Vol.2 Chapter 63

As I logged out of the game and returned to the real world following our match against team Variable, I was greeted by the loud noise of the crowd. The atmosphere buzzed with a fusion of astonishment and exhilaration, exuding a thrilling air of celebration.

As the caster announced our victory, the deafening roar of the crowd reverberated even louder throughout the stadium, followed by a chaotic symphony of cheers. Stepping out of the VR pod and standing upright, I was suddenly attacked by a blonde assailant.

“You did it again, Kat! I never doubted you for a second! I knew you would win!” the culprit proudly proclaimed as she tackled me in her embrace.

I nearly found myself caught off guard by the sudden tackle, but fortunately, I was ready this time. I managed to stand my ground securely, averting any risk of falling.

Seriously! Would you please stop tackling me every time we win a hard-fought game?

I almost blurted a complaint, but seeing her this happy made me hold my tongue.

“I didn't think you'd actually win against her?! I thought you were just going to stall for time! You really are amazing!” Renz, who just came out of his own VR pod, butted in.

“I didn't think I would win too; it was simply luck, pure luck," I responded after catching my breath from Liz’s death embrace.

"There you go again. There's a limit to being humble, you know. Accept the praise for what it is since you really did carry us in that game!" Liz nudged me playfully while releasing me from her hug.

She seems genuinely delighted about our victory. Winning must be even more satisfying for her, especially when it comes as a surprise. I suppose all my teammates must have believed our chances were extremely slim, but we managed to stage a remarkably stunning upset. I can clearly imagine the mix of emotions of relief and joy they are experiencing at this moment since I’m kind of feeling it, too, to be perfectly honest. Still, I did not lie, though; I was lucky I managed to win against Lua.

“No, I'm telling the truth. I was lucky she gave me a handicap. It also helps that my gamble paid off, or I would have lost,” I insisted.

"...Are you referring to what you mentioned about a gamble in exploiting her weakness?" Chu, who had been observing our conversation, couldn't conceal his curiosity and suddenly asked.

I nodded. “Yeah, she was not used to fighting opponents who moved at buffed speed. If she had encountered more proficient haste users or engaged in numerous sparring sessions against players who excel in haste, I'm unsure if I would have emerged victorious."

“I see! So you pulled the stunt you did on Jarde, but this time against an opponent who is a lot of times stronger than him,” Renz summarized.

“In addition to that, I also memorized her attack patterns when she fought Aria, so there is that, too,” I explained.

“You say as if that is an easy thing to do. You really are amazing…” Liz said in awe.

Feeling bashful amidst the compliments, I attempted to shift the focus of the subject. "Ahem! A-anyway, we made it to the finals, so things worked out this time! But, from now on, our chance of winning the championship hinges on your performance. So, I'll entrust the rest to you guys tomorrow."

"Huh? What do you mean? It sounds like you won't be playing anymore," Renz questioned.

“No. I simply believe that my strategy wouldn't be as effective anymore. The opponents most likely have devised countermeasures after witnessing the play. Therefore, the outcome of the finals will heavily rely on all of you since I'm uncertain if I could execute it again without facing counterplays,” I explained my reasoning.

“I see. That makes sense,” Liz murmured.

To be perfectly honest, the tactic I employed is extremely challenging to counter, so I doubt our opponents would have immediate countermeasures prepared. However, I must remember that this tournament isn't centered around me; it's about showcasing my teammates' skills and helping them shine for the future they aspire to achieve. Hence, it is crucial for them to develop self-confidence in their own skill and not overly depend on me throughout this tournament, as it could potentially have negative consequences in the future.

Besides, I've had my fill of opponents. I'm glad I got to fight someone like Lua in my last tournament. And if we face off again in the grand finals, I’d gladly give her another game, which is a match that I’m sure she is looking forward to.

Suddenly, the door to our transparent booth swung open, unveiling Gilligan, the captain of the opposing team, presumably present to display sportsmanship and congratulate us on our victory.

"Congratulations on your well-deserved win. Your team clearly outperformed us in terms of tactics and skills,” as if proving my assumptions. He congratulated us with a heartfelt gesture.

“Of course, our team is the strongest team in this tournament, after all!” Clarence declared.

Didn't you just say just a little while ago that we didn't have any chance at winning against them?! Why the sudden shift in attitude?!

For the first time in our conversation, he smiled. “Somehow, I don’t doubt the truth in your words.”

He then turned his gaze towards me, appraising me intently.

“At first, I thought Lua threw the game on purpose, but she told me about what happened in your duel. My wariness of you was justified, though it appears my caution fell short. I might regret not asking now, considering the numerous offers you're likely to receive. Will you consider joining the professional team I'm assembling for the upcoming AC season?” he proposed.

Sensing my surprise, he continued, "I do not mean to boast, but funding is not an issue for me. I am confident that you won't regret being part of my team," he stated in a businesslike tone.

Oh, is he subtly hinting at offering me any salary I desire? It's a tempting proposition, but I've already made up my mind that this will be my final tournament. I am resolute enough and not easily swayed once my decision is made since I’m stubborn like that. The dilemma now lies in how to decline his offer tactfully.

“But aren't you already a four-man team?" I probed to find a valid reason.

"I intend to take on the role of their manager and coach instead," he expressed, gazing affectionately at his teammates, who were now approaching our booth. "Moreover, I believe that with both you and Lua on the same team, winning the AC Cup would be more than just a pipe dream."

“Hey now, are you seriously trying to recruit our teammate right in front of us? If she decided to go pro, she would be part of our team," Clarence finally spoke up, unable to contain himself.

I let out a huge sigh at his attempt to shield me from poachers.

“I appreciate the offer, but I have no intentions of pursuing a professional career,” I disclosed my answer to Gilligan.

“Y-you don't? That's news to me?!” Clarence exclaimed, failing to conceal his shock.

"I did mention it to Liz before..." I innocently pointed out.

"Liz? Why didn't you say anything to me?!" Clarence exclaimed.

"Hehe, well, you never inquired? Plus, it wasn't really relevant until now," Liz made a reasonable point.

“Urk, t-that's a fair point!” Clarence conceded.

He gazed at me with regretful eyes. "It's a missed opportunity! I believe you would excel in the professional scene," Clarence remarked.

"...Although I do think you'd be an exceptional professional player, I understand and respect your decision. I'll keep my offer open for the time being," Gill stated with respect.

I nodded at him in appreciation.

“But do keep in mind my offer if you ever change your mind," he continued.

“I'll… keep that in mind.”

From the corner of my eyes, I caught a glimpse of Lua and the rest of her teammates entering our booth. Fortissimo approached Chu, congratulating him and expressing his input about Chu’s remarkable parries, while HaeYun supported Lua in walking towards me.

I guess the background noise and cheers of the crowd disrupted her senses, so much so that she needed someone to support her. It’s a bit off-putting seeing her this vulnerable since I’m used to seeing Lua always walking with reassured confidence, even with her disability at play.

As they drew closer, Lua gestured for HaeYun to allow her to walk unassisted. Her teammate complied and proceeded to congratulate Liz on our victory.

As Lua neared me, she suddenly and unexpectedly tripped onto nothing, forcing me to instinctively catch her and allow her to lean on my shoulder for support.

"Oops, I slipped~ How clumsy of me," she said in a playful tone.

"I'm quite certain you did that intentionally..." I chided.

"Oh, come on, I do make mistakes sometimes," she pouted.

“Somehow, I find that hard to believe,” I deadpanned.

Observing my skepticism, she continued.

"Regardless, that was an excellent fight! It was the most thrilling one I've had~, and I'm eagerly anticipating our rematch tomorrow," she remarked in a melodious voice.

I sighed at her unwavering confidence. “You sound as though victory is already guaranteed for you in your lower bracket matches tomorrow..."

“Of course~ I told you before, I never lose,“ she proclaimed.

"...Yet, you just did to me moments ago," I remarked dryly.

In response to my friendly banter, she leaned her head even closer to mine.

"And I'm glad that you were the one who took my first..." she whispered in a suggestive tone.

Would you please stop saying things like that, which could easily be misunderstood?! We are being streamed, for Pete's sake! It's a good thing her words were most likely swept away by the crowd's cheer.

"Besides~ you're the only one who could satisfy me after experiencing such an exhilarating match. I can't let this chance to fight you again slip by me, so I'd be even more motivated to reach the finals with you as the goal," she added.

"You don't have to go to such lengths just to face me. We can always spar from time to time," I countered.

Engaging in sparring matches with someone as skilled as Lua is genuinely enjoyable. I wouldn't mind having a few more bouts with her.

"I don't view battles without stakes as real ones. It's only when there's a lot on the line that it truly ignites your passion and thirst for combat and can a fight be deemed a genuine one," she stated as if it were an indisputable fact.

I see. Does that mean she doesn't consider losing to sparring or practice matches to be considered a loss? Isn't that cheating? Well, I suppose everyone has their own perspective on this matter.

Suddenly, a staff member entered our booth, putting a halt in our conversation.

“Excuse me, Team Paradigm. Please prepare for the winner's interview,” the staff announced, putting an end to our discussion.

Another interview, huh? Well, it's not my concern. I'll leave it to Liz like last time. I'm confident she'll handle it with grace.

As if recalling something, the staff member turned to me abruptly.

“Also, this time, the panel members specifically requested your presence for the interview, Miss Katyuusha.”

Like a dear caught in the headlights, I suddenly froze upon hearing those words.

Lua, still leaning on me for support, noticed my reaction. Being Lua, she wouldn't miss the chance to annoy me yet again.

"Oh dear~ it seems you have another battle on your hands," she teased.

I sighed. I just hope they don’t ask too many hard questions.

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Ariadne's PoV

I observed as both teams exchanged handshakes. My gaze shifted to Katherine. She is truly remarkable for swiftly identifying Lua's vulnerability and devising a counterstrategy with limited preparation time. That has been her greatest strength, aside from her inhuman reflexes, of course.

She also kept her promise to show me Lua’s weakness. Knowing Lua is not experienced in fighting speed-buffed players gives us a fighting chance and a plan for what to do for our rematch. A glimmer of hope paved by my mentor’s efforts.

"Did you know that the team Paradigm possessed such a formidable trump card?" Seer interjected, interrupting my thoughts.

"...No. While I was aware of Katherine’s natural talent, I was genuinely surprised by the extent of her abilities and technique," I replied smoothly, withholding the truth.

As much as I loathe lying to my teammate, I did promise to keep her real account a secret after all. It's the best I could do for her after she fulfilled her promise and showed us this glimmer of a fighting chance against Lua.

"I... see," Seer said while seemingly pondering on something.

If he harbors suspicions, it could pose a problem, considering Seer's exceptional intelligence and keen intuition. Given his deductive abilities, he could easily uncover the truth about Katherine if he devoted his attention to it.

“But I do know is that we have a chance against Lua now. If we center our play around protecting Lucy and letting her haste me, I believe I could also win against her,” I tried to change the subject to prevent further inquiries.

“That's true, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. We have to win against Sakura eSports first. Judging by their improving tactics and plays, it will be a hard fight for us.

I nodded in agreement.

"And, call it intuition, but I have a feeling that our match against Hana's team is going to be a tough one," Seer expressed, failing to hide his apprehension.

"That… is a bit concerning coming from you. Still, regardless of the obstacles we may face, we must push forward," I declared with resolve.