and the challenge of balance, it will push your boundaries. The first five to cross the finish line with their vests intact will be considered for candidacy."

As Zero received his vest, the weight surprised him. At 17kg, it was a quarter of his body weight. Adjusting it on his shoulders, he realized that running with it would be no small feat.

As the students were familiarizing themselves with the vests, Zero's gaze met that of Clara Asher, a radiant presence amongst the candidates with her fiery auburn hair and sharp crimson eyes. Both of them stood out, not just for their physical appearances but for their notorious reputations in the academy.

Clara took the initiative and approached Zero. "Didn't expect you to participate, Zero," she began, her voice reflecting a mix of amusement and genuine curiosity.

Zero, with a smirk, replied, "Could say the same about you, Clara. I thought you would skip this one to" said jokingly

She chuckled, "I always enjoy pushing my limits and showing off. Plus, last time I didn't participate because of my father, and I still got first ranked in class 2."

Zero nodded in agreement, "Well I couldn't agree more, so what's your vest weight?"

Clara said," Hmm its around 9-11 kg, it's quite heavy but it should be doable, who do you think from us is going to be on the top 5 zero?" 

"If we are talking only about this physical test, it should be me, Mike, Hale, Liam, and Carl," Zero used his focused insight to most of his peers, Clara Asher's stats still cant be seen...

Zero replied with a smirk. "well I'm not too sure about yourself, because I haven't seen you do any physicals"

Clara replied with a smirk. "don't worry Elsher I'll be sure to surprise you"

There was a brief silence between them, charged with competitive tension. But beneath that competitiveness, there was an undeniable respect for one another.

Suddenly, Clara extended her hand, "May the best candidate win, Zero."

He took her hand firmly, "And may the odds be ever in your favor, Clara."

As candidates took their positions at the starting line, the air grew tense with anticipation. But amidst this tension, Liam and Orion, two figures from the first year, were still engaged in their playful yet intense rivalry.

"You might be a keyboard warrior, Liam, but this is the real world," taunted Orion, cracking his knuckles.

Liam, always quick with a retort, shot back, "What's the matter, Orion Hale? Afraid you'll be eating my dust?"

Orion bristled, "Why do you keep using my full name?!"

Liam smirked, "I'm just calling you by your username, remember?"

Orion's face turned a deep shade of crimson, his retort caught in his throat as Professor Strive's voice echoed across the field.

"Runners, on your mark!"

The bickering duo, along with the rest of the candidates, shifted their focus to the challenge ahead, preparing for the test that would determine their standing in the academy.