The bell rang through the halls of Power School High, signaling the start of yet another grueling day for Kikidori. He slung his worn-out bag over his shoulder and walked through the bustling corridors. Around him, students flexed their powers like peacocks showing off their feathers. Some conjured fireballs in their palms, others floated mid-air, while a group near the lockers laughed as they sparred with glowing energy blades. Kikidori walked past them, trying to make himself as small as possible.

"Hey, look! It's Stick-in-the-Mud!" A voice boomed from the side. Kikidori froze. He didn't need to turn to know who it was.

"Great..." he muttered under his breath.

Standing there was Ryden, one of the top students at Power School High. Known for his electric abilities, Ryden was a Level 8 powerhouse who made it his mission to torment Kikidori every chance he got. Beside him were his usual lackeys, Mika and Jace, both strong in their own rights.

"You lost, powerless?" Ryden sneered, sparks crackling at his fingertips.

"I'm just trying to get to class," Kikidori replied, keeping his voice low.

"And who said you could talk?" Mika chimed in, her fingers glowing with heat. "I swear, you're like a bug that refuses to be squashed."

The crowd gathered, eager to see the morning show. Kikidori clenched his fists but said nothing. He had no power, no defense. What could he do?

"Leave me alone," he finally said, his voice barely audible.

"Aww, did you hear that? Little Stick wants us to leave him alone!" Ryden laughed, and the crowd joined in.

Kikidori felt his face flush with anger and shame, but he turned and walked away. Fighting back was pointless.

The end of chapter 1