The stands were already brimming with students as Sumaya, Talon, and Raul maneuvered through the sea of bodies, trying to reach the front rows. Excitement crackled in the air like static. Stadium lights blazed overhead, casting sharp white beams over Ridgehaven High's soccer pitch and turning the trimmed green field into a glowing stage. The home team's banner flapped proudly near the scoreboard, its red and black colors gleaming under the floodlights.
To the left of the stadium, the Ridgehaven High student section buzzed with pride and energy. Flags were being waved, drums beat in rhythm, and faces were painted in school colors. Some kids had glitter. Others held posters with dramatic messages: "BURN THE BROOK!" or "RIDGEHAVEN REIGN!"
