At the hotel, Aaron's E-sports team was immersed in last-minute training before the big showdown.
Every face bore the same grim expression as if they were each carrying the weight of a debt of millions.
"We're team fighting! You blind?"
"You're the one to talk! Baron got stolen!"
"Shut up, you two feeders! We're underfarmed. Stop rushing into fights!"
"Can we all just focus, please? The tournament's the day after tomorrow!"
The last to speak was Bennett, the team's good-natured captain. He had not seen Vivienne at the club's meeting the other day.
"Shut up!" The three of them rounded on Bennett in unison.
Although Bennett was the captain, his authority paled in comparison to the team's youngest member, Aaron. His seniority was the only reason he held the title. He sighed. The team's recent losing streak had morale at rock bottom, and Kenneth's taunts had only added insult to injury.
He was relieved Aaron was not there; else, fists might have flown.
Aaron could not find humor in the quarrels inside.
These clashes were common, and their seven-game losing streak, a stark reversal from their previous seven-win streak, was a tough pill for anyone to swallow.
With Aaron around, they managed to keep it together, but in his absence, tempers flared even hotter.
Vivienne frowned. She remembered when this team was a united force set on claiming the championship. Now, it was a stark contrast.
"Vivienne..." Aaron bowed his head, too ashamed to look Vivienne in the eye.
bang, Vivienne kicked the door
his hot
it, Kenneth, not again...
they
thought you weren't
goodness, with you back, Vivienne,
Aaron, we'll definitely
with a mix of excitement and
moved, his eyes shining like stars as he gazed
their surprise, Vivienne's face was stormy. "You
fell into an awkward silence, and even
Bennett spoke up. "Vivienne, everyone's just really excited to
raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Now you remember you're supposed
voice faded as he looked down, fiddling with his fingers. Despite being the
too well how he had failed
if he was disrespected by his teammates, overlooked
Championships. Who would respect a spent
captain. You're supposed to set the example and earn their respect. But all you do is play peacemaker. How can anyone
inferiority wash over him. "I... My skills are
to defend Bennett, but
highest kills in Hawk Club. You have the highest solo-win rate. When you were racking up championships, these kids were still in diapers. And now you're telling me you're not
his throat, the glory days still vivid in his
her gaze to Quentin. "Got a big temper, I see. Think
hear Quentin being the loudest,
a response, clearly not ready
not approving? He bet his
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