It’s the day before the Spring tournament. Nora is laying, belly down on her bed, texting Javier, and Faith. The house is relatively quiet, although Nora knows her parents are more than likely still up and working. Their job in communications came with a few drawbacks like late nights and being on a call around the clock. There were even times when they couldn’t explain to their own daughter what they do exactly in the military.
“I can’t believe it. I’m so excited that I can’t sleep.” Nora messaged her friends.
From a nicely furnished two-bedroom apartment in lower Hat-tin (one of the borrows that make up Strand city) Javier is sitting in his living room, with the T.V displaying a Youblue video covering Takeshi, but the volume is lowered. Javier and his sister’s apartment were on the 25<sup>th</sup> floor, so it had an amazing view of the large public park across the street. The night lights of the city, illuminating the city skies.
“Same. I can’t wait to try out the new combo’s I created. This tournament patch is doing wonders for the gauntlets and their usability.” Javier replied.
On the opposite side of Strand city, in upper Hat-tin, the Storm family mansion is currently hosting an event, with numerous cars parked in the driveway. Faith is sitting at her computer desk in her quiet bedroom while the sounds of people mingling fill the living room area. She can faintly hear her mother’s voice among other adults, directing someone to use a coaster for their drink on the coffee table.
“Careful now. With the boost gauntlets got in the last update, we will definitely see more people using them in this season’s tournament.” Faith added.
The rest of this dialogue is messages within the group texts.
Nora
So, has everyone decided on their loadouts for the tournament?
Javier
Of course. What’s yours?
Nora
Well, I know I’m going to use the Leviathan saber for sure. That thing is so versatile it’s insane.
Javier
Sure, it is. In the right hands.
Nora
Ignoring that.
Faith
I’m still going back and forth between the pistols or the momentum dagger.
Javier
Wait a sec. Faith is joining the tournament?!
Nora
Yeah, I’m surprised to see that too.
Faith
What’s so surprising about it?!This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
Nora
It’s just, you sit out most of the time when Javier and I are practicing. Obviously, you enjoy VBL, but I sort of figured you would sit this one out.
Javier
^
Faith
I play some time though. I’d like to try it out. I haven’t entered a tournament in so long, so I’m excited to get back into the scene.
Nora
Aww, that’s so exciting to hear! Faith’s re-debut!
Faith
????
Javier
So, you were choosing between angel pistols and the momentum dagger? On question. Why?
Faith
??
Nora
One sec, he’s about to nerd out on you.
Javier
The Momentum dagger can have a slow start up when you’re trying to get a quick head start on the match. You have to build a decent amount of momentum in order for it to be viable. Most competitors won’t let you just build up that much momentum for free. Not to mention You are going to be limited in range. So, imagine going in close to a close combat specialist while trying to build more than the normal amount of momentum.
Nora
Jin was able to do it…
Javier
That’s because Jin is a monster.
Nora
To be honest, I see his point, Faith. You should do what you want to in the end but perhaps the twin pistols are best for you as you dip your toe back into the competitive scene.
Faith
Okay fine. Then what weapon are you using Javier?
Javier
Not telling either of you. It’s top secret.
Nora
It’s the grizzly claws.
Faith
Oh, it most certainly is.
Javier
Come on guys, I can’t be easy to read!
Nora
Of course you are. You seem to be the only person that doesn’t believe that.
Faith
To be honest Javier, you do only pick gauntlet-based weapons.
Nora
Yeah, no joke. Do you even know how to fire a gun in VBL?
Javier
Of course I do. What sort of question is that?
Nora
The genuine kind. Why don’t you just try using a firearm-based weapon in VBL just once?
Javier
No.
Nora
Please.
Javier
No.
Faith
Why not?
Javier
Because it’s not my style.
Nora
What? Are you looking for a brand deal or something?
Javier
Perhaps. But since you two want to make fun of me, I’ll never tell you now!
Nora
Lol
Faith
Lol
Javier
So, heads up. I just saw that another pro player from another game is thinking about joining the tournament tomorrow.
Faith
Another one? This is getting wild.
Nora
^
Javier
…
The three teenagers eventually stayed up until 1 A.M., discussing various topics ranging from the tournament to new restaurants they wanted to try. Meanwhile, Rem sat quietly in a late-night internet café, wearing over-the-ear headphones. The environment was typical of such a venue in that part of the city, characterized by the presence of questionable individuals, the sound of loud keyboard typing, and several patrons eating crunchy snacks at their computers. Each computer station was enclosed within a semi-cubicle, making it nearly impossible to identify the source of the loud eating noises. Despite these distractions, Rem remained focused on rewatching some VBL footage. Although his concentration was interrupted when his phone rang, revealing an incoming call from his father, which he chose to let go to voicemail.
On the other side of Strand city. Takeshi is sitting upright on his couch. His once warm apartment is completely cold and dark. Just himself and his three cats sitting in the quiet darkness, with tears steadily flowing down his face. The looming spring tournament starts tomorrow!