Vol.2 Chapter 64

This is bad.

This situation I’m in is extremely terrible.

It is so dreadful even that it surely ranks among the top five worst scenarios I've experienced in my whole life.

As for the predicament I’m currently in, I find myself up against the most formidable opponents that I have to face in my lifetime.

Fighting Lua is child’s play compared to whom I’m about to go up against.

And, to make matters worse, I’m not against just one, but three opponents simultaneously—a three-on-one scenario that appears too daunting for my current state.

Looking at my surroundings, I am currently situated in the panelist's transparent room near the main stage, where players will undergo interviews after the match. All eyes are fixed on me from the audience, their gazes a mix of admiration, curiosity, and expectation, creating a spotlight of scrutiny that makes my heart race with nervousness.

The bright lights overhead illuminate the stage, casting a harsh glare that magnifies the intensity of the moment. The crowd's eager whispers and murmurs blend together into a buzzing hum that fills the air, heightening my senses and adding to the weight of the attention focused on me.

The cameras and microphones poised before me seem to amplify the eyes that watch my every move, capturing my every word and gesture for the world to see. The intensity of the moment is palpable, the air thick with the collective energy of the audience's scrutiny and the pressure of the spotlight that shines brightly on me.

Facing me is Raze, the head panelist, who appears eager to commence the interview.

Beside him is his fellow panelist, whose name eludes me at the moment, displaying the same level of enthusiasm as Raze.

And lastly, the final boss, Mr. Bogdan, aka 'Vlad the Impaler' in the world of CoA, had been eyeing my every move, scrutinizing me meticulously right from the moment I stepped in.

If I had known I would garner too much attention, I wouldn’t have given it my all-in facing Lua! I’m kind of regretting my actions now… although, now that I think about it. I probably would do my best to beat Lua due to my over-competitive nature, even if I had a chance for a do-over.

“Congratulations on your win!” the lead panelist, Raze, initiated the torture.

I need to remember to say as little as possible to avoid embarrassment.

“Thanks...” I replied curtly.

Not being disheartened by my unenthusiastic reply, he continued. “How do you feel right now after your team’s amazing performance?” he asked excitedly.

Some easy ice-breaker questions, huh? At least he didn’t ask me some bizarre questions right from the start, like my previous interviewer, so I should probably be grateful.

“My teammates and I feel elated that we won,” I said with my usual poker face.

Noticing my composed expression, he playfully teased, "It doesn't seem that way! It appears as though you're just going about your usual routine!" he said in a light-hearted manner to uplift the atmosphere.

Well, it didn’t help because I feel extremely nervous right now, and no matter what he does, it won't help in the slightest since I’m just here doing all I can to avoid messing up this interview, especially with all the people currently watching both on stream and live.

Sensing no response from me, he continued.

“Ahem, now, onto the questions that I'm certain many of us are eager to know. We were analyzing your performance in this tournament earlier, and as panel members, we are curious if you have a main account," he continued.

“...I do not," I said curtly.

“Whoa, that’s unexpected!” He said in complete shock. “Now I'm wondering, how do you learn to play CoA so well?”

“I've had a lot of practice and experience with different VR games," it's not technically a lie since I've played many VR games that require complex skills.

“Oh! That makes sense! Although not as popular, there are also a lot of games that require pure skill out there.”

“Another thing, that thing you did with the unique weapon skill was unprecedented! Mages usually refrain from utilizing such offensive enhancements as they compromise their survivability, amplifying the risk of dying too easily! Your bold all-or-nothing approach with that maneuver sent shivers down our spines on the panel! Where do you draw inspiration for daring tactics like that?!" he expressed in complete awe, his enthusiasm evident in his gleaming eyes like a dedicated gaming enthusiast.

“It just came to me… I guess?” I said succinctly, failing to match his enthusiasm.

“Oh, someone who thinks outside the box! I like that!” he praised.

“My turn to ask,” The co-panelist abruptly interjected, perceiving that Raze had more questions to ask.

I turned my attention to him, ignoring the disappointed face of Raze, who seemed to have not yet exhausted his list of questions for me.

“Many are curious, including myself, of course. Which professional organization do you hope to join after this tournament? It's probable that several organizations would be keen to recruit a young, skilled player like yourself to strengthen the future of their sponsored teams,” the co-panelist inquired.

"I have no plans to pursue a career in professional gaming," I said abruptly.

Their faces briefly showed surprise at the unexpected response, but they swiftly regained their composure. Their adeptness at maintaining professionalism was noteworthy, although my keen observation didn't miss their subtle reactions.

"I see. It's unfortunate, but I hope you reconsider. It would be wonderful to see a player of your caliber in the top leagues," he replied empathetically.

"...I'll think about it."

They acknowledged my words with a nod. It appears they are accustomed to my concise replies. This could be attributed to the fact that the players they typically engage with during these kinds of interviews are probably introverted, as many professional players are.

“Anything you’d like to add, Mr. Bogdan?” after finishing his question, the co-panelist passed the baton.

“…I do have one, in fact," he said as he stared at my soul with an analytical gaze.

“Regarding the last play you made, may I ask where you learned the move you pulled off against Lua?”

"What do you mean?" I tilted my head slightly, not sure where he was getting at.

"Oh, It's just. The complexity of the move you pulled off just now… reminds me of someone I fought back in my days in competitive gaming. Do you perhaps have a mentor?”

Wait, did he perhaps remember our duel in the first AC cup?! I almost forgot I also fought him at that time! Is he onto me or something?

No, it can't be. It's highly unlikely that he could discern my identity based solely on that short exchange; it would require more concrete evidence. Furthermore, my gameplay style is slightly different from back then due to transitioning into a hybrid support DPS role. Also, the prevalence of skilled haste users has increased compared to that time, as there were many players who had figured out the complexity and benefits of haste, so it would be impossible for him to connect the dots.

“No. I do not have one,” I said the honest truth.

“I see…” his eyes convey his nostalgia as he said those words longingly.

Sensing the lull in our conversation, the main panelist stepped in to fill in the gap.

“Oh? Which player does she remind you of, Mr. Bogdan? Is it a current pro?” the main panelist asked, curiosity evident in his eyes.

Vlad, for his part, gave him a serene smile. “It’s nothing; it's just wishful thinking on my part. Please forget about it.”

“I see, I see,” Raze took it in stride, then turned his attention back to me. “We would love to keep this interview going for a while, but I’m sure you are exhausted from the earlier match, and the segment for our interview time is also running out, so last question before we let you go!” he finally said the words I had been waiting for since the start of this interview.

“Any final words to your team's fans and supporters, as well as the numerous individuals who have undoubtedly become fans after witnessing that remarkable performance?” he queried.

“...Thank you for your support,” I conveyed my heartfelt appreciation.

“Thank you also for your time! Ladies and gentlemen, please give it up for Novo! Team Paradigm’s ‘Battle Mage’!” Raze exclaimed enthusiastically, prompting the fans and audience to erupt into applause as I departed from the main stage.

Wait… don’t tell me I’m going to get another Moniker? One silly moniker is enough as it is. I don’t need two in this lifetime!

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Tactical PoV

Underdogs Unleashed: Team Paradigm Shocks the World of CoA and Claims First Grand Finals SpotIn a stunning upset that has sent shockwaves through the Champions of Andartha community, Team Paradigm, the unassuming underdogs of the Champion’s Brawl tournament, have defied all odds to secure the first spot in the grand finals.

The team, previously overlooked by many due to their lack of high-profile players, managed to outshine their more favored opponents through sheer skill, teamwork, unorthodox strategic plays, and a bit of unexpected magic. The turning point came in a heart-stopping duel between Novo, a support player for team Paradigm, and the tournament’s perceived powerhouse, Lua, who shook the community by single-handedly defeating the renowned crowd favorites, the team Paragons.

Known for her dominating playstyle, Lua was the overwhelming favorite to win the match due to her track record of being undefeated, even defeating the 1v1 tournament champion Ariadne in a 2v1 scenario. Her reputation as the tournament’s strongest player preceded her, and many had already crowned her the eventual champion without any contest due to her prodigious talent. However, in a display of exceptional aptitude and strategic brilliance, Novo managed to turn the tide with an unexpected weapon skill buff, which is considered to be a useless unique weapon by many, along with a self-haste buff combo, causing her to win in a contest of speed and skills against her opponent in a short but deadly dance. This surprising tactic, coupled with her remarkable talent, resulted in her triumph over Lua in their duel and ultimately secured a win for her team.

Their win not only catapulted Team Paradigm into the grand finals but also ignited a fierce debate about the tournament’s dynamics. Many are now questioning the validity of tournament player rankings and pre-match win predictions and are praising the underdogs for their remarkable wins. Lua's unexpected loss has also shattered the perception of her as an unbeatable force, prompting fans and analysts to contemplate what transpired in that duel between the two skilled players.

, which include team Sakura eSports, team Paragons, and a potentially vengeful team Variable, along with their ace Lua,As the tournament reaches its climax, all eyes will be on Team Paradigm. Will they continue their miraculous run, a modern e-sports Cinderella story, and lift the Champion’s Brawl trophy? Or will their other future opponents vying for the last championship slots which include team Sakura eSports, team Paragons, and a potentially vengeful team Variable along with their ace Lua find a way to defeat the unexpected underdogs? Only time will tell.

What are your thoughts on this unexpected turn of events? Share your predictions for the grand finals in the comments below.

Comments:

Jeffrey019: I saw the game live, and holy shit, their support just goes ham on that duel!

Cocolumber1: @Jeffrey019 I know, right?! That win was unexpected. I got up from my seat when I saw that amazing play.

Gambler2.0: Team Paradigm sure is something else! I have learned the hard way to never bet against them.

Joana91: They have silenced nonbelievers time and time again like a boss!

MiddlePacts: I saw it on YouTube in slow-mo. Dang, and it was incredible!

CoAEnthusiast: One of the best duels I’ve seen recently.

Scrolling through the flood of comments, I saw one that captured my attention.

YuushaFan4Ever: Hey, did her move remind you guys of Yuusha?

Jacob41: @YuushaFan4Ever, I see you almost everywhere, and you always say that about every newcomer who shows potential and utilizes haste…

HeroCoA: @YuushaFan4Ever, Yuusha wouldn't waste time in an amateur tournament. She could easily qualify in the pro league, so what you claim is impossible.

JanaElena: HeroCoA: I agree; besides, Yuusha is far faster and more skilled than that girl, and it's not even comparable.

CoATopPlayer: @JanaElena Yeah, compared to Yuusha, she barely scratches the surface.

Nona101: @YuushaFan4Ever wtdym she’s like Yuusha? Stop daydreaming!

The comments elicited a little chuckle from me.

Humans really are funny creatures. We’re smart enough to build rockets and cure diseases, but we can be incredibly stubborn about our beliefs. Once we’ve made up our minds about something, it’s like building a fortress around it. These players likely already made up their minds that the girl is nowhere near Yuusha's level, oblivious to the fact that she is the same person, albeit a bit rusty due to lack of practice.

I’m sure that even if they are faced with solid evidence that proves they're wrong, they will stubbornly stick to what they formerly believed was right to avoid losing face. People hate to be proven wrong, after all.

Maybe it’s just human nature to be stubborn and not admit being wrong. Whatever the reason, it can hinder growth. Sometimes, holding onto a wrong belief can stop us from growing and learning.

However, I can't blame them too much since, among veterans and enthusiasts, Yuusha is a legendary figure. Within the CoA community, she is placed on an untouchable pedestal, revered by players as though she were a divine being who descended among mortals. While I find it somewhat amusing, the majority of casual players and supporters of the professional scene engage in such idolization, not just in CoA but in other competitive games with established professional scenes as well. This realization has grown on me as I've experienced various competitive games since my childhood.

They are bound to react negatively if someone suddenly lays claim to that prestigious title. In their eyes, the individual is merely a newcomer, leading them to refute the notion of her exceptional skill vehemently.

As I continued browsing the myriad comments on the article, another remark caught my attention, albeit a slightly irritating one.

ProGamer01: I don't know what the deal is with this play. You guys are just overhyping it. She is just in an amateur tournament with weaklings as her opponents, which allows her to execute such suicide plays. If she were to attempt the same strategy against a professional player, she would get handled easily.

Accustomed to such comments since I had been on the receiving end of countless hate remarks like these, I remained composed and didn't allow the statement to affect me too much. Encountering skepticism and negativity online regarding a trending topic is a common occurrence. After all, everyone holds distinct viewpoints and opinions, and some people love to bring others down just for their personal enjoyment. In my experience, those are the kinds of people who should be ignored.

However, one thing is certain. If the truth about her were to be revealed, it would undoubtedly cause everyone to lose their minds, which is probably why she chooses to keep her main account concealed. Even back then, she had always avoided the limelight and controversies, so I guess I should do my best to keep my mouth shut and respect her wishes. Otherwise, I might jeopardize the opportunity of ever having her join my team.