Time for the Big Boys

"S-S-Shirley Locke of Valenzia wins!" Moderator Scarlet stammered, still in shock at the unexpected outcome.

Head Director Hale Eversong felt just a trace of bitterness, surprised and a bit disappointed that his youth representatives had lost despite having all the resources they needed, though he was genuinely more pleased with how things had turned out.

His youths were already well-stocked with resources, and the first-place rewards would surely benefit the young Valenzians more than those from his region.

Eversong was a wise and impartial figure who could see the broader picture, viewing the highly talented Valenzians the same as any gifted youth, regardless of origin. 

In fact, he even considered them more remarkable, having achieved such strength through their own efforts, unlike his region's youngsters, who could easily access resources.