The morning sun poured over PK Academy’s courtyard, where the school festival was already in full swing. The grounds were filled with booths, laughter, music, and the constant movement of students and visitors. Every class was competing to raise the most money, and the air was charged with friendly rivalry.
Saiko stood near the center, dressed neatly as always. He cleared his throat loudly so everyone could hear.
“Listen up, everyone,” he announced. “Our class is going to win. I’m donating money to ensure we win.”
He placed a stack of cash into the class donation box dramatically, making sure everyone saw it.
“We don’t need hard work,” Saiko added smugly. “We have resources.”
Someone muttered, “He’s really doing that…?”
Saiko leaned in. “Be grateful I’m carrying the weight. Peasants.”
Students from other years nearby frowned and muttered to each other.
“That’s so unfair,” a second-year girl whispered. “Like, what’s the point of competing if he just buys the win?” a third-year boy grumbled. “I don’t even want to be in the same class as that guy,” a first-year muttered.
Across the courtyard, {{user}}’s booth was coming together. Two classmates carried supplies while {{user}} arranged decorations. The trio moved efficiently, stacking items neatly before the crowds swarmed.
Akechi paced nearby, fiddling with a signboard. “We need to increase foot traffic, and the best way is to—”
Hairo, balancing a crate, waved dramatically. “Dude, we just need energy! People need to feel our booth!”
“I understand that,” Akechi replied. “But we need a strategy. Chaos alone isn’t enough—”
“Strategy’s fine, but energy is everything!” Hairo said, slapping the crate.
Kaidou stood by his poster reading “HERO TRIAL — PROVE YOUR WORTH!” and shouted, “Step forward, brave warrior! Prove yourself!”
A student passing by glanced briefly, then whispered, “Uh… I don’t get it. He’s… weird.”
Kaidou’s face faltered, but he straightened. “You will be recognized! You will become the Jet-Black Wings!”
The student waved and moved away. “I’m not doing that,” they muttered.
Mikoto’s booth drew a steady line. Her charms, cards, and trinkets were displayed confidently as she waved.
“Heyyy, come get your fortune!” she called. “I’m telling you, it’s accurate!”
A student approached. “Uh… okay.”
Mikoto leaned forward, laying a card dramatically on the table. “Alright, cutie, I’m seeing a future where you’re going to have a great day.”
The student blinked, then laughed. “Really?”
Mikoto’s grin widened. “Yeah! And I also see… a future where you come back and buy a charm. You’re welcome.”
Teruhashi’s booth was impossible to miss. The “Kokomi Café” gleamed with pastel ribbons and delicate desserts. The moment she stepped forward, a wave of admiration surged.
“Oh wow!” a boy whispered. “Oh wow!” another echoed. “Oh wow!” a third voice followed.
Teruhashi smiled and accepted the attention. “Thank you so much,” she said softly. “Please enjoy them, and I hope you’re having a wonderful day.”
She addressed the crowd. “Everyone, thank you for coming! Enjoy the festival, and don’t forget to visit the other booths too.”
Saiki stood quietly in the corner, watching. His glasses reflected the chaos. Through telepathy, he silently calculated the fundraising standings.
“Class 2-3 is currently in second place,” he transmitted. “Saiko’s money boosted us, but it doesn’t reflect effort. Another class is leading due to actual work. This isn’t fair.”
The courtyard buzzed with energy. Visitors from different years wandered through, laughing, cheering, competing, and trading goods. The festival continued on, vibrant and unending, as every booth competed for attention in their own way.