July 22, 2010
Location: Oak Hill Academy Gymnasium
The air in the gym buzzed with the rhythmic sound of squeaking shoes and bouncing basketballs—until a voice rang out from the entrance, sharp and confident.
"You must be the team Vorpal Basket."
The entire gym fell into a stunned silence.
Everyone turned.
Standing at the doorway was a boy, around their age, but with a presence that demanded attention. He wore a black-and-red Chicago Raptors warm-up jacket, the kind stitched with pride and pedigree. A duffel bag hung loosely over one shoulder, and the fading sunlight outside caught the red trim of his sleeves, making him almost glow against the backdrop of the gym.
He looked around the room, smile lazy but purposeful. "Nice to meet you all," he said, tone dipped in swagger. "I'm Jalen Carter—aka Flash."
The moment stretched. Tension mixed with awe as the players from Vorpal Basket exchanged glances.
