the challenge

Chapter 14: The Challenge

The days passed like a blur at Sankalp Awakeners' School. Arjun settled into his routine, attending classes, training during practical sessions, and bonding with his small group of summons in secret. Happi continued to be the class mascot, bringing a bright smile to his classmates, especially the girls. It made life at the school a little more bearable, even if he still faced occasional sneers and jabs about his summoning powers.

One day, during a lecture on mana control, the class buzzed with an unusual excitement. The instructor, Professor Menon, had barely started explaining the intricacies of channeling mana when whispers and murmurs rippled through the room.

"Did you hear? The Awakeners' Youth Championship is happening this year!" whispered a boy named Kunal, a martial-type awakener who could enhance his physical strength and agility to terrifying levels.

"Yeah, and it's being hosted right here in Mumbai!" replied Meenal, the water manipulator. Her eyes sparkled with anticipation. "All the top guilds and talent scouts will be there. It's the best opportunity for any young awakener to showcase their skills."

Arjun's ears perked up at this. He hadn't heard about any championship. Leaning back slightly, he listened carefully to his classmates' conversation.

"It's going to be huge," Riya added, her voice bubbling with excitement. "I heard that the International Awaken Control Organisation sponsors it to find the best talent in the country and nurture them. If you do well there, you can get offers from all the top guilds in India. Some participants even get scouted by international guilds!"

Arjun's mind whirled with this new information. The International Awaken Control Organisation—the same group that oversaw everyone's awakening and helped newly awakened individuals like himself gain control over their powers—was the main authority in the world of awakeners. If they were conducting a championship, it wasn't just for show. It would be the perfect platform for him to observe strong awakeners and learn more about the world he was stepping into.

"Who do you think will win?" asked another girl, Shruti, her voice a mix of awe and envy. "I bet Rishabh Mehta will take the title again. He's the youngest S-rank awakener in India, and he was last year's champion."

Rishabh Mehta… Arjun had heard that name before. Even in the slums of Mumbai, the name of the top S-rank awakeners was well-known. They were celebrities, practically worshipped as superheroes. Rishabh, with his lightning-based abilities, was already a national sensation at just twenty-one. He dominated the rankings for three years in a row, and his fan club stretched across the entire country.

"Maybe this year someone will give him a real challenge," someone else muttered. "Though it's unlikely. Rishabh's power is overwhelming, and he's got the backing of the Indra Guild."

Indra Guild. Arjun's heart skipped a beat. That was one of the most prestigious guilds in India, known for producing top-tier awakeners. Their influence stretched beyond the nation, and they had connections with international organizations. Joining them would mean immediate recognition and access to the best resources.

"What other guilds will be watching?" Arjun finally spoke up, his voice casual as he leaned into the conversation.

Riya glanced over, surprised that he was interested. "Oh, all the big ones. Indra Guild, Varuna Guild, Rudra's Fist… even a few international guilds like The Avalon Order and Rising Phoenix. It's a massive event."

Guilds. Championships. Scouts. It all sounded like a world far removed from the one he was used to. But if he could make a name for himself—if he could catch the attention of one of these powerful organizations—it would change everything for him and his mother. They wouldn't have to struggle anymore.

As the class continued, Arjun's mind drifted. Was this his chance? He glanced at Happi, who was curled up on his desk, and then at his classmates who were chattering excitedly about their chances at the championship. Summoners were considered weak, but if he could show them what he was truly capable of…

Suddenly, a notification flashed in his mind, jolting him back to reality:

[Summoner's Gacha System]

Quest Received: Participate in the Upcoming Awakeners' Youth Championship.

Objective: Reach the Top 5 in the Championship.

Reward: Epic Shard x1, System Update

Penalty: None

Arjun's heart thudded loudly in his chest. This was the first time the system had issued a quest related to something so public. Until now, it had only given him personal objectives or training tasks. But this? This was a challenge on an entirely different level.

He reread the quest description, his eyes lingering on the words 'System Update.' It sounded intriguing. What would change? What new possibilities would the update unlock for him? And the Epic Shard—another opportunity to summon something powerful, maybe even more powerful than Happi or Wraith.

His resolve hardened. He had to do this. He had to participate in the championship and reach the top five. It wouldn't be easy—he knew that much—but he wouldn't be alone. He had his summons, and together, they'd make it happen.

When the class ended, Arjun stayed back, scrolling through his phone, searching for more information about the championship. The event was scheduled for the end of the year, in December 2017. That gave him a few months to prepare. He'd need every second of it.

He also found a list of the current top guilds in India:

1. Indra Guild - Known for its lightning-type awakeners and elite combat units.

2. Varuna Guild - Specializes in water and healing abilities, often providing support roles in international missions.

3. Rudra's Fist - A guild known for its sheer physical powerhouses and martial-type awakeners.

4. Shakti Legion - A relatively new guild focusing on versatile fighters with hybrid abilities.

5. Agni's Wrath - Composed of fire-type awakeners, known for their aggressive tactics.

Each guild had its own strengths and unique training methodologies. Joining one would be like gaining access to a treasure trove of knowledge and resources. But to be noticed, he'd have to stand out in the championship—a feat that seemed impossible for a mere summoner.

But nothing was impossible.

Determination simmered within him as he tucked his phone away. He'd prove them all wrong. With the Summoner's Gacha System on his side, he'd carve his own path, even if it meant defying the odds stacked against him.

As he exited the classroom, Riya caught up with him, a thoughtful look on her face. "Hey, Arjun, are you going to participate in the championship?"

He turned to her, a small smile playing on his lips. "I think I might give it a shot."

She looked surprised but then grinned. "That's the spirit! You should definitely go for it. I'll be rooting for you."

"Thanks, Riya. I'll need all the support I can get."

And as he walked away, a fire burned in his heart. The Awakeners' Youth Championship wasn't just an opportunity—it was a test of his mettle. One way or another, he'd make his mark.