The next morning, the city's Student Summit kicked off its first major event—a citywide policy debate. Top students from all schools gathered in the grand auditorium, the air tense with anticipation. John glanced at Sophia Lee, now his official ally, and felt a surge of confidence.
The system's voice sounded in his mind:
[Main Quest: Lead Your Team to Victory in the City Debate. Reward: Leadership Module Level Up, System Unlock: Influence Web.]
As the teams took their seats, the announcer called out the topic: "Should technology-driven reforms be prioritized over traditional values in city education?"
Victor Zhao, John's old rival, was quick to speak for the opposing team. "Tradition anchors us; tech is just a tool. Without roots, progress is just chaos."
John's mind raced. He recalled his days as an outsider, how the system had changed his life, and how new ideas had empowered his school.
Standing, John addressed the crowd. "True progress is the harmony between tradition and innovation. We must honor our roots, but not be chained by them. Let's create a system where every student, regardless of background, can flourish through both values and technology."
His words resonated; the system glowed.
[Skill Activated: Charisma Aura. Debate Persuasion +100%.]
During rebuttal, Victor tried to undermine John with a sharp question: "Easy to talk about harmony, but can you guarantee results?"
John replied, "Results come from courage and teamwork. I've seen it firsthand—change is possible when we trust in each other."
Applause thundered. The judges deliberated, then announced John's team as the winner.
[Quest Complete! Reward: Leadership Module Level Up, New Skill – Influence Web.]
Backstage, Sophia grinned. "You really know how to work a crowd. Ready for the next round?"
Before John could reply, a mysterious figure approached—Lucas Fang, a renowned prodigy from the city's top private academy. His smile was cold. "Impressive, Miller. But don't get cocky. The next event is strategy, not talk. Let's see if your luck holds."
The system chimed:
[Rival Alert: Lucas Fang – Genius Strategist. Side Quest: Outsmart Lucas in the Next Event. Reward: Strategy Skill Upgrade, Special Encounter Unlocked.]
Jessica called John, video popping up on his smartwatch. "You're trending! But watch out, Lucas is famous for sabotaging his opponents."
John smiled, feeling a familiar surge of adrenaline. "Let him come. I'm not alone in this anymore."
That night, John strategized with Sophia and his new allies, analyzing every possible scenario for the upcoming citywide team challenge.
As he lay in bed, the system's interface pulsed with new quests and possibilities.
The city was watching. John Miller's legend was just entering its most thrilling chapter yet.