**Chapter 168: A Dazzling Display of Deception**

As the bus pulled up to our destination, I felt a flutter of excitement in my chest. I glanced out the window to see a sprawling complex with several buildings and a large open area. The sign above the entrance read "U.A. Hero Academy - Special Test Site". We disembarked from the bus and made our way towards the entrance, where a familiar figure was waiting for us. Ms. Joke, our teacher, greeted us with a warm smile. She seemed super nice, and I couldn't help but feel a little intimidated by her charismatic presence. "Welcome, students!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I'm glad you're all here. Today, you'll be taking a special test to assess your skills. I have no doubt that you'll all do great." As we followed Ms. Joke towards the testing area, I noticed a boy standing off to the side, watching us with a keen eye. He had messy brown hair and piercing blue eyes that seemed to see right through me. He looked cute, and I couldn't help but feel a little drawn to him. As I approached him, he immediately walked up to me and said, "Wow, even the TV couldn't capture your beauty." I raised an eyebrow, knowing he was just trying to flatter me. "Oh, stop," I said teasingly, trying to play it cool. "You're more handsome than me." I said with a smile, trying to deflect his compliment. To my surprise, he actually blushed slightly. "Why, thank you, Vesper," he responded, his voice low and smooth. Bakugo and Todoroki, who were standing nearby, exchanged a jealous glance. They stared at Shindo, their faces darkening with envy. Shindo, on the other hand, gave them a smirk, seeming to enjoy their reaction. I continued to engage in some light, fake flirting with Shindo, trying to keep things light and playful. "So, what's your Quirk?" I asked, trying to change the subject. "My Quirk is called 'Echo'," he replied, his eyes sparkling with interest. "It allows me to copy and amplify the physical abilities of those around me." I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "That sounds cool," I said, trying to keep the conversation going. As we chatted, Ms. Joke interrupted us, calling out that it was time to start the test. "Alright, students! The first test is to take out at least three people and hit their targets. The targets are located throughout the complex, and you'll need to use your Quirks to take out your opponents and reach them." The test started, and we all scattered, eager to begin. I glanced over at Shindo, who gave me a nod before charging off in a different direction. I smiled to myself, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation. It was going to be an interesting test.