Kuoh Academy's auditorium was buzzing.
Banners hung from the walls, students chattered excitedly, and the microphone occasionally screeched from bad feedback.
"And next week," the teacher on stage announced, "we'll be holding our first-ever Academy Clash Festival!"
The words exploded like a bomb in the crowd.
"Clash Festival?""It's like a talent show mixed with sparring, right?""Group performances, battles, solo acts… sounds awesome!""Wait—are they randomly selecting participants?"
Ren was already frowning, even before the teacher continued.
"Participation will be drawn at random. Everyone will be on a team. One performance or battle each. You can't back out!"
He sighed, whispering under his breath, "Of course…"
Later That Day – Classroom
Names were being drawn and placed on a giant board.
"Hyoudou Issei—Team Red.""Kiba Yuuto—Team Blue.""Kiryuu Aika—Team Green.""Ren Kurokami—Team Black."
That name drew whispers instantly.
"He's joining?""Oh no, Team Black's overpowered.""Wait, who else is on that team—?"
Ren. Sona Shitori. Tsubaki. Akeno. And two other normal students.
He stared at the board for a while.
"They really want to keep me close, huh…"
Outside – Courtyard
Akeno caught up with him after class, umbrella in hand despite the clear skies.
She smiled sweetly. "Looks like we'll be on the same team, Kurokami-kun."
He raised a brow. "Coincidence?"
"Hardly," she said, twirling the umbrella. "Sona wanted to observe you. Rias didn't argue. And I… wanted a front-row seat."
He smirked, leaning closer, eyes glinting. "Watching me too hard might get you burned, Himejima-san."
Akeno blushed—but didn't back down. "That's what makes it fun."
Night – Abandoned Gym
Ren stood alone, shirtless and sweating, training with brutal precision.
His fists cracked the air. Each strike sharper. Stronger.
[Cosmic Garou Template Sync: 24%][System Message: New "Challenge Environment" Detected. Mock Battle Incoming.]
He exhaled slowly.
"They want a show… I'll give them one."