Vol.2 Chapter 56 (Patreon)

Tactical’s PoV

In a stunning turn of events at the Champions Brawl tournament, Team Variables emerged victorious against the favored contenders, Team Paragon, in a match that will be etched in the annals of Champions of Andartha’s amateur eSports history. The upset was both unexpected and unheard of, as it was made by an unknown player, Lua, the ace of Team Variables.

The match between Team Paragon and Team Variables was anticipated to be a clash of titans, with both teams boasting formidable lineups. However, it was Team Variables who defied the odds and clinched a remarkable win, showcasing their resilience, strategy, and skill in the face of adversity, along with an overwhelming showcase of player skills.

The pivotal moment of the match came in a 2v1 battle that pitted Lua, Team Variables' ace player, against Ariadne, Yuusha’s protégé, and Seer, Tactical’s protégé, from Team Paragon. The tension in the arena was palpable as the three players squared off, each maneuvering with precision and strategy in a high-stakes showdown that would determine the outcome of the match.

In a jaw-dropping display of skill and expertise, Lua of Team Variables delivered a performance at the Champions Brawl tournament that left spectators and fellow gamers alike in awe. With a combination of calculated moves and quick reflexes, Lua turned the tide of the battle in Team Variables' favor, securing a decisive victory that sent shockwaves through the gaming world that had many of the community speculate as the birth of a new legend that can rival that of the infamous player Yuusha.

Team Variables' win was a testament to their tenacity, teamwork, and individual skill, highlighting the unpredictable and thrilling nature of competitive gaming. The underdog triumphed over the favored team, showcasing the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of esports competition.

As the dust settled and the crowd's cheers reverberated through the arena, Team Variables stood victorious, their triumph a symbol of perseverance and determination in the face of formidable opposition. The match between Team Paragon and Team Variables will be remembered as a defining moment in the Champions Brawl tournament, a testament to the unpredictable and electrifying nature of competitive gaming.

Comments:

GamingGuruX: I watched it live! That was one of the best 2v1s I’ve ever seen!

Techiez: I’ve instantly become a fan of Lua after that match! Knowing that she is blind in real life makes me want to support her more!

Sammys: Team Paragon, my ass. They are dragging the legendary team’s name through the ground!

AndarthaFan: The move she did when deflecting the cannonball was insane!

Adventurer:09: I’d like to see the replay later if everyone in the comment section praises the match this much.

MusicMaestro: I thought the Paragons would win, but I guess they’re not as good as the OG Paragons after all.

Read More Comments:

I let out a defeated sigh as I read the article from the gaming news outlet that I typically follow. It's remarkable how fast gaming journalists are at reporting. It has only been a little over an hour since the major upset of the tournament, yet they have already churned out articles about it. They truly are like sharks drawn to controversy and drama. I can’t blame them, though; it is their job to be ahead of their competitors, so this should be expected of them.

I wonder how they are doing after the loss. I imagine Celeste could provide the comfort they need in my absence. My tendency to nitpick about their mistakes would likely worsen the situation, so it’s better off if they don’t see me there worsening things. However, I trust that Seer is skilled enough to recognize their errors and learn from them in the upcoming matches.

With satisfaction after the final bite of the food I ordered, I stretched my legs and pushed my plate back before reaching for the bill and heading to the counter. The restaurant was quieter after the lunch rush, with the only sound being the soft clinking of silverware. It felt appropriate to leave a generous tip; the perfectly cooked salmon surely deserved a little extra appreciation. With a nod to the attentive waiter who had refilled my water numerous times, I placed the bill in the folder, the weight of the tip conveying a silent "thank you" for the enjoyable solitary meal.

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Arthur's PoV

My team and I gathered early in the special room for players to discuss our next match. The luxurious room in the tournament arena for the players exudes opulence and sophistication, with plush furnishings and casual décor making it a good place to rest before the upcoming match, especially after our meal. Soft ambient lighting bathes the room in a warm glow, highlighting the exquisite details and fine craftsmanship of the furnishings. The room is furnished with state-of-the-art technology and amenities, catering to the comfort and convenience of its inhabitants. Notably, there is a large flat-screen TV where we can watch the match; however, it is currently on a commercial break due to the tournament intermission to give players time to unwind after the matches this early morning.

“Ahem,” I cleared my throat, attempting to grab the attention of my teammates, each engrossed in their own activities.

“The lower bracket elimination matches will resume at 1:30 pm, giving us approximately thirty minutes to strategize. How do you all propose we approach the upcoming battle?" I asked.

"It doesn't matter! I'll take it seriously from the start this time to secure our victory!" Tristan asserted.

"...Any other suggestions?" I disregarded his comment.

“Let's rest and sleep for thirty minutes so we will be full of energy for the fight," Gwyn suggested.

I sighed. Why do I even bother with these two?

Turning to the one teammate I trusted for strategic insights, I sought Astrid's perspective on the impending match.

"What are your thoughts, Astrid?" I inquired.

After reflecting for a moment, she responded, "Their ace, Hana, poses a significant threat to us. It's crucial to eliminate her first to gain a substantial advantage in securing victory."

"I concur. I doubt I stand a chance in a one-on-one encounter with her. She's truly talented," I acknowledged.

"What? But you defeated the guy who bested her in the one-on-one tournament, didn't you? That player Renz from Lizbeth's team," Tristan interjected.

"No doubt, Hana should have been the victor purely based on skill. However, she might have been under immense pressure during the one-on-one tournament, affecting her mindset. It's evident that she has since overcome any psychological obstacles and is now an even more formidable opponent,” I explained.

"Hmm... Why don't you leave her to me?" he made another dumb suggestion.

“No, you won't last against her,” I instantly rebuked.

“What! I'm not that weak, you know!” he protested.

"I'm not questioning your capabilities. It's just that she currently outmatches you, particularly as you still lack the experience despite your talent," I reassured him.

"Hmph, fine!" he grumbled.

As I contemplated strategies against Team Sakura eSports, Astrid made a suggestion.

“Why don't we send two people against her?”

“That... seems like a plan, but who would fight their duo, the twins? I don't think anybody in our team can last against them 2v1.

“We should send Xeno to stall them while we eliminate the enemy's ace. If we manage to trade players, we would have a huge advantage going on the match.”

"Oh, I see your point! Xeno in place of Hana! That's a strategic advantage for us!" Gwyn interjected, catching on to Astrid's idea.

“Wait! Are you serious, guys? I haven't even demonstrated my skills, and you're already sacrificing me!”

I placed my hands on his shoulders. "Sorry, Tristan, but give it up. It is for the team's benefit. You will not be forgotten," I said, conveying as much empathy as possible.

"You traitors!" he exclaimed, expressing his discontent with the plan.

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Hana's PoV

My entire team, including our coach, who is my sister, is currently engaged in a meeting discussing our forthcoming match. At present, my sister is meticulously analyzing Team Round Table's strengths and weaknesses. Her voice resonates with analytical precision and strategic acumen as she dissects their tactics with a sharp eye for detail, which I’m sure impresses not only me but all of my friends.

Conversely, she points out their tendency towards predictable strategies and potential vulnerabilities that we can exploit during the match. Amidst her analysis, she seamlessly transitions into outlining the do's and don'ts of the upcoming match, emphasizing the importance of communication, adaptability, and staying focused under pressure.

“And that's why I believe they will prioritize targeting you first, Hana.”

The mention of my name by my sister instantly grabbed my full attention, like a deer in headlights.

“Huh?! Why me?”

"It's a typical strategy to pinpoint the adversary's strongest player and devise countermeasures, which I anticipate they will do. Hence, they will likely concentrate on targeting you and making efforts to eliminate you from the match," she explained.

"But... It's alright if they focus on me, isn't it? That way, the rest of my teammates will have free rein over the match!" I remarked optimistically.

“That mindset is detrimental. You are the ace of our team, and that's precisely why we must focus on providing you with the assistance and protection necessary to secure victory for the rest of the team,” my sister critiqued.

"Yes! Hana will lead us to victory!" the twins chimed in simultaneously.

"I concur with the plan. Hana can outmatch even Arthur in a fair competition. Our task is to fully support her," Kaito affirmed.

My spirits plummeted upon hearing my teammates' expectations. What if I faltered once more, like in the 1v1 tournament?

“I think it's a bit…” I whispered in a voice I’m sure nobody heard.

"…Did you say something, Hana?” my sister inquired, tilting her head in confusion.

“Well, what I meant was that if I fail, then the whole team will lose... And I don't want that...” I reasoned.

My sister regarded me with her usual analytical gaze. Her looks are normally filled with affection, making this stern expression a rare sight to be on the receiving end.

"I'll be direct—you have to toughen up," she stated bluntly.

It left me speechless and a bit hurt. My sister is usually blunt but never with me. I guess she is doing this for my own good. Still, it’s a bit too much to leave it all to me. I don’t think I could handle the pressure, especially if we are up against a team as strong as Arthur’s.

"B-but what if I let the team down..." I responded meekly.

"Your team is already bound to lose if you don't rise to the occasion where it matters. As the ace, it falls on your shoulders to carry the hopes and aspirations of your teammates. They have placed their trust in you, so even if you fall short, they won't fault you for it, as it is their decision to have to gamble their all on you. Every individual must fulfill their role in a match. Your teammate’s duty is to provide you with the best platform to shine, and yours is to give it your all so that their efforts aren’t for naught," my sister conveyed in a solemn tone.

That… makes sense.

My sister is right. I've been deceiving myself because I fear being the cause of our defeat, like what happened last time. But if I don’t step it up, we will lose regardless, especially against a team as strong as the Round Table. I shouldn't go in the match halfheartedly. I don't need to think about anything else other than doing my best. And if my best isn't good enough, I'm sure my friends won't fault me for it.

I nodded at my sister, affirming my determination. She met my gaze with her usual analytical look, and I returned the gaze, expressing my commitment through my eyes.

"It appears you have discovered your determination," she remarked, offering me a serene smile.

I nodded decisively. "Leave it to me, everyone! I swear, on my honor, I'll carry us to victory!"