Windsor's POV
The gymnasium thundered with deafening cheers that seemed to shake the very foundation beneath our feet. This was it - the ultimate showdown of the Academy Wars.
Five schools had survived the brutal elimination rounds over the past week. Now we faced the final challenge - the Death Match.
Each academy occupied separate platforms, equipped with nothing but pristine whiteboards and colored markers. The format was merciless in its simplicity: respond fast, respond accurately. One mistake meant elimination.
No safety nets. No do-overs.
I cast a sideways glance at Gideon. His forehead creased in concentration, arms folded tight against his chest as he waited for the upcoming question.
Throughout the arena, competitors from rival schools shifted nervously in their seats.
