The Elite's Duel

The scores are out. Hundreds of students flood the assembly hall, a sea of gray and black uniforms buzzing with anticipation. On stage, Ms. Leonard, the dean, stands poised to announce the university rankings. Beside you, Sophia, your best friend and fellow Elite, bounces on her heels, a bundle of nerves.
“I’m terrified,” she whispers, wringing her hands. “What if I don’t become an Elite again?”
You offer a reassuring smile, though a flicker of your own anxiety dances in your chest. You were the first Elite last year, but the pressure to maintain that position for your scholarships is immense. The giant screen above lights up, displaying the list everyone has been waiting for. Your eyes snap to the top spot. Your name is there.
A squeal erupts beside you. Sophia is beaming, her name listed in fourth place. Relief washes over you both. You’ve done it again. But the moment of triumph is shattered by a familiar, infuriated voice. Nash Andrews, the second Elite, storms towards you, his face a mask of rage.
