[1. Dream's After-Effect – Classroom Silence]
The classroom was alive with murmurs and low chatter, but Rivet sat in complete stillness.
His eyes were open, staring ahead — yet his mind was miles away.
That dream… it hadn't left him.
The flames.
The warrior.
The voice that had called his name.
And those eyes — glowing with ancient fire.
He didn't know what it meant, but it felt real… more real than anything he had ever known.
[2. Strange Morning – The Temple Moment]
That morning had started like every other.
Rivet had walked to school, his bag slung lazily over one shoulder. On the way, he stopped at the small temple at the corner — an old habit.
He removed his shoes, stepped inside the cool marble floor, and joined his hands in prayer.
Eyes closed.
Breathe in. Breathe out.
And then…
A soft touch.
A pat on his head. Gentle. Warm. Almost loving.
His eyes shot open.
No one was there.
He turned around — the priest was far away, tending to incense.
No wind. No sound.
Yet he'd felt it — someone had touched him. Or… blessed him.
He looked at the idol once more. Folded his hands again.
Didn't say a word. Just walked away.
[3. School Begins – The Inner Planning]
Back in class, Rivet tried to focus, but something inside him had shifted.
He pulled out his notebook and opened a fresh page. Without thinking much, he started writing:
Morning jog – 5 AM
School – Stay alert during PE
Evening – Pushups, stamina drills
Core training – focus on legs, grip
Eat less junk – control sugar
No laziness
27 days.
His handwriting was rough, but his mind was clear.
"If I have to survive this tournament, I need to transform myself."
[4. The Big Announcement – Stakes Revealed]
Suddenly, a screech from the speakers cut through the class.
"Students, may I have your attention, please."
It was the principal. Everyone went quiet.
"This year's Inter-District Sports Tournament is not just any event," the voice continued.
"Our school has been chosen as the central venue — and we're honoured to announce that Delhi's Chief Minister and the Union Minister of Sports will be attending as Chief Guests."
Gasps and shocked whispers spread like wildfire.
"Additionally, we're introducing new rewards this year," the principal added.
"The top 10 ranked performers in the tournament will receive a complete annual fee waiver."
Rivet blinked.
Did he just say… full fees?
"And the top 3 athletes will be granted national-level scholarships in athletics and sports education."
A hush fell over the room.
Some students cheered. Some looked stunned.
Rivet?
He couldn't move.
[5. The Reality of His Family – Flashback + Pressure]
His thoughts spiraled.
His home flashed before him — his mother quietly skipping meals so he could have enough in his lunchbox.
His sister covering her worn shoes with polish every day.
His father working two shifts, then still saying, "Tu sirf padhai pe dhyan de."
And this school…
Kalyan International Academy — one of the top 3 schools in India.
His family had bent every bone and broken every saving to get him here.
He had no option but to win.
[6. The Night – His Silent Vow]
That night, Rivet sat alone on the terrace.
The city was quiet below. The stars were faint.
He opened his notebook again — looked at the plan he'd written.
Every word felt heavier now.
"If I make it to the top 10… maa won't have to worry again."
"If I win… maybe she'll finally sleep peacefully."
He stared into the sky — no gods answered, no miracles happened.
Just silence.
He stood up slowly and whispered to himself:
"From tomorrow… every day is war."
[End of Chapter 3]