Vol.2 Chapter 39 (Patreon)

“Oof” I made an uncharacteristic sound as I propelled myself toward the luxurious hotel bed.

Well, considering the events that happened earlier, I think I deserve this much at least. After a long and exhilarating day at the tournament, I finally found a moment to unwind and reflect on the events that had transpired.

Being in an extremely good mood and also eager to catch up with the current news in the CoA community, I pulled out my phone and opened my social media apps, craving the connection and updates that awaited me. Looking at my phone screen, I switched to a sitting position to better read the comments.

As I scrolled through my feed, a wave of excitement washed over me as I saw numerous posts and photos from fans and audience who had attended the tournament. Most of them uttered words of congratulations for a job well done.

Ray Meisterdem: That was one of the best tournament runs I’ve seen so far.

Julia Cruz: What an absolutely thrilling final match it was! I leaped out of my seat multiple times while watching the last fight!

Loyd Sky: Congratulations on the win!

Crystelle Clear: Armsmaster Ariadne, that sounds like a good moniker.

Bonnie Ackerman: She really is Yuusha’s protégé huh?

“Hehe,” a giggle escaped my lips from reading the last comment.

I did well to meet your expectations, right Katherine? Still, the battle has just begun, the main tournament is what really matters. And I hope we can both fight without reservations in the grand stage that lies ahead.

As I continued scrolling through my social media feed, a particular post caught my eye for having insanely high views, likes, and shares. It was an interview snippet of me from earlier in the day right after the finals. Intrigued, I clicked on the video, eager to relive the moments captured on camera from a viewer's perspective.

Taping on the video, I was greeted by the presence of the familiar tournament interviewer who had previously introduced me to the audience. In the clip, he was in the process of introducing me to the spectators and viewers.

“Her journey to this moment has been nothing short of extraordinary. Throughout the tournament, she showcased an unparalleled level of skill, leaving everyone in awe! Most of all, in the final match where she truly shone, delivering a performance that I’m sure will be etched in the minds of everyone who witnessed it firsthand! With her lightning-fast reflexes and incredible dodging skills, she dominated all competitors, outmaneuvering her adversaries with precision and finesse. Her decision-making in high-pressure situations was nothing short of masterful, allowing her to thrive when the stakes were at their highest,” the interviewer exaggeratedly hyped, leading to the introduction.

Relieving the grand introduction almost made me cringe for the second time. They sure do like to overhype their audience.

“Now, ladies and gentlemen, the moment you've been waiting for. Let us welcome The undisputed champion of the Champion's Brawl one vs one tournament, Yuusha's protégé and Captain of the Paragons team, Ariadne!" the interviewer continued.

As the video played, capturing my own presence on the screen, I saw myself walking confidently towards the stage, greeted by a resounding cheer from the crowd. However, I couldn't help but notice a hint of daze and distraction in my expression. It seemed that the overwhelming surge of emotions from the victory had momentarily left me stunned and unfocused. The exhilaration of the last match’s outcome undoubtedly contributed to the ‘winner's high’ I was experiencing at that very moment.

“Congratulations on your incredible victory in the Champion's Brawl 1v1 tournament! How does it feel to be crowned the champion of the one vs one under 20 competition?” the interviewer, whose name I came to know as Joshua, finally started to do his job.

“Thank you. It feels wonderful,” the ‘me’ from earlier replied curtly.

Looking back, I realized that I may have appeared slightly aloof, like an honor student you would typically see in class. It’s probably because I was simply overwhelmed by a sense of euphoria because of my almost near loss.

Reflecting on the last match, my desire to end the game faster could have potentially cost me the game. If it hadn't been for my instinctive decision to shift my weapon into a shield, I would have likely lost due to my own greed to swiftly end the match. I’m sure it was because of the countless hours of practice and honing my skills that I was able to use my weapon skill as an extension of myself. Without this level of mastery, I am certain that I would not have emerged victorious in the finals. It seems that I still have a lot more to improve. I just hope this victory does not go to my head.

In hindsight, my opponent honestly deserves my respect. He took a beating to catch me off guard at the very last moment. He played to win for his teammates and guild and did not cut any corners. Even though he lost, his determination is praiseworthy at the very least.

"I see, I see. You demonstrated exceptional skill and strategic prowess throughout the tournament. Could you share some insights into your preparation leading up to the competition?" inquired the interviewer.

"Maintaining high levels of mechanical skill requires constant practice and unwavering dedication," I responded instinctively, taking notes from my countess speech as the Paragon’s Vice Guild Leader. "In the weeks leading up to the tournament, I dedicated countless hours to honing my reflexes and mastering the intricate mechanics of the game. I engaged in regular training sessions, diligently worked on movement drills, and carefully analyzed my own gameplay to identify areas for improvement. Additionally, sparring with strong teammates from Team Paradigm proved invaluable in sharpening my skills."

"Oh, so you have a good relationship with Team Paradigm?" the interviewer inquired with a little more interest this time.

"Yes, absolutely. We share a strong camaraderie, and I have no doubt that they will also deliver an impressive performance in the main tournament," I replied confidently.

"Well, that's something to look forward to. I'm certain the viewers are eagerly anticipating their matches as well," the interviewer concluded, echoing the excitement held by the audience.

“Lastly, after this great showing of your skills, I’m sure you gained many fans. What message do you have for aspiring players who look up to you?” the interviewer asked curiously.

“Believe in yourself and don’t lose sight of what you strive for," I replied, delivering the familiar words in a practiced manner. "Reaching the skill level of the participants in this tournament requires hard work, resilience, and a deep passion for the game. Embrace the challenges, view them as opportunities for growth, and constantly strive for development. With dedication to hone your skills and unwavering determination, I’m sure any of you can surpass me.”

As I spoke, I realized that these encouraging words had become somewhat automatic, as I often shared similar messages with my guild mates being their Vice-Leader to encourage their growth. While I may have recited them instinctively, the sentiment behind those words remained sincere and genuine.

"What an inspiring message! Thank you, Ariadne, for your time, and once again, congratulations on your extraordinary victory. Any last thing you want to say to your fans and those who supported you?" the interviewer finally asked.

“I want to give my gratitude to them for their support. Also... if you are watching right now… I hope you know that I reached this far, all because of you… so thanks for everything you taught me,” I saw my past self’s cheeks reddening as she said those words before the clip ended.

As I listened to those same words being spoken once more, I felt a tingling warmth in my cheeks, causing them to redden once again. However, I reassured myself that there was no need for embarrassment. I spoke from the heart, expressing what was genuinely on my mind during the interview. I have no regrets about my words, as they reflected my true feelings and appreciation for her.

Suddenly, a knock on my door brought me to the present. Startled by the unexpected sound, I quickly composed myself, taking a moment to collect my thoughts. Steadying my breathing, I approached the door with the intent to check on the identity of the visitor.

Opening the door, I saw Lucy and Seer, their friendly smiles greeting me warmly.

“Sorry, did we disturb your rest?” Seer politely asked.

“No, it's fine, come on in,” a genuine smile spread across my face as I welcomed them inside. Closing the door behind them, I gestured to the inviting seating area, inviting them to make themselves comfortable.

"Hehe, if you're in need of rest, don't worry about us. Take your time and recharge. You absolutely deserve it after delivering such an outstanding performance! And remember, even when you achieve great success as a pro, don't forget about your best friend here, okay?" Lucy said with a lighthearted tone.

“What are you talking about, you're joining me in tackling the pro scene. We are a team, after all,” I stated, giving her a smirk.

“Ehhh? I don't think I'm good enough to be teammates with 'The Armsmaster’,” Lucy teased.

I let out a heavy sigh, realizing the effect that monikers can have and how they tend to stick within a community. Based on my previous experiences on social media, I observed that the CoA community has a tendency to continually repeat and reinforce the moniker they have assigned to me. This repetition serves to solidify the association between the moniker and my identity, making it more likely to endure and become firmly established in people's perceptions.

I must admit, I had hoped for a moniker that would highlight my own dodging skills, much like the one Katherine possesses… but I guess beggars can’t be choosers. It’s just a moniker anyway so it won’t affect my gameplay, not one bit.

“Why are you both here though? Is there anything you guys need?” I asked, intent on changing the subject.

“Yes, the staff has informed us that they require our decision on choosing our opponent for the main tournament. They need our input promptly in order to finalize the bracket today and make the official announcement tomorrow,” Seer revealed their agenda.

“…I see, what are the options again?” I inquired Seer.

I was so focused on the fights earlier that I almost forgot that was part of the reward for the one-on-one tournament. That reminds me, I want to split the cash prize evenly for the whole team since I also owe it to their help that I won the competition.

“For the upcoming upper bracket match, we have two options to consider: either facing off against the Paradigm team or the Variables team. Unfortunately, the Round Table team is not included in our choices since Arthur has made it to the finals. His team, the Round Table, will battle against the team that we do not select from the other two upper-bracket participants,” Seer explained helpfully.

“Yeah, all of us already decided to go up against Paradigm since Gilligan’s team seems to be the stronger of the two with some of their players established national achievements in their respective martial arts. We also have a grasp on their gameplay since we already faced them in our scrims. We wanted to ask for your opinion before we make a decision, so that is why we are here,” Lucy added.

“No, do not choose Paradigm as our first opponent,” I said firmly.

My statement made both of them look at me with curiosity. Seer, probably getting the wrong idea of why I did not want to fight Katherine’s team, tried to convince me otherwise.

“I know you are close to them… but this is a competition, we will face them sooner or later. The best bet we have is to face them now since Gilligan’s team would be a lot more troublesome than theirs and we are betting on Arthur’s team to send them to the lower bracket… if they get lucky. And even if they do not win, we at least will be letting the top two strongest teams in the tournament have a go at each other’s throats and eliminate a future potential problem for us. I hope you won't let your closeness to Paradigm’s team members and your emotions cloud your judgment,” Seer admonished.

He has a point. But considering he doesn’t have the same information as I do, it would be unfair to fault him for arriving at that particular conclusion.

“…You misunderstand. I want to choose Gilligan’s team because they would be the easier option to fight against compared to Katherine’s team,” I stated as a matter of fact.

My reply clearly shocked both of my teammates.

“…Is it because of that girl? Novo?” Lucy inquired carefully.

I pondered for a while, thinking of what little I could reveal while not compromising my promise to keep her identity to myself. “…Yes. I’m positive she will be our greatest adversary coming to the main tournament. Trust me when I say that she was holding back in their scrim match against our team.”

A sense of solemnity filled the room, casting a somber atmosphere over the discussion. Time seemed to pass slowly before Seer finally broke the silence.

"I understand you hold her in high regard, but rest assured, I have taken preemptive measures to counter her abilities, no matter how skilled she may be," Seer reassured, attempting to alleviate any concerns.

“…Please trust me on this, she has more than enough countermeasures against us than we have on her,” I countered.

She was once our guildmate after all and a member of the original Paragons, a team that our movements and strategies are based on. If there is anyone that can counter us, it is the one who had a hand in making them in the first place.

He fixed his gaze upon me, searching for any indication of falsehood. After a moment of scrutiny, he sighed and finally relented. "...Alright, I will place my trust in your judgment."

"But… assuming we both win our matches, we will eventually face each other in the upper bracket finals… you can beat her… right?” Lucy asked hopefully.

I stayed silent. Contemplating what to say. Can I really? Do I have a chance against her as I am now?

“A-aria…?” Lucy said, becoming more nervous by the second due to my lack of response.

“I hope so.”